JP5373490B2 - OPERATING SWITCH FOR GAME MACHINE AND GAME MACHINE HAVING THE SAME - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an operation switch for a gaming machine and a gaming machine provided with the operation switch.

  Conventionally, in various gaming machines including a ball game machine such as a pachinko machine and an alepachi machine, and a revolving type gaming machine such as a slot machine and a pachislot machine, a liquid crystal display unit (variable display means) and a machine frame provided in the game area Display effects using light emitting units (light emitting means) such as lamps and LEDs provided on (frame), or sound effects / synthetic sounds using speakers (audio / sound output means) provided on the machine frame (frame) Sound production has been devised to increase the interest of the player and prevent the game from becoming monotonous. Furthermore, in recent years, in addition to these presentation functions provided unilaterally from the gaming machine side (that is, the gaming store side) to the player side, for example, selecting or changing the presentation display pattern based on the player's operation Some players have a player-participatory presentation function so that the game environment can be changed by the player (see Non-Patent Documents 1 and 2).

  As one type of such a player participation type production function, a so-called dial push type that allows a player to perform a rotation operation (dial operation) around the central axis and a push movement operation (push operation) in the direction of the central axis. An operation switch may be provided. For example, when the player rotates the operation switch according to the navigation display (notification display) on the display screen of the liquid crystal display unit or the operation switch, a plurality of effect display patterns (modes) displayed in a list on the liquid crystal display unit are displayed. The selected pattern can be determined by selecting and pressing a specific pattern (see Patent Documents 1 and 2). Specifically, the operation unit (operation unit) of Patent Document 1 is integrally configured by a disk that can rotate around the central axis and move in the direction of the central axis, while the operation unit of Patent Document 2 is The rotary dial and the push button that can be operated independently from each other are configured separately. By providing these operation switches, the player's interest is enhanced and the game is prevented from becoming monotonous.

Supervised by the Japan Patent Office “2006 Standard Technology Collection Amusement Machines and Related Technologies” “Part 1: Pachinko 4-3-5-1 Input Device” (published on the JPO homepage on March 14, 2007) Supervised by the Japan Patent Office “2006 Standard Technology Collection Pachislot Machines and Related Technologies” “Part 2: Pachislot 2-3-4-3 Player Participation Type”

Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2006-311905 (FIGS. 4, 5, and 16) Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2008-220763 (FIGS. 9 and 24)

  By the way, the operation switch of the gaming machine is operated for a long time during the game (even in the standby state in some cases), and further, the severe use mode in which the operation unit is continuously rotated or continuously struck. Also exposed. In contrast, in the operation switches of Patent Documents 1 and 2, a pressing operation in an inclined state is assumed, and a plurality of press detection switches are arranged along the circumferential direction so that the inclined pressing state can also be detected. Has been. Therefore, when the rotation and movement (pressing) of the operation unit are operated sequentially or simultaneously, one or both may not operate smoothly (accurate detection may not be possible). In addition, if the operation is continued for a long time, in particular, if the operation unit is continuously turned or continuously struck, malfunction or failure is likely to occur, and durability during operation becomes a problem.

  The object of the present invention is to operate smoothly even if the rotation and movement of the operation means are operated sequentially or simultaneously, and even if the operation means is continuously operated for a long time, it is less likely to cause malfunction or failure, and durability during operation. An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine operation switch excellent in performance and a gaming machine having the same.

Means for Solving the Problems and Effects of the Invention

In order to solve the above-described problems, the gaming machine operation switch of the present invention includes:
A dial push type operation switch for a gaming machine that is mounted on a gaming machine and that can be rotated and pressed according to a gaming state including a standby state in the gaming machine,
An operation part having an inner cylinder and an outer cylinder formed in a double cylinder shape, a central axis formed in a shaft shape inside the inner cylinder, and a sleeve-like cylinder in which the central axis is inserted and integrated and a section, and movement and capable operating means for rotating the central axis line direction around the central axis by manual operation for the operation unit,
A cylindrical portion for holding (or pivotally supporting) the central axis rotatably is formed, and (for example, a pair of) rotation detection means for detecting the rotation of the central axis (for example, in the radial direction) An inner region), a holder that is not rotatable about the central axis, and is arranged in a movable manner in the central axis direction based on a moving operation of the operating means;
At least the central axis and cylindrical part of the operation means and the holding body are accommodated, and (for example, a single) movement detection means for detecting the movement of the central axis and the cylindrical part is provided inside, and the center A case body fixed to the gaming machine in a form incapable of rotating around the axis and moving in the direction of the central axis,
By rotating the operation portion of the operation means around the central axis, the central axis and the cylindrical portion of the operation means rotate while being held by the holding body, and the rotation of the central axis and the cylindrical portion is the rotation. While detected by the detection means,
By moving the operation portion of the operation means in the central axis direction, the central axis and the cylindrical portion of the operation means and the holding body move integrally in the central axis direction inside the case body. The movement of the central axis and the cylindrical portion is detected by the movement detecting means ,
In order to hold the central axis and the cylindrical portion of the operating means on the holding body, a radial load accompanying the rotation of the operating means around the central axis and the direction of the central axis of the operating means and the holding body The outer ring of the rolling bearing having a load capacity against the axial load accompanying the movement of is inserted and held,
The outer diameter of the rolling bearing is formed larger than the outer diameter of the cylindrical portion of the operating means .

  As described above, the holding means (for example, a bearing holder) that rotatably holds the central axis of the operation means (for example, the dial push knob) and moves in the direction of the central axis integrally with the central axis is provided. Therefore, even if the rotation of the operation means and the movement of the operation means and the holding body are operated sequentially or simultaneously, both the detection means (for example, Accurate detection by a photo sensor becomes possible. In addition, even if the operating means is operated continuously for a long time, especially when the operating means is kept rotating or continuously hit, it is unlikely to cause malfunction or failure, and durability during operation is improved (durable and long life). . For example, when the entire holding body is integrally formed of a polymer material, the cylindrical portion or the shaft-like portion that is a bearing portion for holding the central shaft is made of a synthetic resin (polyacetal having excellent lubricity and wear resistance) It is formed as a resin bearing made of resin (POM), fluorine-containing polycarbonate resin (PC) or the like).

  In addition, the operation switch includes a rotatable and movable operating means, a non-rotatable and movable holding body, and a non-rotatable and non-movable case body, and is held by a rotation detecting means (for example, a pair of photosensors). The movement detection means (for example, a single photo sensor) is disposed inside the case body (for example, a fixed case). Therefore, both detection means can be arranged close to the center axis line after being separated in the direction of the center axis line, and the operation switch can be downsized and compacted (slimmed). As a result, when the operating means is rotated around the central axis, the central axis of the operating means rotates smoothly while being held by the holding body, and is detected with high accuracy by the rotation detecting means. On the other hand, when the operating means is moved in the direction of the central axis, the central axis of the operating means and the holding body smoothly move integrally in the direction of the central axis, and are detected with high accuracy by the movement detecting means.

In addition, the following angle / displacement sensors can be used as the rotation detection means and the movement detection means.
(1) Non-contact sensor: photo sensor, laser sensor, proximity switch, rotary encoder [linear encoder], etc .;
(2) Contact sensor: Potentiometer, micro switch, etc.

Further, in order to hold the central axis, the holding body has a radial load accompanying rotation around the central axis of the operating means and an axial load accompanying movement of the operating means and the holding body in the central axis direction. Rolling bearings with load capacity are provided,
It is desirable that the rotation detection means is disposed on the operation means side in the central axis direction when viewed from the rolling bearing, while the movement detection means is also disposed on the opposite side of the operation means.

  As a result, the rotation detection means and the movement detection means are arranged in a distributed manner in the direction of the central axis across the rolling bearing, so that the operation means can be continuously rotated with light load (jog dialing) like a roulette. In addition, both the detection error of the rotation amount and the movement amount can be reduced (detection accuracy is improved). Therefore, even if the operation means is continuously operated over a long period of time, especially when the operation means is continuously rotated or continuously struck, the detection error does not increase (detection accuracy decreases), and rotation and movement can be detected stably.

For example, the following bearings can be recommended as rolling bearings having load capacity for radial loads and bidirectional axial loads.
(1) Deep groove ball bearings;
(2) Angular contact ball bearings (double row or combination);
(3) 4-point contact ball bearings;
(4) Tapered roller bearing (double row);
(5) Cylindrical roller bearing (NUP type or NH type);
(6) Self-aligning ball bearings;
(7) Spherical roller bearing.

For example, the rotation detecting means is mounted on a holder wiring board fixed to the holder,
In the operation means or a member that rotates integrally therewith, a rotation detected part that is detected by the rotation detection means may be formed in the central axis direction.

  As described above, the rotation detection means is mounted on the holding body wiring board (for example, the photosensor is erected and fixed), and the rotation detection portion is formed on the operation means side (for example, the rotation protrusion is held from the surface facing the holding body wiring board). Therefore, it is possible to simplify the mounting of the rotation detecting means and the rotation detected portion, and to reduce the number of mounting parts and mounting man-hours. Examples of the member that rotates integrally with the operating means include a diffusing and transmitting member (for example, a diffusing lens) for irradiating the operating means with light.

Specifically, the holding body wiring board is a light emitting board on which light emitting means for irradiating the operation means is mounted,
Between the operation means and the light emitting substrate, a diffusion transmission member that rotates integrally with the operation means is disposed in order to diffuse and reach the operation means while transmitting light from the light emission means,
The rotation detected part can be constituted by a rotation protrusion formed integrally and projecting from the diffusing and transmitting member toward the light emitting substrate.

  As described above, the rotation detecting means (for example, a photosensor) and the light emitting means (for example, a light emitting element) are mounted on the light emitting substrate, and the rotation protrusion is formed to protrude on the diffusion transmitting member (for example, the diffusion lens). The operation switch can be made more compact and compact, and the cost can be reduced by reducing the number of parts.

Further, in the case where a plurality of light emitters surround the central axis and adopt light emitting means arranged in an annular shape along the circumferential direction,
The rotation detecting means is constituted by a photo sensor that optically detects the passage of the rotating protrusion accompanying the rotation of the diffusing and transmitting member,
The diffusion transmission member is formed with a light shielding wall located between the photosensor and the plurality of light emitters and surrounding the central axis in an annular shape so as to project integrally and continuously in the circumferential direction toward the light emitting substrate. Also good.

  By arranging a plurality of light emitters (e.g., light emitting elements), an effect display pattern (mode) in the operation means can be diversified, and a light shielding wall for blocking light from the light emitters from reaching the photosensor. By installation, it is possible to easily prevent erroneous detection of rotating protrusions in the photosensor. In the case where a plurality of light emitters are arranged radially outward from the photosensor, the light shielding wall formed integrally with the diffuse transmission member is radially outward from the photosensor and has a radius greater than that of the light emitter. It will be located inside the direction. In such a case, in order to diffuse light from a plurality of light emitters (light emitting means) while diffusing the light to reach the operating means, a non-translucent and perforated reflector is used as the second diffusion transmitting member. It can be used with a diffusing lens.

On the other hand, the movement detection means is mounted on a case body wiring board fixed to the case body,
In the holding body or a member integrally fixed thereto, there may be a case in which a movement detected portion that is detected by movement detection means is formed in the central axis direction.

  In this way, the movement detection means is mounted on the case wiring board (for example, electrically connected to the holding body wiring board) (for example, the photosensor is erected and fixed), and the moving detection portion is formed on the holding body side ( For example, the moving projection is formed to protrude from the surface facing the case body wiring board toward the case body wiring board), so that the mounting of the movement detecting means and the moving detected part is simplified, and the mounting parts and mounting man-hours are reduced. Can be reduced. Examples of the member integrally fixed to the holding body include a moving case (for example, a holder case) that houses the holding body and moves in the central axis direction together with the holding body.

  In addition, a sound generation mechanism that generates intermittent or continuous sound with rotation of the operation means can be disposed between the holding body and the central axis of the operation means and in the vicinity of the rolling bearing.

  In this way, by arranging the sound generation mechanism in the vicinity of the rolling bearing, sound is generated during light load continuous rotation (jog dialing) of the operation means to give the player an interest and exhilaration for the game. be able to.

Specifically, the sound generating mechanism is configured such that when the central axis or a member that rotates integrally therewith is a rotating moving body, and the holding body or a member that is integrally fixed thereto is a non-rotating moving body, the rotating moving body and the non-rotating body A plurality of hit portions (for example, standing pins) disposed on either one of the moving body, and a single striking portion (for example, a leaf spring) disposed on the other,
The plurality of hit portions are intermittently arranged along the circumferential direction in a form surrounding the central axis in an annular shape,
The single striking part is extended in the radial direction (for example, the inner side) intersecting (for example, orthogonal to) the central axis (for example, from the peripheral wall side of the holding body), and elastically deforms and is elastic when contacted with the striking part. Generates intermittent sound by returning elastically after generating force,
The operating means or a member that rotates integrally with the operating means is intermittently provided along the circumferential direction in the form surrounding the central axis in a ring shape with the same number of rotation projections as the rotation-detected parts that are detected by the rotation detecting means. Can be arranged.

  As a result, when the operation means is continuously rotated with light load (jog dialing), the rotation amount detection and the sound generation are performed in the same cycle, so that the production mode selection timing and the sound generation timing can be associated with each other. In addition, when the rotating projection and the hit part are synchronously arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction, when the operating means is continuously rotated with light load (jog dialing), the rotation amount detection and sound generation are simultaneously performed at equal intervals. Since it is performed, the production mode selection timing and the sound generation timing can be synchronized (tuned).

  Further, the case body or a member integrally fixed to the case body accommodates bending generated in the wiring connecting the holding body wiring board and the case body wiring board as the holding body moves in the central axis direction. A wiring accommodating part may be formed.

  In this way, the wiring flexure (extension / contraction) caused by the movement of the holding body in the direction of the central axis can be absorbed by the wiring housing portion formed inside the case body, so that the outside of the case body can be bypassed and bridged. However, wiring connection can be made between both wiring boards. Therefore, even in a severe usage mode in which the operation means is continuously hit, the wiring is less likely to be damaged by being entangled with each other or caught on another object. An example of the member integrally fixed to the case body is a lid body for closing the case body.

Therefore, in order to solve the above problems, the gaming machine of the present invention is:
The gaming machine operation switch as described above can rotate around the central axis and move in the direction of the central axis by an artificial operation executed in accordance with a gaming state including a standby state. It is characterized by being mounted in various forms.

  In this way, it can operate smoothly for both the rotation operation of the operation means and the movement operation of the operation means and the holding body, and even if the operation means is continuously operated over a long period of time, it is less likely to cause malfunction or failure. By providing an operation switch with excellent durability, the reliability of the gaming machine can be further increased.

  Note that the gaming machine of the present invention includes (1) a ball game machine such as a pachinko machine, (2) a revolving game machine such as a slot machine or a pachislot machine, (3) a poker game machine, a sparrow ball game machine, etc. Various game machines, etc. are included.

The perspective view which illustrates the pachinko machine provided with the operation switch concerning the present invention. The whole perspective view which shows an example of the operation switch which concerns on this invention. The top view and front view of the operation switch of FIG. The center sectional view which decomposes | disassembles and shows the operation switch of FIG. 2 to an upper unit and a lower unit. The perspective view which decomposes | disassembles and shows the upper unit of FIG. The perspective view which decomposes | disassembles and shows a lower unit from the operation switch of FIG. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA of the operation switch illustrated in FIG. BB sectional drawing of the operation switch shown to Fig.3 (a). CC sectional drawing of the operation switch shown to Fig.3 (a). The top view explaining rotation operation of a dial pushknob. The top view explaining a sound generation mechanism. Sectional drawing explaining pressing operation of a dial pushknob. The perspective view which partially decomposes and shows other examples of the operation switch which concerns on this invention. Sectional drawing of the upper unit of FIG.

Example 1
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a pachinko machine equipped with an operation switch for gaming machines (hereinafter also simply referred to as an operation switch) according to the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, a pachinko machine 1 (game machine) is provided with a game board 2, and a game area 2 a is formed on the board surface on the front side (side facing the player). A liquid crystal display unit 3 is mounted almost at the center of the game board 2 (game area 2a), and a role such as a start opening composed of a big prize opening (attacker) and an electric tulip (electric Chu) is provided in the vicinity thereof. Objects, obstacle nails, windmills, etc. (none of which are shown) are arranged.

  The game board 2 is fixed to the inner frame 4 and supported by a hinge (not shown) so as to be capable of rotating and opening with respect to the outer frame 5. The game board 2 is covered with a glass plate (not shown) located on the front side (player side), the glass plate is fixed to the front frame 6 (glass frame), and the front frame 6 is hinged (not shown). ) So as to be capable of rotating and opening with respect to the inner frame 4. The outer frame 5 is supported by a hinge 5a so as to be capable of rotating and opening with respect to a fixed frame (not shown). Furthermore, at the lower part of the inner frame 4, a ball tray 7 for storing a game ball for launching is extended in the left-right direction so as to bulge forward, and on the lower right side of the inner frame 4 A launching handle 8 for launching the game ball supplied from the ball receiving tray 7 to the game area 2a is formed to project forward.

  In the liquid crystal display unit 3, whether the pachinko machine 1 is in a gaming state (a state in which a game ball is being launched into the gaming area 2a by the launching handle 8) or in a standby state (a state in which no gaming ball is being launched) Regardless of this, various effects can be displayed. Then, at the center front end portion of the ball tray 7, for example, when a player operates according to navigation display (notification display) on the display screen of the liquid crystal display unit 3, a specific display pattern (mode) is selected from among a plurality of effect display patterns (modes). An operation switch 100 capable of selecting and determining a pattern is provided. The operation switch 100 has a center axis O in the up and down direction, and is capable of a rotation operation (dial operation) around the center axis O and a push movement operation (push operation) in the direction of the center axis O by the player. It is configured as a dial push type.

  In the present specification, the vertical direction means the direction (for example, the vertical direction) in which the game ball flows down along the board surface of the game board 2. Further, the left-right direction means a direction (for example, a horizontal direction) intersecting with the up-down direction in a form along the board surface of the game board 2, and means the left side and the right side when viewed from the player side. Further, the front-rear direction means a direction intersecting (for example, orthogonal) with the game board 2, the side (front side) facing the player is the front side (front side), and the opposite side (back side) is It is the rear side (rear side).

  2 is an overall perspective view showing an example of the operation switch according to the present invention, FIG. 3 is a plan view and a front view, FIG. 4 is an exploded central view showing an upper unit and a lower unit, and FIG. FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the lower unit. 7 is an AA sectional view in the plan view of FIG. 3, FIG. 8 is also a BB sectional view, and FIG. 9 is a CC sectional view. As shown in FIGS. 2 to 4, the operation switch 100 includes an upper unit 10 that can move in the direction of the central axis O (vertical direction) as a whole, and an upward elastic force (biasing force) with respect to the upper unit 10. ) And a lower unit 30 which houses the upper unit 10 and the compression coil spring 20 and is fixedly disposed on the ball tray 7 (see FIG. 1). ing.

  As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the upper unit 10 has a dial push knob 11 (operation means) and a diffusion that can rotate around the central axis O and move in the direction of the central axis O as main components. Bearing holder 13 (holding body), outer ring retainer 15 and light-emitting substrate 16 (non-rotatable around central axis O and movable in the direction of central axis O). A holder wiring board) and a holder case 17 (moving case). Reference numeral 14 denotes a rolling bearing for holding (pivotally supporting) the dial push knob 11 so as to be rotatable around the central axis O. The outer ring is integrated with the bearing holder 13 and the inner ring is integrated with the dial push knob 11. Yes. In other words, the annular outer ring retainer 15 that holds the outer ring of the rolling bearing 14 from above is fixed to the bearing holder 13 by a plurality of (for example, three) screws 15a (fastening members).

  On the other hand, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 6, the lower unit 30 includes, as main components, a fixed case 31 (case body) that cannot rotate around the central axis O and cannot move in the direction of the central axis O. It has a lid 32 and a relay board 33 (case body wiring board). As shown in FIG. 8, the compression coil spring 20 is interposed between the bottom wall of the holder case 17 and the bottom wall of the fixed case 31 and is pressed downward along the center axis O. It functions as a return spring for pushing back 10 upward.

  As shown in FIG. 4 (and FIG. 7), the dial push knob 11 of the upper unit 10 is a hollow circular shaft-shaped central shaft 11b that extends downward from the center of the operation portion 11a that is formed in a double cylindrical shape and opens downward. Is inserted into the cylindrical portion of the sleeve-shaped relay central shaft 11c, the flange portion of the relay central shaft 11c is seated on the cylindrical tip central shaft 11d, and the screw 11e passing through these three central shafts 11b, 11c, 11d. It is integrated by (fastening member). At this time, a disc-shaped diffusion lens 12 is disposed between the operation portion 11 a of the dial push knob 11 and the light emitting substrate 16, and the central axis 11 b is formed in a sliding fixing hole 12 b formed at the center of the diffusion lens 12. It is inserted (slided) and fixed by being sandwiched between the operation portion 11a and the relay center shaft 11c (see FIG. 9). As a result, the player operates the operation unit 11a to rotate the dial push knob 11 around the central axis O (center axes 11b, 11c, 11d) or move (press) the dial push knob 11 in the direction of the central axis O. Can do. The diffusing lens 12 rotates and moves integrally with the dial push knob 11 and transmits light from a plurality of (for example, three) light emitting elements 16b (light emitting bodies; light emitting means) mounted on the upper surface of the light emitting substrate 16. While diffusing, it reaches the operation unit 11a.

  The bearing holder 13 is formed in a bottomed cylindrical shape that opens upward in order to rotatably hold (axially support) the tip center shaft 11d, and the outer ring of the rolling bearing 14 is fitted and held on the inner surface of the peripheral wall (tubular portion). The outer ring presser 15 presses and fixes the outer ring from above. Further, a center hole 11 a that is fitted and held in the inner ring of the rolling bearing 14 is supported by a bottom hole 13 a that is formed through the bottom wall of the bearing holder 13.

  The rolling bearing 14 includes a radial load associated with rotation around the central axis O of the dial push knob 11 and the diffusion lens 12, the dial push knob 11, the diffusion lens 12, the bearing holder 13, the outer ring presser 15, the light emitting substrate 16, A member having a load capability (for example, a deep groove ball bearing) with respect to an axial load in the vertical direction (bidirectional) accompanying the movement of the holder case 17 in the direction of the central axis O is selected. As a result, the operation portion 11a can be continuously rotated (jog dialing) like a roulette, and even if the operation portion 11a is continuously rotated or struck for a long time, malfunction or failure is unlikely to occur. Durability during operation is improved.

  As shown in FIG. 10, the disc-shaped light emitting substrate 16 is formed to penetrate the center portion in a form that covers the upper end opening of the bearing holder 13 horizontally above the rolling bearing 14 (on the operation portion 11 a side). The central shaft 11b and the relay central shaft 11c are inserted into the through-hole 16c (see FIG. 5) and fixed to the bearing holder 13 by a plurality of (for example, two) screws 16d (fastening members; see FIG. 5). A pair of upper photosensors for detecting the rotation of the dial push knob 11 (center shafts 11b, 11c, 11d) on the upper surface of the light emitting substrate 16 and inside the peripheral wall of the bearing holder 13 (inner radial region). 16a, 16a (rotation detection means) are mounted (fixed upright). On the lower surface of the diffusing lens 12, a plurality of (for example, nine) rotation protrusions 12 a (rotation detected portions) whose rotation is detected by the upper photosensor 16 a are formed to protrude toward the light emitting substrate 16 (in the direction of the central axis O) ( (Integral molding). Each of the upper photosensors 16a and 16a optically detects the passing order and the passing time interval of the rotating protrusions 12a accompanying the rotation of the dial push knob 11 (diffusing lens 12), so that the dial push knob 11 (diffusing lens) is detected. 12) Rotational direction (clockwise or counterclockwise) and rotational speed (angular speed) can be detected.

  Specifically, the rotating protrusion 12a and the light emitting element 16b are intermittently arranged at equal intervals along the circumferential direction in a form surrounding the central axis O in an annular shape with substantially the same diameter. The number (9) of the rotating protrusions 12a is set to a multiple (integer multiple) of the number (3) of the light emitting elements 16b. That is, the included angle (120 °) of the adjacent light emitting elements 16b, 16b is set to a multiple (integer multiple) of the included angle (40 °) of the adjacent rotating protrusions 12a, 12a. Further, the included angle (for example, 100 °) of the pair of upper photosensors 16a, 16a is set to be larger than the included angle (40 °) of the adjacent rotating protrusions 12a, 12a and not to be a multiple thereof. . Accordingly, since the pair of upper photosensors 16a and 16a do not detect different rotation protrusions 12a and 12a at the same time, it is very easy to detect the rotation direction. Further, since the positional relationship between the light emitting element 16b and the rotating protrusion 12a when the upper photosensor 16a detects the rotating protrusion 12a is constant (does not change), the rotating protrusion 12a and the light emitting element 16b are on the same circumference. Even if it is disposed, it is difficult to erroneously detect light from the light emitting element 16b.

  Returning to FIG. 4 (and FIG. 7), the holder case 17 is formed in a bottomed cylindrical shape that opens upward, accommodates the bearing holder 13 therein, and a plurality (for example, three) of the holder case 17 from the outside (lower side) of the bottom wall. ) 13b (fastening member; see FIG. 5). As a result, the holder case 17 moves in the direction of the central axis O together with the bearing holder 13.

  As shown in FIGS. 6 and 8, the fixed case 31 of the lower unit 30 is formed in a bottomed cylindrical shape that opens upward, and the upper unit excluding the compression coil spring 20 and the operation portion 11a of the dial push knob 11 described above. 10 are housed inside. A plurality of (for example, two) fixed claws 31a (fixed convex portions) are formed to protrude radially outward at the lower end portion of the peripheral wall extending further downward from the bottom wall of the fixed case 31. On the other hand, a plurality of (for example, two) fixing grooves 32 a (fixed recesses) are erected on the peripheral edge of the lid 32. The cover 32 is fixed to the lower side of the fixed case 31 by fitting the fixed groove 32a of the cover 32 to the fixed claw 31a of the fixed case 31. At this time, the pseudo-rectangular relay substrate 33 is sandwiched and fixed horizontally between the bottom wall of the fixed case 31 and the lid body 32 below the rolling bearing 14 (on the side opposite to the operation portion 11a).

  As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the dial push knob 11 (center shafts 11b, 11c, 11d) is formed on the upper surface of the relay board 33 and in the vicinity of the wiring insertion hole 33b formed so as to include the center axis O. A single lower photosensor 33a (movement detecting means) is mounted (fixed upright). On the lower surface of the bottom wall of the holder case 17 in the vicinity of the central axis O, a single moving projection 17a (moving detected part) detected by the lower photosensor 33a faces the relay substrate 33 (in the direction of the central axis O). ) Projection formation (integral molding). When the lower photosensor 33a optically detects the moving protrusion 17a, the pressing movement of the upper unit 10 including the dial push knob 11 (center axes 11b, 11c, 11d) can be detected (see FIG. 12). The moving projection 17 a of the holder case 17 is inserted through the moving hole 31 c formed through the bottom wall of the fixed case 31 and the compression coil spring 20.

  The lid 32 accommodates the deflection generated in the wiring W that electrically connects the light emitting substrate 16 and the relay substrate 33 as the holder case 17 (bearing holder 13) moves in the direction of the central axis O. In addition, a bulging portion 32b (wiring accommodating portion) bulging downward (outside) in a hemispherical shape is formed (see FIG. 12). Note that a wiring insertion hole 33 b for inserting the wiring W is formed through the relay substrate 33. The wiring W can be smoothly curved along the inner surface of the bulging portion 32b by way of the wiring insertion hole 33b, and the bending of the wiring W between the substrates 16 and 33 can be prevented.

  As shown in FIGS. 6 and 9, a plurality of (for example, two) slide claws 17 b (guide protrusions) are formed to protrude outward in the radial direction from the bottom surface of the bottom wall of the holder case 17. On the other hand, a plurality of (for example, two) slide grooves 31b (guide recesses) are formed in the vertical direction (center axis O direction) on the inner peripheral surface of the peripheral wall extending further downward from the bottom wall of the fixed case 31. Yes. When the dial push knob 11 (operation portion 11a) is pressed by engaging the slide claw 17b of the holder case 17 and the slide groove 31b of the fixed case 31, the slide claw 17b moves up and down along the slide groove 31b. .

  As shown in FIGS. 5, 7 and 11, between the bearing holder 13 and the dial push knob 11 (relay center shaft 11c) and in the vicinity of the rolling bearing 14, the dial push knob 11 (center shaft 11b, 11c, 11d) is provided with a sound generating mechanism 40 that generates intermittent sound with rotation. The sound generating mechanism 40 includes a plurality of (for example, nine as many as the rotating projections 12 a) standing pins 41 (struck part) disposed on the relay center shaft 11 c and a single leaf spring disposed on the bearing holder 13. 42 (striking part).

  Specifically, the upright pins 41 are formed to protrude upward in a form surrounding the central axis O in an annular shape at the flange portion of the relay center shaft 11c, and are intermittently arranged at equal intervals along the circumferential direction. Yes. In the bearing holder 13, the leaf spring 42 extends from the peripheral wall side of the bearing holder 13 to the inside in the radial direction intersecting (for example, orthogonal to) the central axis O. As a result, the leaf spring 42 is elastically deformed when it abuts (contacts) with the upright pin 41 to generate an elastic force, and then elastically returns to generate intermittent sound. Therefore, when the upright pins 41 and the rotating projections 12a have the same number (for example, nine) and are synchronously arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction, the dial push knob 11 (operation unit 11a) is rotated continuously with a light load (jog diamond). Ring), the rotation amount detection by the upper photo sensor 16a and the sound generation by the sound generation mechanism 40 are simultaneously performed at equal intervals, so that the production mode selection timing and the sound generation timing can be synchronized (tuned). it can.

  The operation (operation) of the operation switch 100 configured as described above will be mainly described with reference to FIGS.

<Rotation operation around the central axis O> (FIGS. 10 and 11)
When the player rotates the operation portion 11a of the dial push knob 11 around the center axis O, the dial push knob 11 (center shafts 11b, 11c, 11d) rotates while being held by the bearing holder 13 (rolling bearing 14). When the upper photo sensor 16a detects the rotation protrusion 12a, the rotation direction and rotation speed of the dial push knob 11 (center shafts 11b, 11c, 11d) are detected. Further, in synchronization with the detection of the rotating protrusion 12a by the upper photo sensor 16a, a hitting sound of the standing pin 41 by the leaf spring 42 is generated.

<Movement operation in the direction of the central axis O> (FIGS. 7 and 12)
When the player presses the operation portion 11a of the dial push knob 11 in the direction of the central axis O, the upper unit 10 (that is, the dial push knob 11, the diffusing lens 12, the bearing holder 13, the rolling bearing 14, the outer ring retainer 15, the light emitting substrate). 16, the holder case 17) moves as a whole in the direction of the central axis O while compressing the compression coil spring 20 against its elastic force. When the lower photo sensor 33a detects the moving protrusion 17a, the downward movement of the dial push knob 11 (upper unit 10) is detected. When the player interrupts the pressing operation of the operation portion 11a, the upper unit 10 returns to the original raised position by the elastic force of the compression coil spring 20, and the lower photosensor 33a does not detect the moving protrusion 17a.

  The operation switch 100 (operation unit 11a) can be operated regardless of a game state or a standby state, and it is also possible to use a rotation operation and a press (movement) operation in various ways. An example of how the operation switch 100 is used is shown in Table 1.

(A) Rotation Operation + Press Operation For example, a menu selection screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 3, menu selection is performed by rotating the operation unit 11a according to the screen display, and determination is performed by pressing the operation unit 11a. be able to. Different effects may be used, such as selection / determination of the effect display pattern in the gaming state and selection / determination of the character in the standby state.

(B) Only rotation operation For example, a roulette screen can be displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 3, and a pseudo experience of roulette can be performed by rotating the operation unit 11a while viewing the screen. It may be used properly so that the roulette result is reflected in the game in the game state and the free game can be enjoyed in the standby state.

(C) Only pressing operation For example, in the gaming state, an instruction screen such as “Press!” Can be displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 3, and the operation unit 11a can be continuously hit (continuous pressing operation) according to the screen display.

  When the rotation operation and the pressing operation can be performed as shown in (A) of Table 1, when the rotation and the pressing are operated almost at the same time, the priority is given in advance, or the priority order is determined in advance. Both are possible.

  As a usage mode other than Table 1, “pushing and turning” (pressing operation and then rotating operation) is also possible. For example, the operation procedure can be simplified when the pressing state is maintained by the operation of the latch mechanism when the pressing operation is performed and the rotation operation is enabled only in the pressing state.

  In this way, since both the photosensors 16a and 33a are arranged in a distributed manner in the center axis O direction across the rolling bearing 14, the light load continuous rotation (jog dialing) of the operation portion 11a is performed like a roulette. In addition, the detection error of the rotation amount and the movement amount can both be reduced (detection accuracy can be improved). Accordingly, even if the operation unit 11a is continuously rotated or struck for a long time, malfunction or failure hardly occurs, and durability during operation is improved.

(Example 2)
FIG. 13 is a partially exploded perspective view showing another example of an operation switch for gaming machines (hereinafter also simply referred to as an operation switch) according to the present invention, and FIG. 14 is a sectional view of the upper unit. In the upper unit 10 of the operation switch 200 shown in FIG. 13, a large number (for example, 10) of light emitting elements 16b (light emitting bodies; light emitting means) are arranged radially outward from the upper photosensor 16a (rotation detecting means). .

  Accordingly, the diffusion lens 12 (diffuse transmission member) emits light from the light shielding wall 12c located between the upper photosensor 16a (rotation detecting means) and each light emitting element 16b and surrounding the central axis O in an annular shape. It projects integrally and continuously along the circumferential direction toward the substrate 16 (holding body wiring substrate). Therefore, the light shielding wall 12c is located radially outside the upper photosensor 16a and radially inside the light emitting element 16b.

  In this way, by arranging a large number of light emitting elements 16b, it is possible to block the light from the light emitting elements 16b from reaching the upper photosensor 16a while diversifying the effect display pattern (mode) in the operation unit 11a. By installing the light shielding wall 12c, it is possible to easily prevent erroneous detection of the rotation protrusion 12a (rotation detected portion) in the upper photosensor 16a.

  In addition, in order to diffuse and transmit the light from the light emitting element 16b to reach the operation portion 11a, a taper is formed between the diffusion lens 12 and the light emitting substrate 16 so as to penetrate in the direction of the central axis O and expand upward. A non-translucent reflector 112 (second diffuse transmission member) having a plurality of (for example, ten) window holes 112a including a surface is provided. The diffuser lens 12 has a plurality of (for example, ten) partition walls projecting radially outward from the light shielding wall 12c to form the same number of window holes 12d as the window holes 112a of the reflector 112. ing. Both the window holes 112a and 12d are arranged in parallel in the direction of the central axis O in a shape corresponding to each light emitting element 16b, and the tapered surface of the window hole 112a on the reflector 112 side is plated by vapor deposition or the like. The illuminance of the operation unit 11a is improved. In this case, since the light emitting element 16b can be arranged corresponding to the window holes 112a and 12d, the light emission pattern (effect display pattern) can be obtained by changing the light emission mode (light emission color, lighting state, etc.) for each of the window holes 112a and 12d. ) Can be diversified.

  In addition, in Example 2 (FIG. 13, FIG. 14), the part which has the same function as Example 1 (FIGS. 2-12) was attached | subjected, and description was abbreviate | omitted.

  In the above embodiment, only the case where the operation switches 100 and 200 are attached to the ball tray 7 of the pachinko machine 1 has been described, but the operation switches 100 and 200 may be attached to other parts. At that time, the central axis O direction may be set to other than the vertical direction. Moreover, although it demonstrated only about the case where it attaches to a pachinko machine, you may attach to other round ball game machines, such as an Ale-Pachi machine, and a revolving type game machine, such as a slot machine and a pachislot machine.

1 Pachinko machine (game machine)
2 game board 2a game area 3 liquid crystal display 4 inner frame 5 outer frame 5a hinge 6 front frame (glass frame)
7 Ball tray 8 Launch handle 10 Upper unit 11 Dial push knob (operating means)
11a Operation unit 11b Center axis 11c Relay center axis 11d Tip center axis 12 Diffusion lens (diffuse transmission member)
12a Rotation protrusion (Rotation detected part)
12b Sliding fixing hole 13 Bearing holder (holding body)
13a Bottom hole 14 Rolling bearing 15 Outer ring retainer 16 Light emitting substrate (holding body wiring substrate)
16a Upper photo sensor (rotation detection means)
16b Light emitting element (light emitting body; light emitting means)
16c Through hole 17 Holder case (moving case)
17a Moving protrusion (moving detected part)
17b Slide claw (guide protrusion)
20 Compression coil spring (return spring; bullet piece)
30 Lower unit 31 Fixed case (case body)
31a Fixed claw (fixed convex part)
31b Slide groove (guide recess)
31c Moving hole 32 Lid 32a Fixed groove (fixed recess)
32b bulge part (wiring housing part)
33 Relay board (case body wiring board)
33a Lower photo sensor (movement detection means)
33b Wiring insertion hole 40 Sound generation mechanism 41 Standing pin (struck part)
42 Leaf spring (striking part)
100 operation switch (operating switch for gaming machine)
O Center axis W Wiring

Claims (9)

A dial push type operation switch for a gaming machine that is mounted on a gaming machine and that can be rotated and pressed according to a gaming state including a standby state in the gaming machine,
An operation part having an inner cylinder and an outer cylinder formed in a double cylinder shape, a central axis formed in a shaft shape inside the inner cylinder, and a sleeve-like cylinder in which the central axis is inserted and integrated and a section, and movement and capable operating means for rotating the central axis line direction around the central axis by manual operation for the operation unit,
A cylindrical portion is formed to hold the central shaft so as to be rotatable, and has a rotation detecting means for detecting the rotation of the central shaft, and is unable to rotate around the central axis, and the operating means A holding body arranged in a movable form in the direction of the central axis based on the movement operation of
At least the central axis and cylindrical part of the operating means and the holding body are accommodated, and movement detection means for detecting the movement of the central axis and the cylindrical part is included therein, and rotation around the central axis is impossible. And a case body fixed to the gaming machine in a form incapable of moving in the central axis direction,
By rotating the operation portion of the operation means around the central axis, the central axis and the cylindrical portion of the operation means rotate while being held by the holding body, and the rotation of the central axis and the cylindrical portion is the rotation. While detected by the detection means,
By moving the operation portion of the operation means in the central axis direction, the central axis and the cylindrical portion of the operation means and the holding body move integrally in the central axis direction inside the case body. The movement of the central axis and the cylindrical portion is detected by the movement detecting means ,
In order to hold the central axis and the cylindrical portion of the operating means on the holding body, a radial load accompanying the rotation of the operating means around the central axis and the direction of the central axis of the operating means and the holding body The outer ring of the rolling bearing having a load capacity against the axial load accompanying the movement of is inserted and held,
An operating switch for a gaming machine , wherein the outer diameter of the rolling bearing is formed larger than the outer diameter of the cylindrical portion of the operating means . The rotation detection means is mounted on a holder wiring board fixed to the holder,
The gaming machine operation switch according to claim 1 , wherein a rotation detected portion that is rotation-detected by the rotation detection unit is formed to protrude in the central axis direction on the operation unit or a member that rotates integrally therewith. The holding body wiring board is a light emitting board on which a light emitting means for irradiating the operation means is mounted,
Between the operation means and the light emitting substrate, there is disposed a diffusive transmission member that rotates integrally with the operation means in order to diffuse and transmit the light from the light emission means to reach the operation means. Item 3. A game machine operation switch according to Item 2 . The light emitting means is annularly arranged along a circumferential direction in a form in which a plurality of light emitters surround the central axis.
The rotation detection means is constituted by a photosensor that optically detects passage of the rotation detected part accompanying rotation of the diffuse transmission member,
4. The gaming machine operation switch according to claim 3 , wherein a light shielding wall that annularly and continuously surrounds the central axis is disposed between the photosensor and the plurality of light emitters. 5. The movement detection means is mounted on a case body wiring board fixed to the case body,
The game according to any one of claims 2 to 4 , wherein a movement detected portion that is detected by the movement detection means is formed in the central axis direction on the holding body or a member integrally fixed thereto. Machine operation switch. The case body or a member integrally fixed to the case body accommodates the deflection generated in the wiring connecting the holding body wiring board and the case body wiring board as the holding body moves in the central axis direction. The gaming machine operation switch according to claim 5 , wherein a wiring housing portion is formed. Between the center axis of said operating means and said holding body, any one of from the sound generating mechanism resulting in intermittent or continuous sound with rotation of said operating means claims 1 is located 6 The operation switch for gaming machines described in 1. The sound generating mechanism is configured such that when the central shaft or a member that rotates integrally therewith is a rotating moving body, and the holding body or a member that is integrally fixed thereto is a non-rotating moving body, the rotating moving body and the non-rotating moving body Including a plurality of hit parts arranged in one of the two, and a single hit part arranged in the other,
The plurality of hit portions are intermittently arranged along the circumferential direction in a form surrounding the central axis in a ring shape,
The single striking portion extends in a radial direction intersecting the central axis, and is elastically deformed when it comes into contact with the striking portion to generate a resilient force, and then returns to elasticity, thereby intermittent sound. Occur and
In the operation means or the member that rotates integrally therewith, the number of rotation detected parts detected by the rotation detecting means is the same as the number of the hit parts, and surrounds the central axis in a ring shape along the circumferential direction. The operation switch for gaming machines according to claim 7 , which is intermittently arranged. The gaming machine operation switch according to any one of claims 1 to 8 , wherein the operation means can be rotated around the central axis by an artificial operation executed in accordance with a gaming state including a standby state. A gaming machine is mounted in a form movable in the direction of the central axis.

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