JP4402131B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine including a variable display device capable of displaying a plurality of types of symbols in three dimensions.

  In a conventional gaming machine, as disclosed in JP-A-7-31729, a display device that displays a stereoscopic image by combining a liquid crystal display panel and a lenticular lens is known.

  In the case of using a lenticular lens, if the player's observation position slightly shifts to the left or right, the image cannot be viewed stereoscopically, and the range in which the stereoscopic image (three-dimensional image) can be viewed is narrow, In addition, the horizontal resolution of an image that can be visually recognized is ½ of the horizontal resolution of the liquid crystal display device, and there is a concern that the image quality may deteriorate.

  In view of this, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-63199 has been proposed as a display device that expands the range in which an image can be viewed three-dimensionally and suppresses a decrease in horizontal resolution.

This is because the left-eye and right-eye light sources are independent lights with different polarizations, and light that has passed through the Fresnel lens and the liquid crystal display panel is incident on the left and right eyes, respectively. And the right-eye image are displayed, respectively, so that the image is recognized three-dimensionally.
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 7-31729 JP-A-10-63199

  However, in the latter conventional example (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-63199), the light incident on the left eye and the light incident on the right eye are each converted into parallel light by the Fresnel lens. Therefore, it is necessary to secure a sufficient distance from the light source to the Fresnel lens.

  For this reason, when the latter conventional example is applied to a gaming machine, if the display device is preferentially arranged, a light source or the like protrudes on the back side of the gaming board, and the configuration on the back side of the gaming board (various controls) If the display device is to be downsized so that it can be installed in an existing game machine, the distance from the light source to the Fresnel lens is sufficient. There is a problem that it is difficult to obtain parallel light for the left eye and the right eye.

  Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and in adopting a display device that performs three-dimensional image display using parallel light for the left eye and right eye for a gaming machine, the configuration on the back side of the gaming board is used. The object is to secure the distance from the light source to the Fresnel lens without being changed.

The present invention provides an image display unit that is provided with a front door that can be opened and closed with respect to the apparatus main body, and that displays a left-eye image and a right-eye image in a display area, thereby allowing a player to view a stereoscopic image related to the game. And a light source that irradiates the image display unit from the back side, wherein the device main body has an opening on the front door side and projects into the back of the device main body. A light source unit in which the light source is arranged, and a flat liquid crystal display panel constituting the image display unit on the front door , and a liquid crystal display panel that collects light from the light source in a certain direction. an optical path changing means including a Fresnel lens for transmitting, an image display unit that both provided, upon closing the front door, the opening of the light source unit, the image display unit is arranged to face the light Close contact unit and the image display unit, the light source unit is configured to place the light source on the far side of the housing of the apparatus main body, becomes gradually narrower in cross-section towards the light source from the opening in the housing An inclined wall surface is provided, and a black color is applied to the inside of the wall surface. A control board for driving at least one of the light source and the image display unit is accommodated between the inclined wall surface and the inner periphery of the housing. It is characterized by wearing.

  Therefore, the present invention provides an image display unit on the front door that can be opened and closed, and a light source unit provided with a light source in a housing opened on the front door side on the apparatus main body side, and the image display unit when the front door is closed. By projecting the light of the light source from the back side of the player and displaying the image, a clear stereoscopic image or stereoscopic video is provided to the player. Here, the light source unit and the image display unit are separated, the light source unit is provided on the apparatus body side, and the image display unit is provided on the openable front door side, so that the distance from the light source to the optical path changing means can be secured and parallel. Since the light can be reliably obtained and the amount of the light source unit protruding to the back side of the apparatus main body can be suppressed, it is not necessary to change the arrangement on the back side of the apparatus main body, and an increase in manufacturing cost can be suppressed.

Or, when the glass panes are open for such adjustment, the light source for dimming or turning off, can the gaming facility employees and the player is prevented from view a light source in the lighting directly.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a front view showing the entire configuration of a gaming machine (pachinko machine equipped with a card ball lending unit) showing an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the relationship between a main body frame, a front frame and a glass frame. FIG. 3 is a block diagram of the control system.

  1 and 2, a front frame 3 of a gaming machine (pachinko gaming machine) 1 is assembled to a main body frame (device main body, outer frame) 4 via a hinge 5 so as to be openable and closable. 3 is housed in a storage frame (not shown) attached to the back surface of the body 3.

  On the surface of the game board 6, a variable winning device 10 having a large winning opening, general winning openings 11 to 15, a starting opening 16, normal symbol starting gates 27 </ b> A and 27 </ b> B, a normal symbol display 7, a normal variable winning device 9 ( A game area in which auxiliary winning means) and the like are arranged is formed. A cover glass 18 that covers the front surface of the game board 6 is attached to the front frame 3 via a glass frame (front door) 180 that can be opened and closed. The glass frame 180 is hinged to the front frame 3 and is locked by a lock 190 during a normal game.

  In FIG. 2, a light source unit 800 and a liquid crystal display unit (image display unit) 801 constituting a display unit (variable display means) 8 for performing variable display are arranged at the central part of the game board 6 and the cover glass 18. The light source unit 800 is fixed to the center of the game board 6, and the liquid crystal display unit 801 is disposed between the two cover glasses 18 of the glass frame 180. A transparent cable 840 that transmits signals and power to the liquid crystal display unit 801 is disposed between the two cover glasses 18 and connected to a power source and a control device. The transparent cable 840 is formed of a resin film cable or the like.

  The liquid crystal display unit 801 is set in such a positional relationship that the light from the light source unit 800 is entirely irradiated to the liquid crystal display unit 801 as the glass 18 is opened and closed.

  In addition, an opening detection switch 40 for detecting the opening of the glass frame 180 is disposed at a predetermined position of the front frame 3. For example, as shown in FIG. Be placed.

  In the display unit 8, for example, three display symbols (identification information or special symbols) on the left, middle, and right are displayed in the display area of the liquid crystal display unit 801. For example, numbers “0” to “9” and alphabet letters “A” to “E” are assigned to these display symbols.

  When the display unit 8 wins a game ball at the start port 16, the display symbols composed of the above-described numbers and characters are displayed in order. When a winning at the start port 16 is made at a predetermined timing (specifically, when the special symbol random number counter value at the time of winning detection is a winning value), it is a big hit state and three display symbols are arranged. Stop in state (big hit symbol). At this time, the large winning opening of the variable winning apparatus 10 opens wide for a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds), and a large number of game balls can be acquired.

  The winning of the game ball to the start port 16 is detected by a special symbol start sensor 14 (see FIG. 3). The passing timing of the game ball (specifically, the value of the special symbol random number counter provided in the game control device 100 (see FIG. 3) at the time of winning detection) is used as the special symbol winning memory and the game control device 100. Is stored in a predetermined storage area (special symbol random number storage area) within a predetermined maximum number of times. The number stored in the special symbol winning memory is displayed on a special symbol memory state display 17 including a plurality of LEDs provided on the lower side of the display unit 8. The game control device 100 plays a variable display game on the display unit 8 based on the special symbol winning memory.

  The normal symbol display unit 7 starts to display a variation of a normal symbol (for example, a symbol consisting of one number) when a winning game ball is awarded to the normal symbol starting gates 27A and 27B. When winning to the normal symbol start gates 27A and 27B is made at a predetermined timing (specifically, when the normal symbol random number counter value at the time of winning detection is a winning value), it becomes a hit state related to the normal symbol, A normal symbol stops at a winning symbol (hit number). At this time, the normal variation winning device 9 provided in front of the starting port 16 opens wide for a predetermined time (for example, 0.5 seconds), and the winning possibility of the game ball to the starting port 16 is increased.

  The passing of the game ball to the normal symbol start gate is detected by a normal symbol start sensor 29 (see FIG. 3). The passing timing of the game ball (specifically, the value at the time of passage detection of the normal symbol random number counter provided in the game control device 100) is a predetermined memory in the game control device 100 as the normal symbol winning memory. In the area (ordinary symbol random number storage area), a predetermined number of times (for example, a maximum of four consecutive times) is stored as a limit. The stored number of the normal symbol winning memory is displayed on the normal symbol storage state display 19 composed of a plurality of LEDs provided on the left and right of the normal symbol display 7. The game control device 100 performs a winning lottery regarding the normal symbols based on the normal symbol winning memory. The number stored in the normal symbol storage state indicator 19 is set to an arbitrary value.

  An upper plate 21 for supplying a ball to the ball hitting device is provided on the open / close panel 20 below the front frame 3, and a lower plate 23, an operation unit 24 of the ball hitting device, and the like are provided on the fixed panel 22.

  The front frame 3 on the upper part of the cover glass 18 is provided with a first notification lamp 31 and a second notification lamp 32 (see FIG. 3) that notify a state such as abnormal discharge of a sphere by lighting.

  The operation panel 26 for the card ball lending unit includes a card balance display unit (not shown) for displaying the card balance, a ball lending switch 28 for instructing ball lending, a card return switch 30 for instructing to return the card, and the like. Is provided.

  The card ball lending unit 2 incorporates a card reader / writer and a ball lending control device for reading and writing data of a card (a prepaid card or the like) inserted into the card insertion unit 25 on the front surface. The operation panel 26 is formed on the outer surface of the upper plate 21 of the gaming machine 1.

  FIG. 3 is a block configuration diagram showing a control system centered on the game control device 100.

  The game control device 100 is a main control device that comprehensively controls games, a CPU that controls game control, a ROM that stores invariant information for game control, and a RAM that is used as a work area during game control Is composed of a game microcomputer 101 having a built-in circuit, an input interface 102, an output interface 103, an oscillator 104, and the like.

  The gaming microcomputer 101 receives detection signals from various detection devices (special symbol start sensor 14, general winning opening sensors 17A to 17N, count sensor 15, continuation sensor 16S, normal symbol start sensor 29) via the input interface 102. In response, various processes such as a jackpot lottery are performed. And via the output interface 103, various control devices (display control device 150, discharge control device 200, decoration control device 250, sound control device 300), big prize opening solenoid 36, ordinary electric accessory solenoid 90, normal symbol display. A command signal is transmitted to the device 7 and the like, and the game is comprehensively controlled.

  The discharge control device 200 controls the operation of the payout unit based on a prize ball command signal from the game control device 100 or a ball rental request from the card ball rental unit 2, and causes the prize ball or the ball to be discharged.

  The decoration control device 250 controls a decoration light emitting device such as a decoration lamp and LED based on a decoration command signal from the game control device 100, and also displays a special symbol memory state indicator (special symbol holding LED) 17, a normal symbol. The display of the storage status indicator 19 is controlled.

  The sound control device 300 controls sound effect output from the speaker. Communication from the game control device 100 to various subordinate control devices (display control device 150, discharge control device 200, decoration control device 250, sound control device 300) is unidirectional from the game control device 100 to the subordinate control device. Only communication is allowed. Thereby, it is possible to prevent an illegal signal from being input to the game control device 100 from the dependent control device side.

  The display control device 150 performs display control of 2D images (2D images) and 3D images (3D images = stereoscopic images), and stores a CPU 151, a VDC (Video Display Controller or image drawing means) 156, a program, and the like. ROM 152, RAM 153 for storing work area and frame buffer, interface 154, DMAC for controlling writing to and reading from font ROM 157, RAM 153, etc. storing image data (symbol data, background image data, moving picture object data, texture data, etc.) (Direct Memory Access Controller) 155, an oscillator 158 for generating a synchronization signal (reference clock), a strobe signal, and the like. The oscillator 158 includes a crystal resonator, an oscillator, and the like.

  The CPU 151 executes a program stored in the ROM 152, and outputs a predetermined variable display game to the display unit 8 based on a signal from the game control device 100. The 2D screen information (symbol display information, background screen information, Video object screen information etc.), coordinate calculation (geometry calculation) etc. of 3D image information (symbol display information composed of polygon data etc., background screen information, video object screen information etc.) etc. The calculation result is stored in the RAM 153. Note that, as the 2D image processing performed by the CPU 151, for example, a known method such as sprite processing may be employed.

  The VDC 156 performs polygon drawing (or normal bitmap drawing) of a 2D or 3D image based on image information stored in the RAM 153 and the font ROM 157, and pastes a predetermined texture on each polygon to a frame buffer. Are stored in the RAM 153. Then, the VDC 156 transmits the image in the RAM 153 to the LCD side (the composite conversion device 170) at a predetermined timing (vertical synchronization signal V_Sync, horizontal synchronization H_Sync).

  The font ROM 157 stores 2D data such as identification information used for the variable display game, background, characters, 3D object data (polygon data), and texture data.

  The drawing processing performed by the VDC 156 performs 2D and 3D point drawing, line drawing, triangle drawing, and polygon drawing. Furthermore, for 3D images, texture mapping, alpha blending, shading processing (glow shading, etc.), hidden surface removal (Z buffer processing) Etc.) and the image signal is output to the synthesis conversion device 170 via the γ correction circuit.

  Note that the VDC 156 may temporarily store the drawn image data in the RAM 153 as a frame buffer and then output the image data to the synthesizing / conversion device 170 in accordance with a synchronization signal (V_Sync or the like).

  Here, as the frame buffer, the 2D frame buffer and the 3D frame buffer are respectively set in a predetermined storage area of the RAM 153, and the VDC 156 superimposes the 2D image on the 3D image (overlay) and outputs it. It is also possible. Alternatively, for stereoscopic viewing, the right eye image and the left eye image may be stored in independent frame buffers.

  An oscillator 158 that supplies a clock signal is connected to the VDC 156. The clock signal generated by the oscillator 158 defines the operation cycle of the VDC 156, generates a signal output from the VDC 156, for example, a vertical synchronization signal (V_SYNC) and a horizontal synchronization signal (H_SYNC), and generates a composite conversion device 170 and a display. Output to unit 8.

  The image signal from the VDC 156 is input to the γ correction circuit 159 and then output to the synthesis conversion device 170. The γ correction circuit 159 corrects the non-linear characteristic of the illuminance with respect to the signal voltage of the display unit 8 to adjust the display illuminance of the variable display device.

  Further, the CPU 151 of the display control device 150 determines whether the image data (RGB) to be output to the composite conversion device 170 is a left-eye image or a right-eye image based on the clock signal of the oscillator 158. An identifying L / R signal is output.

  Furthermore, since the CPU 151 controls the light emission amount (luminance) of the display unit 8 based on the state of the variable display (for example, whether it is a normal variable display game or a big hit display) and the state of the game, the duty control is performed. The signal DTY_CTR is generated based on the clock signal of the oscillator 158 and output to the display unit 8.

  The synthesizing / conversion device 170 includes a right-eye frame buffer, a left-eye frame buffer, and a stereoscopic frame buffer, and writes the right-eye image sent from the VDC 156 to the right-eye frame buffer. The image for writing is written into the frame buffer for the left eye. Then, the right-eye image and the left-eye image are combined to generate a stereoscopic image, which is written in the stereoscopic frame buffer, and the stereoscopic image data is output to the image display device as an RGB signal.

  The generation of a stereoscopic image by combining the right-eye image and the left-eye image is performed for each interval of a half-wave plate 821 attached to a fine retardation plate 802 described later, Combine with left eye image. Specifically, since the half-wave plate 821 of the fine retardation plate 802 of the image display apparatus according to the present embodiment is arranged at intervals of the display unit of the liquid crystal display panel 804, the display unit of the liquid crystal display panel 804 is displayed. The stereoscopic image is displayed so that the right eye image and the left eye image are alternately displayed for each horizontal line (scanning line).

  The left-eye image data transmitted from the VDC 156 while the L / R signal is output to the L signal is written to the left-eye frame buffer, and the right-eye image data transmitted from the VDC 156 is also output from the VDC 156 while the R signal is output. Write to the frame buffer. Then, the left-eye image data written in the left-eye frame buffer and the right-eye image data written in the right-eye frame buffer are read for each scanning line and written into the stereoscopic frame buffer.

  In the display unit 8, a liquid crystal driver (LCD DRV) 181 and a backlight driver (BL DRV) 182 are provided. The liquid crystal driver (LCDDRV) 181 sequentially applies voltages to the electrodes of the liquid crystal display panel based on the V_SYNC signal, the H_SYNC signal, and the RGB signal sent from the composite conversion device 170, and combines the liquid crystal display panel for stereoscopic viewing. Display an image.

  The backlight driver 182 changes the duty ratio of the voltage applied to the light emitting element (backlight) 810 (see FIG. 4) of the light source unit 800 based on the DTY_CTR signal output from the CPU 151, and the liquid crystal display panel 804 (FIG. 4). Change the brightness.

  Further, the opening detection switch 40 of the glass frame 180 is input as an ON / OFF signal to the CPU 151 of the display control device 150. When the opening detection switch 40 is turned ON and the opening of the glass frame 180 is detected, the CPU 151 turns on the backlight. The duty ratio is set so that the light is extinguished or dimmed, and the backlight driver 182 is commanded.

  FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of the display unit 8, and the light source unit 800 includes a light emitting element 810 and a polarizing filter (polarizing means) 811. The light emitting element 810 includes a point light source such as a white light emitting diode (LED) or a line light source such as a cold cathode tube arranged horizontally. The polarization filter 811 is set so that the light transmitted through the right region 811a and the left region 811b have different polarizations (for example, the light transmitted through the right region 811a and the left region 811b is shifted by 90 degrees).

  Next, the liquid crystal display unit 801 includes a Fresnel lens 812, a fine retardation plate 802, a polarizing plate 803, a liquid crystal display panel (image display unit) 804, a polarizing plate 805, and a diffuser 806.

  The light emitted from the light emitting element 810 is transmitted only through the polarization filter 811 with a certain polarization. That is, of the light emitted from the light emitting element 810, the light that has passed through the left region 811b of the polarizing filter 811 and the light that has passed through the right region 811a are irradiated to the Fresnel lens 812 as differently polarized light. As will be described later, light that has passed through the left region 811b of the polarizing filter 811 reaches the right eye of the observer, and light that has passed through the right region 811a reaches the left eye of the viewer.

  In addition, even if it does not use a light emitting element and a polarizing filter, what is necessary is just to comprise so that light of a different polarization may be irradiated from a different position, for example, providing two light emitting elements which generate the light of a different polarization, You may comprise so that light may be irradiated to the Fresnel lens 812 from a different position.

  The light transmitted through the polarizing filter 811 is irradiated to the Fresnel lens 812. The Fresnel lens 812 is a convex lens, and the Fresnel lens 812 refracts the optical path of light emitted from the light emitting element 810 so as to be diffused substantially in parallel, passes through the fine retardation plate 802, and irradiates the liquid crystal display panel 804. .

  At this time, the light irradiated through the fine retardation plate 802 is emitted so as not to spread in the vertical direction and is applied to the liquid crystal display panel 804. That is, light transmitted through a specific region of the fine retardation plate 802 is transmitted through a specific display unit portion of the liquid crystal display panel 804.

  Of the light irradiated to the liquid crystal display panel 804, the light that has passed through the right region 811 a of the polarizing filter 811 and the light that has passed through the left region 811 b are incident on the Fresnel lens 812 at different angles. The light is refracted and emitted from the liquid crystal display panel 804 through different paths.

  The liquid crystal display panel 804 has a liquid crystal that is twisted and aligned at a predetermined angle (for example, 90 degrees) between two transparent plates (for example, glass plates). It is composed. The light incident on the liquid crystal display panel is emitted with the polarization of the incident light shifted by 90 degrees in a state where no voltage is applied to the liquid crystal. On the other hand, in a state where a voltage is applied to the liquid crystal, the twist of the liquid crystal can be solved, so that incident light is emitted as it is with polarized light.

  A fine retardation plate 802 and a polarizing plate 803 (first polarizing plate) are disposed on the light source 1 side of the liquid crystal display panel 804, and a polarizing plate 805 (second polarizing plate) is disposed on the player (observer) side. ) Is arranged.

  In the fine phase difference plate 802, regions for changing the phase of transmitted light are repeatedly arranged at fine intervals. Specifically, a region 802a in which a half-wave plate 821 having a fine width is provided on a light-transmitting substrate and a half interval equal to the width of the half-wave plate 821 are ½. The region 802b where the wave plate 821 is not provided is repeatedly provided at a fine interval. In other words, the region 802 a that changes the phase of light transmitted by the provided half-wave plate and the region 802 b that does not change the phase of light transmitted because the half-wave plate 821 is not provided are finely spaced. It is provided repeatedly. The half-wave plate 821 functions as a phase difference plate that changes the phase of transmitted light.

  The half-wave plate 821 is disposed so that its optical axis is inclined by 45 degrees with respect to the polarization axis of the light transmitted through the right region 811a of the polarization filter 811, and the polarization axis of the light transmitted through the right region 811a is rotated by 90 degrees. And exit. That is, the polarization of the light transmitted through the right region 811a is rotated by 90 degrees to be equal to the polarization of the light transmitted through the left region 811b.

  The repetition of the polarization characteristics of the fine retardation plate 802 is such that the polarization of light transmitted for each display unit (that is, for each horizontal line in the horizontal direction of the display unit) is set at substantially the same pitch as the display unit of the liquid crystal display panel 804. To be different. Therefore, the polarization characteristics of the fine phase difference plate 802 corresponding to each horizontal line (scanning line) of the display unit of the liquid crystal display panel 804 are different, and the direction of light emitted is different for each horizontal line.

  Alternatively, the repetition of the polarization characteristics of the fine retardation plate 802 is performed by setting the polarization characteristics of the fine retardation plate 802 to a plurality of display units (that is, a plurality of display units) as a pitch that is an integral multiple of the display unit pitch of the liquid crystal display panel 804. It may be set so that the polarization of the light transmitted for each of the plurality of display units differs. In this case, the polarization specification of the fine retardation plate is different for each of the plurality of horizontal lines (scanning lines) of the display unit of the liquid crystal display panel 804, and the direction of the light emitted is different for each of the plurality of horizontal lines. Become.

  Thus, since it is necessary to irradiate the display element (horizontal line) of the liquid crystal display panel 804 with different light every time the polarization characteristic of the fine retardation plate 802 is repeated, the liquid crystal display panel transmits through the fine retardation plate 802. The light irradiated to 804 needs to suppress the vertical diffusion.

  That is, the region 802a of the fine phase difference plate 802 that changes the phase of the light is transmitted by changing the light transmitted through the right region 811a of the polarizing filter 811 into light having the same inclination as the polarization of the light transmitted through the left region 811b. . The region 802 b of the fine retardation plate 802 that does not change the phase of light transmits the light that has passed through the left region 811 b of the polarizing filter 811 as it is. The light emitted from the fine retardation plate 802 has the same polarization as the light transmitted through the left region 811b and enters the polarizing plate 803 provided on the light source side of the liquid crystal display panel 804.

  The polarizing plate 803 has a polarization characteristic of transmitting light having the same polarization as the light transmitted through the left region 811b of the polarizing filter 811. That is, the light that has passed through the left region 811b of the polarizing filter 811 passes through the region 802b that does not change the phase of the light on the fine retardation plate 802, passes through the polarizing plate 803, and passes through the right region 811a of the polarizing filter 811. The transmitted light is transmitted through the polarizing plate 803 with the polarization axis rotated by 90 degrees when passing through the region 802 a that changes the phase of the light on the fine retardation plate 802. Therefore, by combining the fine retardation plate 802 and the polarizing plate 803, a region that transmits the polarized light that has passed through the left region 811b of the polarizing filter 811 and a region that transmits the polarized light that is shifted by 90 degrees from this polarized light. And the first polarizing plate provided repeatedly in the vertical direction. In addition, the polarizing plate 805 functions as a second polarizing plate, and a diffuser 806 having a polarization characteristic that transmits polarized light that is 90 degrees different from the polarizing plate 803 is attached to the front side (observer side) of the polarizing plate 805. And functions as a diffusion means for diffusing light transmitted through the liquid crystal display panel in the vertical direction. Specifically, light transmitted through the liquid crystal display panel is diffused up and down using a lenticular lens in which kamaboko-shaped irregularities are repeatedly provided in the vertical direction.

  In place of the lenticular lens, a mat-like diffusion surface having a stronger diffusion finger property in the vertical direction may be provided. It is possible to improve that the viewing angle is narrowed by suppressing the vertical diffusion until the liquid crystal display panel 804 is transmitted.

  FIG. 5 is a front view showing the fine retardation plate 802 of the display unit according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  The fine retardation plate 802 is provided with a half-wave plate, and regions for changing the polarization of transmitted light are repeatedly and continuously arranged at fine intervals at predetermined intervals. The polarization of light incident on this repeatedly arranged region is different in the right region 811a and the left region 811b of the polarization filter 811. In the region where the polarization of transmitted light is changed, the polarization axis of incident light is 90 degrees. Rotate and emit. The repetition of the polarization characteristics of the fine retardation plate 802 is substantially the same pitch as the display unit of the liquid crystal display panel 804.

  That is, the light whose polarization axis is rotated by 90 degrees by the fine phase plate and the left region 811b of the polarization filter 811 are transmitted through the right region 811a of the polarization filter 811 and are transmitted through the fine retardation plate 802 as they are. The polarization axes of the emitted light are equal, and these lights are transmitted through the second polarizing plate. The region of the fine retardation plate 802 that changes the polarization of the transmitted light and the region that does not change the polarization of the transmitted light are repeatedly and continuously arranged for each horizontal line of the display unit of the liquid crystal display panel 804. The light transmitted through the fine retardation plate 802 and the second polarizing plate 803 becomes the same polarized light that travels in different directions for each horizontal line.

  As described above, the polarization characteristic of the fine retardation plate 802 is repeated as a pitch that is an integral multiple of the display unit pitch of the liquid crystal display panel 804, and the polarization characteristic of the fine retardation plate 802 is set for each of a plurality of display units. It is also possible to change the polarization of transmitted light for each of a plurality of display units.

  FIG. 6 is a plan view showing the optical system of the display unit 8.

  Light emitted from the light emitting element 810 is transmitted through the polarizing filter 811 and spreads radially. Of the light emitted from the light source, the light transmitted through the right region 811a of the polarizing filter 811 reaches the Fresnel lens 812, and the traveling direction of the light is changed by the Fresnel lens 812, so that the fine phase difference plate 802, the liquid crystal display panel 804 and the polarizing plate 805 are transmitted substantially vertically (slightly left to right) and reach the left eye.

  On the other hand, of the light emitted from the light source, the light transmitted through the left region 811b of the polarizing filter 811 reaches the Fresnel lens 812, and the traveling direction of the light is changed by the Fresnel lens 812. It reaches the display panel 804 and the polarizing plate 805, and these are transmitted substantially vertically (slightly from the right side to the left side) to reach the right eye.

In this way, the light emitted from the light emitting element 810 and transmitted through the polarizing filter 811 is irradiated to the liquid crystal display panel 804 substantially perpendicularly by the Fresnel lens 812 as an optical means, and is emitted by the light emitting element 810, the polarizing filter 811, and the Fresnel lens 812. The light source 1 is configured to irradiate the liquid crystal display panel 804 with light having different polarization planes substantially vertically and through different paths, and the light transmitted through the liquid crystal display panel 804 is emitted through different paths, so that the right eye or the left eye To reach. That is, the scanning line pitch of the liquid crystal display panel 804 and the repetition pitch of the polarization characteristics of the fine retardation plate 802 are made equal, and light coming from different directions is irradiated for each scanning line pitch of the liquid crystal display panel 804 and is different. Light is emitted in the direction.

  FIG. 7 is a sectional view of the display unit 8 and shows a state where the glass frame 180 is opened.

  The display unit 8 includes a light source unit 800 fixed to the game board 6 and a liquid crystal display unit 801 fixed to the glass frame 180.

  First, the light source unit 800 includes a light emitting element 810, a polarizing filter 811, and a control board 183 housed in a box-shaped case 830 that penetrates the game board 6.

  The outer periphery of the case 830 is engaged with a through hole (opening) 6A formed in the game board 6 and opens only on the front side of the game board 6 facing the cover glass 18, and the opening 830A An elastic member 832 that can be brought into contact with and separated from the liquid crystal display unit 801 side according to opening and closing of the glass frame 180 is attached to the entire circumference. Note that the shape of the opening 830A is a square or the like that is substantially equal to (or slightly larger than) the outer shape of the liquid crystal display panel 804.

  The elastic member 832 protrudes from the surface of the game board 6 toward the cover glass 18 to a predetermined height, and a bottom portion 830B opposite to the opening 830A protrudes by a predetermined amount from the back surface of the game board 6.

  On the opening 830A side of the case 830, a flange portion 831 that engages with the surface of the game board 6 is provided on the outer periphery in order to define the protruding amount of the elastic member 832. When the game board 6 is assembled, A position where the bottom portion 830B is inserted into the through hole 6A from the front side of the game board 6 and the flange portion 831 engages with the game board 6 is a predetermined assembly position, and a case using fastening means (not shown) or the like at this position. 830 is fixed to the game board 6.

  A light emitting element 810 is fixed substantially at the center on the bottom 830B side on the inner periphery of the case 830 of the light source unit 800, and a polarizing filter 811 is provided at a position away from the light emitting element 810 toward the opening 830A side by a predetermined distance. Is placed.

  The light emitting element 810 and the polarizing filter 811 are fixed to the inner periphery of the case 830, and an inclined wall surface 833 is provided on the inner periphery of the case 830 so that the space gradually narrows from the opening 830A toward the bottom 830B. The wall surface 833 is attached so as to surround the upper, lower, left, and right sides of the light emitting element 810 when the case 830 is viewed from the front (left side in FIG. 7), and the wall surface 833 has a predetermined color such as black to prevent irregular reflection. Is given.

  In the space between the wall surface 833 and the inner periphery of the case 830, a substrate 183 that constitutes the backlight driver 182, the liquid crystal driver, the composite conversion device 170, or the like is attached.

  Thus, the light source unit 800 is provided with a wall surface 833 whose cross section gradually narrows toward the back (bottom portion 903 </ b> B) at the inner periphery of the case 830 whose one end is open, and the light emitting element 810 is fixed to the back of the wall surface 833. Then, a polarizing filter 811 is fixed at a position away from the light emitting element 810 by a predetermined distance.

  Next, the liquid crystal display unit 801 is accommodated between the two cover glasses 18 at a position facing the light source unit 800. In FIG. 7, of the two cover glasses 18, the front (player) side is the cover glass 18A and the light source unit 800 (game board 6) side is the cover glass 18B, and there is a predetermined gap between the cover glasses 18A and 18B. The gap is provided.

  A through-hole (opening) 18C slightly larger than the outer shape of the liquid crystal display panel 804 is formed in the cover glass 18B on the light source unit 800 side, and a cylindrical (or frame-shaped) guide 820 is accommodated in the through-hole 18C. Is done.

  The guide 820 comes into contact with the front cover glass 18A at one end, and the other end protrudes from the through hole 18C by a predetermined amount. When the glass frame 180 is closed, as shown in FIG. Abuts against an elastic member 832 provided on the case 830 of the light source unit 800, and the elastic member 832 is pressed slightly to seal the space between the guide 820 and the case 830, preventing entry of dust from the outside, and from the outside. Prevents irregular reflection by preventing the incidence of light.

  A Fresnel lens 812, a fine retardation plate 802, a polarizing plate 803, a liquid crystal display panel 804, a polarizing plate 805, and a diffuser 806 are fixed to the inner periphery of the guide 820 in this order from the light source unit 800 side. When closed, a stereoscopic (three-dimensional) optical system as shown in FIG. 4 is formed.

  Thus, the display unit 8 for displaying a three-dimensional image is separated into the liquid crystal display unit 801 and the light source unit 800, the light source unit 800 is attached to the game board 6, and the liquid crystal display unit 801 is attached to the glass frame 180, thereby emitting light. Since the distance from the element 810 to the Fresnel lens (optical path changing means) 812 can be secured, the parallel light can be reliably obtained, and the amount of the light source unit 800 protruding to the back side of the game board 6 can be suppressed. It is not necessary to change the arrangement on the side, and a display device that displays a three-dimensional image can be adopted, and an increase in manufacturing cost can be suppressed.

  In addition, relatively expensive components such as the liquid crystal display panel 804 and the fine retardation plate 802 are disposed on the glass frame 180 side, and relatively inexpensive components such as the light emitting element 810 and the polarization filter 811 are disposed on the game board 6 side. The manufacturing cost of the game board 6 that is frequently exchanged can be suppressed, and the burden on the game shop can be reduced.

  Further, since the liquid crystal display panel 804 has a longer life than the light emitting element 810, by attaching to the glass frame 180 having a long life cycle, the life of the parts is not wasted and resource saving is achieved. Can do.

  Of the display units, the glass frame 180 supports only the liquid crystal display unit 801. Therefore, the same strength as in the conventional case is sufficient, and the hinge and the frame can be used as they are. The increase in cost can be suppressed.

  Since the case 830 of the light source unit 800 and the guide 820 of the liquid crystal display unit 801 are brought into contact with and separated from each other via the elastic member 832, and the elastic member 832 is slightly pressed when the glass frame 180 is closed, the liquid crystal display unit 801 is sealed. It is possible to continue the display of a clear image by securely sealing the inside of the projector and reliably preventing intrusion of dust and disturbance light.

  Since the case 830 of the light source unit 800 is projected to the back side of the game board 6, the distance from the liquid crystal display unit 801 to the light emitting element 810 can be secured as necessary, and a three-dimensional image is displayed. It is possible to greatly expand the degree of freedom in designing the optical system required for this.

  Further, in the case 830 of the light source unit 800, a wall surface 833 that gradually narrows toward the back through the space through which light from the light emitting element 810 passes, and the backlight driver 182 is provided in the space between the case 830 and the wall surface 833. Since the control board 183 is accommodated, the space on the back side of the game board 6 can be provided to other control boards and the like, and the degree of freedom of arrangement of the control system can be improved.

Furthermore, upon opening of the glass frame 180, since so as to turn off or dim the light emitting element 810, upon opening the glass frame 180 in such inspection, that a not be dazzled employees or player .

  Further, by providing the through-hole (opening) 18C in the cover glass 18B, the liquid crystal display unit 801 assembled in advance to the guide 820 may be engaged with the through-hole 18C, so that the positioning of the liquid crystal display unit 801 can be accurately performed. It can be carried out.

  FIG. 9 shows the second embodiment, in which the through hole 18C of the cover glass 18B of the first embodiment is abolished, and the liquid crystal display unit 801 is sandwiched between a pair of cover glasses 18, and other configurations. Is the same as in the first embodiment.

  The cover glass 18 </ b> B ′ facing the light source unit 800 does not have the through hole shown in the first embodiment and is formed in a flat plate shape.

  A cylindrical guide 820 including a liquid crystal display unit 801 is sandwiched between the pair of cover glasses 18A and 18B ′ at a position facing the light source unit 800.

  Both ends of the guide 820 are in contact with the cover glasses 18A and 18B ', and are fixed by an adhesive (not shown). Accordingly, the liquid crystal display unit 801 is always sealed between the pair of cover glass 18 and the guide 820 regardless of whether the glass frame 180 is opened or closed, and prevents intrusion of dust and light from the outside.

  When the glass frame 180 is closed, the cover glass 18B ′ on the game board 6 side contacts and presses against the elastic member 832 provided in the opening of the case 830, seals the inside of the light source unit 800, and collects dust and light from the outside. Prevent the intrusion.

  In this case, the liquid crystal display unit 801 can always be sealed inside the glass frame 180, and the inside of the light source unit 800 can be sealed when the glass frame 180 is closed.

  FIG. 10 shows the third embodiment, in which the Fresnel lens 812 of the first embodiment is moved to the light source unit 800, and other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment.

  The light source unit 800 is arranged from the opening side in the order of the Fresnel lens 812, the polarizing filter 811, and the light emitting element 810, and these constitute the light source unit 800 '. The Fresnel lens 812 is supported by an elastic member 832 provided at the end of the case 830 and is disposed close to the cover glass 18B of the glass frame 180.

On the other hand, the liquid crystal display unit 801 supported by the glass frame 180 'includes a light source unit 800' fine retardation plate from side 802, polarizer 803, a liquid crystal display panel 804, a polarizing plate 805, and a sequence of diffusers 806 .

  In this case, the inside of the light source unit 800 ′ can be sealed by the Fresnel lens 812 regardless of the opening and closing of the glass frame 180, and dust can be prevented from entering the light source unit 800 ′ when the glass frame 180 is opened. The distance from the light emitting element 810 to the Fresnel lens 812 can be set longer because the liquid crystal display panel 804 is attached to the glass frame 180 side.

  FIG. 11 shows the fourth embodiment, in which the Fresnel lens 812 of the second embodiment is moved to the light source unit 800, and other configurations are the same as those of the second embodiment.

  The light source unit 800 is arranged from the opening side in the order of the Fresnel lens 812, the polarizing filter 811, and the light emitting element 810, and these constitute the light source unit 800 '. The Fresnel lens 812 is supported by an elastic member 832 provided at the end of the case 830 and is disposed close to the cover glass 18B of the glass frame 180.

On the other hand, the liquid crystal display unit 801 ′ supported by the glass frame 180 is arranged in the order of the fine retardation plate 802, the polarizing plate 803, the liquid crystal display panel 804, the polarizing plate 805, and the diffuser 806 from the cover glass 18B ′ on the light source unit 800 ′ side. It consists of

  In this case, regardless of whether the glass frame 180 is opened or closed, the inside of the light source unit 800 ′ is sealed by the Fresnel lens 812, and the liquid crystal display unit 801 ′ is also sealed by the cover glasses 18 A and 18 B ′. It is possible to prevent dust from entering the inside of 800 ′ and the liquid crystal display unit 801 ′.

  In the above embodiment, the elastic member 832 is provided on the case 830 side of the light source unit 800 and is closely attached to the guide 820 of the liquid crystal display unit 801. However, the guide 820 may be provided with an elastic member, or Both cases 830 may have elastic members. That is, if either one of the case 830 and the guide 820 has an elastic member, the inside of the display unit 8 can be sealed.

  The cover glass 18 is not limited to glass, and may be a transparent plate member such as a transparent acrylic plate.

  FIG. 12 shows a fifth embodiment in which the pachinko machine as the gaming machine shown in the first embodiment is replaced with a pachislot machine.

  A front door 1800 is hinged to the device body 1400 of the pachislot machine so that it can be opened and closed. A liquid crystal display unit (image display unit) 801 is provided on the front door 1800.

  In the apparatus main body 1400, a housing 8001 housing the light source unit 800 is fixed at a position facing the liquid crystal display unit 801 of the front door 1800, and the housing 8001 has a position facing the front door 1800. An opening 8002 is formed.

  When the front door 1800 is closed, the liquid crystal display unit 801 and the opening 8002 face each other, and light from the light source unit 800 in the housing 8001 can be transmitted through the liquid crystal display unit 801 to display an image.

Even in this case, the liquid crystal display unit 801 and the light source unit 800 may be in close contact with each other when the front door 1800 is closed as described above.

  The embodiment disclosed this time should be considered as illustrative in all points and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

  In addition, the following can be given as typical ones of the aspects of the present invention other than those described above.

  (1) A front frame with a game board attached thereto, a glass frame that is attached to the front frame on the front side of the game board so as to be openable and closable and holds a transparent member that can visually recognize the game area, and images relating to the game are three-dimensional. In the gaming machine provided with an image display unit to be displayed and a light source for irradiating the image display unit from the back side, the gaming board has an opening on the glass frame side and protrudes to the back side of the gaming board A light source unit in which the light source is arranged in a formed housing is provided, and the glass frame condenses light from the light source in a certain direction and a flat liquid crystal display panel constituting the image display unit. And an optical path changing means for transmitting the liquid crystal display panel. When the glass frame is closed, the opening of the light source unit and the image display unit are arranged to face each other. Game .

  In the invention of (1), an image display unit is provided in a glass frame that can be opened and closed while holding a transparent member, while a light source is provided in a casing that is open on the glass frame side on a game board attached to the front frame. When the glass frame is closed, a clear image or video is provided to the player by projecting light from the light source from the back side of the image display unit to display the image. Here, the light source unit and the image display unit are separated, the light source unit is provided on the game board side, and the image display unit is provided on the openable / closable glass frame side, so that the distance from the light source to the optical path changing means can be secured and parallel Since the light can be reliably obtained and the amount of the light source unit protruding to the back side of the game board can be suppressed, there is no need to change the arrangement on the back side of the game board, and an increase in manufacturing cost can be suppressed.

  Furthermore, when the game board is replaced, the image display unit remains in the glass frame attached to the front frame, so that the image display unit can be used as it is even after a new game board is installed. It is possible to reduce the cost for replacing the game board by eliminating the need to replace the conversion means.

  (2) The gaming machine according to (1), wherein when the glass frame is closed, the light source unit and the image display unit are in close contact with each other.

  In the invention of (2), when the glass frame is closed, the image display unit and the light source unit are in close contact with each other, so that the inside of the two units is sealed to prevent entry of dust and disturbance light.

  (3) The light source unit has a light source disposed in the inner part of the housing, and includes polarizing means for irradiating the liquid crystal display panel with differently polarized lights having polarization axes shifted from each other by 90 degrees. Includes a first region that transmits light of a specific polarization and a second region that transmits light polarized by 90 degrees from the specific polarization, between the liquid crystal display panel and the optical path changing unit. A second polarizing plate that is disposed repeatedly in the vertical direction and transmits light having a polarization shifted by 90 degrees from the light transmitted through the first polarizing plate to the front surface of the liquid crystal display panel. The optical path changing means converts the light beams whose polarization axes are shifted from each other by 90 degrees from the polarizing means into substantially parallel light, and converts the first polarizing plate, the liquid crystal display panel, and the second polarizing plate. After passing through, the left and right eyes of the player Wherein the to those to be incident (1) or a game machine according to (2).

  In the invention of (3), in order to display a three-dimensional (stereoscopic) image on the image display unit, an optical system comprising an optical path changing means, a first polarizing plate, a liquid crystal display panel, and a second polarizing plate is arranged, and a light source unit Since the light source is arranged in the back of the housing and the polarizing means for irradiating the image display unit with light having different polarizations, the depth in the housing is set according to the imaging position of the three-dimensional image. And can be displayed at a position where the player can easily see the three-dimensional image. Further, if the optical path conversion means is constituted by a convex lens such as a Fresnel lens, the thickness of the optical path conversion means is reduced, the overall thickness of the image display unit is reduced, the size is reduced, and from the light source unit to the optical path conversion means. Can be easily secured.

  (4) Opening detection means for detecting the open state of the glass frame is provided, and the light source driving means for driving the light source is configured to reduce or turn off the light source when the opening detection means detects the opening of the glass frame. The gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (3).

  According to the invention of (4), when the glass frame is opened for adjustment or the like, the light source is dimmed or extinguished, so that an employee of a game shop or a player can not directly see the light source being lit. it can.

  (5) The light source unit includes a wall surface inclined toward the light source from the opening in the housing, and a control board that drives at least one of the light source or the image display unit between the wall surface and the inner periphery of the housing. The gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (4), wherein

  In the invention of (5), a wall surface inclined toward the light source from the opening is provided in the casing, and a control board for driving the light source and the image display section is accommodated between the wall surface and the inner periphery of the casing. The space on the back side of the game board or the apparatus main body can be effectively used to increase the degree of freedom of arrangement of the control system.

  (6) The glass frame holds a plurality of transparent members in an overlapping manner, and a transparent member facing the light source unit among these transparent members is provided with an opening, and a frame-shaped guide that engages with the inner periphery of the opening. The gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein the image display unit is accommodated on an inner periphery of a member.

  In the invention of (6), the transparent member held by the glass frame is provided with an opening, and a frame-shaped guide member containing the image display unit is inserted into the inner periphery of the opening. Can be done accurately.

  (7) A gaming machine having a front door that can be opened and closed with respect to the apparatus main body, an image display unit that three-dimensionally displays an image related to a game, and a light source that irradiates the image display unit from the back side The apparatus main body includes a light source unit in which the light source is disposed in a housing having an opening on the front door side and projecting toward the back side of the apparatus main body, and the front door includes the image A flat liquid crystal display panel constituting a display unit; and an image display unit including both a light path conversion unit that condenses light from the light source in a certain direction and transmits the light through the liquid crystal display panel. A gaming machine, wherein the opening of the light source unit and the image display unit face each other when the door is closed.

  In the invention of (7), an image display unit is provided on a front door that can be opened and closed, while a light source unit provided with a light source in a housing opened on the front door side is provided on the apparatus body side, and an image is displayed when the front door is closed. By projecting the light of the light source from the back side of the unit and displaying the image, a clear stereoscopic image or stereoscopic video is provided to the player. Here, the light source unit and the image display unit are separated, the light source unit is provided on the apparatus body side, and the image display unit is provided on the openable front door side, so that the distance from the light source to the optical path changing means can be secured and parallel. Since the light can be reliably obtained and the amount of the light source unit protruding to the back side of the apparatus main body can be suppressed, it is not necessary to change the arrangement on the back side of the apparatus main body, and an increase in manufacturing cost can be suppressed.

It is a front view which shows the structure of the whole gaming machine of embodiment of this invention. Similarly, it is a perspective view which shows the relationship between the main body frame of a game machine, a front frame, a glass frame, and a display unit. It is a block diagram which similarly shows a part of control system. It is a disassembled perspective view for demonstrating an optical system similarly. It is a front view of the same fine phase difference plate. It is a top view of an optical system similarly. Similarly, it is a sectional view of the display unit, and shows a state where the glass frame is opened. Similarly, it is a sectional view of the display unit and shows a state in which the glass frame is closed. 2nd Embodiment is shown and the state which open | released the glass frame is shown with sectional drawing of a display unit. The 3rd Embodiment is shown and the state which open | released the glass frame is shown with sectional drawing of a display unit. The 4th Embodiment is shown and the state which open | released the glass frame is shown with sectional drawing of a display unit. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a pachislot machine according to a fifth embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

8 Display unit 18 Cover glass 150 Display control device 151 CPU
181 LCD driver 182 Backlight driver 800 Light source unit 800
801 Liquid crystal display unit 810 Light emitting element 811 Polarizing filter 812 Fresnel lens 802 Fine phase difference plate 803 Polarizing plate 804 Liquid crystal display panel 805 Polarizing plate 806 Diffuser 820 Guide 830 Case 832 Elastic member

Claims (1)

A front door is provided to be openable and closable with respect to the apparatus main body, and an image display unit that displays a stereoscopic image related to the game to the player by displaying a left-eye image and a right-eye image in a display area, and the image display In a gaming machine provided with a light source that irradiates a part from the back side,
The apparatus main body includes a light source unit in which the light source is disposed in a housing that has an opening on the front door side and projects to the back side of the apparatus main body.
The front door includes a flat liquid crystal display panel constituting the image display unit, and an optical path changing unit including a Fresnel lens that condenses light from the light source in a certain direction and transmits the liquid crystal display panel. And an image display unit provided together,
When the front door is closed, the opening of the light source unit and the image display unit are arranged to face each other, and the light source unit and the image display unit are in close contact with each other.
The light source unit is configured to place the light source on the far side of the housing of the apparatus main body, provided with the said in the housing toward the opening in the light source section is inclined so as to gradually decrease the wall, the wall A gaming machine characterized in that a black coloring is applied to the inside of the, and a control board for driving at least one of the light source and the image display unit is accommodated between the inclined wall surface and the inner periphery of the housing.

Images