JP2020018697A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

To add amusement to behavior of a prize in falling in a game machine for allowing a prize to directly fall into a prize supply port.SOLUTION: A game machine 100 includes: a game mechanism part 102 that includes a prize table 131, a prize supply port 135, and prize acquisition means 121 for moving a prize toward the prize supply port within a game space, and includes an operation part 111 outside a case; and a control part 191 for controlling the prize acquisition means on the basis of a user's operation. The prize acquisition means includes a rotatable catcher 122 so as to scoop up a prize and allow it to fall, and drive means 196 for rotatably driving the catcher. The control part includes catcher control means 192 for controlling the drive means so as to make identical rotation directions when scooping up a prize and allowing it to fall. The catcher control means controls the drive means such that it stops rotating in a position in which a holding surface 122W of the catcher faces up when scooping up a prize and rotates until the holding surface reaches an upper position of an axis of rotation when allowing a prize to fall.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

  The present invention relates to an amusement device provided with a prize obtaining means that operates to scoop up a prize.

  2. Description of the Related Art There is known an amusement device in which a prize is scooped by rotation of a shovel-shaped capture body, and thereafter, the capture body is rotated so that the prized product dropped is dropped. As this amusement device, there has been known an amusement device that switches the rotation direction of a capturing body when a prize is scooped up and when the prize is dropped according to a user operation (for example, see Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent No. 4176507

  In the amusement device described in Patent Literature 1, the shovel is stopped in a substantially horizontal state after scooping up prizes. When dropping the prize, the prize slides off the shovel by tilting the shovel at a relatively small angle of less than 90 ° regardless of the rotation direction of the shovel. Therefore, the prize falls orderly in a relatively narrow range, and irregularities in the behavior of the prize at the time of dropping are less likely to occur.

  A game device according to one aspect of the present invention is a game machine in which a prize group to be acquired by a user is arranged in a play space covered with a case in which the inside is visible, and at least one of the prize groups included in the prize group A prize intake for taking out one prize from the play space out of the case; and prize acquisition means operable to move the prize on the prize stand toward the prize intake. A play mechanism provided outside the case with an operation unit for receiving the operation of the user; and a game for the purpose of acquiring the premium based on the operation of the user on the operation unit is provided in the play space. And a control unit for controlling the prize acquisition means to be performed in the prize acquisition means, wherein the prize acquisition means scoops up the prize on the prize stand and the prize intake port. A capture body rotatable around a predetermined rotation axis so as to drop the capture body, and a driving unit for driving the capture body to rotate, and the control unit includes the capture body when scooping up the prize. The capturing body control means for controlling the driving means such that the rotation direction of the prize is the same as the rotation direction of the capture body when dropping the prize toward the prize intake, and The capturing body control means stops the rotation of the capturing body at a position where the holding surface holding the premium of the capturing body faces upward when the scooping is performed, and the holding surface when the capturing body is dropped. However, the driving unit is controlled so that the capturing body rotates until the capturing body reaches a position above the predetermined rotation axis.

The schematic perspective view of a game machine. The schematic perspective view of the game machine from which the case was removed. The schematic perspective view of a premium stand. The schematic sectional drawing of a premium stand. FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the game device with the case removed. The schematic diagram explaining a scooping operation | movement and a fall operation | movement. FIG. 2 is a schematic sectional view of a shovel drive unit. The schematic perspective view of the guidance duct of a premium | prize. FIG. 3 is a schematic sectional view of a shutter mechanism. FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the game machine in a horizontal direction. The schematic block diagram of a game machine. 4 is a schematic flowchart illustrating a play mode. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing a screen of a display unit.

  Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, dimensions, materials, shapes, relative positions of components, and the like described in the following embodiments can be arbitrarily set, and can be changed according to the configuration of an apparatus to which the present invention is applied or various conditions. Moreover, unless otherwise specified, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments specifically described below. In addition, in this specification, up and down respectively correspond to an upward direction and a downward direction in the direction of gravity. As an example, when the mounting surface side of the play apparatus 100 is the lower side, the opposite side corresponds to the upper side.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the game apparatus 100 includes a case 101 whose inside can be visually recognized, and a substantially rectangular parallelepiped casing 102 as an example of a game mechanism. The housing unit 102 includes a case 101 and mechanisms and devices for capturing prizes. Alternatively, the housing 102 may be a column having a cylindrical or polygonal bottom surface. The case 101 is openably and closably connected to the upper surface of the housing unit 102 by a connection member such as a screw number. FIG. 1 shows a state in which the case 101 is closed, and the case 101 is operable to open upward from the state in FIG. Thereby, the case 101 can be opened and prizes can be replenished. A play space covered by the case 101 is defined above the housing 102. This play space is sealed by a case 101, and two operation units 111 for receiving a user's operation are arranged outside the case 101.

  The operation unit 111 has a capture button 112A for instructing a prize capturing operation and a drop button 112B for instructing a prize dropping operation. Each of the capture button 112A and the drop button 112B is a push-in button, and a detection signal of a press-down operation of each button is output as a user operation. As prizes to be captured, foods such as ice confections and confections, toys such as stuffed animals and dolls, accessories, drinks, and the like can be appropriately selected. Hereinafter, an example will be described in which ice confections or ice creams that require frozen storage are selected as prizes. In this specification, the term "capture" is used in the broadest sense as a concept that refers to an action involving the action of restraining the prize in some way, such as scooping, grabbing, pinching, and hooking the prize. Pushing a prize in a particular direction is also an aspect of “capture” in that the prize is constrained in that particular direction. However, in the following amusement device 100, as an operation of “capturing” a prize, an operation of scooping up a prize or an operation of pushing out a prize is selectively used.

  The operation unit 111 includes an input port 113 arranged on a side surface of the housing unit 102. When starting the game, the user performs a game start operation of inserting a game medium such as a coin as a value for the game into the slot 113. The coin may be a currency as a currency or a substitute currency having currency exchangeability. Hereinafter, the description will be continued assuming that a coin is inserted. In the insertion slot 113, an insertion sensor for detecting a passing coin is arranged. Then, the insertion sensor outputs a detection signal when detecting passage of the coin. Further, the operation unit 111 may include an information reading device that reads various types of information necessary for a game. For example, the user performs a game start operation of bringing a member card or an IC card into contact with the reading unit of the information reading device.

  The operation unit 111 includes a display unit 114 disposed on the upper surface of the housing unit 102 and a speaker 115 disposed on a side surface of the housing unit 102. The speaker 115 produces a sound effect, and the display unit 114 produces an image effect. A prize outlet 116 is formed below the speaker 115. Note that the operation unit 111 provided outside the case 101 may be separate from the housing unit 102. For example, a wireless communication terminal such as a mobile phone, a portable information terminal, or a personal computer may be used as the operation unit 111. You may. Further, only one operation unit 111 or three or more operation units 111 may be provided.

  FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view showing the game apparatus 100 with the case 101 removed. In the amusement space in the case 101, there are provided a prize stand 131 on which a prize group to be acquired by the user is arranged, and a prize acquisition unit 121 as an example of prize acquisition means. The prize table 131 has a substantially circular shape, and is supported by the rotation support portion 132 so as to circulate in a predetermined circulation path in the case 101. Alternatively, the prize table 131 may be a circulating path such as an ellipse, a polygon, and a meandering closed path that can be circulated. The rotation support section 132 includes a motor, which is a drive source (not shown), and a suspension mechanism that rotatably supports the premium stand 131. The rotation axis of the prize table 131 is located at the center of the prize table 131 and extends in the up-down direction. Alternatively, the game apparatus 100 may be configured so that the game can be performed with the prize stand 131 stationary. In this case, the rotation mechanism can be omitted from the rotation support portion 132. However, by rotating the prize stand 131, the user can select and capture the moving prize, so that the interest of the game can be further enhanced.

  The prize obtaining unit 121 includes a shovel rotating unit 123 and a lifting unit 124 as an example of a driving unit 196 (FIG. 11) that drives the shovel 122 to rotate. The prize acquisition unit 121 operates a shovel 122 as an example of a capturing body to realize capture and release of the prize. That is, the prize acquisition unit 121 is operable to move the prize on the prize stand 131 toward the prize intake 135. Then, the prize acquisition unit 121 scoops up the prize on the prize stand 131 by rotating the shovel 122 around a predetermined rotation axis, and drops the prized up toward the prize intake 135. In addition, on the right side of FIG. 2, for convenience of explanation, both the shovel 122 at the lower introduction position and the shovel 122 at the upper release position are indicated by solid lines. However, the shovel 122 moves between the two positions. In practice, the shovel 122 is not located at both positions in one prize acquisition unit 121 at the same time.

  In the amusement space, a guide cone 133 having a prize guide surface 134 with an upward slope is arranged when viewed from the prize stand 131 side. Above the prize stand 131, a prize intake 135 is opened on the prize guide surface 134, and at least one prize included in the prize group is removed from the play space to the case 101 via the prize intake 135. Can be taken out.

  A plurality of stations S are set in the housing 102 as an example of a plurality of play areas in which the position of the case 101 in the circumferential direction is different. The station S includes a prize intake 135, a prize acquisition unit 121, an operation unit 111, and a prize outlet 116. In FIG. 2, two stations S are provided, and two users can play at the same time. That is, the user can enjoy a game for the purpose of capturing prizes in a game space corresponding to the station S in which the user plays.

  The prize stand 131 and the guide cone 133 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. FIG. 3 shows the prize stand 131 viewed from above, and FIG. 4 shows a cross section of a substantially central portion of the prize stand 131.

  The prize stand 131 shown in FIG. 3 extends in the circumferential direction so as to have a cross section substantially on a semicircle. On the curved bottom surface of the prize table 131, a prize group is arranged. Alternatively, the prize table 131 may be a recyclable member such as an endless belt and a belt conveyor. Further, a guide cone 133 having a substantially frustoconical outer shape is arranged inside the prize table 131 in connection with the prize table 131. The guide cone 133 is inclined toward the prize intake 135. Further, a support surface 139 connected to the rotation support portion 132 is provided on the top of the guide cone 133 so as to extend in the radial direction of the premium stand 131. The guide cone 133 may be formed integrally with the prize table 131, or the guide cone 133 may have a plurality of flat or curved surfaces inclined toward the prize table 131.

  Two prize intakes 135 corresponding to the number of the operation units 111 are formed at positions facing the prize table 131. That is, the prize intake 135 is formed so as to be located directly opposite to the rotation axis of the prize stand 131. The prize intake 135 is open at a position adjacent to the prize stand 131. The number of prize intakes 135 is not limited to two, and one or three or more prize intakes 135 may be formed. A protruding portion 136 projecting from the prize table 131 is disposed between the prize intakes 135 in the circumferential direction of the guide cone 133 at a position adjacent to the guide cone 133.

  An area UA above the prize intake 135 on the prize guide surface 134 of the guide cone 133 is set as an area where the prize falls from the shovel 122. At least a part of the prize PZ 'that has fallen from the shovel 122 to the area UA is received by the holder 141 that receives and holds the prize that has fallen. That is, the prize PZ 'that has slipped down on the prize guide surface 134 of the guide cone 133 may enter directly into the prize intake 135, or may fall on the holder 141. Furthermore, the prize PZ 'may return from the prize guide surface 134 of the guide cone 133 to the prize stand 131 as it is. When the holding body 141 is at the holding position inclined toward the prize table 131, at least a part of the prize dropped on the holding body 141 is received by the holding body 141 and held by the holding body 141. When the holder 141 is tilted from the holding position to the guidance position inclined toward the prize intake 135, the prize held by the holder 141 is guided into the prize intake 135. As a result, the prize PZ 'moves so as to slide down or collapse into the prize intake 135.

  When the prize PZ 'is temporarily held on the holder 141, it can be expected that the prize PZ' will enter the prize intake 135 due to the subsequent behavior of the holder 141. If such a state occurs at the time the game is over, the user is motivated to continue the game. Thereby, the user's willingness to continue the game can be promoted through the temporary holding of the premium by the holder 141. As an example, at least one prize PZ ′ that has fallen from the shovel 122 is held on the holder 141, and when a plurality of prizes exceeding a certain amount are stored, the prize PZ ′ is moved from the holder 141 toward the prize intake 135. Falls. In addition, as described later, at least a part of the prize group on the prize stand 131 can be pushed out toward the prize intake 135. Also in this case, the extruded prize may enter the prize intake 135 or fall on the holder 141.

  As shown in FIG. 4, a plurality of inner rollers 137 </ b> A and a plurality of outer rollers 137 </ b> B supporting the lower surface are arranged on the lower surface of the premium table 131. The inner rollers 137A are arranged in a circle or an ellipse inside the prize table 131 in the radial direction, and the outer rollers 137B are arranged in a circle or an ellipse outside the prize table 131 in the radial direction. The prize table 131 rotated by the rotation support part 132 circulates on the rotating inner roller 137A and outer roller 137B, respectively.

  The holding body 141 is arranged at a position adjacent to the prize intake 135, that is, at a position between the inner edge of the prize intake 131 and the upper edge of the prize intake 135 in the radial direction of the prize intake 131. The holder 141 is arranged along the lower edge of the prize intake 135, and receives and holds the prize sent by the shovel 122 of the prize acquisition unit 121. The holding body 141 is operable between a holding position for holding the prize and a guiding position for guiding the held prize toward the prize intake 135. For convenience of explanation, in FIG. 4, the holding member 141A at the holding position is indicated by a solid line, and the holding member 141B at the guiding position is indicated by a dotted line.

  The holder 141 is provided rotatably about a rotation axis AL set to extend along the lower edge of the prize intake 135. The guidance position in this case is a position where the holding body 141 is inclined toward the prize intake 135 as compared with the holding position. This allows the user to visually understand that the prize falls when the holder 141 is tilted to the guide position. Therefore, it is possible to visually give the user a feeling of expectation that many prizes can be obtained. Here, the prize intake 135 may be configured such that its position or size can be adjusted. For example, a prize intake 135 can be configured such that rails are arranged on both sides of the prize intake 135 and the prize intake 135 and the holder 141 can move along the rail. Further, a prize intake 135 can be configured such that a movable door is disposed at the prize intake 135 so that the opening width of the door can be changed. As a result, when the opening width of the door is increased, the prizes on the holding body 141 are easily dropped, so that the prizes can be guided into the prize intake 135 at an early stage. On the other hand, when the opening width of the door is reduced, prizes can easily be stored on the holding body 141, so that a larger number of prizes can be held by the holding body 141.

  Further, the housing unit 102 includes a motion conversion mechanism 142 as an example of a holder driving unit that operates the holder 141 between the holding position and the guide position. The holding body 141 is attached to the guide cone 133 so as to be swingable about the rotation axis AL. Then, the motion converting mechanism 142 converts the circulating operation of the premium table 131 into a reciprocating operation between the holding position of the holding body 141 and the guiding position. Thereby, the reciprocating operation of the capturing body can be realized with a simple configuration. For example, the motion conversion mechanism 142 includes a rail plate 143 having a wavy outer shape that moves forward and backward periodically in a vertical direction, and a sliding roller 144 that periodically moves up and down while rotating on the rail plate 143. I have.

  A pair of sliding rollers 144 are arranged corresponding to both ends of the holder 141. Then, the sliding roller 144 is located at a lower position when reaching the portion where the rail plate 143 is retracted downward. Therefore, the end of the holder 141 on the prize table 131 side moves downward around the rotation axis AL of the holder 141, and the holder 141 is located at the holding position so as to receive the prize. On the other hand, the sliding roller 144 is located at an upper position when reaching the portion where the rail plate 143 has advanced upward. Therefore, the end of the holding body 141 on the side of the prize table 131 moves upward around the rotation axis AL of the holding body 141, and the holding body 141 is located at a guiding position for guiding the prize to the prize intake 135. When the holder 141 moves to the guiding position, the bottom surface of the holder 141 is inclined toward the prize intake 135. As a result, the held prize moves into the prize intake 135. In addition, a protrusion 140 that prevents the prize on the holder 141 from dropping onto the prize table 131 is formed at an end of the holder 141 on the side of the prize table 131. That is, the prize may move on the holding body 141 or change its posture, but the fall from the holding body 141 to the prize stand 131 is hindered by the projection 140. In FIG. 3, illustration of the protrusion 140 is omitted for convenience of description.

  Alternatively, motion conversion mechanism 142 may include a flat rail and a cam that rotates on the rail. In this case, the cam has an outer shape that protrudes periodically with respect to the rotation axis of the cam. Therefore, when the concave portion of the cam comes into contact with the rail, the end of the holding body 141 on the prize stand 131 side moves downward. On the other hand, when the protruding portion of the cam comes into contact with the rail, the end of the holding body 141 on the prize stand 131 side moves upward. Further, the holder driving unit may include a drive source such as a motor for rotating the holder 141 about the rotation axis AL, instead of the motion conversion mechanism 142. In this case, the control unit 191 controls the holder driving unit so that the holder 141 operates between the holding position and the guiding position. For example, when the SP condition described later is satisfied, or when the held prize reaches a certain weight or height, the control unit 191 rotates the holding body 141 so as to rotate the holding body 141 to the guiding position. The means can be controlled.

  The holder driving unit may rotate the holder 141 to the guide position at irregular intervals. For example, the holder driving unit may include a linear actuator such as a solenoid actuator or a rotary actuator such as a motor, and may rotate the holder 141 to the guide position at an arbitrary timing. Alternatively, a guide position where the rotation angle of the holder 141 is large and a guide position where the rotation angle is small may be set, and the holder driving unit may rotate the holder 141 to different guide positions. In this case, the holding body driving unit may rotate the holding body 141 to a different guiding position depending on the playing situation. For example, when an SP condition described later is satisfied, or when an index such as the elapsed time from the game start, the total number of visits by the user, the total play time of the user, and the total number of play of the user reaches a predetermined condition, The holder driving means rotates the holder 141 to a different guiding position.

  The prize acquisition unit 121 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. FIG. 5 shows a cross section of a substantially central portion along a horizontal direction orthogonal to the vertical direction. FIG. 6 shows the shovel 122 viewed from the side. FIG. 7 shows a cross section of the shovel rotating unit 123 in a vertical direction in a state where the shovel 122 is at a position for holding a premium.

  As shown in FIG. 5, as an example of the driving means 196 (FIG. 11), the prize acquisition unit 121 includes an elevating unit 124 that moves the shovel 122 between the introduction position and the release position, and a capturing unit that rotationally drives the shovel 122. A shovel rotating unit 123 which is an example of a body driving unit is provided. Further, the prize acquisition unit 121 has a mounting member 126 driven by the elevating unit 124. An elevating mechanism for elevating the shovel rotating unit 123 is provided in the hollow guide rail 125 and at the upper end of the guide rail 125. Thus, the shovel rotating unit 123 can move up and down along the guide rail 125. The elevating mechanism includes, as an example, a mounting member 126 connected to the shovel rotating unit 123 and a belt to which the mounting member 126 is connected. This belt is arranged along a guide rail 125, and when the belt is run by a motor, the mounting member 126 and the shovel rotating unit 123 move up and down along the guide rail 125. Alternatively, the lifting mechanism may be provided in the guide rail 125 and at the lower end of the guide rail 125.

  Further, the elevating unit 124 may include a shovel detection unit that detects whether the shovel 122 is at the introduction position or the release position. For example, the shovel detection unit is a mechanical switch disposed inside the guide rail 125 or an optical sensor that detects the mounting member 126. In this case, when the attachment member 126 reaches the uppermost shovel detector, the shovel detector outputs a signal notifying that the shovel 122 has reached the release position. When the mounting member 126 reaches the lowermost shovel detector, the shovel detector outputs a signal notifying that the shovel 122 has reached the introduction position. Alternatively, the shovel detection unit may be an encoder connected to the motor of the lifting unit 124. In this case, the position of the shovel 122 can be detected based on a signal output from the encoder.

  Specifically, the elevating unit 124 drives the attachment member 126 to move the shovel 122 at the introduction position upward along the guide rail 125 while moving the shovel 122 from the operation unit 11 in the radial direction of the prize table 131. Move away. Conversely, the elevating section 124 drives the mounting member 126 to move the shovel 122 at the release position downward along the guide rail 125 and approach the operating section 11 in the radial direction of the prize table 131. Move in the direction. This allows the shovel 122 to move between the introduction position and the release position. Then, the shovel 122 at the introduction position is introduced into the prize group on the prize stand 131 by being rotated by the shovel rotation unit 123. In addition, the shovel 122 at the release position is rotated by the shovel rotating unit 123 to drop the scooped prize.

  For convenience of explanation, in FIG. 5, the shovel 122A at the introduction position and the shovel 122B at the release position are indicated by solid lines. However, actually, the shovel 122 is not simultaneously located at a plurality of positions. Then, as shown in FIG. 5, the position where the excavator 122 at the introduction position starts to rotate when scooping the prize and the position where the rotation of the shovel 122 at the release position when dropping the prize are ended are as follows. 122 with respect to the rotation axis. That is, the shovel 122 has rotated 360 degrees from the start of rotation at the introduction position to the end of rotation at the release position.

  Here, the release position is set such that when the shovel 122 is rotated upward (counterclockwise in FIG. 6), the premium falls into the area UA above the premium intake 135. That is, the elevating unit 124 moves the shovel 122 to above the area UA. Thereafter, the shovel rotating unit 123 rotates the shovel 122 to drop the premium on the shovel 122. Then, the prize sliding down on the prize guide surface 134 is received in the holder 141 or the prize intake 135. The holding body 141 holds the received prize and guides it to the prize intake 135 at a predetermined timing. As described above, since the prize slides down on the prize guide surface 134, the user needs to predict a route on which the prize slides. Therefore, by complicating the game content, the interest of the game can be further enhanced. Alternatively, the shovel 122 may throw the prize toward the prize intake 135 or may push the prize toward the prize intake 135.

  In addition, when the game is not performed, the shovel 122 may be made to stand by at a standby position different from any of the introduction position and the release position. In this case, the shovel detector may detect the standby position. The standby position can be set between the introduction position and the release position or above the release position. In FIG. 5, the shovel 122C at the standby position (hereinafter referred to as HP (Home Position)) is indicated by a dotted line. As an example, the shovel 122 moves from the release position to the HP set below the prize after the user presses the drop button 112B and the prize falls. This HP is set above the introduction position. Then, when the user presses down the capture button 112A, the shovel 122 moves to the introduction position. Here, the excavator 122 does not rotate until it moves from the release position to the HP and from the HP to the introduction position. Therefore, the position of the shovel 122 at the HP with respect to the rotation axis of the shovel 122 coincides with the position at which the shovel 122 at the introduction position starts to rotate and the position at which the rotation of the shovel 122 at the release position ends. I have.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the shovel 122 is rotatable in the scooping direction R, and has a shape capable of performing a scooping operation for scooping up a prize along with the rotation in the scooping direction R. The shovel rotating unit 123 can rotate the shovel 122 in the scooping direction R. That is, the shovel rotating unit 123 rotates the shovel 122 in the scooping direction R from the rotation start position on the left side in FIG. Then, after rotating the shovel 122 to the rotation stop position in the center of FIG. 6, the shovel rotation unit 123 stops the rotation of the shovel 122. Here, the flat holding surface 122W of the shovel 122 faces upward, and a premium is held on the holding surface 122W. The shovel 122 has a bent portion 122X at an end opposite to the rotation axis. Therefore, even if the shovel 122 is slightly inclined, the prize is prevented from falling over the bent portion 122X. Alternatively, the holding surface 122W may be a curved surface. When the shovel 122 rotates in the pushing direction OR opposite to the scooping direction R, the prize PZ ″ is pushed by the pushing surface 122 </ b> Z of the shovel 122 and pushed out into the prize intake 135. At this time, the prize PZ ″ or at least a part of the prize group may be received by the holder 141.

  Next, the shovel rotating unit 123 performs a drop operation of moving the shovel 122 from the introduction position to the release position and rotating the shovel 122 in the scooping direction R from the rotation stop position in the center of FIG. Then, the shovel rotating unit 123 rotates the shovel 122 to the premium drop position on the right side in FIG. 6 (until the holding surface 122W reaches a position above the rotation axis of the shovel 122). Thus, the prize held on the shovel 122 falls into the prize intake 135. Thereafter, the shovel rotating unit 123 rotates the shovel 122 until the holding surface 122W is turned upside down (to a position facing downward). The rotation operation from the prize drop position to the rotation end position is performed continuously. That is, the shovel rotating unit 123 does not stop the shovel 122 at the prize dropping position on the right side of FIG. 6 and continuously rotates the shovel 122 to the rotation end position on the left side of FIG. In FIG. 6, the shovel 122 rotated to a position where the holding surface 122W faces downward is indicated by a dotted line.

  The shovel 122 has an inclined portion 122Y at the end of the rotation shaft. The inclined portion 122Y is more gradually inclined from the bottom surface of the shovel 122 than the bent portion 122X. Therefore, when the shovel 122 rotates to the prize drop position, it is difficult for the prize to drop over the inclined portion 122Y. Here, the rotation direction of the shovel 122 in the scooping operation and the falling operation is the same. Thereby, one side of the shovel 122 is always introduced into the prize group, and the scooped prizes always fall from the other side of the shovel 122. Therefore, by making the shape of one side of the shovel 122 different from that of the other side, the prize can be scooped up more easily without hindering the fall. Furthermore, the shovel rotation unit 123 may stop the rotation of the shovel 122 for a predetermined time at the premium drop position.

  Thereafter, the shovel rotating unit 123 rotates the shovel 122 in the release position in the scooping direction R from the premium drop position on the right side in FIG. After rotating the shovel 122 to the rotation end position on the left side in FIG. 6, the shovel rotation unit 123 stops the rotation of the shovel 122. Here, the rotation end position is the same as the rotation start position with respect to the rotation axis of the shovel 122. When the HP is set, the shovel 122 that has rotated to the rotation end position is thereafter moved to the HP. Alternatively, the shovel 122 may be rotated to the rotation end position while moving to the HP. Further, the shovel 122 may be made to stand by at the introduction position without setting the HP. In this case, the shovel rotating unit 123 and the elevating unit 124 move the shovel 122 to the introduction position after dropping the prize at the release position.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the shovel rotation unit 123 includes a substantially rectangular parallelepiped box 123 </ b> A and a mounting part 123 </ b> B mounted on the mounting member 126 of the guide rail 125. The mounting portion 123B is fixed to the outer surface of the box 123A by a method such as screwing. The shovel rotation unit 123 includes a pair of pulleys 123C, an endless belt 123D wrapped around the pair of pulleys 123C, and a shovel drive motor 123E that is a driving source of the shovel 122 and is connected to one of the pair of pulleys 123C. And

  The shovel 122 is connected to the other of the pair of pulleys 123C via a rotation shaft. Thereby, the driving force of the shovel drive motor 123E is transmitted to the shovel 122 via the pair of pulleys 123C, the endless belt 123D, and the rotation shaft of the shovel 122. Furthermore, the shovel rotating unit 123 may have an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the tension (tension) of the endless belt 123D. The adjustment mechanism increases the tension of the endless belt 123D, so that the load resistance of the shovel 122 can be increased. As an example, a protruding member that can come and go with the endless belt 123D can be arranged in the box body 123A. As the amount by which the protruding member pushes the endless belt 123D increases, the tension of the endless belt 123D increases, and the withstand load can be increased.

  The prize guide duct 151 and the shutter 152 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 8 is a schematic perspective view of the guide duct 151. FIG. 9 shows a cross section along the longitudinal direction of the guide duct 151. FIG. 10 shows a cross section passing between the case 101 and the premium table 131.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the prize outlet 116 of the amusement device 100 is provided on the outer peripheral side of the case 101 and at a position lower than the prize intake 135. Therefore, the amusement apparatus 100 is provided with a guide duct 151 shown in FIG. 8 so as to guide the prize taken into the prize intake 135 toward the prize discharge 116. The guide duct 151 has a substantially U-shaped cross section, and its upper side, that is, the prize stand 131 side is open. At the lower end of the guide duct 151, a substantially U-shaped mounting bracket 153 is mounted. Then, the guide duct 151 is attached to the inside of the side surface of the housing 102 by the attachment fitting 153. As a result, the guide duct 151 communicates with the prize outlet 116.

  In addition, the amusement device 100 includes an introduction unit 154 that communicates directly or indirectly with the prize intake 135 and the guide duct 151. Here, the prize intake 135 is provided at a position closer to the center of the play space than the prize stand 131 when viewed from the operation unit 111 side. The introduction section 154 is arranged below the center of the game space, and extends downward from the prize intake 135. Therefore, the prize put into the prize intake 135 passes through the introduction section 154 and falls into the guide duct 151. The guide duct 151 has an inclined portion 155 having a downward slope toward the prize outlet 116 so as to guide the prize toward the outer periphery of the case 101 toward the prize outlet 116. Therefore, the prize rolls on the inclined portion 155 and moves from the guide duct 151 to the prize outlet 116. The user can open the outer door of the prize outlet 116 and take out the prize moved to the prize outlet 116.

  Here, a plurality of stations S (FIG. 2) are provided in the housing unit 102. Therefore, the guide duct 151 has a plurality of branch portions 156 extending from the introduction portion 154 to the prize outlets 116 corresponding to each of the plurality of stations S. In the present embodiment, since two stations are provided, the guide duct 151 has two branch portions 156. The prize intake 135 joins at the introduction section 154. Therefore, the introduction part 154 is partitioned by the partition member 157 so as to individually communicate with the plurality of branch parts 156, for example, two branch parts 156. The partition member 157 extends in the vertical direction so as to equally divide the upper opening and the lower opening of the introduction portion 154. As a result, each of the prize intakes 135 communicates with only one branch 156. Therefore, the prize guided to the prize intake 135 is always guided to the prize outlet 116 corresponding to the operation unit 111 operated by the user.

  Here, the game apparatus 100 further includes a cooling unit 195 (FIG. 11) for cooling the cooling section CS shown in FIG. 5 set on the premium stand 131 in the game space. Thereby, the premium on the premium stand 131 can be maintained in a frozen state. The cooling section CS is set from the lower end of the case 101 to the upper end of the prize stand 131. At least a part of the prize intake 135 is open to the cooling section CS, and the control section 191 controls the temperature in the cooling section CS to be lower than a predetermined temperature (eg, −25 ° C.). ing. However, the section above the lower end of the case 101 and the section below the upper end of the premium stand 131 may be cooled by the flow of cool air. The control unit 191 (FIG. 11) activates the cooling unit 195 when detecting that the power of the game apparatus 100 or the cooling unit 195 is turned on. Alternatively, instead of the control unit 191, the cooling unit 195 may have a function of controlling the temperature of the cooling section CS.

  The cooling unit 195 is, for example, disposed below the housing unit 102 and includes a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, an evaporator, and a blower fan. The cooling section 195 sends cool air to the cooling section CS via a duct or the like (not shown), and the cool air sent from the cooling section 195 is blown out to the cooling section CS. The cool air flowing into the cooling section CS stays on the premium stand 131 in the cooling section CS due to the specific gravity. Further, an air curtain may be formed on the prize stand 131 by setting the direction of blowing out the cool air in the radial direction of the prize stand 131.

  The introduction section 154 has airtightness to maintain the temperature of the cooling section CS. Further, the introduction section 154 is provided with a shutter mechanism for opening and closing the introduction section 154. The shutter mechanism blocks or hinders cool air flowing through the introduction portion 154 to the guide duct 151 (or the outside of the game apparatus 100). Specifically, the shutter mechanism has a plate-shaped shutter 152 that can move between an open position for opening the introduction section 154 and a closed position for closing the introduction section 154. This shutter 152 is arranged at the introduction portion 154 at a boundary communicating with the guide duct 151. Alternatively, the shutter 152 may be located within the introduction portion 154 or at a boundary communicating with the prize intake 135 at the introduction portion 154. By providing the shutter mechanism, loss of cool air leaking downward through the prize intake 135 can be suppressed. The shutter mechanism includes a shutter drive motor 158 as an example of a shutter drive unit that drives the shutter 152 between an open position and a closed position.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the shutter mechanism closes the introduction portion 154 by the shutter 152A at the closed position shown on the right side of FIG. The shutter mechanism rotates the shutter 152A downward when the user starts playing, and the shutter 152B opens the introduction portion 154 at the open position shown on the left side of FIG. Further, in the introduction section 154, the opening area of the upper end is larger than that of the lower end. Then, the shutter 152 is disposed in a portion of the introduction section 154 having a small opening area. Accordingly, since the arrangement portion of the shutter 152 is narrowed, the loss of cool air when the shutter 152 is opened can be suppressed.

  Generally, when a motor is used at a low temperature, specifications required for the motor are strict because it is necessary to guarantee operation at a low temperature. Therefore, the shutter drive motor 158 of the shutter mechanism is disposed outside the introduction section 154 in order to ease the required specifications. That is, the shutter drive motor 158 is arranged in a section isolated from the cooling section CS by the shutter 152. Thus, it is possible to suppress the shutter drive motor 158 from being directly exposed to cool air and cooled.

  Further, the elevating unit 124 can cause at least a part of the shovel rotating unit 123 to enter the cooling section CS and retreat the shovel rotating unit 123 out of the cooling section CS. Specifically, when the excavator 122 moves the shovel 122 to the introduction position, at least a part of the shovel rotating unit 123 enters the cooling section CS. Thereafter, the elevating unit 124 moves the shovel 122 to retract the entire shovel rotating unit 123 out of the cooling section CS. Accordingly, the time during which the shovel drive motor 123E in the shovel rotating unit 123 is cooled by the cool air can be limited to a short time. For example, the shovel control unit 192 controls the elevating unit 124 such that the shovel rotating unit 123 is located outside the cooling section CS (HP of the shovel 122) except when capturing a premium.

  As shown in FIG. 10, the game apparatus 100 further includes a stock box SB as an example of a prize storage unit. Thereby, premiums can be stored without separately arranging a cooling device for storage. This stock box SB is arranged outside the play space so as to communicate with the cooling section CS. The stock box SB is arranged between the two stations S. As an example, the stock box SB is in fluid communication with the play space via a plate or sheet having a large number of holes. Therefore, the cool air flowing into the cooling section CS flows into the stock box SB through the hole of the plate or the sheet.

  The prize stored in the stock box SB is, for example, food such as ice cream which needs to be stored in a low temperature state. Further, the lid 119 (FIG. 1) of the stock box SB is attached to the housing 102 so as to be openable and closable by a connecting member such as a hinge. The lid 119 is operable to open upward from the state of FIG. 1 with the connection position of the connection member as a fulcrum. By opening the lid 119, the prize can be stored in the stock box SB. Alternatively, the case 101 may be used instead of the lid 119 to cover the stock box SB.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 11 and FIG. 12, control of the game device 100 will be described. FIG. 11 is a schematic block diagram of the game apparatus 100, and FIG. 12 is a schematic flowchart for explaining the game mode.

  As shown in FIG. 11, the game device 100 includes a control unit 191 for controlling the premium obtaining unit 121. As an example, the control unit 191 includes a CPU (not shown) and a memory as a storage unit that stores a control program. The CPU controls the entire game device 100 based on a program stored in the memory, and also controls various processes comprehensively. The memory includes a RAM, which is a system work memory for operating the CPU, and a ROM and / or a hard disk drive for storing programs, predetermined sound data, image data, and moving image data.

  The control unit 191 as a computer can execute processing operations such as various calculations, controls, and determinations according to a control program stored in a ROM or a hard disk drive. For example, when the control unit 191 executes various processes in accordance with the control program, the control unit 191 causes the shovel control unit 192, the rotation control unit 193 functioning as a rotation control unit, and the shutter functioning as a shutter control unit. Each unit such as the control unit 194 is logically realized as various functions. For example, the rotation control unit 193 has a function of controlling the rotation support unit 132 so that the premium stand 131 circulates at a predetermined rotation speed. The control program is recorded on an internal or external recording medium that can be read by a computer.

  The control unit 191 controls the prize acquisition unit 121 based on a user's operation on the operation unit 111 such that a prize is acquired in the play space. More specifically, the control unit 191 is provided with a shovel control unit 192 as an example of a capturing body control unit. Then, the shovel controller 192 sets the rotation direction of the shovel 122 when scooping up the prize and the rotation direction of the shovel 122 when dropping the prize toward the prize intake 135 so as to be the same. 123 is controlled. That is, as illustrated in FIG. 6, when scooping a prize, the shovel control unit 192 controls the shovel rotating unit 123 so as to rotate the shovel 122 at the rotation start position in the scooping direction R. In addition, when dropping the premium, the shovel control unit 192 controls the shovel rotating unit 123 so as to rotate the shovel 122 at the rotation stop position in the scooping direction R. This eliminates the need for the shovel rotating unit 123 to rotate backward during the drop operation. Therefore, the shovel 122 can be efficiently rotated, and the prize can be prevented from dropping due to the vibration generated at the time of the reverse rotation.

  Furthermore, when scooping up a prize, the shovel control unit 192 controls the shovel rotation unit 123 so that the rotation of the shovel 122 stops at a position where the holding surface 122W of the shovel 122 faces upward (rotation in the center of FIG. 6). Stop position). When the prize is dropped, the shovel control unit 192 controls the shovel rotation unit 123 such that the shovel 122 rotates until the holding surface 122W reaches a position above the rotation axis of the shovel 122 (FIG. 6). (Premium drop position on the right). Thereafter, the shovel control unit 192 controls the shovel rotation unit 123 so that the shovel 122 rotates until the holding surface 122W is turned upside down (to a downward position). The rotation operation from the prize drop position to the rotation end position is performed continuously. That is, the shovel rotating unit 123 does not stop the shovel 122 at the prize dropping position on the right side of FIG. 6 and continuously rotates the shovel 122 to the rotation end position on the left side of FIG.

  In addition, the shovel control unit 192 controls the shovel rotation unit 123 so that the start position of the rotation of the shovel 122 when scooping the prize and the end position of the rotation of the shovel 122 when the prize is dropped. That is, the shovel control unit 192 controls the lifting unit 124 to move the shovel 122 stopped at the rotation start position in FIG. 6 to the introduction position. Further, the shovel control unit 192 controls the shovel rotation unit 123 so as to rotate the shovel 122 rotated to the prize drop position in FIG. 6 to the rotation end position. As a result, the start and end positions of the rotation coincide with the position of the shovel 122 with respect to the rotation axis. Accordingly, even if the shovel 122 after the drop operation is moved to the introduction position without rotating, the scooping operation of the shovel 122 can be performed. Therefore, before performing the scooping operation, there is no need to perform a preliminary operation of rotating the shovel 122 to a position that can be introduced into the prize group.

  The game device 100 can execute a first mode, a normal game, and a second mode, a special point game (hereinafter, referred to as an SP game). In the normal game, the shovel control unit 192 operates to rotate the shovel 122 at the introduction position in the scooping direction R to scoop up the premium. After that, the shovel control unit 192 operates the shovel 122 so that the shovel 122 rotates in a direction in which the picked-up prize is dropped toward the prize intake 135. Here, the shovel controller 192 rotates the shovel 122 after moving the shovel 122 at the introduction position to the release position. Alternatively, the shovel controller 192 may rotate the shovel 122 at the introduction position to drop the prize toward the prize intake 135. In this case, the formation position of the prize intake 135 is set so as to pass through a position close to the introduction position.

  In the SP game, the shovel controller 192 performs a pushing operation of moving the shovel 122 to the introduction position and rotating the shovel 122 in the pushing direction OR (FIG. 6). For this reason, the shovel 122 is configured to be rotatable in a direction opposite to the scooping direction R which is a rotating direction at the time of the scooping operation, that is, in an extrusion direction OR for pushing out the prize on the prize stand 131 toward the prize intake 135. ing. In addition, the shovel rotating unit 123 is configured to rotate the shovel 122 in the pushing direction OR. Then, the shovel control unit 192 controls the shovel rotating unit 123 so that the shovel 122 rotates in the pushing direction OR. In the base game, the shovel 122 moves to the release position and is rotated. In the SP game, the shovel 122 is rotated in the introduction position. That is, in the SP game, the movement range of the shovel 122 in the capturing operation is different from that in the normal game. Thereby, two different operations of the scooping operation and the pushing operation can be executed by the same configuration. Therefore, two games having different game characteristics can be provided to the user by the same play mechanism.

  Specifically, the SP game will be described with reference to FIG. The shovel rotating unit 123 rotates the shovel 122 that has moved to the introduction position from the rotation start position on the left side in FIG. 6 in the pushing direction OR that is the opposite direction to the scooping direction R. Then, after passing through the rotation stop position in the center of FIG. 6, the shovel rotating unit 123 rotates the shovel 122 to the rotation end position on the left side of FIG. Alternatively, the shovel rotation unit 123 may rotate the shovel 122 in the pushing direction OR while the shovel 122 is moving to the introduction position. Further, the shovel rotating unit 123 may rotate the shovel 122 to the rotation stop position in the center of FIG. 6 before the shovel 122 moves to the introduction position. In this case, the shovel rotation unit 123 may rotate the shovel 122 in either the pushing direction OR or the scooping direction R. However, at the time of the pushing operation, the shovel rotating unit 123 rotates the shovel 122 at the rotation stop position in the pushing direction OR. Thereby, the prize PZ ″ can be pushed out and guided to the prize intake 135 without scooping up the prize PZ ″ and lifting the prize PZ ″ above the prize intake 135. Therefore, it is possible to give the user a feeling of expectation that many prizes can be obtained.

  Here, the prize intake 135 is opened at a position adjacent to the prize stand 131, for example, at a position where the prize pushed out by the rotating shovel 122 reaches. Therefore, when the shovel rotation unit 123 rotates the shovel 122 to the rotation end position on the left side of FIG. 6, the prize PZ ″ on the prize table 131 is pushed by the extruding surface 122 </ b> Z of the shovel 122, and enters into the prize intake 135. Fall. Thereafter, the shovel rotation unit 123 stops the rotation of the shovel 122. In the SP game, since the prize on the prize stand 131 is pushed directly into the prize intake 135, the expectation of obtaining the prize can be increased as compared with the normal game in which the prize is slipped off on the prize guide surface 134. Note that the pushing operation includes an operation of flipping a prize in addition to an operation of sliding the prize.

  Further, the control unit 191 is provided with a shutter control unit 194 as an example of a shutter control unit that controls a shutter mechanism so that the introduction unit 154 is opened and closed based on a state of play. For example, when the control unit 191 detects a game start operation, the shutter control unit 194 causes the shutter drive motor 158, which is an example of a shutter drive unit, to operate the shutter 152 to open the introduction unit 154. Alternatively, the shutter control unit 194 may open the introduction unit 154 when detecting that the prize has passed through the prize intake 135. In this case, for example, a sensor is disposed at the prize intake 135, and the shutter control unit 194 can open the introduction unit 154 when receiving a signal indicating that the prize has passed from the sensor. Further, the shutter control unit 194 may open the introduction unit 154 when the shovel 122 moves to the introduction position or the release position, or when the acquisition button or the drop button 112B is pressed down.

  Thereafter, when the control unit 191 determines that the game is to be ended, the shutter control unit 194 causes the shutter drive motor 158 to operate the shutter 152 to close the introduction unit 154. Alternatively, the shutter control unit 194 may close the introduction unit 154 when a predetermined time has elapsed without a game start operation or a user pressing down a button. Further, the shutter control section 194 may close the introduction section 154 when the prize reaches the prize outlet 116. Further, the shutter control section 194 may open the introduction section 154 from the start to the end of the game. Alternatively, the shutter control section 194 may keep the introduction section 154 closed even after the game starts, and open the introduction section 154 each time a prize passes through the prize intake 135.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 12, control by the game device 100 will be described. Note that FIG. 12 illustrates an example in which the HP is set at a position different from the release position and the introduction position.

  The control unit 191 permits the user to play a game based on the operation of the user in exchange for payment of a predetermined consideration. Therefore, the user performs a game start operation such as inserting a coin into the insertion slot 113 first. When the control unit 191 detects a game start operation, the shutter control unit 194 causes the shutter drive motor 158 to operate the shutter 152 to open the introduction unit 154. For example, the insertion sensor in the insertion slot 113 outputs a detection signal to the control unit 191 when detecting the passage of a coin. Thereby, the control unit 191 can detect the game start operation.

  When an information reading device is provided, the information reading device reads user information from a member card or an IC card, and transmits the user information to the control unit 191. The control unit 191 determines that a game start operation has been detected by performing a payment process using points or electronic currency based on the user information. Alternatively, the control unit 191 reads the balance information of the electronic currency recorded on a game medium such as an IC card via the information reading device, and consumes the amount of the electronic currency corresponding to the value of the game, thereby starting the game. May be determined to have been detected.

  When the game is started, the shovel controller 192 selects the base game or the SP game based on the state of the game performed in the housing 102. Specifically, the shovel control unit 192 determines whether or not the playing state satisfies a predetermined condition (SP condition) for executing the SP game (S101). As an example, the SP condition is set in association with a game price. That is, the SP condition is set so as to be satisfied when the integrated value of the payment amount of the game consideration reaches a predetermined threshold value. For example, after the controller 191 determines that the game is to be ended, if the game price is paid before a predetermined time has elapsed, the SP points are accumulated. When the SP points are accumulated up to a predetermined threshold, the SP condition is satisfied. Specifically, if 100 yen is inserted within a predetermined time from the end of the game, one SP point is accumulated. When the SP points are accumulated up to 5 points, the SP condition is satisfied. This can encourage the user to continue playing the game. Alternatively, the setting is such that the SP condition is satisfied when indexes such as the elapsed time from the game start, the total number of visits by the user, the total play time of the user, and the total number of play of the user reach predetermined conditions. May be. Alternatively, it may be set so that the SP condition is satisfied when a predetermined condition such as reading of a coupon or a member card is satisfied.

  If the SP condition is not satisfied (NO in S101), the shovel control unit 192 selects the base game and starts the base game (S102). When a normal game is selected, the shovel controller 192 moves the shovel 122 to the introduction position and rotates when the prize is scooped, and moves the shovel 122 to the release position and rotates after the rotation. It controls the rotating unit 123 and the elevating unit 124. Specifically, when the base game is started, the shovel control unit 192 causes the elevating unit 124 to move the excavator 122 to the introduction position in response to the first operation on the operation unit 111, ie, the pressing operation of the capture button 112A. Control.

  That is, the shovel controller 192 determines whether or not the capture button 112A has been pressed down (S103). If the capture button 112A has not been pressed down (NO in S103), the shovel control unit 192 waits until the pushdown is detected. On the other hand, when the shovel is depressed (YES in S103), the shovel control unit 192 starts the scooping operation (S104), and controls the elevating unit 124 so that the shovel 122 moves to the introduction position. Then, the shovel control unit 192 controls the shovel rotation unit 123 so that the shovel 122 at the introduction position automatically rotates in the scooping direction R. Alternatively, the shovel control unit 192 may control the shovel rotation unit 123 so that the shovel 122 rotates when a user operation, for example, a second pressing operation of the capture button 112A is detected.

  Thereafter, the shovel controller 192 controls the elevating unit 124 so that the shovel 122 automatically moves to the release position (S105). Then, the shovel control unit 192 controls the shovel rotation unit 123 so that the shovel 122 that has been moved to the release position rotates in response to the operation of pressing down the drop button 112B, which is the second operation on the operation unit 111. . That is, the shovel control unit 192 determines whether or not the drop button 112B has been pressed down (S106), and if it has not been pressed down (NO in S106), waits until the press down is detected.

  On the other hand, when the shovel is depressed (YES in S106), the shovel control unit 192 starts the dropping operation (S107). Alternatively, the shovel control unit 192 may control the elevating unit 124 such that the shovel 122 moves to the release position in response to the pressing operation of the drop button 112B. In this case, the shovel control unit 192 controls the shovel rotation unit 123 so that the shovel 122 at the release position automatically rotates. Alternatively, the shovel control unit 192 may control the shovel rotation unit 123 so that the shovel 122 rotates when a user operation, for example, a second press operation of the drop button 112B is detected. As described above, in order for the user to determine the fall timing of the prize, the user needs to consider the fall timing. Therefore, by complicating the game content, the interest of the game can be further enhanced.

  After the rotation at the release position, the shovel control unit 192 controls the elevating unit 124 so that the shovel 122 moves to the HP (S108). After that, the control unit 191 determines whether or not the predetermined consideration has been paid, and determines whether to end the game. For example, when a predetermined number of times (for example, six times) can be played by paying a predetermined price (for example, 500 yen), the control unit 191 subtracts 1 from the number of times that the player can play each time the play ends. The control unit 191 determines that a predetermined payment has been made until the number of playable times reaches zero. On the other hand, when the number of playable times reaches 0, the control unit 191 determines that the predetermined payment has not been paid.

  Then, if the control unit 191 determines that the predetermined payment has been made (NO in S109), the control unit 191 starts the normal game (S102). On the other hand, when a predetermined time has elapsed since the control unit 191 has determined that the predetermined payment has not been paid, the game ends (YES in S109). Then, the shutter control unit 194 determines whether or not a game is being performed based on a game start operation performed on the slot 113 of the operation unit 111. For example, when a predetermined time (eg, one minute) has elapsed without performing a game start operation, the shutter control unit 194 determines that a game has not been performed. If the shutter control unit 194 determines that the game is not being played, the shutter control unit 194 controls the shutter mechanism so that the introduction unit 154 closes (S110). This allows the shutter 152 to be closed when there is no need to send the prize to the prize outlet 116. Therefore, loss of the cool air leaking downward through the prize intake 135 can be minimized.

  If the SP condition is satisfied (YES in S101), the shovel control unit 192 selects the SP game and starts the SP game (S111). At the time of selecting the SP game, the shovel controller 192 controls the shovel rotating unit 123 and the elevating unit 124 so that the shovel 122 moves to the introduction position and thereafter the shovel 122 rotates in the pushing direction OR. Specifically, when the SP game is started, the shovel controller 192 moves the elevating unit 124 so that the shovel 122 moves to the introduction position in response to the operation of pressing down the capture button 112A, which is the first operation on the operation unit 111. Control.

  That is, the shovel control unit 192 determines whether or not the capture button 112A has been pressed down (S112). If the capture button 112A has not been pressed down (NO in S112), the shovel control unit 192 waits until the pushdown is detected. On the other hand, when the shovel is depressed (YES in S112), the shovel control unit 192 starts the pushing operation (S113), and controls the elevating unit 124 so that the shovel 122 moves to the introduction position. Then, the shovel control unit 192 controls the shovel rotation unit 123 so that the shovel 122 at the introduction position automatically rotates in the extrusion direction OR. Alternatively, the shovel control unit 192 may control the shovel rotation unit 123 so that the shovel 122 rotates when a user operation, for example, a second pressing operation of the capture button 112A is detected.

  After rotating at the introduction position, the shovel controller 192 controls the elevating unit 124 so that the shovel 122 moves to the HP (S114). After that, the control unit 191 determines whether or not the predetermined consideration has been paid, and determines whether to end the game. Then, if the control unit 191 determines that the predetermined payment has been made (NO in S115), the control unit 191 starts the normal game (S102). Alternatively, the control unit 191 may start the SP game when it is determined that the payment for the predetermined consideration has been made. On the other hand, when the control unit 191 determines that the predetermined payment has not been paid, a predetermined time elapses, and then the game ends (YES in S115). If the shutter control unit 194 determines that the game is not being played, the shutter control unit 194 controls the shutter mechanism so that the introduction unit 154 closes (S110).

  Next, with reference to FIG. 13, effects produced by the game device 100 will be described. FIG. 13 shows an example of a screen displayed on the display unit 114 of the game device 100.

  In the amusement device 100, an effect using the speaker 115, a plurality of light emitting units (not shown), and the display unit 114 is performed. The plurality of light emitting units are, for example, a title panel arranged on the top of the guide cone 133, a light panel arranged on a surface of the guide rail 125 facing the user, and an entire periphery arranged to surround the outer periphery of the premium stand 131. Lights and LED lights located in other areas visible to the user. The display unit 114 may be arranged on the protrusion 136 located between the prize intakes 135 in addition to the display unit 114 of the operation unit 111.

  The speaker 115 reproduces sound based on sound data stored in a ROM and / or a hard disk drive. For example, the control unit 191 causes the speaker 115 to play game music while the user is playing. Further, while the user is playing the SP game, the control unit 191 causes the speaker 115 to play special music different from the normal game. Further, when ending the game, the control unit 191 causes the speaker 115 to reproduce sounds such as “please play again” and “let's play again unfortunately”. In addition, the control unit 191 outputs a predetermined sound to the speaker 115 when a coin is inserted into the insertion slot 113, when the game apparatus 100 detects an abnormality such as severe vibration, or when an error is detected during a game. To play. Furthermore, the control unit 191 may cause the speaker 115 to reproduce a demonstration sound when it is determined that the game is not performed.

  The display unit 114 displays an image or a moving image based on the image data or the moving image data stored in the ROM and / or the hard disk drive. For example, the control unit 191 causes the display unit 114 to display an image or a moving image while the user is playing a game. Further, while the user is playing the SP game, the control unit 191 causes the display unit 114 to display a special image or a moving image different from the normal game. In addition, when ending the game, the control unit 191 causes the display unit 114 to display an image such as “Please play again” and “Let's play one more time”. The control unit 191 causes the display unit 114 to display an error message when an error is detected during a game. Furthermore, the control unit 191 may cause the display unit 114 to display a demonstration image or moving image when it is determined that the game is not being played.

  FIG. 13 illustrates an example in which a seven-segment display and a star-shaped light emitting unit are used as the display unit 114. As shown in FIG. 13, when a coin is inserted into the insertion slot 113, the control unit 191 causes the display unit 114 to display the number of inserted coins. FIG. 13 shows an example in which 100 yen and 500 yen have been inserted. Further, when a coin is inserted into the insertion slot 113, the control unit 191 causes the display unit 114 to display the number of plays. In FIG. 13, the number of plays is displayed once for 100 yen insertion and 5 times for 500 yen insertion. Further, the control unit 191 causes the display unit 114 to display the remaining playable count. In FIG. 13, seven playable times are displayed with respect to the insertion of a total of 600 yen.

  Further, the control unit 191 causes the display unit 114 to display a condition satisfying the SP condition. FIG. 13 shows that three points are accumulated as SP points by causing the three light emitting units to emit light. By checking the display unit 114, the user can know the condition that satisfies the SP condition. In the example of FIG. 13, the user can understand that the SP condition is satisfied if two points are further accumulated. Further, the control unit 191 may cause the light emitting unit displaying the SP point to blink while the user is playing the SP game.

  The light emitting section blinks based on a program stored in the ROM and / or the hard disk drive. For example, the control unit 191 blinks the light emitting unit while the user is playing a game. Further, while the user is playing the SP game, the control unit 191 causes the display unit 114 to blink the light emitting unit in a blinking pattern different from that of the normal game. Further, the control unit 191 turns off the light emitting unit when ending the game. Further, the control unit 191 causes the light emitting unit to blink when an error is detected during the game. Further, when the control unit 191 determines that the game is not being played, the control unit 191 may blink the light emitting unit in a blink pattern for demonstration.

  By performing an effect different from that of the normal game in the SP game, it is possible to visually or audibly appeal to the user that a chance to acquire many prizes has arrived. Therefore, a greater sense of expectation can be given to the user. Note that the amusement device 100 may further include a vibration device that vibrates the operation unit 111 in addition to the speaker 115, the plurality of light emitting units, and the display unit 114. As an example, the vibration device can vibrate the operation unit 111 when the SP condition is satisfied, and notify the user that the SP condition has been satisfied.

  Although the present invention has been described with reference to the exemplary embodiments, the present invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments. The present invention includes inventions that have been modified without departing from the scope of the present invention and inventions equivalent to the present invention. In addition, each embodiment and each modification can be appropriately combined without departing from the scope of the present invention.

  For example, the rotation shaft of the shovel 122 may be provided at a central portion of the shovel 122 instead of the end of the shovel 122. In this case, the shovel 122 may have a plane-symmetric shape with respect to the extrusion surface 122Z of the shovel 122. Also, a plurality of prize intakes 135 may be formed side by side in the vertical direction. Also, a plurality of prize intakes 135 may be formed along the circumferential direction of the prize guide surface 134, and the positions of the plurality of prize intakes 135 in the vertical direction may be different from each other. Further, one button may be used as the drop button 112B and the capture button 112A. In this case, the first button pressing operation after the game starts corresponds to the capturing operation, and the second button pressing operation corresponds to the dropping operation. Alternatively, a plurality of types of shovels 122, for example, a plurality of shovels 122 having different sizes may be prepared, and the shovels 122 may be configured to be exchangeable.

  When the elevating unit 124 is omitted, the movement from the introduction position to the release position can be omitted. For example, by performing a scooping operation at the introduction position and rotating the shovel 122 to the rotation end position, the prize is directly dropped into the prize intake 135 or onto the holder 141. In this case, the prize intake 135 or the holder 141 is close to the prize stand 131. The pushing operation (rotation in the pushing direction OR) is not essential, and a scooping operation may be performed in the SP game. In this case, by lowering the rotation speed in the scooping direction R, the difficulty of obtaining a prize may be reduced as compared with the base game. Further, in the scooping operation, the excavator rotating unit 123 may rotate the shovel 122 in the scooping direction while the elevating unit 124 moves the shovel 122 upward or downward.

  If necessary, the rotation end position of the drop operation in the scooping direction R can be different from the rotation start position of the scoop operation. In this case, before starting the scooping operation, the shovel 122 may be rotated to the rotation start position of the scooping operation. The prize intake 135 does not necessarily have to be provided in the prize guide surface 134. For example, the prize intake 135 can be provided around the lower end of the guide cone 133. Alternatively, the guide cone 133 may be omitted, and the prize intake 135 that opens upward may be formed to be adjacent to the prize table 131.

  Further, only the capture button 112A may be provided, and the drop button 112B may be omitted. In this case, when the user presses down the capture button 112A, the scooping operation and the dropping operation are automatically executed as a series of operations. Alternatively, only one station S may be provided, and the game apparatus 100 may be configured so that only one user can play. In addition, the holder 141 and / or the cooling unit 195 may be omitted if unnecessary. Further, when the cooling unit 195 is omitted, the shutter mechanism and the shutter control unit 194 can be omitted.

  Hereinafter, various aspects derived from each of the above-described embodiments and each of the modifications will be described. To facilitate understanding of each embodiment, reference numerals shown in the accompanying drawings are added in parentheses. However, reference numerals are not intended to limit the present invention to the illustrated form.

  An amusement apparatus 100 as an example of the present invention includes a prize table 131 in which a prize group to be acquired by a user is arranged in a play space covered with a case 101 whose inside is visible, and included in the prize group. A prize inlet 135 for taking out at least one prize from the play space out of the case, and prize obtaining means operable to move the prize on the prize stand toward the prize inlet. 121, a play mechanism unit 102 provided outside the case with an operation unit 111 for receiving the operation of the user, and the purpose of acquiring the premium based on the operation of the user on the operation unit. And a control unit 191 for controlling the prize acquisition means so that the game to be played is performed in the game space. The prize acquisition means includes a rake on the prize table. And a capturing body 122 rotatable around a predetermined rotation axis so as to drop the scooped-up prize toward the prize intake, and a driving unit 196 for rotating the capturing body. In the control unit, the rotation direction of the capture body when scooping up the prize and the rotation direction of the capture body when dropping the prize toward the prize intake are the same. A catching body control means 192 for controlling a driving means is provided, and the catching body control means, when scooping up, holds the catching body at a position where the holding surface 122W holding the premium of the catching body faces upward. When the rotation of the body is stopped and the body is dropped, the driving unit is controlled so that the capturing body rotates until the holding surface reaches a position above the predetermined rotation axis.

  This gives the prize not only the sliding direction but also a force to be thrown in the rotating direction of the capturing body 122. For this reason, the behavior of the prize at the time of falling becomes irregular, and by adding playability to the behavior at the time of falling, the interest of the game can be further enhanced. Further, at the time of the dropping operation, the driving means 196 does not need to reverse. Therefore, the capturing body 122 can be efficiently rotated, and the prize can be prevented from falling due to the vibration generated at the time of the reverse rotation. Note that the capturing unit control unit 192 can control the driving unit 196 so that the capturing unit 122 is rotated to the rotation end position after the holding surface 122W of the capturing unit 122 reaches a position above the rotation axis. However, the capturing body control means 192 controls the driving means 196 so as to temporarily stop the rotation of the capturing body 122 at a position where the holding surface 122W of the capturing body 122 has reached a position above the rotation axis. Is also good.

  The capturing unit control unit controls the driving unit such that a start position of rotation of the capturing unit when the scooping is performed and an end position of rotation of the capturing unit when the capturing unit is dropped are coincident. Thus, even if the capture body 122 after the drop operation is moved to the introduction position without rotating, the scooping operation of the capture body 122 can be performed. Therefore, before performing the scooping operation, there is no need to perform a preliminary operation of rotating the prize group to a position where the prize group can be introduced.

  The play space is provided with a prize guide surface 134 having an upward slope as viewed from the prize stand side, the prize intake opening on the prize guide surface, and the capturing body being provided on the prize guide surface. The prize is provided so as to drop into the area UA above the prize intake. As a result, the prize is dropped into the upper area UA, so that the behavior of the prize up to the prize intake 135 becomes further irregular. Therefore, by adding the playability to the behavior at the time of falling, the interest of the game can be further enhanced. In addition, since the prize slides down on the prize guide surface 134, the user needs to predict a route on which the prize slides. Therefore, by complicating the game content, the interest of the game can be further enhanced.

  The capturing body is provided so as to be movable between an introduction position where the prize is introduced into the prize group on the prize table and a release position where the prize that has been picked up is dropped. And the release unit is provided to move the capture body, the capture body control means, when the scooping, the capture body moves to the introduction position and rotates, after the rotation, the capture body The driving means is controlled so that the capturing body moves to the release position and rotates. Since the introduction position and the release position are different from each other, the user needs to predict the drop position of the prize. Therefore, by complicating the game content, the interest of the game can be further enhanced.

  The capture body control means moves the capture body to the introduction position and rotates in response to a first operation on the operation unit, and then the capture body moves to the release position and moves to the release position. The driving unit is controlled so that the capturing body rotates according to a second operation on the operation unit. Accordingly, since the user determines the fall timing of the prize, the user needs to consider the fall timing. Therefore, by complicating the game content, the interest of the game can be further enhanced.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 100 amusement apparatus 101 case 102 game mechanism section 111 operation section 116 prize outlet 121 prize acquisition means 122 capture body 123 capture body drive means 122W holding surface 131 prize table 134 prize guide surface 135 prize intake 141 holding body 142 151 Guide duct 152 Shutter 154 Introduction part 158 Shutter driving means 191 Control part 192 Captured body control means 194 Shutter control means 195 Cooling part 196 Driving means AL Rotation axis CS Cooling area UA Above area SB Storage part

Claims (5)

A prize stand in which a prize group to be acquired by a user is arranged in a game space covered with a case in which the inside is visible, and at least one prize included in the prize group is removed from the play space to the outside of the case. A prize intake for taking out the prize, and prize acquisition means operable to move the prize on the prize stand toward the prize intake. A play mechanism unit provided with an operation unit for receiving
A control unit that controls the prize acquisition unit such that a game for the purpose of acquiring the prize is performed in the game space based on the operation of the user on the operation unit.
The prize acquiring means includes a capturing body rotatable around a predetermined rotation axis so as to scoop up the prize on the prize table and drop the scooped up prize toward the prize intake. , A driving means for driving the capture body to rotate,
In the control unit, the driving direction such that the rotation direction of the capture body when scooping up the prize and the rotation direction of the capture body when dropping the prize toward the prize intake are the same. Capture means control means for controlling the means is provided,
The catching body control means stops the rotation of the catching body at a position where a holding surface for holding the premium of the catching body faces upward when the scooping is performed, and when the catching body is dropped, the holding mechanism controls the holding. An amusement device for controlling the driving means so that the capturing body rotates until a surface reaches a position above the predetermined rotation axis.   2. The capturing body control unit controls the driving unit such that a start position of rotation of the capturing body when the scooping is performed is coincident with an end position of rotation of the capturing body when the capture body is dropped. 3. An amusement device according to claim 1.   The play space is provided with a prize guide surface having an upward slope as viewed from the prize stand side, the prize intake is opened on the prize guide surface, and the catch is provided on the prize guide surface. The game device according to claim 1, wherein the prize is provided so as to drop the prize into a region above a prize intake.   The capturing body is provided so as to be movable between an introduction position where the prize is introduced into the prize group on the prize table and a release position where the prize that has been picked up is dropped. And the catcher control means is provided to move the catcher between the release position and the catcher.When the scooping is performed, the catcher moves the catcher to the introduction position and rotates. The game device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the driving unit is controlled so that the capturing body moves to the release position and rotates.   The capture body control means moves the capture body to the introduction position and rotates in response to a first operation on the operation unit, and then the capture body moves to the release position and moves to the release position. The game device according to claim 4, wherein the driving unit is controlled so that the capturing body rotates in accordance with a second operation performed on the operation unit.

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