JP2014104256A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of improving an interest even after a game ball entered a distribution device.SOLUTION: A game machine for performing a game by shooting a game ball P into a game area of a game board comprises: a distribution device 50 forming a first guide path 86 and a second guide path 87 for guiding the game ball P coming from an approach mouth 68, into a first area 81 and a second area 82; and a first inflow port 58a and a second inflow port 58b, into which the game ball P flows. The game machine is characterized in that the first inflow port 58a and the second inflow port 58b are disposed at positions on the back sides of the first guide path 86 and second guide path 87 in the distribution device 50.

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine in which a game is played by firing a game ball onto a game area on a game board surface.

  The gaming machine improves the interest of the game by changing the flow path of the game ball launched by the player in various ways, such as with a nail or an accessory provided in the game area. 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, as an accessory that changes the flow path of a game ball, a sorting apparatus that can distribute the flow path of the game ball into a plurality of flow paths is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

  The distribution device described in Patent Document 1 has an entrance into which a game ball flowing down the game area can enter, a first area and a second area into which the game ball can flow, and a game ball that has entered from the entrance into the first area. A state of guiding toward the first region and a state of guiding toward the second region can be realized, and includes a distribution member that distributes the game balls to the first region and the second region. A state in which the game ball is guided toward the first region and a state in which the game ball is guided toward the second region are alternately realized by the dead weight of the game ball that has entered from the entrance. According to the distribution device described in Patent Document 1, it is said that game balls can be alternately distributed to the first region and the second region without requiring complicated control means.

JP 2010-104564 A

  However, in a gaming machine equipped with a sorting device of the prior art, when a game ball enters the sorting device from the entrance, the game ball is either in the first area or the second area. Can be predicted. In addition, after the game ball is distributed by the distribution member, it is always guided to either the first area or the second area. For this reason, it is difficult to say that the player's attention is effectively gathered in the movement of the game ball after entering the sorting apparatus, and there is room for improvement in improving the interest of the game.

  Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of the above-described circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a gaming machine that can improve interest even after a game ball has entered a sorting device.

  In order to solve the above-described problems, a gaming machine according to claim 1 of the present invention is a gaming machine in which a game is played by firing a game ball in a game area of a game board surface, and the game machine that has entered from an entrance A distribution device that forms a first guiding path and a second guiding path for guiding the game ball to the first region and the second region, and an opening provided in the game region, into which the game ball flows The inflow port is provided at a position on the back side of the first guiding path and the second guiding path in the sorting device.

  According to the present invention, since the inflow port into which the game ball flows is provided at a position on the back side of the first guide path and the second guide path, the game ball has entered the distribution device from the entrance. Thereafter, while passing through either the first guide path or the second guide path, the game ball flows into the inflow port or is guided to either the first area or the second area. For this reason, even after the game ball enters the sorting device from the entrance and is distributed to either the first guide path or the second guide path, the player's attention is drawn to the movement of the game ball. Can improve the interest of the game.

  The gaming machine according to means 1 of the present invention is the gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the inflow port is provided at a position on the back side of the first guiding path and the second guiding path, respectively. It may be done.

  In this case, the game ball may flow into the inflow port regardless of which one of the first guide path and the second guide path is assigned. Therefore, the player's attention can be gathered to the end of the movement of the game ball without being influenced by which of the first guide path and the second guide path.

  Further, the gaming machine according to means 2 of the present invention is the gaming machine according to claim 1 or means 1, wherein the diameter of the inflow port provided at a position on the back side of the first guiding path, The diameters of the inflow ports provided at positions on the back side of the second guide path may be substantially the same.

  In this case, there is a possibility that the game ball flows into the inflow port with the same probability regardless of which one of the first taxiway and the second taxiway is assigned. Therefore, the player's attention can be gathered to the end of the movement of the game ball without being influenced by which of the first guide path and the second guide path.

  Further, the gaming machine according to means 3 of the present invention is the gaming machine according to claim 1 or means 1, wherein the diameter of the inflow port provided at the position on the back side of the first guiding path, The diameter of the inflow port provided at the position on the back side of the second guiding path may be different from each other.

  In this case, regardless of which one of the first taxiway and the second taxiway is assigned, the possibility that the game ball flows into the inflow port is maintained, and the first taxiway and the second taxiway The probability that the game ball flows into the inflow port can be made different depending on which guide path is assigned. Therefore, the player's attention can be gathered to the end of the movement of the game ball.

  The gaming machine according to means 4 of the present invention is the gaming machine according to claim 1 or any one of means 1 to 3, wherein the inflow port is formed in a circular shape, The diameter may be formed to be substantially the same as the diameter of the game ball or slightly larger than the diameter of the game ball.

  In this case, a plurality of game balls cannot flow into the inflow port at a time, and flow in one ball at a time. Therefore, it is possible to suppress an excessive flow of game balls into the inflow port.

  The gaming machine according to means 5 of the present invention is the gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the inflow port is located at a position on the back side of the first guiding path and the second guiding path. It may be continuously formed so as to straddle the first guiding path and the second guiding path.

  In this case, the game ball can be guided through the same flow path after the game ball flows into the inflow port regardless of which of the first guide path and the second guide path is assigned.

  The gaming machine according to means 6 of the present invention is the gaming machine according to claim 1, means 1 or means 5, wherein the inlet is formed in an oval shape, and the width of the inlet is The diameter of the game ball may be substantially the same as or slightly larger than the diameter of the game ball.

  In this case, since a plurality of game balls are prevented from flowing into the inflow port at a time, it is possible to suppress an excessive flow of game balls into the inflow port.

  The gaming machine according to means 7 of the present invention is the gaming machine according to any one of claim 1 or means 1 to 6, wherein the gaming ball that has flowed into the inflow port is the gaming machine of the gaming machine. It may be discharged outside.

  In this case, even after the game ball enters the sorting device, it is possible to give the player a sense of crisis that the game ball is discharged outside the gaming machine. You can attract the attention of players.

  Further, the gaming machine according to means 8 of the present invention is the gaming machine according to any one of claim 1 or means 1 to 6, wherein the gaming ball that has flowed into the inflow port is located in the gaming area. It may be discharged to a predetermined location.

  In this case, even after the game ball flows into the inflow port, the player's attention can be drawn to the movement of the game ball.

  A gaming machine according to means 9 of the present invention is the gaming machine according to claim 1 or any one of means 1 to means 8, wherein the gaming machine is rotatable about a shaft member along a direction perpendicular to the gaming board surface. And a rotation distribution member that distributes the game ball to either the first guide path or the second guide path by rotating, and the rotation distribution member includes the shaft member. A switching unit that switches to one of the first guide path and the second guide path by rotating to one side and the other from a predetermined position as a center is provided. There may be provided a holding restricting means for restricting the holding.

  In this case, the rotation distribution member includes a switching unit that switches to one of the first guide path and the second guide path by rotating to one side and the other from the predetermined position with the shaft member as a center. Since the apparatus includes a holding restricting unit that restricts the switching unit from being held at a predetermined position, the switching unit is always arranged at one or the other of the predetermined positions. Therefore, the game ball that has entered from the entrance is always guided to the first guide route or the second guide route by the switching unit, so that the game ball is guided to either the first guide route or the second guide route by the switch unit. The so-called ball clogging that blocks the entrance without being blocked can be prevented.

1 is a front view of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a perspective view of a distribution apparatus. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a sorting apparatus when a front wall of a front cover member in FIG. 2 is removed. It is A arrow directional view of FIG. It is a front view of a rotation distribution member. It is explanatory drawing when a rotation distribution member rotates counterclockwise. It is a front view of a gaming machine according to a modification of the embodiment.

Hereinafter, a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a front view of a gaming machine 1 according to the embodiment. The gaming machine 1 includes a gaming board (gauge board) 2 that constitutes the gaming board surface 2A, and a gaming machine frame (base frame) 3 that supports and fixes the gaming board 2. The game board 2 is formed with a substantially circular game area 2B surrounded by guide rails. In this game area 2B, a game ball as a game medium is launched from a predetermined hitting ball launching device and driven. In the following description, “up / down / left / right” refers to up / down / left / right when the gaming machine 1 is viewed from the front.

  A first special symbol display device 4A and a second special symbol display device 4B are provided in a region at the approximate center of the game board surface 2A on the right side in the vertical direction. The first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B are each composed of, for example, 7-segment or dot matrix LEDs (light emitting diodes), etc. Special symbols (also referred to as “special graphics”), which are a plurality of types of identification information (special identification information) that can be identified, are displayed variably (variably displayed).

  An image display device 5 is provided in a substantially central region of the game board surface 2A. The image display device 5 is composed of, for example, an LCD (liquid crystal display device) or the like, and forms a display area for displaying various effect images. In the display area of the image display device 5, the first special symbol variable display by the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol variable display by the second special symbol display device 4B in the special symbol game respectively correspond to the variable display. For example, in a decorative symbol display area serving as a variable display section divided into a plurality of parts such as three, decorative symbols which are a plurality of types of identification information (decorative identification information) each identifiable are variably displayed.

As an example, “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R are arranged in the display area of the image display device 5. In response to the start of either the first special symbol change by the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol change by the second special symbol display device 4B in the special game, ”,“ Middle ”, and“ right ”decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R, the variation of decorative symbols (for example, vertical scroll display) is started.
Thereafter, when the fixed special symbol is stopped and displayed as a variable display result in the special symbol game, the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R in the image display device 5 are displayed. Then, the finalized decorative symbol (final stop symbol) that is the variable display result of the decorative symbol is stopped and displayed.

As described above, in the display area of the image display device 5, the special game using the first special symbol by the first special symbol display device 4A or the special special game using the second special symbol by the second special symbol display device 4B. In synchronization with the figure game, a variable display of a plurality of types of decorative patterns that can be identified is performed, and a fixed decorative pattern that is a variable display result is derived and displayed. Deriving and displaying the display result means that identification information such as a decorative symbol is stopped and displayed (also referred to as a complete stop display or a final stop display) and the variable display is ended.
Then, in a special game using the first special graphic by the first special symbol display device 4A or a special graphic game using the second special graphic by the second special symbol display device 4B, a specific special symbol (big hit symbol) ) Is displayed in a stopped state, the determined decorative symbols on the image display device 5 are also displayed in a combination that makes a big hit, and the player visually recognizes the display result on the image display device 5 and enters the “hit game state”. It is possible to discriminate.

  In the special game by the first special symbol display device 4A, the game ball that has entered the first start winning port 55a formed in the sorting device 50 located below the image display device 5 is switched to a first start port switch (not shown). This is basically started by the fact that it has been detected. In addition, the special symbol game by the second special symbol display device 4B is based on the fact that the game ball that has entered the second start winning port 55b formed in the distribution device 50 is detected by a second start port switch (not shown). Basically started. In the present embodiment, it is possible to store the game balls that have passed through the first start winning opening 55a and the second starting winning opening 55b as a predetermined number (for example, four each, a total of eight). It has become.

  Below the display area of the image display device 5, a start winning memory display area 5H is provided, which displays the number of stored balls (the number of special figure stored). In addition, you may make it provide the indicator which displays the number of special figure reservation memories with the start winning memory | storage display area 5H or it replaces with the starting winning memory display area 5H. In the example shown in FIG. 1, together with the start winning memory display area 5H, the first hold for displaying the special figure hold memory number in an identifiable manner on the upper part of the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B. A display 25A and a second hold display 25B are provided. The first hold indicator 25A displays the first hold memory number as the effective start winning ball number that has entered the first start winning opening 55a so as to be specified. The second hold indicator 25B displays the second hold memory number as the effective start winning ball number that has entered the second start winning opening 55b so that it can be specified. Each of the first hold indicator 25A and the second hold indicator 25B has, for example, a number (for example, four) of LEDs corresponding to an upper limit value (for example, “4”) in each of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number. It is comprised including.

In the special symbol game by the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B, after the special symbol variable display is started, the special symbol variable display result is obtained when a predetermined time as the special symbol variable time elapses. A definite special symbol (a special graph display result) is derived and displayed. At this time, if a specific special symbol (big hit symbol) is stopped and displayed as a confirmed special symbol, “big hit” is obtained as a specific display result, and if a special symbol other than the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed, “lost” is displayed. In response to the stop display of the special symbol game by the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B, the fixed decorative symbols are also displayed on the image display device 5 in a specific combination.
Then, after the variable display result in the special figure game becomes “big hit”, the “big hit gaming state” as a specific gaming state in which a round game advantageous to the player (also simply referred to as “round”) is executed a predetermined number of times. To be controlled.

  A special variable winning ball device 7 is provided below the distribution device 50. The special variable winning ball apparatus 7 includes a large winning opening door that is opened and closed by a solenoid (not shown) for a large winning opening door (not shown), and changes into an open state and a closed state by the big winning opening door. Form. As an example, in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7, when the solenoid for the big prize opening door is in the off state, the big prize opening door closes the big prize opening. On the other hand, in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7, when the solenoid for the big prize opening door is in the ON state, the big prize opening door opens the big winning opening. A game ball that has entered a special winning opening formed in the special variable winning ball device 7 is detected by a count switch (not shown), and a predetermined number (for example, 15) of games is detected based on the detection of the game ball by the count switch. The ball is paid out as a prize ball.

  In the “big hit game state” as the specific game state controlled after the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed as a confirmed special symbol in the special figure game, the open / close plate of the special variable winning ball apparatus 7 is a predetermined period which is the first period. A first variable state in which the special variable winning ball device 7 is advantageous to the player by opening the large winning opening in a period until the predetermined number (for example, nine) of winning balls (for example, 29 seconds) or a predetermined number (for example, nine) is generated. A round game to be changed to is executed. In this way, the open / close plate that opened the grand prize opening during the execution of the round game receives the game ball falling on the game board surface 2A, and then closed the special prize opening, thereby allowing the special variable prize ball device 7 to be opened. It changes to the 2nd state unfavorable for a player, and complete | finishes one round game. In this embodiment, the number of executions of the round game, which is the opening cycle of the special winning opening, is the first round number (for example, “6”). A game in the big hit game state in which the number of executions of the round game is “15” is also referred to as a 15-time open game. In such a big hit gaming state, 15 balls are obtained each time a game ball wins a big winning opening.

  Wind turbines 10A, 10B, 10C, and 10D that change the flow direction and speed of the game balls are provided on the upper left, upper right, lower left, and lower right of the image display device 5 on the game board surface 2A, respectively. Yes. Similarly, the game board surface 2A is provided with a plurality of unillustrated obstacle nails, a guide nail group, and the like that change the flow direction and speed of the game balls. Further, at the lowermost part of the game board surface 2A, there is provided an out port 11 through which game balls that have not entered any winning port are taken. Furthermore, speakers 8L and 8R for reproducing and outputting sound effects and the like are provided at the upper left and right positions of the gaming machine frame 3, and a game effect lamp 9 is provided in the periphery of the game area 2B.

  Further, an upper flange member 12 extending left and right along the upper edge of the image display device 5 is provided above the image display device 5 on the game board surface 2A, and an image display is provided below the image display device 5. A lower flange member 13 extending left and right along the lower edge of the device 5 is provided. The upper flange member 12 and the lower flange member 13 are provided so as to protrude slightly forward (in a direction orthogonal to the game board surface 2A) from the game board surface 2A, are colored, and function as decorative members for the gaming machine.

  At the lower right position of the gaming machine frame 3, a hitting operation handle 30 (operation knob) operated by a player or the like for launching a game ball as a game medium toward the game area is provided. In addition, at a predetermined position of the gaming machine frame 3 below the game area, a game ball paid out as a prize ball or a game ball lent out by a predetermined ball lending machine is held so as to be supplied to the ball hitting device. An upper plate or the like for storage is provided.

  The gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment includes a distribution device 50 in which a first start winning port 55a and a second starting winning port 55b are formed below the center of the image display device 5, and an inflow port 58 through which game balls can flow. (First inflow port 58a and second inflow port 58b). Below, the distribution apparatus 50 and the inflow port 58 are demonstrated in detail.

2 is a perspective view of the sorting apparatus 50, FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the sorting apparatus 50 when the front wall 61 of the front cover member 60 in FIG. 2 is removed, and FIG. 4 is a perspective view of FIG. FIG.
As shown in FIG. 2, the sorting device 50 includes a base member 51, a front cover member 60 disposed on the front side of the base member 51, and a back cover member 70 disposed on the back side of the base member 51. It is configured.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the base member 51 is a plate member having a substantially trapezoidal shape in a front view having a short side on the upper side and a long side on the lower side. As shown in FIG. 4, through holes 52 a to 52 d that penetrate in the thickness direction of the base member 51 are formed at the four corners of the base member 51. For example, the distribution device 50 is inserted into the through holes 52a to 52d of the base member 51 with screws (not shown) or the like and fastened to the game board surface 2A (see FIG. 1), thereby playing the game area 2B (see FIG. 1). Fixed and supported inside.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the front cover member 60 is formed of a light-transmitting resin material such as polycarbonate resin or acrylic resin. The front cover member 60 is formed by a peripheral wall 63 that surrounds a predetermined region of the front surface 51 a of the base member 51, and a front wall 61 that is provided on the front side of the peripheral wall 63.

As shown in FIG. 4, the peripheral wall 63 has a predetermined height in the front-rear direction of the game board 2 (see FIG. 1), and is a pair that is symmetrically disposed on both the left and right sides with the left and right intermediate part of the base member 51 interposed therebetween. Side wall portions 65, 66 (the left side wall portion 65 and the right side wall portion 66) and a lower wall portion 67 connecting the lower end portions 65a, 66a of the pair of side wall portions 65, 66.
The pair of side wall portions 65 and 66 are arranged such that upper end portions 65b and 66b are separated from each other. The pair of side wall portions 65, 66 are formed so that the distance from each other gradually increases from the upper side to the lower side above the upper and lower middle portions of the base member 51, and is higher than the upper and lower middle portions of the base member 51. In the lower part, it is formed along the vertical direction so that the distance between them is substantially constant.
The lower wall portion 67 is a partition portion 67a that extends horizontally inwardly from the lower end portions 65a and 66a of the pair of side wall portions 65 and 66, and the left and right intermediate portions project upward.
As shown in FIG. 2, the front wall 61 is provided on the front side of the peripheral wall 63, and closes a predetermined region of the front surface 51 a of the base member 51 surrounded by the peripheral wall 63 from the front side.

  The front cover member 60 formed as described above is disposed on the front surface 51 a of the base member 51 with the peripheral wall 63 fixed to the base member 51 by, for example, a naked child (not shown). Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 4, the game ball P is placed on the front side of the base member 51 by the base member 51, the side wall portions 65 and 66 of the front cover member 60, and the front wall 61 (see FIG. 2). A guiding area 80 to be guided is defined. Further, as shown in FIG. 3, above the guiding region 80, the base member 51, upper end portions 65 b and 66 b of the side wall portions 65 and 66 of the front cover member 60, and the front wall 61 (see FIG. 2), An entrance 68 that allows the game ball P (see FIG. 4) to enter is formed through communication between the inside and outside of the guidance area 80.

As shown in FIG. 4, a first area 81 is defined on the left side of the partition part 67a and a second area 82 is defined on the right side of the partition part 67a by the partition part 67a. Has been.
In the present embodiment, a first start winning port 55 a is formed as the first region 81, and a second start winning port 55 b is formed as the second region 82. The first start winning port 55a and the second start winning port 55b are respectively formed through the base member 51 so that the game ball P can pass from the front side to the back side of the base member 51. . A first start port switch and a second start port switch (not shown) are provided at the opening edge portions of the first start winning port 55a and the second start winning port 55b, respectively. 55a and the second start winning opening 55b are detected.

  In addition, the guidance area 80 of the game ball P is connected to the first start winning port 55a which is the first area 81 above the partition portion 67a and on the left side of the left and right middle portion of the sorting device 50. A first guide path 86 is formed, and a second guide path 87 that communicates with the second start winning port 55 b that is the second region 82 is formed on the right side of the left and right intermediate portion of the distribution device 50. Hereinafter, a boundary between the first guiding path 86 and the second guiding path 87 is defined as a boundary S (illustrated by a one-dot chain line in FIG. 4).

  Further, the guidance area 80 of the game ball P is above the partition portion 67a and on the boundary S between the first guidance path 86 and the second guidance path 87, and is orthogonal to the game board surface 2A (see FIG. 1). A pivotal distribution member 90 is provided that is pivotally supported by a shaft member 99 along the direction and distributes the game balls P to either the first guiding path 86 or the second guiding path by rotating. Note that the shaft member 99 of the present embodiment is erected along the direction orthogonal to the game board surface 2A (see FIG. 1), for example, from the base member 51, and is integrally formed with the base member 51.

FIG. 5 is a front view of the rotation distribution member 90. In FIG. 5, the gap between the shaft member 99 and the rotation distribution member 90 is exaggerated. Moreover, the shaft member 99 and the rotation distribution member 90 are disposed coaxially with respect to the common axis. Hereinafter, this common axis is referred to as a central axis O.
As shown in FIG. 5, the rotation distributing member 90 is inserted into the shaft member 99 and supported from the cylindrical portion 91 that is pivotally supported around the central axis O, and the outer peripheral surface 92 of the cylindrical portion 91. A switching blade portion 95 (corresponding to a “switching portion” of the means 9) projecting outward along the radial direction of the tubular portion 91 and a tubular shape on the opposite side of the switching blade portion 95 across the central axis O. A pair of restricting blade portions 96 and 97 (a left restricting blade portion 96 and a right restricting blade portion 97) projecting outward from the outer peripheral surface 92 of the portion 91 along a direction orthogonal to the switching blade portion 95. . The cylindrical portion 91, the switching blade portion 95, and the pair of regulating blade portions 96 and 97 are integrally formed with each other.

As shown in FIG. 4, the rotation distribution member 90 is pivotally supported by the shaft member 99 with the switching blade portion 95 disposed above and the pair of regulating blade portions 96 and 97 disposed below.
The rotation distribution member 90 can be switched to either the first guide path 86 or the second guide path 87 by rotating about the central axis O. Specifically, the switching blade portion 95 of the rotation distribution member 90 is inclined and arranged on the second guide path 87 side in a state where the rotation distribution member 90 rotates clockwise. The game ball P is guided to the first guide path 86 while restricting the inflow of the game ball P to the first guide path 86.

FIG. 6 is an explanatory view when the rotation distribution member 90 is rotated counterclockwise from the state shown in FIG.
Further, as shown in FIG. 6, the switching blade portion 95 of the rotation distribution member 90 is inclined and arranged on the first guide path 86 side in a state where the rotation distribution member 90 is rotated counterclockwise. While restricting the inflow of the game ball P to the first guide path 86, the game ball P is guided to the second guide path 87. In this way, the game balls P are distributed to either the first guide path 86 or the second guide path 87 according to the position of the switching blade portion 95 of the rotation distribution member 90.

  The rotation angle of the rotation distribution member 90 is regulated to about 30 °, for example, by the pair of regulating blade portions 96 and 97 coming into contact with the upper end of the partition portion 67a. In FIG. 4, the rotation distributing member 90 rotates clockwise, the switching blade portion 95 is inclined to the second guide path 87 side, and the right regulating blade portion 97 is the upper end of the partition portion 67a. A state is shown in which the rotation of the rotation distribution member 90 is restricted in contact with the rotation. Further, in FIG. 6, the rotation distribution member 90 rotates counterclockwise, the switching blade portion 95 is inclined on the first guide path 86 side, and the left regulating blade portion 96 is disposed on the partition portion 67a. The state which contact | abutted at the upper end and the rotation of the rotation distribution member 90 is controlled is shown in figure.

  As shown in FIG. 5, a position corresponding to the upper boundary S on the outer peripheral surface of the shaft member 99 corresponds to a first protrusion 99 a that protrudes upward (corresponding to “holding restricting means” of the means 9). ) Is provided. Further, a second projecting portion 93 a that protrudes toward the shaft member 99 at a position on the opposite side of the switching blade portion 95 across the tubular portion 91 of the inner peripheral surface 93 of the rotation distributing member 90. (Corresponding to "holding restricting means" of means 9) is provided. The first protrusion 99a and the second protrusion 93a are each formed in a curved surface shape having a predetermined curvature at the tip.

  When the switching blade portion 95 is positioned along the boundary S, the first protrusion 99a of the shaft member 99 and the second protrusion 93a of the switching blade portion 95 are in contact with each other. At this time, since the tip ends of the first protrusion 99a and the second protrusion 93a are each curved, the second protrusion 93a is connected to the first protrusion 99a by its own weight. It moves to the left or right of the first protrusion 99 a along the curved surface shape of the tip, and further moves along the outer peripheral surface of the shaft member 99. Thereby, since the rotation distribution member 90 rotates clockwise or counterclockwise, the switching blade portion 95 is restricted from being held at the position along the boundary S, and is always the first guide path 86 ( 4) and the second guiding path 87 (see FIG. 4). Therefore, as shown in FIG. 4, the game ball P that has entered from the entrance 68 is always guided alternately to either the first guide path 86 or the second guide path 87 by the switching blade portion 95 (FIG. 4). Then, the case where the game ball P is guided to the first guide path 86 is illustrated), and the game ball P is not guided to either the first guide path 86 or the second guide path 87 by the switching blade portion 95, and closes the entrance 68. So-called clogging can be prevented.

The sorting apparatus 50 is provided with an inlet 58 through which the game ball P flows at positions on the back side of the first guide path 86 and the second guide path 87. In the distribution device 50 of the present embodiment, a first inflow port 58 a is provided at a position on the back side of the first guide path 86, and a second inflow port 58 b is provided at a position on the back side of the second guide path 87. Yes.
The first inflow port 58a is formed at the position on the back side of the first guide path 86 and above the first start winning prize opening 55a so as to pass through the base member 51, and the game ball P is the base. The member 51 can pass from the front side toward the back side. The second inflow port 58b is formed at the position on the back side of the second guide path 87 and through the base member 51 in the same position as the first inflow port 58a at a position above the second start winning prize port 55b. The game ball P can pass from the front side of the base member 51 toward the back side.

In the present embodiment, the game ball P flowing into the first inflow port 58a and the second inflow port 58b is discharged to the outside of the gaming machine 1 (see FIG. 1), and the first inflow port 58a. And the 2nd inflow port 58b is what is called an out port.
The first inlet 58a and the second inlet 58b are each formed in a circular shape, and the diameter of the first inlet 58a and the diameter of the second inlet 58b are substantially the same. Further, the diameter of the first inflow port 58a and the diameter of the second inflow port 58b are each formed to be slightly larger than the diameter of the game ball P. Accordingly, a plurality of game balls P cannot flow into the first inflow port 58a and the second inflow port 58b at a time, and flow in one ball at a time. For example, when the diameter of the game ball P is 11 mm, the diameter of the first inflow port 58a and the diameter of the second inflow port 58b may be set in a range from about 11 mm to about 21 mm. Further, the diameter of the first inflow port 58a and the shape of the second inflow port 58b are not limited to a circular shape, and may be, for example, a rectangular shape.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the back cover member 70 is formed of a light-transmissive resin material such as polycarbonate resin or acrylic resin. The back cover member 70 is a hollow member, is disposed on the back side of the base member 51 and is formed so as to cover the rear surface 51b of the base member 51, and the inside thereof includes a first inlet 58a and a second inlet. 58b, the first start winning port 55a and the second start winning port 55b (both see FIG. 4). The game ball P (see FIG. 4) that has flowed into the first inflow port 58a, the second inflow port 58b, the first start winning port 55a, and the second starting winning port 55b is connected to the gaming machine 1 (see FIG. 4) via the back cover member 70. 1)).

Next, an outline of game contents of the gaming machine 1 including the above-described distribution device 50 will be described.
As shown in FIG. 1, first, when a game ball P (see FIG. 4) launched by operating a hitting operation handle 30 reaches the game board surface 2A, the game ball P naturally falls downward while hitting a nail or the like. As shown in FIG. 4, when the game ball P enters the guiding area 80 inside the sorting apparatus 50 from the entrance 68 of the sorting apparatus 50 in the process of falling, the guiding area 80 is moved by the rotating sorting member 90. The first guide path 86 and the second guide path 87 formed inside are distributed to one of the guide paths. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, in the state where the switching blade portion 95 of the rotational distribution member 90 is inclined to the second guide path 87 side and the inflow of the game ball P to the second guide path 87 is restricted. A case where the game ball P enters the guidance area 80 will be described. At this time, the game ball P moves toward the first guide path 86 along the left side surface of the switching blade portion 95 after colliding with the inclined switching blade portion 95.
After that, as shown in FIG. 6, the game ball P collides with the upper surface of the left regulating blade portion 96 and presses the left regulating blade portion 96 downward by its own weight. Thereby, the rotation distribution member 90 rotates counterclockwise and guides the game ball P to the first guide path 86.

  Here, in the sorting device 50 of the present embodiment, the first inflow port 58 a is provided on the back side of the first guide path 86. Accordingly, the game ball P guided to the first guide path 86 flows into the first inflow port 58a or is guided to the first start winning port 55a (that is, the first region 81) below the first inflow port 58a. . When the game ball P flows into the first inflow port 58a, the game ball P is discharged outside the game machine 1 (see FIG. 1) via the back cover member 70 (see FIG. 2).

  On the other hand, when the game ball P flows into the first start winning port 55a formed below the first inflow port 58a, a first start port switch (not shown) provided in the first start winning port 55a. Detects that the game ball P has entered the first start winning opening 55a. Then, as shown in FIG. 1, based on this detection signal, a special symbol game is started by the first special symbol display device 4A, and after a predetermined time, a fixed special symbol (special symbol display) that becomes a variable symbol display result. Result) is displayed.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 6, when the next game ball (not shown) enters from the entrance 68 after the rotation distribution member 90 rotates counterclockwise, the game ball is inclined. After colliding with the switching blade portion 95, it moves toward the second guide path 87 along the right side surface of the switching blade portion 95. Thereafter, the game ball collides with the upper surface of the right regulating blade portion 97 and presses the right regulating blade portion 97 downward by its own weight. Thereby, the rotation distribution member 90 rotates clockwise and guides the game ball to the second guide path 87.

Then, the game ball guided to the second guide path 87 flows into the second inflow port 58b or is guided to the second start winning port 55b (that is, the second region 82) below the second inflow port 58b. When the game ball flows into the second inflow port 58b, the game ball is discharged to the outside of the gaming machine 1 (see FIG. 1) via the back cover member 70. On the other hand, when the game ball flows into the second start winning opening 55b, as shown in FIG. 1, the second special symbol display device 4B uses a detection signal from a second start opening switch (not shown). A special symbol game is started, and after a predetermined time, a definite special symbol (special symbol display result) that is a variable symbol variable display result is derived and displayed.
Thereafter, each time a game ball enters from the entrance 68, the game ball is alternately distributed to the first guide path 86 and the second guide path 87 by the distribution device 50, and the above-described operation is repeated.

In the display area of the image display device 5, a special game using the first special symbol by the first special symbol display device 4A or a special game using the second special symbol by the second special symbol display device 4B is synchronized. Then, a plurality of types of decorative symbols that can be identified are variably displayed, and a definite decorative symbol that is a variable display result is derived and displayed.
Then, in a special game using the first special graphic by the first special symbol display device 4A or a special graphic game using the second special graphic by the second special symbol display device 4B, a specific special symbol (big hit symbol) ) Is displayed in a stopped state, the confirmed decorative symbols on the image display device 5 are also displayed in a combination that makes a big hit, and are controlled to the “big hit gaming state”.

  According to the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the first inflow port 58a and the second inflow port 58b into which game balls flow into the positions on the back side of the first guide path 86 and the second guide path 87 of the sorting device 50. Since the game balls enter the sorting device 50 from the entrance 68 and pass through either the first guide path 86 or the second guide path 87, the game balls are in the first direction. It flows into the inflow port 58a and the second inflow port 58b, or is guided to either the first start winning port 55a that is the first region 81 or the second starting winning port 55b that is the second region 82. For this reason, even after the game ball enters the sorting device 50 from the entrance 68 and is distributed to either the first guide path 86 or the second guide path 87, the player is not affected by the movement of the game ball. Because it can attract attention, it can improve the interest of the game.

  Moreover, since the 1st inflow port 58a and the 2nd inflow port 58b into which a game ball | bowl flows in are provided in the position of the back side of the 1st guide path 86 and the 2nd guide path 87 of the distribution apparatus 50, for example, it is 1st The strength of the front cover member 60 can be secured as compared with the case where the inflow port 58a and the second inflow port 58b are provided on the peripheral wall 63 of the front cover member 60 or the like. Moreover, in the present embodiment, the peripheral wall 63 of the front cover member 60 is continuously formed so as to surround the first guide path 86, the second guide path 87, the first region 81, and the second region 82. Thereby, the strength of the front cover member 60 can be significantly improved. Furthermore, since the enlargement of the front cover member 60 due to securing the strength can be prevented, the sorting device 50 can be formed in a compact manner, and the degree of design freedom of the gaming machine 1 can be improved.

  In addition, the game ball P that has flowed into the first inlet 58a and the second inlet 58b is discharged to the outside of the gaming machine 1 (see FIG. 1), and the first inlet 58a and the second inlet Since the entrance 58b is a so-called outlet, the game ball P is discharged to the outside of the gaming machine 1 to the player even after the game ball P has entered the sorting device 50. Since a sense of crisis can be given, the player's attention can be drawn to the movement of the game ball P.

  Further, the first inlet 58a and the second inlet 58b are each formed in a circular shape, and the diameter of the first inlet 58a and the diameter of the second inlet 58b are substantially the same as each other. Regardless of which of the guide path 86 and the second guide path 87 is assigned, the game ball P may flow into the first inflow port 58a and the second inflow port 58b with the same probability. Therefore, the player's attention can be gathered to the end of the movement of the game ball P without being influenced by which one of the first guide path 86 and the second guide path 87 is assigned.

  Further, since the diameter of the first inflow port 58a and the diameter of the second inflow port 58b are each formed to be slightly larger than the diameter of the game ball P, the game ball P is It becomes impossible for a plurality to flow into 58a and the 2nd inflow port 58b at a time, and it flows in one ball at a time. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the game ball P from excessively flowing into the first inflow port 58a and the second inflow port 58b.

(Modification of the embodiment)
FIG. 7 is a front view of the gaming machine 1 according to a modification of the embodiment.
Subsequently, a gaming machine 1 according to a modification of the embodiment will be described.
In the gaming machine 1 according to the embodiment, the game balls that have flowed into the first inflow port 58a and the second inflow port 58b of the sorting device 50 are discharged to the outside of the gaming machine 1 (see FIG. 1).
In contrast, in the gaming machine 1 according to the modified example of the embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, the game balls that flow into the first inlet 58 a and the second inlet 58 b of the sorting device 50 pass through the detour 15. This is different from the embodiment in that it is discharged to the game area 2B. Detailed description of the same components as those in the embodiment will be omitted, and only different portions will be described.

As shown in FIG. 7, the bypass 15 is formed in a long pipe shape from a resin material having optical transparency such as polycarbonate resin and acrylic resin. One end of the detour 15 is connected to the first inlet 58a and the second inlet 58b of the sorting device 50, for example, via a back cover member 70 shown in FIG.
As shown in FIG. 7, the other end of the bypass 15 is connected to a bypass discharge hole 17 formed in the game board surface 2A. Thereby, the game balls that have flowed into the first inflow port 58a and the second inflow port 58b (see FIG. 4) of the distribution device 50 flow through the detour 15 and are discharged from the detour discharge hole 17 to the game area 2B. The
A small winning opening 18 is provided below the detour discharge hole 17. A game ball discharged from the bypass discharge hole 17 can enter the small prize winning opening 18. When a game ball enters the small prize opening 18, the entry of the game ball is detected by a count switch (not shown), and a predetermined number (for example, seven) of game balls are paid out as a prize ball.
According to the modification of the embodiment, even after the game ball flows into the first inflow port 58a and the second inflow port 58b (see FIG. 4), it is possible to attract the player's attention to the movement of the game ball.

  The technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

In the embodiment and the modification of the embodiment, the first inflow port 58 a is provided at the position on the back side of the first guide path 86, and the second inflow port 58 b is provided at the position on the back side of the second guide path 87. It was. On the other hand, for example, the inlet may be formed so as to straddle the first guide path 86 and the second guide path 87 at positions on the back side of the first guide path 86 and the second guide path 87. In this case, the game ball can be guided through the same flow path after the game ball has flowed into the inflow port regardless of which of the first guide path 86 and the second guide path 87 is distributed.
Further, the shape of the inflow port is not limited to a circular shape, and may be, for example, an oval shape. Further, the width of the inflow port when the inflow port is formed in an oval shape may be substantially the same as or slightly wider than the diameter of the game ball. Thereby, since a plurality of game balls are prevented from flowing into the inflow port at a time, it is possible to suppress an excessive flow of game balls into the inflow port.

  In the embodiment and the modification of the embodiment, the diameter of the first inflow port 58a and the diameter of the second inflow port 58b are respectively the same. On the other hand, the diameter of the first inlet 58a and the diameter of the second inlet 58b may be different from each other. Thereby, regardless of which of the first guide path 86 and the second guide path 87 is assigned, the possibility that the game ball flows into the first inflow port 58a and the second inflow port 58b is maintained. Depending on which one of the first guide path 86 and the second guide path 87 is assigned, the probability that the game ball flows into the inflow port (the first inflow port 58a and the second inflow port 58b) may be varied. it can. Therefore, the player's attention can be gathered to the end of the movement of the game ball.

  The form of the gaming machine 1 is not limited to the embodiment and the modified example of the embodiment. For example, you may combine embodiment and the modification of embodiment. In this case, for example, when the game ball flows into the first inflow port 58a, the game ball is discharged to the outside of the gaming machine 1, and when the game ball flows into the second inflow port 58b, the game ball is bypassed. It is good also as a structure which flows through the path | route and is discharged to the game area 2B of the gaming machine 1.

  In the embodiment and the modified example of the embodiment, the first start winning opening 55a is formed as the first area 81 and the second starting winning opening 55b is formed as the second area 82, but the first start winning opening 55a and It is not limited to the 2nd start winning opening 55b, For example, a big winning opening, a small winning opening, etc. may be sufficient.

  In the embodiment and the modification of the embodiment, the shaft member is used as a holding restricting means for restricting the switching blade portion 95 from being held at a position along the boundary S between the first guide path 86 and the second guide path 87. Although the first protrusion 99a is provided in 99 and the second protrusion 93a is provided in the rotation distribution member 90, the holding restricting means is not limited to this. For example, the partition portion 67a may be formed of a magnetic material, and a magnet may be provided as a holding restricting means at each tip of the pair of restricting blade portions 96 and 97, and this magnet may be used as the holding restricting means. Specifically, one of the pair of regulating blade portions 96 and 97 and the upper end of the partition portion 67a are adsorbed by a magnetic force, and the game ball that has entered the distribution device 50 is attached to the other regulating blade portion. When the upper surface collides, one restriction blade part may be separated from the upper end of the partition part 67a, and the other restriction blade part may be attracted to the upper end of the partition part 67a. Even in this case, the switching blade portion 95 can be restricted from being held at a position along the boundary S between the first guide path 86 and the second guide path 87.

  In addition, it is possible to appropriately replace the constituent elements in the above-described embodiments with well-known constituent elements without departing from the spirit of the present invention, and the above-described modified examples may be appropriately combined.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Game machine 2A Game board surface 2B Game area | region 50 Distribution apparatus 58 Inflow port 58a 1st inflow port 58b 2nd inflow port 68 Advancement entrance 81 1st area | region 82 2nd area | region 86 1st induction path 87 2nd induction path P Game ball

Claims (1)

A gaming machine in which a game is performed by firing a game ball on a game area of a game board surface,
A sorting device that forms a first guiding path and a second guiding path for guiding the game ball entered from the entrance to the first area and the second area;
An opening formed in the gaming area, into which the gaming ball flows;
With
The game machine according to claim 1, wherein the inflow port is provided at a position on a back side of the first guiding path and the second guiding path in the sorting device.

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