JP5898872B2 - Game device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a game apparatus such as a crane game apparatus in which articles such as prizes are placed on a field.

  In a game apparatus such as a crane game apparatus, a plurality of prizes are placed in a field. The player controls the movement of the crane arm by operating buttons, etc., moves it to the position where the prize is placed, and then grabs, defeats, drags the prize to the prize dropout By guiding, a prize can be obtained.

  Conventionally, in order to improve a player's willingness to challenge a game, a configuration in which the form of a game field on which a prize is placed can be modified is considered. For example, the crane game machine described in Patent Document 1 is provided with a mechanism that allows the height and inclination angle of a prize placement surface (game field) to be changed by an electric lifting device.

JP 2009-201952 A

  In the prior art, the height or the like of the prize placement surface (game field) can be changed by an electric lifting device or the like, but a plurality of prizes are placed on the prize placement surface (game field). Must be able to move up and down stably. In the prize placing device for a crane game machine described in Patent Document 1, a plurality of lifting devices are provided. In addition, although a configuration in which one lifting device is provided can be used, for example, a high-performance special lifting device must be provided in order to move the prize placing surface up and down stably.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a game device that can stably move up and down a field on which a prize is placed without providing a special drive source. It is in.

In order to solve the above-described problems, the present invention includes a field on which a prize is placed, a mechanism member that supports the field from below and changes the height of the field from the lowest position to the highest position , A driving source that supplies a driving force for moving the field up and down via a mechanism member, and the field is independently set when the field is at a position higher than the lowest position by a predetermined height A driving source for supplying a driving force that can be pushed up; a unit that transmits the driving force from the driving source to the mechanism member; and the predetermined position at which the driving source exerts the driving force from the lowest position. And an auxiliary unit that acts to push up the field until reaching the height of.

  According to the present invention, a field on which a prize is placed can be stably moved up and down without providing a special drive source.

The perspective view which shows the external appearance structure of the game device in this embodiment. The front view of the game device in this embodiment. The side view seen from the right unit 10R side of the crane game apparatus 10 in this embodiment. The figure which removes the upper housing | casing 12 in order to show the detailed structure inside the housing | casing of the crane game apparatus 10. FIG. The figure which shows the detail of a structure of the up-and-down mechanism mounted in 10 L of left side units. The figure which shows the detail of a structure of the up-and-down mechanism mounted in 10 L of left side units. The figure which shows the detailed structure of the drive unit 30L. The perspective view which shows the detailed structure of the drive part of the range A shown in FIG. The figure seen from the output-axis direction of the field motor 45 of the drive part shown in FIG. The figure which shows the internal structure of slide unit 31Lh and 33Lh shown in FIG. The figure which shows the internal structure of slide unit 31Lh and 33Lh shown in FIG. The perspective view which shows the detailed structure of the range B shown in FIG. Sectional drawing in the AA line shown in FIG. The figure which shows the change at the time of moving the prize field 16L upward by the drive unit 30L. The figure which shows the change at the time of moving the prize field 16L upward by the drive unit 30L. The figure which shows the change at the time of moving the prize field 16L upward by the drive unit 30L. The figure which shows the change at the time of moving the prize field 16L upward by the drive unit 30L. The figure which shows the change of auxiliary | assistant spring unit 35La when the prize field 16L is pushed up from the lowest position (initial position). The figure which shows the force relationship which moves up and down the prize field 16L by auxiliary | assistant spring unit 35La, 35Lb and the field motor 45. FIG. The block diagram which shows the function structure of the crane game apparatus 10 in this embodiment. The flowchart shown about the field setting process for making various settings with respect to an up-and-down mechanism. The figure which shows the example of a display of the screen for height setting. The figure which shows the example of a display of the screen for demo settings. The figure which shows the example of a display of the screen for game settings. The flowchart shown about the game process performed by operation of a player. The flowchart shown about the game process performed by operation of a player. The flowchart of operation mode "free 2" which can adjust the height of the prize field 16L by operation of a player during a game.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an external configuration of a game device according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 2 is a front view of the game device according to the present embodiment. As an example of the game apparatus according to the present embodiment, a crane game apparatus 10 that operates to control a crane arm in accordance with a player's operation and pays out a prize is shown as an example.

  A crane game apparatus 10 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is composed of an upper housing 12 and a lower housing 13. The upper casing 12 is partially covered with a transparent plate 15 (opening / closing member) such as an acrylic plate on the front and side surfaces, and the prize fields 16L and 16R inside the casing can be visually recognized through the transparent plate 15. Yes. The transparent plate 15 is configured to be openable and closable on the front side, for example, and can be opened when exchanging or supplementing the prize fields 16L and 16R, adjusting the height of the prize fields 16L and 16R, and the like.

  The crane game apparatus 10 in this embodiment is equipped with two game units (a left unit 10L and a right unit 10R) so that two players can play a game at the same time. The left unit 10L and the right unit 10R are basically configured to be bilaterally symmetrical at the central boundary line. The prize fields 16L and 16R of the two game units are divided by a partition plate (not shown). A prize can be loaded on each of the two prize fields 16L and 16R divided by the partition plate.

  In the crane game apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment, an up-and-down mechanism (details will be described later) capable of individually changing the height of each of the prize fields 16L and 16R is provided. 1 and 2, the right unit 10R has a premium field 16R set at the lowest position (initial position), and the left unit 10L shows a state where the premium field 16L is set at a position higher than the initial position. Yes.

  In addition, the prize fields 16L and 16R can be attached to and detached from a frame, for example, a panel on which a prize drop opening is formed, and the size, shape, etc. of the prize drop opening can be changed by replacing with a different type of panel. Can do. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 1, a panel can be mounted at each of the left half of the prize field 16L and the right half of the prize field 16R. For example, one or a plurality of prize drop openings are formed in the panel. Depending on the type of panel, the shape of the prize drop opening formed on each panel is different. The part other than the prize drop opening is a flat part on which a prize can be placed. It is assumed that the planar member is fixed to the right half of the prize field 16L and the left half of the prize field 16R. In the example shown in FIG. 1, an example is shown in which a prize field 16L is provided with a panel in which a prize drop opening is formed on the left front side. In addition, the prize field 16R shows an example in which a panel having a prize drop opening is formed on the right front side.

  In the lower part of the left half (panel mounting range) of the prize field 16L and the lower part of the right half (panel mounting range) of the prize field 16R, the prizes dropped from the prize fields 16L and 16R are respectively stored in the lower housing 13. A prize guiding space is provided for guiding to the prize outlets 21L and 21R provided on the front side. In addition, the prize guiding space is provided with an inclined surface with the back side being high and the front side being low. By providing the inclined surface, the prize that has fallen from the prize drop opening collides with the inclined face and easily falls to the front side of the lower housing 13 provided with the prize outlets 21L and 21R. Thereby, it becomes easy to take a prize from the prize take-out ports 21L and 21R. The inclined surfaces can be provided at a high position and a low position in the prize guiding space.

  For example, even if a prize that has fallen from the prize fields 16L and 16R rolls in the depth of the prize guidance space, by providing an inclined surface at a low position, the prize can be easily removed from the prize outlets 21L and 21R. I try to come back. In particular, by connecting an inclined surface at a low position and the bottom portion (horizontal plane) of the prize guiding space with an R shape (curved shape), the prize that has rolled back can be smoothly rolled to the near side. In addition, a high inclined surface is formed by, for example, a transparent acrylic plate so that the inside of the prize guiding space can be confirmed from above. The acrylic plate can be replaced when it is damaged due to a fall of a prize by adopting a detachable configuration. In addition, when the size of the prize placed in the prize fields 16L and 16R is relatively large, the acrylic sheet having the high inclined surface may be removed so that the prize falls to the low inclined face. As a result, it is possible to roll up even large prizes to the vicinity of the openings of the prize take-out openings 21L and 21R.

  Above the left and right prize fields 16L and 16R, crane arms (catchers) 18L and 18R whose operations are controlled according to player operations are mounted (see FIG. 2. In FIG. 1, the prize fields 16L and 16R are mounted. The illustration is omitted for easy viewing). Above the prize fields 16L and 16R in the upper housing 12, crane mechanisms (for example, crane mechanisms for moving the crane arms 18L and 18R in the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction (vertical direction), respectively) (Not shown) is provided. For example, the crane mechanism is controlled in accordance with player operations on a plurality of buttons 24L and 24R (for example, a horizontal movement button, a vertical movement button, a lowering button, and a height adjustment button) provided on the panel sections 23L and 23R. The Note that the control panel units 23L and 23R may be configured to include not only buttons but also input devices such as a joystick that can indicate the up / down / left / right directions by the player.

  Two arms 18La and 18Ra (gripping claws) for gripping prizes are provided at the distal ends of the crane arms 18L and 18R (three or four arms may be provided). The operations of the arms 18La and 18Ra are controlled so as to be closed (gripping an object) at a position where the crane arm 18 is lowered to reach the prize.

  Further, a hook for hooking a prize display net or a prize can be attached to the inner surface of the upper casing 12. For example, the net and the hook are attached to a rail disposed in the horizontal direction in the upper part of the back surface so that the net and the hook can move in the left-right direction along the rail. By using the net or hook to display the prize, it is possible to appeal the use of the crane game apparatus 10 to the user.

Provided on the front side of the lower housing 13 are prize outlets 21L and 21R, a front maintenance door 22, and panel (control panel) parts 23L and 23R operated by a player.
The prize outlets 21L and 21R are for taking out prizes from the inside of the casing (prize field), and communicate with a prize guidance space provided in the lower part of the prize fields 16L and 16R. By operating the crane arms 18L and 18R and dropping the prize to the prize drop opening, the prize can be taken out from the prize take-out ports 21L and 21R.

  The front maintenance door 22 can be opened by an administrator when working on a control unit (control PCB (Print Circuit Board)) housed in the lower housing 13 and other mechanism units. Yes (with key) In addition, a storage space is provided inside the front maintenance door 22 so that supplementary prizes can be stored.

  In addition to a plurality of buttons 24L and 24R operated by the player to operate the crane arms 18L and 18R, the coin insertion slots 26L and 26R into which coins are inserted, play fees and the like are inserted into the control panel portions 23L and 23R. Display devices 27 </ b> L and 27 </ b> R (for example, a 7-segment display) for displaying the number of remaining plays corresponding to coins are provided. In addition, a speaker 28 is provided for outputting sound effects, music, message sounds, and the like during game execution.

  In addition, the crane game apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment is provided with a setting device (setting device 29 shown in FIG. 20) for an administrator to make various settings for the crane game apparatus 10. The setting device is configured to be removable from the main body housing of the crane game apparatus 10. When performing various settings, the setting device can be taken out of the storage unit and handled in a state of being held in the hand in the vicinity of the crane game apparatus 10. The setting device is connected to the control unit housed in the casing of the crane game apparatus 10 by, for example, a cable or wireless communication (wireless LAN (Local Area Network) or the like). It is assumed that the setting device can individually make various settings for each of the left unit 10L and the right unit 10R.

FIG. 3 is a side view of the crane game apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment as viewed from the right unit 10R side.
As shown in FIG. 3, the prize field 16L is set at a position higher than the prize field 16R by the vertical mechanism. Since the prize fields 16L and 16R can be individually adjusted in height by an up-and-down mechanism, a guard plate for preventing prizes placed on the field from falling even when set at different heights. 16La and 16Ra are mounted substantially vertically on the respective ends of the prize fields 16L and 16R.

  As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, since the distance between the prize fields 16L and 16R and the crane arms 18L and 18R changes by changing the height of the prize fields 16L and 16R, the height of the prize fields 16L and 16R is changed. Accordingly, drive control in the Z-axis direction (vertical direction) is executed for the prize fields 16L and 16R.

FIG. 4 is a view showing the crane game apparatus 10 with the upper housing 12 removed in order to show a detailed configuration inside the housing.
In FIG. 4, the left unit 10 </ b> L shows a configuration in a state where the vertical mechanism is mounted, and the right unit 10 </ b> R shows a configuration in a state where the vertical mechanism is removed. It should be noted that the right unit 10R will not be described in detail, assuming that a vertical mechanism in which each member is arranged in a position symmetrical to the vertical mechanism mounted on the left unit 10L is mounted.

  The vertical mechanism provided in the left unit 10L includes three X members 31L, 32L, and 33L as members that support the prize field 16L from below and change the height of the prize field 16L. They are arranged in parallel. The X members 31L and 33L are disposed in the vicinity of the left and right ends of the left unit 10L, and the X member 32L is disposed in the approximate center of the left unit 10L.

  While the X members 31L and 32L are disposed, a drive unit 30L that moves the prize field 16L up and down by the X members 31L, 32L, and 33L is disposed. A prize guiding space 36L is provided between the X members 32L and 33L, and a prize dropped from a prize drop formed in the prize field 16L can pass to the prize outlet 21L. Yes. In the prize guiding space 36L, an inclined surface 37L that is inclined toward the front side of the crane game apparatus 10 is formed so that a prize dropped from the prize field 16L collides. The inclined surface 37L can be exchanged when, for example, a transparent acrylic plate is detachable and is damaged by a fall of a prize or the like.

  Similarly to the left unit 10L, the right unit 10R is provided with an inclined surface 37R in the prize guiding space 36R.

  Further, in the vicinity of the X member 32L, auxiliary spring units 35La and 35Lb for assisting the drive unit 30L to push up the prize field 16L are provided. The auxiliary spring units 35La and 35Lb support the bottom of the prize field 16L when the prize field 16L is near the lowest position, and act to push the prize field 16L upward by the repulsive force of the spring. The auxiliary spring unit 35La is disposed on the front side of the crane game apparatus 10, and the auxiliary spring unit 35Lb is disposed on the rear side of the crane game apparatus 10. The details of the operational effects of the auxiliary spring units 35La and 35Lb will be described with reference to FIGS.

  In the crane game apparatus 10 of the present embodiment, the two left side units 10L are provided with two auxiliary spring units 35La and 35Lb. However, only one auxiliary spring unit may be provided, or three or more auxiliary spring units may be provided. It is good also as a structure to provide. It is assumed that the individual strength and number of the auxiliary spring units are determined according to the performance of pushing up the prize field 16L by the drive unit 30L.

  5 and 6 are diagrams showing details of the configuration of the vertical mechanism mounted on the left unit 10L. FIG. 6 shows the internal structure of the drive unit 30L with the cover of the drive unit 30L shown in FIG. 5 removed. As shown in FIG.5 and FIG.6, as for an up-down mechanism, each unit is attached on the base.

  The X member 31L includes a horizontal member 31La and two oblique members 31Lb and 31Lc. The horizontal member 31La is attached to the bottom of the prize field 16L. The oblique members 31Lb and 31Lc are configured to have substantially the same length, and are connected to each other by a rotation shaft 31Ld at the central portion in the longitudinal direction so as to be rotatable.

  The upper end portion of the oblique member 31Lb is attached so as to be rotatable on a rotation shaft 31Le provided in the vicinity of one end portion of the horizontal member 31La. The upper end portion of the oblique member 31Lc is attached so as to be slidable within a predetermined range along the horizontal member 31La by a slide mechanism 31Lf attached to the other end portion side of the horizontal member 31La.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the lower end portion of the oblique member 31Lb is connected to the lower end portion of the oblique member 32Lb of the X member 32L, and is movable in the horizontal direction by the drive unit 30L (see FIG. 7 for details). . The lower end portion of the oblique member 31Lc is attached so as to be rotatable on a rotation shaft 31Lg provided on the base.

  The X member 32L includes a horizontal member 32La and two oblique members 32Lb and 32Lc. The horizontal member 32La is attached to the bottom of the prize field 16L. The oblique members 32Lb and 32Lc are configured to have substantially the same length, and are connected to each other by a rotation shaft 32Ld at the center in the longitudinal direction so as to be rotatable.

  The upper end portion of the oblique member 32Lb is attached so as to be rotatable on a rotation shaft 32Le provided in the vicinity of one end portion of the horizontal member 32La. The upper end portion of the oblique member 32Lc is attached so as to be slidable within a predetermined range along the horizontal member 32La by a slide mechanism attached to the other end portion side of the horizontal member 32La.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the lower end portion of the oblique member 32Lb is connected to the lower end portion of the oblique member 31Lb of the X member 31L, and can be moved in the horizontal direction by the drive unit 30L (see FIG. 7 for details). . The lower end portion of the oblique member 32Lc is attached so as to be rotatable on a rotation shaft 32Lg provided on the base.

  The oblique member 31Lb of the X member 31L and the oblique member 32Lb of the X member 32L are connected at the lower end, and the lower end is simultaneously moved in the horizontal direction by the slide unit 31Lh.

  The X member 33L includes a horizontal member 33La and two oblique members 33Lb and 33Lc. The horizontal member 33La is attached to the bottom of the prize field 16L. The oblique members 33Lb and 33Lc are configured to have substantially the same length, and are connected to each other by a rotation shaft 33Ld at the center in the longitudinal direction so as to be rotatable.

  The upper end portion of the oblique member 33Lb is attached so as to be rotatable on a rotation shaft 33Le provided in the vicinity of one end portion of the horizontal member 33La. The upper end portion of the oblique member 33Lc is attached so as to be slidable within a predetermined range along the horizontal member 33La by a slide mechanism attached to the other end portion side of the horizontal member 33La.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the lower end portion of the oblique member 33Lb is movable in the horizontal direction by the slide unit 33Lh. The lower end portion of the oblique member 33Lc is attached so as to be rotatable on a rotation shaft 33Lg provided on the base. The slide unit 33Lh is interlocked with the slide unit 31Lh, and the driving force from the drive unit 30L is transmitted to move the lower end portion of the oblique member 33Lb in the horizontal direction.

  As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the X member 31L is configured such that the upper end portion of the oblique member 31Lb is attached to the fixed position of the horizontal member 31La by the rotation shaft 31Le, and the lower end portion of the oblique member 31Lc is the base of the base by the rotation shaft 31Lg. Installed in a fixed position. The upper end portion of the oblique member 31Lc can be slid by the slide mechanism 31Lf. Accordingly, by moving the lower end portion of the oblique member 31Lb in the horizontal direction by the drive unit 30L (slide unit 31Lh), the oblique members 31Lb and 31Lc are rotated about the rotation shaft 31Ld, and the horizontal member 31La is kept in a horizontal position. Can be moved. Since the X member 32L is connected to the X member 31L, the X member 32L moves up and down the horizontal member 32La in conjunction with the horizontal member 31La. In addition, since the slide unit 33Lh and the slide unit 31Lh are interlocked, the X member 33L is interlocked with the X members 31L and 32L and moves up and down while keeping the horizontal member 33La horizontal.

  As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, all of the up-and-down mechanism is accommodated in the lower part of the prize field 16 </ b> L. Therefore, the prize field 16L can be widely used. Further, since there is no mechanism part above the prize field 16L, the appearance is good and does not hinder the prize display in the prize field 16L.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a detailed configuration of the drive unit 30L. FIG. 7 shows a state in which the cover that covers the drive unit 30L is removed.
As shown in FIG. 7, the lower end portion of the X member 31 </ b> L with the oblique member 31 </ b> Lb and the lower end portion of the X member 32 </ b> L with the oblique member 32 </ b> Lb are connected via a connecting member 40. The lower end portion of the oblique member 31Lb is rotatably attached to one end of the connecting member 40 by the rotation shaft 41L, and the lower end portion of the oblique member 32Lb is rotatably attached to the other end of the connection member 40 by the rotation shaft 42L. It is attached.

  The slide unit 31Lh accommodates a slider block (see FIGS. 10 and 11) fixed to the connecting member 40. The connecting member 40 moves the lower ends of the diagonal members 31Lb and 32Lb in the horizontal direction by moving the slider block in the horizontal direction by the driving force of the field motor 45 inside the slide unit 31Lh. The field motor 45 is a driving source for supplying a driving force for moving the prize field 16L up and down.

  An upper limit sensor 43 and a lower limit sensor 44 are provided in the vicinity of both ends of the slide unit 31Lh. The upper limit sensor 43 is a sensor for determining the upper limit of the height of the prize field 16L, and the lower limit sensor 44 is a sensor for determining the lower limit of the height of the prize field 16L. A slit is provided in the upper part of the slide unit 31Lh along the longitudinal direction, and a plate member provided on a nut (described later) accommodated in the slide unit 31Lh protrudes. The upper limit sensor 43 and the lower limit sensor 44 detect the passage of this plate member. Details will be described with reference to FIGS. The field motor 45 is controlled so that its operation stops when the upper limit sensor 43 or the lower limit sensor 44 detects the passage of the plate member.

  In addition, a slit is provided along the longitudinal direction on the side surface of the slide unit 31Lh, and a plate member provided in a slider block (described later) accommodated in the slide unit 31Lh protrudes. The passage of the plate member provided in the slider block is detected by a slide sensor (not shown) provided in the vicinity of the lower limit sensor 44.

  A pulley 46 attached to a trapezoidal screw shaft (details will be described later) accommodated in the slide unit 31Lh and a pulley 47 attached to a trapezoidal screw shaft (details will be described later) accommodated in the slide unit 33Lh A belt 48 for transmitting the driving force by the field motor 45 is installed. The pulley 46 is rotated by driving the field motor 45. Accordingly, the vertical movement of the prize field 16L can be adjusted by driving the single field motor 45 to move the slide units 31Lh and 33Lh in conjunction with each other.

  The vertical mechanism of the present embodiment has a structure in which the connecting member 40 is moved in the horizontal direction by the slide unit 31Lh and the premium field 16L is moved up and down via the X members 31L, 32L, and 33L. For this reason, the vertical mechanism is compact, and the entire mechanism can be stored in the lower part of the prize field 16L.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing the detailed configuration of the drive unit in the range A shown in FIG. 7, and FIG. 9 is a view seen from the output shaft direction of the field motor 45 of the drive unit shown in FIG.
As shown in FIG. 8, the output shaft of the field motor 45 is pivotally supported by a support member 50a. The output shaft of the field motor 45 passes through the support member 50a, and a gear 52 and a pulse cam 53 are attached. The gear 52 and the pulse cam 53 rotate when the field motor 45 is driven. Further, the end of the trapezoidal screw shaft housed in the slide unit 31Lh is pivotally supported by the support member 50a. The end of the trapezoidal screw shaft passes through the support member 50a, and the gear 54 and the pulley 46 are coaxially attached. As shown in FIG. 9, the gear 52 and the gear 54 are engaged, and when the field motor 45 is driven to rotate the gear 52, the trapezoidal screw shaft in the slide unit 31 </ b> Lh is connected via the gear 54. At the same time, the pulley 46 is rotated.

  Further, pulse cam sensors 55 and 56 for detecting the rotation of the pulse cam 53 are attached to the support member 50a. The pulse cam sensors 55 and 56 are for detecting the number of rotations and the direction of rotation of the field motor 45 by detecting passage of the pulse cam 53. By detecting the rotation speed and rotation direction of the field motor 45, the height (upper and lower positions) of the prize field 16L can be calculated.

  The pulse cam sensor 55 is disposed above the pulse cam 53, and the pulse cam sensor 56 is disposed laterally with respect to the pulse cam 53. On the outer periphery of the pulse cam 53, for example, four projecting portions and cutting portions are provided alternately. Accordingly, the pulse cam sensors 55 and 56 repeatedly detect ON (detection of the passage of the protruding portion) and OFF (detection of the passage of the slashed portion) while the pulse cam 53 is rotated once. However, the arrangement of the pulse cam sensors 55 and 56 and the shape of the pulse cam 53 are determined so that the ON timing (detection of the passage of the protrusion) by the pulse cam sensors 55 and 56 is different. For example, when the pulse cam 53 rotates clockwise (clockwise), the detection of the pulse cam 53 by the pulse cam sensors 55 and 56 is, for example, on / on, on / off, off / off, off / on, on / on ... When the pulse cam 53 rotates counterclockwise, it changes as on / off, on / on, off / on, off / off, on / off. Based on the detection changes of the pulse cam sensors 55 and 56, it is possible to determine whether the rotation direction of the field motor 45, that is, whether the prize field 16L is moved upward or downward. Further, the rotation amount of the field motor 45 can be detected based on the number of times of ON detection by at least one of the pulse cam sensors 55 and 56, and the prize is based on the rotation amount of the field motor 45. The position (height) of the field 16L can be calculated.

  10 and 11 are diagrams showing the internal configuration of the slide units 31Lh and 33Lh shown in FIG. 7, and FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing the detailed configuration of the range B shown in FIG. FIG. 10 shows a normal state, and FIGS. 11 and 12 show a state where the safety mechanism is activated.

  In the slide unit 31Lh, a trapezoidal screw shaft 62a is pivotally supported between the support member 50a and the support member 50b. A nut 61a is screwed onto the trapezoidal screw shaft 62a. Accordingly, when the trapezoidal screw shaft 62a is rotated by transmission of the power of the field motor 45, the nut 61a moves along the trapezoidal screw shaft 62a. Further, the trapezoidal screw shaft 62a passes through the through hole 60a1 of the slider block 60a attached to the connecting member 40.

  FIG. 13 shows a cross-sectional view taken along line AA shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 13, since the trapezoidal screw shaft 62a and the through hole 60a1 are not screwed together, the slider block 60a can move along the trapezoidal screw shaft 62a regardless of the rotation of the trapezoidal screw shaft 62a. it can. As shown in FIGS. 11 to 13, the slider block 60 a and the nut 61 a are not fixed so that a failure or the like does not occur even when there is an obstacle or the like in the movable range of the vertical mechanism. It can function as a safety mechanism.

  Normally, as shown in FIG. 10, the slider block 60a is in a state of being in pressure contact with a flange 61a1 provided on the nut 61a. That is, the X members 31L and 32L are pushed down by the weight of the prize field 16L itself or the weight of the prize placed on the prize field 16L, and a load is applied so as to move the connecting member 40 in the direction of the nut 61a. For this reason, the slider block 60a provided in the connecting member 40 is pressed against the nut 61a. Accordingly, when the trapezoidal screw shaft 62a is rotated by the driving force of the field motor 45 and the nut 61a is moved to the slider block 60a side, the slider block 60a in pressure contact with the nut 61a moves against the load and is connected. The prize field 16L is pushed up through the member 40 and the X members 31L and 32L. Further, when the trapezoidal screw shaft 62a is rotated by rotating the field motor 45 in the reverse direction and the nut 61a is moved toward the support member 50a, the slider block 60a is moved while being pressed against the nut 61a, and the prize field 16L Press down.

  Since the trapezoidal screw shaft 62a and the nut 61a are screwed together with a trapezoidal screw, the position can be stably fixed, and a large number of prizes are placed on the prize field 16L and the weight increases. Can maintain (fix) the height stably.

  When the slider block 60a and the flange 61a1 of the nut 61a are pressed against each other, a plurality of (four in FIG. 12) holes 60a2 provided on the surface facing the flange 61a1 of the slider block 60a as shown in FIG. A plurality (four in FIG. 12) of protrusions 61a3 provided on the surface of the flange 61a1 facing the slider block 60a are inserted. For this reason, even when a load is applied in a direction crossing the axis of the trapezoidal screw shaft 62a, the slider block 60a and the nut 61a (flange 61a1) are kept in a stable state in order to keep the other members extra. It is possible to avoid a failure without applying a heavy load.

  In addition, the plate member 61a2 provided in the upper part of the flange 61a1 shown in FIG. 12 protrudes from the slit provided in the upper part of the slide unit 31Lh. The plate member 61 a 2 is detected by the upper limit sensor 43 and the lower limit sensor 44. When it is detected that the flange 61a1 has reached the position of the lower limit sensor 44 by the rotation of the trapezoidal screw shaft 62a, it is possible to determine that the prize field 16L has been lowered to the lowest position, so that the driving of the field motor 45 is stopped. . Similarly, when it is detected that the flange 61a1 has reached the position of the upper limit sensor 43 by the rotation of the trapezoidal screw shaft 62a, it can be determined that the giveaway field 16L has been raised to the uppermost position, so that the field motor 45 is driven. Stopped.

  As shown in FIG. 12, a plate member 60a3 is provided on the side surface of the slider block 60a. The plate member 60a3 protrudes from a slit provided on the side surface of the slide unit 31Lh, and moves as the slider block 60a moves. The slider block 60a is detected by a slide sensor (slide sensor 85 shown in FIG. 20) provided in the vicinity of the slide unit 31Lh. The slide sensor moves, for example, in a state where the nut 61a and the slider block 60a are in pressure contact with each other, and detects the plate member 60a3 when the nut 61a (plate member 61a2) moves to a position detected by the lower limit sensor 44. Is provided. In other words, the plate member 60a3 provided on the slider block 60a is detected by the slide sensor, and the nut 61a (plate member 61a2) is moved to the position detected by the lower limit sensor 44, so that the prize field 16L is normally displayed. It can be determined that the position has been moved to the lowest position. If the nut 61a (plate member 61a2) is moved to the position detected by the lower limit sensor 44 and the plate member 60a3 cannot be detected by the slide sensor, there is an obstacle in the movable range. It can be determined that the safety mechanism has been activated and the prize field 16L has not been lowered to the lowest position.

The slide unit 33Lh contains the same members as the slide unit 31Lh described above. That is, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the trapezoidal screw shaft 62b is pivotally supported between the two support members 51a in the slide unit 33Lh. A nut 61b is screwed onto the trapezoidal screw shaft 62b. Accordingly, when the power of the field motor 45 is transmitted through the belt 48 and the pulley 47 and the trapezoidal screw shaft 62b is rotated, the nut 61b moves along the trapezoidal screw shaft 62b. As a result, the slider block 60b in pressure contact with the nut 61b moves along the trapezoidal screw shaft 62b , and moves up or down the prize field 16L in conjunction with the slide unit 31Lh side.

  In a normal state, as shown in FIG. 10, a load is applied so that the slider blocks 60a and 60b are pressed against the nuts 61a and 61b depending on the weight of the prize field 16L itself or the weight of the prize placed on the prize field 16L. Is on. The up-and-down mechanism adjusts the height of the prize fields 16L and 16R according to the size of the prize, for example, when the administrator opens the transparent plate 15 to replace or supplement the prize fields 16L and 16R. Used when While the administrator is performing such work, for example, a prize or the like may fall into the movable range of the structural member such as the X members 31L, 32L, 33L, or the administrator may accidentally put the hand into the movable range. There is.

  In the vertical mechanism in the present embodiment, the field motor 45 is driven so as to lower the prize field 16L in a state where there is an obstacle such as a prize in the movable range, and the nut 61a is moved to the side where the lower limit sensor 44 is provided. In this case, as shown in FIGS. 11 to 13, the nut 61a and the slider block 60a are separated from each other. That is, when there is an obstacle in the movable range and the prize field 16L cannot be lowered, the safety mechanism functions and the prize field 16L is not forcibly lowered by the driving force of the field motor 45. For this reason, even if there is an obstacle, an unexpected load is not applied to the structural member or the field motor 45, so that it is not necessary to cause a failure. Further, since an excessive load is not generated by the field motor 45 on an obstacle (such as a prize or a manager's hand), safety can be ensured.

  In such a case, even if the nut 61a is moved to the position where the prize field 16L is at the lowest position and detected by the lower limit sensor 44, the slider block 60a is separated from the nut 61a and stopped, so that the detection by the slide sensor is performed. Absent. Therefore, based on the detection state by the lower limit sensor 44 and the slide sensor, it can be determined that the prize field 16L is not normally lowered due to an obstacle or the like, and an alarm or the like can be output, for example.

Next, the function and effect of the auxiliary spring units 35La and 35Lb will be described. 14, FIG. 15, FIG. 16 and FIG. 17 are diagrams showing changes when the prize field 16L is moved upward by the drive unit 30L.
FIG. 14 shows a state where the prize field 16L is at the lowest position (initial position). The drive unit 30L drives the field motor 45 when the ascent of the prize field 16L is instructed. As shown in FIG. 14 or FIG. 15, when the prize field 16L is near the lowermost position, the bottom of the prize field 16L is supported by the auxiliary spring units 35La and 35Lb. Since the auxiliary spring units 35La and 35Lb act so as to push up the prize field 16L upward by the repulsive force of the spring, the auxiliary spring units 35La and 35Lb assist the push-up by the drive unit 30L.

  As shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, when the auxiliary spring units 35La and 35Lb are separated from the bottom of the prize field 16L, the prize field 16L is raised only by the driving force of the drive unit 30L.

  In the crane game apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, the prize field 16L is moved in the vertical direction via the X members 31L, 32L, and 33L by moving the connecting member 40 in the horizontal direction. In the structure in which the prize field 16L is moved upward via the X members 31L, 32L, and 33L, the entire mechanism can be made compact, while the prize field 16L at the lowest position (initial position) is most raised. Requires great power.

  In the crane game apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment, the auxiliary spring units 35La and 35Lb are provided to assist the push-up when the prize field 16L requiring the greatest force is in the vicinity of the lowest position. The field field 45 is pushed up from the initial position by the single field motor 45 without using an expensive field motor having a driving force or a plurality of field motors.

  FIGS. 18A, 18B, and 18C are diagrams showing changes in the auxiliary spring unit 35La when the prize field 16L is pushed up from the lowest position (initial position). Since the prize field 16L is configured to move horizontally up and down, the auxiliary spring unit 35Lb changes in the same manner.

  As shown in FIGS. 18A to 18C, the auxiliary spring unit 35La is inserted into the outer casing 35a so that the inner casing 35b can move up and down. A spring 35c is accommodated in the outer casing 35a and the inner casing 35b as an elastic member that can be expanded and contracted. A buffer member 35d made of rubber or the like that comes into contact with the bottom of the prize field 16L is provided at the upper end of the inner casing 35b.

  When the auxiliary spring unit 35La is not in contact with the prize field 16L, as shown in FIG. 18C, the spring 35c is in an extended state, and pushes up the inner casing 35b to the outside.

  When the field motor 45 is not driven and the prize field 16L is at the lowest position, as shown in FIG. 18A, the spring 35c is compressed and the inner casing 35b is pushed into the outer casing 35a. It will be in the state. That is, the prize field 16L cannot be pushed up only by the auxiliary spring unit 35La (and the auxiliary spring unit 35Lb).

FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a force relationship for moving the prize field 16L up and down by the auxiliary spring units 35La and 35Lb and the field motor 45. As shown in FIG.
In the example shown in FIG. 19, for example, the auxiliary spring unit 35La (35Lb) is in contact with the bottom of the prize field 16L when the height of the prize field 16L is in the range of 0 to 50 mm. The field 16L is pushed up.

  When the field motor 45 is driven in the state of FIG. 18A, in addition to the power of the field motor 45, the pushing force by the auxiliary spring unit 35La (35Lb) is supplemented (added) as shown in FIG. ), The prize field 16L can be pushed up. As shown in FIG. 18C, the pushing force by the auxiliary spring unit 35La (35Lb) is applied until the spring 35c is fully extended.

  As shown in FIG. 19, the field motor 45 can push up the prize field 16L without assistance by the auxiliary spring unit 35La (35Lb) before the height of the prize field 16L reaches 50 mm, for example, about 40 mm. Therefore, by adding assistance by the auxiliary spring unit 35La (35Lb) until the prize field 16L reaches 50 mm, the prize field 16L can be smoothly pushed up from the initial position until it exceeds 50 mm.

  In the above description, the auxiliary spring units 35La and 35Lb are provided to assist in pushing up the prize fields 16L and 16R. However, other auxiliary units may be provided. For example, an elastic member other than a spring, such as rubber, may be used. Further, not only a unit using an elastic member but also an auxiliary unit capable of supplying a pushing-up force using other hydraulic pressure or magnetic force can be used.

  Further, since it is only necessary to assist pushing up when the prize field 16L is close to the initial position, as described above, not only assistance to push upward from the bottom of the prize field 16L but also, for example, the connecting member 40 in the horizontal direction. You may make it provide the auxiliary unit which assists so that it may move. For example, it is possible to provide an auxiliary unit having an elastic member such as a spring that acts to pull the connecting member 40 horizontally when the prize field 16L is at the lowest position in the direction of the upper limit sensor 43. As described above, a unit that supplies power by other than the elastic member may be used.

  In the above description, the nuts 61a and 61b are moved by rotating the trapezoidal screw shafts 62a and 62b accommodated in the slide units 31Lh and 33Lh, and the positions of the slider blocks 60a and 60b (the connecting member 40) are adjusted. However, the connecting member 40 may be moved in the horizontal direction by another mechanism. For example, instead of the trapezoidal screw shafts 62a and 62b, the connecting member 40 can be configured to be movable horizontally along the slide rail. When the slide rail is used, it is possible to use, for example, a motor or a magnetic force as power for moving the connecting member 40.

FIG. 20 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the crane game apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 20, a control PCB (Print Circuit Board) 68 on which various units are mounted is provided inside the casing of the crane game apparatus 10. The units mounted on the control PCB 68 include a CPU 70, a RAM 71, a storage device 72, an input / output processing unit 73, an X-axis motor drive unit 74, a Y-axis motor drive unit 75, a Z-axis motor drive unit 76, an arm drive unit 77, And a field motor driving unit 78.

  The CPU 70 controls the crane game apparatus 10 as a whole by executing a control program and a game program stored in the RAM 71 or the storage device 72. The CPU 70 records credit data indicating the number of playable times in the RAM 71 in response to a coin insertion detection signal input via the input / output processing unit 73. In addition, the CPU 70 responds to an instruction to move the crane arms 18L and 18R instructed by a user operation input via the input / output processing unit 73, and the X-axis motor driving unit 74, the Y-axis motor driving unit 75, and the Z-axis motor driving unit 75 The shaft motor drive unit 76 and the arm drive unit 77 are controlled to operate each unit of the mechanism unit 69 as appropriate. In addition, the CPU 70 controls the field motor driving unit 78 in accordance with an instruction to move up and down the prize fields 16L and 16R instructed by a user operation input via the input / output processing unit 73, thereby moving up and down the mechanism (field motor). 45) is appropriately operated. Further, the CPU 70 controls the sound output from the speaker 28 and the display on the display devices 27L and 27R via the input / output processing unit 73.

  The RAM 71 temporarily stores various data for controlling a game associated with processing executed by the CPU 70 in addition to various programs such as a control program and a game program. The data recorded in the RAM 71 includes, for example, credit data indicating the number of playable times, position data indicating the positions (X position, Y position) of the crane arms 18L and 18R, and the like.

The storage device 72 stores programs and data in a nonvolatile storage medium such as a ROM or a hard disk.
The input / output processing unit 73 is an interface with various input / output devices provided outside the control PCB 68.
The X-axis motor drive unit 74 controls driving of the X-axis motor 80 provided in the mechanism unit 69.
The Y-axis motor driving unit 75 controls driving of the Y-axis motor 81 provided in the mechanism unit 69.
The Z-axis motor drive unit 76 controls driving of a Z-axis motor 82 provided in the mechanism unit 69.
The arm driving unit 77 controls driving of an arm motor 83 for opening and closing the arms 18La and 18Ra provided on the crane arms 18L and 18R.

  Under the control of the CPU 70, the field motor drive unit 78 controls the drive of the field motor 45 as a power source that moves the premium fields 16L and 16R up and down.

The mechanism unit 69 is provided in each of the left unit 10L and the right unit 10R, for example. As shown in FIG. 20, the mechanism unit 69 includes an X-axis motor 80, a Y-axis motor 81, a Z-axis motor 82, an arm motor 83, a prize detection sensor 84 , an upper limit sensor 43, a lower limit sensor 44, a field motor 45, A pulse cam sensor 55, a pulse cam sensor 56, and a slide sensor 85 are included.
The X-axis motor 80 is driven by the X-axis motor drive unit 74, and moves the crane arms 18L and 18R in the X-axis direction (lateral direction).
The Y-axis motor 81 is driven by the Y-axis motor drive unit 75, and moves the crane arms 18L and 18R in the Y-axis direction (vertical direction).
The Z-axis motor 82 is driven by the Z-axis motor drive unit 76, and moves the crane arms 18L and 18R in the Z-axis direction (vertical direction).
The arm motor 83 is driven by the arm driving unit 77 and opens and closes the arms 18La and 18Ra of the crane arms 18L and 18R.

  The prize detection sensor 84 detects that a prize has been paid out to the player by operating the crane arms 18L and 18R.

As shown in FIG. 20, the control panel 23L includes a coin insertion slot 26L, a coin insertion sensor 86, a horizontal movement button 24La, a vertical movement button 24Lb, a lowering button 24Lc, a height adjustment button 24Ld, and a display device 27L. . The panel unit 23R is configured in the same manner as the panel unit 23L, and the description thereof is omitted.
The coin insertion sensor 86 detects a coin inserted from the coin insertion slot 26L, and outputs a detection signal indicating the coin insertion to the input / output processing unit 73. The CPU 70 records credit data indicating the number of playable times according to the detection signal input to the input / output processing unit 73.

  The lateral movement button 24La is for inputting an instruction for moving the crane arm 18L in the lateral direction (X-axis direction) by the player. When the horizontal movement button 24La is pressed by the player, the horizontal movement button 24La outputs a signal indicating that it is in the pressed state to the input / output processing unit 73. When the CPU 70 detects that the lateral movement button 24La is pressed through the input / output processing unit 73, the CPU 70 drives the X-axis motor 80 via the X-axis motor drive unit 74 to move the crane arm 18L in the lateral direction (X-axis direction). ). The CPU 70 stops driving the X-axis motor 80 when the lateral movement button 24La is not pressed.

  The vertical movement button 24Lb is used for inputting an instruction to move the crane arm 18L in the vertical direction (Y-axis direction) by the player. The vertical movement button 24 </ b> Lb outputs a signal indicating that it is in the pressed state to the input / output processing unit 73 when pressed by the player. When the CPU 70 detects that the vertical movement button 24Lb is pressed through the input / output processing unit 73, the CPU 70 drives the Y-axis motor 81 via the Y-axis motor drive unit 75 to move the crane arm 18L in the vertical direction (Y-axis direction). ). The CPU 70 stops the driving of the Y-axis motor 81 when the vertical movement button 24Lb is not pressed.

  The descent button 24Lc is for inputting an instruction to start a prize acquisition sequence to the crane arm 18L by the player. When the down button 24Lc is pressed by the player, it outputs a signal indicating that the button has been pressed to the input / output processing unit 73. When the CPU 70 detects that the lowering button 24Lc has been pressed through the input / output processing unit 73, the CPU 70 lowers the crane arm 18L to a position where it reaches the prize via the Z-axis motor drive section 76 as a prize acquisition sequence. The crane arm 18L is lifted after the arm 18La is made to grab the prize through the arm driving unit 77.

  The height adjustment button 24Ld inputs an instruction for adjusting the height of the prize field from the player when the operation mode of the up-and-down mechanism that can adjust the height of the prize field by the player ("normal" to be described later) is set. Is for. When the height adjustment button 24Ld is pressed by the player, a signal indicating that the height adjustment button 24Ld has been pressed is output to the input / output processing unit 73. When the CPU 70 detects that the height adjustment button 24Ld has been pressed through the input / output processing unit 73, the CPU 70 drives the field motor 45 via the field motor drive unit 78 to move the prize field 16L up and down.

  The display device 27L displays various types of information under the control of the CPU 70. The display device 27L displays, for example, the number of credits (playable number of times) and the display of the operation mode. In addition, when the operation mode of the up / down mechanism is set to move the prize field 16L up and down during the game process, a message for notifying the player that the prize field 16L moves up and down is displayed on the display device 27L. indicate. For example, when the operation mode of the up-and-down mechanism capable of adjusting the height of the prize field by the player (“normal” to be described later) is set, the height of the prize field 16L is increased by operating the height adjustment button 24Ld. Display a message notifying you that it can be changed.

  Note that the setting device 29 is used by the administrator to make various settings for the crane game apparatus 10. Left and right buttons), a display for displaying various setting screens, and the like are mounted. Note that the setting operation may be performed using the buttons 24 and the display devices 27L and 27R provided in the control panel portions 23L and 23R.

Next, operations related to the vertical mechanism of the crane game apparatus 10 in the present embodiment will be described.
First, field setting processing for making various settings for the vertical mechanism will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. The field setting process is performed by, for example, the administrator of the crane game apparatus 10 using the setting device 29. For example, the height setting is individually performed for the left unit 10L and the right unit 10R (the vertical mechanism for the prize fields 16L and 16R). , Demo settings, game settings. Here, description will be made assuming that the vertical mechanism of the left unit 10L is set.

  First, when activation of the field setting process is instructed by an operation of the setting device 29, the CPU 70 displays a setting target item menu (height setting, demo setting, game setting) on the display of the setting device 29.

  Here, when the height setting is selected (step A1, Yes), the CPU 70 displays a height setting screen as shown in FIG. 22, for example, and also sets the upper limit of the premium field 16L to be set. Alternatively, designation of a lower limit (upper or lower) is input (step A2). Here, for example, when the height upper limit (up) is instructed and the movement of the prize field 16L is instructed by the selection button, the CPU 70 drives the vertical mechanism (field motor 45) through the field motor driving unit 78 (step A4). ). The CPU 70 moves the premium field 16L by driving the vertical mechanism while the selection button is pressed.

  The CPU 70 calculates the current height of the prize field 16L based on the detection results of the pulse cam sensors 55 and 56 input through the input / output processing unit 73, and the height in the height setting screen shown in FIG. The number representing the height and the image representing the height are updated (step A5). While the selection button is pressed, the CPU 70 reciprocates the premium field 16L between an upper limit and a lower limit that can be moved (steps A4 to A6).

  The administrator ends the pressing of the selection button in accordance with the timing when the prize field 16L is moved to the desired height. When the pressing of the selection button is completed (step A6, Yes), the CPU 70 stops the driving of the vertical mechanism (step A7).

  Here, in the same manner as described above, when the lower limit of height (lower) is instructed and movement of the prize field 16L is instructed by the selection button, the prize field 16L is moved and stopped at the height desired by the administrator. (Steps A2 to A7).

  In this way, when the position of the upper limit and the lower limit of the premium field 16L is designated and the determination button is pressed (step A8, Yes), the CPU 70 stores data indicating the upper limit and the lower limit of the premium field 16L, for example. Record in device 72.

  The upper limit and lower limit of the premium field 16L set here indicate the movable range of the premium field 16L in an operation mode “normal” described later. The upper limit of the prize field 16L indicates the height of the prize field 16L in an operation mode “fixed” described later.

  Next, when demo setting is selected in the setting target item menu (step A10, Yes), the CPU 70 displays a screen for demo setting as shown in FIG. 23, for example. The current setting state (ON or OFF) is displayed on the demonstration setting screen. Here, when the selection button is pressed (step A11, Yes), the CPU 70 switches on / off of the vertical mechanism during the demonstration operation (step A12). For example, when the current setting state is “ON”, the state is switched to “OFF”, and when the current setting state is “OFF”, the state is switched to “ON”.

  Thus, when “ON” or “OFF” of the vertical mechanism during the demonstration operation is designated and the determination button is pressed (Yes in Step A13), the CPU 70 turns “ON” or “OFF” of the vertical mechanism during the demonstration operation. Is recorded in the storage device 72, for example (step A14).

  The on / off of the vertical mechanism set here is referred to in a demonstration operation executed when the crane game apparatus 10 is not used by the player. When the vertical mechanism “ON” is set, the prize field 16L is moved up and down with an interval between them during the demonstration operation. Thereby, the crane game apparatus 10 can be appealed to the player, and the use of the crane game apparatus 10 can be prompted.

  Next, when game setting is selected in the setting target item menu (step A15, Yes), the CPU 70 displays a game setting screen as shown in FIG. 24, for example. On the game setting screen, the current operation mode of the vertical mechanism (“normal” in FIG. 24) is displayed. In the crane game apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment, for example, “normal”, “fixed”, and “free” are prepared as operation modes of the vertical mechanism. “Normal” is a mode in which the prize field 16L is always moved up and down between the upper limit and the lower limit during the game. “Fixed” is a mode in which the prize field 16L is stopped at a specified height (the upper limit height set by the height setting). “Free” is a mode in which the player can change the height before the game starts.

  Here, when the selection button is pressed (step A16, Yes), the CPU 70 switches the operation mode in the order of "normal", "fixed", and "free" (step A17). For example, if the current operation mode is "Normal", switch to "Fixed", if it is "Fixed", switch to "Free", if it is "Free", switch to "Normal" .

  Thus, when the operation mode of the vertical mechanism is specified and the determination button is pressed (Yes in Step A18), the CPU 70 records data indicating the operation mode of the vertical mechanism in, for example, the storage device 72 (Step A19).

  The operation mode of the vertical mechanism set here is referred to in order to control game processing when the crane game apparatus 10 is used by a player.

  In the field setting process, as described above, the administrator can arbitrarily set the height setting, the demo setting, and the game setting (steps A1 to A19). When the end of the process is instructed, the CPU 70 ends the field setting process.

  Next, game processing executed by the player's operation will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS. In the game process, the vertical mechanism is controlled in accordance with the setting contents by the field setting process described above.

  First, in order to play the crane game apparatus 10, a player inserts a coin from the coin insertion slot 26L. When coin insertion sensor 86 detects that a coin has been inserted, it outputs a detection signal to input / output processing unit 73. When detecting the coin insertion by the detection signal from the coin insertion sensor 86 (step B1), the CPU 70 adds the number of credits indicating the number of playable times and records the credit data indicating the value in the RAM 71 (step B2). Here, when coins corresponding to a plurality of play times are inserted, credit data indicating the number of possible play times is recorded. The CPU 70 displays, for example, the possible number of play times (number of credits) on the display device 27L according to the recording of the credit data.

  The CPU 70 determines the current operation mode of the vertical mechanism (step B3), and starts control according to the operation mode. Here, when the operation mode is set to “normal” (step B4, Yes), the CPU 70 notifies the player that the prize field 16L moves up and down during the game (a period during which an input operation to the button is possible). To output a message (step B5). The message can be displayed, for example, on the display device 27L, or output by voice through the speaker 28 (at least one of them).

  The CPU 70 reads data indicating the upper limit and lower limit of the height specified in the height setting of the field setting process, drives the vertical mechanism (field motor 45) through the field motor drive unit 78, and sets the premium field 16L as the upper limit. Move back and forth within the lower limit. The CPU 70 calculates the current height of the prize field 16L based on the detection results by the pulse cam sensors 55 and 56 input through the input / output processing unit 73, and when it is determined that the upper limit or the lower limit has been reached, By reversing the rotation direction of the field motor 45, the prize field 16L is reciprocated within the range.

  The player operates the crane arm 18L so that the prize placed on the prize field 16L can be acquired while the prize field 16L is moved up and down.

  When the CPU 70 is instructed to move the crane arm 18L horizontally / vertically by operating the horizontal movement button 24La or the vertical movement button 24Lb (step B7, Yes), the CPU 70 moves the crane arm 18L according to the input operation. The motor is driven to move the crane arm 18L. That is, when the lateral movement button 24La is operated, the CPU 70 drives the X-axis motor 80 through the X-axis motor drive unit 74 to move the crane arm 18L in the lateral direction (X-axis direction). Further, when the vertical movement button 24Lb is operated, the CPU 70 drives the Y-axis motor 81 through the Y-axis motor driving unit 75 to move the crane arm 18L in the vertical direction (Y-axis direction).

  On the other hand, when the depression of the lowering button 24Lc is detected (Step B9, Yes), the CPU 70 stops driving the vertical mechanism before lowering the crane arm 18L by the prize acquisition sequence (Step B10). That is, if the crane arm 18L is lowered when the prize field 16L is raised by the vertical mechanism, the crane arm 18L may collide with the prize field 16L or the prize placed on the prize field 16L and destroy it. Therefore, after stopping the up and down movement of the prize field 16L, the CPU 70 controls the crane arm 18L according to the prize acquisition sequence (step B11).

  In the prize acquisition sequence, the CPU 70 lowers the tip of the crane arm 18L via the Z-axis motor drive unit 76 to a position where it reaches the prize, and causes the arm 18La to grip the prize through the arm drive unit 77. The crane arm 18L is raised. Then, after moving the crane arm 18L to above the prize drop opening, the arm 18La is moved to release the prize and then moved to the initial position.

  As described above, when the depression of the lowering button 24Lc is detected, the driving of the vertical mechanism is not stopped immediately, but a prize acquisition sequence (lowering of the crane arm 18L) is performed in response to the depression of the lowering button 24Lc. The driving of the vertical mechanism may be continued while starting. In this case, the CPU 70 calculates the current heights of the active prize field 16L and the crane arm 18L, and stops the driving of the vertical mechanism before the collision based on the heights of both.

  When the prize acquisition sequence ends (step B12, Yes), the CPU 70 drives the vertical mechanism to return the prize field 16L to the initial position (step B13).

  If there is a remaining credit (playable number of times) (Yes in Step B36), the CPU 70 subtracts the credit and decrements the possible number of times, and then shifts to the next play state (Step B3). On the other hand, when there is no remaining credit (playable number of times) (step B36, No), the CPU 70 ends the game process.

  As described above, in the operation mode “normal”, the crane arm 18L is operated while the prize field 16L is moving up and down, so that the change can be enjoyed more than when the height is fixed.

  On the other hand, when the operation mode is set to “fixed” (step B14, Yes), the CPU 70 outputs a message for notifying the player that the height of the prize field 16L is to be changed (step B15). The message can be displayed, for example, on the display device 27L, or output by voice through the speaker 28 (at least one of them).

  The CPU 70 reads data indicating the upper limit of the height specified in the height setting of the field setting process, drives the vertical mechanism (field motor 45) through the field motor driving unit 78, and moves the prize field 16L to the upper limit. (Step B16). In other words, in the operation mode “fixed”, the game is started after the administrator adjusts the height of the free gift field 16L to the height upper limit set in the field setting process. Hereinafter, the control on the crane arm 18L (steps B17 to B21) is executed in the same manner as the operation mode “normal” described above, and detailed description thereof is omitted. However, in the operation mode “fixed”, since the prize field 16L does not move up and down during the game, when there is an instruction to lower the prize field 16L (step B19), the process of stopping the driving of the up-and-down mechanism (step B19) B10) is not executed.

  After executing the prize acquisition sequence, the CPU 70 drives the vertical mechanism to return the prize field 16L to the initial position (step B22). If there is a remaining credit (step B36, Yes), the same processing as described above is repeated.

  As described above, in the operation mode “fixed”, the game is started after the prize field 16L is adjusted to a predetermined height, and therefore the height adjustment according to the size of the prize placed in the prize field 16L is performed. can do.

  If the operation mode is set to “free” (step B23, Yes), the CPU 70 outputs a message for notifying the player that the height of the prize field 16L can be changed by the player's operation (step S23). B24). The message can be displayed, for example, on the display device 27L, or output by voice through the speaker 28 (at least one of them).

  It is assumed that the height adjustment of the prize field 16L is executed within a predetermined time limit. For this reason, the CPU 70 starts time measurement in order to determine whether the time limit has elapsed (step B25).

  Here, when a change in the height of the prize field 16L is instructed by an input operation of the height adjustment button 24Ld (step B26, Yes), the CPU 70 drives the vertical mechanism in accordance with the input operation to change the prize field 16L. Move up and down (step B27). For example, the CPU 70 drives the up / down function while the height adjustment button 24Ld is pressed, and reciprocates the prize field 16L between the upper limit and the lower limit. The player can position the prize field 16L by releasing the height adjustment button 24Ld when the prize field 16L is at a desired height. The positioning of the prize field 16L can be repeatedly executed within the time limit (step B29).

  When the time limit has elapsed (step B29, Yes), or the positioning of the prize field 16L is determined, the CPU 70 is instructed to perform the determination by operating a button other than the height adjustment button 24Ld (for example, the lateral movement button 24La). (Step B28, Yes), the prize field 16L is fixed to the adjusted height, and the game is started.

  Hereinafter, the control for the crane arm 18L (steps B30 to B35) is executed in the same manner as the operation mode “fixed” described above, and a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

  As described above, in the operation mode “free”, the game can be started after the player arbitrarily adjusts the height of the prize field 16L before the game is started. Therefore, according to the prize placed on the prize field 16L, the height of the prize field 16L can be adjusted so as to be easily acquired by the crane arm 18L. For example, in the case of a small prize, by raising the prize field 16L, the distance between the crane arm 18L and the prize can be shortened and the crane arm 18L can be aimed easily.

  In the above-described operation mode “free”, the player can adjust the height of the prize field 16L before the game starts. However, during the game (the input operation for controlling the movement of the crane arm 18 is not performed). The height of the prize field 16L may be adjusted by a player's operation during a possible period.

FIG. 27 is a flowchart of the operation mode “free 2” in which the height of the prize field 16L can be adjusted by the player's operation during the game.
In this case, the CPU 70 outputs a message for notifying the player that the height of the prize field 16L can be changed by operating the height adjustment button 24Ld during the game (step C1).

  When the CPU 70 is instructed to move the crane arm 18L horizontally / vertically by operating the horizontal movement button 24La or the vertical movement button 24Lb (step C2, Yes), the CPU 70 moves the crane arm 18L according to the input operation. The motor is driven to move the crane arm 18L (step C3). That is, when the lateral movement button 24La is operated, the CPU 70 drives the X-axis motor 80 through the X-axis motor drive unit 74 to move the crane arm 18L in the lateral direction (X-axis direction). Further, when the vertical movement button 24Lb is operated, the CPU 70 drives the Y-axis motor 81 through the Y-axis motor driving unit 75 to move the crane arm 18L in the vertical direction (Y-axis direction).

  Further, when an instruction to change the height of the prize field 16L is input by operating the height adjustment button 24Ld (step C4, Yes), the CPU 70 drives the vertical mechanism to change the height of the prize field 16L. (Step C5).

  That is, the player can adjust so that the desired prize can be obtained by the crane arm 18L by combining the movement operation of the crane arm 18L in the vertical and horizontal directions and the operation of moving the prize field 16L up and down (steps C2 to C2). C5). After adjusting the position of the crane arm 18L and the height of the prize field 16L, the player instructs the lowering of the crane arm 18L using the lowering button 24Lc.

  When the depression of the lowering button 24Lc is detected (step C6, Yes), the CPU 70 controls the crane arm 18L according to the prize acquisition sequence as described above (step C7).

  When the prize acquisition sequence is completed (step C8, Yes), the CPU 70 subtracts the credit and decrements the possible number of plays when the remaining credit (playable number of times) remains (step C9, Yes). Transition to play state. On the other hand, when there is no remaining credit (the number of playable times) (No at Step C9), the CPU 70 drives the vertical mechanism to return the prize field 16L to the initial position (Step C10).

  That is, in the case of the operation mode “free 2” of the up / down mechanism, the prize field 16L is not returned to the initial position if credits remain after one play is completed. As a result, the next play can be continued with the prize field 16L having the height adjusted by the operation of the height adjustment button 24Ld, so there is no need to repeat the same height adjustment, and the previous play is referred to. Fine adjustment of the height can be easily performed.

  In this way, in the operation mode “free 2”, the player can adjust the height of the prize field 16L during the game, so that a new prize acquisition method can be tried in combination with the operation on the crane arm 18L. , Can make the player interested.

  In the above-described vertical mechanism, the premium field 16L is moved up and down while being horizontal, but the height may be adjusted so that the premium field 16L is inclined. For example, in the configuration of the vertical mechanism shown in FIG. 5, the prize field 16L can be tilted left and right by allowing the heights of the X members 31L, 32L, and 33L to be individually adjusted. In order to individually adjust the heights of the X members 31L, 32L, and 33L, for example, field motors corresponding to at least the X members 31L and 33L at both ends are provided, and the field motors are individually controlled. The height of the prize field 16L is changed by 31L and 33L. In this case, for example, an administrator (or a player) can instruct the inclination direction (right inclination, left inclination) by a button operation or the like, so that the height adjustment by the X members 31L and 33L can be individually changed to give a prize field. 16L can be tilted right or left.

  Further, the prize field 16L may be tilted not only to the left and right but also to the front and back. For example, in the configuration of the vertical mechanism shown in FIG. 5, the lower end portions of the oblique members 31Lc, 32Lc, and 33Lc are attached so as to rotate at the fixed position, but the lower end portions of the oblique members 31Lc, 32Lc, and 33Lc are also inclined members. Similarly to 31Lb, 32Lb, and 33Lb, it is configured to be movable in the horizontal direction. In addition, the positions of the rotation shafts 31Ld, 32Ld, and 33Ld that connect the oblique members 31Lb, 32Lb, and 33Lb and the oblique members 31Lc, 32Lc, and 33Lc are lower ends along the longitudinal direction of the members only for the oblique members 31Lc, 32Lc, and 33Lc. It is possible to move in the direction of the part (normally, the positions of the rotary shafts 31Ld, 32Ld, 33Ld are fixed). Thereby, the lower end portions of the oblique members 31Lc, 32Lc, 33Lc are moved, and the position of the rotation shafts 31Ld, 32Ld, 33Ld of the oblique members 31Lc, 32Lc, 33Lc is lowered, so that the prize field 16L is inclined so that the front becomes lower. Can be made. Also in this case, as described above, the prize field 16L can be tilted forward or backward by allowing the manager (or player) to instruct the tilt direction (front tilt, rear tilt) by operating a button or the like. it can.

  The configuration for inclining the prize field 16L is not limited to the above-described configuration. For example, the horizontal members 31La, 32La, and 33La can be individually inclined, or the entire base on which the vertical mechanism is provided is inclined. It is also possible to configure it.

  In this way, the prize field 16L can be tilted, and for example, the prize field 16L can be tilted in accordance with the position of the prize drop opening, thereby making it easy to obtain a prize. For example, when a prize drop opening is provided on the left side of the prize field 16L, the player is given an impression that the prize is likely to fall into the prize drop opening by inclining the right side of the prize field 16L. Can do. Similarly, when a prize drop opening is provided in front of (in front of) the prize field 16L, the prize is easy to fall to the prize drop opening by inclining so that the rear side of the prize field 16L becomes higher. An impression can be given to the player. It is also possible to combine left and right inclination and front and rear inclination.

  When the prize field 16L is configured to be tilted, in the above-described operation mode “free 2” of the vertical mechanism, for example, it is assumed that an instruction to tilt the prize field 16L can be performed once in one play. If there is a remaining credit, the inclined state of the prize field 16L is maintained, and it is possible to instruct further inclination in the next play. That is, the inclination angle of the prize field 16L can be increased by continuous play, and the player can be given an impression that the prize placed on the prize field 16L can be easily dropped into the prize drop opening. Thereby, it is possible to prompt the player to use the continuous crane game apparatus 10.

  Note that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment as it is, and can be embodied by modifying the constituent elements without departing from the scope of the invention in the implementation stage. In addition, various inventions can be formed by appropriately combining a plurality of components disclosed in the embodiment. For example, some components may be deleted from all the components shown in the embodiment. Furthermore, constituent elements over different embodiments may be appropriately combined.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Crane game machine, 12 ... Upper housing | casing, 13 ... Lower housing | casing, 15 ... Transparent board, 16L, 16R ... Premium field, 18L, 18R ... Crane arm, 21L, 21R ... Premium outlet, 23L, 23R ... Control panel Part, 24L, 24R ... button, 26L, 26R ... coin insertion slot, 31L, 30L ... drive unit, 33Lh, 33Lh ... slide unit, 35La, 35Lb ... auxiliary spring unit, 45 ... field motor, 61a, 61b ... nut, 62a 62b ... Trapezoidal screw shaft.

Claims (4)

A field where prizes are placed,
A mechanism member that supports the field from below and changes the height of the field from the lowest position to the highest position ;
A driving source for supplying a driving force for moving the field up and down via the mechanism member, and the field alone when the field is at a position higher than the lowest position by a predetermined height. A driving source for supplying a driving force capable of pushing up,
A unit for transmitting a driving force from the driving source to the mechanism member;
A game apparatus comprising: an auxiliary unit that acts to push up the field until the field reaches the predetermined height at which the driving source exerts driving force from the lowest position . The auxiliary unit is
2. The game apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the field is in the vicinity of the lowest position, the game apparatus acts to push up while supporting the bottom of the field. The auxiliary unit is
3. The game apparatus according to claim 2, wherein when the elastic member accommodated in the housing is pushed down by the field in the vicinity of the lowest position, the game device acts to push up the field.   The game apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of the auxiliary units are arranged below the field.

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