JP7428582B2 - 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 and an outer frame to which the main body frame can be attached,
The main body frame includes a handle formed to be rotatable,
The handle includes a finger hook that protrudes radially outward,
The handle is rotatable from an initial position to a maximum rotational position,
No matter what rotational position the handle is at, the finger rest does not protrude below the lower edge of the main body frame.

With this configuration, the handle will not be damaged even if the main body frame is placed on the floor or placed in a box or the like. Therefore, the risk of parts being damaged can be reduced.

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 a gaming machine according to an 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.

Embodiments 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 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".

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 122 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 performance accessory device 116 is arranged in front of the performance display device 114 within the inner frame 104, and is usually retracted to the back side of the game board 108, but when the performance display device 114 is in progress, etc. 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 112 to drive the game ball into the first game area 116a is called left-handed hitting, and operating the operating handle 112 and hitting the 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 350, 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 350 so as to protrude radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the ring portion 350 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 circumferential surface of the ring portion 350 to rotate the ring. 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.

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 rest 351 is on the right side (the tip of the first finger rest 351 faces to the right), the first finger rest 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 350).

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 as not to 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 sloped 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-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 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.

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)

Claims (1)

A gaming machine comprising a main body frame and an outer frame to which the main body frame can be attached,
The main body frame includes a handle formed to be rotatable,
The handle includes a base and a plurality of finger hooks formed to protrude outward from the base for hanging fingers ,
The handle is rotatable from an initial position to a maximum rotational position,
The plurality of finger hooks include a finger hook that protrudes below the base at the maximum rotation position,
Among the plurality of finger hooks, the finger hook with the largest protrusion amount is set as a specific finger hook,
The distance from the rotation center of the handle to the tip of the specific finger rest is a first distance,
If the distance from the rotation center of the handle to the lower edge of the main body frame is a second distance,
the first distance is greater than the second distance,
A gaming machine characterized in that no matter what rotational position the handle is at, none of the plurality of finger rests protrudes below a lower edge of the main body frame.

Images