JP2021045384A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a game machine for preventing an adjustment switch from jumping out of an opening of a board case even if the adjustment switch is detached from a board.SOLUTION: In game machines 1, 100 having a board 210, a predetermined adjustment switch 300 disposed on the board 210, and a board case 220 for covering the board 210, the adjustment switch 300 includes a housing 310 in a rectangular shape in a plan view that is fixed to the board 210, and a knob 330 rotatably supported by the housing 310, an opening 224 in a circular shape in a plan view for inserting the knob 330 is provided in a position corresponding to the knob 330 in the board case 210, and the length of a diagonal line of the housing 310 is equal to or more than the diameter of the opening 224.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 32

Description

The present invention relates to a game machine.

As a game machine, a slot machine provided with a plurality of reels in which a plurality of symbols are arranged, a start lever, a stop button, and the like is known. In the slot machine, when it is detected that the start lever is operated after the game medium (medal) is bet, the rotation of a plurality of reels starts. Further, when it is detected that the stop button provided corresponding to each reel has been operated, the rotation of the reel corresponding to the stop button is stopped. At this time, when the symbol combination corresponding to the winning combination is displayed on the effective line to be paid out, a predetermined number of medals are paid out, and the player is given a game benefit.

Further, as a gaming machine, a pachinko gaming machine provided with a gaming board, a launching device, and the like is known. In the pachinko gaming machine, a game medium (game ball) is launched into a game area provided on the front of the game board, and the game ball enters the winning opening provided in the game area, and the player is given a game. The above benefits are given. Some such game machines are provided with a volume adjustment switch for adjusting the loudness (volume) of the sound output from the speaker on the back side thereof (see, for example, Patent Document 1). The volume control switch is, for example, a rotary switch and has a knob.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2018-118162

By the way, in a game machine, it is required to further improve the quality.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine with improved quality.

Further, in some game machines, for example, an opening is formed at a position corresponding to the adjustment switch in a board case that covers (stores) a board on which a predetermined adjustment switch (for example, a volume adjustment switch) is arranged. .. The knob of the adjustment switch protrudes from the opening so that the operator can rotate the knob. In such specifications, if the adjustment switch comes off the board due to deterioration (defectiveness) of fixing (adhesion) of the adjustment switch to the board, the adjustment switch pops out from the opening, and for example, the adjustment switch is lost. Was likely to occur.

The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and provides a gaming machine in which the adjustment switch does not pop out from the opening of the board case even when the adjustment switch is detached from the board. The purpose is.

In order to solve the above problems, the gaming machine of the present invention
A gaming machine including a substrate, a predetermined adjustment switch arranged on the substrate, and a substrate case covering the substrate.
The adjustment switch includes a plan-view rectangular housing fixed to the substrate and a knob rotatably supported by the housing.
At a position corresponding to the knob on the substrate case, a plan-view circular opening for inserting the knob is provided.
The diagonal length of the housing is equal to or greater than the diameter of the opening.

According to such a configuration, the adjustment switch includes a rectangular housing in a plan view fixed to the board and a knob rotatably supported by the housing, and the knob is positioned at a position corresponding to the knob on the board case. A circular opening is provided for insertion, and the diagonal length of the housing is equal to or greater than the diameter of the opening, so that even if the adjustment switch is detached from the board, The adjustment switch does not pop out from the opening of the board case. This can prevent the adjustment switch from being lost.

Further, in the configuration of the present invention, the knob is provided with a rectangular flange portion in a plan view protruding outward in the radial direction, and the length of one side of the housing is equal to or larger than the diameter of the collar portion. It is characterized by being.

According to such a configuration, since the length of one side of the housing is equal to or larger than the diameter of the collar portion, the terminal portion of the housing is hidden by the collar portion and cannot be visually recognized, and the terminal portion of the housing is adhered (defective). It is possible to prevent the problem that the presence / absence of (presence / absence) cannot be confirmed. Further, it is possible to prevent the problem that the identification code written on the substrate near the housing is hidden by the collar portion and cannot be confirmed. In addition, it is possible to prevent the problem that the heat dissipation effect of the heat generated by the adjustment switch is reduced.

Further, in the configuration of the present invention, the diameter of the collar portion is equal to or larger than the diameter of the opening.

According to such a configuration, the diameter of the collar portion is equal to or larger than the diameter of the opening. Therefore, even if the knob is damaged such as coming off the housing, the diameter of the collar portion of the knob is the diameter of the opening. Since it is larger than the diameter of, the knob is caught in the opening. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the knob from popping out (discharging) to the outside of the substrate case through the opening. This makes it possible to prevent the knob from being lost.

Further, in the configuration of the present invention, the knob is provided with a flange portion having a circular shape in a plan view protruding outward in the radial direction, and a predetermined display is circularly attached to the surface of the housing on the knob side. The diameter of the collar portion and the diameter of the circumscribed circle of the predetermined display are the same or substantially the same.

According to such a configuration, since the diameter of the collar portion and the diameter of the circumscribed circle of a predetermined display (for example, a number) are the same or substantially the same, the numbers and the like do not protrude to the outside of the collar portion. It is possible to prevent misidentification of the set value, and since the numbers are not too much inside, it is easy to see the numbers even when the knob is pinched.

Further, in the configuration of the present invention, the knob does not protrude from the top surface of the substrate case.

According to such a configuration, since the knob does not protrude from the top surface of the board case, the board unit is placed on a table or the like with the board case side facing down in the assembling process or the like. However, no force (impact) is applied to the knob. This can prevent the adjustment switch from being damaged.

Further, in the configuration of the present invention, the game machine further includes a cover that covers the outside of the substrate case, and a specific opening different from other openings is formed at a position corresponding to the knob on the cover. It is characterized by that.

According to such a configuration, even when a cover (back cover) is further provided on the outside of the substrate case, a specific opening different from other openings is formed at a position corresponding to the knob on the back cover. Therefore, the volume can be adjusted via the knob without opening (removing) the back cover.

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a gaming machine with improved quality.
According to the present invention, even if the adjustment switch is detached from the substrate, it is possible to prevent the adjustment switch from popping out from the opening of the substrate case.

It is a perspective view which shows an example of the gaming machine which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is the figure which looked at the design member from the front side. The same is a schematic view showing a part of the upper door seen from the left. The same is a schematic view showing a part of the upper door seen from the left, and is a view showing a modified example. It shows an example of the gaming machine which concerns on 2nd Embodiment of this invention, and is the perspective view. The same is a view of the game board viewed from the front side. It is the figure which looked at the design member from the front side. The design member is also shown, and is a schematic side view seen from the P direction shown in FIG. 7. The design member is also shown, and is a schematic side view seen from the Q direction shown in FIG. A sub-board unit that can be used in the gaming machine according to the first embodiment and the second embodiment of the present invention is shown, (a) is a view seen from the back side, and (b). Is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along the line AA shown in (a). The same shows a sub-board, which is a view (plan view) seen from the back side. Similarly, the volume control switch is shown, (a) is a view (plan view) seen from the back side, and (b) is a view of the housing of the volume control switch seen from the back side. The same is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along the line BB shown in FIG. 10 (a). The same is a perspective view of the volume control switch as viewed from the rear side. The same is a view (plan view) of the volume control switch as viewed from the rear side. It shows the liquid crystal unit which can be used for the gaming machine which concerns on 1st Embodiment and 2nd Embodiment of this invention, and is the perspective view seen from the front. The same is an exploded perspective view. The same is a perspective view of the liquid crystal module of the liquid crystal unit as viewed from the rear side. The same is a view (plan view) of the liquid crystal control board of the liquid crystal unit as viewed from the rear side. It is the figure which looked at the liquid crystal control board from the side. The same is a view of the liquid crystal control board viewed from the back side, and is a diagram showing a state in which wiring is connected to the connector. The same is a view of the liquid crystal control board viewed from the back side, and is a diagram showing a mounting prohibited area. The same is a view (plan view) of the liquid crystal control board viewed from the back side. An example of the configuration of the sub-board unit of the gaming machine according to the first embodiment and the second embodiment of the present invention is shown, and (a) is a schematic view (plan view) seen from the back side. , (B) are schematic cross-sectional views of the VV line shown in (a), and (c) is a schematic view (plan view) of the sub-board viewed from the back side. The same is a schematic view (plan view) of the sub-board unit viewed from the back side, in which (a) is a view showing a state in which the opening of the connector and the end of the case coincide with each other, and (b). Is a diagram showing a modified example of (a), and (c) is a diagram showing a case where a male connector is connected to the state of (b). The same is a schematic view (plan view) of the sub-board unit viewed from the back side, and is a diagram showing another configuration example. The same is a schematic view (plan view) of the sub-board unit viewed from the back side, and is a diagram showing another configuration example. The same is a schematic view (plan view) of the sub-board unit viewed from the rear side, showing another configuration example, and (a) is a view showing a state in which the case does not exist directly above the connector. Yes, (b) is a diagram showing a modified example of (a). The same is a schematic view (plan view) of the sub-board unit viewed from the back side, and is a diagram showing another configuration example. It is a figure which shows the surface of the side facing the substrate in the wiring means which can be used for the game machine which concerns on 1st Embodiment and 2nd Embodiment of this invention. Another example of the sub-board unit which can be used for the gaming machine which concerns on 1st Embodiment and 2nd Embodiment of this invention is shown, and FIG. , (B) are schematic cross-sectional views of the VV line shown in (a). (A) is an enlarged view of a portion P in FIG. 31 (a), and (b) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the WW line shown in FIG. 32 (a). The same is a schematic cross-sectional view of the TT line shown in FIG. 31 (a). It is a figure which shows the modification of the schematic cross-sectional view of the sub-board shown in FIG.

(First Embodiment)
Hereinafter, the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Although the slot machine, which is one of the gaming machines, will be described in the first embodiment, other gaming machines may be used. In the following explanation, "front and back" basically means "front" on the player side and "rear" on the slot machine side when the player is on the front side of the slot machine, and "up and down" means the slot. The upper surface side of the machine means "upper", the lower surface side means "lower", and "left and right" means "left" on the left hand side of the player playing the slot machine and "right" on the right hand side.
In the present invention, within the scope of the invention, it is possible to freely combine each embodiment, modify any component of each embodiment, or omit any component in each embodiment. ..

As shown in FIG. 1, the slot machine (game machine) 100 of the present invention opens and closes a box-shaped housing 111 having an opening on the front side, which is a surface facing the player side, and an opening on the front side of the housing 111. It is provided with a front door 112 to be used. The housing 111 houses a reel unit 130 in which a rotatable first reel 131, a second reel 132, and a third reel 133 are unitized, a hopper device for paying out medals, and the like. Further, the front door 112 is divided into an upper door 112a and a lower door 112b, and the upper door 112a and the lower door 112b can be opened and closed with respect to the housing 111, respectively.

The upper door 112a is provided with a liquid crystal display 113, a device for producing an effect such as a speaker 114, and a display window 115. Images (moving images, still images) for various effects are displayed on the liquid crystal display 113. Sounds for various effects (music, sound effects, voice, etc.) are output from the speaker 114. In addition to the liquid crystal display 113 and the speaker 114, the device for producing the effect may be provided with an illumination device such as a lamp (LED), a movable accessory that can be operated by an actuator, or the like.

At the back of the display window 115, a reel unit 130 is arranged so that a part thereof can be visually recognized from the outside of the display window 115. A plurality of types of symbols are arranged in a row along the circumferential direction on the outer peripheral surfaces of the first reel 131, the second reel 132, and the third reel 133, and are displayed when the reels 131, 132, and 133 are stopped. Three consecutive symbols are displayed per reel through the window 115. Further, the display window 115 is provided with upper, middle, and lower stages as display positions for visually recognizing the symbols of the reels 131, 132, and 133, depending on the combination of the display positions of the reels 131, 132, and 133. A valid line is set. In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the effective line is composed of the middle stage of the first reel 131, the middle stage of the second reel 132, and the middle stage of the third reel 133. Further, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the number of medals (specified number of medals) required for one game is set to 3, and when the specified number of medals are inserted, the effective line is activated. It is supposed to be done.

In the slot machine 100, the reels 131, 132, and 133 start to rotate with the start of the game, and the winning combination lottery is executed to determine the winning or losing (non-winning) of any of the winning combinations. Next, when each reel 131, 132, 133 is stopped, if the symbol combination corresponding to the winning combination won in the winning combination lottery is displayed on the valid line, this winning combination becomes a prize and corresponds to the winning combination. Processing (winning processing) is executed.

The lower door 112b has a medal insertion slot 121 for inserting medals, a MAX bet button (bet button) 122 for betting credited medals, a start lever 123 operated when starting a game, and a rotating one. A stop button 124 for stopping each reel 131, 132, 133, a payout port 125 for paying out medals by a hopper device, a medal tray 126 for receiving medals paid out from the payout port 125, and the like are provided. Further, behind the medal insertion slot 121, a medal sensor for detecting the passage of medals inserted from the medal insertion slot 121 is provided. Further, the lower door 112b is provided with an effect button 128. The effect button 128 includes, for example, a push switch and a rotary switch (jog dial), and is configured to be capable of pressing and rotating operations. When the effect button 128 is operated, the mode of the effect changes, which improves the enjoyment of the game.

In the slot machine 100, the operation of the start lever 123 is enabled by inserting medals into the medal insertion slot 121 or by operating the MAX bet button 122 to bet a predetermined number of medals. Further, when the activated start lever 123 is operated, the game is started. When the game is started, each reel 131, 132, 133 starts rotating, and when the rotation speed of each reel 131, 132, 133 reaches a constant speed and becomes a steady rotation, the operation of the stop button 124 is enabled. Reel. Further, when the activated stop button 124 is operated, the reels 131, 132, and 133 corresponding to the operated stop button 124 are stopped.

Inside the slot machine 100, a main control board (main board) and a sub control board (sub board) are provided. The main control board receives input signals from input means such as a MAX bet button 122, a start lever 123, a stop button 124, and a medal sensor, performs various calculations for executing a game, and a reel unit based on the calculation results. It controls the output means such as 130 and the hopper device. Further, the sub control board receives a signal sent from the main control board, performs various calculations for executing the effect, and controls the device for the effect such as the liquid crystal display 113 and the speaker 114 based on the calculation result. I do.

In addition, the main control board and the sub control board are electrically connected, and various information (signals) such as information indicating the game state can be transmitted from the main control board to the sub control board. Information cannot be transmitted from the control board to the main control board. Further, the functions of each board such as the main control board and the sub control board are stored in advance in various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ICs, hardware such as information storage media such as ROM and RAM, and ROM and the like. It is realized by software consisting of a predetermined program.

On the left side of the upper door 112a, a design member 150 having a plurality of symbol units (for example, symbol unit 101, symbol unit 102, symbol unit 103, symbol unit 104 and symbol unit 105: see FIG. 2) is provided. However, the position where the design member 150 is provided is not limited to this position, and may be any position on the front door 112. For example, the design member 150 may be provided above the liquid crystal display 113 (top lens).

In the present embodiment, the symbol portions 101 to 105 project toward the front side (player side). Further, identification information is represented by the shape of the front surface (tip surface) of each of the symbol portions 101 to 105. The identification information is characters, figures, symbols, and the like. Hereinafter, in the present embodiment, one symbol part represents one character, but for example, one symbol part represents two or more characters, or a combination of characters and symbols. It may represent.

FIG. 2 is a front view of a portion where the design member 150 is provided.
The symbol units 101 to 105 form a series of notification information (character strings). In the present embodiment, the symbol units 101 to 105 form a series of notification information that "the leading role is XX"("XX" represents the name of the character or the like). Specifically, one character "main" is represented by the shape of the tip surface of the symbol portion 101. Further, one character "role" is represented by the shape of the tip surface of the symbol portion 102. Further, one character "ha" is represented by the shape of the tip surface of the symbol portion 103. Further, one character "○" is represented by the shape of the tip surface of the symbol portion 104. Further, one character "○" is represented by the shape of the tip surface of the symbol portion 105.

The symbol portions 101 to 103 are provided so as to be arranged in the left-right direction. Further, below the symbol portions 101 to 103, the symbol portion 104 and the symbol portion 105 are provided so as to be arranged in this order in the vertical direction.
The symbol units 101 to 105 include those having different sizes of identification information (characters). Specifically, the character size of the symbol unit 103 is formed to be the smallest, and the character size of the symbol unit 104 is formed to be the largest. Further, the symbol units 101 and 102 have the same character size, and their character sizes are formed so as to be larger than the symbol unit 103 and smaller than the symbol units 104 and 105. Further, the character size of the symbol unit 105 is formed so as to be larger than the symbol units 101 to 103 and smaller than the symbol unit 104. That is, the character size increases in the order of (1) symbol unit 103, (2) symbol unit 101, 102, (3) symbol unit 105, and (4) symbol unit 104.

FIG. 3 is a schematic view showing a part of the upper door 112a seen from the left side. The design member 150 has a base surface (base) 151 that serves as a reference surface for protrusion of the symbol portions 101 to 105. The base surface 151 is a surface perpendicular to the front-rear direction. The symbol portions 101 to 105 are formed so that their respective tip surfaces (front surfaces) project forward from the base surface 151. Hereinafter, the term “protrusion amount” refers to the amount of protrusion of the symbol portions 101 to 105 from the base surface 151.
At this time, the protruding amount L3 of the symbol portion 103 is formed to be the smallest, and the protruding amount L4 of the symbol portion 104 is formed to be the largest. Further, the protruding amounts L1 and L2 of the symbol portions 101 and 102 are formed so as to be larger than the protruding amount L3 of the symbol portion 103 and smaller than the protruding amounts L4 and L5 of the symbol portions 104 and 105. Further, the protrusion amount L5 of the symbol portion 105 is formed so as to be larger than the protrusion amounts L1 to L3 of the symbol portions 101 to 103 and smaller than the protrusion amount L4 of the symbol portion 104. That is, the amount of protrusion increases in the order of (1) symbol portion 103, (2) symbol portions 101 and 102, (3) symbol portion 105, and (4) symbol portion 104.
As described above, the symbol portions 101 to 105 are formed so that the character size is different and the protrusion amount is different according to the character size. Specifically, the symbol portions 101 to 105 are formed so that the larger the size of the character (identification information), the larger the amount of protrusion. As a result, a three-dimensional visual effect is generated and characters (identification information) are visually recognized more three-dimensionally, attracting the player and giving a novel impression, and improving the interest of the game. Specifically, since the amount of protrusion toward the player is different in addition to the difference in the size of the characters (identification information), the difference in the degree of emphasis between the large characters and the small characters becomes larger, which further attracts the player. .. As in this example, when the larger the character size is, the larger the amount of protrusion is, the larger characters are felt to come closer to the front, attracting the player.

In the present embodiment, the symbol portions 101 to 105 and the base surface 151 are integrated (one member), but the symbol portions 101 to 105 and the base surface 151 are separate bodies (separate members). ) May be. Further, the base surface 151 of the symbol units 101 to 105 forming a series of notification information is not limited to one composed of one member, and may be composed of a plurality of members. In other words, the base surface 151 may be one piece or a plurality of pieces. Further, when the base surface 151 is composed of a plurality of parts, the positions of the base surface of the predetermined symbol portion and the base surface of another symbol portion different from the predetermined symbol portion in a predetermined direction (for example, in the front-rear direction) are different. You may. Specifically, in FIG. 3, for example, a base surface 151 (referred to as the first base surface) of the symbol portions 101 to 103 and a base surface 151 (referred to as the second base surface) of the symbol portions 104 to 105 are provided, respectively. In that case, the positions of the first base surface and the second base surface in the front-rear direction may be different. For example, in the front-rear direction, the position of the second base surface may be about 1 to 2 mm forward or backward of the position of the first base surface.

Further, in the present embodiment, the symbol portions 101 to 105 are formed so that the larger the size of the character (identification information), the larger the amount of protrusion. However, the larger the size of the character (identification information), the larger the protrusion amount. It may be formed so that the amount of protrusion is small. That is, in FIG. 3, the protrusion amount may be increased in the order of (1) symbol unit 104, (2) symbol unit 105, (3) symbol unit 101, 102, and (4) symbol unit 103. Even in this case, a three-dimensional visual effect is generated and the characters (identification information) are visually recognized more three-dimensionally, attracting the player and giving a novel impression, and improving the interest of the game. In this case, there is a difference in the degree of cooperation depending on the size of the characters (identification information), and since the amount of protrusion of the characters with a small character size is large, the small characters are closer to the front side (player side) than the large characters. It feels like it's coming, and both large and small letters attract players.
Further, at least a part of the plurality of symbol portions forming the series of notification information is set so that the larger the size of the identification information, the larger the protrusion amount gradually, or the protrusion amount gradually decreases. May be good.

Further, among a series of broadcast information, if the one having the largest identification information is formed with the largest protrusion amount or the smallest protrusion amount, other identification information having a size different from the identification information is formed. (The size of the identification information is other than the maximum) may have the same protrusion amount (same or substantially the same).
In this case, the one with the largest character (identification information) size is located on the front side (player side) of the other identification information, or the one with the largest character (identification information) size is located on the front side (player side) of the other identification information. Since it is located on the rear side and is visually recognized, a three-dimensional visual effect is generated and attracts the player.

Further, in the present embodiment, the tip surface of the symbol portions 101 to 105 is a plane (planar surface) perpendicular to the front-rear direction, but the tip surface of the symbol portions 101 to 105 is an inclined surface, a curved surface, and unevenness. It may have a shape or the like. When the tip surface of the symbol portions 101 to 105 has a shape other than a flat surface, the amount of protrusion of the symbol portions 101 to 105 is measured at the frontmost position (most protruding position) (topmost portion) on the tip surface. It shall be.

FIG. 4 is a schematic view showing a part of the upper door 112a seen from the left, and each tip surface of the symbol portions 101 to 105 is an inclined surface that protrudes forward as it goes upward in the vertical direction. A modified example is shown. The character size increases in the order of (1) symbol section 103, (2) symbol section 101, 102, (3) symbol section 105, and (4) symbol section 104. Further, the amount of protrusion increases in the order of (1) symbol portion 103, (2) symbol portions 101 and 102, (3) symbol portion 105, and (4) symbol portion 104.
As described above, even when the tip surfaces of the symbol portions 101 to 105 are inclined surfaces, the larger the character size, the larger the protrusion amount. As a result, the characters are visually recognized more three-dimensionally, and the interest of the game is improved.
In FIG. 4, in the relationship between the symbol portion 104 and the symbol portion 105, it is assumed that the protrusion amount of the minimum protrusion portion on the front surface of the symbol portion 104 is smaller than the protrusion amount of the top portion of the symbol portion 105. Not limited to this, the minimum protruding portion of the symbol portion 104 may protrude forward from the topmost portion of the symbol portion 105.
Further, the inclination angle of the tip surface (inclined surface) with respect to the base surface 151 may be changed according to the character size of the symbol portions 101 to 105. For example, the larger the character size, the larger the inclination angle of the tip surface may be. Further, the tip surfaces of the symbol portions 101 to 105 may be inclined in different directions.

Further, in the present embodiment, it is assumed that the symbol portions 101 to 105 of the design member 150 are exposed, but the design member 150 is translucent to cover the periphery (front and side) of the symbol portions 101 to 105. A cover (not shown) of (transparent resin) may be further provided, and the character size and the amount of protrusion of the symbol portions 101 to 105 may be configured to have the above-mentioned relationship inside the cover. Good. The cover is fixed to the upper door 112a by, for example, screw tightening. In this case, the symbol portions 101 to 105 are three-dimensionally visually recognized through the cover, and the interest of the game is improved. Further, by providing the cover, it is possible to protect each symbol portion from damage or the like.

Further, the symbol portions 101 to 103 are formed of a non-translucent resin, the symbol portion 104 and the symbol portion 105 are formed of a translucent resin, and a light emitting body (LED) is formed on the back side of the symbol portion 104 and the symbol portion 105. ) May be provided (not shown). In this case, the symbol unit 104 and the symbol unit 105 emit light by the light emitted from the light emitting body. In this way, the larger the character size, the larger the amount of protrusion, and the larger the character size can be illuminated, thereby further improving the enjoyment of the game. The symbol portions 101 to 103 may also be formed of a translucent resin and an LED substrate may be provided on the back side thereof to enable illumination. Further, for example, the illumination brightness and the emission color may be changed according to the character size of each symbol portion.

Further, in the present embodiment, the base surface 151 is a surface perpendicular to the front-rear direction, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the base surface 151 may be an inclined surface of the front door 112. For example, the inclined surface F provided with the MAX bet button 122 and the effect button 128 on the lower door 112b shown in FIG. 1 may be the base surface 151. The inclined surface F is inclined downward toward the front in the front-rear direction. When the inclined surface F is used as the base surface 151, the symbol portions 101 to 105 project in the direction perpendicular to the inclined surface F.

Further, the design member 150 may be provided on the pressing portion of the button (for example, MAX bet button 122, effect button 128, etc.). The pressing portion is a member that is formed of resin or the like, is supported by an urging member such as a spring, and can be pushed in. In this case, the pressing portion has, for example, a base surface 151 which is a surface perpendicular to or substantially perpendicular to the operation direction (pressing direction), and a symbol portion is formed on the base surface 151. The symbol portion projects in a direction perpendicular to the base surface 151.

Here, an example in which the design member 150 is provided on the pressing portion of the MAX bet button 122 will be described. In this case, for example, six symbol portions are provided, the shape of the tip surface (upper surface) of the first symbol portion is the letter "M", and the shape of the tip surface (upper surface) of the second symbol portion is the letter "A". , The shape of the tip surface (upper surface) of the third symbol part is the letter "X", the shape of the tip surface (upper surface) of the fourth symbol part is the letter "B", and the shape of the tip surface (upper surface) of the fifth symbol part. ) Is the letter "E", and the shape of the tip surface (upper surface) of the sixth symbol portion is the letter "T". Then, the first to third symbol portions are arranged in this order in the left-right direction to form the upper row, and the fourth to sixth symbol portions are arranged in this order in the left-right direction to form the lower row, and are arranged in two stages.

At this time, the character size of the first to third symbol parts (MAX) is formed to be larger than the character size of the fourth to sixth symbol parts (BET). The character sizes of the first to third symbol parts are the same as each other, and the character sizes of the fourth to sixth symbol parts are the same as each other. Further, the protruding amount of the first to third symbol portions (MAX) is formed to be larger than the protruding amount of the fourth to sixth symbol portions (BET). As a result, the first to sixth symbol portions are visually recognized more three-dimensionally, and the interest of the game is improved.
In order to prevent each symbol part from being directly exposed, a translucent (transparent resin) cover is provided to cover the periphery (upper surface and side surface) of each symbol part, and each symbol part is visually recognized through the cover. You may do so. The cover is fixed to the pressing portion by, for example, adhesion. By providing the cover, each symbol portion can be protected from damage and the like, and the symbol portion does not directly touch the finger when the pressing portion is operated, so that the player can operate it comfortably.

Next, an example in which the design member 150 is provided on the pressing portion of the effect button 128 will be described. In this case, for example, four symbol portions are provided, the shape of the tip surface (upper surface) of the first symbol portion is the letter "P", and the shape of the tip surface (upper surface) of the second symbol portion is the letter "U". , The shape of the tip surface (upper surface) of the third symbol portion is the letter "S", and the shape of the tip surface (upper surface) of the fourth symbol portion is the letter "H". The first to fourth symbol portions are arranged in this order, for example, so as to be arranged in the left-right direction (arranged in a horizontal row).

At this time, the first to fourth symbol portions (PUSH) are formed so that the character size gradually decreases from both ends toward the center, for example. Further, the first to fourth symbol portions are formed so that the amount of protrusion gradually decreases from both ends toward the center side. In other words, the character size and the amount of character protrusion gradually increase from the inside to the outside in the left-right direction. As a result, the first to fourth symbol portions are visually recognized more three-dimensionally, and the interest of the game is improved. In addition, in order to prevent the first to fourth symbol parts from being directly exposed, a translucent (transparent resin) cover that covers the periphery of the first to fourth symbol parts is provided, and the first to first symbol parts are provided through the cover. 4 The symbol portion may be visually recognized. Further, the first to fourth symbol portions may be formed so that, for example, large characters and small characters alternate with each other so that the amount of protrusion of large characters is larger than the amount of protrusion of small characters.

(Second Embodiment)
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the second embodiment, the pachinko gaming machine, which is one of the gaming machines, will be described, but other gaming machines may be used.
FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing an external configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment. The game machine of the present embodiment plays a game using a game ball (game medium) lent out from the game hall, and is provided with an outer frame 2 forming an outer surface of the game machine and inside the game machine. A game board 6 that forms a game area 4 in which a game ball moves, a glass unit 8 that makes the game board 6 visible and inaccessible to the player, and a front frame 10 to which the glass unit 8 is attached are provided. ing.

The portion of the front frame 10 that surrounds the glass unit 8 is made of a translucent material that transmits light, and inside the portion that is made of the translucent material, there is a directing light for enlivening the game. A plurality of front frame lamps 12 for outputting light are provided. Further, on the left and right of the upper part and the left and right of the lower part of the front frame 10, speakers 14 for outputting a production sound or the like for enlivening the game are provided.

An upper plate 16 for storing the game ball is provided in the lower center of the front frame 10, and the left part of the inner side surface of the upper plate 16 is for paying out the game ball from the game machine to the player. A payout port 18 is provided. A grip unit 20 is provided on the lower right side of the front frame 10, and when the player performs an operation of rotating the grip unit 20 clockwise toward the game machine, the grip unit 20 is provided inside the game machine (not shown). The launching device is activated so that the game ball is launched into the game area 4. The launching device of the present embodiment can launch 99 game balls per minute (1.65 balls per second).

A supply port 22 for supplying a game ball from the upper plate 16 to the launching device is provided on the right side of the inner side surface of the upper plate 16. Further, below the upper plate 16, a lower plate 24 for storing a surplus game ball when the game ball cannot be stored in the upper plate 16 is provided.

An effect operation device 26 is provided on the front side of the edge of the upper plate 16, and when the player operates the effect operation device 26, the effect performed by the game machine changes. In detail, the effect operation device 26 has a built-in push button switch and a rotary switch (jog dial) so that the operation of pressing the effect operation device 26 and the operation of rotating the effect operation device 26 can be detected. It has become.

FIG. 6 is a front view showing the external configuration of the game board 6 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 6, the game board 6 is provided with the outer rail 28 in a circular shape, and the area surrounded by the outer rail 28 is the game area 4 in which the game ball moves. Further, at the left end of the game area 4, an inner rail 30 is provided in an arc shape along the outer rail 28, and the outer rail 28 and the inner rail 30 are provided below the game board 6 and are not shown. The game ball launched from the launcher is guided to the game area 4.

At the center of the game board 6, a liquid crystal display 32 for displaying an effect image or the like for enlivening the game and an effect unit 36 including a display frame 34 formed so as to surround the liquid crystal display 32 are provided. A design member 38 is provided on the display frame 34. In the present embodiment, the case where the design member 38 is provided above the liquid crystal display 32 is shown, but the position of the design member 38 is not limited to this.

In the present embodiment, the game ball cannot pass through the front side of the liquid crystal display 32, and the game ball launched from the launching device passes through the game area 4 on the left side or the game area 4 on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32. It is designed to fall. A large number of game nails (not shown) are struck in the game area 4 so as to intersect the surface of the game board 6, and the moving direction of the game ball moving in the game area 4 changes randomly. ..

An opening 40 through which a game ball falling through the game area 4 on the left side of the liquid crystal display 32 can pass is formed in the left portion of the display frame 34, and the game ball passing through the opening 40 is provided in the display frame 34. It passes through the passage 42 and falls on the stage 44 provided below the liquid crystal display 32. The upper surface of the stage 44 has a smooth curved surface, and a gap is formed between the stage 44 and the glass unit 8 so that the game ball can fall downward from the stage 44, and the ball falls from the passage 42 onto the stage 44. After the game ball moves back and forth on the stage 44 from side to side, it falls downward from the vicinity of the center of the stage 44.

A first starting winning opening 46 is provided below the central portion of the stage 44.
Further, a passage gate 48 is provided in the game area 4 on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32. Further, a second starting winning opening 50 is provided below the passing gate 48. The second start winning opening 50 has a reduced state in which the game ball is difficult to enter into the second start winning opening 50 (a state in which the entry is not assisted / a non-assisted state) and an enlarged state in which the game ball is likely to enter (assists the entry). An ordinary accessory 52 provided with an auxiliary member that can operate between the state and the auxiliary state) is provided.

In the game area 4 on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32, a large winning opening 54 is provided below the second starting winning opening 50. The large winning opening 54 is provided with a special accessory 56 provided with a movable member that closes the large winning opening 54. The special accessory 56 is configured to be operable between a closed state in which the game ball cannot enter the large winning opening 54 and an open state in which the game ball can enter the large winning opening 54 (FIG. 6). Indicates a closed state). The special accessory 56 is controlled to be in an open state under a predetermined condition in a special gaming state that starts when a big hit is won.

Below the grand prize opening 54, a grand prize passage 58 is provided downward. A normal entrance 62 is provided at the lower end of the grand prize passage 58. Further, below the grand prize passage 58, a specific passage 65 is provided so as to branch downward from the middle of the grand prize passage 58. The specific passage 65 is provided with a specific accessory 66 including a movable member that closes the specific passage 65. The specific accessory 66 is configured to be operable between a closed state in which the game ball cannot enter the specific passage 65 and an open state in which the game ball can enter the specific passage 65 (FIG. 6 is a closed state). Shows). The specific accessory 66 is controlled to be in an open state under a predetermined condition in a special gaming state. A specific entrance 68 is provided at the lower end of the specific passage 65. Further, at the lowermost part of the game area 4, an out port 69 is provided to collect the game ball that has fallen in the game area 4 without entering any winning opening inside the game machine.

The launching device for the game ball is configured so that the firing output of the game ball changes by adjusting the rotation amount of the grip unit 20 shown in FIG. 5, and when the rotation amount of the grip unit 20 is small, the liquid crystal display is used. The game ball is launched so that the game ball falls in the game area 4 on the left side of the display 32, and when the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 is large, the game ball falls in the game area 4 on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32. A game ball is fired.

The player adjusts the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 according to the game situation, and the game ball falls in the game area 4 on the left side, or passes through the opening 40, the passage 42, and the stage 44, and the first start winning opening. The game ball is fired so as to enter 46 (left-handed), the game ball falls in the game area 4 on the right side, and the game ball passes through the passage gate 48, or at the second start winning opening 50. The game ball is fired so that the game ball enters or the game ball enters the grand prize opening 54 (right-handed).

A state display unit 70 is provided on the lower right side of the game board 6 and outside the game area 4 to indicate various states of the game machine by turning on and off lamps and the like. The gaming machine of the present embodiment is controlled by a control board including a main board and a sub board. The functions of each board such as the main board and sub board are the hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ASIC (gate array, etc.), ROM (an example of information storage medium), RAM, and ROM. It is realized by software consisting of a given program stored in advance.

The main board receives input signals from input means (first start winning opening sensor, passing gate sensor, second starting winning opening sensor, large winning opening sensor, normal entrance sensor, specific passage sensor, payout sensor, etc.). , Performs various calculations to execute the game, and based on the calculation results, of the output means (state display drive device, ordinary accessory drive device, special accessory drive device, specific accessory drive device, payout device, etc.) Control the operation.

The sub-board receives commands sent from the main board and input signals from the effect operation sensor that detects the operation of the effect operation device 26, and performs various operations for executing the effect according to the progress of the game. Is performed, and the operation of the effect device (effect display device, sound device, effect drive device, etc.) is controlled based on the calculation result.

Next, the design member 38 will be described. The design member 38 includes a plurality of symbol units (for example, a symbol unit 101, a symbol unit 102, a symbol unit 103, and a symbol unit 104). Characters (identification information) are represented by the shapes of the tip surfaces of the symbol portions 101 to 104. In the present embodiment, one character "south" is represented by the shape of the tip surface of the symbol portion 101. Further, one character "country" is represented by the shape of the tip surface of the symbol portion 102. Further, one character "Otsu" is represented by the shape of the tip surface of the symbol portion 103. Further, one character "woman" is represented by the shape of the tip surface of the symbol portion 104. The symbol parts 101 to 104 constitute a series of character strings of "Tropical Maiden". The symbol units 101 and 102 are provided so as to be arranged in the left-right direction, and the symbol units 103 and 104 are provided between the symbol unit 101 and the symbol unit 102 so as to be arranged in the vertical direction in this order.

FIG. 7 is a front view of the design member 38. Comparing the sizes of the identification information (characters) of the symbol parts 101 to 104, the symbol parts 101 and 102 have the same character size and are formed so that the character size is the smallest. Further, the symbol portion 104 is formed so that the character size is the largest. Further, the symbol unit 103 is formed so that the character size is larger than the symbol units 101 and 102 and smaller than the symbol unit 104. That is, the character size increases in the order of (1) symbol units 101 and 102, (2) symbol unit 103, and (3) symbol unit 104.

FIG. 8 is a schematic side view seen from the P direction shown in FIG. 7, and FIG. 9 is a schematic side view seen from the Q direction shown in FIG. 7.
The design member 38 has a base surface 38a that serves as a reference surface for protrusion of the symbol portions 101 to 104. In the present embodiment, the base surface 38a is a surface perpendicular to the front-rear direction. The symbol portions 101 to 104 are formed so that their respective tip surfaces (front surfaces) project forward from the base surface 38a. Hereinafter, the term “protrusion amount” refers to the amount of protrusion of the symbol portions 101 to 104 from the base surface 38a.
Comparing the protruding amounts of the symbol portions 101 to 104 with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9, the protruding amounts L1 and L2 of the symbol portions 101 and 102 are the smallest, and the protruding amount L4 of the symbol portion 104 is formed to be the largest. .. Further, the protruding amount L3 of the symbol portion 103 is formed so as to be larger than the protruding amounts L1 and L2 of the symbol portions 101 and 102 and smaller than the protruding amount L4 of the symbol portion 104. That is, the amount of protrusion increases in the order of (1) symbol units 101 and 102, (2) symbol unit 103, and (3) symbol unit 104. As described above, the symbol portions 101 to 104 are formed so that the larger the character size, the larger the amount of protrusion. As a result, a three-dimensional visual effect is generated and the characters are visually recognized more three-dimensionally, attracting the player and giving a novel impression, and improving the interest of the game.

In the present embodiment, the tip surface of the symbol portions 101 to 104 is a plane (planar surface) perpendicular to the front-rear direction, but the front surface of the symbol portions 101 to 104 has an inclined surface, a curved surface, and unevenness. It may be a shape or the like. When the front surface of the symbol portions 101 to 104 has a shape other than a flat surface in this way, the amount of protrusion of the symbol portions 101 to 104 is measured at the foremost position (top portion) on the tip surface. Further, in the present embodiment, the base surface 38a is a surface perpendicular to the front-rear direction, but the base surface 38a is, for example, a surface inclined with respect to the front-rear direction, and the symbol portion 101 is formed in a direction perpendicular to the inclined surface. ~ 104 may be projected.

Further, in the present embodiment, the front surface side of the symbol portions 101 to 104 (design member 38) is covered with the glass unit 8 (see FIG. 5), but for example, the symbol portions 101 to 104 (design member 38). May be provided in the front frame 10 (see FIG. 5) so as to be exposed. Further, a part or all of the symbol units 101 to 104 may be configured to be illuminate, and further, for example, the illumination brightness and the emission color may be changed according to the character size of each symbol unit.

Further, the design member 38 may be provided in the pressing portion of the effect operating device 26 (see FIG. 5). In this case, for example, four symbol portions are provided, the shape of the tip surface (upper surface) of the first symbol portion is the letter "P", and the shape of the tip surface (upper surface) of the second symbol portion is the letter "U". , The shape of the tip surface (upper surface) of the third symbol portion is the letter "S", and the shape of the tip surface (upper surface) of the fourth symbol portion is the letter "H". Then, the first to fourth symbol portions are arranged in this order, for example, in the left-right direction (arranged in a horizontal row).

At this time, the first to fourth symbol portions are formed so that the character size gradually decreases, for example, from both ends toward the center side. Further, the first to fourth symbol portions are formed so that the amount of protrusion gradually decreases toward the center side from both ends. Further, in order to prevent the first to fourth symbol portions from being directly exposed, a translucent (transparent resin) cover that covers the periphery of the first to fourth symbol portions is provided, and the first to first symbol portions are provided through the cover. 4 The symbol portion may be visually recognized. With such a configuration, the first to fourth symbol portions in the effect operation device 26 are visually recognized more three-dimensionally, and the interest of the game is improved.

Next, the sub-board unit 200 will be described.
FIG. 10A is a view (plan view) of the sub-board unit 200 as viewed from the back side. FIG. 10B is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along the line AA shown in FIG. 10A. Further, FIG. 11 is a view (plan view) of the sub-board 210 as viewed from the back side. Note that FIG. 11 shows a state in which the sub-board case 220 is removed in FIG. 10 (a).
The sub-board unit 200 is provided on the back side of the liquid crystal display 113 (see FIG. 1) according to the first embodiment, the liquid crystal display 32 (see FIG. 6) according to the second embodiment, and the like. Hereinafter, the sub-board unit 200 will be described, but the specifications shown in FIG. 10 can be applied to a liquid crystal board unit, an LED board unit, and a power supply board unit other than the main board unit.

As shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, the sub-board unit 200 includes a sub-board 210, a sub-board case 220 that covers the back side of the sub-board 210, and the like. The sub-board case 220 is made of, for example, a transparent resin, and has a substantially concave cross section in the vertical direction.
Further, as shown in FIG. 11, electronic components are mounted (arranged) on the sub-board 210. In this example, an IC 217 and a resistor 218 are mounted as electronic components. Although not shown, a capacitor or the like is mounted as an electronic component on the sub-board 210.
As shown in FIG. 10A, the sub-board case 220 is provided with a plurality of through holes 221 penetrating in the front-rear direction. The plurality of through holes 221 include a small diameter through hole 222 and a large diameter through hole 223. The small diameter through hole 222 is provided inside (center portion side) of the sub-board case 220. On the other hand, the large-diameter through hole 223 is provided on the outside (outer peripheral end side) of the sub-board case 220. The large-diameter through hole 223 is mainly provided at a position facing a portion (range) in the sub-board 210 where electronic components (chips or the like) are not arranged. A large-diameter through hole 223 may be provided at a position facing the capacitor.
Further, in the sub-board case 220, there is a place where the small diameter through hole 222 is provided at a position facing the IC 217 among the electronic parts, but there is no place where the large diameter through hole 223 is provided. Note that FIG. 10A shows an example of how to provide the small diameter through hole 222 and the large diameter through hole 223, and the number of holes is not limited to this.

As shown in FIG. 10B, the small diameter through hole 222 is formed in a tapered shape so that the hole diameter gradually decreases from the front side (board side) to the rear side (housing side). The small diameter through hole 222 has the smallest hole diameter (inner diameter) of about 2 mm and the largest hole diameter (outer diameter) of about 3 mm. The distance between the centers of two holes adjacent to each other in the left-right direction is about 5 mm (see FIG. 10A).
As shown in FIG. 10B, the large-diameter through hole 223 is formed in a reverse taper shape so that the hole diameter gradually increases from the front side (board side) to the rear side (housing side). The large-diameter through hole 223 has the smallest hole diameter (inner diameter) of about 2 mm and the largest hole diameter (outer diameter) of about 4 mm. The distance between the centers of two holes adjacent to each other in the left-right direction is about 6 mm (see FIG. 10A). The smallest hole diameter (inner diameter) of the large-diameter through hole 223 may be about 2.5 mm, which is larger than about 2 mm.

The small-diameter through hole 222 has a tapered shape in which the hole diameter gradually decreases from the front side to the rear side. Therefore, the air inside the sub-board case 220 is easily discharged to the outside through the small-diameter through hole 222. Further, the small-diameter through hole 222 may be provided at a position facing the IC of the substrate, but the tapered shape also serves as a fraud prevention measure by inserting an instrument or the like from the rear side (rear side).
The large-diameter through hole 223 has a reverse taper shape in which the hole diameter gradually increases from the front side to the rear side. Therefore, the air outside the sub-board case 220 is easily taken into the inside of the sub-board case 220 through the large-diameter through hole 223.

Next, the volume control switch 300 will be described. As shown in FIG. 11, the volume control switch 300 is arranged on the sub-board 210 and is electrically connected to the sub-board 210. The volume adjustment switch 300 is the loudness (volume) of the sound output from the speaker 114 (see FIG. 1) according to the first embodiment, the speaker 14 (see FIG. 5) according to the second embodiment, and the like. ) Is provided to adjust. Although the volume adjustment switch 300 will be described below, the present contents can be applied to a predetermined adjustment switch (rotary switch) including the volume adjustment switch 300. The predetermined adjustment switch includes a volume adjustment switch 300, a brightness adjustment switch, an effect changeover switch, and the like. The brightness adjustment switch is provided to enable the light emission brightness (brightness) of the lighting device (illumination device) of the game machine to be adjusted. Further, the effect changeover switch is provided so that the setting related to the effect can be changed on the hall (game hall) side. As for the setting related to the effect, for example, when four types of states (four types of effect states) having different effect contents are prepared, one state can be selected from the four states. It should be noted that the four states may include, for example, a state in which a specific effect appears and a state in which a specific effect does not appear.

FIG. 12A is a view (plan view) of the volume control switch 300 viewed from the rear side, and FIG. 12B is a view (plan view) of the housing 310 of the volume control switch 300 viewed from the rear side. .. Further, FIG. 13 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along the line BB shown in FIG. 10 (a). In FIG. 13, the housing 310 is not shown as a cross section. Further, FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the volume control switch 300 as viewed from the rear side.

As shown in FIG. 13, the volume control switch 300 includes a housing 310, a shaft member 320, a knob 330, and the like. As shown in FIG. 12B, the housing 310 has a square shape in a plan view (square shape in a plan view). The plan view means that the surface of the sub-board 210 on the side where the volume control switch 300 is arranged is viewed from a direction perpendicular to the surface. The housing 310 is fixed to the sub-board 210 by, for example, soldering. A circular hole 311 in a plan view is provided on the surface (upper surface) 310a of the housing 310 opposite to the substrate side. A shaft member 320 (see FIG. 13) protrudes from the hole 311. The shaft member 320 has its base end side housed inside the housing 310 and can rotate around the shaft. As the shaft member 320 rotates, for example, a rotor (not shown) inside the housing 310 rotates.

As shown in FIG. 12B, a level display unit 312 is provided on the upper surface 310a of the housing 310 so as to surround the periphery of the hole 311. The level display unit (predetermined display) 312 is formed by, for example, adding numbers 0 to 9 indicating the magnitude (level) of the volume so as to form a ring at predetermined intervals. Each number is arranged so that the lower part of the number faces the center of the hole 311 (the center of the knob 330 described later). In the present embodiment, the predetermined display is a number indicating the loudness (level) of the volume, but characters or symbols other than the number may be used. In the case of the brightness adjustment switch, for example, a number indicating the brightness (brightness) stepwise is attached in a ring shape as a predetermined display. Further, in the case of the effect changeover switch, for example, numbers and characters (for example, alphabets) corresponding to each effect state are attached in a ring shape as a predetermined display. Here, the diameter of the circle (the circumscribed circle connecting the upper parts of each number) that regulates the outer peripheral side (outside in the radial direction) of the range of the level display unit 312 is defined as the level diameter 313.

As shown in FIG. 13, the knob 330 has a cylindrical shape in which one end is closed and the other end is open. The knob 330 has an inner diameter that can be put on the shaft member 320. When the knob 330 is rotated with the knob 330 covered on the shaft member 320, the shaft member 320 rotates in synchronization with the knob 330. Further, at the end of the knob 330 on the opening side (housing 310 side), a collar-shaped collar portion 331 projecting outward in the radial direction is provided. The knob 330 is made of, for example, a transparent resin or a black resin.
In the above description, the case where the shaft member 320 and the knob 330 are separate bodies has been described, but the shaft member 320 and the knob 330 may be integrally configured. In other words, the knob 330 may include the shaft member 320. It can be said that the knob 330 is rotatably supported by the housing 310. Further, the upper surface 310a of the housing 310 can be said to be the surface of the housing 310 on the knob 330 side.

As shown in FIG. 12A, the flange portion 331 is provided so as to be annular (circular in plan view) when viewed from the axial direction of the knob 330, and is U-shaped when viewed from the axial direction at one location. The notch portion 331a of the above is formed. The notch portion 331a is formed in a size such that one number (level) of the level display portion 312 can be visually recognized.

Further, although not shown in FIG. 13, a slight gap of less than 1.0 mm is provided between the bottom surface of the flange portion 331 and the top surface 310a of the housing 310. Therefore, the level display unit 312 printed on the upper surface 310a of the housing 310 is not scraped off, and the level display (numbers) is not blurred. That is, it is possible to prevent deterioration of the visibility of the level display. Further, since the gap is as small as less than 1.0 mm, when the knob 330 is set to an appropriate position (when the level is located substantially in the center of the notch 331a), the axial direction of the knob 330 The level display next to the level display (number) located inside the notch 331a is not visually visible regardless of whether it is viewed from the front or at an angle with respect to the axial direction. That is, the two level displays are not visually recognized at once, and the current set value can be accurately grasped.

Further, as shown in FIG. 15, the width at the upper portion (diameter outside) of the notch portion 331a is defined as the width X, and the width between the central portions of adjacent levels (numbers) is defined as the width Y. The width X is equal to or less than the width Y or less than the width Y. Therefore, if the notch 331a is located (middle) between the center of one number (for example, "1") and the center of the other number (for example, "0"), both numbers. (Here, "1" and "0") are unrecognizable or difficult to recognize. As a result, it is possible to more easily grasp the setting error of the knob 330, that is, that the knob 330 is not rotated to an appropriate position (the position of the knob 330 is inappropriate).

Further, as shown in FIG. 14, a plurality of vertical grooves 332 provided along the axial direction are provided on the outer peripheral surface of the knob 330 at predetermined intervals along the circumferential direction. By providing a plurality of the vertical grooves 332, it is possible to prevent the fingers from slipping when the knob 330 is rotated. Further, one lateral groove 333 is formed on the tip surface of the knob 330 along a diameter passing through the center. By inserting a flat-blade screwdriver or the like into the lateral groove 333 and rotating the knob 330, the knob 330 can be rotated without being directly pinched.

Further, as shown in FIG. 13, the sub-board case (board case) 220 located on the back side (upper side in FIG. 13) of the volume control switch 300 is provided with a case opening (opening) 224. The case opening 224 has a circular shape in a plan view (concentric circle with the knob 330). The case opening 224 is provided so that the tip of the knob 330 protrudes (to insert the knob 330) at a position corresponding to (opposing) the position of the knob 330. By rotating the knob 330 protruding from the case opening 224, the loudness (volume) of the sound output from the speaker can be adjusted. For example, when the knob 330 is rotated to increase the number visually recognized through the notch 331a, the volume output from the speaker increases. The sub-board case 220 is made of, for example, a transparent resin. This is to make it possible to visually recognize the parts housed (arranged) inside the sub-board case 220.

In the present embodiment, the sub-board case 220 has a recess 225 having a recess shape that is recessed one step from the back surface side (top surface side) toward the substrate side. The case opening 224 is provided at a substantially central portion of the recess 225. By making the knob 330 project inside the recess 225 in this way, it becomes difficult for a finger or the like to come into contact with the knob 330, and it is possible to prevent the knob 330 from rotating due to erroneous contact or the like.

The components arranged (connected) to the sub-board 210 include electronic components, a connector, a volume control switch 300, and the like, and the volume control switch 300 is on the rearmost side (upper side in FIG. 13) from the board surface of the sub-board 210. ). Further, the sub-board case 220 is formed to have a concave cross section so as to cover the sub-board 210 from the back surface side. The top surface 226a of the back plate portion 226 of the sub-board case 220 is formed so as to be located on the back side (upper side) of the tip of the volume control switch 300. In other words, the tip of the volume control switch 300 (knob 330) does not protrude from the top surface 226a of the sub-board case 220. It should be noted that the allowance from the case opening 224 of the knob 330 is an allowance that can be pinched with fingers, for example.

In the assembly process or the like, the sub-board unit 200 may be placed on a table or the like with the sub-board case 220 side down, but even in that case, the knob 330 is located on the top surface 226a of the sub-board case 220. Since it does not protrude, no impact is applied to the volume control switch 300. As a result, when the volume adjusting switch 300 is placed on a table or the like, a force (impact) is applied to the tip of the volume adjusting switch 300, and the volume adjusting switch 300 can be prevented from being damaged.
In FIG. 13, the top surface 226a of the sub-board case 220 is located on the back side (upper surface side) of the tip of the volume adjustment switch 300, and the recess 225 is provided. If the structure is such that no impact is applied, the recess 225 does not necessarily have to be provided. In that case, the case opening 224 may be provided in the back plate portion 226.

Further, as shown in FIG. 13, the gap between the upper surface of the flange portion 331 and the surface of the sub-board case 220 on the substrate side (inside) is defined as the length L. This length L is about 1 to 2 mm. The length L is narrowed from the viewpoint of fraud prevention, and has a length that does not interfere with the flange portion 331 and the sub-board case 220 even when the component tolerance is the worst. By reducing this length L, fraud can be prevented.

FIG. 31A is a view of another sub-board unit 600 viewed from the back side. FIG. 31 (b) is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along the line VV shown in FIG. 31 (a). Electronic components (not shown) such as capacitors and resistors, a volume control switch 300, a connector CN, a DIP switch DIP, and the like are arranged on the sub-board 210. Here, the position (height) of the top surface 226a in the sub-board case 220 is determined according to the tall electronic components (for example, capacitors) arranged on the sub-board 210, but switches, connectors, etc. are arranged. Since it is necessary to expose them, a recess 225 is provided, and an opening is formed in the recess 225. At this time, the tip of the switch or connector protruding from the opening of the recess 225 does not protrude from the top surface 226a of the sub-board case 220. The tip of the volume control switch 300 (knob 330) protrudes toward the top surface 226a from the tip of the connector CN.

In the assembly process or the like, the sub-board unit 600 may be placed on a table or the like with the sub-board case 220 side down, but even in that case, the switch (including the volume control switch 300) and the connector CN may be used. Since it does not protrude from the top surface 226a of the sub-board case 220, no impact is applied to the switch and the connector CN. As a result, when placed on a table or the like, a force (impact) is applied to the tip of the volume control switch 300 or the connector CN, and the volume control switch 300 or the connector CN can be prevented from being damaged.

FIG. 32 (a) is an enlarged view of the P portion in FIG. 31 (a). 32 (b) is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along the line WW shown in FIG. 32 (a). Hereinafter, the dimension of one side of the housing 310 (upper surface 310a) is referred to as the length of one side of the housing 310 (one side length). The diagonal dimension of the housing 310 (upper surface 310a) is referred to as the diagonal length of the housing 310 (diagonal length). The diagonal length of the housing 310 is longer than the length of one side of the housing 310.

The diagonal length of the housing 310 is equal to or greater than the diameter of the case opening 224 (the diagonal length of the housing 310 is larger than the diameter of the case opening 224). For example, when an excessive force (load) is applied to the knob 330, or when the fixing (adhesion) of the volume control switch 300 to the sub-board 210 deteriorates over time, the volume control switch 300 is moved from the sub-board 210. This is the case when the damage that comes off occurs. Even in such a case, since the diagonal length of the housing 310 is equal to or larger than the diameter of the case opening 224, the housing 310 is caught in the case opening 224. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the volume control switch 300 from jumping out (discharging) to the outside of the sub-board case 220 through the case opening 224. As a result, it is possible to prevent the volume control switch 300 discharged to the outside of the sub-board case 220 from being lost. Further, it is possible to prevent the volume control switch 300 discharged to the outside of the sub-board case 220 from affecting other parts. The length of one side of the housing 310 may be equal to or larger than the diameter of the case opening 224.

Further, the length of one side of the housing 310 is equal to or larger than the diameter of the collar portion 331 (the length of one side of the housing 310 is larger than the diameter of the collar portion 331). That is, the diameter of the collar portion 331 is equal to or less than the length of one side of the housing 310. In other words, the outer peripheral end of the housing 310 is located on the outer side (diameter outer side) of the outer peripheral end of the flange portion 331 when viewed from the axial direction of the knob 330. In other words, the outer shape of the housing 310 is larger than the outer shape of the flange portion 331 when viewed from the axial direction of the knob 330.

If the outer peripheral end of the collar portion 331 is located outside the outer peripheral end of the housing 310, the terminal portion of the housing 310 is hidden and invisible when viewed from the axial direction of the knob 330, and the terminal portion of the housing 310 There is a problem that adhesion (presence or absence of defects) cannot be confirmed, but according to this example, it is possible to prevent such a problem from occurring. Further, if the outer peripheral end of the collar portion 331 is located outside the outer peripheral end of the housing 310, there arises a problem that the identification code written on the substrate near the housing 310 is hidden and cannot be visually recognized. Therefore, it is possible to prevent such a problem from occurring. Further, if the outer peripheral end of the collar portion 331 is located outside the outer peripheral end of the housing 310, there arises a problem that the heat dissipation effect of the heat generated by the volume control switch 300 is reduced. It is possible to prevent such a problem from occurring.

Further, the diameter of the collar portion 331 is equal to or smaller than the diameter of the case opening 224. In other words, the diameter of the case opening 224 is equal to or larger than the diameter of the collar portion 331. When the diameter of the case opening 224 is made larger than the diameter of the collar portion 331 in this way, the level (number) becomes easier to see.

Although not shown, the diameter of the collar portion 331 may be equal to or larger than the diameter of the case opening 224. In this case, for example, even if only the knob 330 is removed from the housing 310, the knob 330 is caught in the case opening 224 because the diameter of the collar portion 331 of the knob 330 is equal to or larger than the diameter of the case opening 224. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the knob 330 from popping out (discharging) to the outside of the sub-board case 220 through the case opening 224. As a result, the knob 330 can be prevented from being lost. The diameter of the collar portion 331 and the diameter of the case opening 224 may be the same or substantially the same. Even in this case, the same effect is obtained.

According to this example, since at least the case opening 224 is smaller than the size of the housing 310, even if the volume control switch 300 is damaged and comes off from the sub-board 210, the volume control switch 300 can be used. It is possible to prevent the case from being discharged to the outside through the case opening 224.

Further, the diameter of the collar portion 331 and the level diameter 313 (see FIG. 12B) (diameter of the circumscribed circle of a predetermined display) are the same or substantially the same. In other words, the upper part (upper end) of the level display (for example, the numbers 0 to 9) is located inside the outer circumference of the collar portion 331. In other words, the level diameter 313 is smaller than the diameter of the collar 331. Therefore, the upper part (upper end) of the level display (number) does not protrude outside the outer circumference of the collar portion 331. By aligning the outer circumference of the collar portion 331 with the upper part of the predetermined display (numbers), numbers and the like do not jump out of the collar portion 331, so that misidentification of the set value can be prevented and the numbers and the like enter too much inside. Therefore, even when the knob 330 is pinched, it is easy to visually recognize the numbers and the like.

Further, the diameter of the case opening 224 is the same as or substantially the same as the level diameter 313 (see FIG. 12B). In other words, when viewed from the axial direction of the knob 330, the diameter of the case opening 224 is a diameter at which the level (number) can be directly visually recognized without passing through the sub-board case 220. Therefore, since the numbers can be directly visually recognized without going through the sub-board case 220, for example, the level is not difficult to be visually recognized due to the reflection of light on the sub-board case 220, and the numbers can be easily seen. As a result, it is possible to prevent the adjustment from being mistaken. In addition, the burden of adjustment can be reduced. The diameter of the case opening 224 may be set to a level diameter of 313 or more.

Further, in the present embodiment, the sub-board case 220 is provided with a case opening 224, which is a hole for inserting the knob 330. On the back side of a gaming machine (for example, a pachinko gaming machine), there is a main control board that performs main processing related to the game, and a sub-control board (for example, a sub-board 210) that controls various devices in response to commands from the main control board. , A cover (back cover) that can be opened and closed (rotated) freely on the back of the main body frame so as to cover the sub-board case 220 and harness all at once, and stores a large number of game balls supplied from the island facilities of the amusement park. Some are equipped with possible storage tanks, etc. The main control board is covered with a cover member and sealed to prevent fraudulent activities.

In the case of such a configuration, in addition to the case opening 224 of the sub-board case 220, the position corresponding (opposing) to the volume control switch 300 (knob 330) on the cover (back cover) covering the outside of the sub-board case 220 is specified. Make an opening. Here, a specific opening will be described. The back cover is provided with, for example, a plurality of openings (for example, round holes) having the same shape at predetermined intervals in order to dissipate heat. A particular opening is an opening that is different from those openings (referred to as other openings), for example, that is different in shape from the other openings. As a specific opening, for example, there is an elongated hole formed in the vertical direction with a width that a finger cannot be inserted but a flat-blade screwdriver can be inserted. The specific opening has the same shape as the other openings, but may have a different size (width, diameter, etc.). It can be said that the specific opening is provided in a manner different from that of other openings. Further, the specific opening is not limited to one, and two or more may be provided side by side. The operator can insert a flat-blade screwdriver or the like through a specific opening and insert it into the lateral groove 333 (see FIG. 14) of the knob 330 to rotate the knob 330. As a result, the volume can be adjusted from the back side of the game machine without opening the back cover (without removing the back cover). The sub-board case 220 may not be provided, only the back cover may be provided, and an opening (specific opening) may be provided at a position corresponding to (opposing) the knob 330 on the back cover.

FIG. 33 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along the line TT shown in FIG. 31 (a). The recess 225 of the sub-board case 220 is provided with a connector opening K for inserting the connector CN at a position corresponding to (opposing) the connector CN. When the sub-board case 220 is attached to the sub-board 210, the tip of the connector CN projects toward the back side (upper side) of the connector opening K. However, as described above, the tip of the connector CN does not protrude from the top surface 226a of the sub-board case 220.

Further, the gap between the outer peripheral surface of the connector CN and the inner peripheral surface of the connector opening K is formed small (narrow) from the viewpoint of preventing fraud. In the present embodiment, the gap is smaller than the gap between the outer peripheral surface of the knob 330 of the volume control switch 300 and the inner peripheral surface of the case opening 224 in FIG. Further, the connector CN is a component that may come into contact with the end portion of the connector opening K before other components when the sub-board case 220 is covered with the sub-board 210. Since the strength of the connector CN is weak, if the end portions of the connector opening K come into contact with each other and receive a force (impact), there is a risk of damage such as chipping.

In view of such circumstances, in the present embodiment, the connector opening K is provided with a taper. That is, the inner peripheral surface of the connector opening K is a tapered surface. Specifically, the inner peripheral surface is a tapered surface so that the diameter of the connector opening K becomes smaller toward the top surface 226a side (upper side) (so that it gradually narrows). As a result, even if the end of the connector opening K and the connector CN come into contact with each other when the sub-board case 220 is attached, the tapered surface is provided, so that the connector CN can be prevented from being damaged. Further, by making the inner peripheral surface of the connector opening K a tapered surface, it is possible to prevent the wiring from being deteriorated or broken even if the wiring is in contact with the wiring.

Further, in FIG. 13, the inner peripheral surface of the case opening 224 is shown to be a surface parallel to the axial direction of the knob 330. That is, the case opening 224 is shown to have no taper. The reason why the case opening 224 is not provided with a taper is that the gap between the outer peripheral surface of the knob 330 and the inner peripheral surface of the case opening 224 is secured larger than the gap between the connector CN and the opening. .. However, the case opening 224 may also be provided with a taper. That is, the inner peripheral surface of the case opening 224 may be a tapered surface (chamfering may be provided at the end of the case opening 224). There are two ways to provide a taper to the case opening 224.

FIG. 34A shows an example in which the inner peripheral surface of the case opening 224 is tapered so that the diameter of the case opening 224 becomes smaller toward the substrate side (lower side). By providing the taper in this way, even if the fingertips come into contact with the sub-board case 220 when the knob 330 is pinched, it is possible to prevent pain due to the tapered surface.

FIG. 34B shows an example in which the inner peripheral surface of the case opening 224 is tapered so that the diameter of the case opening 224 becomes smaller toward the top surface side (upper side). By providing the taper in this way, when the sub-board case 220 is covered with the sub-board 210, even if the tip of the knob 330 and the sub-board case 220 come into contact with each other, the sub-board is a tapered surface. The position of the case 220 is forced so that it can be fitted smoothly.

In FIG. 33, the connector opening K, which is more likely to come into contact with the other parts, is tapered, but as shown in FIG. 34, the opening for the volume control switch 300 (case opening 224) is further tapered. May be provided. The opening for the volume control switch 300 (case opening 224) may not be provided with a taper, and only the connector opening K may be provided with a taper. Further, the connector opening K may not be tapered, and only the opening for the volume control switch 300 (case opening 224) may be tapered.

In the above description, the case where the opening for projecting the connector CN and the volume adjusting switch 300 is provided with a taper is shown, but the opening for providing the taper is not limited to the opening of the connector CN and the volume adjusting switch 300. That is, if there is a component that protrudes (exposed) from the opening formed in the sub-board case 220, the opening for that component can be tapered. At this time, if the gap between the outer peripheral surface of the component and the inner peripheral surface of the opening is equal to or less than a predetermined gap (narrow gap), the taper may be provided.

Next, the liquid crystal unit 500 will be described.
FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the liquid crystal unit 500 as viewed from the front.
The liquid crystal unit 500 is provided, for example, in the vicinity of the operation unit provided with the MAX bet button 122 or the like shown in FIG. 1 or in the vicinity of the operation unit provided with the effect operation device 26 or the like shown in FIG. Be done. Hereinafter, the description will be made using the liquid crystal unit 500, but the present contents can be applied not only to the liquid crystal unit 500 but also to a sub-board unit other than the main board unit, an LED board unit, and a power supply board unit.

FIG. 17 is an exploded perspective view of the liquid crystal unit 500. The liquid crystal unit 500 includes a frame 510, a liquid crystal protective sheet 520, a liquid crystal module 530, a liquid crystal base 540, a liquid crystal control substrate (board) 550, a liquid crystal cover 560, and the like.

The frame 510 is a rectangular frame-shaped member, and is formed so as to cover the outer peripheral portion on the front surface side of the liquid crystal module 530. The frame 510 is made of, for example, a resin. The frame 510 is fixed to the liquid crystal base 540 by a fixing member so as to sandwich the liquid crystal protective sheet 520 and the liquid crystal module 530 between the frame 510 and the liquid crystal base 540. Examples of the fixing member include screws and the like.

The liquid crystal protective sheet 520 is a rectangular plate-shaped member arranged on the front surface of the liquid crystal module 530. The liquid crystal protective sheet 520 is formed of, for example, a PET material or a glass material, and is, for example, colorless and transparent.

The liquid crystal module 530 is, for example, a transmissive type and is formed in a rectangular plate shape. The liquid crystal module 530 is formed to include a liquid crystal layer, a polarizing filter, a color filter, a glass substrate, an alignment film, a transparent electrode, a backlight, and the like, and has a multi-layer structure. FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the liquid crystal module 530 as viewed from the back side (rear side). The liquid crystal module 530 includes an FPC (wiring means) 531 and is electrically connected to the liquid crystal control board 550 via the FPC 531. In this embodiment, FPC (Flexible Printed Circuits) 531 is used as the wiring means. The material of the FPC531 is, for example, a PET film or a polyimide film, and an electric circuit is wired in the film. The FPC 531 extends from a substantially central portion on one long side of the liquid crystal module 530 toward the back surface side.

Returning to FIG. 17, a description will be given. The liquid crystal base 540 is a member having a substantially rectangular plate shape, and is formed so as to hold the liquid crystal module 530 on the front side thereof and the liquid crystal control substrate 550 on the back side thereof. The liquid crystal base 540 is made of, for example, a resin. Further, the liquid crystal base 540 is provided with a substantially rectangular through hole 541 at a position facing the FPC 531. The FPC531 is guided to the back side (liquid crystal control substrate 550 side) of the liquid crystal base 540 through the through hole 541.

The liquid crystal control board 550 is a plate-shaped member on which a plurality of electronic components are mounted (arranged). FIG. 19 is a view (plan view) of the liquid crystal control substrate 550 as viewed from the back side. Electronic components mounted on the liquid crystal control board 550 include a resistor (R), an IC, a capacitor, a coil, a diode, and the like.
As shown in FIG. 17, the liquid crystal cover 560 is a member having a substantially rectangular plate shape, and is formed so as to cover the back surface side of the liquid crystal control substrate 550. The liquid crystal cover 560 is made of, for example, a resin. The liquid crystal cover 560 is fixed to the liquid crystal base 540 by a fixing member so that the liquid crystal control substrate 550 is sandwiched between the liquid crystal cover 560 and the liquid crystal base 540. Examples of the fixing member include screws and the like.

As shown in FIG. 19, the connector 551 is mounted on the liquid crystal control board 550. The connector 551 is electrically connected to the liquid crystal control board 550. In this embodiment, an angle type connector is used as the connector 551. The connector 551 is a female connector for FPC that can be fitted with the FPC (wiring means) 531 (see FIG. 18). FIG. 20 is a side view of the liquid crystal control board 550. The angle type is a surface E (fitting surface E) that fits (connects) with the FPC 531 when mounted on the liquid crystal control board 550. (Opening surface E) refers to a surface perpendicular to the substrate surface. It can be said that the insertion / removal direction of the FPC531 is parallel to the substrate surface.

As shown in FIG. 19, the connector 551 is arranged inside (center portion side) of the liquid crystal control board 550, not at the end portion on the outer peripheral side of the liquid crystal control board 550. The reason why the connector 551 is provided on the central portion side of the liquid crystal control board 550 as described above is that, for example, an FPC 531 having a predetermined length is used. If the connector 551 is provided at the outer peripheral end of the liquid crystal control board 550 while using the FPC 531 having a predetermined length, the path of the FPC 531 protrudes to the outside of the liquid crystal control board 550. This leads to an increase in the size of the liquid crystal unit 500, which hinders space saving (miniaturization).

FIG. 21 shows a state in which the FPC 531 is fitted to the connector 551, and the FPC 531 is pulled out (extended) from the connector 551. At this time, there is a region (range) in which the FPC 531 and the liquid crystal control board 550 face each other, and the FPC 531 and the liquid crystal control board 550 are in close proximity to each other in that region. If electronic components such as resistors and ICs are mounted in that region, that is, at a position directly below the path of the FPC531, the FPC531 and the electronic components are in close proximity to each other. In this case, there is a possibility that the FPC531 may fail due to the heat released from the electronic component, or the high temperature electronic component may fail.

FIG. 22 shows a state in which the FPC 531 is removed from the connector 551. In the present embodiment, mounting is prohibited in the position directly below the path of the FPC 531 on the liquid crystal control board 550, that is, the region (range) facing the FPC 531 on the liquid crystal control board 550 where no electronic component is arranged (the electronic component is not mounted). Area G is used. By providing the mounting prohibited area G in this way, even when the connector 551 is arranged at a position other than the outer peripheral end of the liquid crystal control board 550, for example, near the center of the liquid crystal control board 550, the FPC 531 and the electronic components are provided. There is no proximity to the parts. This makes it possible to prevent problems such as failure of the FPC531 due to heat released from the electronic component and failure of the electronic component that has become hot.
No electronic components are arranged in the mounting prohibited area G, and no through holes, wiring patterns, or the like are formed. In other words, no electronic components are arranged in the mounting prohibited area G, and no processing is performed. By forming the mounting prohibited area G in this way, there is nothing that hinders the insertion of the FPC 531 into the connector 551, and workability is improved. In addition, since it is not processed, inspection (quality control) is facilitated, and the time required for manufacturing can be shortened (that is, productivity is improved). Moreover, since it is not processed, the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

In the present embodiment, the case where the FPC 531 having a predetermined length is used and the connector 551 is arranged on the central portion side of the liquid crystal control board 550 is shown. For example, when the shorter length FPC531 is used, the connector 551 is used. Can be arranged on the outer peripheral side of the liquid crystal control board 550. In the present embodiment, the connector 551 is arranged at a position other than the outer peripheral end of the liquid crystal control board 550, because the fitting surface E (see FIG. 20) of the connector 551 is the outer peripheral side surface of the liquid crystal control board 550. It means that the mating surfaces E are located inside the outer peripheral side surface (outer peripheral end) of the liquid crystal control board 550, and the mounting prohibited area G is a case where electronic components are tentatively arranged. The size is such that at least one electronic component (for example, a chip resistor) can be arranged (mounted). The electronic components include ICs, resistors, capacitors, LEDs and the like.

The liquid crystal unit 500 according to the present embodiment is provided near the operation unit and may be subject to vibration. However, due to the mounting prohibited area G, the FPC 531 has moved (shook) due to the vibration. Even in this case, the FPC531 does not come into contact with the electronic components, and for example, image distortion of the liquid crystal can be prevented. Further, since the mounting prohibited area G is provided, the FPC531 and the electronic component do not come into contact with each other, and the electronic component can be prevented from being detached from the liquid crystal control board 550 by receiving a force from the FPC531. Further, since the mounting prohibited area G is provided and the electronic components are not mounted, the FPC 531 can be smoothly inserted into the connector 551 when the worker or the like inserts the FPC 531 into the connector 551, and the workability is improved.

As shown in FIG. 23, the connector 551 may include a holding portion 552 rotatably supported around the axis. When the FPC 531 is inserted into the connector 551 with the holding portion 552 open and the holding portion 552 is closed in that state, the fitting between the FPC 531 and the connector 551 is locked.

Further, as shown in FIG. 17, a wall-shaped convex portion 561 may be erected at a position of the liquid crystal cover 560 facing the holding portion 552 of the connector 551. The convex portion 561 is provided to prevent the holding portion 552 of the connector 551 from opening. A slight gap is provided between the holding portion 552 and the convex portion 561. By providing the convex portion 561, it is possible to reliably prevent the FPC 531 from coming off the connector 551.

Further, in FIG. 23, the connector 551 and the electronic component T (for example, IC) are arranged so that the left end of the connector 551 and the right end of the electronic component T are on the same straight line or substantially the same straight line. There is. At this time, a minute gap is provided between the right end of the electronic component T and the left end of the FPC 531. Therefore, when the FPC 531 is inserted into the connector 551, the electronic component T does not interfere with the workability.

In this embodiment, the case where FPC531 is used as an example of the wiring means is shown. The FPC is a flexible printed circuit board (flexible printed wiring board), and a plurality of electric circuits (wiring) are formed on an insulating film. Signals and power can be sent via the plurality of wires.
FIG. 30 is a view of the FPC 531 viewed from the substrate surface side. The substrate (not shown) is located on the front side. In the present embodiment, the FPC531 has a copper foil layer (circuit) adhered to one side of the base film (polyimide), and a cover film (polyimide) covers the circuit at a portion other than the connection portion 531a (that is, the cable portion 531b). ) Is glued (crimped). The connection portion 531a is a portion connected (inserted) to the connector 551 (see FIG. 23), and the terminal (circuit) is exposed. The terminals may be surface-treated (for example, nickel-plated). Further, the portion other than the connecting portion 531a is the cable portion 531b, and the cable portion 531b faces the substrate. Further, the area of the board facing the cable portion 531b is a mounting prohibited area G (see FIG. 22). When the wiring means is FPC531, electronic components such as resistors may be mounted in a region of the cable portion 531b on the substrate side that does not face the substrate (for example, region J in FIG. 30). Further, in the present embodiment, the FPC 531 is a single-layer (one-sided) FPC, but a double-sided FPC or a multi-layer FPC may be used.
Further, FFC (Flexible Flat Cable) may be used as the wiring means. The FFC is formed by sandwiching a plurality of wirings (conductors) from above and below with an insulating film (for example, a polyimide film) via an adhesive. In this case, a female connector for FFC may be used as the connector 551. Even when the FFC is used, a connection portion 531a (for example, a connector for FFC) which is a portion connected to the connector 551 and a cable portion 531b which is a portion excluding the connection portion 531a are provided. The cable portion 531b faces the substrate.
FPC and FFC can be said to be a thin sheet-like (film-like) flat cable. Since the flat cable has a predetermined width, a region facing the liquid crystal control substrate 550 is likely to be formed. Therefore, it is more effective to provide the mounting prohibited area G.

Further, as the wiring means, a harness (wire harness) in which a plurality of two or more electric wires (wiring) (cables) are bundled may be used. The harness is provided with one male connector (connection portion 531a) having a predetermined number of poles at the tips of a plurality of electric wires (cable portion 531b). In that case, a female connector that can be fitted with the male connector is used as the connector 551, and the male connector (connection portion 531a) is inserted into the connector 551. At this time, the cable portion 531b faces the substrate.
The wiring means has at least two wires, but more preferably four or more wires, and further preferably eight or more wires. If you have 8 wires, you can send a 1-byte signal.

Further, in the present embodiment, the case where an angle type connector is used as an example of the connector 551 is shown, but a straight type connector, that is, a connector in which the insertion / removal direction of the FPC 531 is perpendicular to the substrate surface, in other words, the fitting surface E ( A connector whose (see FIG. 20) is parallel to the substrate surface may be used.
When the connector 551 is a straight type connector, the bending amount of the FPC (wiring means) 531 is larger than that of the angle type connector, and the stress applied to the FPC 531 is increased, so that there is a risk of disconnection, for example. .. On the other hand, in the angle type connector, the load due to bending is small, so such a problem does not occur. Further, in the case of a straight type connector, the FPC 531 is curved in a mountain shape in the direction away from the substrate. Therefore, the size of the liquid crystal cover 560 must be increased so as not to interfere with the FPC 531. That is, it hinders miniaturization (space saving). On the other hand, in the angle type connector, since the FPC 531 passes through a position closer to the substrate, such a problem does not occur. Further, in the case of the angle type connector, since the FPC 531 is closer to the substrate, if the electronic component is arranged on the substrate, the distance from the electronic component becomes small. Therefore, it is more effective to provide the mounting prohibited area G as in the present embodiment. Further, when an angle type connector is used, as described above, a shape (convex portion 561 of the liquid crystal cover 560) that prevents the holding portion 552 of the connector 551 from opening can be provided. Therefore, the FPC 531 can be prevented from easily disconnecting from the connector 551.

Further, although not shown, at least one through hole (via hole) can be provided in the mounting prohibited area G. By providing a through hole in the mounting prohibited area G, it is possible to obtain the effect of improving the resistance to noise. Further, by providing a through hole in the mounting prohibited area G, an air passage between the space on the front side (player side) of the liquid crystal control board 550 and the space on the rear side (rear side) of the liquid crystal control board 550 can be provided. It is formed so that both spaces can communicate with each other, and a heat dissipation effect can be obtained. For example, electronic components can be mounted on the front side surface of the liquid crystal control board 550 (the surface on the liquid crystal base 540 side) (the surface opposite to the surface on which the connector 551 is mounted). In that case, heat is also generated on the front side of the liquid crystal control board 550, but by providing the through hole, the heat is diffused to the whole (including the space on the rear side), and the liquid crystal control board 550. It is possible to prevent the failure of electronic parts due to the high temperature of only the space on the front side of the liquid crystal.

Further, although not shown, at least one wiring pattern can be provided in the mounting prohibited area G. By providing the wiring pattern in the mounting prohibited area G in this way, the degree of freedom in circuit design is increased and the design efficiency is improved. Further, when the wiring pattern is not provided in the mounting prohibited area G, there is a possibility that the wiring pattern cannot be drawn unless the size of the board is made larger, but it is possible to prevent the problem of such an increase in size. it can.

Further, in the present embodiment, the mounting prohibited area G is provided on the liquid crystal control board 550, but the present invention is not limited to this, and other boards may be provided. The other boards include a sub board 210, an LED board, a liquid crystal board, a power supply board, a relay board that relays from the sub board 210 to the LED board, and the like.

Next, the configuration of the end portion of the sub-board unit 200 will be described.
FIG. 24 (a) is a schematic view (plan view) of the sub-board unit 200 as viewed from the rear side, and FIG. 24 (b) is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along the line VV shown in FIG. 24 (a). is there. FIG. 24C is a schematic view (plan view) of the sub-board 210 as viewed from the back side. Although not shown, electronic components and the like are mounted on the sub-board 210. Examples of electronic components include resistors, ICs, capacitors, coils, diodes and the like.
The sub-board case 220 (hereinafter referred to as the case 220) is made of, for example, a transparent resin, and has a substantially concave cross section in the vertical direction. Further, as shown in FIG. 24 (c), the connector 211 is mounted on the sub-board 210. The connector 211 is an angle type female connector and is electrically connected to the sub-board 210.
Hereinafter, among the four sides of the outer circumference of the sub-board 210, a predetermined one side is referred to as an end portion (outer peripheral end) α. Further, the opening (opening surface) of the connector 211 (the surface into which the male connector is inserted) is defined as the opening β. In this example, the opening β of the connector 211 faces the end α side of the sub-board 210, and the opening β and the end α are parallel to each other. Further, a predetermined distance is secured between the opening β and the end α. The predetermined distance is, for example, about 2 to 3 mm. Further, one side of the case 220 located on the same side as the end portion α of the sub-board 210 (the side corresponding to the end portion α) is referred to as an end portion (outer peripheral end) γ.

FIG. 25 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the end α of the sub-board 210, the opening β of the connector 211, and the end γ of the case 220. In FIG. 25A, the opening β of the connector 211 and the end γ of the case 220 overlap and coincide with each other in a plan view. In other words, the end γ of the case 220 is located directly above the opening β of the connector 211. In this state, it can be said that the connector 211 is located inside the end portion γ of the case 220. In other words, there is a case 220 above the connector 211.

In FIG. 25 (a), the end portion γ of the case 220 is shown to be a straight line, but as shown in FIG. 25 (b), a U-shape is formed at a position facing the connector 211 in the case 220. A notch may be formed so that the inside (inner peripheral end) (inner peripheral surface) of the notch constitutes the end portion γ. Hereinafter, when the case 220 is provided with a U-shaped notch, the end portion inside the notch and parallel to the end portion α and the opening β is referred to as an end portion γ. Even in the case shown in FIG. 25B, the opening β and the end γ are overlapped and coincide with each other in a plan view.

FIG. 25 (c) shows a state in which the connector (male connector) 250 of the harness is fitted to the connector 211 in the state shown in FIG. 25 (b). The connector 250 is located outside the end γ of the case 220. In other words, there is no case 220 above the connector 250.

According to such a positional relationship of the ends, the connector 211 is located inside the end γ of the case 220, and the case 220 exists on the connector 211, so that the operator or the like can see the upper side in a plan view. The connector 211 cannot be touched from. As a result, it is possible to prevent the connector 211 from being damaged due to the force (load) applied to the connector 211 and the connector 211 from being detached from the sub-board 210.
Further, since the connector (male connector) 250 is located outside the end portion γ of the case 220, an operator or the like can touch the connector 250 from the upper side in a plan view. Therefore, the claw portion (not shown) of the connector 250 can be pushed to easily release the fitting with the connector 211, and the workability is improved. Further, as shown in FIG. 25 (c), assuming that the end (end face) of the connector 250 on the wiring (cable) side is the end δ, the end δ protrudes outside the end α of the sub-board 210. There is. Therefore, the operator or the like can more easily pinch the connector 250, and the connector 250 can be more easily inserted and removed.

Next, another configuration example of the end α of the sub-board 210, the opening β of the connector 211, and the end γ of the case 220 will be described with reference to FIG. 26.
In this example, in a plan view, the end α of the sub-board 210, the opening β of the connector 211, and the end γ of the case 220 all overlap and coincide with each other. In other words, the end α of the sub-board 210, the opening β of the connector 211, and the end γ of the case 220 are located on the same straight line.

According to such a positional relationship of the ends, the connector 211 is located inside the end γ of the case 220, and the case 220 exists on the connector 211, so that the operator or the like can see the upper side in a plan view. The connector 211 cannot be touched from. As a result, it is possible to prevent the connector 211 from being damaged due to the force (load) applied to the connector 211 and the connector 211 from being detached from the sub-board 210. Further, in a plan view, the end α of the sub-board 210 and the end γ of the case 220 coincide with each other, and the sub-board 210 is covered with the case 220, so that foreign matter or the like adheres to the sub-board 210. Can be prevented.
Further, since the connector (male connector) 250 is located outside the end portion γ of the case 220, an operator or the like can touch the connector 250 from the upper side in a plan view. Therefore, the claw portion (not shown) of the connector 250 can be pushed to easily release the fitting with the connector 211, and the workability is improved. Further, since the connector 250 protrudes to the outside from the end portion α of the sub-board 210, the operator or the like can more easily pinch the connector 250, and the connector 250 can be more easily inserted and removed.

Next, another configuration example of the end α of the sub-board 210, the opening β of the connector 211, and the end γ of the case 220 will be described with reference to FIG. 27. In FIG. 27, in a plan view, the end portion δ on the wiring side of the connector 250 and the end portion α of the sub-board 210 overlap and coincide with each other. It can be said that the end portion δ of the connector 250 serves as an outer peripheral side surface of the sub-board 210.
When the end δ on the wiring side of the connector 250 protrudes outside the end α of the sub-board 210, the sub-board 210 that functions as a wall does not exist, so that the connector 250 is hit by a finger, for example. 250 was susceptible to force (external force) (impact). Therefore, when the connector 250 receives a force, there is a possibility that the connector 250 and the connector 211 may be disengaged from each other, or the connector 211 may be disengaged from the sub-board 210. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 26, when the end δ on the wiring side of the connector 250 is aligned with the end α of the sub-board 210, the connector 250 protrudes outside the end α of the sub-board 210. Since there is no such thing, it is difficult for fingers and the like to hit it, and the connector 250 is not easily subjected to force. Thereby, the occurrence of the above problem can be prevented.

Next, another configuration example of the end α of the sub-board 210, the opening β of the connector 211, and the end γ of the case 220 will be described with reference to FIG. 28.
As shown in FIG. 28A, the end portion (end face) of the connector 211 on the side opposite to the opening β (inside the substrate) is defined as the end portion ε. In this example, in the plan view, the end portion γ of the case 220 is located inside the end portion ε (inside the substrate). That is, the connector 211 is located outside the end portion γ of the case 220 (outside the substrate), and the case 220 does not exist on the connector 211. As shown in FIG. 28B, the end portion γ of the case 220 and the end portion ε of the connector 211 may be aligned with each other in a plan view.

According to such a positional relationship of the ends, since the connector 211 is located outside the end γ of the case 220 (outside the substrate), the operator or the like holds the upper portion of the connector 211 while holding the connector 250. Can be inserted into the connector 211. As a result, it is possible to prevent the connector 211 from being detached from the sub-board 210 due to the force (insertion force) when the connector 250 is inserted into the connector 211. In particular, when the connector 211 is surface-mounted instead of through-hole mounted, the surface-mounted connector tends to come off from the board when subjected to force (adhesive strength is low), so it is more effective to configure as in this example. It becomes.

Although FIGS. 24 to 28 show an example in which one connector 211 is mounted on the sub-board 210, as shown in FIG. 29, a plurality of connectors 211 are configured to be arranged side by side on the sub-board 210. You may.

1,100 Game machine 210 Sub-board (board)
220 Sub-board case (board case)
224 Case opening (opening)
300 Volume adjustment switch (predetermined adjustment switch)
310 Housing 330 Knob 331 Collar

Claims (1)

A gaming machine including a substrate, a predetermined adjustment switch arranged on the substrate, and a substrate case covering the substrate.
The adjustment switch includes a plan-view rectangular housing fixed to the substrate and a knob rotatably supported by the housing.
At a position corresponding to the knob on the substrate case, a plan-view circular opening for inserting the knob is provided.
A gaming machine characterized in that the diagonal length of the housing is equal to or larger than the diameter of the opening.

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