JP2011130940A - Game medium pathway, game medium replenishing device, and connection member - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game medium pathway, a game medium replenishing device and a connection member permitting easy, secure and inexpensive connection and disconnection of a tubular member, and further, permitting connection of a plurality of kinds of tubular members of different outer diameters. <P>SOLUTION: The connection member 600 connects a feed pipe 360 with a Pachinko ball introduction pathway 410, and has a projection 600c. The projection penetrates the Pachinko ball introduction pathway 410 to project to the feed pipe 360 side, and is brought into contact at least with the feed pipe 360 to support the feed pipe 360. When the state of the connection member 600 is at least changed from the connecting state in which the feed pipe 360 is connected to the Pachinko ball introduction pathway 410 to the state in which the projection 600c is moved in the direction of separating from the feed pipe 360, the connection member is urged with the resilient deformation of the connection member 600 itself in the direction of pressing the projection 600c toward the feed pipe 360. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a game medium passage through which a game medium such as a pachinko ball passes, a game medium supply device that supplies the game medium to a game machine, and a connection member that connects tubular members forming the game medium path.

  A game hall in which pachinko machines are installed has pachinko islands in a predetermined area in which a plurality of pachinko machines are arranged side by side. In addition, a replenishing device for supplying pachinko balls to the ball tank is provided above each pachinko machine on the pachinko island. Further above the replenishing device, a supply basket on which the pachinko balls roll is provided. One end of the upstream side of a tubular member such as a bellows tube is connected to the supply rod, and the other end on the downstream side of the tubular member is connected to a replenishing device. The pachinko balls that have rolled on the supply basket proceed from the supply basket into the tubular member and are guided to the replenishing device.

As a technique for connecting the bellows tube to another tubular member provided in the replenishing device or the like, there is a method of winding a connection fitting having a locking claw that engages with the bellows tube around the connection portion (see Patent Document 1).
However, the connection part that connects the replenishing device and the bellows tube is often arranged in a narrow space surrounded by various equipment on Pachinko Island. Therefore, the work space for the work of winding the connection fitting around the connection portion is insufficient, and the connection work is often difficult with the method of winding the connection fitting around the connection portion.

  In addition, in order to facilitate such connection work, a locking piece having a locking claw that engages the bellows tube at a connection destination to which the bellows tube is connected, and a tightening member that tightens the locking piece (Patent Document 2).

Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 6-33965 Japanese Patent No. 3756093

  However, in the technique disclosed in Patent Document 2, when the protrusion 7 is provided on the second tubular member formed by the first tubular member and the second tubular member into which the first tubular member is inserted. The following issues arise. That is, the projection 7 is difficult to reach the bellows tube because the outside diameter dimension of the bellows tube to be connected is slightly reduced, and if the projection 7 is lengthened, the binding tool 2 can be pulled out from the bellows tube even if it is slid to one side. There was a problem that could not. The bellows tubes currently on the market or already installed in pachinko halls vary in outer diameter size from 15.5 mm to 16.2 m for each manufacturer, and cannot be attached or the binding is sweet and soon. There was a problem of falling out.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a game medium passage, a game medium supply device, and a connection member that can be easily and reliably connected to and removed from a tubular member such as a bellows tube corresponding to tubular members having various outer diameters. It is.

  The present invention solves the above problems by the following means. In addition, in order to make an understanding easy, although the code | symbol corresponding to embodiment of this invention is attached | subjected and demonstrated, it is not limited to this.

  In the game medium passage (for example, 360, 410, 460, 470, 480, etc.) of the present invention, a first tubular member (for example, 360) through which the game medium (PB) passes and the first tubular member are inserted. A game medium passage formed by connecting a second tubular member (for example, 360, 410, 460, 470, 480, etc.), wherein the first tubular member and the second tubular member Connecting the first tubular member and the second tubular member separately from each other (for example, 600, 610, 620, etc.), and the connecting member includes the second tubular member. A protrusion (for example, 600c, 610c, 620c, etc.) that penetrates and protrudes toward the first tubular member and supports the first tubular member at least in contact with the first tubular member; At least the first tubular member and the In a state where the protrusion is moved away from the first tubular member from a state where the two tubular members are connected, an urging force is applied in a direction in which the protrusion is pressed against the first tubular member. An urging means (for example, 600, 610, 625, etc.) may be provided.

  According to this invention, since the separate connecting member includes the urging means, the urging force can be obtained while reliably supporting the first tubular member inserted into the second tubular member using the urging force. By removing the projection from the first tubular member and the second tubular member against the above, the attachment and removal can be performed easily and in a short time. Further, even if the protruding amount of the protrusion is not increased, the connecting member urged by the urging means is within a range where the connecting member itself is elastically deformed to a natural body (a state where no human force is applied) at a stationary position. As long as the protrusion is within a range that can reach the inner first tubular member, one type of connecting member is also used for connecting the first tubular member and the second tubular member having a plurality of types of outer diameters. Can be used to connect. Moreover, since it is a separate connecting member, the position of the natural body can be adjusted according to the outer diameter of the first tubular member, so that it is not necessary to prepare many types of connecting members for each tube diameter, and the member can be removed during work. You can also prevent mistakes that make mistakes. In addition, it is preferable that the projecting dimension of the projecting portion is increased inward so as not to prevent the pachinko ball from flowing down, so that the tube diameters of the connectable first and second tubular members can be widened. .

  The game medium can be, for example, a pachinko ball or a medal, but may be other forms of game media. Further, as the first tubular member, for example, a bellows tube formed by closely winding a linear material in a spiral shape can be used, but a bellows tube obtained by processing thin stainless steel into a corrugated shape may be used. However, it may be other forms of tubular members such as vinyl chloride, elastomer, soft silicon, and various resins made of foam, which have a flexibility that allows the protrusions to penetrate easily. Further, the second tubular member can be, for example, a resin or metal pipe provided with a through hole, but has a portion through which the protruding portion can penetrate, or a hole formed by the protruding portion. As long as the protrusions can be penetrated by forming an opening, any form may be used. Therefore, for example, the second tubular member may be a bellows tube similar to the first tubular member. Furthermore, as the cross-sectional shapes of the first tubular member and the second tubular member, a circular cross section is widely used, but not limited to a circular cross section, any cross section such as an oval cross section, an elliptical cross section, a quadrangular cross section, etc. It may have a cross-sectional shape.

  Further, the connecting member can be, for example, a member obtained by pressing a metal plate or a resin molded product, but may be formed of other materials as long as it has a protrusion. In addition, for example, one end of rubber or a spring can be attached to one end of the rod-shaped material, and the other end of the rubber or spring can be attached to the other end of the rod-shaped material. In addition, the first and second tubular members can be clamped, that is, the connecting member may be constituted by a rod-shaped material, rubber, a spring, or the like. Furthermore, it is not an essential requirement that the connection member be formed from a single member. For example, the connecting member may be divided into a plurality of members, such as the rod-shaped material and rubber or spring, and these may be combined to form one connecting member. Therefore, the protrusion can be formed by protruding a part of the connection member itself, but may be formed by being attached to the connection member later. Furthermore, since the protrusion only needs to be able to support the first tubular member by at least contacting the first tubular member, for example, the protrusion may simply contact the first tubular member, It may enter the inner diameter side of the first tubular member. Further, the urging means may be provided with a member such as a spring specialized for the function as the urging means, or the portions opposed to each other formed in a cylindrical shape like a cross section Ω with a part cut away. You may make it urge toward. Furthermore, in order to exert the function of the urging means, a spring, rubber or the like can be used, but not limited to this, elastic deformation of resin may be used. For example, the protrusion is preferably metallic, but may be formed using a hard engineering plastic, and the urging tip side of the protrusion by the urging means is fitted to the first and second tubular members. You may process sharply so that it may be easy. The connecting member is a separate member from the first and second tubular members, and is attached to the second tubular member by a hinge so as to be rotatable about the extending direction of the second tubular member as a rotation axis. And the first tubular member inserted into the second tubular member may be fitted so as to cover from the outside, and the separate connecting member is second in the through hole provided in the second tubular member. The tubular member and the first tubular member inserted into the second tubular member may be fitted so as to cover from the outside. By at least connecting the connecting member separately from the first and second tubular members, the connecting member is exchanged or the connecting member is slightly deformed with a finger to adjust the natural body position. Even if the outer diameter of one tubular member varies, it can be easily and reliably attached and detached.

  In addition, the game medium passage (for example, 360, 410, 460, 470, etc.) of the present invention includes a first tubular member (for example, 360) through which the game medium (for example, PB) passes, and the first tubular member. Is a game medium passage formed by connecting a second tubular member (for example, 360, 410, 460, 470, etc.) into which the first tubular member is inserted, and the first tubular member and the second tubular member, A connecting member separate from the first tubular member and the second tubular member (for example, 600, 610, etc.), and the connecting member includes the first tubular member and the second tubular member. 2 having opposing portions (for example, 600b, 610a, 610b, etc.) facing each other so as to sandwich the first tubular member and the second tubular member from the outer peripheral side of the two tubular members, and formed by an elastic member. Body portion (for example, 60 f, 610e, etc.) and projecting from the at least one of the opposing portions through the second tubular member toward the first tubular member, at least contacting the first tubular member, and A protrusion (for example, 600c, 610c, etc.) that supports the tubular member, and the main body is at least the protrusion from a state in which the first tubular member and the second tubular member are connected to each other. In a state where the protrusion is moved away from the first tubular member, the protrusion may be elastically deformed so as to apply an urging force in a direction in which the protrusion is pressed against the first tubular member.

  According to this invention, since the connection member having the main body formed by the elastic member is used separately from the first tubular member and the second tubular member, the urging force due to the elastic deformation of the elastic member is used. While securely supporting the first tubular member by utilizing it, attachment and removal can be performed easily and in a short time corresponding to tubular members having various outer diameters. Further, the connecting member can be formed into a shape that can be easily manufactured by press molding, can be formed of a single component, and can be realized at low cost. Furthermore, if it is in the range which elastically deforms, it can connect also with the connection of the 1st tubular member of several types of outer diameters, and a 2nd tubular member using one type of connection member. Therefore, it is not necessary to prepare many kinds of connecting members for each pipe diameter, and it is possible to prevent mistakes such as mistaken members during operation. By at least connecting the connecting member separately from the first and second tubular members, the connecting member is exchanged or the connecting member is slightly deformed with a finger to adjust the natural body position. Even if the outer diameter of one tubular member varies, it can be easily and reliably attached and detached.

  In addition, since the main-body part should just be formed so that elastic deformation is possible, about a projection part, it may be a rigid body, for example, the projection part formed with the material different from a main-body part is set to a main-body part. It is good also as a form to attach.

  Further, in the game medium passage of the present invention, the facing portion (for example, 600b, 610a, 610b, etc.) is opposed to cover the outer periphery of the first tubular member (for example, 360) at least a half or more. It is characterized by that.

  According to this invention, since the facing portion covers at least a half or more of the outer periphery of the first tubular member, it is possible to maintain the mounting state on the first tubular member by its own urging force.

  In the game medium passage according to the present invention, the main body (for example, 600f) further includes a base (for example, 600a) to which the facing portion is connected, and the facing portion (for example, 600b) A second tubular member (for example, 410, 460, etc.) is formed in a shape approximate to the outer diameter shape, and the first tubular member (for example, 360) is formed on the opposite side of the facing portion from the base portion. ), An open portion (for example, 600e) through which the second tubular member passes is formed.

  According to this invention, since the open portion is formed, the connecting member can be attached and detached while the first tubular member is inserted into the second tubular member, and the operation can be easily performed. If the shape has no open portion, that is, a ring shape, for example, not only the work of attaching the connecting member to the second tubular member in advance occurs, but also the second attaching the connecting member. There is a risk that a difficult operation of inserting the first tubular member into the tubular member may be forced.

  Note that the base merely refers to a portion between the facing portion and does not need to be formed with a special shape or the like that can be recognized as the base. On the other hand, the base may be formed of a member that is completely different from the member that forms the vicinity of the facing portion.

  In the game medium passage according to the present invention, the second tubular member (for example, 410) has a cylindrical surface whose outer diameter shape of the portion (for example, 410b) to which the connecting member (for example, 600) is attached. And a restricting portion for restricting the connection member from rotating around the second tubular member.

  According to this invention, since the game medium passage has the restricting portion, it is possible to prevent the connecting member from rotating and becoming difficult to be elastically deformed when the connecting member is removed. Therefore, removal can be performed easily.

  In the game medium passage of the present invention, the main body (for example, 610e) further includes the protrusion (for example, 610c) on one of the facing portions (for example, 610b), and the other facing portion. (For example, 610a) is rotatably attached to the second tubular member (for example, 470).

  According to this invention, since the connection member is rotatably attached to the second tubular member, the connection work can be easily performed. Moreover, loss of the connection member can be prevented, and connection work can be easily performed in this respect.

  In addition, as a form which attaches a connection member rotatably with respect to a 2nd tubular member, it is set as a form like a hinge, or a connection member and a 2nd tubular member are formed in the shape which can mutually engage. be able to.

  Further, the game medium passage of the present invention further has a rising portion (for example, 600d, 610d, etc.) that extends from the first tubular member in the outer diameter direction at the end of the facing portion (for example, 600b, 610b, etc.). ) Is formed.

  According to this invention, since the rising portion is formed, the connecting member can be easily attached and detached.

  In the game medium passage according to the present invention, the connection member (for example, 600, 610, etc.) may be the first tubular member (for example, 360) and the second tubular member (for example, 410, 460). , 470, etc.), the main body (eg, 600c, 610c, etc.) resists the urging force generated in the direction in which the projection (eg, 600c, 610c, etc.) is pressed against the first tubular member side. , 600f, 610e, etc.) can be elastically deformed to increase the interval between the opposing portions (for example, 600b, 610a, 610b, etc.).

  According to this invention, since it is attached / detached using elastic deformation, a tool or the like is not required for attachment / detachment, and attachment / detachment can be easily performed in a short time.

  The game medium passage of the present invention further includes a first tubular member (for example, 360) through which a game medium (for example, PB) passes, and a second tubular member (in which the first tubular member is inserted). For example, a game medium passage (for example, 360, 480, etc.) formed by connecting to 480), provided integrally with the second tubular member, or with respect to the second tubular member The fixed main body (for example, 480f) fixed to the first tubular member and the second tubular member are provided separately from each other, and one end is rotatably attached to the fixed main body. A projection that protrudes toward the first tubular member through the second tubular member at the other end and supports the first tubular member at least in contact with the first tubular member (for example, , 620c) connecting member (eg, 620) , And a said connecting member and biasing means attached to said fixed body part to provide a biasing force of the protrusion in a direction for pressing against the first tubular member (e.g., 625).

  According to this invention, since it is not necessary to use an elastic member for the connection member, for example, the connection member can be a resin molded product or a metal molded product. Therefore, the shape and material of the connecting member can be designed more freely, and it can correspond to the first tubular member having a special shape, or the connecting member can have a function other than the connection.

  In the game medium passage of the present invention, the protrusions (for example, 600c, 610c, 620c, etc.) may include the first tubular member (for example, 360) and the second tubular member (for example, 410, 460, 470, 480, etc.), the first tubular member is formed so as to enter the inner diameter side of the outer diameter.

  According to this invention, since the protrusion enters the first tubular member, that is, engages, the bellows tube can be more reliably connected.

  Further, in the game medium passage of the present invention, the connecting member (for example, 600, 610, 620, etc.) is composed of the first tubular member (360) and the second tubular member (for example, 410, 460, 470). , 480, etc.), the amount of protrusion by which the protrusion (eg, 600c, 610c, 620c, etc.) protrudes toward the inner diameter side of the first tubular member is the passage of the game medium (eg, PB) It is the quantity which does not disturb.

  According to the present invention, even if the protruding portion protrudes, the game medium can pass through the game medium passage without any delay.

  In the game medium passage of the present invention, the second tubular member (for example, 410, 470, 480, etc.) is further passed through the projection (for example, 600c, 610c, 620c, etc.). , 410c, 470c, 480c, etc.) on the outer periphery.

  According to the present invention, since the through hole is provided, the projecting portion can easily penetrate the second tubular member, whereby the connection member can be easily mounted.

  In the game medium passage of the present invention, the first tubular member (for example, 360) is a bellows tube formed by closely winding a linear material in a spiral shape.

  According to this invention, since it is a bellows tube, the protrusion enters the portion where the linear material is in close contact, and the connection can be reliably performed. Moreover, the bellows tube as the first tubular member can be realized at low cost.

  In addition, the game medium supply device of the present invention is further provided in a tank (for example, 218) that is installed on the back surface of the game machine (for example, 2) and contains a game medium (for example, PB) for prize balls. A game medium supply device (for example, 400) for supplying a game medium supplied from a supply path (for example, 350) of the game medium passage (for example, 360, 410, 460, 470, 480, etc.) of the invention described above. ) To the external supply path.

  According to the present invention, the replenishing device can be easily installed and replaced.

  As the gaming machine, for example, a pachinko machine, a pachislot machine, a pusher game machine (medal dropping game machine) or the like can be used, but even a gaming machine not included in these games uses a game medium passage. Any form of gaming machine may be used.

  The connection member of the present invention includes a first tubular member (for example, 360) through which a game medium (for example, PB) passes, and a second tubular member (for example, 410, 460) into which the first tubular member is inserted. Etc.) to form a game medium passage, and the first tubular member and the second tubular member are separate connection members (for example, 600), wherein the first tubular member and the second tubular member A main body formed by an elastic member, having an opposing portion (for example, 600b) facing each other so as to sandwich the first tubular member and the second tubular member from the outer peripheral side of the second tubular member (E.g., 600f) and the first tubular member projecting from the at least one of the opposing portions through the second tubular member toward the first tubular member and at least contacting the first tubular member Protrusions that support tubular members (eg , 600c), and the main body moves at least the first tubular member and the second tubular member in a direction away from the first tubular member from a state where the first tubular member and the second tubular member are connected. In this state, the protrusion is elastically deformed so as to apply an urging force in a direction in which the protrusion is pressed against the first tubular member.

  According to the present invention, the connecting member is formed separately from the first tubular member and the second tubular member, and has the main body portion formed by the elastic member. Therefore, the connecting member is attached by elastic deformation of the elastic member. The projection is removed from the first tubular member and the second tubular member against the biasing force while securely supporting the first tubular member inserted into the second tubular member using the force. Therefore, attachment and removal can be performed easily and in a short time. Further, even if the protruding amount of the protrusion is not increased, the connecting member urged by the urging means is within a range where the connecting member itself is elastically deformed to a natural body (a state where no human force is applied) at a stationary position. As long as the protrusion is within a range that can reach the inner first tubular member, one type of connecting member is also used for connecting the first tubular member and the second tubular member having a plurality of types of outer diameters. Can be used to connect. Moreover, since it is a separate connecting member, the position of the natural body can be adjusted according to the outer diameter of the first tubular member, so that it is not necessary to prepare many types of connecting members for each tube diameter, and the member can be removed during work. You can also prevent mistakes that make mistakes. In addition, it is preferable that the projecting dimension of the projecting portion is increased inward so as not to prevent the pachinko ball from flowing down, so that the tube diameters of the connectable first and second tubular members can be widened. . Further, the connecting member can be formed into a shape that can be easily manufactured by press molding, can be formed of a single component, and can be realized at low cost.

  According to the present invention, since the biasing force is used, the connection and removal of the tubular member can be performed easily and reliably. In addition, the game medium passage, the game medium supply device, and the connection member can be provided at a low cost with a simple structure. Furthermore, a plurality of types of tubular members having different outer diameters can be connected by one connecting member.

It is a perspective view which shows the pachinko island 100 provided with the pachinko machine 2 which has the game media supply apparatus 400 using the game media path | route by this invention. It is a side view of the pachinko machine 2 in a state in which the inter-story machine 3 is removed. It is a figure explaining the outline | summary of the replenishment system which replenishes each pachinko machine 2 with the pachinko ball PB. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the game medium supply device 400 fixed to the cross beam 370 of the pachinko island 100 as viewed from the inside of the pachinko island 100. It is the figure which looked at the game medium supply apparatus 400 fixed to the cross beam 370 of the pachinko island 100 horizontally from the outside of the pachinko island 100, that is, the player side. It is sectional drawing which shows the AA cross section shown in FIG. It is a perspective view when the bending channel | path 420 is seen from the inside of the pachinko island 100. FIG. It is a perspective view which shows the connection part of the supply pipe | tube 360 and the pachinko ball introduction channel | path 410. FIG. It is a perspective view which shows the connection part of the supply pipe | tube 360 and the pachinko ball introduction channel | path 410 from a different direction from FIG. It is a disassembled perspective view which shows the state which cancelled | released the connection of the supply pipe | tube 360 and the pachinko ball introduction channel | path 410. FIG. It is sectional drawing which shows the BB cross section shown in FIG. It is a perspective view which shows the connection part of the supply pipe | tube 360 and the pachinko ball introduction channel | path 460 in 2nd Embodiment. It is a perspective view which shows the connection part of the supply pipe | tube 360 and the pachinko ball introduction channel | path 470 in 3rd Embodiment. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view mainly showing a state in which the connection member 610 is closed at the CC cross section shown in FIG. 13. It is a perspective view which shows the connection part of the supply pipe | tube 360 and the pachinko ball introduction channel | path 480 in 4th Embodiment. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view mainly illustrating a state in which a connection member 620 is closed along a DD cross section illustrated in FIG. 15.

  The best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

(First embodiment)
FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a pachinko island 100 including a pachinko machine 2 having a game medium supply device 400 using a game medium passage according to the present invention.
In addition, each figure shown below including FIG. 1 is the figure shown typically, and the magnitude | size and shape of each part are exaggerated suitably for easy understanding. In the following description, specific numerical values, shapes, materials, and the like are shown and described, but these can be changed as appropriate. Further, in the following description, expressions representing directions such as up and down and left and right indicate directions in a state in which various devices and the like are arranged in a normal usage form unless otherwise specified.

  In the pachinko island 100, a plurality of pachinko machines 2, 2,... Are arranged in parallel between the platen plates 101, and the pachinko machines 2, 2,. . A curtain plate 102 is provided above the pachinko machines 2, 2... For example, a display device 205 having a display function corresponding to the number of acquired game media is installed on the curtain 102. On the lamp plate provided below the display unit 205, for example, a data display unit 21 that displays information such as a slump graph, the number of starts, the number of jackpots, and the like is installed. The pachinko machines 2, 2... And the inter-machine 3 are installed on the roof plate 103.

  Further, in front of the pachinko machines 2, 2,..., A chair (not shown) on which a player sits is arranged corresponding to each pachinko machine 2, 2,. Further, below each pachinko machine 2, 2..., A top plate 104 (also referred to as a counter) is provided along the longitudinal direction of the pachinko island 100 so as to protrude forward (player side). On the top plate 104, a ball box installation base 310 for installing the ball box 300 is installed corresponding to each of the pachinko machines 2, 2,. Further, on the top plate 104, a ball passage 320 for guiding the pachinko balls PB accommodated in the ball box 300 into the inter-machine 3 is installed. A cigarette collection / conveying path (not shown) for collecting cigarette butts can be installed along the top plate 104 below the top plate 104.

  Further, on the surface side of the pachinko machine 2 (the side facing the player), a base body 200, an upper plate 201 installed substantially horizontally at a substantially central portion of the front surface of the base body 200, and the upper plate 201 A ball receiving tray 202 installed substantially horizontally at the lower portion and a handle 203 installed on the right side of the ball receiving tray 202 are provided. In addition, a ball box 300 is disposed on the ball box installation base 310 below the ball receiving tray 202 at a predetermined distance.

  The pachinko machine 2 drives the pachinko ball PB placed in the upper plate 201 into the base body 200 when the player rotates the handle 203. When the pachinko ball PB has been won by being driven into the main body 200, the pachinko machine 2 discharges the winning ball obtained by winning the prize to the upper plate 201 and the ball receiving plate 202. A shutter operation unit 204 is provided on the front surface of the ball receiving tray 202. Further, an opening is provided at the bottom of the ball receiving tray 202, and the tray shutter 202a that closes the opening can be opened by operating the shutter operating unit 204 in a predetermined direction. . By opening the tray shutter 202 a, the pachinko balls PB in the ball tray 202 can be discharged into the ball box 300 below the ball tray 202.

FIG. 2 is a side view of the pachinko machine 2 with the inter-machine 3 removed.
On the back side of the pachinko machine 2, an out ball discharge unit 210, an out box 211, and an out meter 212 are provided.
The out ball discharge unit 210 discharges the out ball.
The out box 211 receives the out ball discharged from the out ball discharge unit 210.
The out meter 212 is provided below the out ball discharge hole of the out box 211 and detects the number of out balls. Out balls detected by the out meter 212 are guided to a discharge basket 214 and collected by a discharge pipe 213 connected to a discharge port provided at the bottom of the out box 211.
Here, an out ball means a fire ball. Further, the pachinko balls PB guided into the intermediary machine 3 by the ball passage 320 are counted by the counting unit, and then are discharged to the discharge rod 214 by an exhaust pipe (not shown) provided on the back surface of the intermediary machine 3. Guided and recovered.

  A prize ball tank 218 is provided on the upper surface of the back surface of the pachinko machine 2. The prize ball tank 218 accommodates a pachinko ball PB for a prize ball replenished from a replenishment system described later, and replenishes the pachinko machine PB to each pachinko machine 2, 2,.

  Various signal wirings from the pachinko machine 2 are connected to an input connector 215 provided on the back surface of the inter-machine machine 3, for example. Further, the signal wiring from the outmeter 212 is connected to a lower input connector 216 provided at the lower back of the inter-machine 3. Further, a safe meter that counts the number of balls supplied to the upper plate 201 of the pachinko machine 2 as a ball signal is installed outside the pachinko machine 2 in a detachable form on the game medium supply device 400. For example, the safe meter can be selected to be built in the game medium supply device 400. In addition, when the platform machine 3 is a so-called unit, the corresponding pachinko machine 2 is a so-called CR machine that lends a pachinko ball PB, and the number of prize balls paid out as a prize from the pachinko machine 2 without using a safe meter is pachinko. It can be counted by the output signal from the machine 2. In the case of the CR machine, a safe equivalent output corresponding to the prize ball to be paid out is output from the pachinko machine 2 based on the winnings excluding the number of balls lent. Sales based on the number of prize balls, which is the number of pachinko balls counted by the output signal from the safe meter or the pachinko machine 2, from the number of balls rented from the platform machine 3 or pachinko machine 2 and signals such as monetary information based on the number of balls lent And the information obtained by subtracting the number of shots by the output signal from the outmeter can be calculated as profit / loss information in the game hall. Here, the safe means a supply ball to the pachinko machine 2, that is, a supply ball to the upper plate 201 of the pachinko machine 2.

Next, a replenishment system for replenishing each pachinko machine 2 with the pachinko balls PB will be described.
FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining an outline of a replenishment system for replenishing each pachinko machine 2 with the pachinko balls PB. In FIG. 3, the state which looked at the back surface side of the pachinko machine 2 from the inside of the pachinko island 100 is shown.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the replenishment system is installed on the pachinko island 100. The pachinko ball PB rolls the supply basket 350 in a predetermined direction (in the direction of the arrow in FIG. 3), and the game medium supply device 400 via the supply pipe 360 provided corresponding to each pachinko machine 2, 2,. Led to. As shown in FIG. 3, the game medium supply device 400 is fixed to the cross beam 370 of the pachinko island 100.

Next, the game medium supply device 400 will be described.
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the game medium supply device 400 fixed to the cross beam 370 of the pachinko island 100 as viewed from the inside of the pachinko island 100.
FIG. 5 is a diagram in which the game medium supply device 400 fixed to the cross beam 370 of the pachinko island 100 is viewed horizontally from the outside of the pachinko island 100, that is, from the player side.
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing the AA cross section shown in FIG.

  The game medium supply device 400 stops the supply of the pachinko balls PB to the prize ball tank 218, for example, when the number of pachinko balls PB supplied to the pachinko machines is counted or when the main frame of the pachinko machine 2 is opened. It is a device with a function to perform.

The game medium supply device 400 includes a pachinko ball introduction passage 410, a counting unit 540, a passage 545, a bent passage 420, and a pachinko ball flow prevention mechanism 440.
The pachinko ball introduction passage 410 forms a part of the game medium passage through which the pachinko ball PB supplied from the supply pipe 360 passes.
The counting unit 540 counts the number of pachinko balls PB that have flowed into the pachinko ball introduction passage 410. The counting unit 540 is detachable from the housing, and can be mounted from the right side of FIG. 4, for example.

  Here, the counting unit 540 counts the number of pachinko balls PB that pass therethrough, and includes, for example, a detection sensor that detects the pachinko balls PB. As the detection sensor, for example, a non-contact type sensor or the like is used. Each time the counting unit 540 confirms the passage of one or ten pachinko balls PB as a count signal based on the detection of the pachinko balls PB, the counting unit 540 generates an electric signal of one pulse. The selection of whether one pulse is generated for every passing pachinko ball PB or one pulse for every ten pachinko balls PB can be selected by a switch (not shown) provided on the housing of the game medium supply device 400, or This is performed by an instruction signal from the illustrated management apparatus. The counting unit 540 may use light as the count signal. The information detected by the counting unit 540 is configured to be output to, for example, a control unit of the pachinko machine 2 or an island computer in a game hall.

The passage 545 is a passage through which the pachinko balls PB that have flowed out from the counting unit 540 pass.
The bent passage 420 is a passage that communicates with the passage 545 and changes the flow direction of the pachinko balls PB.
The pachinko ball flow prevention mechanism 440 is a mechanism that is provided at the bent portion 421 of the bending passage 420 and prevents the pachinko ball PB from flowing down when the main body frame of the pachinko machine 2 is opened.

In addition, the game medium supply device 400 includes a fixing base 500 and a movement base 520.
The movement base 520 is a base on which at least the game medium supply device body is mounted. In this embodiment, the main parts of the game medium supply device 400 such as the pachinko ball introduction passage 410, the bending passage 420, the pachinko ball flow prevention mechanism 440, the rotation contact member 450, the counting unit 540, and the like are installed on the movement base 520. Has been. The pedestal 520 for movement is comprised by flat members, such as resin, for example. In addition, as shown in FIG. 6, locking means 530 is formed on the edge of the moving base 520 that extends in the left and right vertical directions. The locking means 530 has a plurality of engaging recesses 530 a for engaging with the position adjusting means 510 of the fixing base 500 to adjust the vertical position of the moving base 520.

  The fixing base 500 is fixed to the transverse beam 370 of the pachinko island 100 using screws 514. The fixing base 500 is formed of a flat plate member such as resin. Guide members 501 are provided on the left and right sides of the fixing base 500 so as to extend in the vertical direction. The guide member 501 includes a guide groove 502 for guiding the moving base 520 in the vertical direction while sliding. The guide member 501 is formed with an opening 503 into which a support member 511 described later is inserted.

In addition, the fixing base 500 includes position adjusting means 510 in the vicinity of the left and right ends. The position adjusting unit 510 includes a support member 511, an elastic member 512, and a screw 513.
The elastic member 512 is formed by a coil spring, for example.
The support member 511 is formed of a plate-like member, and is attached to the fixing base 500 by tightening the screw 513 with the elastic member 512 sandwiched between the support member 511 and the screw 513.
The support member 511 is engaged with a surface on the player's side 520 (hereinafter referred to as an engagement side) relative to the screw 513 and on the surface facing the player, that is, the surface facing the base 520 for movement. A protrusion 511a is provided. The engagement side of the support member 511 provided with the engagement protrusion 511a (contact portion with the 501) is located in the opening 503 of the guide member 501, and the engagement protrusion 511a is formed in the guide groove 502 (the groove on the 501). It is arranged so that it can protrude inside.

Further, the support member 511 is located on the side farther from the moving base 520 than the screw 513 (hereinafter referred to as the non-engaging side) and on the player side surface, that is, the surface facing the fixing base 500. The support projection 511b is in contact with the fixing base 500.
With the configuration described above, the support member 511 is always urged by the elastic member 512 in the direction in which the engagement protrusion 511a on the engagement side protrudes into the guide groove 502 with the support protrusion 511b as a fulcrum. Therefore, the state in which the engagement protrusion 511a is engaged with the engagement recess 530a can be maintained.

  Further, when the non-engagement side of the support member 511 is pressed, the engagement side moves to the pachinko island inside side against the urging force by the elastic member 512 with the support protrusion 511b as a fulcrum. Accordingly, the engagement between the engagement protrusion 511a on the engagement side and the engagement recess 530a of the movement base 520 can be released, and the movement base 520 can be moved with respect to the fixing base 500. Become.

  In the present embodiment, the position adjusting means 510 is provided on both the left and right sides of the fixing base 500, and the locking means 530 is provided on both the left and right sides of the moving base 520. It is good also as a structure provided with the position adjustment means 510 and the latching means 530 in any one side.

  As described above, the game medium supply device 400 includes the position adjustment means 510 on the fixing base 500 and the locking means 530 on the movement base 520, thereby moving the movement base 520 with respect to the fixing base 500. It becomes possible to do. Further, it is possible to easily perform alignment for bringing a rotation contact member 450, which will be described later, into contact with a side wall 218a of a prize ball tank 218 provided on the back surface of the pachinko machine 2. This makes it possible to apply the game medium supply device 400 to the pachinko machines 2 in which the installation positions of the prize ball tanks 218 are different.

Next, a configuration around the bent passage 420 will be described.
FIG. 7 is a perspective view when the bent passage 420 is viewed from the inside of the pachinko island 100. FIG. 7 shows a state of the bent passage 420 in a state where the main body frame of the pachinko machine 2 is opened, that is, a state in which the pachinko ball PB is prevented from flowing by the pachinko ball flow preventing mechanism 440. The main body frame has the main functions and configuration of the pachinko machine 2 and is attached to the outer frame so as to be opened and closed.
As shown in FIG. 7, the bent passage 420 has a bent portion 421 that changes the flow-down direction of the pachinko ball PB, and the passage is bent in an L shape at the bent portion 421. Further, one end of the bent passage 420 is connected to the end portion so as to be able to communicate with a passage 545 extending downward from the counting portion 540 and bent substantially horizontally. .

  A passage 422 on the downstream side of the bent portion 421 of the bent passage 420 has a straight pipe shape, and a pachinko ball PB is directed to an award ball tank 218 provided on the back surface of the pachinko machine 2 at the end thereof. A discharge port 423 for discharging is formed. In addition, the bent portion 421 is formed with a slit-like opening 424 for a later-described protruding portion 441 to protrude into the bent portion 421.

  Further, in order to smoothly rotate the bending passage 420, a rotation shaft body 430 extends from the outer surface of the bending portion 421 of the bending passage 420 along the rotation axis of the bending passage 420. The rotation shaft body 430 is rotatably supported by a rotation shaft body support member 431. A hook 433 is provided at the end of the rotating shaft body 430. The hook 433 is engaged with the other end of the elastic member 432 whose one end is engaged with the movement base 520. In the bent passage 420, the elastic member 432 causes the bent passage 420 to be in the state shown in FIG. 7, that is, the pachinko ball PB flow preventing mechanism 440 is prevented from flowing down the pachinko ball PB (in FIG. 7). (In the direction of the arrow). Examples of the elastic member 432 include a spring member and a rubber member.

  Further, when the main body frame of the pachinko machine 2 is closed, the bent passage 420 comes into contact with the side wall 218a of the prize ball tank 218 provided on the back surface of the pachinko machine 2, and the bent passage 420 is connected to the bent passage 420 in FIG. A rotating contact member 450 that rotates the pachinko ball indicated by the imaginary line K to a state where it can flow down is provided. If the rotation contact member 450 is described in a state where the flow of the pachinko ball PB is blocked by the pachinko ball flow blocking mechanism 440 shown in FIG. It is composed of a plate-shaped member that faces downward and has an L-shaped cross section. A part of the rotating contact member 450 is fixed to the lower surface of the bent passage 420. The rotating contact member 450 is made of, for example, metal or resin.

  As shown in FIG. 7, for example, the pachinko ball flow prevention mechanism 440 includes a support member 442, and a rod-like member 443 made of metal or the like having one end wound around the support member 442 and the other end folded back into a V shape. It is comprised by. The other end side folded back in the V shape forms a protruding portion 441. In addition, the shape on the other end side is not limited to the V shape, and any shape that can prevent the pachinko ball PB from flowing down may be used. The protruding portion 441 is provided so as to be able to advance and retreat relative to the bent portion 421 in the direction in which the pachinko balls PB whose flow direction has been changed by the bent portions 421 flow down, that is, in the direction in which the pachinko balls PB flow down the passage 422. ing.

When the main body frame of the pachinko machine 2 is opened, that is, when the bent passage 420 is in a state indicated by a solid line in FIG. 7, the protruding portion 441 protrudes into the bent portion 421. Thereby, passage of pachinko ball PB is blocked.
On the other hand, when the main body frame of the pachinko machine 2 is closed, that is, when the bent passage 420 is in the state indicated by the phantom line K in FIG. 7, the protruding portion 441 is retracted from the bent portion 421. Thereby, the pachinko ball PB can pass.

  Note that the pachinko ball flow prevention mechanism 440 is not limited to the above-described configuration. For example, a solenoid or the like that can project the projecting part from the opening 424 formed in the bent part 421 in the direction in which the pachinko ball PB whose flow direction has been changed by the bent part 421 flows down may be used. In this case, for example, an open / close detection unit that detects an open / close state of the main body frame of the pachinko machine 2 may be provided, and the control unit of the pachinko machine 2 may be configured to control the solenoid based on information from the detection unit. Note that the open / close detection means includes, for example, an optical sensor or a contact sensor.

Next, a connection structure between the supply pipe 360 and the pachinko ball introduction passage 410 will be described.
FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing a connection portion between the supply pipe 360 and the pachinko ball introduction passage 410.
FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing a connection portion between the supply pipe 360 and the pachinko ball introduction passage 410 from a direction different from that in FIG.
FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a state where the connection between the supply pipe 360 and the pachinko ball introduction passage 410 is released.
FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing the BB cross section shown in FIG.
8 to 11 is provided with an xyz orthogonal coordinate system for easy explanation and understanding. However, these coordinate systems are not based on pachinko islands or the like but are provided based on the pachinko ball introduction passage 410. The z axis is provided as an axis parallel to the axial direction of the large diameter portion 410b described later. The x-axis is provided as an axis that is parallel to the dividing line dividing the pachinko ball introduction passage 410 into two parts and orthogonal to the z-axis. The y-axis is an axis orthogonal to the x-axis and the y-axis. In addition, these coordinate systems are merely provided to clearly indicate directions, and absolute coordinates such as the origin position do not have any special meaning.
In the first embodiment, the connection between the supply pipe 360 and the pachinko ball introduction passage 410 is performed using the connection member 600.

  The supply pipe 360 is a first tubular member that forms a part of the game medium passage through which the pachinko balls PB traveling from the supply basket 350 to the game medium supply device 400 pass. The supply pipe 360 of the present embodiment is a so-called bellows pipe formed by closely winding a metal linear material in a spiral shape, and has flexibility that can be bent freely with a slight force. Yes. The supply pipe 360 is formed to have an inner diameter necessary and sufficient for the pachinko ball PB to pass through the inside thereof.

The pachinko ball introduction passage 410 includes a small diameter portion 410a, a large diameter portion 410b, a through hole 410c, screw tightening portions 410d and 410e, a restriction portion 410f, an opening portion 410g, and a thrust wall portion 410h. .
The pachinko ball introduction passage 410 is rotatably connected to a counting unit 540 that counts the number of pachinko balls PB, and the position of the opening 410g can be changed corresponding to the position of the supply pipe 360.

  The small diameter portion 410a is a tubular portion whose outer diameter and inner diameter are smaller than those of a large diameter portion 410b described later. The inner diameter of the small diameter portion 410a is set to a diameter necessary and sufficient for the pachinko ball PB to pass through. In the present embodiment, the inner diameter of the small diameter portion 410a is substantially equal to the inner diameter of the supply pipe 360. A portion of the small-diameter portion 410a is bent by approximately 90 degrees, and is formed in an L shape as a whole. In addition, the pachinko ball introduction passage 410 of the present embodiment has a shape in which the introduced pachinko ball PB flows down to the counting unit 540 by forming the small diameter portion 410a in an L shape. It is not limited to. One end of the small diameter portion 410 a is rotatably connected to the counting portion 540. A large diameter portion 410b is formed on the other end side of the small diameter portion 410a.

  The large-diameter portion 410b is an annular portion having an outer peripheral surface and an inner peripheral surface that are cylindrical surfaces, and has an inner diameter dimension that allows the supply pipe 360 to be inserted. In the present embodiment, the inner diameter dimension of the large diameter portion 410b is substantially equal to the outer diameter dimension of the supply pipe 360, or the inner diameter dimension of the large diameter section 410b is larger than the outer diameter dimension of the supply pipe 360. . Accordingly, the inner diameter and the outer diameter of the large diameter portion 410b are larger than those of the small diameter portion 410a. A thrust wall portion 410h is formed at a portion where the small diameter portion 410a and the large diameter portion 410b are connected.

  The through-holes 410c are holes that are provided through the large-diameter portion 410b in a slit shape through which a later-described protrusion 600c passes, and a total of four positions are provided at positions corresponding to the protrusions 600c. Specifically, two through holes 410c are provided on the y plus side and two on the y minus side of the large diameter portion 410b.

  The screw tightening portions 410d and 410e are portions that can be fastened with screws 411 in order to couple the pachinko ball introduction passage 410 formed by dividing into two parts into one. In this embodiment, the pachinko ball introduction passage 410 is a resin molded product and is divided into two parts for convenience of molding. However, the pachinko ball introduction passage 410 may be molded as one part, or other than resin molding. You may manufacture by the method.

The restricting portion 410f is a protrusion provided so as to protrude to the x minus side of the outer peripheral surface of the large diameter portion 410b. The restricting portion 410f is provided at a position between the two sets of through holes 410c in the z-axis direction.
The opening 410g is open on the z plus side, and has an inner diameter dimension into which the supply pipe 360 can be inserted.
The thrust wall portion 410h is provided as a wall parallel to the xy plane at the z minus side end of the large diameter portion 410b.

  The connecting member 600 includes a base portion 600a, a facing portion 600b, a protruding portion 600c, a rising portion 600d, and a main body portion 600f, and presses a plate material made of a flexible elastic material such as spring stainless steel. Processed and formed. Therefore, the connection member 600 can be elastically deformed mainly by the main body portion 600f, and has a function as an urging means.

  The base portion 600a is a part of the main body portion 600f and is a portion to which a facing portion 600b described later is connected. The base portion 600a of the present embodiment is formed to protrude to the outer diameter side so as not to interfere with the restricting portion 410f. Thereby, the connection member 600 can be attached to the pachinko ball introduction passage 410 from any direction (x plus direction or x minus direction).

The opposing portion 600b is near both ends of the main body portion 600f, and sandwiches the supply pipe 360 and the pachinko ball introduction passage 410 while covering at least a half circumference of the outer periphery of the supply pipe 360 from the outer peripheral side of the supply pipe 360 and the pachinko ball introduction passage 410. So as to face each other. The facing portion 600 b is formed in an arc shape that approximates the outer diameter shape of the pachinko ball introduction passage 410.
The base portion 600a and the two opposing portions 600b form a main body portion 600f of the connection member 600 of the present embodiment.
Here, as is clear from the above explanation, the term “opposite” is not a straight front, parallel plane or the same shape portion, etc., but facing each other as a whole. Pointing. Therefore, a certain amount of positional deviation or shape mismatch is allowed. For the purposes of the description of the present invention, the term opposite in the broad sense is used.
Further, on the opposite side of the facing portion 600b from the base portion 600a, the connection member 600 is interrupted to form an opening portion 600e. The opening portion 600e is passed through the pachinko ball introduction passage 410 when the supply pipe 360 is attached and detached.

  The protrusions 600c are provided on the inner diameter side of the facing part 600b, that is, on the supply pipe 360 side, so as to protrude in one place on each side in the z direction of one facing part, for a total of four places. When connecting the supply pipe 360, the protrusion 600c engages by biting into the joint of the portion of the supply pipe 360 where the linear material is spirally wound.

  The rising portion 600d is formed by being folded back in the direction from the supply pipe 360 toward the outer diameter direction at the end of the facing portion 600b on the open portion 600e side. The rising portion 600d serves to guide the mounting when the connecting member 600 is mounted to the pachinko ball introduction passage 410. The rising portion 600d serves to make it easier for an operator's finger or the like to be hooked when the connecting member 600 is removed from the pachinko ball introduction passage 410. Therefore, it is preferable that the rising portion 600d protrudes to the outer diameter side by an amount sufficient to fulfill these functions.

Here, connection and removal of the supply pipe 360 with respect to the pachinko ball introduction passage 410 in the game medium supply device 400 of the present embodiment having the above-described configuration will be described.
When connecting the supply pipe 360, first, the supply pipe 360 is inserted from the opening 410g. At this time, the supply pipe 360 is inserted until the tip of the supply pipe 360 comes into contact with the thrust wall portion 410h. Next, the connecting member 600 is caused to approach the pachinko ball introduction passage 410 from the x plus side or the x minus side so that the opening portion 600e is on the pachinko ball introduction passage 410 side. At this time, the position in the z direction is adjusted so that the protruding portion 600c of the connecting member 600 can be inserted into the through hole 410c. When the connection member 600 is brought close to the pachinko ball introduction passage 410, the rising portion 600 d of the connection member 600 comes into contact with the outer peripheral portion of the pachinko ball introduction passage 410. When the operator directly pushes the base portion 600a toward the pachinko ball introduction passage 410, the rising portion 600d moves along the outer peripheral shape of the pachinko ball introduction passage 410, and the main body portion 600f composed of the facing portion 600b and the base portion 600a is formed. While elastically deforming, the interval between the opposing portions 600b increases. When the protruding portion 600c reaches the through hole 410c, the protruding portion 600c enters the through hole 410c by the biasing force generated by the elastic deformation of the facing portion 600b and the base portion 600a. When the protrusion 600 c comes into contact with the supply pipe 360, the protrusion 600 c bites in while being closely wound in a spiral shape of the linear material forming the supply pipe 360 and engages with the supply pipe 360. The protrusion 600c bites into the supply pipe 360 may be performed only by the urging force due to the elastic deformation of the connection member 600, or the operator finally pinches the facing portion 600b to cause the protrusion 600c to move. The biting into the supply pipe 360 may be assisted.

In the present embodiment, the connection member 600 is in a free state without elastic deformation in a state where the protruding portion 600c bites into the supply pipe 360. Therefore, the connection member 600 can maintain its form most stably when the protrusion 600c bites into the supply pipe 360. Therefore, when the supply pipe 360 is connected, when the connection member 600 is pushed, the biasing force in a direction in which the connection member 600 returns its form to the direction of engagement with the supply pipe 360 when a certain critical position is exceeded. Therefore, it can move in the direction of the connected state by itself, and the connection work can be performed very easily as if using a so-called snap fit.
Moreover, the connection member 600 can stably maintain the state engaged with the supply pipe 360, and can improve the reliability of connection between the supply pipe 360 and the pachinko ball introduction passage 410. Further, since the connecting member 600 does not apply a load to other members, the reliability around the pachinko ball introduction passage 410 can be improved.

Even in a state where the protrusion 600c bites into the supply pipe 360, the connecting member 600 is in an elastically deformed state, and the protrusion 600c is pressed in the direction of biting into the supply pipe 360 by the biasing force. Good. If it does in this way, connection of supply pipe 360 can be performed more certainly.
Further, since the connecting member 600 can be elastically deformed, for example, even a supply pipe or a pachinko ball introduction passage having a large outer diameter can be connected using the same connecting member 600. Furthermore, even in the state where the protrusion 600c bites into the supply pipe 360 as described above, the connection member 600 is in an elastically deformed state, and the protrusion 600c is pressed in the direction of biting into the supply pipe 360 by the biasing force. In such a case, even with a supply pipe or pachinko ball introduction passage having a small outer diameter, it is possible to connect using the same connection member 600.

  On the other hand, when releasing the connection of the supply pipe 360, the operator applies a force in such a direction that the interval between the facing parts 600b is increased by placing a finger on the rising part 600d. Then, the opposing portion 600b and the base portion 600a are elastically deformed, and the engagement between the protruding portion 600c and the supply pipe 360 is released. Further, when a force is applied in the direction in which the interval between the facing portions 600b is increased, the protruding portion 600c is detached from the through hole 410c, and the connecting member 600 can be removed. Here, when the operator applies force to the connection member 600, even if the connection member 600 rotates around the pachinko ball introduction passage 410, the connection portion between the rising portion 600d and the facing portion 600b or the protrusion of the base portion 600a. The inner wall portion having the shape contacts the restricting portion 410f. Thereby, the rotation of the connection member 600 around the pachinko ball introduction passage 410 is restricted. Therefore, the worker can easily perform the work of releasing the connection of the supply pipe 360.

  As described above, according to the first embodiment, since the connection structure between the supply pipe 360 and the pachinko ball introduction passage 410 uses elastic deformation of the connection member 600, the supply pipe 360 and the pachinko ball introduction Connection to and removal from the passage 410 can be performed easily and reliably. Further, since the connecting member 600 is constituted by a single member and is formed by pressing an elastic member, the structure is simple and can be provided at low cost. Furthermore, since the connection member 600 uses elastic deformation, a plurality of types of tubular members having different outer diameters can be connected.

(Second Embodiment)
FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing a connection portion between the supply pipe 360 and the pachinko ball introduction passage 460 in the second embodiment.
The second embodiment has the same form as the first embodiment except that the form of the pachinko ball introduction passage 460 is different from the pachinko ball introduction passage 410 in the first embodiment. Therefore, the same reference numerals are given to the portions that perform the same functions as those in the first embodiment described above, and repeated descriptions are omitted as appropriate.
The pachinko ball introduction passage 460 of the second embodiment is a bellows tube similar to the supply tube 360. The pachinko ball introduction passage 460 is formed to have an inner diameter into which the supply pipe 360 can be inserted. When performing the connection, first, the supply pipe 360 is inserted into the pachinko ball introduction passage 460 until it overlaps with a sufficient amount for the connection by the connection member 600. Next, the connecting member 600 is attached to the outer peripheral portion of the pachinko ball introduction passage 460 where the supply pipe 360 is inserted. Thereby, the protrusion part 600c of the connection member 600 penetrates the pachinko ball introduction passage 460 and enters the supply pipe 360, and the supply pipe 360 and the pachinko ball introduction passage 460 are connected.

  As described above, according to the second embodiment, the bellows tubes can be connected to each other using the connection member 600 common to the first embodiment. Therefore, the connection member 600 can be applied not only to the periphery of the game medium supply device 400 but also to various connection portions in the game medium passage.

(Third embodiment)
FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a connection portion between the supply pipe 360 and the pachinko ball introduction passage 470 in the third embodiment.
FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view mainly showing a state in which the connection member 610 is closed at the CC cross section shown in FIG. 13.
In the third embodiment, the connection between the supply pipe 360 and the pachinko ball introduction passage 470 is performed using the connection member 610.
The third embodiment has the same form as the first embodiment except that the pachinko ball introduction passage 470 and the connection member 610 are different from the pachinko ball introduction passage 410 and the connection member 600 in the first embodiment. Therefore, the same reference numerals are given to the portions that perform the same functions as those in the first embodiment described above, and repeated descriptions are omitted as appropriate.

The pachinko ball introduction passage 470 of the third embodiment includes a small diameter part 470a, a large diameter part 470b, a through hole 470c, an opening part 470d, a thrust wall part 470e, and a hinge part 470f.
The small diameter portion 470a is a tubular portion whose outer diameter and inner diameter are smaller than those of a large diameter portion 470b described later. The inner diameter of the small diameter portion 470a is set to a diameter necessary and sufficient for the pachinko ball PB to pass through. A portion of the small diameter portion 470a is bent approximately 90 degrees, and is formed in an L shape as a whole. One end of the small diameter portion 470 a is rotatably connected to the counting portion 540. A large diameter portion 470b is formed on the other end side of the small diameter portion 470a.

The large-diameter portion 470b is an annular portion having an outer peripheral surface and an inner peripheral surface that are cylindrical surfaces, and an inner diameter dimension is defined so that the supply pipe 360 can be inserted. In the present embodiment, the inner diameter dimension of the large diameter part 470b is substantially equal to the outer diameter dimension of the supply pipe 360, or the inner diameter dimension of the large diameter part 470b is formed larger than the outer diameter dimension of the supply pipe 360. . Therefore, the inner diameter and outer diameter of the large diameter portion 470b are larger than those of the small diameter portion 470a. A thrust wall portion 470e is formed at a portion where the small diameter portion 470a and the large diameter portion 470b are connected.
Unlike the pachinko ball introduction passage 410 of the first embodiment, the pachinko ball introduction passage 470 of the third embodiment is molded as one part without being divided into two parts, but divided into two parts. It may be formed.

  The through-holes 470c are holes that are provided through the large-diameter portion 470b in a slit shape through which a later-described protrusion 610c passes, and are provided at two positions in total corresponding to the protrusion 610c. In the present embodiment, the slit-shaped through hole is adjusted to the size of the protrusion 610c. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it is formed as a large through hole connecting two through holes provided on the same side. May be.

The opening 470d is open on the z plus side, and has an inner diameter dimension into which the supply pipe 360 can be inserted.
The thrust wall portion 470e is provided as a wall parallel to the xy plane at the z minus side end of the large diameter portion 470b.

  The hinge part 470f is provided on the y minus side of the large diameter part 470b, and is formed in a shape into which the shaft 471 can be inserted. A first facing portion 610a described later is attached to the hinge portion 470f using a shaft 471.

  The connection member 610 includes a first facing portion 610a, a second facing portion 610b, a protruding portion 610c, a rising portion 610d, and a main body portion 610e, and has flexibility such as spring stainless steel. It is formed by pressing a plate of an elastic material. Therefore, the connection member 610 can be elastically deformed almost entirely, and has a function as an urging means.

  The first facing portion 610a is at one end of the main body portion 610e and has a shape into which the shaft 471 can be inserted. The first facing portion 610a is rotatably attached to the hinge portion 470f by inserting a shaft 471 into the first facing portion 610a and the hinge portion 470f.

  The second facing portion 610b is provided at the other end of the main body 610e (on the side opposite to the first facing portion 610a) so as to face the first facing portion 610a while covering the supply pipe 360 more than half a circumference. It has been. The second facing portion 610b of the third embodiment faces the first facing portion 610a while covering the supply pipe 360 by 180 degrees or more. Further, a protrusion 610c described later is also opposed to the first facing portion 610a while covering the supply pipe 360 by 180 degrees or more.

  The protrusions 610c are provided so as to protrude from the inner diameter side of the second facing portion 610b, that is, at both ends in the z direction on the supply pipe 360 side, a total of two locations. When the supply pipe 360 is connected, the protrusion 610c is engaged by biting into a portion where the linear material of the supply pipe 360 is spirally wound.

  The rising portion 610d is formed to be folded back in the direction from the supply pipe 360 toward the outer diameter direction at the end of the second facing portion 610b. The rising portion 610d functions to make it easy to hook the operator's finger or the like when the connecting member 610 is removed from the pachinko ball introduction passage 470. Therefore, the rising portion 610d is preferably protruded to the outer diameter side by an amount sufficient to hook the operator's finger or the like.

  When connecting the supply pipe 360, first, the supply pipe 360 is inserted from the opening 470d in a state where the connection member 610 is opened (a state indicated by a broken line in FIG. 14). At this time, the supply pipe 360 is inserted until the tip of the supply pipe 360 comes into contact with the thrust wall portion 470e. Next, the connecting member 610 is pushed in the closing direction. Since the second facing portion 610b is opposed to the first facing portion 610a while covering the supply pipe 360 more than half a circumference (180 degrees or more), the second facing portion 610b is connected to the supply pipe 360 and the pachinko ball introduction passage 470. When approaching, the tip of the second facing portion 610b or the protrusion 610c comes into contact with the large diameter portion 410b or the supply pipe 360. If the connection member 610 is continuously pushed in the closing direction, the entire connection member 610 is elastically deformed, and the distance between the first facing portion 610a and the second facing portion 610b is increased. At this time, the protrusion 610c may bite into the supply pipe 360. When the connection member 610 is completely closed (indicated by a solid line in FIG. 14), the protrusion 610c bites into the supply pipe 360 and engages. The protrusion 610c bites into the supply pipe 360 may be performed only by the urging force due to the elastic deformation of the connection member 610, or the operator finally pushes the second facing part 610b or the like to protrude. The biting of the part 610c into the supply pipe 360 may be assisted.

  In the state where the connecting member 610 is completely closed as indicated by the solid line in FIG. 14, as described above, the second facing portion 610b faces the first facing portion 610a while covering the supply pipe 360 by 180 degrees or more. Therefore, if the second facing portion 610b is moved in a direction in which the engagement between the projection 610c and the supply pipe 360 is released, the engagement is caused by the biasing force generated by the elastic deformation of the connection member 610. A force in a direction that prevents movement in the release direction acts. In other words, the connection member 610 tries to maintain the state where the connection member 610 is wound around the supply pipe 360 and the pachinko ball introduction passage 470 by itself. Accordingly, when the connection member 610 is pushed and the connection member 610 is pushed during the operation of closing the connection member 610 and connecting the supply pipe 360, the connection member 610 moves in a direction to engage with the supply pipe 360 when a certain critical position is exceeded. Due to the biasing force in the direction of returning the form, it moves in the direction of closing itself, and the connection work can be performed very easily with a sense of using a so-called snap fit.

  On the other hand, when releasing the connection of the supply pipe 360, the operator applies a force in a direction to open the second facing portion 610b by placing a finger on the rising portion 610d. Then, the entire connection member 610 is elastically deformed, and the engagement between the protrusion 610c and the supply pipe 360 is released. Thus, the worker can easily perform the work of releasing the connection of the supply pipe 360.

  As described above, according to the third embodiment, the connection member 610 is attached to the first facing portion 610a, which is one of the facing portions, so as to be rotatable with respect to the pachinko ball introduction passage 470, and on the other side of the facing portion. A protrusion 610c is provided on a certain second facing portion 610b. Therefore, in the connection structure between the supply pipe 360 and the pachinko ball introduction passage 470 of the third embodiment, connection work can be easily performed and loss of the connection member can be prevented. Further, since the connection member 610 of the third embodiment uses the elastic deformation of the connection member 610, similarly to the connection member 600 of the first embodiment, the connection between the supply pipe 360 and the pachinko ball introduction passage 470. And removal can be performed easily and reliably. Furthermore, since the connection structure between the supply pipe 360 and the pachinko ball introduction passage 470 of the third embodiment has only one simple shaft added to the form shown in the first embodiment. The structure is simple and can be provided at low cost. Furthermore, since the connection member 610 uses elastic deformation, a plurality of types of tubular members having different outer diameters can be connected as in the first embodiment.

(Fourth embodiment)
FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing a connection portion between the supply pipe 360 and the pachinko ball introduction passage 480 in the fourth embodiment.
FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view mainly showing a state in which the connection member 620 closes the DD cross section shown in FIG. 15.
In the fourth embodiment, the connection between the supply pipe 360 and the pachinko ball introduction passage 480 is performed using the connection member 620 and the urging member 625.
The fourth embodiment is the same as the first embodiment except that the pachinko ball introduction passage 480 and the connection member 620 are different from the pachinko ball introduction passage 410 and the connection member 600 in the first embodiment. Therefore, the same reference numerals are given to the portions that perform the same functions as those in the first embodiment described above, and repeated descriptions are omitted as appropriate.

The pachinko ball introduction passage 480 of the fourth embodiment includes a small diameter part 480a, a large diameter part 480b, a through hole 480c, an opening 480d, a thrust wall part 480e, and a hinge part 480f.
The small diameter portion 480a is a tubular portion having an outer diameter and an inner diameter smaller than a large diameter portion 480b described later. The inner diameter of the small diameter portion 480a is set to a diameter necessary and sufficient for the pachinko ball PB to pass through. A portion of the small-diameter portion 480a is bent by approximately 90 degrees and is formed in an L shape as a whole. One end of the small diameter portion 480 a is rotatably connected to the counting portion 540. A large diameter portion 480b is formed on the other end side of the small diameter portion 480a.

The large diameter portion 480b is an annular portion having a cylindrical surface on the outer peripheral surface and the inner peripheral surface, and the inner diameter dimension is defined so that the supply pipe 360 can be inserted. In the present embodiment, the inner diameter dimension of the large diameter portion 480b is substantially equal to the outer diameter dimension of the supply pipe 360, or the inner diameter dimension of the large diameter section 480b is formed larger than the outer diameter dimension of the supply pipe 360. . Therefore, the inner diameter and outer diameter of the large diameter portion 480b are larger than those of the small diameter portion 480a. A thrust wall portion 480e is formed at a portion where the small diameter portion 480a and the large diameter portion 480b are connected.
Unlike the pachinko ball introduction passage 410 of the first embodiment, the pachinko ball introduction passage 480 of the fourth embodiment is formed as one part without being divided into two parts, but divided into two parts. It may be formed.

The through-hole 480c is a hole (opening shape) provided penetrating on the y plus side of the large-diameter portion 480b so that most of a connecting member 620 described later is accommodated.
The opening 480d is open on the z plus side, and has an inner diameter dimension into which the supply pipe 360 can be inserted.
The thrust wall portion 480e is provided as a wall parallel to the xy plane at the z minus side end of the large diameter portion 480b.

  The hinge portion 480f is a fixed main body portion integrally provided on the x plus side of the large diameter portion 480b, and is formed in a shape into which the shaft 481 can be inserted. A support end 620a, which will be described later, is attached to the hinge portion 480f using a shaft 481.

  The connection member 620 includes a support end 620a, a movable end 620b, a protrusion 620c, and a rising portion 620d. Unlike the case of the first to third embodiments, the connection member 620 is a molded product made of engineering plastic. Therefore, the rigidity is relatively high and elastic deformation cannot be expected.

The support end portion 620a is provided at one end of the connection member 620, and has a shape into which the shaft 481 can be inserted. The support end portion 620a is rotatably attached to the hinge portion 480f by inserting a shaft 481 into the support end portion 620a and the hinge portion 480f.
The movable end 620b is provided at the other end of the connection member 620 (the end opposite to the support end 620a).

  The protrusions 620c are provided so as to protrude from the inner diameter side of the movable end portion 620b, that is, at both ends in the z direction on the supply pipe 360 side, a total of two locations. When the supply pipe 360 is connected, the protrusion 620c engages by biting into a portion of the supply pipe 360 in which the linear material is wound spirally.

  The rising portion 620d is formed in a shape that is folded back in the direction from the supply pipe 360 toward the outer diameter direction at the end portion of the movable end portion 620b. The rising portion 620d functions to make it easy to hook an operator's finger or the like when the connection member 620 is removed from the pachinko ball introduction passage 480. Therefore, the rising portion 620d is preferably protruded to the outer diameter side by an amount sufficient to hook the operator's finger or the like.

The biasing member 625 is a biasing means formed as a torsion coil spring, and has a coil portion 625a, a fixed arm portion 625b, and a movable arm portion 625c. Is formed.
The coil portion 625a is a portion wound in a coil shape, and a shaft 481 is inserted into the coil portion 625a, and the urging member 625 is attached to the pachinko ball introduction passage 480.
The fixed arm portion 625b extends on the y minus side from the shaft 481, and is in contact with the outer periphery of the large diameter portion 480b.
The movable arm 625 c extends to the y plus side from the shaft 481 and is in contact with the outer periphery of the connection member 620.
Since the urging member 625 is provided as described above, the urging member 625 urges the connecting member 620 in the closing direction (the direction indicated by the arrow in FIG. 16).

  When connecting the supply pipe 360, first, the connection member 620 is opened (indicated by a broken line in FIG. 16), the supply pipe 360 is brought into contact with the opening 480d, and the tip of the supply pipe 360 is brought into contact with the thrust wall 480e. Insert until Next, the hand etc. which hold | maintain the connection member 620 in the open state are released, and the connection member 620 is made into a free state. Then, the connecting member 620 moves to a completely closed state (a state indicated by a solid line in FIG. 16) or just before that by the urging force of the urging member 625. When the connecting member 620 is moved to a completely closed state only by the urging force by the urging member 625, the protrusion 620c bites into and engages the supply pipe 360. In addition, when the connecting member 620 cannot be completely closed only by the urging force of the urging member 625, the operator may push the connecting member 620 last to cause the protruding portion 620c to bite into the supply pipe 360. .

  Even in the state where the connection member 620 is completely closed, which is indicated by a solid line in FIG. 16, the biasing member 625 biases the connection member 620 in the closing direction. Therefore, the supply pipe 360 can be reliably connected and the state where the supply pipe 360 is connected can be maintained. Further, as described above, since the urging force of the urging member 625 is used, the connection work can be performed very easily.

  On the other hand, when releasing the connection of the supply pipe 360, the operator applies a force in a direction to open the movable end 620b by placing a finger on the rising portion 620d. Then, the engagement between the protrusion 620c and the supply pipe 360 is released against the urging force of the urging member 625. Thus, the worker can easily perform the work of releasing the connection of the supply pipe 360.

  As described above, according to the fourth embodiment, since the connection member 620 is urged in the closing direction by the urging member 625, the supply pipe 360 can be reliably connected, and the supply pipe The state where 360 is connected can be maintained. Further, since the urging force by the urging member 625 is used, the connection work can be performed very easily. Furthermore, since the biasing member 625 is a torsion coil spring having a simple shape, it is possible to provide a game medium path including the connection structure of the fourth embodiment at a low cost.

(Deformation)
The present invention is not limited to the embodiment described above, and various modifications and changes are possible, and these are also within the scope of the present invention.

(1) In each embodiment, the example which applies this invention to the game media path in the pachinko ball introduction channel provided in the game media supply device has been described. The place to which the present invention is applied is not limited to this, and may be any place in the game hall as long as it is a game medium passage through which the game medium passes.

(2) In each embodiment, the example in which the protrusion 600c and the like enter the inner diameter side of the supply pipe 360 has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the connection may be made by engaging the tip of the protrusion with the uneven portion on the outer diameter side of the supply pipe 360.

(3) In 3rd Embodiment and 4th Embodiment, the connection member demonstrated and demonstrated the example attached rotatably with respect to the pachinko ball introduction channel | path via the axis | shaft. For example, the connecting member and the pachinko ball introduction passage are formed with protrusions and the like that can engage with each other, and by engaging them, the connection member is connected to the pachinko ball introduction passage. You may attach so that rotation is possible. Further, the connection member may be engaged with the pachinko ball introduction passage in such a manner that one end of the connection member is hooked to the pachinko ball introduction passage without being attached rotatably to the pachinko ball introduction passage.

(4) In 3rd Embodiment and 4th Embodiment, the connection member gave and demonstrated the example attached rotatably with respect to the hinge part currently integrally fixed to the pachinko ball introduction channel | path. For example, a base member having a function corresponding to a hinge portion may be prepared, and the connection member may be rotatably attached to the base member. In this case, the base member can be attached later to the pachinko ball introduction passage or the like, or attached to another member, and versatility can be improved.

(5) In the fourth embodiment, an example in which a torsion coil spring is used as the biasing means has been described. For example, the urging means may be other forms of urging means such as rubber and leaf springs.

  In addition, although 1st Embodiment-4th Embodiment and modification can also be used in combination suitably, detailed description is abbreviate | omitted. Further, the present invention is not limited by the embodiments described above.

  PB ... Pachinko ball, 2 ... Pachinko machine, 3 ... Standing machine, 21 ... Data display machine, 100 ... Pachinko island, 101 ... Saddle board, 102 ... Curtain board, 103 ... Saddle board, 104 ... Top board, 200 ... Stand Main body 201 ... upper plate 202 ... ball receiving plate 202a ... receiving plate shutter 203 ... handle 204 ... shutter operation unit 205 ... display unit 210 ... out ball discharge unit 211 ... out box 212 ... out meter 213 ... discharge pipe, 214 ... discharge rod, 215 ... input connector, 216 ... lower input connector, 218 ... prize ball tank, 218a ... side wall, 300 ... ball box, 310 ... ball box installation base, 320 ... ball path, 350 ... supply Samurai, 360 ... Supply pipe, 370 ... Cross beam, 400 ... Game medium supply device, 410 ... Pachinko ball introduction passage, 410a ... Small diameter part, 410b ... Large diameter part, 410c Through hole, 410d ... screw tightening portion, 410e ... screw tightening portion, 410f ... regulating portion, 410g ... opening portion, 410h ... thrust wall portion, 411 ... screw, 420 ... bending passage, 421 ... bending portion, 422 ... passage, 423 ... Exhaust port, 424 ... Opening part, 430 ... Rotating shaft body, 431 ... Rotating shaft body support member, 432 ... Elastic member, 433 ... Hook, 440 ... Pachinko ball flow prevention mechanism, 441 ... Protrusion, 442 ... Support 443 ... pachinko ball introduction passage, 470 ... pachinko ball introduction passage, 470a ... small diameter portion, 470b ... large diameter portion, 470c ... through hole, 470d ... opening, 470e ... thrust wall part, 470f ... hinge part, 471 ... shaft, 480 ... pachinko ball introduction passage, 480a ... small diameter part, 480b ... large diameter part, 480c ... through hole, 480d ... Mouth part, 480e ... thrust wall part, 480f ... hinge part, 481 ... shaft, 500 ... fixing base, 501 ... guide member, 502 ... guide groove, 503 ... opening, 510 ... position adjusting means, 511 ... support member, 511a ... engaging protrusion, 511b ... support protrusion, 512 ... elastic member, 520 ... moving base, 530 ... locking means, 530a ... engaging recess, 540 ... counting part, 545 ... passage, 600 ... connecting member, 600a ... Base, 600b ... Opposing part, 600c ... Protruding part, 600d ... Rising part, 600e ... Opening part, 600f ... Main body part, 610 ... Connection member, 610a ... First opposing part, 610b ... Second opposing part, 610c ... Projection part, 610d ... Rising part, 610e ... Main body part, 620 ... Connecting member, 620a ... Support end part, 620b ... Moving end part, 620c ... Protrusion part, 620d ... Right Rising part, 625 ... biasing member, 625a ... coil part, 625b ... fixed side arm part, 625c ... movable side arm part

Claims (15)

A game medium passage formed by connecting a first tubular member through which a game medium passes and a second tubular member into which the first tubular member is inserted;
A connecting member separate from the first tubular member and the second tubular member, which connects the first tubular member and the second tubular member;
The connecting member has a protrusion that penetrates the second tubular member and protrudes toward the first tubular member, and at least contacts the first tubular member to support the first tubular member. And
At least in a state in which the protrusion is moved away from the first tubular member from a state in which the first tubular member and the second tubular member are connected, the protrusion is moved to the first tubular member. A game medium passage comprising urging means for applying an urging force in a direction in which the member is pressed. A game medium passage formed by connecting a first tubular member through which a game medium passes and a second tubular member into which the first tubular member is inserted;
A connecting member separate from the first tubular member and the second tubular member, which connects the first tubular member and the second tubular member;
The connecting member is
The first tubular member and the second tubular member have opposing portions so as to be able to sandwich the first tubular member and the second tubular member from the outer peripheral side of the second tubular member, and are formed by an elastic member. The main body,
A projecting portion that penetrates the second tubular member from at least one of the opposing portions and protrudes toward the first tubular member, and at least contacts the first tubular member to support the first tubular member When,
Have
The main body is configured to move the protrusion at least in a state in which the protrusion is moved away from the first tubular member from a state in which the first tubular member and the second tubular member are connected. Elastically deforming so as to apply an urging force in a direction of pressing against the first tubular member;
A game medium passage characterized by. In the game medium passage according to claim 2,
The facing portion is facing the outer circumference of the first tubular member while covering at least a half circumference,
A game medium passage characterized by. In the game medium passage according to claim 2 or claim 3,
The main body has a base connected to the facing portion,
The opposing portion is formed in a shape that approximates the outer diameter shape of the second tubular member,
An opening portion through which the second tubular member passes when the first tubular member is attached and detached is formed on the opposite side of the facing portion from the base portion,
A game medium passage characterized by. In the game medium passage according to any one of claims 2 to 4,
In the second tubular member, the outer diameter shape of the portion where the connecting member is mounted is a cylindrical surface,
Having a restricting portion for restricting the connection member from rotating around the second tubular member;
A game medium passage characterized by. In the game medium passage according to claim 2 or claim 3,
The main body has the protrusion on one of the opposing portions, and the other opposing portion is rotatably attached to the second tubular member;
A game medium passage characterized by. In the game medium passage according to any one of claims 2 to 6,
A rising portion directed from the first tubular member toward the outer diameter direction is formed at an end of the facing portion,
A game medium passage characterized by. In the game medium passage according to any one of claims 2 to 7,
The connecting member resists an urging force generated in a direction in which the protrusion is pressed against the first tubular member when the first tubular member and the second tubular member are attached to and detached from each other. The body portion can be elastically deformed to widen the facing interval of the facing portions;
A game medium passage characterized by. A game medium passage formed by connecting a first tubular member through which a game medium passes and a second tubular member into which the first tubular member is inserted;
A fixed main body provided integrally with the second tubular member or fixed to the second tubular member;
The first tubular member and the second tubular member are provided separately from each other, and one end is rotatably attached to the fixed main body, and the other end penetrates the second tubular member. A connecting member provided with a protrusion that protrudes toward the first tubular member and supports the first tubular member at least in contact with the first tubular member;
A biasing means attached to the connection member and the fixed main body so as to apply a biasing force in a direction of pressing the protrusion against the first tubular member;
A game media passage comprising: In the game medium passage according to any one of claims 1 to 9,
The protrusion is formed so as to enter the inner diameter side of the outer diameter of the first tubular member in a state where the first tubular member and the second tubular member are connected.
A game medium passage characterized by. The game medium passage according to claim 10,
In a state where the connection member connects the first tubular member and the second tubular member, the protruding amount by which the protruding portion protrudes toward the inner diameter side of the first tubular member prevents the passage of the game medium. That there is no amount,
A game medium passage characterized by. In the game medium passage according to any one of claims 1 to 11,
The second tubular member has a through hole in the outer peripheral portion through which the protruding portion passes,
A game medium passage characterized by. In the game medium passage according to any one of claims 1 to 12,
The first tubular member is a bellows tube formed by closely winding a linear material in a spiral shape;
A game medium passage characterized by. A game medium replenishing device for replenishing a game medium supplied from an external supply path to a tank for storing a game medium for prize balls installed on the back side of the gaming machine,
It is connected to the external supply path through the game medium passage according to any one of claims 1 to 13,
A game medium supply device characterized by the above. The first tubular member and the second tubular member that connect the first tubular member through which the game medium passes and the second tubular member into which the first tubular member is inserted to form a game medium passage. A connecting member separate from the member,
The first tubular member and the second tubular member have opposing portions so as to be able to sandwich the first tubular member and the second tubular member from the outer peripheral side of the second tubular member, and are formed by an elastic member. The main body,
A projecting portion that penetrates the second tubular member from at least one of the opposing portions and protrudes toward the first tubular member, and at least contacts the first tubular member to support the first tubular member When,
Have
The main body is configured to move the protrusion at least in a state in which the protrusion is moved away from the first tubular member from a state in which the first tubular member and the second tubular member are connected. Elastically deforming so as to apply an urging force in a direction of pressing against the first tubular member;
A connection member characterized by the above.

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