JP2009118872A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine having a conveying device capable of smoothly taking in game balls by inhibiting clogging in a rectification part. <P>SOLUTION: In a driving body 121, a recess 121b1 is disposed at a position corresponding to a projection 121c2, and a recess 121c1 is disposed at a position corresponding to a projection 121b2. Consequently, game balls is alternately received in the recess 121b1 and the recess 121c1, and the game balls is delivered alternately from the recess 121b1 and the recess 121c1 to a recess 122b1 of a first driven body 122 one by one. As the game machine is configured to forcibly align game balls taken from an intake 110a in two lines (double line width) in one line by rotationally driving the driving body 121 by a driving motor 130, clogging is inhibited while the game balls are rectified. In addition, game balls is smoothly taken into the conveying device 100 without narrowing the width of a collection path. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine represented by a pachinko machine or the like.

  Conventionally, as an example of a gaming machine that uses a game ball such as a pachinko ball to play a game, a predetermined number of game balls are enclosed in the game machine, and the predetermined number of game balls are circulated in the game machine for use in the game. Enclosed game machines are known.

  Generally, an enclosed game machine has a supply passage serving as a passage for supplying game balls, a launching device for launching game balls supplied from the supply passage, and a passage for collecting game balls launched from the launching device. A recovery passage and a transport device for transporting the game ball from the recovery passage to the supply passage, and configured to circulate the game ball between the supply passage, the launch device, the recovery passage, and the transport device. (For example, patent document 1).

In addition, in the enclosed game machine configured as described above, it is necessary to manage the number of game balls used in the game. In order to detect the game balls one by one, the game balls are rectified and aligned in a line. A rectifying unit is required. Therefore, the collection passage is configured to collect the game balls in a double-row width, align them in a line using the natural flow of the game balls in the rectifying unit, and then take them into the transfer device.
Japanese Patent No. 3828311

  However, in the configuration in which the game balls are collected in a double row width and aligned in a line using the natural flow of the game balls in the rectification unit, the game balls are concentrated on the rectification unit, and the ball is likely to be clogged. was there.

  In addition, the game balls that flow down vigorously cause collisions between the balls or collision with the narrow passage walls in the rectifying unit, so that the collection of the game balls is delayed, and it is easy to cause the game balls to be taken into the transport device. There was a problem.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and provides a gaming machine including a transport device that can smoothly take in game balls while suppressing clogging of the balls in the rectifying unit. It is aimed.

  In order to achieve this object, a gaming machine according to claim 1 is provided with a supply passage serving as a passage for supplying game balls, a launching device for launching game balls supplied from the supply passage, and a launching device launched from the launching device. A recovery passage serving as a passage for collecting the game balls, and a transport device for transporting the game balls from the recovery passage to the supply passage. The transport device includes a box-shaped housing and an interior of the housing. A plurality of rotating bodies housed in a rotatable manner, a rotation driving means for applying a driving force to one of the plurality of rotating bodies, and rotating the rotation driving means; The rotating body is rotationally driven to provide rectifying means for aligning the game balls in a line.

  The gaming machine according to claim 2 is the gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the housing has a take-in port for taking the game balls in a double row width from the collection passage, and a game taken from the take-in port. A transport passage for transporting the balls in a row; and a discharge port for discharging the game balls transported through the transport passage, wherein the plurality of rotating bodies are for transporting the game balls through the transport passage. A driving body that is disposed to face the intake port and that is rotated by a driving force applied by the rotational driving means; and is disposed around the driving body and uses the game ball as a medium. And a driven body that rotates when the rotational force of the driving body is transmitted. The driving body protrudes in a direction orthogonal to the rotation axis and is opposed to the rotation axis direction. On the outer peripheral surface of the pair of blades Concave portions for receiving the game balls from the intake port and convex portions for receiving the game balls are alternately formed along the rotation direction, and the recesses of one of the pair of blade portions as viewed in the rotation axis direction Is disposed at a position corresponding to the convex portion of the other blade portion, and the driven body includes a single blade portion projecting in a direction orthogonal to the rotation axis, and the drive is provided on an outer peripheral surface of the single blade portion. A plurality of recesses for receiving the game balls from the recesses of the body are formed along the rotation direction, and the single blade portion is interposed between the pair of blade portions of the drive body in the rotation axis direction. It is arranged at a position, and when the driving body rotates, the game ball is alternately passed through the intake port by a concave portion of one blade portion of the pair of blade portions and a concave portion of the other blade portion. One at a time and By passing encased gaming balls from the concave portions and the other wing portion recess of the one blade portion one by one into the recess of the driven body alternately transports the game balls through the conveying path.

  The gaming machine according to claim 3 is the gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein the driving body is the other blade portion in which the convex portion of the one blade portion is disposed at the corresponding position when viewed in the rotation axis direction. It is formed in the shape which covers the recessed part.

  The gaming machine according to claim 4 is the gaming machine according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the driving body is configured such that the concave portion of the one blade portion and the concave portion of the other blade portion are rotated in the rotational axis direction. Are arranged continuously along.

  A gaming machine according to a fifth aspect is the gaming machine according to any one of the second to fourth aspects, wherein the concave portion of the driving body is formed in an arc shape that curves in the direction of the rotation axis.

  According to the gaming machine of the first aspect, since the driving body is rotationally driven by the rotation driving means and the gaming balls are forcibly aligned in a row, the gaming balls are collected in a double row width, Compared to the case where the game balls are aligned in a line using the natural flow of the game balls, there is an effect that the ball clogging can be suppressed while the game balls are rectified.

  In addition, the configuration is such that the game balls are forcibly aligned in a line by rotationally driving the drive body by the rotation drive means, so that there is an effect that the game balls can be smoothly taken into the transfer device.

  According to the gaming machine of the second aspect, in addition to the effect achieved by the gaming machine of the first aspect, when the concave portion of one blade portion of the driving body faces the intake port, it is arranged at a position corresponding to the concave portion. Since the convex portion of the other blade portion faces the intake port, there is no need to narrow the passage width of the recovery passage, and there is an effect that the game ball can be smoothly taken into the transfer device.

  According to the gaming machine according to claim 3, in addition to the effect achieved by the gaming machine according to claim 2, the driving body is arranged at a position where the convex portion of one blade portion corresponds to the convex portion when viewed in the rotational axis direction. Is formed so as to cover the concave portion of the other wing portion, so that when the game ball is received in the concave portion of the one wing portion, the game sphere is put into the concave portion of the one wing portion. The game ball can be smoothly received in the concave portion of the driving body. As a result, it is possible to efficiently rectify the game balls and to suppress the clogging of the balls accordingly.

  According to the gaming machine of the fourth aspect, in addition to the effect achieved by the gaming machine according to the second or third aspect, the driving body includes a concave portion of one blade portion and a concave portion of the other blade portion as viewed in the rotation axis direction. Are continuously arranged along the rotation direction, so that the game ball can be received in either the concave portion of one blade portion or the concave portion of the other blade portion, regardless of the rotational position of the driving body. There is an effect that can be done. As a result, there is an effect that it is possible to efficiently receive the game ball in the recess and to suppress clogging of the ball.

  According to the gaming machine of the fifth aspect, in addition to the effect achieved by the gaming machine according to any one of the second to fourth aspects, the concave portion of the driving body is formed in an arc shape that curves in the direction of the rotation axis. As a result, the momentum of the game balls received in the recesses can be dispersed and reduced in a radial manner, and the ball repelling by the recesses can be prevented. As a result, there is an effect that the game ball can be smoothly received in the concave portion of the driving body and the clogging of the ball can be suppressed.

  DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. First, with reference to FIG. 1, the external configuration of a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter simply referred to as “pachinko machine”) 10 and a ball rental unit 70 according to the present invention will be described. In the present embodiment, the pachinko machine 10 is used by being connected to the ball lending unit 70, and can play a game according to the remaining amount of bills and cards inserted into the ball lending unit 70. It is configured as follows. In addition, the pachinko machine 10 does not directly lend or pay out the game balls to the player. The pachinko machine 10 quantifies the lending balls or prize balls (as scores) and gives them to the player. A predetermined number (40 in this embodiment) of game balls (pachinko balls) enclosed in the inside is circulated in the pachinko machine 10 and used as a so-called enclosed pachinko game machine.

  FIG. 1 is a front view of the pachinko machine 10 and the ball lending unit 70. As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko machine 10 includes an outer frame 11 that forms an outer shell, and an inner frame 12 that is supported by the outer frame 11 so as to be opened and closed. The outer frame 11 is provided with two hinges 17 at the upper and lower positions on the left side in the front view (left side in FIG. 1), and the inner frame 12 is supported via the hinge 17 so as to be opened and closed. An elliptical opening 12a (see FIG. 3) is formed in the inner frame 12, and a game board 13 is detachably attached to the opening 12a from the back side.

  Rails 21 and 22 (see FIG. 3) for guiding the game balls launched from the launching device 50 (see FIG. 3) to the upper part of the game board 13 are disposed on the front surface of the game board 13. In the pachinko machine 10, a game is played when the game ball guided to the upper front portion of the game board 13 by the rails 21 and 22 falls on the front face (game area) of the game board 13.

  The game board 13 is provided with a general winning port 23 through which game balls can enter, a first winning port 24 and a specific winning port (large opening) 25. When a game ball enters the general winning opening 23, the first winning opening 24 and the specific winning opening 25, a score as a winning ball is awarded to the player. In addition, game balls that have not entered any of the general winning opening 23, the first winning opening 24, and the specific winning opening 25 (hereinafter referred to as "out balls") enter the game board 13. An out port 26 is provided.

  In addition, on the front surface of the game board 13, the design is changed by triggering a number of nails 27 for dispersing and adjusting the falling direction of the game ball, various members 28 such as a windmill, and a ball entering the first ball slot 24. A variable display device unit 29 and the like for displaying are arranged.

  The inner frame 12 is provided with hinges 18 at two positions on the left side (left side in FIG. 1) when viewed from the front, and the front frame 14 is supported via the hinges 18 so as to be opened and closed. The front frame 14 is formed with an elliptical opening 14a. A plate glass (not shown) is attached to the opening 14a from the back side, and the front surface of the game board 13 can be visually recognized through the plate glass.

  The front frame 14 is provided with lamps 31 to 36 around it. When playing a game, the lamps 31 to 36 provide a lamp effect according to the game situation each time. That is, by appropriately changing the light emission color and the light emission pattern of the lamps 31 to 36, the player is notified of the establishment of the winning combination, an error, and the like.

  Below the opening 14a (lower side in FIG. 1), a score display unit 37 for displaying the player's ball as a score is arranged. In the score display section 37, the total number of rented balls and prize balls is scored as a player's ball.

  Further, below the opening 14a (lower side in FIG. 1), an overhanging portion 38 for disposing the upper plate 16 and the conveying device 100 (both see FIG. 4) inside is forward (front side in FIG. 1). It is formed overhanging. In the present embodiment, the pachinko machine 10 is different from a general pachinko gaming machine in that a lower plate for storing game balls is omitted.

  An operation handle 39 for driving a game ball into the game area is disposed on the right side (right side in FIG. 1) of the overhang portion 38 in front view. When the operation handle 39 is turned by the player, a game ball is launched with a strength corresponding to the amount of turning operation of the operation handle 39.

  On the left side of the pachinko machine 10 as viewed from the front (left side in FIG. 1), a ball rental unit 70 is arranged. The ball lending unit 70 is provided with a bill insertion slot 71 for inserting bills and a card insertion slot 72 for inserting cards. When a player inserts a bill into the bill insertion slot 71 or inserts a card into the card insertion slot 72, the player can lend out a lending ball to the player in accordance with the bill or the remaining amount of the card. .

  Below the bill insertion slot 71 (lower side in FIG. 1), a remaining amount display unit 73 for displaying the remaining amount of the bill inserted into the bill insertion slot 71 or the card inserted into the card insertion slot 72 is disposed. In addition, a lending button 74 for obtaining a lending ball is disposed below the remaining amount display portion 73 (lower side in FIG. 1). When the lending button 74 is operated by the player, the score displayed on the score display unit 37 is added according to the number of operations of the lending button 74 as long as there is a remaining amount in the bill or card.

  A return button 75 for requesting the return of the card inserted into the card insertion hole 72 is disposed below the lending button 74 (lower side in FIG. 1). In addition, the ball lending unit 70 has a ball unit price setting button 76 (for example, a button for selecting and setting the ball unit price from 2, 3, or 4 yen) for setting the unit price of the rented or prize balls. ) And an input button 77 for inputting a personal identification number of the card inserted into the card insertion slot 72.

  Next, the internal configuration of the pachinko machine 10 will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 is a rear view of the pachinko machine 10, and FIG. 3 is a front view of the pachinko machine 10 showing a state in which the front frame 14 is removed. FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the front frame 14. In FIG. 3, in order to facilitate understanding of the drawing, the configuration of the game board 13 is partially omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 2, on the back side of the game board 13, game balls (hereinafter referred to as “winning balls”) that have entered the general winning opening 23, the first winning opening 24 and the specific winning opening 25 (see FIG. 1). A winning ball collection board 41 is attached to collect the game board 13 on the back side of the game board 13. The winning ball collecting board 41 is formed with a collecting passage 41a that communicates with the general winning port 23, the first winning port 24, and the specific winning port 25, and that opens downward (lower side in FIG. 2). .

  A guide board 42 for guiding the winning balls collected by the winning ball collecting board 41 to the front surface of the inner frame 12 is attached below the winning ball collecting board 41 (lower side in FIG. 2). The guide board 42 is formed with a guide passage 42a that opens upward (upper side in FIG. 2) and communicates with a collection passage 43a (see FIG. 3) of a foul ball collection board 43 attached to the front surface of the inner frame 12. Has been.

  Accordingly, the winning balls are first collected through the collecting passage 41a of the winning ball collecting board 41, and then guided to the front surface of the inner frame 12 through the guiding passage 42a of the guiding board 42, as indicated by the phantom lines in FIG. . The guide passage 42a of the guide board 42 is also communicated with the out port 26 (see FIG. 1), and the out ball is similarly guided to the front surface of the inner frame 12 through the guide passage 42a of the guide board 42.

  Also, on the back surface of the game board 13, a winning entrance detection switch 44 for detecting the entrance of a game ball into the general winning entrance 23, and a first entrance for detecting the entrance of a game ball into the first entrance 24. A mouth detection switch 45 and a count switch 46 for counting the number of game balls entering the specific winning opening 25 are provided. When an entrance of a game ball is detected by each of these switches 44 to 46, the number of prize balls is determined based on the detection result and displayed on the score display unit 37 according to the determined number of prize balls. The score is added.

  As shown in FIG. 3, a launching device 50 for launching a game ball to the game area is disposed on the front surface of the inner frame 12. The launching device 50 includes a launching solenoid 51 that applies launching force to the game ball, a launching rail 52 that guides the game ball from the launching solenoid 51 to the rails 21 and 22 of the game board 13, and the upper plate 16 (see FIG. 4). And a supply device 53 for supplying the game balls guided by (1) to the launch rail 52 one by one. The firing force applied to the game ball by the launch solenoid 51 is determined according to the amount of rotation operation of the operation handle 39 (see FIG. 1) by the player. When a game ball is fired by the launching device 50, the fired game ball is detected by a detection switch (not shown), and the score displayed on the score display unit 37 is subtracted one by one each time.

  Further, a gap is formed between the rails 21 and 22 of the game board 13 and the firing rail 52 of the launching device 50, and the launching device 50 fires below the gap (lower side in FIG. 3). However, it collects a game ball (hereinafter referred to as a “foul ball”) that has returned to the launching device 50 without reaching the game area due to weak launching power, and guides the collected foul ball to the front frame 14. For this purpose, a foul ball collection board 43 is attached. The foul ball collection board 43 is formed with a collection passage 43a having an open port 43b that is open at the top (upper side in FIG. 3) and opened at the front (front side in FIG. 3).

  Accordingly, the foul balls are guided from the opening 43 b to the front frame 14 through the collection passage 43 a of the foul ball collection board 43. Further, as described above, the guide passage 42a of the guide board 42 communicates with the collection passage 43a of the foul ball collection board 43, so that the winning is guided to the front surface of the inner frame 12 through the guide passage 42a of the guide board 42. Similarly, the ball and the out ball are guided to the front frame 14 from the opening 43b through the collection passage 43a of the foul ball collection board 43.

  As shown in FIG. 4, a lower unit 15 is attached to the back surface of the front frame 14. On the front surface of the lower unit 15, an upper plate 16 and a conveying device 100 are disposed. In a state where the lower unit 15 is attached to the front frame 14, as described above, the upper plate 16 and the transport device 100 are disposed inside the overhang portion 38 formed on the front frame 14.

  The lower unit 15 is formed with a communication port 15a that communicates with the open port 43b (see FIG. 3) of the foul ball collection board 43 when the front frame 14 is closed with respect to the inner frame 12. Therefore, the game balls (winning balls, out balls and foul balls) guided from the opening 43b to the front frame 14 through the collection passage 43a of the foul ball collection board 43 are guided from the communication port 15a to the inside of the front frame 14. .

  In the present embodiment, the upper plate 16 is not for storing a game ball, unlike an upper plate of a general pachinko machine, and simply guides the game ball to the launching device 50 (see FIG. 3). Is for. In the upper plate 16, a supply passage 16a serving as a passage for a game ball is formed with a width equivalent to the diameter of the game ball. Therefore, since the game balls can be aligned in a row in the supply passage 16a, it is not necessary to provide a rectifying unit for rectifying the game balls, and it is possible to suppress ball clogging that is likely to occur in the rectifying unit.

  In addition, an opening 16 b through which the transfer device 100 is inserted is formed in the bottom surface of the upper plate 16. In a state where the upper plate 16 and the conveying device 100 are disposed in the lower unit 15, the conveying device 100 is inserted into the insertion port 16 b of the upper plate 16, and a discharge port 110 b of the conveying device 100 described later is provided on the upper plate 16. It arrange | positions in the state protruded upwards from the bottom face. Further, a cover 19 for preventing the game ball from being touched by the player is disposed on the upper surface of the upper plate 16.

  The transport device 100 is for transporting (lifting) game balls (winning balls, out balls and foul balls) guided from the communication port 15a of the lower unit 15 to the inside of the front frame 14 to the upper plate 16. The game ball transported by the transport device 100 is guided to the launching device 50 through the upper plate 16. Thereby, the game ball enclosed in the pachinko machine 10 can be circulated in the pachinko machine 10 and used in the game.

  An intake port 110 a is formed in the lower portion of the transfer device 100. The intake port 110a serves as an entrance for game balls to the transfer device 100, and game balls (winning balls, out balls and foul balls) guided from the communication port 15a of the lower unit 15 to the inside of the front frame 14. Is first guided to the intake port 110a and then taken into the inside of the transport apparatus 100 from the intake port 110a. The frontage of the take-in port 110a corresponds to two game balls, and is configured so that the game balls can be taken in two rows (double row width).

  On the other hand, a discharge port 110 b is formed in the upper part of the transport apparatus 100. The discharge port 110b serves as an exit for game balls from the transfer device 100. The game balls (winning balls, out balls and foul balls) taken into the transfer device 100 are discharged from the discharge port 110b to the upper plate 16. Is done.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 5, a detailed configuration of the transport apparatus 100 that is a main part of the present invention will be described. FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the transport apparatus 100. Note that arrows UD, LR, and FB in FIG. 5 indicate the up-down direction, the left-right direction, and the front-rear direction of the transport apparatus 100, respectively.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the transport apparatus 100 includes a housing 110, a rotating body 120 accommodated in the housing 110, and an attachment board 115 on a side surface (surface on the arrow L direction side) of the housing 110. And a drive motor 130 disposed therethrough.

  The housing 110 forms an outer shell of the transport apparatus 100, and is sandwiched between front and back housing members 111a and 111b made of a synthetic resin molded product and the front (in the direction of arrow F) of the housing members 111a and 111b. The housing member 111a, 111b is coupled by screws or the like (not shown) to form a box shape. Inside the housing 110, a transport passage W is formed which serves as a passage for transporting game balls. The shape of the conveyance path W will be described later with reference to FIG.

  The rotating body 120 is for transporting the game balls one by one through the transport path W, and includes a driving body 121 disposed facing the intake port 110a described above and an upper side of the driving body 121 (arrow U Direction), a second follower 123 disposed above the first follower 122, and a third follower disposed above the second follower 123. A total of five members, that is, a body 124 and a fourth follower 125 disposed above the third follower 124 are provided. These members 121 to 125 are rotatably supported by the casing 110 (housing members 111a and 111b), respectively, and are arranged so that the respective rotation axes are parallel to each other. The shapes of the members 121 to 125 will be described later with reference to FIGS. 6 to 8, and the arrangement of the members 121 to 125 will be described later with reference to FIG.

  The drive motor 130 is configured to apply a driving force to the drive body 121 and rotate and drive the drive body 121. The driving force of the driving motor 130 is output to the rotor 130a, and as a result, the driving body 121 attached to the rotor 130a rotates. The drive motor 130 is configured to always rotate the drive body 121 by constantly applying a drive force to the drive body 121 while the power of the pachinko machine 10 is turned on.

  Next, the shape of the driving body 121 will be described with reference to FIG. 6A is a perspective view of the drive body 121, and FIG. 6B is a front view of the drive body 121 when viewed in the direction of the rotation axis C0. Note that an arrow R0 in FIG. 6B indicates the rotation direction of the driving body 121.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the driving body 121 is formed by projecting toward a cylindrical shaft 121a having an axial center and a radial direction of the shaft 121a (a direction perpendicular to the axial center of the shaft 121a). And a pair of blade portions 121b and 121c. The drive body 121 is rotatably supported by a shaft portion 121a on a housing 110 (housing members 111a and 111b) (see FIG. 5), and rotates about the shaft center of the shaft portion 121a as a rotation axis C0.

  As shown in FIG. 6B, the shaft 121a has a shaft hole 121a1 having a cross-sectional shape obtained by cutting out a part of a circle in a plane along the axis. On the other hand, the rotor 130a (see FIG. 5) of the drive motor 130 is formed in an outer shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the shaft hole 121a1 of the shaft portion 121a, and the shaft hole 121a1 of the shaft portion 121a and the drive motor 130 are rotated. The driving force of the driving motor 130 is applied to the driving body 121 by the engagement with the child 130a.

  A pair of blade | wing parts 121b and 121c are arrange | positioned facing the axial center direction of the axial part 121a. The pair of blade portions 121b and 121c are formed in the same outer peripheral surface shape, and three concave portions 121b1 and 121c1 for receiving one game ball are provided on the outer peripheral surface, respectively, and the game is performed on the outer peripheral surface. Three convex portions 121b2 and 121c2 that support the sphere are provided. The concave portions 121b1 and 121c1 and the convex portions 121b2 and 121c2 are alternately provided along the direction of the arrow R0, and are arranged at equal intervals with a central angle of 120 degrees. The game ball is conveyed by rotating the driving body 121 while receiving the game ball in the recesses 121b1 and 121c1.

  In addition, the pair of blade portions 121b and 121c is disposed at a position where the concave portion 121b1 of the blade portion 121b corresponds to the convex portion 121c2 of the blade portion 121c in the direction of the rotation axis C0, and the concave portion 121c1 of the blade portion 121c is the blade portion. It arrange | positions in the position corresponding to the convex part 121b2 of 121b. That is, the pair of blade portions 121b and 121c are arranged so as to be shifted from each other by 60 degrees in the arrow R0 direction.

  Further, the pair of blade portions 121b and 121c are arranged so that the convex portion 121b2 of the blade portion 121b is disposed at a position corresponding to the convex portion 121b2 (opposite to the rotational axis C0 direction) when viewed in the rotational axis C0 direction. The concave portion 121c1 is covered and the convex portion 121c2 of the blade portion 121c is disposed at a position corresponding to the convex portion 121c2 (facing the rotation axis C0), and the concave portion 121b1 of the blade portion 121b is formed to cover the concave portion 121c1. The concave portion 121b1 and the concave portion 121c1 of the blade portion 121c are continuously disposed along the direction of the arrow R0.

  As shown in FIG. 6 (b), the recesses 121b1 and 121c1 are axially viewed in the direction of the rotation axis C0 so that a game ball of a predetermined size (for example, a diameter of 11 mm) (two-dotted line in FIG. 6 (b)) can be received. It is formed in an arc shape that is concave toward the axial direction of the portion 121a, the depth is deeper than the radius of the game ball, and the width of the opening side (the outer peripheral side of the blade portions 121b and 121c) is the bottom It is formed wider than the width of the side (the axial center side of the shaft portion 121a).

  Next, the shape of the first follower 122 will be described with reference to FIG. Since the first driven body 122 and the third driven body 124 have the same shape, the first driven body 122 will be described here as an example, and the description of the third driven body 124 will be omitted. FIG. 7A is a perspective view of the first driven body 122, and FIG. 7B is a front view of the first driven body 122 as viewed in the direction of the rotation axis C1. In addition, arrow R1 in FIG.7 (b) has shown the rotation direction of the 1st follower 122. FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the first follower 122 protrudes toward a cylindrical shaft portion 122a having an axial center and a radial direction of the shaft portion 122a (a direction perpendicular to the axial center of the shaft portion 122a). The blade portion 122b is formed. In the first follower 122, the shaft portion 122a is rotatably supported by the housing 110 (housing members 111a and 111b) (see FIG. 5), and rotates with the shaft center of the shaft portion 122a as the rotation axis C1.

  Six concave portions 122b1 for receiving game balls one by one are formed in the outer peripheral surface of the blade portion 122b. The recesses 122b1 are formed in a line along the direction of the arrow R1, and are arranged at equal intervals with a central angle of 60 degrees. Here, in the present embodiment, the recesses 122b1 are formed in a row so that the centers of the recesses 122b1 are positioned on a straight line, but the present invention is not limited to the case where the centers of the recesses 122b1 are positioned on a straight line. . The game ball is transported by rotating the first follower 122 while receiving the game ball in the recess 122b1.

  As shown in FIG. 7B, the concave portion 122b1 has a shaft portion 122a as viewed in the direction of the rotation axis C1 so as to receive a game ball of a predetermined size (for example, 11 mm in diameter) (two-dotted line in FIG. 7B). Are formed in a circular arc shape that is concave toward the axial direction of the ball, the depth is deeper than the radius of the game ball, and the width of the opening side (the outer peripheral side of the blade portion 122b) is the bottom side (shaft portion) It is formed wider than the width on the axial center side of 122a.

  Next, the shape of the second follower 123 will be described with reference to FIG. Since the second follower 123 and the fourth follower 125 have the same shape, the second follower 123 will be described here as an example, and the description of the fourth follower 125 will be omitted. FIG. 8A is a perspective view of the second follower 123, and FIG. 8B is a front view of the second follower 123 as viewed in the direction of the rotation axis C2. In addition, arrow R2 in FIG.8 (b) has shown the rotation direction of the 2nd follower 123. FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the second follower 123 protrudes toward a cylindrical shaft portion 123a having an axial center and a radial direction of the shaft portion 123a (a direction orthogonal to the axial center of the shaft portion 123a). And a pair of blade portions 123b and 123c formed. In the second follower 123, the shaft portion 123a is rotatably supported by the casing 110 (housing members 111a and 111b) (see FIG. 5), and rotates about the axis of the shaft portion 123a as the rotation axis C2.

  The pair of blade portions 123b and 123c are arranged to face each other in the axial direction of the shaft portion 123a. The pair of blade portions 123b and 123c are formed in the same outer peripheral surface shape, and six concave portions 123b1 and 123c1 for receiving one game ball respectively are formed in the outer peripheral surface. The recesses 123b1 and 123c1 are formed in a row along the direction of the arrow R2, and are arranged at equal intervals with a central angle of 60 degrees. Here, in the present embodiment, the recesses 123b1 and 123c1 are formed in a line so that the centers of the recesses 123b1 and 123c1 are positioned on a straight line, but the centers of the recesses 123b1 and 123c1 are positioned on a straight line. It is not limited to. The game ball is transported by rotating the second follower 123 while receiving the game ball in the recesses 123b1 and 123c1.

  Further, the pair of blade portions 123b and 123c are arranged so that the positions of the concave portion 123b1 of the blade portion 123b and the concave portion 123c1 of the blade portion 123c coincide with each other when viewed in the direction of the rotation axis C2.

  As shown in FIG. 8B, the recesses 123b1 and 123c1 are axially viewed in the direction of the rotation axis C2 so as to accept a game ball of a predetermined size (for example, a diameter of 11 mm) (two-dot chain line in FIG. 8B). It is formed in an arc shape that is concave toward the axial direction of the portion 123a, the depth is deeper than the radius of the game ball, and the width of the opening side (the outer peripheral side of the blade portions 123b, 123c) is the bottom It is formed wider than the width on the side (the axial center side of the shaft portion 123a).

  Next, the arrangement of the members 121 to 125 of the rotating body 120 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 9 is a structural diagram showing the internal structure of the transport apparatus 100 as viewed in the direction of arrow A in FIG. Note that arrows UD, LR, and FB in FIG. 9 indicate the up-down direction, the left-right direction, and the front-rear direction of the transport apparatus 100, respectively.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the driving body 121 and the first driven body 122 are configured such that a blade 122 b of the first driven body 122 is interposed between a pair of blades 121 b and 121 c of the driving body 121. 121, the rotation locus of the recesses 121b1 and 121c1 of the 121 and the rotation locus of the recess 122b1 of the first follower 122 are arranged in a relative position, and the recesses 121b1 and 121c1 of the drive body 121 and the recesses of the first follower 122 In a state in which 122b1 is opposed to each other, a clearance for receiving a game ball is formed between the recesses 121b1 and 121c1 of the driving body 121 and the recess 122b1 of the first follower 122.

  In addition, the first driven body 122 and the second driven body 123 are configured such that the blade portion 122b of the first driven body 122 is inserted between the opposed pair of blade portions 123b and 123c of the second driven body 123. The rotation locus of the recess 122b1 of the body 122 and the rotation locus of the recesses 123b1 and 123c1 of the second follower 123 are arranged at a relative position so that they overlap, and the recess 122b1 of the first follower 122 and the second follower 123 Arranged in a relative position such that a gap for receiving a game ball is formed between the recesses 122b1 of the first follower 122 and the recesses 123b1 and 123c1 of the second follower 123 with the recesses 123b1 and 123c1 facing each other. Has been.

  Similarly, the second driven body 123 and the third driven body 124 are configured such that the blade portion 124b of the third driven body 124 is interposed between the opposed pair of blade portions 123b and 123c of the second driven body 123. The rotation locus of the recesses 123b1 and 123c1 of the follower 123 and the rotation locus of the recess 124b1 of the third follower 124 are arranged at a relative position so as to overlap each other, and the recesses 123b1 and 123c1 of the second follower 123 and the third follower are arranged. In a state where the recess 124b1 of the body 124 is opposed to the recess 124b1 of the second follower 123 and a recess 124b1 of the third follower 124, a gap for receiving a game ball is formed. Has been placed.

  Similarly, the third driven body 124 and the fourth driven body 125 are configured such that the blade portion 124b of the third driven body 124 is interposed between the opposed pair of blade portions 125b and 125c of the fourth driven body 125, The rotation path of the recessed part 124b1 of the driven body 124 and the rotation path of the recessed parts 125b1 and 125c1 of the fourth driven body 125 are arranged at relative positions so as to overlap with each other, and the recessed part 124b1 of the third driven body 124 and the fourth driven body 125 are arranged. In such a state that the recesses 125b1 and 125c1 of the third follower face each other, a gap for receiving a game ball is formed between the recesses 124b1 of the third follower 124 and the recesses 125b1 and 125c1 of the fourth follower 125. Has been placed.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 9, the first to fourth followers 122 to 125 are arranged in series on the vertical line, while the drive body 121 is rearward with respect to the first to fourth followers 122 to 125. They are arranged shifted in the direction of arrow B.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 10, the shape of the conveyance path W formed inside the housing 110 will be described. FIG. 10 is a structural diagram showing the internal structure of the transport apparatus 100 as viewed in the direction of arrow A in FIG. Note that, in FIG. 10, the members 121 to 125 of the rotating body 120 are shown through to facilitate understanding of the drawing. In addition, arrows UD, LR, and FB in FIG. 10 indicate the up-down direction, the left-right direction, and the front-rear direction of the transport apparatus 100, respectively.

  As shown in FIG. 10, the conveyance path W includes a first guide wall 131 and a third guide wall 133 formed in the path forming member 112, and a second guide wall 132 and a second guide wall 132 formed in the housing members 111a and 111b, respectively. A total of four guide walls including four guide walls 134 are formed.

  The first guide wall 131 is disposed to face the outer peripheral surface of the first driven body 122, and forms an arcuate surface that is parallel to the rotation axis C1 of the first driven body 122 and that is centered on the rotation axis C1. is doing. In addition, the lower end of the driving body 121 is inserted between the pair of blade portions 121b and 121c facing each other, intersects the rotation locus of the recesses 121b1 and 121c1 of the driving body 121, and the rotation locus at the bottom of the recesses 121b1 and 121c1. It is extended until it reaches. On the other hand, the upper end is inserted between the facing of the pair of blade portions 123b and 123c of the second follower 123, intersects the rotation trajectory of the recesses 123b1 and 123c1 of the second follower 123, and at the bottom of the recesses 123b1 and 123c1. It is extended until it reaches the rotation trajectory.

  The second guide wall 132 is disposed to face the outer peripheral surface of the second follower 123, and forms an arcuate surface that is parallel to the rotation axis C2 of the second follower 123 and that is centered on the rotation axis C2. is doing. The lower end of the first driven body 122 extends until it reaches the rotation locus at the lowest portion of the recess 122b1 while intersecting the rotation locus of the recess 122b1 of the first follower 122. On the other hand, the upper end of the third follower 124 extends until it reaches the rotation locus of the lowest portion of the recess 124b1 while intersecting the rotation locus of the recess 124b1 of the third follower 124. As described above, since the second guide walls 132 are formed on the housing members 111a and 111b, a pair is disposed with the first driven body 122 interposed therebetween, and the third driven body 124 is sandwiched therebetween. A pair is provided.

  Similarly, the third guide wall 133 is disposed opposite to the outer peripheral surface of the third follower 124, and is parallel to the rotation axis C3 of the third follower 124 and has an arc shape centered on the rotation axis C3. A surface is formed. The lower end of the second follower 123 is inserted between the pair of blade portions 123b and 123c, crosses the rotation locus of the recesses 123b1 and 123c1 of the second follower 123, and the bottom of the recesses 123b1 and 123c1. Is extended until the rotation trajectory is reached. On the other hand, the upper end is inserted between the facing of the pair of blade portions 125b and 125c of the fourth driven body 125, intersects the rotation trajectory of the recesses 125b1 and 125c1 of the fourth driven body 125, and at the bottom of the recesses 125b1 and 125c1. It is extended until it reaches the rotation trajectory.

  Similarly, the fourth guide wall 134 is disposed so as to face the outer peripheral surface of the fourth driven body 125, and is parallel to the rotation axis C4 of the fourth driven body 125 and has an arc shape centering on the rotation axis C4. A surface is formed. Further, the lower end of the third driven body 124 extends until it reaches the rotation locus of the lowest portion of the recess 124b1 while intersecting the rotation locus of the recess 124b1 of the third follower 124. On the other hand, the upper end is connected to the discharge port 110b. As described above, since the fourth guide wall 134 is formed on each of the housing members 111a and 111b, a pair is arranged with the third follower 124 interposed therebetween.

  Thereby, the conveyance path W is curved and formed in a substantially S shape between each guide wall 131-134 and the outer peripheral surface of the 1st-4th followers 122-125. The game balls are transported along the guide walls 131 to 134.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 11 to FIG. 20, the carrying operation of the game ball by the carrying device 100 will be described. 11 to 20 are structural views showing the internal structure of the transport apparatus 100 as viewed in the direction of arrow A in FIG. 11 to 20, arrows R0, R1, R2, R3, and R4 indicate the rotation direction of the driving body 121, the rotation direction of the first driven body 122, the rotation direction of the second driven body 123, and the third driven body 124. , And the rotation direction of the fourth follower 125 are shown.

  First, as shown in FIG. 11, when the driving body 121 is rotationally driven by the driving motor 130 and the driving body 121 rotates in the direction of the arrow R0, the concave portion 121b1 (or the concave portion 121c1) of the driving body 121 is brought into the intake port 110a. At first, the game ball taken into the take-in port 110a is received in the recess 121b1 (or the recess 121c1).

  Here, in the present embodiment, as described above, in the driving body 121, the concave portion 121b1 is disposed at a position corresponding to the convex portion 121c2, and the concave portion 121c1 is disposed at a position corresponding to the convex portion 121c2. When the concave portion 121b1 (or the concave portion 121c1) faces the intake port 110a, the convex portion 121c2 (or the convex portion) is disposed at a position corresponding to the concave portion 121b1 (or the concave portion 121c1) (opposite the rotation axis C0 direction). The portion 121b2) faces the intake port 110a, and the game balls taken into the intake port 110a can be alternately received by the recesses 121b1 and the recesses 121c1. Therefore, it is not necessary to narrow the passage width of the collection passage, and the game ball can be smoothly taken into the transfer device 100.

  Further, as described above, the driving body 121 covers the concave portion 121c1 where the convex portion 121b2 is disposed at a position corresponding to the convex portion 121b2 (opposite the direction of the rotation axis C0) and the convex portion 121c2 is the convex portion 121c2. The concave portion 121b1 (or the concave portion 121b1 (or the concave portion 121b1) is received when the game ball is received in the concave portion 121b1 (or the concave portion 121c1). 121c1) can be guided by the convex portion 121c2 (or convex portion 121b2), and can smoothly receive the game ball in the concave portions 121b1 and 121c1.

  In addition, as described above, the driving body 121 has the concave portion 121b1 and the concave portion 121c1 arranged continuously along the rotational direction R0. A game ball can be received in any of the recesses 121c1. As a result, the game balls can be efficiently received in the recesses 121b1 and 121c1, and the clogging of the balls can be suppressed.

  In addition, as described above, the recesses 121b1 and 121c1 are formed in an arc shape that is concave toward the axial direction of the shaft portion 121a. Therefore, the momentum of the game ball received in the recesses 121b1 and 121c1 is radially increased. It can be dispersed and reduced, and ball repelling by the recesses 121b1 and 121c1 can be prevented. As a result, it is possible to smoothly receive the game balls in the recesses 121b1 and 121c1 and to suppress clogging of the balls.

  Next, when the driving body 121 further rotates in the direction of the arrow R0 from the state of FIG. 11, the game ball is transported by the driving body 121, and as shown in FIG. 12, the recess 121b1 (or the recess 121c1) of the driving body 121 and the first The recessed parts 122b1 of the first driven body 122 face each other, and a game ball is received between the recessed parts 121b1 (or the recessed parts 121c1) of the driving bodies 121 and the recessed parts 122b1 of the first driven body 122.

  Next, when the driving body 121 further rotates in the direction of the arrow R0 from the state of FIG. 12, the game received between the recess 121b1 of the driving body 121 and the recess 122b1 of the first follower 122 as shown in FIG. The rotational force of the driving body 121 is transmitted to the first driven body 122 using the sphere as a medium, and the first driven body 122 is driven by the rotation of the driving body 121 and rotates in the direction of the arrow R1. Thereby, the game ball is sent out from the recess 121b1 (or 121c1) of the driving body 121 and transferred to the first follower 122.

  Here, in the present embodiment, as described above, in the driving body 121, the concave portion 121b1 is disposed at a position corresponding to the convex portion 121c2, and the concave portion 121c1 is disposed at a position corresponding to the convex portion 121b2. When the concave portion 121b1 (or the concave portion 121c1) faces the concave portion 122b1 of the first follower 122, the convex portion is disposed at a position corresponding to the concave portion 121b1 (or the concave portion 121c1) (opposite the rotation axis C0 direction). The portion 121c2 (or the convex portion 121b2) faces the concave portion 122b1 of the first driven body 122, and the game balls received in the concave portions 121b1 and 121c1 are alternately transferred from the concave portion 121b1 and the concave portion 121c1 to the concave portion 122b1 of the first driven body 122. Can be handed over one by one. Thereby, it is possible to receive the game balls one by one in the recesses 122b1 formed in a row on the outer peripheral surface of the first follower 122 and align them in a row.

  Accordingly, the driving body 121 is rotationally driven by the driving motor 130 to forcibly align the gaming balls taken into the intake port 110a in two rows (double row width) into one row. It is possible to suppress clogging of balls while rectifying the game balls, as compared with the case where the spheres are collected and compared with a case where the game balls are rectified in one row using the natural flow of the game balls.

  In addition, as described above, since the depth of the recesses 121b1 and 121c1 is formed deeper than the radius of the game ball, the driving body 121 can ensure a large amount of the game ball that gets into the recesses 121b1 and 121c1. it can.

  In addition, as described above, the first guide wall 131 is inserted between the facing of the pair of blade portions 121b and 121c of the drive body 121, intersects with the rotation trajectory of the recesses 121b1 and 121c1 of the drive body 121, and the recess 121b1. , 121c1 is extended until it reaches the rotation trajectory at the bottommost part, and when the driving body 121 rotates to send out the game ball from the recesses 121b1, 121c1, the space between the recesses 121b1, 121c1 and the first guide wall 131 The game ball can be sandwiched and sent out, and the game ball can be continuously pushed along the first guide wall 131.

  Further, as described above, the recesses 121b1 and 121c1 are formed so that the width on the opening side (the outer peripheral side of the blade portions 121b and 121c) is wider than the width on the bottom side (the axial center side of the shaft portion 121a). Even if the game ball is sandwiched and sent out between the recesses 121b1 and 121c1 and the first guide wall 131, the game ball can be smoothly sent out from the recesses 121b1 and 121c1. Therefore, a large amount of game balls can be secured to the recesses 121b1 and 121c1, and when the driving body 121 rotates to send the game balls from the recesses 121b1 and 121c1, the recesses 121b1 and 121c1 and the first guide wall 131 Since the game ball can be smoothly sent out while being sandwiched between them, and the game ball can be continuously pushed along the first guide wall 131, the rotational force of the driving body 121, that is, the transport force is sufficiently applied to the game ball. Can be granted. Further, the width of the opening side of the recesses 121b1 and 121c1 is formed wider than the width of the bottom side, and the game ball can be smoothly sent out from the recesses 121b1 and 121c1, so that the recesses 121b1 and 121c1 and the first guide wall 131 It is possible to prevent the game ball from being caught between the two.

  In addition, as described above, the driving body 121 and the first driven body 122 are configured such that the blade portion 122b of the first driven body 122 is interposed between the facing of the pair of blade portions 121b and 121c of the driving body 121. Since the rotation trajectory of the recesses 121b1 and 121c1 of the 121 and the rotation trajectory of the recess 122b1 of the first follower 122 overlap each other, the recesses 121b1 and 121c1 of the drive body 121 and the first follower 122 It is possible to secure a large amount of the game ball that gets into the recess 122b1. Therefore, when the driving body 121 rotates and delivers the game ball to the first driven body 122, the rotational force of the driving body 121, that is, the conveying force can be sufficiently applied to the game ball, The imparted conveyance force can be sufficiently transmitted to the first follower 122.

  Further, as described above, since the blade portion 122b of the first driven body 122 is interposed between the pair of blade portions 121b and 121c of the driving body 121, the game from the driving body 121 to the first driven body 122 is performed. When delivering the ball, the game ball can be stably held between the recesses 121b1 and 121c1 of the driving body 121 and the recess 122b1 of the first follower 122. As a result, the transport force can be reliably applied to the game ball, and the transport force applied to the game ball can be reliably transmitted to the first follower 122.

  As described above, the transport of the game ball by the first follower 122 is performed by repeating the operations of FIGS. 11 to 13. Therefore, if the game ball does not exist between the recess 121b1 (or the recess 121c1) of the driving body 121 and the recess 122b1 of the first follower 122, the first follower 122 does not rotate, so that the game ball is transported. It is possible to store game balls in the transfer device 100.

  Further, the rotational force of the driving body 121 is transmitted to the first driven body 122 using the game ball received between the concave portions 121b1 and 121c1 of the driving body 121 and the concave portion 122b1 of the first driven body 122 as a first driven body. Since the body 122 is configured to rotate following the rotation of the driving body 121, it is not necessary to synchronize the rotation of the driving body 121 and the rotation of the first driven body 122, thus eliminating the problem of the rotational deviation. Thus, it is possible to make it difficult to bite the game ball between the driving body 121 and the first follower 122. As a result, it is possible to smoothly transfer the game balls from the driving body 121 to the first follower 122 and to suppress clogging of the balls.

  Next, when the first follower 122 further rotates in the direction of the arrow R1 from the state of FIG. 13, the game ball is conveyed by the first follower 121, and as shown in FIG. 14, the first follower 122 has a recess 122b1. The recesses 123b1 and 123c1 of the second follower 123 face each other, and a game ball is received between the recesses 122b1 of the first follower 122 and the recesses 123b1 and 123c1 of the second follower 123.

  Next, when the first follower 122 further rotates in the direction of the arrow R1 from the state of FIG. 14, the recesses 122b1 of the first follower 122 and the recesses 123b1 and 123c1 of the second follower 123 as shown in FIG. The rotational force of the first follower 122 is transmitted to the second follower 123 using the game ball received in the middle as a medium, and the second follower 123 is driven by the rotation of the first follower 122 and rotates in the direction of the arrow R2. . Thereby, the game ball is sent out from the recess 122b1 of the first follower 122 and transferred to the second follower 123.

  Here, in the present embodiment, as described above, since the first follower 122 is formed such that the depth of the recess 122b1 is deeper than the radius of the game ball, the amount of the game ball applied to the recess 122b1 is reduced. It can be secured greatly.

  Further, as described above, the second guide walls 132 are provided in a pair with the first driven body 122 interposed therebetween, intersect with the rotation locus of the recess 122b1 of the first follower 122, and rotate at the bottom of the recess 122b1. Therefore, when the first follower 122 rotates and feeds the game ball from the recess 122b1, the game ball is sandwiched between the recess 122b1 and the second guide wall 132 and sent out. 2 The game ball can be continuously pushed along the guide wall 132.

  Further, as described above, the recess 122b1 is formed so that the width on the opening side (the outer peripheral side of the blade portion 122b) is wider than the width on the bottom side (the axial center side of the shaft portion 122a). Even when the game ball is sandwiched between the second guide wall 132 and sent out, the game ball can be sent out smoothly from the recess 122b1. Therefore, a large amount of the game ball can be secured to the recess 122b1, and when the first follower 122 rotates to send the game ball from the recess 122b1, the game ball is interposed between the recess 122b1 and the second guide wall 132. Since the game ball can be pushed out smoothly along the second guide wall 132, the rotational force of the first follower 122, that is, the conveying force is sufficiently applied to the game ball. can do. Further, the width of the opening side of the recess 122b1 is formed wider than the width of the bottom side, and the game ball can be smoothly sent out from the recess 122b1, so that the game ball between the recess 122b1 and the second guide wall 132 is Biting can be prevented.

  In addition, as described above, the first driven body 122 and the second driven body 123 are interposed between the blade portion 122b of the first driven body 122 and the pair of blade portions 123b and 123c of the second driven body 123 facing each other. Since the rotation locus of the recess 122b1 of the first follower 122 and the rotation locus of the recesses 123b1 and 123c1 of the second follower 123 are arranged at a relative position, the recess 122b1 of the first follower 122 and It is possible to secure a large amount of game balls to be applied to the recesses 123b1 and 123c1 of the second follower 123. Therefore, when the first follower 122 rotates and delivers the game ball to the second follower 123, the rotational force of the first follower 122, that is, the conveying force can be sufficiently applied to the game ball. The transport force applied to the game ball can be sufficiently transmitted to the second follower 123.

  Further, as described above, since the blade portion 122b of the first driven body 122 is interposed between the pair of blade portions 123b and 123c of the second driven body 123, the second driven body is driven from the first driven body 122. When delivering the game ball to the body 123, the game ball can be stably held between the recess 122b1 of the first follower 122 and the recesses 123b1 and 123c1 of the second follower 123. As a result, the transport force can be reliably applied to the game ball, and the transport force applied to the game ball can be reliably transmitted to the second follower 123.

  As described above, the transport of the game ball by the second follower 123 is performed by repeating the operations of FIGS. 14 and 15. Therefore, if there is no game ball between the recess 122b1 of the first follower 122 and the recesses 123b1 and 123c1 of the second follower 123, the second follower 123 does not rotate, so the game ball is not transported. A game ball can be stored in the transfer device 100.

  Next, when the second follower 123 is further rotated in the direction of the arrow R2 from the state of FIG. 15, the game balls are conveyed by the second follower 123, and as shown in FIG. 16, the recesses 123b1, 123c1 and the recess 124b1 of the third follower 124 face each other, and a game ball is received between the recesses 123b1 and 123c1 of the second follower 123 and the recess 124b1 of the third follower 124.

  Next, when the second follower 123 further rotates in the arrow R2 direction from the state of FIG. 16, as shown in FIG. 17, the recesses 123b1 and 123c1 of the second follower 123 and the recesses 124b1 of the third follower 124 are obtained. The rotational force of the second follower 123 is transmitted to the third follower 124 using the game ball received therebetween as a medium, and the third follower 124 is driven by the rotation of the second follower 123 and rotates in the direction of the arrow R3. . Thereby, the game ball is sent out from the recesses 123b1 and 123c1 of the second follower 123 and transferred to the third follower 124.

  Here, in the present embodiment, as described above, the second follower 123 has the recesses 123b1 and 123c1 formed deeper than the radius of the game ball, so that the game ball to the recesses 123b1 and 123c1 is formed. A large amount can be secured.

  In addition, as described above, the third guide wall 133 is inserted between the pair of blade portions 123b and 123c of the second follower 123, and intersects the rotation locus of the recesses 123b1 and 123c1 of the second follower 123. Since the second driven body 123 is rotated and the game ball is sent out from the recesses 123b1 and 123c1, the third recesses 123b1 and 123c1 are connected to the third recesses 123b1 and 123c1. A game ball can be sandwiched between the guide wall 133 and sent out, and the game ball can be continuously pushed along the third guide wall 133.

  Further, as described above, the recesses 123b1 and 123c1 are formed so that the width on the opening side (the outer peripheral side of the blade portions 123b and 123c) is wider than the width on the bottom side (the axial center side of the shaft portion 123a). Even if the game ball is sandwiched and sent out between the recesses 123b1 and 123c1 and the third guide wall 133, the game ball can be smoothly sent out from the recesses 123b1 and 123c1. Therefore, a large amount of game balls can be secured to the recesses 123b1 and 123c1, and when the second follower 123 rotates to send out the game balls from the recesses 123b1 and 123c1, the recesses 123b1 and 123c1 and the third guide wall 133 are provided. The game ball can be smoothly sent out while being sandwiched between and the game ball can be continuously pushed along the third guide wall 133, so that the rotational force of the second follower 123, that is, the transport force can be increased. The game ball can be given enough. Further, the width of the opening side of the recesses 123b1 and 123c1 is formed wider than the width of the bottom side, and the game ball can be smoothly sent out from the recesses 123b1 and 123c1, so that the recesses 123b1 and 123c1 and the third guide wall 133 It is possible to prevent the game ball from being caught between the two.

  As described above, the second driven body 123 and the third driven body 124 are configured such that the blade portion 124b of the third driven body 124 is interposed between the pair of blade portions 123b and 123c of the second driven body 123 facing each other. Since the rotation locus of the recesses 123b1 and 123c1 of the second follower 123 and the rotation locus of the recess 124b1 of the third follower 124 overlap each other, the recesses 123b1 and 123b1 of the second follower 123 are arranged. A large amount of the game ball can be secured to the recess 124b1 of the 123c1 and the third follower 124. Therefore, when the second follower 123 rotates and delivers the game ball to the third follower 124, the rotational force of the second follower 123, that is, the transport force can be sufficiently applied to the game ball. Thus, the conveying force applied to the game ball can be sufficiently transmitted to the third follower 124.

  Further, as described above, since the blade portion 124b of the third driven body 124 is interposed between the pair of blade portions 123b and 123c of the second driven body 123, the second driven body 123 to the third driven body. When delivering the game ball to the body 124, the game ball can be stably held between the recesses 123b1 and 123c1 of the second follower 123 and the recess 124b1 of the third follower 124. As a result, the transport force can be reliably applied to the game ball, and the transport force applied to the game ball can be reliably transmitted to the third follower 124.

  As described above, the transport of the game ball by the third follower 124 is performed by repeating the operations of FIGS. 16 and 17. Therefore, if the game ball does not exist between the recesses 123b1 and 123c1 of the second follower 123 and the recess 124b1 of the third follower 124, the third follower 124 does not rotate, so the game ball is not transported. A game ball can be stored in the transfer device 100.

  Next, when the third follower 124 further rotates in the direction of the arrow R3 from the state of FIG. 17, the game ball is conveyed by the third follower 124, and as shown in FIG. The recessed portions 125b1 and 125c1 of the fourth driven body 125 face each other, and a game ball is received between the recessed portions 124b1 of the third driven body 124 and the recessed portions 125b1 and 125c1 of the fourth driven body 125.

  Next, when the third follower 124 further rotates in the direction of arrow R3 from the state of FIG. 18, as shown in FIG. 19, the recesses 124b1 of the third follower 124 and the recesses 125b1 and 125c1 of the fourth follower 125 are obtained. The rotational force of the third follower 124 is transmitted to the fourth follower 125 using the game ball received therebetween as a medium, and the fourth follower 125 is driven by the rotation of the third follower 124 and rotates in the direction of the arrow R4. . As a result, the game ball is sent out from the recess 124 b 1 of the third driven body 124 and delivered to the fourth driven body 125.

  Here, in the present embodiment, as described above, the third follower 124 is formed such that the depth of the recess 124b1 is deeper than the radius of the game ball, so that the amount of the game ball applied to the recess 124b1 is reduced. It can be secured greatly.

  Further, as described above, the fourth guide walls 134 are disposed in a pair with the third driven body 124 interposed therebetween, intersect with the rotation locus of the recess 124b1 of the third follower 124, and rotate at the bottom of the recess 124b1. Therefore, when the third follower 124 rotates and sends out the game ball from the recess 124b1, the game ball is sandwiched between the recess 124b1 and the fourth guide wall 134 and sent out. The game ball can be continuously pushed along the four guide walls 134.

  In addition, as described above, the recess 124b1 is formed so that the width on the opening side (the outer peripheral side of the blade portion 124b) is wider than the width on the bottom side (the axial center side of the shaft portion 124a). Even when the game ball is sandwiched between the fourth guide wall 134 and sent out, the game ball can be sent out smoothly from the recess 124b1. Therefore, a large amount of the game ball can be secured to the recess 124b1, and the game ball is interposed between the recess 124b1 and the fourth guide wall 134 when the third driven body 124 rotates to send out the game ball from the recess 124b1. Since the game ball can be pushed out smoothly along the fourth guide wall 134, the rotational force of the third follower 124, that is, the conveyance force is sufficiently applied to the game ball. can do. In addition, the width of the opening side of the recess 124b1 is formed wider than the width of the bottom side, and the game ball can be smoothly sent out from the recess 124b1, so that the game ball between the recess 124b1 and the fourth guide wall 134 is Biting can be prevented.

  In addition, as described above, the third driven body 124 and the fourth driven body 125 are configured such that the blade portion 124b of the third driven body 124 is interposed between the opposed pair of blade portions 125b and 125c of the fourth driven body 125. Since the rotation locus of the recess 124b1 of the third follower 124 and the rotation locus of the recesses 125b1 and 125c1 of the fourth follower 125 are arranged at a relative position, the recess 124b1 of the third follower 124 and A large amount of game balls can be secured to the recesses 125b1 and 125c1 of the fourth follower 125. Therefore, when the third follower 124 rotates and delivers the game ball to the fourth follower 125, the rotational force of the third follower 124, that is, the transport force can be sufficiently applied to the game ball. Thus, the conveying force applied to the game ball can be sufficiently transmitted to the fourth follower 125.

  Further, as described above, since the blade portion 124b of the third driven body 124 is interposed between the pair of blade portions 125b and 125c of the fourth driven body 125, the third driven body 124 to the fourth driven body. When delivering the game ball to the body 125, the game ball can be stably held between the recess 124b1 of the third follower 124 and the recesses 125b1 and 125c1 of the fourth follower 125. As a result, the transport force can be reliably applied to the game ball, and the transport force applied to the game ball can be reliably transmitted to the fourth follower 125.

  As described above, the transport of the game ball by the fourth follower 125 is performed by repeating the operations of FIGS. 18 and 19. Therefore, if there is no game ball between the recess 124b1 of the third follower 124 and the recesses 125b1 and 125c1 of the fourth follower 125, the fourth follower 125 does not rotate, so the game ball is not transported. A game ball can be stored in the transfer device 100.

  Next, when the fourth follower 125 further rotates in the direction of arrow R4 from the state of FIG. 19, the game ball is conveyed by the fourth follower 125, and as shown in FIG. 125c1 faces the discharge port 110b, and the game balls received in the recesses 125b1 and 125c1 of the fourth driven body 125 are discharged from the discharge port 110b to the upper plate 16.

  As described above, the pachinko machine 10 stores more game balls in the game machine by using the transport device 100 not only for transporting game balls but as a storage space for game balls. can do.

  The rotating body 120 includes a plurality of driven bodies (in this embodiment, the first driven body 122, the second driven body 123, the third driven body 124, and the fourth driven body 125). For example, when storing the same number of game balls in the transport device 100, the size of each follower can be reduced compared to a transport device that does not include a plurality of followers, so that the same number of game balls can be stored. However, the transport apparatus 100 can be reduced in size.

  Moreover, since the conveyance path W formed in the inside of the housing | casing 110 is curved and formed in S shape, more game balls compared with the case where this conveyance path W is formed in linear form. Can be stored in the gaming machine.

  By the way, conventionally, enclosed game machines are simply configured to store and arrange game balls in a daisy chain. However, in such a configuration, for example, in order to make it easier to enter the general winning opening 23, the first winning opening 24, the specific winning opening 25, etc., a game using an illegal ball smaller in diameter than a normal game ball is used. Even if it was done fraudulently, the fraud could not be detected.

  In other words, if the illegal ball is used, the position of the last of the game balls arranged in a daisy chain changes, so it is possible to detect fraud by providing a sensor etc. that detects the presence of the game ball, When more illegal balls were thrown into the aircraft, it was not possible to detect fraud even if such sensors were provided. On the other hand, according to the transfer device 100 in the present embodiment, since the number of game balls that can be stored in the transfer device 100 can be set in advance, fraud can be easily detected.

  The present invention has been described above based on the embodiments. However, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications can be easily made without departing from the spirit of the present invention. It can be guessed.

  For example, the numerical values given in the above embodiments are merely examples, and other numerical values can naturally be adopted.

  In the above embodiment, the case where the pachinko machine 10 is configured as an encapsulated pachinko gaming machine has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. It may be configured as a typical pachinko gaming machine.

  In the above embodiment, the rotating body 120 includes a total of five members including the driving body 121, the first driven body 122, the second driven body 123, the third driven body 124, and the fourth driven body 125. Although explained, it is not necessarily restricted to this, For example, you may comprise only the drive body 121 and the 1st follower 122, or six or more members. As a result, the number of game balls stored by the transfer device 100 can be arbitrarily changed.

  Further, the recesses 121b1 and 121c1 of the driving body 121, the recesses 122b1 of the first follower 122, the recesses 123b1 and 123c1 of the second follower 123, the recesses 124b1 of the third follower 124, and the recesses 125b1 and 125c1 of the fourth follower 125 are shown. The number of is not limited to the above embodiment, and other numbers are naturally possible.

  In the above embodiment, the case where the transporting device 100 lifts the game ball to the upper side of the pachinko machine 10 (upper side in FIG. 1) has been described. However, the present invention is not necessarily limited thereto. You may comprise so that it may convey to (FIG. 1 left side or right side).

It is a front view of a pachinko machine and a ball rental unit. It is a rear view of a pachinko machine. It is a front view of the pachinko machine which shows the state where the front frame was removed. It is a disassembled perspective view of a front frame. FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a transport device 100. (A) is a perspective view of a drive body, (b) is a front view of the drive body in the rotation axis direction view. (A) is a perspective view of the 1st follower, and (b) is a front view of the 1st follower in the direction of a rotation axis. (A) is a perspective view of a 2nd follower, (b) is a front view of the 2nd follower in the direction of a rotating shaft. FIG. 6 is a structural diagram showing an internal structure of the transport device as viewed in the direction of arrow A in FIG. 5. FIG. 6 is a structural diagram showing an internal structure of the transport device as viewed in the direction of arrow A in FIG. 5. FIG. 6 is a structural diagram showing an internal structure of the transport device as viewed in the direction of arrow A in FIG. 5. FIG. 6 is a structural diagram showing an internal structure of the transport device as viewed in the direction of arrow A in FIG. 5. FIG. 6 is a structural diagram showing an internal structure of the transport device as viewed in the direction of arrow A in FIG. 5. FIG. 6 is a structural diagram showing an internal structure of the transport device as viewed in the direction of arrow A in FIG. 5. FIG. 6 is a structural diagram showing an internal structure of the transport device as viewed in the direction of arrow A in FIG. 5. FIG. 6 is a structural diagram showing an internal structure of the transport device as viewed in the direction of arrow A in FIG. 5. FIG. 6 is a structural diagram showing an internal structure of the transport device as viewed in the direction of arrow A in FIG. 5. FIG. 6 is a structural diagram showing an internal structure of the transport device as viewed in the direction of arrow A in FIG. 5. FIG. 6 is a structural diagram showing an internal structure of the transport device as viewed in the direction of arrow A in FIG. 5. FIG. 6 is a structural diagram showing an internal structure of the transport device as viewed in the direction of arrow A in FIG. 5.

Explanation of symbols

10 Pachinko machines (game machines)
16 Top plate (supply passage)
41a recovery passage 42a guide passage (recovery passage)
43a Recovery passage 50 Launching device 100 Conveying device 110 Housing 110a Intake port 110b Discharge port 120 Rotating body 121 Driving body (part of the rotating body)
121a Shaft part 121b, 121c Blade part 121b1, 121c1 Concave part 121b2, 121c2 Convex part 122 1st follower (a part of rotating body, follower)
122a Shaft portion 122b Blade portion 122b1 Concavity 123 Second follower (a part of the rotating body)
123a Shaft portion 123b, 123c Blade portion 123b1, 123c1 Recessed portion 124 Third driven body (part of rotating body)
124a Shaft portion 124b Blade portion 124b1 Concavity 125 Fourth driven body (part of the rotating body)
125a Shaft portion 125b, 125c Blade portion 125b1, 125c1 Recess 130 Drive motor (rotation drive means)
131 1st guide wall (part of guide wall)
132 Second guide wall (part of the guide wall)
133 Third guide wall (part of the guide wall)
134 4th guide wall (part of guide wall)
W Transport passage

Claims (5)

A supply passage serving as a passage for supplying game balls, a launching device for launching game balls supplied from the supply passage, a recovery passage serving as a passage for collecting game balls launched from the launching device, and a recovery passage thereof In a gaming machine provided with a transfer device for transferring the game ball from the supply passage to the supply passage,
The transfer device
A box-shaped housing;
A plurality of rotating bodies housed in the housing and rotatably supported;
Rotation driving means for applying a driving force to one of the plurality of rotators and rotating the rotator;
A gaming machine comprising a rectifying means for rotating the one rotating body by the rotation driving means to align the game balls in a line. The housing is
An intake port for taking in the game balls in a double row width from the collection passage;
A transport passage for transporting game balls taken in from the intake port in a row;
A discharge port for discharging the game ball transported through the transport passage,
The plurality of rotating bodies are:
A driving body for transporting the game ball through the transport passage, and disposed to face the intake port, and rotated by being applied with a driving force by the rotational driving means;
A driven body that is arranged around the driving body and rotates by transmitting the rotational force of the driving body using the game ball as a medium;
The driver is
Including a pair of blade portions projecting in a direction orthogonal to the rotation axis and disposed facing the rotation axis direction;
Concave portions for receiving the game balls from the intake port and convex portions for receiving the game balls are alternately formed along the rotation direction on the outer peripheral surfaces of the pair of blade portions, and the pair of the pair of blade portions in the rotation axis direction view. The concave portion of one blade portion of the blade portion is disposed at a position corresponding to the convex portion of the other blade portion,
The follower is
It has a single blade that projects in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis,
A plurality of recesses for receiving the game balls from the recesses of the driving body are formed along the rotation direction on the outer peripheral surface of the one blade part, and the one blade part is formed in the rotation axis direction of the driving body. It is arranged at a position inserted between the pair of blade parts facing each other,
When the driving body rotates, the game balls are alternately received one by one by the concave portion of one of the pair of blade portions and the concave portion of the other blade portion of the pair of blade portions. The game balls are transported through the transport path by passing the game balls one by one from the concave portion of the one blade portion and the concave portion of the other blade portion to the concave portion of the follower. The gaming machine according to claim 1.   The drive body is formed in a shape in which the convex part of the one blade part covers the concave part of the other blade part arranged at the corresponding position when viewed in the rotation axis direction. The gaming machine described.   4. The drive body according to claim 2, wherein the concave portion of the one blade portion and the concave portion of the other blade portion are continuously arranged along the rotation direction when viewed in the rotation axis direction. The gaming machine described.   5. The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein the concave portion of the driving body is formed in an arc shape that curves in the direction of the rotation axis.

Images