JP2009095664A - Game device and current collector - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To reduce abrasion of collector pins and a feeder plate for feeding power to a running body, to reduce a work load for inspection of abrasion state of the collector pins, to reduce frequency of exchanges of the collector pins etc. or to prevent generation of deficiency caused by abrasion of the feeder plate. <P>SOLUTION: The game device 1 includes: a running face 7s; a feeder plate 6 facing the running face 7s; and a running body 40 running on the running face 7s and carrying a collector device 60 to receive power from the feeder plate 6 by making collector pins 61 to abut thereon. A conductive rotary body 64 is rotatably retained on the front end of the collector pins 61 and the collector pins 61 are made to abut on the collector plate 6 by the rotary body 64. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a game apparatus in which one or a plurality of traveling bodies travel on a predetermined traveling surface and a current collector mounted on the traveling body, and in particular, a power feeding plate in which one or a plurality of traveling bodies face the traveling surface. The present invention relates to a game device including a current collector that receives power from a power source and a current collector.

  Patent Document 1 discloses a game apparatus including an upper traveling surface on which a plurality of model bodies are arranged and a lower traveling surface on which the plurality of traveling bodies travel. In this game apparatus, since the traveling body traveling on the lower traveling surface is configured to pull and travel the model body on the upper traveling surface using magnetic force or the like, in a predetermined track provided on the upper traveling surface, It is possible to run each model body while freely changing the running course to some extent, with the model body competing and densely aiming for an advantageous course inside where the mileage is the shortest, with higher power, Alternatively, it is possible to run the model body with higher reality.

  By the way, in the above game device, a power supply plate connected to a power source is laid on the ceiling surface of the lower traveling surface (the lower surface of the upper traveling surface), and each traveling body receives a plurality of urging forces from a urging means such as a spring. A power collecting device having a current collecting pin, and each traveling body is configured to receive a supply of electric power necessary for traveling or the like by bringing the front end (upper end) of the current collecting pin into contact with a power supply plate. It has become.

  Also, in order to prevent wear of the power supply plate due to friction and the generation of dust due to this when the traveling body travels with the current collection pin abutting against the power supply plate, the front end of the current collection pin is attached with a radius to prevent friction. Reduction is being achieved.

  However, as the traveling body travels, the front end of the current collecting pin is eventually scraped and the radius is lost. When R is lost, the friction with the power supply plate increases, and the wear rate at the front ends of the power supply plate and the current collecting pins increases rapidly.

  For this reason, the power feeding plate is worn out and power cannot be supplied to the traveling body at that position, or the shavings of the power feeding plate accumulate on the lower traveling surface, which hinders traveling and position detection of the traveling body, or The current collecting pin becomes shorter, the contact force to the power supply plate becomes weaker, the power reception from the power supply plate becomes unstable, etc., and in some cases, the traveling body can be run at the planned speed. Inconveniences such as the inability to perform or the running body to stop while the game is in progress occur.

  In order to prevent the above problems, maintenance personnel such as employees at game stores where game machines are installed check the wear state of the current collecting pins every day, and when it is determined that the wear has progressed to some extent, a new current collector is obtained. It is necessary to order a pin or current collector and replace it.

  However, it is difficult to properly determine the wear state of the current collecting pin by visual inspection, and depending on the game device, a large number of traveling bodies such as 5 to 10 may be used. For this check, a considerable work load is imposed.

In addition, if the replacement time of the current collector pin is delayed because the wear state could not be judged properly, in some cases, the power supply plate would be damaged and a large repair such as replacement of the power supply plate would be necessary. Or, a problem such as a stop of the traveling body occurs, and the game apparatus cannot be operated for a period until the parts are replaced.
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-216355

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described circumstances, and achieves one or more of the following objects.

  That is, an object of the present invention is to provide a game device and a current collector that can reduce the wear of the front end of the current collecting pin or the power feeding plate when the traveling body travels by bringing the current collecting pin into contact with the power feeding plate. It is to provide.

  Another object of the present invention is to provide a game device and a current collector capable of reducing the necessity of inspecting the worn state of the current collecting pins or reducing the frequency of replacement of the current collecting pins or current collecting devices. To provide an apparatus.

  Still another object of the present invention is to provide a game device and a current collector that can reduce the frequency of occurrence of problems such as poor power feeding to the current collector due to wear of the power feeding plate and stoppage of the traveling body. There is to do.

The present invention solves the above problems,
Running surface,
A power feeding plate facing the running surface;
A traveling device that travels on the traveling surface, the game device comprising: a traveling body equipped with a current collector that receives power from the power supply plate by bringing a current collecting pin into contact with the power supply plate;
The current collecting pin holds a conductive rotating body rotatably at a front end thereof, and abuts against the power feeding plate by the rotating body (Claim 1), or
A current collector that is mounted on a traveling body that travels on a traveling surface and receives power from the power feeding plate by bringing a current collecting pin into contact with a power feeding plate facing the traveling surface,
The current collecting pin is a current collecting device (Claim 5) characterized in that a conductive rotating body is rotatably held at a front end thereof and is brought into contact with the power supply plate by the rotating body.

  In the present invention, since the current collecting pin is configured to contact the power supply plate by a rotatable rotating body, the position on the rotating body that is subject to wear changes due to contact with the power supply plate as the rotating body rotates. It will follow. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the progress of the wear of the current collecting pins as compared with the conventional power feeding device using the power feeding pins in which the same part at the front end is always subjected to wear.

  Alternatively, in the present invention, if the conductive ball that contacts the power supply plate rotates when the traveling body travels, the frictional force between the power supply plate and the current collecting pin is reduced. Therefore, by reducing the frictional force between the power supply plate and the current collecting pin, it is possible to suppress the progress of wear of the current collecting pin and / or the power supply plate.

  The rotating body of the present invention needs to have a certain level of conductivity in order to receive power from the power supply plate, and has mechanical strength that can withstand loads or impacts when contacting the power supply plate. is necessary. Examples of the material preferably used for the rotating body of the present invention include tungsten and phosphor bronze which are excellent in conductivity and mechanical strength. When the size of the rotating body is small, the importance of conductivity is reduced. Therefore, it is also possible to use a steel material such as SUS with emphasis only on the mechanical strength.

  The shape of the rotating body of the present invention can be any shape that can be rotated while being in contact with the power supply plate. However, the rotating body is a sphere or a point that can be rotated in all directions with a simple configuration. A shape close to a sphere (such as an oblong sphere) is preferable. In addition, for example, when the traveling direction of the traveling body is constant, a spherical rotating body is used even if a cylindrical body that is rotatable around the central axis is used as the rotating body of the present invention. The same effect as the case can be achieved. Alternatively, if the central axis of the cylindrical body as described above is pivotally supported around an axis perpendicular to the power supply plate, even when the traveling direction of the traveling body is not constant, a spherical rotating body is used. Similar effects can be achieved.

  In the present invention, the current collecting pin has a holding chamber for holding the rotating body so as to be movable in the front-rear direction, and a shape and a size for partially protruding the rotating body formed at the front end of the holding chamber. It is preferable to include an opening and urging means for urging the rotating body forward.

  In such an invention, it is possible to mitigate the impact when the rotating body comes into contact with the power supply plate by the urging means, and further reduce the progress speed of wear of the power supply plate and the rotating body, or It becomes possible to reduce the possibility that the rotating body is damaged.

  In the present invention, the current collecting pin urges the piston member forward, a piston member holding the rotating body rotatably, a holding member holding the piston member movable in the front-rear direction. It is preferable to further include a second urging member.

  In this invention, the vibration of the traveling body due to the step of the traveling surface can be suppressed in addition to being able to suppress wear and damage of the power feeding plate and the rotating body by reducing the impact when the rotating body comes into contact with the power feeding plate. Even if the height position of the current collecting pin greatly fluctuates due to inclination or inclination, the fluctuation can be absorbed by the movement of the piston member in the front-rear direction, and the stability of the contact between the current collecting pin and the power supply plate can be improved. .

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

  The present invention is applied to an arbitrary game device in which one or a plurality of traveling bodies that receive power supply from a power supply plate facing the traveling surface via a current collecting pin travel on the traveling surface. In this embodiment, the present invention is applied to a game apparatus in which a race (horse racing game) is developed by a plurality of model bodies traveling on the first traveling surface by traction drive by a plurality of traveling bodies traveling on the second traveling surface. The case where it is applied will be described.

  FIG. 1A is an explanatory perspective view showing an external configuration of a horse racing game apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  As shown in the figure, the horse racing game apparatus 1 includes a substantially cylindrical device main body 2 at the center of a housing in which a main control board 21 (see FIG. 9) described later is accommodated, and the periphery of the device main body 2. A plurality of satellites (game terminals) 80 that are arranged and electrically connected to the main control board 21 via a communication cable or the like are mainly configured.

  In FIG. 1A, only the three satellites 80 in the foreground are shown for the sake of brevity. However, in the horse racing game apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, twelve satellites 80 are included in the apparatus main body 2. It shall be arranged around.

  FIG. 1B is a perspective explanatory view showing the configuration of the apparatus main body 2.

  As shown in the figure, the apparatus main body 2 includes a cylindrical outer casing 3, and an upper surface plate 4 and a lower surface plate 7 that are accommodated inside the outer casing 3 and are spaced apart in the vertical direction and arranged substantially in parallel. And a two-story structure.

  The upper surface plate 4 is a plate-like member having a substantially circular shape, and the first running surface 4 s that is the upper surface of the upper surface plate 4 can be viewed by a player or the like located in the satellite 80. On the first running surface 4s, a track 5 is formed, which is a track on which a plurality of model bodies 30 run in the race in order of arrival, and a plurality of field cameras that photograph the model body 30 on the track 5. A monitor device 23 for displaying information such as images taken by the cameras 22a and the goal camera 22b, the cameras 22a and 22b, race guidance, and the like are arranged. Further, in the present embodiment, in order to realistically reproduce the appearance of the racetrack, the artificial turf material processed with green powder, fibers, or the like is laid around the track 5 and its periphery.

  Although not shown in the drawing, in the present embodiment, in order to enable the change in the number of model bodies 30 that run on the track 5 in each race, the apparatus main body 2 is provided with an outer peripheral portion of the top plate 4. It is possible to provide an accommodating portion for accommodating the model body 30 at an appropriate location such as.

  Further, the apparatus main body 2 is arranged at the start point at the start of each race in order to reproduce a start scene similar to that of an actual horse race, and retreats to an appropriate place such as the outer peripheral portion of the top plate 4 during the race. It is possible to further include a start gate to be accommodated. The starting gate in this case can have the same configuration as the starting gate disclosed in Patent Document 1.

  2A is an explanatory view showing the lower surface plate 7 disposed at a position spaced apart from the upper surface plate 4 by a predetermined distance in plan view, and FIG. 2B is a two-dimensional view of the surface of the lower surface plate 7. It is explanatory drawing which shows the mode of the arrangement | sequence of the code | cord | chord C. FIG.

  As shown in the drawing, the lower surface plate 7 is a plate-like member having a circular shape like the upper surface plate 4, and the region corresponding to the track 5 of the second running surface 7 s that is the upper surface is a plurality of regions in the race. It is the runway 8 on which the traveling body 40 travels.

  The entire second traveling surface 7s or at least the surface of the traveling path 8 is an information arrangement surface on which a large number of two-dimensional codes C in which position coordinates on the global coordinates that are orthogonal coordinates fixed to the second traveling surface 7s are recorded are arranged. It is said that. In the present embodiment, a QR code (JIS-X-0510) is used as the two-dimensional code C.

  Here, as shown in FIG. 2 (b), the QR code C is arranged in a matrix with a certain interval in the Xg axis direction and the Yg axis direction of the global coordinates, and each QR code C is on the QR code C. The Xqr axis and Yqr axis directions on the QR coordinates, which are orthogonal coordinates, are arranged at an angle that matches the Xg axis and Yg axis directions on the global coordinates.

  The QR code C is determined when the traveling body 40 is located on the traveling road 8 in consideration of the shooting angle of the camera device 46 mounted on the traveling body 40 and the distance from the camera device 46 to the second traveling surface 7s. However, the traveling body control board 71 (described later) is photographed by the camera device 46 because the field of view (imaging field of view) V of the camera device 46 is always arranged at a size and interval that includes one or more QR codes C as a whole. The position information recorded in the QR code C in the image and the position and angle of the QR code C on the camera coordinates (Xc, Yc), which is a coordinate system fixed to the image taken by the camera device 46 Based on the global coordinates, the position coordinates and angle (traveling direction) F of the reference point (for example, the center position of the axles of the center wheels 44a and 44b) R of the traveling body 40 are derived. In addition, in order to enable acquisition of position information from another QR code C when acquisition of position information from one QR code C in a photographed image fails, the QR code C is used as an angle of view of the camera device 46. It is preferable that V be arranged in a size and an interval that always include the entirety of two or more QR codes C.

  The QR code C is arranged by printing the QR code C on one surface of a transparent thin plate 9 (see FIG. 3) such as polycarbonate, and laying the transparent thin plate 9 on the lower surface plate 7 with the printed surface down. It is preferable that the QR code C can be prevented from being damaged by the traveling body 40 traveling.

  In the present embodiment, the information arrangement surface on which the QR code C is arranged is covered with the outer casing 3 and the upper surface plate 4 and has a structure that cannot be seen by a player seated on the satellite 80. Even if it is formed using visible ink, it does not affect the design and appearance of the device. Accordingly, by forming the visible QR code C with visible ink or the like, the cost for printing or the like is reduced, maintenance such as inspection or repair of the QR code C is facilitated, and / or an infrared camera device. It is possible to use a camera device 46 that is less expensive than the case of using.

  Furthermore, the outer casing 3 and the upper surface plate 4 are made of a light-shielding member so that lighting in a playground where the horse racing game apparatus 1 is installed does not affect the shooting by the camera apparatus 46. Therefore, it is possible to improve the reading stability of the position information recorded in the QR code C.

  FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing the model body 30 and the traveling body 40 arranged on the first traveling surface 4s and the second traveling surface 7s in a side view.

  As shown in the figure, the model body 30 includes a carriage 31 and a model portion 37 attached on the carriage 31 via a support column 36.

  The carriage 31 can travel on the first traveling surface 4 s by front and rear wheels 32, 33 and central wheels 34 a, 34 b that are pivotally supported on both sides of the carriage 31. Two rotating magnets 35a and 35b are attached with a slight gap from one traveling surface 4s.

  The rotating magnets 35a and 35b are magnetically coupled to rotating magnets 55a and 55b of the traveling body 40 described later, and follow the traveling body 40 traveling on the second traveling surface 7s (a predetermined positional relationship with the traveling body 40). The model body 30 is allowed to travel on the first traveling surface 4s.

  The rotating magnets 35a and 35b are rotatable about a vertical axis, and the rotating magnets 55a and 55b are rotated by model control motors 56a and 56b installed on a support base 50 of the traveling body 40 described later. Rotate synchronously. The rotation of the rotating magnets 35a and 35b is transmitted to the model portion 37 via the support column 36 and a gear mechanism (not shown).

  The model portion 37 is a model imitating a horse (racing horse) and a jockey. The legs of the horse and the limbs of the jockey are swingable around their joint axes, and the rotation of the rotating magnet 35a is supported by the support column 36. When the rotation is transmitted via the support pole 36, the jockey's limbs swing, and when the rotation of the rotating magnet 35b is transmitted via the support column 36, the front and rear legs of the horse swing.

  The traveling body 40 includes a carriage 41 and a support base 50.

  The carriage 41 is equipped with front and rear wheels 42 and 43, left and right central wheels 44a and 44b, and travel motors 45a and 45b that drive the central wheels 44a and 44b, respectively, and are controlled by a drive control board 76. The traveling motors 45a and 45b independently drive the left and right central wheels, respectively, so that the traveling body 40 travels on the second traveling surface 7s by itself (self-propelled) so that the traveling direction can be changed.

  The carriage 41 is further attached to a camera device 46 such as a CCD camera attached in such a manner that the second traveling surface 7 s is photographed vertically at the upper part of the cavity S having the lower surface opening O, and attached to both sides of the camera device 46. In addition, a white LED 47 that illuminates the angle of view V of the camera device 46 and a mechanical component such as an antenna 48 for performing communication with the device main body 2 by wireless LAN are provided.

  The support base 50 is attached to the upper side of the carriage 41 in a state where the upward biasing force by the spring 51 is received.

  Front and rear wheels 52 and 53 and left and right central wheels 54 a and 54 b are attached to the upper surface of the support base 50, and these wheels 52 to 54 abut against the lower surface of the upper surface plate 4 by the biasing force of the spring 51. Accordingly, the traveling body 40 is sandwiched between the lower wheels 42 to 44 and the upper wheels 52 to 54 and travels stably in the traveling space between the upper surface plate 4 and the lower surface plate 7 while maintaining an upright posture. Can do.

  Rotating magnets 55a and 55b and model control motors 56a and 56b are further attached to the upper portion of the support base 50.

  The rotating magnets 55a and 55b are respectively arranged at a slight distance from the upper surface plate 4 with an arrangement corresponding to the rotating magnets 35a and 35b of the model body 30, and driven by the model control motors 56a and 56b with the vertical axis as the center. It is designed to rotate. The rotating magnets 55a and 55b are magnetically coupled to the rotating magnets 35a and 35b, pull the model body 30 on the upper surface plate 4 by the traveling of the traveling body 40, and rotate the rotating magnets 35a and 35b to rotate the model body. The horse's legs and jockey's limbs in the 30 model parts 37 are rocked.

  The support 50 further includes the above-described travel motors 45a and 45b and model control motors 56a and 56b, or a travel body control board 71, an imaging control board 72, an LED control board 73, an image processing board 74, and an image memory, which will be described later. 75, a drive control board 76, a model control board 77, a power supply board 79 for supplying power to the wireless LAN device 78, and the like are attached to the power supply board 79. A current collector 60 for supplying power to the substrate 79 is connected.

  4A and 4B are explanatory views showing the current collector 60 of the present embodiment in perspective and side views, respectively.

  As illustrated, the current collector 60 includes a support S fixed to the support base 50 by an appropriate method such as screwing into the screw holes Sa, and eight current collectors inserted and fixed to the support S. The pin 61 is configured.

  Here, each of the current collecting pins 61 is attached to the apex position of the regular octahedron, and two or more current collecting pins 61 are always brought into contact with both positive and negative electrodes PD and ND described later on the lower surface of the power feeding plate 6. Is possible.

  FIG. 5A is an explanatory view showing a part of the configuration of the current collecting pin 61 preferably used in the current collecting device 60, and FIG. 5B is an upper end (front end) of the current collecting pin 61. It is explanatory drawing which expands and shows a part.

  As shown in FIG. 5A, each current collecting pin 61 is fixed in the cylindrical body 62 having an internal space with a predetermined inner diameter r1, and a spherical recess is formed on the front end side. The pedestal 63, the conductive ball 64 having a spherical shape that is rotatably accommodated at the front end of the cylindrical body 62, the cylindrical body 62 is fitted and held at the front end, and the power supply board 79 is provided at the lower end (rear end). The holding member 69 has a function as a plug-side terminal that is fitted and connected to the socket-type terminal.

  As shown in FIG. 5B, a protruding portion 62a curved inward by caulking or the like is formed at the front end of the cylindrical body 62, and the opening diameter r2 at the front end of the cylindrical body 62 has a cylindrical body. The dimension is smaller than the inner diameter r1 of 62.

  A conductive material is used for the cylindrical body 62, the conductive ball 64, and the holding member 69. Preferably, a conductive material is also used for the pedestal 63. More specifically, the conductive ball 64 is made of a material such as tungsten or phosphor bronze having excellent mechanical strength and high conductivity, and the pedestal 63 is made of a material such as carbon having high conductivity and hardness. It can be preferably used.

  Here, the diameter R of the conductive ball 64 has a relationship of r2 <R <r1 with respect to the inner diameter r1 and the opening diameter r2 of the cylindrical body 62, and when the conductive ball 64 is inscribed in the projecting portion 62a. If the pedestal 63 is fixed at a position where a slight clearance can be provided between the conductive ball 64 and the pedestal 63, the conductive ball 64 is partially protruded from the protruding portion 62a, and the protruding portion 62a and the cylindrical body are formed. It is rotatably held in the holding chamber surrounded by the inner peripheral surface 62 and the pedestal 63.

  Therefore, in the current collector 60, when the traveling body 40 is disposed on the second traveling surface 7s, the conductive ball 64 at the tip of the cylindrical body 62 protrudes from the projecting portion 62a due to the biasing force of the spring 51. In contact with the power supply plate 6 at the site, power from the power supply plate 6 is guided to the power supply substrate 79 through the conductive balls 64, the cylindrical body 62, and the holding member 69.

  FIG. 6A is an explanatory diagram showing the entire power feeding plate 6 laid so as to be substantially parallel to the traveling surface 7s or facing the traveling surface 7s in a plan view, and FIG. (C) is a perspective explanatory view showing the power supply plate panel 6a constituting the power supply plate 6 from above and below, and FIG. 6 (d) is an explanatory view showing a mode of connection between adjacent power supply plate panels 6a. It is.

  As shown in FIG. 6A, the power supply plate 6 of the present embodiment is composed of 6 blocks A to F formed in accordance with the shape of the track 5, and each block A to F includes 6 blocks. About 10 power supply panel 6a (A1-A8 ... F1-F6) are laid.

  As shown in FIGS. 6B and 6C, each power supply panel 6a is a plate-like member made of glass epoxy having a plate thickness of 1.6 mm, for example.

  Striped positive electrode patterns PU and negative electrode patterns NU extending from the left side to the right side of the power supply panel 6a are spaced apart from each other on the upper surface of each power supply panel 6a (FIG. 6B). A plurality of electrodes are arranged in parallel, and electrode patterns are provided on the left and right end faces of the power supply panel 6a so as to extend from the electrode patterns PU and NU on the upper surface.

  A convex portion X is formed on the right side of the power supply panel 6a so as to align with each of the electrode patterns PU and NU, and one of the electrode patterns PU and NU is provided on the left side of the power supply panel 6a. A recess Y is formed so as to be aligned with each other.

  Conductive patterns extending from the electrode patterns PU and NU are provided on the upper surfaces and end surfaces of the convex portions X and concave portions Y formed on the left and right sides of the power supply panel 6a.

  On the lower surface (FIG. 6C) of each power supply panel 6a, a stripe-shaped positive electrode extending from the front side of the power supply panel 6a to the rear side (in a direction perpendicular to the electrode patterns PU and NU on the upper surface). A plurality of electrode patterns PD and negative electrode patterns ND are arranged in parallel at predetermined intervals, and conductive patterns are provided on the front and rear end faces of the power supply panel 6a so as to extend from the lower electrode patterns PD and ND. It has been.

  A convex portion X is formed on the front side of the power supply panel 6a so as to be aligned with one of the electrode patterns PD and ND, and one of the electrode patterns PD and ND is provided on the rear side of the power supply panel 6a. A concave portion Y is formed at the same position.

  Conductive patterns extending from the electrode patterns PD and ND are provided on the lower surfaces and the end surfaces of the convex portions X and the concave portions Y formed on the front and rear sides of the power supply panel 6a.

  Each said convex part X and each recessed part Y have the position, size, and shape which fit with the recessed part Y and the convex part X which were provided in the electric power feeding board panel 6a arrange | positioned adjacently.

  Furthermore, through holes H are provided in all or part of the positions where the positive electrode patterns PU, PD on the upper and lower surfaces intersect, and all or part of the positions where the negative electrode patterns NU, ND on the upper and lower surfaces intersect, Conduction is established between the upper and lower positive electrode patterns PU and PD and between the negative electrode patterns NU and ND.

  Therefore, all the positive electrode patterns PU and PD on the upper and lower surfaces of the power supply panel 6a are electrically connected to each other through the through holes H. Similarly, all the negative electrode patterns NU and ND on the upper and lower surfaces are through holes. They are electrically connected to each other through H.

  6B and 6C show the power supply plate panel 6a in which the convex portions X or the concave portions Y are formed on both the left and right sides and the front and rear sides, the power supply plate 6 is configured. It is not necessary for all the power supply panel 6a to have the configuration shown in FIGS. 6B and 6C. Depending on the portion on the power supply plate 6, for example, the convex portions X and It is also possible to use the power supply panel 6a that has the concave portion Y and does not have the convex portion X and the concave portion Y on the front and rear sides.

  6 (b) and 6 (c) show the case where the convex portion X and the concave portion Y are provided in one of the upper and lower electrode patterns PU, NU, PD, and ND, respectively. It is also possible to provide the convex part X and / or the concave part Y in many electrode patterns PU, NU, PD, ND.

  As shown in FIG. 6D, adjacent power supply plate panels 6 a are mechanically connected to each other by fitting one convex portion X into the other concave portion Y. Further, at this time, the positions of the positive electrode patterns PU on the upper surface or the lower surface of the adjacent power supply panel 6a and the positions of the negative electrode patterns NU coincide with each other, and the conductive patterns extended to the respective end surfaces, and Alternatively, the conductive patterns on the end surface of the convex portion X and the end surface of the concave portion Y come into contact with each other, and the two power supply plate panels 6a are electrically connected.

  Therefore, by connecting positive and negative power sources to the positive and negative electrode patterns in at least one power supply plate panel 6a of the power supply plate 6, the positive and negative electrode patterns PD and ND on the lower surfaces of all the power supply plate panels 6a constituting the power supply plate 6 are used. The positive and negative power supply voltages can be supplied.

  Thus, since the power supply plate 6 of this embodiment can be divided into small-size power supply plate panels 6a, it is convenient for transportation when the game apparatus 1 is installed. By simply fitting the convex portion X and the concave portion Y, it is possible to perform mechanical assembly and electrical connection.

  Further, in the conventional power feeding plate, as shown in FIG. 6 (e), since the power feeding plate panel 6b is electrically connected using the jumper wire J, the front and rear wheels 52, 53 and the central wheel 54a of the traveling body 40 are used. , 54b, or the current collecting pin 61 may be caught by the jumper wire J, and the jumper wire J may obstruct the traveling of the traveling body 40. Since it is possible to establish conduction between the power supply panel 6a without providing protrusions, it is possible to make the traveling body 40 travel more smoothly.

  FIG. 7 is an explanatory view showing a power supply panel 6a ′ according to a modification of the present invention that can be provided in the power supply plate 6. FIG.

  In the power supply panel 6a ', a step D1 having a complementary shape is formed on opposite sides of the power supply panel 6a' adjacent in the left-right direction, and the power supply panel 6a 'adjacent in the front-rear direction. The power supply panel 6a has the same configuration as that of the power supply plate panel 6a except that a step D2 having a complementary shape is formed on opposite sides.

  The power feeding panel 6a 'is configured such that the power feeding panel 6a' adjacent in the left-right direction is aligned and brought into contact with the step D1, so that the positions of the positive electrode patterns PU on the upper surface of both power feeding panels 6a 'and the negative electrode The positions of the patterns NU coincide with each other, and the power feeding panel 6a 'adjacent in the front-rear direction is aligned and brought into contact with the step D2, thereby bringing the positive electrode pattern PD (see FIG. 7 on the lower surface of both power feeding panels 6a'). (Not shown) and the positions of the negative electrode patterns ND (not shown in FIG. 7) coincide with each other, and the conductive patterns extended to the respective end faces and / or the end face of the convex portion X And the conductive patterns on the end faces of the recess Y come into contact with each other so that the respective power supply panel 6a 'are electrically connected.

  In the power supply plate 6 using this power supply plate panel 6a ', the electrode patterns on the adjacent power supply plate panel 6a' can be aligned by the steps D1 and D2, as described above. Laying work is facilitated. 7 is a case where a force in the direction of arrow A1 is applied to the power supply plate panel 6a ′ (2) in FIG. However, since the adjacent power supply panel 6a 'are engaged with each other by the steps D1 and D2, it is possible to prevent the power supply panel 6a' from being displaced.

  FIG. 7 shows the case where one step D1 or D2 is formed on all the sides of each power supply panel 6a ′. For example, only the left and right sides of the power supply panel 6a ′ are shown. For all or part of the power supply panel 6a ′, such as providing the step D1, it is possible to form a step only on a part of the side, and all or part of the power supply panel 6a ′. By forming two or more steps on the side, it is also possible to make the positional deviation between the power supply panel 6a 'less likely to occur.

  FIGS. 8A and 8B are explanatory views showing particularly preferable shapes of the convex portion X and the concave portion Y in the power supply panel 6a or 6a ′.

  As shown in FIG. 8 (a), the convex portion X has a wide portion Xa having a predetermined width dimension W1 on its distal end side, and a substantially semicircular notch is formed on its proximal end side. A narrow portion Xb having a width W2 smaller than the portion Xa is formed.

  As shown in FIG. 8B, the concave portion Y has a wide opening Ya having a width dimension W3 in which the wide portion Xa can be fitted and accommodated on the distal end side thereof, and an overhang on the proximal end side. And a narrow opening Yb having a width dimension W4 smaller than that of the wide portion Xa is formed.

  FIG. 8C is an explanatory diagram showing a state of connection of the convex portion X and the concave portion Y when the two power supply plate panels 6a (6a ′) are connected.

  As shown in the drawing, in the power supply panel 6a, 6a ′ having the convex part X and the concave part Y, the convex part X and the concave part Y are fitted in such a manner that the projection of the narrow opening Yb enters the notch of the narrow part Xb. . And since the width dimension W1 of the wide part Xa in the convex part X is larger than the width dimension W4 of the narrow opening Yb in the recessed part Y, even if the force of the arrow A3 direction acts, the electric power feeding panel 6a ( It is possible to prevent inconveniences such as 6a ′) being separated from each other and the conduction state being deteriorated.

  The outer diameter shape including the convex portion X and the concave portion Y of the power feeding panel 6a, 6a ′ can be obtained by router processing or the like, and a resist agent is used for the electrode pattern of the power feeding panel 6a, 6a ′. It can be formed by a method such as pattern plating.

  Returning to FIG. 1 (a), each satellite 80 has the same configuration, and is installed on the floor of an amusement center such as an amusement center as shown in the figure, and is seated on a chair (not shown). The leg portion 82 is erected upward from the base member on which the player's legs and luggage are placed, and the table portion 84 is supported on the upper end side of the leg portion.

  The leg portion 82 is provided with a medal payout opening 83. The table portion 84 displays various information on the progress of the race and the like, and a touch panel monitor 85 for detecting a touch operation by the player, a live broadcast A speaker 86 that outputs sound for various effects such as fanfare and BGM, a medal slot 87 for inserting medals, and a payout button 88 for paying out acquired medals are provided. Further, inside each satellite 80, a medal payout device 83a for paying out medals to the medal payout opening 83, a medal sensor 87a for detecting medals inserted from the medal insertion slot 87 and counting the number of medals. The mechanical parts are housed.

  In each satellite 80, a vote on the order of arrival of the model body 30 traveling on the track 5 in a race is accepted by an operation on the touch panel monitor 85, and the vote is won and the right to receive a dividend is generated. Is stored and managed as the credit medal number value, and it is possible to bet using the credit medal. In addition, when it is desired to receive medals, the number of medals corresponding to the number of credit medals can be paid out from the medal payout outlet 83 by pressing the payout button 88.

  As shown in FIG. 1A, four column members 10 are erected on the side of the apparatus main body 2 and a ring-shaped ceiling member 11 is attached to the upper end thereof. The column member 10 and the ceiling member 11 are provided with a ceiling camera 24 that captures a bird's-eye view of the track 5 from above, a speaker 25 that outputs sound for various effects such as live broadcasting, fanfare, and BGM, and light emission for various effects. An illumination device 26 and the like are provided.

  In the present embodiment, the track 5 formed on the upper surface plate 4 is disposed below the table portion 84 so that it can be looked down from the player seated on the satellite 80, and is attached to each satellite 80. The seated player can watch the race with the same feeling as looking down on the track from the gondola seat of an actual racetrack.

  FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing a schematic configuration of hardware of the horse racing game apparatus 1.

  As shown in the figure, in the horse racing game apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, the apparatus main body 2 includes the main control board 21, each traveling body 40 includes the traveling body control board 71, and each satellite 80 includes the satellite control board 81. It is possible to transmit and receive data among the main control board 21, each traveling body control board 71, and each satellite control board 81 through a wiring cable, a wireless LAN line, or the like. The main control board 21, the traveling body control board 71, and the satellite control board 81 are information processing apparatuses each including a recording device such as a CPU, ROM, RAM, and hard disk.

  The main control board 21 is connected to a field camera 22a, a goal camera 22b, a monitor device 23, a ceiling camera 24, a speaker 25, a lighting device 26, a communication device 27, a wireless LAN device 28, and the like. In addition to controlling the driving of these devices in accordance with the progress of the race, the driving data is generated and the odds are determined for each traveling body 40 based on the horse data recorded in the recording device. The progress of the horse racing game is controlled by performing processing such as determining the arrival order based on the position data of the traveling body 40 transmitted from the board 71.

  Here, the horse data is composed of data such as names of a plurality of racehorses (horse names) and running ability values that are parameters relating to the strength of the race. The horse name may be the same as the actual racehorse, but in this embodiment, each racehorse is original so that it can be enjoyed even by players who are not familiar with real racehorses. The (fictional) horse name is used. The running ability value may be a fixed value for each racehorse regardless of the race, or the running ability value may be determined according to the length of the running course, the weather set for each race, the suitability for the race conditions, etc. By increasing or decreasing, it is possible to increase the diversity of race development for each race. In addition, in order to enable a player who frequently plays with the horse racing game apparatus 1 to make a more appropriate prediction, the running ability value can be increased or decreased according to the past battle record.

  In the horse data, data on the same number of racehorses as the number of model bodies 30 (for example, 6 to 10) arranged on the track 5 may be recorded, but a larger number (for example, 100 heads) than that. If data about racehorses is recorded, race diversity can be increased by running different racehorses for each race (assigned to the model body 30).

  In addition, the main control board 21 assigns any racehorse recorded as horse data to each model body 30 arranged on the track 5, and diversifies the running ability value and race development for the assigned racehorse. Traveling data is generated according to an appropriate algorithm using a random number or the like. This running data can specify the position coordinates of each running body 40 on the running path 8 with respect to the elapsed time from the start of the race to the goal.

  The arrival order of the model bodies 30 specifies the front and back of the time when each model body 30 has reached the goal, based on the position coordinates of each traveling body 40 transmitted from each traveling body 40 on the second traveling surface 7s every moment. Is determined by Here, the order of arrival is not determined based on the travel data, but is determined based on the travel position data of the actual traveling body 40. The order of arrival is different from the travel data for some reason. This is for avoiding troubles and the like when each model body 30 finishes.

  The satellite control board 81 is connected with a medal payout device 83a, a touch panel monitor 85, a speaker 86, a medal sensor 87a, a payout button 88, a communication device 89, and the like. The satellite control board 81 is an image on the touch panel monitor 85. Display and detection of touch input by the player, audio output from the speaker 86, counting processing of the medal inserted into the medal slot 87 by the medal sensor 87a, medal payout and medal payout based on the operation of the payout button 88 Processing such as control of the dispensing device 83a is executed.

  More specifically, the satellite control board 81 touches the horse name or odds of the racehorse assigned to each model body 30 by the main control board 21 for each race based on the data transmitted from the main control board 21. Is displayed on the expression monitor 85, detects the player's operation on the touch panel monitor 85, and receives a vote, and the arrival order data transmitted from the main control board 21 after the end of each race is designated in the vote. Judgment is made based on whether or not the order matches, and if it is won, the number of medals calculated based on the number of medals and odds paid in the winning vote will be distributed. The payout from the medal payout outlet 83 or the process of incrementing the credit medal count value is executed.

  Each traveling body control board 71 includes an imaging control board 72, an LED control board 73, an image processing board (FPGA) 74, an image memory 75, a drive control board 76, a model control board 77, a wireless LAN device 78, a power supply board 79, and the like. Is connected.

  The photographing control board 72 controls the photographing operation by the camera device 46. In this embodiment, the camera device 46 controls the information at a frequency of about 2 to 200 times per second by the control of the photographing control board 72. The QR code C on the second traveling surface 7s as the arrangement surface is photographed at high speed.

  The LED control board 73 controls the lighting of the white LED 47 and executes a process of irradiating the information arrangement surface with illumination light necessary for photographing by the camera device 46.

  The image processing board 74 scans each image photographed by the camera device 46 to execute a process of extracting markers arranged at the three vertices of each QR code C included in each image. Processing for decoding the QR code C in the captured image extracted by the control board 71 is executed.

  The image memory 75 temporarily records an image photographed by the camera device 46.

  The drive control board 76 and the model control board 77 perform drive control of the running motors 45a and 45b and the model control motors 56a and 56b, respectively, in accordance with control signals from the running body control board 71.

  The traveling body control board 71 performs a process of extracting the QR code C from the marker extracted by the image processing board 74, the position coordinates on the global coordinates acquired from the QR code C, and the camera coordinates of the QR code. Based on the position and angle above, the position coordinate and the angle F of the reference point R of the traveling body 40 on the global coordinates are specified, and the travel received from the main control board 21 using the position coordinate and the angle F. A predetermined control signal is transmitted to the drive control board 76 in order to make the traveling body 40 travel on an accurate traveling course according to the data.

  The wireless LAN device 78 receives the travel data generated in the main control board 21 at a predetermined timing before each race execution, and the global coordinates of the reference point R of the travel body 40 derived by the travel body control board 71 during the race. Processing such as transmitting the position coordinates above or the position coordinates and the angle F to the main control board 21 is executed.

  The power supply board 79 receives the electric power received from the power supply plate 6 via the current collector 60, as well as the traveling motors 45a and 45b and the model control motors 56a and 56b, or the traveling body control board 71, the imaging control board 72, and the LED control board 73. The image processing board 74, the image memory 75, the drive control board 76, the model control board 77, the wireless LAN device 78, and the like are supplied.

  In the horse racing game apparatus 1, power is supplied from the power supply plate 6 to the power supply substrate 79 by the conductive ball 64 coming into contact with the power supply plate 6, but the conductive ball 64 rotates in a state of being in contact with the power supply plate 6. Therefore, the frictional force between the conductive ball 64 and the power supply plate 6 can be reduced, the wear of the conductive ball 64 and the power supply plate 6 can be suppressed, and the necessity of inspecting the wear state of the current collecting pins can be reduced. Effects such as reducing the frequency of the replacement or reducing the frequency of occurrence of problems such as power supply failure to the current collector due to wear of the power supply plate and travel stop of the traveling body are achieved.

  Fig.10 (a) is explanatory drawing which expands and shows the front-end part of the current collection pin 61a used in the current collector 60 which concerns on other embodiment of this invention.

  The current collecting pin 61 a has a point that the pedestal 63 is not fixed in the cylindrical body 62 and is slidable in the front-rear direction of the current collecting pin 61 a, and a stopper 65 fixed in the cylindrical body 62. Further, it differs from the current collecting pin 61 only in that it further includes a biasing member 66 such as a spring that abuts the rear end against the stopper 65 and biases the base 63 forward.

  In the current collector 60 in which the current collecting pin 61a is used, when a load from the front does not act on the conductive ball 64, the conductive ball 64 receives a biasing force from the biasing member 66 and the conductive ball 64 is removed from the projecting portion 62a. Although the length D1 protrudes to the outside of the cylindrical body 62, when the current collection pin 61a abuts against the power supply plate 6 and the load F from the front acts on the conductive ball 64, the state shown in FIG. As shown, the biasing member 66 can be contracted to move the conductive ball 64 backward.

  Therefore, in the current collector 60 having the current collecting pins 61a, in addition to the same effects as described above for the current collecting device 60 having the current collecting pins 61, the impact when a sudden load F acts on the conductive ball 64 is reduced. In addition, an additional effect that it is possible to reduce the possibility of damage to the conductive balls 64 and the power supply plate 6 can be achieved.

  In the current collecting pin 61a, the compressible length of the urging member 66 is preferably smaller than the protruding length D1 of the conductive ball 64 from the cylindrical body 62 in a state where there is no load from the front. Further, since the protruding length D1 of the conductive ball 64 from the cylindrical body 62 is always kept finite, the conductive ball 64 is dropped due to wear of the overhang portion 62a that may occur when the overhang portion 62a contacts the power supply plate 6. It is possible to widen the range of material selection, such as preventing material failure or making it possible to use a material having a somewhat inferior mechanical strength for the cylindrical body 62.

  Fig.11 (a) is explanatory drawing which shows the structure of the current collection pin 61b used in the current collection apparatus 60 which concerns on further another embodiment of this invention.

  The current collecting pin 61b has a holding member 69 having an internal space with a predetermined inner diameter, and a cylindrical body (piston member) 62 that is movable in the front-rear direction in the internal space of the holding member 69, and Only in that a stopper 67 and a rear end fixed in the holding member 69 are brought into contact with the stopper 67 and a second biasing member 68 such as a spring for biasing the cylindrical body 62 forward is additionally provided. This is different from the current collecting pin 61.

  In the current collector 60 in which the current collector pin 61b is used, when the load F from the front acts on the conductive ball 64 as described above for the current collector 60 having the current collector pin 61a, FIG. As shown in b), the second urging member 68 is contracted so that the cylindrical body 62 can move rearward. Therefore, the impact when a sudden load F acts on the conductive ball 64 is reduced. Further, it is possible to reduce the possibility of causing damage to the conductive balls 64 and the power supply plate 6.

  Further, in the case of the current collecting pin 61a, the stroke in which the conductive ball 64 can move cannot be made longer than the projecting length D1 of the conductive ball 64 from the cylindrical body 62 without the load F from the front. According to the configuration of the current collecting pin 61b, as shown in FIG. 11B, the cylindrical body 62 is moved by adjusting the dimensions of the cylindrical body 62, the second urging member 68, the holding member 69, and the like. It is possible to easily increase the possible stroke D2.

  Therefore, in the current collector 60 having the current collecting pin 61b, even if the traveling body 40 vibrates or tilts due to a step on the second traveling surface 7s, the height at the front end of the current collecting pin 61b due to the vibration or tilt is increased. It is possible to more stably maintain the contact state between the current collecting pin 61b and the power supply plate 6 such that the change in position can be absorbed by the large stroke D2.

  In FIG. 11, the configuration in the vicinity of the front end of the current collecting pin 61b is the same as that of the current collecting pin 61. However, in the current collecting pin 61b, the base 63 is moved back and forth as in the case of the current collecting pin 61a. A structure in which the base 63 is urged forward by a stopper 65 fixed in the cylindrical body 62 and a biasing member 66 having a rear end abutting the stopper 65. It is also possible to do.

  The present invention has been described based on the exemplary embodiments. However, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various changes and modifications can be made within the scope of the claims. is there.

  For example, in the above-described embodiment, the case where the spherical conductive ball 64 is used as the rotating body has been described as an example. However, the rotating body may have another shape such as a cylindrical shape.

  Further, in the above embodiment, in order that the two or more current collecting pins 61 can always keep contact with the positive and negative electrodes PD and ND of the power feeding plate 6, each current collecting pin 61 has a regular octagonal apex. Although the case where each is arrange | positioned at the position was demonstrated as an example, it is also possible to make the number and arrangement | positioning of a current collection pin into a different form from the above.

  Moreover, although the said embodiment demonstrated as an example the case where the power feeding plate 6 was laid on the ceiling surface of the driving | running | working space where the traveling body 40 drive | works, driving | running | working, such as laying the power feeding plate 6 on the 2nd driving | running surface 7s, is carried out. It is also possible to lay on another surface parallel to the traveling surface (second traveling surface 7s) on which the body 40 travels or on another surface facing the traveling surface.

  In the above embodiment, the case where the present invention is applied to a horse racing game has been described as an example. However, the present invention is divided into two teams such as a soccer game and a basket game, and the player controls his / her traveling body. It can also be applied to a game in which the ball is carried to the opponent goal.

  In addition, the apparatus configuration and the material, size, shape, and the like of each member in the above-described embodiment are described merely as examples, and the present invention is not limited thereto.

Explanatory drawing which shows the external appearance structure of the horse racing game device which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention, and the structure of an apparatus main body part. (A) is explanatory drawing which shows the lower surface board accommodated in an apparatus main body part by planar view. (B) is explanatory drawing which shows the mode of the arrangement | sequence of the two-dimensional code in the surface of a lower surface board. Explanatory drawing which shows the structure of a model body and a traveling body. Explanatory drawing which shows the structure of the current collector which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. Explanatory drawing which shows the structure of the current collection pin used for the current collector which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. (A)-(d) is explanatory drawing which shows the structure of the power feeding board in embodiment of this invention, (e) is explanatory drawing which shows the aspect of the connection of the power feeding board panel in the conventional power feeding board. Explanatory drawing which shows the electric power feeding panel which concerns on the deformation | transformation form of this invention. Explanatory drawing which shows the shape of the convex part provided in the electric power feeding panel which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention, and a recessed part. Explanatory drawing which shows the hardware constitutions of the horse racing game device concerning one Embodiment of this invention. Explanatory drawing which shows the structure of the current collection pin used for the current collector which concerns on other embodiment of this invention. Explanatory drawing which shows the structure of the current collection pin used for the current collector which concerns on further another embodiment of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Horse racing game device, 2 ... Apparatus main-body part, 3 ... Outer housing | casing, 4 ... Top plate, 4s ... 1st running surface, 5 ... Truck, 6 ... Power feeding plate, 6a, 6b ... power feeding plate panel, 7 ... bottom plate, 7s ... second running surface, 8 ... runway, 9 ... transparent thin plate, 10 ... strut member, 11 ... Ceiling member, 21 ... Main control board, 22a ... Field camera, 22b ... Goal camera, 23 ... Monitor device, 24 ... Ceiling camera, 25 ... Speaker, 26 ..Lighting device 27 ... Communication device 28 ... Wireless LAN device 30 ... Model body 31 ... Carriage 32 ... Front wheel 33 ... Rear wheel 34a, 34b ..Center wheel, 35a, 35b ... rotating magnet, 36 ... support pillar, 37 ... model part, 40 ... traveling body, 41 ..Car, 42 ... front wheel, 43 ... rear wheel, 44a, 44b ... center wheel, 45a, 45b ... travel motor, 46 ... camera device, 47 ... white LED, 48 ... Antenna, 50 ... Support base, 51 ... Spring, 52 ... Front wheel, 53 ... Rear wheel, 54a, 54b ... Central wheel, 55a, 55b ... Rotating magnet, 56a , 56b ... model control motor, 60 ... current collector, 61, 61a, 61b ... current collecting pin, 62 ... cylindrical body (piston member), 62a ... projecting part, 63. .. Base, 64 ... conductive ball, 65 ... stopper, 66 ... biasing member, 67 ... stopper, 68 ... second biasing member, 69 ... holding member, S ..Support, Sa ... Screw hole, 71 ... Running body control board, 72 ... Shooting system Board 73... LED control board 74... Image processing board 75... Image memory 76... Drive control board 77. ... Power board, 80 ... Satellite, 81 ... Satellite control board, 82 ... Leg part, 83 ... Medal payout port, 83a ... Medal payout device, 84 ... Table part, 85 ... Touch panel monitor, 86 ... Speaker, 87 ... Medal slot, 87a ... Medal sensor, 88 ... Payout button, 89 ... Communication device

Claims (5)

Running surface,
A power feeding plate facing the running surface;
A traveling device that travels on the traveling surface, the game device comprising: a traveling body equipped with a current collector that receives power from the power supply plate by bringing a current collecting pin into contact with the power supply plate;
The game device characterized in that the current collecting pin rotatably holds a conductive rotating body at a front end thereof and abuts against the power supply plate by the rotating body.   The game apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the rotating body is spherical. The current collecting pin is
A holding chamber for holding the rotating body so as to be movable in the front-rear direction;
An opening having a shape and a size for partially projecting the rotating body formed at the front end of the holding chamber;
The game apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an urging unit that urges the rotating body toward the front. The current collecting pin is
A piston member for rotatably holding the rotating body;
A holding member that holds the piston member movably in the front-rear direction;
The game apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a second urging member that urges the piston member forward. A current collector that is mounted on a traveling body that travels on a traveling surface and receives power from the power feeding plate by bringing a current collecting pin into contact with a power feeding plate facing the traveling surface,
The current collecting pin is characterized in that a conductive rotating body is rotatably held at a front end of the current collecting pin and is in contact with the power supply plate by the rotating body.

Images