JP6331622B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

For a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine, a privilege such as a lottery to determine whether or not to shift to a special gaming state is given to a player, for example, when a ball enters a ball club such as a start opening provided in a game area. There is something to do. In this type of gaming machine, game parts such as game nails and windmills are arranged in the game area, thereby diversifying the flow path of the game balls and making it possible to enter the entrance part appropriately. that are adjusted to occur at a probability (e.g., see Patent Document 1).

The above-mentioned type of gaming machine, ball entrance probability in the game machine manufacturer that has been manufactured to fit within the range that has been set in advance. If the entrance probability greatly changes due to various circumstances, the game hall and the player may be overly disadvantageous. Such a large bias is not preferable because it hinders the installation and use of gaming machines.

  However, for example, when a game part is deformed during the maintenance work, there is a possibility that the entrance probability to the entrance part changes. In the first place, the gaming machine manufacturer is manufactured so that the probability of entering the ball falls within a preset range, and if the probability of entering the ball changes greatly due to the above-mentioned circumstances, it will be one of the game hall and the player. It can be overly disadvantageous. Such a large bias is not preferable because it hinders the installation and use of gaming machines.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described circumstances and the like, and an object thereof is to provide a gaming machine that can suitably suppress the occurrence of a disadvantage of a player or the like.

  Hereinafter, means for solving the above problems will be described.

The invention described in claim 1
A gaming machine comprising a gaming board having a gaming area formed on the front surface, wherein the gaming board is provided with a game nail and a ball entry part into which a game ball enters,
The front portion of the game board is provided with a plurality of branched guide passages for guiding the game ball toward the entrance portion,
As the guide path, e Bei a first guide path in which a plurality of the gaming nails are arrayed, and a second guide passage that game balls are formed by the partition member that partitions the passage region to pass,
The first guide passage and the second guide passage extend sideways, and the first guide passage and the second guide passage are arranged side by side so as to be on the upper side and the second guide passage on the lower side,
A game ball that has flowed out of the first guide passage at a position midway along the first guide passage can flow into an intermediate position between the inlet portion and the outlet portion of the second guide passage .

  Occurrence of a disadvantage for a player or the like can be suitably suppressed.

It is a front view which shows the pachinko machine in 1st Embodiment. It is the perspective view which looked at the pachinko machine from the front. It is a perspective view which expands and shows the main structures of a pachinko machine. It is a perspective view which expands and shows the main structures of a pachinko machine. It is a front view which shows the structure of an inner frame. It is a front view which shows the structure of a game board unit. It is the perspective view which looked at the game board unit from the back side. It is a rear view which shows the structure of an inner frame. It is a rear view of a pachinko machine. It is a front view which shows a back pack unit. It is the elements on larger scale of FIG. It is an AA partial fragmentary sectional view of FIG. It is the schematic which shows a motion of an entrance probability variable mechanism. It is the schematic which shows a motion of an entrance probability variable mechanism. (A) Schematic diagram showing a guide passage, (b) Schematic diagram showing whether or not a game ball can reach a trigger. It is the schematic which shows the flow-down aspect of a game ball. It is the schematic which shows the mode of distribution of a game ball. (A) The elements on larger scale which show the game board in 2nd Embodiment, (b) It is the schematic which shows a entrance probability variable mechanism. It is the schematic which shows a motion of an entrance probability variable mechanism. It is a front view which shows the game board in 3rd Embodiment. It is a perspective view which decomposes | disassembles and shows the main structures of a distribution mechanism. (A) The cross-sectional view of a distribution mechanism, (b) The longitudinal cross-sectional view of a distribution mechanism. It is a front view which shows a channel | path formation body. It is the schematic which shows the flow-down aspect of a game ball. It is the schematic which shows the distribution mechanism in 4th Embodiment.

<First Embodiment>
Hereinafter, a first embodiment of a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter referred to as a “pachinko machine”), which is a type of gaming machine, will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a front view of the pachinko machine 10, FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the pachinko machine 10 viewed from the front side, and FIGS. 3 and 4 are perspective views showing the main configuration of the pachinko machine 10 in an exploded manner. In FIG. 3, the configuration in the game area in the pachinko machine 10 is omitted for convenience.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko machine 10 includes an outer frame 11 that forms an outer shell of the pachinko machine 10, and a gaming machine main part 12 attached to the outer frame 11.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the outer frame 11 is formed by connecting a long frame material to four sides, and is formed so as to form a rectangular frame shape as a whole. By attaching and fixing the outer frame 11 to the island facility, the pachinko machine 10 is installed in the game hall. In the pachinko machine 10, the outer frame 11 is not an essential configuration, and the outer frame 11 may be provided in an island facility or the like of the game hall.

  The gaming machine main part 12 is supported by the outer frame 11 so as to be opened and closed. Specifically, the upper support bracket 17 is fixed to a connection portion between the upper frame portion and the left frame portion in the outer frame 11, and further, a lower portion is connected to the connection portion between the lower frame portion and the left frame portion in the outer frame 11. Side support fittings 18 are provided. The upper support bracket 17 and the lower support bracket 18 form a support mechanism. The support mechanism causes the gaming machine main unit 12 to turn the left side of the pachinko machine 10 in the front view with respect to the outer frame 11. The right side can be turned to the front side of the pachinko machine 10 with the turning tip side (see FIGS. 3 and 4).

  As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the gaming machine main part 12 is disposed at the inner frame 13 as a base body, the front door frame 14 disposed in front of the inner frame 13, and the rear of the inner frame 13. The back pack unit 15 is provided. The inner frame 13 of the gaming machine main part 12 is supported so as to be rotatable with respect to the outer frame 11. Specifically, the inner frame 13 can be rotated forward with the left side as the rotation base end side and the right side as the rotation front end side in a front view of the gaming machine.

  A front door frame 14 is rotatably supported by the inner frame 13 and can be rotated forward with the left side as a rotation base end side and the right side as a rotation front end side in a front view of the gaming machine. Further, the back pack unit 15 is rotatably supported on the inner frame 13, and can be rotated rearward with the left side as a rotation base end side and the right side as a rotation front end side in a front view of the gaming machine. Yes.

(Front door frame 14)
Next, the front door frame 14 will be described. As shown in FIG. 1, the front door frame 14 is mainly composed of a synthetic resin frame body 20 whose outer shape is substantially the same as that of the outer frame 11, and covers almost the entire front surface of the inner frame 13. Yes. A substantially elliptical window portion 21 is formed in the central portion of the frame body 20 so that a substantially entire game area PE described later can be viewed from the front. The window portion 21 is formed by the glass unit 22. The front door frame 14 is closed from the back side.

  The glass unit 22 includes a plurality of glass panels 23 having transparency and a glass holder that holds the glass panels 23. The glass holder is formed with a partition portion for partitioning the holding region of the glass panel 23 in the front-rear direction, and the two glass panels 23 face each other in the front-rear direction with the partition portion interposed therebetween. That is, by securing a predetermined gap between the glass panels 23, the gaming area PE is covered by the glass panels 23 from the front side of the pachinko machine 10 while avoiding interference between the glass panels 23. It is in a state.

  Note that it is not always necessary to unitize both glass panels 23 using a glass holder, and each glass panel 23 may be individually attached to the frame 20. Furthermore, the number of glass panels is arbitrary, and may be one or three or more. However, in view of safety and security improvement, it is preferable to employ a plurality of glass panels and to make the glass panels face each other with a predetermined gap therebetween. Incidentally, it is also possible to employ a synthetic resin panel member having transparency instead of the glass panel.

  Around the glass unit 22 (specifically, the window portion 21), light emitting means such as various lamps are provided. For example, an annular illumination part 26 incorporating a light emitting means such as an LED is provided along the periphery of the window part 21. In the annular illumination part 26, lighting or blinking is performed according to a change in the gaming state at the time of big hit or at a predetermined reach. In addition, an error display lamp portion 27 is provided at the center of the annular illumination portion 26 and at the top of the pachinko machine 10 to light up when a failure such as an error occurs. A prize ball lamp unit 28 that is lit is provided. In addition, a speaker unit 29 is provided at a position close to the left and right prize ball lamp units 28 to output sound effects, BGM, and the like according to the gaming state (see FIG. 3).

  Below the window portion 21 in the front door frame 14 (frame body 20), an upper bulging portion 31 and a lower bulging portion 32 that bulge toward the front side are arranged side by side. An upper pan 33 that opens upward is provided inside the upper bulging portion 31, and a lower pan 34 that also opens upward is provided inside the lower bulging portion 32 (see FIG. 2). The upper plate 33 has a function of temporarily storing game balls paid out from a payout device described later and guiding them to a game ball launching mechanism described later while aligning them in a line. In addition, the lower tray 34 has a function of storing excess game balls in the upper tray 33 and games that have not reached the game area PE (see FIG. 3) among the game balls launched by the game ball launching mechanism. When the ball is returned to the player, it has a function as a tray for storing the discharged game ball.

  A game ball launching handle 41 is provided on the right side of the lower bulging portion 32 so as to protrude toward the front side. By operating the game ball launch handle 41, a game ball is launched from a game ball launch mechanism described later. The game ball firing speed increases as the operation amount (rotation amount) of the game ball launch handle 41 increases, and the game ball is played when the operation amount is adjusted to a predetermined amount by the player. The region PE is reached. Further, by adjusting the operation amount by the player, it becomes possible to divide game balls into a right route and a left route, which will be described later.

  As shown in FIG. 3, a passage forming unit 45 is attached to the back surface of the front door frame 14. The passage forming unit 45 is formed of a synthetic resin and includes a front door side upper tray passage that leads to the upper tray 33 and a front door side lower tray passage that leads to the lower tray 34. In the passage forming unit 45, a receiving port portion that protrudes rearward and is opened upward is formed at the upper corner of the passage forming unit 45, and the entrance portion of the front door side upper plate passage is formed by dividing the receiving port portion into left and right by a partition wall. The portion and the entrance portion of the front door side lower dish passage are partitioned. The upstream side of the front door side upper dish path and the front door side lower dish path are connected to a game ball distributing section described later, and the game balls that have entered the front door side upper dish path are guided to the upper plate 33 and are moved to the lower side of the front door. The game ball that has entered the dish passage is guided to the lower dish 34.

  Projecting shafts are provided at the upper end and the lower end of the rotation base end side of the back surface of the front door frame 14. These projecting shafts constitute an assembly mechanism for the inner frame 13.

  Next, the inner frame 13 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a front view of the inner frame 13. In FIG. 5, as in FIG. 3, the configuration in the game area PE of the pachinko machine 10 is omitted for convenience.

(Inner frame 13)
The inner frame 13 is mainly configured by an inner frame base body 50 whose outer shape is substantially rectangular like the outer frame 11. The height dimension of the inner frame base body 50 is set slightly smaller than the height dimension of the outer frame 11. The inner frame base body 50 is arranged close to the upper frame portion of the outer frame 11, and a slight gap is formed between the lower frame portion of the outer frame 11 and the inner frame base body 50. A curtain plate is attached to the outer frame 11 so as to close the gap. The curtain plate is disposed below the inner frame base body 50 (specifically, the lower end portion thereof). When the inner frame 13 is closed with respect to the outer frame 11, the inner frame base body 50 is placed on the curtain plate. It will be listed. A slight clearance may be provided between the curtain plate and the inner frame base body 50 for the purpose of preventing mutual interference.

  Support metal fittings 71 and 72 are attached to the upper end portion and the lower end portion of the rotation base end side (left side in FIG. 5) on the front surface of the inner frame base body 50. Although illustration is omitted, the support fittings 71 and 72 have shaft portions, and a bearing portion provided on the front door frame 14 is inserted into these shaft portions, so that the front door frame with respect to the inner frame 13 is inserted. 14 is rotatably supported.

  A locking device 75 for locking the inner frame 13 and the front door frame 14 is disposed on the rotating front end side (right side in FIG. 5) of the inner frame base body 50. The locking device 75 extends vertically along the right end portion (vertical frame member to be described later) of the inner frame base body 50, and the front door collar member 76 is disposed in a scattered manner in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction). have. In the inner frame base body 50, a slit for projecting to the front side of the inner frame 13 corresponding to each of the front door flange members 76 corresponds to the flange receiving member 49 (see FIG. 3) provided on the back surface of the front door frame 14. It is formed in this way. By engaging the front door eaves member 76 protruding through the slits with the front door eaves member 76 provided on the front door frame 14 in a one-to-one correspondence with each front door eaves member 76, The front door frame 14 is locked to the inner frame 13 so as not to be opened. The locking device 75 has an inner frame collar member 77 extending to the rear side of the inner frame 13. When these inner frame hook members 77 are hooked on the hook receiving member 19 fixed to the outer frame 11, the gaming machine main part 12 is locked in a closed state with respect to the outer frame 11.

  The inner frame base body 50 (locking device 75) is provided with a cylinder lock 78 for performing an unlocking operation of the locking device 75. The cylinder lock 78 is provided separately from the locking units (each of the hook members 76 and 77, the interlocking hooks and the like) constituting the main part of the locking device 75, and is disposed adjacent to the locking unit. When the key inserted into the keyhole of the cylinder lock 78 is turned to the right (clockwise), the lock of the front door frame 14 on the inner frame 13 is released, and the key inserted into the keyhole of the cylinder lock 78 is turned to the left (counterclockwise). The inner frame 13 is unlocked with respect to the outer frame 11.

  A housing recess 51 for housing the game board unit 80 is formed in the central portion of the inner frame base body 50. The housing recess is recessed to the rear of the gaming machine according to the outer shape of the game board unit 80, and the game board unit 80 is fixed to the housing recess 51 by a manual lock mechanism in a state of being fitted from the front of the gaming machine. A substantially rectangular window hole 52 is formed at the bottom of the housing recess 51, and the rear configuration of the game board unit 80 (a rear block 80 b described later) protrudes behind the inner frame 13 through the window hole 52. . The window hole 52 is almost entirely covered from the front of the gaming machine by the game board unit 80 mounted on the inner frame base body 50.

(Game board unit 80)
The game board unit 80 is provided on the back side of the game board unit 80 and the game board unit 80 formed mainly of a plate made of a transparent synthetic resin material, and various game parts (variable display device, control device, The rear block 80b in which a movable production mechanism, a decorative member capable of emitting light, and the like are mounted on the base body 251 are integrated, and the front portion of the rear block 80b can be visually recognized through the game board unit 80. Yes.

  On the front surface of the game board unit 80, the above-described game area PE in which game balls flow down is formed. As already described, the game area PE is covered with the glass unit 22 (specifically, the rear glass panel 23). The glass unit 22 is such that the gap between the rear glass panel 23 and the front surface of the game board unit 80 is slightly larger than the diameter of the game ball, that is, the game ball flowing down the game area PE is in the game area PE. It arrange | positions so that it may not line up back and forth in the same location. Thereby, the ball blockage in the game area PE is suppressed. Note that the game board unit 80 (specifically, a plate) is not limited to being made of synthetic resin, and may be made of wood.

  Hereinafter, the game board unit 80 (particularly, various configurations arranged in the game area PE of the game board unit 80) will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 is a front view of the game board unit 80, and FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the game board unit 80 as viewed from the rear. In FIG. 6, the left route is illustrated by a two-dot chain line, and the right route is illustrated by a one-dot chain line.

  The game board unit 80 is formed with a plurality of large and small openings penetrating in its own thickness direction (front-rear direction). As shown in FIG. 6, a general winning port 81, a variable winning device 82, operating ports 83a and 83b, a through gate 84, and the like are disposed in each opening. When game balls enter the general winning port 81, the variable winning device 82, and the operation ports 83a and 83b, the game balls are detected by detection sensors (not shown) provided corresponding to the respective winning portions, and the detection results thereof. Based on the above, a predetermined number of award balls (payout of game balls) and the like are given to the player. In addition, an out port 89 is provided at the lowermost part of the game board unit 80, and game balls that have not entered various ball entering parts and the like are discharged from the game area PE through the out port 89. In the following description, in order to clearly distinguish the game ball from entering the out port 89, the game ball entering the general winning port 81, the variable winning device 82, and the operation ports 83a and 83b is also referred to as "winning". Express.

  The game board unit 80 is provided with various game parts such as a large number of nails 93 and a windmill 94 in order to appropriately distribute and adjust the flow path of the game balls. The flow path of the game ball is differentiated by various configurations such as the nail 93 and the windmill 94, and is adjusted so that a winning to the above-described general winning opening 81 or the like occurs with an appropriate probability.

  A central opening 85 is formed at the center of the game board unit 80, and a transparent opening cover 86 is attached so as to cover the center opening 85 from the back side of the game board unit 80. The variable display unit 252 and the like belonging to the back block 80b is located behind the central opening 85, and the variable display unit 252 and the like can be visually recognized through the central opening 85 (opening cover 86) from the front of the gaming machine. Yes. In FIG. 6, for convenience of explanation, the opening cover 86 is indicated by a two-dot chain line, and the variable display unit 252 is visible.

  Operating ports 83a and 83b, a through gate 84, and the like are disposed around the central opening 85. The operation ports 83a and 83b are constituted by an upper operation port 83a disposed below the variable display unit 252, and a lower operation port 83b disposed below the upper operation port 83a. The (lottery opportunity entrance ball portion) 83b is provided with an electric accessory 91 as an open / close type entrance assist device (entrance assisting means) or an opening / closing member (opening / closing means). The electric accessory 91 includes a movable piece and a solenoid-type drive unit that drives the movable piece, and is in an open state (auxiliary state) in which a ball can be easily or easily entered into the lower working port 83b. It is possible to switch to a closed state (non-auxiliary state) where entry is impossible or difficult.

  The through gate 84 is arranged on the upstream side of the lower operating port 83b (specifically, the side of the variable display unit 252: right route), and the lottery is triggered by the passage of the through ball 84 of the game ball as a trigger. In the case of winning, the electric accessory 91 is switched from the closed state to the open state for a predetermined time.

  When a ball enters the upper operation port 83a, three game balls are paid out. When a ball enters the lower operation port 83b, four game balls are paid out. However, the number of game balls to be paid out is not limited to the above.

  A variable winning device (special winning device or special winning means) 82 is formed with a large winning opening through which a game ball can pass and is opened and closed as an opening / closing member (opening / closing means) for opening and closing the special winning opening. The body is provided. The openable / closable body can be switched between an open state (allowed state) in which a game ball can be entered or facilitated and a closed state (blocked state) in which the entrance ball is impossible or difficult. The opening / closing body is connected to a variable prize driving unit (specifically, a solenoid or the like) provided on the back side of the game board unit 80, and the opening / closing door is maintained in a closed state under normal conditions. So that it can be switched to the open state when winning the transition to the opening / closing execution mode (opening / closing execution state) (when winning the transition to the special gaming state advantageous to the player over the normal gaming state) It has become.

  Here, the opening / closing execution mode is a mode to be shifted to when a big win is won. As an opening mode of the variable winning device 82 in the opening / closing execution mode, for example, a predetermined time (for example, 30 sec) or a predetermined number (for example, 10) of winnings is set as one round, and a plurality of rounds (for example, 16 rounds) is set as an upper limit. It is set so that the opening and closing of the door is repeated.

  Here, the variable display unit 252 will be supplementarily described. The variable display unit 252 has a symbol display device 253 that variably displays symbols (variable display) using a winning at the operation ports 83a and 83b as a trigger. The symbol display device 253 is configured as a liquid crystal display device including a liquid crystal display, and the display content is controlled by a display control device described later. On the display screen 253a of the symbol display device 253, for example, symbols are displayed side by side on the left, middle, and right, and these symbols are variably displayed as they are scrolled up and down. When a big win is won, a predetermined combination of symbols is stopped and displayed on a preset active line, and the mode is shifted to the opening / closing execution mode (special game state or big win). Note that the symbol display device 253 is not necessarily a liquid crystal display device, and may be a dot matrix or 7-segment display device.

  The game board unit 80 is provided with a center frame 95 so as to surround the central opening 85. The center frame 95 is fixed to the game board unit 80 (specifically, a plate body) from the front side thereof, and in such a fixed state, the center frame 95 is raised from the front surface of the game board unit 80. The gap dimension between the center frame 95 and the glass unit 22 is configured to be smaller than the diameter dimension of the game ball. This prevents the game ball flowing down the game area PE from colliding with the symbol display device 253, and the flow path of the game ball flowing down the game area PE moves the variable display unit 252 (specifically, the center frame 95) to the right. The route is roughly divided into the right route detouring from the left and the left route detouring from the left.

  Note that the variable winning device 82 and the through gate 84 described above are arranged on the right route, and the game balls flowing down the left route are prevented from winning the variable winning device 82 and the through gate. On the other hand, the game ball flowing down the right route is prevented from winning the upper working port 83a. For this reason, when the electric accessory 91 of the lower working port 83b is in the high frequency support mode or in the opening / closing execution mode, the game is advantageously advanced by firing the game ball to the right route. When the low-frequency support mode is enabled, the game can be advantageously advanced by firing a game ball to the left route. That is, the player can advantageously advance the game by selecting the flow path of the game ball from the right route / left route according to the game situation.

  On the upper surface of the frame portion constituting the lower portion of the center frame 95, a stage portion 96 is formed on which the game ball can roll to the left and right. A game ball that has flowed from an inflow port formed in the left frame portion of the center frame 95 is discharged onto the stage portion 96 through a warp passage 97 that is also formed in the center frame 95. As for the stage unit 96, specifically, the upper operation port 83a is compared with a game ball that does not pass through the stage unit 96 so that the game ball that reaches the stage unit 96 is relatively easy to flow into the upper operation port 83a. It is configured so as to easily flow into the game, and contributes to improving the player's attention to the movement of the game ball on the stage unit 96.

  Here, in the present embodiment, as described above, the central opening 85 is covered by the transparent opening cover 86, and the game ball that has reached the stage portion 96 does not move to the back block 80b (variable display unit 252) side. So that it is regulated.

  Further, a first reserved lamp portion 98a and a second reserved lamp portion 98b are provided on the front surface of the frame portion constituting the lower portion of the center frame 95. The first hold lamp portion 98a on the left side corresponds to the upper operation port 83a, and the number of times that the game ball has passed through the upper operation port 83a is held up to a maximum of four times. It is displayed. The second holding lamp portion 98b on the right side corresponds to the lower operating port 83b, and the number of times that the game ball has passed through the lower operating port 83b is held up to four times. Is displayed.

  The operation ports 83a and 83b are arranged at positions close to the central opening 85 (variable display unit 252). Since it is possible to shift to the special game state by using a winning at the operation ports 83a and 83b as a trigger, the player pays attention to whether or not the operation ports 83a and 83b are won, and grasps whether or not to shift to the special game state. Therefore, it is considered that the symbol display device 253 is noticed. Providing the operation ports 83a and 83b closer to the variable display unit 252 is a device for concentrating a portion that the player wants to focus on around the variable display unit 252.

  A game area partition member 99 that partitions the game area PE together with the guide rail 100 described later is disposed at the right end of the game board unit 80 (the rotation tip of the game board unit 80 described later). The game area partition member 99 is provided with a stopper member and a main display unit 87 on which game balls flying along the guide rail 100 collide. The stopper member is a buffer member arranged near the tip of the guide rail 100, and the game ball that collides with the stopper member flows down the game area PE after the momentum is weakened. That is, the stopper member is provided with a depressing function that weakens the momentum of the game ball that has collided.

  Here, the main display unit 87 will be described supplementarily. The main display unit 87 is embedded in the game area partition member 99, and a part of the main display unit 87 is arranged to face the glass unit 22. A main display portion on which a predetermined pattern or the like is displayed is provided in the facing portion. The main display unit 87 is electrically connected to a main controller described later, and the display content of the main display unit is controlled by the main controller.

  The main display unit displays a lottery result based on a winning to the upper working port 83a, and a right working port displays a lottery result based on a winning to the lower working port 83b. And a display unit. In the lower working port display section, the display of the variation of the pattern is performed with the winning of the upper working port 83a as a trigger, and as a result of stopping the variation display, the internal lottery performed based on the winning of the upper working port 83a is performed. The result is specified. When the result of the internal lottery based on the winning to the upper working port 83a is the winning result corresponding to the shift to the opening / closing execution mode, the variable display is stopped on the lower working port display section, and the stop result is predetermined. After the pattern is displayed, the mode is shifted to the opening / closing execution mode.

  In the lower working port display unit, the display of the variation of the picture is performed with the winning of the lower working port 83b as a trigger, and as a result of stopping the variation display, the internal lottery performed based on the winning of the lower working port 83b is performed. The result is specified. When the result of the internal lottery based on the winning to the lower working port 83b is a winning result corresponding to the jackpot, the change display is stopped on the display unit for the right working port, and a predetermined pattern is displayed as the stop result. After that, the mode is shifted to the opening / closing execution mode according to the result.

  Here, on the basis of winning in any one of the operation ports 83a and 83b, the display of variation is started at the corresponding operation port display unit, until a predetermined stop result is displayed and the variation display is stopped. It corresponds to one time. However, the number of game times is not limited to the above-mentioned contents. For example, a single display area is provided, and even if a winning to any of the operation ports 83a and 83b occurs, the single game area In the configuration in which the variable display is performed in the display area, the variable display is started in the single display area, and the above-mentioned variable display is stopped once in a state where a predetermined stop result is displayed. It is also possible.

  In addition to the two display units, the main display unit 87 has a through gate display unit for displaying a lottery result based on a winning to the through gate 84. In the through gate display unit, the display of the variation of the picture is performed with the winning of the through gate 84 as a trigger, and the result of the internal lottery performed based on the winning of the through gate 84 is clearly shown as the result of stopping the variation display. Is done. If the result of the internal lottery based on the winning to the through gate 84 is a winning result corresponding to the transition to the open state, a predetermined stop result is displayed on the through gate display unit, and the change display is displayed. After being stopped, the state shifts to the electric power open state. In the electric combination open state, the electric combination 91 provided in the lower operation port 83b is opened in a predetermined manner.

  Further, in the present embodiment, a configuration is adopted in which the number of times that the game ball has passed through the through gate 84 is held up to a maximum of 4 times, but the reserved number is displayed on the main display unit of the main display unit 87. A holding number display section is provided.

  About the main display part explained in full detail above, while being visible from the front of the pachinko machine 10 through the glass unit 22 of the front door frame 14, it is avoided that the game ball moves in front of these various display parts. Therefore, the visibility is ensured.

  Referring to FIG. 5 again, the configuration of the inner frame 13 will be described. Below the game board unit 80 in the inner frame base body 50, a game ball is launched into the game area PE based on the operation of the game ball launch handle 41. A game ball launching mechanism 110 is provided.

(Game Ball Launching Mechanism 110)
The game ball launching mechanism 110 includes a solenoid 111 that launches a game ball placed at a predetermined launch standby position, a launch rail 112 that defines the launch direction of the game ball launched by the solenoid 111, and a game at the launch standby position. A ball feeding device 113 for supplying a ball and a base plate 114 on which the various configurations 111 to 113 are mounted are provided as main components, and the base plate 114 is fixed to the inner frame base body 50, thereby The inner frame base body 50 is integrated.

  The firing rail 112 is fixed to the base plate 114 in an inclined state so as to be inclined upward toward the game board unit 80 side. The firing rail 112 is formed with a groove portion having a substantially V-shaped cross section, and the front and rear positions of the game ball are defined by fitting the game ball into the groove portion.

  A ball stopper that holds the game ball supplied from the ball feeding device 113 at the above-described firing standby position is disposed at a position closer to the downstream end portion (that is, the lower end portion) of the firing rail 112. The solenoid 111 is arranged at a position further downstream than the ball stopper.

  The solenoid 111 is electrically connected to a power source / launch control device described later. Based on the output of the electrical signal from the power supply / launch control device, the output shaft of the solenoid 111 reciprocates in the expansion / contraction direction, so that the game ball placed at the launch standby position is on the game board unit 80 side, in detail. It is launched toward the guide rail 100 mounted on the game board unit 80.

  The guide rail 100 partitions the game area PE together with the game area partition member 99 fixed to the game board unit 80 (specifically, the front surface of the plate) so that the outer shape of the game area PE is substantially circular. . In addition, the guide rail 100 includes an inner rail 101 and an outer rail 102 that are arranged so as to face each other with a gap larger than the diameter of the game ball, and a single guide passage 103 is formed by both the rails 101 and 102. Has been. The guide passage 103 includes an inlet portion 104 that is opened to the tip side (obliquely downward) of the firing rail 112, and an outlet portion 105 that is located above the gaming area PE. The game ball fired based on the operation of the solenoid 111 is guided to the game area PE by moving in the order of the firing rail 112 → the guide rail 100 (the entrance portion 104 → the exit portion 105). In the game board unit 80, on the front side of the exit portion 105, more specifically, near the tip of the inner rail 101, there is a reverse prevention member 106 that prevents the game ball that has reached the game area PE from returning back into the guide passage 103. It is attached and it is restrained that the launch of the following game ball is prevented by the game ball that has reached the game area PE first.

  Each of the rails 101 and 102 constituting the guide rail 100 has an arc shape centered at a substantially central portion of the game area PE. For this reason, the game ball passing through the guide passage 103 is likely to move (slide or roll) along the outer rail 102, that is, in contact with the outer rail 102 due to the centrifugal force generated by itself. That is, when a game ball is launched so as to be delivered to the game area PE, the area along the outer rail 102 in the guide passage 103 substantially constitutes a pass area (passage path) through which the game ball passes. However, the area along the inner rail 101 is an area through which the game ball does not pass.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the guide rail 100 and the firing rail 112 are configured such that the entrance portion 104 of the guide rail 100 and the tip portion of the firing rail 112 face each other diagonally across the lower edge of the game board unit 80. Has been placed. That is, both the rails 100 and 112 are arranged such that the entrance portion 104 of the guide rail 100 and the tip portion of the firing rail 112 are shifted to the left and right in the vicinity of the lower end edge of the game board unit 80. Thus, a gap of a predetermined interval is formed between the entrance portion 104 of the guide rail 100 and the firing rail 112 while bringing both the rails 100 and 112 close to the lower end edge of the game board unit 80.

  A foul ball passage is disposed below the gap formed in this way. The foul ball path is formed integrally with the path forming unit 45 of the front door frame 14. If the game balls launched from the game ball launching mechanism 110 do not reach the game area PE and return to the inside of the guide passage 103 as foul balls, the foul balls enter the foul ball passage through the gap. Become. The foul ball path leads to the front door side lower dish path, and the game balls that have entered the foul ball path are discharged to the lower dish 34 shown in FIG. This suppresses interference between the foul ball and the next game ball to be launched.

  A rail cover 107 is provided at the left end of the game board unit 80 so as to cover the outer rail 102 from the side. The game board unit 80 is often handled as a single unit during manufacturing or maintenance work, and at this time, the outer rail 102 may collide with a game table or the like. The rail cover 107 is a member mounted in view of such circumstances, and is provided with a protective function for preventing the outer rail 102 from being deformed due to the above factors or the like.

  A through-hole penetrating the inner frame base body 50 in the front-rear direction is formed on the left side of the firing rail 112 in the inner frame base body 50 (specifically, the side supporting the front door frame 14). A passage forming member 121 is disposed on the side. The passage forming member 121 is screwed to the inner frame base body 50 and has a main body side upper dish path 122 and a main body side lower dish path 123. The upstream side of the main body side upper dish passage 122 and the main body side lower dish passage 123 communicates with a game ball distributing section described later. In addition, a receiving portion of a passage forming unit attached to the front door frame 14 enters below the passage forming member 121, and a front door side upper plate passage is disposed below the main body side upper plate passage 122, A front door side upper dish passage is disposed below the main body side lower dish passage 123.

  An opening / closing member 124 for opening and closing the main body side upper dish path 122 and the main body side lower dish path 123 is attached below the passage forming member 121 in the inner frame base body 50. The opening / closing member 124 is urged to a front position that closes the main body side upper dish passage 122 and the main body side lower dish passage 123. When the front door frame 14 is opened, each opening / closing member 124 is urged by this urging force. By being in the closed state, falling off of the game balls from the passages 122 and 123 is avoided. On the other hand, in a state where the front door frame 14 is closed, the opening / closing member 124 is pushed open against the biasing force by the receiving portion provided in the passage forming unit 45 of the front door frame 14. In this state, the main body side upper dish path 122 and the front door side upper dish path communicate with each other, and the main body side lower dish path 123 and the front door side lower dish path communicate with each other.

  Next, the back configuration of the inner frame 13 (the inner frame base body 50 and the game board unit 80) will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 8 is a rear view of the inner frame 13.

  As shown in FIG. 8, a bearing fitting 132 is attached to the rotation base end side (right side in FIG. 8) on the back surface of the inner frame base body 50. A bearing portion 133 is formed on the bearing bracket 132 so as to be separated from each other in the vertical direction, and the back pack unit 15 is rotatably attached to the inner frame 13 by these bearing portions 133. A plurality of fixing levers 134 are provided on the back surface of the inner frame base body 50 for fixing the back pack unit 15 to the inner frame base body 50 in a closed state.

  As already described, the bottom portion of the housing recess (game board housing portion) 51 in the inner frame base body 50 penetrates in the thickness direction of the inner frame base body 50 and is opened to the back side of the inner frame base body 50. A window hole 52 is formed, and the window hole 52 is covered from the front side of the inner frame 13 by the game board unit 80 housed in the housing recess 51. Various components such as a control device are mounted on the back of the game board unit 80 (rear block 80 b), and these various components are exposed to the back side of the inner frame 13 through the window holes 52. Here, the configuration of the back surface of the game board unit 80 will be described.

  As described above, the back block 80 b is attached to the back of the game board unit 80. The back block 80b has a substantially box-shaped base body 251 that is open on the game board unit 80 side. The base body 251 is fixed to the back of the game board unit 80, so that the game board unit 80 and The back block 80b is integrated.

  The front side of the base body 251 is an arrangement area for a movable production mechanism, a decorative member capable of emitting light, and the like, and the back side thereof is a control device for controlling these various components and the variable display unit 252 (design display device). 253).

  More specifically, a part of the base body 251 protrudes toward the back side of the inner frame base body 50, and the symbol display device 253 (see FIG. 6) described above with respect to the protruding portion, and the symbol display device. A display control device for driving 253 is attached. The symbol display device 253 and the display control device are arranged so that the symbol display device 253 is on the front side and the display control device is on the rear side in the front-rear direction (thickness direction of the inner frame base body 50). Furthermore, a notification / production control device 140 is mounted on the back surface of the base body 251 so as to be positioned behind the display control device.

  The notification / production control device 140 includes a notification / production control board that controls sound output, lamp display, and control of the display control device in accordance with instructions from the main control device described later. It is configured to be accommodated in a substrate box 141 made of a resin material or the like.

  A main controller unit 160 is provided below the notification / effect controller 140 so as to cover the base body 251 from the rear. The main controller unit 160 includes a synthetic resin mounting base 161 fixed to the back of the game board unit 80 (specifically, the back block 80b), and a main control unit 162 mounted on the mounting base 161. Yes. The main controller 162 includes a main control board having a function (main control circuit) that controls the main control of the game and a function (power failure monitoring circuit) that monitors the power source, and the main control board is made of a transparent resin material. It is configured to be accommodated in a substrate box 163 made of, for example.

  The board box 163 includes a substantially rectangular parallelepiped box base (front case body) and a box cover (back case body) that covers an opening of the box base. The box base and the box cover are connected so as not to be unsealed by a box sealing portion 164 as sealing means, whereby the substrate box 163 is sealed. A plurality of box sealing portions 164 are provided on the short side portion of the substrate box 163, and at least one of them is used for sealing processing.

  Any configuration can be applied to the box sealing portion 164 as long as the box base and the box cover are coupled so as not to be opened. However, by inserting a locking pin into the locking hole that forms the box sealing portion 164, the box sealing portion 164 The base and the box cover are coupled so as not to be opened. The sealing process by the box sealing unit 164 prevents unauthorized opening after the sealing, and makes it possible to detect such a situation early and easily even if the unauthorized opening is performed. Even after opening, the sealing process can be performed again. That is, the sealing process is performed by inserting a locking pin into at least one locking hole portion among the plurality of box sealing portions 164. When the substrate box 163 is opened, such as when a failure occurs in the accommodated main control board or when the main control board is inspected, a connecting portion between the box sealing portion into which the locking pin is inserted and the substrate box 163 main body. Disconnect. As a result, the box base and the box cover of the substrate box 163 are separated, and the internal main control substrate can be taken out. Thereafter, when the sealing process is performed again, a locking pin is inserted into another locking hole. If the history of opening the substrate box 163 is left in the substrate box 163, it can be easily found that the unauthorized opening has been performed by looking at the substrate box 163.

  The board box 163 and the mounting base 161 are connected by a base seal part 165 so that they cannot be opened. Specifically, the pedestal sealing portion 165 has a locking hole portion and a locking pin similarly to the box sealing portion 164, and the locking pin is inserted into the locking hole portion so that the board box 163 and The mounting base 161 is coupled so as not to be separable. This makes it easier to grasp the fact that the substrate box 163 has been illegally removed.

  A portion of the front surface portion of the base body 251 facing the lower back of the game board unit 80 corresponds to the game board opening portions of the general winning port 81, the variable winning device 82, and the operating ports 83a and 83b and on the downstream side. Thus, a collection passage (not shown) that gathers in one place is formed. Thereby, all the game balls won in the general winning opening 81 etc. are gathered below the game board unit 80 through the collection passage. That is, the base body 251 is provided with a function of collecting game balls won in various winning ports.

  A discharge passage, which will be described later, is arranged below the game board unit 80, and the game balls gathered below the game board unit 80 by the collection passage are led out into the discharge passage. Similarly, the out port 89 leads to the discharge passage, and a game ball that has not won any winning port is led out into the discharge passage through the out port 89.

  In addition, the base body 251 constituting the back block 80b includes a general winning port detection sensor for detecting a game ball won in the general winning port 81, and an operating port 83a as the detection sensors for the respective winning portions. , 83b and a detection sensor for an operating port that detects a game ball that has entered the game ball, and a winning detection mechanism is constituted by these various detection sensors. These various detection sensors are electrically connected to the main controller 162, and detection information (detection signals) is output from the respective detection sensors to the main controller 162.

  Next, the back pack unit 15 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 9 is a rear view of the pachinko machine 10, and FIG. 10 is a front view of the back pack unit 15.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the inner frame 13 is covered from behind by the back pack unit 15. The back pack unit 15 includes a back pack 201 as a main body of the back pack unit 15, and a payout mechanism unit 202, a discharge passage board, and a control device assembly unit 204 are attached to the back pack 201. .

  The back pack 201 is formed of a synthetic resin having transparency, and as shown in FIG. 11, a base portion 211 to which the payout mechanism portion 202 and the like are attached, and a protective cover portion that protrudes rearward from the pachinko machine 10 and has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. 212. The protective cover part 212 has a shape in which the left and right side surfaces and the upper surface are closed and only the lower surface is opened, and has a size sufficient to surround at least the variable display unit 252 (see FIG. 10).

  The base part 211 is provided with an external terminal board. Various output terminals are provided on the external terminal board, and various signals are output to the management control device (hall computer) on the game hall side through these output terminals. As shown in FIG. 11, the base portion 211 is provided with a pair of upper and lower retaining pins 214 at the right end when viewed from the rear of the pachinko machine 10, and the bearings provided on the inner frame 13 are the bearings. The back pack unit 15 is supported so as to be rotatable with respect to the inner frame 13 by being inserted through the portion 133. The base portion 211 is formed with a plurality of insertion portions through which the fixing levers 134 provided on the inner frame 13 are inserted, and the base portion 211 is contacted from the rear in a state where the fixing levers 134 are inserted through the insertion portions. The back pack unit 15 is fixed to the inner frame 13 by contact.

  In the base portion 211, a payout mechanism portion 202 is disposed so as to bypass the protective cover portion 212. The payout mechanism 202 is provided with a tank 221 that is arranged at the top of the back pack 201 and that opens upward, and game balls supplied from the island facilities of the game hall are sequentially replenished to the tank 221. The A tank rail 222 that is gently inclined toward the downstream side is connected to the side of the tank 221, and a case rail 223 that extends in the vertical direction is connected to the downstream side of the tank rail 222. A payout device 224 is provided at the most downstream portion of the case rail 223. The game balls paid out from the payout device 224 are supplied to the game ball distribution unit 225 provided in the base portion 211 of the back pack 201 through a payout passage (not shown) provided on the downstream side of the payout device 224.

  The game ball distribution unit 225 has a function of distributing the game balls paid out from the payout device 224 to any one of the upper plate 33, the lower plate 34, and a discharge passage described later, and the inner opening is the main body described above. It is formed so that it communicates with the upper plate 33 through the side upper plate passage 122 and the front door side upper plate passage, and the outer opening communicates with the lower plate 34 through the main body side lower plate passage 123 and the front door side lower plate passage. Has been.

  At the lower end portion of the base portion 211, the discharge passage board and the control device collective unit 204 are attached so as to sandwich the lower end portion in the front-rear direction. In the discharge passage board, a discharge passage opened rearward is formed on a surface facing the control device assembly unit 204, and an open portion of the discharge passage is closed by the control device assembly unit 204. The discharge passage is formed so as to discharge the game ball to the island facility or the like of the game hall, and the game ball led to the discharge passage from the recovery passage described above passes through the discharge passage to the outside of the pachinko machine 10. Discharged.

  The control device assembly unit 204 has a horizontally long mounting base 241, and a payout control device 242 and a power supply / launch control device 243 are mounted on the mounting base 241. The payout control device 242 and the power supply / launch control device 243 are arranged so as to overlap each other so that the payout control device 242 is behind the pachinko machine 10.

  In the payout control device 242, a payout control board for controlling the payout device 224 is accommodated in the board box 244, and a state return switch 245 provided on the payout control board projects out of the board box 244. For example, when the state return switch 245 is pressed when a payout error occurs, such as a ball jam in the payout device 224, the ball jam is eliminated.

  The power / fire control device 243 has a power / fire control board accommodated in a board box 246. A predetermined power source required by various control devices and the like is generated and output by the power source / launch control board, and further, control of launching of the game ball accompanying the operation of the game ball launch handle 41 by the player is performed. Specifically, drive control of the solenoid 111 constituting the game ball launching mechanism 110 and drive control of the ball feeding device 113 are executed.

  Further, the power source / launch control device 243 is provided with a power switch 247. By operating the power switch 247, the power of the pachinko machine 10 can be switched to the on state (on state) or the shut off state (off state).

  Here, this pachinko machine 10 has a function for storing various data, and even if a power failure occurs, it retains the state at the time of the power failure and returns to the state at the time of the power failure at the time of recovery from the power failure. It can be done. For example, when the power supply is shut down by a normal procedure as in the case of a game hall being closed, the state before the shutdown is stored and held. On the other hand, when the power is turned on while pressing the RAM erase switch 166 provided in the main controller 162, the RAM data is initialized.

  These various switches can be operated from the front side of the gaming machine by opening the gaming machine main part 12 (inner frame 13) and exposing the back side of the inner frame 13. On the other hand, when the opening of the gaming machine main part 12 is restricted by the locking device 75, these various switches cannot be operated from the front side of the gaming machine. In other words, the various switches are difficult to operate when the gaming machine main part 12 is closed, and are operated from the front side of the gaming machine by a person who does not own the key for the locking device 75 (for example, a fraudster). Making it difficult.

  As already described, in the present embodiment, a rear block in which various movable effect devices (hereinafter referred to as movable effect devices) and decorative members that emit light are mounted behind the transparent game board unit 80. 80b is provided so that the effect devices and the like can be visually recognized through the game board unit 80.

  In particular, as shown by a two-dot chain line in FIG. 12 (front view of the game board unit 80), a part of the back block 80b is located behind the game area PE. Thereby, it is possible to utilize the back of the game area PE where the game balls flow down as an execution area for various game effects. According to such a configuration, it is possible to contribute to improving the appearance of the game board unit 80 and widening the production execution area as compared with a game machine equipped with a conventionally known wooden game board.

  Further, by providing the back block 80b behind the game board unit 80, the space between the variable display unit 252 and the game board unit 80 can be used as the installation area of the movable effect device, which is described above. Compared with a conventionally known configuration, the movable rendering device can be easily increased in size and operation.

  The game board unit 80 is mainly provided with a function of forming an area (game area PE) through which game balls flow down. When trying to improve various decoration functions and performance functions related to the game and securing the game area PE, the game area PE is inevitably compressed by giving priority to the former. In this respect, in the present embodiment, the minimum necessary configuration for securing the flow path of the game ball and securing the inlet is arranged on the front surface of the game board unit 80 (game board 80a) for production and decoration. By transferring the additional configuration to the back block 80b side, the game area PE is prevented from being compressed. That is, it is possible to secure the game area PE (specifically, the arrangement area of the configuration related to the flow of the game ball) as wide as possible within the limited range of the front surface of the game board 80a (plate body).

  Arrangement of game parts such as nails 93 in the game area PE realizes diversification of the flow path of the game balls, and the entrance to the entrance part such as the operation port 83 occurs with an appropriate probability. It is configured as follows. In the gaming machine manufacturer, the pachinko machine 10 (game board unit 80) is manufactured and shipped so that the probability of entering the operation port 83 and the like is within a predetermined range (design value) set in advance. The predetermined range is set so that the pachinko machine 10 is not unduly disadvantageous for one of the player and the game hall.

  However, as shown in FIG. 6 and the like, in the game board unit 80, by arranging the nails 93 side by side, a game ball directed toward the operation port 83 (specifically, the operation port 83a) as the “entrance portion”. The guide passage is formed. As described above, in a configuration in which a guide passage is formed by combining a plurality of deformable members, it is difficult to completely wipe off the influence of manufacturing variation or the like in an inspection (adjustment) step or the like.

  In consideration of maintenance work such as cleaning, access to the game area PE by an operator such as a hall manager is permitted. This is useful for improving the convenience of the worker, but when the nail 93 or the like is deformed during the operation, the above-described operation is performed even when the pachinko machine 10 is installed in the game hall. The probability of entering can change.

  If the probability of entering the ball is out of the predetermined range, an excessively unfavorable situation may occur for one of the game hall and the player. This hinders the game. In view of such circumstances, in the present embodiment, it is devised that the above described swing probability fluctuation range is not excessively increased, specifically, the probability change mechanism 300 is changed. One of the features is that it is provided. Therefore, the entrance probability varying mechanism 300 and the configuration related thereto will be described below with reference to FIGS. 6, 11, and 12. FIG. 11 is a partially enlarged view of FIG. 6 showing the entrance probability varying mechanism 300 and its peripheral configuration, and FIG. 12 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line AA of FIG.

(Entry probability variable mechanism 300 and related structure)
First, with reference to FIG. 6 and FIG. 11, a supplementary description will be given of the flow path of the game ball flowing down the game area PE, specifically, the guide path of the game ball constituted by game parts such as the nail 93.

  As shown in FIG. 6, a guide passage for guiding the game ball to the operation port 83 is provided on the left route that bypasses the symbol display device 253 (central opening 85) from the left side. The guide passage is provided on the upstream side (upper side) of the wind turbine 94 disposed on the side of the display screen 253a of the symbol display device 253, and on the downstream side (lower side) of the wind turbine 94. And a downstream passage 269 provided.

  As shown in FIG. 11, the downstream passage 269 has two forks at the portion where the wind turbine 94 is provided (the branch portion 270), specifically, the first guide passage 271 and the first guide passage 271. It branches off to the second guide passage 272 located. The first guide passage 271 and the second guide passage 272 are formed by arranging nails 93 in a direction inclined obliquely toward the operation port 83, and the guide passages 271 and 272 are arranged side by side in the downstream side. The game ball moving in the passage 269 is easy to follow with eyes. That is, when the player is gazing at one of the two guide paths 271, 272, the other is prevented from being out of view.

  In the first guide passage 271, the probability that the game ball distributed to the first guide passage 271 enters the upper operation port 83 a is entered into the upper operation port 83 a of the game ball distributed to the second guide passage 272. It is set to be higher than the probability. In other words, the game ball flowing into the downstream passage 269 via the upstream passage 268 → the branching portion 270 enters the upper working port 83a depending on the destination (first guide passage 271 / second guide passage 272). A difference in advantage is given so that the ball probabilities are different. For the above reasons, it is assumed that the player plays a game in the hope that the game ball that has reached the branching portion 270 will be distributed to the first guide passage 271.

  Here, the first guide passage 271 will be described. The first guide passage 271 is configured by a plurality of nails 93a arranged in a straight line from the windmill 94 toward the upper working port 83a. However, a part of the nail 93a constituting the first guide passage 271 is thinned out, and the first guide passage 271 is provided with a non-arranged section of the nail 93a. This non-arranged section is set to be larger than the diameter size of the game ball, and the non-arranged section functions as open portions 281 to 283 that allow the game ball to pass.

  The game ball that has flowed into the first guide passage 271 reaches the upper working port 83a (specifically, its vicinity) by flowing down avoiding these open portions 281 to 283. Thus, if attention is paid to the point that the game balls flowing into the first guide passage 271 are discharged from the first guide passage 271 in the flow-down process, the upper operation of the game balls distributed to the first guide passage 271 is performed. It can be said that the arrival rate (arrival probability) near the mouth 83a depends on at least the open portions 281 to 283.

  The game balls that have reached the vicinity of the upper working port 83a through the first guide passage 271 are entered into the upper working port 83a by the nail 93 disposed around the upper working port 83a and those that do not enter the game. Will be distributed.

  In the game board 80a in the present embodiment, slits 261 penetrating in the thickness direction of the game board 80a are formed in portions where the open portions 281 and 282 are formed. In these slits 261, a guide unit 310 is disposed as an opening / closing means for opening / closing the opening portions 281 and 282. The guide unit 310 constitutes a part of the entrance probability variable mechanism 300.

  As shown in FIG. 12, the guide unit 310 includes a movable piece 311 that can be slidably moved from a front surface of the game board 80a to a projecting position that projects into the game area PE and a standby position that avoids projecting into the game area PE. And a case body 315 that holds the piece 311 in a slidable state. The case body 315 is integrated with the game board 80a by being fixed to the game board 80a. The case body 315 is configured such that the front end surface of the case body 315 is located on the same plane as the front surface of the game board 80a in a state of being fixed to the game board 80a.

  The movable piece 311 has a long plate shape extending in the front-rear direction, and is arranged so that the plate surface is parallel to the first guide passage 271. By disposing the movable piece 311 at the protruding position, the movable piece 311 constitutes a part of the first guide passage 271 (specifically, the bottom). Thereby, the outflow of the game ball through the opening 281 is restricted, and the game ball that has flowed down the first guide passage 271 and reached the guide unit 310 is guided along the movable piece 311 toward the operation port 83a. It will be.

  The case body 315 includes a spring 319 as an urging means for urging the movable piece 311 to the standby position. When the movable piece 311 is disposed at the standby position, a protrusion 312 formed on the movable piece 311 is provided. The state is pressed against the stopper 316 of the case body 315. As a result, further backward movement is prevented and movement from the standby position to the protruding position is prevented. The movable piece 311 is configured such that the front end portion of the movable piece 311 is located on the same plane as the front surface of the game board 80a in a state where the movable piece 311 is disposed at the standby position. Thereby, it is avoided that the movable piece 311 (guide unit 310) becomes a factor which disturbs the behavior of a game ball.

  Here, when the movable piece 311 returns from the protruding position to the standby position, a function of slowing the movement of the movable piece 311 acts so that the movable piece 311 does not move to the standby position all at once. Hereinafter, a supplementary description will be given of the configuration related to this function.

  The case body 315 has a cylindrical shape, and an air hole is formed in the rear part thereof. The stopper 316 described above is formed so that the outer periphery thereof is in contact with the inner peripheral surface of the case body 315, and the stopper 316 is also formed with an air hole. When the movable piece 311 returns to the standby position by the urging force of the spring 319, resistance against the urging force is generated by the movement of air through the air hole. That is, the function as an air damper is given to the guide unit 310, and the return to the standby position is delayed.

  Note that this delay function is configured to be enabled / disabled in the forward path and the return path by a valve or the like provided in the air hole. Specifically, the delay function is invalidated in the forward path moving from the standby position to the protruding position, and the delay function is enabled in the backward path moving from the protruding position to the standby position.

  The state in which the movable piece 311 is disposed at the protruding position is the guiding state of the guide unit 310, and the state in which the movable piece 311 is disposed at the standby position is the non-guiding state of the guiding unit 310. In the present embodiment, an operation unit 320 for operating the guide unit 310 is provided as switching means for switching the guide unit 310 from the non-guide state to the guide state. The operation unit 320, together with the guide unit 310, constitutes the entrance probability variable mechanism 300.

  The operation unit 320 includes a rotating body 321 (see FIG. 11B) disposed in the second guide passage 272, and a holder 325 that rotatably holds the rotating body 321. It is integrated with the game board 80a by being fixed to the through hole 262 formed in the game board 80a.

  The rotating body 321 has a shaft portion 322 extending in the front-rear direction, and functions as a bearing portion that engages with the shaft portion 322 in the holder 325. A front end portion of the shaft portion 322 protrudes into the game area PE, and a ball receiving portion 323 for receiving (striking) a game ball flowing down the second guide passage 272 is provided at the protruding portion. The ball receiving portions 323 have a flat plate shape extending in the radial direction with respect to the shaft portion 322, and a plurality of the ball receiving portions 323 are arranged at equal intervals around the central axis CL0 of the rotating body 321 (specifically, 120 degrees). Three are formed at intervals).

  The ball receiving portion 323 is also formed so that its plate surface is orthogonal to the front surface of the game board 80a, and it can be said that the ball receiving portion 323 constitutes a part of the second guide passage 272.

  Each ball receiving portion 323 is provided with a magnetic body 327. A magnet 328 is embedded at a position corresponding to the magnetic body 327 in the game board 80a. Since the magnetic body 327 is attracted by the magnet 328, the variation in the standby posture of the rotating body 321 is suppressed. When a game ball collides with the ball receiving portion 323, the restraint by the magnet 328 is released by the impact and the weight of the game ball, and the rotating body 321 rotates in a predetermined direction (clockwise direction in the present embodiment). Become.

  A power transmission mechanism 331 for converting the rotational force of the rotating body 321 into power for moving the movable piece 311 of the guide unit 310 forward and transmitting the same to the movable piece 311 is provided on the back of the game board 80a. When the rotating body 321 rotates, the force is transmitted to the movable piece 311, and the movable piece 311 moves to the protruding position against the urging force of the spring 319.

  The power transmission direction of the power transmission mechanism 331 is limited to the rotating body 321 → the movable piece 311 and a structure (so-called one-way link structure) in which transmission of force to the movable piece 311 → the rotating body 321 is avoided. ing. For this reason, when the movable piece 311 returns from the protruding position to the standby position, the rotating body 321 does not rotate in the direction opposite to the predetermined direction following the movement. Thereby, it is avoided that the return of the movable piece 311 to the standby position is hindered by the rotating body 321.

  The rear end portion of the shaft portion 322 protrudes from the holder 325, and a gear 324 is attached to the protruding portion. An anti-inversion member 329 (for example, a latch) fixed to the back surface of the game board 80a is connected to the gear 324, and the anti-inversion member 329 prevents the rotating body 321 from rotating in a direction opposite to a predetermined direction. Yes. This is a device for guiding the game ball that has reached the rotating body 321 to the downstream side of the second guide passage 272.

  Here, with reference to FIG. 11, the passage structure of the second guide passage 272 will be supplementarily described.

(Second guide passage 272)
The second guide passage 272 includes the upper passage 275 provided with the nail 93b arranged in the same direction as the passage direction of the first guide passage 271, the middle passage 276 provided with the nail 93c arranged in the same direction, and the nail 93d. It has a lower passage 277 arranged side by side in the direction, and is configured to have three layers vertically.

  A first opening portion 291 is formed at the most upstream position of the upper passage 275, and whether or not the game ball flowing into the second guide passage 272 is discharged from the second guide passage 272 at the first opening portion. Will be distributed.

  A second opening 292 is formed in the upper passage 275 at a position directly below the first opening 281 of the first guide passage 271. The upper passage 275 and the middle passage 276 communicate with each other through the second opening 292. Below the second opening portion 292, the first operation unit 320A is disposed so as to face the second opening portion 292. The first operation unit 320A is arranged so that its rotation center CL0 is located on the left side of the second opening part 292 (offset), and reaches the first operation unit 320A through the second opening part 292. The game balls that have been played are sorted out whether they are directly discharged from the second guide passage 272 or moved to the middle passage 276.

  A third opening 293 is formed in the upper passage 275 at a position directly below the second opening 282 of the first guide passage 271. Further, a fourth opening portion is formed on the downstream side of the third opening portion 293, specifically, at a position immediately below the third opening portion 283 of the first guide passage 271. The upper passage 275 and the middle passage 276 communicate with each other through the third opening portion 293 and the fourth opening portion 294.

  A fifth opening 295 is formed in the middle passage 276 at a position directly below the third opening 293 (second opening 282). The middle passage 276 and the lower passage 277 communicate with each other through the fifth opening 295. A second operation unit 320B is arranged below the fifth opening 295 so as to face the fifth opening 295. The second operation unit 320B is arranged so that its rotation center CL0 is located on the left side of the fifth opening 295 (offset), and reaches the second operation unit 320B through the fifth opening 295. The game balls that have been played are sorted out whether they are discharged from the second guide passage 272 or moved to the lower passage 277 as they are.

  The first operation unit 320A described in detail above is interlocked with the first guide unit 310A, and the first guide unit 310A is switched between the guide state / non-guide state by the operation of the first operation unit 320A. Further, the second operation unit 320B is interlocked with the second guide unit 310B, and the second guide unit 310B is switched between the guide state / non-guide state by the operation of the second operation unit 320B. That is, the first operation unit 320A has a function as a switching trigger for the first guide unit 310A, and the second operation unit 320B has a function as a switching trigger for the second guide unit 310B. The interlocking state of the guide unit 310 and the operation unit 320 is common to any combination. Hereinafter, with reference to FIG.13 and FIG.14, the operation | movement aspect of the entrance probability variable mechanism 300 is demonstrated. 13A is a cross-sectional view of the operation unit 320 and the guide unit 310, and FIG. 13B is a front view of the operation unit 320 and the guide unit 310.

(Operational mode of variable probability of entering ball 300)
As shown in FIG. 13A, when the game balls distributed to the downstream passage 269 reach the operation unit 320, the game balls collide with the ball receiving portion 323 of the rotating body 321. As a result, the adsorption between the magnet 328 and the magnetic body 327 is released, and the rotating body 321 rotates in a predetermined direction (clockwise) around the central axis CL0 as shown in FIG. 13 (b) → FIG. 13 (c). It will be. When the rotating body 321 rotates due to the collision of the game balls, the rotational force is transmitted to the power transmission mechanism 331. The power transmission mechanism 331 converts the rotational force into a driving force for the guide unit 310 and transmits it to the movable piece 311 of the guide unit 310.

  When the driving force is transmitted to the movable piece 311, the movable piece 311 moves from the standby position to the protruding position against the biasing force of the spring 319. As a result, the guide unit 310 is switched from the non-guide state to the guide state.

  Here, the resistance generated when the movable piece 311 is moved can act so as to prevent the rotation of the rotating body 321, but the second guide passage 272 has at least a speed (kinetic energy) when a game ball collides with the rotating body. 321 is configured to be able to rotate by a predetermined angle (120 degrees in this embodiment). Thereby, it is avoided that the rotation amount of the rotating body 321 is insufficient and the switching of the guide unit 310 to the guide state is not completed.

  In the present embodiment, the rotation amount of the rotating body 321 is 120 degrees, so that the protruding amount of the movable piece 311 is maximized. However, when the rotating body 321 rotates 120 degrees. Then, the magnetic body 327 is attracted by the magnet 328, so that further rotation is prevented.

  After the guide unit 310 is switched to the guide state (the movable piece 311 is disposed at the maximum projecting position), as shown in FIG. 14 (d) → FIG. 14 (e) → FIG. The movable piece 311 is pushed back to the standby position by the urging force 319. As already described, the guide unit 310 is configured such that the resistance changes between the forward path and the return path. Specifically, the resistance is greater on the return path than on the forward path. As a result, the return from the protruding position to the standby position is delayed.

  When the movable piece 311 moves toward the standby position, power transmission from the power transmission mechanism 331 to the operation unit 320 (rotating body 321) is avoided, and the rotating body follows the movement of the movable piece 311. 321 does not operate to return to the state before rotation. That is, the guide unit 310 and the operation unit 320 are interlocked when switching from the non-guide state to the guide state, whereas the guide unit 310 and the operation unit 320 are not interlocked when switching from the guide state to the non-guide state. Become.

  If the following game ball collides with the rotating body 321 of the operation unit 320 while the guide unit 310 is switched from the guide state to the non-guide state, the movable piece 311 is pushed back to the maximum projecting position. The guidance state will continue. When the game ball reaches the operation unit 320 with the movable piece 311 placed at the standby position, and when the game ball reaches the operation unit 320 with the movable piece 311 not placed at the standby position In the latter case, the resistance generated in the early stage of rotation is slightly higher in the latter case than in the former case. For this reason, the possibility of the game ball reaching the operation unit 320 being discharged from the second guide passage 272 is reduced. For example, the probability that a game ball that has reached the first guide unit 310A will reach the second guide unit 310B changes according to the arrival timing.

  Here, with reference to FIG. 15, the distribution aspect of the game ball in the downstream channel | path 269 is demonstrated. FIG. 15 (a) is a schematic diagram showing how the game balls are distributed in the downstream passage 269, and FIG. 15 (b) shows the inflow position of the game balls into the second guide passage 272 and the reachable position where the game balls can reach. FIG.

(Distribution mode of game balls in the downstream passage 269)
As shown in FIG. 15A, for the game ball flowing into the downstream passage 269 through the upstream passage 268 → the branching portion 270, a plurality of branch points are provided as inflow locations to the second guide passage 272. . In the following description, the position where the windmill 94 is disposed (the branch portion 270) is the first branch point J1, and the position where the first opening portion 281 is formed in the first guide passage 271 is the second branch point J2. The position where the third opening portion 283 is formed in the first guide passage 271 is referred to as a third branch point J3, and the position where the third opening portion 283 is formed in the first guide passage 271 is referred to as a fourth branch point J4.

  The game ball that has flowed into the second guide passage 272 at the first branch point J1 flows down along the upper passage 275. When it is not discharged from the first opening portion 291 formed in the upper passage 275, the second opening portion 292 is reached. The game ball that has reached the second opening portion 292 flows down along either the path that flows into the second opening portion 292 or the path that does not flow into the second opening portion 292. The game ball that has flowed into the second opening 292 reaches the first operation unit 320A. The game ball that has reached the first operation unit 320 </ b> A flows down along either the path that is discharged from the second guide path 272 or the path that moves to the middle path 276.

  A game ball that has passed through the second opening portion 292 and has reached the third opening portion 293, and a game ball that has flowed down the middle passage 276 via the first operation unit 320A. Reaches the fifth opening 295. The game ball that has reached the fifth opening 295 flows down along either the path that flows into the fifth opening 295 or the path that does not flow into the fifth opening 295. The game ball that has flowed into the fifth opening 295 reaches the second operation unit 320B. The game ball that has reached the second operation unit 320B flows down along either the path that is discharged from the second guide path 272 or the path that moves to the lower path 277.

In this way, the game balls distributed to the second guide passage 272 at the first branch point J1 can reach the first operation unit 320A and the second operation unit 320B (see FIG. 15B).
A game ball that has flowed into the second guide passage 272 (specifically, the middle passage 276) via the first guide passage 271 at the second branch point J2 and a second route that flows into the second opening 292 located below the second guide passage It will flow down along any of the paths that do not flow into the opening 292. The game ball that has flowed into the second opening 292 reaches the first operation unit 320A. The game ball that has reached the first operation unit 320 </ b> A flows down along either the path that is discharged from the second guide path 272 or the path that moves to the middle path 276.

  A game ball that passes through the second opening 292, reaches the third opening 293, and flows into the third opening 293, and a game ball that flows down the middle passage 276 via the first operation unit 320A, 5 The opening part 295 is reached. The game ball that has reached the fifth opening 295 flows down along either the path that flows into the fifth opening 295 or the path that does not flow into the fifth opening 295. The game ball that has flowed into the fifth opening 295 reaches the second operation unit 320B. The game ball that has reached the second operation unit 320B flows down along either the path that is discharged from the second guide path 272 or the path that moves to the lower path 277.

  As described above, the game balls distributed to the second guide passage 272 at the second branch point J2 can reach the first operation unit 320A and the second operation unit 320B (see FIG. 15B).

  The game ball that has flowed into the second guide passage 272 (specifically, the middle passage 276) via the first guide passage 271 at the third branch point J3 reaches the third opening 293 of the upper passage 275. If the upper passage 275 flows down without flowing into the third opening 293, it will be discharged from the second guide passage 272 without reaching any of the operation units 320A, 320B.

  On the other hand, the game ball that has flowed into the third opening portion 293 flows down along either the path that flows into the fifth opening portion 295 located below or the path that does not flow into the fifth opening portion 295. . The game ball that has flowed into the fifth opening 295 reaches the second operation unit 320B. The game ball that has reached the second operation unit 320B flows down along either the path that is discharged from the second guide path 272 or the path that moves to the lower path 277.

  As described above, the game balls distributed to the second guide passage 272 at the third branch point J3 are prevented from reaching the first operation unit 320A, and may reach the second operation unit 320B. (See FIG. 15 (b)).

  The game ball that has flowed into the second guide passage 272 (specifically, the middle passage 276) via the first guide passage 271 at the fourth branch point J4 reaches the fourth opening portion 294 of the upper passage 275. In either case of flowing down the upper passage 275 without flowing into the fourth opening portion 294 or flowing into the fourth opening portion 294, the operation unit 320A, 320B is reached without reaching any of the operation units 320A, 320B. The two guide passages 272 are discharged.

  Thus, the game balls distributed to the second guide passage 272 at the fourth branch point J4 are prevented from reaching the first operation unit 320A and the second operation unit 320B (see FIG. 15B). .

  At first glance, it is assumed that it is disadvantageous for the player that the game balls are distributed to the second guide passage 272 in which the arrival probability to the operation port 83 (specifically, the upper operation port 83a) is set to be relatively low. However, when the game ball reaches the operation unit 320, the guide unit 310 is switched to the guide state, so that the probability of reaching the game ball 83 via the first guide passage 271 is increased. It becomes. As a result, the probability of entering the game ball into the operation port 83 can be improved, so that the distribution of the game ball to the second guide passage 272 creates a situation that is advantageous for the player, specifically the entire gaming machine. It is possible to function as a means for suppressing a decrease in the probability of entering the ball into the operating port 83. Thereby, the extreme fall of a probability of entering can be suppressed.

  In particular, the earlier the timing at which game balls that have reached the downstream passage 269 are distributed to the second guide passage 272, the higher the possibility that they will reach the operation unit 320. In other words, the game ball that has fallen into the second guide passage 272 and has reduced the possibility of entering the operation port 83 at an early stage is configured to increase the possibility of triggering the switching described above. . This is preferable in order to exhibit the function of suppressing the above-described decrease in the probability of entering a ball.

  Here, with reference to FIG. 16, the flow-down mode of the game ball is illustrated. FIG. 16 is a schematic view showing an example of a flow-down mode of game balls in the downstream passage 269.

(Game ball flow mode)
As shown in FIG. 16A, when the game ball B1 that has flowed down to the downstream passage 269 through the branch portion 270 flows into the second guide passage 272, the game ball B1 moves along the upper passage 275 of the second guide passage 272. Flow down. As shown in FIG. 16B, when the game ball B1 reaches the first operation unit 320A through the second opening portion 292, the ball receiving portion 323 (see FIG. 11) of the rotating body 321 is pushed down by the game ball B1. . Thereby, the first guide unit 310A is switched from the non-guide state to the guide state, and the outflow of game balls through the first opening portion 281 of the first guide passage 271 is restricted.

  In FIG. 16B, the subsequent game ball B2 is distributed to the first guide passage 271. As shown in FIG. 16 (b) → FIG. 16 (c), the game ball B2 is guided downstream of the first opening portion 281 by the first guide unit 310A. Here, the game ball B1 is guided to the middle passage 276 via the first operation unit 320A, flows down the middle passage 276, and reaches the fifth opening portion 295. When the game ball B1 reaches the second operation unit 320B through the fifth opening portion 295, the ball receiving portion 323 (see FIG. 11) of the rotating body 321 is pushed down by the game ball B1. As a result, the second guide unit 310B is switched from the non-guide state to the guide state, and the outflow of game balls through the second opening portion 282 of the first guide passage 271 is restricted.

  At this time, when the first guide unit 310A is in the guide state, the second guide unit 310B is also switched to the guide state, so that the outflow probability of the game ball is greatly reduced. For example, the game ball that has flowed into the first guide passage 271 is more likely to flow through the third opening 283 toward the operation port 83 by flowing down vigorously (see FIG. 16D).

  As described above, in the present embodiment, by combining a plurality of game parts such as the nail 93 and the windmill 94, guidance for guiding the game ball toward the flow path of the game ball, for example, a specific position (for example, the operation port 83). It defines a passage (downflow path). In such a configuration, it is possible to suppress the flow-down mode of the game ball from becoming monotonous, but the swing range of the above-described ball entry probability can be increased due to deformation of these game parts or changes in the mutual positional relationship. Increases nature. Here, a specific example thereof will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 17A is a schematic diagram showing the wind turbine 94 and its peripheral configuration, and FIG. 17B is a schematic diagram showing the first opening portion 281 in the first guide passage 271 and its peripheral configuration.

(Entry probability correction function)
In the branching portion 270 according to the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 17A1, the center line CL2 of the upstream passage 268 is more than the center line CL1 passing through the center of the wind turbine 94 constituting the distributing means. Located slightly to the right. Thereby, the distribution of the game balls in the branch portion 270 is configured to be substantially equally divided in the first guide passage 271 and the second guide passage 272.

  Here, the state shown in FIG. 17 (a2), for example, the positional relationship between the center line CL1 and the center line CL2 is reversed for some reason during manufacturing, transportation, maintenance at the game hall, or the like. When the windmill 94 is inclined to the right side, the game balls are distributed at the branch portion 270 in a biased manner. Specifically, a bias occurs in which the number of game balls distributed to the second guide passage 272 is larger than the number of game balls distributed to the first guide passage 271. As already described, the probability of entering the operation port 83 (specifically, the upper operation port 83a) related to the first guide passage 271 is to the operation port 83 (specifically, the upper operation port 83a) related to the second guide passage 272. Is set higher than the probability of entering. Therefore, when the probability of being distributed to the second guide passage 272 is increased, the probability of entering the ball relating to the operation port 83 as a whole may be decreased.

  Here, in the present embodiment, the probability that the game probability changing mechanism 300 functions increases as the distribution probability of the game balls to the second guide passage 272 increases. As a result, even if the number of game balls distributed to the first guide passage 271 itself decreases, the arrival probability that the game balls distributed to the first guide passage 271 reach the operation port 83 (specifically, the upper operation port 83a). As a result, the probability of entering the operation port 83 related to the first guide passage 271 is increased. Thereby, the fall of the entrance probability mentioned above is suppressed.

  On the other hand, the state as shown in FIG. 17 (a3), specifically, the positional relationship between the center line CL1 and the center line CL2 is as designed, but the wind turbine 94 is designed so that the distance between them is increased. In the case of a state such as leaning to the left side, there is a bias in the game ball distribution mode at the branch portion 270. Specifically, a bias occurs in which the number of game balls distributed to the first guide passage 271 is larger than the number of game balls distributed to the second guide passage 272. As already described, the probability of entering the operation port 83 (specifically, the upper operation port 83a) related to the first guide passage 271 is to the operation port 83 (specifically, the upper operation port 83a) related to the second guide passage 272. Is set higher than the probability of entering. Therefore, when the probability of being distributed to the second guide passage 272 is increased, the probability of entering the ball related to the operation port 83 as a whole can be increased.

  Here, in the present embodiment, since the probability of game balls being distributed to the second guide passage 272 is lowered, the frequency of functioning of the probability of entering balls 300 is reduced. As a result, even if the number of game balls allocated to the first guide passage 271 increases, the arrival probability that the game balls distributed to the first guide passage 271 reach the operation port 83 (specifically, the upper operation port 83a). As a result, the probability of entering the operation port 83 related to the first guide passage 271 is lowered. Thereby, the rise of the above-mentioned entrance probability is suppressed.

  As described above, even if the preset distribution probability changes due to deformation of the wind turbine 94 constituting the branching portion 270, the entrance probability variable mechanism 300 is configured to suppress the increase or decrease in the entrance probability. Operate. As a result, it is possible to prevent the deformation of the windmill 94 or the like from being a factor that greatly affects the probability of entering a ball.

  In the first guide passage 271 in the present embodiment, the game balls that have flowed into the first guide passage 271 do not all reach the operation port 83 by allowing the game balls to flow out from the opening portions 281 to 283. In addition, a function of assigning a part of the game balls to reach the operation port 83 is provided. The intervals between the open portions 281 to 283 are set so that the above-described arrival probability falls within a predetermined range. However, since the open portions 281 to 283 are constituted by a pair of nails 93, By deforming, the interval can be changed. When such a change in the interval occurs, the arrival probability of the game ball to the operation port 83 related to the first guide passage 271 and, consequently, the probability of entering the operation port 83 change.

  With reference to the schematic diagram of FIG. 17B, a case where a change in the interval occurs in the first opening portion 281 will be described. In the first opening portion 281, as shown in FIG. 17 (b 1), the distance D between the pair of nails 93 forming the first opening portion 281 is set to be slightly larger than the diameter dimension of the game ball. Yes. As a result, approximately 1/4 of the game ball that has reached the first opening portion 281 flows out of the first opening portion 281.

  Here, when manufacturing, transportation, maintenance at a game hall, etc., for some reason, the state shown in FIG. 17 (b2), specifically, when the interval D becomes large, the first opening is performed. The probability of a game ball flowing out from the first guide passage 271 through the part 281 is increased (for example, 1/3). Thereby, the arrival probability of the game ball to the operation port 83 related to the first guide passage 271 and, consequently, the probability of entering the operation port 83 can be reduced as compared with the state shown in FIG. Yes.

  However, the game ball that has flowed out of the first opening portion 281 flows into the second guide passage 272 and reaches the first operation unit 320A disposed below the first opening portion 281. That is, the frequency at which the entrance probability variable mechanism 300 functions increases. As a result, even if the number of game balls flowing out from the first guide passage 271 increases in the middle of the first guide passage 271, the frequency of the first guide unit 310 </ b> A entering the guide state increases, and the first The arrival probability that the game balls distributed to the guide passage 271 reach the operation port 83 (specifically, the upper operation port 83a), and hence the probability of entering the operation port 83 related to the first guide passage 271 is increased. Thereby, the fall of the entrance probability mentioned above is suppressed.

  On the other hand, in the state as shown in FIG. 17B3, specifically, when the interval D becomes small, the probability of a game ball flowing out from the first guide passage 271 through the first opening portion 281 decreases ( For example, 1/5). Thereby, the arrival probability of the game ball to the operation port 83 related to the first guide passage 271 and, consequently, the probability of entering the operation port 83 can be increased as compared with the state shown in FIG. Yes.

  However, the frequency of the game ball that has flowed out of the first opening portion 281 flows into the second guide passage 272 and reaches the first operation unit 320 </ b> A disposed below the first opening portion 281. That is, the frequency at which the entrance probability variable mechanism 300 functions decreases. As a result, even if the number of game balls flowing out from the first guide passage 271 at the middle position of the first guide passage 271 decreases, the frequency with which the first guide unit 310A enters the guide state is reduced. The arrival probability that the game balls distributed to the guide passage 271 reach the operation port 83 (specifically, the upper operation port 83a), and hence the probability of entering the operation port 83 related to the first guide passage 271 is lowered. Thereby, the rise of the above-mentioned entrance probability is suppressed.

  As described above, even if the preset allocation probability changes due to deformation of the nail 93 forming the opening portion 281, the entrance probability variable mechanism 300 is configured to suppress the increase or decrease in the entrance probability. Operate. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the deformation of the nail 93 or the like from being a factor that greatly affects the entrance probability.

  According to the first embodiment described in detail above, the following excellent effects are obtained.

  In a gaming machine of the type described above, diversification of the flow path of gaming balls can be realized by arranging gaming parts (for example, nails 93 and windmills 94) in the gaming area PE. This is preferable, for example, in suppressing the movement of the game ball from becoming monotonous.

  A gaming machine manufacturer is manufactured such that the probability of entering a game ball launched by the game ball launching mechanism 110 or the like into the operation port 83 is within a preset range (for example, the position and orientation of the gaming machine parts). Etc.). However, if the probability of entering the ball changes greatly due to various circumstances, an excessively unfavorable state may occur for one of the game hall and the player. Such a bias is not preferable because it hinders the installation and use of gaming machines.

  In the gaming machine shown in the present embodiment, when the probability of entering the ball is biased, the varying probability of entering ball 300 functions to correct the bias. Thereby, an extreme change in the probability of entering can be suppressed, and the occurrence of the inconvenience can be suppressed.

  Specifically, when more than expected game balls flow into the latter of the first guide passage 271 having a relatively high probability of entering and the second guide passage 272 having a relatively low probability of entering, that is, When a bias occurs that lowers the probability of entering a ball, the probability of entering the game ball 83 that passes through the first guide passage 271 is corrected so as to increase by the probability changing mechanism 300. It will be. On the other hand, if the game ball does not flow into the second guide passage 272 with a relatively low probability of entering or the number of inflows decreases, the correction is suppressed, and the probability of entering the first guide passage 271 becomes excessively high. Will be suppressed. Thereby, an extreme change in the probability of entering can be suppressed, and the occurrence of the inconvenience can be suppressed.

  In particular, the more the number of game balls distributed (inflowing) to the second guide passage 272 (the higher the distribution ratio), the stronger the correction. That is, when the deviation can be large, the correction function is also strengthened. Therefore, the change in the probability of entering the ball can be more suitably suppressed.

  The guide unit 310 constituting the first guide passage 271 can be switched between a guide state / non-guide state in which the probability that the game ball reaches the operation port 83 is different. Here, when a game ball flows into the second guide passage 272, the first guide passage 271 is switched from the non-guide state to the guide state based on the game ball. Thereby, the arrival rate of the game ball flowing down the first guide passage 271 to the operation port 83 is increased. As described above, the game ball is not forced to enter the operation port 83 based on the flow of the game ball into the second guide passage 272, but as a result of increasing the arrival rate to the operation port 83 as a result. By adopting a configuration that increases the probability of entering the ball relating to the one guide passage 271, it is possible to suitably avoid that the enjoyment due to the pursuit of the movement of the original game ball of the gaming machine is impaired.

  A part of the game ball flowing down the first guide passage 271 is separated from the first guide passage 271 through the opening portions 281 to 283 (corresponding to “discharge portion” or “distribution portion”), whereby the first guide passage All the game balls that have flowed into 271 are prevented from reaching the operation port 83. This suppresses an extremely strong dependence on the peripheral structure of the operating port 83 with respect to the probability of entering the ball relating to the first guide passage 271 while improving the degree of attention to the movement of the game ball.

  Here, the opening portions 281 and 282 are provided with a guide unit 310 as “regulating means”, and when the guide unit 310 is switched from the non-guide state to the guide state, the game balls through the opening portions 281 and 282 are provided. The withdrawal will be regulated. Regarding the guide unit 310, the game ball flowing down the second guide passage 272 hits the rotating body 321 and uses the power generated when the rotating body 321 operates to switch from the non-guided state to the guided state. Become. In this way, by using the weight and kinetic energy of the game ball flowing down the second guide passage as a power source for the guide unit 310, it is not necessary to prepare a separate power source for the entrance probability variable mechanism 300. It can be suitably avoided that the existence of the probability variable mechanism 300 becomes a factor that complicates the electrical configuration of the gaming machine.

  As described above, when the weight or kinetic energy of the game ball flowing down the second guide passage 272 is used as the power source of the guide unit 310, the power depends on the weight of the game ball, etc. There is a limit to increasing it. It is not preferable that the movement of the movable piece 311 as the “slide member” (switching of the protruding position / standby position) is hindered by the weight of the game ball passing through the first guide passage 271. In this respect, the movable piece 311 can be slid in a direction intersecting with the direction of the opening portions 281 and 282, and thus the above-described influence can be suppressed and the switching function between the guide state / non-guide state can be suitably secured. it can.

  When the guide unit 310 is switched from the non-guide state to the guide state, the guide unit 310 is maintained in the guide state for at least a period longer than the game ball firing cycle. With respect to a group of game balls that are fired continuously (periodically), a fixed interval is not guaranteed in the process of flowing down the game area, and there may be a difference in density between the game balls. In consideration of such circumstances, the guidance unit 310 is used to support the following game ball by the preceding game ball by setting the period for which the guide state is maintained to be at least longer than the firing cycle. It can be suppressed that the guidance function by is not utilized well.

  The game ball that has flowed into the second guide passage 272 and triggered the increase in the probability of entering the ball is configured to avoid reaching the operating port 83 (specifically, the upper operating port 83a). Thereby, even if the number of game balls flowing into the second guide passage 272 increases, it is avoided that it becomes a factor that creates an excessively advantageous state for the player, and the advantage of the game hole And the balance of the player's advantage can be suppressed from being extremely biased.

  As described above, in order to increase the degree of attention to the movement of the game ball, “inflow of the game ball into the first guide passage 271” = “fixed arrival at the operation port 83 (specifically, the upper operation port 83a)”. Is not preferred. However, in the case where the game ball flowing down the first guide passage 271 flows out of the first guide passage 271 before reaching the operation port 83, the game component (nail 93) constituting the outflow portion is The deformation probability or the like changes the outflow probability of the game ball.

  In particular, when the outflow probability is larger than expected, the entrance probability associated with the first guide passage 271 is inevitably lowered. Therefore, by allowing the game ball that has flowed out (spilled) from the first guide passage 271 to flow into the second guide passage 272, the probability of entering the first guide passage 271 using the zero ball is increased. Can be raised. Thereby, the fall of the entrance probability in the whole gaming machine can be suppressed suitably.

  In addition, a game ball that has flowed out of the first guide passage 271 in the middle is also configured to contribute to an increase in the probability of entering a ball, so that when the player leaves the first guide passage 271 (zero ball) At that time), it is possible to suppress the loss of interest in the game ball, and to reduce a reduction in the degree of attention to the movement of the game ball.

  The game balls that have contributed to the increase in the probability of entering the first guide passage 271 in the second guide passage 272 are prevented from returning to the first guide passage 271 in which the probability of entering the ball is increasing. Thereby, it can avoid that the said correction function acts excessively.

  As described above, when the first guide passage 271 and the second guide passage 272 are compared, the probability of entering the ball relating to the first guide passage 271 is set higher. For this reason, it is assumed that the player plays the game with the expectation that the game ball will flow down along the first guide passage 271. Here, with respect to the game ball flowing into the second guide passage 272, the correction function differs depending on the position at which the game ball flows into the second guide passage 272. Specifically, the flow into the second guide passage 272 earlier (on the upstream side) (for example, at the branch points J1 and J2) than the flow into the second guide passage 272 later (on the downstream side) ( For example, the correction function is stronger than the third branch point J3). Specifically, both of the two guide units 310A and 310B can be in the guide state.

  For game balls that have flowed down the first guide passage 271 over a certain distance, the expectation of entering the operation port 83 is high, and the player's attention is likely to be directed. On the other hand, it is difficult for the player to focus on the game ball that has flowed into the second guide passage 272 early. Therefore, by causing a difference in the role (effect) played in the second guide passage 272 according to the inflow position, the player is encouraged to pay attention to the game balls flowing down the second guide passage 272. be able to.

  The first opening portion 281, the first guide unit 310A, and the first operation unit 320A constitute a first probability variable block, and the second opening portion 282, the second guide unit 310B, and the second operation unit 320B have a second probability. A variable block is configured. As already described, in the configuration in which the inflow of game balls from a midway position to the second guide passage 272 is allowed, the game that can reach the downstream portion more than the upstream portion in the second guide passage 272. The number of spheres increases.

  Since the first operation unit 320A is present at the upstream position of the second guide passage 272, the game ball that has flowed into the second guide passage 272 early is the early game ball from the first guide passage 271 (first opening portion 281). It will function as a means for avoiding the withdrawal of. On the other hand, for the second opening part 282 close to the operating port 83, the contribution rate to the ball entry probability is larger than that of the first opening part 281. Here, since the second operation unit 320B exists in the downstream position where many of the game balls that have flowed into the second guide passage 272 are likely to reach, if the number of game balls that flow into the second guide passage 272 increases, The second guide unit 310B operates regardless of the inflow position, and the second opening portion 282 is likely to be in the guide state. As a result, in the case where inconvenience occurs so as to lower the entrance probability at a portion having a large influence on the entrance probability, the entrance probability is suitably corrected by the second guide unit 310B. As described above, by increasing the degree of correction according to the magnitude of the influence, the various effects described above can be suitably exhibited.

  The game balls flowing into the second guide passage 272 move from the first guide unit 310A to the second guide unit 310B, whereby the two guide units 310A and 310B can be operated by one game ball. That is, even if the first opening portion 281 and the second opening portion 282 are provided in the first guide passage 271, the two opening portions 281 and 282 can be in a state in which a game ball can pass through. . This makes it possible to reinforce the relationship between the timing at which the preceding game ball passes through the second guide passage 272 and the timing at which the subsequent game ball passes through the first guide passage 271. Therefore, the player's attention can be directed to the positional relationship between the game balls passing through the two guide passages 271 and 272, which can contribute to improvement in the degree of attention to the movement of the game ball.

  A first operation unit 320A is disposed below the first opening 281 and a second operation unit 320B is disposed below the second opening 282. Therefore, the game ball discharged from the first opening portion 281 falls toward the first operation unit 320A, and the game ball discharged from the second opening portion 282 falls toward the second operation unit 320B. According to such a configuration, when a plurality of game balls flow down the first guide passage 271, when the preceding game ball falls from the open portions 281 and 282, the game ball does not drop off by the game ball. May be saved. With such a configuration, when a plurality of game balls flow into the first guide passage 271, it is possible to increase the possibility that at least a part of them will be rescued.

  In the gaming machine shown in the present embodiment, access to the game board unit 80 (game area PE) by the hall manager is allowed, and consideration is given to maintenance work such as cleaning. However, if a game part such as the nail 93 is deformed during the maintenance work, the probability of entering the operation port 83 may change. Thus, even if it is the structure which considered improvement of convenience etc., it can suppress that the influence becomes a factor which influences a probability of entering a ball significantly by applying the said technical idea.

<Second Embodiment>
In the first embodiment, the state of the first guide passage 271 that forms the downstream passage 269 is switched using the game ball that has flowed into the second guide passage 272, so Although the configuration is such that the swing width is reduced, in the present embodiment, the configuration for reducing the swing width of the entrance probability is different from that of the first embodiment. Accordingly, with reference to FIG. 18, the entrance probability varying mechanism 300X in the second embodiment will be described below. FIG. 18A is a partially enlarged view of the game board unit 80 in the present embodiment, and FIG. 18B is a schematic view showing the internal structure of the warp passage. In addition, description is used about the structure common to 1st Embodiment, and it demonstrates centering around difference with the said 1st Embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 18A, a branch portion 270 </ b> X that branches into a downstream path toward the entrance portion of the warp passage 97 and a downstream path toward the windmill 94 is provided in the middle of the left route. . As already described, the game ball that has flowed into the warp passage 97 is guided to the stage unit 96.

  The game ball that has reached the stage unit 96 swings the stage unit 96 left and right and then leaves the stage unit 96, but the game ball 83 that has reached the stage unit 96 (specifically, the upper operation port) The probability of entering 83a) is set to be higher than the probability of entering the first guide passage 271. That is, the game ball flowing down the left route is configured to increase the expectation that a ball enters the operation port 83 through the third guide passage 273X including the warp passage 97 → the stage portion 96. . The entrance probability is higher in the order of second guide passage 272 <first guide passage 271 <third guide passage 273X.

  Here, as shown in FIG. 18B, the entrance portion 97a of the warp passage 97 has a guide state in which the game ball that has reached the branch portion 270X is guided to the warp passage 97 and a non-guide state in which the guidance is not performed. And a guide unit 310X that can be switched to each other. Even if the support by the guide unit 310X is not performed, the game balls are not distributed to the warp passage 97 (however, the probability of being distributed to the warp passage 97 is the probability of not being distributed to the warp passage 97) When the guide state and the non-guide state are compared, the chance that the game ball is guided to the warp passage 97 is increased in the former than in the latter. More specifically, the probability of being distributed to the warp passage 97 is higher than the probability of being not distributed to the warp passage 97.

  The guide unit 310X has a movable piece 311X that is slidable between a protruding position that protrudes from the inlet portion 97a to the branch portion 270X and a standby position where the protrusion is avoided. Since the holding structure of the movable piece 311X and the specific structure related to the operation mode of the movable piece 311X are the same as those in the first embodiment, detailed description thereof will be omitted.

  Also in the present embodiment, the driving force for operating the guide unit 310X (movable piece 311X) is supplied from the operation unit 320 through the power transmission mechanism 331X. In the first embodiment, the guide unit 310 is provided so as to correspond to the plurality of operation units 320 on a one-to-one basis. However, the present embodiment is common in that a plurality of operation units 320 are provided. However, the driving force from each operation unit 320 is supplied to one guide unit 310X. That is, there are two power supply sources for driving one guide unit 310X. In this way, by receiving power supply from the two operation units 320A and 320B, it is possible to increase the frequency with which the operation unit 320 is in the guide state.

  However, these operation units 320 are differentiated so that the transmission path of the rotational force to the power transmission mechanism 331X is a separate system so that the movement of each other is not affected. For this reason, even if one of the operation units 320A, 320B rotates, the other does not rotate following it.

  Here, with reference to the schematic diagram of FIG. 19, an operation mode of the entrance probability variable mechanism 300 shown in the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 19A is a schematic diagram showing the guide unit 310X and its peripheral structure, and FIG. 19B is a schematic diagram showing the operation unit 320.

  As shown in FIG. 19 (a2), when the game ball reaches the operation unit 320 and is pressed by the game ball and the rotating body 321 rotates, the rotational force is transmitted to the power transmission mechanism 331X (see FIG. 18). In the power transmission mechanism 331X, this rotational force is converted into a driving force that drives the movable piece 311X of the guide unit 310X, and the driving force is transmitted to the movable piece 311X. Thereby, the movable piece 311X moves toward the protruding position.

  19 (a) → FIG. 19 (b) → FIG. 19 (c), the movable piece 311X is arranged at the protruding position, so that the game ball that has reached the branching portion 270X becomes the entrance portion of the warp passage 97. It will be guided towards 97a.

  If the game ball moves from the first operation unit 320A to the second operation unit 320B, the movable piece 311X is again moved by the driving force from the second operation unit 320B before the movable piece 311X returns to the standby position. It will move to the protruding position. Thereby, the frequency with which a game ball is guided to the warp passage 97 is increased.

  As the number of game balls flowing into the second guide passage 272 set to be relatively disadvantageous compared to the other guide passages 271, 273X increases, the first guide passage 271 and the second guide passage The game ball can flow into the third guide passage 273X on the upstream side of the branching portion 270 to 272. On the other hand, if the number of game balls flowing into the second guide passage 272 decreases, the number of game balls flowing down the first guide passage 271 inevitably increases, and as a result, the frequency at which the guide unit 310X enters the guide state is increased. descend.

  In the first place, the game ball that has flowed into the second guide passage 272 is set so that the probability of entering the operation port 83 (specifically, the upper operation port 83a) is almost zero. For this reason, when an excessive bias occurs in the distribution of the game balls to the second guide passage 272 and the player becomes excessively disadvantageous, the third guide is not easily affected by the position and posture of the game parts. By adopting a configuration in which the game ball is guided to the passage 273X, it is possible to suitably reduce the swing width of the probability of entering the ball.

  In addition, the game ball that has flowed into the third guide passage 273X is unlikely to reach the operation unit 320 via the first guide passage 271 → the second guide passage 272. That is, it is avoided that the game ball guided to the third guide passage 273X by the guide unit 310X becomes an opportunity to switch the guide unit 310X to the guide state again. As a result, it is possible to appropriately prevent the swing probability of the entrance probability from increasing excessively, i.e., from being excessively advantageous to the player, by avoiding the entrance probability correction function from acting excessively. ing.

  When the guide unit 310X is in the guidance state, the game ball is prevented from flowing into the downstream passage 269 around the movable piece 311X. That is, after entering the guiding state, the number of game balls flowing into the downstream passage 269 temporarily decreases. In this way, by reducing the number of objects to be watched, it becomes easier to follow the movement of each game ball flowing into the downstream passage 269 (particularly the second guide passage 272), and flows into the second guide passage 272. The degree of attention with respect to the movement of the game ball can be preferably improved.

  In addition, one game ball flows down in the order of the first operation unit 320A → the second operation unit 320B as compared to an opportunity in which the guidance state continues when a plurality of game balls arrives continuously at one operation unit 320. As a result, the opportunity for the guidance state to continue or the opportunity to switch to the guidance state can be increased. Accordingly, the technical significance of setting a plurality of drive sources for one guide unit 310X can be suitably exhibited.

<Third Embodiment>
In the first embodiment, the second guide passage 272 is configured by arranging a plurality of nails 93 as “game parts” side by side. When the passage is formed by using the nail 93 group in this way, the behavior of the game ball can be greatly changed depending on the positional relationship and the direction (posture) of the nails. If the variation is a small difference and can be tolerated as an individual difference for each gaming machine, the movement of the game ball is made irregular to improve the player's attention to the movement of the game ball. preferable. However, if the entrance probability of the game ball greatly differs between the design value and the actual value due to this variation, a situation that is excessively disadvantageous for one of the game hall and the player may occur as described above. This is an obstacle to prompting the installation of games and gaming machines.

  In the present embodiment, in consideration of such circumstances, it has been devised to regulate (reduce) the swing range of the probability of entering the game ball so that it does not deviate from an appropriate range. This is one of the features. Specifically, one of the features is that the distribution mechanism 400 is provided in the second guide passage 272. Hereinafter, the distribution mechanism 400 and the related configuration will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 20 is a front view of the game board unit 80 according to the third embodiment.

  The distribution mechanism 400 includes a passage forming body 410 that forms a ball passage and a holder 420 that holds the passage forming body 410. The holder 420 is fixed to the gaming board 80a, whereby the gaming board 80a. And the distribution mechanism 400 are integrated.

  The passage forming body 410 has a substantially cylindrical shape, and is disposed in an inclined state so as to be lowered to the right. A spherical passage (second guide passage 272) is defined by the inner peripheral surface of the passage formation body 410, and a fourth guide passage is formed in parallel with the second guide passage 272 by the outer peripheral surface of the passage formation body 410. Yes. Thus, by making the passage forming body 410 cylindrical, two guide passages can be arranged side by side while suppressing the complexity of the structure.

  The upper end of the passage forming body 410 is an entrance portion 411 of a ball passage defined by the passage forming body 410, and the game ball that has flowed into the second guide passage 272 is placed on the game board 80a. An introduction member 440 leading to the passage is fixed. In the present embodiment, the inflow route to the second guide passage 272 (ball passage) is present in addition to the route passing through the introduction member 440. Details of the configuration will be described later.

  The lower end of the passage forming body 410 is an exit portion 412 of the ball passage, and the lower working port 83b serves as a taking-in means for taking in the game ball that has reached the lower working port 83b via the ball passage. A communication port 90 is formed. That is, regarding the lower working port 83b in the present embodiment, not only when the electric accessory 91 is opened, but also when the lower working port 83b is reached via the second guide passage 272 (ball passage). The game ball is allowed to flow in.

  Here, the distribution mechanism 400 will be described supplementarily with reference to FIGS. 21 and 22. 21 is an exploded perspective view of the distribution mechanism 400, FIG. 22A is a transverse cross-sectional view of the distribution mechanism 400, and FIG. 22B is a vertical cross-sectional view of the distribution mechanism 400.

  As shown in FIG. 21, a first opening portion 415 and a second opening portion 416 are formed in the middle of the passage forming body 410 so as to face each other. In other words, the passage forming body 410 has an upstream annular portion 413 in which the inlet portion 411 is formed and a downstream annular portion 414 in which the outlet portion 412 is formed, and these annular portions 413 and 414 are formed. The open portions 415 and 416 are formed in an intermediate portion excluding the formed portion. FIG. 21 shows a state in which the passage forming body 410 is arranged such that the first opening portion 415 faces the upper side and the second opening portion 416 faces the lower side.

  The holder 420 includes an upstream ring portion 421 that engages with the upstream annular portion 413, a downstream ring portion 422 that engages with the downstream annular portion 414, and a pair of front and rear connecting portions that connect the ring portions 421 and 422. 423. The connecting portion 423 has a long shape extending in the same direction as the passage direction of the spherical passage (the central axis CL3 of the passage forming body 410). By opening the holder 420 up and down without making it into a case shape that covers the passage forming body 410, it is possible to expose the intermediate portion of the passage forming body 410 in the vertical direction. The opening portions 415 and 416 are sized to allow the passage of the game ball, and the outflow and inflow paths of the game ball through the open portion of the holder 420 → the opening portions 415 and 416 of the passage forming body 410 are secured.

  By holding the passage forming body 410 so as to surround from the outside, the passage forming body 410 is allowed to rotate around its central axis CL3. The distribution mechanism 400 includes a drive unit 430 that rotates the passage forming body 410 in a predetermined direction (a direction counterclockwise when viewed from the left side (upstream side)) around the central axis CL3. Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 22, the structure which concerns on attachment and operation | movement of the channel | path formation body 410 is demonstrated.

  In the game board 80a, the holder 420 has a recess 264 that is recessed backward. The depth of the concave portion 264 is formed to be approximately the same as the thickness of the holder 420, and an increase in the amount of offset of the passage forming body 410 from the front surface of the game board 80a is suppressed. This is a contrivance for suppressing the catch when the game ball flowing down (moving) along the front surface of the game board 80a flows into the passage forming body 410.

  An insertion portion 265 into which a flange portion 424 formed in the rear connection portion 423 is inserted and an accommodation portion 266 that accommodates the drive unit 430 are arranged in parallel at the bottom of the recess 264. The sorting mechanism 400 is positioned by engaging the flange portion 424 and the insertion portion 265.

  A slit 425 is formed in a portion of the upstream ring portion 421 of the holder 420 facing the housing portion 266. A part of the upstream annular portion 413 is exposed through the slit 425 to the housing portion 266 (rear). The drive unit 430 includes a motor 431 and a gear 432 that is fixed to the output shaft of the motor 431 and engages with a tooth portion (gear) arranged on the outer peripheral surface of the upstream annular portion 413.

  The motor 431 is connected to the main control device 162 and operates based on a drive signal from the main control device 162. Under a situation where the power source of the gaming machine is ON, the passage forming body 410 is configured to continue rotating at a constant speed.

  Next, with reference to FIG.21 and FIG.23, it demonstrates supplementarily about the opening parts 415 and 416 of the channel | path formation body 410. FIG. FIG. 23 is a front view showing a state in which the passage forming body 410 is rotated.

  As shown in FIG. 21, the second opening portion 416 has a round hole shape, and is formed so that its diameter dimension is slightly larger than the diameter dimension of the game ball. Meat portions are secured on both sides of the second opening portion 416 in the rotation direction, and these meat portions form a bypass path that bypasses the second opening portion 416.

  As shown in FIG. 23A, in a state where the second opening portion 416 faces downward, the game balls flowing down the second guide passage 272 are allowed to be discharged through the second opening portion 416. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 23 (b), in the state where the second opening portion 416 faces upward, the inflow of game balls into the second guide passage 272 through the second opening portion 416 is allowed.

  For example, when a game ball that has flowed out from the first opening portion 281 of the first guide passage 271 is placed on the passage formation body 410 from above, it flows down along the passage formation body 410 to the downstream side. . At this time, when the game ball reaches the second opening portion 416 at the timing when the second opening portion 416 faces upward, the game ball passes through the second opening portion 416 (the second guide passage). 272). That is, the second opening portion 416 is provided with a function as an inlet to the second guide passage 272 and an outlet from the second guide passage 272, and these functions are performed according to the rotation position of the passage forming body 410. It has a configuration that switches.

  Next, the first opening portion 415 will be described with reference to FIG. The first opening 415 includes an upstream slit 417 that extends upstream from the second opening, a downstream slit 418 that extends downstream from the second opening, and a central opening 419 that connects both the slits 417 and 418. It is comprised by.

  In a state where the first opening portion 415 faces upward, the inflow of game balls into the second guide passage 272 through the first opening portion 415 is allowed, and in a state where the first opening portion 415 faces downward. The outflow of game balls from the second guide passage 272 through the first opening portion 415 is allowed. That is, the first opening portion 415 is also provided with a function as an inlet to the second guide passage 272 and an outlet from the second guide passage 272, similarly to the second opening portion 416, and the passage forming body 410. These functions are switched according to the rotational position of the.

  Here, the upstream slit 417 and the downstream slit 418 have different extending directions with the central opening 419 as the base end, thereby causing a phase difference in the rotational direction in the direction of the open portion. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 23A, when the downstream slit 418 faces the front side of the gaming machine, the upstream slit 417 faces diagonally backward, in other words, as shown in FIG. 23B. In the state where the upstream slit 417 faces the front side of the gaming machine, the downstream slit 418 is configured to face obliquely rearward.

  Thus, by providing a phase difference between the upstream slit 417 and the downstream slit 418, the timing at which the inflow of the game ball into the second guide passage 272 is allowed and the outflow of the game ball from the second guide passage 272 Can be made different in accordance with the arrival position of the game ball in the second guide passage 272, and diversification of the flow-down mode of the game ball can be realized.

  Here, with reference to the schematic diagram of FIG. 24, the relationship between the operation of the sorting mechanism 400 and the flow-down mode of the game ball will be exemplified.

  As shown in FIG. 24 (a) → FIG. 24 (b), when a game ball flows in from the inlet portion 411 in a state where the second opening 416 is located rearward (facing the rear), the first opening Since the upstream slit 417 of 415 faces obliquely upward, the game ball flows down along the second guide passage 272 without being discharged from the second guide passage 272. If the game ball reaches the slit 417 with the upstream slit 417 facing downward, the game ball is discharged from the second guide passage 272 through the slit 417.

  As shown in FIG. 24 (b), when the game ball reaches the second opening portion 416 when the second opening portion 416 faces downward as the passage forming body 410 rotates. In this case, the game ball is distributed as it crosses the second opening 416 or is discharged from the second guide passage 272 through the second opening 416.

  As shown in FIG. 24 (b) → FIG. 24 (c), the rotational position of the passage forming body 410 changes until the game ball reaches the intermediate position of the passage forming body 410, and the second opening 416 is moved to the front side or When it is in the state of facing the back side, the game ball moves to the area on the downstream side of the second opening part 416 through the meat part secured on both sides of the second opening part 416. Thereby, the discharge in the upstream region and the midstream region is avoided.

  As shown in FIG. 24 (c) → FIG. 24 (d), when the game ball reaches the downstream region before the downstream slit 418 faces directly below, the ball enters the lower operation port 83b through the communication port 90 as it is. To do. On the other hand, when the game ball reaches the downstream region with the downstream slit 418 facing directly below, the game ball bypasses the downstream slit 418 from the front side or the rear side and opens the downstream slit 418. By avoiding the flow, the flow continues as it is or whether the flow is discharged from the second guide passage 272 through the downstream slit 418 or not.

  Here, the inner peripheral surface of the passage forming body 410 is formed such that a cross section orthogonal to the rotation center axis line CL3 forms an arc shape. Since the diameter dimension of the inner peripheral surface is set to be larger than the diameter dimension of the game ball, the game ball is allowed to swing in the front-rear direction when passing through the second guide passage 272. In particular, the inlet portion 411 of the second guide passage 272 is configured not to define the position in the front-rear direction. That is, the variation of the inflow position and the inflow angle of the game ball when flowing into the inlet portion 411 is permitted.

  With such a configuration, when the game ball flows down along the second guide passage 272, a change in position in the front-rear direction occurs, and the movement of the game ball is diversified. By making such a movement, for example, the bypass of the downstream slit 418 described above is allowed.

  Here, the flow when the game ball flows from the first guide passage 271 into the second guide passage 272 is illustrated. As already described, the passage formation body 410 is disposed below the first guide passage 271, and the game ball that has flowed out of the first guide passage 271 through the opening portions 281 to 283 reaches the passage formation body 410. obtain. At this time, the game ball flows into the passage forming body 410, that is, the second guide passage 272 through the first opening portion 415 or the second opening portion 416. Here, the second opening portion 416 is opposed to the first opening portion 415 across the rotation center axis CL3, and the first opening portion 415 is larger than the second opening portion 416.

  The game ball that has reached the second guide passage 272 through the first opening portion 415 easily moves along the second guide passage 272 toward the lower operation port 83b. On the other hand, the game ball that has reached the second guide passage 272 through the second opening 416 is easily discharged from the second guide passage 272 through the first opening 415 as it is. As described above, the configuration is such that the possibility that the game ball can stay in the second guide passage 272 increases or decreases depending on the rotational position of the passage forming body 410.

  Also, as shown in FIG. 24A, the game ball reaches the passage formation body 410 via the first guide passage 271 under the condition that none of the open portions 415 and 416 faces upward. In this case, the game ball is placed on the outer peripheral surface of the passage forming body 410, and the game ball flows down along the outer peripheral surface. If it continues to flow down as it is, it will be discharged from the game area PE without reaching the second guide passage 272. On the other hand, when the opening portions 415 and 416 face upward as the rotational position changes in the process of flowing down, there is a possibility of reaching the second guide passage 272 through the opening portions 415 and 416. In particular, when flowing into the second guide passage 272 through the first opening portion 415, the distribution manner thereafter changes depending on which part of the upstream slit 417, the downstream slit 418, and the central opening 419 the flow in. Become.

  Specifically, when flowing in through the upstream slit 417, it is necessary to avoid at least the first opening 415, the central opening 419, and further the downstream slit 418 in order for the game ball to reach the lower operation port 83b. When flowing in through the central opening 419, it is necessary to avoid the first opening 415 and the downstream slit 418 in order for the game ball to reach the lower operation port 83b. When flowing in through the downstream slit 418, the game ball reaches the lower operation port 83b as it is. That is, when the game ball that has flowed out of the first guide passage 271 flows into the second guide passage 272, the probability of reaching the operating port 83b increases as the inflow position approaches the downstream side.

  According to the third embodiment described in detail above, the following excellent effects can be obtained.

  The gaming machine manufacturer is manufactured such that the probability that the game ball launched by the game ball launching mechanism 110 enters the operation port 83 falls within a preset range. However, if the probability of entering the ball changes greatly due to various circumstances such as manufacturing defects, an excessively disadvantageous state may occur for one of the game hall and the player. Such a bias is not preferable because it hinders the installation and use of gaming machines.

  In this regard, in the gaming machine shown in the present embodiment, the second guide passage 272 (ball passage) formed by the passage formation body 410 is used as one of a plurality of guide passages for guiding the game ball to the operation port 83. I have. More specifically, as a plurality of guide passages for guiding the game ball to the operation port 83, a first guide passage 271 in which nails 93 are arranged and a second guide passage 272 formed by the passage formation body 410 are provided. I have.

  With respect to the first guide passage 271 formed by the nail 93 group, the positional relationship and the like of the nails 93 are easily changed by deformation of some of the nails 93, and the behavior of the guided game balls, the direction of guidance, etc. Can be unexpected. In other words, a slight deformation or the like may greatly affect the above-mentioned entrance probability. In view of such circumstances, the uniform formation of all the guide passages with the nails 93 improves the original enjoyment of the gaming machine by diversifying the behavior of the gaming ball and following the movement of the gaming ball with the eyes. Although it is advantageous in the above, it can become a factor which enlarges the fluctuation width of the said entrance probability.

  Therefore, by mixing the second guide passage 272 formed of the passage formation body 410 in the guide passage provided by branching, the above-described behavior change or the like is suppressed for the second guide passage 272. Can do. More specifically, by forming the surface (rolling surface) on which the game ball rolls with a single member, the diversification of the rolling surface compared to a configuration in which a plurality of nails 93 are arranged to form a virtual surface. Can be suppressed. For this reason, the movement of the game ball can be stabilized. By adopting a structure in which some of the plurality of guide paths provided by branching are not or hardly deformed, the swing range of the probability of entering can be reduced, and the above-described inconvenience is generated. It becomes possible to suppress suitably.

  In the downstream side passage 269 of the left route, a portion where the passage forming body 410 is arranged constitutes an adjustment invalid section in which adjustment of the flow-down mode of the game ball is impossible. The existence of such an adjustment invalid section is advantageous for exerting the above effect, but can be a factor that monotonizes the movement of the game ball. Therefore, in the present embodiment, in the downstream side passage 269, the first guide passage 271 made of the nail 93 and the second guide passage 272 made of the passage forming body 410 coexist. Thereby, it is possible to exhibit the reduction function while suppressing the movement of the game ball from becoming too monotonous.

  By launching game balls aiming at the left route where the first guide passage 271 and the second guide passage 272 are provided, the game balls flowing down the left route are, for example, the first guide passage 271 and the second guide passage 272. Will be distributed. That is, when the game ball is continuously fired toward the left route, at least a part thereof flows into the second guide passage 272. With such a configuration, it is possible to secure the opportunity for the game ball to flow into the second guide passage 272 and to appropriately exhibit the above-described function of reducing the swing width of the probability of entering the ball.

  The game ball that has passed through the second guide passage 272 flows into the operation port 83b without passing through the nail 93. As described above, in the second guide passage 272, a large change in the probability of entering is restricted, but if a nail 93 exists between the outlet portion 412 and the operation port 83b, the nail 93 There is a concern that 93 will become dominant and the effect of reducing the above described swing probability of the entrance probability will be reduced. Therefore, as shown in the above embodiment, when the game ball flows from the second guide passage 272 to the operation port 83b, the second guide passage 272 is provided by not passing through the nail 93 (does not hit). Therefore, the technical significance can be suitably demonstrated.

  Regarding the first guide passage 271, the interval between the nails 93 forming the open portions 281 to 283 varies or changes, so that the operation port 83 (specifically, the upper operation port 83 a) passes through the first guide passage 271. Variations occur in the arrival rate to be reached, and thus in the probability of entering the first guide path 271. On the other hand, with respect to the second guide passage 272, the variation (for example, manufacturing variation) of the openings forming the opening portions 415 and 416 is small, and the above-described variation in the arrival rate and the entrance probability is suppressed.

  In this way, by using an opening having a predetermined shape, that is, by using two types of opening portions having different constituent elements in combination, it is possible to reduce the swing range of the probability of entering the game machine as a whole.

  With respect to the second guide passage 272, the game ball does not flow in from the entrance portion 411, so that the various functions described above cannot be performed well. In particular, when the nail 93 is disposed around the entrance portion 411 and the game ball is guided to the entrance portion 411 by the nail 93, there is a concern that the above inconvenience is likely to occur. In this regard, according to the configuration shown in the present embodiment, inflow of game balls that have flowed out from the midway position of the first guide passage 271 into the second guide passage 272 is allowed. By securing such a receiving system, it is possible to prevent the function of the second guide passage 272 from being performed even if there is a problem with the inflow from the inlet portion 411.

  In the first place, when it is easy for outflow (spilling) of game balls from the first guide passage 271 to occur due to deformation of the nail 93 forming the first guide passage 271, it is possible to enter the entire gaming machine. Although the probability of a ball may be reduced, a ball that cannot be expected to enter through the first guide passage 271 is relieved by the second guide passage 272 to relieve at least a part of the game balls that have flowed out of the first guide passage 271. A decrease in the probability of the sphere can be suitably suppressed.

  In the configuration in which the nail 93 forms an open portion as a “discharge port” for the game ball and the game balls are distributed depending on whether or not the game ball reaches the open portion, the state of the nail 93 (for example, orientation) Depending on the situation, the distribution mode can change greatly. In this regard, according to the configuration shown in the present embodiment, whether or not the game ball flowing down the second guide passage 272 can reach the operation port 83 by the operation of the passage forming body 410 and the inflow timing of the game ball or the like. Determined. Therefore, as compared with the case where the nail 93 is used, the distribution mode, that is, the swing width of the probability of arrival (arrival probability) can be suitably reduced.

  The opening portions 415 and 416 formed in the passage forming body 410 function as an inflow port for game balls by facing upward, and function as an outflow port for game balls by facing downward. In this way, by adopting a configuration in which the same opening portions 415 and 416 perform different functions depending on the rotation position of the passage forming body 410, the configuration relating to the distribution of game balls in the passage forming body 410 can be simplified. Realizing the simplification of the structure in this way is advantageous in suppressing the influence of individual differences and the like of the passage forming body 410.

  In addition, if it is set as the structure which changes the receiving state etc. of a game ball by changing the direction of the opening parts 415 and 416 by rotating the channel | path formation body 410, the 2nd guide channel | path 272 will be made by the channel | path formation body 410. It is possible to suppress the occurrence of individual differences (bias) due to the monotonousness, the mounting position, and the manufacturing variation of the game ball flowing down due to the formation.

  In particular, since the inner peripheral surface of the passage forming body 410 has an arc shape centered on the rotation center axis CL3, the game ball passing through the second guide passage 272 swings back and forth along the inner peripheral surface. Can be made. Thereby, monotonization of the movement of the game ball can be suppressed more suitably. In particular, since the passage forming body 410 is of a rotating type, the rotation operation of the passage forming body 410 can be used as an opportunity to swing the game ball, and the inner peripheral surface of the passage forming body 410 is formed in an arc shape. It can be easily avoided that the above effect is not exhibited well.

  In the configuration in which inflow of game balls from the first guide passage 271 to the second guide passage 272 is allowed, an adjustment invalid section is provided for a game ball (zero ball) that has been separated from the first guide passage 271 on the way. Relief can be made by the second guide passage 272. Thereby, it is possible to suitably suppress the occurrence of an extremely disadvantageous bias for the player. Further, since the arrival position of the spilling ball is the adjustment invalid section, it is possible to avoid a disadvantageous bias for the player so that the spilling sphere is more likely to spill from the second guide passage 272. For the above reasons, by using the first guide passage 271 and the second guide passage 272 in combination, it is possible to reduce the swing range of the probability of entering the ball and to suppress the monotonization of the flow-down mode of the game ball due to it. .

<Fourth embodiment>
In the third embodiment, the passage forming body 410 constituting the second guide passage 272 is movable (specifically, rotatable), but the distribution mechanism 400X in the present embodiment is the passage forming body 410X. The configuration is different from that of the third embodiment in that it is non-movable. Hereinafter, the configuration of the distribution mechanism 400X will be described with reference to FIG. 25, focusing on the differences from the third embodiment. In addition, description is used about the structure common to 3rd Embodiment. In FIG. 25, dot hatching is given to the flesh portion of the passage forming body 410X for convenience of explanation.

  The passage forming body 410X includes a bottom plate portion 413X as a rolling surface of the game ball in the second guide passage 272, and a top plate portion 414X facing the bottom plate portion 413X with a gap through which the game ball can pass. Thus, these plate portions 413X and 414X are fixed to the game board 80a, thereby being integrated with the game board 80a. In addition, about the channel | path formation body 410X, the upstream edge part, the downstream edge part, and an intermediate part are the fixed locations with respect to the game board 80a, and the postural change of the attitude | position is controlled.

  A plurality of opening portions 416X are formed in the bottom plate portion 413X as passage portions through which game balls can pass in the middle of the bottom plate portion 413X. These open portions 416X have a function as a “discharge portion” that discharges part of the game balls that have flowed into the second guide passage 272 from the second guide passage 272.

  Unlike the opening portions 281 to 283 of the first guide passage 271, the opening portion 416X is not formed by a plurality of nails 93 (members whose posture is allowed to change). It is avoided that the size changes at.

  The possibility of passing through the opening 416X, that is, the probability of reaching the lower operating port 83b may vary depending on the flow speed of the game ball flowing down the second guide passage 272. In this regard, the passage forming body 410X is fixed to the game board 80a using a plurality of fixtures, and changes in its posture are suppressed. For this reason, for example, even when a large load is applied to the passage forming body 410X during the maintenance work, it is difficult for the inconvenience that the inclination angle of the passage forming body 410X changes.

  The top plate portion 414X has a width that is set shorter than the bottom plate portion 413X, and is configured to cover only the downstream portion of the bottom plate portion 413X. More specifically, the second guide passage 272 covers only the most downstream portion where the open portion 416X does not exist. Thereby, the 2nd guide passage 272 is opened upwards except the most downstream part (refer to opening part 415X). With such a configuration, the inflow of the game ball that has flowed out of the first guide passage 271 through the opening portions 281 to 283 into the second guide passage 272 is allowed.

  The top plate portion 414X is connected to the communication port 90X of the lower operation port 83b, and the top plate portion 414X itself is not formed with an opening or the like through which a game ball can pass. Thereby, the upper surface of the top plate portion 414X restricts the inflow of game balls into the second guide passage 272, and has a function of keeping the game balls reaching the upper surface away from the communication port 90X. Therefore, the spilled ball that has reached the upper operating port 83a but has not entered the upper operating port 83a is discharged from the game area PE without flowing into the second guide passage 272 by the top plate portion 414X. Will be guided as follows.

  The upstream opening portion 416X formed in the bottom plate portion 413X is disposed so as to be offset to the downstream side (right side) from the position below the first opening portion 281 of the first guide passage 271. . For this reason, the game balls that have flowed into the second guide passage 272 through the first opening portion 281 can be distributed in the upstream and downstream opening portions 416X, but after flowing into the second guide passage 272, By the time it reaches the opening 416X, it is accelerated so that the flow-down speed in the direction along the second guide passage 272 increases. This increases the possibility of passing through each open portion 416X.

  The upstream opening 416X is located slightly upstream (left side) of the second opening 282 of the first guide passage 271. For this reason, the game ball that has flowed into the second guide passage 272 through the second opening portion 282 may be subject to distribution by the opening portion 416X on the upstream side, and flows into the second guide passage 272 through the first opening portion 281. It becomes lower than the game ball. However, unlike the case of flowing in through the first opening portion 281, it is difficult to secure a sufficient acceleration section. Therefore, when the opening part 416X is reached, the possibility of being discharged from the second guide passage 272 through the opening part 416X increases.

  The downstream opening 416X is located directly below the third opening 283X. For this reason, the game ball that has flowed into the second guide passage 272 from the third opening portion 283 is easily discharged from the second guide passage 272 through the third opening portion 283X.

  With the above configuration, the probability of reaching the lower working port 83b is as follows: a game ball that has flowed into the second guide passage 272 through the first opening portion 281> a game ball that has flowed into the second guide passage 272 through the second release portion 282> 3 The game balls that have flowed into the second guide passage 272 through the opening portion 283 become higher in order, and when flowing into the second guide passage 272, it is advantageous for the player to flow in early.

  As described in detail above, by configuring the sorting mechanism 400X with the non-movable path forming body 410X, that is, by simplifying the structure of the path forming body 410X, the entrance probability is designed due to the influence of malfunction etc. It is possible to suppress a large deviation from the value (increase in the swing width of the probability of entering the ball).

  In particular, a change in the posture of the passage forming body 410X and a change in the size of the opening 416X are avoided. In this way, by touching the passage forming body 410X and the like, it is possible to contribute to improving workability when performing maintenance work or the like in a game hall, for example, by suppressing the change in the probability of entering the ball. Can do.

<Other embodiments>
In addition, it is not limited to the description content of each embodiment mentioned above, For example, you may implement as follows. Incidentally, the configuration of another embodiment described below may be applied individually to the configuration in the above embodiment, or may be applied in combination with each other.

  (1) In each of the above embodiments, the entrance probability variable mechanism 300 and the distribution mechanism 400 are applied to the guide passage through which the game ball is guided toward the operation port 83 as the “entrance part”. It is not limited. It is sufficient that the guide path guides the game ball toward at least the “pick-up part”. For example, the guide path guides the game ball toward the variable winning device 82 or the game ball toward the general winning port 81. It is also possible to apply a structure corresponding to the entrance probability variable mechanism 300 and the distribution mechanism 400 to the guide path where the guide is guided.

  (2) In each of the above embodiments, the first guide passage 271 and the second guide passage 272 provided in a branched manner are arranged side by side, but the present invention is not limited to this. You may change it arbitrarily. For example, one of the first guide passage 271 and the second guide passage 272 may be arranged on the right route and the other on the left route.

  In addition, although the relationship between the first guide passage 271 and the second guide passage 272 is parallel, it is also possible to connect them in series.

  (3) In the first and second embodiments, the driving force transmission unit 330 switches the state of the guide unit 310 based on the weight of the game ball that has reached the operation unit 320 serving as the “switching unit” and the momentum of the collision. It was set as the structure converted into. By changing this, the second guide passage 272 is provided with a detection sensor that detects a game ball that has flowed into the second guide passage 272, and a drive unit such as a motor that operates the guide unit 310, and detection information ( The guide unit 310 can be switched from the non-guide state to the guide state by operating the drive unit based on the detection signal.

  (4) In the first and second embodiments, the arrival probability of the game ball flowing down the first guide passage 271 to the operation port 83a is increased based on the flow of the game ball into the second guide passage 272. Specifically, the number of falling balls flowing out from the first guide passage 271 in the middle is reduced, and as a result, the probability of entering the operation port 83a is increased, but as a result, the probability of entering is increased. However, it is not always necessary to use such indirect means. For example, by placing a movable accessory corresponding to the electric accessory 91 in the operation port 83a and guiding (picking up) a game ball that has reached the periphery of the operation port 83a to the operation port 83a, the probability of entry It is also possible to adopt a configuration in which

  (5) In the first and second embodiments, the game ball reaches the rotating body 321 of the operation unit 320 and the rotating body 321 operates (rotates), so that the guide unit 310 is moved from the non-guided state. Although it is configured to switch to the guidance state, the number of times of switching of the guidance unit 310 is arbitrary, and is not limited to one as shown in the above-described embodiment, and one game ball is provided on the rotating body 321. It is also possible to adopt a configuration in which switching to the guidance state is repeated a plurality of times with the arrival.

  (6) In the first and second embodiments, the condition for returning the movable piece 311 of the guide unit 310 from the protruding position to the initial position is determined according to the period. It does not have to be a “period”. For example, it may be configured to return to the initial position when a ball enters the operation port 83a. In this case, when the game ball passes through a predetermined position in the ball passage provided in the operation port 83a, a movable member that operates by collision or weight with the game ball is provided, and the pressing force applied to the movable member is It is good also as a structure utilized as a motive power which returns the movable piece 311 to an initial position.

  (7) In the first and second embodiments described above, the opportunity for the game ball to flow into the second guide passage 272 increases, resulting in an opportunity for the guide unit 310 to switch from the non-guide state to the guide state. Configured to increase. By changing this, the number of game balls that flow into the second guide passage 272 within a preset period increases, and the period during which the above-described guide unit 310 is maintained in the guide state is delayed. It is also possible. That is, it is also possible to adopt a configuration in which the probability of entering the ball relating to the first guide passage 271 increases stepwise or continuously in conjunction with an increase in the number of inflows into the second guide passage 272.

  (8) In the second embodiment, each of the plurality of operation units 320 functions as a driving force generation source for operating the guide unit 310. However, the present invention is not limited to this. It is also possible to have a one-to-one relationship between the operation unit 320 and the guide unit 310. For example, either the first operation unit 320A or the second operation unit 320B may be omitted.

  (9) In the second embodiment, the guiding state of the guide unit 310 is the first guiding state where the protruding amount of the slider is the first protruding amount and the protruding amount of the slider is larger than the first protruding amount. It is configured separately from the second guidance state in which the amount of protrusion is two. When a game ball reaches one operation unit 320, the first guidance state is established. When the game ball reaches both operation units 320, the details are as follows. When the game ball reaches the other operation unit 320 that is not the operation unit 320 that has been triggered in the situation where the first guidance state is set, the guidance unit 310 is switched to the second guidance state. It is also possible.

  (10) In the third embodiment, the game ball passing through the second guide passage 272 is configured to enter the operation port 83b with the probability set at the time of designing the gaming machine. As long as it can be structurally defined and its change can be suppressed, the specific configuration is arbitrary.

  For example, in a state where a part of the second guide passage 272 is constituted by a peripheral surface of a rotating body that rotates periodically and a game ball enters a recess formed in the peripheral surface of the rotating body, the game is temporarily It is also possible to adopt a configuration in which the bottom surface of the second guide passage 272 is formed by a sphere. In this case, the second guide passage 272 is supplemented by the game ball, and the subsequent game ball crosses (passes through) the rotating body with the game ball that has entered the recessed portion as a foothold, thereby entering the rotating body (recessed portion). Inflow will be avoided.

  (11) In the third embodiment, one passage forming body 410 is provided as a “partition member” in the second guide passage 272. However, a plurality of passage forming bodies 410 may be arranged side by side in the passage direction. Is possible. In other words, when the function of stabilizing the entrance probability of the game ball in the second guide passage 272 is exhibited, and considering that the entrance probability is appropriate, the game ball reaches the operation port 83b. It is also possible to use a plurality of configurations (distribution means) that distribute in the process.

  For example, a plurality of branches may be provided in the second guide passage 272, and movable distribution means such as a shutter and a seesaw may be provided at these branches. The distributing means such as the shutter and the seesaw may be configured to operate by power supplied from driving means such as a solenoid or a motor, or may pass through the second guide passage 272 or be discharged from the second guide passage 272. It is good also as a structure which operate | moves using the weight etc. of a game ball to be.

  (12) In the third and fourth embodiments described above, a configuration that allows game balls that have flowed out of the first guide passage 271 to flow into the second guide passage 272 in the middle of the first guide passage 271. However, the present invention is not necessarily limited to this. It is also possible to disable the inflow of game balls to the second guide passage 272 via the first guide passage 271. For example, in the third embodiment, the holder 420 may cover the passage forming body 410 from above.

  (13) Other types of pachinko machines different from the above-described embodiments, such as pachinko machines in which an electric accessory is released a predetermined number of times when a game ball enters a specific area of a special device, or games in a specific area of a special device The present invention can also be applied to a pachinko machine that generates a big hit when a ball enters, a pachinko machine equipped with another accessory, an arrangement ball machine, a sparrow ball, and the like.

<Invention Group Extracted from Each Embodiment>
Hereinafter, the characteristics of the invention group extracted from each of the above-described embodiments will be described while showing effects and the like as necessary. In the following, for ease of understanding, the corresponding configuration in the above embodiment is appropriately shown in parentheses, but is not limited to the specific configuration shown in parentheses.

  The following feature group is: `` For gaming machines such as pachinko machines, lottery whether or not to shift to the special gaming state, etc., triggered by entering the entrance part such as the start opening provided in the game area, etc. In this type of gaming machine, game parts such as game nails and windmills are arranged in the game area, thereby diversifying the flow path of game balls. In addition, it is adjusted so that the entrance to the entrance part occurs with a reasonable probability.In addition, in the gaming machine, access to the game board (game area) by the hall manager is permitted, and cleaning is performed. As for the background technology that “consideration is given to maintenance work such as, etc.”, however, the probability of entering the entering part may change if the gaming parts are deformed during the above maintenance work. In the first place, game The manufacturer is manufactured so that the probability of entering the ball falls within a preset range. If the probability of entering the ball changes greatly due to the above-mentioned circumstances, it is excessively disadvantageous for one of the game hall and the player. Such an increase in bias is not preferable because it hinders the promotion and installation of gaming machines. "

<Feature A group>
Feature A1. A game board (game board unit 80) in which a game area (game area PE) is formed, and game parts (nails 93, windmills 94, etc.) that change the flow direction of the game ball and the game ball enter the game board. A game machine provided with a ball entry portion (operating port 83 (particularly operating port 83a)),
The game area includes a first flow path (first guide path 271) and a second flow path that has a lower probability of entering the ball portion than the first flow path as a flow path through which game balls flow. (Second guide passage 272) is provided,
Based on the inflow of the game ball to the second downstream path, the entrance probability variable means for increasing the probability of entering the entrance part of the game ball passing through the first downstream path (variable entrance probability) A gaming machine comprising a mechanism 300).

  In the gaming machine of the type shown in the feature A1, diversification of the flow path of the game balls can be realized by arranging game parts (for example, game nails, windmills, etc.) in the game area. This is preferable, for example, in suppressing the movement of the game ball from becoming monotonous.

  Game machine manufacturers are manufactured such that the probability of entering a game ball launched by game ball launching means (game ball launching mechanism 110) or the like is within a preset range (for example, game The position and orientation of machine parts are specified). However, if the probability of entering the ball changes greatly due to various circumstances, an excessively unfavorable state may occur for one of the game hall and the player. Such a bias is not preferable because it hinders the installation and use of gaming machines.

  In the gaming machine shown in this feature, when more than expected game balls flow into the latter of the first flow path having a relatively high probability of entering and the second flow path having a relatively low probability of entering, that is, the whole When a bias occurs that lowers the probability of entering the ball, correction is made by the entrance probability varying means so that the probability of entering the entering portion of the game ball passing through the first flow path increases. It will be. On the other hand, if the game ball does not flow into the second flow path having a relatively low probability of entering or the number of inflows decreases, the correction may be suppressed, and the probability of entering the first flow path may be excessively high. It will be suppressed. Thereby, an extreme change in the probability of entering can be suppressed, and the occurrence of the inconvenience can be suppressed.

Feature A2. A game board (game board unit 80) in which a game area (game area PE) is formed, and game parts (nails 93 and windmills 94) that change the flow direction of the game ball and the game ball enter the game board. A gaming machine provided with a ball entrance (operating port 83 (particularly operating port 83a)),
The game area includes a first flow path (first guide path 271) and a second flow path that has a lower probability of entering the ball portion than the first flow path as a flow path through which game balls flow. (Second guide passage 272) is provided,
Incidence probability variable means for increasing the probability of entering the entrance part of the game ball flowing down the first flow path by increasing the number of game balls distributed to the second flow path ( A game machine including a variable probability of entering ball 300).

  In the gaming machine of the type shown in the feature A1, diversification of the flow path of the game balls can be realized by arranging game parts (for example, game nails, windmills, etc.) in the game area. This is preferable, for example, in suppressing the movement of the game ball from becoming monotonous.

  Game machine manufacturers are manufactured such that the probability of entering a game ball launched by game ball launching means (game ball launching mechanism 110) or the like is within a preset range (for example, game The position and orientation of machine parts are specified). However, if the probability of entering the ball changes greatly due to various circumstances, it may be in an excessively disadvantageous state for one of the game hall and the player. Such a bias is not preferable because it hinders the installation and use of gaming machines.

  In the gaming machine shown in this feature, when the number of inflows to the latter of the first flow path having a relatively high probability of entering and the second flow path having a relatively low probability of entering increases (for example, per unit period) When the number of incoming balls exceeds the value set at the time of design), that is, when a bias occurs that lowers the total incoming probability, Correction is made so that the probability of entering the entrance of the game ball passing through one downflow path increases. On the other hand, if the game ball does not flow into the second flow path having a relatively low probability of entering or the number of inflows decreases, the correction may be suppressed, and the probability of entering the first flow path may be excessively high. It will be suppressed. Thereby, an extreme change in the probability of entering can be suppressed, and the occurrence of the inconvenience can be suppressed.

  In particular, the correction is strengthened as the number of game balls distributed (inflowing) to the second downstream path increases. That is, when the deviation can be large, the correction function is also strengthened. Therefore, the change in the probability of entering the ball can be more suitably suppressed.

  For the “entry probability varying means”, “the probability that the game ball passing through the first flow path has entered the specific area in the second flow path is that the game ball has reached a specific area in the second flow path. It is good also as a structure which makes it raise based on.

Feature A3. A game board (game board unit 80) in which a game area (game area PE) is formed, and game parts (nails 93 and windmills 94) that change the flow direction of the game ball and the game ball enter the game board. A gaming machine provided with a ball entrance (operating port 83 (particularly operating port 83a)),
The game area includes a first flow path (first guide path 271) and a second flow path that has a lower probability of entering the ball portion than the first flow path as a flow path through which game balls flow. (Second guide passage 272) is provided,
The first flow path can be switched between a first state and a second state in which game balls that have flowed into the first flow path are more likely to reach the entrance part than the first state.
And a means (switching probability varying mechanism 300) for switching the first flow path from the first state to the second state based on the game ball flowing into the second flow path. To play.

  In the gaming machine of the type shown in the feature A1, diversification of the flow path of the game balls can be realized by arranging game parts (for example, game nails, windmills, etc.) in the game area. This is preferable, for example, in suppressing the movement of the game ball from becoming monotonous.

  The gaming machine manufacturer is manufactured so that the probability of entering a game ball launched by a game ball launching unit (game ball launching mechanism 110) or the like is within a preset range. However, if the probability of entering the ball changes greatly due to various circumstances, it may be in an excessively disadvantageous state for one of the game hall and the player. Such a bias is not preferable because it hinders the installation and use of gaming machines.

  In the gaming machine shown in this feature, when more than expected game balls flow into the latter of the first flow path having a relatively high probability of entering and the second flow path having a relatively low probability of entering, that is, the whole When a bias occurs that lowers the probability of entering the ball, the first downflow path is switched from the first state to the second state, so that the game ball passing through the first downflow path can be entered. Will be corrected so as to increase the probability of entering. On the other hand, if the game ball does not flow into the second flow path having a relatively low probability of entering or the number of inflows decreases, the correction may be suppressed, and the probability of entering the first flow path may be excessively high. It will be suppressed. Thereby, an extreme change in the probability of entering can be suppressed, and the occurrence of the inconvenience can be suppressed.

  In particular, according to this feature, the first flow down path can be switched between a first state and a second state in which the probability that the game ball reaches the entrance part is different. Here, when the game ball flows into the second flow path, the first flow path is switched from the first state to the second state based on the game ball. As a result, the arrival rate of the game balls flowing down the first flow path to the entrance portion increases. Thus, instead of forcing the game ball to enter the entrance part due to the game ball flowing into the second down path, as a result of increasing the arrival rate to the entrance part, the first down path By making it the structure which raises the entrance probability which concerns on this, it can avoid suitably that the pleasure by tracking the motion of the original game ball of a gaming machine is impaired.

Feature A4. The first flow path can be switched between a first state and a second state in which game balls that have flowed into the first flow path are more likely to reach the entrance part than the first state.
The entrance probability changing means increases the entrance probability of the game ball flowing down the first flow path into the entrance part by switching the first flow path from the first state to the second state. The gaming machine according to Feature A1 or Feature A2, characterized by comprising means.

  According to the feature A4, the first flow down path can be switched between the first state / second state in which the probability that the game ball reaches the entrance part is different. Here, when the game ball flows into the second flow path, the first flow path is switched from the first state to the second state based on the game ball. As a result, the arrival rate of the game balls flowing down the first flow path to the entrance portion increases. In this way, the game ball flowing into the second flow path does not force the game ball flowing down the first flow path to enter the entrance part, but increases the arrival rate to the entrance part. As a result, by adopting a configuration that increases the probability of entering the ball related to the first flow down path, it is possible to suitably avoid that the enjoyment due to the pursuit of the movement of the original game ball of the gaming machine is impaired.

Feature A5. A discharge portion (for example, a first opening portion 281) from which the game ball is discharged from the first flow path is provided at an intermediate position of the first flow path, and one of the game balls passing through the first flow path is provided. The part is configured to leave the first flow path through the discharge part,
The entrance probability variable means is:
A restricting means (guide unit 310) that can be switched between a restricting state that restricts the discharge of the game ball from the discharge unit and an allowable state that allows the discharge of the game ball from the discharge unit;
A movable body (rotary body 321) that is provided in the game area and that operates when a game ball that flows down the second flow path hits, and a transmission section that transmits the power to the regulating means when the movable body operates ( Any of the features A1 to A4, including a power transmission mechanism 331) and switching means (operation unit 320) for switching the restriction means from the allowable state to the restricted state by the power. A gaming machine according to claim 1.

  According to feature A5, all of the game balls that have flowed into the first flow path reach the entrance part by detaching a part of the game balls flowing down the first flow path from the first flow path through the discharge part. To avoid that. Thereby, while aiming at the improvement of the attention degree to the motion of a game ball, it is suppressing that the dependence with respect to the surrounding structure of an entrance part becomes extremely strong about the entrance probability which concerns on a 1st flow path.

  Here, the discharge unit is provided with a restricting means, and when the restricting means is switched from the allowed state to the restricted state, the detachment of the game ball through the discharge portion is restricted. The restricting means is switched from the allowable state to the blocked state using power generated when the game ball flowing down the second flow path hits the movable body and the movable body operates. In this way, by using the weight and kinetic energy of the game ball flowing down the second flow path as the power source for the regulating means, there is no need to separately prepare a power source for the ball entering probability varying means, and the probability of entering the ball It can be suitably avoided that the presence of the variable means becomes a factor complicating the electrical configuration of the gaming machine.

  Note that, in the combination of the feature A3 and the feature A4, when the “restricting means” becomes the “allowed state”, the “first flow path” becomes the “first state” and the “restricting means” becomes the “restricted state”. Thus, the “first flow path” may be in the “second state”.

  Feature A6. The restricting means includes a slide member (movable piece 311) provided so as to be slidable in a direction crossing the direction of the discharge portion, and a protruding position where the slide member protrudes from the retracted position to the discharge portion. The gaming machine according to feature A5, wherein the gaming machine is configured to switch from the allowed state to the restricted state by moving to.

  As shown in feature A5, when the weight or kinetic energy of the game ball flowing down the second flow path is used as the power source for the regulating means, the magnitude of the power depends on the weight of the game ball, etc. There is a limit to increasing the power. It is not preferable that the movement of the slide member (switching between the restricted state and the allowable state) is hindered by the weight of the game ball passing through the first flow path. In this respect, by making the slide member slidable in a direction intersecting the direction of the discharge portion, the above-described influence can be suppressed and the switching function between the restricted state / allowable state can be suitably ensured.

  In the feature A5 or feature A6, “the game ball launching means for launching the game ball at a predetermined period based on the launch operation by the player is provided, and the regulating means is switched from the allowed state to the restricted state. In such a case, the configuration may be such that the restricted state is maintained for at least a period longer than the predetermined period. With respect to a group of game balls that are fired continuously (periodically), a fixed interval is not guaranteed in the process of flowing down the game area, and there may be a difference in density between the game balls. In consideration of such circumstances, it is necessary to set the period for which the regulated state is maintained to be longer than at least the predetermined period (launch cycle), thereby realizing the support of the subsequent game ball by the preceding game ball. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the restriction function by the restriction means from being effectively utilized.

  Feature A7. The second downflow path is configured to avoid reaching the ingress part with respect to a game ball that is an opportunity to increase the entrance probability in the second downflow path. The gaming machine according to any one of features A1 to A6.

  As shown in feature A7, with respect to the game ball that has flowed into the second flow down path and triggered the increase in the probability of entering the ball, the second flow down path is configured by avoiding the arrival at the pitched portion. The game balls that have arrived at are subjected to the role of reaching the entrance part or changing the entrance probability related to the first flow path. As a result, even when the number of game balls flowing into the second flow down path increases, it is avoided that it becomes a factor that creates an excessively advantageous state for the player, It can suppress that the balance with a player's advantage is extremely biased.

Feature A8. The first downflow path and the second downflow path extend sideways, and are arranged side by side vertically so that the first downflow path is on the upper side and the second downflow path is on the lower side,
The gaming machine according to any one of features A1 to A7, wherein an inflow of game balls from the midway position of the first flow-down path to the second flow-down path is allowed.

  As described above, in order to increase the degree of attention to the movement of the game ball, it is not preferable that “inflow of the game ball to the first flow path” = “determined to reach the ball entry part”. However, if the game ball flowing down the first flow path is configured to flow out from the first flow path before reaching the entrance part, the gaming parts constituting the flow-out point are deformed, etc. The outflow probability of game balls changes.

  In particular, when the outflow probability is larger than expected, the entrance probability related to the first flow path inevitably decreases. Therefore, by allowing game balls that have flowed out (spilled) from the first flow path to flow into the second flow path, the probability of entering the ball according to the first flow path is increased using the flow ball. Can do. Thereby, the fall of the entrance probability in the whole gaming machine can be suppressed suitably.

  In addition, for a game ball that has flowed out of the first flow path along the way, it is possible to contribute to improving the probability of entering the ball, so that when the player leaves the first flow path (the ball becomes a zero ball). At the time), the loss of interest in the game ball can be suppressed, and the decrease in the degree of attention to the movement of the game ball can be reduced.

  Feature A9. The first downflow path and the second downflow path are configured such that inflow of game balls from the second downflow path to the first downflow path is not possible. Gaming machine.

  According to the feature A9, it is avoided that the game ball that contributed to the increase in the entrance probability related to the first flow path on the second flow path returns to the first flow path where the entrance probability is increased. Thereby, it can avoid that the said correction function acts excessively.

  In combination with the feature A5 or the like (configuration including “restricting means”), the movement of the game ball from the second flow path to the first flow path is restricted by the restriction means being in a restricted state. Good.

  Feature A10. When the game ball reaches the second flow down path at the first position, the game probability changing means causes the game ball to flow down at the second position downstream of the first position. The gaming machine according to Feature A8 or Feature A9, wherein the degree of increase in the probability of entering the game ball passing through the first flow path is greater than when reaching the path.

  When the first downflow path and the second downflow path are compared, since the probability of entering the ball according to the first downflow path is set higher, the player flows down the game ball along the first downflow path. Expected to play games. Here, with respect to the game ball flowing into the second downstream path, a difference occurs in the correction function depending on the position at which the game ball flows into the second downstream path. Specifically, the upstream first position performs a stronger correction function than the second position.

  As described above, the game ball that has flowed down the first flow path for a certain distance has a high expectation for entering the ball, and the player is likely to pay attention. On the other hand, the player's attention is less likely to be directed to the game ball that has flowed into the second flow path early. Therefore, by making a difference in the role (effect) played by the game balls in the second flow path, it is possible to urge the player to pay attention to the game balls flowing down the second flow path. .

Feature A11. The second flow path allows inflow of game balls at a first position and a second position downstream of the first position,
The first flow path is provided with discharge portions (open portions 281 to 283) from which game balls are discharged from the first flow path,
The entrance probability variable means is:
A restricting means (guide unit 310) that can be switched between a restricting state that restricts the discharge of the game ball from the discharge unit and an allowable state that allows the discharge of the game ball from the discharge unit;
Switching means (operation unit 320) that is provided in the second flow path and switches the restricting means from the allowed state to the restricted state based on the fact that the game ball has reached a specific position;
The switching means includes first switching means (operation unit 320A) and second switching means (operation unit 320B) arranged on the downstream side of the second downstream path from the first switching means.
The game ball that has flowed into the second flow down path at the first position can reach both the first switching means and the second switching means, and the game balls enter the second flow down path at the second position. The gaming machine according to Feature A10, wherein the inflowing game ball cannot reach the first switching means.

  According to the feature A11, the switching means that can be reached according to the inflow position of the game ball with respect to the second flow down path is different. Thereby, the technical idea shown in the feature A10 can be preferably realized.

  Note that the “regulatory means” shown in the features A5 to A11 are “a guide state in which the game ball is guided along the first flow path and a non-guide state in which the guidance is not performed”. It is also possible to use “switchable guide means”.

Feature A12. The discharge unit includes a first discharge unit and a second discharge unit disposed on the downstream side of the first flow path from the first discharge unit,
The restricting means includes a first restricting means provided in the first discharge portion and a second restricting means provided in the second discharge portion,
The first switching means is configured to switch the first restricting means from the allowed state to the restricted state based on the fact that the game ball has reached the first specific position.
The second switching unit is configured to switch the second regulating unit from the permitted state to the regulated state based on the fact that the game ball has reached the second specific position. The gaming machine described.

  According to the feature A12, the first discharge probability, the first restricting means and the first switching means constitute the first entrance probability variable mechanism, and the second discharge part, the second restricting means and the second switching means are the second. The entrance probability variable mechanism is configured. As already explained, in the configuration in which the inflow of game balls from the midway position to the second flow path is allowed, the game balls that can reach the downstream part rather than the upstream part in the second flow path The number increases.

  Since the first switching means exists at the upstream position (first specific position) of the second flow path, the game ball that has flowed into the second flow path at an early stage from the first flow path (first discharge unit) It will function as a means for avoiding the detachment of the ball. On the other hand, the contribution rate to the entrance probability is greater for the second discharge part close to the entrance part than for the first exit part. Here, since the second switching means exists at the downstream position (second specific position) where many of the game balls that have flowed into the second flow path are likely to reach, the number of game balls that flow into the second flow path can be increased. For example, the second switching means operates regardless of the inflow position, and the possibility that the second discharge portion is in a restricted state is increased. As a result, in the case where inconvenience occurs so as to lower the entrance probability at a portion having a large influence on the entrance probability, the entrance probability is suitably corrected by the second switching means. In this way, by increasing the degree of correction according to the magnitude of the influence, the effects shown in the feature A1 and the like can be suitably exhibited.

  Feature A13. The first switching means and the second switching means are configured such that a game ball that is triggered by the first switching means is switched from the first specific position to the second specific position while the first switching means is switched to the restricted state by the first switching means. The gaming machine according to Feature A12, wherein the gaming machine is arranged to reach a specific position.

  According to the feature A13, when the game ball that has flowed into the second downstream path moves from the first specific position to the second specific position, two switching means (regulation means) can be operated by one game ball. it can. That is, even if the first discharge part and the second discharge part are provided in the first flow path, the game balls can pass through these two discharge parts. This makes it possible to reinforce the relationship between the timing at which the preceding game ball passes through the second flow path and the timing at which the subsequent game ball passes through the first flow path. Therefore, the player's attention can be directed to the positional relationship between the game balls passing through these two flow paths, and it is possible to contribute to improvement in the degree of attention to the movement of the game ball.

  Feature A14. The gaming machine according to Feature A12 or Feature A13, wherein the first specific position is below the first discharge portion and the second specific position is below the second discharge portion.

  According to the feature A14, the game ball discharged from the first discharge unit falls toward the first specific position (first switching means), and the game ball discharged from the second discharge unit is in the second specific position (first (2 switching means). According to such a configuration, when a plurality of game balls flow down the first flow path, when the preceding game ball falls from the discharge unit, the game ball can be saved so that the subsequent game ball does not drop off. Sex occurs. With such a configuration, when a plurality of game balls flow into the first flow path, it is possible to increase a possibility that at least a part of the game balls will be rescued.

Feature A15. A door body (front door frame 14) covering the gaming board from the front of the gaming machine;
Locking means (locking device 75) for locking the door body,
According to any one of features A1 to A14, the game area is exposed to the front of the gaming machine by releasing the lock by the locking means and opening the door body. The gaming machine described.

  In the gaming machine of the type shown in this feature, access to the game board (game area) by the hall manager is permitted, and consideration is given to maintenance work such as cleaning. However, if the game nail is deformed during the maintenance work, the probability of entering the entrance may change. Thus, even if it is the structure which considered the improvement of convenience etc., it can suppress that the influence becomes a factor which influences a probability of entering a ball significantly by applying the technical idea shown to the characteristic A1 grade | etc.,.

  Feature A16. The game area is provided with a branch portion (a branch portion 270) to which the game balls are distributed so that the game balls flow into either the first flow path or the second flow path. The gaming machine according to any one of features A1 to A15.

  According to the feature A16, if the number of game balls distributed to the first flow path is larger than an assumed (design value) (the number of game balls distributed to the second flow path is smaller than an assumed (design value). ), The number of game balls reaching the pitching portion increases. On the other hand, if the number of game balls distributed to the first flow path is smaller than the assumed (design value) (if the number of game balls distributed to the second flow path is larger than the assumed (design value)), The arrival probability of the game ball reaching the ball part will increase. As a result, even if the distribution mode deviates from the assumption, it is possible to suppress the change in the probability of entering the ball and thereby contribute to the reduction of the swing width of the pitched probability.

Feature A17. A game board (game board unit 80) in which a game area (game area PE) is formed, and game parts (nails 93, windmills 94, etc.) that change the flow direction of the game ball and the game ball enter the game board. A game machine provided with a ball entry portion (operating port 83 (particularly operating port 83a)),
In the gaming area, when the state of the gaming part is in a specific state in which a difference occurs between the probability of entering the entrance part and a predetermined probability set in advance, the difference is reduced. The game machine is characterized by further comprising a pitch probability varying means (a pitch probability varying mechanism 300) for varying the pitch probability.

  In the game machine of the type shown in the feature A17, diversification of the flow path of the game ball can be realized by arranging game parts (for example, game nails, windmills, etc.) in the game area. This is preferable, for example, in suppressing the movement of the game ball from becoming monotonous.

  Game machine manufacturers are manufactured such that the probability of entering a game ball launched by game ball launching means (game ball launching mechanism 110) or the like is within a preset range (for example, game The position and orientation of machine parts are specified). However, if the probability of entering the ball changes greatly due to various circumstances, an excessively unfavorable state may occur for one of the game hall and the player. Such a bias is not preferable because it hinders the installation and use of gaming machines.

  In the gaming machine shown in this feature, when the probability of entering the ball is biased, the ball entering probability varying means acts to correct the bias. Thereby, an extreme change in the probability of entering can be suppressed, and the occurrence of the inconvenience can be suppressed.

<Feature B group>
Feature B1. A game board (game board unit 80) in which a game area (game area PE) is formed is provided, and a game nail (nail 93) and a ball entry part (operation port 83) into which a game ball enters are provided on the game board. A gaming machine that is
In the game area, a plurality of guide passages for guiding the game ball toward the entrance portion are branched and provided.
A gaming machine comprising a guide passage (second guide passage 272) formed by a partition member (passage formation body 410) that partitions at least a passage region through which game balls pass as the guide passage.

  The gaming machine manufacturer is manufactured so that the probability of entering a game ball launched by a game ball launching unit (game ball launching mechanism 110) or the like is within a preset range. However, if the probability of entering the ball changes greatly due to various circumstances such as manufacturing defects, an excessively disadvantageous state may occur for one of the game hall and the player. Such a bias is not preferable because it hinders the installation and use of gaming machines.

  In the gaming machine shown in this feature, a guide passage formed by a partition member is provided as one of a plurality of guide passages for guiding the game ball to the ball entrance portion. When a guide passage is formed by game nails, some of the game nails are deformed, and the behavior and direction of the game balls to be guided are easily changed. There is a possibility of greatly affecting the probability of entering balls. In other words, uniform formation of all the guide passages with game nails is a preferable configuration when considering the pleasure of following the movement of the game ball by diversifying the behavior of the game ball. The swing probability of the sphere probability also increases.

  By mixing the guide passage formed by the partition member in the branched guide passage, it is possible to suppress the above-described change in behavior or the like for the guide passage. In this way, by setting a part of the plurality of guide passages provided by branching to a configuration in which deformation or the like does not occur or is difficult to occur, the swing width of the probability of entering can be reduced. The occurrence of inconvenience can be suitably suppressed.

  In addition, it is also possible to apply the technical idea shown to each following feature with respect to this feature.

Feature B2. A game board (game board unit 80) having a game area (game area PE) formed on the front surface, and a game nail (nail 93) and a ball entry part (actuating port 83) into which the game ball enters the game board, Is a gaming machine provided with
The front portion of the game board is provided with a plurality of branched guide passages for guiding the game ball toward the entrance portion,
The guide passage is formed by a first guide passage (first guide passage 271) in which a plurality of the game nails are arranged, and a partition member (passage formation body 410) that partitions a passage area through which game balls pass. A gaming machine comprising a second guide passage (second guide passage 272).

  The gaming machine manufacturer is manufactured so that the probability of entering a game ball launched by a game ball launching unit (game ball launching mechanism 110) or the like is within a preset range. However, if the probability of entering the ball changes greatly due to various circumstances such as manufacturing defects, an excessively disadvantageous state may occur for one of the game hall and the player. Such a bias is not preferable because it hinders the installation and use of gaming machines.

  The gaming machine shown in this feature includes a first guide passage in which game nails are arranged and a second guide passage formed by a partition member as a plurality of guide passages for guiding the game ball to the entrance portion. ing. In the first guide passage formed by the group of game nails, the positional relationship between the game nails easily changes due to the deformation of some of the game nails, and the behavior and direction of the guided game balls are unexpected. Can be. In other words, a slight deformation or the like may greatly affect the above-mentioned entrance probability. In this respect, since the second guide passage is formed by the partition member, the above-described change in behavior can be suppressed. As described above, by coexisting the first guide passage made of the game nail and the second guide passage made of the partitioning member, it is possible to reduce the swing range of the probability of entering the ball, and to appropriately suppress the occurrence of the above-mentioned disadvantage. It becomes possible.

Feature B3. A game board (game board unit 80) having a game area (game area PE) formed on the front surface, and a game nail (nail 93) and a ball entry part (actuating port 83) into which the game ball enters the game board, Is a gaming machine provided with
The front portion of the game board is provided with a plurality of branched guide passages for guiding the game ball toward the entrance portion,
The guide passage includes a first guide passage (first guide passage 271) in which a plurality of the game nails are arranged, and a rolling surface (inner peripheral surface 410a) on which a game ball rolls in a predetermined direction, A gaming machine comprising: a second guide passage (second guide passage 272) formed by a partition member (passage forming body 410) that partitions a passage area through which a game ball passes.

  The gaming machine manufacturer is manufactured so that the probability of entering a game ball launched by a game ball launching unit (game ball launching mechanism 110) or the like is within a preset range. However, if the probability of entering the ball changes greatly due to various circumstances such as manufacturing defects, an excessively disadvantageous state may occur for one of the game hall and the player. Such a bias is not preferable because it hinders the installation and use of gaming machines.

  The gaming machine shown in this feature includes a first guide passage in which game nails are arranged and a second guide passage formed by a partition member as a plurality of guide passages for guiding the game ball to the entrance portion. ing. In the first guide passage formed by the group of game nails, the positional relationship between the game nails easily changes due to the deformation of some of the game nails, and the behavior and direction of the guided game balls are unexpected. Can be. In other words, a slight deformation or the like may greatly affect the above-mentioned entrance probability. In this respect, since the second guide passage is formed by the partition member, the above-described change in behavior can be suppressed. Specifically, by forming the surface on which the game ball rolls (rolling surface) with one member, the variation of the rolling surface is smaller than the configuration in which a plurality of game nails are arranged to form a virtual surface. Avoided. For this reason, the movement of the game ball can be stabilized. By coexisting the first guide passage made of game nails and the second guide passage made of partition members, the swing range of the probability of entering can be reduced, and the occurrence of the above-mentioned inconvenience can be suitably suppressed. Become.

Feature B4. It has a display screen (263a), and includes a pattern display means (symbol display device 253) that variably displays a pattern on the display screen.
The display screen is visible through a central opening (central opening 85) formed in the game board,
The gaming area has a first flow down area provided to bypass the central opening from the left side, and a second flow down area provided to bypass the central opening from the right side,
The feature B2 or feature, wherein the first guide passage and the second guide passage are provided so as to branch at a midway position in either the first flow-down region or the second flow-down region. A gaming machine according to B3.

  According to the feature B4, by launching the game ball aiming at the flow area where the first guide path and the second guide path are provided, the game balls flowing down the flow area are, for example, the first guide path and the second guide path. It will be distributed to the guide passage. That is, when the game ball is continuously launched toward the flow-down area, at least a part of the game ball flows into the second guide passage. Thereby, the stabilization function shown in feature B1 etc. can be exhibited suitably.

  Feature B5. Any one of the features B2 to B4, wherein the second guide passage is arranged so that the game nail is not interposed between the partition member and the ball-entry portion. The gaming machine described in 1.

  According to the feature B5, the game ball that has passed through the second guide passage flows into the ball entry section without going through the game nail. As described above, a significant change in the probability of entering the ball is restricted in the second guide passage, but if there is a game nail between the exit portion and the ball entrance, the game nail There is a concern that the effect of reducing the swing probability of the above-described entrance probability becomes less likely to become dominant. Therefore, in the configuration having the second guide passage, as shown in this feature, the second guide passage is configured so that the game ball does not hit the game nail when flowing from the second guide passage to the entrance portion. The technical significance of the provision can be suitably exhibited.

Feature B6. The first guide passage has a first outflow portion (for example, an opening portion 281 to 281) through which the game ball flows out by setting the interval between the game nails forming the first guide passage to a size that allows the game ball to pass through. 283) is formed,
The second guide passage is formed with second outflow portions (for example, opening portions 415 and 416) through which game balls flow out by forming an opening in the partition member. The gaming machine according to any one of B5.

  With regard to the first guide passage shown in feature B6, the arrival rate of reaching the ball-entry portion through the first guide passage due to the variation or change in the spacing of the game nails forming the first outflow portion, and hence the first Variation occurs in the probability of entering the ball relating to one guide path. On the other hand, with respect to the second guide passage, the variation (for example, manufacturing variation) of the openings forming the second outflow portion is small, and the above-described variation in the arrival rate and the ball entering probability is suppressed.

  In this way, by using the opening having a predetermined shape, that is, by using two kinds of outflow portions in combination, the swing range of the probability of entering the entire gaming machine can be reduced.

  As for this feature, “the second guide passage has an outflow portion (opening portions 415, 416) through which game balls flow out by forming an opening in the partition member. The gaming machine according to any one of features B2 to B5.

Feature B7. The first guide passage and the second guide passage extend sideways, and the first guide passage and the second guide passage are arranged side by side so as to be on the upper side and the second guide passage on the lower side,
Characteristic B2 thru | or the game ball which flowed out from the said 1st guide path in the middle position of the said 1st guide path can flow in into the intermediate position of the entrance part and exit part of the said 2nd guide path The gaming machine according to any one of features B6.

  With respect to the second guide passage, the various functions described above cannot be performed well by preventing the game ball from flowing in from the entrance portion. In particular, there is a concern that the above-described inconvenience is likely to occur when a game nail is arranged around the entrance portion and the game ball flows into the entrance portion by the game nail.

  In this regard, according to the configuration shown in this feature, the inflow of the game ball that has flowed out from the middle position of the first guide passage into the second guide passage is allowed. By securing such a receiving system, it is possible to suppress the function of the second guide passage from being exerted even if inconvenience occurs in the inflow from the inlet portion.

  In the first place, if it is easy for outflow (spilling) of game balls from the first guide passage due to deformation of the game nails forming the first guide passage, the probability of entering the entire gaming machine However, the above-mentioned decrease in the probability of entry can be suitably achieved by relieving in the second guide passage what cannot be expected to enter through the first guide passage (game balls that have flowed out of the first guide passage). Can be suppressed.

  Feature B8. Any one of the features B2 to B7, wherein the partition member is operated to determine whether or not the game balls flowing down the second guide passage can reach the entrance portion. The gaming machine described in one.

  For example, in a configuration in which a game ball discharge port is formed by a game nail and the game ball is distributed depending on whether or not the game ball reaches the discharge port, the distribution mode depends on the state of the game nail (for example, the direction). Can vary greatly. In this respect, according to the configuration shown in this feature, whether or not the game ball flowing down the second guide passage can reach the entrance portion is determined by the operation of the partition member and the inflow timing of the game ball. Therefore, as compared with the case of using the game nail, the distribution mode, that is, the swing width of the probability of reaching (arrival probability) can be suitably reduced.

Feature B9. The first guide passage and the second guide passage extend sideways, and the first guide passage and the second guide passage are arranged side by side so as to be on the upper side and the second guide passage on the lower side,
An opening part (opening parts 415, 416) through which the game ball can pass through the inside and outside of the second guide passage is formed in the middle of the partition member,
Switching means (drive unit 430) for switching the partition member between a first state in which the opening portion faces the first guide passage side and a second state in which the opening portion faces away from the first state;
In the first state, the partition member allows a game ball that has flowed out of the first guide passage to flow into the second guide passage through the opening portion, and in the second state, from the second guide passage through the opening portion. The gaming machine according to any one of features B2 to B8, wherein the gaming ball is configured to be able to flow out.

  For example, in a configuration in which a game ball discharge port is formed by a game nail and the game ball is distributed depending on whether or not the game ball reaches the discharge port, the distribution mode depends on the state of the game nail (for example, the direction). Can vary greatly. In this respect, according to the configuration shown in this feature, whether or not the game ball flowing down the second guide passage can reach the entrance portion is determined by the operation of the partition member and the inflow timing of the game ball. Therefore, as compared with the case of using the game nail, the distribution mode, that is, the swing width of the probability of reaching (arrival probability) can be suitably reduced.

  In particular, in this feature, the opening formed in the partition member functions as an inflow port for game balls in the first state, and functions as an outflow port for game balls in the second state. Thus, the structure which concerns on a partition member can be simplified by setting it as the structure in which the same open part exhibits another function with a state. Thus, simplification of the partition member is advantageous in reducing the influence of individual differences of the partition member.

Feature B10. The partition member is rotatable about a central axis extending in the same direction as the second guide passage,
The gaming machine according to Feature B9, wherein the switching unit is configured to switch between the first state and the second state by rotating the partition member.

  According to the feature B10, when the first guide passage and the second guide passage are arranged side by side, it is possible to suitably suppress the two guide passages from being separated by the operation region of the partition member.

  Moreover, if it is set as the structure which rotates a partition member and switches to a 1st state / a 2nd state, the monotonousness of the flow-down aspect of a game ball | bowl resulting from having formed the 2nd guide path with the partition member, an attachment position, and manufacturing dispersion | variation It is possible to suppress the occurrence of individual differences (bias) due to.

  Feature B11. The gaming machine according to Feature B10, wherein an inner peripheral surface of the partition member has an arc shape centered on the central axis.

  According to the feature B11, the game ball passing through the second guide passage can be swung along the inner peripheral surface of the partition member, and the monotonization of the movement of the game ball can be more preferably suppressed. In addition, since the partition member is a pivoting type, the rotation of the partition member can be used as an opportunity to swing the game ball, and the above-mentioned effect due to the arcuate inner peripheral surface of the partition member can be exhibited well. It can be easily avoided.

Feature B12. Information acquisition means for acquiring special information based on a game ball entering the entrance portion;
Grant determination means for performing grant determination as to whether or not the special information acquired by the information acquisition means corresponds to predetermined grant information;
A privilege granting unit for granting a privilege to a player based on the result of the determination by the granting determination unit being the granting result corresponding to the granting information;
The probability of entering the game ball into the entrance part through the second guide passage is set to be lower than the entrance probability of the game ball entering the entrance part through the first guide passage. The gaming machine according to any one of features B6 to B11, wherein:

  According to the feature B12, the first guide passage is configured to be more advantageous to the player than the second guide passage. When such a difference in the degree of advantage is set, the game ball easily falls off from the first guide passage, so that the superiority of the first guide passage is not only impaired, but also the probability of entering the game machine as a whole. Concerns that will decline. In this regard, when the game ball is likely to drop out from the first guide passage, the spilled ball can be followed in the second guide passage, thereby suppressing a decrease in the probability of entering the game machine as a whole. Can do.

Feature B13. A door body (front door frame 14) covering the gaming board from the front of the gaming machine;
Locking means (locking device 75) for locking the door body,
A gaming machine configured to release the locking by the locking means and open the door body so that the gaming area is exposed forward of the gaming machine,
The game board is provided with blocking means for preventing a change in position and posture of the partition member in a state where the partition member is attached to the game board. Thru | or the game machine as described in any one of characteristics B12.

  In the gaming machine of the type shown in this feature, access to the game board (game area) by the hall manager is permitted, and consideration is given to maintenance work such as cleaning. However, if the game nail is deformed during the maintenance work, the probability of entering the entrance may change. Thus, even if it is the structure which considered the improvement of convenience etc., it can suppress that the influence becomes a factor which influences a probability of entering a ball significantly by applying the technical idea shown to characteristic B1 grade | etc.,.

Feature B14. A game board (game board unit 80) having a game area (game area PE) formed on the front surface, and a game nail (nail 93) and a ball entry part (actuating port 83) into which the game ball enters the game board, Is a gaming machine provided with
The front portion of the game board is provided with a plurality of branched guide passages for guiding the game ball toward the entrance portion,
As the guide passage, a first guide passage (first guide passage 271) and a second guide passage (second guide passage 272) arranged in parallel with the first guide passage,
The gaming machine, wherein the second guide passage is provided with an adjustment invalid section in which adjustment of the flow-down mode of the game ball is impossible.

  The gaming machine manufacturer is manufactured so that the probability of entering a game ball launched by a game ball launching unit (game ball launching mechanism 110) or the like is within a preset range. However, if the probability of entering the ball changes greatly due to various circumstances such as manufacturing defects, an excessively disadvantageous state may occur for one of the game hall and the player. Such a bias is not preferable because it hinders the installation and use of gaming machines.

  In this regard, in the gaming machine shown in this feature, since the adjustment invalid section that disables the adjustment of the flow-down mode of the game ball is provided, the occurrence of the inconvenience can be suitably suppressed. However, the existence of such an adjustment invalid section is advantageous for exerting the above effect, but may be a factor that monotonizes the movement of the game ball. Therefore, in this feature, the first guide passage and the second guide passage are arranged side by side as a plurality of guide passages for guiding the game ball to the ball entering portion. Thus, by arranging a plurality of passages in parallel, it is possible to suppress a monotonous flow-down mode of the game ball toward the ball entry portion. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the monotonization of the flow-down mode of the game ball due to it while reducing the swing range of the probability of entering.

  Feature B15. The gaming machine according to Feature B14, wherein the first guide passage and the second guide passage are allowed to move a game ball from one halfway position of the guide passage to the other halfway position.

  According to the feature B15, since the movement of the game ball from one guide passage to the other guide passage is permitted, monotonization of the movement of the game ball can be more preferably suppressed.

  In particular, in the case where the inflow of game balls from the first guide passage to the second guide passage is allowed, a game ball (spilled ball) that has left the first guide passage in the middle is designated as an invalid adjustment zone. It can be relieved by the provided second guide passage. Thereby, it is possible to suitably suppress the occurrence of an extremely disadvantageous bias for the player.

Feature B16. A game board (game board unit 80) having a game area (game area PE) formed on the front surface, and a game nail (nail 93) and a ball entry part (actuating port 83) into which the game ball enters the game board, Is a gaming machine provided with
The front portion of the game board is provided with a plurality of branched guide passages for guiding the game ball toward the entrance portion,
As the guide passage, a first guide passage (first guide passage 271) and a second guide passage (second guide passage 272) arranged in parallel with the first guide passage,
Inflow of game balls from the midway position of the first guide path to the midway position of the second guide path is allowed,
A predetermined section including a portion into which the game ball flows from the first guide path in the second guide path is an adjustment invalid section that disables adjustment of the flow-down mode of the game ball. .

  The gaming machine manufacturer is manufactured so that the probability of entering a game ball launched by a game ball launching unit (game ball launching mechanism 110) or the like is within a preset range. However, if the probability of entering the ball changes greatly due to various circumstances such as manufacturing defects, an excessively disadvantageous state may occur for one of the game hall and the player. Such a bias is not preferable because it hinders the installation and use of gaming machines.

  In this regard, in the gaming machine shown in this feature, since the adjustment invalid section that disables the adjustment of the flow-down mode of the game ball is provided, the occurrence of the inconvenience can be suitably suppressed. However, the existence of such an adjustment invalid section is advantageous for exerting the above effect, but may be a factor that monotonizes the movement of the game ball. Therefore, in this feature, the first guide passage and the second guide passage are arranged in parallel as a plurality of guide passages for guiding the game ball to the entrance portion, and the movement of the game ball from the first guide passage to the second guide passage is possible. Allowed. Thereby, monotonization of the movement of the game ball can be suppressed more suitably.

  In particular, in the configuration in which the inflow of game balls from the first guide passage to the second guide passage is permitted, the game balls (spilled balls) that have left the first guide passage in the middle are provided with an adjustment invalid section. It can be relieved by 2 guide passages. Thereby, it is possible to suitably suppress the occurrence of an extremely disadvantageous bias for the player. Further, since the arrival position of the sloppy ball is the adjustment invalid section, it is possible to avoid a disadvantageous bias for the player so that the sloppy ball is more likely to spill from the second guide passage. For the above reasons, by using the first guide passage and the second guide passage together, it is possible to reduce the swing range of the probability of entering the ball and suppress the monotonization of the flow-down mode of the game ball due to it.

  The basic configuration of the gaming machine to which the above features can be applied is shown below.

  Pachinko machine: operation means (game ball launching handle 41) operated by a player, game ball launching means (game ball launching mechanism 110) for launching a game ball based on the operation of the operation means, and the fired A ball passage (guide rail 100) for guiding a game ball to a predetermined game area (game area PE) and game parts (nails, etc.) arranged in the game area, and a predetermined passage of these game parts A gaming machine that gives a privilege to a player when a game ball passes through a portion (general winning port 81 or the like).

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Pachinko machine as a gaming machine, 14 ... Front door frame as a door body, 41 ... Game ball launch handle, 75 ... Locking device as locking means, 80 ... Game board unit, 80a ... Game board, 80b ... Back block 83 ... Actuation opening as a ball entry part, 85 ... Central opening, 93 ... Nail as a game part or game nail, 94 ... Windmill as a game part, 95 ... Center frame, 96 ... Stage part, 97 ... Warp passage, DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 110 ... Game ball | bowl launching mechanism, 253 ... Symbol display apparatus as a pattern display means, 253a ... Display screen, 268 ... Upstream side passage, 269 ... Downstream side passage as a downflow route or a guide passage, 270 ... Branch part, 271 ... First 1st guide path or 1st guide path as 1st flow path, 272 ... 2nd guide path as 1st guide path or 2nd flow path, 281-283 ... discharge part or outflow part Opening part, 300 ... Entry probability variable mechanism, 310 ... Guide unit as restricting means, 311 ... Slider as slide member, 319 ... Spring as biasing means, 320 ... Operation unit constituting switching means, 321 A rotating body as a movable body, a driving force transmission mechanism as a transmission unit, a distribution mechanism, a passage forming body as a partition member, 415, 416, an opening portion, and a game area.

Claims (2)

A gaming machine comprising a gaming board having a gaming area formed on the front surface, wherein the gaming board is provided with a game nail and a ball entry part into which a game ball enters,
The front portion of the game board is provided with a plurality of branched guide passages for guiding the game ball toward the entrance portion,
As the guide path, e Bei a first guide path in which a plurality of the gaming nails are arrayed, and a second guide passage that game balls are formed by the partition member that partitions the passage region to pass,
The first guide passage and the second guide passage extend sideways, and the first guide passage and the second guide passage are arranged side by side so as to be on the upper side and the second guide passage on the lower side,
A gaming machine, wherein a game ball that has flowed out of the first guide passage at a position midway along the first guide passage can flow into an intermediate position between an inlet portion and an outlet portion of the second guide passage . The gaming machine according to claim 1, further comprising a game ball launching unit capable of launching a game ball into the game area .

Images