JP7339061B2 - pressing mechanism - Google Patents

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a pressing mechanism used in a game device or the like from which prizes can be obtained.

2. Description of the Related Art As a game device from which a prize can be obtained, for example, a prize-getting amusement machine that drops a prize placed on a turntable is considered (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In the prize acquisition game machine described in Patent Document 1, a turntable is provided with a plurality of prize stands, a prize is individually placed on each prize stand, and a target is provided at the tip of an arm extending from the prize stand. there is During execution of the game, the prize table can be tilted to give a prize by moving the platform by the player's operation and hitting the hit part provided on the platform against the target.

JP-A-10-76070

As described above, in the prize acquisition amusement machine described in the conventional patent document, the platform is tilted by hitting the hitting part of the platform against the target fixedly attached to the prize platform of the turntable. Since the elevator platform is a relatively small and light-weight component that is provided for placing individual products, the hitting part of the elevator platform is simply operated (orbitally rotated) to hit the target. Therefore, the platform can be tilted simply by causing the hitting part to collide with the target.

However, for example, if the prize table (or turntable) is heavy, the prize table cannot be tilted simply by colliding the hitting portion with the target.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned circumstances, and its object is to provide a pressing mechanism that can be continuously pressed to tilt a table.

In order to solve the above problems, the pressing mechanism used in the game device in which a prize can be acquired in this embodiment includes a first mechanism fixed to a table that can be tilted, and a first mechanism that presses the first mechanism to move the table. a second mechanism for tilting, the second mechanism has a configuration for pressing by moving the pressing member in a predetermined direction, and the first mechanism moves the pressing member so that the pressing member and a shaft member that allows the receiving member to rotate with respect to the base at a position of the rotating shaft that is out of contact with the contact surface of the receiving member on which the pressing member is pressed.

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a pressing mechanism that can be pressed and held to tilt the platform.

1 is a perspective view showing the external configuration of a game device according to this embodiment; FIG. 2 is a plan view of the inside of the housing of the game device according to the present embodiment; FIG. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the configuration of a pusher mechanism according to the embodiment; FIG. 2 is a plan view showing the configuration of the left unit of the game device according to the embodiment; FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a pusher mechanism and a prize stand with a prize placed on the prize table according to the present embodiment; FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the pusher mechanism and the prize table with the prize table tilted; FIG. 4 is an external view of a tilting mechanism provided at the bottom of the prize table in this embodiment. The figure which shows the external structure of the shaft member which supports a premium|prize table from the lower part and rotates about an axis. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the external configuration of the shaft member when the prize table is tilted; FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the target mechanism to which the receiving member is attached; FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing the internal structure of the target mechanism shown in FIG. 10; FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining the movement of the target mechanism shown in FIG. 10; FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining the movement of the target mechanism shown in FIG. 10; FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the target mechanism to which the receiving member is attached; FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the target mechanism to which the receiving member is attached; FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the game device according to the embodiment; 4 is a flowchart showing game control processing executed based on the game control program of the game device;

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the external configuration of a game device 10 according to this embodiment, and FIG. 2 is a plan view of the inside of the housing of the game device 10. FIG.

The game device 10 according to the present embodiment drops a prize placed on a prize table 18 (18L, 18R) of a prize table 17 (17L, 17R) installed in the housing by inclining the prize table 18. can be obtained by The prize table 18 (18L, 18R) is rotated in the horizontal direction on a rotating shaft with a prize placed thereon. By pressing the outer peripheral portion of 18 (pushing down), the entire prize table 18 can be tilted. In this embodiment, the prize table 18 is formed in a circular shape, for example.

A game device 10 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is composed of an upper housing 12 and a lower housing 13 . The front and side surfaces of the upper housing 12 are covered with a transparent plate 15 such as an acrylic plate, so that the inside of the housing can be seen through the transparent plate 15 . The transparent plate 15 is configured such that the front side can be opened and closed, for example, and can be opened for replacement or replenishment of prizes placed on the prize table 18, maintenance of each mechanism, and the like.

The game device 10 in this embodiment is equipped with two game units (left unit 10L, right unit 10R) so that two players can play the game at the same time. The left unit 10L and the right unit 10R are basically configured symmetrically with respect to the central boundary line.

On the field plate 16 laid in the lower part of the upper housing 12, a prize table 17L and a pusher mechanism 19L are arranged on the left unit 10L side and on the right unit 10R side so as to be bilaterally symmetrical. A prize table 17R and a pusher mechanism 19R are arranged. The pusher mechanism 19L is arranged near the left rear corner of the field plate 16, and the pusher mechanism 19R is arranged near the right rear corner of the field plate 16. As shown in FIG. A prize stand 17L is arranged on the right side of the pusher mechanism 19L, and a prize stand 17R is arranged on the left side of the pusher mechanism 19R. A prize drop opening 20L is formed in the left front corner of the field board 16, and a prize drop opening 20R is formed in the right front corner.

Prize stock shelves 25L and 25R for placing supplementary prizes and decorative prizes are provided on the left and right in the upper part of the upper housing 12 inside the housing.

Below the prize drop openings 20L and 20R, there are prize guiding spaces for guiding the prizes dropped from the prize tables 18L and 18R to the prize outlets 21L and 21R provided on the front side of the lower housing 13. is provided. In addition, the prize guide space is provided with an inclined surface that is higher on the back side and lower on the front side. By providing the inclined surface, the prize dropped from the prize drop opening collides with the inclined surface and easily falls to the front side of the lower housing 13 provided with the prize outlets 21L and 21R. This makes it easier to take the prize from the prize outlets 21L and 21R. The prize drop openings 20L and 20R are provided with prize detection sensors for detecting that a prize has fallen into the prize drop openings 20L and 20R (that a prize is paid out to the player).

The prize table 17L supports a prize table 18L on which a prize is placed from below, and rotates the prize table 18L with the prize placed thereon. In addition, the prize table 17L is provided with a tilting mechanism that tilts the prize table 18L in a predetermined direction by pushing down the outer peripheral portion of the prize table 18 by a pusher mechanism 19L that operates according to a user's operation. Similarly, the prize table 17R supports from below a prize table 18R on which prizes are placed, and is rotated with the prizes placed thereon. Also, the prize table 17R is provided with a tilting mechanism that tilts the prize table 18R in a predetermined direction by pushing down the outer peripheral portion of the prize table 18 by a pusher mechanism 19R that operates in accordance with a user's operation.

On the front side of the lower housing 13, prize outlets 21L and 21R, a front maintenance door 22, control panels 23L and 23R operated by the player, and a main control panel 24 are provided.

The prize outlets 21L and 21R are for taking out prizes from the inside of the upper housing 12 to the outside, and communicate with a prize guide space provided below the field plate 16. As shown in FIG. By inclining the prize tables 18L, 18R and dropping them into the prize drop openings 20L, 20R, the prizes can be taken out from the prize outlets 21L, 21R.

The front maintenance door 22 can be opened (with a key) by an administrator when working on the control unit (control unit) housed inside the lower housing 13 and other mechanical units. . Further, inside the front maintenance door 22, for example, a main power switch for controlling the operation of the game device 10, a volume for adjusting the volume from the speaker, a setting device for the administrator to make various settings, etc. (setting device 74 shown in FIG. 16), a storage space for storing replenishment prizes, and the like are provided. The setting device can set, for example, the rotation speed and rotation direction of the prize tables 18L and 18R, the initial operation state and the push-down operation speed of the pusher mechanisms 19L and 19R. It is assumed that the setting device can make various settings individually for the left unit 10L and the right unit 10R. Instead of the setting device 74, the administrator operates a setting screen displayed on a touch panel 27, which will be described later, or opens the transparent plate 15 provided on the upper housing 12 inside the transparent plate 15. Various settings can be made by the administrator by operating the operable setting operation buttons.

The control panels 23L and 23R are provided with start buttons 26L and 26R operated by the player to operate the pusher mechanisms 19L and 19R, respectively. A player playing a game on the left unit 10L controls the operation of the pusher mechanism 19L only by operating one start button 26L provided on the control panel 23L. Similarly, a player playing a game on the right unit 10R controls the operation of the pusher mechanism 19R only by operating one start button 26R provided on the control panel 23R. That is, in the game device 10 of the present embodiment, by simplifying the operation method, even a player who uses the device for the first time can easily understand the contents of the game.

The main control panel 24 is provided with a touch panel 27, electronic money units 28L and 28R, and coin slots 29L and 29R. The touch panel 27 displays the game fee, the amount of money deposited, the number of remaining plays (number of credits), menus (buttons) for setting functions, messages to the player, and the like. The electronic money units 28L and 28R are units for paying a game playing fee with electronic money, and have, for example, a reader/writer for non-contact communication with an electronic money card. The coin slots 29L and 29R are for paying the game playing fee with coins. The electronic money unit 28L and the coin slot 29L are used by the player who plays the game on the left unit 10L, and the electronic money unit 28R and the coin slot 29R are used by the player who plays the game on the right unit 10R.

Outside the housing of the game device 10, lighting devices (LED group 93) such as LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) and lamps, which are used for lighting and game effects using light, are provided. In addition, a speaker for outputting sound effects, music, message voices, etc. during execution of the game is provided inside the housing of the game device 10 .

FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the pusher mechanism 19 (19L, 19R) in this embodiment. In FIG. 3, the housing plate covering the outside is removed so that the internal structure can be visually recognized.

The pusher mechanism 19 has a vertically long housing, and a pusher motor 19M is provided near the bottom. A lower pulley 19D1 is provided at the bottom of the vertically long housing of the pusher mechanism 19, and an upper pulley 19D2 is provided at the top. A belt 19D3 is wound around the lower pulley 19D1 and the upper pulley 19D2. Rotational power of the pusher motor 19M is transmitted to the lower pulley 19D1 via, for example, a gear (not shown). Thereby, the belt 19D3 rotates (moves) between the lower pulley 19D1 and the upper pulley 19D2.

The pusher mechanism 19 is provided with a pushing member (pusher) 19P for pushing down the outer peripheral portion of the prize table 18 . The pusher mechanism 19 is configured to move the pushing member 19P in a predetermined direction in order to push the target mechanism 18C (receiving member 50). The pressing member 19P is formed, for example, in an elongated shape, and the lower tip portion is formed of, for example, an elastic member having a tapered shape. The pressing member 19P is connected to the belt 19D3 via a first supporting member 19P1 and a second supporting member 19P2. The first support member 19P1 is spaced apart from the housing body of the pusher mechanism 19 by a predetermined distance, and supports the elongated push member 19P in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction in this embodiment). The second support member 19P2 supports the first support member 19P1 and is attached so as to be vertically movable (slidable) with respect to the housing body of the pusher mechanism 19, for example. The second support member 19P2 is fixed to the belt 19D3 and moves vertically as the belt 19D3 moves vertically. Therefore, when the belt 19D3 is moved vertically by driving the pusher motor 19M, the pressing member 19P is moved vertically.

Three position sensors 19S (19S1, 19S2, 19S3) are spaced apart from each other along the movement direction (vertical direction) of the second support member 19P2 on the housing body of the pusher mechanism 19. As shown in FIG. For example, a transmissive photo position sensor is used as the position sensor 19S. A detection member 19P3 is provided on the second support member 19P2, and the detection member 19P3 is detected by the position sensor 19S as the second support member 19P2 moves vertically. The position sensor 19S1 indicates the upper limit of movement of the pushing member 19P (detection member 19P3), the position sensor 19S2 indicates the initial position of the pushing member 19P, and the position sensor 19S3 indicates the lower limit of movement of the pushing member 19P (detection member 19P3). It is a sensor for detecting each position.

For example, when the game is executed, the pressing member 19P is moved to the upper limit position detected by the position sensor 19S1 and then moved downward until it is detected by the position sensor 19S2. downward from the initial position. The pushing member 19P pushes a target mechanism 18C (receiving member 50), which will be described later, by moving downward from the initial position, thereby tilting the prize table 18. As shown in FIG.

Although the configuration shown in FIG. 3 includes three position sensors 19S1, 19S2, and 19S3, the position sensor 19S2 may be omitted. For example, after the pushing member 19P is moved upward to the upper limit position detected by the position sensor 19S1, the pushing member 19P is moved downward by a predetermined amount of motion (the number of drive pulses) of the pusher motor 19M. The pressing member 19P can be positioned at the initial position by stopping after operating as described above. Thereby, the position sensor 19S2 for initial position detection can be omitted.

FIG. 4 is a plan view showing the configuration of the left unit 10L of the game device 10 according to this embodiment. In the following description, the left unit 10L will be the target, but the right unit 10R will be described because it is configured symmetrically with the left unit 10L and has substantially the same configuration as the left unit 10L. omitted.

As shown in FIG. 4, the prize table 18L provided on the prize table 17L is rotated clockwise (right) during the game as indicated by the arrow in the drawing. A plurality of target mechanisms 18C (18C1, 18C2, 18C3, 18C4) (first mechanisms) are provided at regular intervals on the rear surface near the outer periphery of the prize table 18L. Although FIG. 4 shows an example in which four target mechanisms 18C1, 18C2, 18C3, and 18C4 are provided, at least one should be provided. Also, the plurality of target mechanisms 18C need not be provided at regular intervals.

The target mechanism 18C is a mechanism for receiving depression by the pusher mechanism 19L. The target mechanism 18C and the pusher mechanism 19L constitute a push-down mechanism for tilting the prize table 18L.

The target mechanism 18C is provided with receiving members (catch covers) 50 (50a, 50b, 50c) with which the pushing member 19P of the pusher mechanism 19L is pressed. The receiving member 50 protrudes from the outer circumference of the prize table 18L, and passes under the pushing member 19P of the pusher mechanism 19L as the prize table 18L rotates. Since the target mechanism 18C is provided near the outer circumference of the prize table 18L, the receiving member 50 is pushed down by the pushing member 19P, thereby pushing down the outer circumference of the prize table 18L.

In the example shown in FIG. 4, the target mechanisms 18C2 and 18C4 are provided with receiving members 50a, the target mechanism 18C1 is provided with a receiving member 50b, and the target mechanism 18C3 is provided with a receiving member 50c. The receiving members 50a, 50b, and 50c have different shapes of contact surfaces (upper surfaces) with the pressing member 19P. For example, the receiving member 50b has a planar contact surface and the widest area. The receiving member 50a has a flat contact surface and has a smaller area than the receiving member 50a. The receiving member 50c has a curved contact surface. That is, the structure is such that the pressing member 19P is moved downward in the order of the receiving member 50b, the receiving member 50a, and the receiving member 50c to facilitate pressing. The receiving members 50a, 50b, and 50c are detachable and can be arbitrarily replaced. In other words, the degree of difficulty of the game can be adjusted by allowing the user to arbitrarily select the receiving members 50a, 50b, and 50c attached to the target mechanism 18C. Detailed configurations of the target mechanism 18C and the receiving member 50 will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 to 15. FIG.

The prize table 18L is tilted by pushing down any one of the plurality of receiving members 50 by the pushing member 19P of the pusher mechanism 19L. A tilting mechanism provided on the prize table 17L tilts the prize table 18L about an axis P1 indicated by a dashed line in FIG. That is, the position where the outer peripheral portion of the prize table 18L is pushed down is the lower position of the pushing member 19P, but the prize table 18L is configured to be tilted in a direction different from the pushed-down position. The prize table 18L is tilted in the direction in which the prize drop opening 20L is arranged, so that the placed prize can be dropped into the prize drop opening 20L.

By tilting the prize table 18L in a direction different from the depressed position in this way, the pushing member 19P does not exist in the direction in which the prize falls and does not become an obstacle when the prize falls. Therefore, even when a large prize is placed on the prize table 18L, the tilt of the prize table 18L ensures that the prize can be dropped into the prize drop opening 20L.

In addition, in the game device 10 of the present embodiment, the target mechanism 18C configured separately from the prize table 18L is provided on the outer periphery of the prize table 18L, and the receiving member 50 of the target mechanism 18C is pushed down by the pushing member 19P. , a member integrated with the prize table 18L, or a configuration in which the prize table 18L is directly pushed down by the pushing member 19P is also possible.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the pusher mechanism 19L and the prize table 17L with a prize (for example, a stuffed animal) placed on the prize table 18L in this embodiment. Note that the number of prizes placed on the prize table 18L is not limited to one, and a plurality of prizes may be placed, and different kinds of prizes may be mixed. Also, when placing a plurality of prizes, a partition plate is provided to divide the upper surface of the prize table 18L, and the prizes are placed separately in each section, so that the prize table 18L is tilted. Only some of the prizes may fall on the top.

The game device 10 rotates the prize table 18L in the direction of the arrow in FIG. 5 during execution of the game. That is, the receiving member 50 of the target mechanism 18C provided on the outer circumference of the prize table 18L moves toward the lower portion of the pushing member 19P of the pusher mechanism 19L. The player can see through the transparent plate 15 on the front or side of the game device 10 how the receiving member 50 moves toward the lower portion of the pushing member 19P. The player can start the downward movement of the push member 19P by depressing the start button 26L at an appropriate timing while checking how the receiving member 50 moves.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing the pusher mechanism 19L and the prize table 17L with the prize table 18L tilted.

When the pressing member 19P is moved downward in response to the operation of the start button 26L, presses against the upper surface of the receiving member 50 which has moved in good timing, and can push down the receiving member 50, the prize table 18L is tilted. can be made As shown in FIG. 6, when the pressing member 19P is pressed against the upper surface of the receiving member 50b, the prize table 18L is disconnected from the rotation drive system and stops rotating, and moves downward in accordance with the downward movement of the pressing member 19P. The slope (slope) increases as As a result, the prize placed on the prize table 18L moves in an inclined direction and further falls from the prize table 18L. Details of the tilting mechanism for separating the prize table 18L from the rotation drive system will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 to 9. FIG.

When the pressing member 19P is pressed against the receiving member 50 and the pressing member 19P continues to move while the pressing member 19P and the receiving member 50 are kept pressed against each other, the prize placed on the prize table 18L will be displaced. It is designed to be tilted up to the maximum angle that is set to the extent that it will fall without fail. For example, a tilt detection sensor (not shown) is provided to detect that the prize table 18L is tilted to the maximum angle, and the downward movement of the pushing member 19P is continued until detection is made by the tilt detection sensor. shall be

Further, when the pressing member 19P is pressed against the receiving member 50, but is separated from the receiving member 50 due to the movement of the pressing member 19P before it is tilted to the maximum angle, the prize table 18L cannot be moved at that point. to return to the original horizontal position. In this case, the prize may fall before it is tilted to the maximum angle, or the placement position or posture of the prize may be changed without dropping. Even if the prize cannot be dropped, the prize can be dropped more easily the next time the game is executed by changing the placement position or posture of the prize.

If the pushing member 19P cannot come into contact with the receiving member 50 due to timing of the movement of the pushing member 19P, the pushing member 19P is moved to the lower limit position detected by the position sensor 19S3, and then moved upward. For example, it is returned to the initial position. In this case, the receiving member 50 may collide with the side portion of the pushing member 19P as the prize table 18L rotates. In this case, the rotation of the prize table 18L is limited by the impact of the receiving member 50, and the prize table 18L is separated from the rotation drive system and stops rotating.

Next, a tilting mechanism for tilting the prize table 18 in the prize table 17 of this embodiment will be described.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the appearance of the tilt mechanism provided at the bottom of the prize table 18 (prize tables 18L, 18R) in this embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the external configuration of a shaft member that supports the prize table 18 from below and rotates about its axis. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the external configuration of the shaft member when the prize table 18 is tilted.

As shown in FIG. 8, the prize table 18 is attached with a shaft member that is supported from the center of the lower part and rotates. The shaft member includes a first member 35 having one end fixed to the lower portion of the prize table 18 and a second member 31 having one end fixed to the rotation shaft of a table motor 30 for rotating the shaft member. The first magnet 39 provided at the other end of the member 35 and the second magnet 32 provided at the other end of the second member 31 are connected (coupled) by magnetic force. The first member 35 is rotatably supported by the support member 36, and is held in an oblique state by the support member 36 when the prize table 18 is tilted.

In this embodiment, an elastic member 40 such as rubber is provided between the first magnet 39 and the second magnet 32 , and the first magnet 39 and the second magnet 32 are connected via the elastic member 40 . The elastic member 40 is adhered, for example, to the upper surface of the second magnet 32 and is detachably attached to the lower surface of the first magnet 39 . That is, when the prize table 18 is not tilted, the lower surface of the first magnet 39 and the elastic member 40 are pressed against each other, and the magnetic coupling between the first magnet 39 and the second magnet 32 causes the first magnet 39 to move. and the second magnet 32 are connected (coupled). Thereby, the rotational power of the table motor 30 is transmitted to the prize table 18 .

On the other hand, when the prize table 18 is tilted, the axial direction of the first member 35 and the axial direction of the second member 31 do not match as shown in FIG. The first magnet 39 separates from the elastic member 40 (second magnet 32) against the magnetic force between them. As a result, the prize table 18 is separated from the rotation drive system (rotating shaft of the table motor 30), and the rotation of the prize table 18 is stopped.

Since the first member 35 (first magnet 39) and the second member 31 (second magnet 32) are not fixed, the prize table 18 does not rotate in complete agreement with the rotation of the table motor 30. FIG. For example, when rotating the prize table 18 in a stopped state, even if the table motor 30 is started to be driven, if the prize table 18 has a relatively large mass, inertia causes the prize table 18 to start driving the table motor 30. The rotation of the table motor 30 is transmitted from the second magnet 32 to the elastic member 40, and further transmitted from the elastic member 40 to the first magnet 39, so that the prize table 18 rotates. That is, since the rotational power of the table motor 30 is transmitted to the prize table 18 via the elastic member 40 , the power is transmitted to the prize table 18 so as to follow the rotation of the table motor 30 . After the rotation of the prize table 18 is stabilized, the prize table 18 is stably rotated in accordance with the rotation of the table motor 30. - 特許庁

When the elastic member 40 is not provided between the first magnet 39 and the second magnet 32, for example, when rotating the prize table 18 in a stopped state, the table motor 30 is started to drive. The second member 31 (second magnet 32) starts to rotate, but the prize table 18 and the first member 35 (first magnet 39) do not rotate due to inertia, so the coupling between the first magnet 39 and the second magnet 32 is slight. 2, the first magnet 39 and the second magnet 32 are coupled and the prize table 18 is rotated. Furthermore, as the table motor 30 is rotated, the first magnet 39 and the second magnet 32 are repeatedly displaced and coupled, and the prize table 18 moves inconsistently, for example, by repeatedly accelerating and decelerating. .

In this embodiment, an elastic member 40 is provided between the first magnet 39 and the second magnet 32 in order to couple the first member 35 and the second member 31, so that the table motor 30 is Rotational power can be stably transmitted to the prize table 18 to rotate the prize table 18 constantly.

As shown in FIG. 7, the support member 36 is fixed to the upper surface of the table support member 37. As shown in FIG. The table support member 37 is rotatably supported by rotating shaft portions 42a and 42b provided symmetrically. Therefore, since the table support member 37 holds the prize table 18 via the support member 36, the prize table 18 can be tilted by rotating the table support member 37 by the rotation shaft portions 42a and 42b. can be done.

A tilting mechanism bottom member 43 is fixed to the upper surface of the body housing of the table motor 30, and shaft support members 41a and 41b are vertically arranged on the upper surface of the tilting mechanism bottom member 43 with a space therebetween. The shaft support member 41a rotatably supports the rotation shaft portion 42a, and the shaft support member 41b rotatably supports the rotation shaft portion 42b.

A tension coil spring 46 is arranged between the table support member 37 and a member 47 fixed to the installation surface of the table motor 30 . When the prize table 18 is tilted as shown in FIG. 9, the table support member 37 is rotated by the rotation shafts 42a and 42b, and the mounting portion of the tension coil spring 46 is moved upward. Therefore, the tension coil spring 46 extends between the table support member 37 and the member 47 and biases the prize table 18 back to the original horizontal state. When the pusher mechanism 19 (pressing member 19P) is no longer pressed, the prize table 18 is returned to its original horizontal state by the tension coil spring 46 . Although the tension coil spring 46 is used in this embodiment, other members may be used as long as they can urge the prize table 18 to return to its original state.

Next, detailed configurations of the target mechanism 18C and the receiving member 50 in this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 to 15. FIG. FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the target mechanism 18C to which the receiving member 50a is attached. 11 is a perspective view showing the internal structure of the target mechanism 18C shown in FIG. 10. FIG.

The target mechanism 18</b>C includes a fixed member 55 that rotatably supports the shaft member 51 and an outer peripheral member 54 that covers the fixed member 55 . fixed to Therefore, the shaft member 51 is held so as to be rotatable at a position fixed to the prize table 18 . A receiving member 50 a is fixed to the shaft member 51 by screws 62 , for example. 11, a torsion coil spring 61 is wound around the shaft member 51 inside a fixing member 55, and both ends 61a and 61b of the torsion coil spring 61 are pressed against a fixing member 59. As shown in FIG. The fixed member 59 is fixed to the fixed member 55 attached to the prize table 18 . Therefore, the torsion coil spring 61 defines the rotatable range and the braking strength of the shaft member 51 about the rotation axis (the axis P2 indicated by the dashed line in FIG. 11). It should be noted that another elastic member may be provided in place of the torsion coil spring 61 to define the rotatable range of the shaft member 51 and the braking strength.

The shaft member 51 is provided with rod-like members 58 at predetermined intervals by connecting members 57a and 57b in the vicinity of both ends. Since the connecting members 57a and 57b are fixed respectively to the shaft member 51 and the rod-shaped member 58, as the shaft member 51 rotates, the rod-shaped member 58 is regulated by the coil spring 61 about the axis P2. move in an arc within the range.

A planar front member 53 covering the fixing member 55 and the outer peripheral member 54 is provided on the side of the fixing member 55 and the outer peripheral member 54 to which the receiving member 50a is attached. One ends of the shaft member 51 and the bar member 58 protrude from the front surface member 53, and the connecting member 57b is attached to the protruded portion. Further, the front surface member 53 is formed with an arcuate slit 53a centered on the axis P2 and having a width through which the rod-like member 58 can pass. Accordingly, as the shaft member 51 rotates, the rod member 58 moves in an arc shape and passes through the slit 53a.

A contact surface 50aW with which the pushing member 19P of the pusher mechanism 19 is pressed is formed on the receiving member 50a. In the receiving member 50a, for example, the outer shape of the contact surface 50aW is formed in a substantially rectangular planar shape. As shown in FIG. 11, the contact surface 50aW is formed at a position offset from the axis P2, that is, positioned below the axis P2 by a height of 50H.

For example, when the pressing member 19P is moved downward and comes into contact with the contact surface 50aW, if the contact surface 50aW contacts the axis P2 of the contact surface 50aW in the vertical direction, the pressing member 19P will move toward the contact surface 50aW. Since they are pressed almost vertically, the receiving member 50 is pushed downward as it is.

Further, when the pressing member 19P contacts the contact surface 50aW at a position that does not coincide with the axis P2 of the contact surface 50aW in the vertical direction, the contact surface 50aW is perpendicular to the pressing member 19P. The shaft member 51 rotates about the axis P2. At this time, the torsion coil spring 61 can absorb the impact when the pressing member 19P comes into contact with the contact surface 50aW and brake the rotation. As a result, the contact state of the pressing member 19P with the contact surface 50aW can be maintained, and the receiving member 50 (target mechanism 18C) can be continuously pressed down according to the downward movement of the pressing member 19P. By increasing or decreasing the strength of the torsion coil spring 61, it is possible to adjust how easily the pressing member 19P is pressed against the contact surface 50aW.

Further, when the pushing member 19P continues to push down, the prize table 18 tilts. At this time, the shaft member 51 is rotated by the shaft P2 in a direction in which the contact surface 50aW is perpendicular to the pressing member 19P in accordance with the inclination of the prize table 18. As shown in FIG. As a result, the pressing member 19P can maintain a state of pressing down the contact surface 50aW from a substantially vertical direction.

For example, as shown in FIG. 12, it is assumed that the pushing member 19P is moved downward to come into contact with the contact surface 50aW of the receiving member 50a and is pushed down in that state. In this case, as shown in FIG. 13, the prize table 18 is tilted, but as the shaft member 51 rotates, the contact surface 50aW of the receiving member 50a becomes substantially perpendicular to the pushing member 19P. Therefore, even if the inclination angle of the prize table 18 changes according to the pushing down by the pushing member 19P, the pushing down can be stably continued.

In this way, the contact surface of the receiving member 50 pushed down by the pushing member 19P is provided at a position separated from the shaft member 51 that allows the receiving member 50 to rotate, thereby changing the tilt of the prize table according to the depression. 18 can be followed to continue the depression. Further, by defining the rotatable range and braking strength of the receiving member 50 by the torsion coil spring 61, the easiness of pushing down the receiving member 50 by the pressing member 19P can be adjusted. Therefore, for example, when the pushing member 19P is pressed near the end of the contact surface 50aW, the prize table 18 is tilted until the prize is dropped by pushing down in that state, or the pushing member 19P moves to the contact surface in the middle of pushing down. It is possible to make an adjustment such as deviating from 50aW and interrupting the push-down in the middle so that only the prize table 18 is vibrated.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the target mechanism 18C to which the receiving member 50b is attached. A target mechanism 18C shown in FIG. 14 is equipped with a receiving member 50b different from the receiving member 50a shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 14, the receiving member 50b is provided with a substantially rectangular planar contact surface 50bW with which the pressing member 19P of the pusher mechanism 19 is pressed, similarly to the receiving member 50a. However, the width W2 of the contact surface 50bW in the direction perpendicular to the axis of the shaft member 51 is larger than the width W1 of the contact surface 50aW in the direction perpendicular to the axis of the shaft member 51 . In other words, the pressing member 19P has a shape that makes it easier to push down (pressure contact) than the receiving member 50a. Since other configurations are the same as those described above, description thereof is omitted.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the target mechanism 18C to which the receiving member 50c is attached. A target mechanism 18C shown in FIG. 15 is equipped with a receiving member 50c different from the receiving members 50a and 50b shown in FIGS.

As shown in FIG. 15, unlike the receiving members 50a and 50b, the receiving member 50c has a curved contact surface with which the pressing member 19P of the pusher mechanism 19 is pressed, and is wider than the receiving members 50a and 50b. is narrowed. In other words, the shape is such that it is more difficult to press down (pressure contact) with the pressing member 19P than with the receiving members 50a and 50b.

In this manner, a plurality of types of receiving members 50 are provided and can be arbitrarily exchanged and attached to the target mechanism 18C, thereby adjusting the difficulty of the game.

Although three types of receiving members 50a, 50b, and 50c are shown in the above description, it is also possible to provide receiving members 50 of other shapes.

For example, in the receiving members 50a and 50b, the outer shape of the contact surfaces 50aW and 50bW is substantially rectangular, but other shapes (circular, polygonal, etc.) are also possible. In addition to changing the difficulty level, the difficulty level may be changed according to the shape of the contact surface.

Further, in the receiving members 50a and 50b, the contact surfaces 50aW and 50bW are planar, but may be of other shapes. For example, it may be uneven, or may have projections formed on its part. Furthermore, a plurality of receiving members 50 having different contact surface materials may be provided. For example, a plurality of types of materials having different coefficients of friction with the pressing member 19P (the material of the tip portion) are used. Accordingly, by attaching the receiving member 50 made of a material having a high coefficient of friction to the target mechanism 18C, pressing by the pressing member 19P can be facilitated.

Further, as shown in the receiving member 50c, the contact surface with the pressing member 19P may be not only a convex curved surface but also a concave curved surface. By forming the concave curved surface, the pressing member 19P can be easily locked to the receiving member 50, and can be easily pushed down by the pressing member 19P.

Further, in the above description, a plurality of types of receiving members 50 are provided, but the contact portion of the pressing member 19P with the receiving member 50 or the entire pressing member 19P may be replaceable. In the above description, the lower tip portion of the pressing member 19P is formed of, for example, an elastic member having a tapered shape. It can also be configured by a member having Furthermore, although the lower tip portion of the pressing member 19P is tapered, it may be sharpened further to make it difficult to press the receiving member 50, or conversely, the area of the lower tip portion of the pressing member 19P may be increased to It is possible to change the shape of the tip of the pressing member 19P, for example, to facilitate pressure contact.

In the game device 10 according to the present embodiment, the degree of difficulty of pressing down the receiving member 50 by the pressing member 19P can be adjusted by the combination of the pressing member 19P and the receiving member 50. FIG.

Next, the functional configuration of the game device 10 according to this embodiment will be described.

FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the game device 10 according to this embodiment. FIG. 16 shows the control unit 70 and the main control panel 24 that are commonly used for the left unit 10L and the right unit 10R, and the control panel 23L and the mechanism part 72L provided for the left unit 10L. The right unit 10R is assumed to have the same configuration as the control panel 23L and the mechanism section 72L, and the description thereof will be omitted.

As shown in FIG. 16, inside the housing of the game device 10 are a control unit 70 in which various units for controlling each part are mounted, a main control panel commonly used by the left unit 10L and the right unit 10R. 24, a control panel 23L corresponding to the left unit 10L, and a mechanism section 72L.

The control unit 70 includes a CPU 80, a RAM 81, a storage device 82, an input/output processing unit 83, as well as a table motor drive section 84 and a pusher motor drive section 85 for controlling the mechanism section 72L provided in the left side unit 10L. Also, although not shown, a communication device or the like is provided for communicating with an external device through a network such as a LAN (Local Area Network). Although FIG. 16 shows only the mechanism section 72L provided in the left unit 10L, a mechanism section having the same configuration as the mechanism section 72L is provided in the right unit 10R. The control unit 70 controls the mechanism section of the right side unit 10R in the same manner as the mechanism section 72L, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

The CPU 80 controls the entire game device 10 by executing control programs and game control programs stored in the RAM 81 or storage device 82 . The CPU 80 responds to receipt notifications from the electronic money units 28L and 28R or coin insertion detection signals from the coin insertion sensors 99L and 99R, which are input via the input/output processing unit 83. The credit data indicating the number of playable times corresponding to each of the 10R is recorded in the RAM81. In addition, the CPU 80 responds to instructions input via the input/output processing unit 83 according to the user's operation on the start button 26L of the control panel 23L and detection signals from the position sensors 19S (19S1, 19S2, 19S3). , controls the pusher motor drive unit 85 to operate the pusher motor 19M. In addition, the CPU 80 controls audio output from the speaker 73 , display on the touch panel 27 , lighting/blinking of the LED group 93 , and the like, via the input/output processing unit 83 .

The RAM 81 temporarily stores various programs such as a control program and a game control program, as well as various data for controlling the game associated with the processing executed by the CPU 80 . Data recorded in the RAM 81 includes, for example, credit data indicating the number of playable times. The storage device 82 stores programs and data in non-volatile storage media such as ROMs and hard disks. The input/output processing unit 83 is an interface with various input/output devices provided outside the control unit 70 .

The table motor driving section 84 controls driving of the table motor 30 provided in the mechanism section 72L. The pusher motor driving section 85 controls driving of the pusher motor 19M provided in the mechanism section 72L.

As shown in FIG. 16, the mechanism section 72L includes a table motor 30, a pusher motor 19M, position sensors 19S (19S1, 19S2, 19S3), an LED group 93, a prize detection sensor 94, and the like.

The table motor 30 is driven by the table motor driving section 84 and used to rotate the prize table 18L. The pusher motor 19M is driven by the pusher motor driving section 85, and is used to vertically move the pushing member 19P of the pusher mechanism 19L.

The prize detection sensor 94 detects a prize dropped into the prize drop opening 20L by the operation of the pusher mechanism 19L (push member 19P) and notifies the CPU 80 of the detected prize.

Although not shown, the game device 10 detects the amount of rotation (rotational speed) of the prize table 18L rotated by the table motor 30, and detects that the prize table 18L is in a preset inclination (gradient) state. It is assumed that each sensor is provided for detecting the detection signal, and the CPU 80 is notified of a detection signal through the input/output processing unit 83 . CPU80 controls the drive of each part according to the notification from each sensor.

Only one start button 26L is provided on the control panel 23L. Therefore, the player can easily understand that this is a game in which only the start button 26L is operated.

The main control panel 24 includes a touch panel 27, electronic money units 28L and 28R, coin insertion slots 29L and 29R, and coin insertion sensors 99L and 99R. The electronic money unit 28L, the coin slot 29L, and the coin slot sensor 99L are for inputting the game charge for playing the game in the left unit 10L. , for inputting game charges for game play in the right unit 10R.

The electronic money units 28L and 28R are units for depositing an amount of money as a game fee by bringing electronic money cards close to each other. The electronic money units 28L and 28R can set the game fee to be charged under the control of, for example, a server device connected to the game device 10 via a network (LAN or the like) or the control unit 70 (CPU 80).

The coin insertion sensor 99L detects a coin inserted from the coin insertion slot 29L and outputs a detection signal indicating coin insertion to the input/output processing unit 83 . The coin insertion sensor 99R detects a coin inserted from the coin insertion slot 29R and outputs a detection signal indicating coin insertion to the input/output processing unit 83. FIG. The CPU 80 records credit data indicating the number of playable times corresponding to the left unit 10L or the right unit 10R according to detection signals from the coin insertion sensors 99L and 99R received through the input/output processing unit 83.

The touch panel 27 displays various information under the control of the CPU 80 . The touch panel 27 displays, for example, the number of credits (the number of playable times), an operation mode, and the like. The touch panel 27 displays the game fee, the amount of money deposited, the number of remaining plays (number of credits), menus (buttons) for setting functions, messages to the player, and the like. Note that the function setting menu (setting screen) is normally not displayed so that the player cannot operate it, but is displayed by performing a predetermined operation. For example, a setting button is provided on the upper housing 12 inside the transparent plate 15 . When this setting button is operated, the CPU 80 changes the display of the touch panel 27 from the display for games to that for various settings (function setting menu). The CPU 80 executes various settings (storage of setting data) according to the operation on the function setting menu, and changes the display of the touch panel 27 to that for the game after completing the settings. In this way, by enabling various settings using the touch panel 27 provided on the main control panel 24, the setting work can be performed in a comfortable posture.

The setting device 74 is used by the administrator to make various settings for the game device 10. For example, the setting device 74 includes a plurality of buttons (select button, enter button, up/down/left/right buttons, etc.) for inputting various setting operations. ), and a display for displaying various setting screens. The CPU 80 stores the setting data set in the setting device 74, for example, in the storage device 82, and controls the game according to this setting data. The setting data includes, for example, the rotation speed and direction of rotation (right rotation, left rotation) of the prize table 18L during game execution, the initial position (height) of the pressing member 19P, and the pressing member 19P according to the operation of the start button 26L. There is a speed for moving downward. The administrator of the game device 10 can adjust the difficulty of the game, that is, the difficulty of pushing down the prize table 18L with the pushing members 19P, by changing the contents of the setting data.

Note that the game device 10 may allow various settings to be made by operating the touch panel 27 instead of the setting device 74 . For example, by operating a predetermined button set on the touch panel 27, a shift to the setting mode (test mode) is instructed. When the CPU 80 detects an instruction to shift to the setting mode (test mode), the CPU 80 causes the touch panel 27 to display a setting screen. The CPU 80 stores setting data in, for example, the storage device 82 according to the setting contents instructed through the setting screen.

Next, the operation of the game device 10 according to this embodiment will be described.

FIG. 17 is a flow chart showing game control processing executed based on the game control program of the game device 10 .

The CPU 80 of the game device 10 can execute, for example, a demonstration operation while the game is not being played by the player. For example, the CPU 80 also rotates the prize table 18 by driving the table motor 30 through the table motor driving section 84 . As a result, the prizes placed on the prize table 18 are rotated, and the prizes are appealed to the players to encourage them to play the game. It is possible to make the player comprehend the arrival speed) and the like.

Further, the CPU 80 drives the pusher motor 19</b>M through the pusher motor driving section 85 to move the pushing member 19</b>P of the pusher mechanism 19 up and down within a range that does not reach the receiving member 50 , for example. As a result, the player can grasp the operation of the start buttons 26L and 26R and the moving speed of the pressing member 19P before starting the game.

By executing the demonstration operation in this manner, the player can recognize the current setting state of the game device 10 (rotational speed of the prize table 18, moving speed of the pushing member 19P), and facilitate playing the game. can be done. In particular, even a player who has never used the game device 10 can easily grasp the contents of the game.

It should be noted that instead of executing the demonstration operation all the time, the game apparatus 10 is provided with a motion sensor (not shown) or the like, and is executed when it is detected that a person has moved near the game apparatus 10. You can do it.

When playing the game, the player pays the game play fee by inserting a predetermined coin from the coin slot 29L or performing a predetermined operation on the electronic money unit 28L. When the CPU 80 receives a coin insertion detection signal from the coin insertion sensor 99L (step A1, Yes) or a payment notification (accounting process) from the electronic money unit 28L (step A2, Yes), the CPU 80 receives an operation from the player. start the initial game operation.

The CPU 80 drives the pusher motor 19M through the pusher motor driving section 85 to position the pressing member 19P at the initial position (step A3). That is, for example, the CPU 80 moves the pressing member 19P (detection member 19P3) to the upper limit position detected by the position sensor 19S1, and then moves it downward until it is detected by the position sensor 19S2. When the pushing member 19P has been positioned at the initial position, the CPU 80 starts counting time to determine the valid time for the player to operate the start button 26L (step A4), and waits for the operation of the start button 26L (step A4). Step A6, No). During this time, the CPU 80 displays the remaining time until the operation effective time on the touch panel 27 (for example, the number of seconds remaining), sounds from the speaker 73, and lights/blinks the LED group 93 to notify the player. can be notified.

If the start button 26L is not operated within the valid operation time (time over) (step S6, Yes), the CPU 80, for example, displays at least one of the display on the touch panel 27, the sound from the speaker 73, and the lighting/blinking of the LED group 93. Either one notifies the player of time over (step A7). In this case, the CPU 80 starts control for moving downward the pushing member 19P of the pusher mechanism 19, which will be described later, when the time runs out (step A8). That is, even if the player does not operate the start button 26L, the player is provided with an opportunity to win a prize by executing the downward movement of the push member 19P. If the start button 26L is not operated within the valid operation time, the game may be ended without moving the push member 19P downward.

On the other hand, when the CPU 80 detects that the start button 26L has been operated within the valid operation time (step A5, Yes), the CPU 80 causes the pusher motor driving section 85 to move the pushing member 19P downward from the initial position. to drive the pusher motor 19M. As a result, the pushing member 19P of the pusher mechanism 19 starts moving downward.

As a result, when the pressing member 19P comes into pressure contact with the receiving member 50 of one of the target mechanisms 18C provided on the outer periphery of the prize table 18L, and the pressing member 19P is pushed down, the prize table 18L is tilted by the tilting mechanism. Along with this inclination, the coupling between the first member 35 and the second member 31 is disengaged, and the rotation of the prize table 18L is stopped.

When the pressing member 19P continues to push down the receiving member 50 and the tilt angle of the prize table 18L increases, the prize drops from the prize table 18L and is received in the prize drop opening 20L. At this time, the prize detection sensor 94 detects that the prize has fallen into the prize drop opening 20L and notifies the CPU 80 of the fact. When the CPU 80 receives notification from the prize detection sensor 94 (step A9, Yes), the CPU 80 detects that the prize has been won by at least one of display on the touch panel 27, sound from the speaker 73, and lighting/blinking of the LED group 93. An output is executed to notify the player (and the administrator of the game device 10) of the fact (step A10).

Further, when a communication device for communicating with an external device through a network is provided, the CPU 80 notifies the administrator of the game device 10 that a prize has been won by the player, and replenishes the prize. may be prompted.

On the other hand, when the tilt detection sensor (not shown) detects that the prize table 18L is tilted to the maximum angle, or the position sensor 19S3 detects that the pushing member 19P has been moved to the lower limit position, the CPU 80 (Step A11, Yes), the moving direction of the pushing member 19P is changed upward and moved to a predetermined position (for example, the initial position), and the game is ended.

When the pressing member 19P is no longer pushed down, the prize table 18L is returned to its original horizontal state by the tension coil spring 46 as described above.

In this manner, in the game device 10 according to the present embodiment, only by operating the start button 26L, the push member 19P is instructed to start moving, and the push member 19P tilts the prize table 18L, thereby placing the player on the prize table 18L. It is possible to provide a game in which placed prizes are dropped. In other words, it is possible to provide a game device that allows the user to easily grasp the content of the game and that can appeal the ease with which prizes can be obtained.

In the game device 10 according to the present embodiment, the rotation speed of the prize table 18L and the vertical movement speed of the pressing member 19P are set constant, but the speed may be changed during the game. You may make it add the control of a movement/stop by pressing. This makes it possible to adjust the difficulty level of the game and change the content of the game.

Further, in the above description, the pushing member 19P is moved downward by the pusher mechanism 19 to push (press down) the receiving member 50 of the target mechanism 18C downward. In the mechanism, the direction of pressing is not limited to the downward (vertical) direction, and it can be used to press in other directions such as diagonally downward, laterally, and upward.

Moreover, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments as they are, and can be embodied by modifying the constituent elements without departing from the scope of the present invention at the implementation stage. Further, various inventions can be formed by appropriate combinations of the plurality of constituent elements disclosed in the above embodiments. For example, some components may be omitted from all components shown in the embodiments. Furthermore, components across different embodiments may be combined as appropriate.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10... Game apparatus, 12... Upper housing|casing, 13... Lower housing|casing, 15... Transparent board, 16... Field board, 17 (17L, 17R)... Prize stand, 18 (18L, 18R)... Prize table, 18C (18C1) , 18C2, 18C3, 18C4) ... target mechanism 19 (19L, 19R) ... pusher machine 19P ... pushing member 20 (20L, 20R) ... prize drop opening 21 (21L, 21R) ... prize extraction opening 22 ... Front maintenance door 23 (23L, 23R) control panel 24 main control panel 25 prize stock shelf 26L, 26R start button 27 touch panel 28 (28L, 28R) electronic money unit 29 ( 29L, 29R)... coin slot, 50 (50a, 50b, 50c)... receiving member (catch cover).

Claims (4)

A pressing mechanism used in a game device from which a prize can be obtained,
a first mechanism secured to the tiltable platform;
a second mechanism that presses the first mechanism to tilt the platform;
The second mechanism has a configuration in which the pressing member is moved in a predetermined direction to perform pressing, and the first mechanism includes a receiving member with which the pressing member is pressed by the movement of the pressing member, and the receiving member. a contact surface to which the pressing member is pressed and a shaft member that allows the receiving member to rotate with respect to the base at a position of the rotating shaft that is displaced from the contact surface. 2. The pressing mechanism according to claim 1, further comprising an elastic member that defines a rotation range of said shaft member. 2. The pressing mechanism according to claim 1, wherein said first mechanism has a structure in which said receiving member is detachable. 2. The pressing mechanism according to claim 1, wherein said second mechanism has a structure in which a contact portion of said pressing member with said receiving member is replaceable.