JP2009011352A - Premium putout machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To perform the locking operation of a shutter for opening and closing a premium putout port in a premium putout machine. <P>SOLUTION: The premium putout machine is provided with the shutter 102 for opening and closing the premium putout port for putting out premiums and a pusher 151 for pushing out the premiums K to the premium putout port. Also, the machine is provided with a shutter side engaging part 191 movable integrally with the shutter 102 and a pusher side engaging part 192 movable integrally with the pusher 151. The shutter side engaging part 191 and the pusher side engaging part 192 can be engaged with each other in the state that the premium putout port is closed by the shutter 102. Then, the pusher 151 is moved to an engaging position at which the shutter side engaging part 191 and the pusher side engaging part 192 can be engaged with each other and a disengaging position P<SB>P2</SB>at which it is moved further to the front than the engaging position and the shutter side engaging part 191 and the pusher side engaging part 192 can be disengaged. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a prize dispenser installed in a game hall such as a pachinko parlor.

  For example, at a game hall such as a pachinko parlor, a prize dispenser that automatically pays out prizes (special prizes) according to the quantity of game media (pachinko balls, etc.) acquired by the player (player) at the game hall is used. Has been. As such a prize dispenser, a prize storage section (cartridge) for stacking and storing a plurality of prizes up and down, a prize waiting section for waiting for prizes to be paid out to the outside above the prize storage section, a prize payout outlet for delivering prizes, Some have a pusher that pushes the prize in the prize waiting section toward the prize payout exit, a shutter that opens and closes the prize payout exit (see Patent Documents 1 and 2). That is, in such a prize dispenser, the prize raised from the prize storage section to the prize waiting section is pushed out by the pusher, and is paid out to the outside through the prize payout exit.

Japanese Patent No. 2999917 Japanese Patent No. 3095429

  However, the conventional prize dispenser has a problem that the crime prevention effect is low even if the prize payout exit is closed by the shutter, because the shutter is not locked. That is, there is a possibility that the shutter is easily operated from the outside of the prize dispenser, and the prize dispense outlet is opened. In addition, there is a concern that mischief is set in the prize dispenser or that prizes in the prize dispenser are stolen through the prize payout exit.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and an object of the present invention is to provide a prize dispenser that can easily perform a locking operation of a shutter that opens and closes a prize dispensing outlet.

  In order to solve the above-described problems, according to the present invention, a prize dispenser that dispenses prizes, a prize waiting section that waits for prizes to be paid out to the outside, and pays out prizes from the front of the prize waiting section to the outside. A shutter side that includes a prize payout exit, a shutter that opens and closes the prize payout exit, and a pusher that pushes the prize in the prize waiting section to the prize payout exit, and is movable with respect to the dispenser main body integrally with the shutter An engagement portion, and a pusher side engagement portion that is movable with respect to the dispenser main body integrally with the pusher, wherein the shutter side engagement portion and the pusher side engagement portion have the prize payout port It is possible to engage with each other in a state of being closed by the shutter, and the pusher engages the shutter side engaging portion and the pusher side engaging portion with each other. An engagement position that can be moved, and an engagement release position that can move forward from the engagement position and release the engagement of the shutter-side engagement portion and the pusher-side engagement portion. A prize dispenser is provided that is configured to move.

  In this prize dispenser, a prize passage opening for raising a prize from below the prize waiting section to the prize waiting section, and a standby section lifting body pushed up by the prize moved to the prize waiting section through the prize passage opening The shutter and the shutter-side engaging portion may be attached so as to move up and down integrally with the standby portion lifting body.

  Further, a pusher position detection mechanism that detects whether or not the pusher exists at the engagement position and whether or not the pusher exists at the engagement release position may be provided.

  According to the present invention, by moving the pusher, it is possible to switch between a state where the shutter side engaging portion and the pusher side engaging portion are engaged with each other and a state where the engagement is released. As a result, the shutter can be easily locked. That is, the shutter can be locked by engaging the shutter side engaging portion and the pusher side engaging portion with each other, and the engagement between the shutter side engaging portion and the pusher side engaging portion can be released. The shutter can be unlocked. Shutter lock operation can be realized with a simple structure.

  Embodiments according to the present invention will be described below. In the following, for convenience of explanation, the left-right direction (horizontal direction) is defined as the X direction, the front-rear direction (horizontal direction orthogonal to the X direction) is defined as the Y direction, and the up-down direction (perpendicular to the X direction and the Y direction). Vertical direction) is defined as the Z direction. In addition, a front side facing the player (player) side is defined as a front side, and a side (back side) opposite to the front side is defined as a rear side.

  FIG. 1 shows a prize K (special prize) in the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the outer shape of the prize K has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape (substantially rectangular thick plate shape) formed thin in the Z direction. The dimension in the Z direction of the prize K is a substantially constant thickness T. The thickness T may be about 3 mm, for example.

  FIG. 2 shows a prize dispenser 1 that automatically pays out a prize K corresponding to the number of game media (pachinko balls, etc. acquired by a pachinko) acquired by a player at a game hall. A perspective view is shown. As shown in FIG. 2, the prize dispenser 1 has a dispenser body 2, a prize payout exit 10 through which a prize K is paid out to the player side, and a prize K paid out to the outside through the prize payout exit 10. The prize placement surface 11 is provided. A plurality of (seven in the illustrated example) the prize payout outlets 10 are opened in a row at predetermined intervals in the X direction. The prize placing surface 11 is provided substantially horizontally in front of the prize payout exit 10.

  On the upper surface of the dispenser main body 2, for example, a screen display device 12 for displaying various information to a player or the like using a liquid crystal screen or the like is provided. In addition, below the prize placement surface 11, a dispenser front opening 15 that is opened when a cartridge 22 (to be described later) is carried into and out of the dispenser main body 2, and a dispenser are provided on the front surface of the dispenser main body 2. A dispenser front door 16 that opens and closes the front opening 15 is provided. Although not shown, the rear surface of the dispenser main body 2 is opened and closed with an opening at the rear of the dispenser that is opened when a later-described dispensing unit 20 is carried into and out of the main body 2 of the dispensing machine. A dispenser rear door is provided.

  As shown in FIG. 3, a plurality of (seven in the illustrated example) dispensing units 20 are built in the dispensing machine main body 2. The payout units 20 are arranged in the X direction so as to correspond to the prize payout exits 10 one by one. Each payout unit 20 can store a plurality of prizes K, and pays out the stored prizes K.

  Note that the same type of prize K (the prizes having the same monetary value and size) is paid out from the same payout unit 20 (the same prize payout outlet 10). Further, different types of prizes K (for example, prizes having different monetary values) may be paid out from different payout units 20 (different prize payout exits 10). Further, the same type of prize K may be paid out from two or more payout units 20. Then, when a failure occurs in one payout unit 20, that is, a failure occurs, or the prize K stored in the payout unit 20 (in a cartridge 22 described later) decreases, and the number of prize payouts increases. Even if the prize K cannot be paid out, the prize K can be paid out from another payout unit 20 instead of the payout unit 20. Therefore, the prize K can be reliably delivered to the player. In addition, while the payout of the prize K is continued in the other payout units 20, maintenance of the payout unit 20 in which a failure has occurred or replenishment of the prize K to the payout unit 20 in which the number of prizes K stored is reduced. Can go. That is, as in the present embodiment, a plurality of payout units 20 are provided, and each payout unit 20 is configured to individually store and pay out prizes K, thereby improving the payout operation reliability and maintainability. Can be made.

  FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of the dispensing unit 20 with the side plate (the right side plate seen from the front) removed. As shown in FIG. 4, the payout unit 20 includes a unit main body 21 and a cartridge 22 that is inserted into the unit main body 21 (loaded with a prize K). Further, the cartridge 22 is held inside the unit main body 21, and the cartridge moving device 23 that slides the unit main body 21 along the Y direction, and the prize K in the cartridge 22 is moved up and down with respect to the cartridge 22 ( A prize moving device 25 is provided for raising a plurality of prizes K from a prize storage unit 31 described later to a prize standby unit 32 described later. Above the unit main body 21, a prize carry-out device 26 for carrying the prize K in the cartridge 22 to the outside (the prize placement surface 11) is installed. In addition, a unit control unit 27 (control board) is provided as a control unit for controlling each part (the cartridge moving device 23, the gift moving device 25, the gift carrying device 26, etc.) of the payout unit 20.

  Also, the payout unit 20 includes a prize storage unit 31 that can store a plurality of prizes K stacked in the Z direction (in a row in the Z direction) and a prize K that is paid out to the outside above the prize storage part 31. A prize waiting section 32 (a prize waiting space) for waiting is provided. A plurality of the prize storage units 31 are provided in the cartridge 22 (that is, below the prize carry-out device 26), and the prize standby unit 32 is formed in the prize carry-out device 26 (that is, above the prize storage unit 31). It has become so.

  Note that the prize waiting unit 32 raises the prize K through a prize passing port 37 to be described later, and the waiting part lifting body 101 to be described later is lifted upward from the prize passing port 37 by the prize K. It is formed between the standby part lifting body 101. In other words, the prize waiting unit 32 is configured to be expanded in the Z direction according to the number of prizes K accommodated between the prize passing port 37 and the standby unit elevating body 101.

  Next, the configuration of each part of the payout unit 20 will be described in detail. As shown in FIG. 4, on the front surface of the unit main body 21, there are a unit main body front opening 35 for carrying the cartridge 22 in and out of the unit main body 21, and a unit main body front door 36 for opening and closing the unit main body front opening 35. Is provided.

  In the state where the dispensing unit 20 is stored in the dispensing machine main body 2 (see FIG. 3), the unit main body 21 is held in a fixed state with respect to the dispensing machine main body 2. Further, when performing various operations on the dispensing unit 20, such as maintenance of the dispensing unit 20, for example, the above-described dispensing machine rear door (not shown) is opened to open the dispensing machine rear surface opening, and the dispensing machine rear surface opening is opened. Then, the unit main body 21 (the entire payout unit 20) is pulled out to the rear side of the payer main body 2 along the Y direction so that various operations can be performed on the payout unit 20. On the other hand, when performing various operations on the cartridge 22 such as storing the prize K in the cartridge 22 (premium storage unit 31), for example, the dispenser front door 16 (see FIG. 3) is opened to open the dispenser front opening 15. Further, the unit main body front door 36 is opened to open the unit main body front opening 35, and the cartridge 22 is moved along the Y direction through the unit main body front opening 35 and the dispenser front opening 15 along the Y direction. 21), the cartridge 22 is configured to be able to perform various operations.

  As shown in FIG. 5, on the upper surface of the unit main body 21, a prize passing port 37 for allowing the prize K to pass is opened. The prize passing port 37 is opened between the prize storage unit 31 and the prize standby unit 32. That is, the prize K that is moved up and down by the prize moving device 25 rises from the prize storage section 31 (below the prize waiting section 32) to the prize waiting section 32 through the prize passing port 37, and the prize storage section 32 receives the prize. It is also possible to descend to the part 31.

  As described above, the cartridge 22 includes a plurality of prize storage units 31. In the example shown in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5, the three prize storage units 31 are elongated along the Z direction and arranged side by side in the Y direction.

  Each prize storage unit 31 is in a state in which the prize K is oriented substantially horizontally along the XY plane, that is, the prize K has a width direction in the X direction, a length direction in the Y direction, and a thickness direction in the prize direction. It can be stored in a state directed in the Z direction. Further, the prizes K (special prizes having the same dimensions as each other) oriented substantially horizontally can be stored in a predetermined number of storages, for example, about 120, stacked in order from the bottom in the Z direction. ing. That is, for example, in the cartridge 22 shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, when the number of prizes stored in each prize storage unit 31 is 120, the cartridge 22 as a whole has about 360 (120 × 3) prizes K. It can be stored.

  On the lower surface of the cartridge 22 (the lower end portion of each premium storage unit 31), a storage unit lower surface opening 41 through which a premium holder 51 described later passes vertically is opened. On the upper surface of the cartridge 22 (upper end portion of each prize storage section 31), a storage section upper surface opening 42 through which a prize K, which will be described later, and a prize K that is moved up and down by the prize storage body 51 pass is provided.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the prize K is held so as not to fall below the storage unit lower surface opening 41 in each premium storage unit 31. That is, the prize K stored in the lowermost position in the prize storage unit 31 is in a state where the bottom edge of the prize K is placed around the storage part lower surface opening 41 (the bottom surface of the cartridge 22), and the bottom surface of the prize K. It is held in a state where the central portion is exposed downward. Further, the prize K is moved up and down between the prize storage section 31 and the prize waiting section 32 through the storage section upper surface opening 42 and the prize passage opening 37. That is, by being lifted by a prize holder 51 described later, the prize K stored in the upper part can be raised to the prize waiting section 32 in order from the storage section upper surface opening 42 and the prize passage opening 37. .

  As shown in FIG. 4, the cartridge moving device 23 includes a plurality (two in the illustrated example) of cartridge holding rails 45 and a cartridge moving motor 46 provided along the Y direction. Further, a drive pulley 47, a driven pulley (not shown), and a drive belt 48 are provided.

  The drive pulley 47 is attached to a rotating shaft (not shown) of the cartridge moving motor 46. A driven pulley (not shown) is provided in front of the drive pulley 47. The drive belt 48 is bridged between a drive pulley 47 and a driven pulley (not shown). That is, when the drive belt 48 is rotated by driving the cartridge moving motor 46, the cartridge 22 is moved along the cartridge holding rail 45 (Y direction) as the drive belt 48 rotates. Has been. By the operation of the cartridge moving device 23, each prize storage unit 31 (storage unit upper surface opening 42) provided in the cartridge 22 is located below the prize standby unit 32 (through the prize passage port 37 with respect to the prize standby unit 32 Z). (Positions communicating in the direction) so that they can be moved one by one. The cartridge moving motor 46 is controlled in accordance with a control signal from the unit controller 27.

  As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the prize moving device 25 includes a prize holder 51 that holds the prize K, a stepping motor 52 that serves as a prize holder motor that provides power to move the prize holder 51, and a stepping motor. A driver 53 having a drive circuit for the motor 52 is provided. Furthermore, a prize holder moving mechanism 55 that moves the prize holder 51 in the Z direction with respect to the unit main body 21 (dispenser body 2) while synchronizing with the rotation angle of the stepping motor 52 is provided.

  The prize holder 51 is sized to move up and down in the Z direction within the prize storage section 31, and is large enough to pass through the prize passage port 37, the storage section lower surface opening 41, and the storage section upper surface opening 42 in the Z direction. (See FIG. 5). Furthermore, the position where it can enter from below in the Z direction with respect to the prize passing port 37, that is, in the prize storage unit 31 arranged below the prize waiting unit 32 (Z with respect to the prize waiting unit 32 through the prize passing port 37). In the prize storage section 31) arranged in a position communicating with the direction).

  The stepping motor 52 is in a state in which the motor main body 52a is fixed to the unit main body 21 below the cartridge 22 held in the unit main body 21 (a state in which the motor main body 52a is fixed to the dispenser main body 2 via the unit main body 21). ) And the output shaft (rotary shaft, not shown) of the stepping motor is attached in the X direction. The stepping motor 52 is supplied with a pulse signal having a predetermined magnitude (pulse width and pulse voltage) from the driver 53. When a pulse signal of 1 pulse is given to the stepping motor 52, the output shaft (not shown) of the stepping motor 52 is rotated by a predetermined rotation angle (step angle θ) with respect to the motor body 52a. Has been.

  Further, the rotation direction of the output shaft of the stepping motor 52 can be switched between the left rotation direction (counterclockwise) and the right rotation direction (clockwise) as viewed from the output shaft side (drive pulley 71 side described later). That is, when the prize holder 51 is raised, the stepping motor 52 is rotated in the left rotation direction, and when the prize holder 51 is lowered, the stepping motor 52 is rotated in the right rotation direction.

  The driver 53 is controlled in accordance with a control signal from the unit controller 27. That is, the stepping motor 52 is controlled by the unit controller 27 via the driver 53. The unit controller 27 can adjust the amount of movement of the prize holder 51 in the Z direction by adjusting the number of pulse signals (number of steps of the stepping motor 52) given from the driver 53 to the stepping motor 52. Yes.

  In the example shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the prize holder moving mechanism 55 is attached to the output shaft (not shown) of the stepping motor 52 and the unit main body 21 above the drive pulley 71. A driven pulley 72 that is rotatably provided is provided, and an endless belt 73 is bridged between the drive pulley 71 and the driven pulley 72.

  The driving pulley 71 is disposed at a position lower than the cartridge 22 held in the unit main body 21, and the driven pulley 72 is disposed at a position higher than the cartridge 22. The endless belt 73 is provided along the Z direction between the driving pulley 71 and the driven pulley 72. Further, on the rear side of the endless belt 73 and on the side of the cartridge 22 (on the right side when viewed from the front), a prize holder rail 75 for holding the prize holder 51 so as to be slidable in the Z direction is provided. The prize holder rail 75 is fixed to the unit main body 21 with the length direction directed in the Z direction.

  In this configuration, the prize holder 51 is slidably held with respect to the prize holder rail 75 (unit main body 21, dispenser main body 2), and is also provided with an endless belt 73 (a portion provided along the Z direction). ). That is, when the output shaft (not shown) of the stepping motor 52 rotates, the drive pulley 71 is rotated integrally with the output shaft (not shown) of the stepping motor 52, whereby the endless belt 73 is driven by the driven pulley 72. The prize holder 51 is moved up and down along the prize holder rail 75 (Z direction) as shown in FIG. 5 as the endless belt 73 rotates. ing.

  Further, the prize holder 51 has a predetermined output signal (not shown) of the stepping motor 52 and a drive pulley 71 each time a pulse signal of one pulse is given to the stepping motor 52, that is, as shown in FIG. Each time it rotates by the rotation angle (step angle θ), it moves in the Z direction by a predetermined distance T (unit movement distance). For example, in FIG. 6, when the driving pulley 71 is rotated by the step angle θ in the counterclockwise direction (counterclockwise), the prize holder 51 is raised by the distance T, and conversely, the driving pulley 71 is rotated in the clockwise direction ( When it is rotated in the clockwise direction by the step angle θ, the prize holder 51 can be lowered by the distance T. In this way, the prize holder 51 is raised and lowered in stages with respect to the prize holder rail 75 (unit main body 21, dispenser main body 2) according to the number of steps of the stepping motor 52. . The size T of the unit moving distance of the prize holder 51 is set to the same length (for example, about 3 mm) as the thickness T of the prize K.

  Furthermore, the prize holder 51 can enter the cartridge 22 (inside the prize storage section 31) held in the unit main body 21 and can be moved up and down along the prize storage section 31. That is, it is possible to move through the storage unit lower surface opening 41 (see FIG. 5) of the cartridge 22 to below the premium storage units 31 and inside the premium storage units 31. Further, it is possible to move to the inside of each premium storage unit 31 and above each premium storage unit 31 through the storage unit upper surface opening 42. Therefore, the prize holder 51 is brought into contact with the lower surface of the prize K arranged in the lowermost stage among the prizes K stored in the prize storage section 31, so that the prize storage section 31 is brought into contact with the bottom face. A plurality of stored prizes K can be collectively lifted by the prize holder 51 and moved together with the prize holder 51 with respect to the cartridge 22 (unit main body 21, dispenser main body 2). Yes.

  FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the prize carry-out device 26 as seen from obliquely above, and FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the prize carry-out device 26 as seen from obliquely below. FIG. 9 is a side view showing a state in which the prize carry-out device 26 is provided inside the dispenser main body 2. FIG. 10 is a side view illustrating a state in which the prize K is carried into the prize waiting unit 32 (a state in which a waiting unit lifting body 101 and a shutter 102, which will be described later, are lifted), and FIG. It is the side view which showed the state (The state which moved the pusher 151 mentioned later) to the exterior pushed out.

  As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the prize carry-out device 26 can be moved up and down relative to the unit main body 21 and the dispenser main body 2 (the prize K moved to the prize waiting unit 32 through the prize passage 37 described above). A standby unit elevating body 101 that is pushed up with respect to the unit main body 21 by the prize K located at the uppermost stage is provided. A shutter 102 that opens and closes the prize payout exit 10 is attached to the front side of the standby unit lifting body 101. Further, in the prize carry-out device 26, an extruding mechanism 105 that moves the prize K in the prize waiting section 32 and pushes it out to the prize payout exit 10, a cam mechanism 106 for raising and lowering the waiting section elevating body 101, and raising and lowering the waiting section. A lock mechanism 108 that locks the movement of the body 101 (shutter 102) is provided.

  The standby unit elevating body 101 is provided above the prize passing port 37 (see FIG. 8). In the illustrated example, it is provided so as to cover the prize passing port 37 in a plan view seen from above. In addition, the standby unit elevating body 101 is held by the elevating body holding structure 110 so as to be movable up and down in the Z direction with respect to the unit main body 21. In addition, the space between the lower surface of the standby unit elevating body 101 and the prize passing port 37 is configured to be a prize standby unit 32.

  In other words, the prize waiting unit 32 raises the prize K through the prize passing port 37, and the prize K is lifted upward from the prize passing port 37 by the prize K, so that the prize passing port 37 and the waiting unit lifting body are raised. 101 (between flat portions 182a of a cam contact member 182 to be described later). Further, it is expanded in the Z direction in accordance with the number of prizes K accommodated between the prize passing port 37 and the standby unit elevating body 101.

  As shown in FIGS. 9, 10, and 11, the prize payout opening 10 described above is provided in front of the standby part lifting body 101 (premium standby part 32, shutter 102) in the Y direction. That is, the prize K (the prize K accommodated in the prize waiting part 32) carried below the waiting part lifting body 101 passes from the front of the prize waiting part 32 to the outside (the prize placing surface 11) through the prize payout exit 10. (Above) is paid out (see FIG. 11).

  In this way, when the standby unit lifting body 101 pushed up by the prize K is provided, the number (number) of prizes K accommodated in the premium standby unit 32 is determined based on the amount of movement of the standby unit lifting body 101 in the Z direction. It can be detected indirectly. Note that the amount of movement of the standby unit elevating body 101 in the Z direction can be detected using an elevating body movement amount detector 201 described later.

  Further, by adopting a configuration in which the standby unit elevating body 101 is pushed up by the prize K, a plurality of prizes K can be pressed and held from above by the standby unit elevating body 101. That is, the prize K is held up and down by the prize holder 51 and the standby part lifting body 101 described above, and the prize K is raised to the prize standby part 32 while maintaining the state in which the prizes K are stacked and aligned vertically. Can be made. Therefore, the prize K can be moved in a stable state. Further, when detecting the amount of movement of the standby unit lifting / lowering body 101 (when detecting the number of prizes K accommodated in the prize standby part 32), it is possible to prevent the postures of the prizes K from becoming uneven. The number of the prizes K accommodated in 32 can be accurately derived from the movement amount of the standby unit elevating body 101.

As shown in FIGS. 9, 10, and 11, the standby unit elevating body 101 includes an elevating body initial position P _TL (elevating body descending position, see FIG. 9) close to the prize passing port 37, and It is possible to move to a lifting / lowering body raising position P _TH (see FIGS. 10 and 11) that is spaced apart upward and disposed at a position higher than the lifting / lowering body initial position _PTL . Further, the movable range in the Z direction is restricted so that the standby unit lifting body 101 cannot move below the lifting body initial position _PTL .

As shown in FIG. 9, in the state where the standby unit lifting body 101 is arranged at the lifting body initial position _PTL , the prize passing port 37 is blocked from above by the standby unit lifting body 101, and the prize K is the prize standby unit. 32 will not be accommodated. On the other hand, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, in the state where the standby unit elevating body 101 is disposed at the elevating body ascending position _PTH , the premium standby unit 32 is expanded and the premium standby unit 32 (the premium passing port 37 of A predetermined maximum number m _max (for example, m _max = 10) premiums K can be accommodated between the upper edge portion and a flat portion 182a of the cam contact member 182 described later. That is, in the present embodiment, the standby unit lifting body 101 is lifted by m _max × T (30 mm when T = 3 mm, m _max = 10) from the lifting body initial position P _TL. It is arranged at the raised position _PTH . In other words, the difference in height between the lifting body initial position _PTL and the lifting body lifting position _PTH is m _max × T.

  FIG. 12 is a plan view of the standby unit elevating body 101, and FIG. 13 is a longitudinal sectional view of the standby unit elevating body 101. As shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, a shutter 102 is attached to the standby unit elevating body 101. Furthermore, a cam contact member 182, a shutter side engaging portion 191, a light blocking member 212, a second light blocking portion 232, and the like, which will be described later, are attached. The shutter 102, the cam contact member 182 to be described later, the shutter side engaging portion 191, the light blocking member 212, and the second light blocking portion 232 are moved up and down integrally with the standby portion lifting body 101. Yes.

  As shown in FIG. 13, the shutter 102 is provided substantially vertically along the XZ plane from the front edge of the standby unit lifting body 101 downward. Further, it is integrally attached to the standby unit elevating body 101 so as to move up and down in the Z direction with respect to the unit main body 21 and the prize payout exit 10 (dispenser main body 2). Further, as shown in FIG. 9, it is arranged along the inside (rear side) of the prize payout exit 10, and the prize payout exit 10 is closed from the inside by the front surface of the shutter 102.

Further, the shutter 102 can be moved up and down integrally with the waiting portion lifting body 101 with respect to the prize payout exit 10, and the prize payout that completely closes the prize payout exit 10 as the waiting portion lifting body 101 is lifted and lowered. an outlet closing position P _{SC (see} FIG. 9), (to maximize the degree of opening of the prize payout opening 10) completely opened to the prize payout opening 10 to move upward from the prize payout opening closing position P _SC prize payment It can move to the outlet opening position _PSO (see FIGS. 10 and 11). When the standby unit lifting body 101 is arranged on the lifting member initial position P _TL, the shutter 102 is placed in the prize payout opening closed position P _SC, stand-part moving body 101 is arranged on the elevating body raised position P _TH when the shutter 102 is adapted to be disposed prize payout opening open position P _sO. That is, in this embodiment, the shutter 102, by rising from the prize payout opening closing position P _SC only m _max × T, is adapted to be disposed in the prize payout opening open position P _SO. In other words, the height difference of the prize payout opening closing position _{P SC} and prize payout opening open position _{P SO is} adapted to _{m max} × T.

In a state where the shutter 102 is disposed in the prize payout opening closed position P _SC, in a front view as seen from the front, the inside of the prize payout opening 10 is in a state that is almost completely covered by a shutter 102. On the other hand, in a state where the shutter 102 is disposed in the prize payout opening open position P _SO, the shutter 102 is disposed above the upper edge of the prize payout opening 10, in a state where prize payout opening 10 is almost completely opened Become.

  The lifting body holding structure 110 is provided on each of the left and right sides of the standby section lifting body 101 (premium standby section 32) in the X direction (see FIGS. 7 and 12). As the lifting / lowering body holding structure 110, a structure including a link mechanism as shown in FIGS. 7 and 12, that is, an X leg mechanism 111, a lifting / lowering body side sliding member 112, and a main body side sliding member 113 may be used.

  The lifting / lowering body holding structure 110 has two arms (first arm 121 and second arm 122) and five joint portions (a central joint portion 123 and four end joint portions 124). A leg mechanism 111 is provided. The first arm 121 is provided to be inclined with respect to the Y direction so as to gradually go upward as it goes from the rear to the front. The second arm 122 is provided so as to be inclined with respect to the Y direction in a direction symmetrical with respect to the first arm 121 (so that it gradually goes downward as it goes from the rear to the front). That is, the first arm 121 and the second arm 122 are provided in a state of crossing each other so as to form a substantially X shape when viewed from the side in the X direction. Furthermore, the first arm 121 and the second arm 122 are connected to each other in a state in which the first arm 121 and the second arm 122 are rotatable relative to each other via a central joint portion 123 in the central portion in each length direction.

  In addition, one end portion (rear end portion, lower end portion) of the first arm 121 is held in a rotatable state with respect to the unit main body 21 in the YZ plane via the end joint portion 124. . On the other hand, the other end portion (front end portion, upper end portion) of the first arm 121 is held in a freely rotatable manner in the YZ plane with respect to the lifting body side slide member 112 via the end joint portion 124. ing. The lifting body side slide member 112 is attached along the lifting body side rail 131 provided on the side surface of the standby section lifting body 101 so as to be slidable in the Y direction relative to the standby section lifting body 101. Yes.

  On the other hand, one end portion (rear end portion, upper end portion) of the second arm 122 is rotatable in the YZ plane with respect to the side surface of the standby unit lifting body 101 via the end joint portion 124. Is retained. The other end portion (front end portion, lower end portion) of the second arm 122 is held in a freely rotatable manner in the YZ plane with respect to the main body side slide member 113 via the end joint portion 124. Yes. The main body side sliding member 113 is attached so as to be slidable in the Y direction relative to the unit main body 21 along the main body side rail 132 provided in the unit main body 21.

  With this configuration, the lifting body holding structure 110 allows the first arm 121 and the second arm 122 to rotate about the center joint portion 123 and the end joint portion 124 respectively, and also the lifting body side slide member 112 and the main body. Each side slide member 113 can be deformed while being moved in the Y direction. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, when the standby unit elevating body 101 is lowered, that is, close to the upper surface of the unit main body 21, the first arm 121 and the second arm 122 are in the Y direction. It arrange | positions in the state which made the inclination angle small. The elevating body side slide member 112 is disposed on the front end side of the elevating body side rail 131, and the main body side slide member 113 is disposed on the front end side of the main body side rail 132. Also, as shown in FIG. 10 or FIG. 11, when the standby unit elevating body 101 is arranged at a higher position than the upper surface of the unit body 21, the first arm 121 and the second arm 122 are in the Y direction. The elevating body side slide member 112 is moved from the front end side of the elevating body side rail 131 to the rear end side, and the main body side slide member 113 is moved to the front end side of the main body side rail 132. To the rear end side. With such a configuration, the standby unit elevating body 101 is held so as to be able to approach and separate from the upper surface of the unit main body 21 (the prize passing port 37) while expanding and contracting the X leg mechanism 111 in the Z direction.

  According to such an elevating body holding structure 110, the standby unit elevating body 101 can be suitably held in a stable state, and can be moved up and down smoothly. That is, for example, a rail that extends from the upper surface of the unit main body 21 along the Z direction and a slide member that moves in the Z direction along the rail are provided, and the standby unit lifting body 101 is integrated with the slide member. It can be held in a better balance than when it is configured to move up and down. In particular, by providing the lifting body holding structure 110 on each of the left and right sides of the standby unit lifting body 101 (premium standby unit 32) in the X direction, the standby unit lifting body 101 can be held in a balanced manner from both sides.

  Further, in the lifting body holding structure 110, the posture of the standby unit lifting body 101 is always constant in the Z direction (that is, the moving direction of the prize K moved by the prize moving device 25), the X direction, and the Y direction. In this way, the standby unit elevating body 101 is held. That is, the standby unit lifting / lowering body 101 can move in parallel along the Z direction without being inclined with respect to the XY plane. Further, a flat portion 182a of the cam contact member 182 described later is always maintained in a horizontal posture along the XY plane, that is, always with respect to the upper surface of the prize K moved by the prize moving device 25. It is lifted and lowered together with the standby part lifting body 101 in a state maintained in a parallel posture. With such a configuration, the prize K moved by the prize moving device 25 can be held in a more stable state. That is, it is possible to prevent the posture of the standby unit elevating body 101 from deviating with respect to the prize K, and to incline the flat part 182a described later with respect to the prize K, so that the prize K can be reliably held from above. Therefore, it is possible to more effectively prevent the posture of the prize K from being disturbed.

  Further, by this lifting / lowering body holding structure 110, the standby unit lifting / lowering body 101 is attached to the standby unit lifting / lowering body 101 by lifting and lowering while maintaining the posture in the Z direction, X direction, and Y direction to be constant. It is possible to prevent the posture of the shutter 102 and the posture of the shutter side engaging portion 191 described later from being inclined with respect to the Z direction, the X direction, and the Y direction. That is, the posture of the shutter 102 with respect to the prize payout outlet 10 can be prevented from shifting, and the prize payout outlet 10 can be reliably opened and closed. Further, it is possible to prevent a shutter-side engaging portion 191 described later from being displaced with respect to a pusher-side engaging portion 192 described later, and the locking operation by the lock mechanism 108 can be performed with certainty. Further, it is possible to prevent the posture of the cam abutting member 182 from deviating with respect to a rectilinear cam 181 to be described later, and the raising / lowering operation of the standby unit elevating body 101 by the cam mechanism 106 can be performed smoothly and reliably.

  Note that the restriction of the movable range in the Z direction of the standby part lifting body 101 may be performed, for example, by restricting the amount of expansion / contraction of the X leg mechanism 111 in the lifting body holding structure 110. That is, for example, the moving range of the lifting body side slide member 112 and the moving range of the body side sliding member 113 are regulated by the length of the lifting body side rail 131 in the Y direction and the length of the body side rail 132 in the Y direction, respectively. The expansion / contraction amount of the X leg mechanism 111 may be restricted, and the movable range of the standby unit lifting / lowering body 101 may be restricted to a predetermined range.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the push-out mechanism 105 includes a pusher 151 that pushes the prize K toward the prize payout outlet 10 in contact with the prize K in the prize waiting unit 32, and a pusher motor 152 that gives power to move the pusher 151. The pusher 151 has a pusher moving means 153 that moves (moves forward and backward) in the Y direction with respect to the unit main body 21 while synchronizing the pusher 151 with the rotation of the pusher motor 152.

  FIG. 14 is a plan view of the pusher 151, and FIG. 15 is a side view of the pusher 151. As shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, the pusher 151 includes a pusher body 161 and a prize abutting body 162 that abuts on the rear surface of the prize K. The premium abutment body 162 is fixed to the distal end portion (front end portion) of the pusher main body 161. Further, a pusher connecting member 175, a rectilinear cam 181, a pusher side engaging portion 192, a light blocking body 255, and the like are attached to the pusher 151. The pusher connecting member 175, the rectilinear cam 181, the pusher side engaging portion 192, and the light blocking body 255 are movable in the Y direction integrally with the pusher 151.

  In addition, the dimension in the X direction of the pusher body 161 and the premium abutment body 162 is larger than the distance in the X direction between the two cam contact members 182 provided at the lower part of the standby unit elevating body 101 as will be described later. It is formed small. That is, it is sized to enter between two cam contact members 182 to be described later and to push out the rear side of the prize K.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the pusher motor 152 is provided, for example, above the unit main body 21 and behind the standby unit lifting body 101 and the pusher 151, and the motor main body 152 a is fixed to the unit main body 21. The output shaft (rotating shaft, not shown) is attached in the X direction. The pusher motor 152 is controlled in accordance with a control signal from the unit controller 27.

  The rotation direction of the output shaft (not shown) of the pusher motor 152 is the left rotation direction (counterclockwise direction) and the right rotation direction (clockwise direction) as viewed from the output shaft side (drive side sprocket 171 side described later). Can be switched. In the illustrated example, when the pusher 151 is moved forward, the pusher motor 152 is rotated in the clockwise direction when viewed from the output shaft side, and when the pusher 151 is moved backward, the pusher motor 152 is rotated counterclockwise when viewed from the output shaft side. It is designed to rotate in the direction.

  In the illustrated example, the pusher moving means 153 is provided on the drive side sprocket 171 attached to the output shaft (not shown) of the pusher motor 152, and is provided so as to be rotatable relative to the unit main body 21 in front of the drive side sprocket 171. The driven sprocket 172 and the endless chain 173 spanned between the driving side sprocket 171 and the driven side sprocket 172 are provided. The chain 173 is provided along the Y direction between the driving side sprocket 171 and the driven side sprocket 172.

  The pusher body 161 is connected to a chain 173 (part provided along the Y direction) via a pusher coupling member 175. The pusher connecting member 175 is attached to the proximal end portion (rear end portion) of the pusher main body 161.

  In this configuration, when the output shaft (not shown) of the pusher motor 152 rotates, the drive pulley 71 rotates integrally with the output shaft (not shown), whereby the chain 173 causes the driven sprocket 172 to move. The pusher connecting member 175 and the pusher main body 161 (the pusher 151) are moved forward and backward with respect to the unit main body 21 as the chain 173 rotates.

Also, the pusher motor 152 and the pusher moving means 153 actuate the pusher 151 so that the first pusher position P _P1 is arranged at a position separated rearward from the shutter 102 and the prize payout exit 10 (see FIG. 9). A second pusher position P _P2 (see FIG. 10) disposed in front of the first pusher position P _P1 (a rear side of the prize K accommodated in the prize waiting portion 32), and a second pusher position. It is possible to move to a third pusher position P _P3 (see FIG. 11) that is arranged in front of P _P2 and is moved to a position where the prize abutment body 162 projects forward of the shutter 102 and the prize payout exit 10. ing.

As shown in FIG. 9, the position pusher 151 is in the state of being arranged in the first pusher position P _P1, pusher 151 (prize abutment body 162) is retracted to the rear side of the stand-part moving body 101 To be placed. Further, the standby unit lifting body 101 is arranged to lift the initial position P _TL, and, in a state where the pusher 151 is disposed on the first pusher position P _P1, as the locking mechanism 108 is locked That is, the shutter side engaging portion 191 described later and the pusher side engaging portion 192 described later are engaged with each other. That is, in this embodiment, the first pusher position P _P1, the engagement position capable of engaging each other pusher side engaging portion 192 to be described later with the shutter-side engagement portion 191 to be described later (the locked position) It is.

As shown in FIG. 10, even in a state where the pusher 151 is disposed on the second pusher position P _P2, the pusher 151 (the prize abutment body 162) causes disposed on the rear side of the stand-part moving body 101 It is done. Further, it is arranged behind the prize passing port 37. Further, even if the prize K is accommodated in the prize waiting unit 32, the prize K is disposed rearwardly away from the prize K so as not to contact the prize K in the prize waiting unit 32. In a state where the pusher 151 is disposed on the second pusher position P _P2, as the locking mechanism 108 is unlocked (i.e., the pusher side engaging portion to be described later with the shutter-side engagement portion 191 to be described later 192 so that they are not engaged with each other). In other words, in the present embodiment, the second pusher position P _P2 is a pusher standby position that is standby behind the prize K stored in the prize standby part 32, and a shutter side engaging part 191 described later. And an engagement release position (lock release position) at which engagement of a pusher side engagement portion 192, which will be described later, can be released.

On the other hand, in a state in which the pusher 151 is moved to the third pusher position _PP3 , the prize K accommodated in the prize waiting portion 32 is completely moved to the front of the prize payout outlet 10 by the prize abutment body 162. Can be paid out. In other words, in the present embodiment, the third pusher position _PP3 is a prize pushing position for pushing the prize K from the prize payout exit 10.

  As shown in FIG. 13, the cam mechanism 106 linearly moves along the Y direction to move the shutter 102 (standby unit lifting body 101) up and down in the Z direction with respect to the prize payout outlet 10, and the straight movement And a cam abutting member 182 that abuts against the cam 181.

  As shown in FIG. 14, the rectilinear cams 181 are attached to the left and right sides of the pusher body 161 one by one behind the prize contact body 162. The pusher main body 161 (the pusher 151) is integrally slid in the Y direction. Each rectilinear cam 181 is provided to be inclined with respect to the Y direction so as to gradually go upward as it goes from the front edge portion (lower edge portion) of the rectilinear cam 181 to the rear (the direction away from the cam contact member 182). And a high edge 181b provided along the Y direction at a position higher than the inclined edge 181a behind the inclined edge 181a (see FIGS. 14 and 15). . The inclined edge portion 181a and the high edge portion 181b are smoothly connected by a continuous curved surface.

The high edge portion 181b is provided along a predetermined height from the prize passing port 37 in the Z direction, and is provided, for example, at a position where the height from the prize passing port 37 is about m _max × T. (See FIG. 13). That is, when the cam contact member 182 (a flat portion 182a to be described later) is disposed along the upper edge portion of the prize passing port 37, the cam contact member 182 is raised by about m _max × T in the Z direction. It is the size that can be.

  As shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, one cam contact member 182 is provided on each of the left edge side and the right edge side of the standby unit elevator body 101 at the lower end of the standby unit elevator body 101. Yes. Moreover, it is provided so that it may be located in the both sides of the pusher 151 (premium contact body 162) seeing from the Y direction. That is, it is provided so as to correspond to each rectilinear cam 181 one by one. In addition, each cam contact member 182 can move in the Z direction integrally with the standby unit elevating body 101. Further, the cam contact member 182 can be held in a state where it is placed on the rectilinear cam 181 (inclined edge 181a or high edge 181b). That is, the standby unit lifting / lowering body 101 can be held by the pusher 151 via the cam mechanism 106 as shown in FIG.

  Each cam contact member 182 has a flat surface portion 182a (lower surface) provided along the XY plane (substantially horizontal surface) and a curved surface portion 182b provided behind the flat surface portion 182a. The curved surface portion 182b is curved so as to gradually go upward from the flat surface portion 182a toward the rear from the flat surface portion 182a.

The planar portion 182a of the cam contact member 182, a state where the standby unit lifting body 101 is arranged on the lifting member initial position P _TL, is disposed along the upper edge inside the prize passage opening 37 It is like that. That is, the flat portion 182a of each cam contact member 182 is disposed at a position so as to come into contact with both upper edge portions (left edge portion and right edge portion) of the prize K raised through the prize passing port 37. , It is configured to be pushed up by the upper edge portions of the prize K.

In such a cam mechanism 106, for example, in a state where the pusher 151 is disposed on the first pusher position P _P1 and a second pusher position P _P2, the rectilinear cam 181 is spaced rearwardly from each of the cam contact member 182 (See FIG. 10). Accordingly, in a state where the pusher 151 is disposed on the second pusher position P _P2, the standby unit lifting body 101 is movable in (prize waiting between lift initial position P _TL and lift raised position P _TH becomes part 32 liftable state with the contained prize K in), the shutter 102 is a movable state between the prize payout opening closing position P _SC and prize payout opening open position P _SO.

On the other hand, for example, in a state where the pusher 151 is disposed at the third pusher position _PP3 , each rectilinear cam 181 moves relatively forward with respect to each cam contact member 182, and the cam contact member 182 and the prize are given. It is made to penetrate between the passage openings 37, and the lower surface (planar portion 182a) of the cam contact member 182 is placed on the upper surface of the high edge portion 181b of each rectilinear cam 181 (see FIG. 11). Thus, the standby unit lifting body 101 is pushed upward by about _{m max} × T from lift the initial position _{P TL,} the lifting body raised position _{P TH,} the state of being held by the pusher 151 through the cam mechanism 106 It is comprised so that it may become. When the pusher 151 moves between the second pusher position P _P2 and the third pusher position P _P3 , each cam contact member 182 (curved surface portion 182b) is inclined edge portion 181a of each rectilinear cam 181. Are moved relative to the inclined edge portion 181a.

That is, in the present embodiment, the pusher 151 is moved between the second pusher position P _P2 and the third pusher position P _P3 , thereby moving the rectilinear cam 181 and moving the standby unit lifting body 101 to the lifting body. it can be moved between the initial position P _TL and lift raised position P _TH, also capable of moving the shutter 102 between the prize payout opening closing position P _SC and prize payout opening open position P _SO It is configured. As described above, with the configuration in which the shutter 102 is moved up and down with respect to the prize payout outlet 10 as the linear cam 181 moves, the prize payout outlet 10 can be smoothly opened and closed with a simple structure. That is, the shutter 102 can be moved up and down using the power of the pusher motor 152. Therefore, for example, there is no need to install a movement mechanism (shutter motor, shutter drive belt, pulley, etc.) dedicated to the shutter, and the peripheral structure of the shutter 102 can be simplified and made compact. As a result, the structure of the prize carry-out device 26, the payout unit 20, and the prize dispenser 1 can be simplified and made compact. In addition, there is less risk of failure than when a moving mechanism dedicated to the shutter is provided. Furthermore, the maintenance work required when a shutter-dedicated movement mechanism is provided can be omitted. That is, the maintainability of the prize carry-out device 26 and the maintainability of the payout unit 20 can be improved.

  FIG. 16 shows a state in which the lock mechanism 108 in the locked state (engaged state) is viewed obliquely from the rear. FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the lock mechanism 108 in the locked state, and FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the lock mechanism 108 in the unlocked state (engaged state).

  As shown in FIGS. 16, 17, and 18, the lock mechanism 108 can move along the Z direction with respect to the unit main body 21 (dispenser main body 2) integrally with the shutter 102 (standby unit lifting body 101). A shutter-side engaging portion 191 and a pusher-side engaging portion 192 that can move along the Y direction with respect to the unit main body 21 integrally with the pusher main body 161 (pusher 151).

  The shutter side engaging portion 191 is fixed to the rear edge portion of the standby portion lifting body 101. Further, the shutter side engaging portion 191 has a configuration in which an engagement hole 191b is opened in a shutter side engaging plate 191a provided along the XZ plane from the rear edge portion of the standby portion lifting body 101 downward. It has become.

  The pusher side engaging portion 192 is provided with an engaging protrusion 192a that can be inserted into the engaging hole 191b. The engagement protrusion 192 a is provided above the upper end portion of the pusher body 161. Further, the premium abutment body 162 is provided so as to protrude rearward from the rear side surface.

Note that the prize abutment body 162 holding the engagement protrusion 192a is disposed so as to move in front of the shutter side engagement plate 191a (inside the standby unit lifting body 101). Further, as shown in FIG. 17, in a state where the standby unit lifting body 101 is arranged on the lifting member initial position P _TL (the shutter 102 is disposed prize payout opening closing position P _SC), the pusher 151 When moved from the front to the first pusher position _PP1 , the rear side surface of the premium abutment body 162 comes close to the front side surface of the shutter side engagement plate 191a from the front side, and the engagement protrusion 192a enters the engagement hole 191b. On the other hand, it is inserted from the front. That is, when the shutter side engaging portion 191 and the pusher side engaging portion 192 are engaged, the lock mechanism 108 is in a locked state (engaged state), and the standby unit lifting body 101 (shutter 102) is moved against the pusher 151. Are connected so that they cannot be raised or lowered.

Further, as shown in FIG. 18, in a state where the standby unit lifting body 101 is arranged on the lifting member initial position P _TL, the pusher 151 is slid forward from the first pusher position P _P1, the second pusher When arranged at the position _PP2 , the rear side surface of the premium abutment body 162 is separated from the front side surface of the shutter side engagement plate 191a, and the engagement protrusion 192a is retracted from the engagement hole 191b and is more than the engagement hole 191b. It will be in a state of being placed in front. That is, when the engagement of the shutter side engaging portion 191 and the pusher side engaging portion 192 is released, the lock mechanism 108 is in the unlocked state (disengaged state), and the standby unit lifting body 101 (shutter 102) is The pusher 151 can be moved up and down.

  According to such a lock mechanism 108, by moving the pusher 151, the engagement state and the disengagement state of the shutter side engagement portion 191 and the pusher side engagement portion 192 can be switched, and the shutter 102 is locked. Operation can be performed easily and smoothly. Further, the lock operation can be realized with a simple structure.

Further, as shown in FIG. 19, the prize carry-out device 26 includes a lifting body movement amount detector 201 that detects a movement amount of the standby portion lifting body 101 in the Z direction, and a standby portion lifting body 101 that is in the lifting body initial position P. A lifting body position detector 202 for detecting whether or not the _TL or the lifting body lift position _PTH is arranged is provided.

  The lifting / lowering body movement amount detector 201 includes a first optical sensor 211 and a comb-shaped light blocking member 212. The first optical sensor 211 includes a first sensor main body 213, a light emitting unit 215 that emits light (first light emitting unit), and a light receiving unit 216 that receives light emitted from the light emitting unit 215 (first optical unit). Light receiving section).

  The first sensor body 213 is formed in a substantially U shape when viewed from the Z direction, and has a sensor groove 213a into which the light blocking member 212 is inserted. Further, the unit body 21 is fixed. The sensor groove 213a is formed along the Z direction and is opened forward.

  The first light emitting unit 215 and the first light receiving unit 216 are attached to both sides of the sensor groove 213a in the first sensor body 213, respectively. That is, the first light emitting unit 215 and the first light receiving unit 216 are fixed to the dispenser main body 2 via the first sensor main body 213 and the unit main body 21. Further, they are arranged so as to face each other across the sensor groove 213a in the X direction. That is, light is emitted from the first light emitting unit 215 in the X direction, and the emitted light is configured to enter the first light receiving unit 216 through the sensor groove 213a.

  The first light emitting unit 215 is provided with a light emitting element such as a light emitting diode. The first light receiving unit 216 is provided with a light receiving element such as a phototransistor, for example. Further, the first light emitting unit 215 and the first light receiving unit 216 are electrically connected to the unit control unit 27 via wirings and the like, respectively. That is, light is emitted from the first light emitting unit 215 by the control signal transmitted from the unit control unit 27. Further, the detection signal of the first light receiving unit 216 is transmitted to the unit control unit 27 so that the unit control unit 27 detects whether or not light is received by the first light receiving unit 216. It has become.

  The light blocking member 212 is fixed to the left side of the rear edge of the standby unit elevating body 101. As shown in FIGS. 20, 21, and 22, the unit main body is integrated with the standby unit elevating body 101. 21 is raised and lowered. The light blocking member 212 has a first light emitting unit 215 and a first light receiving unit 216 at a position (sensor groove 213a) sandwiched between the first light emitting unit 215 and the first light receiving unit 216. It can be moved up and down.

  The light blocking member 212 includes a plurality of first light blocking sections 221 that optically block between the first light emitting section 215 and the first light receiving section 216, and the first light emitting section 215, A plurality of first light passage portions 222 that optically communicate with the first light receiving portion 216 (pass light) are provided. The first light blocking portions 221 are arranged in the vertical direction at the same pitch (a constant pitch T). That is, at a predetermined pitch T in a line along the Z direction (so that the distance between the lower edges of the first light blocking portions 221 adjacent in the Z direction is T), with equal intervals. It is provided side by side. A gap formed between adjacent first light blocking portions 221 is a first light passing portion 222. That is, the first light passage portions 222 are also arranged in a line along the Z direction at a predetermined pitch T (the distance between the lower edges of the first light passage portions 222 adjacent in the Z direction is T. And so on) at equal intervals.

  In addition, the width | variety in the Z direction of the 1st light shielding part 221 is mutually the same, and is the half (T / 2) of the pitch T in the example of illustration. That is, the widths of the first light passage portions 222 in the Z direction are also the same, and in the illustrated example, are about half the pitch T (T / 2). Furthermore, the length of the pitch T is set to the same length (for example, about 3 mm) as the thickness T of the prize K.

Further, in the illustrated example, the first light blocking unit 221 and the first light passing unit 222 are, from above, the first light passing unit 222, the first light blocking unit 221, the first light passing unit 222. . . Are provided alternately in this order. The number of the first light blocking units 221 and the number of the first light passing units 222 may be at least m _max or more, and in the illustrated example, m _max = 10 is provided.

  In such a configuration, for example, the standby unit lifting / lowering body 101 is stationary at an arbitrary height, and the gap between the first light emitting unit 215 and the first light receiving unit 216 is, for example, a plurality of first lights. In a state where the k-th first light passage portion 222 counted from above among the passage portions 222 is in optical communication, the standby portion lifting body 101 is directed upward or downward by m times the pitch T (distance). mT), the first light-emitting unit 215 and the first light-receiving unit 216 are switched m times to the state of being optically blocked by the first light-blocking unit 221, that is, optical Then, after being communicated m−1 times, it is optically communicated by the (k + m) th first light passage portion 222 counted from above or the (k−m) th first light passage portion 222 counted from above. Can be switched toThat is, the unit control unit 27 counts the number of times the first light receiving unit 216 receives light or the number of times the light is not received when light is emitted from the first light emitting unit 215. By doing so, it is possible to detect the amount of movement of the standby unit elevating body 101 (that is, how many times the pitch T has moved in the Z direction).

  Since the moving amount of the standby unit lifting body 101 and the moving amount of the shutter 102 are the same, the unit control unit 27 does not receive light or the number of times light is received by the first light receiving unit 216. The amount of movement of the shutter 102 can also be detected by counting the number of times the image has been counted. That is, the lifting / lowering body movement amount detector 201 also functions as a shutter movement amount detector that detects the movement amount of the shutter 102 in the Z direction.

  By providing such a lifting body movement amount detector 201, it is possible to reliably detect the movement amount of the standby portion lifting body 101 in the Z direction and the movement amount of the shutter 102 in the Z direction. Further, the number (number) of prizes K accommodated in the prize waiting part 32 can be indirectly detected from the amount of movement of the waiting part lifting body 101 in the Z direction.

  The lift body position detector 202 includes a second optical sensor 231 and a second light blocking unit 232. The second photosensor 231 includes a second sensor main body 233, a light emitting unit 235 that emits light (second light emitting unit), and a light receiving unit 236 that receives light emitted from the light emitting unit 235 (second light emitting unit). Light receiving section).

  The second sensor body 233 is formed in a substantially U shape when viewed from the Z direction, and has a sensor groove 233a into which the second light blocking portion 232 is inserted. Further, the unit body 21 is fixed. The sensor groove 233a is formed along the Z direction and is opened forward.

  The second light emitting unit 235 and the second light receiving unit 236 are attached to both sides of the sensor groove 233a in the second sensor main body 233, respectively. That is, the second light emitting unit 235 and the second light receiving unit 236 are fixed to the dispenser main body 2 via the second sensor main body 233 and the unit main body 21. Further, they are arranged so as to face each other across the sensor groove 233a in the X direction. That is, light is emitted from the second light emitting unit 235 in the X direction, and the emitted light is configured to enter the second light receiving unit 236 through the sensor groove 233a.

  Note that the second light emitting unit 235 includes a light emitting element such as a light emitting diode. The second light receiving unit 236 is provided with a light receiving element such as a phototransistor, for example. Further, the second light emitting unit 235 and the second light receiving unit 236 are electrically connected to the unit control unit 27 via wirings and the like, respectively. That is, light is emitted from the second light emitting unit 235 by the control signal transmitted from the unit control unit 27. Further, the detection signal of the second light receiving unit 236 is transmitted to the unit control unit 27 so that the unit control unit 27 can detect whether or not light is received by the second light receiving unit 236. It has become.

  The second light blocking part 232 is provided at a position adjacent to the light blocking member 212 and is fixed to the left side of the rear edge of the standby part lifting body 101, integrally with the standby part lifting body 101, The unit main body 21 is moved up and down. The second light blocking unit 232 is connected to the second light emitting unit 235 and the second light receiving unit at a position (sensor groove 233a) sandwiched between the second light emitting unit 235 and the second light receiving unit 236. It is provided so that it can be raised and lowered with respect to the part 236.

Dimension in the Z direction of the second light blocking portion 232 (height), a height prize difference (shutter 102 between the lift initial position P _TL standby unit lift 101 and lift raised position P _TH payout opening closed position is formed smaller than the difference in height) between the _{P SC} and prize payout opening open position _{P SO,} in the present _embodiment, less than _{m max × T, (m max} -1) It is formed larger than xT. In addition, as shown in FIG. 20, in a state where the standby unit lifting body 101 is disposed at the lifting body initial position _PTL , the second light blocking unit 232 includes the second light emitting unit 235 and the second light receiving unit. 236 with respect to 236. That is, the state where the second light emitting unit 235 and the second light receiving unit 236 are not optically blocked (the light emitted from the second light emitting unit 235 passes above the second light blocking unit 232). , The second light receiving unit 236 receives light). On the other hand, for example, as shown in FIG. 21, in a state where the standby unit lifting body 101 is raised above the lifting body initial position _PTL (a state where it is lowered below the lifting body lifting position _PTH ), The second light blocking unit 232 is raised to a position sandwiched between the second light emitting unit 235 and the second light receiving unit 236. That is, the second light emitting unit 235 and the second light receiving unit 236 are optically blocked (the light emitted from the second light emitting unit 235 is not received by the second light receiving unit 236). Become. In addition, as shown in FIG. 22, in a state where the standby unit lifting body 101 is disposed at the lifting body lifting position _PTH , the second light blocking unit 232 includes the second light emitting unit 235 and the second light receiving unit. 236 with respect to 236. That is, a state in which the second light emitting unit 235 and the second light receiving unit 236 are not optically blocked (light emitted from the second light emitting unit 235 passes under the second light blocking unit 232). , The second light receiving unit 236 receives light). Therefore, in the unit control unit 27, when light is emitted from the second light emitting unit 235, it is detected whether or not the light is received by the second light receiving unit 236, so that the standby unit elevator It is possible to determine whether 101 is disposed at the lifting body initial position _PTL or the lifting body lifting position _PTH .

As described above, when the standby portion vertically movable body 101 is arranged on the lifting member initial position P _TL, the shutter 102 is placed in the prize payout opening closed position P _SC, lift raised position waiting section elevation 101 when disposed in P _TH, the shutter 102 is placed in the prize payout opening open position _{P SO.} Accordingly, in the unit control unit 27, it is determined whether or not the standby unit elevating body 101 is disposed at the elevating body initial position _PTL or the elevating body ascending position _PTH , so that the shutter 102 is the prize payout outlet closing position P. it is possible to determine whether it is located in _SC or prize payout opening open position P _SO. That is, the lifting member position detector 202 also functions as a shutter position detector for detecting whether the shutter 102 is disposed prize payout opening closed position P _SC or prize payout opening open position P _SO.

By providing such a lift body position detector 202, whether or not the standby part lift body 101 is disposed at the lift body initial position _PTL or the lift body lift position _PTH , and the shutter 102 is closed for the prize payout exit. whether it is located at a position P _SC or prize payout opening open position P _sO, it can be reliably detected. Whether or not the lock mechanism 108 can be locked based on the detection value of the lifting / lowering body position detector 202 (a state in which the lock state and the unlock state can be switched). Can be guessed. That is, if the standby unit lifting body 101 is not in the lifting body initial position _PTL (when light is not detected by the second light receiving unit 236 when light is emitted from the second light emitting unit 235). The lock mechanism 108 cannot be locked (the engagement hole 191b of the shutter side engagement portion 191 is provided at a high position with respect to the engagement protrusion 192a of the pusher side engagement portion 192). It is possible to determine that it is not possible to perform the match.

  Also, by providing both the lifting body movement amount detector 201 and the lifting body position detector 202, the positions of the standby part lifting body 101 and the shutter 102 can be reliably detected using the respective detection values. . That is, for example, the positions of the standby unit lifting body 101 and the shutter 102 can be detected more accurately than in the case where only the lifting body movement amount detector 201 is provided without providing the lifting body position detector 202. .

For example, when only the lifting / lowering body movement amount detector 201 is provided without providing the lifting / lowering body position detector 202, the light is emitted from the first light receiving unit 216 when light is emitted from the first light emitting unit 215. Is received, light is received by the standby unit lifting body 101 being disposed at the lifting body initial position _PTL or the lifting body lifting position _PTH , or the standby unit lifting body 101 is the lifting body initial position. In a state where it is disposed between _PTL and the lift body raising position _PTH , it cannot be determined whether light is received through any of the first light passage portions 222. That is, it cannot be accurately determined whether or not the standby unit lifting body 101 is disposed at the lifting body initial position _PTL or the lifting body lifting position _PTH . On the other hand, in the case where the lifting body position detector 202 is provided, when light is emitted from the second light emitting unit 235 in the lifting body position detector 202, the light is received by the second light receiving unit 236. By detecting whether or not, it is possible to reliably determine whether or not the standby unit lifting body 101 is arranged at the lifting body initial position _PTL or the lifting body lifting position _PTH .

Further, the prize carry-out device 26 has a position in the Y direction of the pusher 151 (whether or not it exists at the first pusher position P _P1 , whether or not it exists at the second pusher position P _P2 , and the third A pusher position detecting mechanism 250 for detecting whether or not the pusher position _PP3 exists is provided.

  The pusher position detection mechanism 250 includes three optical sensors shown in FIG. 23, that is, a third optical sensor 251, a fourth optical sensor 252, a fifth optical sensor 253, and a light blocking body 255 (for pusher position detection). It is configured to include a light blocking body. The third optical sensor 251, the fourth optical sensor 252, and the fifth optical sensor 253 are arranged in this order from the rear to the front on the side of the pusher 151 (left side when viewed from the front). Yes.

  As shown in FIG. 23, the third optical sensor 251 receives the third sensor main body 261, the light emitting unit 262 that emits light (third light emitting unit), and the light emitted from the light emitting unit 262. A light receiving unit 263 (third light receiving unit) is provided.

  The third sensor main body 261 is formed in a substantially U shape when viewed from the Y direction, and has a sensor groove 261a into which the light blocking body 255 is inserted. Further, the unit body 21 is fixed. The sensor groove 261a is formed along the Y direction, and is opened upward.

  The third light emitting unit 262 and the third light receiving unit 263 are attached to both sides of the sensor groove 261a in the third sensor main body 261, respectively. That is, the third light emitting unit 262 and the third light receiving unit 263 are fixed to the dispenser main body 2 via the third sensor main body 261 and the unit main body 21. Further, they are arranged to face each other across the sensor groove 261a in the X direction. That is, light is emitted from the third light emitting unit 262 in the X direction, and the emitted light is configured to enter the third light receiving unit 263 through the sensor groove 261a.

  The third light emitting unit 262 includes a light emitting element such as a light emitting diode. The third light receiving unit 263 includes a light receiving element such as a phototransistor, for example. Further, the third light emitting unit 262 and the third light receiving unit 263 are electrically connected to the unit control unit 27 via wirings and the like, respectively. That is, light is emitted from the third light emitting unit 262 by the control signal transmitted from the unit control unit 27. Further, the detection signal of the third light receiving unit 263 is transmitted to the unit control unit 27 so that the unit control unit 27 can detect whether or not light is received by the third light receiving unit 263. It has become.

  The fourth optical sensor 252 includes a fourth sensor body 271, a light emitting unit 272 that emits light (fourth light emitting unit), and a light receiving unit 273 that receives light emitted from the light emitting unit 272 (fourth light emitting unit 272). Light receiving section).

  The fourth sensor body 271 is formed in a substantially U-shape when viewed from the Y direction, and has a sensor groove 271a into which the light blocking body 255 is inserted. Further, the unit body 21 is fixed. The sensor groove 271a is formed along the Y direction and is opened upward.

  The fourth light emitting unit 272 and the fourth light receiving unit 273 are respectively attached to both sides of the sensor groove 271a in the fourth sensor main body 271. That is, the fourth light emitting unit 272 and the fourth light receiving unit 273 are fixed to the dispenser main body 2 via the third sensor main body 261 and the unit main body 21. Further, they are arranged so as to face each other across the sensor groove 271a in the X direction. That is, light is emitted from the fourth light emitting unit 272 toward the X direction, and the emitted light is configured to enter the fourth light receiving unit 273 through the sensor groove 271a.

  The fourth light emitting unit 272 includes a light emitting element such as a light emitting diode. The fourth light receiving unit 273 includes a light receiving element such as a phototransistor, for example. Further, the fourth light emitting unit 272 and the fourth light receiving unit 273 are electrically connected to the unit control unit 27 via wirings and the like, respectively. That is, light is emitted from the fourth light emitting unit 272 by the control signal transmitted from the unit control unit 27. Further, the detection signal of the fourth light receiving unit 273 is transmitted to the unit control unit 27 so that whether the light is received by the fourth light receiving unit 273 is detected by the unit control unit 27. It has become.

  The fifth optical sensor 253 includes a fifth sensor main body 281, a light emitting unit 282 that emits light (fifth light emitting unit), and a light receiving unit 283 that receives light emitted from the light emitting unit 282 (fifth optical unit). Light receiving section).

  The fifth sensor body 281 is formed in a substantially U shape when viewed from the Y direction, and has a sensor groove 281a into which the light blocking body 255 is inserted. Further, the unit body 21 is fixed. The sensor groove 281a is formed along the Y direction and is opened upward.

  The fifth light emitting portion 282 and the fifth light receiving portion 283 are respectively attached to both sides of the sensor groove 281a in the fifth sensor body 281. That is, the fifth light emitting unit 282 and the fifth light receiving unit 283 are fixed to the dispenser main body 2 via the fifth sensor main body 281 and the unit main body 21. Further, they are arranged so as to face each other across the sensor groove 281a in the X direction. That is, light is emitted from the fifth light emitting unit 282 in the X direction, and the emitted light is configured to enter the fifth light receiving unit 283 through the sensor groove 281a.

  The fifth light receiving unit 283 includes a light emitting element such as a light emitting diode. The fifth light receiving portion 283 is provided with a light receiving element such as a phototransistor, for example. Furthermore, the fifth light receiving unit 283 and the fifth light receiving unit 283 are electrically connected to the unit control unit 27 via wirings and the like, respectively. That is, light is emitted from the fifth light receiving unit 283 by the control signal transmitted from the unit control unit 27. Further, the detection signal of the fifth light receiving unit 283 is transmitted to the unit control unit 27 so that whether the light is received by the fifth light receiving unit 283 is detected by the unit control unit 27. It has become.

  In the illustrated example, the third optical sensor 251 and the fifth optical sensor 253 are provided at substantially the same height, but the fourth optical sensor 252 includes the third optical sensor 251 and the third optical sensor 251. It is provided at a position lower than the fifth optical sensor 253. That is, the optical path of light traveling from the third light emitting unit 262 to the third light receiving unit 263 and the optical path of light traveling from the fifth light emitting unit 282 to the fifth light receiving unit 283 are provided at substantially the same height. However, the optical path of light from the fourth light emitting unit 272 to the fourth light receiving unit 273 is the optical path of light from the third light emitting unit 262 to the third light receiving unit 263, and from the fifth light emitting unit 282. It is provided below the optical path of the light traveling toward the fifth light receiving unit 283.

  The light blocking body 255 is fixed to the rear end side surface (left side as viewed from the front) of the pusher body 161 and slides in the Y direction relative to the unit body 21 integrally with the pusher body 161. ing. The light blocking body 255 includes three light sensor blocking portions, that is, a third light sensor blocking portion 291 that optically blocks between the third light emitting portion 262 and the third light receiving portion 263, A fourth light sensor blocking unit 292 that optically blocks between the fourth light emitting unit 272 and the fourth light receiving unit 273, and an optical connection between the fifth light emitting unit 282 and the fifth light receiving unit 283. A fifth light sensor blocking portion 293 for blocking is provided.

  The third optical sensor blocking section 291, the fourth optical sensor blocking section 292, and the fifth optical sensor blocking section 293 are provided in this order from the rear to the front. Further, the third light sensor blocking portion 291 and the fifth light sensor blocking portion 293 are provided at substantially the same height, but the fourth light sensor blocking portion 292 is provided with the third light sensor. The sensor blocking portion 291 and the fifth optical sensor blocking portion 293 are provided so as to protrude downward.

  In addition, the third light sensor blocking portion 291 is disposed between the third light emitting portion 262 and the third light emitting portion 262 at a position (sensor groove 261a) sandwiched between the third light emitting portion 262 and the third light receiving portion 263. The height of the light receiving portion 263 is slidable in the Y direction. The fourth light sensor blocking portion 292 is disposed between the fourth light emitting portion 272 and the fourth light receiving portion at a position (sensor groove 271a) sandwiched between the fourth light emitting portion 272 and the fourth light receiving portion 273. The height of the portion 273 is slidable in the Y direction. The fifth light sensor blocking portion 293 is disposed between the fifth light emitting portion 282 and the fifth light receiving portion at a position (sensor groove 281a) sandwiched between the fifth light emitting portion 282 and the fifth light receiving portion 283. The height slidable in the Y direction with respect to the portion 283 is provided.

In such a pusher position detecting mechanism 250, for example as shown in FIG. 9, in the state where the pusher 151 is disposed on the first pusher position P _P1, the third optical sensor blocking portion 291 is a third light sensor 251 (sensor groove 261a) is inserted. The fourth optical sensor blocking section 292 is disposed between the third optical sensor 251 and the fourth optical sensor 252 in the Y direction (retracts backward from the sensor groove 271a of the fourth optical sensor 252). State). The fifth optical sensor blocking portion 293 is disposed above the fourth optical sensor 252 (a state where the fifth optical sensor 253 is retracted rearward from the sensor groove 281a of the fifth optical sensor 253). In other words, the third light emitting unit 262 and the third light receiving unit 263 are optically blocked, but the fourth light emitting unit 272 and the fourth light receiving unit 273, the fifth light emitting unit 282, and the third light receiving unit 263 are optically blocked. The space between the five light receiving portions 283 is configured not to be optically blocked. Accordingly, in the unit control unit 27, when light is emitted from the third light emitting unit 262, the fourth light emitting unit 272, and the fifth light emitting unit 282, light is received by the third light receiving unit 263. Sarezu and, if the light is received, respectively, in the fourth light receiving portion 273 fifth light receiving portion 283, the pusher 151 is adapted to be determined present in the first pusher position P _P1.

Furthermore, for example, as shown in FIG. 10, in a state where the pusher 151 is disposed on the second pusher position P _P2, the third optical sensor blocking portion 291 third optical sensor 251 (sensor groove 261a) In this state, the fourth optical sensor blocking portion 292 is inserted into the fourth optical sensor 252 (sensor groove 271a). The fifth optical sensor blocking portion 293 is disposed above the fourth optical sensor 252 (a state where the fifth optical sensor 253 is retracted rearward from the sensor groove 281a of the fifth optical sensor 253). That is, between the third light emitting unit 262 and the third light receiving unit 263 and between the fourth light emitting unit 272 and the fourth light receiving unit 273 are optically blocked, respectively, and the fifth light emitting unit 282 and the fifth light receiving unit 273 are optically blocked. The light receiving unit 283 is not optically blocked. Therefore, in the unit control unit 27, when light is emitted from the third light emitting unit 262, the fourth light emitting unit 272, and the fifth light emitting unit 282, respectively, the third light receiving unit 263 and the fourth light receiving unit 263 are arranged. light each not received in the light-receiving unit 273, and, if the light is received at the fifth light receiving portion 283, the pusher 151 is adapted to be determined to be present in the second pusher position P _P2.

For example, as shown in FIG. 11, when the pusher 151 is disposed at the third pusher position _PP3 , the third light sensor blocking portion 291 and the fourth light sensor blocking portion 292 are respectively The third optical sensor 251 and the fourth optical sensor 252 are in a state of leaving ahead. The fifth optical sensor blocking portion 293 is inserted into the fifth optical sensor 253 (sensor groove 281a). That is, the third light emitting unit 262 and the third light receiving unit 263 and the fourth light emitting unit 272 and the fourth light receiving unit 273 are not optically blocked, and the fifth light emitting unit 282 A space between the fifth light receiving portions 283 is optically blocked. Therefore, in the unit control unit 27, when light is emitted from the third light emitting unit 262, the fourth light emitting unit 272, and the fifth light emitting unit 282, respectively, the third light receiving unit 263 and the fourth light receiving unit 263 are arranged. When light is received by the light receiving unit 273 and no light is received by the fifth light receiving unit 283, it can be determined that the pusher 151 exists at the third pusher position _PP3 .

By providing such a pusher position detection mechanism 250, the position of the pusher 151 can be reliably detected from the detection value of the pusher position detection mechanism 250. That is, it can be confirmed whether or not the prize K in the prize waiting unit 32 has been pushed out. Further, the position of the pusher 151 can be reliably controlled. Furthermore, based on the detection value of the pusher position detection mechanism 250, the positions of the rectilinear cam 181 and the pusher side engaging portion 192 can also be detected. For example, by determining whether the pusher 151 is at the first pusher position P _P1 or the second pusher position P _P2 , it is determined whether the lock mechanism 108 is in the locked state or the unlocked state. can do.

  FIG. 24 is a block diagram showing a control system of the prize dispenser 1. As shown in FIG. 24, the cartridge moving motor 46 of the cartridge moving device 23, the driver 53 of the giveaway moving device 25, the pusher motor 152 of the push-out mechanism 105, and the first light emitting unit of the lifting / lowering body moving amount detector 201 are disposed. 215, the first light receiving unit 216, the second light emitting unit 235 and the second light receiving unit 236 of the lifting body position detector 202, the third light emitting unit 262 of the pusher position detection mechanism 250, the third light receiving unit 263, The fourth light emitting unit 272, the fourth light receiving unit 273, the fifth light emitting unit 282, and the fifth light receiving unit 283 are each electrically connected to the unit control unit 27 via wiring or the like. The unit control unit 27 is configured to be controlled based on a control command. The unit control unit 27 of each payout unit 20 is controlled by a main control unit 300 (control computer) that controls each part (screen display device 12, each payout unit 20, etc.) of the prize dispenser 1. Yes.

  The unit control unit 27 can detect the number of prizes K in the prize waiting unit 32 based on, for example, the detection value of the lifting body movement amount detector 201, and further, can be detected by the lifting body movement amount detector 201. The prize moving device 25 (driver 53, stepping motor 52) is controlled so that the number of prizes K in the prize waiting unit 32 is the preset number (the number of prizes to be paid out). Specifically, the amount of movement of the prize holder 51 in the Z direction is adjusted by adjusting the number of pulses of the pulse signal applied to the stepping motor 52.

Further, the unit controller 27 determines whether the pusher 151 is in the first pusher position P _P1 or the second pusher position P _P2 , so that the lock mechanism 108 is in the locked state or in the unlocked state. Can be determined. More specifically, it is determined whether the lock mechanism 108 is locked or unlocked based on the detection value of the lifting body position detector 202 and the detection value of the pusher position detection mechanism 250. Can do. That is, by the lifting member position detector 202, the standby unit lifting body 101 is determined to be in the lift initial position P _TL, and, if the pusher 151 is determined to be the first pusher position P _P1 is locked It can be determined that the mechanism 108 is locked. Further, by the lifting member position detector 202, but the waiting part moving body 101 is determined to be in the lift initial position P _TL, if the pusher 151 is determined to be the second pusher position P _P2, the lock It can be determined that the mechanism 108 is unlocked.

  Next, a method for paying out the prize K using the prize dispenser 1 configured as described above will be described. First, the state (initial state) of the prize dispenser 1 before the prize K is paid out will be described. In such a state, the prizes K are stacked and stored in the three prize storage units 31 of the cartridge 22, respectively. The cartridge 22 is inserted into the unit main body 21 through the unit main body front opening 35 and the dispenser front opening 15. Then, by the operation of the cartridge moving device 23, one of the three prize storage sections 31 is moved so that any one of the prize storage sections 31 (the storage section upper surface opening 42) is disposed directly below the prize passing port 37. In other words, any premium storage unit 31 is positioned in a state of communicating with the premium passing port 37 through the storage unit upper surface opening 42 (see FIG. 5).

  When the cartridge 22 is inserted into the unit main body 21, the prize holder 51 is retracted to a position lowered below the cartridge 22. Then, after the cartridge 22 is positioned, the cartridge 22 is raised into the prize storage unit 31 from below the prize storage unit 31 disposed just below the prize passage port 37 through the storage unit lower surface opening 41. Then, a plurality of prizes K in the prize storage unit 31 are collectively lifted from below by the prize holder 51 and are held in a state of being stacked on the prize holder 51.

However, before the prize K is paid out, the prize K is stored below the upper edge portion of the prize passing port 37. That is, the prize K located at the uppermost stage among the plurality of prizes K stacked (the first prize K counted from above) is held at a height that does not protrude upward from the prize passage port 37. When the first prize K counted from above is raised into the prize passing port 37 and the upper surface of the prize K is arranged at the same height as the upper edge of the prize passing port 37, the prize K is displayed. Is brought close to a cam contact member 182 (planar portion 182a) provided in the standby portion lifting body 101 disposed at the lifting body initial position _PTL as described later (see FIG. 20).

On the other hand, in the prize carry-out device 26 before paying out the prize K, as shown in FIG. 9, the standby part raising / lowering body 101 is located at the raising / lowering body initial position _PTL . The lifting / lowering body holding structure 110 is shortened in the Z direction. The shutter 102 is disposed prize payout opening closing position _{P SC.} Furthermore, the pusher 151 is disposed in a first pusher position _{P P1.} The rectilinear cam 181 is disposed at a position separated rearward from the cam contact member 182 (see FIG. 17). An engagement protrusion 192a is inserted into the engagement hole 191b (see FIG. 17). That is, the lock mechanism 108 is locked.

Further, in the lifting / lowering body movement amount detector 201, for example, the first light passage portion 222 (the plurality of first light passage portions 222 provided between the first light emitting portion 215 and the first light receiving portion 216 is provided at the uppermost position). The first light passage portion 222 is optically connected through the first first light passage portion 222 counted from above (see FIG. 20). In the lift body position detector 202, the second light blocking unit 232 is disposed below the second light emitting unit 235 and the second light receiving unit 236. That is, the second light emitting unit 235 and the second light receiving unit 236 are in optical communication. Accordingly, in the unit control unit 27, when light is emitted from the first light emitting unit 215 and the second light emitting unit 235, the light is emitted from the first light receiving unit 216 and the second light receiving unit 236, respectively. It is confirmed that light is received. Thus, it is confirmed that the standby unit lifting body 101 is disposed at the lifting body initial position _PTL .

As shown in FIG. 17, in the pusher position detection mechanism 250, the third optical sensor blocking portion 291 is inserted into the third optical sensor 251 (sensor groove 261a). The fourth optical sensor blocking section 292 is disposed between the third optical sensor 251 and the fourth optical sensor 252 in the Y direction (retracts backward from the sensor groove 271a of the fourth optical sensor 252). State). The fifth optical sensor blocking portion 293 is disposed above the fourth optical sensor 252 (a state where the fifth optical sensor 253 is retracted rearward from the sensor groove 281a of the fifth optical sensor 253). Accordingly, in the unit control unit 27, when light is emitted from the third light emitting unit 262 and the fourth light emitting unit 272, no light is received by the third light receiving unit 263, and than the light received at the light receiving portion 273 of the pusher 151 that is detected to be present in the first pusher position P _P1.

Next, the operation of the prize dispenser 1 when paying out the prize K will be described. In the prize dispenser 1 in the initial state as described above, information on the quantity of game media (pachinko balls, etc.) acquired by the player through the game is given to the unit controller 27 via an input device (not shown). It is done. Then, in the unit control unit 27, the prize payout setting number (the number of prizes K set according to the quantity of game media acquired by the player through the game, that is, the number of prizes K to be paid out from the prize payout exit 10). Is recognized. In the following description, it is assumed that the number of premium payouts set is m (1 <m <m _max = 10, m = 5 in the examples shown in FIGS. 25, 26, and 27).

First, a control signal for unlocking the lock mechanism 108 is transmitted from the unit controller 27 to the prize carry-out device 26. That is, the chain 173 by the driving of the pusher motor 152 is caused to Shudo, with the Shudo chain 173, the pusher 151 is advanced from the first pusher position P _P1 in the Y direction. Then, in the state where the pusher 151 is disposed at the second pusher position _PP2 , the drive of the pusher motor 152 is stopped. As the pusher 151 moves, the pusher-side engaging portion 192 is separated forward from the shutter-side engaging portion 191 (see FIG. 18). That is, the engagement protrusion 192a is retracted forward from the engagement hole 191b, and the lock mechanism 108 is switched from the locked state (engaged state) to the unlocked state (engaged state).

Further, when the pusher 151 is moved from the first pusher position P _P1 to the second pusher position P _P2 , as shown in FIG. Is advanced into the sensor groove 261a while being inserted into the third optical sensor 251 (sensor groove 261a), and the fourth optical sensor blocking portion 292 is moved to the fourth optical sensor 252 (sensor groove 271a). ) From behind. The fifth optical sensor blocking portion 293 moves forward above the fourth optical sensor 252 (a state in which the fifth optical sensor 253 is retracted rearward from the sensor groove 281a of the fifth optical sensor 253). Accordingly, in the unit control unit 27, when light is emitted from the fourth light emitting unit 272, the light is not received by the fourth light receiving unit 273, whereby the pusher 151 is moved to the second pusher position _PP2. That is, it is detected that the lock mechanism 108 has been unlocked.

  In a state where the lock mechanism 108 is unlocked in this way, the prize K in the prize storage unit 31 is moved upward toward the prize waiting unit 32 by driving the prize moving device 25. That is, a control signal is given from the unit controller 27 to the prize moving device 25, and the rotation of the stepping motor 52 is started. In the prize moving device 25, every time a pulse signal of one pulse is given from the driver 53 to the stepping motor 52, the output shaft (not shown) of the stepping motor 52 and the drive pulley 71 are rotated in a predetermined rotational direction (FIGS. 5 and 5). 6, the prize holder 51 is raised by a predetermined distance T as the driving pulley 71 rotates. In this way, the prize K in the prize storage unit 31 is pushed up stepwise by the prize holder 51 and raised together with the prize holder 51 in a lump.

  Here, for example, when the first prize K counted from above is arranged at the same height as the upper edge of the prize passage 37 when the prize dispenser 1 is in the initial state, that is, the prize K. Is in contact with the flat portion 182a of the cam abutting member 182, the prize moving device 25 starts to raise the prize K, and at the same time the prize K rises, the cam abutting member 182 and the standby part raising / lowering body 101 are raised. That is, the cam abutting member 182 and the standby unit elevating body 101 are lifted by the first prize K counted from above. Therefore, each time a pulse signal of one pulse is given from the driver 53 to the stepping motor 52, the standby unit lifting body 101 is raised by a predetermined distance T. Further, the X leg mechanism 111 is extended in the Z direction as the standby unit elevating body 101 rises while supporting the standby unit elevating body 101 from both sides. The prize waiting unit 32 is formed between the prize passing port 37 and the waiting unit lifting body 101 when the waiting unit lifting body 101 is lifted upward from the prize passing port 37 by the prize K, and the prize passing port 37 is formed. And the standby unit elevating body 101 are expanded in the Z direction (upward) in accordance with the number of prizes K accommodated between them.

  In this way, the prize K in the prize storage unit 31 pushes up the standby part lifting body 101 (cam contact member 182), thereby waiting for a prize through the prize passage port 37 in order from the first prize K counted from above. It can rise inside the part 32. In this case, the prize K can be moved in a stable state while being sandwiched between the prize holder 51 and the standby part lifting body 101 (the flat part 182a of the cam contact member 182) and being held from above and below. That is, while the prize K is pushed up from below by the prize holder 51 and the prize K is pressed from above by the standby part lifting body 101 (cam contact member 182), the arrangement of the prizes K is disturbed and the attitude of the prize K is changed. It can raise smoothly, preventing inclining.

  On the other hand, when the standby unit lifting body 101 is lifted by the prize K, the shutter 102, the light blocking member 212, and the second light blocking unit 232 are raised along with the standby unit lifting body 101 (see FIG. 21). That is, in the lifting / lowering body movement amount detector 201, the plurality of first light blocking units 221 are moved upward relative to the first light emitting unit 215 and the first light receiving unit 216. In the lifting body position detector 202, the second light blocking unit 232 rises between the second light emitting unit 235 and the second light receiving unit 236, and the second light emitting unit 235 and the second light receiving unit. Between 236 is optically blocked.

  In the unit control unit 27, the prize that has risen in the prize waiting unit 32 based on the detection value of the lifting / lowering body movement amount detector 201 (by counting the number of times light is detected or the number of times light is blocked). The number of K can be detected. That is, when a pulse signal of 1 pulse is given from the driver 53 to the stepping motor 52, the prize holder 51, the prize K, the standby part lifting body 101, and the shutter 102 are raised by the distance T, and the lifting body movement amount detector 201 Light is blocked and detected once. Thereby, it is confirmed that one prize K (the first prize K counted from above) has risen to the prize waiting unit 32. Similarly, when a pulse signal of m pulses is given from the driver 53 to the stepping motor 52, the prize holder 51, the prize K, the standby unit lifting / lowering body 101, and the shutter 102 are raised by a distance mT, and the lifting / lowering body movement amount detector 201 is detected. The light is blocked and detected m times. As a result, it is confirmed that m prizes K (first to mth prizes K counted from above) have risen to the prize waiting unit 32. That is, the unit controller 27 transmits a pulse signal to the stepping motor 52 until light is blocked and detected m times by the lifting / lowering body movement amount detector 201.

In the unit control unit 27, it is confirmed that the standby unit lifting body 101 has moved up from the lifting body initial position _PTL based on the detection value of the lifting body position detector 202. That is, when light is emitted from the second light emitting unit 235, the light is not received by the second light receiving unit 236, so that the standby unit lifting body 101 has moved from the lifting body initial position _PTL. Detected. Thus, it is detected that the shutter 102 is raised from the prize payout opening closing position P _SC.

  In this way, when it is confirmed that m prizes K have been accommodated in the prize waiting unit 32 (light has been intercepted and detected m times by the lifting / lowering body movement amount detector 201), the unit control unit 27 A control signal is transmitted to the prize moving device 25, and the rotation of the stepping motor 52 is stopped. That is, the operation of the prize moving device 25 is stopped, and the prize K is held in a stationary state. In other words, m prizes K are stacked and accommodated inside the prize waiting unit 32 (see FIG. 25).

Incidentally, in this way the prize standby section 32 are m prize K is housed in a state of stacked, shutter 102 but is held in raised position by a distance mT from the prize payout opening closed position P _SC, prize payment The outlet 10 is not completely open. If it does in this way, fraudulent acts, such as taking out prize K through prize prize exit 10, can be controlled and it is effective in crime prevention.

After the rotation of the stepping motor 52 is stopped, a control signal is transmitted from the unit controller 27 to the prize carry-out device 26, and the movement of the pusher 151 is started. That is, the chain 173 by the driving of the pusher motor 152 is caused to Shudo, with the Shudo chain 173, the pusher 151 is advanced from the second pusher position P _P2 in the Y direction. Then, the front face of the prize abutment body 162 is brought into contact with the rear side surface of each prize K in the prize waiting unit 32 from the rear. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 26, the m prizes K in the prize waiting portion 32 are pushed forward by the prize abutting body 162 in a stacked state. That is, it slides forward with respect to the prize K (the prize K positioned below the upper edge of the prize passing port 37, the m + 1th prize K from the top) stored below the prize waiting section 32. Be made. The prizes K that are not more than the (m + 1) th counted from above are held below the prize waiting unit 32 as they are.

  Further, when the prize K in the prize waiting section 32 is pushed out by the prize abutting body 162 (until the rectilinear cam 181 abuts against the cam abutting member 182), the prize K is not in the waiting section lifting body 101 (cam holder It is held so as to be suppressed from above by the contact member 182), and moves forward so as to slide with respect to the standby unit lifting body 101 (cam contact member 182). Therefore, also at this time, the prize K can be held in a stable state by the standby part lifting body 101 (cam contact member 182), and the arrangement of the prizes K can be prevented from being disturbed.

The pusher 151 (the pusher main body 161, the premium abutment body 162), and the rectilinear cam 181 are m + 1-th prize K held between the prize passage port 37 and the standby section lifting body 101, that is, below the prize standby section 32. And move forward. Further, when the pusher 151 is advanced from the second pusher position _{P P2,} the pusher position detecting mechanism 250, the third optical sensor blocking portion 291 is forward from the third optical sensor 251 (sensor groove 261a) To leave. Accordingly, in the unit control unit 27, when the light is emitted from the third light emitting unit 262, the light is received by the third light receiving unit 263, whereby the pusher 151 is moved to the second pusher position _PP2. Is confirmed to have moved forward.

Further, when the pusher 151 is advanced from the second pusher position _{P P2,} integrally with the pusher 151, the rectilinear cam 181 is advanced. At this time, as shown in FIG. 26, the cam contact member 182 is in a state of being placed on the upper surface of the prize K (first prize K counted from above) in the prize waiting section 32, but goes straight. While the cam 181 moves forward, the inclined edge portion 181a is brought into contact with the cam contact member 182 (curved surface portion 182b) from the rear. When the rectilinear cam 181 is further advanced, the cam contact member 182 (curved surface portion 182b) is pushed upward by the inclined edge portion 181a. In other words, the standby portion lifting body 101 is pushed up by the inclined edge portion 181a via the cam contact member 182. The cam contact member 182 (plane portion 182a) is separated upward from the prize K (first prize K counted from above) in the prize waiting section 32. Further, the shutter 102, the light blocking member 212, and the second light blocking unit 232 are also raised as the standby unit lifting / lowering body 101 moves.

When the rectilinear cam 181 further moves forward and the inclined edge portion 181a moves forward with respect to the curved surface portion 182b, as shown in FIG. 27, the high edge portion 181b comes into contact with the flat surface portion 182a. That is, the cam contact member 182 moves relative to the rectilinear cam 181 and is placed on the upper surface of the high edge portion 181b. The standby unit lifting / lowering body 101 is held by the high edge portion 181b via the cam contact member 182. Then, the standby unit lifting body 101 is arranged from the lifting member initial position _{P TL} about _{m max} × T only increased lift raised position _{P TH,} the shutter 102 is raised to a prize payout opening open position _{P SO.} That is, the prize payout opening 10 is completely opened, and the prize opening 10 is sufficiently opened up to an opening that allows the m prizes K to pass through with a margin.

Further, when the standby unit elevating body 101 is raised to the elevating body raising position _PTH , the light blocking member 212 and the second light blocking unit 232 are also raised along with the standby unit elevating body 101. That is, in the lifting / lowering body movement amount detector 201, the plurality of first light blocking units 221 are moved upward relative to the first light emitting unit 215 and the first light receiving unit 216. Further, in the lifting body position detector 202, the second light blocking unit 232 rises from the second light emitting unit 235 and the second light receiving unit 236 and exits, and the second light emitting unit 235 and the second light emitting unit 235 move out. The light receiving unit 236 is not optically blocked (see FIG. 22). Therefore, in the unit control unit 27, light is received by the second light receiving unit 236 based on the detection value of the lifting body position detector 202, that is, when light is emitted from the second light emitting unit 235. by being, the standby unit lifting body 101 is raised to lift the raised position P _TH, i.e., it is detected that the shutter 102 is moved to the prize payout opening open position P _SO.

In this way, the pusher 151 and the rectilinear cam 181 have the standby unit lifting body 101 and the shutter 102 at a certain height (the lifting body lift position P _TH , premium) while the cam contact member 182 is in contact with the high edge 181b. It is further advanced while being held at the discharge outlet opening position _PSO ). When the pusher 151 is arranged at the third pusher position _PP3 , the m prizes K are completely paid out through the prize payout exit 10 and moved onto the prize placement surface 11 (see FIG. 27). . In this way, the player can obtain a number K of prizes K corresponding to the number of game media acquired by the game, that is, the number of prize payout setting number m.

When the pusher 151 arrives at the third pusher position _PP3 , in the pusher position detection mechanism 250, the third light sensor blocking unit 291 and the fourth light sensor blocking unit 292 are respectively connected to the third light. The sensor 251 (sensor groove 261 a) and the fourth optical sensor 252 (sensor groove 271 a) are retracted forward, and the fifth optical sensor blocking portion 293 is connected to the sensor groove 281 a of the fifth optical sensor 253. To enter from behind. Accordingly, in the unit control unit 27, when the light is emitted from the fifth light emitting unit 282, the fifth light receiving unit 283 does not receive the light, so that the pusher 151 is moved to the third pusher position _PP3. That is, it is detected that the prize K has been paid out through the prize payout exit 10.

When the pusher 151 arrives at the third pusher position _PP3 and m prizes K are paid out (when the unit controller 27 detects that the pusher 151 has moved to the third pusher position _PP3 ). Then, a control signal is transmitted from the unit controller 27 to the prize carry-out device 26, and the pusher 151 starts to move backward. That is, the pusher motor 152 is rotated in the opposite direction to the forward movement of the pusher 151, the chain 173 is rotated in the opposite direction to the forward movement of the pusher 151, and the pusher 151 is rotated along with the circumferential movement of the chain 173. Is retracted from the third pusher position _{PP3 in the} Y direction. Then, the rectilinear cam 181 is retracted integrally with the pusher 151.

  When the rectilinear cam 181 starts retreating, the cam contact member 182 is lifted by the high edge portion 181b, but the high edge portion 181b moves to the rear of the cam contact member 182 while the rectilinear cam 181 is retracting. Thus, the cam contact member 182 and the standby unit elevating body 101 are lowered by their own weights such as the cam contact member 182 and the standby unit elevating body 101 and returned to the state held by the inclined edge 181a. That is, the cam contact member 182 gradually descends toward the prize passing port 37 as the inclined edge portion 181a moves backward. The standby unit elevating body 101 is lowered together with the cam contact member 182, and the shutter 102, the light blocking member 212, and the second light blocking unit 232 are also lowered along with the movement of the standby unit elevating body 101. Since the prize K has already been pushed out from below the standby part lifting body 101 (inside the prize standby part 32), the cam contact member 182 can be lowered until it comes close to the prize passing port 37.

Thus, when the rectilinear cam 181 is further retracted, the inclined edge portion 181a is moved to a position separated rearward of the cam contact member 182. The standby unit elevating body 101 is lowered together with the cam contact member 182, and the shutter 102, the light blocking member 212, and the second light blocking unit 232 are also lowered along with the movement of the standby unit elevating body 101. That is, the standby unit lifting body 101 is returned to the elevating body initial position P _TL, the shutter 102 is returned to the prize payout opening closed position P _SC, prize payout opening 10 is closed again.

Further, in the lifting body movement amount detector 201, the first light blocking unit 221 (the plurality of first light blocking units 221 provided between the first light emitting unit 215 and the first light receiving unit 216, for example, is provided at the uppermost position. The first light-blocking unit 221 returns to the optically-blocked state by the first first light-blocking unit 221) counted from above. In the lift body position detector 202, the second light blocking unit 232 is disposed below the second light emitting unit 235 and the second light receiving unit 236, and the second light emitting unit 235 and the second light receiving unit are disposed. 236 is returned to a state where it is not optically blocked. Thus, the unit control section 27, the detection value of the lift position detector 202, the standby unit lifting body 101 is returned to the elevating body initial position P _TL, the shutter 102 is returned to the prize payout opening closing position P _SC Can be confirmed.

Thus, after the shutter 102 is returned to the prize payout opening closed position P _SC, the pusher 151 is caused to further retracted, through the second pusher position P _P2, it is returned to the first pusher position P _P1. That is, in a state where the pusher 151 is disposed on the first pusher position P _P1, rotation of the stepping motor 52 is stopped. The engagement protrusion 192a is inserted into the engagement hole 191b from the front, and the lock mechanism 108 is locked again.

Further, when the pusher 151 is returned to the first pusher position _{P P1,} the pusher position detecting mechanism 250, the third optical sensor blocking portion 291 relative to the third optical sensor 251 (sensor groove 261a) The fourth optical sensor blocking section 292 is inserted from the front, and is disposed behind the fourth optical sensor 252 through the fourth optical sensor 252 (sensor groove 271a). Accordingly, in the unit control unit 27, when light is emitted from the third light emitting unit 262 and the fourth light emitting unit 272, light is not received by the third light receiving unit 263, and When the light receiving unit 273 receives light, it is confirmed that the pusher 151 has moved to the first pusher position _PP1 , that is, the lock mechanism 108 has been unlocked. Thus, the prize dispenser 1 is substantially returned to the initial state (the initial state in which the prize K in the prize storage unit 31 has been reduced by m pieces).

  By the way, in the above embodiment, when the prize dispenser 1 is in the initial state, the first prize K counted from above is disposed in the prize passing port 37 and is in contact with the cam contact member 182. (In other words, when the ascent of the prize K by the prize moving device 25 is started, the standby unit lifting body 101 is immediately lifted, and the accommodation of the prize K in the prize waiting part 32 is started). When the machine 1 is in the initial state, the first prize K counted from above may be separated from the cam contact member 182 and may not be in contact. That is, the first prize K counted from the top may be lowered into the prize storage unit 31, for example. In this case, even when the ascent of the prize K is started by the prize moving device 25, the storage of the prize K in the prize waiting unit 32 is not immediately started, and the cam contact member 182 and the waiting unit lifting body 101 are also immediately I can't lift it. That is, for a while after the prize K is started to rise by the prize moving device 25, the first prize K counted from above rises into the prize passing port 37 and contacts the cam contact member 182 from below. To do. Thereafter, in the same manner as in the above operation, the cam abutting member 182 and the standby unit elevating body 101 are lifted by the prize K, and accommodation of the prize K in the prize standby unit 32 is started.

  As described above, even if the cam abutting member 182 and the standby unit elevating body 101 are lifted by the prize K after a while after the prize K is started to rise by the prize moving device 25, the unit controller 27 , The position of the standby unit lifting body 101 and the number of prizes K accommodated in the prize standby unit 32 can be reliably detected from the detection value of the lifting body movement amount detector 201. Accordingly, the desired number m of prizes K can be lifted to the prize waiting unit 32, and the correct number of prizes K can be paid out in the same manner as in the above operation method.

  As another method for detecting the number of prizes K accommodated in the prize waiting unit 32, for example, a method of counting the number of pulses of a pulse signal transmitted from the driver 53 to the stepping motor 52, that is, the number of pulses is m. A method of determining that the number of prizes K accommodated in the prize waiting unit 32 has reached m in the case of a pulse is also conceivable. However, in this case, in the initial state of the prize dispenser 1, if the first prize K counted from above is not arranged in the prize passing port 37, a pulse signal is transmitted to the stepping motor 52 to retain the prize. Even if the movement of the body 51 and the prize K is started, the prize K is not immediately raised to the prize waiting unit 32. Therefore, even if the number of pulses becomes m pulses, the number of prizes K stored in the prize waiting unit 32 may be less than m. Therefore, there is a possibility that the correct number of prizes K cannot be paid out. On the other hand, as described above, the detection is performed by the lifting / lowering body movement amount detector 201 and the rotation of the stepping motor 52 is controlled based on the detection value of the lifting / lowering body movement amount detector 201 (that is, the lifting / lowering body movement amount detection). If the device 201 transmits a pulse signal to the stepping motor 52 until light is blocked and detected m times), the prize holder 51 is moved by a sufficient amount of movement, and an accurate number of prizes K is given as a prize. It can be accommodated in the standby unit 32 and paid out.

In the above embodiment, it is assumed that the number of prize payout setting numbers is m (1 <m <m _max ). However, when the number of prize payout setting numbers is m _max (for example, 10), prize storage is performed. When the prize K in the section 31 is accommodated in the prize standby section 32, the prize holder 51, the prize K, the standby section lifting / lowering body 101, and the shutter 102 are pushed up by the m _max prizes K, and the distance m _max × Raised by T That is, the standby unit lifting body 101 is disposed in elevating body raised position _{P TH,} the shutter 102 is disposed prize payout opening open position _{P SO.} The flat surface portion 182a of the cam contact member 182 is disposed at substantially the same height as the high edge portion 181b of the rectilinear cam 181 in the Z direction. Therefore, when the pusher 151 is moved, the inclined edge 181a of the rectilinear cam 181 is not in contact with the cam contact member 182, and the high edge 181b is contacted from the beginning. Thereafter, the prize K accommodated in the prize waiting unit 32 is pushed out by the pusher 151 and paid out from the prize passing port 10 in the same manner as the above-described operation method.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, the number of prizes K accommodated in the prize waiting part 32 can be indirectly detected (counted) by detecting the movement amount of the waiting part lifting body 101. it can. With the configuration in which the standby unit elevating body 101 (the flat portion 182a of the cam contact member 182) is pushed up by the prize K, the prize K can be pressed and held from above by the standby unit elevating body 101. That is, the prize K can be raised to the prize waiting unit 32 while maintaining the state where the prizes K are stacked and aligned. Therefore, the number of prizes K accommodated in the prize waiting part 32 can be accurately detected based on the movement amount of the waiting part lifting body 101. As a result, the same number (m) of prizes K as the number of prize payouts set can be accurately accommodated in the prize waiting unit 32 and paid out from the prize payout exit 10. That is, the number of prizes K to be paid out can be accurately adjusted.

  In addition, according to the present embodiment, the prizes K can be paid out efficiently and quickly by extruding a plurality of prizes K (the number of prizes to be paid out) in the prize waiting unit 32 by the pusher 151 at a time. . Further, by moving the pusher 151, the shutter side engagement portion 191 and the pusher side engagement portion 192 are engaged with each other (locked state) and the engagement is released (lock release state). And can be switched. Thereby, the lock operation of the shutter 102 can be realized with a simple operation and a simple structure. When the giveaway exit 10 is closed by the shutter 102, the operation of the shutter 102 is locked, so that the shutter 102 is operated from the outside of the giveaway machine 1, the giveaway exit 10 is opened, etc. Can be prevented. That is, it is possible to prevent a mischief in the prize dispenser 1 from being carried out, a prize K in the prize dispenser 1 being stolen through the prize dispenser exit 10 and performing fraud, and the crime prevention effect of the shutter 102 is enhanced. Can do.

  Furthermore, according to the present embodiment, by moving the pusher 151, the rectilinear cam 181 can be moved and the shutter 102 can be moved up and down with respect to the prize payout exit 10. Thereby, the prize payout exit 10 can be easily opened and closed. With the configuration using the rectilinear cam 181, it is not necessary to provide a special structure such as a shutter motor, and the peripheral structure of the shutter 102 can be simplified and made compact. That is, the prize payout opening 10 can be opened and closed smoothly with a simple structure. Also, the shutter 102 can be moved reliably, and the shutter 102 can be opened and closed and the prize K can be paid out smoothly without the risk of the prize K being caught or damaged.

  Further, with the configuration using the straight cam 181, the shutter 102 can be simultaneously raised while pushing out the prize K by the pusher 151. The shutter 102 can be lowered while the pusher 151 is retracted from the prize payout exit 10. That is, the push-out operation of the prize K by the pusher 151 and the opening / closing operation of the shutter 102 can be performed in parallel. Even if a complicated control command is not given, the operations necessary for paying out the prize K, that is, a series of operations such as opening the prize payout outlet 10, pushing out the prize K, and closing the prize payout outlet 10 are accurately performed in order. Can be done efficiently.

  As mentioned above, although preferred embodiment of this invention was described, this invention is not limited to this example. It is obvious for those skilled in the art that various changes or modifications can be conceived within the scope of the technical idea described in the claims. It is understood that it belongs to.

For example, the number of prize payout ports 10 provided in the prize dispenser 1, the number of payout units 20, the number of prize storage units 31 provided in the cartridge 22, etc. are not limited to those shown in the above embodiments. In addition, the dimensions of the prize K (thickness T), the number of prizes K that can be stored in each prize storage unit 31, the maximum number m _max of prizes K that can be stored in the prize standby unit 32, and the like are also described in the above embodiments. It is not limited to what was illustrated in.

  In the above-described embodiment, the prize holder 51 is configured so that the output shaft of the stepping motor 52 and the drive pulley 71 are rotated by a predetermined rotation angle (step angle θ) each time a pulse signal of 1 pulse is given to the stepping motor 52. Each time it rotates, it is configured to be moved (raised or lowered) by the same distance T as the thickness of the prize K, but the relationship between the movement distance of the prize holder 51 and the number of pulses is not limited thereto. For example, each time a pulse signal of 1 pulse is given to the stepping motor 52, the prize holder 51 may be moved by a distance smaller than the distance T (for example, distance T / 2). In other words, each time the pulse signal of a predetermined number A (1 or 2 or more) is given to the stepping motor 52, the prize holder 51 is moved (raised or lowered) by the same distance T as the thickness of the prize K. May be. Also in this case, the movement amount of the prize holder 51 (movement amount of the prize K) can be reliably controlled by adjusting the number of pulses of the pulse signal applied to the stepping motor 52. As a result, the number of prizes K to be accommodated in the prize waiting unit 32 can be reliably controlled.

  In the above embodiment, the prize K rising from the prize passing port 37 is brought into contact with the flat portion 182a of the cam contact member 182, but the surface on which the prize K is brought into contact is the cam contact member 182. It may be provided separately. For example, the upper surface of the prize K may be brought into direct contact with the lower surface of the standby unit elevating body 101. Also in this case, the standby unit lifting body 101 can be pushed up by the prize K, and the prize K can be suitably held by being pressed from above by the standby unit lifting body 101.

  The configuration of the lock mechanism 108, that is, the shape of the shutter side engaging portion 191 and the shape of the pusher side engaging portion 192 are not limited to those shown in the above embodiments. For example, an engagement hole is provided in the pusher side engagement portion, and an engagement protrusion (from the front side of the shutter side engagement plate) that can be inserted into the shutter side engagement portion relative to the engagement hole of the pusher side engagement portion. You may make it provide the protrusion protruded ahead. Also in this case, the pusher side engaging portion and the shutter side engaging portion can be engaged with each other.

  The number of first light blocking portions 221 provided in the lifting body moving amount detector 201, the number of first light passing portions 222, the width of the first light blocking portions 221 in the Z direction, and the first light passage. The width of the portion 222 in the Z direction, the pitch of the first light blocking portions 221, the pitch of the first light passing portions 222, and the like are not limited to those exemplified in the above embodiments. For example, the pitch of the first light blocking portions 221 (the pitch of the first light passing portions 222) does not have to be the same length as the thickness T of the prize K, but is a length T ′ (which is smaller than the thickness T). For example, the width of the first light blocking unit 221 may be smaller than T / 2 (for example, T / 4). Also in this case, based on the detection value of the lifting / lowering body movement amount detector 201, the movement amount of the prize K, the standby part lifting body 101, etc. is detected, and the number of the prizes K in the prize waiting part 32 is detected. Is possible. That is, each time the prize K, the standby unit lifting body 101, etc. move in the Z direction by the same movement amount as the pitch T ′ of the first light blocking unit 221, light is blocked once by the lifting unit movement amount detector 201. Therefore, the unit control unit 27 counts the number of times the light is blocked by the lifting body movement amount detector 201, thereby moving the standby unit lifting body 101 (the pitch T ′ of the first light blocking unit 221). It is possible to detect how many times the distance has moved.

The lifting body position detector 202 is configured to receive light when the standby unit lifting body 101 is disposed at the lifting body initial position _PTL and when it is disposed at the lifting body lift position _PTH , that is, the standby unit. Although it was set as the structure which detects that the raising / lowering body 101 is arrange _| positioned in the raising / lowering body initial position _PTL or the raising / lowering body raising position _PTH , it is not limited to this. For example, a configuration for receiving light only when waiting part moving body 101 is arranged on the elevating body initial position P _TL, i.e., only whether stand-part moving body 101 is arranged on the elevating body initial position P _TH It is good also as a raising / lowering body position detector for the raising / lowering body initial position to detect. Further, only when the standby unit lifting body 101 is disposed at the lift body raising position _PTH , the light is received, that is, only whether or not the standby unit lifting body 101 is disposed at the lifting body lift position _PTH. It is good also as a raising / lowering body position detector for the raising / lowering body raising position to detect. Furthermore, you may make it provide both the raising / lowering body position detector for raising / lowering body initial positions, and the raising / lowering body position detector for raising / lowering body raising positions. Also in these cases, the position of the standby unit elevating body 101 and the position of the shutter 102 can be detected appropriately.

Further, the lifting body position detector 202 does not receive light when the standby part lifting body 101 is disposed at the lifting body initial position _PTL or the lifting body lifting position _PTH. You may make it the structure which light is not received when it has arrange _| positioned in position _PTL or raising / lowering body raising position _PTH . Similarly, the lift body position detector for the lift body initial position may be configured such that light is not received only when the standby part lift body 101 is disposed at the lift body initial position _PTL . The lifting body position detector for the lifting body lifting position may be configured such that light is not received only when the standby part lifting body 101 is disposed at the lifting body lifting position _PTH . Also in these cases, the position of the standby unit elevating body 101 and the position of the shutter 102 can be detected appropriately.

Further, for example, in the pusher position detection mechanism 250, the third optical sensor 251, the fourth optical sensor 252, the fifth optical sensor 253, the third optical sensor blocking unit 291 and the fourth optical sensor blocking unit 292 are provided. The arrangement, structure, and the like of the fifth optical sensor blocking portion 293 are not limited to those of the above embodiments. For example, in the above embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10, in a state where the pusher 151 is disposed on the second pusher position P _P2, the third optical sensor blocking portion 291 is a third optical sensor 251 (sensor 28, the fourth light sensor blocking portion 292 is inserted into the fourth light sensor 252 (sensor groove 271a) while being inserted into the groove 261a), as shown in FIG. The third light sensor blocking portion 291 is retracted forward from the third light sensor 251 (sensor groove 261a), and the fourth light sensor blocking portion 292 is moved to the fourth light sensor 252 (sensor groove 271a). ) May be arranged so as to be inserted. That is, only the fourth light emitting unit 272 and the fourth light receiving unit 273 are optically blocked, and the third light emitting unit 262 and the third light receiving unit 263 are interposed between the fifth light emitting unit 282 and the fifth light receiving unit 263. The light receiving portions 283 may not be optically blocked. Again, in the unit control section 27 can confirm that based on the detection signal or the like of the fourth optical sensor 252, the pusher 151 is present in the second pusher position P _P2. That is, when light is emitted from the third light emitting unit 262, the fourth light emitting unit 272, and the fifth light emitting unit 282, no light is received by the fourth light receiving unit 273, and light receiving portion 263 and when the light is received at the fifth light receiving portion 283 can determine that the pusher 151 is present in the second pusher position P _P2.

  In the above embodiment, the unit control unit 27 counts the number of times light is detected or the number of times the light is blocked by the first light receiving unit 216 of the lifting body movement amount detector 201, so that the standby unit lifting body. 101, the number of prizes K accommodated in the prize waiting part 32 is indirectly detected from the detected movement quantity of the standby part lifting body 101, and the prize waiting part 32 has the number of prizes set to be given out. The prize holder 51 is raised until K is accommodated, but a method of detecting the number of prizes K accommodated in the prize standby unit 32 based on the detection value of the lifting body movement amount detector 201, The control method for the movement amount of the prize holder 51, the control method for allowing the prize waiting unit 32 to store the number of prizes K set for the prize payout number, and the like are not limited to such forms. For example, the number of prizes K accommodated in the prize waiting unit 32 is predicted based on a control command given from the unit control unit 27 to the prize moving device 25 as well as a detection value of the lifting / lowering body movement amount detector 201. You can also. Hereinafter, an example of the embodiment in that case will be described.

  For example, when the number of premium payout settings is m, the unit control unit 27 transmits a control command (motor control command) for raising the premium holder 51 by a distance mT to the premium moving device 25. In this case, the unit control unit 27 can predict the number of prizes K accommodated in the prize waiting unit 32 from the motor control command given to the prize moving device 25. That is, a predicted value (predicted accommodation number) of the number of prizes K accommodated in the prize waiting unit 32 can be obtained. For example, in the case where the prize holder 51 is raised by a distance T when a predetermined number A of pulse signals are given to the stepping motor 25, the motor control command is to give the pulse signal of the mA pulse to the stepping motor 25. The unit controller 27 predicts that the number of prizes K accommodated in the prize waiting part 32 will be m because the number of pulse signals applied to the stepping motor 25 is mA pulses. That is, the predicted accommodation number m can be obtained based on the pulse number mA of the pulse signal applied to the stepping motor 25.

  Further, while giving the motor control command (a control command for raising the prize holder 51 by the distance mT), the unit control unit 27 operates while the stepping motor 25 is rotated in accordance with the motor control command (the prize). While the holding body 51 moves), the detection value of the lifting body movement amount detector 201 is monitored. That is, the number of times the light is detected or blocked by the first light receiving unit 216 of the lifting body movement amount detector 201 is counted. Then, the number of prizes K accommodated in the prize waiting unit 32 is calculated from the number of times light is detected or the number of times the light is blocked by the lifting / lowering body movement amount detector 201. In this way, the number of the prizes K (detected accommodation number) accommodated in the prize standby unit 32 can be detected based on the lifting / lowering body movement amount detector 201. That is, it is possible to obtain the number of pieces accommodated by the lifting / lowering body movement amount detector 201.

  Then, after the prize holder 51 is raised by the distance mT, that is, after the rotation of the stepping motor 25 according to the motor control command is stopped, the unit control unit 27 predicts and stores the predicted accommodation predicted from the motor control command. The number is compared with the detected accommodation number obtained from the detection value of the lifting body movement amount detector 201. Thereby, it is determined whether or not the predicted accommodated number is correct, that is, whether or not it matches the detected accommodated number.

  For example, when the predicted accommodated number and the detected accommodated number match each other, it is determined that the predicted accommodated number is correct. In this case, the predicted accommodated number (or detected accommodated number) is detected as the number of prizes K (actually accommodated number) actually accommodated in the prize waiting unit 32. On the other hand, when the predicted accommodation number and the detected accommodation number do not match each other, it is determined that the predicted accommodation number is not correct. Even in the above-described manner, the number of prizes K (actual accommodation quantity) accommodated in the prize standby unit 32 can be reliably detected.

  When it is determined that the predicted accommodated number is not correct, the detected accommodated number may be detected as the actual accommodated number instead of the predicted accommodated number. Further, a pulse signal may be additionally transmitted to the stepping motor 25 by the difference between the predicted accommodation number and the detected accommodation number. For example, when the predicted accommodated number is m and the detected accommodated number is m-B less than the predicted accommodated number m, the prize moving device 25 is configured to further raise the prize holder 51 by the distance BT. Is given a control command. Then, the prize K can be further pushed up by the distance BT, and B prizes K can be additionally accommodated in the prize standby unit 32. As a result, the actual accommodation number can be increased from m-B and can be adjusted to the premium payout setting number (m).

  For example, if the predicted accommodation number is m and the detected accommodation number is m + B, which is larger than the predicted accommodation number, a control command is sent to the prize moving device 25 so that the prize holder 51 is further lowered by the distance BT. You should give it. Then, the prize K can be lowered by the distance BT, the B prizes K can be withdrawn from the prize waiting unit 32, and returned to the lower part of the prize passing port 37. As a result, the actual accommodation number can be reduced from m + B and can be adjusted to the premium payout setting number (m).

  Even when the actual accommodation number is increased or decreased based on the predicted accommodation number and the detected accommodation number as described above, the unit control unit 27 monitors the detection value of the lifting / lowering body movement amount detector 201 to thereby give the prize waiting unit 32. It can be monitored whether or not the prize K in the inside is increased or decreased. Therefore, it is possible to reliably adjust the number of prizes K (actual accommodation number) in the prize waiting unit 32 to match the number of prizes set. As a result, the number of prizes K to be paid out can be accurately adjusted.

  If it is determined that the predicted accommodated number is not correct, the unit control unit 27 may determine that a failure (failure, error) has occurred in the payout unit 20, and further notify the failure. You may do it. In that case, the failure may be determined based on only one determination result. However, after retrying (adding a control command to the prize moving device 25 and transmitting it (adding a pulse signal to the stepping motor 25)), It is determined that a failure has occurred if it is not determined that the predicted accommodated number is correct even if the number of detected accommodated numbers is compared again and the predicted number is determined again several times. You may comprise.

  The failure notification can be performed using, for example, the screen display device 12 (see FIG. 2). That is, information indicating that a failure has occurred is displayed on the screen display device 12 by a control signal from the unit control unit 27, so that a store clerk (manager) or a player may be notified. Although not shown, for example, a notification lamp (for example, an LED) is provided as a failure notification device on the outer surface of the dispenser body 2, and the notification lamp is controlled by a control signal from the unit control unit 27. It is also possible to notify the store clerk or the like of the failure by emitting light.

  Furthermore, even if it is informed so that the clerk or the like can identify and recognize which payout unit 20 is determined to have failed among the multiple payout units 20 built in the prize dispenser 1. good. For example, a notification lamp corresponding to each payout unit 20 is provided at a position corresponding to each payout unit 20 below the prize placing surface 11 (in front of the payout machine body 2), and it is determined that a failure has occurred. Only the notification lamp corresponding to the payout unit 20 that has been made needs to emit light. Then, it can be recognized that a failure has occurred in the dispensing unit 20 corresponding to the notification lamp that is emitting light, and inspection, repair, etc. can be performed accurately. If it is determined that a failure has occurred in any one of the payout units 20, instead of the payout unit 20 in which a failure has occurred (determined), the prize K is received from the other payout units 20. It is also possible to control to pay out.

  The present invention can be applied to a prize dispenser installed in a game hall such as a pachinko parlor.

It is a schematic perspective view of a prize. It is a schematic perspective view of a prize dispenser. It is a schematic front view of a prize dispenser. It is a schematic perspective view of a payout unit. It is explanatory drawing explaining the structure of a cartridge and a prize moving apparatus. It is explanatory drawing explaining operation | movement of the stepping motor, drive pulley, and prize holder in a prize moving device. It is a perspective view (figure seen from the front and upper left) of a prize carry-out device. It is a perspective view (figure seen from the front and lower left) of a prize carry-out device. It is a schematic side view of the prize carry-out device, and is an explanatory view showing a state in which the shutter is arranged at the prize payout outlet closing position and the pusher is arranged at the first pusher position. It is a schematic side view of a prize carry-out device, and is an explanatory view showing a state where a shutter is arranged at a prize payout opening position and a pusher is arranged at a second pusher position. It is a schematic side view of a prize carry-out device, and is an explanatory view showing a state in which a shutter is arranged at a prize payout opening position and a pusher is arranged at a third pusher position. It is the top view which showed the standby part raising / lowering body, the shutter, the raising / lowering body movement amount detector, and the raising / lowering body position detector. It is explanatory drawing explaining the structure of a standby part raising / lowering body, a shutter, and a cam mechanism. It is the top view which showed the pusher and the rectilinear cam. It is a side view of a pusher and a rectilinear cam. It is a perspective view (figure seen from back and upper right) explaining the structure of a locking mechanism. It is explanatory drawing explaining the state in which the locking mechanism is a locked state. It is explanatory drawing explaining the state in which the lock mechanism is a lock release state. It is a perspective view of a raising / lowering body movement amount detector and a raising / lowering body position detector. It is explanatory drawing explaining the state of a raising / lowering body movement amount detector and a raising / lowering body position detector when the standby part raising / lowering body is arrange | positioned in the raising / lowering body initial position. It is explanatory drawing explaining the state of a raising / lowering body movement amount detector and a raising / lowering body position detector when a waiting | standby part raising / lowering body raises from the raising / lowering body initial position. It is explanatory drawing explaining the state of a raising / lowering body movement amount detector and a raising / lowering body position detector when the standby part raising / lowering body is arrange | positioned in the raising / lowering body raising position. It is a perspective view explaining the structure of a pusher position detection mechanism. It is a block diagram of the control system in a prize dispenser. It is explanatory drawing which shows the state which accommodated the m prize in the prize standby part. It is explanatory drawing explaining the state which the rectilinear cam contact | abutted to the cam contact member in the middle of pushing out m prizes from the prize standby part. It is explanatory drawing explaining the state by which the cam contact member was lifted by the rectilinear cam, and the shutter was arrange | positioned in the prize payout opening position. It is explanatory drawing explaining the structure of the pusher position detection mechanism concerning another embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

K prize P _P1 first pusher position (engagement position)
P _P2 second pusher position (disengagement position, pusher standby position)
P _P3 3rd pusher position (premium push-out position)
P _SC prize payout opening closing position P _SO prize payout opening open position P _TL lift initial position P _TH lift raised position 1 prize dispensing machine 2 payout machine body 10 prize payout opening 20 payout unit 21 unit main body 25 prize moving device 26 premium Unloading device 27 Unit control unit 31 Premium storage unit 32 Premium standby unit 37 Premium pass port 51 Premium holder 52 Stepping motor 101 Standby unit lifting / lowering unit 102 Shutter 105 Pushing mechanism 106 Cam mechanism 108 Lock mechanism 151 Pusher 181 Linear cam 181a Inclined edge 181b High edge portion 191 Shutter side engaging portion 192 Pusher side engaging portion 201 Lifting body movement amount detector 202 Lifting body position detector 212 Light blocking member 215 First light emitting portion 216 First light receiving portion 221 First Light blocking unit 222 First light passing unit 25 0 Pusher position detection mechanism

Claims (3)

A prize dispenser that dispenses prizes,
A prize waiting section for waiting for prizes to be paid out to the outside;
A prize payout exit for paying out prizes from the front of the prize waiting section; and
A shutter that opens and closes the prize payout exit;
A pusher that pushes the prize in the prize waiting section to the prize payout exit,
A shutter side engaging portion that is movable relative to the dispenser body integrally with the shutter, and a pusher side engaging portion that is movable relative to the dispenser body integrally with the pusher,
The shutter side engaging portion and the pusher side engaging portion can be engaged with each other in a state where the prize payout outlet is closed by the shutter,
The pusher is configured to engage the shutter-side engagement portion and the pusher-side engagement portion with each other, move forward from the engagement position, and move the shutter-side engagement portion to the shutter-side engagement portion. A prize dispenser characterized in that it moves to an engagement release position where the engagement of the pusher side engagement portion can be released. A prize passage for raising a prize from below the prize waiting section to the prize waiting section;
A standby part lifting body pushed up by a prize moved to the prize waiting part through the prize passing port;
2. The prize dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the shutter and the shutter-side engaging portion are attached so as to be moved up and down integrally with the standby portion lifting body. . 3. The pusher position detecting mechanism according to claim 1, further comprising: a pusher position detection mechanism configured to detect whether the pusher is present at the engagement position and whether the pusher is present at the engagement release position. Free gift dispenser.

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