JP6884592B2 - Game device - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a game device.

The crane game machine is configured so that a large number of prize products (prize) are stacked in a field provided in the housing, and a desired prize can be obtained by a crane arm (catcher) operated from outside the machine. .. Various types of prizes, including stuffed animals, are available because the characteristics and attractiveness of the prizes offered by crane game machines have a great influence on the ability to attract customers and sales.

In the conventional crane game machine, in order to attract customers and improve sales, a video display device for PR is provided to appeal the prize to the user, and the image that appeals the prize according to the prize prepared in the field. Is considered (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2005-323789

As described above, in the prior art, a configuration in which a video display device for PR is provided in the crane game machine is considered, but the video displayed on the video display device introduces the prize (or the video introducing the event). Was limited to. In addition, the video display device is limited to a small display size that can be mounted on a part of the housing so as not to obstruct the visibility of the prize placed in the field, which is effective for the user. The information could not be presented.

The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a game device capable of presenting more effectively and effective information to a user.

In order to solve the above problems, the present invention comprises a transparent screen provided in a housing, a plurality of projectors that project an image on the transparent screen, and a plurality of different input operations or a plurality of different sensors for an input device. Either of the input means in which the data corresponding to the detection result is input and the plurality of projectors corresponding to the content of the input operation to the input device or the detection result of the sensor according to the data input through the input means. It has a projection control means for changing the image to be projected.

According to the present invention, the user can obtain more effective and effective information by controlling the projection of the image in a timely manner by projecting the image from the projector onto the transparent screen provided in the housing. It becomes possible to present to.

The block diagram which shows the structure of the game system in this embodiment. The block diagram which shows an example of the functional structure of the store server 6 in this embodiment. The perspective view which shows the appearance structure of the game apparatus 10 (for example, a crane game apparatus) in this embodiment. The front view of the game apparatus 10 in this embodiment. The figure which shows the installation position of the projector which projects an image on a transparent screen 15. The block diagram which shows the functional structure of the game apparatus 10 in this embodiment. The flowchart which shows an example of the projector control by the game apparatus 10 in this embodiment. The figure which shows an example of the projection of the image in the full-screen projection process. The figure which shows an example of the image of the game guidance message projected on the lower screen (area 15LD). The figure which shows an example of the image of the game operation guide message projected on the lower screen (area 15LD). The figure which shows an example of the image of the error warning message projected on the upper screen (area 15RU). The figure which shows an example of the image projected on the transparent screen 15 when the game is executed in the left side unit 10L and the right side unit 10R of a game apparatus 10, respectively. The figure which shows the example which uses the horizontal movement button 24La and the vertical movement button 24Lb as a language switching button. The flowchart which shows an example of the cooperation projector control of a game apparatus 10. The flowchart which shows an example of the cooperation projector control of a store server 6 (or server 2 may be). The figure which shows the example which the linked image was projected on three game devices 10-1, 10-2, 10-3.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a game system according to the present embodiment. The game system shown in FIG. 1 is a system for managing a store system 5 provided in game centers, amusement facilities, etc. in various places, and is a server 2 for managing the entire system, and a network including the server 2 and the Internet. A plurality of store systems 5 connected via 4 (only one store system 5 is shown in FIG. 1) are included.

The server 2 receives data from the store system 5 and performs processing such as aggregation, and also executes distribution of video data projected by a projector (details will be described later) of the game device 10 installed in the store system 5. To do.

The store system 5 includes a store server 6 and at least one game device 10 (10-1, 10-2, ..., 10-n).
The store server 6 is connected to the server 2 via the network 4 and transmits / receives data to / from the server 2. Further, the store server 6 is connected to a plurality of game devices 10 (10-1, 10-2, ..., 10-n) installed in the store through a network 8 such as a LAN (Local Area Network) to play a game. It executes operation control of the device 10, data transmission / reception, and the like. The store server 6 can distribute the video data distributed from the server 2 or the video data input by the administrator of the store system 5 to the game device 10 and project it by the projector of the game device 10.

The game device 10 is a device that executes a game in response to a user's input operation, and is realized as, for example, a crane game device. In the crane game device, a prize (prize product) is placed in a prize field provided in the housing, and the movement of the crane arm (catcher) is controlled from outside the device in response to an input operation by the user to control the prize. Is configured to be able to be paid out of the housing. The game device 10 in the present embodiment has a transparent screen provided on the outer peripheral surface of the housing or inside the housing (prize field), a projector that projects an image on the transparent screen, and a projection control function that controls the projection of the image by the projector. Have. The game device 10 can project an image on a transparent screen by a projector based on the image data stored in advance or the image data distributed from the store server 6 by the projection control function.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the store server 6 in the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the store server 6 includes a CPU 6a, a RAM 6b, a storage device 6c, an input device 6d, a display device 6e, and a communication device 6f.

The CPU 6a executes various processes such as overall control of the store server 6, management of data stored in the storage device 6c, and control / management of the game device 10 based on the programs and data stored in the RAM 6b.

The RAM 6b stores various programs executed by the CPU 6a, data executed by various processes, and the like. The program stored in the RAM 6b includes a basic program (OS (Operating System)) and a management program for controlling / managing a plurality of game devices 10.

The storage device 6c stores various programs, data, and the like. The storage device 6c can store the video data distributed from the server 2.

The display device 6e displays a screen corresponding to the processing by the CPU 6a on a display such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display).
The input device 6d inputs data and instructions corresponding to various processes by the CPU 6a through an input device such as a keyboard and a mouse.
The communication device 6f controls communication via the networks 4 and 8 under the control of the CPU 6a.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing an external configuration of the game device 10 (for example, a crane game device) in the present embodiment, and FIG. 4 is a front view of the game device 10 in the present embodiment.
The game device 10 shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 is composed of an upper housing 12 and a lower housing 13. In the upper housing 12, for example, the front surface and the side surface of the outer peripheral surface of the housing are covered with a transparent screen 15. The transparent screen 15 is a screen for projecting an image projected by a projector. The transparent screen 15 has a feature that what is on the back surface of the screen can be seen through when no image is projected or in a dark range of the projected image even if the image is projected. Therefore, when the image is not projected on the transparent screen 15 (or from the range where the image is not projected), the prize fields 16L and 16R on which the prize inside the housing is placed can be visually recognized through the transparent screen 15. It has become like.

The transparent screen 15 includes, for example, a glass type, a panel type, and a film type. The glass type has, for example, a structure in which a special film is enclosed in two pieces of glass and can be switched between transparent mode and screen mode by controlling the voltage applied to the film, or the glass surface is specially processed to create an image. There is a structure that allows projection. The panel type has, for example, a structure in which a material for projecting an image is kneaded into the panel. The film type has, for example, a structure in which a special transparent film capable of projecting an image on an existing glass surface is attached.

The game device 10 in the present embodiment is equipped with two game units (left side unit 10L and right side unit 10R) so that two players can play a game at the same time. It is assumed that the left side unit 10L and the right side unit 10R are basically symmetrically configured at the central boundary line. The prize fields 16L and 16R of the two game units are separated by a partition plate (not shown). Prizes can be loaded in the two prize fields 16L and 16R separated by the partition plate.

Further, in each of the prize fields 16L and 16R, a prize drop opening is formed (not shown), and a portion other than the prize drop opening is a flat portion on which the prize can be placed. In the lower part of the prize fields 16L and 16R, a prize guidance space for guiding the prize dropped from the prize drop opening to the prize outlets 21L and 21R provided on the front side of the lower housing 13 is provided. There is.

Above the prize fields 16L and 16R, a crane arm (not shown) whose operation is controlled in response to an input operation by the user is provided. Above the prize fields 16L and 16R in the upper housing 12, a crane mechanism unit for moving the crane arm in, for example, the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction (vertical direction) (not shown). ) Is provided. The crane mechanism unit responds to a player operation on a plurality of buttons 24L, 24R (for example, horizontal movement button, vertical movement button, descent button) provided on the control panel (control panel) unit 23 (23L, 23R), for example. Be controlled. The control panel units 23L and 23R may be provided with not only buttons but also input devices such as a joystick that allows the player to instruct the up, down, left, and right directions. An arm (grasping claw) for gripping the prize is provided at the tip of the crane arm, and the operation is controlled so as to close (hold an object) at a position where the crane arm is lowered and reaches the prize.

Further, on the inner inner surface of the upper housing 12, a net for a prize display and a hook on which a prize can be hooked can be attached. The net or hook is attached to a rail arranged horizontally at the upper part of the back surface, for example, so that the net or hook can move in the left-right direction along the rail. By displaying the prizes using the net or hook, it is possible to appeal the use of the game device 10 to the user.

On the front side of the lower housing 13, prize outlets 21L, 21R, a front maintenance door 22, and a control panel portion 23 (23L, 23R) operated by a player are provided.

The prize outlets 21L and 21R are for taking out the prize from the inside of the housing (prize field), and communicate with the prize guidance space provided in the lower part of the prize fields 16L and 16R. By controlling the operation of the crane arm by input operations to the plurality of buttons 24L and 24R and dropping the prize into the prize drop opening, the prize can be taken out from the prize outlets 21L and 21R.

The front maintenance door 22 can be opened by an administrator when working on a control unit (control PCB (Print Circuit Board)) or other mechanical parts housed inside the lower housing 13. it can. In addition, a storage space is provided inside the front maintenance door 22, and a prize for replenishment or the like can be stored.

The control panel portions 23L and 23R are formed in each of the left side unit 10L and the right side unit 10R so as to horizontally project in the front direction of the lower housing 13 in accordance with the lower end position of the upper housing 12. The upper surface of the control panel portions 23L and 23R is a horizontal surface, and a plurality of buttons 24L and 24R operated by the player to operate the crane arm, coin insertion slots 26L and 26R into which coins are inserted, and the like are mounted, respectively. To. Further, a speaker 28 for outputting sound effects, music, message voices, etc. during game execution is provided. Further, on the control panel portions 23L and 23R, a projector that projects an image (front type projection) from the front side of the housing can be mounted on the transparent screen 15 (see FIG. 5).

Further, the game device 10 in the present embodiment is provided with a setting device (setting device 29 shown in FIG. 6) for the administrator to make various settings for the game device 10. The setting device is configured to be portable and detachable from the main body housing of the game device 10. When performing operations for various settings, the setting device can be taken out from the storage unit and handled in a state of being held in the hand at a position close to the game device 10. The setting device is connected to the control unit housed in the housing of the game device 10 by, for example, a cable or wireless communication (wireless LAN (Local Area Network) or the like). The setting device can individually set various settings for each of the left side unit 10L and the right side unit 10R.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a transparent screen 15 provided on the front surface of the game device 10 (upper housing 12). As shown in FIG. 4, the transparent screen 15 in the present embodiment is capable of individually controlling the projection of images on a plurality of regions 15LU, 15LD, 15RU, 15RD, and 15M.

The area 15LU and the area 15LD are areas in which the projection of the image is mainly controlled according to the control on the left side unit 10L. The area 15RU and the area 15RD are areas in which the projection of the image is mainly controlled according to the control on the right side unit 10R. The area 15LU and the area 15RU are arranged on the upper part of the transparent screen 15 and are used as the upper screen. The image projected on the upper screen can be visually recognized even when there is a user using the game device 10 or at a position away from the game device 10. The region 15LD and the region 15RD are arranged below the transparent screen 15 and are used as the lower screen. The lower screen is close to the control panel unit 23, and for example, a guide (message, menu, etc.) for an input operation to the control panel unit 23 can be displayed. The area 15M is arranged over a wide area in the center of the transparent screen 15 and is used as the center screen. The central screen is an area where an image is projected mainly when the game is not performed in the game device 10 (left side unit 10L, right side unit 10R). Different images may be projected individually for the plurality of areas 15LU, 15LD, 15RU, 15RD, and 15M, or one image may be projected in a range in which any of the areas is combined.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an installation position of a projector that projects an image on the transparent screen 15, and is a view seen from the side surface of the game device 10. FIG. 5 shows a plurality of projectors 80-1, 80-2, 80-3, 80-4, but at least one of them is installed, and a plurality of regions 15LU, 15LD, 15RU, 15RD, 15M are installed. It is assumed that the image is projected on at least one area.

The projector 80-1 is provided on the inner inner surface of the upper housing 12. The projector 80-1 projects an image with, for example, a screen size 80-1P1 including all of a plurality of areas 15LU, 15LD, 15RU, 15RD, and 15M, or a screen size 80-1P2 (center screen) corresponding to the area 15M. When the projector 80-1 projects an image on the screen size 80-1P1, the contents of the individually projected images of the plurality of areas 15LU, 15LD, 15RU, 15RD, and 15M can be changed. In this case, the projector 80-1 can not only project a different image for each area, but also project one image in a range in which a plurality of areas are combined.

The projector 80-2 is, for example, a short focus projector provided in the upper part inside the upper housing 12. The projector 80-2 projects an image with a screen size 80-1P2 corresponding to, for example, a region 15RU. It is also assumed that the left side unit 10L side is also provided with a projector that projects an image with a screen size corresponding to the area 15LU.

The projector 80-3 is, for example, a short focus projector provided in the lower part inside the upper housing 12. The projector 80-3 projects an image with a screen size of 80-1P2 corresponding to, for example, the area 15RD. It is also assumed that the left side unit 10L side is also provided with a projector that projects an image with a screen size corresponding to the area 15LD.

The projector 80-4 is a short focus projector provided on the upper surface of the control panel unit 23R. The projector 80-4 projects an image with a screen size of 80-1P2 corresponding to, for example, the area 15RD. It is also assumed that the left side unit 10L side is also provided with a projector that projects an image with a screen size corresponding to the area 15LD. By providing the projector 80-4, it is not necessary to provide the projector 80-3 that projects an image onto the same area 15RD in the housing. By not providing the projector 80-3 in the housing, for example, there are no restrictions on the arrangement of the prize drop opening and the placement of the prize in the prize field.

As shown in FIG. 5, the projectors 80-1 to 80-3 use a rear type that projects an image from the back surface of the transparent screen 15, and the projector 80-4 uses a front type that projects an image from the front surface of the transparent screen 15. Is used. In FIG. 5, the image is projected by the front type on the areas 15RD and 15LD of the transparent screen 15 near the control panel unit 23, but the image is projected by the front type on the other areas 15LU, 15LD and 15M. It is also possible to provide the projector outside the housing of the game device 10.

In the above description, the projector 80 projects an image on the transparent screen 15 provided on the outer peripheral surface (front surface) of the housing. However, a transparent screen is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the housing to project the image. You may try to do it. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, an example is shown in which transparent screens 15BRU and 15BRD similar to the transparent screen 15 are provided inside the housing (on the prize field) of the upper housing 12. The transparent screens 15BRU and 15BRD are arranged at predetermined intervals, for example, with respect to the inner inner surface. As mentioned above, there are cases where prizes are displayed on the back of the prize field using a net or hook. Since the transparent screens 15BRU and 15BRD are transparent unless an image is projected, they do not interfere with the visibility of the prizes displayed on the back surface. Then, for example, during game processing (during operation of the crane arm, etc.), the game can be excited by projecting an image for production on the transparent screens 15BRU and 15BRD inside the housing from the projector 80.

For the transparent screens 15BRU and 15BRD, for example, a projector provided at the same position as the projectors 80-2 and 80-3 can project an image with a screen size of 80-2PB and 80-3PB by the front type. .. Further, although FIG. 5 shows an example in which two transparent screens 15BRU and 15BRD are arranged in the vertical direction, the number and arrangement of the transparent screens arranged in the housing can be arbitrarily set.

The installation positions of the projectors 80-1 to 80-4 shown in FIG. 5 are examples, and they may be installed at other positions as long as the image can be projected on the transparent screen 15 (15BRU, 15BRD). Further, FIGS. 4 and 5 show a configuration in which an image is projected on a transparent screen 15 provided on the front surface of the game device 10, but a transparent screen 15 is provided on the side surface of the transparent screen 15. A projector that projects an image may be provided.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the game device 10 in the present embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 6, a control PCB (Print Circuit Board) 68 on which various units are mounted is provided inside the housing of the game device 10. The unit mounted on the control PCB 68 includes a CPU 70, a RAM 71, a storage device 72, an input / output processing unit 73, a projection control unit 74, a motor drive unit 76, an arm drive unit 77, and a communication control unit 78.

The CPU 70 controls the entire game device 10 by executing a control program or a game program stored in the RAM 71 or the storage device 72. The CPU 70 records in the RAM 71 credit data indicating the number of playable times in response to the coin insertion detection signal input via the input / output processing unit 73. Further, the CPU 70 controls the motor drive unit 76 and the arm drive unit 77 to appropriately operate each unit of the mechanism unit 69 in response to an instruction by an input operation by the user input via the input / output processing unit 73 to operate the crane. Control the movement of the arm. Further, the CPU 70 passes through the projector 80 (80-1) through the projection control unit 74 according to the input operation by the user input through the input / output processing unit 73, the detection results of various sensors, or the control state of various processes including the game. , ..., 80-n) to control the projection of the image. Further, the CPU 70 executes control of the audio output from the speaker 28, setting processing according to the operation of the setting device 29, and the like through the input / output processing unit 73.

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

The storage device 72 stores programs and data in a non-volatile storage medium such as a ROM or a hard disk. The storage device 72 stores, for example, video data projected by the projector 80. The video data is distributed from, for example, the server 2 or the store server 6 and received through the communication control unit 78.

The input / output processing unit 73 is an interface with various input / output devices provided outside the control PCB 68. The projection control unit 74 controls the projection control unit 74 in response to an instruction from the CPU 70, and causes the projector 80 to project an image. The motor drive unit 76 controls the drive of the motor 82 provided in the mechanism unit 69. The arm drive unit 77 controls the drive of the arm motor 83 for opening and closing the arm provided on the crane arm. The communication control unit 78 controls communication with the store server 6 under the control of the CPU 70.

The mechanism unit 69 is provided, for example, in each of the left side unit 10L and the right side unit 10R. As shown in FIG. 6, the mechanism unit 69 includes a projector 80 (80-1, ..., 80-n), a motor 82, an arm motor 83, and a prize detection sensor 84.

At least one projector 80 (80-1, ..., 80-n) is provided. The projector 80 projects an image on the transparent screen 15 based on the image data under the control of the projection control unit 74.

The motor 82 is driven by the motor drive unit 76, and has an X-axis motor that moves the crane arm in the X-axis direction (horizontal direction), a Y-axis motor that moves the crane arm in the Y-axis direction (vertical direction), and a Z-axis direction (Z-axis direction). Includes a Z-axis motor that moves in the vertical direction). The arm motor 83 is driven by the arm drive unit 77, and opens and closes the arm of the crane arm.
The prize detection sensor 84 is a sensor for detecting a prize dropped from the prize drop opening provided in the prize field, that is, a prize paid out to the player by operating the crane arm.

As shown in FIG. 6, the control panel unit 23L is provided with a coin insertion slot 26L, a coin insertion sensor 86, a horizontal movement button 24La, a vertical movement button 24Lb, a descent button 24Lc, and a motion sensor 24Ld. The description of the control panel unit 23R will be omitted on the assumption that the control panel unit 23R is configured in the same manner as the control panel unit 23L.
The coin insertion sensor 86 detects the coin inserted from the coin insertion slot 26L and outputs a detection signal indicating coin insertion to the input / output processing unit 73. The CPU 70 records credit data indicating the number of playable times in response to the detection signal input to the input / output processing unit 73.

The lateral movement button 24La is for inputting an instruction to move the crane arm in the lateral direction (X-axis direction) by the player. When pressed by the player, the lateral movement button 24La outputs a signal indicating that the button is pressed to the input / output processing unit 73. When the CPU 70 detects that the lateral movement button 24La is pressed through the input / output processing unit 73, the CPU 70 drives the X-axis motor via the motor drive unit 76 to move the crane arm in the lateral direction (X-axis direction). .. The CPU 70 stops driving the X-axis motor 80 when the lateral movement button 24La is not pressed.

The vertical movement button 24Lb is for inputting an instruction to move the crane arm in the vertical direction (Y-axis direction) by the player. When the vertical movement button 24Lb is pressed by the player, the vertical movement button 24Lb outputs a signal indicating that it is in the pressed state to the input / output processing unit 73. When the CPU 70 detects that the vertical movement button 24Lb is pressed through the input / output processing unit 73, the CPU 70 drives the Y-axis motor via the motor drive unit 76 to move the crane arm in the vertical direction (Y-axis direction). .. The CPU 70 stops driving the Y-axis motor 1 when the vertical movement button 24Lb is not pressed.

The descent button 24Lc is for inputting an instruction to start the prize acquisition sequence to the crane arm by the player. When the descent button 24Lc is pressed by the player, it outputs a signal indicating that the button has been pressed to the input / output processing unit 73. When the CPU 70 detects that the descent button 24Lc is pressed through the input / output processing unit 73, the CPU 70 lowers the crane arm to a position where the tip of the crane arm reaches the prize via the motor drive unit 76 as a prize acquisition sequence, and drives the arm. After causing the arm to grab the prize through the portion 77, the crane arm is raised.

The motion sensor 24Ld is a sensor for detecting the presence of a person or the like in the front direction of the game device 10. The motion sensor 24Ld detects that a moving object is within a predetermined range (for example, about 1 m) from the control panel unit 23, and outputs a detection signal to the CPU 70.

The setting device 29 is used by the administrator to make various settings for the game device 10. For example, a plurality of buttons (selection button, decision button, up / down / left / right) for inputting various setting operations. Buttons, etc.), displays for displaying various setting screens, etc. are implemented. When the setting operation is performed by the setting device 29, the CPU 70 may project the setting image on the transparent screen 15 by the projector 80 so that various settings can be made according to the input operation according to the setting image. ..

When the transparent screen 15 is configured to be able to switch between the transparent mode and the screen mode by controlling the application of voltage, a control circuit for switching the mode (application of voltage) of the transparent screen 15 by controlling the CPU 70 (FIG. FIG. (Not shown) shall be further implemented in the control PCB 68.

Next, an example of projector control by the game device 10 in the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 7. In the following description, the projector 80 (one or a plurality of projectors 80-1 to 80-n provided in the game device 10) is used to refer to the transparent screen 15 as a screen according to the operating state. It will be described as assuming that the image is projected onto the area).

It is assumed that the video data projected by the projector 80 is stored in the game device 10 in advance. The video data distributed from the store server 6 or the server 2 can be, for example, content for advertising a product. That is, the image for advertisement is displayed on the transparent screen 15 provided in the game device 10, and the game device 10 is used as, for example, digital signage. By distributing video data from the server 2 and controlling the video projection in the game device 10, advertisements are provided to the plurality of game devices 10 arranged in each of the plurality of store systems 5 connected via the network 4. It is possible to display the image for. In addition to advertising information, by distributing video data from the store server 6, information unique to each store, such as notification of events held in the store and introduction of prizes stored in the game device 10, can be obtained. Can be added to. Further, it is assumed that the video data projected in the storage device 72 according to a plurality of different control states of the game device 10 is stored in advance in association with the control states. The video data associated with the control state can also be changed by the video data distributed from the server 2 or the store server 6.

When the game device 10 (CPU 70) has not been detected by the motion sensor 24Ld for a predetermined time (for example, 3 seconds) after being started, that is, the user is not near the game device 10. In that case (steps A1 and No), the full-screen projection process is executed (step A2).

In the full-screen projection process, for example, as shown in FIG. 8, the projector 80 continuously projects, for example, an image for advertisement on the entire surface of the transparent screen 15. That is, the game device 10 is operated as digital signage. As a result, it is possible to provide an advertisement for a product or the like to a user who passes near the game device 10 who has visited the amusement facility.

On the other hand, when the detection by the motion sensor 24Ld is within a predetermined time (for example, 3 seconds) (steps A1, Yes), the CPU 70 stops the projection of the image on the central screen (region 15M) by the projector 80 (step A1, Yes). Step A3). That is, when there is a person who stops in front of the control panel unit 23, that is, when there is a user who wants to play a game on the game device 10, or a person who wants to check the prize housed in the prize field of the game device 10. By stopping the projection of the image on the central screen, the prize placed in the housing can be visually recognized through the transparent screen 15.

Further, the CPU 70 projects an image of a game guidance message for encouraging the user to use the game device 10 on, for example, a lower screen (area 15LD, area 15RD) by the projector 80 (step A4). FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of an image of a game guidance message projected on a lower screen (area 15LD). In FIG. 9, for example, a message "Please insert a coin" and an arrow indicating the position of the coin insertion slot 26L are displayed. The lower screen (region 15LD) is provided at a position close to the control panel portion 23L. Therefore, the user can easily grasp the operation content from the image on the lower screen (area 15LD), and while watching the image, perform the operation on the control panel unit 23L (here, coin insertion into the coin insertion slot 26L). can do.

After projecting the game guidance message, the CPU 70 waits until the coin insertion sensor 86 detects the coin insertion. Here, if coin insertion is not detected (steps A5, No) and there is no detection by the motion sensor 24Ld for a predetermined time (steps A1, No), the user can play the game. It is determined that the device 10 is away from the surroundings, and the process returns to the full-screen projection process (step A2).

On the other hand, when the coin insertion sensor 86 detects the coin insertion (steps A5, Yes), the projector 80, for example, lowers the image of the game operation guide message for explaining the operation method of the game device 10 to the user. It is projected onto a screen (area 15LD, area 15RD) (step A6). FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an image of a game operation guide message projected on a lower screen (area 15LD). In the game device 10, for example, in order to acquire a prize by a crane arm, it is necessary to operate the horizontal movement button 24La, the vertical movement button 24Lb, and the descent button 24Lc in this order. Therefore, in FIG. 10, for example, a message of "horizontal movement button" and an arrow indicating the position of the horizontal movement button 24La are displayed. The user can easily grasp the operation content to be executed next from the image on the lower screen (area 15LD), and while watching the image, the operation on the control panel unit 23L (here, pressing the horizontal movement button 24La). ) Can be done.

When the CPU 70 detects an input operation for the lateral movement button 24La (steps A7, Yes), the CPU 70 controls the crane arm to operate in response to the input operation, and displays a video of a guide message in response to the input operation on the projector. Projected by 80 onto, for example, a lower screen (region 15LD, region 15RD) (step A8).

Hereinafter, in the same manner, each time the CPU 70 detects an input operation for the vertical movement button 24Lb and the descent button 24Lc (steps A7, Yes), the projector 80 projects an image of a guide message corresponding to each input operation. (Step A8).

When the prize detection sensor 84 detects that the prize has been dropped into the prize drop opening by the operation of the crane arm in response to the input operation of the user (steps A11, Yes), the CPU 70 gives the user a prize. The image of the congratulatory message notifying the acquisition is projected by the projector 80 onto, for example, a full-screen screen (step A12). That is, the CPU 70 can control switching of the image projected from the projector 80 not only in response to an input operation by the user but also in response to sensor detection such as the prize detection sensor 84.

The CPU 70 ends the game process when a series of operations from the operation of the crane arm for acquiring the prize to the return to the initial position are completed (steps A13, Yes). After that, the CPU 70 projects a game guidance message when there is detection by the motion sensor 24Ld (step A1, Yes), and when there is no detection by the motion sensor 24Ld for a predetermined time (step A1). , No), the process returns to the full-screen projection process to project an image such as an advertisement (step A2).

When it is detected by various sensors or button operations by the user that some kind of error (fault, etc.) has occurred while executing the game in response to the user's input operation (steps A9, Yes), the CPU 70 will perform the operation. An image of an error warning message notifying the manager (clerk) of the game device 10 that a failure has occurred in the game device 10 is projected by the projector 80 onto, for example, an upper screen (area 15LU, area 15RU). (Step A10). FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of an image of an error warning message projected on the upper screen (region 15RU). By projecting a message notifying the occurrence of an error on the upper screen, it becomes easy for an administrator or the like away from the game device 10 to check it.

FIG. 12 shows an example of images projected on the transparent screen 15 when a game is being executed in the left side unit 10L and the right side unit 10R of the game device 10. In the left unit 10L shown in FIG. 12, the game is being executed, the image of the game operation guide message is projected on the lower screen (area 15LD), and the advertisement image is projected on the upper screen (area 15LU). An example is shown. On the upper screen (area 15LU), even if the image is projected during the game, the game is not hindered, so that any image can be continuously displayed. On the other hand, in the right unit 10R shown in FIG. 12, since an error has occurred during the game, an image of an error warning message is projected on the upper screen (area 15RU). As shown in FIG. 12, since the game device 10 is provided with the left side unit 10L and the right side unit 10R, it is possible to individually project images according to the operating state of each unit.

In the above description, the guide message explaining the input operation to be operated next according to the input operation is projected on the lower screen, for example, but it may be projected on another screen (area).

In addition, although the guide message is projected by characters and figures (arrows), it is also possible to project it by other images such as still images and moving images. Further, a voice message such as a guide voice may be output from the speaker 28 in conjunction with the projection control by the projector 80.

Further, in the above description, the horizontal movement button 24La, the vertical movement button 24Lb, and the descent button 24Lc (input device) are used only for the input operation for operating the crane arm. An image showing a guide or a menu showing the corresponding function may be projected, and the function to be executed may be switched according to the input operation of each button.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example in which the horizontal movement button 24La and the vertical movement button 24Lb are used as language switching buttons. In FIG. 13A, the image of the game operation guide message is projected on the lower screen (area 15LD) by the projector 80, for example. In FIG. 13A, the characters “ENGLISH” and the arrows are displayed according to the positions of the lateral movement button 24La. That is, an image of a message indicating that the lateral movement button 24La is a button for changing the notation to "English" is projected.

Here, when the input operation for the lateral movement button 24La is detected, the CPU 70 projects an image in which the game operation guide message is written in English by the projector 80. In FIG. 13B, the characters “Japanese” and the arrows are displayed according to the positions of the vertical movement button 24Lb. That is, an image of a message indicating that the vertical movement button 24Lb is a button for changing the notation to "Japanese" is projected. Here, when the input operation for the vertical movement button 24Lb is detected, the CPU 70 projects an image in which the game operation guide message is written in Japanese by the projector 80, as shown in FIG. 13A.

In this way, by projecting an image representing a guide, a menu, or the like representing a function assigned to the input device such as a button provided on the game device 10 onto the transparent screen 15, the limited input device provided on the game device 10 is projected. It is possible to expand the function by effectively using (button).
In addition to the example shown in FIG. 13, it is possible to arbitrarily implement an image showing a guide, a menu, or the like projected on the transparent screen 15 and a function corresponding to the projected image.

Next, an example in which a plurality of game devices 10 in the present embodiment cooperate to project an image will be described. In the above description, projector control (individual projection processing) in one game device 10 is described, but it is also possible for a plurality of game devices 10 to cooperate with each other to project images related to each other. ..

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an example of linked projector control of the game device 10, and FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of linked projector control of the store server 6 (or server 2 may be used).

When the CPU 70 of the game device 10 detects the end of the game process (step B1, Yes), the CPU 70 notifies the store server 6 of the end of the game (step B2). On the other hand, when the CPU 6a of the store server 6 receives the notification of the end of the game from the game device 10 (steps C1, Yes), the CPU 6a determines the operating states of all the game devices 10 provided in the store system 5 (step C2). ).

Here, when the operating state of all the game devices 10 is the end of the game (step C3, Yes), the store server 6 starts the projection of the linked image (cooperative projection) to all the game devices 10. Instruct (step C5). When the store server 6 instructs the store server 6 to start the cooperative projection (steps B3, Yes), the game device 10 starts the cooperative projection process (step B4).

In the cooperative projection process by the game device 10, for example, all the transparent screens 15 provided in each game device 10 are regarded as one transparent screen 15 and an image is projected. It is assumed that the game device 10 stores, for example, video data for projection in the cooperative projection process. The plurality of game devices 10 mutually execute communication via the network 8 to adjust the timing, and individually control the projection of the image in order to project the linked image. It should be noted that not only the timing is adjusted while the plurality of game devices 10 communicate with each other, but also the video data stored in advance individually is started to be projected at the timing instructed to disclose the cooperative projection from the store server 6. You may do so. In this case, it is assumed that the video data is edited so as to form a series of video by starting projection on the plurality of game devices 10 at the same time.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example in which linked images are projected on the three game devices 10-1, 10-2, and 10-3. FIG. 16 shows an example in which an image in which a character string representing an advertisement for a product is flowing in the horizontal direction is projected. By individually changing the images projected on the transparent screens 15, the game devices 10-1 to 10-3 can project meaningful images linked on the three transparent screens 15.

In the cooperative projection process, not only all the transparent screens 15 provided in each game device 10 are regarded as one transparent screen 15 and the image is projected, but also, for example, the contents of the projected image are associated with each other. (For example, it is an advertisement image of the same product), it is also possible to individually project the image on the game device 10.

When the start of the game process is detected (for example, detection of coin insertion) during the execution of the cooperative projection process (step B5, Yes), the game device 10 notifies the store server 6 of the start of the game. (Step B7), the process shifts to the individual projection process of projecting an image according to each operating state without cooperating with the other game device 10 (step B8). When the store start is received from any of the game devices 10 (steps C5, Yes), the store server 6 instructs all the game devices 10 to end the cooperative projection process (step C6). When the end of the cooperative projection process is received from the store server 6 during the execution of the cooperative projection process (steps B6, Yes), the game device 10 shifts to the individual projection process (step B8).

In the above description, when the game processing is started in any one of the plurality of game devices 10 executing the cooperative projector control, the cooperative projection processing is completed in all the game devices 10. However, it is also possible to continue the cooperative projection processing in the other game device 10 except for the game device 10 in which the game processing has been started. In this case, when the number of game devices 10 that have not executed the game processing becomes less than or equal to a predetermined number, the cooperative projection processing is terminated in all the game devices 10.

In this way, since a plurality of game devices 10-1 to 10-3 in which game processing is not executed can cooperate to project an image on the transparent screen 15, a more effective product advertisement image or the like can be displayed. It becomes possible to project.

In the above-mentioned linked projector control, the store server 6 is controlled so as to project a linked image to the plurality of game devices 10, but any one of the plurality of game devices 10 controls the above-mentioned store server 6. The same process as in the above may be executed to control the projection of the linked video to the plurality of game devices 10.

Further, in the above description, the image projection control in the game device 10 is executed individually by the game device 10, but is executed by an external device of the game device 10, for example, a store server 6 (or server 2). You may do so.

Further, in the above description, for example, a crane game device is taken as an example of the game device 10, but other game devices can also be targeted. For example, it can be applied to a medal game device such as a pusher game device. In the pusher game device, for example, when a medal is inserted from the outside of the housing into a pusher stand housed in the housing and reciprocating in the front-rear direction, the pusher stand pushes out the medal and hits the pre-loaded medal. It is configured to drop into.

Normally, the outer peripheral surface of the pusher game device is covered with a transparent member such as a glass plate like the crane game device, and is configured so that the pusher stand housed in the housing and the loaded medals can be visually recognized. There is. Therefore, by replacing the transparent member with the transparent screen as described above and mounting the projector at a position where the image can be projected on the transparent screen, the image linked with the control of the game can be obtained in the same manner as the game device 10 described above. Alternatively, an image such as an advertisement that is not related to the control of the game can be projected on the outer peripheral surface of the housing (a transparent screen can be provided inside the housing). The pusher game device detects, for example, the insertion of medals, the fall of medals into the drop opening, the occurrence of jackpots, etc., and controls the projected image in response to these detections, thereby linking with the control of the game. Images can be projected.

Further, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment as it is, and at the implementation stage, the components can be modified and embodied within a range that does not deviate from the gist thereof. In addition, various inventions can be formed by an appropriate combination of the plurality of components disclosed in the above-described embodiment. For example, some components may be removed from all the components shown in the embodiments. In addition, components across different embodiments may be combined as appropriate.

10 ... game device, 12 ... upper housing, 13 ... lower housing, 15 ... transparent screen, 16L, 16R ... prize field, 21L, 21R ... prize outlet, 23L, 23R ... control panel, 24L, 24R ... button, 26L, 26R ... Coin slot, 80 ... Projector.

Claims (7)

The transparent screen provided on the housing and
A plurality of projectors that project images on the transparent screen,
An input means in which data is input according to the detection results of a plurality of different input operations or a plurality of different sensors to the input device.
It has a projection control means that changes an image projected by any of the plurality of projectors according to the content of an input operation to the input device or the detection result of the sensor according to the data input through the input means. Game device. The game device according to claim 1, wherein the projection control means changes the projection of the transparent screen onto a plurality of areas by individually controlling the plurality of projectors. The game device according to claim 1, wherein the projector is provided at a position where an image is projected from the outside of the housing onto the transparent screen. The game device according to claim 1 or 3, wherein the projector is provided at a position where an image is projected from the inside of the housing with respect to the transparent screen. Further having a control means for controlling the operation of the device including the game,
The game device according to claim 1, wherein the projection control means changes an image produced by any of the plurality of projectors according to a control state by the control means. The transparent screen and the input device are placed close to each other.
The game device according to claim 1 , wherein the projection control means projects an image representing a guide for explaining an input operation on the input device onto the transparent screen by the projector in accordance with a position where the input device is arranged. The game device according to claim 1, wherein the projection control means controls the projection of an image by a plurality of the projectors in cooperation with the projection of an image on another game device.

Images