JP2020110496A - Prize acquisition game apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a prize acquisition game apparatus having novel and simple game properties for expanding the scope of game players.SOLUTION: A control unit executes a control in which, when a game is started, a gripping device 110 is moved in a predetermined pattern, and when an operation button is pressed in the movement of the gripping device 110, an operation of acquiring a prize by the gripping device 110 is carried out.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 14

Description

The present invention relates to a prize acquisition game device.

A prize acquisition game device represented by a crane game machine is installed in a playground such as a game center, and a large number of prizes are placed and used in a play field formed inside a housing. The player can move the gripping device having the crane arm in the play field by using the operating means such as the lever and the button. Then, the player moves the gripping device to a position where the desired prize is placed, then causes the crane arm to grip the prize, and in that state, the prize is discharged to the prize discharge port, thereby giving a prize. Can be earned.

A conventional prize acquisition game device has a relatively high operability of moving a gripping device to a position desired by a player and gripping a prize with a crane arm (for example, see Patent Document 1).

JP, 2008-102962, A

In recent years, such a prize acquisition game device has been installed not only in a game center but also in a game corner or a nursing home provided in a section of a shopping mall or a large supermarket. Widely used from children to the elderly. However, the operability of the conventional prize acquisition game device has not changed, and there is a problem that it is difficult to play with ease.

The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a prize acquisition game device capable of enlarging the number of players by providing a novel and simple playability. is there.

In order to solve the above-mentioned object, the invention described in claim 1 is
A play field in which a prize is placed and a prize acquisition device for acquiring a prize arranged in the play field are provided, and the prize acquisition device is operated to acquire the prize in the play field. A prize acquisition game device capable of executing a game,
Operation means that can be pressed by the player,
And a control means for controlling play,
The control means moves the prize acquisition device in a predetermined movement pattern when the game is started, and the prize acquisition operation by the prize acquisition device when the operation device is pressed while the prize acquisition device is moving. It is characterized in that it is possible to execute control for performing.

The invention according to claim 2 is
A play field in which a prize is placed and a prize acquisition device for acquiring a prize arranged in the play field are provided, and the prize acquisition device is operated to acquire the prize in the play field. A prize acquisition game device capable of executing a game,
Operation means that can be pressed by the player,
And a control means for controlling play,
The control means moves the prize acquisition device in a predetermined movement pattern while the pressing operation state of the operation means is continued after the play is started, and the operation means of the operation means is moved during the movement of the prize acquisition device. The present invention is characterized in that it is possible to execute control for performing a prize acquisition operation by the prize acquisition device when the pressing operation state is released.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the prize obtaining game device according to the first or second aspect,
A storage means storing a plurality of movement pattern data of the prize acquisition device;
The control means selects any one of a plurality of movement pattern data from the storage means, and moves the prize acquisition device according to the selected movement pattern data.

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a prize acquisition game device capable of enlarging the number of player groups while having novel and simple playability.

It is a front view showing the appearance of the game unit concerning this embodiment. It is a perspective view of the game unit shown in FIG. It is a figure showing the state which opened the maintenance door of some crane game machines in the game unit shown in FIG. It is a figure explaining composition of a credit control device which constitutes a game unit concerning this embodiment, (A) is a front view of a credit control device, and (B) is an AA cross section in (A). It is a figure. It is a block diagram showing functional composition of a credit control device which constitutes a game unit concerning this embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the functional structure of the crane game machine which comprises the game unit which concerns on this embodiment. (A) is a flowchart explaining a credit acceptance process executed in the credit control device, and (b) describes a table configuration of a acceptance status control table used for controlling the acceptance status of the coin selector. It is a figure. It is a flow chart explaining electronic money acceptance time processing performed in a credit control device. It is a flowchart explaining a game start instruction process executed in the credit control device. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a process at the time of inputting select buttons A and B shown in FIG. 9. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a process at the time of inputting select buttons C and D shown in FIG. 9. It is a figure explaining the process performed in a crane game machine, (a) is a flowchart explaining a game start process, (b) is a flowchart explaining a play process. (A) is a flow chart explaining another example of the play process executed by the crane game machine, and (b) is a flow chart explaining still another example of the play process executed by the crane game machine. .. It is a figure showing an example of a movement pattern of a grasping device in a game run by crane game machine C.

Hereinafter, a game device (for example, a credit control device) according to an embodiment of the present invention and a game system (for example, a game unit) using the game device will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the scope of the invention is not limited to the illustrated examples. In the following description, components having the same function and configuration are designated by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

First, the overall configuration of a game unit 1000 as an example of a game system to which the present invention can be applied will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 is a front view showing the external appearance of the game unit according to the present embodiment, FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the game unit shown in FIG. 1, and FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a state in which a maintenance door of a crane game machine is opened, and FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a credit control device that constitutes a game unit according to the present embodiment, and FIG. Is a front view of the credit control device, and FIG. 4(B) is a sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. 4(A). In the description of the present embodiment, left, right, front, back, top, bottom mean left, right, front, back, top, and bottom with reference to the state viewed from the front side by the player of the crane game machine 100 configuring the game unit 1000.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the game unit 1000 includes, for example, four crane game machines 100A to 100D and a credit control device 200 mounted on a unit base 300 extending in the left-right direction. The crane game machines 100A to 100D and the credit control device 200 are supported. More specifically, two crane game machines 100A and 100C are vertically stacked on the upper right side of the unit base 300, and two crane game machines are also placed on the upper left side of the unit base 300. The machines 100B and 100D are arranged one above the other. A gap is formed between the crane game machines 100A and 100C and the crane game machines 100B and 100D, and the credit control device 200 is fitted in the gap. That is, in the game unit 1000 according to the present embodiment, four crane game machines 100A to 100D are arranged in a matrix on the upper part of the unit base 300, and the credit control device 200 is sandwiched in the center thereof. It can also be said. The four crane game machines 100A to 100D have a common configuration except for some parts, and therefore, in the following description, the four crane game machines 100A to 100D will be described unless otherwise specified. The individual crane game machines will be simply referred to as “crane game machines 100” for description.

The unit base 300 has a substantially trapezoidal shape when viewed from the side and has a downward slope at the front, and a suitable number of casters C are attached to the bottom surface. Therefore, it is configured such that a staff member at a playground such as a game center can transport the game unit 1000 by pushing it.

The crane game machine 100 is, for example, formed in a vertically long rectangular parallelepiped shape, and includes a box-shaped base 101 and a play field 102 formed above the base 101.

The base 101 accommodates, for example, a control board having a control unit 130 (see FIG. 6) that controls the crane game machine 100 as a whole, and a maintenance door 101a provided on the right side of the front surface of the base 101. By opening the, the inside can be accessed. The maintenance door 101a has a lower end rotatably supported by a hinge, and can be opened by unlocking a lock 101ak provided at the upper end with a predetermined key. The inside of the base 101 will be described later.

The play field 102 is formed in a box-shaped internal space with an open front surface. A front door 102b is provided on the opened front surface. The right end of the front door 102b is rotatably supported by a hinge, and the inner space is closed by closing the front door 102b. At least the front door 102b is formed of a transparent plate so that the internal space can be visually recognized. A lock 102bk is provided at the center of the left end of the front door 102b and can be opened by unlocking it with a predetermined key. The staff at the playground can access the playfield 102 by opening the front door 102b, and can place a prize (not shown).

At the left front corner of the bottom of the play field 102, a prize outlet 104 (see FIG. 14) having a rectangular opening is provided, and the prize can be discharged downward. The prize discharged from the prize discharge port 104 falls to the prize extraction chamber 106 provided in the lower left portion of the base 101. The prize discharged from the prize discharge port 104 is detected by the prize payout sensor 109 (see FIG. 6). The prize payout sensor 109 is composed of, for example, an infrared sensor. The prize outlet chamber 106 has a prize outlet opening in a substantially rectangular shape on the front side, and the prize outlet is closed by a door body 107. The upper end of the door body 107 is swingably supported by a hinge, and when the player presses the door body 107, the prize outlet is opened so that the prize in the prize extraction chamber 106 can be taken out. It has become. Here, the door body 107 is composed of a plate-shaped member formed of transparent glass or resin, and the inside of the prize taking-out chamber 106 can be visually recognized through the door body 107.

A gripping device 110, which is an example of a prize acquisition device, is provided above the play field 102, and is suspended by a suspension wire (not shown). On the ceiling of the play field 102, although not shown, two vertical rails are provided near the left and right ends in parallel in the front-rear direction, and one horizontal rail for two vertical rails. It is installed on the rail. The traverse rail is configured to be movable by the longitudinal motor 111 (see FIG. 6) along the extending direction of the longitudinal rail. A wire winding device 113 (see FIG. 6) capable of winding and unwinding a hanging wire is provided on the traverse rail in a lateral direction along the extending direction of the traverse rail by a traverse motor 112 (see FIG. 6). It is provided to be movable. Further, the wire winding device 113 can vertically displace the gripping device 110 attached to the tip of the hanging wire by winding and unwinding the hanging wire. It should be noted that instead of the hanging wire, a hanging support part made of a telescopic pipe is provided so as to hang from the traverse rail, and the gripping device 110 is attached to the tip of this hanging support part to expand and contract the hanging support part. The gripping device 110 may be configured to be displaced in the up-down direction.

The gripping device 110 is configured to include a main body case to which a suspending wire is attached, an arm attachment portion arranged at a lower portion of the main body case, and one or a plurality of arms supported by the arm attachment portion. The arm is configured to be displaceable between an open state and a closed state by driving a drive motor 114 (see FIG. 6), and can hold a prize placed on the play field 102. The arm may be driven by an actuator other than the motor, and for example, a solenoid may be applied.

On the other hand, an operation unit 108 is provided on the left side of the front surface of the base 101, and has a box shape. The operation unit 108 has an operation lever 108a, an operation button 108b, and a display unit 108c arranged on the upper surface thereof. The operation lever 108a and the operation button 108b can be operated by a player, and the display section 108c displays, for example, the remaining playable number (credit remaining number) and the remaining playing time. The player operates the operation lever 108a to move the grasping device 110 to an arbitrary position in the play field 102, and operates the operation button 108b to lower the grasping device 110 and perform a grasping operation. be able to. The gripping device 110 moves up when the gripping operation is completed, moves to a position above the prize outlet 104 while maintaining the arm in the closed state, and changes the arm to the open state. At this time, if the prize is gripped by the gripping device 110, the prize drops toward the prize discharge port 104 and is guided to the prize extraction chamber 106, and as a result, the game player gives a prize from the prize extraction chamber 106. Can be taken out. In the present embodiment, the game is configured to be played by using the two operating means of the operation lever 108a and the operation button 108b. You can also do it. That is, the game can be executed by only one operation means. Note that, for example, a plurality of operation buttons may be provided, and the gripping device 110 may be moved and the gripping operation may be performed by operating each of the operation buttons. For example, a horizontal movement button and a vertical movement button may be provided, and After operating the horizontal movement button to move the gripping device 110 in the left-right direction, operating the vertical movement button to move the gripping device 110 in the front-rear direction, so that the gripping device 110 performs the gripping operation at that location. It may be configured. Further, the configuration may be such that only the operation lever is provided and the operation button is not provided. Further, the configuration may be such that only one operation button is provided and no operation lever is provided. Further, the display unit 108c may not be provided.

As shown in FIG. 3, the inside of the crane game machine 100 is partially different between the crane game machine 100A and the crane game machines 100B to 100D. More specifically, the inside of the crane game machine 100A arranged at the upper right of the game unit 1000 can be accessed by opening the maintenance door 101a of the crane game machine 100A. When the maintenance door 101a of the crane game machine 100A is opened, the mounting board 120A provided inside the base 101 is exposed. On the mounting board 120A, four credit counters 124A to 124D are arranged in a matrix on the upper part, and a power switch 121 and a volume 122 are arranged side by side on the lower side thereof. Furthermore, below that, the prize payout counters 125A to 125D are arranged in a matrix, and below that, the service switch 123 is arranged.

The power switch 121 in the crane game machine 100A is a switch for switching between supplying and shutting off power to the crane game machine 100A. The volume 122 in the crane game machine 100A is for adjusting the volume of sound output in the crane game machine 100A. The service switch 123 in the crane game machine 100A is a switch for adding credits in the crane game machine 100A.

The credit counters 124A to 124D respectively correspond to the four crane game machines 100A to 100D arranged in the game unit 1000, and when credits are added to the crane game machines 100A to 100D, The count values of the corresponding credit counters 124A to 124D are incremented. For example, when the credit is added to the crane game machine 100A, the count value of the credit counter 124A is incremented, and when the credit is added to the crane game machine 100C, the count value of the credit counter 124C is incremented. To be done. As described above, in the present embodiment, the credit counter 124C (or the credit counter 124D) functions as the first count display unit, and the credit counter 124A (or the credit counter 124B) functions as the second count display unit. ing. In the present embodiment, when credits are added to the crane game machines 100A to 100D, the corresponding credit counters 124A to 124D are incremented, but the crane game machines 100A to 100D play. May be configured to increment each corresponding credit counter 124A-124D. Further, although the credit counters 124A to 124D are provided in the crane game machine 100A in the present embodiment, they may be provided in the credit control device 200.

The prize payout counters 125A to 125D respectively correspond to the four crane game machines 100A to 100D arranged in the game unit 1000, and it is detected that the prizes have been paid out in the crane game machines 100A to 100D. When it is done, the count value of the corresponding prize payout counters 125A to 125D is incremented. For example, when it is detected that the prize has been paid out during the game using the crane game machine 100A, the count value of the prize payout counter 125A is incremented, and the prize is paid out during the game using the crane game machine 100D. If it is detected, the count value of the prize payout counter 125D is incremented. Although the prize payout counters 125A to 125D are provided in the crane game machine 100A in the present embodiment, they may be provided in the credit control device 200.

The inside of the crane game machine 100C arranged at the lower right of the game unit 1000 can be accessed by opening the maintenance door 101a of the crane game machine 100C. When the maintenance door 101a of the crane game machine 100C is opened, the mounting board 120C provided inside the base 101 is exposed. Unlike the mounting board 120A in the crane game machine 100A, only the power switch 121, the volume 122 and the service switch 123 are arranged on the mounting board 120C, and the credit counters 124A to 124D and the prize payout counters 125A to 125D are arranged. Not not. Since the mounting boards of the crane game machine 100B arranged at the upper left of the game unit 1000 and the crane game machine 100D arranged at the lower left of the game unit 1000 have the same structure as the mounting board 120C of the crane game machine 100C, the crane game The mounting board 120C of the machine 100C will be described, and the description of the mounting board of the crane game machine 100B and the mounting board of the crane game machine 100D will be omitted.

As shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, a credit control device 200 as an example of a game device has a box-shaped main body frame 201 extending in the vertical direction. The main body frame 201 is provided with a prize exhibition room 201a and a coin transfer room 201b.

In the prize display room 201a, a plurality of display shelves 201c are provided at predetermined intervals in the vertical direction, and, for example, prizes and the like that can be acquired by the crane game machines 100A to 100D constituting the game unit 1000 are displayed and played. You can improve your motivation. The gift display room 201a is open on the front side, and the open surface is closed by the display door 202. The display door 202 is formed of a transparent plate-shaped member made of glass or resin, and the interior of the prize display room 201a can be viewed through the display door 202. The display door 202 is provided with a hinge at the lower end and is rotatably attached to the front. A lock 202a is provided on the upper end of the exhibition door 202, and the interior of the prize exhibition room 201a can be accessed by unlocking the lock with a predetermined key.

An upper credit unit 203 is provided below the exhibition door 202. The upper credit unit 203 is composed of a door body, and is attached rotatably forward with a hinge provided at a lower end as a spindle. A lock 203a is provided on the upper end of the upper credit unit 203, and the upper credit unit 203 can be opened by unlocking with a predetermined key so that internal maintenance can be performed. It has become. A select button (A) 203c and a select button (B) 203d are arranged side by side below the lock 203a. The select button (A) 203c is a button to be operated when playing a game with the crane game machine 100A arranged at the upper right of the game unit 1000 when the credit is accepted by the credit control device 200. (B) 203d is a button to be operated when playing with the crane game machine 100B arranged at the upper left of the game unit 1000 when the credit is accepted by the credit control device 200. Each of the select button (A) 203c and the select button (B) 203d is provided with a light emitting body such as an LED (Light Emitting Diode), and the operation of the select button (A) 203c and the select button (B) 203d is performed. When the light-receiving body becomes ready for reception, the light-emitting body functions as a notification means and lights up or blinks to notify that effect. As described above, in the present embodiment, the select button (A) 203c and the select button (B) 203d function as selection operation means. It should be noted that the selection may be notified by a predetermined light emitting means of the crane game machine 100A and the crane game machine 100B (for example, a light emitting body provided inside the operation button 108b) or a voice output means. ..

A coin selector 203b is arranged below the select button (A) 203c and the select button (B) 203d, and is configured to accept coins of a predetermined standard such as 100-yen coins and medals. The coins accepted by the coin selector 203b are guided downward by the cylindrical coin shooter 201d and collected in the coin collecting box 207. In this embodiment, the coin selector 203b of the upper credit unit 203 functions as a medium receiving device (second medium receiving device), and the coin shooter 201d functions as a second guide rail.

In the present embodiment, when a coin is accepted by the coin selector 203b of the upper credit unit 203, the operation of the select button (A) 203c and the select button (B) 203d can be accepted, and by operating any of the select buttons. Of the crane game machines 100A and 100B arranged above the game unit 1000, a desired crane game machine can be used for playing.

A reader/writer unit 204 is provided below the upper credit unit 203. The reader/writer unit 204 is composed of a door body, and is rotatably attached to the front by using a hinge provided at a lower end as a spindle. A lock 204a is provided at an upper end portion of the reader/writer unit 204, and the reader/writer unit 204 can be opened by unlocking with a predetermined key so that internal maintenance can be performed. It has become. A reader/writer device 204b as a reading device is provided below the lock 204a. For example, a recording medium such as a prepaid card having an RFID (Radio Frequency IDentifier) tag or an NFC (Near Field Communication) function is provided. The payment information can be read and written from a mobile terminal without contact. Note that a reader/writer device 204b may be replaced with a reading device capable of reading a barcode or a two-dimensional code, or the reader/writer device 204b is further provided with a function of reading a barcode or a two-dimensional code. May be. Further, the reader/writer device 204b may not be provided.

In the present embodiment, when the payment information is read by the reader/writer device 204b, the select button (A) 203c and the select button (B) 203d of the upper credit unit 203, the select button (C) 205c of the lower credit unit 205, which will be described later, and the The select button (D) 205d can be operated, and by operating any of the select buttons, a crane game machine desired among the four crane game machines 100A to 100D constituting the game unit 1000 is played. To be able to do.

A lower credit unit 205 is provided below the reader/writer unit 204. The lower credit unit 205 is composed of a door body, and is attached rotatably forward with a hinge provided at a lower end as a spindle. A lock 205a is provided at the upper end of the lower credit unit 205, so that the lower credit unit 205 can be opened by opening the lock with a predetermined key so that internal maintenance can be performed. It has become. A select button (C) 205c and a select button (D) 205d are arranged side by side below the lock 205a. The select button (C) 205c is a button to be operated when playing with the crane game machine 100C arranged at the lower right of the game unit 1000 when the credit is accepted by the credit control device 200. The button (D) 205d is a button to be operated when playing with the crane game machine 100D arranged at the lower left of the game unit 1000 when the credit is accepted by the credit control device 200. Each of the select button (C) 205c and the select button (D) 205d is provided with a light emitting body such as an LED inside, and is in a state in which the operation of the select button (C) 205c and the select button (D) 205d can be accepted. When this happens, this light-emitting body functions as a notification means and blinks to notify that effect. As described above, in the present embodiment, the select button (C) 205c and the select button (D) 205d function as selection operation means. It should be noted that the selection may be notified by a predetermined light emitting means (for example, a light emitting body provided inside the operation button 108b) of the crane game machine 100C and the crane game machine 100D, or a voice output means. ..

A coin selector 205b is arranged below the select button (C) 205c and the select button (D) 205d, and is configured to accept coins of a predetermined standard such as 100-yen coins and medals. The coins accepted by the coin selector 205b are guided downward by the cylindrical coin shooter 201e and collected in the coin collecting box 207. In this embodiment, the coin selector 205b of the lower credit unit 205 functions as a medium receiving device (first medium receiving device), and the coin shooter 201d functions as a first guide rail.

In this embodiment, when a coin is accepted by the coin selector 205b of the lower credit unit 205, the operations of the select button (C) 205c and the select button (D) 205d can be accepted, and any of the select buttons can be operated. Of the crane game machine 100C and the crane game machine 100D arranged at the bottom of the game unit 1000, a desired crane game machine can be played.

Below the lower credit unit 205, a coin collecting door 206 for collecting coins stored in a coin collecting box 207 arranged below the coin transfer chamber 201b is provided. The coin collecting door 206 is composed of a door body, and is provided so as to be rotatable forward with a hinge provided at a lower end portion as a spindle. A lock 206a is provided at the upper end of the coin collection door 206, and the coin collection door 206 can be opened by unlocking it with a predetermined key, and the coin collection box in the coin transfer chamber 201b can be opened. 207 can be accessed.

The coin collecting box 207 includes a box-shaped main body 207a and a storage box 207b housed in the main body 207a. The storage box 207b has a box shape with an open upper surface, and is used to lock the lock 207b with respect to the main body 207a at the front upper portion and to take out the storage box 207b from the main body 207a. By holding the handle 207c, unlocking the lock 207b using a predetermined key, grasping the handle 207c and pulling it out to the front side, the storage box 207b can be taken out from the credit control device 200. The coins stored in the storage box 207b can be collected. As described above, in this embodiment, the coin collecting box 207 functions as a storage unit.

In the present embodiment, the shape of the coin shooter 201d for guiding the coins received by the coin selector 203b of the upper credit unit 203 to the coin collecting box 207 is the same as that of the coin selector 205b and the coin shooter 201e of the lower credit unit 203. In order to avoid interference, the approximately central portion is inclined rearward so that coins can be collected from the rear part of the coin collection box 207. On the other hand, the coin shooter 201e for guiding the coins received by the coin selector 205b of the lower credit unit 205 to the coin collecting box 207 is arranged so that the coins are collected from the front part of the coin collecting box 207. In the present embodiment, a part of the coin shooter 201d is inclined rearward, but it may be a shape in which the entire coin shooter 201d is inclined rearward. In the present embodiment, the coin shooter 201e for guiding the coins received by the coin selector 205b of the lower credit unit 205 to the coin collecting box 207 is provided, but the coin shooter 201e is not provided and the coin collecting box 205b is directly provided. The configuration may be guided by 207.

In the present embodiment, the upper credit unit 203 and the lower credit unit 205 are arranged side by side vertically to provide the coin selectors 203b and 205b, respectively. However, only one coin selector is provided and the crane constituting the game unit is provided. You may make it correspond to all the game machines 100A-100D. Further, three or more credit units may be arranged side by side in the vertical direction. For example, when three or more amusement machines are installed side by side, the number of credit units according to the number of the loaded game devices is provided. It may be designed as appropriate.

Next, the functional configuration of the credit control device 200 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. Here, FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the credit control device 200.

As shown in FIG. 5, the credit control device 200 includes, for example, a main control unit 210 that performs overall control of the credit control device 200, a credit relay board (upper) 230 provided corresponding to the upper credit unit 203, and a lower portion. A credit relay board (lower) 250 provided corresponding to the credit unit 205. The main controller 210 is electrically connected to the credit relay board (upper) 230 and the credit relay board (lower) 250, and is also connected to the reader/writer device 204b. The main controller 210 is communicatively connected to the crane game machine 100A and the crane game machine 100B arranged above the game unit 1000 via the credit relay board (upper) 230, and the credit relay board (upper). ) 230, it is electrically connected to the coin selector 203b, the select button (A) 203c, and the select button (B) 203d of the upper credit unit 203. The main controller 210 is communicatively connected to the crane game machine 100C and the crane game machine 100D arranged under the game unit 1000 via the credit relay board (lower) 250, and the credit relay board (lower). ) 250, it is electrically connected to the coin selector 205b, the select button (C) 205c, and the select button (D) 205d of the lower credit unit 205.

The main controller 210 includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 211, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 212, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 213, and a communication unit 214, and is stored in the ROM 212. Various processing programs such as existing system programs are read and expanded in the RAM 213, and the operation of each unit is centrally controlled according to the expanded programs.

The ROM 212 is configured by a non-volatile memory such as a semiconductor, and stores various data in addition to the various programs described above. The RAM 213 forms a work area for temporarily storing various programs executed by the CPU 211 and data related to these programs.

The communication unit 214 can communicate with a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) or a wired LAN, and is configured to communicate with an external network N via a router device provided in the playground, for example. When electronic payment is performed by the reader/writer device 204b, the information can be transmitted to, for example, an electronic payment management company. In addition, it is possible to transmit information such as sales and the number of paid-out prizes in the game unit 1000 to the operating company via the communication unit 214. The communication unit 214 may not be provided in the main control unit 210, and the reader/writer device 204b may be configured to be capable of network communication.

In this embodiment, the credit controller 200 is centrally controlled by the main controller 210, but the main controller 210 is not provided and the credit relay board (upper) 230 and the credit relay board (lower) 250 are separated. It may be configured such that it can be controlled separately and independently. In this case, the reader/writer device 204b may be configured to be capable of communicating with the credit relay board (upper) 230 and the credit relay board (lower) 250, respectively. The main control unit 210 and the control board may be integrated without providing the credit relay board (upper) 230 and the credit relay board (lower) 250.

Next, the functional configuration of the crane game machine 100 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. Here, FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the crane game machine 100. In addition, in FIG. 6, among the four crane game machines 100A to 100D, the crane game machine 100A will be described as a representative, and as for the other crane game machines 100B to 100D, different points from the crane game machine 100A will be described. To do.

As shown in FIG. 6, the crane game machine 100A includes, for example, a control unit 130 that performs overall control of the crane game machine 100A. The control unit 130 includes an operation unit 108, a display unit 108c, and a drive motor. 114, a premium payout sensor 109, a vertical motor 111, a horizontal motor 112, a wire winding device 113, a service switch 123, credit counters 124A to 124D, and premium payout counters 125A to 125D, and credits. The control device 200 is electrically connected to the control device 200. In this embodiment, as described above, the credit counters 124A to 124D and the prize payout counters 125A to 125D are provided only in the crane game machine 100A, and are provided in the other crane game machines 100B to 100D. Absent. Here, the credit counters 124A to 124D and the prize payout counters 125A to 125D may be provided in a crane game machine other than the crane game machine 100A. The crane game machine provided with the credit counters 124A to 124D may be different from the crane game machine provided with the premium payout counters 125A to 125D.

The control unit 300 is configured to include, for example, a CPU 131, a ROM 132, and a RAM 133, reads various processing programs such as a system program stored in the ROM 132, expands the programs in the RAM 133, and operates each unit according to the expanded programs. Centralized control.

The ROM 132 is configured by a non-volatile memory such as a semiconductor, and stores various data in addition to the various programs described above. The RAM 132 forms a work area for temporarily storing various programs executed by the CPU 131 and data related to these programs.

Next, the credit acceptance process executed in the credit control device 200 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. Here, FIG. 7A is a flowchart illustrating the credit acceptance process. This credit acceptance process is, for example, a process that is activated every predetermined time (for example, 2 ms).

The CPU 211 of the main control unit 210 of the credit control device 200 first monitors the input state of the coin insertion signal from the coin selector 203b (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as “coin selector (upper)”) in the upper credit unit 203. (Step S101).

As a result of monitoring the input state of the coin insertion signal, the CPU 211 determines whether or not the coin insertion signal is input (step S103). When the CPU 211 determines that the coin insertion signal has been input (step S103; Yes), the CPU 211 refers to the acceptance state control table shown in FIG. 7B to check whether the acceptance state is “0”. The determination is made (step S105). On the other hand, when the CPU 211 does not determine that the coin insertion signal has been input (step S103; No), the CPU 211 does not execute the processing of steps S105 to S109 and moves to the processing of step S111.

Here, FIG. 7B is a diagram illustrating the table configuration of the acceptance state control table used to control the acceptance state of the coin selector. That is, regarding how the acceptance states of the coin selector (upper) and the coin selector 205b in the lower credit unit 205 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "coin selector (lower)") are controlled. It is a table for setting. Specifically, when the acceptance state is “0”, both the coin selector (upper) 203b and the coin selector (lower) 205b are controlled to the acceptance acceptable state. When the acceptance state is "1", the coin selector (lower) 205b is in the acceptance permitted state, but the coin selector (upper) 203b is controlled to the acceptance restricted state. When the acceptance state is "2", the coin selector (upper) 203b is in the acceptance acceptable state, but the coin selector (lower) 205b is controlled to the acceptance restricted state. When the acceptance state is "3", both the coin selector (upper) 203b and the coin selector (lower) 205b are controlled to the acceptance restricted state. In the present embodiment, the coin selector (upper) 203b and the coin selector (lower) 205b are controlled so as to limit the acceptance of coins when the credits are accepted. It should be noted that even when the credit is accepted, the acceptance of coins may not be restricted. In this case, for example, a display device such as a credit display unit or an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) for displaying the number of credits that have been received and stored is provided, and the credit control device 200 notifies the player of the number of credits that are stored. You may do so.

When the CPU 211 determines that the acceptance state is “0” (step S105; Yes), it changes the acceptance state from “0” to “1” (step S107), and the acceptance state is “0”. When the determination is not made, that is, when the acceptance state is "2" (step S105; No), the acceptance state is changed from "2" to "3" (step S109). As a result, the coin selector (upper) 203b is changed to the coin acceptance restricted state, and even if a coin is inserted into the coin selector (upper) 203b, it is not accepted and the coin is returned from the coin return port. When the acceptance state is set to "1" or "3", the select button (A) 203c and the select button (B) 203d enter the input accepting state, and the select button (A) 203c and the select button (B). The illuminant 203d blinks to notify that the operation is being accepted.

After that, the CPU 211 monitors the input state of the coin insertion signal from the coin selector (lower) 205b (step S111).

As a result of monitoring the input state of the coin insertion signal, the CPU 211 determines whether or not the coin insertion signal is input (step S113). When the CPU 211 determines that the coin insertion signal is input (step S113; Yes), the CPU 211 refers to the acceptance state control table shown in FIG. 7B to determine whether the acceptance state is “0”. The determination is made (step S115). On the other hand, when the CPU 211 does not determine that the coin insertion signal is input (step S113; No), the CPU 211 does not execute the processing of steps S115 to S119, and proceeds to the processing of step S121.

When the CPU 211 determines that the acceptance state is “0” (step S115; Yes), it changes the acceptance state from “0” to “2” (step S117), and the acceptance state is “0”. When the determination is not made, that is, when the acceptance status is "1" (step S115; No), the acceptance status is changed from "1" to "3" (step S119). As a result, the coin selector (lower) 205b is changed to the coin acceptance restricted state, and even if a coin is inserted into the coin selector (lower) 205b, it is not accepted and the coin is returned from the coin return port. When the acceptance state is set to "1" or "3", the select button (C) 205c and the select button (D) 205d are ready to accept the input, and the select button (C) 205c and the select button (D) are available. The illuminant 205d blinks to notify that the operation is being accepted.

Subsequently, the CPU 211 executes the electronic money acceptance processing (step S121), and then ends the credit acceptance processing.

Next, the electronic money acceptance process executed in step S121 of FIG. 7A will be described with reference to FIG. Here, FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining the electronic money reception time process executed in the credit control device 200.

The CPU 211 of the main control unit 210 of the credit control device 200 determines whether the acceptance status is "3" (step S201). In the present embodiment, when electronic payment is made using the reader/writer unit 204, of all the upper credit unit 203 and the lower credit unit 205, the crane game machine 100 corresponding to the credit unit in the accepting state is played. It is possible to choose.

When the CPU 211 does not determine that the acceptance state is “3” (step S201; No), it determines whether the payment information is read by the reader/writer unit 204 (step S203). When the CPU 211 determines that the payment information has been read (step S203; Yes), it determines whether the acceptance state is "0" (step S205). On the other hand, when the CPU 211 does not determine that the payment information has been read (step S203; No), this processing ends. In addition, when the CPU 211 determines in step S201 that the acceptance state is “3” (step S201; Yes), the processing is ended.

When the CPU 211 determines in step S205 that the acceptance status is "0" (step S205; Yes), it updates the electronic money (M) control status flag from "0" to "1" (step S207). ). This electronic M control state flag is a flag stored in the RAM 213, and a numerical value is set according to the control state of the credit control device 200 when electronic payment is made.

Further, when the CPU 211 does not determine that the acceptance state is “0” (step S205; No), it determines whether the acceptance state is “1” (step S209). When the CPU 211 determines that the acceptance state is "1" (step S209; Yes), it updates the electronic M control state flag from "0" to "2". On the other hand, when the CPU 211 does not determine that the acceptance state is "1" (step S209; No), the acceptance state is "2" and the electronic M control state flag is changed from "0" to "3". To update.

After executing the processes of step S207, step S211, and step S213, the CPU 211 changes the acceptance state to “3” and ends this process. When the acceptance state is set to “3”, the select button (A) 203c, the select button (B) 203d, the select button (C) 205c, and the select button (D) 205d enter the input acceptable state. The light emitters of the select button (A) 203c, the select button (B) 203d, the select button (C) 205c, and the select button (D) 205d blink to notify that the operation is being accepted.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the CPU 211 that executes the credit acceptance process functions as a credit acceptance unit.

Next, the game start instruction process executed in the credit control device 200 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. Here, FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating the game start instruction process. The game start instruction process is, for example, a process that is started every predetermined time (for example, 2 ms).

When the CPU 211 of the main control unit 210 of the credit control device 200 starts the execution of the game start instruction process, it first executes the select button A and B input time process (step S301), and then the select buttons C and D. After the input process is executed (step S303), this process ends.

Next, the select button A and B input time processing executed in step S301 in the game start instruction processing shown in FIG. 9 will be described with reference to FIG. Here, FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining the processing at the time of inputting the select buttons A and B shown in FIG.

When the CPU 211 of the main control unit 210 of the credit control device 200 starts executing the select button A and B input processing, whether or not it is in the operation input waiting state of the select button (A) 203c and the select button (B) 203d. Is determined (step S401). That is, it is determined whether or not the upper credit unit 203 in the credit control device 200 is in a state where credit is accepted.

When the CPU 211 determines that it is in the operation input waiting state of the select button (A) 203c and the select button (B) 203d (step S401; Yes), it determines whether or not the select button (A) 203c is operated. (Step S403). On the other hand, when the CPU 211 does not determine that it is in the operation input waiting state of the select button (A) 203c and the select button (B) 203d (step S401; No), it ends this processing.

When the CPU 211 does not determine that the select button (A) 203c has been operated (step S403; No), the crane game machine 100A based on a signal from the crane game machine 100A arranged at the upper right of the game unit 1000. Confirm the lever operation input state in step S405. That is, in the present embodiment, when the upper credit unit 203 is in the credit acceptance state, the select button (A) 203c is operated, or the operation lever 108a is operated in the standby state of the crane game machine 100A. The crane game machine 100A can be played.

Subsequently, the CPU 211 determines, based on a signal from the crane game machine 100A, whether or not the operation lever 108a is input in the crane game machine 100A (step S407). When the CPU 211 determines that the operation lever 108a is input in the crane game machine 100A (step S407; Yes), it determines whether or not the crane game machine 100A is playing (playing) (step S409). ). When the CPU 211 does not determine in step S407 that the operation lever 108a is input in the crane game machine 100A (step S407; No), it determines in step S409 that the crane game machine 100A is playing. (Step S409; Yes), the process proceeds to step S415. That is, if the operation lever 108a is not operated, or if the operation lever 108a is operated but is still playing, the process proceeds to step S415.

On the other hand, when the CPU 211 does not determine in step S409 that the crane game machine 100A is playing, that is, when the operation lever 108a is operated and the crane game machine 100A is in the standby state. (Step S409; No), transmits a command for instructing the crane game machine 100A to start playing as an example of the second reception signal (step S411), and then sends the crane game machine 100A a crane game. A command instructing to increment the credit counter 124A corresponding to the machine 100A is transmitted (step S413), and the process proceeds to step S426. If the CPU 211 determines in step S403 that the select button (A) 203c has been operated (step S403; Yes), the CPU 211 proceeds to the processing of step S411 and starts playing the crane game machine 100A. Send a command to instruct. In this embodiment, by controlling in this manner, the game start instruction is given regardless of whether the crane game machine 100A is in the play state or in the standby state. Therefore, if the crane game machine 100A is in the standby state, the game is started. Is started, and if playing, a process of adding credits is performed.

On the other hand, when the process proceeds to step S415, the CPU 211 determines whether or not the select button (B) 203d has been operated (step S415). When the CPU 211 does not determine that the select button (B) 203d has been operated (step S415; No), the crane game machine 100B is detected based on a signal from the crane game machine 100B arranged at the upper left of the game unit 1000. Confirm the lever operation input state in (step S417). That is, in the present embodiment, when the upper credit unit 203 is in the credit acceptance state, the select button (B) 203d is operated, or the operation lever 108a is operated in the standby state of the crane game machine 100B. The crane game machine 100B can be played.

Subsequently, the CPU 211 determines whether or not the operation lever 108a is input in the crane game machine 100B based on the signal from the crane game machine 100B (step S419). When the CPU 211 determines that the operation lever 108a is input in the crane game machine 100B (step S419; Yes), it determines whether or not the crane game machine 100B is playing (playing) (step S421). ). When the CPU 211 does not determine in step S419 that the operation lever 108a is input in the crane game machine 100B (step S419; No), it determines in step S421 that the crane game machine 100B is playing. (Step S421; Yes), the process ends. That is, if there is no operation of the operation lever 108a, or if the operation lever 108a is operated but is still playing, this process ends.

On the other hand, when the CPU 211 does not determine in step S421 that the crane game machine 100B is playing, that is, when the operation lever 108a is operated and the crane game machine 100B is in the standby state. (Step S421; No), transmits a command for instructing the crane game machine 100B to start playing as an example of the second reception signal (step S423), and then sends the crane game machine 100A to the crane game machine 100A. A command instructing to increment the credit counter 124B corresponding to the machine 100B is transmitted (step S425), and the process proceeds to step S426. When the CPU 211 determines in step S415 that the select button (B) 203d has been operated (step S415; Yes), the CPU 211 proceeds to the process of step S423 and starts playing the crane game machine 100B. Send a command to instruct. In this embodiment, by controlling in this manner, the game start instruction is given regardless of whether the crane game machine 100B is in the play state or in the standby state. Therefore, if the crane game machine 100B is in the standby state, the game is started. When the game is being played, a process of adding credits is performed.

When the CPU 211 proceeds to step S426, it determines whether the acceptance state is "3" (step S426). When the CPU 211 determines that the acceptance state is "3" (step S426; Yes), it determines whether the electronic M control state is "1" (step S427). When the CPU 211 determines that the electronic M control state is "1" (step S427; Yes), the reception state is updated from "3" to "0" and the electronic M control state is updated to "0". After that (step S429), this process ends. This series of processing is in a state in which when the settlement information is read by the reader/writer unit 204, neither the upper credit unit 203 nor the lower credit unit 205 accepts coins, and the crane game machine This is a post-process that is performed so that both the upper credit unit 203 and the lower credit unit 205 can accept coin insertion when the game is instructed to start.

On the other hand, when the CPU 211 does not determine that the electronic M control state is “1” (step S427; No), it determines whether the electronic M control state is “3” (step S431). When the CPU 211 determines that the electronic M control state is "3" (step S431; Yes), the reception state is updated from "3" to "2" and the electronic M control state is updated to "0". After that (step S433), this process ends. In this series of processing, when the settlement information is read by the reader/writer unit 204, the lower credit unit 205 has accepted the insertion of coins, and the upper credit unit 203 has not accepted the insertion of coins. This is a post-process for allowing only the upper credit unit 203 to accept coin insertion when the select button (A) 203c or the select button (B) 203d is operated.

If the CPU 211 does not determine that the electronic M control state is "3" (step S431; No), the CPU 211 updates the acceptance state from "3" to "2" (step S435), and then performs this processing. To finish. In this series of processes, when the settlement information is read by the reader/writer unit 204, the upper credit unit 203 has accepted the insertion of coins, and the lower credit unit 205 has not accepted the insertion of coins, or , The upper credit unit 203 and the lower credit unit 205 are both accepting coin insertion, and the select button (A) 203c or the select button (B) 203d is operated, the upper credit unit 203 This is post-processing so that the insertion of coins can be accepted only for.

When the CPU 211 does not determine in step S426 that the acceptance state is “3” (step S426; No), after updating the acceptance state to the acceptance state before being changed in the credit acceptance process. (Step S437), this process ends.

As described above, in this embodiment, the CPU 211 that executes steps S411 and S423 functions as the second signal output unit. In addition, in the present embodiment, the CPU 211 that executes the processes of steps S403 and S415 functions as an operation reception unit.

Next, the selection button C and D input time processing executed in step S303 in the game start instruction processing shown in FIG. 9 will be described with reference to FIG. Here, FIG. 11 is a flow chart for explaining the processing at the time of inputting the select buttons C and D shown in FIG.

When the CPU 211 of the main control unit 210 of the credit control device 200 starts executing the select button C, D input processing, whether or not the select button (C) 205c and the select button (D) 205d are in an operation input waiting state. Is determined (step S501). That is, it is determined whether or not the lower credit unit 205 in the credit control device 200 is in a state where credit is accepted.

When the CPU 211 determines that it is in the operation input waiting state of the select button (C) 205c and the select button (D) 205d (step S501; Yes), it determines whether the select button (C) 205c has been operated. (Step S503). On the other hand, when the CPU 211 does not determine that it is in the operation input waiting state of the select button (C) 205c and the select button (D) 205d (step S501; No), this processing ends.

If the CPU 211 does not determine that the select button (C) 205c has been operated (step S503; No), the crane game machine based on a signal from the crane game machine 100C arranged at the lower right of the game unit 1000. The lever operation input state at 100C is confirmed (step S505). That is, in the present embodiment, when the lower credit unit 205 is in the credit acceptance state, the select button (C) 205c is operated, or the operation lever 108a is operated in the standby state of the crane game machine 100C. The crane game machine 100C can be played.

Subsequently, the CPU 211 determines whether or not the operation lever 108a is input in the crane game machine 100C based on the signal from the crane game machine 100C (step S507). When the CPU 211 determines that the operation lever 108a is input in the crane game machine 100C (step S507; Yes), it determines whether or not the crane game machine 100C is playing (playing) (step S509). ). When the CPU 211 does not determine in step S507 that the operation lever 108a is input in the crane game machine 100C (step S507; No), it determines in step S509 that the crane game machine 100C is playing. (Step S509; Yes), the process proceeds to step S515. That is, if the operation lever 108a is not operated, or if the operation lever 108a is operated but is still playing, the process proceeds to step S515.

On the other hand, when the CPU 211 does not determine in step S509 that the crane game machine 100C is playing, that is, when the operation lever 108a is operated and the crane game machine 100C is in the standby state. (Step S509; No), transmits a command instructing the crane game machine 100C to start playing as an example of a first reception signal (step S511), and then sends the crane game machine 100A to the crane game machine 100A. A command instructing to increment the credit counter 124C corresponding to the machine 100C is transmitted (step S513), and the process proceeds to step S526. When the CPU 211 determines in step S503 that the select button (C) 205c has been operated (step S503; Yes), the CPU 211 proceeds to the process of step S511 and starts playing the crane game machine 100C. Send a command to instruct. In the present embodiment, by controlling in this manner, the start of the game is instructed regardless of whether the crane game machine 100C is playing or in the standby state. Therefore, if the crane game machine 100C is in the standby state, the game is played. Is started, and if playing, a process of adding credits is performed.

On the other hand, when the process proceeds to step S515, the CPU 211 determines whether or not the select button (D) 205d has been operated (step S515). When the CPU 211 does not determine that the select button (D) 205d has been operated (step S515; No), the crane game machine 100D is detected based on a signal from the crane game machine 100D arranged at the lower left of the game unit 1000. Confirm the lever operation input state in step S517. That is, in the present embodiment, when the lower credit unit 205 is in the credit acceptance state, the select button (D) 205d is operated, or the operation lever 108a is operated in the standby state of the crane game machine 100D. The crane game machine 100D can be played.

Subsequently, the CPU 211 determines, based on a signal from the crane game machine 100D, whether or not the operation lever 108a is input in the crane game machine 100D (step S519). When the CPU 211 determines that the operation lever 108a is input in the crane game machine 100D (step S519; Yes), it determines whether or not the crane game machine 100D is playing (playing) (step S521). ). When the CPU 211 does not determine in step S519 that the operation lever 108a is input in the crane game machine 100D (step S519; No), it determines in step S521 that the crane game machine 100D is playing. (Step S521; Yes), the process ends. That is, if there is no operation of the operation lever 108a, or if the operation lever 108a is operated but is still playing, this process ends.

On the other hand, when the CPU 211 does not determine in step S521 that the crane game machine 100D is playing, that is, when the operation lever 108a is operated and the crane game machine 100D is in the standby state. (Step S521; No), transmits a command for instructing the start of play to the crane game machine 100D (step S523), and then, to the crane game machine 100A, the credit counter 124D corresponding to the crane game machine 100D. A command instructing increment is transmitted (step S525), and the process proceeds to step S526. If the CPU 211 determines in step S515 that the select button (D) 205d has been operated (step S515; Yes), the CPU 211 proceeds to the process of step S523 and sets the first to the crane game machine 100D. As an example of the acceptance signal, a command instructing the start of play is transmitted. In this embodiment, by controlling in this way, the game start instruction is given regardless of whether the crane game machine 100D is in the play state or in the standby state. Therefore, if the crane game machine 100D is in the standby state, the game is started. When the game is being played, a process of adding credits is performed.

When the CPU 211 proceeds to step S526, the CPU 211 determines whether the acceptance state is "3" (step S526). When the CPU 211 determines that the acceptance state is "3" (step S526; Yes), it determines whether the electronic M control state is "1" (step S527). When the CPU 211 determines that the electronic M control state is "1" (step S527; Yes), the reception state is updated from "3" to "0" and the electronic M control state is updated to "0". After this (step S529), this process ends. This series of processing is in a state in which when the settlement information is read by the reader/writer unit 204, neither the upper credit unit 203 nor the lower credit unit 205 accepts coins, and the crane game machine This is a post-process that is performed so that both the upper credit unit 203 and the lower credit unit 205 can accept coin insertion when the game is instructed to start.

On the other hand, when the CPU 211 does not determine that the electronic M control state is “1” (step S527; No), it determines whether the electronic M control state is “2” (step S531). When the CPU 211 determines that the electronic M control state is "2" (step S531; Yes), the reception state is updated from "3" to "1" and the electronic M control state is updated to "0". After that (step S533), this process ends. In this series of processes, when the settlement information is read by the reader/writer unit 204, the upper credit unit 203 has accepted the insertion of coins, and the lower credit unit 205 has not accepted the insertion of coins. This is a post-process for enabling the lower credit unit 205 to accept coin insertion only when the select button (C) 205c or the select button (D) 205d is operated.

When the CPU 211 does not determine that the electronic M control state is “2” (step S531; No), the CPU 211 updates the acceptance state from “3” to “1” (step S535), and then this processing To finish. In this series of processing, when the reader/writer unit 204 reads the payment information, the lower credit unit 205 has accepted the insertion of coins, and the upper credit unit 203 has not accepted the insertion of coins, or , The upper credit unit 203 and the lower credit unit 205 are both accepting coins and the lower credit unit 205 is operated when the select button (C) 205c or the select button (D) 205d is operated. This is a post-processing so that the insertion of coins can be accepted only for.

When the CPU 211 does not determine in step S526 that the acceptance state is “3” (step S526; No), after updating the acceptance state to the acceptance state before being changed in the credit acceptance process. (Step S537), this process ends.

As described above, in this embodiment, the CPU 211 that executes steps S511 and S523 functions as the first signal output unit or the play start signal output unit. In addition, in the present embodiment, the CPU 211 that executes the processes of steps S503 and S515 functions as an operation reception unit and also functions as a device selection unit.

In addition, in the present embodiment, the crane game machine 100A and the crane game machine 100B arranged in the upper part of the game unit 1000 are configured to be able to play at the same time. When playing, the upper credit unit 203 may be restricted from accepting coins and the other crane game machine may be restricted from playing. Further, in this case, it is possible to accept the insertion of coins and allow only the additional credits to the crane game machine in play, and restrict the play in the crane game machine not in play, for example, If a coin is inserted while one of the crane game machines is playing, credit is automatically credited to the crane game machine in play regardless of the operation of the select buttons 203c and 203d by the credit control device 200. May be added. Further, in the present embodiment, the game can be started when the select buttons 203c and 203d are operated or the operation lever 108a of the crane game machines 100A and 100B is operated. The game may be started only when the select buttons 203c and 203d are operated.

Further, in the game unit 1000, the crane game machine 100C and the crane game machine 100D arranged at the lower portion are configured to be able to play at the same time. However, when one of the crane game machines is playing. May limit the acceptance of coins in the lower credit unit 205 and limit the play of the other crane game machine. Further, in this case, it is possible to accept the insertion of coins and allow only the additional credits to the crane game machine in play, and restrict the play in the crane game machine not in play, for example, When a coin game is inserted while one of the crane game machines is in play, the credit is automatically credited to the crane game machine in play regardless of the operation of the select buttons 205c and 205d by the credit control device 200. May be added. Further, in the present embodiment, the game can be started when the select buttons 205c and 205d are operated or the operation lever 108a of the crane game machines 100C and 100D is operated. The game may be started only when the select buttons 205c and 205d are operated.

Further, in the present embodiment, the credit control device 200 is configured to increment the credit counters 124A to 124D corresponding to the crane game machines 100A to 100D that add credits by transmitting a command to the clay game machine 100A. When the crane game machines 100A to 100D are directly electrically connected to the corresponding credit counters 124A to 124D and credits are added to the respective crane game machines 100A to 100D, the crane game machines 100A to which the credits are added are added. The credit counters 124A to 124D to which 100D corresponds may be directly increment-controlled.

Further, in this embodiment, the select button (A) 203c, the select button (B) 203d, the select button (C) 205c, and the select button (B) 203c are provided on condition that the coin is accepted by the coin selector (upper) 203b or the coin selector (lower) 205b. Although the operation of the select button (D) 205d can be accepted and the credit is added to the crane game machine 100 corresponding to the select button that has received the operation, the operation of the select button is performed before the credit is accepted. Is accepted and the coin selector corresponding to the select button operated after the player operates the select button corresponding to the crane game machine 100 that the player desires to play The credit may be added to the crane game machine 100 corresponding to. In this case, when the select button is operated, the operated select button may be caused to emit light to notify the crane game machine 100 that is the object of play. Further, the credit is added to the crane game machine 100 both when the select button is operated after the coin is accepted and when the coin is accepted after the select button is operated. Good.

Further, in the present embodiment, the selection button (A) 203c, the selection button (B) 203d, the selection button (C) 205c, and the selection button (D) 205d are provided on condition that the payment information is read by the reader/writer unit 204. Although the operation can be accepted and the credit is added to the crane game machine 100 corresponding to the select button that has received the operation, the operation of the select button can be accepted before the credit is accepted, and the player Is operated to read the settlement information by the reader/writer unit 204 after the select button corresponding to the crane game machine 100 that desires to play is operated, and the credit is given to the crane game machine 100 corresponding to the operated select button. It may be configured to be added. In this case, when the select button is operated, the operated select button may be caused to emit light to notify the crane game machine 100 that is the object of play. In addition, credit is added to the crane game machine 100 both when the select button is operated after the payment information is read and when the payment information is read after the select button is operated. You may

Further, in the present embodiment, a select button that can be operated when a coin is accepted by the coin selector (upper) 203b or a coin selector (lower) 205b, and an operation when the settlement information is read by the reader/writer unit 204. Although the select button that can be used is commonly used, the select button that can be operated when a coin is accepted and the select button that can be operated when the payment information is read are provided separately. It may be an aspect.

Next, the processing executed in the crane game machine 100 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 12(a) and 12(b). Here, FIG. 12A is a flowchart for explaining the game start process, and FIG. 12B is a flowchart for explaining the play process. The game start process is, for example, a process that is started every predetermined time (for example, 2 ms), and the play process is, for example, a process that is started when a game start setting is performed.

First, the game start processing will be described. As shown in FIG. 12A, when the game start processing is started, the CPU 131 in the control unit 130 of the crane game machine 100 determines whether or not a game instruction command is received from the credit control device 200 (step). S601). When determining that the game instruction command has been received (step S601; Yes), the CPU 131 determines whether or not the crane game machine 100 is playing (step S603). On the other hand, when the CPU 131 does not determine that the game instruction command has been received (step S601; No), the game start processing ends.

When the CPU 131 determines that the crane game machine 100 is playing (step S603; Yes), the CPU 131 adds "1" to the credit in the crane game machine 100 (step S607), and then ends the game start process. On the other hand, when the CPU 131 does not determine that the crane game machine 100 is playing, that is, when it determines that the crane game machine 100 is in the standby state (step S603; No), it performs various settings for starting play. After that (step S605), the game start processing is ended.

Next, the play process will be described. As shown in FIG. 12B, the CPU 131 in the control unit 130 of the crane game machine 100 sets the play mode when the play process is started (step S701). Specifically, for example, the payout rate (P/O) is referred to, and the easy mode in which the holding device 110 easily holds the prize or the normal mode in which the prize is difficult to hold is set. It should be noted that the game may be set to be uniform without setting the play mode.

Subsequently, the CPU 131 determines whether or not the operation lever 108a has been operated (step S703). When determining that the operation lever 108a has been operated (step S703; Yes), the CPU 131 moves the grip device 110 in the direction according to the operation (step S705). On the other hand, when it is not determined that the operation lever 108a is operated, that is, when the operation lever 108a is in the neutral position (step S703; No), the process proceeds to step S707 without performing the process of step S705. To do.

Next, the CPU 131 determines whether or not the operation button 108b has been operated (step S707). When determining that the operation button 108b has been operated (step S707; Yes), the CPU 131 starts the gripping operation at the current position of the gripping device 110 (step S709). That is, the CPU 131 moves the suspending wire of the grasping device 110 to lower the grasping device 110, performs an operation of grasping the prize, and then winds the suspending wire and moves to above the prize discharge port 104. Execute the control to perform. On the other hand, when the CPU 131 does not determine that the operation button 108b has been operated (step S707; No), the process proceeds to step S703.

The CPU 131 determines whether or not the prize has been paid out as a result of the gripping operation by the gripping device 110 (step S711). Specifically, the CPU 131 determines whether or not the prize has been paid out depending on whether or not the prize has fallen from the prize outlet 104 and the payout of the prize has been detected by the prize payout sensor 109. When determining that the prize has been paid out (step S711; Yes), the CPU 131 transmits a prize payout command to the credit control device 200 (step S713), and then calculates the payout rate (P/O) ( (Step S715), the play process ends. In the present embodiment, when the prize has been paid out, the credit controller 200 sends a prize payout command to the credit controller 200, so that the credit controller 200 gives a prize to the crane game machine 100A having the prize payout counters 125A to 125D. An instruction to increment the payout counters 125A to 125D is issued.

On the other hand, if the CPU 131 does not determine that the prize has been paid out (step S711; No), the process proceeds to step S715 without performing the process of step S713.

In the present embodiment, each of the crane game machines 100A to 100D sends a command to the credit controller 200, and the credit controller 200 sends a command to the clay game machine 100A to increment the corresponding prize payout counters 125A to 125D. However, each crane game machine 100A to 100D is directly electrically connected to the corresponding prize payout counter 125A to 125D, and each crane game machine 100A to 100D directly controls the prize payout counter 125A to 125D to be incremented. It may be configured.

Next, another example of the play process executed in the crane game machine 100 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 13(a) and 13(b). Here, FIG. 13A is a flowchart illustrating another example of the play process executed by the crane game machine 100, and FIG. 13B is a flowchart explaining the play process executed by the crane game machine 100. It is a flowchart explaining another example. In the game performed by executing the play process shown in FIG. 13A, the game starts when the operation button 108b is pressed, and a plurality of gripping devices 110 are provided while the operation button 108b continues to be pressed. Is a game that moves in any one of the movement patterns and starts the gripping operation at the timing when the pressed state of the operation button 108b is released. The game is performed by executing the play process shown in FIG. When the game starts, the gripping device 110 moves in any one of a plurality of movement patterns without the player operating the operation lever 108a, and the gripping operation is performed at the timing when the operation button 108b is operated. It is a game to start. It should be noted that in the present embodiment, a game in which the play process shown in FIG. 13A is executed and a game in which the play process shown in FIG. 13B is executed are provided to, for example, each of the crane game machines 100A to 100D. It can be set in advance by the provided DIP switch. It should be noted that, without setting with the DIP switch, for example, for some or all of the four crane game machines 100A to 100D, the game in which the play process shown in FIG. 13A is executed, or The game may be configured to perform only the game in which the play process shown in FIG. Further, the game contents may be selected by the player operating the operation unit 108. In addition, it is not always necessary to configure a crane game machine that performs a game in which the play process shown in FIG. 13A is executed or a game in which the play process shown in FIG. 13B is executed.

First, in the play process shown in FIG. 13A, the CPU 131 in the control unit 130 of the crane game machine 100 sets the play mode described above (step S801) and then selects the movement pattern of the gripping device 110 ( Step S803). In this embodiment, for example, two types of movement patterns are prepared as shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B, and the movement patterns are selected at random, for example. Control data for moving the gripping device 110 according to this movement pattern is stored in the ROM 132.

Here, in the movement pattern shown in FIG. 14A, the gripping device 110 standing by above the prize outlet 104 is first moved to the right along the front surface side in the play field 102 to grip the gripping device 110. When the device 110 moves to the vicinity of the right end, it moves rearward along the right side wall. After that, when the gripping device 110 moves to the vicinity of the rear end portion, this time, the gripping device 110 moves to the left along the back wall. When the gripping device 110 reaches the vicinity of the left side wall, it moves in a zigzag shape while moving forward. In the movement pattern shown in FIG. 14A, the movement of the gripping device 110 as described above is repeated until the time limit is reached.

In the movement pattern shown in FIG. 14B, the gripping device 110 waiting above the prize outlet 104 is first moved in the depth direction along the left side wall in the play field 102, and the gripping device is moved. When 110 moves to the vicinity of the rear end, it turns right along the back wall. After that, when the grip device 110 moves to the vicinity of the right end, this time, the grip device 110 moves toward the front along the right side wall. Then, when the gripping device 110 moves to the vicinity of the front end portion, it moves leftward along the front surface side in the play field 102. As described above, when the gripping device 110 moves spirally and the gripping device 110 moves to approximately the center, the gripping device 110 moves to above the prize outlet 104. In the movement pattern shown in FIG. 14B, the movement of the gripping device 110 as described above is repeated until the time limit is reached.

In this embodiment, two types of movement patterns are prepared and selected at random, but the movement patterns may be selected in a predetermined order. Further, only one type of movement pattern may be prepared, or three or more types of movement patterns may be prepared.

Subsequently, the CPU 131 waits until the pressing operation of the operation button 108b is started (step S805). When the CPU 131 determines that the pressing operation of the operation button 108b is started (step S805; Yes), the CPU 131 starts moving the gripping device 110 according to the selected movement pattern (step S807). After that, the CPU 131 moves the grip device 110 according to the selected movement pattern while the operation button 108b continues to be pressed (step S809).

After that, when the CPU 131 determines that the button pressed state has been released (step S809; Yes), the CPU 131 causes the gripping device 110 to perform the gripping operation at the current position as described above (step S811). After that, after performing the same processing as steps S711 to S715 of the play processing shown in FIG. 12B (steps S813 to S817), the play processing ends.

Next, the play process shown in FIG. 13B will be described. In the play process shown in FIG. 13B, the CPU 131 in the control unit 130 of the crane game machine 100 selects the movement pattern of the grip device 110 after setting the play mode described above (step S901) (step S903). ). After that, the CPU 131 starts moving the gripping device 110 according to the selected movement pattern (step S905). After that, the CPU 131 moves the grip device 110 according to the selected movement pattern until the operation button 108b is operated (step S907).

After that, when determining that the operation button 108b has been operated (step S907; Yes), the CPU 131 causes the gripping device 110 to perform the gripping operation at the current position in the above-described manner (step S909). After that, after performing the same processing as steps S711 to S715 of the play processing shown in FIG. 12B (steps S911 to S915), the play processing ends.

As described above, according to the credit control device 200 of the present embodiment, the coin selector (lower) 205b is provided corresponding to the crane game machine 100C (crane game machine 100D) arranged in the lower stage, and the coin It is possible to accept. The control unit 210 can externally output a play instruction command to the crane game machine 100C (the crane game machine 100D) on condition that the coin is accepted by the coin selector (lower) 205b. The coin selector (upper) 203b is provided corresponding to the crane game machine 100A (crane game machine 100B) arranged on the upper stage of the crane game machine 100C (crane game machine 100D), and can accept coins. The control unit 210 can externally output a play instruction command to the crane game machine 100A (crane game machine 100B) on condition that the coin is accepted by the coin selector (upper) 203b. The coin collection box 207 is arranged below the coin selector (bottom) 205b and the coin selector (top) 203b, and stores the coins received by the coin selector (bottom) 205b and the coin selector (top) 203b. The coin shooter 201d guides the coin accepted by the coin selector (upper) 203b to the coin collecting box 207. As a result, it is possible to collectively collect the value media used in the games of the plurality of amusement devices by providing the plurality of amusement devices side by side, which can contribute to the reduction of the cost of collecting the value media. become.

Further, according to the present embodiment, the coin selector (lower) 205b and the coin selector (upper) 203b are vertically arranged side by side, and at least the coin shooter 201d is arranged so that the coin shooter 201d is behind the coin shooter 201e. Since a part is inclined backward, space can be saved with a simple structure.

Further, according to the present embodiment, the credit counter 124C (credit counter 124D) increments on condition that the coin is accepted by the coin selector (lower) 205b. The credit counter 124A (credit counter 124B) increments on the condition that the coin is accepted by the coin selector (upper) 203b. As a result, it becomes possible to grasp which game device has been played, while collecting the value medium all at once.

Further, according to the game unit 1000 of the present embodiment, the crane game machine 100C (crane game machine 100D) is arranged at the lowest stage, and can be played by the player. The crane game machine 100A (crane game machine 100B) is arranged on the upper stage of the crane game machine 100C (crane game machine 100D) and can be played by a player. The credit control device 200 is attached to the crane game machine 100C (crane game machine 100D) and the crane game machine 100A (crane game machine 100B). The coin selector (lower) 205b is provided corresponding to the crane game machine 100C (crane game machine 100D) and can accept coins. The control unit 210 can output a play instruction command to the crane game machine 100C (crane game machine 100D) on condition that the coin is accepted by the coin selector (lower) 205b. The coin selector (upper) 203b is provided corresponding to the crane game machine 100A (crane game machine 100B) and can accept coins. The control unit 210 can output a play instruction command to the crane game machine 100A (crane game machine 100B) on condition that the coin is accepted by the coin selector (upper) 203b. The coin collection box 207 is arranged below the coin selector (bottom) 205b and the coin selector (top) 203b, and stores the coins received by the coin selector (bottom) 205b and the coin selector (top) 203b. The coin shooter 201e guides the coin accepted by the coin selector (lower) 205b to the coin collecting box 207. The coin shooter 201d guides the coin accepted by the coin selector (upper) 203b to the coin collecting box 207. When the crane game machine 100C (crane game machine 100D) inputs a play instruction command from the credit control device 200, the crane game machine 100C (crane game machine 100D) is controlled to be playable. When the crane game machine 100A (crane game machine 100B) inputs a game instruction command from the credit control device 200, the crane game machine 100A (crane game machine 100B) is controlled to be playable. As a result, it is possible to collectively collect the value media used in the games of the plurality of amusement devices by providing the plurality of amusement devices side by side, which can contribute to the reduction of the cost of collecting the value media. become.

Further, according to the credit control device 200 of the present embodiment, the control unit 210 causes the player to request a credit (insert a coin into the coin selector (upper) 203b or the coin selector (lower) 205b, or the reader/writer device 204b. Credit card is accepted according to (electronic payment by electronic money, etc.). The select button (A) 203c and the select button (B) 203d (the select button (C) 205c and the select button (D) 205d) are selected from the plurality of the adjacent crane game machines 100A and 100B (crane game machines 100C and 100D). It is possible to select the crane game machine to play. The control unit 210 accepts that the credit has been accepted and that the selection operation by the select button (A) 203c and the select button (B) 203d (the select button (C) 205c and the select button (D) 205d) has been accepted. Under the condition, the crane game machine for instructing the start of play is selected from the plurality of crane game machines 100A, 100B (crane game machines 100C, 100D) provided side by side. The control unit 210 can externally output a play instruction command to the selected crane game machine. As a result, the means for requesting credit (coin selector or reader/writer device) can be shared with the plurality of game devices, and the product cost can be reduced.

Further, according to the present embodiment, the coin selector (upper) 203b (coin selector (lower) 205b) can accept coins. The control unit 210 accepts credits when coins are accepted by the coin selector (upper) 203b (coin selector (lower) 205b). Therefore, it is possible to share the medium receiving device for receiving the value medium such as coins, reduce the product cost, and perform the collecting work of the value medium collectively. The recovery work cost can also be reduced.

Further, according to the present embodiment, the reader/writer device 204b can read the payment information from the recording medium carried by the player or the portable terminal in a contactless manner. The control unit 210 accepts the credit when the payment information is read by the reader/writer device 204b. Therefore, the reading device for receiving the payment information can be shared, and the product cost can be reduced and the game can be played without using the value medium, so that the convenience of the player can be improved. Like

Further, according to the present embodiment, the control unit 210 controls the crane game machine that is not in play when there is a crane game machine in play among the plurality of crane game machines 100A and 100B (crane game machines 100C and 100D). Since the crane game machine for instructing the start of play can be selected, the operating rate of the game machine can be improved.

Further, according to the present embodiment, the light emitters provided inside the select button (A) 203c and the select button (B) 203d (the select button (C) 205c and the select button (D) 205d) are the select buttons. (A) 203c and select button (B) 203d (select button (C) 205c and select button (D) 205d) notify the crane game machine that the player can start the game. It becomes easy to recognize whether the device can play.

Further, according to the present embodiment, the control unit 210 serves as a signal for requesting a game start from any of the plurality of crane game machines 100A and 100B (crane game machines 100C and 100D) in a state where the credit is accepted. When a signal for operating the operation lever 108a is input, a play instruction command can be externally output to the clay game machine to which the signal has been output. Therefore, the operation used for play in the game device that the player desires to play. The game can be easily started by operating the means.

Further, according to the game unit 1000 of this embodiment, the control unit 210 of the credit control device 200 causes the player to request a credit (inserting a coin into the coin selector (upper) 203b or the coin selector (lower) 205b, or Credits are accepted according to electronic payment by electronic money for the reader/writer device 204b. The select button (A) 203c and the select button (B) 203d (the select button (C) 205c and the select button (D) 205d) are selected from the plurality of the adjacent crane game machines 100A and 100B (crane game machines 100C and 100D). It is possible to select the crane game machine to play. The control unit 210 confirms that the credit has been accepted and that the selection operation by the select button (A) 203c and the select button (B) 203d (the select button (C) 205c and the select button (D) 205d) has been accepted. As a condition, a crane game machine for instructing to start playing is selected from a plurality of crane game machines 100A and 100B (crane game machines 100C and 100D) provided side by side. The control unit 210 can output a play instruction command for the selected crane game machine to the crane game machine. As a result, the means for requesting credit (coin selector or reader/writer device) can be shared with the plurality of game devices, and the product cost can be reduced.

Further, according to the crane game machine 100 of the present embodiment, the crane game machine 100 has a play field 102 in which a prize is placed, and a gripping device 110 for acquiring a prize arranged in the play field 102. It is possible to execute a game in which the holding device 110 is operated to obtain a prize in the play field 102. The operation button 108b can be pressed by a player. The control unit 130 controls play. When the game is started, the control unit 130 moves the gripping device 110 in a predetermined movement pattern, and controls the gripping device 110 to perform a prize acquisition operation when the operation button 108b is pressed while the gripping device 110 is moving. Is feasible. As a result, it becomes possible to expand the number of players by providing a novel and simple playability.

Further, according to the crane game machine 100 of the present embodiment, the crane game machine 100 has a play field 102 in which wall articles are placed, and a gripping device for acquiring a prize placed in the play field 102. 110, the game can be executed by operating the gripping device 110 to acquire a prize in the play field 102. The operation button 108b can be pressed by a player. The control unit 130 controls play. After the game starts, the control unit 130 moves the grip device 110 in a predetermined movement pattern while the operation state of pressing the operation button 108b continues, and the operation of pressing the operation button 108b during the movement of the grip device 110. When the state is released, it is possible to execute the control of performing the prize acquisition operation by the gripping device 110. As a result, it becomes possible to expand the number of players by providing a novel and simple playability.

Further, according to the present embodiment, the ROM 132 stores a plurality of movement pattern data of the grip device 110. The control unit 130 selects any one of the plurality of movement pattern data from the ROM 132 and moves the gripping device 110 according to the selected movement pattern data. As a result, it is possible to provide a variety of game features and improve the desire to play.

It should be noted that the actions and effects described in the embodiments of the present invention only list the most suitable actions and effects resulting from the present invention, and the actions and effects according to the present invention are described in the embodiments of the present invention. It is not limited to what has been done.

In the present embodiment, a crane game machine has been described as an example of a game machine, but the game machine is not limited to this, and any game machine capable of accepting credit by a value medium, electronic payment, or the like and providing a game to a player. It can be applied to a (playing device), for example, a game device having a game property of filling a capsule exhibiting prize with a prize contained in a capsule and discharging the prize in the casing by operating a lever, or an electronic control. A game device or the like having a game property such as providing a lottery and paying out a game medium such as a medal upon winning is also applicable. Of course, it is needless to say that the present invention can be applied to all kinds of prize acquisition game machines including crane game machines.

Further, in the present embodiment, the game unit is configured by arranging two crane game machines in the up-down direction and two in the left-right direction in a matrix, but it is assumed that three or more crane game machines are stacked in the up-down direction. Alternatively, only one crane game machine may be provided without being stacked. Further, the configuration may be such that three or more units are arranged side by side in the left-right direction, or only one unit may be provided in the left-right direction.

Further, in the present embodiment, in the credit control device 200, the coin selector (upper) 203b and the coin selector (lower) 205b are arranged side by side in the vertical direction, but the present invention is not limited to this and other arrangement modes may be adopted. Well, for example, two coin selectors may be arranged side by side. Further, a configuration may be adopted in which the coin selectors 203b and 205b are not provided and only the reader/writer device 204b is provided.

100A-100D Crane game machine (prize acquisition game device)
102 Playfield 110 Grasping device (prize acquisition device)
108b Operation button (operation means)
130 control unit 131 CPU
132 ROM (storage means)
133 RAM

Claims (3)

A play field in which a prize is placed and a prize acquisition device for acquiring a prize arranged in the play field are provided, and the prize acquisition device is operated to acquire the prize in the play field. A premium acquisition game device capable of executing a game,
Operation means that can be pressed by the player,
And a control means for controlling play,
The control means moves the prize acquisition device in a predetermined movement pattern when the game is started, and the prize acquisition operation by the prize acquisition device when the operation device is pressed while the prize acquisition device is moving. A prize acquisition game device characterized by being capable of executing control for performing. A play field in which a prize is placed and a prize acquisition device for acquiring a prize arranged in the play field are provided, and the prize acquisition device is operated to acquire the prize in the play field. A prize acquisition game device capable of executing a game,
Operation means that can be pressed by the player,
And a control means for controlling play,
The control means moves the prize acquisition device in a predetermined movement pattern while the pressing operation state of the operation means is continued after the play is started, and the operation means of the operation means is moved during the movement of the prize acquisition device. A prize acquisition game apparatus, wherein control for performing a prize acquisition operation by the prize acquisition apparatus can be executed when the pressing operation state is released. A storage means storing a plurality of movement pattern data of the prize acquisition device;
The control unit selects any one of a plurality of movement pattern data from the storage unit, and moves the prize acquisition device according to the selected movement pattern data. Freebie acquisition game device.