JP7424920B2 - gaming machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

2. Description of the Related Art As a game machine, a pachinko game machine equipped with a game board, a firing device, and the like is known. In a pachinko game machine, a game medium (game ball) is fired into a game area provided on the front of the game board, and based on the game ball entering a prize opening provided in the game area, a player is given a game. The above benefits will be granted.

Such a game machine includes a game board that forms a game area in which game balls shot from a shooting device move. The game balls guided into the game area fall while colliding with nails and windmills. Further, such a gaming machine includes a handle, and a game ball is ejected from a firing device with a force corresponding to the operation of the handle and guided to a gaming area (for example, see Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2014-18335

By the way, in gaming machines, there is a need to reduce the possibility that parts will break down.

The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine in which the possibility of component failure is reduced.

In order to solve the above problems, the gaming machine of the present invention includes:
A gaming machine comprising a main body frame, an outer frame to which the main body frame can be attached, and a game board in which a gaming area is formed,
The main body frame includes a handle formed to be rotatable, and a design portion protruding forward from above,
The handle includes a finger hook that protrudes radially outward,
The handle is rotatable from an initial position to a maximum rotational position,
In the initial position, the finger hook portion does not protrude to the right beyond the right edge of the main body frame,
At the maximum rotation position, the finger hook does not protrude to the right beyond the right edge of the main body frame,
The game board includes a game ball passage through which a game ball passing through the upper end of the game area is guided;
A horizontal line passing through a portion of the lower surface of the game ball passage located directly below the apex of the upper surface of the game ball passage and extending in the lateral direction of the upper surface of the game ball passage is a reference line,
Among the parts on the lower surface of the design part where a vertical line that intersects with the reference line can intersect, the rearmost part is a first design part,
If the lowest part of the lower surface of the design part where the vertical line that intersects the reference line can intersect is the second design part,
The first design portion is located above the reference line, and the distance from the reference line is greater than or equal to the radius of the game ball,
The second design portion is located below the reference line, and the distance from the reference line is greater than or equal to the diameter of the game ball.

According to such a configuration, even if the main body frame is placed in a box or the like, the finger rest will not come into contact with the box or the like, and the handle will not be damaged. Therefore, the risk of parts being damaged can be reduced. Moreover, according to such a configuration, the second design part is located below the reference line and the distance from the reference line is equal to or greater than the diameter of the game ball, so the design part can be made larger. . In addition, even though the design part is enlarged in this way, by making the distance between the reference line and the first design part larger than the radius of the game ball, it is possible to prevent the game ball from being launched weakly (along the lower surface of the game ball path). The visibility of the game ball can be ensured when the game ball rolls. The gaming machine according to this embodiment can ensure the visibility of the gaming ball.

According to the gaming machine of the present invention, it is possible to reduce the possibility that parts will break down.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the gaming machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention, with the door opened. It is a diagram seen from the front side of the game board. It is a schematic diagram of the gaming machine seen from the front side. It is an exploded perspective view of the same door unit. The same shows the handle, in which (a) is a perspective view seen from the front side, and (b) is a perspective view seen from the rear side. FIG. 3 is a view of the handle unit viewed from the front side in the axial direction of the handle. It is a diagram of a part of the door unit seen from the front side. It is a diagram of a part of the door unit seen from the front side. It is a view showing a part of the door unit in the same case, as seen from the front side in the axial direction of the handle. It is a perspective view of the handle viewed from the front side, with the face cover removed. FIG. 2 is a diagram (part 1) showing the operating torque and operating angle of the handle. It is a graph (part 1) showing the operating torque of the steering wheel. FIG. 3 is a diagram (part 2) showing the operating torque and operating angle of the handle. It is a graph (part 2) showing the operating torque of the steering wheel. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the front frame and the inner frame of the same as seen from the front side. FIG. 3 is a view of the front frame and the inner frame viewed from the front side in the axial direction of the handle. It is a perspective view showing an example of a gaming machine according to a second embodiment of the present invention. It is a diagram seen from the front side of the game board. It is an exploded perspective view of the saucer unit of the same. It is a figure which looked at the saucer unit from the back side. FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the downstream ball extraction unit in the same embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating the closed state of the downstream side ball removal hole in the same same. It is a figure for demonstrating the open state of the downstream side ball removal hole in the same same. It is an exploded perspective view of the upstream ball removal unit in the same case. It is a figure for demonstrating the closed state of the upstream side ball removal hole in the same same. It is a figure for demonstrating the open state of the upstream side ball extraction hole in the same same. It is a figure for explaining the state of the upstream side ball extraction hole when the upstream side ball extraction button is operated by a predetermined amount less than the diameter of the game ball. It is a diagram of the lower part of the gaming machine seen from below. It is a front view showing an example of a gaming machine according to a third embodiment of the present invention. It is a diagram seen from the front side of the game board. 30 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line AA shown in FIG. 29. FIG. It is an exploded perspective view showing the outer rail, rail base, and game board. It is a figure which shows the outer rail of the same. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the rail base and the outer rail as seen from the rear side, and is an overall view and a partially enlarged view thereof. It is a perspective view of the rail base and the upper right part of the outer rail seen from the back side. It is a perspective view of the rail base and the lower left of the outer rail viewed from the back side. It is a schematic sectional view for explaining the relationship between the game ball and the hole. It is a front view of the outer rail and the game board, and is a diagram for explaining the positions of the holes in the outer rail.

(First embodiment)
Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In this embodiment, a pachinko game machine, which is one of the game machines, will be described, but other game machines may be used. In the following explanation, "front and back" basically means, when the player is on the front side of the pachinko machine, that the player side is the "front" and the pachinko machine side is the "rear", and "up and down" means the player is on the front side of the pachinko machine. The top side of the pachinko game machine means "top" and the bottom side means "bottom", and "left and right" means the player's left hand side means "left" and the right hand side means "right". Note that within the scope of the present invention, each configuration can be freely combined, each configuration can be arbitrarily modified, or each configuration can be omitted.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the gaming machine 100, showing a state in which the door is open.
A gaming machine 100 (Pachinko gaming machine 100) uses game balls as a gaming medium, and a player plays a game using the gaming machine 100 by borrowing a gaming ball from a gaming hall operator. In addition, in the game on the game machine 100, each game ball is a medium that has a game value, and the privilege (profit) that the player enjoys as a result of the game is, for example, the game ball that the player has acquired. It can be converted into gaming value based on the number of .

The gaming machine 100 includes an outer frame 102 formed in a substantially rectangular frame shape (vertically elongated rectangular frame shape), an inner frame 104 (middle frame) attached to the outer frame 102 via a hinge mechanism so as to be freely openable and closable, and an inner frame 104 (middle frame) attached to the outer frame 102 via a hinge mechanism. The front frame 300 is attached to the frame 104 via a hinge mechanism so as to be openable and closable. The inner frame 104, like the outer frame 102, is formed into a substantially rectangular frame shape. The inner frame 104 holds a game board 108 (game board unit). Specifically, the game board unit can be attached to and detached from the inner frame 104 (inner frame assembly) with the front frame 300 opened forward.

A glass unit 110 (transmission plate) is attached to the front frame 300. Specifically, a window is formed in the center of the front frame 300, and the glass unit 110 is attached to the window. The glass unit 110 is, for example, a combination of two transparent plates (glass plates) cut to match the shape of a window. Note that in this embodiment, the glass unit 110 is used, but it may be made of resin.

Here, the configuration including the front frame 300 and the inner frame 104 is referred to as a "main frame". The main body frame is detachable from the outer frame 102 (openable and closable). When the main body frame is closed with respect to the outer frame 102, the game board 108 and the glass unit 110 face each other substantially in parallel with a predetermined interval (gap) interposed therebetween. At this time, the game board 108 becomes visible from the front side of the game machine 100 through the glass unit 110.

Note that the front frame 300 may refer only to a frame member having a substantially rectangular shape (door base 310 described below), and refers to the frame member and all members attached to the frame member (including design members, etc.). It may also refer to the entire unit that is integrated with.

Furthermore, the gaming machine 100 includes an effect device that performs effects during the progress of the game. The performance devices include a performance display device 114 consisting of a liquid crystal display device, a performance accessory device 116 consisting of a movable device, an audio output device 118 consisting of a speaker (see Fig. 3), and lamps that are controlled in various lighting modes and emission colors. There are a production lighting device 120 consisting of a production lighting device 120, a production operation device 208 (see FIG. 3) that receives operations, and the like. The effect display device 114, the effect accessory device 116, the audio output device 118, the effect lighting device 120, and the effect operation device 208 execute a predetermined effect based on the control of a control board provided within the inner frame 104. .

The game board 108 is formed with a through hole 108a (see FIG. 2) that penetrates in the thickness direction (the front-rear direction of the game machine 100). A performance display device 114 is provided on the back side of the game board 108. The effect display device 114 includes an image display section that displays images. The image display section is arranged within the inner frame 104 and exposed through the through hole 108a, so that the image displayed on the image display section can be viewed from the front side.

The effect accessory device 116 is arranged in front of the effect display device 114 within the inner frame 104, and is usually retracted to the back side of the game board 108, but during the progress of the game, the effect display device 114 is It can move all the way to the front, giving the player a sense of anticipation of a jackpot.

The effect lighting device 120 is provided in the front frame 300, and for example, a plurality of effect lighting devices 120 are provided so as to surround the glass unit 110. The effect lighting device 120 includes LEDs and the like, and is controlled to be lit in various ways according to, for example, images displayed on the effect display device 114.

As shown in FIG. 3, the audio output device 118 is provided in the outer frame 102. The audio output device 118 outputs sound, audio, BGM, etc. toward the front side of the gaming machine 100 in accordance with the images and the like displayed on the effect display device 114. The outer frame 102 located below has a predetermined width, and the audio output device 118 (speaker) is a component of the outer frame 102.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of the gaming machine 100 viewed from the front side (front). The production operation device 208 (production operation unit 208) includes a production operation section configured to accept production-related operations (predetermined operations). When the performance operation section is operated, the content of the performance (display on the performance display device) is changed or a predetermined performance is generated. A key portion 209 (cylinder) is provided on the right side of the gaming machine 100 when viewed from the front. When a predetermined key is inserted into the key portion 209 and rotated (twisted) counterclockwise, the front frame 300 can be opened to the front side, and when rotated (twisted) clockwise, the front frame 300 and the inner frame are opened. 104 (that is, the main body frame) can be opened to the front side.

FIG. 2 is a diagram of the game board 108 viewed from the front side. The game board (game board) 108 is made of, for example, transparent synthetic resin (eg, acrylic). The game board 108 is provided with a substantially circular outer rail 114b and an inner rail 114a formed in an arc shape along the outer rail 114b. A game ball fired from a firing mechanism (launching device) (not shown) ascends between the inner rail 114a and the outer rail 114b and is guided to the game area 116. The game area 116 (board surface) is a space formed between the game board 108 and the glass unit 110, and is an area in which the game ball can move (flow down, roll). The game board 108 is provided with a large number of game nails and windmills, and the game balls guided into the game area 116 collide with the nails and windmills and move (flow down, roll) in irregular directions. I have to.

The outer rail 114b extends clockwise from the bottom of the game board 108 toward the upper left, and also extends clockwise from the approximate center of the game board 108 in the vertical direction (vertical direction) toward the upper right. There is. The outer rail 114b extends in a curved manner from the bottom to the top of the game board 108, and surrounds the game area 116. That is, the area surrounded by the outer rail 114b is the game area 116 in which the game ball moves. Further, the inner rail 114a is provided on the left side of the game board 108 and inside the outer rail 114b in the game area 116.

The game area 116 includes a first game area 116a and a second game area 116b, in which the degree of entry of game balls is different depending on the firing intensity of the firing mechanism, and game balls can be shot separately. The first gaming area 116a is located on the left side of the gaming area 116 when viewed from the player facing the gaming machine 100, and the second gaming area 116b is located on the left side of the gaming area 116 when viewed from the player facing the gaming machine 100. It is located on the right side. Since the outer rail 114b and the inner rail 114a are on the left side of the game area 116, the game ball fired by the firing mechanism with a firing intensity lower than the predetermined intensity enters the first game area 116a (left-handed hitting area), The game ball fired by the firing mechanism with a firing strength equal to or higher than a predetermined strength enters the second game area 116b (right-handed hitting area). Operating the operating handle 340 to drive a game ball into the first game area 116a is called left-handed hitting, and operating the operating handle 340 to drive a game ball into the second gaming area 116b is called right-handed hitting. He says he will carry it out.

Further, the gaming area 116 is provided with a general winning opening 118 and a starting winning opening 120 (starting opening) into which game balls can enter. When game balls enter the general winning hole 118 and the starting winning hole 120, respective predetermined prize balls (game balls obtained by winning) are paid out to the player. Note that the number of prize balls may be any number as long as it is one or more. Further, the number of prize balls to be paid out in each of the general winning hole 118 and the starting winning hole 120 may be different, or may be set to the same number of prize balls.

The starting prize opening 120 is provided at the lower center (the center in the left-right direction) in the gaming area 116. Although a detailed explanation will be omitted, when a game ball enters the starting winning hole 120, a big prize lottery is held to determine whether or not to give a predetermined gaming profit, and if you win a jackpot in the big prize lottery, the big prize game is won. executed. The big winning game consists of a plurality of round games, and during each round game, the big prize opening is opened. The big prize opening is provided in the second gaming area 116b. Each round game ends when a predetermined time has elapsed from its start or when a preset upper limit number of game balls enter the grand prize opening. When a game ball enters the big prize opening, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out to the player, so the player can win a large amount of prize balls by executing the big prize game.

An out port 122 (discharge port) is provided at the bottom of the gaming area 116. Game balls that have not entered any of the general winning hole 118, starting winning hole 120, and big winning hole are discharged from the gaming area 116 to the back side of the game board 108 via the out hole 122.

Furthermore, the game area 116 includes an upper passage 114c that connects the left-handed game area 116a and the right-handed game area 116b. This upper passage 114c is provided above the through hole 108a.

The gaming machine according to this embodiment is controlled by a control board including a main board and a sub board. The functions of each board such as the main board and sub-boards are determined by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ASIC (gate array, etc.), ROM (an example of an information storage medium), or RAM. This is realized by software consisting of a given program stored in advance in, for example, a computer.

The main board receives input signals from input means (various sensors, etc.), performs various calculations for playing games, and controls the operation of output means (payout device, etc.) based on the calculation results.

The sub-board receives commands sent from the main board and input signals from a performance operation sensor that detects operations on the performance operation device 208, which will be described later, to execute various performances in accordance with the progress of the game. is calculated, and the operation of the production device is controlled based on the calculation result.

Next, details of the door unit 300 will be explained. FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the door unit 300. The door unit 300 includes a plate-shaped door base 310, a saucer unit 320, a handle unit 330, and the like. Note that a glass unit 110 (see FIG. 1) can be attached to the back side of the door base 310.

The saucer unit 320 has a shape that projects forward and includes a saucer. The saucer is configured to be able to store game balls lent to players (rental balls) and game balls won by winning (prize balls). The saucer unit 320 is attached (assembled) below the front side of the door base 310. The saucer unit 320 is fixed to the door base 310 by tightening screws from the rear side of the door base 310. Note that a recess is provided in the center of the saucer unit 320, and the production operation unit 208 shown in FIG. 3 is attached to this recess.

The handle unit 330 includes a handle 340 that is provided to project forward and a handle base 350. The handle 340 is formed to be rotatable. When the handle 340 is rotated and a firing operation is performed, the game is fired from the firing mechanism (launching device) with an intensity (ejection force) (momentum) corresponding to the rotation angle (operation angle) (rotation amount) (rotation operation amount) of the handle 340. The ball is set to be fired. The handle unit 330 is attached (assembled) to the lower right portion of the door base 310 (lower right portion of the front frame) (lower right portion of the tray unit 320). The handle unit 330 is fixed to the door base 310 by tightening screws from the rear side of the door base 310.

As shown in FIG. 4, in this embodiment, the saucer unit 320 and the handle unit 330 can be individually (separately) fixed to the door base 310. Therefore, for example, it is not possible to remove the handle unit 330 from the door base 310 while the saucer unit 320 is fixed to the door base 310, or to remove the saucer unit 320 from the door base 310 while the handle unit 330 is fixed to the door base 310. Can be done. That is, it is possible to remove only either the saucer unit 320 or the handle unit 330 for inspection, replacement, etc. Thereby, work can be done flexibly and work efficiency can be improved. In addition, in this embodiment, it is possible to attach and detach only the effect unit 208 without removing the saucer unit 320 from the door base 310.

Further, in the handle unit 330, a handle 340 and a handle base 350 are each separately fixed to the door base 310 with screws. Therefore, only the handle 340 can be removed from the door base 310 while the handle base 350 is fixed to the door base 310. The handle 340 is a component that is replaced more frequently than the handle base 350. By making only the handle 340 replaceable, the cost of replacement can be reduced. Note that the screws used for fixing the handle 340 and the screws used for fixing the handle base 350 may have different colors. For example, the screws used to fix the handle 340 are colored red. By changing the color of the screws in this way, the operator can easily understand which screws to remove, thereby preventing mistakes and improving work efficiency. Further, an identification character such as "H" may be attached near the screw hole (screw hole) for the handle 340.

When removing parts from the door base 310, first remove the saucer unit 320, then remove the handle 340, and then remove the handle base 350. Note that the handle 340 and the handle base 350 may be removed at the same time.

(handle 340)
5(a) is a perspective view of the handle 340 seen from the front side, and FIG. 5(b) is a perspective view of the handle 340 seen from the rear side. The handle 340 includes a main body 341, a handle ring 342 (handle), a firing stop button 343, a cover 344, and the like. The main body part 341 is fixed to the door base 310 as a member to which it is attached, and rotatably supports the handle ring 342. The handle ring 342 is rotatable around the main body 341 within a predetermined rotation amount (predetermined operating angle) from an initial position to a maximum rotation position. The maximum rotation position is a position where the amount of rotation relative to the initial position is maximum. The maximum rotation position is the position at the moment when a predetermined part of the handle ring 342 contacts (contacts) the mechanical end (stopper), and after the contact is made, further force is applied to rotate the predetermined part of the handle ring 342. It does not include positions where the load (reaction force) increases rapidly due to pressure contact with the mechanical end. The firing stop button 343 can be pressed down, and is provided so that the firing of game balls can be stopped while the handle ring 342 is being rotated by a predetermined amount of rotation. Further, the cover 344 (face cover) is provided to cover the front side of the handle ring 342.

FIG. 6 is a diagram of the handle unit 330 viewed from the front side in the axial direction of the handle 340. Here, as shown in FIG. 6, the center (rotation axis) of the handle 340 is defined as the center P (rotation axis P). FIG. 6 shows the handle ring 342 in its initial position. When viewed from the front, the handle ring 342 is biased counterclockwise about the center P as a rotation axis by an elastic member (ring spring, not shown). Therefore, when rotating the handle ring 342 clockwise from the initial position, it is necessary to operate (apply force) against the biasing force of the elastic member. Furthermore, when the handle ring 342 is rotated a predetermined amount of rotation in the clockwise direction and the operation is released (when you stop applying force), the handle ring 342 returns to its initial position due to the urging force of the elastic member ( automatic recovery).

(handle ring 342)
The handle ring 342 includes a ring portion 350a, a first finger rest 351, a second finger rest 352, and a third finger rest 353. The first finger hook portion 351 to the third finger hook portion 353 are formed on the outer peripheral surface of the annular ring portion 350a so as to protrude radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the ring portion 350a along the circumferential direction. ing. The first finger hook portion 351 to the third finger hook portion 353 have a substantially triangular shape (mountain shape) when viewed from the front. When the first to third finger hooks 351 to 353 are viewed with their respective tips facing upward, the slope on the left side is a slope with a larger slope (a slope with a steep slope) than the slope on the right side. ). The slope on the left side is steeper than the slope on the right, making it easier for fingers to get caught.

If the first to third finger hooks 351 to 353 are not provided, the user would have to grip the outer peripheral surface of the ring portion 350a to rotate the ring portion 350a. When the three-finger hook portion 353 is provided, a rotation operation can be performed by hooking the fingers. Therefore, the player can perform the rotation operation more easily. This can reduce the burden on the player.

The door unit 300 is a component that may be handled alone. In other words, it is a component for which the work of attaching/detaching (replacing) only the door unit 300 or the work of transporting only the door unit 300 is performed. Therefore, a situation may occur where only the door unit 300 is placed on a surface such as the floor, or a situation where only the door unit 300 is placed in a packaging member such as a box.

FIG. 7 is a front view of the door unit 300. As shown in FIG. 7, the lower edge of the door unit 300 (front frame 300) is defined as a lower edge S1. The lower edge S1 constitutes the lower outermost shape of the front frame 300. If all or part of the first to third finger rests 351 to 353 protrude below the lower edge S1, they may come into contact with the floor when the front frame 300 is placed on the floor. However, the handle ring 342 (handle 340) may be damaged.

(Initial position: downward)
FIG. 7 shows the handle ring 342 in its initial position. At the initial position, the tip of the first finger hook 351 faces toward the upper left side. The tip of the second finger hook 352 faces upward. The tip of the third finger hook 353 faces toward the upper right side. In this embodiment, in the initial position, none of the first to third finger hooks 351 to 353 of the handle ring 342 protrude below the lower edge S1 of the front frame 300. Therefore, even if the front frame 300 is placed on the floor, the first to third finger rests 351 to 353 will not come into contact with the floor, etc., and the handle ring 342 (handle 340) will not be damaged. There isn't. Therefore, the risk of parts being damaged can be reduced.

(Maximum rotation position: downward)
FIG. 8 is a front view of the door unit 300, showing a state in which the handle ring 342 is at the maximum rotation position. The maximum rotation position is a position where the amount of rotation (operation amount) of the handle ring 342 from the initial position is maximum. At the maximum rotation position, the tip of the first finger rest 351 faces upward. The tip of the second finger hook 352 faces to the right. The tip of the third finger hook 353 faces downward. In this embodiment, at the maximum rotation position, the tip of the third finger hook 353 is closest to the lower edge S1.

In this embodiment, even at the maximum rotation position, none of the first to third finger hooks 351 to 353 of the handle ring 342 protrude below the lower edge S1 of the front frame 300. Therefore, even if the front frame 300 is placed on the floor with the handle ring 342 at its maximum rotation position, the first to third finger hooks 351 to 353 will come into contact with the floor, etc. Therefore, the handle ring 342 (handle 340) will not be damaged. Therefore, the risk of parts being damaged can be reduced.

In this embodiment, no matter what rotational position (what rotational position) the handle ring 342 is in, all of the first to third fingerhold parts 351 to 353 of the handle ring 342 are attached to the lower edge of the front frame 300. It does not protrude below S1. In this embodiment, the tip of the third finger hook 353 is closest to the lower edge S1 at the maximum rotation position. However, the point at which the tip of one of the finger hooks approaches the lower edge S1 the closest does not have to be the maximum rotation position. In other words, if the predetermined rotational position is the position where the tip of any of the fingerrests is closest to the lower edge S1, then at the predetermined rotational position, all the fingerrests are arranged so that they do not protrude below the lower edge S1. It should be .

Return to FIG. 7. The right edge of the door unit 300 (front frame 300) is defined as a right edge T1. The right edge T1 constitutes the outermost shape of the right side of the front frame 300. If all or part of the first to third finger hooks 351 to 353 protrude to the right (right side) from the right edge T1, when the front frame 300 is placed in a box, etc., it will not fit with the box. There is a risk that the handle ring 342 (handle 340) may be damaged due to contact.

(Initial position: right side)
In this embodiment, in the initial position, none of the first to third finger hooks 351 to 353 of the handle ring 342 protrudes to the right (rightward) of the right edge T1 of the front frame 300. Therefore, even if the front frame 300 is placed in a box or the like, the first to third finger hooks 351 to 353 will not come into contact with the box or the like, and the handle ring 342 (handle 340) will not be damaged. There isn't. Therefore, the risk of parts being damaged can be reduced.

(Maximum rotation position: right side)
As shown in FIG. 8, at the maximum rotation position, the tip of the second finger hook 352 is closest to the right edge T1. In this embodiment, even at the maximum rotation position, none of the first to third finger hooks 351 to 353 of the handle ring 342 protrude to the right side of the right edge T1 of the front frame 300. Therefore, even if the front frame 300 is placed in a box or the like with the handle ring 342 at its maximum rotation position, the first to third finger hooks 351 to 353 will come into contact with the box or the like. Therefore, the handle ring 342 (handle 340) will not be damaged. Therefore, the risk of parts being damaged can be reduced.

In this embodiment, no matter what rotational position (what rotational position) the handle ring 342 is in, the first to third fingerhold parts 351 to 353 of the handle ring 342 are lower than the right edge T1 of the front frame 300. Not protruding to the right side. In this embodiment, the tip of the second finger hook 352 is closest to the right edge T1 at the maximum rotation position. However, the position at which the tip of any of the finger hooks approaches the right edge T1 the most may not be the maximum rotation position. In other words, if the predetermined rotational position is the position where the tip of one of the fingerrests approaches the right edge T1 most, then at the predetermined rotational position, all the fingerholds should not protrude to the right of the right edge T1. It should be .

FIG. 9 is a view of the lower right portion of the front frame 300 viewed from the front side in the rotational axis direction of the handle 340. (1) The length (distance) (dimension) D1 from the center P of the handle 340 to the tip of the first finger rest 351 is 53.4 mm. (2) The length D2 from the center P of the handle 340 to the tip of the second finger rest 352 is 45.6 mm. (3) The length D3 from the center P of the handle 340 to the tip of the third finger rest 353 is 39.3 mm. (4) The length E from the center P of the handle 340 to the outer peripheral surface of the handle ring 342 is 34.6 mm. That is, the radius E of the portion of the handle ring 342 where the finger rest is not provided is 34.6 mm. (5) The length F from the center P of the handle 340 to the lower edge S1 of the door unit 300 is 40.0 mm. (6) The length G from the center P of the handle 340 to the right edge T1 of the door unit 300 is 49.1 mm.

In this embodiment, the handle unit 330 is provided at the lower right portion of the front frame 300, but the handle unit 330 may be provided at the lower right portion of the inner frame 104. FIG. 15 is a right side view showing a state in which the handle unit 330 is attached to the lower right portion of the inner frame 104. Further, FIG. 16 is a view of the lower right portion in this state as viewed from the front side in the rotational axis direction of the handle 340. It can be said that FIGS. 15 and 16 show a state in which the front frame 300 and the inner frame 104 are integrated. Here, the lower edge of the front frame 300 and the inner frame 104 (that is, the main body frame) is referred to as a lower edge S2. The lower edge S2 constitutes the lower outermost shape of the main body frame. Further, the right edge of the book pair frame is defined as right edge S2. The right edge S2 constitutes the outermost shape on the right side of the main body frame.

In the initial position, none of the first to third finger hooks 351 to 353 of the handle ring 342 protrude below the lower edge S2 of the main body frame. Further, at the maximum rotation position, none of the first to third finger hooks 351 to 353 of the handle ring 342 protrude below the lower edge S2 of the main body frame. Furthermore, no matter what rotational position the handle ring 342 is in, none of the first to third finger hooks 351 to 353 of the handle ring 342 protrude below the lower edge S2 of the main body frame. .
Therefore, even if the main body frame is placed on the floor, the finger rest will not come into contact with the floor, and the handle will not be damaged. Therefore, the risk of parts being damaged can be reduced.
Note that when referring to the lower edge (lower edge) of the main body frame, the lower edge (bottom surface) of the saucer unit 320 (saucer) is lower than the lower edge of the front frame 300 or the lower edge of the inner frame 104. is located below, the lower edge (bottom surface) of the tray unit 320 may be the lower edge of the main body frame.

At the initial position, none of the first to third finger hooks 351 to 353 of the handle ring 342 protrude to the right beyond the right edge T2 of the main body frame. Further, at the maximum rotation position, none of the first to third finger hooks 351 to 353 of the handle ring 342 protrude to the right beyond the right edge T2 of the main body frame. Furthermore, no matter what rotational position the handle ring 342 is in, all of the first to third finger hooks 351 to 353 of the handle ring 342 protrude to the right beyond the right edge T2 of the main body frame. do not have.
Therefore, even if the main body frame is placed in a box or the like, the finger rest will not come into contact with the box or the like, and the handle will not be damaged. Therefore, the risk of parts being damaged can be reduced.

As shown in FIG. 16, D1, D2, D3, and E are the same as in FIG. 9, but the length F from the center P of the handle 340 to the lower edge S2 of the main body frame is 45.0 mm. . Further, the length G from the center P of the handle 340 to the right edge T2 of the main body frame is 51.1 mm.

In the above, the position of the lower edge of the inner frame 104 is located below (projects out) than the position of the lower edge of the front frame 300. The position of the lower edge may be substantially the same. Further, the lower edge of the front frame 300 may be located lower than the lower edge of the inner frame 104.

In both the state shown in FIG. 9 and the state shown in FIG. 16, the length D3 is smaller than the length F. Therefore, even when the third finger rest 353 is rotated to the maximum rotation position (the state shown in FIG. 8), the third finger rest 353 does not protrude below the lower edges S1 and S2.

Length D2 is smaller than length G. Therefore, even when rotated to the maximum rotation position (the state shown in FIG. 8), the second finger hook portion 352 does not protrude to the right side beyond the right edges T1 and T2.

On the other hand, the length D1 is larger than the length F. Therefore, if the handle ring 342 is rotated to a position where the first finger rest 351 is downward (the tip of the first finger rest 351 is facing downward), the first finger rest 351 is located at the lower edge. It will protrude below S1 and S2. However, in this embodiment, the handle ring 342 is not rotated to a position where the first finger hook 351 is located downward. Therefore, the first finger hook portion 351 does not protrude below the lower edges S1 and S2.

Further, the length D1 is larger than the length G. Therefore, if the handle ring 342 is rotated to a position where the first finger hook 351 is on the right side (the tip of the first finger hook 351 faces to the right), the first finger hook 351 is on the right edge. It will protrude to the right side of T1 and T2. However, in this embodiment, the handle ring 342 is not rotated to a position where the first finger hook 351 is on the right side. Therefore, the first finger hook portion 351 does not protrude to the right side beyond the right edges T1 and T2.

In this manner, the first finger hook portion 351 is prevented from rotating to a position where its distal end faces downward (lower side) or a position where its distal end faces to the right. Therefore, length D1 can be made larger than length D2 and length D3. Increasing the length D1 has the effect of making it easier to hook fingers. In addition, in this embodiment, the length D1 is larger than the length D2, and the length D2 is larger than the length D3.

In addition, in this embodiment, the number of finger hooks provided on the handle ring 342 is three, but the number of finger hooks is not limited to this, and it is sufficient if at least one or more finger hooks are provided. . Further, the finger rest portion with the largest protrusion amount (maximum finger rest portion) is not limited to the first finger rest portion 351, but may be another finger rest portion. The amount of protrusion is the amount of radially outward protrusion, and is, for example, the amount of protrusion of the finger rest from a portion of the handle ring 342 where the finger rest is not provided (ring portion 350a).

As described above, the finger hook does not protrude below the lower edge S2 of the main body frame and does not protrude to the right beyond the right edge T2 of the main body frame at the initial position and the maximum rotation position. In addition, at the initial position and the maximum rotation position, the finger rest does not protrude below the lower edge S2 of the main body frame, and at the maximum rotation position, the finger rest with the largest amount of protrusion (maximum finger rest) , the tip may not be located at a position where the tip faces downward (directly below) (the position where the tip is closest to the lower edge S2 of the main body frame). In other words, when the handle ring 342 rotates from the initial position to the maximum rotation position, the tip of the largest finger rest moves on an arcuate rotational trajectory, but at the maximum rotation position, the tip of the largest finger rest moves is not located at the lowest point in the rotational trajectory of the tip. In that case, the largest finger rest may be rotated to a position closest to the lower edge S2 of the main body frame, and further rotated beyond that position to a position away from the lower edge S2 of the main body frame. In addition, at the initial position and the maximum rotation position, the finger rest does not protrude to the right beyond the right edge T2 of the main body frame, and at the maximum rotation position, the finger rest with the largest amount of protrusion (maximum finger rest) , the tip may not be located at a position where the tip faces to the right (true right) (the position where the tip is closest to the right edge T2 of the main body frame). In other words, when the handle ring 342 rotates from the initial position to the maximum rotation position, the tip of the largest finger rest moves on an arcuate rotational trajectory, but at the maximum rotation position, the tip of the largest finger rest moves is not located at the rightmost point in the rotation trajectory of the tip. In that case, the maximum finger rest may be rotated to a position closest to the right edge T2 of the main body frame, and further rotated beyond that position to a position away from the right edge T2 of the main body frame.

The bottom surface (lower surface) of the saucer unit 320 and the bottom surface (lower surface) of the handle unit 330 shown in FIG. It is being This is called the "sloped surface at the bottom of the front frame." When the sloped surface of the lower part of the front frame is provided, when the front frame 300 is placed on a surface such as the floor, the sloped surface of the lower part of the front frame may come into contact with the surface such as the floor. That is, when the front frame 300 is placed, for example, on the floor, the inclined surface at the bottom of the front frame contacts the floor, and the front frame 300 is placed in a position slightly tilted forward with respect to the direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane (forward tilted). posture). In this position, the handle ring 342 (handle 340) comes closer to the floor.

When the handle ring 342 is in the initial position, none of the first to third finger hooks 351 to 353 of the handle ring 342 may be configured so that they do not protrude below the inclined surface of the lower part of the front frame. In this case, even if the front frame 300 is placed on the floor or the like and the inclined surface at the bottom of the front frame comes into contact with the floor, the first to third finger hooks 351 to 353 will not come into contact with the floor or the like. First, the handle ring 342 (handle 340) will not be damaged. Therefore, the risk of parts being damaged can be reduced.

When the handle ring 342 is at the maximum rotation position, none of the first to third finger hooks 351 to 353 of the handle ring 342 may be configured so that they do not protrude below the inclined surface of the lower part of the front frame. . In this case, even if the front frame 300 is placed on the floor etc. with the handle ring 342 at the maximum rotation position, and the inclined surface of the lower part of the front frame comes into contact with the floor etc., the first finger rest The third to third finger rests 351 to 353 do not come into contact with the floor or the like, and the handle ring 342 (handle 340) is not damaged. Therefore, the risk of parts being damaged can be reduced.

Furthermore, no matter what rotational position (what rotational position) the handle ring 342 is at, all of the first to third fingerhold parts 351 to 353 of the handle ring 342 are located below the inclined surface of the lower part of the front frame. It may be arranged so that it does not protrude.

Note that at a predetermined rotational position including the initial position and the maximum rotational position, at least a portion of the first to third fingerrest portions 351 to 353 is configured to protrude below the inclined surface of the lower part of the front frame. Good too. Even in that case, it is ensured that none of the first to third finger hooks 351 to 353 protrude below the lower edge S2 of the main body frame. With this configuration, the risk of parts being damaged can be reduced.

Next, the operating torque and operating angle of the handle 340 will be explained. As shown in FIG. 10, a spring serving as an elastic member Z is arranged inside the handle 340. The handle ring 342 can be operated (rotated) in a clockwise direction against the urging force of a spring. Further, when the handle ring 342 is rotated by a predetermined amount (angle) and the operation is released, the handle ring 342 automatically returns to the initial position due to the biasing force (reaction force) of the spring.

(Initial response)
Here, the operating torque required to start (initial motion) (starting) (rotation from the initial position) the rotation of the handle ring 342 is defined as a first operating torque (initial torque).
(left-handed)
When hitting left-handed, the target position in the game area 116 where the game ball that has passed through the launch port 117 (see FIG. 2) lands is defined as the target position (target area) for left-handed hitting. Note that the target area for left-handed hitting is an area called a so-called bukkomi. The target area is an ideal area where it is said that when the player hits the game ball aiming at that area during the normal gaming state, the ball enters the various winning devices (winning holes) at the highest rate.
Further, the position (rotation position) of the handle ring 342 that allows the game ball to land at the target position for left-handed hitting is set as the left-handed hitting reference position. Furthermore, the operating torque required to rotate the handle ring 342 from the initial position to the left-handed reference position is defined as a second operating torque. Further, the operating angle (operating angle) from the initial position of the handle ring 342 to the left-handed batting reference position is defined as a first operating angle.

(Right-handed)
The position (rotation position) of the handle ring 342 during right-handed hitting is defined as the right-handed hitting reference position (maximum rotational position). Further, the operating torque required to rotate the handle ring 342 from the initial position to the maximum rotation position is defined as a third operating torque. Further, the operating angle (operating angle) from the initial position to the maximum rotation position of the handle ring 342 is defined as a second operating angle. The second operating angle is a full stroke.

(Example 1)
As shown in FIG. 11, in the gaming machine according to this embodiment, the first operation torque is 6.8 [N·mm]. Further, the second operating torque is 13.6 [N·mm]. Further, the third operating torque is 23.8 [N·mm]. In this embodiment, the second operating torque is greater than the first operating torque, and the third operating torque is greater than the second operating torque. In addition, in the handle shown as a comparative example, the first operating torque is 31 [N·mm], the second operating torque is 69 [N·mm], and the third operating torque is 152 [N·mm]. FIG. 12 is a graph showing these relationships.

The first operating torque, the second operating torque, and the third operating torque all have relatively small values. Therefore, the player can rotate the handle ring 342 with less force. That is, the player can feel that the operation of the handle ring 342 is light. As a result, the player is less likely to get tired, and the burden on the player can be reduced. Furthermore, when the handle ring 342 automatically returns, it comes into contact with a stopper (not shown) and stops rotating, but the first to third operating torques are all small values. Therefore, the impact applied to the stopper when automatically returning is reduced. Therefore, consumption (wear) of the stopper can be suppressed, and the risk of failure of the handle 340, which is a frequently operated component, can be reduced. That is, the durability of the handle 340 can be improved.

Furthermore, since the first to third operating torques are all small values, it is possible to reduce the frictional force acting between the handle ring 342 and the main body portion 341 (see FIG. 5). Therefore, wear caused by the large frictional force can be suppressed, and the durability of the component can be improved.

Particularly in this embodiment, the first operating torque is 6.8 [N·mm], which is less than 10 [N·mm]. Since the first operation torque is thus small, the force required for the initial movement of the handle ring 342 is small, and the rotation of the handle ring 342 can be started with less force. Note that if the biasing force (reaction force) of the spring is made smaller and the first operating torque is less than 6.8 [N mm], the force of friction acting between the handle ring 342 and the main body 341, etc. , there is a risk that the handle ring 342 will not return to its initial position. Therefore, in this embodiment, the first operating torque is set to the minimum torque that allows automatic return to the initial position. Therefore, in order to enable automatic return while reducing the initial movement, it is preferable that the first operating torque be 6.8 [N·m] or more.

In addition, in this embodiment, the third operating torque is larger than the second operating torque, but the value of the third operating torque (23.8 [N mm]) is 2 times the value of the second operating torque. It is equal to or less than the multiplied value (27.2 [N·mm]). As in the comparative example, if the value of the third operating torque (152 [N mm]) is larger than the value obtained by doubling the value of the second operating torque (138 [N mm]), the left-handed driver The operating torque increases rapidly between the reference position and the maximum rotation position (right-handed reference position). In that case, a larger force will be required to rotate the ball from the left-handed reference position to the maximum rotation position. In this embodiment, the value of the third operating torque is less than or equal to the value obtained by doubling the second operating torque, and the difference between the second operating torque and the third operating torque is small, so the left-handed batting reference position The operating torque does not increase rapidly between the rotation position and the maximum rotation position, and the player feels that the difference between the second operating torque and the third operating torque is small. Therefore, the player is less likely to get tired, and the burden on the player can be reduced.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, the second operating torque is larger than the first operating torque, but the value of the second operating torque (13.6 [N mm]) is the value of the first operating torque that is 2 times larger than the first operating torque. It is equal to or less than the multiplied value (13.6 [N·mm]). As in the comparative example, if the value of the second operation torque (69 [N・mm]) is larger than the value obtained by doubling the first operation torque (62 [N・mm]), the The operating torque increases rapidly until reaching the hitting reference position. In that case, a larger force will be required to rotate the ball from the initial position to the left-handed reference position. In this embodiment, the value of the second operating torque is less than or equal to twice the first operating torque, and the difference between the first operating torque and the second operating torque is small. The operating torque does not increase rapidly until reaching the left-handed reference position, and the player feels that the difference between the first operating torque and the second operating torque is small. Therefore, the player is less likely to get tired, and the burden on the player can be reduced.

Further, as shown in FIG. 11, the difference (displacement amount) between the first operating torque and the second operating torque is defined as an increase amount A. In this embodiment, the increase amount A is 6.8 [N·mm]. Further, the difference (displacement amount) between the second operating torque and the third operating torque is defined as an increase amount B. In this embodiment, the increase amount B is 10.2 [N·mm]. In this embodiment, the value obtained by doubling the increase amount A (13.6) is larger than the increase amount B (10.2) (2A>B). In other words, the amount of increase B is equal to or less than the value obtained by doubling the amount of increase A. Therefore, even when comparing the amount of increase in operating torque from the initial position to the left-handed batting reference position and the amount of increase in operating torque from the left-handed batting standard position to the maximum rotation position, the latter increase The amount is not extremely large compared to the amount of increase in the former. Therefore, the difference between the amount of increase A and the amount of increase B is small, and hitting the right hand does not feel extremely heavy compared to hitting the left, so the player is less likely to get tired and the burden on the player can be reduced. Furthermore, the player does not feel uncomfortable due to the large difference in operating torque between left-handed and right-handed players. This allows the player to play the game comfortably.

On the other hand, in the comparative example, the amount of increase A is 38 [N·mm], and the amount of increase B is 83 [N·mm]. The increase amount B is larger than the value obtained by doubling the increase amount A. Therefore, when comparing the increase in operating torque from the initial position to the left-handed reference position and the increase in operating torque from the left-handed reference position to the maximum rotation position, the latter increase is greater than the former. This is extremely large compared to the amount of increase. Therefore, the difference between the amount of increase A and the amount of increase B is large, and hitting the right feels extremely heavy compared to hitting the left. For this reason, the player is easily tired and the burden on the player is heavy. Furthermore, the player may feel uncomfortable due to the large difference in operating torque between left-handed and right-handed players.

In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12, the initial torque is reduced and the torque curve of the operating torque is flattened. Since the initial torque is small and the amount of torque displacement (increase) is small, players are less likely to get tired. On the other hand, in the comparative example, the initial torque is large and the torque curve of the operating torque is quadratic. In addition to the large initial torque, the amount of displacement (increase) in torque is also large, making it easy for players to get tired.

Return to FIG. 11. In this embodiment, the first operation angle is 49°. Further, the second operation angle is 100°. Left-handed hitting and right-handed hitting are separated by an operating angle that is approximately half of the full stroke (second operating angle). Therefore, it is easy for the player to intuitively recognize the boundary between left-handed and right-handed players. Further, the second operating angle is 100°, which is smaller than, for example, a case where the second operating angle is 120°. Therefore, when hitting right-handed, the amount of rotation of the hand can be made smaller. Therefore, the player is less likely to get tired, and the burden on the player can be reduced.

Further, the first operation angle is less than half of the second operation angle (full stroke). Therefore, left-handed hitting can be performed with an operating angle less than half of the full stroke. In addition, if the operating angle is less than half of the full stroke, the ball will not be hit to the right. This allows the player to clearly distinguish between left-handed and right-handed players.

(Example 2)
As shown in FIG. 13, the first operating torque is 27.2 [N·mm]. Further, the second operating torque is 54.4 [N·mm]. Further, the third operating torque is 95.2 [N·mm]. The second operating torque is larger than the first operating torque, and the third operating torque is larger than the second operating torque. In addition, in the handle shown as a comparative example, the first operating torque is 31 [N·mm], the second operating torque is 69 [N·mm], and the third operating torque is 152 [N·mm]. FIG. 14 is a graph showing these relationships.

The first operating torque, the second operating torque, and the third operating torque have values smaller than those of the comparative example. Therefore, the player can rotate the handle ring 342 with less force. That is, the player can feel that the operation of the handle ring 342 is light. As a result, the player is less likely to get tired, and the burden on the player can be reduced. Furthermore, when the handle ring 342 automatically returns, it comes into contact with a stopper (not shown) and stops rotating, but the first to third operating torques are all small values. Therefore, the impact applied to the stopper when automatically returning is reduced. Therefore, consumption (wear) of the stopper can be suppressed, and the risk of failure of the handle 340, which is a frequently operated component, can be reduced. That is, the durability of the handle 340 can be improved.

Furthermore, since the first to third operating torques are smaller than the comparative example, it is possible to reduce the frictional force acting between the handle ring 342 and the main body 341 (see FIG. 5). can. Therefore, wear caused by the large frictional force can be suppressed, and the durability of the component can be improved.

In addition, since the first operation torque is 27.2 [N·mm], which is more than 6.8 [N·mm], it is possible to automatically return the handle ring 342 while reducing the initial movement. .

Furthermore, although the third operating torque is larger than the second operating torque, the value of the third operating torque (95.2 [N mm]) is the value obtained by doubling the value of the second operating torque (108 .8 [N・mm]) or less. As in the comparative example, if the value of the third operating torque (152 [N mm]) is larger than the value obtained by doubling the value of the second operating torque (138 [N mm]), the left-handed driver The operating torque increases rapidly between the reference position and the maximum rotation position (right-hand hitting reference position). In that case, a larger force is required to rotate the ball from the left-handed reference position to the maximum rotation position. In this example, the value of the third operating torque is less than or equal to twice the second operating torque, and the difference between the second operating torque and the third operating torque is small. The operating torque does not increase rapidly until the maximum rotation position, and the player feels that the difference between the second operating torque and the third operating torque is small. Therefore, the player is less likely to get tired, and the burden on the player can be reduced.

Furthermore, although the second operating torque is larger than the first operating torque, the value of the second operating torque (54.4 [N mm]) is twice the value of the first operating torque (54.4 [N mm]). .4 [N・mm]) or less. As in the comparative example, if the value of the second operation torque (69 [N・mm]) is larger than the value obtained by doubling the first operation torque (62 [N・mm]), the The operating torque increases rapidly until reaching the hitting reference position. In that case, a larger force will be required to rotate the ball from the initial position to the left-handed reference position. In this example, the value of the second operating torque is less than twice the first operating torque, and the difference between the first operating torque and the second operating torque is small, so The operating torque does not increase rapidly until reaching the hitting reference position, and the player feels that the difference between the first operating torque and the second operating torque is small. Therefore, the player is less likely to get tired, and the burden on the player can be reduced.

Further, as shown in FIG. 13, the difference (displacement amount) between the first operating torque and the second operating torque is defined as an increase amount A. The amount of increase A is 27.2 [N·mm]. Further, the difference (displacement amount) between the second operating torque and the third operating torque is defined as an increase amount B. The amount of increase B is 40.8 [N·mm]. In this embodiment, the value obtained by doubling the increase amount A (54.4) is larger than the increase amount B (40.8) (2A>B). In other words, the amount of increase B is equal to or less than the value obtained by doubling the amount of increase A. Therefore, even when comparing the amount of increase in operating torque from the initial position to the left-handed batting reference position and the amount of increase in operating torque from the left-handed batting standard position to the maximum rotation position, the latter increase The amount is not extremely large compared to the amount of increase in the former. Therefore, the difference between the amount of increase A and the amount of increase B is small, and hitting the right hand does not feel extremely heavy compared to hitting the left, so the player is less likely to get tired and the burden on the player can be reduced. Furthermore, the player does not feel uncomfortable due to the large difference in operating torque between left-handed and right-handed players. This allows the player to play the game comfortably.

In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 14, the torque curve of the operating torque is a flattened torque curve. Since the amount of torque displacement (increase) is small, the player is less likely to get tired. On the other hand, in the comparative example, the torque curve of the operating torque has a quadratic curve shape. Since the amount of torque displacement (increase) is also large, players tend to get tired.

The first operating torque ranges from 6.8 [N·mm] shown in Example 1 to 27.0 [N·mm] shown in Example 2.
It may be within the range of 2 [N·mm]. Further, the second operating torque may be within the range of 13.6 [N·mm] shown in the first embodiment to 54.4 [N·mm] shown in the second embodiment. Furthermore, the third operating torque may be within the range of 23.8 [N·mm] shown in the first embodiment to 95.2 [N·mm] shown in the second embodiment. Further, the third operating torque (right-handed reference position) is preferably 100 [N·mm] or less.

(Second embodiment)
2. Description of the Related Art As a game machine, a pachinko game machine equipped with a game board, a firing device, and the like is known. In a pachinko game machine, a game ball (game medium) is fired into a game area provided on the front of the game board, and based on the game ball entering a prize opening provided in the game area, the player is given a game. The above benefits will be granted. A predetermined gaming machine, typified by such a gaming machine, is equipped with a tray for storing game balls, and it is possible to discharge the game balls from the tray based on a button operation. Conventional gaming machines have had the problem of poor operability with respect to some operations. This embodiment provides a gaming machine that can be operated comfortably.

A second embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In this embodiment, a pachinko game machine, which is one type of gaming machine, will be described, but other gaming machines (for example, a slot machine, a medalless gaming machine, etc.) may be used. In the following explanation, "front and back" basically means, when the player is on the front side of the pachinko machine, that the player side is the "front" and the pachinko machine side is the "rear", and "up and down" means the player is on the front side of the pachinko machine. The top side of the pachinko game machine means "top" and the bottom side means "bottom", and "left and right" means the player's left hand side means "left" and the right hand side means "right". Note that within the scope of the present invention, each configuration can be freely combined, each configuration can be arbitrarily modified, or each configuration can be omitted.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view showing the external configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment. The game machine of this embodiment is used to play games using game balls (game media) lent from a game parlor, and includes an outer frame 2 forming the outer surface of the game machine, and a frame 2 provided inside the game machine. , a game board 6 forming a game area 4 in which game balls move, a glass unit 8 that makes the game board 6 visible to players but inaccessible to them, and a front frame 10 to which the glass unit 8 is attached. ing.
Note that the diameter of the game ball used in the game machine of this embodiment is approximately 11 mm.
"Saucer unit 320, saucer" shown in the first embodiment can be arbitrarily modified into "saucer unit 100, saucer 16" in the second embodiment. Moreover, the "handle unit 330" shown in the first embodiment can be arbitrarily modified into the "grip unit 20" in the second embodiment. Although not shown in FIG. 17, the pachinko gaming machine 1 includes an inner frame, and includes a main body frame having a front frame 10 and an inner frame. A main body frame can be attached to the outer frame 2. The main body frame has a grip unit 20 (handle) and a saucer unit 100 (saucer 16).

The part of the front frame 10 that surrounds the glass unit 8 is made of a semi-transparent material that transmits light, and inside the part made of the semi-transparent material, there are lighting lights etc. to enliven the game. A plurality of front frame lamps (illuminating devices) 12 are provided.

Furthermore, a design member (illumination device) 13 that is elongated in the left-right direction is provided at the top of the front frame 10. Further, the design member 13 is arranged so as to protrude forward so that its front surface is located in front of the game area 4 and the glass unit 8. A logo representing the model name, etc. is attached to the design member 13, and the logo is illuminated by an LED board provided inside.

Further, the front frame 10 is provided with a plurality of speakers 14 that output sound effects to enliven the game.

A tray 16 for storing game balls is provided at the center of the lower part of the front frame 10, and on the left side of the inner side surface (back surface 16e) of the tray 16, a tray 16 is provided for dispensing game balls from the gaming machine to the player. A dispensing port 18 is provided for this purpose. Furthermore, a supply port 22 (see FIGS. 22 and 23) for supplying game balls from the tray 16 to the firing device is provided on the right side of the inner side surface (back surface 16e) of the tray 16.

A grip unit 20 is provided on the lower right side of the front frame 10, and when the player rotates the grip unit 20 clockwise toward the gaming machine, a grip unit 20 (not shown) provided inside the gaming machine is rotated. The firing device is activated to fire game balls into the game area 4. The firing device of this embodiment can fire 99 game balls per minute (1.65 balls per second).

A performance operation device 26 is provided on the near side of the edge of the saucer 16, and when a player operates the performance operation device 26, the performance performed on the gaming machine changes.

FIG. 18 is a front view showing the external configuration of the game board 6 shown in FIG. 17. As shown in FIG. 18, the game board 6 is provided with a circular outer rail 28, and the area surrounded by the outer rail 28 is the game area 4 in which the game balls move. Further, at the left end of the game area 4, an inner rail 30 is provided in an arc shape along the outer rail 28, and the outer rail 28 and the inner rail 30 are arranged below the game board 6 (not shown). A game ball fired from a firing device is guided to a game area 4.

At the center of the game board 6, a performance unit 36 is provided, which includes a liquid crystal display 32 for displaying performance images to enliven the game, and a display frame 34 formed to surround the liquid crystal display 32. This display frame 34 is provided with a design member 38. Note that although this embodiment shows a case where the design member 38 is provided above the liquid crystal display 32, the position of the design member 38 is not limited to this.

In this embodiment, the game ball cannot pass through the front side of the liquid crystal display 32, and the game ball fired from the firing device can pass either the left side game area 4 or the right side game area 4 of the liquid crystal display 32. It's supposed to fall. In the game area 4, a large number of game nails (not shown) are nailed so as to cross the surface of the game board 6, so that the moving direction of the game ball moving in the game area 4 changes randomly. .

An opening 40 is formed on the left side of the display frame 34 through which a game ball falling in the game area 4 on the left side of the liquid crystal display 32 can pass. The liquid crystal display 32 is configured to pass through a passage 42 and fall onto a stage 44 provided below the liquid crystal display 32. The upper surface of this stage 44 is a smooth curved surface, and a gap is formed between the stage 44 and the glass unit 8 so that the game ball can fall downward from the stage 44, and fall onto the stage 44 from the passage 42. After the game ball moves back and forth from side to side on the stage 44, it falls downward from near the center of the stage 44.

A first starting prize opening 46 is provided below the center of the stage 44.
Furthermore, a passage gate 48 is provided in the gaming area 4 on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32. Further, a second starting prize opening 50 is provided below the passage gate 48. This second starting prize opening 50 has a reduced state in which it is difficult for the game ball to enter the second starting winning opening 50 (a state in which entry is not assisted/non-assisted state) and an enlarged state in which the game ball is easy to enter (in a state in which it is easy to enter). A normal accessory 52 is provided that includes an auxiliary member that can move between the two states (the state and the auxiliary state).

In the gaming area 4 on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32, a large winning opening 54 is provided below the second starting winning opening 50. This big prize opening 54 is provided with a special accessory 56 including a movable member that closes the big winning opening 54. The special accessory 56 is configured to be operable between a closed state in which the game ball cannot enter the big prize opening 54 and an open state in which the game ball can enter the big prize opening 54 (FIG. 18 shows (indicates closed state). The special accessory 56 is controlled to be in an open state under predetermined conditions in a special game state that starts when a jackpot is won.

A grand prize passage 58 is provided below the grand prize opening 54 facing downward. A normal entry port 62 is provided at the lower end of the grand prize path 58. Furthermore, a specific passage 65 is provided below the grand prize passage 58 so as to branch downward from the middle of the grand prize passage 58. This specific passage 65 is provided with a specific accessory 66 that includes a movable member that blocks the specific passage 65. The specific accessory 66 is configured to be operable between a closed state in which the game ball cannot enter the specific passage 65 and an open state in which the game ball can enter the specific passage 65 (FIG. 18 shows the closed state). ). The specific accessory 66 is controlled to be in an open state under predetermined conditions in the special game state. A specific entrance 68 is provided at the lower end of the specific passage 65 . Further, at the lowest part of the game area 4, an out port 69 is provided for collecting game balls that have fallen from the game area 4 without entering any of the winning holes into the inside of the game machine.

The game ball launching device is configured so that the ejection force of the game ball is changed by adjusting the amount of rotation of the grip unit (operation handle) 20 shown in FIG. 17, and the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 is small. In this case, the game ball is shot so that it falls in the game area 4 on the left side of the liquid crystal display 32, and when the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 is large, the game ball falls in the game area 4 on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32. A game ball is fired so that it falls down.

The player adjusts the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 according to the gaming situation, and allows the game ball to fall down the left side game area 4 or pass through the opening 40, passage 42, and stage 44 and reach the first starting prize opening. 46 (left hit), the game ball falls down the right side game area 4, and the game ball passes through the passage gate 48, or the second starting prize opening 50. The game ball is fired so that the game ball enters, or the game ball enters the grand prize opening 54 (right-handed hit).

At the lower right portion of the game board 6 and outside the game area 4, a status display section 70 is provided that indicates various statuses of the game machine by lighting and extinguishing lamps or the like. The gaming machine of this embodiment is controlled by a control board including a main board and a sub board. The functions of each board such as the main board and sub-boards are determined by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ASIC (gate array, etc.), ROM (an example of an information storage medium), or RAM. This is realized by software consisting of a given program stored in advance in, for example, a computer.

The main board receives input signals from input means (first starting winning opening sensor, passing gate sensor, second starting winning opening sensor, big winning opening sensor, normal entrance sensor, specific passage sensor, payout sensor, etc.) , performs various calculations to execute the game, and based on the calculation results, outputs the output means (status display drive device, normal role object drive device, special role object drive device, specific role object drive device, payout device, etc.) Performs operation control.

The sub-board receives commands sent from the main board and input signals from the performance operation sensor that detects operations on the performance operation device 26, and performs various calculations to execute performances in accordance with the progress of the game. Based on the calculation results, the operation of the performance devices (effect display device, sound device, performance drive device, etc.) is controlled.

A saucer unit 100 is provided at the lower part of the front frame 10. As shown in FIGS. 19 and 20, the saucer unit 100 includes a saucer member 110 that constitutes a front surface 16a, a lower surface 16b, and left and right side surfaces 16c and 16d of the saucer 16, and a base member (plate) that constitutes a back surface 16e of the saucer 16. (shaped member) 111, a downstream ball extraction unit (first ball extraction unit) 112 and an upstream ball extraction unit (second ball extraction unit) 113 for discharging game balls stored in the saucer 16, and the saucer 16. It has a first passage 114 and a second passage 115 through which game balls discharged from the tray pass, and a button arrangement section 116 that constitutes the right side of the upper surface of the tray unit 100 and in which various buttons are arranged.
The button arrangement section 116 is provided with a ball rental button (not shown), a return button 91, a direction key 92, a volume adjustment button 93, a light amount adjustment button 94, etc. (see FIG. 17). Here, the ball lending button is a button that is operated when receiving the lending of game balls. Further, the return button 91 is a button operated by the player when discharging the game balls held by the player into the receiving tray 16. Further, the direction key 92 is a button that is operated when making selections related to presentation, etc. Further, the volume adjustment button 93 and the light intensity adjustment button 94 are buttons that are operated when adjusting the volume or the light intensity, respectively.

The saucer 16 stores game balls lent to players (rental balls) and game balls won by winning (prize balls). That is, the game balls discharged from the payout port 18 are stored in the saucer 16. As shown in FIG. 20, the lower surface 16b of the saucer 16 is a sloped surface that slopes downward from the left side to the right side. Further, the width of the saucer 16 in the front-rear direction becomes narrower from the left side to the right side (from the upper side to the lower side). The game balls discharged into the tray 16 are arranged in a line and directed toward the lower right portion of the tray 16. In other words, an alignment path 103 for lining up game balls in a line is formed in the lower right portion of the saucer 16. Further, a downstream ball removal hole 118 (first hole) is formed at the lower right end of the alignment path 103 (saucer 16) as a hole (ball removal hole) through which game balls can be ejected from the saucer 16. .

Further, in the left side portion of the lower surface 16b of the saucer 16, an upstream ball extraction hole 119 (second hole) is formed as a hole (ball extraction hole) through which game balls can be ejected from the saucer 16. Further, the upstream ball extraction hole 119 is provided in front of the dispensing port 18, and at least partially overlaps with the dispensing port 18 in the front-rear direction.

The downstream ball removal hole 118 and the upstream ball removal hole 119 have an open state and a closed state, respectively. In the open state, the ball extraction holes 118, 119 are in an open state, and the game ball can fall through the ball extraction holes 118, 119. In addition, in the closed state, the ball extraction holes 118 and 119 are closed by the downstream ball extraction unit 112 or the upstream ball extraction unit 113, and the game ball does not fall through the ball extraction holes 118 and 119. becomes impossible.
Note that the term "occluded" here does not mean only a state in which the ball extraction holes 118, 119 are closed without a gap, but a state in which they are closed to such an extent that a game ball cannot pass through.

The downstream ball removal unit 112 is provided corresponding to the downstream ball removal hole 118. By operating the downstream ball extraction unit 112, the downstream ball extraction hole 118 can be switched between an open state and a closed state. Further, the upstream ball removal unit 113 is provided corresponding to the upstream ball removal hole 119. By operating the upstream ball removal unit 113, it is possible to switch the upstream ball removal hole 119 between an open state and a closed state.

As shown in FIG. 21, the downstream ball removal unit 112 includes a downstream ball removal button 120 (first button: first operating means), a link member 122, a slide member 124, and a downstream lid 125 ( The first lid includes a first opening/closing means), a pin 126, and a spring 128. In addition, the parts of the base member 111 etc. to which these downstream ball release button 120, link member 122, slide member 124, spring 128, etc. are attached (projections 200, 202, 202, base member side hook 204, etc. to be described later) are also attached. It can be said that it constitutes a part of the downstream ball extraction unit 112.

The downstream ball extraction button 120 can be pressed by a player or the like. The downstream ball removal button 120 includes a pressing part 130 that is touched by a player or the like, a protruding part 132 that projects below (on the back side) of the pressing part 130, and locking parts 134, 134. Further, the pressing portion 130, the protruding portion 132, and the locking portion 134 are integrally formed of a resin material.

The push-down portion 130 has a substantially rectangular box shape. Further, the protruding portion 132 has a prismatic shape and protrudes below the lower surface of the pressing portion 130. Further, the locking portion 134 is provided at a lower position on the left and right side surfaces of the push-down portion 130, and has a claw that projects outward in the left-right direction.

The downstream ball removal button 120 is provided in the button arrangement section 116. Specifically, the downstream ball removal button 120 is arranged in the button arrangement part 116 such that the pressing part 130 protrudes above the upper surface of the button arrangement part 116 when it is not operated (FIG. 17 , see Figure 20). Further, when not in operation, the claw of the locking portion 134 is locked to the lower surface of the button arrangement portion 116, thereby restricting the upward movement of the push-down portion 130. If the position of the downstream ball removal button 120 (pressing part 130) when not operated is the initial position (first initial position), the downstream ball removing button 120 (pressing part 130) will move downward from the initial position. It is possible to push it so that it moves.

The link member 122 includes a substantially cylindrical cylindrical portion 140, a first arm 142, a second arm 144, and a reinforcing plate 146. Further, the cylindrical portion 140, the first arm 142, the second arm 144, and the reinforcing plate 146 are integrally formed of a resin material.

The cylindrical portion 140 has its axis oriented in the front-rear direction. Further, the first arm 142 and the second arm 144 are formed to extend radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion 140. Further, the first arm 142 and the second arm 144 are formed at positions separated from each other in the circumferential direction of the cylindrical portion 140. Specifically, the base end portion of the first arm 142 is connected to the left side portion of the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion 140. A distal end portion of the first arm 142 extends from this base end toward the outside in the radial direction of the cylindrical portion 140. Further, a base end portion of the second arm 144 is connected to a lower portion of the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion 140. A distal end portion of the second arm 144 extends from this base end toward the outside in the radial direction of the cylindrical portion 140. That is, the base end portion of the first arm 142 and the base end portion of the second arm 144 are separated by a predetermined angle (for example, about 90 degrees) in the circumferential direction of the cylindrical portion 140. is connected to. Further, the distal end of the first arm 142 and the distal end of the second arm 144 are arranged at positions separated by a predetermined angle (for example, about 90 degrees) in the circumferential direction of the cylindrical portion 140.

A contact surface 150 is formed at the tip of the first arm 142, with which the protrusion 132 of the downstream ball removal button 120 comes into contact. Specifically, the tip of the first arm 142 has a cylindrical shape, and the upper portion of the outer circumferential surface (outer curved surface) of the tip serves as the contact surface 150 against which the protrusion 132 comes into contact. There is. Further, a pin insertion hole 152 into which the pin 126 is inserted is formed at the tip of the second arm 144. The pin 126 has a round bar shape and is provided so as to protrude rearward from the tip of the second arm 144.

Further, a plate-shaped reinforcing plate 146 that connects the first arm 142 and the second arm 144 is provided between the first arm 142 and the second arm 144. This reinforcing plate 146 reinforces the first arm 142 and the second arm 144.

A cylindrical protrusion 200 that protrudes rearward from the back surface of the base member 111 is inserted into the cylindrical part 140 (see FIGS. 22(a) and 23(a)). The link member 122 is rotatable in the circumferential direction around the cylindrical portion 140 (with the protruding portion 200 as the axis). In other words, the first arm 142 and the second arm 144 rotate about the central axis of the cylindrical portion 140 as the center of rotation.

The slide member 124 has a slide member main body 160 having a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. Further, a rectangular pin insertion hole 161 into which the pin 126 is inserted is formed at the right end portion of the slide member main body 160. The pin insertion hole 161 has a width in the left-right direction that is approximately equal to the diameter of the pin 126, and a width in the vertical direction that is longer than the diameter of the pin 126. The pin 126 is hardly able to move in the left-right direction with respect to the pin insertion hole 161, and is allowed to move in the up-down direction.

Two holes 162, 162 are formed in the slide member main body 160, side by side in the left-right direction. Cylindrical protrusions 202, 202 that protrude rearward from the back surface of the base member 111 are inserted into these two holes 162, 162, respectively (see FIGS. 22(a) and 23(a)). The holes 162, 162 have a rectangular shape. Further, the width of the holes 162, 162 in the vertical direction is approximately equal to the diameter of the protrusions 202, 202, and the width of the holes 162, 162 in the horizontal direction is longer than the diameter of the protrusions 202, 202 (for example, (more than 11mm longer). The holes 162, 162 (slide member 124) are configured so that they can hardly move in the vertical direction with respect to the protrusions 202, 202 (base member 111), and are allowed to move in the horizontal direction. There is. That is, the holes 162, 162 and the protrusions 202, 202 form a motion direction limiting section that limits the moving direction of the slide member 124 in the left-right direction.

Further, a slide member side hook 164 on which the spring 128 is hung is provided at the upper part of the slide member main body 160. The spring 128 is a tension spring and can be expanded and contracted in the left-right direction. Further, the spring 128 has circular hooks 128a and 128b at both left and right ends. A hook 128b at the right end of the spring 128 is hooked onto a hook 164 on the slide member side. Furthermore, a base member-side hook 204 is provided on the back surface of the base member 111, on which the hook 128a at the left end of the spring 128 is hung (see FIGS. 22(a) and 23(a)). A hook 128a at the left end of the spring 128 is hung on the base member side hook 204.

A downstream lid 125 is provided at the left end of the slide member 124 (slide member main body 160). Furthermore, the downstream lid 125 is provided to protrude leftward from the slide member 124. Further, the downstream lid 125 has a substantially rectangular plate shape. Furthermore, the downstream lid 125 and the slide member 124 are integrally formed of a resin material.

The downstream lid 125 is a lid that opens and closes the downstream ball removal hole 118. The downstream lid 125 is configured to move in the left-right direction in conjunction with the movement of the slide member 124 in the left-right direction. The downstream cover 125 is configured to close the downstream ball removal hole 118 when it is located on the left side, and to open the downstream ball removal hole 118 when it is located on the right side. In other words, the downstream lid 125 is movable between a closed position where the downstream ball extraction hole 118 is closed and an open position where the downstream ball extraction hole 118 is opened.

In the downstream ball removal unit 112, the downstream lid 125 moves in the left-right direction as the downstream ball removal button 120 moves in the vertical direction. That is, based on the operation of the downstream ball extraction button 120 by a player or the like, the downstream cover 125 can be moved to open and close the downstream ball extraction hole 118.

The operation of the downstream ball removing unit 112 will be described with reference to FIGS. 22 and 23. Note that FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a state in which the downstream ball extraction button 120 is in the initial position when not operated, and the downstream lid 125 is in the closed position. Note that FIG. 22(a) is a diagram including the base member 111, and FIG. 22(b) is a diagram without the base member 111. Further, FIG. 23 is a diagram showing a state in which the downstream ball removal button 120 is in the maximum pressed position (maximum pressed position) and the downstream lid 125 is in the open position. Note that FIG. 23(a) is a diagram including the base member 111, and FIG. 23(b) is a diagram without the base member 111.

First, when the downstream ball extraction button 120 is in the initial position when not operated, the downstream lid 125 is located in the closed position. That is, at this time, the downstream ball removal hole 118 is in a closed state. Then, when the downstream ball removal button 120 is moved downward from the initial position (pressed down by the player), the tip of the first arm 142 of the link member 122 is moved toward the protrusion 132 of the downstream ball removal button 120. is pushed from above to below. Then, the first arm 142 rotates downward (counterclockwise) about the cylindrical portion 140. At the same time, the second arm 144 rotates toward the right (counterclockwise) about the cylindrical portion 140 . Further, when the second arm 144 rotates to the right, the pin 126 moves up and down inside the pin insertion hole 161 of the slide member 124 and pulls the slide member 124 to the right. Then, the slide member 124 moves to the right against the elastic force of the spring 128. As a result, the downstream lid 125 moves to the right. Then, the downstream lid 125 is brought to the open position, and the downstream ball removal hole 118 is opened.
Note that when the downstream ball removal button 120 is pressed down to the maximum, the holes 162, 162 of the slide member 124 and the protrusions 202, 202 of the base member 111 come into contact, and the downstream ball removal button 120 is not moved further downward. and movement of the slide member 124 to the right is restricted.

Further, when the player releases his/her hand from the downstream ball extraction button 120, the slide member main body 160 is pulled to the left by the elastic force of the spring 128. As a result, the downstream lid 125 moves to the left. Further, the movement of the slide member main body 160 is transmitted to the downstream ball removal button 120 via the pin 126 and the link member 122, and the downstream ball removal button 120 returns to the initial position. That is, the downstream ball removal button 120 is arranged at the initial position by the elastic force of the spring 128 when not operated. In other words, the downstream ball removal button 120 is biased upward.

In this way, the link member 122, the slide member 124, and the pin 126 change the vertical movement of the downstream ball extraction button 120 into the horizontal movement of the downstream lid 125, and the horizontal movement of the downstream lid 125. A link mechanism is formed that changes the movement of the ball into the vertical movement of the downstream ball extraction button 120.

Here, the distance L2 from the center of rotation of the link member 122 (the central axis of the cylindrical portion 140) to the pin 126 (the tip of the second arm 144) is the distance L2 from the center of rotation of the link member 122 to the downstream ball removal button. 120 and the first arm 142 contact each other (the tip of the first arm 142: the contact surface 150), which is more than twice the distance L1. Therefore, the second arm 144 moves to the right by more than twice the amount that the first arm 142 moves downward. In other words, the downstream lid 125 is moved to the right by more than twice the amount by which the downstream ball extraction button 120 is pressed. That is, the link mechanism increases the amount of operation of the downstream ball extraction button 120 and transmits the increased amount to the downstream lid 125.

In the game machine of this embodiment, the amount of operation required for the downstream ball removal button 120 to open the downstream ball removal hole 118 so that at least one game ball can pass through is is set to less than the diameter. Specifically, when the downstream ball removal button 120 is pressed down approximately 4 mm from the initial position, the downstream lid 125 moves approximately 11 mm to the right. In other words, when the downstream ball extraction button 120 is pressed down a predetermined amount (approximately 4 mm) less than the diameter of the game ball from the initial position, the opening width W1 of the downstream ball extraction hole 118 (from the tip of the downstream lid 125 to the tip The distance to the edge of the opposing downstream ball extraction hole 118) is 11 mm or more. In other words, in the game machine of this embodiment, the amount of operation required for the downstream ball removal button 120 to open the downstream ball removal hole 118 so that at least one game ball can pass through is , is set to less than the radius of the game ball.

Furthermore, when the downstream ball removal button 120 is pressed down to the maximum, the opening width W1 of the downstream ball removal hole 118 is approximately 14 mm. That is, when the downstream ball extraction button 120 is pressed down to the maximum, the downstream ball extraction hole 118 opens by approximately 3 mm (the diameter of the game ball), which is less than twice the diameter of the game ball. In other words, the downstream ball removal hole 118 is configured such that it is impossible for two game balls to pass through at the same time even if the downstream ball removal button 120 is pressed down to the maximum.

Further, the maximum amount (maximum operation amount) that the downstream ball extraction button 120 can be pressed is set to be less than or equal to the diameter of the game ball (less than the diameter (approximately 6 mm)). In other words, when the downstream ball removal button 120 is pushed in a predetermined amount that is less than or equal to the diameter of the game ball, it cannot be pushed in any further. Specifically, the maximum operation amount of the downstream ball extraction button 120 is set to be greater than or equal to the radius of the game ball and less than or equal to the diameter. It can also be said that the diameter is set to about half of the diameter of the downstream ball removal button 120. Note that approximately half the diameter herein means a range within approximately ±1.5 mm (approximately 4 mm to 7 mm) from half the diameter.

In addition, in the game machine of this embodiment, as shown in FIG. A gap with a predetermined width W2 smaller than the diameter of the game ball is formed between the edge of the hole 118 and the downstream cover 125 in the operating direction (left-right direction). This makes it possible to drop the game ball from the downstream ball removal hole 118 with a smaller amount of operation.

In addition, when the downstream side lid 125 closes the downstream side ball removal hole 118, the game balls are guided from the lower right end on the saucer 16 through the supply port 22 to the firing device.

Next, the upstream ball extraction unit 113 will be explained.

As shown in FIG. 24, the upstream ball removal unit 113 includes an upstream lid 300 (second lid: second opening/closing means), a torsion spring 302, a cover member 304, and an upstream ball removal button 306 ( It includes a second button (second operation means), a slide member 308, a latch 310, and a ball removal base 312 (base member).

The upstream lid 300 includes a lid portion 320 that closes the upstream ball removal hole 119, and a support portion 322 that supports the lid portion 320 (rotation of the lid portion 320). The lid portion 320 is formed into a substantially circular plate shape. Further, the lid portion 320 has a size that allows it to cover the upstream ball removal hole 119 from below. Further, the support portion 322 is formed to protrude forward from the front edge of the lid portion 320. Furthermore, the lid portion 320 and the support portion 322 are integrally formed from a resin material.

The support portion 322 is formed with an insertion hole 324 into which a protrusion 332 of a cover member 304, which will be described later, is inserted. Further, the support portion 322 is provided with a cylindrical guide protrusion 326 that protrudes downward.

The cover member 304 has a substantially rectangular plate shape. Furthermore, a game ball passage hole 330 through which game balls pass is formed in the right rear portion of the cover member 304. Further, a cylindrical protrusion 332 is provided on the upper surface of the cover member 304 at a position in front of the game ball passage hole 330.

Additionally, three arc-shaped rails 334 are formed on the upper surface of the cover member 304. The three rails 334 are arcuate protrusions, and the center of the arc is the protrusion 332 (the central axis of the protrusion 332).

Further, the cover member 304 is provided with a guide hole 336 through which the guide protrusion 326 of the upstream lid 300 is inserted. Further, the guide hole 336 is an arc-shaped hole, and the center of the arc is the protrusion 332 (the central axis of the protrusion 332). The guide hole 336 is provided in front of the game ball passage hole 330 and to the right of the protrusion 332. Further, the guide hole 336 has a width (length in the radial direction of the circular arc) that substantially matches the outer diameter of the guide protrusion 326, and a length (length in the circumferential direction of the circular arc) of the guide hole 336. It is longer than the outer diameter of the protrusion 326.

Furthermore, a wall portion 338 for receiving one of the arms of the torsion spring 302 is provided on the upper surface of the cover member 304 . The wall portion 338 is formed to extend in the left-right direction. Further, the wall portion 338 is provided on the front left side of the protrusion portion 332.

The upstream lid 300 is placed on the cover member 304 with the protrusion 332 of the cover member 304 inserted into the insertion hole 324 of the upstream lid 300. Further, the upstream lid 300 is rotatable around the protrusion 332 of the cover member 304 (the central axis of the protrusion 332). Here, the guide protrusion 326 of the upstream lid 300 is inserted into the guide hole 336 of the cover member 304. Therefore, the guide protrusion 326 can move within the lengthwise range of the guide hole 336. That is, the guide protrusion 326 and the guide hole 336 form a movement range limiting part that limits the movement range (movable range) of the upstream lid 300.

Further, the torsion spring 302 is disposed between the cover member 304 and the upstream lid 300, with the protrusion 332 of the cover member 304 passing through the inside thereof. Note that a cylindrical protrusion (not shown) having a hole communicating with the insertion hole 324 and protruding downward is provided on the lower surface of the cover member 304. The protrusion 332 of the cover member 304 is inserted inside the protrusion, and the torsion spring 302 is arranged to surround the protrusion. Furthermore, a fixing portion (not shown) for fixing one of the arms of the torsion spring 302 is provided on the lower surface of the cover member 304. One of the arms of the torsion spring 302 is fixed to the fixed part, and the other arm is pressed against the wall part 338 of the cover member 304. As a result, a force in the direction of closing the upstream ball removal hole 119 is applied from the torsion spring 302 to the upstream lid 300.
Note that the protrusion 332 of the cover member 304 is provided with a screw hole. The upstream lid 300 is attached to the cover member 304 by screwing a screw 333 (see FIGS. 25 and 26) inserted into the insertion hole 324 of the upstream lid 300 into the screw hole.

Moreover, when the upstream lid 300 rotates, it rotates by sliding on the rails 334 of the cover member 304. Therefore, the friction generated between the upstream lid 300 and the cover member 304 is reduced, and the upstream lid 300 can be rotated with less force.

Furthermore, a protrusion 340 extending in the front-rear direction is provided on the lower surface of the cover member 304.

In addition, screw insertion holes 342 into which screws 345 (see FIGS. 25 and 26) are inserted are formed at three corners (front right corner, rear right corner, and rear left corner) of the cover member 304. has been done.

The slide member 308 is disposed between the ball removal base 312 and the cover member 304 so as to be movable in the front-rear direction. The slide member 308 is formed into a substantially flat plate shape. Further, a button fixing portion 350 to which the upstream ball release button 306 is fixed is formed at the front left portion of the slide member 30. The upstream ball release button 306 is fixed to this button fixing portion 350 by screwing.

Furthermore, a lock protrusion 352 that protrudes rearward is formed on the left rear portion of the slide member 308. The lock protrusion 352 has a support portion that extends rearward in a bar shape, and a tip portion that widens in the left-right direction at the tip of the support portion.

Further, the right side portion of the slide member 308 is a frame portion 353 having a substantially rectangular frame shape and having a short width in the front-rear direction. Furthermore, a guide insertion hole 354 into which the guide protrusion 326 of the upstream lid 300 is inserted is formed in the frame portion 353 . The length of the guide insertion hole 354 in the front-rear direction substantially matches the outer diameter of the guide protrusion 326, and the length of the guide insertion hole 354 in the left-right direction is longer than the outer diameter of the guide protrusion 326. . That is, the guide protrusion 326 is hardly able to move in the front-back direction with respect to the guide insertion hole 354, and is allowed to move in the left-right direction. Further, the front surface of the frame portion 353 is a contact surface 355 that comes into contact with a front wall 372 of the ball removal base 312, which will be described later.

Further, the lower surface of the slide member 308 is provided with a projection (not shown) into which one end of the cylindrical spring 360 is inserted and a wall (not shown) against which the one end of the spring 360 is pressed. (See the protrusion 382 and wall portion 380 of the ball punching base 312, which will be described later).

Furthermore, a groove 356 extending in the front-rear direction is formed on the upper surface of the slide member 308. The groove 356 has a shape along the protrusion 340 of the cover member 304. Further, a convex portion 358 extending in the front-rear direction is provided on the lower surface of the slide member 308.

The ball removal base 312 is arranged at the lowest part of the upstream ball removal unit 113 and constitutes the bottom of the upstream ball removal unit 113. The bulb base 312 has a substantially rectangular plate shape. Further, the left front portion of the ball removal base 312 has a shape cut out toward the rear, and a cutout portion 370 is formed. The upstream ball removal button 306 is pushed into the notch 370 when pressed.

Further, a wall portion (front wall 372) projecting upward is formed on the right side portion of the front edge of the ball extraction base 312 (excluding the notch portion 370).

Further, a game ball passage hole 374 through which game balls pass is formed at the right rear portion of the ball extraction base 312. The game ball passage hole 374 is provided below the game ball passage hole 330 of the cover member 304, and has an inner diameter (hole shape) that substantially matches the game ball passage hole 330.
Note that the game ball passage holes 330, 374 have an inner diameter smaller than an outer diameter of the lid portion 320 of the upstream lid 300. When the upstream lid 300 is closed, the game ball passage holes 330, 374 are completely covered from above (see FIG. 25(b)).

Furthermore, a latch fixing portion 376 to which the latch 310 is fixed is provided at the left rear portion of the upper surface of the ball removal base 312. Further, the latch 310 fixed to the latch fixing portion 376 is positioned behind the lock protrusion 352 of the slide member 308.

A groove 378 for guiding the slide member 308 is provided in the center portion of the upper surface of the ball extraction base 312 in the left-right direction (between the game ball passage hole 374 and the latch fixing portion 376). This groove 378 is formed to extend in the front-rear direction, and has a shape that follows the convex portion 358 of the slide member 308. Furthermore, a wall portion 380 that projects upward from the upper surface of the ball removal base 312 is provided at the rear portion of the groove 378 . Furthermore, a protrusion 382 that protrudes forward is provided on the front surface of the wall portion 380. This protrusion 382 is inserted into one end of the cylindrical spring 360. Further, one end of the spring 360 is pressed against the wall portion 380. A spring 360 is disposed between the wall portion 380 and the wall portion provided on the lower surface of the slide member 308 so as to be expandable and contractable in the front-rear direction.

Moreover, screw holes 384 for screwing the screws 345 are formed in three corners (front right corner, rear right corner, and rear left corner) of the ball extraction base 312, respectively.

The ball extraction base 312 and the cover member 304 are fixed to each other by screws 345 inserted into the screw insertion holes 342 of the cover member 304 being screwed into the screw holes 384 of the ball extraction base 312. Here, the slide member 308 is sandwiched between the ball removal base 312 and the cover member 304. Further, the convex portion 358 of the slide member 308 is inserted into the groove 378 of the ball removal base 312, and the protrusion portion 340 of the cover member 304 is inserted into the groove 356 of the slide member 308. The slide member 308 is guided by the groove 378 of the ball removal base 312 and the protrusion 340 of the cover member 304 to move in the front-rear direction. Further, the frame-shaped portion 353 of the slide member 308 is arranged between the front wall 372 of the ball extraction base 312 and the game ball passage hole 374, and is configured to move back and forth between these.

Further, the upstream lid 300 is configured to rotate in the left-right direction in conjunction with the movement of the slide member 308 in the front-back direction. The upstream lid 300 is configured to close the upstream ball removal hole 119 when it is located on the right side, and to open the upstream ball removal hole 119 when it is located on the left side. In other words, the upstream lid 300 is movable between a closed position where the upstream ball removal hole 119 is closed and an open position where the upstream ball removal hole 119 is opened. In other words, the upstream lid 300 is a lid that opens and closes the upstream ball removal hole 119. In other words, in the upstream ball removal unit 113, the upstream lid 300 moves in the left-right direction as the upstream ball removal button 306 moves in the front-rear direction. That is, based on the operation of the upstream ball extraction button 306 by a player or the like, the upstream lid 300 can be moved to open and close the upstream ball extraction hole 119.

The operation of the upstream ball removing unit 113 will be described with reference to FIGS. 25 and 26. Note that FIG. 25 is a diagram showing a state in which the upstream bulb removal button 306 is in the initial position when not operated, and the upstream lid 300 is in the closed position. Note that FIG. 25(a) is a diagram showing the dish member 110 and the cover member 304 together, and FIG. 25(b) is a diagram showing the dish member 110 and the cover member 304 omitted. Further, FIG. 26 is a diagram showing a state in which the upstream ball removal button 306 is pushed in and the slide member 308 is held by the latch 310, and the upstream lid 300 is in the open position. Note that FIG. 26(a) is a diagram showing the dish member 110 and the cover member 304 together, and FIG. 26(b) is a diagram showing the dish member 110 and the cover member 304 omitted.

In the following, the state of the upstream ball removing button 306 when the upstream ball removing button 306 is not operated and the slide member 308 is not held by the latch 310 will be referred to as the initial state of the upstream ball removing button 306. shall be. In other words, the initial state is the state in which the upstream ball removal button 306 protrudes forward (the most). Further, the position of the upstream ball removal button 306 in the initial state is defined as an initial position (second initial position).

First, when the upstream bulb release button 306 is in the initial position when not operated, the upstream lid 300 is in the closed position. In this state, the upstream ball extraction hole 119 is closed by the upstream lid 300, and the game ball cannot be dropped from the upstream ball extraction hole 119.
In the gaming machine of this embodiment, a flange portion 390 is formed at the outer edge of the lid portion 320 of the upstream lid 300. The flange portion 390 is provided below the center portion of the lid portion 320 and protrudes outward in the radial direction of the lid portion 320. Further, the flange portion 390 is provided at the front portion (right side portion) of the lid portion 320 in the moving direction when the upstream lid 300 is closed. In addition, the flange portion 390 is inserted below the saucer 16 when the upstream lid 300 closes the upstream ball removal hole 119 (it protrudes outward beyond the edge of the upstream ball removal hole 119). ing). When the upstream ball removal button 306 is at the initial position, the upstream ball removal hole 119 is completely closed by the upstream lid 300 in plan view (when viewed from above). . In other words, the upstream lid 300 completely closes the upstream ball removal hole 119, making it impossible to visually recognize the members located below from the upstream ball removal hole 119. On the other hand, as described above, when the downstream ball removal button 120 is at the initial position, a gap is formed between the downstream lid 125 and the downstream ball removal hole 118. However, a cover member 392 that covers the downstream ball removal hole 118 is arranged above the downstream ball removal hole 118 (see FIG. 20). Therefore, this cover member 392 makes it impossible to visually recognize the member located below from the downstream ball removal hole 118 in plan view. Note that this cover member 392 has a function of aligning the game balls guided to the lower right end of the saucer 16 in a line in the vertical direction.

When the upstream ball removal button 306 is moved backward from the initial position (pressed down by the player), the slide member 308 integrated with the upstream ball removal button 306 is moved rearward. Then, the guide protrusion 326 of the upstream lid 300 inserted into the guide insertion hole 354 of the slide member 308 is pushed rearward. Then, the upstream lid 300 rotates counterclockwise (counterclockwise in plan view) around the protrusion 332 of the cover member 304 (the central axis of the protrusion 332). In other words, the upstream lid 300 moves toward the left. Then, the upstream lid 300 is brought to the open position, and the upstream bulb removal hole 119 is opened.

Further, when the upstream ball removal button 306 is moved backward by a predetermined amount or more from the initial position, the lock protrusion 352 of the slide member 308 is pushed into the latch 310. Then, the latch 310 closes and grips the tip of the lock protrusion 352. As a result, the slide member 308 is held (latched) by the latch 310, and the upstream ball removal button 306 is fixed in a pressed state.

When the slide member 308 is held by the latch 310, the upstream ball removal hole 119 is completely opened, as shown in FIG. 26. That is, in this state, the upstream ball removal hole 119 and the upstream lid 300 do not overlap at all in the vertical direction, and the upstream lid 300 cannot be visually recognized from the upstream ball removal hole 119 in plan view. It is not possible to do so. Furthermore, below the upstream ball removal hole 119, a game ball passage hole 330 of the cover member 304 and a game ball passage hole 374 of the ball extraction base 312 are arranged, but the inner diameters of the game ball passage holes 330, 374 are , is larger than the inner diameter of the upstream ball extraction hole 119, and the edges of the game ball passing holes 330, 374 cannot be visually recognized from the upstream ball extraction hole 110 in plan view. In other words, in this state, a game ball falling straight up and down (falling vertically) from the upstream ball extraction hole 119 will not hit the edges of the upstream lid 300 or the game ball passage holes 330, 374. ing.
Note that in a state in which the slide member 308 is held by the latch 310, a portion of the upstream lid 300 may protrude inward in the radial direction of the upstream ball removal hole 119. In addition, the part of the upstream lid 300 (in the open state) has an inclined surface, etc. that goes downward as it goes radially inward of the upstream ball extraction hole 119, so that the game from the upstream ball extraction hole 119 is It may also have the role of assisting the fall of the ball.

Furthermore, when the slide member 308 is pushed in again while the latch 310 is closed (the lock protrusion 352 is gripped), the latch 310 releases the lock protrusion 352 and allows the slide member 308 to move forward. . Here, when the slide member 308 is pushed in (the state where the latch 310 grips the lock protrusion 352 or the state at the moment when the latch 310 releases the lock protrusion 352), the The spring 360 is in a compressed state between the wall portion and a wall portion 380 provided on the upper surface of the ball extraction base 312. Therefore, the elastic force of the spring 360 acts to push the slide member 308 back forward. At this time, if the latch 310 grips the lock protrusion 352, the forward movement of the slide member 308 is restricted, and the slide member 308 and the upstream ball removal button 306 are fixed in the pressed state. On the other hand, when the latch 310 releases the lock protrusion 352, the elastic force of the spring 360 pushes the slide member 308 and the upstream ball release button 306 back forward.

When the slide member 308 is pushed back forward by the elastic force of the spring 360, the guide protrusion 326 of the upstream lid 300 inserted into the guide insertion hole 354 of the slide member is pulled back forward. Then, the upstream lid 300 rotates clockwise (clockwise in plan view) around the protrusion 332 of the cover member 304 (the central axis of the protrusion 332). In other words, the upstream lid 300 moves toward the right. Then, the upstream lid 300 is in the closed position, and the upstream bulb removal hole 119 is closed.

Further, as described above, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, a force is applied from the torsion spring 302 to the upstream lid 300 in the direction of closing the upstream ball removal hole 119. That is, when the upstream lid 300 is open, the elastic force of the torsion spring acts to return the upstream lid 300 to the closed position. This force is also transmitted to the slide member 308 via the guide protrusion 326 of the upstream lid 300. That is, the elastic force of the torsion spring 302 acts in a direction to return the slide member 308 and the upstream ball removal button 306 to the front.

Therefore, when the slide member 308 is not in operation and is not held by the latch 310, the upstream lid 300 is returned to the closed position by the elastic force of the spring 360 and the elastic force of the torsion spring 302. , the upstream ball removal button 306 is returned to its initial position. That is, the upstream ball release button 306 is arranged at the initial position when it is not operated and the slide member 308 is not held by the latch 310. In other words, the upstream ball removal button 306 is biased forward.

Further, the distance L4 from the center of rotation of the upstream lid 300 (the central axis of the protrusion 332 of the cover member 304) to the center of the lid 320 is defined as The contact portion between the portion 326 and the guide insertion hole 354 (the portion where the upstream lid 300 is pushed by the slide member 308) is at least twice the distance L3. Therefore, when the slide member 308 moves rearward, the lid portion 320 rotates by more than twice the length that the guide protrusion 326 rotates.

In the game machine of this embodiment, the amount of operation required for the upstream ball removal button 306 to open the upstream ball removal hole 119 so that at least one game ball can pass through is is set to less than the diameter. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 27, when the upstream ball removal button 306 is pressed down approximately 4 mm from the initial position, the upstream ball removal hole 119 is opened so that at least one game ball B can pass through. . That is, when the upstream ball extraction button 306 is pressed down from the initial position by a predetermined amount (approximately 4 mm) that is less than the diameter of the game ball, the opening width W3 of the upstream ball extraction hole 119 (from the tip of the upstream lid 300 to the opposite tip) (distance to the edge of the upstream ball removal hole 119) is 11 mm or more. In addition, in the game machine of this embodiment, the amount of operation for the upstream ball removal button 306 required to open the upstream ball removal hole 119 so that at least one game ball can pass through is Set to less than the radius of the sphere.

Further, when the upstream ball extraction button 306 is pressed down to the maximum, the opening width W3 of the upstream ball extraction hole 119 becomes larger than twice the diameter of the game ball (22 mm). In the game machine of this embodiment, when the upstream ball removal button 306 is pressed down to the maximum, the slide member 308 is held by the latch 310, but if you release your hand from the upstream ball removal button 306 in this state, the upstream ball removal button 306 The side ball removal button 306 (slide member 308) will be moved back slightly (for example, about 3 mm) to the front side. However, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, both in the state where the upstream ball ejecting button 306 is pressed down to the maximum and the state where the slide member 308 holds the latch 310, the upstream ball ejecting hole 119 is now completely open. At this time, the upstream ball removal hole 119 is in a state where at least two game balls can pass through at the same time. In the game machine of this embodiment, the upstream ball removal hole 119 is in a state where three or more, more specifically, four or more game balls can pass through at the same time. Further, at this time, the upstream ball removal hole 119 is configured such that the three game balls cannot pass through at the same time when the three game balls are lined up in the same straight line. In other words, in any part of the upstream ball extraction hole 119, the straight-line distance from edge to edge (crossing: diameter) is less than three times the diameter of the game ball. In other words, the upstream ball removal hole 119 has a straight line distance from edge to edge (diameter) in two directions that intersect (orthogonally) with each other and is less than three times the diameter of the game ball. In addition, the upstream ball extraction hole 119 has a straight line distance from edge to edge (diameter) in two directions that intersect (perpendicularly intersect) with each other and is larger than twice the diameter of the game ball.
In this way, because the width is larger than twice the diameter of the game ball, when two game balls try to pass through the upstream ball removal hole 119 at the same time, the upstream ball removal hole 119 This will prevent it from getting stuck and getting stuck. Moreover, since the length of the ball is less than three times the diameter of the game ball, such clogging of the game ball can be more reliably prevented.

Further, the maximum amount (maximum operation amount) that the upstream ball extraction button 306 can be pressed is set to be greater than or equal to the diameter of the game ball (length exceeding the diameter). In other words, the maximum operation amount of the upstream ball removal button 306 is set to be larger than the maximum operation amount of the downstream ball removal button 120. In the game machine of this embodiment, the maximum operation amount of the upstream ball extraction button 306 is set to about 14.5 mm. That is, the maximum operation amount of the upstream ball removal button 306 is set to be greater than or equal to the diameter of the game ball and less than twice the diameter (less than 1.5 times).

According to the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the downstream ball extraction button 120 (first button: first operating means) can be operated to open the downstream ball extraction hole 118 (first operation means) with an operation amount less than the diameter of the game ball. The upstream ball extraction button 306 (second button: second operation means) is configured to open the upstream ball extraction hole 119 (hole) through which the game ball can pass, and the upstream ball extraction button 306 (second button: second operation means) is operated to open the upstream ball extraction hole 119 (the second operation means) with an operation amount less than the diameter of the game ball. Since the game ball can pass through the hole No. 2), the downstream ball removal button 120 or the upstream ball is required to eject the game ball from the downstream ball removal hole 118 or the upstream ball removal hole 119. The amount of operation required for the extraction button 306 can be reduced. Therefore, it is possible to remove the ball from the saucer 16 with a small amount of operation, and the burden of operation can be reduced.

Further, according to the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the maximum value of the operation amount for the downstream ball removal button 120 is less than or equal to the diameter of the game ball (less than the diameter), and the maximum value of the operation amount for the upstream ball removal button 306 is greater than or equal to the diameter of the game ball (length exceeding the diameter), and when the upstream ball removing button 306 is operated to the position where the operation amount for the upstream ball removing button 306 is the maximum value, the upstream ball removing hole 119 is opened. , at least two game balls can pass through at the same time. Therefore, since the downstream ball removal button 120 reaches the maximum operation amount with a small operation amount, the burden of operation can be reduced. Furthermore, by setting the maximum operation amount of the upstream ball extraction button 306 to be equal to or greater than the diameter of the game ball, the ejection capacity of the upstream ball extraction hole 119 when operated to the maximum operation amount can be improved. Further, since the maximum operation amount is different between the downstream ball removal button 120 and the upstream ball removal button 306 (because the operation amount is associated with the discharge capacity of the hole), the downstream ball removal button 120 and the upstream ball removal button 306 are different. It becomes easier to distinguish it from the upstream ball removal button 306, and it becomes easier to get a feel for the operation of both operating means, which have a common function. Therefore, it is possible to prevent erroneous operations such as the player ejecting game balls from an unintended location or erroneous operations such as ejecting an unintended number of game balls. Furthermore, in the game machine of this embodiment, the downstream ball extraction button 120 returns to the initial position when the player releases the button, so that the ball extraction from the downstream ball extraction hole 118 continues. In order to do so, the downstream ball extraction button 120 must be kept pressed down. However, in the game machine of this embodiment, the downstream ball removal button 120 reaches the maximum operation amount with a small amount of operation, so it is possible to continue pressing the downstream ball removal button 120 with less burden. On the other hand, since the upstream ball removal button 306 is held by the latch 310, it is possible to continue removing balls from the upstream ball removal hole 119 without continuing to press the upstream ball removal button 306. Can be done. By setting the maximum operation amount of the upstream ball extraction button 306 to be equal to or greater than the diameter of the game ball, it has become possible to eject a large amount of game balls from the saucer 16 in a short time.

Further, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, the downstream ball extraction hole 118 is smaller in size than the upstream ball extraction hole 119. That is, the downstream ball punching hole 118 has a shorter hole diameter (crossing) (the longest straight line distance from edge to edge) than the upstream ball punching hole 119. In other words, the downstream ball removal hole 118 has a smaller hole area than the upstream ball removal hole 119.

In addition, the amount of operation required to open the ball extraction hole (downstream ball extraction hole 118 or upstream ball extraction hole 119) so that at least one game ball can pass through (the amount of operation for one ball) ), the downstream ball removal button 120 may be larger than the upstream ball removal button 306. Specifically, for example, if the downstream ball extraction button 120 is moved approximately 4 mm from the initial position, the game ball can pass through the downstream ball extraction hole 118, and the upstream ball extraction button 306 is moved approximately 3 mm from the initial position. When it is moved, the upstream ball removal hole 119 may be placed in a state where the game ball can pass through. In other words, the amount of operation for one ball may be different between the downstream ball removal button 120 and the upstream ball removal button 306, and the difference between the amount of operation for one ball for both buttons is the maximum. It suffices if it is smaller than the difference between the manipulated variables. According to such a configuration, since the operation amount for one ball is different between the downstream ball extraction button 120 and the upstream ball extraction button 306 (the operation amount and the discharge capacity of the hole are associated). ), it becomes easier to distinguish between the downstream ball removal button 120 and the upstream ball removal button 306, and it becomes easier to grasp the operational feel of both operating means that have a common function. Therefore, it is possible to prevent erroneous operations such as the player ejecting game balls from an unintended location or erroneous operations such as ejecting an unintended number of game balls. Moreover, according to such a configuration, the operation amount for one ball of the downstream ball removal button 120 is larger than the operation amount for one ball of the upstream ball removal button 306, and The maximum operation amount of the extraction button 120 becomes smaller than the maximum operation amount of the upstream ball extraction button 306.

Note that the operation amount for one ball of the upstream ball removal button 306 is smaller than the operation amount for one ball of the downstream ball removal button 120, and the operation amount for one ball of the upstream ball removal button 306 is smaller than the operation amount for one ball of the downstream ball removal button 120. The operating load required to move the upstream ball removing button 306 is equal to the operating load required to move the downstream ball removing button 120 by the amount of operation for one ball on the downstream ball removing button 120. It may be smaller than that. Specifically, for example, if the upstream ball extraction button 306 is moved approximately 3 mm from the initial position, the game ball can pass through the upstream ball extraction hole 119, and the downstream ball extraction button 120 is moved approximately 4 mm from the initial position. When moved, the game ball can pass through the downstream ball removal hole 118, and the operation load required to move the upstream ball removal button 306 by about 3 mm is, for example, 2N, and the downstream ball removal button 120 is moved by about 4 mm. The operating load required for this purpose may be approximately 4N. In other words, if the same amount of load is applied to the upstream ball removal button 306 and the downstream ball removal button 120 (within the range where the amount of operation for each does not reach the maximum amount of operation), the upstream ball removal hole 119 may be configured to open more widely than the downstream ball removal hole 118. According to such a configuration, the upstream ball removal button 306 can remove the ball with a smaller operation amount than the downstream ball removal button 120, and can also remove the ball with a smaller operating load than the downstream ball removal button 120. becomes possible. For this reason, when a quick ball removal is desired, such as when a predetermined amount or more of game balls are stored in the saucer 16 and the saucer 16 is full (when a full tank error occurs), efficient ball extraction is possible. It is possible to provide a tactile motivation to prompt the user to operate the upstream ball removal button 306 that can perform the above operations.
Note that regardless of the magnitude of the operation amount for one ball between the downstream ball removal button 120 and the upstream ball removal button 306, the operation amount for one ball for the upstream ball removal button 306, the upstream side The operation load required to move the ball removal button 306 is made smaller than the operation load required to move the downstream ball removal button 120 by the amount of operation for one ball on the downstream ball removal button 120. Good too.

Further, according to the gaming machine of this embodiment, the ratio of the operation amount for one ball (approximately 3 mm or approximately 4 mm) to the maximum operation amount (approximately 14.5 mm) on the upstream ball removal button 306 is the same as that of the downstream ball. This is smaller than the ratio of the operation amount for one ball (approximately 4 mm) to the maximum operation amount (approximately 6 mm) of the extraction button 120. Therefore, it is possible to give the player a feeling that the game balls can be ejected more quickly by operating the upstream ball ejecting button 306. Therefore, when it is desired to quickly remove balls, such as when a predetermined amount or more of game balls are stored in the saucer 16 and the saucer 16 becomes full (when a full tank error occurs), efficient ball extraction is possible. It is possible to provide a tactile motivation to prompt the user to operate the upstream ball removal button 306, which is executable.

Furthermore, according to the game machine of this embodiment, when the operation amount of the downstream ball extraction button 120 is the maximum operation amount, it is impossible for two or more game balls to pass through the downstream ball extraction hole 118 at the same time. , and when the operation amount for the upstream ball extraction button 306 is the maximum operation amount, it is a state in which two or more game balls can pass through the upstream ball extraction hole 119 at the same time, and the upstream ball The maximum amount of operation for the extraction button 306 is larger than the maximum amount of operation for the downstream ball extraction button 120. Therefore, the relationship between the maximum operation amount of the downstream ball removal button 120 and the maximum operation amount of the upstream ball removal button 306 is linked to the ejection efficiency of game balls. Therefore, it is possible to give the player a feeling that the game balls can be ejected more quickly by operating the upstream ball ejecting button 306. Therefore, when it is desired to quickly remove balls, such as when a predetermined amount or more of game balls are stored in the saucer 16 and the saucer 16 becomes full (when a full tank error occurs), efficient ball extraction is possible. It is possible to provide a tactile motivation to prompt the user to operate the upstream ball removal button 306, which is executable.

Note that the amount of operation of the button (downstream ball removal button 120 or upstream ball removal button 360) in the downstream ball removal unit 112 or upstream ball removal unit 113, the lid (downstream lid 125 or upstream lid) The mechanism for increasing the amount of movement of 300) is not limited to the above-mentioned mechanism, and various known transmission mechanisms can be employed. Further, the downstream ball removal button 120 (first operation means) or the upstream ball removal button 360 (second operation means) is not limited to the push button as described above, but may also be a slide type operation means (for example, left and right operation means). It may also be a lever that slides in the direction.

Further, as shown in FIG. 19, the upstream ball extraction unit 113 is fixed to the lower left portion of the dish member 110 by screwing. The upstream ball removal button 306 is arranged below the saucer 16. Further, as shown in FIG. 28, the upstream ball removal button 306 is provided so as to protrude forward from an opening provided in the exterior component of the front frame 10.

The upstream ball removal button 306 and the portion surrounding the upstream ball removal button 306 have different colors. That is, the peripheral member (exterior component) that forms the opening that exposes the upstream ball removal button 306 has a color different from that of the upstream ball removal button 306 . In the gaming machine of this embodiment, the upstream ball extraction button 306 is red, while the surrounding members are white.

Further, as described above, the downstream ball removal button 120 is provided in the button arrangement section 116, but the downstream ball removal button 120 and the button arrangement section 116 have different colors. In the gaming machine of this embodiment, the downstream ball extraction button 120 is red, whereas the button arrangement section 116 is black.

In this way, the visibility of the buttons can be improved by making the colors of the upstream button 306 and the downstream button 120 different from the colors of the surrounding members surrounding the buttons. Therefore, the player can easily find the button.

Further, the upstream ball removal button 306 and the downstream ball removal button 120 are formed of resin materials of the same color (same color). Further, the upstream ball removal button 306 and the downstream ball removal button 120 are entirely formed in one color. In addition, all other buttons arranged in the button arrangement section 116 (ball rental button, return button 91, direction key 92, volume adjustment button 93, light intensity adjustment button 94, etc.) are the upstream ball removal button 306 and the downstream ball removal button 306. The bulb button 120 is made of a resin material of a different color. Therefore, it is easy to understand which button is the button for removing balls, and the player can find the button more easily.
In addition, other than the upstream ball removal button 306 and the downstream ball removal button 120, there may be no button molded from a resin material of the same color as these buttons. That is, the color may be used exclusively for the button for ejecting game balls from the saucer 16. Further, buttons other than the upstream ball removal button 306 and the downstream ball removal button 120 (other buttons) may include a dedicated color, but in that case, the other buttons may also include colors other than the dedicated color. Preferably.

In addition, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, the pressing surface (the surface that the player etc. touches when pressing the button: the upper surface) (operating surface) of the downstream ball extraction button 120 (first button: first operating means) ) is (almost) flat. On the other hand, unevenness is formed on the pressing surface (the surface that the player, etc. touches when pressing the button: the front surface) (operating surface) of the upstream ball extraction button 306 (second button: second operating means). ing. In other words, the pressing surface of the upstream ball removal button 306 has a more uneven shape than the pressing surface of the downstream ball removal button 120. The upstream ball removal button 306 is difficult to see because it is surrounded by exterior parts and is provided so as to protrude forward and below the saucer 16, but it is provided with relatively many irregularities. This makes it easy for the player to search for the button. In addition, since the downstream ball release button 120 is provided in the button arrangement section 116 that forms the top surface of the saucer unit 100, it is easy to visually recognize the button. Certain things are easier to discern.

In addition, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, the operation surface of the downstream ball extraction button 120 (first button: first operation means) is similar to the operation surface of the upstream ball extraction button 306 (second button: second operation means). ) has a smaller area than the operating surface. Here, the operation surface refers to a surface where the range that the player can touch remains unchanged, and the range that the player can see remains unchanged, no matter what position the operating means is operated. In other words, the operation surface does not include a surface that is hidden by surrounding members when the operation means is operated. According to such a configuration, the size of the operating surface is related to the amount of operation of the operating means, so that it becomes easier to grasp the feeling of operating the two operating means having the same function. Therefore, it is possible to prevent erroneous operations such as ejecting an unintended number of game balls by the player.

Note that the game ball discharged from the downstream ball removal hole 118 is guided downward through the first passage 114. Further, the game balls discharged from the upstream ball removal hole 119 are guided downward through the second passage 115. Further, the first passage 114 merges with the second passage 115. Further, the second passage is connected to a hole 400 provided on the bottom surface of the gaming machine (see FIG. 28). The game balls discharged from the downstream ball extraction hole 118 or the upstream ball extraction hole 119 are discharged from this hole 400 to the outside of the gaming machine.

In addition, although the gaming machine of this embodiment has one saucer 16, it is also possible to have a plurality of saucers. For example, gaming machines are generally known that have two trays, an upper tray (first tray) and a lower tray (second tray). In this type of gaming machine, game balls lent to players (rental balls) and game balls won by winning (prize balls) are stored in an upper tray. The lower tray is provided at a lower position than the upper tray, and for example, game balls that are further paid out when the upper tray is full (a state in which more than a predetermined amount of game balls are stored in the upper tray), etc. is stored. In addition, game balls can be ejected from the ball ejection hole provided in the upper tray toward the lower tray. The configuration of the gaming machine of this embodiment may be applied to this type of gaming machine. Specifically, for example, a ball removal hole similar to the downstream ball removal hole 118 may be provided in the upper plate, and a downstream ball removal unit 112 may be provided corresponding to the ball removal hole. In other words, the downstream ball removing hole 118 and the downstream ball removing unit 112 in this embodiment may be read as being provided with respect to the upper plate. Further, for example, a ball removal hole similar to the upstream ball removal hole 119 may be provided in the lower plate, and an upstream ball removal unit 113 may be provided corresponding to the ball removal hole. In other words, the upstream ball removal hole 119 and the upstream ball removal unit 113 in this embodiment may be read as being provided with respect to the lower plate.

The gaming machine according to this embodiment is
a first hole through which the game ball can be ejected from the saucer;
a second hole through which game balls can be ejected from the saucer;
a first opening/closing means capable of opening and closing the first hole;
a second opening/closing means capable of opening and closing the second hole;
a first operation means that accepts an operation to move the first opening/closing means;
a second operating means that accepts an operation to move the second opening/closing means;
the second hole is larger than the first hole,
The first operating means puts the first hole into a state where the game ball can pass through with an operation amount less than the diameter of the game ball,
The second operating means puts the second hole into a state where the game ball can pass through with an amount of operation less than the diameter of the game ball,
The amount of operation less than the diameter of the second operation means is smaller than the amount of operation less than the diameter of the first operation means,
The operating load necessary to move the second operating means by an operating amount less than the diameter of the second operating means is equal to the operating load required to move the second operating means by an operating amount less than the diameter of the first operating means. It is characterized by being smaller than the operating load required to move the operating means of No. 1.

Furthermore, the gaming machine according to the present embodiment is
a first hole capable of ejecting game balls from a first saucer;
a second hole capable of ejecting game balls from a second saucer;
a first opening/closing means capable of opening and closing the first hole;
a second opening/closing means capable of opening and closing the second hole;
a first operation means that accepts an operation to move the first opening/closing means;
a second operating means that accepts an operation to move the second opening/closing means;
the second hole is larger than the first hole,
The first operating means puts the first hole into a state where the game ball can pass through with an operation amount less than the diameter of the game ball,
The second operating means puts the second hole into a state where the game ball can pass through with an amount of operation less than the diameter of the game ball,
The amount of operation less than the diameter of the second operation means is smaller than the amount of operation less than the diameter of the first operation means,
The operating load necessary to move the second operating means by an operating amount less than the diameter of the second operating means is equal to the operating load required to move the second operating means by an operating amount less than the diameter of the first operating means. It is characterized by being smaller than the operating load required to move the operating means of No. 1.

According to such a configuration, it is possible to reduce the amount of operation required for the first operating means or the second operating means in order to discharge the game ball from the first hole or the second hole. Therefore, it is possible to remove the ball from the saucer with a small amount of operation, and the burden of operation can be reduced. Moreover, according to such a configuration, the second operating means can remove the ball with a smaller operation amount than the first operating means, and can also remove the ball with a smaller operating load than the first operating means. It becomes possible. Therefore, when it is desired to quickly remove balls, such as when more than a predetermined amount of game balls are stored in the tray and the tray is full (when a full error occurs), efficient ball extraction can be performed. It is possible to provide a tactile motivation to prompt the user to operate the possible second operating means. The gaming machine according to this embodiment can be operated comfortably.

(Third embodiment)
2. Description of the Related Art As a game machine, a pachinko game machine equipped with a game board, a firing device, and the like is known. In a pachinko game machine, a game ball (game medium) is fired into a game area provided on the front of the game board, and based on the game ball entering a prize opening provided in the game area, the player is given a game. The above benefits will be granted. A predetermined game machine, typified by such a game machine, is equipped with a rail that guides a game ball. By the way, in gaming machines, there is an increasing demand for larger design areas that decorate gaming machines, but as the design areas become larger, the visibility of game balls within the gaming area, such as game balls rolling along a rail, has increased. There was a problem that it was damaged. The present embodiment aims to provide a gaming machine that can ensure the visibility of game balls.

A third embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In this embodiment, a pachinko game machine, which is one of the game machines, will be described, but other game machines (for example, slot machines, etc.) may be used. In the following explanation, "front and rear" basically means that when a player is on the front side of the gaming machine, the player side is the "front" and the gaming machine side is the "rear", and "up and down" means that the player is on the front side of the gaming machine. The top side of the machine means "top", the bottom side means "bottom", and "left and right" means the player's left hand side means "left" and the right hand side means "right".
Note that, within the scope of the present invention, each configuration can be freely combined, each configuration can be arbitrarily modified, or each configuration can be omitted.

FIG. 29 is a perspective view showing the external configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to this embodiment. The game machine of this embodiment is used to play games using game balls (game media) lent from a game parlor, and includes an outer frame 2 forming the outer surface of the game machine, and a frame 2 provided inside the game machine. , a game board 6 forming a game area 4 in which game balls move, a glass unit 8 that makes the game board 6 visible to players but inaccessible to them, and a front frame 10 to which the glass unit 8 is attached. We are prepared.
Although not shown in FIG. 29, the pachinko gaming machine 1 includes an inner frame, and includes a main body frame having a front frame 10 and an inner frame. A main body frame can be attached to the outer frame 2. Further, the pachinko game machine 1 includes a tray unit having a tray (an upper tray 16 and a lower tray 24). The main body frame has a grip unit 20 (handle) and a saucer unit.
"Saucer unit 320, saucer" shown in the first embodiment can be arbitrarily transformed into "saucer unit, saucer" in the third embodiment. Further, the "handle unit 330" shown in the first embodiment can be arbitrarily transformed into the "grip unit 20" in the third embodiment. Furthermore, the "front frame 300 and outer frame 102" shown in the first embodiment can be arbitrarily modified into the "front frame 10 and outer frame 2" in the third embodiment. . Further, the "inner frame 104, main body frame" shown in the first embodiment can be arbitrarily modified into the "inner frame, main body frame" in the third embodiment. Further, the "game board 108" shown in the first embodiment can be arbitrarily modified into the "game board 6" in the third embodiment. Further, although details will be described later, in this embodiment, a design portion (design member) 84 is provided at the upper part of the front frame 10. The design portion 84 shown in this embodiment can be added to the "front frame 300 and main body frame" shown in the first embodiment. Moreover, it is possible to add the game ball passage 80 shown in this embodiment to the "game board 108" shown in the first embodiment.

The part of the front frame 10 that surrounds the glass unit 8 is made of a semi-transparent material that transmits light, and inside the part made of the semi-transparent material, there are lighting lights etc. to enliven the game. A plurality of front frame lamps 12 are provided. Further, the front frame 10 is provided with a plurality of speakers 14 that output sound effects to enliven the game.

At the center of the lower part of the front frame 10, an upper tray 16 for storing game balls is provided, and on the left side of the inner side of the upper tray 16, there is a tray for dispensing game balls from the gaming machine to the player. A payout port is provided. A grip unit 20 is provided on the lower right side of the front frame 10, and when the player rotates the grip unit 20 clockwise toward the gaming machine, a grip unit 20 (not shown) provided inside the gaming machine is rotated. The firing device is activated to fire game balls into the game area 4. The firing device of this embodiment can fire 99 game balls per minute (1.65 balls per second).

A supply port for supplying game balls from the upper tray 16 to the firing device is provided on the right side of the inner side surface of the upper tray 16. Further, below the upper tray 16, a lower tray 24 is provided for storing surplus game balls when the upper tray 16 cannot store all the game balls.

A performance operation device 26 is provided on the near side of the edge of the upper tray 16, and when a player operates the performance operation device 26, the performance performed on the gaming machine changes. In detail, the production operation device 26 has a built-in push button switch and a rotary switch (jog dial), and is capable of detecting an operation of pressing the production operation device 26 and an operation of rotating the production operation device 26. It has become.

FIG. 30 is a front view showing the external configuration of the game board 6 shown in FIG. 29. As shown in FIG. 30, the game board 6 is provided with a circular outer rail 28, and the area surrounded by the outer rail 28 is the game area 4 in which the game balls move. Further, at the left end of the game area 4, an inner rail 30 is provided in an arc shape along the outer rail 28, and the outer rail 28 and the inner rail 30 are arranged below the game board 6 (not shown). A game ball fired from a firing device is guided to a game area 4.

At the center of the game board 6, a performance unit 36 is provided, which includes a liquid crystal display 32 for displaying performance images to enliven the game, and a display frame 34 formed to surround the liquid crystal display 32.

In this embodiment, the game ball cannot pass through the front side of the liquid crystal display 32, and the game ball fired from the firing device falls through the game area 4 on the left side or the game area 4 on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32. It is supposed to be done. In the game area 4, a large number of game nails (not shown) are nailed so as to cross the surface of the game board 6, so that the moving direction of the game ball moving in the game area 4 changes randomly. .

An opening 40 is formed on the left side of the display frame 34 through which a game ball falling in the game area 4 on the left side of the liquid crystal display 32 can pass. The liquid crystal display 32 is configured to pass through a passage 42 and fall onto a stage 44 provided below the liquid crystal display 32. The upper surface of this stage 44 is a smooth curved surface, and a gap is formed between the stage 44 and the glass unit 8 so that the game ball can fall downward from the stage 44, and fall onto the stage 44 from the passage 42. After the game ball moves back and forth from side to side on the stage 44, it falls downward from near the center of the stage 44.

A first starting prize opening 46 is provided below the center of the stage 44.
Furthermore, a passage gate 48 is provided in the gaming area 4 on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32. Further, a second starting prize opening 50 is provided below the passage gate 48. This second starting prize opening 50 has a reduced state in which it is difficult for the game ball to enter the second starting winning opening 50 (a state in which entry is not assisted/non-assisted state) and an enlarged state in which the game ball is easy to enter (in a state in which it is easy to enter). A normal accessory 52 is provided that includes an auxiliary member that can move between the two states (the state and the auxiliary state).

In the gaming area 4 on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32, a large winning opening 54 is provided below the second starting winning opening 50. This big prize opening 54 is provided with a special accessory 56 including a movable member that closes the big winning opening 54. The special accessory 56 is configured to be operable between a closed state in which the game ball cannot enter the big prize opening 54 and an open state in which the game ball can enter the big prize opening 54 (FIG. 30 shows (indicates closed state). The special accessory 56 is controlled to be in an open state under predetermined conditions in a special game state that starts when a jackpot is won.

A grand prize passage 58 is provided below the grand prize opening 54 facing downward. A normal entry port 62 is provided at the lower end of the grand prize path 58. Furthermore, a specific passage 65 is provided below the grand prize passage 58 so as to branch downward from the middle of the grand prize passage 58. This specific passage 65 is provided with a specific accessory 66 that includes a movable member that blocks the specific passage 65. The specific accessory 66 is configured to be operable between a closed state in which the game ball cannot enter the specific passage 65 and an open state in which the game ball can enter the specific passage 65 (FIG. 30 shows the closed state). ). The specific accessory 66 is controlled to be in an open state under predetermined conditions in the special game state. A specific entrance 68 is provided at the lower end of the specific passage 65 . Further, at the lowest part of the game area 4, an out port 69 is provided for collecting game balls that have fallen from the game area 4 without entering any of the winning holes into the inside of the game machine.

The game ball launching device is configured so that the ejection force of the game ball is changed by adjusting the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 shown in FIG. 29, and when the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 is small, the liquid crystal display The game ball is fired so that it falls in the game area 4 on the left side of the display 32, and when the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 is large, the game ball falls in the game area 4 on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32. A game ball is fired.

The player adjusts the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 according to the gaming situation, and allows the game ball to fall down the left side game area 4 or pass through the opening 40, passage 42, and stage 44 and reach the first starting prize opening. 46 (left hit), the game ball falls down the right side game area 4, and the game ball passes through the passage gate 48, or the second starting prize opening 50. The game ball is fired so that the game ball enters, or the game ball enters the grand prize opening 54 (right-handed hit).

At the lower right portion of the game board 6 and outside the game area 4, a status display section 70 is provided that indicates various statuses of the game machine by lighting and extinguishing lamps or the like. The gaming machine of this embodiment is controlled by a control board including a main board and a sub board. The functions of each board such as the main board and sub-boards are determined by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ASIC (gate array, etc.), ROM (an example of an information storage medium), or RAM. This is realized by software consisting of a given program stored in advance in, for example, a computer.

The main board receives input signals from input means (first starting winning opening sensor, passing gate sensor, second starting winning opening sensor, big winning opening sensor, normal entrance sensor, specific passage sensor, payout sensor, etc.) , performs various calculations to execute the game, and based on the calculation results, outputs the output means (status display drive device, normal role object drive device, special role object drive device, specific role object drive device, payout device, etc.) Performs operation control.

The sub-board receives commands sent from the main board and input signals from the performance operation sensor that detects operations on the performance operation device 26, and performs various calculations to execute performances in accordance with the progress of the game. Based on the calculation results, the operation of the performance devices (effect display device, sound device, performance drive device, etc.) is controlled.

In the gaming machine of this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 30, the gaming area 4 is divided into a left-handed hitting area 4a located on the left side and a right-handed hitting area 4b located on the right side. By changing the strength, the game ball can be dropped in different areas.

Further, at the upper end (upper part) of the gaming area 4, a game ball passage 80 is provided that connects the left-handed hitting area 4a and the right-handed hitting area 4b. A game ball fired from the firing device with a predetermined firing intensity or more passes through the game ball passage 80 and advances to the right-handed hitting area 4b, whereas a game ball fired from the firing device with a firing intensity lower than the predetermined firing intensity is a game ball. The ball does not pass through the passage 80 and proceeds to the left-handed hitting area 4a.

The game ball passage 80 is formed by an outer rail 28 and a rail 81 provided along the outer rail 28 and below the outer rail 28. Moreover, the game ball passage 80 is formed including the upper end of the outer rail 28. Furthermore, the width of the game ball passage 80 (the distance between the outer rail 28 and the rail 81) is longer than the diameter of one game ball and shorter than the diameter of two game balls at the narrowest part. . In addition, the narrowest part of the game ball passage 80 is the top of the game ball passage 80, in other words, the part formed by the upper end (top: apex) of the outer rail 28 and the part of the rail 81 opposite to the upper end. In other words, it is a portion located at the upper end of the gaming area 4.

Further, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 29 and 31, a substantially rectangular box-shaped design portion (design member) 84 that is elongated in the left-right direction is provided at the top of the front frame 10. . Further, the length of the design portion 84 in the left-right direction is more than half the length of the front frame 10 in the left-right direction. Further, the design portion 84 is arranged so as to protrude forward so that its front surface is located in front of the gaming area 4 and the glass unit 8.
In the gaming machine of this embodiment, the glass unit 8 includes two transparent plates (glass plates) 8a and 8b arranged in the front-rear direction with their plate surfaces parallel to each other.

The design section 84 includes an LED board (not shown) for illumination provided therein and an exterior member 85 that covers this, and a space is secured inside the exterior member 85 to accommodate the LED board. has been done. Further, a logo representing the model name, etc. is attached to the front surface of the design portion 84 of the exterior member 85, and the logo is illuminated by an LED board provided inside.
Note that a speaker or the like may be provided inside the design section 84.

The front portion of the lower surface 86 of the design portion 84 is located at the lowest position. Further, the front portion has a plane 87 that is substantially parallel to the horizontal plane. Further, the lower surface 86 of the design portion 84 has an inclined surface 88 that is inclined with respect to the horizontal surface at the rear side of the rear end of the flat surface 87 . The lower surface 86 of the design portion 84 has a shape in which the rear side portion (the inclined surface 88 portion) points upward toward the rear. That is, the front portion of the design portion 84 protrudes more downward than the rear portion, and a protrusion portion 90 is formed. Further, the rear end of the lower surface 86 (slanted surface 88) of the design portion 84 is in contact with or close to the glass unit 8.
Note that the shape of the rear end of the lower surface 86 of the design portion 84 may be formed along the shape of the outer rail 28. That is, the rear end of the lower surface 86 may be curved upwardly when viewed from the front. Further, in accordance with this, the shape of the lower surface 86 (slanted surface 88) may be shaped like a mortar concave toward the upper side.

FIG. 31 is a schematic diagram of the main parts taken along the line AA in FIG. This shows that. The cross section shown in FIG. 31 also passes through the upper end (top) of the rail 81 and the upper end (top) of the rear end of the lower surface 86 of the design section 84.

The rear end of the lower surface 86 of the design portion 84 is located below the upper end of the gaming area 4 in a portion corresponding to the upper end of the gaming area 4 (the front portion of the upper end of the gaming area 4). In other words, the rear end of the lower surface 86 of the design portion 84 is located below the upper end of the upper surface 80a of the game ball passage 80 (the guide surface 113 of the outer rail 28, which will be described later). Further, the rear end of the lower surface 86 of the design portion 84 is located above the upper end of the lower surface 80b of the game ball passage 80 (the surface of the rail 81 that the game balls contact). In addition, the rear end of the lower surface 86 of the design portion 84 is connected to the game ball B located at the upper end of the game area 4 (the game ball B in contact with the upper end of the upper surface 80a of the game ball passage 80), the outer rail 28 (the guide surface 113) is located above the lower end of the game ball) which is in contact with the top of the game ball). More specifically, it is located above the center of the game ball B in this state (indicated by the dashed line C in FIG. 31).

Further, the protruding portion 90 protrudes downward from the center of the game ball B located at the upper end of the game area 4. In other words, the lower end of the protrusion 90 is located below the center of the game ball B in this state. More specifically, the lower end of the protrusion 90 is located below the lower end of the game ball B in this state. Further, the protruding portion 90 protrudes below the upper end of the lower surface 80b of the game ball passage 80.

As is clear from the above, the design portion 84 overlaps the game ball B located at the upper end of the game area 4 in the front-rear direction (direction perpendicular to the game board 6 and glass unit 8). It is designed to cover the entire game ball B in this state. In addition, the design portion 84 has a portion corresponding to the upper end of the gaming area 4 at the rear end of the lower surface 86 (a front portion of the upper end of the gaming area 4) in the front-rear direction (direction perpendicular to the gaming board 6 and the glass unit 8). It does not overlap with at least the lower half of the game ball B located at the upper end of the game area 4, and does not cover at least the lower half of the game ball B in the state. Further, the rear portion of the lower surface 86 is an inclined surface 88. Therefore, even if the game ball is located at the upper end of the game area 4, the player can easily see the game ball rolling in the game area 4. Here, from a predetermined position, specifically, from the player's eye point, it is preferable that at least the lower half of the game ball in this state can be seen without the player moving his or her face up, down, left or right. A player's eye point refers to the position of the player's eyes when sitting on a chair and playing a game. Specifically, for example, the distance between the player's eyes and the glass unit 8 in the front-back direction is between 30 and 50 cm, and the distance (height) between the player's eyes and the bottom of the gaming machine in the vertical direction is between 30 and 50 cm. When the distance is between 40 and 60 cm, it is preferable that at least a part (lower half) of the game ball in the state can be visually recognized. In other words, the game ball B (game ball It is preferable that the design part 84 does not overlap on a straight line to the part below the center of the ball B. According to such a configuration, it is possible to increase the size of the design portion 84 while ensuring the visibility of the game medium moving in the game area.

Next, the design portion 84, the game ball passage 80, and the upper end of the game area 4 in a cross section taken along a plane parallel to the vertical and front-back directions passing through the upper end of the game area 4 (top: the upper end of the outer rail 28). Various lengths regarding the game ball B in the state will be explained with reference to FIG. 31.

As shown in FIG. 31, in the cross section, the upper surface 80a (first reference line BL1, which will be described later) of the game ball passage 80 is located above the rear end 91 of the lower surface 86 of the design portion 84. In addition, below, the rear end part of the lower surface 86 of the design part 84 is also called the 1st design part 91. The first design portion 91 is based on the lower surface 86 of the design portion 84 when a horizontal line passing through the upper end of the upper surface of the game ball passage 80 and extending in the short direction of the upper surface 80a of the game ball passage 80 is defined as a first reference line BL1. It can also be said that this is the rearmost part of the parts where the vertical line that intersects the first reference line BL1 can intersect. Further, the first design portion 91 extends in the lateral direction of the upper surface 80a of the game ball passage 80 through a portion of the lower surface 80b of the game ball passage 80 located directly below the upper end of the upper surface 80a of the game ball passage 80. When the horizontal line is the second reference line BL2, it can also be said to be the rearmost part of the lower surface 86 of the design portion 84 where a vertical line that intersects the second reference line BL2 can intersect. In addition, here, the part of the lower surface 80b of the game ball passage 80 located directly below the upper end of the upper surface 80a of the game ball passage 80 may be the upper end of the lower surface 80b, and does not have to be the upper end of the lower surface 80b. good. In the game machine of this embodiment, in the cross section, the distance L1 in the vertical direction between the upper surface 80a of the game ball passage 80 and the first design portion 91 is approximately 4 mm. That is, the interval L1 is less than or equal to the diameter (11 mm) of the game ball, more specifically less than the diameter. Note that the interval L1 can also be said to be the distance from the first reference line BL1 to the first design portion 91 (distance on the vertical line).

In addition, in the cross section, the upper surface 80a (first reference line BL1) of the game ball passage 80 is located above the lower end 92 (rear end of the plane 87) of the lower surface 86 of the design portion 84. In addition, below, the lower end part (rear end part of plane 87) of the lower surface 86 of the design part 84 is also called the 2nd design part 92. The second design portion 92 can be said to be the lowest portion of the lower surface 86 of the design portion 84 where a vertical line that intersects the first reference line BL1 can intersect. Further, the second design portion 92 can also be said to be the lowest portion of the portions of the lower surface 86 of the design portion 84 where a vertical line that intersects with the second reference line BL2 can intersect. In the game machine of this embodiment, in the cross section, the distance L2 in the vertical direction between the upper surface 80a of the game ball passage 80 and the second design portion 92 is approximately 40 mm. That is, the interval L2 is longer than the diameter of the game ball, more specifically, the length exceeds the diameter. Note that the interval L2 can also be said to be the distance from the first reference line BL1 to the second design portion 92 (distance on the vertical line).

Further, in the cross section, the lower surface 80b (second reference line BL2) of the game ball passage 80 is located below the first design portion 91. In the game machine of this embodiment, in the cross section, the distance L3 in the vertical direction between the lower surface 80b of the game ball passage 80 and the first design portion 91 is approximately 14 mm. That is, the interval L3 is greater than or equal to the radius of the game ball, more specifically a length that exceeds the radius, and even more specifically, greater than or equal to the diameter (length that exceeds the diameter). Note that the interval L3 can also be said to be the distance from the second reference line BL2 to the first design portion 91 (distance on the vertical line).

Further, in the cross section, the lower surface 80b (second reference line BL2) of the game ball passage 80 is located above the second design portion 92. In the game machine of this embodiment, in the cross section, the distance L4 in the vertical direction between the lower surface 80b of the game ball passage 80 and the second design portion 92 is approximately 22 mm. That is, the interval L4 is longer than the diameter of the game ball, more specifically, the length exceeds the diameter. Note that the interval L4 can also be said to be the distance from the second reference line BL2 to the second design portion 92 (distance on the vertical line).

As described above, by positioning the second design part 92 below the upper surface 80a (first reference line BL1) of the game ball passage 80, the design part 84 can be enlarged, and the game ball passage 80 By positioning it below the lower surface 80b (second reference line BL2), the design portion 84 can be further enlarged. In addition, while increasing the size of the design portion 84 in this way, the distance L1 between the upper surface 80a (first reference line BL1) of the game ball passage 80 and the first design portion 91 is set to be less than or equal to the diameter of the game ball (less than the diameter). By doing so, when the game ball is strongly launched (when the game ball rolls along the upper surface 80a), the visibility of the game ball can be ensured. In addition, while increasing the size of the design portion 84 in this way, the distance L3 between the lower surface 80b (second reference line BL2) of the game ball passage 80 and the first design portion 91 is set to be equal to or larger than the radius of the game ball (a length exceeding the radius). By doing this, the visibility of the game ball can be ensured even when the game ball is weakly launched (when the game ball rolls along the lower surface 80b).

Next, the configuration of the outer rail 28 will be described with reference to FIGS. 32 to 37.
The outer rail 28 is supported by a rail base 100 that serves as a support member that supports the outer rail 28. Then, by fixing the rail base 100 to the game board 6, the outer rail 28 is attached to the game board 6. Note that the rail base 100 is fixed to the game board 6 by, for example, screws. Further, the game board 6 is formed of transparent resin into a substantially rectangular plate shape.

The outer rail 28 is a thin plate-like elongated member. In addition, below, regarding each length related to the outer rail 28, the length in the length direction (longitudinal direction) is referred to as "length", the length in the width direction (short direction) is referred to as "width", The length in the thickness direction (board thickness) is called "thickness." In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 33, the length L of the outer rail 28 is 900 mm or more (at least 800 mm or more). Further, the width W of the outer rail 28 is approximately 15 mm. Further, the plate thickness T of the outer rail 28 is approximately 0.6 mm. Further, in this embodiment, the outer rail 28 is made of metal, specifically stainless steel (for example, SUS430).

A bent portion 110 bent into a substantially L-shape is formed at one end (starting end) of the outer rail 28 . Further, a U-shaped portion (curved portion) 112 bent into a substantially U-shape is formed at the other end (terminus) of the outer rail 28 .

The bending radius R of the U-shaped portion 112 is approximately 6 mm. In other words, the distance between both ends of the U-shaped portion 112 (the distance between opposing surfaces of the U-shaped portion 112) is about 12 mm. Further, the U-shaped portion 112 has a height H of about 12 mm in the thickness direction of the outer rail 28.
The curvature of the U-shaped portion 112 is larger than the curvature of a curved surface 126, which will be described later, and is larger than the curvature of the guide surface 113 of the outer rail 28 when it is attached to the rail base 100 (assembled as a gaming machine). is also getting bigger.

A guide surface 113 is formed on the outer rail 28 between the bent portion 110 and the U-shaped portion 112. The guide surface 113 is a surface that the game ball fired from the firing device hits, and the game ball fired from the firing device rolls along the guide surface 113 and is guided to the game area 4.

Furthermore, a substantially rectangular hole 114 is formed in the outer rail 28 . The hole 114 is formed in the U-shaped portion 112 of the outer rail 28 (at a position corresponding to the U-shaped portion 112). Further, the length of the hole 114 exceeds the length of the U-shaped portion 112. In other words, the hole 114 is formed over the entire length of the U-shaped portion 112 (direction along the U-shape). Specifically, the hole 114 is formed up to a corner 115a formed between the U-shaped portion 112 and the guide surface 113. In other words, the hole 114 is formed in at least one (preferably both) of the corners 115a and 115b formed at both ends of the U-shaped part 112 in the length direction (the boundary between the U-shaped part 112 and other parts). ).
Note that the hole 114 may be formed beyond at least one of the corners 115a and 115b. Note that the corners 115a and 115b are rounded.

The width Wa of the hole 114 is preferably 1/2 or less, more preferably 1/3 or less of the width W of the outer rail 28 (U-shaped portion 112). Further, the width Wa of the hole 114 is preferably 1/5 or more, and more preferably 1/4 or more of the width W of the outer rail 28 (U-shaped portion 112). By setting the width Wa of the hole 114 in this manner, it is possible to maintain the strength of the U-shaped portion 112 at a high level while increasing the flexibility of the U-shaped portion 112. In this embodiment, the width Wa of the hole 114 is set to 4 mm.

Note that the holes 114 do not have to penetrate through the outer rail 28 in the thickness direction. In other words, the hole 114 portion only needs to be formed thinner than other portions. In other words, the hole 114 may just be a hollowed out portion. That is, if the portion of the outer rail 28 where the hole 114 of the U-shaped portion 112 is formed has a smaller cross-sectional area in a cross section perpendicular to the plate surface than the portion where the guide surface 113 is formed. good.

Furthermore, a plurality of (five in this embodiment) holes 118 for positioning are formed in the outer rail 28 . A protrusion 128, which will be described later, is inserted into each hole 118. The hole 118 has an oval shape with a length more than twice the width. In this embodiment, the hole 118 has a length La of 5.2 mm and a width Wb of 2 mm.

Further, the holes 118 are arranged in a line in the length direction. Further, the hole 118 is arranged off the center in the width direction (so as not to hit the center). Specifically, in the width direction of the outer rail 28, the distance Wc from the center of the hole 118 to the end of the outer rail 28 is set to 2.7 mm. Further, the hole 118 is arranged at a position where the game ball rolling on the guide surface 113 will not be hit by the hole 118. More specifically, all the holes 118 are arranged at positions where game balls rolling on the guide surface 113 will not hit.
Note that the holes 118 are all formed in the guide surface 113, and are not formed in the bent portion 110, the U-shaped portion 112, and the portion (extension portion 120) on the terminal side of the U-shaped portion 112. Furthermore, two circular holes 119 are formed in the guide surface 113 of the outer rail 28 in the same straight line as the plurality of holes 118 . These two holes 119 are holes used when processing the outer rail 28, and a protrusion 128, which will be described later, is not inserted into the holes 119.

34 to 36 are diagrams showing an attached state in which the outer rail 28 is attached to the rail base 100. As shown in FIG. 34, the rail base 100 is formed of a black resin material into a substantially L-shape. Moreover, the rail base 100 has a curved surface 126 formed in an arc shape. The curved surface 126 is formed from the lower left side of the game board 6 (game area 4), passes through the upper left side, and reaches the upper right side, and is formed in a shape with the lower right side open.

A plurality of (five in this embodiment) protrusions 128 are formed along the length direction of the curved surface 126 (see FIG. 32). The protruding portion 128 is arranged at the rear of the center of the curved surface 126 in the front-rear direction. Further, each protrusion 128 is arranged at a position corresponding to each hole 118 of the outer rail 28.

Furthermore, a wall portion 129 that protrudes toward the gaming area 4 side from the curved surface 126 is formed along the front edge of the curved surface 126 (see FIGS. 36 and 37).

As shown in FIGS. 34 and 36, the lower left portion (one end) of the rail base 100 is provided with a recess 130 having a substantially L-shaped cross section into which the bent portion 110 of the outer rail 28 is inserted. Further, the recess 130 is formed with an abutting surface (abutting surface) 131 against which one end surface (the end surface on the starting end side) in the length direction of the outer rail 28 abuts.
Note that the recessed portion 130 is configured such that the portion of the outer rail 28 other than the one end surface does not come into contact with the recessed portion 130 in the length direction of the outer rail 28. Specifically, the relief portion 110a of the bent portion 110 of the outer rail 28, which extends in a direction intersecting (approximately perpendicular to) the guide surface 113, is shaped so as not to hit the recess 130 (at least in the length direction of the outer rail 28). It has become.

Further, as shown in FIGS. 34 and 35, the upper right portion (other end portion) of the rail base 100 has an abutment surface (an abutment surface) against which the other end surface (end surface on the terminal side) in the length direction of the outer rail 28 abuts. 135 is formed. Furthermore, a housing portion 137 in which the U-shaped portion 112 is housed is formed at the upper right portion of the rail base 100.

The housing portion 137 is provided adjacent to the upper right end of the curved surface 126 . The accommodating portion 137 has a space 137b formed by a wall portion 137a having a substantially U-shaped cross section. Further, the space 137b is a space that expands further toward the outside of the gaming area 4 than the curved surface 126. The U-shaped portion 112 is accommodated in this space 137b. One end of the wall portion 137a is connected to the upper right end of the curved surface 126. Further, the other end 137c of the wall portion 137a is arranged on a virtual extension line of the curved surface 126 (a predetermined position when the curved surface 126 is extended according to its curvature). Further, a rib 139 is formed at a position farther from the curved surface 126 than the other end 137c, and at a position on the opposite side of the outer rail 28 in the thickness direction. The extension portion 120 of the outer rail 28 is arranged so as to be sandwiched between the other end 137c and the rib 139.

The bent portion 110 of the outer rail 28 is inserted into the recess 130 of the rail base 100, and one end surface is abutted against the abutment surface 131. Further, the other end surface of the outer rail 28 abuts against the abutting surface 135. When the outer rail 28 is attached to the rail base 100, the outer rail 28 is in a tensioned state between the abutting surfaces 131 and 135. That is, the length L of the outer rail 28 is set longer than the distance from the abutment surface 131 to the abutment surface 135 (the distance in the direction along the curved surface 126). In the gaming machine of this embodiment, the length L of the outer rail 28 is set to be 3 mm longer than the distance. In other words, the outer rail 28 has an extra length of 3 mm with respect to the length of the portion where the outer rail 28 is installed (the distance from the abutment surface 131 to the abutment surface 135).

In the attached state, the extra length of the outer rail 28 is absorbed by the U-shaped portion 112. That is, first, in the attached state, the outer rail 28 is arranged along the curved surface 126 of the rail base 100. At this time, substantially the entire surface (back surface) of the outer rail 28 opposite to the guide surface 113 is in contact with substantially the entire curved surface 126. In other words, the guide surface 113 is a surface along the curved surface 126 (a substantially parallel surface). Further, the U-shaped portion 112 is deflected so that the distance between both ends of the U-shaped portion 112 (the distance between the corner portions 115a and 115b) is reduced, thereby absorbing the extra length of the outer rail 28. Then, the outer rail 28 is stretched between the abutment surface 131 and the abutment surface 135.
Note that in FIGS. 34 and 35, the terminal end 28a of the outer rail 28 is shown passing through the abutment surface 135, but in reality, the terminal end 28a abuts against the abutment surface 135 and stops. It does not penetrate surface 135. In other words, the portion penetrating the abutting surface 135 in FIGS. 34 and 35 is the extra length of the outer rail 28, and the length of the penetrating portion is absorbed by the U-shaped portion 112. be done. Note that the U-shaped portion 112 is configured not to hit the wall portion 137a of the accommodating portion 137 even in the attached state (in a bent state by absorbing the extra length).

In the gaming machine of this embodiment, the extra length of the outer rail 28, 3 mm, is set shorter than the distance between both ends of the U-shaped portion 112 (distance between opposing surfaces of the U-shaped portion 112: approximately 12 mm). . More specifically, the extra length is set to be less than or equal to the bending radius R (approximately 6 mm) of the U-shaped portion 112 (less than half the distance between both ends of the U-shaped portion 112). Therefore, the extra length can be effectively absorbed by the U-shaped portion 112.
Note that the extra length of 3 mm as a reference value (design value) is set longer than the tolerance of the outer rail 28. In the gaming machine of this embodiment, the tolerance of the length L of the outer rail 28 is set to ±0.8 mm. Therefore, even if the outer rail 28 is manufactured as short as possible (the tolerance is the lower limit of -0.8 mm), the extra length is 0 mm or more (in this example, the extra length is 2.2 mm). The standard value of the extra length is set so that the following occurs. That is, the length L of the outer rail 28 is set to such a length that there is an extra length even if tolerances are included. Furthermore, even if the outer rail 28 is manufactured to be as long as possible (the tolerance is at the upper limit of +0.8 mm), the bending radius of the U-shaped portion 112 is less than or equal to the radius R of the U-shaped portion 112 (both ends of the U-shaped portion The reference value of the extra length is set so that the extra length (in this example, the extra length is 3.8 mm) (less than half of the interval).

Further, in the attached state, each of the plurality of protrusions 128 of the rail base 100 is inserted into each of the plurality of holes 118 of the outer rail 28. Here, the length La of the hole 118 is set to such a length that it does not come into contact with the protrusion 128 in the attached state. Further, the width Wb of the hole 118 is set to a length that allows the hole 118 to come into contact with the protrusion 128 in the attached state.

The protruding portion 128 restricts movement of the outer rail 28 in the width direction by coming into contact with the hole 118 in the width direction of the outer rail 28. That is, the protruding portion 128 serves as a regulating portion (regulating means) that regulates the movement of the outer rail 28. The protruding portion 128 and the hole 118 function as a positioning portion (positioning means) that determines the position of the outer rail 28 in the width direction.
Note that the restricting portion does not have to have a shape like the protruding portion 128, and may be, for example, a pin or the like. Specifically, for example, a cotter pin serving as a regulating portion is provided so as to pass through the hole 118 (so that the legs of the cotter pin straddle the hole 118), and both legs of the cotter pin are attached to the rail base 100 or the game machine. The movement of the outer rail 28 may be restricted by the split pin by fitting it into the board 6 or the like.

On the other hand, in the installed state, the protrusion 128 is configured not to contact the hole 118 in the length direction of the outer rail 28, and does not restrict movement of the outer rail 28 in the length direction. . In other words, the repulsive force of the outer rail 28, which is housed between the abutment surface 131 and the abutment surface 135 and whose length has been shortened, is applied to the abutment surface 131 and the abutment surface 135, and the protrusion 128 is (Almost) no longer participate. Thereby, the positioning of the outer rail 28 in the length direction can be stably performed by the abutment surface 131 and the abutment surface 135. Furthermore, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, the relief part 110a of the bent part 110 of the outer rail 28 is configured not to hit the recess 130 in the longitudinal direction of the outer rail 28, so that The positioning can be performed more stably by the abutting surfaces 131 and 135.
In addition, in the case where the U-shaped portion 112 is forcibly contracted by applying an external force other than the repulsive force from the abutment surfaces 131 and 135 (for example, by human force), in the length direction of the outer rail 28, The hole 118 and the relief portion 110a may be able to come into contact with the rail base 100.

Further, the length (height) of the protruding portion 128 in the thickness direction of the outer rail 28 is set to be equal to or less than the thickness of the outer rail 28 . That is, the protruding portion 128 is configured not to protrude further toward the gaming area 4 than the guide surface 113 of the outer rail 28.

Further, even if the outer rail 28 moves to the maximum extent to the front side of the gaming machine (in the width direction of the outer rail 28) with respect to the rail base 100, the front end surface of the outer rail 28 will not touch the wall 129 of the rail base 100. It is designed to avoid contact. That is, the wall portion 129 does not have the function of regulating the movement of the outer rail 28. On the other hand, the wall portion 129 has a length (height) in the thickness direction of the outer rail 28 set to be greater than or equal to the thickness of the outer rail 28, so that the end surface of the outer rail 28 is not visible to the player. It has a function.
However, the wall portion 129 may restrict the movement of the outer rail 28.

Here, the relationship between the game ball B rolling along the outer rail 28 and the hole 118 etc. will be explained with reference to FIG. 37. FIG. 37 is a schematic diagram showing main parts of the outer rail 28 and the rail base 100, and shows a cross section taken along a plane perpendicular to the guide surface 113 and the curved surface 126.

As shown in FIG. 37, the hole 118 and the protrusion 128 are formed in a position where they do not hit the game ball B rolling along the outer rail 28. To explain in more detail, the hole 118 prevents the game ball B from hitting even when the outer rail 28 moves to the maximum extent in the width direction (for example, even when it moves to the maximum extent upward in FIG. 37). It is formed in a position that is not present. In other words, it can be said that the protrusion 128 restricts the movement of the outer rail 28 in the width direction so that the hole 118 does not hit the game ball B. In addition, in FIG. 37, the protruding part 128 protrudes toward the gaming area 4 side from the guide surface 113, but even if the protruding part 128 is formed to protrude in this way, the amount of protrusion of the protruding part 128 is preferably set so that the protrusion 128 does not hit the game ball B.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 37, the guide surface 113 (curved surface 126) becomes an inclined surface toward the gaming area 4 side (radially inner side of the outer rail 28) as it goes toward the front in the width direction of the outer rail 28. ing. In other words, the guide surface 113 is an inclined surface that makes it difficult for the game ball to flow forward (makes it easier to flow along the rear side).

According to the gaming machine of this embodiment, the rail 28 includes a U-shaped portion 112 bent into a substantially U-shape, and a hole 114 formed at a position corresponding to the U-shaped portion 112. is the length that spans the entire U-shaped portion 112 in the direction along the U-shape of the U-shaped portion 112, so variations in the length of the rail 28 that occur during manufacturing are absorbed by the U-shaped portion 112, and the rail 28 can be attached stably and accurately. Furthermore, by forming the hole 114 at a position corresponding to the U-shaped portion 112, the U-shaped portion 112 can be made softer than the guide surface 113, and the U-shaped portion 112 can be made softer than the guide surface 113. It can be easily deformed. Therefore, when attaching the rail 28 to the rail base 100, the guide surface 113 can be tensioned appropriately while excess force is released to the U-shaped portion 112, so that the rail 28 can be attached accurately. Therefore, the movement of the game ball rolling along the rail 28 can be stabilized, and a comfortable game can be provided.

Further, by setting the length of the hole 114 to cover the entire U-shaped portion 112, it is possible to equalize the force applied within the U-shaped portion 112. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the rail 28 from becoming distorted due to excessive force being applied to a portion of the U-shaped portion 112, and the rail 28 can be mounted more accurately. Further, it is possible to prevent the rail 28 from being damaged due to excessive force being applied to a portion within the U-shaped portion 112. Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the hole 114 is formed extending to at least one of the corner portions 115a and 115b formed at both end portions in the length direction of the U-shaped portion 112, so that the load is concentrated. The flexibility of the corners 115a, 115b, which are easy to bend, can be increased, and breakage of the corners 115a, 115b can be prevented.

Further, since the hole 114 has a length (4 mm) of 1/3 or less of the width W of the rail in the width direction of the rail 28, the rigidity of the U-shaped portion 112 can be set within an appropriate range. . That is, the rigidity of the U-shaped portion 112 can be set to a certain level or higher, and it is possible to prevent the U-shaped portion 112 from absorbing too much force applied to the rail 28. Therefore, the tension of the guide surface 113 can be prevented from becoming too weak, and the movement of the game ball can be made more stable.

Further, a plurality (5) of holes 118 are formed in the guide surface 113 to enable positioning, and all of the holes 118 are formed in positions where the game balls rolling along the guide surface do not hit. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the game ball from rolling on the hole 118 and vibrating. Therefore, the movement of the game ball can be made more stable.

As shown in FIG. 35, an elastic member 150 made of an elastic body (for example, rubber) is disposed at the end of the guide surface 113 on the U-shaped portion 112 side. In the vicinity of the U-shaped portion 112, the outer rail 28 is sandwiched between the elastic member 150 and the curved surface 126. The elastic member 150 has a collision surface 151 with which a game ball guided along the guide surface 113 to the terminal end side (right-handed area 4b) collides. The elastic member 150 is designed to reduce the impact when the game ball collides with a member of the game machine.

Further, as shown in FIG. 38, the plurality of holes 118 (the plurality of protrusions 128) are all on the left side (on the firing device side) of the upper end (upper apex) P1 of the game area 4 (outer rail 28: guide surface 113). ). Further, the number of holes 118 (projections 128) is larger on the lower side than on the upper side with the vertical center of the game area 4 (outer rail 28: guide surface 113) as the boundary. In other words, the number of holes 118 (projections 128) is greater on the lower side of the left end (left apex) P2 of the game area 4 (outer rail 28: guide surface 113) than on the upper side. Specifically, for example, one or two holes 118 (projections 128) are provided above the vertical center of the game area 4 (outer rail 28: guide surface 113), and Also, three holes 118 (projections 128) are provided on the lower side.
Note that the hole 118 (protrusion 128) is not provided at the upper end (upper apex) P1 and the left end (left apex) P2 of the gaming area 4 (outer rail 28: guide surface 113).

Note that some of the plurality of holes 118 (the plurality of protrusions 128) may be provided on the right side of the upper end (upper apex) P1 of the gaming area 4 (outer rail 28: guide surface 113). In this case, the number of holes 118 (projections 128) is preferably greater on the left side of the center of the game area 4 (outer rail 28: guide surface 113) in the left-right direction than on the right side. In other words, the number of holes 118 (projections 128) is preferably larger on the left side of the upper end (upper apex) P1 of the game area 4 (outer rail 28: guide surface 113) than on the right side. Specifically, for example, one hole 118 (protrusion 128) is provided on the right side of the center of the game area 4 (outer rail 28: guide surface 113) in the left-right direction, and one hole 118 (protrusion 128) is provided on the left side of the center of the play area 4 (outer rail 28: guide surface 113) in the left-right direction. Three or four holes 118 (projections 128) may be provided. In addition, regarding the plurality of holes 118 (protrusions 128) provided on the left side of the center in the left-right direction, The number of holes 118 (projections 128) may be greater than the number of holes 118 (protrusions 128) disposed on the upper side. For example, when four holes 118 are provided on the left side, three holes may be placed on the bottom side and one hole may be placed on the top side. In addition, regarding the plurality of holes 118 (protrusions 128) provided on the left side of the center in the left-right direction, 128) may be larger than the number of holes 118 (projections 128) arranged on the lower side. For example, when three holes 118 are provided on the left side, two holes may be placed on the upper side and one hole may be placed on the lower side.
In addition, even if some holes 118 (projections 128) are provided on the right side of the upper end (upper apex) of the gaming area 4 (outer rail 28: guide surface 113) in this way, the gaming area 4 It is preferable that the hole 118 (protrusion 128) not exist at the upper end (upper apex) and left end (left apex) of the (outer rail 28: guide surface 113). The game ball follows a stable trajectory by ensuring that there are no holes 118 (protrusions 128) at the top end (top apex) or left end (left apex) of the game area 4 (outer rail 28: guide surface 113). be able to.

Regarding the outer rail 28 (guide surface 113), the range from the starting end (lower left end) to the left end (leftmost part: 9 o'clock position in front view) P2 is defined as a first range H1, and from the left end to the upper end (The uppermost part: 12 o'clock position when viewed from the front) If the range up to P1 is the second range H2, and the range from the top end to the terminal end (upper right end) is the third range H3, each The number of holes 118 (protrusions 128) in the range may be in the following relationship.
That is, even if the number of holes 118 (projections 128) is greater in the second range H2 than in the third range H3, and greater in the first range H1 than in the second range H2, good. That is, the first range H1>second range H2>third range H3 may be satisfied. Further, the number of holes 118 (projections 128) may be greater in the second range H2 than in the third range H3, and the first range H1 may be greater than or equal to the second range H2. That is, the first range H1≧second range H2>third range H3 may be satisfied. Further, the number of holes 118 (projections 128) may be greater in the first range H1 than in the third range H3, and the second range H2 may be greater than or equal to the first range H1. That is, the second range H2≧first range H1>third range H3 may be satisfied. Further, even if the number of holes 118 (projections 128) is greater in the first range H1 than in the third range H3 and greater in the second range H2 than in the third range H3, good. That is, the first range H1 and the second range H2 may be greater than the third range H3. Further, the number of holes 118 (projections 128) may be such that the first range H1 is greater than or equal to the second range H2, and may be greater than or equal to the third range H3. That is, the first range H1≧the second range H2 and the third range H3 may be satisfied. Note that the number of holes 118 (protrusions 128) in the smallest range of holes 118 (protrusions 128) may be zero.
In addition, among the outer rails 28 (guide surfaces 113), an imaginary straight line that passes through the left end of the game area 4 (outer rails 28: guide surfaces 113) and extends in the left-right direction is set as the X axis, 113) In the XY plane whose Y axis is an imaginary straight line passing through the upper end and extending vertically, the part located in the third quadrant is called the first range, and the part located in the second quadrant is called the second range. , the portion located in the first quadrant can also be called the third range. In addition, among the outer rails 28 (guiding surfaces 113), an In a plane, the part located in the third quadrant can be called the first range, the part located in the second quadrant can be called the second range, and the part located in the first quadrant can also be called the third range. .

As described above, the number of holes 118 is preferably greater on the side closer to the firing device than on the side farther from the firing device. Specifically, each arrangement described above may be used. According to such a configuration, the number of holes 118 on the firing device side (first range H1 side) where the shock received from the game ball is large and where accuracy is particularly required for the arrangement of the outer rail 28 is increased, and Displacement and vibration of the side outer rail 28 can be reliably prevented. Moreover, according to such a configuration, the number of holes 118 on the terminal end side (third range H3 side), which receives less impact from the game ball and has less influence on the game, is reduced, and the outer rail 28 can be processed and the rail Attachment to the base 100 can be facilitated.

Note that the hole 118 does not have to have a shape as shown in this embodiment, and may be, for example, a cutout. Furthermore, even in the case of a notch, the arrangement of the notch may be the same as in the case of the hole 118 described above. Specifically, for example, all of the plurality of notches may be provided on the left side of the upper end (upper apex) P1 of the game area 4 (outer rail 28: guide surface 113). In addition, in such a case, for example, if there are two notches, one notch is provided above the vertical center of the gaming area 4 (outer rail 28: guide surface 113), One notch may be provided below the center in the vertical direction.
In addition, even if several notches are provided in the outer rail 28 in this way, the upper end (upper apex) P1 and the left end (left apex) P2 of the gaming area 4 (outer rail 28: guide surface 113) It is recommended that there be no notches.

The gaming machine according to this embodiment is
a design portion that protrudes forward above the gaming area;
A gaming machine comprising a gaming ball passage through which a gaming ball passing through the upper end of the gaming area is guided,
A horizontal line passing through the apex of the top surface of the game ball path and extending in the lateral direction of the top surface of the game ball path is a reference line,
Among the parts on the lower surface of the design part where a vertical line that intersects with the reference line can intersect, the rearmost part is a first design part,
If the lowest part of the lower surface of the design part where the vertical line that intersects the reference line can intersect is the second design part,
The first design portion is located below the reference line, and the distance from the reference line is less than or equal to the diameter of the game ball,
The second design portion is located below the reference line, and the distance from the reference line is greater than or equal to the diameter of the game ball.

According to such a configuration, the second design part is located below the reference line and the distance from the reference line is equal to or greater than the diameter of the game ball, so the design part can be enlarged. In addition, while increasing the size of the design part, by making the distance between the reference line and the first design part less than the diameter of the game ball, it is possible to prevent the ball from being hit hard (along the top surface of the game ball path). The visibility of the game ball can be ensured when the game ball rolls. The gaming machine according to this embodiment can ensure the visibility of the gaming ball.

The gaming machine according to this embodiment is
a design portion that protrudes forward above the gaming area;
A gaming machine comprising a gaming ball passage through which a gaming ball passing through the upper end of the gaming area is guided,
A horizontal line passing through a portion of the lower surface of the game ball passage located directly below the apex of the upper surface of the game ball passage and extending in the lateral direction of the upper surface of the game ball passage is a reference line,
Among the parts on the lower surface of the design part where a vertical line that intersects with the reference line can intersect, the rearmost part is a first design part,
If the lowest part of the lower surface of the design part where the vertical line that intersects the reference line can intersect is the second design part,
The first design portion is located above the reference line, and the distance from the reference line is greater than or equal to the radius of the game ball,
The second design portion is located below the reference line, and the distance from the reference line is greater than or equal to the diameter of the game ball.

According to such a configuration, the second design part is located below the reference line and the distance from the reference line is equal to or greater than the diameter of the game ball, so the design part can be enlarged. In addition, even though the design part is enlarged in this way, by making the distance between the reference line and the first design part larger than the radius of the game ball, it is possible to prevent the game ball from being launched weakly (along the lower surface of the game ball path). The visibility of the game ball can be ensured when the game ball rolls. The gaming machine according to this embodiment can ensure the visibility of the gaming ball.

Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and can be implemented with various modifications without departing from the gist thereof. For example, the configuration of the pachinko game machine is not limited to that of the embodiment described above. In the present invention, any constituent elements may be modified or omitted within the scope of the invention.

100 Game machine 102 Outer frame 342 Handle ring (handle)
100 saucer unit 110 tray member 112 downstream ball extraction unit (first ball extraction unit)
113 Upstream ball removal unit (second ball removal unit)
118 Downstream ball extraction hole (first hole)
119 Upstream ball extraction hole (second hole)
120 Downstream ball removal button (first operating means)
125 Downstream lid (first opening/closing means)
300 Upstream lid (second opening/closing means)
306 Upstream bulb removal button (second operating means)
4 Game area 6 Game board 28 Outer rail (rail)
80 Game ball passage 80a Top surface 80b Bottom surface 84 Design portion 86 Bottom surface 91 First design portion 92 Second design portion 113 Guide surface 118 Hole

Claims (2)

The main body frame,
an outer frame to which the main body frame can be attached;
A game board on which a game area is formed;
a first hole through which the game ball can be ejected from the saucer;
a second hole through which game balls can be ejected from the saucer;
a first opening/closing means capable of opening and closing the first hole;
a second opening/closing means capable of opening and closing the second hole;
a first operation means that accepts an operation to move the first opening/closing means;
A gaming machine comprising : a second operation means that accepts an operation to move the second opening/closing means ,
The main body frame includes a handle formed to be rotatable, and a design portion protruding forward from above,
The handle includes a finger hook that protrudes radially outward,
The handle is rotatable from an initial position to a maximum rotational position,
In the initial position, the finger hook portion does not protrude to the right beyond the right edge of the main body frame,
At the maximum rotation position, the finger hook does not protrude to the right beyond the right edge of the main body frame,
The game board includes a game ball passage through which a game ball passing through the upper end of the game area is guided;
A horizontal line passing through a portion of the lower surface of the game ball passage located directly below the apex of the upper surface of the game ball passage and extending in the lateral direction of the upper surface of the game ball passage is a reference line,
Among the parts on the lower surface of the design part where a vertical line that intersects with the reference line can intersect, the rearmost part is a first design part,
If the lowest part of the lower surface of the design part where the vertical line that intersects the reference line can intersect is the second design part,
The first design portion is located above the reference line, and the distance from the reference line is greater than or equal to the radius of the game ball,
The second design portion is located below the reference line ,
the second hole is larger than the first hole,
The first operating means puts the first hole into a state where the game ball can pass through with an operation amount less than the diameter of the game ball,
The second operating means puts the second hole into a state where the game ball can pass through with an amount of operation less than the diameter of the game ball,
The amount of operation less than the diameter of the second operation means is smaller than the amount of operation less than the diameter of the first operation means,
The operating load necessary to move the second operating means by an operating amount less than the diameter of the second operating means is equal to the operating load required to move the second operating means by an operating amount less than the diameter of the first operating means. A game machine whose operating load is smaller than the operating load required to move the operating means in item 1 . The main body frame,
an outer frame to which the main body frame can be attached;
A game board on which a game area is formed;
a first hole through which game balls can be ejected from the upper tray;
a second hole through which game balls can be ejected from the lower tray;
a first opening/closing means capable of opening and closing the first hole;
a second opening/closing means capable of opening and closing the second hole;
a first operation means that accepts an operation to move the first opening/closing means;
A gaming machine comprising: a second operation means that accepts an operation to move the second opening/closing means,
The main body frame includes a handle formed to be rotatable, and a design portion protruding forward from above,
The handle includes a finger hook that protrudes radially outward,
The handle is rotatable from an initial position to a maximum rotational position,
In the initial position, the finger hook portion does not protrude to the right beyond the right edge of the main body frame,
At the maximum rotation position, the finger hook does not protrude to the right beyond the right edge of the main body frame,
The game board includes a game ball passage through which a game ball passing through the upper end of the game area is guided;
A horizontal line passing through a portion of the lower surface of the game ball passage located directly below the apex of the upper surface of the game ball passage and extending in the lateral direction of the upper surface of the game ball passage is a reference line,
Among the parts on the lower surface of the design part where a vertical line that intersects with the reference line can intersect, the rearmost part is a first design part,
If the lowest part of the lower surface of the design part where the vertical line that intersects with the reference line can intersect is the second design part,
The first design portion is located above the reference line, and the distance from the reference line is greater than or equal to the radius of the game ball,
The second design portion is located below the reference line,
the second hole is larger than the first hole,
The first operating means puts the first hole into a state where the game ball can pass through with an operation amount less than the diameter of the game ball,
The second operating means puts the second hole into a state where the game ball can pass through with an amount of operation less than the diameter of the game ball,
The amount of operation less than the diameter of the second operation means is smaller than the amount of operation less than the diameter of the first operation means,
The operating load necessary to move the second operating means by an operating amount less than the diameter of the second operating means is equal to the operating load required to move the second operating means by an operating amount less than the diameter of the first operating means. A game machine whose operating load is smaller than the operating load required to move the operating means in item 1.