JP4775564B2 - Medal game device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a medal game device that is a gaming device using medals.

  Various types of medal game devices for performing a so-called medal dropping game are known. In such a medal game device, generally, for example, a medal inserted from a medal slot is supplied to a pusher unit having a medal stand that reciprocates in the front-rear direction. Then, when a medal stuck in the pusher portion is pushed out and falls to a predetermined position from the pusher portion, the medal is paid out to the player.

  Recently, a large rotation center unit provided with a gimmick device is installed at the center, and about 6 to 10 satellite (play space) sections are arranged around the periphery. A medal game device called a mass medal machine or the like that can be played at the same time is often used. In addition, a checker that detects the passage of medals is provided, a prize game that is electronically controlled in conjunction with the passage of medals through the chucker, and a large number of medals are paid out at a time when certain conditions are met. A game with enhanced playability is also widely known.

Furthermore, a medal game device having a game mode called a shooting game or a medal skipping game in which a medal is launched from a medal launching device and hits a target is also known. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a medal launching device in which when a player inserts a medal into a medal launching device, the inserted medal is immediately launched.
JP 2001-87541 A

  However, in the medal launching device in the conventional medal game device, when the medals are fired, it is necessary for the player to insert medals one by one into the medal launching device. For this reason, the player cannot concentrate solely on the shooting element that determines the shooting direction and fires the medal, and the fun (amusement) of the shooting game is diminished, and as a result, the game performance cannot be sufficiently improved.

  Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and includes a medal launching device that automatically replenishes medals and can automatically fire medals only by inputting instructions such as pressing a launch button. An object of the present invention is to provide a medal game device that can improve the game performance and game performance.

  In order to solve the above problems, a medal game device according to the present invention is provided with a medal supply means capable of storing a plurality of medals and taking out medals one by one, and a medal supplied from the medal supply means. A medal launching device including a medal launching drive unit that launches along the launch rail, a medal storing unit that stores a plurality of medals, and a medal transporting unit that transports a medal from the medal storing unit to the medal launching device. And control means for executing control for replenishing medals to the medal supply means of the medal launching apparatus via the medal transporting means in conjunction with the medal firing by the medal launching apparatus. In the medal game device configured as described above, since the medal is automatically replenished to the medal launching device, the player can automatically fire the medal without inserting the medal.

  At this time, it is preferable that the direction of the firing rail can be freely controlled. Preferably, a medal supply means and a medal launch driving means are provided on an operation stand pivotally supported by the base. This makes it possible to provide a medal launching apparatus that not only automatically replenishes medals but also can direct the launching direction of medals freely up and down and left and right.

  Preferably, the medal launcher includes a storage container (storage unit) for storing medals. By this storage container, the medal launching device is provided with a medal buffering function to prevent the medal launching device from becoming empty when the medal launching device becomes empty during the shooting game. The storage container is preferably detachable from the medal launcher. By preparing storage containers for various different medals and exchanging the storage containers according to the medal type, it is possible to provide a medal launching device corresponding to various medals.

  More preferably, the medal game device includes input means for instructing medal launch, and in response to an instruction input from the input means, the medal supply means is operated to supply medals one by one to the medal launch drive means. Control is performed to drive the firing drive means to fire medals along the firing rail. In this way, the medal is immediately supplied to the medal launch driving means by the player's instruction input, so that the medal is quickly fired in response to pressing of the launch button or the like.

  Further, the medal transport means includes a first transport path for transporting medals to the medal launcher, a second transport path for paying out medals to the field for playing the medal pusher game, and the first transport path or the first transport path. Switching means for switching the medal transport path to one of the two transport paths, and the control means controls to switch the switching means to the first transport path in conjunction with the medal firing by the medal launching device. Is preferred. According to this invention, since it is possible to switch between paying out to the game field and replenishing medals to the medal launching device, one medal storage means (hopper) is used for two uses of medals payout and replenishment. And the hardware resources can be used effectively.

  In addition, preferably, a display means for displaying a game image such as a slot game is provided, and the control means determines the maximum number of medals that can be fired based on a result of a game executed using the display means. Thereby, it becomes possible to link the game using the display means and the shooting game to enhance the entertainment.

  In addition, the medal game device according to the present invention includes a first storage unit that stores a plurality of medals, and a first extraction unit that extracts the medals in the first storage unit one by one, and drives medal firing. A medal supply means for supplying medals to the means, a pair of rotating rollers for sandwiching the medals supplied from the medal supply means and applying a sliding force by rotation, and a driving means for rotating the rotating rollers. A medal launch driving means for launching medals along, a recovery means for recovering medals launched from the medal launch apparatus, and a second storage for storing a plurality of medals recovered by the recovery means A medal storage means having a portion, a second takeout portion for taking out medals in the second storage portion one by one, and a medal transporting means for transporting medals to the medal launching device, Includes a gripping means for determining a medal firing direction and an input means for a player to input a medal firing instruction, and the player can swing in any direction up, down, left, and right by operating the gripping means. And a lottery game process for determining winning or losing, determining a number of medals that can be fired by the medal launcher according to a result of the lottery game process, The medal of the determined number of medals is fired by the medal launcher in response to an input instruction from the input means, and in the second storage unit via the medal transport means in conjunction with the launch of the medal by the medal launcher. Control means for executing control for replenishing the first storage unit with medals.

  According to the medal game device of the present invention, a player is provided with a medal launching device that automatically replenishes medals and can automatically fire medals only by inputting an instruction such as pressing a firing button. Can focus on only the shooting element that determines the firing direction and fires the medal, so that you can enjoy the shooting game purely. As a result, it is possible to improve the entertainment and game performance of the medal game more than ever.

  Hereinafter, the configuration of the present invention will be described in detail based on an example of an embodiment shown in the drawings. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the same element and the overlapping description is abbreviate | omitted. Further, the dimensional ratios in the drawings are not limited to the illustrated ratios.

  1 to 32 show an embodiment of a medal game device according to the present invention. This medal game device is centered on a large rotation center unit 6 on which various gimmicks such as characters are arranged, and a plurality (for example, 10) of satellite units 2 are arranged circumferentially at equal intervals. This is a kind of so-called mass medal machine that allows a plurality or a plurality of players to play at the same time. When a player (player) inserts a medal M, the pusher function not only pays out the medal M, The game is configured to be rich in entertainment and playability so that more medals M can be paid out by executing the game.

  First, the overall configuration of the medal game device will be described. FIG. 1 shows an external view of a medal game device in the present embodiment. This medal game device includes a rotation center unit 6, a satellite unit 2, a pusher unit 3, a jackpot unit 4, and a turntable unit 5. The rotation center unit 6 and the jackpot unit 4 have ten satellite units. It is a form surrounded by two. The jackpot unit 4 is configured to rotate by the same amount together with the turntable unit 5.

  In this medal game device, the medal M can be sent to the pusher unit 3 using the medal feeding mechanism 14, and the medal M has a predetermined position such as a slit in the pusher unit 3. When it passes, the video game image is displayed on the display unit 20 in conjunction with this. Further, the medal game device can fire and fly the medal M toward various objects provided in the rotation center unit 6 and the like from the medal launching device 8 operated by the player.

  The casing constituting the main body of the medal game device includes a base chassis Ka, a console chassis Kb, and an upper chassis Kc. Ten satellite portions 2 are arranged at equal intervals around the casing, and a console panel 10 is provided protruding from each satellite portion 2 (see FIG. 1). Further, the upper casing Kc is formed of a translucent member so that the inside thereof can be visually recognized. For example, a transparent or translucent partition plate Kd may be provided between adjacent satellite portions 2 (see FIGS. 1 to 3).

  The satellite unit 2 includes a display unit 20, a payout port 21, and a tray 22. The display unit 20 is configured to display an image of a video game by the satellite unit 200 shown in FIG. The payout port 21 is a supply port through which the medal M is paid out to the player of the satellite unit 2. For example, by displaying the object of the medal M on the display unit 20 and simultaneously paying out the medal M from the payout port 21, the player feels as if the medal M, which is the image of the display unit 20, has been paid out. Can do. The tray 22 stores the medal M paid out from the payout port 21 so that the player can take it out.

  The display unit 20 is a monitor device such as a liquid crystal panel, for example, and the display unit 20 can be moved up and down by a moving mechanism including a drive motor 214 described later. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing a state in which the display unit 20 is at a reference position (default position) before moving. The game screen displayed on the display unit 20 can be visually recognized by the player. After the display unit 20 moves downward, only the substantially upper half of the game screen displayed on the display unit 20 is visible as shown in FIG. In the present embodiment, the display unit 20 includes a moving mechanism that moves up and down. However, the way of movement is not limited to up and down, and includes various other movement modes. For example, a mode in which the monitor device slides left and right or a mode in which the monitor device rotates around a predetermined axis may be used.

  Further, each satellite unit 2 is provided with a medal feeding mechanism 14 that can be moved in a state where the medal M is held and is inclined downward toward the tip so as to communicate with the medal insertion unit 12. Yes. The medal feeding mechanism 14 includes a guide portion and a rail (not shown). The guide portion is a member that is connected to the lower portion of the medal insertion portion 12, receives the inserted medal M, and sends the medal M to the rail. In this medal game device, each satellite unit 2 is provided with two sets of medal insertion units 12 and medal feeding mechanisms 14 so that two players can play side by side simultaneously (FIG. 1). reference).

  Further, a pusher unit 3 is provided for each satellite unit 2. In a normal game, a medal game targeting the pusher unit 3 is performed. The pusher section 3 is extended from the lower side of the pusher base 36 to the player side by a pusher base 36 in which two chuckers 35 (dish-like bodies) provided with a plurality of types of slits on the outer periphery. A medal table 37 and a medal collection unit 38 opened in front of the medal table 37 on the player side are provided. The pusher table 36 is provided so as to be reciprocally movable in the front-rear direction when viewed from the player with respect to the fixed medal table 37. Further, a guide flat plate 39 installed with a gap in front of the chucker 35 is fixed to the pusher base 36. The guide flat plate 39 is formed of a transparent member so that the player can visually recognize the lower medal table 37, and extends to the medal feeding mechanism 14 obliquely upward from the pusher table 36 side toward the player side. It is driven in the front-rear direction together with the pusher base 36.

  As will be described later, the medal M inserted from the medal insertion unit 12 is sent out on the guide flat plate 39 through the medal feeding mechanism 14 and then rolls toward the chucker 35. When the medal M passes the slit of the chucker 35 and wins the chucker, the roulette lottery described later starts. On the other hand, when the medal M is prevented from winning the prize without passing through the slit, the medal M is dropped and held on the medal table 37. When the medal M is accumulated on the medal table 37, the pusher table 36 It is pushed forward and falls to the medal recovery part 38 and is recovered.

  The jackpot unit 4 operates in a jackpot process corresponding to a special prize or a jackpot, and is configured to be able to pay out a predetermined number of medals M. Specifically, the jackpot unit 4 includes, for example, a large target 43 such as a boss character imitating a monster, a small target 42 such as a guard (guardian) guarding this, and a moving target 41 imitating a monster bird. ing. The large target 43 is provided with an inhibition portion 44 with a hand as a motif that can be swung by a motor.

  The turntable unit 5 is configured to rotate the jackpot unit 4 and collect the launched medal M. Detailed configuration will be described later.

  Here, FIGS. 4 and 7 schematically show structural examples for detecting medals in the targets 41 to 43 of the pusher unit 3 or the jackpot unit 4. For example, the large target 43 is covered with a mold that imitates a character, and a cylindrical body 31 is installed at the center with the axial direction set substantially in the vertical direction. A part of the mold (for example, a part imitating an eye near the center) has a recess having a hole, and the medal M jumped from the part can be guided to the cylindrical body 31 from the hole. Yes. That is, if the medal M jumps into the recess (if hit), the hit of the medal M can be detected by passing the cylindrical body 31.

  The cylindrical body 31 can pass a medal M having a certain diameter or less from the opening 33 toward the opening 34, and a control rod 32 is attached across the central axis. The control rod 32 has a function of aligning the directions of the medals M falling from the opening 33 within a certain range. The cylindrical body 31 is made of a material that can transmit light, for example, resin, and a light emitting element 304 and a sensor 301 are provided below the control rod 32 so as to detect the presence or absence of a shielding object. The extending direction of the control rod 32 and the detection line connecting the light emitting element 304 and the sensor 301 are preferably set so as to form a right angle.

  As shown in FIG. 7, when the diameter of the smallest medal M among the medals M is d1, the diameter of the largest medal M is d2, and the inner diameter of the cylindrical body 31 is D1, √2 · d1> D1> d2 D and D1 are determined so as to satisfy the relationship. If the inner diameter of the cylindrical body 31 is smaller than the maximum diameter of the fired medal M, the medal M cannot pass through the cylindrical body 31. When the detection line and the control rod 32 are at right angles, the size of the medal M that always blocks the detection line is such that the angle between the medal surface and the control rod 32 is smaller than 45 degrees. It is. The above relationship is established because √2 times the medal diameter is equal to the inner diameter of the cylindrical body 31 when both form 45 degrees. The distance D2 between the detection line by the sensor 301 and the control rod 32 is set to such a distance that the orientation control is completed to the extent that the medal surface is as perpendicular as possible to the detection line, for example, the same as the medal diameter.

  In the above configuration, when the medal M enters the cylindrical body 31 and reaches the position of the control rod 32, a part of the medal M hits the control rod 32 unless the medal surface is parallel to the vertical direction. When a part of the medal M hits the control rod 32, the medal M rotates as indicated by a broken line in FIG. The force acts in the direction that directs the medal face in the vertical direction. Further, when the medal surface has a large angle with the extending direction of the control rod 32, the angle is reduced to an angle smaller than 45 degrees. As a result, the medal M having a diameter satisfying the above condition always crosses the detection line, and the passage of the medal M is detected.

  FIG. 8 shows the waveforms of the detection signals output from the sensor 301 in (B) to (F). Waveforms (B) and (C) show that the pulse width varies depending on the period during which the detection line is blocked according to the diameter and orientation of the medal M. Waveforms (D), (E), and (F) indicate that, when a rotational force is applied to the medal M by the control rod 32, the same medal M crosses the detection line a plurality of times in a short period, and a plurality of pulses are generated. Indicates that there is a case.

  In the detection circuit of the present embodiment (existing in the board 302 of FIG. 4), it is determined that one medal M has passed when the detection signal changes from the steady state (L level) to the H level, and thereafter, for a certain period. The detection of the passage of the medal M can be prohibited. For example, when the status of the detection signal is detected every predetermined sampling period (for example, about 2 ms) and the L level is detected for a certain period (for example, 3 samplings), the H level is detected for one period. The medal M is determined to have passed, and then detection of the status is prohibited for a period sufficient to ignore the second pulse in the waveforms (D) to (F) (for example, about 10 ms). As shown by the waveform (A) in FIG. 8, the passage of the medal M may be detected at the rising edge of the pulse, and the rising edge detection may be prohibited for a certain period T after the rising edge. With the above configuration, the presence / absence of the medal M can be detected reliably and inexpensively by only one sensor. Needless to say, two or more sensors may be provided to detect whether or not the medal M has passed.

  The medal launching device 8 is a device that is operated by the player during the shooting game to fire the medals M one by one toward the targets 41 to 43 and the like, and is roller-driven according to the distance to the target that the player targets. The number of rotations of the motor 823 is variably controlled, and the direction of the firing rail 831 (the direction in which the medals are fired) can be freely turned in any direction up, down, left, or right in accordance with the operation of the lever 23 of the player. When the shooting mode starts, the roller drive motor 823 of the medal launching device 8 is operated so that the medal M can be launched from the medal launching device 8. At this time, when the player presses the launch button 842, the medal M is launched from the launch rail toward the target. The roller drive motor 823 of the medal launcher 8 is stopped due to the elapse of the time limit, and the shooting game is ended. The medal launching device 8 includes a medal supply unit 81 having a hopper function, and the storage unit of the medal supply unit 81 is automatically replenished with medals so that a prescribed number of medals can be sequentially fired.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of the medal launcher 8 will be described in detail.

  9 and 10 are perspective views of the medal launcher 8 in the present embodiment. FIG. 9 is a perspective view seen from the medal launch port 833 side where the medal is launched, and FIG. 10 is a perspective view seen from the front (player side). FIG. 11 is a right side semi-transparent view of the medal launcher 8 in the present embodiment.

  The medal launching device 8 can store a plurality of medals M and can take out and supply the medals M one by one, and the medals M supplied from the medal supply unit 81 to bias the sliding force And a medal launch driving means 89 for launching along the launch rail 831. The medal supply means 81 and the medal launch drive means 89 are provided on an operation table 80 that is pivotally supported by the support means 88 so as to be swingable with respect to the pedestal 85. Further, the medal firing drive means 89 includes a medal urging means 82 that urges the medal M to give a sliding force, and a medal ejection means 83 including a firing rail 831. At least the medal injection means 83 is configured to be swingable in any direction up, down, left and right with respect to the pedestal 85. And the operation means 84 for operating the medal launcher 8 is provided, and the launch direction of the medal M (the direction of the launch rail 831) can be freely directed in any direction.

  In the present embodiment, as shown in the figure, the operation console 80 includes a first operation console portion 86 including a medal supply means 81 and a second operation console portion 87 including a medal launch driving means 89 and an operation means 84. The first operating table 86 is connected to the pedestal 85 by support means 88 and is pivotally supported by a support shaft 801 substantially perpendicular to the pedestal 85 so as to be swingable in the left-right direction (arrow X802) toward the game field. Has been. Further, the second operation base portion 87 is centered on a rotation center axis 803 that is substantially horizontal to the pedestal 85 and substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the launch rail 831 of the medal ejection means 83 (medal launch direction: arrow X834). The first operating table 86 can swing in the vertical direction (arrow X804).

  The medal supply means 81 of the first console section 86 rotates and drives a storage container (storage section) 811 that can store a large number of medals M and a rotary disk 815 that is pivotally provided at the bottom of the storage container 811. A medal supply motor 812 for supplying M from the storage container 811 to the medal urging means 82. The storage container 811 is placed on the housing 861 of the first operation table 86 and is configured to be detachable from the housing 861 together with the rotating disk 815. The medal supply motor 812 is fixed inside the casing 861. A number of holes (not shown) through which the medal M can be loosely fitted are provided in the rotating disk 815 in the circumferential direction. When the rotating disk 815 is rotationally driven by the medal supply motor 812, the hole is formed in the hole of the rotating disk 815. The loosely fitted medals M are sent one by one to the medal guide 813, and the medal M is pushed out by the feeding force of the rotating disk 815, and the medal urging means 82 is provided from the medal supply port 814 at the end of the medal guide 813. A medal M is supplied.

  In addition, a medal urging means 82, a medal injection means 83, and an operation means 84 are fixed to the casing 871 of the second operation console portion 87, and can be integrally swung around the rotation center shaft 803. Yes. At this time, it is preferable that the rotation center shaft 803 is positioned in the vicinity of the outlet of the medal supply port 814 of the medal supply unit 81 because the medal M can be smoothly supplied to the medal biasing unit 82. In addition, guide holes 863 and 864 provided in the left and right side walls 862 of the housing 861 of the first operation console 86, and claws 873 and 874 protruding from the left and right side surfaces 872 of the housing 871 of the second operation console 87 are provided. The movable range of the second operation table 87 is limited.

  The medal urging means 82 includes means for forcibly applying a sliding force to the medal M supplied from the medal supply means 81, and the urged medal M is sent to the medal ejection means 83. In the present embodiment, the rotating roller 822 is rotationally driven by a roller driving motor 823, and a medal M is sandwiched between the two rotating rollers 821 and 822 to give a sliding force by rotation. At this time, the rotation rollers 821 and 822 have their rotation center axes oriented in a direction substantially parallel to the rotation center axis 803 and are positioned above and below the medal feed surface of the medal guide 813 in the vicinity of the rotation center axis 803. Is erected.

  Further, outer peripheral portions 821a and 822a of the rotating rollers 821 and 822 are made of soft rubber such as urethane. The rotation rollers 821 and 822 are installed at positions where the distance between the rotation center axes is slightly smaller than the sum of the radii of the rotation rollers 821 and 822, and the outer peripheral portions 821a and 822a are in contact with each other for a predetermined length in the circumferential direction. Preferably it is. As a result, the upper and lower rotary rollers 821 and 822 are driven to rotate at the same speed and in the opposite directions by the roller drive motor 823 so as to give sufficient sliding force to the medal M sandwiched between the rotary rollers 821 and 822. It has become. In the present embodiment, a stepping motor is used as the roller drive motor 823, and the rotation speed of the motor is controlled.

  In the medal injection means 83, the medal M urged by the medal urging means 82 slides inside the launch rail 831 and is fired from the medal launch port 833 diagonally upward and forward (arrow X834). The firing rail 831 is a flat cylindrical body, and the medal M can slide in the longitudinal direction (arrow X834 direction). One end (incident end 832) of the firing rail 831 is located near the exit of the medal M urged by the rotating rollers 821 and 822, and the lower surface 835 protrudes from the upper surface 836 and spreads in a trumpet shape toward the end. The medal M is formed so as to easily enter the launch rail 831.

  Note that the medal supply port 814 of the medal supply means 81, the rotation center shaft 803, the contact surface 824 of the rotation rollers 821 and 822, and the incident end 832 of the launch rail 831 are approximately from the player side in the depth direction. Positioning in a straight line is preferable because the medal M can be smoothly conveyed and ejected.

  The operation means 84 includes a joystick-shaped lever 23 that functions as a gripping means, and a firing button 842 as an input means for inputting an instruction for firing the medal M from the medal launching device 8. The player can determine the firing direction of the medal M by swinging the medal launching port 833 in any direction up, down, left, and right by holding the lever 23 and operating the medal launching device 8. In the present embodiment, the lever 23 is provided substantially perpendicular to the upper surface 875 of the casing 871 of the second operation console portion 87, and the firing button 842 is installed on the top of the lever 23. Furthermore, at least a part of the firing button 842 is made of a translucent or semi-translucent member so that light emitted by the light emitting element 844 such as an LED embedded in or below the button can be visually recognized.

  In addition, a medal replenishment hole 876 that penetrates the casing 871 in the vertical direction is provided near the upper center of the casing 871 of the second operation console section 87, and the medal replenishment hole 876 is sent out from the satellite hopper 25. The transported medal M is replenished to the storage container 811 of the medal supply unit 81 through the medal transport unit 27. The medal replenishment hole 876 is disposed at the upper extension of the support shaft 801 so that the medal M can surely enter the storage container 811 even if the operation console 80 is swung.

  Each satellite unit 2 is provided with a medal tray 276 (collection means) on the lower side of the pusher unit 3, and a medal M dropped from the side or rear of the pusher unit 3 or a medal M launched from the medal launcher 8. It can be collected. The medals collected by the medal tray 276 are sent to the satellite hopper 25. The satellite hopper 25 functions as a medal storage means for storing the recovered medal M.

  Further, the medal M sent out from the satellite hopper 25 is transported to the medal launcher 8 through the medal guide 271 and the transport rail 272 that function as medal transporting means. The transport rail 272 has a switching flap 273 in the middle of its transport path, and a path (first transport) for transporting the medal M to the medal launcher 8 by switching the switching flap 273 by a payout destination distribution solenoid (not shown). The transport path of the medal M is switched to either the path 274) or the path (second transport path 275) for paying out the medal M to the field for playing the medal pusher game.

  Further, the medal launcher 8 is fixed to the console panel 10 by a pedestal 85. The support means 88 that pivotally supports the pedestal 85 and the first operation base portion 86 includes a lock mechanism 881. The lock mechanism 881 locks the support means 88 during the normal game so that the first operation table 86 cannot be swung. When the shooting game mode is set, the lock 881 is unlocked and the first operation table is set. 86 can be swung.

  Next, each target 41-43 is demonstrated. As described above, each of the targets 41 to 43 is configured to be a target when the medal M is hit or a predetermined hole is passed in the shooting game. In addition, each target 41-43 is arrange | positioned in the position from which a distance and / or height from a medal launcher differ.

  The moving target (trimecha) 41 is an object simulating a monster placed at the rear of the display unit 20 (on the rotation center unit 6 side) in each satellite unit 2, and is as if it is moved by a swing drive mechanism including a support bar 411. It is supported so as to be able to swing vertically and horizontally as if it were flying. The mouth of the moving target 41 is openable and closable, and a medal chucker (winning mouth) is provided in the mouth so that it can be detected whether or not a medal has entered the mouth of the moving target 41. It has become. For production, the light emitting element is embedded in the eye and the wings can be fluttered.

  The small target 42 and the large target 43 are respectively provided in the jackpot portion 4 (see FIG. 3 and the like). Among these, the small target 42 is composed of gimmicks such as four guards arranged side by side. These four small targets 42, for example, can be individually fallen backward when the launched medal M hits, and can be raised simultaneously after the shooting game by the medal launcher 8 is completed. It has become a structure.

  To give a specific example, a rotating shaft 422 connected to a motor via a gear is provided, and four supporting rods 421 provided with mounting bases 423 for small targets 42 are respectively rotated on the rotating shaft 422. It is attached to the shaft 422 so as to be freely rotatable (see FIGS. 3 and 14). Therefore, when the medal M is fired and hit, the small target 42 falls back with the mounting base 423 and the support bar 421 around the rotating shaft 422.

  Whether each small target 42 is raised or fallen can be determined, for example, by detecting with a sensor the position of the protrusion to be detected integrally attached to the support bar 421 or the like. Further, for example, four cams are integrally arranged on the rotating shaft 422 at equal intervals, and pins that can be caught on the small target 42, the support bar 421, and the like are attached to the cam. By driving the motor and rotating the rotating shaft 422 forward via the gear, each cam and pin can be rotated integrally, and the four small targets 42 can be raised at once using the pins. it can.

  When the small target 42 is raised as described above, the motor and the gear are rotated in the reverse direction to rotate the rotating shaft 422 backward to retract the pin from the small target 42 and the support bar 421. As a result, the small target 42 is in a free state that can fall backward when the medal M hits. It is also possible to continue rotating the rotating shaft 422 backward for almost one turn and use the pins to tilt the four small targets 42 all at once.

  The large target 43 is set as a target of the shooting game following the small target 42 described above (see FIG. 3). As an example, in this embodiment, for example, the large target 43 is configured by a gimmick that imitates a character such as the head of a monster. Also, the large target 43 has a winning opening 451 through which the launched medal M can pass, and a chucker 45 having a sensor 452 for detecting that the medal M has passed through the winning opening 451, and a predetermined operation. In this way, an inhibition unit 44 that inhibits the medal M from entering the chucker 45 is provided (see FIG. 15 and the like).

  The configuration of the inhibition unit 44 is, for example, as follows. That is, a cam 442 driven by a motor 441 is provided, and a cam follower 443 that is driven by the cam 442 is further provided (see FIG. 16). Although not shown in detail, the cam follower 443 is configured to be urged to contact the cam surface of the cam 442 or to engage with the cam groove of the cam 442, and is driven by the cam 442. Then, it swings around the fulcrum 444.

  In addition, a support plate 445 is integrated with the cam follower 443, and for example, an inhibition portion 44 simulating a monster's arm is attached to the support plate 445. The obstruction part 44 is formed so that a tip part (for example, a hand part) in the operation part is positioned in front of the winning opening 451 (see FIG. 3 and the like). Accordingly, when the cam follower 443 and the support plate 445 are swung, the hindering portion 44 is also swung, and the tip portion (hand portion) is moved up and down to periodically prevent the medal M from entering the winning hole 451. .

  Further, in the present embodiment, the obstructions 44 as described above are provided on both sides of the winning opening 451 to form a gimmick as if the large target 43 imitating a monster swings its arms up and down (FIG. (See 3 etc.). In this case, the configuration for operating the blocking unit 44 on the opposite side may be the same as that described above. In this case, the left and right obstruction units 44 can be moved up and down at the same time in the same phase, but in this embodiment, the phase is shifted by a half cycle so that the pair of left and right operation units operate simultaneously in opposite directions. The hindering unit 44 that moves in this manner increases the difficulty of hitting in the shooting game appropriately and improves the fun of the game. In this case, when arranging the pair of left and right inhibition portions 44 in this way, the tip portions (for example, hand portions) of each other may not be overlapped and may be moved up and down while not interfering with each other. You may make it move up and down as arrangement | positioning which shifted both arms back and forth in the form which overlaps.

  Further, the chucker 45 of the large target 43 is as follows, for example. First, the winning opening 451 is formed of, for example, a resin-molded product having a nozzle shape with a deep back (see FIG. 15). The medal M driven into the winning opening 451 proceeds downward through a guiding path 453 formed at the back of the winning opening 451, falls on the inclined path 505, and continues to the following inclined path 507. It is induced (see FIG. 3). Further, a sensor 452 for detecting that the medal M has passed is provided in the middle of the guide path 453 so that the number of medals M driven into the winning opening 451 can be counted (see FIG. 15). . Such a chucker 45 is provided as a gimmick such as a central eye in the monster described above (see FIG. 1 and the like). In addition, the prize opening 451 of the chucker 45 is provided with electrical decoration as necessary.

  Next, a mechanism for storing and paying out medals in the jackpot unit 4 will be described (see FIG. 14 and the like). In this embodiment, a gate portion having a two-stage structure including a lower gate portion 46 and an upper gate portion 47 is used as a mechanism for storing and paying out medals in the jackpot portion 4.

  The lower gate portion 46 is a medal storage and payout mechanism provided in front of the small target 42 described above (see FIG. 14 and the like). The lower gate 461 constituting the lower gate portion 46 is provided so as to be pivotable in the front-rear direction about the shaft 462. The medal M is stored in an upright state, and the stored medal M is temporarily stored by falling forward. Can be paid out. Thus, the configuration for operating the lower gate 461 is not particularly limited. For example, a motor, a gear, or the like may be used. However, in the present embodiment, the lower gate 461 is used by using a tension coil spring (not shown). Is biased backward (toward the small target 42), and the lower gate 461 is in an upright state during normal times (see FIG. 14). In this case, a tension coil spring that can withstand the weight of the stored medal M is used so that the lower gate 461 does not rotate only by storing the medal M.

  Further, a lower gate pusher 463 that is slidable along the slope of the slope where the medal M flows in the jackpot portion 4 is provided behind the lower gate 461 (before the small target 42) (see FIG. 14). In the present embodiment, the lower gate pusher 463 is slid forward, and the lower gate 461 is pushed in at the tip of the lower gate pusher 463 so that the stored medal M is paid out at a stroke. If the lower gate pusher 463 is slid rearward and returned to the original state after the payout, the lower gate 461 pulled by the tension coil spring is brought into an upright state again (see FIG. 14).

  The mechanism for sliding the lower gate pusher 463 is not particularly limited, and although not shown, for example, a motor or a guide is used in the present embodiment.

  The upper gate portion 47 is a medal storage and payout mechanism provided behind the small target 42 and in front of the large target 43 (see FIG. 14 and the like). The upper gate 471 constituting the upper gate portion 47 is provided so as to be pivotable in the front-rear direction about the shaft 472. The medal M is stored in an upright state, and the stored medal M is once stored by falling forward. Can be paid out. The configuration for operating the upper gate 471 is not particularly limited. For example, a motor, a gear, or the like may be used. However, in this embodiment, the upper gate 471 is used by using a tension coil spring (not shown). Is energized backward (to the large target 43), and the upper gate 471 is in an upright state in a normal state (see FIG. 14). In this case, a tension coil spring that can withstand the weight of the stored medal M is used so that the upper gate 471 does not rotate only by storing the medal M.

  Further, an upper gate pusher 473 that is slidable along the slope of the slope in which the medal M flows in the jackpot portion 4 is provided behind the upper gate 471 (before the large target 43) (see FIG. 14). In the present embodiment, the upper gate pusher 473 is slid forward, the upper gate 471 is pushed in at the tip thereof, and the medals M stored therein are paid out at a stroke. If the upper gate pusher 473 is slid rearward and returned to the original state after the payout, the upper gate 471 pulled by the tension coil spring is brought into an upright state accordingly (see FIG. 14).

  The mechanism for sliding the upper gate pusher 473 is not particularly limited, and although not shown, for example, a motor or a guide is used in the present embodiment. Incidentally, in the present embodiment, the upper gate pusher 473 is operated to move the upper gate 471 forward only when all of the four small targets 42 (and the support rods 421 that support them) have fallen backward and retracted. Defeated (see FIG. 14).

  In this embodiment, when a certain condition is cleared in the shooting game against the targets 42 and 43, an operation of paying out the medals M stored in the lower gate portion 46 and the upper gate portion 47 to the player is performed. ing. Various conditions can be set as the constant condition here. For example, a predetermined number or more of medals M can be driven into the chucker 45 of the large target 43 within a predetermined time.

  In the medal game device 1 of the present embodiment, the lower gate 461 and the upper gate 471 described above are configured as gimmicks imitating the first castle gate and the second castle gate in the fortress, respectively. For example, when the small target 42 or the large target 43 is defeated, by performing an operation of defeating the lower gate 461 and the upper gate 462, the atmosphere and interval as if the enemy is defeated one after another and the fortress is attacked, In other words, it is possible for the player to enjoy the atmosphere and sensation as if the stage is progressing sequentially like a so-called role-playing game.

  Further, according to the medal storage and payout mechanism by the gate portions 46 and 47 as described above, a large amount of medals M stored by the player or other persons whose jackpot portion 4 is in the visible range is directly visually recognized. It is possible. According to this, an incentive to apply a jackpot to obtain such a large amount of medals M or to witness a scene in which such a large amount of medals M is paid out at once is further activated, and the interest in the medal game apparatus 1 is further increased. Is possible.

  Next, a mechanism for supplying medals to the jackpot section 4, particularly for switching the medal supply path 49 will be described (see FIGS. 17 and 18). As will be described in another section, the medal supply to the jackpot unit 4 is performed by sequentially sending the medals M collected at the bottom of the rotation center unit 6 by the medal supply device 53 including the medal guide 532.

  Further, the medal game device 1 of the present embodiment includes a switching mechanism 48 for switching the medal supply path 49 when the medal M is supplied from the medal outlet 534 of the medal supply device 53 (FIG. 17, FIG. 17). (See FIG. 18). There are various mechanisms for switching the medal supply path 49. For example, the switching mechanism 48 of this embodiment has a horizontal axis (medal M) in the lower part of the inclined path 480 through which the medal M flows in the jackpot unit 4. The guide shaft 481 is disposed so as to be perpendicular to the payout direction), the rail 482 and the slope 483 that slide laterally along the guide shaft 481, and the motor that slides the rail 482 and the slope 483. 484 etc. (refer FIG. 17, FIG. 18). Two guide shafts 481 are arranged in parallel.

  The rail 482 is a guiding path for guiding the medal M supplied from the medal outlet 534 to the lower gate portion 46, and the slope 483 is a guiding path for guiding the medal M supplied from the medal outlet 534 to the upper gate portion 47. The rail 482 and the slope 483 are integrated, and can slide integrally along the guide shaft 481 (see FIGS. 17 and 18). Among these, the rail 482 is a supply path having a channel shape, for example, that bypasses the side of the slope 483, and guides the medal M to the medal flow path 485 that is continuous with the lower gate portion 46. The medal introducing portion 482a of the rail 482 has a wide opening so that the medal M can be easily introduced. On the other hand, the slope 483 is a member having a slope 483a inclined toward the center so as to guide the medal M toward the center of the ramp 480. When the slide 483 is slid and positioned in front of the medal outlet 534, the medal outlet 534 The medal M supplied from is guided to the upper gate portion 47 (see the arrow indicated by the imaginary line in FIG. 17).

  Further, the rail 482 and the slope 483 are supported by a channel-shaped bearing 486 that can move along the guide shaft 481 (see FIG. 18). Further, a rotating plate 487 is provided below the rail 482 and the slope 483. The rotating plate 487 transmits the driving force of the motor 484 to the rail 482 and the slope 483 via the protrusions 487a on the rotating plate 487, the locking pieces 488 integrated with the bearing 486, and the like. Further, the positions of the rail 482 and the slope 483 can be detected based on the output of the sensor 489 that can detect the amount of rotation of the rotating plate 487 (see FIG. 18).

  In the above-described mechanism for storing and paying out medals in the jackpot unit 4, a so-called progressive method can be employed. This is to increase the integrated value every time the number of inserted medals by a player counts a predetermined number (for example, every time the total number of inserted medals by all players counts 10). It can be displayed as a jackpot value. According to such a progressive method, since the number of payouts at the time of winning increases as the integrated value increases, it is possible to attract the player's interest strongly. When such a progressive method is adopted, the medal M is supplied from the medal supply device 53 to the jackpot unit 4 in accordance with an increase in the integrated value.

  Next, an example of the structure of the turntable unit 5 in the rotation center unit 6 will be described. In FIG. 19, the perspective view which shows the structure of the turntable part 5 is shown. As shown in FIG. 19, the turntable unit 5 includes a medal tray 51, a round chute 52, a medal supply device 53, a rotating plate 54, and a base 55. The components other than the medal tray 51 and the base 55 are rotated on the same rotation axis at the same time.

  The medal tray 51 is provided with an opening 511 at the center, and has a shape for collecting the medal M from the surrounding annular portion. A beam (not shown) is passed from the opening 511 to the outer periphery. The medal tray 51 is provided with a tapered bottom 512 capable of collecting the medal M flying around the rotation center unit 6 (or the targets 42 and 43 disposed thereon). The lowest part of the bottom part 512 is open and connected to the flange 513. With this configuration, the medal M flying into the medal tray 51 slides on the bottom 512 and is discharged from the basket 513.

  The round chute 52 has a donut shape with an opening 521. The round chute 52 is provided with a bottom portion 522 inclined in a tapered shape toward the opening 524 at the lowest portion (deepest portion). A hole 523 is provided in the opening 524 so that the medal M can be dropped stably. With this configuration, the medals M that have fallen into the round chute gather at one place of the opening 524 and are discharged from the basket 523.

  The medal supply device 53 is configured to be able to supply the medal M collected by the round chute 52 to the jackpot unit 4. In the case of this embodiment, the medal supply device 53 includes a main hopper (medal collection container) 531, a medal supply motor 601, a medal guide 532, a swing lever 533, and a count sensor 405.

  The main hopper 531 is a collection container for collecting the medals M that are launched from each satellite unit 2 toward the rotation center unit 6 (or the targets 42 and 43 provided thereon) and dropped downward ( (See FIG. 3). In the present embodiment, all medals M dropped within the range of the rotation center unit 6 are collected by the main hopper 531. A medal delivery device (not shown) is provided at the bottom of the main hopper 531. Although not shown in detail, the main hopper 531 of this embodiment is provided with a medal amount sensor 531a (see FIG. 3). The medal amount sensor 531a can function as a sensor (near empty sensor) that detects whether or not the medal recovery amount (storage amount) in the main hopper exceeds a certain amount.

  The medal sending device can send the medal M sequentially into the medal guide 532 by rotating a disk provided with a plurality of holes into which the medal M can be inserted. The medal guide 532 functioning as a medal transport mechanism is a passage for the medal M, and the medal M can be transported for a long distance in a line. When the medal M is discharged from the outlet of the medal guide 532 into the jackpot portion 4, the swing lever 533 swings, and the count sensor 405 detects the medal M discharged in response to the swing. It has become.

  The rotating plate 54 can rotate the medal tray 51, the round chute 52, and the medal supply device 53 integrally by a motor 501 (not shown in detail in the present embodiment) provided on the base 55. It has become.

  Here, an example of the flow until the medal M launched from the satellite unit 2 toward the rotation center unit 6 is collected by the main hopper 531 is as follows (see FIG. 3). That is, for example, the medal M that has fallen behind the small target 42 falls through the drop hole 506 provided in the portion of the rotation center unit 6, slides (or rolls) on the inclined path 507, and further the drop hole 508. Fall through. The dropped medal M further slides (or rolls) on the medal tray 51 and the round chute 52 described above, and is guided by the basket 523 and collected by the main hopper 531 (see FIGS. 3 and 19). The medals M collected in this way are then supplied to the jackpot unit 4 by driving the medal supply motor 601.

  Next, the configuration of the control block in the medal game device will be described. FIG. 4 shows a system block diagram for operating the medal game device of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 4, the system block includes main unit 100, satellite unit 200, target unit 300, jackpot unit 400, turntable unit 500, medal recovery unit 600, lighting unit 700, maintenance unit 800, and interface unit 900. It has. The main feature is that the main unit 100 serving as the first control device and the plurality of satellite units 200 serving as the second control device are connected by bidirectional communication to form a distributed processing system.

  The main unit 100 is configured to be able to control the target unit 300, the jackpot unit 400, the turntable unit 500, the medal recovery unit 600, the lighting unit 700, and the maintenance unit 800. In addition, data and commands are transmitted to and received from each satellite unit 200. Specifically, the main unit 100 includes a CPU 101, a memory 102, a timer 103, interface circuits 104, 105, 106, 108, a tone generator circuit 107, and the like.

  The CPU 101 can execute predetermined processing as shown in FIGS. 20 and 21 as a part of the control device of the present invention by executing a program stored in the memory 102. In the memory 102, a program is stored in the ROM part, and the RAM part can be provided as a work area of the CPU. The timer 103 can report the elapsed time by interrupting the CPU 101 at regular intervals by dividing the crystal oscillator.

  The interface circuit 104 performs bidirectional serial communication with each satellite unit 200 and transmission of a sound source control command. The interface circuit 105 sends a motor drive signal to the turntable unit 500, a drive signal to the medal recovery unit 600, and a lighting instruction signal to the illumination unit 700, and receives a detection signal from the position sensor 503 from the turntable unit 500. It has become. The interface circuit 106 outputs a small target drive signal for the motor 401, a large target drive signal for the motor 402, and a hopper drive signal for the motor 404 to and from the jackpot unit 400 via the interface unit 900. Detection signals from the wave sensor 403, the count sensor 405, and the full sensor 406 of the target 43 are input. Further, a lighting instruction signal is output to each target unit 300 and a detection signal of the sensor 301 is input.

  The interface circuit 108 is configured to input a maintenance unit 800 and an operation signal for maintenance. The sound source circuit 107 has a built-in waveform memory, and synthesizes a waveform according to a sound source control signal from the CPU 101 and outputs a synthesized acoustic signal. The acoustic signal synthesized by the sound source circuit is mainly related to BGM. The sound signal is amplified by the amplifier 110 and supplied to a speaker attached to the main body of the medal game device.

  The satellite unit 200 is provided corresponding to the satellite unit 2 and is configured to be able to control each satellite unit 2 while exchanging data with the main unit 100. For example, in the case of the medal game device of the present embodiment in which ten satellite units 2 are provided, ten satellite units 200 are provided corresponding to each satellite unit 2. More specifically, the satellite unit 200 includes a CPU 201, a memory 202, interface circuits 203, 204, 206, 208, and 209, a video display circuit (VDP) 207, and a tone generator circuit 205 on a board. .

  The CPU 201 can execute a predetermined process as shown in FIGS. 22, 23, 24, and 25 as a part of the control device by executing a program stored in the memory 202. The video game displayed on the display unit 20 is configured to be executable. The memory 202 stores a program and a setting table 825 (to be described later) in the ROM portion, and can provide the RAM portion as a work area of the CPU.

  The interface circuit 203 transmits / receives data and commands to / from the main unit 100, and the interface circuit 204 receives a sound source control signal. The interface circuit 206 outputs a drive signal for the motor 212 to the satellite hopper 25 that supplies the medal M to the pusher unit 3 or each medal launcher 8, and receives a detection signal from the count sensor 213. The interface circuit 208 outputs a drive signal to the motor 214 that moves the display unit 20, and the interface circuit 209 transmits and receives data (detection signals) and commands to and from the medal launching device 8. Details will be described later. To do.

  The video display circuit 207 includes a data memory and a frame memory, generates a frame image based on object data and position information specified by a command of the CPU 201 that controls the progress of the video game, and outputs a video signal to the display unit 20. Can be output. The sound source circuit 205 has a built-in waveform memory, and synthesizes waveforms according to a sound source control signal from the CPU 201 and outputs a synthesized acoustic signal. The sound signal synthesized by the sound source circuit is mainly related to the sound of the medal M and the sound of the video game displayed on the display unit 20. The acoustic signal is power amplified by the amplifier 211 and supplied to, for example, a speaker attached to the side of the lever 23 of the satellite unit 2.

  The target unit 300 is, for example, a unit provided inside the pusher unit 3 or each of the targets 41 to 43, and includes the above-described sensor 301, board 302, and cold cathode tube 303. Further, although not shown, the target unit 300 further includes a light emitting element 304 shown in FIGS. 7 and 26. The board 302 can input a detection signal from the sensor 301 and output to the CPU that it has detected and detected the passage of the medal M by the determination method as described above. Further, a circuit is provided that can blink the cold cathode tube 303 when it is detected that the medal M has passed, or control the lighting of the cold cathode tube 303 in response to a lighting control signal from the CPU. . The cold-cathode tube 303 is disposed so as to surround the cylindrical body 31 and emits light with an amount of light that can illuminate the object through the pusher unit 3 and the molds of the targets 41 to 43.

  The jackpot unit 400 includes a motor 401 that drives the small target 42 and a motor 402 that drives the large target 43, and a motor 404 that drives other components (such as a hopper (not shown)). I have. In addition, a wave sensor 403 that detects the movement of the inhibition unit 44 of the large target 43, a hopper count sensor 405, and a full sensor 406 are provided. The motor 401 and the motor 402 contribute to moving the targets 42 and 43 to give a visual effect, respectively. The motor 404 is a driving device for paying out medals M in jackpot processing.

  The wave sensor 403 detects the position of the inhibition unit 44 and reverses the movement of the motor 402 so that the large target 43 appears as if both hands are moved up and down alternately. The count sensor 405 counts the number of paid-out medals, and the full sensor 406 outputs a detection signal for stopping further supply of medals when the hopper is filled with medals M.

  The turntable unit 500 is a control block of the turntable unit 5 and includes a motor 501, a jackpot sensor 502 and a position sensor 503. The motor 501 is provided on the base 55 in order to rotate the rotating plate 54. The jackpot sensor 502 is for detecting the position where the medal is paid out during the jackpot process and stopping the turntable unit 5. The position sensor 503 is provided for each satellite unit 2 and is a position sensor for specifying a target corresponding to each satellite unit 2.

  The medal collection unit 600 includes a plurality of medal supply motors 601 of a medal supply device (not shown) for supplying the medal M to the medal launching device 8 of each satellite unit 2 in addition to the medal supply device 53 for the jackpot. Yes. The lighting unit 700 is a unit in which lighting fixtures that illuminate the game space are arranged. The maintenance unit 800 is a unit in which a maintenance reset switch, a power-on switch, a test selection switch, an acoustic volume, and the like are arranged. The interface unit 900 includes an interface mechanism for electrically connecting the rotating target unit 300 and jackpot unit 400 to the stationary main unit 100.

  FIG. 12 is a schematic system block diagram of the medal launcher 8 in the present embodiment. Each medal launcher 8 is driven during a shooting game by a trigger sensor 843 that detects that the fire button 842 has been pressed, a medal sensor 837 that detects that the medal M has passed the launch rail 831, and a target (target) ) And a medal supply motor 812 for operating the rotating disc 815 in the storage container 811 while the pressing of the firing button 842 is detected. , And a lock mechanism 881 of a support means 88 for locking and unlocking the first operation console portion 86. These are connected to the CPU 201 of the satellite unit 200 via the interface circuit (I / O) 209.

  Then, detection signals from the trigger sensor 843 and the medal sensor 837 are output to the interface circuit (I / O) 209, and a motor drive control command and the like are input from the interface circuit 209. The CPU 201 executes a predetermined program stored in the ROM portion of the memory 202 to control the launch of the medal M by the medal launcher 8 and the replenishment of the medal M to the medal launcher 8. Function as a control means.

  FIG. 13 is an example of a table configuration of a setting table 825 that stores an event executed during the shooting game and a firing speed parameter related to the firing speed of the medal fired from the medal launching device 8 in association with each other. As shown in FIG. 13, the setting table 825 is data in a table format in which the number of rotations 827 of the roller drive motor 823 is associated with each of a plurality of targets (event 826) to be aimed at by the player. The number of revolutions of the motor is set in advance according to the distance and / or height from the medal launching device 8 to each target, and is adjusted to a number of revolutions such that the medal just reaches each target. In the example shown in FIG. 13, the rotational speed per minute of the roller drive motor 823 when the target is the moving target 41 is set to 2000 to 2100 rpm. Hereinafter, the small target 42 is set to 3000 to 3100 rpm, the large target 43 is set to 4200 to 4300 rpm, and the target mechanism 911 is set to 2800 to 2900 rpm.

  This setting table 825 is stored in the ROM of the memory 202, and is referred to when the CPU 201 controls the driving of the roller drive motor 823.

  FIG. 27 is a diagram showing a trajectory of medals launched from the medal launching device 8 in the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 16, when aiming at the moving target 41, the shooting speed of the medal (the number of rotations of the motor) is adjusted so as to draw a trajectory 891 in which the medal just reaches the moving target 41. Similarly, when aiming at the small target 42, the large target 43, and the target mechanism 911, the shooting speed of the medal is adjusted so as to draw the trajectories 892, 893, and 894 that the medal reaches these targets.

  Next, the configuration of the ceiling projector chucker device will be described. In the medal game device 1 of the present embodiment, at the time of a so-called super jackpot chance event (described in a later section), the ceiling projector chucker device that is housed in the ceiling is positioned in front of the player. And drive new events centered on shooting games.

  This ceiling projector chucker device has a projection unit 91 composed of a target board that moves up and down between a housed initial position (see FIG. 29) and a target position of a shooting game, and thus raises and lowers the projection unit 91 in this way. And a projector device 92 for projecting a predetermined image on the surface of the projection unit 91.

  The projection unit 91 is a target board made of, for example, a disk having a plurality of targets (winning openings) on its surface. In the present embodiment, for example, six target mechanisms 911 are arranged along the outer periphery of the projection unit 91 at regular intervals. In this case, a total of 12 targets may be arranged by arranging a dummy between these target mechanisms 911. In FIG. 28 and the like, the target mechanism 911 is simplified and expressed by a cylindrical protrusion (see FIG. 28 and the like).

  The target mechanism 911 is arranged as a target on the projection unit 91. Each target mechanism 911 is provided with a medal chucker (winning port) 912, and each chucker 912 is provided with an opening / closing mechanism 913 for opening and closing the winning port (see FIG. 31). . For example, in the case of the present embodiment, the opening / closing mechanism 913 is formed to resemble a mouth, and it is as if the mouth is opened / closed by an effect such as a gimmick applied to the target mechanism 911 and an image projected onto the target mechanism 911. It is supposed to give the sight that makes you.

  The projector device 92 is a device for projecting a predetermined image on the surface of the projection unit 91. In this case, it is possible to project the image by directly irradiating the projection unit 91 with the projector device 92, but in the present embodiment, the image is projected once onto the projection unit 91 after being reflected once by the reflecting plate 93 such as a mirror ( (See FIG. 30). In such a case, for example, even if the projector device 92 is arranged above the projection unit 91, a necessary projection distance can be ensured, so that these devices can be arranged compactly. The projector device 92, the reflector 93, and the projection unit 911 are all arranged on the turntable unit 500, and rotate together with the turntable unit 500 inside the medal game device 1 (FIG. 3 and the like). reference).

  Next, a mechanism (indicated by reference numeral 94) for raising and lowering the projection unit 91 will be described (see FIG. 29, etc.). For example, in the case of the present embodiment, the projection unit 91 is slid in the front-rear direction via the motor 941 and the feed screw 942, and further moved downward so as to show the surface to the player side in conjunction with the movement at this time. It is like that.

  The motor 941 is a drive source for moving the projection unit 91 up and down, and is fixed to the frame 509 of the turntable unit 500 in which the projection unit 91 is provided. A feed screw 942 extending in the front-rear direction (direction connecting the satellite unit 2 and the turntable unit 500) is connected to the output shaft of the motor 941 so as to rotate coaxially. A slider 943 movable in the front-rear direction is engaged with the feed screw 942, and is slid according to the amount of rotation of the feed screw 942.

  On the other hand, the projection unit 91 is supported by, for example, a pair of support arms 944 arranged on the left and right (see FIG. 31 and the like). Further, two shafts 945 and 946 extending in the left-right direction are attached to the support arm 944 in parallel with each other. Of these, the first shaft 945 is attached near the end of the support arm 944. The second shaft 946 is attached to the support arm 944 via, for example, a support piece 944a at a position between the projection unit 91 and the first shaft 945 (see FIG. 31). The protrusion 944b is formed to attach one end of the shock absorber 949 in a rotatable state. The other end of the shock absorber 949 is attached to the slider 943 in a rotatable state.

  Here, the first shaft 945 is connected to the above-described slider 943 so as to be relatively rotatable (see FIG. 29). Further, both ends of the first shaft 945 are guided by the slide rail 947, and can move in the front-rear direction along the slide rail 947. The slide rail 947 is provided, for example, inside the frame 509 so that a pair of the rails 947 face each other.

  Further, the lifting mechanism 94 for lifting and lowering the projection unit 91 includes a guide 948 with an inclined portion 948a (see FIGS. 29 and 30). The above-described second shaft 946 is in a state where both ends thereof are placed on the guide 948, for example, and is guided along the guide 948. For example, in the case of the medal game device 1 of the present embodiment, as the second shaft 946 descends so as to run down along the inclined portion 948a of the guide 948, the projection unit 91 descends while projecting forward, and the player's It moves so that it is located in front of you (see FIG. 30 etc.).

  The operation of the lifting mechanism 94 configured as described above will be described (see FIG. 28 and the like). First, when the projection unit 91 is in the initial position, that is, when it is housed in the ceiling portion of the medal game device 1 (see FIG. 29), the motor 941 is driven to move the feed screw 942 forward (arrow in FIG. 29). Direction). Accordingly, the first shaft 945 moves forward along the slide rail 947, and the second shaft 946 moves forward along the guide 948. With such movement, the projection unit 91 moves so as to protrude forward. When the operation is further continued, the second shaft 946 reaches the inclined portion 948a of the guide 948, and thereafter moves forward while descending along the gradient of the inclined portion 948a. Along with this movement, an operation of rotating forward is added to the sliding operation of the projection unit 91, and it descends while protruding from the ceiling, and finally stops in front of the player (see FIG. 30).

  In the present embodiment, for example, a donut-shaped roulette and a target mechanism 911 disposed on the outer periphery of the roulette by the projector device 92 and the reflector 93 with respect to the projection unit 91 positioned in front of the player as described above. The projector image is projected, and a rotation image of the roulette and an image in which the target mechanism 911 opens and closes the mouth are projected. Such a case is characteristic in that the player can feel a sense of reality as if he / she is playing with a roulette wheel without actually rotating the roulette wheel. In addition, for example, if an image is projected in accordance with the opening / closing operation of the mouth of the target mechanism 911, it is possible to create a tasteful image in which the actual movement of the mechanism and the image projected on the part are synchronized. .

(Description of operation)
Hereinafter, the operation of the medal game device in the present embodiment will be described. First, the overall game flow will be described.

<Overall flow>
The game of this embodiment is mainly a kind of role playing game (RPG) in which the game progresses while the main character displayed on the display unit 20 encounters various scenes in addition to the normal pusher game. This RPG is a jackpot that allows the hero to go through multiple game zones, get rid of enemy characters or collect predetermined game items, pay out medals M according to the results, and acquire more medals It includes various contents such as aiming to acquire a super jackpot chance that adopts progressive and progressive, and proceeds mainly by interweaving slot games and shooting games prepared according to the results of the game. Specific examples will be described in detail below.

[Normal game]
When the player inserts the medal M into the medal insertion unit 12 of each satellite unit 2 and starts the game play, the normal game is started. A game title screen, a demo screen, a screen saver screen, and the like are displayed on the display unit 20 before the medal M is inserted. When the medal M is inserted, a game standby screen is displayed on the display unit 20 together with a medal insertion sound. Is displayed. Also, the progressive value (the amount of medals that can be paid out in a super jackpot game described later) is increased by a predetermined amount by inserting a certain number of medals M. The current progressive value is displayed as a numerical value on the display unit 20 and is accumulated as a real medal on the upper part of the rotation center unit.

  This normal game is a so-called medal pusher game, and the medal M inserted from the medal insertion unit 12 travels on the guide flat plate 39 toward the chucker 35. Specifically, the chucker 35 has a plurality of comb-like partitions erected at predetermined intervals on the periphery of the disc-shaped bottom portion, and reciprocates within a predetermined angle range around the central axis of the bottom portion. is doing. When the medal M is not obstructed by the partitions and passes through the slits between the partitions, a slot lottery described later is started.

  On the other hand, when the medal M cannot pass through the slit of the chucker 35 and is blocked by the partition, the medal M is dropped and held on the medal stand 37. When the medals M accumulate on the medal table 37, the medals M interfere with the front wall of the lower end of the pusher table 36 that moves back and forth, and some of the medals M are in front of the medal table 37 (on the player side). ) And is dropped and collected into the medal collection unit 38. The collected medals M are paid out to the player. This normal game is always executed in each satellite unit 2 except for a predetermined case throughout the game.

[Role playing game]
As described above, the role playing game is developed while the main character progresses through a plurality of game zones. For example, the role playing game collects items called magic balls or challenges a monster (monster battle). Shooting games with multiple battle zones where you can shoot in the satellite part 2, extra zones where you can monster battle with special monsters, and so-called jackpots and super jackpot chances with more medals It consists of a game in the final zone. The role playing game is started when the medal M wins the chucker 35, and is composed of various games accompanied by an egg growth event and a branch process based on the result of the slot lottery.

(Egg growth event)
In the egg growth event, when the medal M wins the chucker 35, the chucker 35 emits light for a moment, and every time the medal M wins the chucker 35, a circular shape called “holding ball” is displayed on the screen of the display unit 20. The display is incremented by one. For example, up to ten hold balls are displayed.

  An image of a dragon egg is displayed on the upper part of the holding ball on the screen of the display unit 20, and when the medal M further wins the chucker 35 in a state where ten holding balls are displayed, the growth value of the egg is increased by one. At the same time, the egg on the screen is displayed a little larger, and an image in which the egg gradually cracks as the growth value increases is displayed. When the growth value of the egg reaches 10, an image showing that the egg is broken and a dragon emerges is displayed on the display unit 20. A plurality of types of such dragons are prepared, and different techniques are shown on the screen of the display unit 20 depending on the type of dragon.

  For example, dragons are named “Kidra”, “Akadora”, “Chadora”, “Aodora” depending on the display color. While discharging and dropping, the same number of medals M are actually paid out. Note that “drop an item” indicates that an image of an item is displayed on the screen of the display unit 20 (the same applies hereinafter). Also, if it is Akadora, a monster appearing in a monster battle, which will be described later, is defeated with a single shot on the screen of the display unit 20 behind the main character. On the other hand, if it is a chadora, one item called a reach item is dropped as a predetermined item on the screen of the display unit 20. Thereby, it will be in the reach state of the special production which uses each item. On the other hand, if it is Aodora, a predetermined number of items called “magic balls” are dropped. After that, these emerged dragons disappear from the screen of the display unit 20 and disappear from the screen, and at the same time, an image in which a new dragon egg falls from above is displayed on the display unit 20.

  In addition, the increase processing of the reserved balls in the egg growth event is performed when the medal M wins the chucker 35 while the slot lottery described later is performed, and when the slot lottery is performed once, the number of the reserved balls is decreased by one. To control.

(Slot lottery)
When the medal M wins the chucker 35, slot lottery is started. The slot lottery is performed using three rows of virtual reels displayed on the screen of the display unit 20 and patterns such as numbers or marks set on each virtual reel, and is similar to the lottery by reel rotation of a normal slot machine. Depending on the arrangement of these three patterns, the presence or absence of medals M, the number of medals M to be paid out, the switching of various games within each battle zone, the switching between battle zones, the transition to the extra zone, the shooting in the final zone Determine the type of game, etc. Hereinafter, as a precondition, various numbers of games are used by using an example in which each number of 1 to 7 and 9, a gold coin mark, a treasure box mark, an extra zone mark, and two kinds of special marks are set as a virtual reel. explain.

<Small event>
When at least one gold coin mark appears on the three virtual reels, a small hitting event is started and an image of the main character on the screen of the display unit 20 picking up the gold coin is displayed, and the background display that has been displayed so far is displayed. Scroll to bring up another background display (ie move the background forward). Further, a predetermined number of medals M may be paid out according to the number of gold coin marks (one of 1, 2 or 3) arranged on the three virtual reels. In this small hitting event, even if two gold coin marks are arranged, the operation (so-called reach action) of rotating the virtual reel that did not have the gold coin mark again is not performed.

  In addition, when a gold coin mark appears together with the forward display of the background, on the screen of the display unit 20, (1) “magic ball is falling” image, (2) “Waldra appears” image, and (3) One of the images “a monster appears” is displayed. At this time, the appearance rates of the magic ball and the monster are made different depending on the number of gold coin marks.

  Then, (1) when the magic ball has fallen, the state in which the main character picks up the magic ball is displayed, thereby increasing the magic ball gauge by one (1 UP). When this magic ball gauge is increased by 1 (when the hero acquires a magic ball), when the turntable unit 500 with a gimmick rotating in the center surrounded by the satellite unit 2 approaches the satellite unit 2, When the launch button 842 of the medal launcher 8 starts blinking and the gimmick on the turntable unit 500 enters the medal launch area of the satellite unit 2, the motor of the medal launcher 8 is operated, and the medal launcher From 8, the medal M is ready to be fired. At this time, when the fire button 842 is pressed, the medal M is fired toward the small target 42 such as a guard doll installed in the turntable unit 500. When the medal M is fired with the firing button 842 in this way, the magic ball possessed by the hero is reduced by one (1 DOWN).

  When the medal M hits the small target 42 and defeats the small target 42 with the momentum, the light installed below the small target 42 blinks and the item (a predetermined number of coins, a predetermined number of coins) is displayed on the screen of the display unit 20. Randomly selected from magic balls, reach items, mirror pieces, etc. Then, when the gimmick on the turntable unit 500 passes through its satellite part 2 and falls out of its medal launch area, when the main character becomes zero or all the small targets 42 fall down. If it is, the firing button 842 is turned off and the motor of the medal launching device 8 is stopped.

  Also, (2) when a Waldra appears, a shooting game in which the moving target 41 is shot with the medal M is started. In this shooting game, the medal M is fired from the medal launcher 8 toward the moving target 41 at a predetermined firing time (for example, every 10 seconds) and at a predetermined firing interval (for example, every 0.2 to 0.5 seconds). In this game, a medal M is struck (incident) into 41 mouths.

  For example, the moving target 41 flutters its wings and makes its eyes shine as a notice operation, and stops the pusher unit 3 at the satellite unit 2 and shoots on the display unit 20 when execution of the shooting game is confirmed. When the explanation screen of the game is displayed and the explanation ends, the display unit 20 is moved downward. The moving target 41 once stands by at the upper center position of the display unit 20 and then moves toward the player while flapping in the left-right direction when the firing button 842 of the medal launching device 8 is turned on. At this time, a plurality of different operation patterns are prepared as operation patterns of the moving target 41, and control is performed so that each operation pattern is selected at random. For example, there is an operation pattern in which the moving target 41 moves in the left-right direction like a wave while moving up and down. Even if it is moved in this way, the display unit 20 is moved downward, so that the moving target 41 and the display unit 20 do not interfere with each other.

  Then, when the medal M fired from the medal launcher 8 enters the mouth of the moving target 41 and wins a chuckle, the feather of the moving target 41 blinks faster than normal flapping while blinking the light of the eyes of the moving target 41. (Pain image), drop an item (a predetermined number of coins, a predetermined number of magic balls, a reach item, a mirror piece, etc.) on the screen of the display unit 20. When the time limit elapses, the medal launching from the medal launching device 8 is stopped, and the moving target 41 is returned to the original home position while flapping slowly. Then, after the flapping of the moving target 41 is stopped and the light of the eyes is turned off, the display unit 20 is moved upward to return to the original position, and the shooting game is ended.

  On the other hand, when (3) a monster appears on the display unit 20, a monster battle is started. In this monster battle, another slot called a battle slot, which is different from a slot of a pattern such as a number, is displayed on the display unit 20, and it is determined whether or not the monster has been defeated based on the result of the arrangement of the battle slot. As a result, when the monster can be defeated, a predetermined number of medals M are paid out.

<Big hit event>
When the same predetermined numbers are arranged on three virtual reels, it becomes a big hit event, and a larger number of medals M (for example, 20 to 50 pieces may be different in increments of 5) than the small hit event mode. Pay out. In the jackpot event, the battle zone is changed at random, and thereafter, the above-mentioned and later-described various games are performed in different battle zones. In this jackpot event, when two of the same numbers are arranged, an operation (so-called reach action) is performed to rotate again the virtual reel that did not have the same number.

  Furthermore, in the jackpot event, two types of modes of “per normal” and “per probability variation (probability change)” are prepared according to the numbers that are arranged. Here, the partition portion of the chucker 35 is open and is not substantially provided with a partition, a first partition portion provided with a partition with a narrow interval, and a partition with a wide interval. It has a 2nd partition part. In the case of normal hit, the chucker 35 is rotated by a certain angle, and the partitioning portion of the chucker 35 is changed to the first partitioning portion having a narrow width (slit width) between the partitions, while in the case of probability change. Changes the setting to the second partition having a wider width between the partitions (slit width), and in that state, the player inserts the medal M from the medal insertion unit 12 and continues the game.

<Chance game event>
When specific numbers (for example, 3 or 7) are arranged on the three virtual reels, the “chance game” is executed without changing the battle zone and the background screen displayed on the display unit 20. In this chance game, the chucker 35 is rotated by a certain angle, and the partitioning portion of the chucker 35 is changed to a non-partitioning portion. As a result, almost all of the medals M inserted from the medal insertion unit 12 are continuously awarded to the chucker 35. This released state is set as one set for a predetermined time (for example, 10 seconds), and three sets are repeated, and the medal M that is a predetermined number of times the number of sheets in the chucker 35 is paid out. Then, after completing three sets, the slot is redrawn ten times, for example. Here, when specific numbers are again arranged on the three virtual reels, it becomes a villa and a chance game is played again.

<Treasure chest event>
When the treasure chest pattern is arranged on the three virtual reels, the “treasure chest event” is executed without changing the battle zone and the background screen displayed on the display unit 20. Here, the hero starts running on the screen of the display unit 20 and displays a large treasure chest image in front of it. When the hero arrives at the treasure chest, the treasure chest opens and displays an image that spits a large amount of items and medals M. The amount of medals M may be, for example, 20 to 50 and may vary in increments of 5 depending on the treasure box.

<Special Monster Event>
When the images of the extra zone marks are arranged on the three virtual reels, a predetermined number (for example, 20 to 50) of medals M are paid out and the screen of the display unit 20 is switched to perform processing in the extra game zone. In the extra game zone, a special monster as a special kind of monster appearing in the battle zone is caused to appear on the screen of the display unit 20. When a special monster appears, the battle slot is used in the same manner as the monster battle in the small hit event described above, and it is determined whether or not the special monster is defeated according to the arrangement result. As a result, when the special monster can be defeated, a predetermined number of medals M (for example, the same number as when succeeding in a jackpot chance described later) is greater than when defeating the monster in the small hit event. Pay out.

<Jackpot chance>
When a predetermined number (for example, three) of mirror pieces are collected in each battle zone game to complete the “mirror”, the game scene shifts from the battle zone to the final zone. In the final zone, slot lottery is performed using three rows of virtual reels displayed on the screen of the display unit 20 and, for example, two types of special mark images set on each virtual reel.

  In this slot lottery, when the jackpot symbols are arranged on the three virtual reels, the gimmick on the turntable unit 500 is changed to the front of the satellite unit 2 while changing the illumination and music (BGM) of the casing of the medal game device 1. Rotate to position During this rotational movement, a game description screen of jackpot chance is displayed on the display unit 20, and the rules are explained to the player. When the gimmick of the turntable unit 500 is positioned in front of the target satellite unit 2, the rotation is stopped and desired light and sound are produced. Then, all the small targets 42 such as the guard dolls are defeated, and the pusher portion 3 of the satellite portion 2 is stopped while moving the inhibition portion 44 (such as a doll's arm) of the large target 43 larger than the small target 42, and The display unit 20 is moved downward. Next, the motor of the medal launcher 8 is operated so that the medal M can be launched from the medal launcher 8.

  In this shooting game, a medal M is fired from the medal launcher 8 toward the large target 43 at a predetermined firing interval (for example, every 0.2 to 0.5 seconds) for a predetermined time (for example, 20 seconds). It is a game in which the medal M is put in 43 mouths. When the fire button 842 is pressed, the medal M is fired toward the large target 43. At this time, the inhibition part 44 of the large target 43 is moved to prevent the medal M from entering the mouth of the large target 43. When the medal M wins the mouth of the large target 43, the number of medals M to be paid out is incremented by a predetermined number (for example, 5), and finally the number of medals added according to the number of medals M won within the time limit. The total number of jackpot basic payouts (for example, 50) is paid out.

  When the time limit elapses, the movement of the blocking portion 44 of the large target 43 is stopped, the gate provided at the lower front part on the turntable unit 500 is lowered and opened, and the back of the gate (opposite to the player) is opened. The cup-shaped unit 17 that is installed and stores the payout medals is moved to the top of the medal table 37 of the satellite unit 2 and tilted forward (player side) by the link mechanism, whereby the medals in the cup-shaped unit 17 are stored. M is discharged to the satellite unit 2.

  Then, the cup-shaped unit 17 is returned to the original position, the gate is raised and closed, and then the display unit 20 is moved upward, the turntable unit 500 is returned to the normal rotation state, and the pusher unit 3 is restored. Activate and finish the shooting game.

<Super Jackpot Game>
On the other hand, in the slot lottery, when the super jackpot symbols are arranged on the three virtual reels, the gimmick on the turntable unit 500 is changed to the satellite portion 2 while changing the lighting unit 700 and the music (BGM) of the medal game apparatus 1. Rotate to be located in front of During this rotational movement, a game description screen of jackpot chance is displayed on the display unit 20, and the rules are explained to the player. When the gimmick of the turntable unit 500 is positioned in front of the target satellite unit 2, the rotation is stopped and desired light and sound are produced. Then, all the small targets 42 are brought down, and the projection unit of the projector image is moved so as to push forward (player side) and to descend. Then, the pusher unit 3 of the satellite unit 2 is stopped, and the display unit 20 is moved downward. Next, the motor of the medal launcher 8 is operated so that the medal M can be launched from the medal launcher 8.

  In this shooting game, a donut-shaped roulette and a projector image of a target mechanism 911 arranged on the outer periphery of the roulette are projected on a projection unit, and a rotation image of the roulette and an image of the target mechanism 911 opening and closing the mouth are displayed. In this state, the medal M is applied to the inside of the mouth of the target mechanism 911. When the medal M hits the area inside the mouth of the target mechanism 911, the rotation image of the roulette is stopped at that moment, and the number or super jackpot indicating the number of hits in the area inside the roulette Display the picture.

(When the roulette hit is a super jackpot design)
In this case, the turntable unit 500 is reciprocated within a certain angle range so that the gimmick of the turntable unit 500 faces the front of the satellite units 2 and 2 adjacent to the satellite unit 2 that has played this shooting game. Repeat the operation several times. During this time, the medal M can be launched from the target satellite unit 2 and the satellite units 2 and 2 adjacent to the target satellite unit 2 toward the gimmick on the turntable unit 500, and each player can play a gimmick using each medal launching device 8. Fire a medal M toward When the total number of shots reaches the specified number, the reciprocation of the turntable unit 500 is stopped, and the turntable unit 500 is rotated and stopped so that the gimmick faces the front of the satellite unit 2 where the shooting game event has occurred.

  And while returning a projection unit to an initial state, the lower gate part 46 provided in the lower part of the gimmick of the turntable unit 500 is opened, Furthermore, the upper gate part 47 provided in the upper part of the gimmick is opened, and those gates are opened. The medal M held and held by the portion is discharged into the cup-shaped unit 17 described above. The lower gate portion 46 accumulates the basic number (for example, 50) of medals M of the super jackpot, while the upper gate portion 47 retains a large amount of medals M corresponding to the progressive value. ing.

  Then, the gate provided at the lower front part of the turntable unit 500 is opened, and the cup-shaped unit 17 installed at the back of the gate and to which the paid-out medal is delivered is connected to the medal of the satellite unit 2 by the link mechanism. The table 37 is moved upward and tilted forward (player side), whereby all the medals M in the cup-shaped unit 17 are discharged to the satellite unit 2. Then, after returning the cup-shaped unit 17 to the original position and closing the gate, the display unit 20 is moved upward, the turntable unit 500 is returned to the normal rotation state, and the pusher unit 3 is restarted. End the shooting game.

(When the roulette is not a Super Jackpot design)
In this case, the winning medal M displayed when the roulette stops is added to the payout medal. The opening and closing of the mouth of the target mechanism 911 that has won the medal M is stopped, but the adjacent target mechanism 911 is displayed as a target, and the player continues to fire the medal M aiming at the mouth of the other target mechanism 911. be able to.

  Then, when the medal M is applied to the mouths of all other target mechanisms 911 and the roulette is not a super jackpot pattern, or when a predetermined time limit has elapsed, the projection unit is returned to the initial state. At the same time, the lower gate portion 46 provided at the lower portion of the turntable unit 500 is opened, and the medal M held and held by the lower gate portion 46 is discharged into the cup-shaped unit 17 described above. In the lower gate portion 46, the medals M of the basic number (for example, 50) of super jackpots are accumulated.

  Then, the gate provided at the lower front part of the turntable unit 500 is opened, and the cup-shaped unit 17 installed at the back of the gate and to which the paid-out medal is delivered is connected to the medal of the satellite unit 2 by the link mechanism. The table 37 is moved upward and tilted forward (player side), whereby all the medals M in the cup-shaped unit 17 are discharged to the satellite unit 2. Then, after returning the cup-shaped unit 17 to the original position and closing the gate, the display unit 20 is moved upward, the turntable unit 500 is returned to the normal rotation state, and the pusher unit 3 is restarted. End the shooting game.

  The above series of games is repeated while the medal M is inserted from the medal insertion unit 12. In addition, each operation described above appropriately reports a status between the main unit 100 and each satellite unit 200, and is appropriately processed by either control.

  Next, the flow of the medal M firing process in the medal launching apparatus 8 of the present embodiment will be described in detail.

  First, since the medal launching device 8 is not used in the normal game, the CPU 201 of the satellite unit 200 controls the lock mechanism 881 to lock the first operation table 86, and the medal launching device 8 swings left and right. I try not to. Further, the operations of the roller drive motor 823 and the medal supply motor 812 are stopped. During the normal game, the player inserts a medal M from the medal insertion unit 12 and performs a medal game such as a medal pusher game. In the normal game, the display unit 20 is at the reference position (default position).

  In the normal game medal game, when the CPU 201 detects that a predetermined condition such as a chucker winning or slot establishment is satisfied, a shooting flag is set. In the main unit 100 and the satellite unit 200, the current game mode is flagged in the middle of the loop process, and when this shooting flag is detected, the game mode is changed from the normal game to the shooting game. Further, when the shooting flag is set, the CPU 201 determines the maximum number of medals M that can be fired in the current shooting game.

  For example, when a predetermined chucker is won, a slot game is executed on the display unit 20, and the maximum number of medals M that can be fired is determined according to the content of the established slot. In this way, the normal game and the shooting game are linked, and the number of medals M that can be fired is determined according to the result of the game executed on the display unit 20.

  When the shooting game is started, the CPU 201 controls driving of the roller driving motor 823 and starts to rotate the rotating roller 822. Further, the drive motor 214 is driven to move the display unit 20 downward. In addition, the player blinks the light emitting element 844 embedded in the launch button 842 and controls the effects such as playing the BGM for the shooting game from the speaker 26 to start the shooting game using the medal shooting device 8. To recognize. At this time, the CPU 201 determines the firing speed parameter based on the event that occurs according to the progress of the game, adjusts the sliding force applied to the medal by the medal urging means 82 according to the firing speed parameter, and fires the medal. The firing speed of medals launched from the device 8 is controlled.

  The details of the medal firing speed control process are as follows. First, when the game mode is changed from the normal game to the shooting game, the CPU 201 determines an event according to the progress of the game. Here, for example, a target to be aimed at by the player is determined. Then, the CPU 201 refers to the setting table 825 in the memory 202, reads out the rotational speed of the roller drive motor 823, and starts rotational driving of the roller drive motor 823 at this rotational speed. The number of rotations of the roller drive motor 823 increases while performing the presentation on the display unit 20 or the like, and when the presentation ends, the roller drive motor 823 rotates at a constant speed at the number of rotations read out earlier. It becomes like this.

  Thereafter, the lock of the lock mechanism 881 of the support means 88 is released under the control of the CPU 201, and the operation table 80 can be operated up, down, left, and right, and the CPU 201 starts accepting the operation signal of the trigger sensor and releases the medal. The medal M can be launched from the device 8. In this way, when a player inputs a medal launch instruction, preparation is made so that a medal can be fired immediately at a predetermined firing speed.

  In the subsequent shooting game, the player operates the operation table 80 with the lever 23 to swing the direction of the firing rail 831 up, down, left, and right to determine the firing direction of the medal M. Then, the fire button 842 is pressed to fire the medal M toward the target.

  At this time, the CPU 201 starts driving the medal supply motor 812 in response to the operation signal of the firing button 842 emitted from the trigger sensor 843, rotates the rotating disk 815 in the storage container 811, and the medal supply port. The medal supply means 81 is controlled to supply one medal M to the medal urging means 82 via 814. Then, the medal M sandwiched between the rotating rollers 821 and 822 of the medal urging means 82 is urged by the rotational force of the rotating rollers 821 and 822 (sliding force is given), slides on the launch rail 831, and is given a medal. A medal M is fired from the launch port 833. When the firing button 842 is continuously pressed, the medal M is controlled to be continuously fired at predetermined time intervals.

  In the satellite unit 200, when a detection signal is supplied from the trigger sensor 843 of the medal launcher 8, and when a detection signal is further supplied from the medal sensor 837 within a certain time, the effective medal M has been shot. judge. This is because even if the firing button 842 is pressed, the medal M may not actually be fired due to a clogged medal or the like. If it is determined that there has been actual shooting, a command indicating that there has been actual shooting is sent to the main unit 100 via the interface circuit 203.

  Further, the CPU 201 controls to automatically replenish the medal M to the medal supply means 81 of the medal launching apparatus 8 via the medal transport means 27 in conjunction with the launch of the medal M by the medal launching apparatus 8. At this time, the CPU 201 receives the firing detection signal from the medal sensor 837, controls the payout destination distribution solenoid provided on the transport rail 272, and moves the switching flap 273 to the medal launcher 8 side (first transport path). After switching to 274), the motor 212 of the satellite hopper 25 is driven. By driving the motor, the medal M is pushed up from the bottom in the medal guide 271, passes through the transport rail 272, and passes from the exit of the transport rail 272 to the storage container 811 of the medal launcher 8 through the medal refill hole 876. M is sent and the medals are replenished. When the small hitting medal payout process is performed on the pusher unit 3, the CPU 201 switches the switching flap 273 to the pusher unit 3 side (second transport path 275) by the payout destination distribution solenoid, and then the satellite hopper 25. Is operated to execute a predetermined number of medal payout processing to the pusher unit 3.

  Thereafter, when a predetermined game condition is satisfied and the shooting game event is cleared, the time limit has elapsed, or the maximum number of medals M that can be fired is exhausted, the CPU 201 operates the operation signal of the trigger sensor 843. And the driving of the roller drive motor 823 is stopped, and the lock mechanism 881 is locked so that the medal launcher 8 does not swing left and right. Further, the drive motor 214 is controlled to move the display unit 20 upward to return to the original reference position. Thus, the shooting game is finished. When the event is cleared, a medal may be paid out to the player, and a game image or the like corresponding to the clearing of the event may be displayed on the display unit 20.

  Then, an example of the flow which replenishes medal M with respect to the main hopper 531 is shown (refer FIG. 32).

  First, a flow for replenishing the medal M to the main hopper 531 is started (step 1). The medal replenishment time for the main hopper 531 is not particularly limited. For example, in this embodiment, the number of payouts is greater than SJP (super jackpot), that is, normal JP (jackpot), in any satellite unit 2. In the event that a large number of prizes are won, the medal M is replenished in advance in accordance with this flow at the stage before shifting to the SJP process (see FIG. 32).

  When the super jackpot chance starts and the replenishment flow starts, first, the number of medals replenished (total number of launches) is determined (step 2). For example, the total number of medals (total number of launches) launched from the medal launcher 8 in each satellite unit 2 toward the rotation center unit 6 can be handled as the number of medals supplemented here. As an example, the total number of launches from each satellite unit 2 in this case is detected or estimated by the number of medals supplied from the main hopper 531 to the jackpot unit 4 and the above-described medal amount sensor 531a since the previous replenishment. It can be determined from the medal recovery amount (storage amount).

  When the number of medals is determined, the process shifts to launching from each satellite unit 2 (medal launch). Here, a launch command is transmitted from the CPU 101 of the main unit 100 to the CPU 201 of the satellite unit 200 in order to launch a medal from the medal launching device 8 of the satellite unit 2 to be launched (step 3). Note that the satellite units 2 to be launched in the present embodiment are all of the satellite units 2 other than the satellite unit 2 that has shifted to the super jackpot chance. These satellite units 2 start launching (medal launching) in response to the launch command described above (step 4).

  When launching is started, each satellite unit 2 determines whether or not the remaining amount of medals in the satellite unit 2 is below a certain value (step 5). If it falls below (Yes in Step 5), it is determined that the remaining amount of medals in the satellite unit 2 is small, and subsequent launching (medal launching) is rejected, and a series of replenishment flows in the satellite unit 2 is terminated. (Step 7).

  If it is determined that the remaining amount of medals in the satellite unit 2 is not below a certain level (No in Step 5), the number of medals replenished in the medal game device 1 is the number of medals replenished (total number of launches) ) Is determined (step 6). When it is determined that the number of medals has been reached (Yes in step 6), the launching is stopped in all satellite units 2 and the series of replenishment flows is terminated (step 7). On the other hand, if the medal replenishment number has not been reached, the process loops to step 5 and continues to be launched (medal launch) until the medal replenishment number is reached or until the remaining medal amount falls below a certain value in the satellite unit 2 (see FIG. 32). .

  According to the medal game apparatus 1 employing such a replenishment flow of the medal M for the main hopper 531, the medal M is moved based on the replenishment flow as described above at the start of the super jackpot chance, and the medal game apparatus 1 Therefore, it is possible to eliminate the state where the number of sheets stored in the main hopper (medal collection container) 531 is temporarily insufficient.

  In addition, since it is possible to replenish medals using an existing device called the medal launcher 8, there is no need to provide a separate device for collection. Such a so-called medal distribution adjustment method is particularly effective in the medal game apparatus 1 like the present embodiment in which the satellite units 2 are installed in large numbers. Further, in this embodiment, the distribution of medals is adjusted while automatically producing a blessing from other players for the player who has shifted to the super jackpot chance, so that the overall atmosphere of the medal game device 1 is raised. It is also characteristic in that it can be done.

  In this medal replenishment flow (see FIG. 32), after launching (step 4), each satellite unit 2 only determines whether or not the remaining amount of medals in the satellite unit 2 is below a certain value (step). 5) Specifically, a so-called near empty sensor that only determines whether or not the remaining amount of medals has become a certain amount or less is sufficient. On the other hand, if a sensor capable of specifically grasping the remaining amount of medals is used, it is also possible for the satellite unit 2 to determine whether each satellite unit 2 is ready to launch (medal launch). It is. In such a case, if it is determined whether or not each satellite unit 2 can launch at the time of transition to the super jackpot chance, self-management can be performed.

  As described above, in the medal game device according to the present invention, since the medal M is automatically replenished to the medal launching device 8, the player can automatically fire the medal M only by pressing the firing button 842 or the like. It becomes possible. Since the player does not need to insert and replenish the medal M into the medal launcher 8 himself, the player can concentrate on the shooting game without being distracted. The storage container 811 is preferably provided in the medal launching device 8 so that the medal M can be stored in the medal launching device 8. The buffer function of the medal M by the storage container 811 prevents the medal M of the medal launcher 8 from becoming empty during the shooting game and the medal M from being fired. Moreover, since the medal launcher 8 includes the medal supply means 81, the medal M taken out from the medal supply means 81 is immediately supplied to the medal urging means 82. As a result, in response to the player's firing button 842 being pressed, the medal M is quickly fired, and a comfortable operability can be provided to the player. Furthermore, the storage container 811 may be configured to be detachable from the medal launching device 8. The medals M used in the medal game may differ from game store to game store. However, a storage container 811 in which a rotating disk 815 for various medals is pivotally provided at the bottom is prepared, and the medals for each store are provided. By exchanging the storage container 811 according to the seed, it is possible to provide a medal launching device corresponding to various medals M.

  The above-described embodiment is an example of a preferred embodiment of the present invention, but is not limited thereto, and various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. In addition, the above-described processing flow can be executed in any order or in parallel as long as the processing contents do not contradict each other.

  For example, the form of the medal launcher 8 is not limited to that shown in the present embodiment. For example, in the present embodiment, an example in which the operation table 80 includes the first operation table unit 86 and the second operation table unit 87 has been described, but the bottom of the operation table 80 is connected to the base 85 with a universal joint. In addition, the entire operation table 80 may be swung in any direction up, down, left and right, or the operation table 80 may be fixed so that only the direction of the medal launch port 833 can be directed in any direction. Also good. Further, the medal firing instruction input is not limited to the firing button 842, but may be a gun trigger type.

  In this embodiment, the roller drive motor 823 is attached to only one rotating roller 822. However, both of the rotating rollers 821 and 822 are provided with roller driving motors so that the respective rotating rollers rotate reversely to each other. You may make it control a roller drive motor. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the medal M is urged by the rotating rollers 821 and 822. However, the medal urging means 82 is not limited to this, and the elastic force of an elastic body such as a spring or the striking force of a rigid body is used. It may be used and energized.

  The game executed on the display unit 20 of the satellite unit 2 is not limited to the slot game, and may be any game.

  In the present invention, “medal” means a disc body such as a game medal or coin, but this medal game device can be applied to a game in which a ball, a block or other object is fired. . Further, the game machine may be applied to any form, such as a form in which a player is arranged in a horizontal line or in a line in two lines, instead of aiming at a central target.

  The present invention can be widely used for a medal game machine as an arcade game, and a home game as a game program that simulates (simulates) such a device with an image.

It is a perspective view which shows an example of the external appearance of the medal game device concerning this invention. It is a front view showing an example of the appearance of a medal game device. It is sectional drawing which shows the internal structure of a medal game device. It is a schematic block diagram which shows the functional structure of a medal game device. It is a perspective view of the periphery of the pusher part 3 and the display part 20 (before movement). It is a perspective view of the periphery of the pusher part 3 and the display part 20 (after movement). It is a figure which shows roughly the structural example of the apparatus for the medal detection in each target of a pusher part or a jackpot part. It is a timing chart for demonstrating the detection signal and detection method of a medal. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the medal launcher 8 as seen from the medal launch port 833 side. FIG. 6 is a perspective view seen from the front (player side) of the medal launcher 8. FIG. 6 is a right side perspective view of the medal launcher 8. 4 is a schematic system block diagram of the medal launcher 8; 4 is an example of a table configuration of a setting table 825. It is a figure from the side which shows an example of the mechanism for medal storage and payout in a jackpot part. It is a figure which shows structures, such as a winning opening of a large target, and a chucker. It is a figure which shows the structure of the cam etc. which comprise the obstruction part of a large target. It is a top view which shows the mechanism for supplying a medal to a jackpot part, and the mechanism for switching a medal supply path. It is a front view which shows the mechanism for switching the medal supply path in a jackpot part. It is a perspective view which shows an example of the structure of a turntable part. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the process in a main unit. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the jackpot process in a main unit. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the process in a satellite unit. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a normal game process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the process in the boss battle demonstrated in this embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the jackpot process in a satellite unit. It is the (A) front view and (B) top view which show the apparatus for medal detection roughly. It is a figure which shows the locus | trajectory of the medal launched from the medal launcher. It is a perspective view which shows the projection unit which comprises a ceiling projector chucker apparatus, and the mechanism for raising / lowering this. It is a side view which shows a projection unit, a mechanism for raising / lowering this, etc., Comprising: It is a figure which shows the state which has a projection unit in an initial position. It is a side view showing a projection unit and a mechanism for raising and lowering the projection unit, and shows a state where the projection unit is lowered. It is a perspective view which shows the structure of a projection unit and a support arm etc. which support this. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the medal distribution adjustment method which replenishes a medal with respect to a main hopper.

Explanation of symbols

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Medal game device, 2 ... Satellite part, 3 ... Pusher part, 4 ... Jackpot part, 5 ... Turntable part, 6 ... Rotation center unit, 8 ... Medal launcher, 10 ... Console panel (base), 12 ... medal insertion part, 14 ... medal feeding mechanism, 17 ... cup-shaped unit, 20 ... display part (display means), 21 ... payout port, 22 ... tray, 23 ... lever, 25 ... satellite hopper (medal storage means), 26 ... Speaker, 27 ... Medal transport means, 31 ... Cylindrical body, 32 ... Control rod, 33, 34 ... Opening, 35 ... Chukka, 36 ... Pusher stand, 37 ... Medal stand, 38 ... Medal collection part, 39 ... Guide flat plate, 41 ... moving target, 42 ... small target, 43 ... large target, 44 ... inhibiting part, 45 ... chucker, 46 ... lower gate part, 47 ... upper gate part, 48 ... off Mechanism: 49: Medal supply path, 51: Medal tray, 52: Round chute, 53: Medal supply device, 54: Rotary plate, 55: Base, 80: Operation table, 81: Medal supply means, 82: Medal biasing Means 83: Medal injection means 84 ... Operation means 85 ... Pedestal 86 ... First operation stand section 87 ... Second operation stand section 88 ... Support means 89 ... Medal firing drive means 91 ... Projection unit, DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 92 ... Projector apparatus, 93 ... Reflecting plate, 94 ... Elevating mechanism, 100 ... Main unit, 101 ... CPU (control means), 102 ... Memory, 103 ... Timer, 104, 105, 106, 108 ... Interface circuit, 107 ... Sound source Circuit 110 110 amplifier 200 satellite unit 201 CPU (control means) 202 memory 203, 204, 206, 208, 209 Interface circuit, 205 ... Sound source circuit, 207 ... Video display circuit, 211 ... Amplifier, 212 ... Motor, 213 ... Count sensor, 214 ... Motor, 214 ... Drive motor, 271 ... Medal guide, 272 ... Conveyance rail, 273 ... Switching flap (Switching means) 274 ... 1st conveyance path, 275 ... 2nd conveyance path, 276 ... Medal tray, 300 ... Target unit, 301 ... Sensor, 302 ... Board, 303 ... Cold cathode tube, 304 ... Light emitting element, 400 ... Jackpot unit, 401, 402 ... Motor, 403 ... Wave sensor, 404 ... Motor, 405 ... Count sensor, 406 ... Full sensor, 411, 421 ... Support rod, 422 ... Shaft, 423 ... Mounting base, 441 ... Motor, 442 ... Cam, 443 ... Cam follower, 444 ... Supporting point, 445 ... support plate, 451 ... winning opening, 452 ... sensor, 453 ... guideway, 461 ... lower gate, 462 ... axis, 462 ... upper gate, 463 ... lower gate pusher, 471 ... upper gate, 472 ... axis, 473 ... upper Gate pusher, 480 ... ramp, 481 ... guide shaft, 482a ... medal introduction part, 482 ... rail, 483 ... slope, 483a ... slope, 484 ... motor, 485 ... medal flow path, 486 ... bearing, 487 ... rotating plate, 487a ... convex portion, 488 ... locking piece, 489 ... sensor, 500 ... turntable unit, 501 ... motor, 502 ... jackpot sensor, 503 ... position sensor, 505, 507 ... ramp, 506, 508 ... drop hole, 509 ... Frame, 511 ... Opening portion, 512 ... Bottom portion, 513 ... 樋, 521 ... Opening portion, 522 ... Bottom portion, 523 ... 樋, 5 4 ... Opening, 531 ... Main hopper, 531a ... Medal amount sensor, 532 ... Medal guide, 533 ... Swing lever, 534 ... Medal exit, 600 ... Medal collection unit, 601 ... Medal supply motor, 700 ... Lighting unit, 800 ... Maintenance unit, 801 ... support shaft, 803 ... rotation center axis, 811 ... storage container (storage unit), 812 ... medal supply motor, 813 ... medal guide, 814 ... medal supply port, 815 ... rotary disc, 821 ... rotation roller , 821a, outer peripheral portion, 822, rotating roller, 823, roller drive motor, 825, setting table, 826, event, 827, rotation speed, 831, launch rail, 832, incident end, 833, medal launch port, 835, lower surface 836 ... Upper surface, 837 ... Medal sensor, 842 ... Fire button (input means), 843 Trigger sensor, 844 ... Light emitting element, 861 ... Housing, 862 ... Side wall, 863 ... Guide hole, 871 ... Housing, 872 ... Side, 873 ... Claw, 875 ... Upper surface, 876 ... Medal replenishing hole, 881 ... Locking mechanism, 891, 892 ... locus, 900 ... interface unit, 911 ... target mechanism, 911 ... projection unit, 912 ... each chucker, 913 ... opening / closing mechanism, 941 ... motor, 943 ... slider, 944 ... support arm, 944a ... support piece, 944b ... Projection, 945,946 ... Shaft, 947 ... Slide rail, 948 ... Guide, 948a ... Inclined part, 949 ... Buffer, Ka ... Base housing, Kb ... Console housing, Kc ... Upper housing, Kd ... Partition plate, M ... Medal.

Claims (6)

Medal supply means capable of storing a plurality of medals and taking out and supplying medals one by one;
A medal launch driving means for energizing the medal supplied from the medal supply means and firing the medal along the launch rail;
A medal launcher including
Medal storage means for storing a plurality of medals;
Medal transport means for transporting medals from the medal storage means to the medal launcher;
Replenishment control means for executing control for replenishing medals to the medal supply means of the medal launching apparatus via the medal conveying means in conjunction with the launch of medals by the medal launching apparatus;
Storage means for associating and storing a target to be aimed at by the player during the game and a firing speed parameter related to the firing speed of the medal fired from the medal launcher;
The firing speed parameter associated with the target determined according to the progress of the game is read from the storage means, and the firing speed of the medals launched from the medal launching device is controlled according to the read firing speed parameter. Speed control means;
Input means for the player to input instructions for launching medals;
With
The replenishment control means operates the medal supply means in response to an instruction input from the input means to supply medals one by one to the medal firing drive means, and operates the medal firing drive means to activate the launching. A medal game device for firing the medal along a rail. A first storage section for storing a plurality of medals;
A first takeout unit for taking out medals in the first storage unit one by one;
A medal supply means for supplying medals to the medal launch driving means described below,
A pair of rotating rollers that sandwich the medal supplied from the medal supply means and apply a sliding force by rotation;
Driving means for rotating the rotating roller;
A medal launch driving means for firing a medal along the launch rail;
A medal launcher including
Collecting means for collecting medals launched from the medal launching device;
Medal storage means having a second storage part for storing a plurality of medals recovered by the recovery means;
A medal transport means for transporting medals to the medal launching device, having a second take-out part for taking out medals in the second storage part one by one;
A gripping means for the player to determine the firing direction of the medal;
Input means for the player to input instructions for launching medals;
Operating means configured to be swingable in any direction up, down, left, and right by a player operating the gripping means;
The lottery game process for determining whether or not to win is executed, the number of medals that can be fired by the medal launching device is determined according to the result of the lottery game process, and the determined medal number among the medals in the first storage unit The medal is fired by the medal launching device in response to an input instruction from the input unit, and the medal launching device is linked with the medal launching by the medal launching device via the medal transporting unit. Replenishment control means for executing control for replenishing the first storage unit with the medal of
Storage means for associating and storing a target to be aimed at by the player during the game and a firing speed parameter related to the firing speed of the medal fired from the medal launcher;
The firing speed parameter associated with the target determined according to the progress of the game is read from the storage means, and the firing speed of the medals launched from the medal launching device is controlled according to the read firing speed parameter. Speed control means;
A medal game device. The medal launch drive means includes a drive motor for applying a sliding force to the medal,
The firing speed parameter is a parameter related to the rotational speed of the drive motor,
The speed control means adjusts the rotation speed of the drive motor according to the parameter relating to the rotation speed of the drive motor read from the storage means, and fires a medal;
The medal game device according to claim 1 or 2. The medal game device includes a plurality of targets,
The targets are arranged at different positions and / or heights from the medal launcher,
The firing speed parameter is set according to the distance and / or height from the medal launcher for each target.
The medal game device according to any one of claims 1 to 3. The medal supply means and the medal launch driving means are provided on an operation table pivotally supported with respect to a base.
The medal game device according to any one of claims 1 to 4. The medal conveying means is
A first transport path for transporting medals to the medal launcher;
A second conveyance path for paying out medals to the field for performing a medal pusher game;
Switching means for switching a medal transport path to either the first transport path or the second transport path;
The replenishment control means includes
In conjunction with the launch of medals by the medal launcher, the switching means is controlled to switch to the first transport path,
The medal game device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

Images