JP3598113B2 - Play equipment - Google Patents

Description

  BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a pusher-type game machine that pushes and pays out prizes on a fixed table by reciprocating a slide table on the fixed table.

  For example, an amusement device called a pusher type includes a shovel that scoops prizes arranged on a rotating turntable, a fixed table, and a slide table that moves on the fixed table so as to approach or move away from the prize payout port. Is provided. When the player inputs a start instruction, the player scoops up the prize with a shovel, and when the player inputs a drop instruction, the prize is dropped on a fixed table. The prize that has fallen to the fixed table side is pushed by the slide table. If the prize is successfully pushed by the slide table, falls from the fixed table, and enters the prize payout port, the prize can be obtained (for example, see Patent Document 1; all claims are covered).

Conventionally, a prize is replenished to the amusement apparatus by a manager (service provider) of the apparatus, taking appropriate measures in view of the reduction of the prize, or providing a prize replenishing device.
For example, as a refilling device for a medal game machine, there is a refilling device that pushes up a refilling medal to a predetermined plate position by an elevator equipped with an inclined plate and slides the medal by tilting to refill the medal (see, for example, Patent Document 2). ; Corresponding to all claims).
Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 3-45751 Registered Utility Model No. 3013932 (Page 26-Page 27, FIG. 9)

  However, prizes in recent years are not always constant in shape, size and weight like medals, and prizes are sometimes packaged in plastic bags or the like. For this reason, for example, in the technique disclosed in Patent Literature 2, there is a problem that the prizes are not smoothly replenished because they are stuck to each other.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a prize paying-out amusement device for smoothly adding prizes.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, a first invention is a game apparatus for moving a prize from a prize placement section (for example, a turntable 1002 in FIG. 1) in response to a player's operation, and has an opening. Then, a prize storage portion (for example, a prize storage cylinder 1032 in FIG. 3) for storing a prize therein, a plug-shaped member (for example, a piston 1034 in FIG. 3) reciprocating in the prize storage portion, and the plug-shaped member (For example, a piston drive unit 1040 in FIG. 3) and a control unit (for example, a control unit 1020 in FIG. 1) for controlling the drive unit. The prize is discharged from the opening and dropped on the prize placement unit.

  The prize means a reward or a prize paid out when a predetermined condition is cleared in game play. For example, candy and confectionery, toys, decorations, various goods, capsules, and the like, which are divided into small bags, may be selected as appropriate according to the target age of the player, the setting of the game price, and the like.

  According to the first aspect, the prize stored in the prize storage section is forcibly pushed up by the plug-like member, discharged from the opening of the prize storage section, and dropped, so that the prize can be replenished to the prize placement section.

Furthermore, in order to realize smoother discharge of the premium, as a second invention, the premium contact surface of the plug-shaped member may be formed in a convex shape.
According to a thirteenth aspect, a prize storage unit (for example, a prize storage cylinder 1032 in FIG. 3) for storing a prize therein, and an upper surface which moves inside the prize storage unit and pushes up a prize stored in the prize storage unit are provided. A prize replenishing device including a convex plug-shaped member (for example, the piston 1034 in FIG. 3) may be configured.

  According to the second and thirteenth aspects, since the upper surface of the plug-shaped member has a convex shape, the prize is extruded so as to be dispersed and dropped in all directions without solidifying in one direction. Therefore, even when the prizes are caught together, the prizes can be easily separated, and the prizes can be discharged more smoothly and refilled into the game device.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a game apparatus according to the first or second aspect of the present invention, wherein the prize receiving section is disposed near an opening of the prize accommodating section. A prize guide unit (for example, the prize guide unit 1036 in FIG. 1) that regulates the prize to move outside the opening may be further provided.
Also, as a fourteenth invention, a prize storage section having an opening for discharging a prize stored therein, a plug-shaped member that moves in the prize storage section and pushes up the prize stored in the prize storage section, A prize replenishing device may be configured including: a prize guide unit disposed near the opening of the prize storage unit, the prize guide unit restricting movement of the prize near the opening to the outside of the opening.

  According to the third aspect, the same effects as those of the first or second aspect are obtained, and the prize pushed up by the plug-shaped member hits the prize guide portion. When the plug-shaped member further rises, the prize hitting the prize guide portion is pushed outward of the opening. Therefore, even if the prizes are caught together, the prizes can be easily separated, and the prizes can be discharged more smoothly and refilled into the amusement device. Similar effects can be obtained by the fourteenth invention.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in order to forcibly discharge the prize, the game apparatus according to any one of the first to third aspects is provided near the opening of the prize storage section, and It is more effective to further provide a rotator (for example, an impeller 1039a in FIG. 7) for sending out prizes accumulated near the opening of the section.
Also, as a fifteenth invention, a prize storage section having an opening for discharging a prize stored therein, a plug-shaped member that moves in the prize storage section and pushes up the prize stored in the prize storage section, A prize replenishing device comprising: a rotator that is disposed near the opening of the prize storage unit and that sends out prizes accumulated near the opening of the prize storage unit.

The rotating body referred to here is a rotating body provided with a convex portion such as an arm, a fin, or a spiral mountain that comes into contact with a prize. For example, it may be a propeller, a water wheel, a spiral, or the like.
According to the fourth invention, the same effect as any one of the first to third inventions is exerted, and the prize near the opening surface is stirred by the rotating body to solve the state where the prize is caught, and the prize is released. It is easy to move. Then, the prize can be sent out in the direction of stirring. Therefore, prizes can be more smoothly replenished.

A fifth aspect of the present invention is the game apparatus according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, wherein the prize discharged from the opening is received and slid down in a predetermined direction. A spiral slope (for example, a replenishment position guide 1038 in FIGS. 1 and 3) disposed along the gap is further provided.
According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the game apparatus according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, wherein the guide plate (for example, a guide plate for receiving a prize discharged from the opening and guiding the prize in a falling direction). A refill position guide 1038 in FIG. 7 is further provided.

  According to the fifth and sixth aspects, the same effects as those of any one of the first to fourth aspects can be obtained, and the prize discharged from the opening and falling can be guided in a predetermined direction. Therefore, it is possible to determine the place and the direction in which the prize is to be replenished. For example, if the slope is set so that the prize does not interfere with other parts of the game machine, it is possible to avoid a situation in which the prize is caught on the way and hinders the operation of the game machine.

  According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in order to more actively control the place and direction of the refill, the guide plate is rotated in a circumferential direction along the outer peripheral surface of the prize accommodating portion. It may be installed freely.

  According to the seventh aspect, the same effect as that of the sixth aspect can be obtained, and the position of the guide plate can be changed. Therefore, the direction in which the prize is guided can be changed.

  According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the game machine according to any one of the first to seventh aspects, wherein a notch (e.g., a guide) for guiding a prize discharge from the opening is provided at one end of the prize accommodating portion. , A refill position guide 1038) in FIG. 10 may be formed. In this case, the same effects as those of any one of the first to seventh aspects can be obtained, and the discharge of the prize can be guided in the direction in which the notch is provided.

  A ninth invention is the game device according to any one of the first to eighth inventions, wherein the control means moves the plug member stepwise at predetermined time intervals. I do.

  According to the ninth aspect, the same effects as those of any one of the first to eighth aspects are obtained, and the movement of the plug-like member of the prize replenishing device is controlled stepwise at predetermined time intervals. However, the total replenishable amount of the prize replenishing apparatus can be automatically replenished in a plurality of times. Therefore, it is possible to save the administrator the trouble of looking around the remaining amount of the prize and performing the replenishment work as needed. The “predetermined time interval” here is not limited to an equal interval.

  A tenth invention is the game apparatus according to any one of the first to ninth inventions, wherein the game space is covered with a prize replenishing opening (for example, the opening shown in FIG. It further comprises a transparent dome-shaped cover having a lid 1017a) (for example, the cover 1017 in FIG. 1).

  According to the tenth aspect, the same effect as that of any one of the first to ninth aspects is obtained, and since the opening is formed in the portion of the cover corresponding to the upper portion of the prize accommodation portion, the dome shape is provided. The prize for replenishment can be easily refilled in the prize storage section without moving the entire cover.

  An eleventh invention is the amusement device according to any one of the first to tenth inventions, wherein a detecting means (for example, the remaining amount of the prize shown in FIG. A detection sensor 1050), and wherein the control means controls the movement of the plug-shaped member based on a detection result by the detection means (for example, the replenishment position control unit 24 in FIG. 9).

  According to the eleventh invention, the same effect as any one of the first to tenth inventions is exerted, and the state of the prize on the prize placing portion is detected, and the movement of the plug-shaped member is performed according to the detection result. By controlling the timing, the timing and amount of prize replenishment can be controlled.

  In order to perform the detection more efficiently, as a twelfth invention, in the game device of the eleventh invention, a moving means (for example, a motor 1002a in FIG. 2) for horizontally moving the prize placement portion is further provided. Wherein the detection means is fixedly installed, and detects the state of the prize loaded on the prize placement part moved by the moving means at a fixed point, and the prize accommodation part is near the prize placement part. And the control means may further control the drive timing of the drive means based on the detection result by the detection means.

  According to the twelfth invention, the same effect as the eleventh invention is exerted, and at which position on the prize mounting portion the prize is reduced by detecting the remaining amount of the prize from the fixed point. be able to. Since the prize receiving section is installed near the prize receiving section, the place where the prize is low on the prize receiving section is moved to a position where the prize receiving section can be replenished with a plug. By controlling the movement of the members, the prize can be replenished aiming at a specific portion on the prize mounting portion.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, a premium | prize accumulated on the columnar body can be extruded so that it may fall in all directions without solidifying in one direction by pushing up with the convex-shaped plug-shaped member. Therefore, even when the prizes are caught together, the prizes can be easily separated and the prizes can be pushed out more smoothly and refilled into the amusement device.

  In addition, by providing a convex guide portion arranged opposite to the opening surface, it is brought into contact with the prize extruded from the columnar body, and the prize is separated from the guide portion in all directions without solidifying in one place. Can be pressed. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the prize from being solidified and accumulated at one place and not falling.

  In addition, by installing a rotating body that stirs the prizes near the opening surface, the state in which the prizes are caught is forcibly released, so that the prizes can easily move, and the prizes can be discharged more smoothly.

  Further, by providing a spiral slope disposed along the peripheral surface of the columnar body or a guide plate for receiving the prize discharged from the opening surface and guiding the prize in a falling direction, the prize is discharged from the opening surface and dropped. Can be guided in a predetermined direction. Therefore, it is possible to determine the place and the direction in which the prize is to be replenished.

  Further, by detecting the remaining amount of the prize on the board and controlling the movement of the plug-shaped member of the prize replenishing device according to the detection result, the timing and amount of prize replenishment can be controlled.

[First Embodiment]
Next, a first embodiment to which the present invention is applied will be described with reference to FIGS.

[Description of overall configuration]
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of an external appearance of a game apparatus 1000 to which the present invention is applied.
The amusement device 1000 is a so-called pusher game machine. The amusement device 1000 includes a turntable 1002 on which a plurality of prizes P are arranged, a shovel device 1004 for scooping the prizes P arranged on the turntable 1002, a fixed table 1010 for placing the scooped prizes P, and a fixed table. A slide table 1012 that reciprocates to move toward or away from the prize payout port 1008 along with 1010, an operation unit 1014 of the shovel device 1004, a control unit 1020 that integrally controls the operation of the amusement device 1000, and a prize refill. The apparatus includes a device 1030, a prize remaining amount detection sensor 1050, and a power supply unit (not shown). Then, the prizes P are protected by covering them with a transparent cover 1017 so as not to interfere from the outside.

  The turntable 1002 is formed with an annular groove that opens upward, so that a large number of premiums P can be placed on the bottom upper surface of the groove portion. Then, a plurality of premiums P are placed on the game apparatus 1000 and slowly rotated on a predetermined plane about a rotation axis A provided at the center of the game apparatus 1000.

  The fixed table 1010 is a flat plate extending from the center of the device to the outer edge of the device above the turntable 1002. The outer edge of the fixed table 1010 is configured to reach above the prize exit 1008.

  The slide table 1012 is a flat plate that reciprocally slides toward or away from the prize payout port 1008 along the upper surface of the fixed table 1010. As a driving method of the slide table 1012, a known technique is appropriately used, and description thereof is omitted.

  The shovel device 1004 rotates the arm 1004a by a motor 1004c in response to an operation input from the operation unit 1014, and scoops the prize P arranged on the turntable 1002 with a shovel 1004b having a curved surface capable of scooping up the prize P. The premium P is dropped on the fixed table 1010.

More specifically, arm 1004a is arranged above fixed table 1010 in a folded state (state in FIG. 1).
When the player inputs the start of the scooping operation of the shovel device 1004 with the start instruction button 1014a of the operation unit 1014, the motor 1004c rotates forward, and the arm 1004a moves along the arc B toward the bottom surface of the turntable 1002. When the excavator 1004b at the tip reaches the bottom surface of the turntable 1002, the motor 1004d rotates forward to scoop up the premium P arranged on the turntable 1002 by the curved surface formed by the excavator 1004b. In this case, the arrangement of the prizes P on the turntable 1002 is not always uniform. Since the operation of the shovel device 1004 is automatically performed, a game characteristic in which the number of prizes P that can be scooped changes depending on the timing of the operation of the start instruction button 1014a. When the prize P is scooped, the motor 1004c automatically rotates in the reverse direction, and the arm 1004a reverses and returns to the original position.

When the arm 1004a returns to the original position, it enters a standby state. When the player operates the drop instruction button 1014b, the motor 1004d rotates in the reverse direction, causing the shovel 1004b to tilt and drop the prize P scooped up on the fixed table 1010.
On the fixed table 1010, a slide table 1012 is performing a sliding motion. Therefore, the prize P does not always fall on the fixed table 1010 depending on the operation timing of the drop instruction button 1014b. The prize P that has been successfully dropped on the fixed table 1010 is pushed toward the prize payout port 1008 by the sliding motion of the slide table 1012. When the prize P is pushed to the end of the fixed table 1010 and falls into the prize payout port 1008, the player can take out the prize P from the prize takeout port 1018 communicating with the prize payout port 1008.

  It should be noted that the link structure and the driving method of the arm 1004a are based on known techniques as appropriate, and are not particularly limited. In addition, the excavator 1004b is not limited to be inclined by the motor 1004d, but may have a configuration in which the lower part is opened to drop the premium P.

  The amusement apparatus 1000 according to the present embodiment includes a shovel 1004, a fixed table 1010, a slide table 1012, an operation unit 1014, and a prize payout port 1008, and is provided with a total of four play positions in a substantially cross shape when viewed from above. Therefore, in the amusement apparatus 1000 according to the present embodiment, four players can enjoy the game at the same time.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a turntable 1002 portion of the game device 1000 according to the present embodiment, wherein (a) is a top view and (b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line NN ′. Note that the excavator device 1004, the prize replenishing device 1030, and the like are omitted in FIG.

  The turntable 1002 is rotatably supported and supported by a motor 1002a mounted at the lower center of the game apparatus 1000.

  The prize remaining amount detection sensor 1050 is realized by, for example, a distance sensor that derives a distance from a time difference between irradiation of infrared rays, laser, or ultrasonic waves, and detection of its reflection. In the present embodiment, it is disposed on the back surface of at least one of fixed tables 1010, that is, the surface facing turntable 1002, measures a distance value from fixed table 1010 in the direction of turntable 1002, and outputs the distance value to control unit 1020. The control unit 1020 uses the distance value to the bottom of the groove of the turntable 1002 as a threshold value, and when a distance smaller than the threshold value is measured, determines that the prize P exists at that position. The number of prize remaining amount detection sensors 1050 and the positional relationship between the sensors are appropriately set so as to cover the cross section of the turntable 1002 according to the specifications of the sensors.

  Next, the configuration of the prize replenishing apparatus 1030 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of prize replenishing apparatus 1030 according to the present embodiment.

  The prize replenishing device 1030 is arranged substantially at the center of the game device 1000. The prize replenishing device 1030 includes a prize storage cylinder 1032 for storing the prize Q for replenishment, a piston 1034 for moving the prize Q for replenishment, a piston drive unit 1040 for vertically moving the piston 1034, and a prize storage cylinder 1032. And a replenishment position guide 1038 for receiving the refill prize Q discharged from the opening surface and spilled outside and guiding the drop direction.

The prize receiving cylinder 1032 is a cylindrical body formed of, for example, glass or resin and having an opening surface at at least one end, and forms a space in which the refilling prize Q can be stored. The prize accommodating cylinder 1032 is installed substantially vertically on a pedestal 1005 at the center of the game apparatus 1000 with the opening face upward.
Since the prize receiving cylinder 1032 is formed of a transparent material, the supplementary prize Q stored therein is displayed to draw more interest to the game, and the supplementary prize Q is immediately displayed during game play. Since the user enjoys the game, the effect of enhancing gambling and excitement can be obtained. In addition, there is also a merit that the manager can check at a glance the remaining amount of the refill prize Q that can be refilled in the future. In addition, since the opening surface is provided at the upper side, there is also an effect of presenting as if the supplementary prize Q overflows from the prize accommodation cylinder 1032 when the supplementary prize Q is discharged. In the present embodiment, the prize accommodating cylinder 1032 has a substantially circular cross section, but it goes without saying that the prize storing cylinder 1032 may have another cross sectional shape.

  Inside the prize receiving cylinder 1032, a piston 1034 and a piston drive unit 1040 for reciprocating the piston 1034 in a direction approaching or moving away from the opening surface of the prize receiving cylinder 1032 are arranged.

  The piston 1034 is a plug-like body that has an upper part 1034a, an elastic ring 1034b, and a lower part 1034c and moves integrally. In the present embodiment, the piston 1034 as a whole has a truncated cone shape, but is not limited to this.

  The upper part 1034a has an upwardly convex shape, so that when the piston 1034 rises, the supplementary prize Q is not only pushed upward but also outwardly from inside the prize receiving cylinder 1032. Therefore, when the prize receiving cylinder 1032 is pushed up to the opening surface, the supplementary prize Q can be discharged so as to be dispersed around.

  The elastic ring 1034b is a ring member formed of an elastic member such as sponge or rubber, and is sandwiched between the upper part 1034a and the lower part 1034c. Then, the contact between the piston 1034 and the prize storage cylinder 1032 is buffered, and the gap between the two is appropriately maintained to prevent the refill prize Q from falling through the gap.

  The piston driving unit 1040 has a center shaft 1041 which is substantially vertically inverted inside the premium receiving cylinder 1032. The center shaft 1041 is made of, for example, a resin tube material. A motor 1042 and a driving pulley 1043 are provided below the center shaft 1041 (specifically, inside the base 1005), and a driven pulley 1044 is provided above. Then, the two pulleys are connected with the cog belt 1045 through the center shaft 1041.

  The connecting tool 1046 is fixed to the cog belt 1045 and moves integrally. The connecting member 1046 is provided with a piston mounting portion 1046a extending therefrom. Then, the piston mounting portion 1046a extends from the slit 1041a of the center shaft 1041 and is fixed to the inner surface of the upper part 1034a of the piston 1034. Therefore, by driving the motor 1042, the piston 1034 can be moved up and down.

  The motor 1042 includes a rotation angle sensor (not shown) for detecting a rotation amount. The relative position of the piston 1034 with respect to the premium receiving cylinder 1032 is detected based on the rotation amount. When the rotation angle sensor is not provided, for example, a distance sensor may be provided on the bottom surface of the premium receiving cylinder 1032, and the distance sensor may measure the distance to the lower part 1034c. Further, for example, when the stepping motor can be controlled by a motor 1042 pulse signal, the rotation angle sensor can be omitted.

The premium guide 1036 has a convex shape in a direction opposite to the convex shape of the piston 1034, and is installed above the opening surface. In the present embodiment, it has a substantially conical or truncated cone shape, and is fixed to the upper end of the center shaft 1041 with the conical end facing downward.
Even if the supplemental prizes Q are stuck together and do not collapse even when they reach the opening surface, the supplemental prizes Q are hit when the piston 1034 is further raised. Since the prize guide 1036 has a downwardly convex shape, the supplementary prize Q hitting the prize guide 1036 can be pushed outward and easily released.

  The replenishment position guide 1038 forms a slope on the outer surface of the prize storage cylinder 1032, receives the prize for replenishment Q discharged from the opening surface of the prize storage cylinder 1032, and guides in a predetermined direction to drop on the turntable 1002. Let it.

  In the present embodiment, the substantially L-shaped cross-section member is spirally arranged on the outer surface of the prize accommodating cylinder 1032 to form a slope, and the lower end of the slope is directed between the four shovel devices 1004 provided. Therefore, the refill prize Q spilling from the opening surface of the prize storage cylinder 1032 slides down the refill position guide 1038 without hitting the shovel device 1004 and is refilled on the turntable 1002. It is possible to prevent a situation in which the refill prize Q is caught between the movable parts of the shovel device 1004 and causes a malfunction.

  The control unit 1020 includes an arithmetic processing device such as a CPU and an LSI, an IC memory 1024, an electric circuit, and the like, and integrally controls the operation of the game device 1000. The control unit 1020 includes a manual switch 1022 for switching between automatic control and manual control, and has a configuration in which the management door 1009 can be opened and operated. By appropriately switching the manual switch 1022, each part can be controlled to a desired state. In the present embodiment, in particular, it is possible to set the prize replenishing device 1030 with the manual switch 1022 to replenish the prize for replenishment Q.

  The cover 1017 is a transparent cover formed of a transparent resin or the like so that the inside can be seen. A portion of the cover 1017 located above the prize replenishing device 1030 has a removable opening lid 1017a. The administrator can replenish the prize Q for replenishment to the prize replenishing device 1030 from the opening surface formed by removing the opening lid 1017a. Note that the cover 1017 may be integrally fixed to the prize guide 1036, and the prize guide 1036 may be removed together by removing the cover 1017.

[Explanation of functional blocks]
FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration according to the present embodiment. As shown in the figure, the game device 1000 includes an operation input unit 10, a prize detection unit 12, a piston position detection unit 14, a processing unit 20, a turntable driving unit 30, a shovel driving unit 32, a slide It has a table drive unit 34, a piston drive unit 36, and a storage unit 50.

  The operation input unit 10 receives a game operation by a player or a manual operation by an administrator, and outputs an operation signal to the processing unit 20. For example, it is realized by a push button or a lever. The start instruction button 1014a and the drop instruction button 1014b of the operation unit 1014 in FIG. 1 and the manual switch 1022 of the control unit 1020 correspond to this.

  The prize detection unit 12 detects the presence or absence of a prize arranged on the turntable 1002, and outputs a detection signal to the processing unit 20. For example, it is realized by a distance sensor, a photo interrupter, a touch sensor, a load sensor, and the like. The prize remaining amount detection sensor 1050 in FIG. 2 corresponds to this.

  The piston position detection unit 14 detects a relative position of the piston 1034 with respect to the premium receiving cylinder 1032, and outputs a detection signal to the processing unit 20. For example, it can be realized by an encoder, a distance sensor, or the like. In the present embodiment, a rotation angle sensor included in the motor 1042 of the piston driving unit 1040 corresponds to this.

  The turntable driving unit 30 rotates the turntable 1002 according to a control signal from the processing unit 20. The motor 1002a in FIG. 2 corresponds to this.

  The shovel drive unit 32 rotates the arm 1004a and the shovel 1004b of the shovel device 1004 according to a control signal from the processing unit 20. Motors 1004c and 1004d in FIG. 1 correspond to this.

  The slide table driving section 34 reciprocates the slide table 1012 according to a control signal from the processing section 20.

  The piston driving unit 36 moves the piston 1034 according to a control signal from the processing unit 20. This corresponds to the piston driving unit 1040 in FIG. 3, more specifically, the motor 1042.

  The processing unit 20 is realized by, for example, an arithmetic processing unit such as a CPU, an LSI, an electric circuit, and the like, and integrally controls each unit of the game apparatus 1000. The CPU mounted on the control unit 1020 in FIG. 1 corresponds to this. In the present embodiment, the processing unit 20 includes a replenishment necessity determination unit 22.

  The replenishment necessity determination unit 22 determines whether or not the prize replenishment is necessary at a preset time (hereinafter, referred to as “replenishment time”) based on the presence / absence detection signal from the prize detection unit 12. Is determined to be necessary, a driving instruction signal is sent to the piston driving unit 36 to move the piston 1034 to replenish the prize Q for replenishment.

More specifically, in the case of the present embodiment, a distance value from prize remaining amount detection sensor 1050 is measured at predetermined time intervals, and this measured value is compared with a predetermined threshold. That is, when a distance shorter than the threshold is detected, it can be determined that the prize P is present at that location. Then, if the ratio of exceeding the threshold does not reach the predetermined threshold while the turntable 1002 makes one circuit, it is determined that the prize P is in short supply and it is determined that replenishment is necessary.
The method of determination is not limited to this. For example, it may be determined that replenishment is necessary when the average value or the median of the measured values for one round falls below a predetermined reference value. Alternatively, a method of determining the volume of the premium P by integrating the measured values of the minute and comparing the volume with the predetermined volume value may be used.

  The storage unit 50 is realized by, for example, an information storage medium readable and writable by the processing unit 20 such as an IC memory, a hard disk, and an MO, and stores programs and various data provided when the processing unit 20 executes arithmetic processing. In the case of FIG. 1, the IC memory 1024 mounted on the control unit 1020 corresponds to this.

In the present embodiment, the storage unit 50 stores a replenishment necessity determination program 52 for causing the processing unit 20 to realize the replenishment necessity determination unit 22.
The data includes a replenishment time 55 which is a set time for performing replenishment, a reference distance value 56 which is compared with a measured value (distance value) of the prize remaining amount detection sensor 1050 when the necessity of replenishment is determined, and a reference distance value 56 A counter 57 that counts the number of times of measurement below the threshold value and a counter threshold value 58 that is compared with the counter 57 are stored.

  In the present embodiment, the reference distance value 56 is determined as a distance value to the bottom surface of the turntable 1002, which is obtained in advance, and the presence or absence of the premium P is determined. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the distance when the prize P is disposed on the bottom surface at the minimum reference amount is set as the reference distance value 56, and whether or not a sufficient number of prizes P are loaded on the turntable 1002 is determined. The determination may be made. Further, the counter threshold value 58 is a value indicating the remaining amount of the prize P when the turntable 1002 as a whole is to be refilled, and is set appropriately according to the type of the prize P. Further, as a matter of course, the distance value measured by the premium detecting unit 12 when the necessity of replenishment is determined is also temporarily stored in the storage unit 50 as data.

[Description of operation]
FIG. 5 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of the operation in the present embodiment. It is needless to say that the prize P is replenished to the turntable 1002 in advance as in the conventional case, and the description is omitted here.

First, the processing unit 20 determines whether or not the manual switch 1022 has been switched to manual control and is in a state of designating a replenishment state (step S102).
When the manual switch 1022 is at the position indicating the replenishment state (YES in step S102), the processing unit 20 drives the piston driving unit 1040 to move the piston 1034 to the lowest position (step S104).

In this state, the administrator removes the opening lid 1017a located above the prize replenishing device 1030 of the cover 1017, and stores the prize Q for replenishment in the prize storing cylinder 1032 from the opening formed by removing the opening lid 1017a (step). S106). When the replenishment operation is completed, the administrator attaches the opening cover 1017a, and switches the manual switch 1022 from the replenishment position to automatic control (step S107).
If the manual switch 1022 is switched to the automatic control, the processing unit 20 drives the motor 1002a to rotate the turntable 1002, and slides the slide table 1012 (step S108). With the steps so far, you are ready for game play.

When detecting that the start instruction button 1014a is pressed from the operation unit 1014 (step S110), the processing unit 20 drives the motor 1004c, scoops up the prize P with the shovel device 1004, and scoops up the prize P. (Step S112).
Further, when detecting that the drop instruction button 1014b is pressed from the operation unit 1014 (step S114), the processing unit 20 drives the motor 1004d to drop the premium P scooped by the shovel 1004b onto the fixed table 1010. (Step S116).

  Next, the preset refill time is compared with the current time (step S118). If the current time is the preset replenishment time (YES in step S118), the replenishment necessity determination unit 22 performs a replenishment necessity determination process (step S120).

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of the replenishment necessity determination process in the present embodiment. As shown in the figure, the replenishment necessity determination unit 22 first resets the counter 57 (step S202), and then measures the distance by the premium detection unit 12 at predetermined time intervals (eg, about every one second). The value is compared with the reference distance value 56 (step S204).

  If the measured value is smaller than the reference distance value 56 (YES in step S206), that is, if there is a prize P, the counter 57 is counted up (step S208). The processes of steps S204 to S208 are repeatedly executed until the turntable 1002 makes a full circle known in advance (NO in step S210).

When the measurement is completed, the counter 57 is then compared with the counter threshold 58, and when the counter 57 is smaller than the counter threshold 58 (YES in step S212), that is, when there are many places where there is no prize P on the turntable 1002, The replenishment necessity determination unit 22 determines that replenishment is necessary (step S214), ends the replenishment necessity determination processing, and returns to the flow of FIG.
When the counter 57 reaches the predetermined threshold value (NO in step S212), the replenishment necessity determination unit 22 determines that sufficient prizes P are still arranged on the turntable 1002, and determines that replenishment is unnecessary. (Step S216), the replenishment necessity determination process ends, and the process returns to the flow of FIG.

  In the flow of FIG. 5, when it is determined in the replenishment necessity determination process that replenishment is necessary (YES in step S122), the replenishment necessity determination unit 22 refers to the detection result of the piston position detection unit 14. When the piston 1034 has not reached the movement upper limit position (NO in step S124), the motor 1042 is driven by a predetermined amount to raise the piston driving unit 1040 (step S126).

By raising the piston drive unit 1040 by a predetermined amount, the piston 1034 is raised, and the premium for replenishment Q is pushed up. Since the upper surface of the piston 1034 has an upwardly convex shape, the supplementary prize Q is pushed up while receiving a force outward. Therefore, when the replenishment prize Q that has accumulated reaches the opening surface, it is discharged out of the prize accommodating cylinder 1032 in such a manner that the prize Q combined with its own weight collapses from the end.
Even if the supplementary prizes Q are stuck together and do not collapse even when they reach the opening surface, the supplementary prizes Q hit the prize guide 1036 when the piste 1034 further rises. Since the prize guide 1036 has a downwardly convex shape, the supplementary prize Q that has hit the prize guide 1036 is pushed outward, is caught and is collapsed.

  The refill prize Q that has collapsed from the opening surface of the prize storage cylinder 1032 hits the refill position guide 1038 and falls along the slope of the refill position guide 1038. Then, the turntable 1002 is replenished from a position avoiding the shovel device 1014 (step S126).

  If the predetermined game end condition is satisfied (YES in step S128), the game is over and the process ends. The game ending condition may be, for example, the number of times of prize P scooping or the game play time, and may be set as appropriate.

With the above processing, the shortage of the prize P on the turntable 1002 is automatically detected at every preset replenishment time, and the total amount of the requisition prize Q that can be replenished by the prize replenishment device 1030 is divided into a plurality of times. Can be refilled automatically. That is, prizes can be automatically replenished stepwise at each replenishment time.
In this embodiment, the replenishment time is assumed to be programmed in advance, but it is a matter of course that a configuration capable of separately setting and inputting the replenishment time may be provided.

[Second embodiment]
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. Note that the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted.

[Description of the structure of the prize replenishing device]
FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a prize replenishing device 1030 according to the second embodiment. As shown in the figure, a prize replenishing apparatus 1030 in the present embodiment has a rack shaft 1047 and a pinion gear section 1048 in a piston drive section 1040, and forms a pinion = rack mechanism. The pinion gear unit 1048 is arranged in the pedestal 1005 and driven by the motor 1042. The rack shaft 1047 meshes with the pinion gear portion 1048, penetrates the pedestal 1005, protrudes into the premium receiving cylinder 1032, and is fixed to the lower part 1034 c of the piston 1034. Therefore, by driving the motor 1042 to move the rack shaft 1047 up and down, the piston 1034 can be moved up and down.

  In addition, a prize moving device 1039 is provided near the opening surface of the prize accommodation cylinder 1032. The prize moving device 1039 includes an impeller 1039a and a motor 1039b for connecting and rotating the impeller 1039a, and a stay 1039c is provided at the upper end of the prize storage cylinder 1032 so that the impeller 1039a is located substantially at the center of the cross section of the prize storage cylinder 1032. It is fixed to the part.

The angle of the blade of the impeller 1039a and the rotation direction of the motor 1039b are appropriately set so that the refill prize Q, which has moved to the vicinity of the opening surface, is repelled by the impeller 1039a toward the replenishment position guide 1038.
By stirring and replenishing the supplementary prize Q with the impeller 1039a, even if the supplemental prize Q gets stuck and does not collapse even when it reaches the opening surface, it can be forcibly released and smoothly discharged. In this embodiment, the motor 1039b is driven and controlled, for example, in conjunction with the motor 1042. However, the motor 1039b may be separately controlled.

  The replenishment position guide 1038 in the present embodiment has a substantially U-shaped cross section that opens upward. Then, it is rotatably supported by a shaft 1038a and changes the vertical angle of inclination by a motor 1038b to guide the direction in which the supplementary prize Q falls. In the case of the figure, if the inclination is turned downward, the supplementary prize Q can be dropped to a position closer to the prize replenishing device 1030, and if it is turned upward, it can be dropped farther away.

FIG. 8 is a top view of game device 1000 according to the present embodiment. Note that the excavator device 1004 and the operation unit 1014 are omitted in FIG.
In the present embodiment, a plurality of prize replenishing devices 1030 are provided, for example, along the outer periphery of the game device 1000. The directions of the replenishment position guides 1038 are set in different directions, and the replenishment position guides 1038 are arranged so that the replenishment prizes Q can be replenished to various places of the game apparatus 1000 by the plurality of replenishment position guides 1038. The fixed table 1010 is also included in the replenishable range.

  In the present embodiment, the motor 1002a includes a rotation angle sensor (not shown) for detecting a rotation amount, detects a rotation angle of the turntable 1002, and outputs the rotation angle to the control unit 1020. For example, when the motor 1002a is realized by a stepping motor or the like that can be controlled by a pulse signal, the rotation angle sensor may be omitted.

[Explanation of functional blocks]
FIG. 9 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration according to the present embodiment. As shown in the figure, the present embodiment includes a table rotation angle detection unit 16, a replenishment position guide drive unit 38, and a replenishment position control unit 24. The storage unit 50 stores a replenishment position control program 53 for causing the processing unit 20 to function as the replenishment position control unit 24.

  The table rotation angle detector 16 detects the rotation angle of the turntable 1002. The rotation angle sensor of the motor 1002a corresponds to this.

The replenishment position control unit 24 obtains a location of the turntable 1002 where the prize P is small from the detection signal from the prize remaining amount detection sensor 1050 of the operation input unit 10 and the angle data from the rotation angle sensor of the motor 1002a.
Then, a prize replenishing device 1030 that can be replenished to a place where the prize P is small is selected, and the angle of the replenishing position guide 1038 in the selected prize replenishing device 1030, the drive timing and the driving amount of the piston drive unit 36 and the replenishment position guide drive unit 38 are selected. Is controlled to replenish the prize P at a position where the prize P is small. The appropriate amount of the drive timing and the drive amount is appropriately set according to the specifications of the game device 1000 and the prize replenishing device 1030.

  In addition, the replenishment position control unit 24 can also perform control to replenish the replenishment prize Q on the fixed table 1010 as a special bonus when a specific condition is satisfied, and to give a privilege. The specific condition may correspond to, for example, a so-called jackpot activation condition or the like, and may be appropriately set.

  The replenishment position guide driving unit 38 changes the direction of the replenishment position guide 1038 according to a control signal from the processing unit 20. The motor 1038b in FIG. 7 corresponds to this.

[Description of operation]
FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of the operation according to the present embodiment. Steps different from the operations in the first embodiment are denoted by S300s.

  In the present embodiment, when it is determined that replenishment is necessary (NO in step S122), the replenishment position control unit 24 specifies which position on the turntable 1002 to replenish (step S302). More specifically, when the replenishment is required in step S122, the rotation angle of the turntable 1002 detected by the table rotation angle detection unit 16 is set as the position to be replenished.

  Next, the replenishment position control unit 24 selects a prize replenishing device 1030 that can replenish the position specified in step S302 (step S304). For example, based on the detection results by the piston position detectors 14 of all the prize replenishing devices 1030, the prize replenishing devices 1030 in which the piston 1034 has reached the upper movement limit position are excluded from the selection, and the prize replenishing devices 1030 are arranged in order from the rotation direction of the turntable 1002. Select

  When the prize replenishment device 1030 is selected, the replenishment position control unit 24 determines the drive timing of the piston drive unit 1040 in the prize replenishment device 1030 (step S306), and determines the angle of the replenishment position guide 1038 (step S308). Then, the drive amount of the motor 1039b is determined (step S310). The order of determining the drive timing, the angle of the replenishment position guide 1038, and the drive amount of the motor 1039b is not limited to this, and may be set as appropriate according to the calculation procedure at the time of design.

  The replenishment necessity determining unit 22 operates the prize replenishing device 1030 to discharge the prize Q for replenishment in accordance with the drive timing obtained in steps S306 to S310, the angle of the replenishment position guide 1038, and the drive amount of the motor 1039b, and discharges the prize. Replenish (step S312).

  Next, when a specific bonus condition is satisfied at any of the play positions (YES in step S314), the replenishment position control unit 24 selects a prize replenishing device 1030 that can be replenished to the fixed table 1010 of the position (step S314). S316), the prize replenishing device 1030 is operated with the preset angle of the replenishment position guide 1038 and the driving amount of the motor 1039b, and the prize for replenishment Q is discharged toward the fixed table 1010 (step S318). When the predetermined game end condition is satisfied (YES in step S128), the game is over and the process ends.

  As described above, according to the second embodiment, prizes can be limitedly replenished in places where the prizes P are insufficient, and the state in which the prizes P are evenly arranged on the turntable 1002 can be maintained. It is also possible to execute a bonus at the time of bonus. For example, when the prize replenishing device 1030 discharges the prize for replenishment Q from a position higher than the fixed table 1010, it is possible to produce an effect such that a privilege comes down from the sky.

  As described above, the first and second embodiments to which the present invention is applied have been described. However, the application of the present invention is not limited to these, and it is possible to appropriately change the components without departing from the gist of the present invention. Additions and omissions may be made.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 11, the replenishing position guide 1038 may have a configuration in which a cutout is provided downward on the outer periphery of the opening surface of the prize storing cylinder 1032 like a spout of a jug.

  In addition, partitions are provided in the up-down direction inside the prize accommodating cylinder 1032 to divide it into a plurality of columnar regions. A piston 1034 and a piston drive unit 1040 may be provided in each area to replenish a plurality of types of premiums at different timings and amounts.

Further, the replenishment position guide 1038 is fixed in the first embodiment, and only the vertical angle is variable in the second embodiment. However, the replenishment position guide 1038 is movable in the left-right direction (rotation direction about the prize accommodation cylinder 1032). It is good also as composition.
For example, as shown in FIG. 12, the refill position guide 1038 is attached to the premium receiving cylinder 1032 via the slide unit 1037. The slide unit 1037 has a guide slidable in the circumferential direction of the prize accommodating cylinder 1032 and a driving device thereof. For example, a slide guide 1037a is fixed to the prize accommodating cylinder 1032, and a refill position guide 1038 is provided on the slider 1037b. Then, the slider 1037b is driven by the motor 1037c. The motor 1037c is controlled by the replenishment position control unit 24.

  Further, the present invention is not limited to driving the replenishment position guide 1038. For example, a rotatable pulley is provided on a mounting surface between the prize replenishment device 1030 and the pedestal 1005, and the prize replenishment device 1030 is installed on the pulley. The pulley may be driven by a separately provided motor to rotate in the left-right direction. At this time, the direction in which the rotation is performed in the left-right direction may be controlled by the replenishment position control unit 24.

  Further, in the second embodiment, the prize moving device 1039 may be configured such that, for example, a water wheel type impeller is arranged so that the rotation axis is substantially horizontal, and the prize moving device 1039 includes a compressor and a nozzle, not limited to the rotating body. Other methods, such as a method of discharging air and flying, may be used.

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of an external appearance of the game device according to the first embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of the turntable part in this Embodiment in 1st Embodiment, (a) Partial top view, (b) NN 'arrow sectional drawing. FIG. 2 is an exemplary sectional view showing an example of the configuration of the premium replenishing apparatus according to the first embodiment; FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration according to the first embodiment. 5 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of the operation according to the first embodiment. 5 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of a replenishment necessity determination process in the first embodiment. FIG. 13 is an exemplary perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a prize replenishing apparatus according to the second embodiment. FIG. 9 is a top view of the game device according to the second embodiment. FIG. 13 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration according to the second embodiment. 9 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of operation according to the second embodiment. The figure which shows the modification of a replenishment position guide. The figure which shows the modification which can change the direction of a replenishment position guide.

Explanation of reference numerals

12 prize detection unit 14 piston position detection unit 16 table rotation angle detection unit 20 processing unit 22 replenishment necessity determination unit 24 replenishment position control unit 30 turntable drive unit 32 shovel drive unit 34 slide table drive unit 36 piston drive unit 38 replenishment position Guide drive unit 1000 Amusement device 1002 Turntable 1004 Excavator device 1005 Pedestal 1008 Premium outlet 1010 Fixed table 1012 Slide table 1014 Operation unit 1017 Cover 1020 Control unit 1022 Manual switch 1030 Premium refill device 1032 Premium storage cylinder (prize storage unit)
1034 Piston (plug-like body)
1036 Free gift guide 1038 Refill position guide 1039 Free gift moving device 1040 Piston drive unit (drive means)
1050 Premium gift remaining amount detection sensor P Premium Q Refill premium

Claims (7)

In a game device for moving a prize from a prize placement section in a play space according to a player's operation,
A prize storage unit having an opening and storing a prize therein;
A plug-shaped member that reciprocates in the prize storage unit and discharges the prize stored in the prize storage unit from the opening;
Driving means for moving the plug-like member,
Control means for controlling the driving means;
A transparent dome-shaped cover that covers the play space and has a prize replenishment opening in an upper portion of the prize storage unit;
A prize guide portion that is arranged near the opening of the prize storage portion and regulates the prize near the opening to move in the outward direction of the opening,
A game device comprising: In a game device for moving a prize from a prize placement section in a play space according to a player's operation,
A prize storage unit having an opening and storing a prize therein;
A plug-shaped member that reciprocates in the prize storage unit and discharges the prize stored in the prize storage unit from the opening;
Driving means for moving the plug-like member,
Control means for controlling the driving means;
A transparent dome-shaped cover that covers the play space and has a prize replenishment opening in an upper portion of the prize storage unit;
A rotator that is arranged near the opening of the prize storage unit and sends out prizes accumulated near the opening of the prize storage unit;
A game device comprising: In a game device for moving a prize from a prize placement section in a play space according to a player's operation,
A prize storage unit having an opening and storing a prize therein;
A plug-shaped member that reciprocates in the prize storage unit and discharges the prize stored in the prize storage unit from the opening;
Driving means for moving the plug-like member,
Control means for controlling the driving means;
A transparent dome-shaped cover that covers the play space and has a prize replenishment opening in an upper portion of the prize storage unit;
A helical slope disposed along the peripheral surface of the prize container to receive the prize discharged from the opening and slide down in a predetermined direction;
A game device comprising: In a game device for moving a prize from a prize placement section in a play space according to a player's operation,
A prize storage unit having an opening and storing a prize therein;
A plug-shaped member that reciprocates in the prize storage unit and discharges the prize stored in the prize storage unit from the opening;
Driving means for moving the plug-like member,
Control means for controlling the driving means;
A transparent dome-shaped cover that covers the play space and has a prize replenishment opening in an upper portion of the prize storage unit;
A guide plate that receives the prize discharged from the opening and guides a direction in which the prize falls;
A game device comprising: In a game device for moving a prize from a prize placement section in a play space according to a player's operation,
A prize storage unit having an opening and storing a prize therein;
A plug-shaped member that reciprocates in the prize storage unit and discharges the prize stored in the prize storage unit from the opening;
Driving means for moving the plug-like member,
Control means for controlling the driving means;
A transparent dome-shaped cover that covers the play space and has a prize replenishment opening in an upper portion of the prize storage unit;
With
An amusement device, characterized in that a cutout for guiding discharge of a prize from the opening is formed at one end of the prize container . In a game device for moving a prize from a prize placement section in a play space according to a player's operation,
A prize storage unit having an opening and storing a prize therein;
A plug-shaped member that reciprocates in the prize storage unit and discharges the prize stored in the prize storage unit from the opening;
Driving means for moving the plug-like member,
Control means for controlling the driving means;
A transparent dome-shaped cover that covers the play space and has a prize replenishment opening in an upper portion of the prize storage unit;
With
An amusement device according to claim 1 , wherein said control means controls said driving means so as to move said plug-like member stepwise at predetermined time intervals . In a game device for moving a prize from a prize placement section in a play space according to a player's operation,
A prize storage unit having an opening and storing a prize therein;
A plug-shaped member that reciprocates in the prize storage unit and discharges the prize stored in the prize storage unit from the opening;
Driving means for moving the plug-like member,
Control means for controlling the driving means;
A transparent dome-shaped cover that covers the play space and has a prize replenishment opening in an upper portion of the prize storage unit;
Detecting means for detecting the state of the prize loaded on the prize placement unit;
With
An amusement device , wherein the control means controls the driving means based on a detection result by the detection means .

Images