JP2008228801A - Lamp unit and game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To achieve higher performance effect by making players playing game and surrounding players aware that a performance is going on. <P>SOLUTION: A frame member 110 disposed on the outer peripheral side of the game board 101 is provided with a performance light part 111. The performance light part 111 is provided with a plurality of lights 112 for irradiation with light refracted in a prescribed direction and the lights 112 are rotated or turned centered on the axis almost vertical to the surface of the game board 101 to change the direction of the irradiation light from the light 112. This allows the irradiating light from the performance light part 111 to enter the visual field of a player himself, thereby making him aware that a performance is going on with a performance of glittering. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine that produces an effect during a game, and more particularly to a gaming machine that produces an effect different from an effect using an accessory or display, and a lamp unit provided in the gaming machine.

  Conventionally, when a game ball launched into the game area of the game board enters a specific start winning opening, three rows of symbols (for example, symbols of numbers 1 to 12) displayed on the display unit move from top to bottom. A game machine is widely used in which, when the same or related symbols are arranged on a certain line (effective line), the game becomes a big win, the big winning opening is opened, and the big win game can be played.

  In such a game machine, there is a game that produces a jackpot gaming state by displaying a jackpot effect image on the display unit or lighting a light provided on the game board during a jackpot game. It was.

  Conventionally, a light source unit that emits irradiation light toward a lens panel attached to the front surface of the gaming machine, a light source element substrate on which a plurality of light source elements are mounted, and the light source element substrate are mounted on a mounting portion of the gaming machine There is a technique in which the mounting angle of the support can be selectively set so that the irradiation angle of the irradiated light to the lens panel is one of a plurality of predetermined angles. It was. (For example, refer to Patent Document 1 below.)

JP 2007-44185 A

  However, the above-described conventional technique has a problem that the effect of the jackpot game is two-dimensional, and the effect that draws the player into the game effectively by performing the effect is not sufficient.

  In order to eliminate the above-described problems caused by the prior art, the present invention makes it possible for the player who is playing the game and its surrounding players to be aware that the production is being performed, and to improve the production effect. An object is to provide a lamp unit and a gaming machine.

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, a lamp unit according to the invention of claim 1 is a lamp unit provided on an outer frame of a game board, and includes one or a plurality of light sources and the light sources. Correspondingly, the lens member that refracts light emitted from the light source in a predetermined direction, a support member that supports the lens member, and the support member so as to change the irradiation direction of the light emitted from the lens member. And moving means for moving.

  The lamp unit according to a second aspect of the invention is the lamp unit according to the first aspect of the invention, wherein the support member has an axis (hereinafter referred to as “first”) in which the optical axis of the lens member is substantially orthogonal to the board surface of the game board. The lens member is supported so as to form a predetermined angle with respect to the first axis, and the movable means rotates or rotates the support member around the first axis.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a lamp unit according to the second aspect of the present invention, further comprising a detecting unit that detects a position where the optical axis direction of the lens member is a predetermined direction, and the movable unit includes Based on the result detected by the detection means, the support member is rotated or rotated around the first axis, and stopped at a position where the optical axis of the lens member is in a predetermined direction. To do.

  A lamp unit according to a fourth aspect of the present invention is the lamp unit according to any one of the first to third aspects, wherein a plurality of the support members are arranged on a substantially straight line.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the lamp unit according to the fourth aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the movable means connects the plurality of support members to rotate or rotate.

  The lamp unit according to a sixth aspect of the present invention is the lamp unit according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, wherein the movable means has an axis substantially parallel to a board surface direction of the game board. (Hereinafter referred to as “second axis”).

  A lamp unit according to a seventh aspect of the invention is characterized in that, in the invention according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, the lamp unit is provided at an upper part or a lower part of the outer frame of the game board.

  According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, a gaming machine includes the lamp unit according to any one of the first to seventh aspects.

  According to the above configuration, the direction of the light emitted from the game board is dynamically changed, and the light emitted from the light source is put into the field of view of the player himself and the surrounding players, and the production is performed. Can be made conscious of the player himself and the surrounding players.

  According to the lamp unit and the gaming machine of the present invention, by changing the direction of the light emitted from the game board, a three-dimensional lighting effect is performed, and the player in the game and its surrounding players There is an effect that it is possible to realize that the production is performed and to improve the production effect.

(Embodiment)
Exemplary embodiments of a lamp unit and a gaming machine according to the present invention will be explained below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

(Basic configuration of gaming machine)
FIG. 1 is a front view showing an example of the gaming machine of the present invention. The gaming machine of the present invention includes a game board 101. A launcher (see reference numeral 292 in FIG. 2) is disposed at a lower position of the game board 101. The game ball launched by driving the launching unit rises between the rails 102 a and 102 b and reaches the upper position of the game board 101, and then falls within the game area 103. A plurality of nails (not shown) are provided in the game area 103, and a game ball is dropped in various directions, and a windmill or a prize opening that changes the fall direction of the game ball is placed in the middle of the fall. Is arranged.

  A display unit 104 is arranged at the center of the game area 103 of the game board 101. As the display unit 104, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) is used. Below the display unit 104, a start winning opening 105 for starting winning is arranged. On the left side of the display unit 104, a winning gate 106 is provided.

  The winning gate 106 is provided to detect the passing of the game ball and perform a lottery to open the start winning opening 105 for a predetermined time. A normal winning opening 107 is disposed on the side of the display unit 104 or below. When a game ball wins the normal winning opening 107, the number of winning balls (for example, 10) at the time of the normal winning is paid out. At the bottom of the game area 103, there is provided a collection port 108 for collecting game balls that have not won any winning ports.

  The display unit 104 described above starts changing the display of a plurality of symbols when a game ball wins a specific winning opening (at the time of starting winning), and the symbols stop after a predetermined time. When specific symbols (for example, “777”) are prepared at the time of the stop, a big hit state is obtained. In the big win state, the predetermined winning opening 109 located below is repeatedly opened for a predetermined period (for example, 15 rounds), and the number of winning balls corresponding to the winning game balls is paid out.

  A frame member 110 is provided on the outer peripheral portion of the game area 103 of the game board 101. The frame member 110 has a shape that surrounds the periphery of the game area 103 on the four sides of the game board 101 in the vertical and horizontal directions. Further, the frame member 110 has a shape protruding from the board surface of the game board 101 toward the player side. Thereby, the gaming machine of the present embodiment can be made more conspicuous than other types of gaming machines that do not include the frame member 110. By making the gaming machine conspicuous, it is possible to improve the operating rate of the gaming machine and to strengthen the deterrent against fraudulent acts on the gaming machine.

  In the frame member 110, an effect light unit 111 (lamp unit) is provided on two sides which are the upper side and the lower side of the game area 103. Each effect light unit 111 includes a plurality of lights 112. Each light 112 irradiates a player in front of the gaming machine, and the light irradiation direction can be changed in the vertical direction so that the irradiation position moves along the abdomen from the top of the player. Each light 112 is driven by a motor (see reference numeral 272 in FIG. 2) provided in the effect light unit 111 so as to change the light irradiation direction in the vertical direction.

  In addition, each light 112 can irradiate the surroundings of the gaming machine, and the light irradiation direction can be rotated so that the irradiation position forms a circle with respect to the gaming machine. Each light 112 is driven by a motor (see reference numeral 272 in FIG. 2) provided in the effect light unit 111 so as to rotate the light irradiation direction. The motor that is driven to rotate the direction of light irradiation from each light 112 is a motor different from the motor that changes the direction of light irradiation from each light 112 in the vertical direction.

  The effect light unit 111 can change the irradiation direction of the light irradiated from the entire effect light unit 111 to three dimensions by rotating the irradiation direction of the light irradiated from each light 112 while changing the vertical direction. it can.

  The light irradiation direction is changed when, for example, a big hit state is reached. Accordingly, the player and the surroundings of the gaming machine can be sequentially irradiated to inform the surroundings that the gaming machine is in the big hit state, and the attention of the player who has been in the big hit state can be increased. . Accordingly, it is possible to give the player an uplifting feeling due to the attention, and to continuously or repeatedly use the gaming machine of the present embodiment, thereby improving the operating rate of the gaming machine.

  Further, the light irradiation direction may be made different when an abnormal situation different from that in a normal game occurs, for example, when some illegal act is performed on the gaming machine. As a result, it is possible to quickly find an abnormal situation such as an illegal act, and to strengthen the deterrence against the illegal act on the gaming machine after the next time.

  An operation handle 113 is disposed at a lower position of the frame member 110. The operation handle 113 is operated by the player when the game ball is fired by driving the launching unit. Similar to the frame member 110 described above, the operation handle 113 has a shape protruding from the board surface of the game board 101 to the player side.

  The operation handle 113 includes a firing instruction member 114 that drives the above-described launching unit to launch a game ball. The firing instruction member 114 is provided on the outer peripheral portion of the operation handle 113 so as to rotate clockwise as viewed from the player. The launcher causes the game ball to be launched when the firing instruction member 114 is directly operated by the player. Although not described because it is a known technique, the operation handle 113 is provided with a sensor that detects that the player directly operates the firing instruction member 114.

  A light emitting unit (see reference numeral 263 in FIG. 2) is provided inside the operation handle 113. The light emitting unit includes a plurality of LEDs (see reference numeral 273 in FIG. 2) that emit light when energized. The light emitting unit, for example, energizes the LED when it becomes a big hit state, and causes the LED to emit light. Thereby, it is possible to notify the player and the surroundings that the gaming machine is in the big hit state, and the degree of attention of the player in the big hit state can be increased.

  The light emitting unit includes a reflecting member that reflects light emitted from the LED, and a motor (see reference numeral 274 in FIG. 2) that rotates the reflecting member so as to change the direction of reflection by the reflecting member. The light emitting unit can increase the effect of causing the light emitting unit to emit light by reflecting the light emitted from the LED in multiple directions using the reflecting member.

  In this way, by causing the light emitting unit to emit light and conspicuous light emission from the light emitting unit, it is possible to let the player and the surroundings know that the gaming machine is in the big hit state, and the player who has hit the big hit state The degree of attention can be increased. Then, by raising the player's attention level, the player who has been in a big hit state is given an uplifting feeling by being noted, and the gaming machine of this embodiment is continuously or repeatedly used, The operating rate of the machine can be improved.

  On the upper side and the side of the symbol display unit 104 (on the right side in FIG. 1), there are provided effects (hereinafter referred to as “effects”) 115, 116. The directors 115 and 116 in the gaming machine of the present embodiment schematically represent a part of the Japanese sword (the vicinity of the samurai). The directors 115 and 116 are provided so as to be movable along the longitudinal direction of the directors 115 and 116 as if the blade is pulled out from the sheath and the pulled blade is returned to the sheath again.

  The production role 115 is driven by a solenoid (see reference numeral 275 in FIG. 2), and the production role 116 is driven by a motor (see reference numeral 276 in FIG. 2). By driving the similar directors 115 and 116 with different types of driving sources, it is possible to cause the directors 115 and 116 to perform their own movements, thereby increasing the stage effect.

  In the frame member 110, a chance button 117 that accepts an operation by the player is provided on the lower side of the game area 103. The operation of the chance button 117 is effective while guidance for prompting the operation of the chance button 117 is displayed, for example, in a specific reach effect during the game.

  In the frame member 110, a cross key 118 is provided next to the chance button 117. The chance button 117 and the cross key 118 constitute an operation unit (see reference numeral 300 in FIG. 3). In addition, the frame member 110 incorporates a speaker (see reference numeral 277 in FIG. 2) that outputs sound.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of the control unit of the gaming machine. The control unit 200 includes a plurality of control units. In the example shown in the figure, a main control unit 201, an effect control unit 202, and a prize ball control unit 203 are included. The main control unit 201 controls basic operations related to gaming of the gaming machine. The production control unit 202 controls the production operation during the game. The prize ball control unit 203 controls the number of prize balls to be paid out.

  The main control unit 201 includes a CPU 211 that executes basic processing as the game content progresses, and a RAM 213 that functions as a data work area when the CPU 211 performs arithmetic processing based on a program stored in the ROM 212. . The main control unit 201 realizes its function by, for example, a main board.

  On the input side of the main control unit 201, a start winning port detection unit 221 that detects a winning ball that has won a winning winning port 105, a gate detection unit 222 that detects a game ball that has passed through the winning gate 106, and a normal win A normal winning port detecting unit 223 that detects a game ball won in the mouth 107, a big winning port detecting unit 224 that detects a winning ball won in the big winning port 109, and a voice control unit 255 are connected.

  Connected to the input side of the effect control unit 202 is a chance button detection unit 220 that detects that the chance button 117 has been operated. Although illustration is omitted, on the input side of the production control unit 202, it is detected that the character or figure selected by the cursor key is specified and “ENTER” for confirming the specified character or figure is operated. A detection unit that performs this function may be provided instead of or in addition to the chance button detection unit 220.

  The detection units 220 to 224 can be configured using proximity switches or the like. The detection result by the chance button detection unit 220 is input to the effect control unit 202. Detection results from the start winning port detection unit 221, the gate detection unit 222, the normal winning port detection unit 223, and the big winning port detection unit 224 are input to the main control unit 201.

  A prize winning opening / closing part 231 is connected to the output side of the main control part 201, and the opening / closing of the prize winning opening / closing part 231 is controlled. The special prize opening / closing unit 231 has a function of opening the special prize opening 109 for a certain period of time when a big hit is made, and is configured using a solenoid or the like. This jackpot is pre-programmed to occur with a predetermined probability based on the generated random number.

  The production control unit 202 performs production control during the game. The effect control unit 202 includes a CPU 241 that executes effect processing, a ROM 242 that stores various image data such as programs, background images, design images, and character images, and a RAM 243 that functions as a data work area during the CPU 241 arithmetic processing. The VRAM 244 for writing image data to be displayed on the display unit 104 is provided.

In the effect control unit 202, the CPU 241 reads a program stored in the ROM 242, executes various image processing such as background image display processing, symbol image display / variation processing, and character image display processing, and reads necessary image data from the ROM 242. Write to the VRAM 244. The background image, the design image, and the character image are superimposed and displayed on the display unit 104 on the display screen. That is, the design image and the character image are displayed so as to be seen in front of the background image.

  In this case, when the background image and the design image overlap at the same position, the design image is preferentially stored in the VRAM 244 by referring to the Z value of the Z buffer of each image data by a known hidden surface removal method such as the Z buffer method. . The effect control unit 202 realizes its function by, for example, an effect board.

  The effect control unit 202 receives various data during the game from the main control unit 201, and performs effect control during the game. On the output side of the effect control unit 202, the symbol display unit (LCD) 104, the lamp control unit 251, the first light control unit 252, the second light control unit 253, the accessory control unit 254, Is connected.

  The effect control unit 202 displays, for the symbol display unit (LCD) 104, the contents of the effect during the game, such as movement display of symbols, reach (a state where two of the three symbols are aligned), and a big hit Generate and output various display information. The effect control unit 202 outputs to the lamp control unit 251 data for performing lighting control on various lamps 262 provided on the game board 101, the base frame, and the like.

  For the first light control unit 252, the effect control unit 202 changes data for performing lighting control for the plurality of lights 112 in the effect light unit 111 and the irradiation direction of light from each light 112. In addition, data for performing drive control on the motor 272 is output.

  For the second light control unit 253, the effect control unit 202 performs data (LED lighting control data) for performing lighting control on the plurality of LEDs 273 in the light emitting unit 263, and driving for the motor 274 that rotates the reflecting member. Data (motor drive control data) for performing control and the like is output.

  The effect control unit 202 performs, for the accessory control unit 254, data for performing drive control on the solenoid 275 for operating the accessory 115, and for performing drive control for the motor 276 for operating the accessory 116, and the like. Is output.

  The effect control unit 202 performs, for the audio control unit 255, data for performing drive control on an energization mechanism (not shown) that energizes a coil or the like included in the speaker 277 in order to output sound from the speaker 277 (audio output control). Data).

  The prize ball control unit 203 performs prize ball control based on a program stored in the ROM 282. The prize ball control unit 203 includes a CPU 281 that executes a prize ball control process, a RAM 283 that functions as a data work area during the calculation process of the CPU 281, and the like. The prize ball control unit 203 realizes its function by, for example, a prize ball board.

  The winning ball control unit 203 performs control for paying out the number of winning balls at the time of winning a prize to the connected paying unit 291. In addition, an operation of launching a game ball with respect to the launch unit 292 is detected, and the launch of the game ball is controlled. The payout unit 291 includes a motor for paying out a predetermined number from the game ball storage unit.

  The winning ball control unit 203 controls the paying unit 291 to pay out the number of winning balls corresponding to the game balls won in each winning port (start winning port 105, normal winning port 107, large winning port 109). Do it. The launcher 292 launches a game ball for a game, and includes a sensor that detects a game operation by the player, a solenoid that launches the game ball, and the like. When the prize ball control unit 203 detects a game operation by the sensor of the launch unit 292, the prize ball control unit 203 intermittently fires a game ball by driving a solenoid or the like in response to the detected game operation, thereby playing the game area 103 of the game board 101. A game ball is sent out.

  The main control unit 201, the effect control unit 202, and the prize ball control unit 203 configured as described above are provided on different printed circuit boards (main board, effect board, and prize ball board). For example, the prize ball control unit 203 can be provided on the same printed circuit board as the main control unit 201.

(Configuration of operation unit)
The configuration of the operation unit will be described. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a configuration of the operation unit. 3, the operation unit 300 includes a chance button (indicated as “CHANCE” in FIG. 3) 117 and a cross key 118. The chance button 117 in the gaming machine of the present embodiment is realized by a convex button.

  The chance button 117 may be an input pad that employs a touch panel system in addition to the convex button. The cross key 118 is a cursor key 301 to 304 for changing the position of the character or figure displayed on the symbol display unit 104, and the character or figure selected by the operation of the cursor key 301 to 304 is determined. ”Key 305.

(Basic operation of gaming machines)
An example of the basic operation of the gaming machine having the above configuration will be described. Control during the game is performed by the CPU 211 of the main control unit 201, and the winning status of the game balls for each winning opening is output to the winning ball control unit 203. The winning ball control unit 203 has the number of winning balls corresponding to the winning status. Make a withdrawal.

  In addition, every time a game ball wins at the start winning opening 105, a corresponding control signal is output to the effect control unit 202, and the effect control unit 202 repeatedly displays and stops the symbols on the symbol display unit 104. . When the big hit occurrence has been determined, a corresponding control signal is output to the effect control unit 202, and the effect control unit 202 stops with a predetermined design. At the same time, control for opening the special winning opening 109 is performed.

  The effect control unit 202 displays various effects on the symbol display unit 104 in addition to the symbol variation display during the jackpot occurrence period, during the reach until the jackpot occurrence, or at the time of reach notice. . In addition, effects such as performing specific driving for various types of accessories, changing the lighting state of the lamp 262 and the lights 112 and 273, and driving the motors 273 and 274 are performed.

  When a big hit occurs, the big winning opening 109 is opened a plurality of times. One release is one round, for example, 15 rounds are repeatedly executed. The period of one round is set, for example, when 10 game balls are won or for a predetermined period (for example, 30 seconds). At this time, the winning ball control unit 203 pays out with 15 winning balls per winning game ball to the big winning opening 109. After the jackpot is over, the jackpot state is canceled and the normal gaming state is restored.

(Configuration of production light part)
Next, the configuration of the effect light unit 111 will be described. FIG. 4A is a front view showing the effect light unit 111, and FIG. 4B is a rear view showing the effect light unit 111. In FIG. 4A, the effect light unit 111 includes five lights 112, respectively. Each light 112 is provided so as to be displaceable in a light case 401 that accommodates the light 112, and the light irradiation direction can be changed. The lights 112 are displaced so as to be all in the same direction.

  The light 112 includes a front cover 402 that covers the light 112 from the player side. The front cover 402 is displaced following the movement of the light 111 when the light 112 moves in the vertical direction in FIG. 4B, a back case 404 that supports a control board 403 for controlling the lighting of the light 112 and the displacement of the light 112 is provided on the back of the effect light unit 111.

  5A and 5B are exploded perspective views illustrating the configuration of the effect light unit 111. FIG. FIG. 5A is an exploded perspective view illustrating a configuration of a portion on the back side in the effect light unit 111. FIG. 5-2 is an exploded perspective view showing a configuration of a portion on the player side in the effect light unit 111.

  As described above, the pachinko gaming machine according to the present embodiment includes the effect light units 111 positioned on the upper side and the lower side of the game board 101. The effect light unit 111 has the same basic structure regardless of whether it is positioned above or below the game board 101, and is positioned above the game board 101 in FIGS. 5-1 and 5-2. The configuration of the effect light unit 111 will be described.

  5A and 5B, each light 112 in the effect light unit 111 includes an LED 501 (hereinafter, appropriately referred to as 501a to 501e). The LED 501 is mounted on the LED substrate 502. Although not shown, the LED board 502 is provided with a control circuit that performs lighting control of the LED 501 in accordance with the control data output from the control board 402.

  The effect light unit 111 includes a jig 502 a stacked on the LED substrate 502. The jig 502a supports a photosensor S that detects an inclination of a plate surface of a support member 503, which will be described later, with respect to the board surface of the game board 101. The photosensor S includes a light emitting element and a light receiving element, and an output changes according to a change in the amount of light received by the light receiving element.

  Between the light emitting element and the light receiving element in the photosensor S, a detection piece (see reference numeral 810 in FIG. 8) provided on the back side of the support member 503 is positioned. The output of the photosensor S changes according to the position of the detection piece with respect to the optical axis formed between the light emitting element and the light receiving element. In the present embodiment, the position where the optical axis of the photosensor S is formed without being blocked by the detection piece (see FIG. 8) is the reset position of the light 112 in the vertical direction.

  The effect light unit 111 includes a support member 503 that is stacked on the LED substrate 502. The support member 503 is provided with a plurality of shaft members 505 (hereinafter appropriately referred to as 505a to 505e) that hold a plurality of gear members 504 (hereinafter appropriately referred to as 504a to 504e) in a rotatable state. The plurality of gear members 504 are provided in association with each of the lights 112, a gear portion that can rotate around the corresponding shaft member 505, and a bearing portion that protrudes from the gear portion toward the front cover 402. It is equipped with.

  The shaft member 505 is a member having a substantially cylindrical shape that is integrally formed with the support member 503. The LED 501 is positioned in the shaft member 505 in a state where the LED substrate 502 and the support member 503 are stacked. As a result, the shaft member 505 serves as the rotational axis of the plurality of gear members 504 and can protect the LED 501.

  A holding plate 510 is attached to the support member 503 with a plurality of gear members 504 interposed therebetween. The plurality of gear members 504 are rotatable while being sandwiched between the support member 503 and the restraining plate 510. Further, the support member 503 is provided with a plurality of shafts 507 (hereinafter appropriately referred to as 507a to 507d) that hold the connecting gear 506 (hereinafter appropriately referred to as 506a to 506d) in a rotatable state. Each of the connecting gears 506 is positioned between the plurality of gear members 504 and connects adjacent gear members 504 so as to be interlocked with each other.

  Further, the support member 503 is provided with a plurality of shafts 509 (hereinafter, appropriately referred to as 509a to 509c) that hold a plurality of power transmission gears 508 (hereinafter appropriately referred to as 508a to 508c) in a rotatable state. ing. The plurality of power transmission gears 508 are rotatable while being sandwiched between the support member 503 and the restraining plate 510.

  Further, the support member 503 is provided with a hole (not shown) penetrating in the thickness direction of the support member 503. The drive shaft m1 of the motor M1 attached to the back case 404 is inserted into this hole. The drive shaft m1 is connected to the power transmission gear 508a, and transmits the driving force of the motor M1 to the gear member 504b via the power transmission gear 508.

  The driving force transmitted to the gear member 504b is transmitted to all the gear members 504a to 504e through the coupling gear 506, the gear members 504c and 504d, and the like. Here, a movable means is realized by the gear member 504, the coupling gear 506, the power transmission gear 508, and the motor M1.

  The plurality of gear members 504 include a lens (lens member) 511 (hereinafter appropriately referred to as 511a to 511e), a lens frame 512 (hereinafter appropriately referred to as 512a to 512e), and a lens support member (support member). 513 (hereinafter appropriately referred to as 513a to 513e). The lens 511 and the lens frame 512 are attached to the lens support member 513 and are substantially integrated.

  The plurality of lens support members 513 are fixed to the corresponding gear members 504, respectively. Here, the light 112 is configured by the gear member 504, the lens 511, the lens frame 512, and the lens support member 513. Each light 112 rotates about the axis of the shaft member 505 as the plurality of gear members 504 rotate.

  The lens support member 513c among the plurality of lens support members 513 is provided with a flange 514 having a notch for detecting the reset position. The support member 503 is provided with a photoelectric sensor (detection means) 515 that detects the position of the notch. The photoelectric sensor 515 includes a light emitting element and a light receiving element that are arranged to face each other with the flange 514 therebetween, and detects the position of the notch portion according to the amount of light emitted from the light emitting element and the amount of light received by the light receiving element.

  For example, the photoelectric sensor 515 outputs LOW when the optical axis is blocked by the flange 514, and outputs HIGH when the optical axis is formed between the light emitting element and the light receiving element via the notch. As the output changes. In the present embodiment, the position of the lens support member 513c where the output from the photoelectric sensor 515 is a HIGH output is the reset position of the light 112.

  FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing the operation of the light 112. In FIG. 6, the plurality of gear members 504 are coupled to each other via a coupling gear 506. Since the effect light unit 111 has the above-described configuration, the driving force of the motor M1 is transmitted to the gear member 504c via the power transmission gears 508a to 508c. By connecting the gear members 504 via the connecting gear 506, all the gear members 504 can be rotated at the same speed in the same direction by using one motor M1 (the white arrow 601 in FIG. 6). ~ 605).

  The connecting gear 506 rotates in the opposite direction to the gear member 504. The drive shaft m1 of the motor M1 and the power transmission gears 508a to 508c rotate in the opposite direction to the adjacent power transmission gears 508a, 508b, or 508c (see white arrows 611 to 614 in FIG. 6).

  In the gaming machine according to the present embodiment, a flange 514 is provided on the gear member 504c to which the driving force of the motor M1 is directly transmitted, and the position of the notch provided in the flange 514 is detected, whereby the light 112 is reset. Therefore, the detection accuracy of the reset position of the light 112 can be improved.

  FIG. 7A is a perspective view illustrating the structure of the light 112. 7A, the lens 511 in each light 112 has an optical axis in the lens 511 (reference numeral 702 in FIG. 7-1) with respect to the rotational axis direction of the gear member 504 (see reference numeral 701 in FIG. 7A). Is attached at a predetermined angle (about 5 ° to 15 °, which is an arbitrary angle and is not limited to the above angle). The rotation axis direction of the gear member 504 is substantially orthogonal to the board surface of the game board 101. In the present embodiment, the first shaft is realized by the rotation center portion of the gear member 504.

  The lens frame 512 is shaped so that the lens 511 is attached in a state where the optical axis of the lens 511 is inclined with respect to the rotational axis direction of the gear member 504. As a result, the optical axis of the lens 511 can be attached in a state of being inclined by a predetermined angle with respect to the rotational axis direction of the gear member 504 simply by attaching the lens 511 to the lens frame 512. When the lens 511 is rotated by the rotation axis 701 while irradiating light from the lens 511, it appears to the player that the emitted light is rotating.

  7-2 is a plan view showing the lens 511, and FIG. 7-3 is a side view showing the lens 511. FIG. As shown in FIGS. 7-2 and 7-3, the lens 511 includes a lens function unit 710 that collects the light emitted from the LED 501 and a fixing flange 711 for fixing the lens 511. I have. The fixing flange portion 711 is provided over the entire circumference of the lens function portion 710.

  FIG. 7-4 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the structure of the light 112. FIG. 7-4 shows a cross section of the light 112 shown in FIG. 7-1 cut along a plane including the axes 701 and 702. 7-4, the position of the lens 511 in each light 112 is fixed by sandwiching the fixing flange portion 711 between the lens frame 512 and the lens support member 513.

  In the lens support member 513, the end surface on the lens frame 512 side is inclined with respect to the rotational axis direction of the gear member 504. As a result, the lens 511 is simply positioned between the lens frame 512 and the lens support member 513, and the lens 511 is attached in a state where the optical axis of the lens 511 is inclined by a predetermined angle with respect to the rotational axis direction of the gear member 504. Can do.

  In FIG. 5B, the code | symbol M2 has shown the motor. The motor M2 is attached to the front cover 402. The drive shaft m2 of the motor M2 is connected to the gear 516a. Gears 516b and 516c are connected to the gear 516a. The drive shaft m2 and the rotational axes of the gears 516a to 516c are all parallel to the arrangement direction of the lights 112. The gears 516 a to 516 c are provided so as to be rotatable around the rotation axis by the support member 520. The drive shaft m2 of the motor M2 is connected to the gear 516a via the support member 520.

  In the gear 516c, a protrusion 516d protruding in a direction parallel to the axial direction of the gear 516c is provided at a position eccentric from the rotation center of the gear 516c. The protrusion 516d is connected to one end of the arm 517. The other end of the arm 517 is connected to the front cover 402.

  The front cover 402 is supported by the back case 404 via bearing members 518 and 519. The bearing members 518 and 519 are provided at both ends of the front cover 402 in a direction parallel to the arrangement direction of the lights 112. The front cover 402 is rotatable with respect to the back case 404 at a fixed position around the axis connecting the bearing members 518 and 519. With such a configuration, when the motor M2 is rotationally driven while irradiating light, the irradiated light appears to move up and down to the player.

  The front cover 402 rotates with a line (virtual line) connecting the bearing members 518 and 519 as a rotation axis. The rotation axis of the front cover 402 is substantially parallel to the board surface of the game board 101. In the present embodiment, the second shaft is realized by the rotation shaft of the front cover 402.

  FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. 4-1. In FIG. 8, the effect light unit 111 rotates the gear 516c by transmitting the driving force of the motor M2 from the driving shaft m2 to the gear 516c via the gears 516a and 516b (the white arrows 801 to 801 in FIG. 8). 804). As the gear 516c rotates, the projection 516d provided on the gear 516c moves around the rotation center of the gear 516c, and the arm 517 connected to the projection 516d is displaced along with this movement.

  The front cover 402 rotates with respect to the rear case 404 at a fixed position as the arm 517 is displaced. As described above, since the light 112 is provided inside the front cover 402, the directions of the lights 112 change all at once as the front cover 402 rotates (see the white arrow 805 in FIG. 8). . The direction of the light 112 changes from top to bottom or from bottom to top.

  In FIG. 8, reference numeral 810 denotes the detection piece. FIG. 8 shows a state where the light 112 is positioned at the reset position of the light 112 in the vertical direction. As described above, the reset position of the light 112 in the vertical direction is a position where the optical axis of the photosensor S is formed without being blocked by the detection piece 810.

  In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, detecting the reset position of the light 112 when rotating around the above-mentioned axial center and the reset position of the light when the arm 517 moves up and down with displacement Thus, the irradiation direction of light from the light 112 can be controlled in three dimensions.

  In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the optical axis of the lens 511 (see reference numeral 702 in FIG. 7-1) is relative to the rotational axis direction of the gear member 504 (see reference numeral 701 in FIG. 7-1). Even when the player is inclined at a predetermined angle, the player can be irradiated with light in front of the gaming machine.

(Processing procedure of production control unit)
Next, the contents of the processing procedure of the effect control unit 202 will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the effect control unit 202. In the flowchart of FIG. 9, the effect control unit 202 determines whether or not a game ball has won a specific winning opening and a jackpot has been generated (step S901). In step S <b> 901, whether or not the effect control unit 202 has received the jackpot signal output from the main control unit 201 to the effect control unit 202 when a big hit is generated by a game ball that has won a specific winning opening 106. By judging whether or not, it is judged whether or not the jackpot has occurred.

  In step S901, when a big hit occurs (step S901: Yes), motor drive control data (for production) is output to the second light control unit 253 (step S902), and LED lighting control data ( (For production) is output (step S903).

  The motor drive control data (for production) output in step S902 and the LED lighting control data (for production) output in step S903 are for the purpose of guiding the player and its surroundings that the jackpot is a big hit. This is data for causing the light emitting unit 263 to perform the predetermined operation.

  During the predetermined operation, the motor M1 and the motor M2 may be driven separately or simultaneously. Further, the driving directions of the motor M1 and the motor M2 may be clockwise or counterclockwise with respect to any reference position. When the motor M1 and the motor M2 are driven separately, for example, the motor M1 may be driven clockwise and the motor M2 may be driven counterclockwise.

  Alternatively, either the motor M1 or the motor M2 may be stopped and only the other may be driven. For example, when the motor M1 is stopped and the motor M2 is driven, the light emitted from the effect light unit 111 can be shown to the player to move up and down.

  Further, the motor M1 and the motor M2 may be driven simultaneously. By simultaneously driving the motor M1 and the motor M2, it is possible to increase the locus of the irradiation position of light formed by turning clockwise or counterclockwise. As a result, it is possible to make the player feel as if the light 112 is rotating with a large swing. The locus of the irradiation position at this time becomes a substantially elliptical shape that is long in the vertical direction (vertical direction).

  The rotation directions of the motor M1 and the motor M2 do not need to be continuous in one direction. For example, the motor M1 may be driven by the amount of rotation of the gear member 504 half a turn. In this case, the locus of the irradiation position of the light irradiated by the light 112 draws a semicircle (upper half rotation or lower half rotation). By further driving the motor M2 so that the front cover 402 moves up and down from this state, the locus of the irradiation position of the light irradiated by the light 112 draws a vertically long arc-shaped curve.

  Further, by driving the motor M1 and the motor M2 intermittently, the locus of the irradiation position of the light irradiated by the light 112 can be made rectangular by a combination of driving patterns of the motor M1 and the motor M2. This makes it possible to produce a wider range of effects.

  Further, the driving speeds of the motor M1 and the motor M2 may be adjusted. The driving speeds of the motor M1 and the motor M2 are adjusted according to, for example, the contents of the effect (the degree of intense heat). Specifically, for example, the driving speeds of the motor M1 and the motor M2 for the probability variation jackpot effect may be faster than the driving speeds of the motor M1 and the motor M2 for the normal jackpot effect. As a result, it is possible to increase the excitement level of the player, immerse the player in the game, and improve the fun of the game.

  The light irradiated by the light 112 is converted into a light beam by the lens 511 with the optical axis direction of the lens 511 as the traveling direction. Thereby, the light 112 can implement | achieve the effect like a spotlight, and can irradiate more limited irradiation object. By limiting the irradiation target, it is possible to easily notice that an effect is being performed on the irradiated player, and the effect of the effect can be improved.

  Although illustration is omitted, the motor drive control data output in step S902 and the production data similar to the LED lighting control data output in step S903 are also output to the first light control unit 252 together. It may be. In addition to the output of various data in step S902 and step S903, audio output control data may be output to the audio control unit 255.

  The sound output control data output at this time is data for causing the speaker 277 to output a predetermined sound for the purpose of guiding the player and its surroundings that a big hit is a big hit. As a result, sound can be output from the speaker 277 in conjunction with the driving of the motor M1 and the motor M2, so that it is possible to effectively guide the player and its surroundings that it is a big hit at the time of the big hit, and the production effect Can be further enhanced.

  Subsequently, it is determined whether or not a predetermined production time has elapsed since the jackpot was generated in Step S901: Yes (Step S904). Here, the predetermined effect time is a time required from the start of the effect control executed at the time of the big hit to the end, and is a predetermined time. If the predetermined elapsed time has not elapsed (step S904: No), the process returns to step S902.

  On the other hand, when a predetermined elapsed time has elapsed (step S904: Yes), motor drive control data (for reset) is output to the second light control unit 253 (step S905). Here, the motor drive control data (for reset) is data for performing control to position the direction of each light 112 in the effect light unit 111 at a predetermined reset position.

  Specifically, for example, data for performing control for rotating the front cover 402 to be in an upward state, rotating the gear member 504 while the light 112 is in the upward state, and positioning the light 112 at the reset position. is there.

  Then, according to the output value from the photoelectric sensor 515, the process waits until the reset position of the gear member 504 is detected due to the light 112 being positioned at the reset position (step S906: No), and if detected (step S906: In Yes), the motor drive control data (for standby) is output to the second light control unit 253 (step S907), and the series of processing ends.

  Here, the motor drive control data (for standby) is a state in which the motor M2 is driven in a state where the light 112 is positioned at the reset position, the direction of the light 112 is directed to the front of the gaming machine, and the subsequent operation is waited. It is data to do.

  If the jackpot has not occurred in step S901 (step S901: No), it is determined whether an unauthorized operation on the gaming machine is detected (step S908). Here, the unauthorized operation on the gaming machine means, for example, opening a cover provided on the front surface of the gaming machine or applying excessive vibration to the gaming machine.

  If an unauthorized operation on the gaming machine has not been detected (step S908: No), the process returns to step S901. When an unauthorized operation on the gaming machine is detected (step S908: Yes), motor drive control data (for fraud notification) is output to the second light control unit 253 (step S909) and LED lighting control data. (For fraud notification) is output (step S910).

  The motor drive control data output in step S909 and the LED lighting control data output in step S910 perform a predetermined operation for notifying the surroundings that fraud has been performed at the time of fraud detection to the light emitting unit 263. This is the data to be performed.

  Although not shown, the motor drive control data output in step S909 and the LED lighting control data output in step S910 may be output to the first light control unit 252 as well. In addition to the output of various data in steps S909 and S910, the audio output control data may be output to the audio control unit 255. The sound output control data output at this time is data for causing the speaker 277 to output a predetermined sound intended to notify the surroundings that fraud has been performed when fraud is detected.

  The output of the motor drive control data in step S909 and the output of the LED lighting control data in step S910 are continued until the unauthorized notification time has elapsed (step S911: No). Here, the fraud notification time is a time required for notifying that an unauthorized operation has been performed around the gaming machine where the unauthorized operation has been performed, and is set to, for example, 30 seconds. Is done.

  The fraud notification time may be arbitrarily set according to the importance of fraud performed on the gaming machine. Specifically, for example, when an unauthorized operation with high importance is detected, the unauthorized notification time may be set longer than when an unauthorized operation other than that is detected.

  When fraud is detected in operation, an administrator (such as a store clerk) who manages the gaming machine confirms the contents of the fraud, confirms that the fraud has been resolved, and then releases the fraud detection state. To do. In step S911, when the fraud notification time has elapsed (step S911: Yes), the fraud detection state is canceled by the administrator's work as described above (step S912: No), and the fraud detection state is changed. When the release is made (step S912: Yes), a series of processing ends.

  Although illustration is omitted, in a conventional gaming machine, for example, a display screen that produces a jackpot is displayed on the display unit 104, or a light provided on the game board 101 is turned on or blinked. I was directing. The game board 101 is provided with a plurality of lights having different emission colors. For example, the lights are selectively turned on according to the contents of the production. In both cases, the position of the light was fixed.

  For example, using a conventional gaming machine to increase the amount of flashiness by increasing the amount of light emission is not preferable because power consumption increases. In addition, even when the flashing light source is turned off or the flashing speed is stopped to increase the flashiness of the production, the light intensity must be increased to some extent in order to increase the flashiness. Is unfavorable because of an increase. When the power consumption in each gaming machine increases, the increase in power consumption in the entire store having a plurality of gaming machines becomes undesirably large.

  Also, in stores with multiple gaming machines, all installed gaming machines are flashy even if the production of individual gaming machines is flashy by increasing the amount of light emitted or flashing the light source. If there is, a big improvement cannot be expected about the production effect limited to every game machine.

  As described above, according to the gaming machine of the present embodiment, by changing the irradiation direction of the light emitted from the effect light unit 111 in a three-dimensional manner, the light emitted from the effect light unit 111 is changed by the player. It is possible to enter the player's field of view, produce glare and make the player aware that the production is being performed, and improve the production effect.

  Further, according to the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the light emitted from the effect light unit 111 can be changed in three dimensions by changing the irradiation direction of the light emitted from the effect light unit 111 and the player himself / herself. It is possible to enter the sight of surrounding players and make the surrounding players aware that the production is being performed, thereby improving the production effect.

  For example, when the jackpot state is reached, by dynamically changing the direction of the light emitted from the effect light unit 111, it is possible to inform the surroundings that the gaming machine is in a jackpot state. Therefore, it is possible to increase the attention level of the player who is in a big hit state. Accordingly, it is possible to give the player an uplifting feeling due to the attention, and to continuously or repeatedly use the gaming machine of the present embodiment, thereby improving the operating rate of the gaming machine.

  In general, human attention is more likely to be directed toward a moving object than to a stationary object, and is more likely to be directed toward a person who has started moving from a stopped state than a constantly moving object. According to the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the production is performed by changing the irradiation direction of the light emitted from the production light unit 111 only in the case of a specific production such as a big hit state. Can be made conscious of the player himself and the surrounding players, and the effect of production can be improved.

  Further, according to the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the lens support member 513 that supports the lens 511 so that the axis 701 substantially orthogonal to the board surface of the gaming board 101 and the optical axis of the lens form a predetermined angle is provided in the game. By rotating or rotating about an axis substantially orthogonal to the board surface of the board 101, the light irradiation direction can be changed with a simple configuration.

  Further, according to the gaming machine of this embodiment, based on the result detected by the photoelectric sensor 515, the lens support member 513 is rotated or rotated about the axis 701, and the optical axis of the lens 511 is predetermined. Therefore, the light irradiation direction by the light 112 can be accurately controlled.

  Further, according to the gaming machine of the present embodiment, by arranging a plurality of lens support members 513 side by side on a substantially straight line, the plurality of lens support members 513 are once arranged around an axis parallel to the board surface of the game board 101. Can be rotated. Thereby, compared with the case where the lens support member 513 is rotated using a plurality of motors, the structure can be simplified and the control can be facilitated.

  Further, according to the gaming machine of the embodiment, the lens support member 513 is rotated about the axis 701 by rotating the plurality of lens support members 513 at once around the axis parallel to the board surface of the game board 101. As a result, it is possible to irradiate a wider area.

  This makes it easy for the light emitted from the effect light unit 111 to enter the field of view of the player and the surrounding players, and makes the player and the surrounding players aware that the effect is being performed. It is possible to improve the production effect.

  Further, according to the gaming machine of the present embodiment, a plurality of lens support members 513 are arranged on a substantially straight line, and the gear member 504 is connected via the connecting gear 506, so that all the motors M1 can be used. The lens support member 513 can be rotated or rotated. Thereby, compared with the case where the lens support member 513 is rotated using a plurality of motors, the structure can be simplified and the control can be facilitated.

  Further, according to the gaming machine of the present embodiment, by providing the effect light unit 111 on the upper or lower part of the frame member 110 provided on the game board 101, the light emitted from the effect light unit 111 is being played. It is easy to enter the player's field of view, and it is possible to make the player aware of the glare and the effect being produced, and to improve the production effect.

  As described above, the lamp unit and the gaming machine according to the present invention relate to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine that produces an effect during a game, and in particular, a gaming machine that produces an effect different from an effect using an accessory or display. And suitable for a lamp unit provided in the gaming machine.

It is a front view which shows an example of the game machine of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the internal structure of the control part of a game machine. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structure of an operation part. It is a front view which shows an effect light part. It is a rear view which shows an effect light part. FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view (part 1) showing the configuration of the effect light unit. FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view (part 2) showing the configuration of the effect light unit. It is explanatory drawing which shows operation | movement of a write. It is a perspective view which shows the structure of a light. It is a top view which shows a lens. It is a side view which shows a lens. It is sectional drawing which shows the structure of a light. It is AA sectional drawing in FIG. 4-1. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of an effect control part.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 101 Game board 110 Frame member 111 Production light part 112 Light 511 Lens 513 Lens support member 515 Sensor 701 Axis 702 Axis

Claims (8)

A lamp unit provided in a frame (hereinafter referred to as “front frame”) disposed on the front surface of the game board,
One or more light sources;
A lens member corresponding to the light source and refracting light emitted from the light source in a predetermined direction;
A support member for supporting the lens member;
Movable means for moving the support member so as to change the irradiation direction of light emitted from the lens member;
A lamp unit characterized by comprising: The support member supports the lens member such that an optical axis of the lens member forms a predetermined angle with an axis (hereinafter referred to as a “first axis”) substantially orthogonal to the board surface of the game board,
The lamp unit according to claim 1, wherein the movable means rotates or rotates the support member around the first axis. Detecting means for detecting a position where the optical axis direction of the lens member is a predetermined direction;
The movable means rotates or rotates the support member around the first axis based on the result detected by the detection means, so that the optical axis of the lens member is in a predetermined direction. The lamp unit according to claim 2, wherein the lamp unit is stopped.   The lamp unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a plurality of the support members are arranged in a substantially straight line.   The lamp unit according to claim 4, wherein the movable unit connects the plurality of support members to rotate or rotate.   The said movable means rotates the said supporting member centering on the axis | shaft (henceforth a "2nd axis | shaft") substantially parallel to the board | board surface direction of the said game board, The one of Claims 1-5 characterized by the above-mentioned. The lamp unit according to one.   The lamp unit according to claim 1, wherein the lamp unit is provided at an upper part or a lower part of an outer frame of the game board.   A gaming machine comprising the lamp unit according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

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