Classifications

• • G—PHYSICS
  • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
  • G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
  • G07F17/00—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services
  • G07F17/32—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services for games, toys, sports, or amusements
  • G07F17/3286—Type of games
  • G07F17/3297—Fairground games, e.g. Tivoli, coin pusher machines, cranes

Definitions

• the present invention relates to a game apparatus and a game medium simulated movement effect method, and more particularly to a game apparatus that uses a substantially disc-shaped game medium such as a medal and a game medium simulated movement effect method.
• game devices that use an approximately spherical game medium such as a ball or an approximately disk-shaped game medium such as a medal are known.
• a game device that uses such a game medium is referred to as a medal game device.
• the term “game medium” means a tangible object used when playing a game.
• a pusher game device As a typical example of a medal game device, a pusher game device is widely known.
• a pusher game device generally has a slot for a game player to input a game medium, a play field for temporarily storing the game medium in which the input power is input, and a game field for which the input power is input. And a pusher unit that pushes the game medium on the play field in a predetermined cycle. Note that a part of the game media pushed by the pusher part falls from the play field and is stocked in the game device or the force paid out to the game player.
• the medal game device represented by such a pusher game device is one in which a game player plays a game by inserting a game medium. The amount of game media played will affect the outcome of the game.
• the medal game device as described above is being increased in size in order to realize more powerful and complex game properties.
• it is desirable to perform a more dynamic game media movement using the entire play field designed to be wide.
• the conventional medal game device in consideration of operability, it is provided at a position close to the position at which the game player is seated, and the game medium is inserted and paid out.
• the game medium force input from the input port is inserted into the play field using a mechanical slope. For this reason, in order to direct the movement of the game media using the entire play field, which is widely designed, it is necessary to guide the inserted game media to the back of the play field and eject it.
• the configuration for realizing the above will be a very large and complicated configuration when considered together with the configuration for enabling the swing-in direction of the game content.
• the mechanism for the game player to input the game media and the mechanism for supplying the game media to the play field are configured differently, the game player can enter the game media and enter the play field. There is a possibility that the relevance of the game media will be unclear. As a result, there is a possibility that the game player may not have a real feeling that the game medium is being put into the play field, and the game may become uncomfortable.
• the present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and whether or not the inserted game media and the game media to be ejected are the same by performing the movement of the game media. It is an object of the present invention to provide a game apparatus and a game medium pseudo-movement effect production method that can insert a game medium into the play field without any sense of incongruity.
• a game device is provided with an input unit into which a game medium is input, a sensor for detecting the game medium input into the input unit, and a predetermined game medium.
• a discharge unit that discharges to the field, a discharge unit driving unit that drives the discharge unit to discharge the game medium after the sensor detects that the game medium is input to the input unit, and a drive of the discharge unit by the discharge unit drive unit Delaying means for delaying the detection force by the sensor for a predetermined time.
• the discharge unit force located at a position away from the input unit also discharges the game medium, whereby the game medium is moved from the input unit to the discharge unit. Can be given to the game player.
• the game medium in which the input force is also different from the game medium discharged from the discharge unit it is possible to produce a pseudo movement of the game medium to the input force discharge unit.
• the game player does not feel uncomfortable regardless of whether the inserted game medium and the discharged game medium are the same. At this time, for example, by making a sound continuously, it is possible to more effectively perform a pseudo effect of moving the game medium.
• the delay unit may control to change the delay time.
• a predetermined time (delay time) from when a game medium is inserted until this game medium or a game medium corresponding to the game medium is discharged, according to, for example, the situation or the game state. It is possible to change the effect of moving the game media, and to control the maximum number of game media that can be consumed by one game player per unit time. Also, in addition to the delay time, for example, when playing a simulated effect of moving the game media more effectively by playing sounds continuously, it is possible to control the sound playback speed (change speed) and the sounding interval. It is possible to change the moving speed of the game medium to be produced, and as a result, it is possible to cause the game player to predict the delay time.
• the game player can predict that the delay time is long by slowing down the sound reproduction speed or lengthening the sounding interval.
• the delay time is shortened, for example, the game player can predict that the delay time is short by increasing the sound reproduction speed or shortening the sounding interval.
• a game device includes an input unit into which a game medium is input, a sensor that detects the game medium input into the input unit, and a discharge unit that discharges the game medium to a predetermined field.
• a sensor detects that a plurality of light emitting units arranged from the vicinity of the input unit to the vicinity of the discharge unit and the introduction of the game medium to the input unit are detected, the side light of the input unit is discharged.
• the light-emitting unit driving means that turns on sequentially by pressing the unit side, and the input unit And a discharge unit driving means for driving the discharge unit to discharge the game medium after a predetermined time has elapsed after the insertion of the game medium is detected by the sensor.
• the game medium input from the input unit is the same as the game medium output from the output unit, it is possible to produce this effect by light separately from the actual movement of the game medium.
• a game device is the game device according to the third aspect of the present invention, further comprising a storage unit for storing game media, and discharging the game media stored in the storage unit. Also good.
• medals inserted into the insertion unit may be stored in the storage unit.
• a game device configured to be stored in the storage unit that stores the game media to be discharged, thereby balancing the number of game media input and output in the storage unit. It becomes possible to have. As a result, it is possible to save the trouble of replenishing the game media to the storage part during the game.
• a game device is the game device according to any one of the third to fifth aspects, further comprising a rod-like member that is bridged between the vicinity of the input portion and the vicinity of the discharge portion, and is arranged. A plurality of light emitting portions may be arranged in one or more rows on the side surface of the rod-shaped member.
• the light emitting portion By sticking a rod-shaped member between the vicinity of the input portion and the vicinity of the discharge portion, and arranging the light emitting portion on this, the light emitting portion can be easily arranged from the vicinity of the input portion to the vicinity of the discharge portion. It becomes possible. At this time, for example, by providing two or more rows of light emitting units, it is possible to produce a pseudo or actual movement of the game medium more dynamically.
• the plurality of arranged light emitting sections may be arranged linearly. ,.
• the game device is the game device according to the sixth aspect, wherein the bar-shaped member has a distorted side surface, and the plurality of light emitting portions are arranged along the distorted side surface. Good.
• the game device according to a ninth invention is the game device according to the third to eighth inventions, in the plurality of light emitting units arranged after a predetermined time has been detected after the insertion of the game medium into the insertion unit. It may be the time until the light emitting unit closest to the discharge unit is turned on.
• the game medium simulated movement effect method is a game medium simulated movement of a game device comprising an input unit into which a game medium is inserted and a discharge unit that discharges the game medium to a predetermined field.
• the game medium movement effect method according to the eleventh aspect of the present invention is directed to an insertion unit into which a game medium is inserted, a discharge unit that discharges the game medium to a predetermined field, and a force from the vicinity of the input unit to the vicinity of the discharge unit.
• the power also has a third step of ejecting game media.
• the game media by directing the movement of the game media, the game media can be played without any sense of incongruity regardless of whether the inserted game media and the game media to be ejected are the same. It is possible to realize a game apparatus that can be inserted into a field and a game medium simulated moving performance method.
• FIG. 1 is a partial perspective view showing a part of a station unit in a game device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a medal movement simulation effect section according to an embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of a medal movement simulation effect part and its peripheral part according to an embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 4 is an exploded view showing a configuration of a medal insertion sensor and its surroundings in a medal insertion mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining the flow of medals in the station unit according to the embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of the control unit when producing a pseudo movement of medals in one embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 7 is a waveform diagram of signals input / output between a medal movement simulation rendering unit, its peripheral portion, and a control unit in one embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a modification of the operation of the medal movement simulation effect section and its peripheral part in one embodiment of the present invention, and shows the medal movement simulation effect part, its peripheral part and the control part in this modification example. It is a wave form diagram of the signal input / output between.
• FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing Modification Example 1 of the configuration of the medal movement simulation effect section according to the embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 10 (a) is a perspective view showing a modified example 2 of the configuration of the medal movement simulation effect section according to the embodiment of the present invention, and (b) is an array of LEDs provided on each side surface in (a).
• FIG. 10 (b) is a perspective view showing a modified example 2 of the configuration of the medal movement simulation effect section according to the embodiment of the present invention, and (b) is an array of LEDs provided on each side surface in (a).
• FIG. 11 (a) is a perspective view showing a modified example 3 of the configuration of the medal movement simulation effect section according to the embodiment of the present invention, and (b) is an array of LEDs provided on each side surface in (a).
• FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing a medal insertion mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 13 is a front view of the medal insertion mechanism shown in FIG.
• FIG. 14 is a top view of the medal insertion mechanism shown in FIG.
• FIG. 15 is a rear view of the medal insertion mechanism shown in FIG.
• FIG. 16 is a partially exploded view of the medal insertion mechanism shown in FIG.
• FIG. 17 It is a perspective view showing a medal insertion mechanism according to Modification 1 of the embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 18 is a perspective view showing a medal insertion mechanism according to Modification 2 of the embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 19 A perspective view showing a medal insertion mechanism according to Modification 3 of the embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 20 A perspective view showing a medal insertion mechanism according to Modification 4 of the embodiment of the present invention.
• ⁇ 21 A perspective view showing a medal insertion mechanism according to Modification 5 of one embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 23 is a front view of the medal insertion mechanism shown in FIG.
• FIG. 24 is a top view of the medal insertion mechanism shown in FIG.
• FIG. 25 is a rear view of the medal insertion mechanism shown in FIG.
• FIG. 26 is a perspective view showing a first modification of another medal insertion mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 27 is a perspective view showing a second modification of the other medal insertion mechanism according to the embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 28 A perspective view showing a modified example 3 of another medal insertion mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 29 A perspective view showing a modification 4 of another medal insertion mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 30 is a perspective view showing a modified example 5 of another medal insertion mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 31 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the thickness of the medal and the width of the step surface of the first step and the second step.
• a medal is taken as an example of the above-described approximately disc-shaped game medium, and a pusher game device is taken as an example of a game device using this medal.
• FIG. 1 is a partial perspective view showing a part of the station unit ST in the pusher game device according to the embodiment of the present invention.
• the station unit ST includes a medal insertion mechanism (insertion unit) 100, a medal transport path 200, a lift-up hopper 300, a medal discharge path 400, a playino red 500, and an ff3 ⁇ 4 control. It is configured to include 600, display 700, and housing 800.
• the casing 800 is configured to be a framework of the station unit ST.
• the medal insertion mechanism 100 is disposed on the upper front side
• the display unit 700 is disposed on the upper back side
• the play field 500 is disposed on the upper center.
• the medal conveyance path 200, the lift-up hopper 300, the control unit 600, and the like are accommodated.
• front side means the side located when the game player plays
• back side means the side opposite to the side where the game player plays
• Center means the area between “front side” and “back side” described above.
• the medal insertion mechanism 100 is configured to insert a medal, which is a game medium, into the pusher game device when the game player plays.
• the medals inserted from the medal insertion mechanism 100 are transported to the lift-up hopper 300 via the medal transport path 200 and are temporarily stored in the lift-up hopper 300.
• Medals transport path 200 and lift The hopper 300 is disposed in the housing 800 as described above.
• the medal transport path 200 has a function of mechanically and physically connecting the medal insertion mechanism 100 and the lift-up hopper 300 and transporting the medal inserted from the medal insertion mechanism 100 to the lift-up hopper 300. .
• the lift-up hopper 300 includes a medal storage unit 310 for accumulating medals, a lift-up unit 320 for lifting medals to a predetermined height, and discharging lifted medals at a predetermined timing. And a medal discharge unit (discharge unit) 330.
• a medal discharge path 400 is provided at the discharge port of the medal discharge unit 330. The medal discharge path 400 can swing the medal discharge direction.
• the upper end of the lift-up unit 320 is disposed above the play field 500.
• the medal discharge unit 330 provided at the upper end of the lift-up unit 320 is also disposed above the play field 500. Therefore, the medals temporarily accumulated in the medal storage unit 310 are lifted above the play field 500 by the lift-up unit 320 and then injected from the medal discharge unit 330 to the play field 500 through the medal discharge path 400. .
• the play field 500 mainly includes a main table 501 for storing medals in an effective state, and a pusher unit 510 placed on the main table 501, and a force.
• an effective state means a state involved in a game.
• the pusher unit 510 is stored in an upper surface (referred to as sub-table 511) for storing medals in an effective state, an inclined table 512 in which medals dropped from the sub-table 511 slide, and a main table 501. And a pushing wall 513 for pushing the medal.
• the pusher unit 510 is slidably provided on the main table 501 in the play field 500, and slides back and forth at a constant cycle or an arbitrary cycle. A part (back side) of the pusher unit 510 is stored in a storage unit provided below the display unit 700. The pusher unit 510 reciprocates back and forth by sliding so as to enter and exit from the storage unit.
• a housing lower portion 710 in a display frame fixed to the housing 800 is slidably contacted with the subtable 511. Therefore, when the pusher unit 510 moves in the direction in which the pusher unit 510 is stored in the storage unit, the mecha- nism on the sub-table 511 is moved by the housing lower portion 710. Is pushed forward. As a result of this pushing, some medals on the sub-table 511 fall onto the inclined tape tape 512.
• the medals on the main table 501 are pushed forward by the sliding movement of the pusher unit 510, similarly to the medals on the sub table 511. That is, since the pusher portion 510 is placed on the main table 501 with no gap, when the pusher portion 510 moves in the direction to carry out the storage portion force, the pusher wall 513 on the front surface of the pusher portion 510 causes the pusher portion 510 to move on the main table 501. The medal is pushed forward. Due to this pushing, some medals on the main table 501 fall. Some of the dropped medals are paid out to the game player, and other medals are stocked in the station section ST.
• the station unit ST includes a medal movement simulation effect unit 900.
• the medal movement simulation directing section 900 is configured to simulate the appearance of movement of medals inserted into the medal insertion mechanism 100. At this time, the route on which the medal actually moves and the route simulated by the performance need not be the same or close to each other.
• the configuration and operation of the medal movement simulation rendering unit 900 will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.
• FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the medal movement simulation effect production unit 900 according to this embodiment.
• FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the electrical connection relationship between the medal movement simulation effect production unit 900 and its peripheral parts.
• the medal movement simulation rendering unit 900 includes a long and narrow bar-shaped support member 910 and a plurality of LEDs (light emitting devices) arranged at predetermined intervals in the longitudinal direction of the support member 910.
• Light section) 920a to 920n (hereinafter, an arbitrary LED sign is 920) and an LED driving circuit 930 for driving the LED. It should be noted that other light emitting means can be used in place of the LED 920.
• the support member 910 is, for example, a steel rod-like member having a cavity therein. Bar-shaped part By using the material, the LEDs can be easily arranged from the vicinity of the medal insertion mechanism 100 to the vicinity of the medal discharge unit 330.
• the support member 910 is a linear bar member.
• the cross section of the support member 910 may be a square, a rectangle, another polygon, or a round shape such as a circle or an ellipse.
• it is assumed that the support member 910 has a rectangular cross section, and each side surface of the support member 910 is a flat surface without substantial twist.
• the plurality of LEDs 920 described above are linearly arranged at predetermined intervals on any side surface of the support member 910.
• the side surface on which the plurality of LEDs 920 are provided is a surface that is arranged so that it can be seen by the game player during the game.
• the LED 920 is arranged on the support member 910, which is a linear rod-shaped member, so that a linear trajectory is drawn by the light of the LED 920 that is continuously lit, thus providing a sense of speed. It is possible to produce a pseudo movement of medals.
• the LEDs 920 that are arranged may all have the same emission color (for example, red, blue, green, etc.), but LEDs of various emission colors may be arranged in a regular or random combination.
• the support member 910 is provided with the LED 920 and the LED drive circuit 930 arranged in the vicinity of the medal insertion mechanism 100 (particularly, the first medal insertion slot 108-1) and the medal discharge unit 330. It is bridged between. At this time, one end of the support member 910 is disposed close to a medal insertion slot 108-1 (see FIG. 5) of the medal insertion mechanism 100, which will be described later, and the other end cadal discharge portion of the support member 910 is disposed. Preferred to be placed close to 330. As a result, the LEDs 920 can be arranged so that the force close to the medal insertion mechanism 100 is connected to the vicinity of the medal discharge unit 330.
• the LED drive circuit 930 is electrically connected to the control unit 600.
• the control unit 600 includes a medal insertion sensor (sensor) 10 8-9 provided in the medal insertion mechanism 100, a lift-up hopper 300, and a medal discharge sensor 3 32 provided in the medal discharge unit 330. Electrically connected. For each connection, for example, a harness Wiring such as a cable can be used.
• the medal insertion sensor 108-9 is a sensor for detecting a medal in which the medal insertion slot 108-1 force in the medal insertion mechanism 100 is also inserted.
• the medal insertion sensor 108-9 may be a non-contact type using magnetism or light, or a contact type using an on-Z off switch.
• the configuration of the medal insertion sensor 108-9 and its periphery will be described with reference to FIG.
• the first guide portion 113 formed by a step with the plate member constituting the inclined wall upper region 106 is inserted into the medal insertion slot 108-1 while slidingly rotating.
• the medal M passes the medal insertion path 108-7 formed by the first medal guide plate 108-5, the second medal guide plate 108-6, and the plate member constituting the first inclined wall upper region 106. Pass through to the medal transport path 200 (see Fig. 1).
• the medal insertion sensor 108-9 is provided in the middle of the medal insertion path 108-7 connecting the medal insertion port 108-1 to the medal transport path 200, and the medal M passes through this part in contact or Detect by non-contact. Further, when the medal insertion sensor 108-9 detects the insertion of the medal M, the medal insertion detection signal S1 is generated and input to the control unit 600 (see FIG. 1).
• the control unit 600 Based on the timing at which the medal insertion detection signal S1 is input, the control unit 600 generates an LED drive circuit control signal S2 for driving the LED drive circuit 930, and generates this LED drive circuit control signal S2. Input to 930.
• the LED drive circuit 930 sequentially lights the LEDs 920a to 920n based on the timing when the LED drive circuit control signal S2 is input.
• the lift-up hopper 300 discharges the medal M set in the medal discharge unit 330 to the medal discharge path 400 based on control from the control unit 600 (see FIG. 1). Note that the lift-up hopper drive signal S3 output from the control unit 600 is used to control the lift-up hopper 300. Further, after the medals are discharged, the next medals are quickly set in the medal discharging unit 330.
• the medal discharge sensor 332 is a sensor for detecting whether or not the medal M has been discharged from the medal discharge unit 330. Like the medal insertion sensor 108-9, the medal discharge sensor 332 uses magnetism or light. The non-contact type may be a contact type using an on / off switch. This medal discharge sensor 332 is provided at a discharge port (not shown) of the medal discharge unit 330, and detects the medal M discharged from the discharge locusr by contact or non-contact. Further, when the medal discharge sensor 332 detects the discharge of the medal M, the medal discharge sensor 332 generates a medal discharge detection signal S4 and inputs it to the control unit 600 (see FIG. 1).
• FIG. 5 shows the flow of medals from medal insertion to medal discharge.
• FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of the control unit 600 until the medal throwing-in / medal discharging.
• Figure 7 shows the medal movement simulation production section before the medal is inserted and the medal is discharged.
• FIG. 6 is a waveform diagram of signals input / output between 900, its peripheral portion, and control unit 600.
• the peripheral portion includes a control unit 600, a medal insertion sensor 108-9, a lift-up hopper 300, and a medal discharge sensor 332.
• the medal Ml inserted into the medal insertion slot 108-1 is transported through the medal insertion path 108-7 as described in FIG. Enter Route 200.
• the medal M2 stored in the medal storage unit 310 of the lift-up hopper 300 is set in the medal discharge unit 330.
• a medal M2 different from the medal Ml inserted from the medal insertion mechanism 100 is received from the medal discharge section 330. It can be discharged.
• the positional relationship between the medal insertion mechanism 100 and the medal discharge unit 330 can be arbitrarily set, and the degree of design freedom of the game apparatus (particularly the station unit ST) is improved.
• the medal Ml inserted from the medal insertion mechanism 100 is configured to be stored in the storage unit 310 that stores the discharged medal M2, so that the number of medals entered and output in the storage unit 310 is increased. Can be balanced. As a result, it is possible to save the trouble of replenishing the storage unit 310 with medals during the game.
• the medal insertion sensor 108-9 detects this.
• the medal insertion sensor 108-9 generates a medal insertion detection signal S1 at the timing when the medal Ml is detected as shown in FIG. 7, and this is generated by the control unit 6 as shown in FIG. Output to 00.
• the medal Ml inserted into the medal insertion mechanism 100 is transported to the medal storage unit 310 of the lift-up hopper 300 via the medal transport path 200 and stored therein.
• control unit 600 waits for medal insertion detection signal S1 to be input from medal insertion sensor 108-9 (step S101).
• the control unit 600 controls the first predetermined time (first lighting offset time in FIG. 7) as shown in FIG. tl) waits for the elapse of time (Yes in step S102), and then generates a LED drive circuit control signal S2 for driving the LED drive circuit 930 (step S103), as shown in FIG. Is output to the LED drive circuit 930 (step S104).
• the first lighting offset time tl is a time required for the medal M1 to virtually move from the medal insertion slot 108-1 to the LED 920a.
• control unit 600 waits for the second predetermined time (waiting time t5 in FIG. 7) to elapse after starting to output LED drive circuit control signal S2 (step S5).
• the waiting time t5 is the time to turn on each LED 920 as the LED lighting time t2, the time from turning off the previous LED 920 to turning on the next LED 920 is the LED offset time t3, and after turning on the last LED 920n, If the time until the medal M2 is discharged is the medal discharge offset time t4, it can be determined based on the following (Equation 1).
• t5 tl + n X t2 + (n- 1) X t3 + t4 (Equation 1)
• the LED drive circuit 930 first generates an LED drive signal S920a for driving the LED 920a closest to the medal insertion mechanism 100 as shown in FIG. This is applied to the wiring connected to the LED 920a. As a result, the LED 920a is first turned on.
• the LED drive signal S920a and the LED drive signals S920b to S920n described later are rectangular signals having a predetermined time (LED lighting time t2) width. The Accordingly, the LEDs 920a to 920n to which they are respectively applied are lit for a period of the predetermined time (LED lighting time t2).
• the LED drive circuit 930 generates an LED drive signal S920b for driving the L ED920b next to the medal insertion mechanism 100, and is connected to the LED 920b. Apply to wiring. As a result, the LED 920b is turned on next.
• the timing at which the LED drive signal S920b is generated can be, for example, after the falling timing force of the LED drive signal S92 Oa for a predetermined time (inter-LED offset time t3) has elapsed, as shown in FIG. .
• the timing for generating the subsequent LED drive signals S920c to S920n is after the predetermined time (inter-LED offset time t3) has elapsed from the fall timing of the previous LED drive signals S920b to S920n-1. be able to.
• the LEDs 920a to 920n are lit so that the lighting times do not overlap. By operating so that the lighting times of each LED 920 do not overlap, it becomes possible to more clearly express the pseudo movement of medals.
• the LED drive circuit 930 sequentially generates the LED drive signals S920c to S9 20 ⁇ , and uses them to turn on the LEDs 920c to 920n.
• the LEDs 920a to 920n can be turned on sequentially from the medal insertion mechanism 100 side to the medal discharge unit 330 side.
• the control unit 600 and the LED driving circuit 930 function as a light emitting unit driving unit for driving the LED.
• control unit 600 waits for a second predetermined time (standby time t5) (Yes in step S105), and then generates lift-up hopper drive signal S3 as shown in FIG. (Step S106), this is output to the lift-up hono 300 as shown in FIG. 3 (Step S1 07).
• the timing for outputting the lift-up hopper control signal S3 after outputting the LED drive circuit control signal S2 is after a predetermined time has elapsed since the last LED 920n is turned off. That is, the end of the second predetermined time (waiting time t5) is set to be after the last LED 920n is turned off.
• the control unit 600 receives the medal discharge detection signal S4 from the medal discharge sensor 332 during the third predetermined time. It is determined whether or not an input is made (steps S108 to S109). The control unit 600 If the third predetermined time has passed without the discharge detection signal S4 being input (No in step S108 and Yes in S109), error processing is performed when the medal M2 is not discharged normally (step S108). After that, the process is terminated. When the medal discharge right knowledge signal S4 is input within the third predetermined time (Yes in step S108), the process returns to step S101.
• the error process includes, for example, a process for notifying that an error due to a medal jam has occurred in another configuration, a process for displaying the occurrence of an error on the display unit 700, and the like.
• the lift-up hopper 300 receives the medal M2 set in the medal discharge unit 330 in advance as shown in FIG. Output to 400. Therefore, the medal M2 discharged at this time is different from the medal Ml inserted by the game player.
• the control unit 600 functions as a discharging unit driving unit for driving the medal discharging unit 330 in the lift-up hopper 300 to discharge the medal M2 to the play field 500.
• the lift-up hopper 300 may be included in the discharge unit driving means.
• the medal M2 discharged from the medal discharge unit 330 of the lift-up hopper 300 is discharged to the sub table 511 on the pusher unit 510 in the play field 500 through the medal discharge path 400.
• the medal M2 discharged to the sub-table 511 collides with the display unit 700 and the lower portion 710 of the display unit 700, and falls from the card stored on the sub-table 511 or from the sub-table 511.
• the medal discharge sensor 332 is provided at the discharge port of the medal discharge unit 330.
• the medal discharge sensor 332 detects whether or not the medal M2 has been discharged normally.
• the medal discharge sensor 332 When the medal discharge sensor 332 detects the discharge of the medal M2, the medal discharge sensor 332 generates a medal discharge right knowledge signal S4 and inputs it to the control unit 600.
• each of the LEDs 920a to 920n is sequentially turned on from the medal insertion mechanism 100 side to the medal discharge unit 330 side, and then from the medal discharge unit 330 to another By discharging the medal M2, it is possible to achieve such an effect that the medal Ml, which was also inserted by the warmer, is discharged from the medal discharge path 400.
• next medal Ml when the next medal Ml is inserted before the medal Ml is inserted until the medal M2 is discharged, it is generated by detecting the next medal Ml.
• medal insertion detection signal S1 For example, medal insertion detection
• the counter operates to count up when the medal insertion detection signal S1 is generated, and to count down when the medal discharge detection signal S4 is generated. Then, control unit 600 operates to continue to output lift-up hopper control signal S3 until the counter reaches zero.
• the medal movement simulation effect production unit 900 shown in FIG. 5 starts the operation every time the medal insertion detection signal S1 is generated, and generates a new medal insertion detection signal S1 before ending the series of operations. Continue to operate until then. Operates to start a new operation.
• the game device includes the medal insertion mechanism 100 in which the medal M, which is a game medium, is inserted, and the medal insertion that detects the medal M inserted in the medal insertion mechanism 100.
• Sensor 108-9 a medal discharge unit 330 for discharging medals to the play field 500, a plurality of LEDs 920 arranged from the vicinity of the medal insertion mechanism 100 to the vicinity of the medal discharge unit 330, and insertion of the medal M into the medal insertion mechanism 100 Is detected by the medal insertion sensor 108-9, the control unit 600 and the LED drive circuit 930 that sequentially turn on the plurality of arranged LEDs 920 from the medal insertion mechanism 100 side to the medal discharge unit 330 side.
• control unit 600 detects the medal input to the medal insertion mechanism 100 by the medal insertion sensor 108-9, and then discharges the medal after a predetermined time (first lighting offset time tl + standby time t5) has elapsed. Drive part 330 to eject the medal.
• a plurality of LEDs 920 arranged from the vicinity of the medal insertion mechanism 100 to the vicinity of the medal discharge section 330 are sequentially turned on from the medal insertion mechanism 100 side to the medal discharge section 330 side. It is possible to visually represent how the selected medal moves from the medal insertion mechanism 100 to the medal discharge unit 330. As a result, for example, when the medal inserted from the medal insertion mechanism 100 and the medal discharged from the medal discharge unit 330 are different, the pseudo movement of the medal body from the medal insertion mechanism 100 to the medal discharge unit 330 is performed. It becomes possible to produce.
• FIG. 8 is a waveform diagram of signals input / output between the medal movement simulation effect production unit 900 and its peripheral parts and the control unit 600 from medal insertion to medal discharge.
• the peripheral portion includes the control unit 600, the medal insertion sensor 108-9, the lift-up hopper 300, and the medal discharge sensor 332.
• the timing force at which the LED drive signal S920b is generated for example, a predetermined time (overlapping lighting time t6) from the falling timing of the LED drive signal S920a. ) Can be before.
• the timing for generating the subsequent LED drive signals S920c to S920n can be made a predetermined time (inter-LED offset time t3) before the fall timing of the previous LED drive signals S920b to S920n1, respectively.
• the LEDs 920a to 920n operate so as to be lit in duplicate. In other words, the operation is performed so that the next LED 920 is turned on before the LED 920 that was turned on immediately before is turned off. By duplicating the lighting time of each LED 920, it is possible to more smoothly express the pseudo movement of medals.
• FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the medal movement simulation effect section 901 according to this modification.
• the medal movement simulation effect unit 901 has a structure in which the support member 910 is replaced with a support member 911, compared to the medal movement simulation effect unit 900 shown in FIG.
• the support member 911 is composed of a meandering elongated! /, Rod-shaped member! .
• the support member 911 is a steel rod-like member having a cavity therein, for example, like the support member 910.
• the cross section of the support member 911 may be a square, a rectangle, another polygon, or a round shape such as a circle or an ellipse.
• the support member 911 has a rectangular cross section.
• it is assumed that the plurality of LEDs 920 described above are arranged at predetermined intervals on any side surface of the support member 911.
• the side surface on which the plurality of LEDs 920 are provided is a surface that is arranged so that it can be seen by the game player during the game.
• FIG. 10 (a) is a perspective view showing the configuration of the medal movement simulation effect section 902 according to this modification
• FIG. 10 (b) is provided on each side surface 912-1 to 912-4 in FIG. 10 (a).
• 1 ⁇ shows the sequences of 0921 & 921n, 922a-922n, 923a-923n, and 924a-924n. Note that, as described above, the description will be made assuming that the symbol of an arbitrary LED is 920.
• the medal movement simulation effect part 902 is different from the medal movement simulation effect part 900 shown in FIG. 2 in that the support member 910 is replaced with the support member 912 and the support member 912 is supported.
• LEDs 920 are arranged on all side surfaces of the member 912. That is, as shown in FIG. 10 (b), LEDs 921a to 921n are arranged on the side surface 912-1, and LEDs 922a to 922n are arranged on the side surface 912-2. LEDs 923a to 923n are arranged, and LEDs 924a to 924n are arranged and arranged on the side surface 912-4. Yes. Note that the same number of LEDs 920 is provided on each of the side surfaces 912-1 to 912-4.
• the support member 912 is, for example, a steel rod-like member having a cavity therein.
• the cross section of the support member 912 may be a square, a rectangle, or another polygon. Further, the cross section of the support member 912 may have a round shape such as a circle or an ellipse. In this case, by providing a plurality of arrayed LEDs 920 along the side surface, a configuration equivalent to this modification can be obtained.
• the LEDs 920 arranged on the respective side surfaces 912-1 to 912-4 of the support member 912 are continuously lit and extinguished on the respective surfaces in the same manner as in the above-described embodiment. That is, when a medal is inserted into the medal insertion mechanism 100, the medal insertion mechanism 100 side LED921a on the side 912-1 and the medal insertion mechanism 100 side LED 922a on the side 912-2 Medallor thrower mechanism in 912-3 3 (K-law: LED923a and medal insertion mechanism in ⁇ J-plane 912-4, LED 924a on the 100 side turns on and goes off at the same time. Turns on and off continuously.
• Such an operation is realized by distributing and supplying the LED drive signals S920a to S920n in the above-described embodiment to all four corresponding LEDs (for example, LEDs 921a, 922a, 923a, and 924a). Can do.
• FIG. 11 (a) is a perspective view showing the configuration of the medal movement simulation effect production unit 903 according to this modification, and FIG. 11 (b) is provided on each of the side surfaces 913-1 to 913-4 in FIG. 11 (a). It is a figure which shows the arrangement
• the support member 910 is replaced with the support member 913 and the support member 913 is supported.
• the LEDs 920 are arranged on all side surfaces of the member 913. That is, the support member 913 according to this modification has a structure in which the support member 912 according to modification 2 is twisted. Therefore, the LED 920 array provided on each side 913-1 to 913-4 of the twisted support member 913 is also twisted along each side! / Speak.
• the support member 913 is, for example, a steel rod-like member having a cavity therein.
• the cross section of the support member 913 may be a square, a rectangle, or another polygon. Further, the cross section of the support member 913 may have a rounded shape such as a circle or an ellipse.
• a plurality of arrayed LEDs 920 are provided along the side surface, and each array is spirally transferred to achieve a configuration equivalent to that of the present modification.
• the LEDs 920 arranged on the side surfaces 913-1 to 913-4 of the support member 913 are continuously turned on and turned off on the respective surfaces as in the above-described embodiment. That is, when a medal is inserted into the medal insertion mechanism 100, the medal insertion mechanism 100 side LED921a on the side 913-1 and the medal insertion mechanism 100 side LED 922a on the side 913-2, 913-3 Medallor Thrower Mechanism 10 (K-law LED923a and ⁇ J-plane 913-4 medal insertion mechanism 100-side LED924a turn on and turn off at the same time. Turns on and off continuously.
• Such an operation is realized by distributing and supplying the LED drive signals S920a to S920n in the above-described embodiment to all four corresponding LEDs (for example, LEDs 921a, 922a, 923a, and 924a). Can do.
• the movement of the medal is simulated using light, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the same as the above-described embodiment between the medal insertion and the medal discharge.
• the control unit 600 drives the medal discharge unit 330 in the lift-up hopper 300 to play the medal M2 in the play field. It is configured to function as a delay means for delaying the time until discharge to 500 for a predetermined time.
• the medal discharge unit 330 discharges the medal.
• the sound generated in this case may be continuous or intermittent, but it is better to gradually change the pitch and sound quality. By doing so, it gives the game player the impression that the state will change, making it easier to imagine the movement of medals.
• control unit 600 which is a delay unit, can be configured to change and control the delay time.
• the direction of medal movement can be changed according to the situation or game state, Controls the maximum number of medals that can be consumed by one game player per unit time It becomes possible to do.
• the delay time for example, in order to more effectively produce a medal movement by generating a changing sound, it is possible to control the sound playback speed (change speed) and the generation interval.
• the moving speed of the medals to be produced can be changed, and as a result, the game player can predict the delay time.
• the game player can predict that the delay time is long by slowing down the sound reproduction speed or lengthening the sounding interval.
• the delay time is shortened, the game player can predict that the delay time is short by increasing the sound reproduction speed or shortening the sounding interval.
• FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing a medal insertion mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 13 is a front view of the medal insertion mechanism shown in FIG.
• FIG. 14 is a top view of the medal insertion mechanism shown in FIG.
• FIG. 15 is a rear view of the medal insertion mechanism shown in FIG.
• the medal insertion mechanism 100 is positioned in the horizontal region 21, the first inclined region 22 and the second inclined region 23 located on both sides of the horizontal region 21, and the outer side of the first inclined region 22.
• the first side structure 117 and the second side structure 118 positioned outside the second inclined region 23 are included.
• the medal insertion mechanism 100 includes a storage unit 101 that stores a plurality of medals.
• the storage unit 101 forms a horizontal region 21 of the medal insertion mechanism 100.
• the medal insertion mechanism 100 further includes a first inclined wall extending while inclining continuously upward from the first boundary region 102 in contact with the first side portion of the storage unit 101.
• the first inclined wall forms a first inclined region 22.
• the first inclined wall includes a first inclined wall lower region 104 and a first inclined wall upper region 106.
• the first boundary region 102 is composed of a curved surface.
• the medal insertion mechanism 100 further continuously inclines upward from the second boundary region 103 in contact with the second side portion of the storage portion 101 located on the opposite side to the first side portion described above. Includes a second sloping wall that extends.
• the second inclined wall forms a second inclined region 23.
• the second The inclined wall is composed of a second inclined wall lower region 105 and a second inclined wall upper region 107.
• the second boundary region 103 is composed of a curved surface.
• the medal insertion mechanism 100 further includes a first medal insertion part 108 having a first medal insertion slot 108-1 at a position close to the first inclined wall, and a position close to the second inclined wall. And a second medal slot 109-1 having a second medal slot 109-1.
• the first boundary region 102, the first inclined wall lower region 104, the first inclined wall upper region 106, and the first medal insertion unit 108 are the first inclined region 22 of the medal insertion mechanism 100.
• the second boundary area 103, the second inclined wall lower area 105, the second inclined wall upper area 107, and the second medal insertion section 109 are the second inclined area of the medal insertion mechanism 100. Form 23.
• the first medal insertion portion 108 further has a first mounting flange 110, and the first mounting flange 110 has a partial force of the first boundary region 102 and a part of the storage portion 101. It extends to.
• the second medal slot 109 further has a second mounting flange 111, which extends from a part of the second boundary region 103 to a part of the storage part 101. Extend. As shown in FIG. 14, the first mounting flange 110 and the second mounting flange 111 extending on the storage portion 101 have corners that are largely rounded.
• the first mounting flange 110 and the second mounting flange 111 define a medal storage area in which the medal M is stored on the storage unit 101.
• the first mounting flange 110 and the second mounting flange 111 are separated from each other, and the medal M is supplied from the medal supply side 119 between the two flanges 110 and 111.
• the supplied medal M is constrained by the corners of the first mounting flange 110 and the second mounting flange 111 that are rounded.
• a first guide 113 is formed at the boundary between the first inclined wall lower region 104 and the first inclined wall upper region 106.
• the first guide portion 113 locks a medal that slides down the first inclined wall upper region 106, and slides into the first medal insertion port 108-1 along the first guide portion.
• the first guide portion 113 includes a first step 113 formed at the boundary between the first inclined wall lower region 104 and the first inclined wall upper region 106. .
• the first step 113 extends while descending linearly toward the first medal slot 108-1.
• the first inclined wall upper region 106 has at least one protrusion formed so as to reduce friction with the medal M that slides and moves along the first guide portion 113.
• the first inclined wall upper region 106 is spaced upward from the first guide portion 113 by a distance smaller than the diameter of the medal M, and generally extends in the direction in which the first guide portion 113 extends.
• At least one ridge-shaped protrusion 115 extending in parallel is provided. Specifically, as shown in the drawing, a plurality of ridge line-shaped protrusions 115 are formed.
• a second guide portion 114 is formed at the boundary between the second inclined wall lower region 105 and the second inclined wall upper region 107.
• the second guide portion 114 locks a medal sliding down the second inclined wall upper region 107, and slides into the second medal insertion port 109-1 along the second guide portion.
• the second guide portion 114 includes a second step 114 formed at the boundary between the second inclined wall lower region 105 and the second inclined wall upper region 107.
• the second step 114 extends while descending linearly toward the second medal slot 109-1.
• the second inclined wall upper region 107 has at least one protrusion formed so as to reduce friction with the medal M that slides and moves along the second guide portion 114.
• the second inclined wall upper region 107 is spaced upward from the second guide portion 114 by a distance smaller than the diameter of the medal M, and generally extends in the direction in which the second guide portion 114 extends.
• At least one ridge-shaped protrusion 116 extending in parallel is provided. Specifically, as shown in the drawing, a plurality of ridge line-shaped protrusions 116 are formed.
• the outer upper end of the first inclined wall upper region 106 is coupled to the first side structure 117.
• the first side structure 117 has a deformed L-shaped cross-sectional shape and includes a horizontal upper part, a vertical wall part, and a horizontal lower part.
• the horizontal upper part continuously extends outward from the outer upper end of the first inclined wall upper region 106.
• the vertical wall extends vertically downward from the outer edge of the horizontal upper part.
• the horizontal lower portion extends inward from the lower end portion of the vertical wall portion.
• An operation handle in the control system for controlling the position and orientation of the discharge end of the medal discharge path 400 is attached to the upper horizontal portion. The player operates the operation handle to operate the medal discharge path 400.
• the horizontal lower part is a mounting frame for attaching the medal injection mechanism 100 to the casing 800 of the station ST. It plays the role of
• the outer upper end portion of the second inclined wall upper region 107 is coupled to the second side structure 118.
• the second side structure 118 has a deformed L-shaped cross section and includes a horizontal upper part, a vertical wall part, and a horizontal lower part.
• the horizontal upper part continuously extends outward from the outer upper end of the second inclined wall upper region 107.
• the vertical wall extends vertically downward from the outer edge of the horizontal upper part.
• the horizontal lower portion extends inward from the lower end portion of the vertical wall portion.
• An operation handle in the control system for controlling the position and orientation of the discharge end of the medal discharge path 400 is attached to the upper horizontal portion. The player operates the operation handle to operate the medal discharge path 400. To control the position and orientation of the discharge end.
• the horizontal lower part serves as an attachment flange for attaching the medal injection mechanism 100 to the casing 800 of the station unit ST.
• the first medal slot 108-1 of the first medal slot 108-1 and the second medal slot 109-1 of the second medal slot 109-1 Have dimensions that allow only one to enter at a time.
• the first medal slot 108 or the second medal slot 109-1 This is to prevent the medal M from clogging 109.
• the medal insertion mechanism 100 described above has a generally symmetric shape and structure with respect to an intermediate position between the first and second side portions.
• FIG. 16 is a partially exploded view of the medal insertion mechanism shown in FIG. First medal slot 10
• the second medal insertion portion 109 includes a first medal insertion portion 109-1 adjacent to the first guide portion 113, that is, the end portion of the first step portion 113, and the first step portion 113. Communicating with the end Dull insertion path 109-7, the medal drop hole 109-8 communicating with the medal insertion path 109-7, and both sides of the medal insertion path 109-7 and the medal insertion path 109-7 are defined.
• the medal insertion path 109-7 is formed to guide the medal M inserted through the second medal insertion port 109-1 to the medal dropping hole 109-8.
• the second medal slot 109 has a first intermediate plate 109-3 having a first roller 109-4.
• the first intermediate plate 109-3 is attached to the first medal guide plate 109-5 and the second medal guide plate 109-6.
• the first roller 109 is positioned on the medal drop hole 109-8, so that the medal M force passed through the medal insertion path 109-7 and when the first roller 109 was pushed on the medal drop hole 109-8, It abuts against the first roller 109, the medal M is slightly pushed down, and falls from the medal drop hole 109-8.
• the dropped medal M is transported to the lift-up hopper 300 via the medal transport path 200 shown in FIG.
• the second medal slot 109 further includes a first medal slot cover 109-2.
• the first medal slot cover 109-2 covers the first intermediate plate 109-3.
• the first medal slot cover 109-2 is formed integrally with the second mounting flange 111, and the second mounting flange 111 is fixed to the storage section 101, thereby indirectly. , Its position is fixed relative to the first intermediate plate 109-3
• the game player extends the first sloping wall lower region 104 and the first medal M stored in the storage unit 101 while continuously inclining upward from the storage unit 101.
• the medal M is moved to the first area by gravity.
• the second stepped portion forming the first step portion 113 and the second guide portion 114 constituting the first guide portion 113 by sliding down the inclined wall upper region 106 and the second inclined wall upper region 107. 114 and locked.
• the first step 113 and the second step 114 are configured to slide the medal M into the first medal insertion slot 108-1 and the second medal insertion slot 109-1 by gravity. Composed.
• the game player has a first inclined wall lower region 104, a first inclined wall upper region 106, and a second inclined wall that extend from the storage portion 101 while being continuously inclined upward. If the medal M is slid up to the lower region 105 and the second inclined wall upper region 107, and then released from the medal M, the medal M is caused by gravity to move to the first inclined wall upper region 106. And the second sloped wall upper region 107 are slid down and locked to the first step 113 and the second step 114, and then the medal M is moved to the first step 113 and the second step 114.
• the first medal insertion slot 108-1 and the second medal insertion slot 109-1 of the first insertion section slide along the section 114 by gravity.
• the medal M When the medal M rolls along the first step portion 113 and the second step portion 114, the medal M becomes the first inclined wall upper region 106 and the second inclined wall upper region 10 7. Will slide against. That is, the game player transfers the medal M from the storage unit 101 to the first inclined wall lower region 104 and the first inclined wall upper region 106, and the second inclined wall lower region 105 and the second inclined wall upper portion. Move to the upper area of the area 107 and release the hand. The medal M is transported from the storage section 101 to the first medal insertion slot 108-1 and the second medal insertion slot 109-1 as before. There is no need. In other words, it uses gravity to make the game player's hands easier to move.
• the medal M is slid along the first inclined wall lower region 104 and the first inclined wall upper region 106, and the second inclined wall lower region 105 and the second inclined wall upper region 107.
• the medal M slides down the first inclined wall upper area 106 and the second inclined wall upper area 107 due to gravity, and the first step 113 and The medal M is then locked to the second stepped portion 114, and the medal M then passes along the first stepped portion 113 and the second stepped portion 114 to the first medal slot 108 of the first slot.
• the game player feels tired greatly. Since it is possible to reduce the width of the game player, it is possible to attract the game player continuously for a long time while feeling that the game player himself is playing the game.
• the first step 113 and the second step 114 have a function of locking the medal M sliding down the first inclined wall upper region 106 and the second inclined wall upper region 107 by gravity. And a function of sliding in the first medal slot 108-1 and the second medal slot 109-1 by gravity along the first step 113 and the second step 114. That's fine. However, it is necessary to slide the medal M up to a position above the first guide portion 113, that is, the first step portion 113 and the second guide portion 114, that is, above the second step portion 114.
• the presence of the first guide portion 113, that is, the first step portion 113 and the second guide portion 114, that is, the second step portion 114 is not hindered. ,.
• the first guide portion 113 is constituted by the first step portion 113
• the second guide portion 114 is constituted by the second step portion 114.
• the step surfaces of the first and second steps 11 3 and 114 face upward.
• the first inclined wall upper region 106 and the second inclined wall upper region 107 can be slid down and locked by the step surfaces of the first step 113 and the second step 114.
• the step surfaces of the first step 113 and the second step 114 face downward, the first inclined wall lower region 104, the first inclined wall upper region 106, and the second inclined wall lower region 105 And the second medal insertion slot 108-1 and the second medal insertion slot while preventing the medal M sliding up along the upper inclined region 10 2 of the second inclined wall 10 7 109-1 Cannot slide into gravity due to gravity.
• the first step 113 can be realized by configuring the first inclined wall lower region 104 to be thicker than the first inclined wall upper region 106. Further, the second step 114 can be realized by forming the second inclined wall lower region 105 thicker than the second inclined wall upper region 107.
• the first inclined wall and the second inclined wall may be configured by combining a first flat plate extending in both the upper and lower regions and a second flat plate extending only in the lower region. Further, the first inclined wall and the second inclined wall are provided in the first and second regions extending over both the upper and lower regions. Only the lower region of one flat plate may be processed thinly. In any case, the first step 113 and the second step 114 can be realized using existing technology.
• the first step 113 and the second step 114 can be configured to extend to the first medal slot 108-1 and the second medal slot 109-1. .
• the medal M locked by the first step 113 and the second step 114 is guided to the first medal slot 108-1 and the second medal slot 109-1 by gravity. Since it is necessary, the first medal slot 108-1 and the second medal slot 109-1 are extended so as to move downward.
• the first step 113 and the second step 114 are configured to descend linearly toward the first medal slot 108-1 and the second medal slot 109-1.
• the first step 113 and the second step 114 are curvedly lowered toward the first medal slot 108-1 and the second medal slot 109-1.
• the medal M is locked toward the first medal slot 108-1 and the second medal slot 109-1. It has the minimum tilt angle necessary to roll and guide by gravity.
• the first step 113 and the second step 114 cause the medal M to slide into the first medal slot 108-1 and the second medal slot 109-1 by gravity. It must be terminated.
• the end portions of the first step 113 and the second step 114 are brought close to the first medal slot 108-1 and the second medal slot 109-1.
• the end portions of the first step 113 and the second step 114 are not in contact with the first medal slot 108-1 and the second medal slot 109-1, and there is a gap.
• the medal M that has rolled the first step 113 and the second step 114 will eventually roll into the first medal slot 108-1 and the second medal slot 109-1. That's fine.
• the first medal slot 108-1 of the first slot 110 and the second medal slot 110-1 of the second slot 109 are inclined at the first slope. It is provided at a position close to the wall and the second inclined wall.
• the width of the step surface of the first step 113 and the second step 114 in other words, the size of the first step 113 and the second step 114 is determined by the first inclined wall upper region. 106 and the second sloped wall upper area 107 slide the medal M down to the first step 113 and the second step 11. It is determined to be able to be locked at the step surface of 4.
• the minimum required size of the first step 113 and the second step 114 depends on the inclination angles of the first and second inclined walls and the thickness of the medal M. For example, when the inclination angle of the first inclined wall and the second inclined wall is large, the first step difference is compared with the case where the inclination angle of the first inclined wall and the second inclined wall is small.
• the width of the step surface of 113 and the second step 114 should be larger.
• the first inclined wall upper region 106 and the second step 107 are slid down in consideration of the thickness of the medal M and the inclination angles of the first inclined wall and the second inclined wall.
• the minimum width of the step surface of the first step 113 and the second step 114 that can lock the medal M is required. If the width of the step surface of the first step 113 and the second step 114 is larger than the thickness of the medal M, the first inclined wall upper region 106 and the second inclined wall upper region 107 slide down. The possibility of locking the medal M is increased. Further, if the width of the step surface of the first step 113 and the second step 114 is larger than twice the thickness of the medal M, the first inclined wall upper region 106 and the second inclined wall upper portion Two overlapping medals M sliding down the area 107 can be locked simultaneously.
• the medal M will be slipped over the first step 113 and the second step 114.
• the medal M may fall down at the first step 113 and the second step 114, and the medal M may not roll the first step 113 and the second step 114 well. It should be noted that there are.
• FIG. 31 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the thickness of the medal M and the widths of the step surfaces of the first step 113 and the second step 114.
• the first step 113 and the second step 114 are rounded and the rounded portion has a thickness R equal to or greater than R. If there is a width W2 of the step surface, the medal M can be locked there is a possibility.
• the medal M sliding down the first inclined wall upper region 106 and the second inclined wall upper region 107 contacts the first step 113 and the second step 114, There is a possibility that the first step 113 and the second step 114 are not locked due to impact or vibration.
• the widths of the step surfaces of the first step 113 and the second step 114 that are larger than the theoretically required width W2 are designed. Furthermore, theoretically, as shown in FIG. 31, two medals M that have slipped down the first inclined wall upper region 106 and the second inclined wall upper region 107 and are overlapped with each other can be locked simultaneously. If the width W1 of the step surface of the first step 113 and the second step 114 is equal to or greater than the sum of the thickness of the medal M alone and the thickness R of the rounded portion, There is a possibility that the stacked medals M can be locked.
• the two overlapping medals M that have slipped down the first inclined wall upper region 106 and the second inclined wall upper region 107 are the first step 113 and the second step 114. Due to the impact or vibration when touching the medals, there is a possibility that the one of the two overlapping medals M that is overlaid will not be locked to the first step 113 and the second step 114. is there. Therefore, in order to lock both of the two overlapping medals M, the width of the step surface of the first step 113 and the second step 114, which is larger than the theoretically required minimum width W1, is set. design.
• the width of the step surface of the first step to substantially correspond to the thickness of the game medium alone.
• substantially includes an error corresponding to the thickness R of the rounded portion.
• the step surface angle of the first step is preferably a right angle or an acute angle with respect to the first inclined wall. If the angle of the step surface of the first step is an obtuse angle with respect to the first inclined wall, the game medium that has slid down the first inclined wall is not locked to the first step. There is a high possibility of slipping off.
• the medal M is transferred from the storage portion 101 to the first inclined wall lower region 104, the first inclined wall upper region 106, and the second inclined wall. It is not easy to slide up the lower wall region 10 5 and the second inclined wall upper region 107.
• the inclined wall upper region 107 is nearly flat
• the medal M is transferred from the storage portion 101 to the first inclined wall lower region 104, the first inclined wall upper region 106, and the second inclined wall lower region 105. It is easy to slide up the second inclined wall upper region 107.
• the frictional force between the medal M and the first inclined wall and the second inclined wall increases, so that the medal M becomes the first inclined wall.
• the upper region 106 and the second inclined wall It is difficult to slide down the upper region 107, and the medal M rolls along the first step 113 and the second step 114 by gravity, and the upper region of the first inclined wall 106 and the second inclined wall upper area 107, because the frictional force when sliding is large, it stops in the middle, and the first medal slot 108-1 and the second medal slot 109-1 are rolled up. It may not be possible. Therefore, the inclination angles of the first inclined wall lower region 104 and the first inclined wall upper region 106 and the second inclined wall lower region 105 and the second inclined wall upper region 107 are considered in consideration of these points. It is necessary to make the angle not too close to vertical and not too close to horizontal.
• the inclination angle of the first inclined wall lower region 104 and the first inclined wall upper region 106, and the second inclined wall lower region 105 and the second inclined wall upper region 107 are 20 degrees or more and 70 degrees or less. Further, it is preferable to set it below, and more preferably 30 degrees or more and 60 degrees or less.
• the inclination angles of the first inclined wall lower region 104 and the first inclined wall upper region 106, and the second inclined wall lower region 105 and the second inclined wall upper region 107 are typically about 45. May be degrees.
• the boundary region 102 and the second boundary region 103 are preferably formed with curved surfaces.
• the preferable curvature of the curved surface is a force depending on the radial dimension of the medal M. It is only necessary that the curvature radius of the curved surface is sufficiently larger than the radial dimension of the medal M. The preferred curvature can be easily determined empirically.
• the frictional resistance between the first inclined wall and the second inclined wall and the medal M is reduced as much as possible.
• the first plurality of ridgeline-shaped protrusions 115 and the second plurality of ridgeline-shaped protrusions 116 are effective.
• the medal M Has a generally disc shape. Further, when the first inclined wall upper region 106 and the second inclined wall upper region 107 have a flat surface, the entire area of the side surface of the medal M is the first inclined wall upper region 106 and the second inclined wall upper region 106 and the second inclined wall upper region 106. In contact with the flat surface of the upper wall 107 of the inclined wall.
• the medal M and the first inclined wall upper region 106 and the second inclined wall upper region 106 It is effective to reduce the contact area with the inclined wall upper region 107.
• the first plurality of ridge line-shaped protrusions 115 and the second plurality of ridge line-shaped protrusions 116 are formed in the first inclined wall upper region 106 and the second inclined wall upper region 107. Is done.
• first inclined wall upper region 106 and the second inclined wall upper region 107 are made of a material having self-lubricating properties. Only the surface may be made of a self-lubricating material, and the entire first inclined wall upper region 106 and the second inclined wall upper region 107 may be made of a self-lubricating material. Good. Further, in addition to the first inclined wall upper region 106 and the second inclined wall upper region 107, the first inclined wall lower region 104, the second inclined wall lower region 105, the first boundary region 102, the second The boundary region 103 and the surface of the storage portion 101 or the entire surface may be made of a self-lubricating substance.
• Typical examples of self-lubricating materials include engineering plastics such as Teflon (registered trademark) and oil-impregnated sintered metals (product examples: oilless metal plates), but are not necessarily limited to these. .
• a plurality of first ridge-shaped protrusions provided for the purpose of reducing frictional resistance instead of forming the surfaces of at least the first inclined wall upper region 106 and the second inclined wall upper region 107 with a self-lubricating material. It is also possible to omit 115 and the second plurality of ridgeline-shaped protrusions 116.
• the medal insertion mechanism 100 is the first extending from the first boundary region 102 in contact with the first side of the storage unit 101 while inclining continuously upward. Inclination of Includes oblique walls.
• the first inclined wall forms a first inclined region 22.
• the first inclined wall is composed of a first inclined wall lower region 104 and a first inclined wall upper region 106.
• the medal insertion mechanism 100 further extends while inclining continuously upward from the second boundary region 103 in contact with the second side portion of the storage portion 101 located on the opposite side to the first side portion described above.
• Including a second inclined wall The second inclined wall forms a second inclined region 23.
• the second inclined wall is composed of a second inclined wall lower region 105 and a second inclined wall upper region 107.
• the first inclined wall and the second inclined wall need only be configured so that a medal as a game medium can be slid up and down, so that the first inclined wall and the second inclined wall are always configured by an inclined plane having a certain inclination angle. There is no need.
• the first inclined wall and the second inclined wall may be configured by inclined curved surfaces whose inclination angles change.
• the guide unit for sliding the medal as a game medium into the first medal slot 108-1 and the second medal slot 109-1 is the first medal slot 108-1
• the first medal step 113 and the second step 114 extend so as to be inclined downward in a straight line by directing the second medal slot 109-1.
• the medals locked to the first step 113 and the second step 114 slide into the first medal slot 108-1 and the second medal slot 109-1 by gravity.
• the first step 113 and the second step 114 need not necessarily extend so as to incline downward. That is, the medal locked to the first step 113 and the second step 114 can slide into the first medal slot 108-1 and the second medal slot 109-1 by gravity.
• the first step 113 and the second step 114 may be generally lowered toward the first medal slot 108-1 and the second medal slot 109-1. That's fine.
• the first medal slot 108-1 and the second medal slot 109-1 are locked to the first step 113 and the second step 114, rather than the potential energy of the medal M located at the first medal slot 109-1.
• the medal M's potential energy should be higher overall. For example, even if there is a rising part in the middle of the first step 113 and the second step 114, if the kinetic energy of the medal M is greater than the sum of the potential energy and the friction energy of the rising part, the medal M Will climb up the ascending section with the momentum of rolling until then and move into the first slot.
• the first step 113 and the second step 114 Even if there is an ascending part in the middle and the kinetic energy of the medal M is smaller than the sum of the potential energy and the friction energy of the ascending part, the medal M is pushed by the medal M that has been rolling. There is no problem as long as it is possible to climb up the ascending section and transfer to the first slot. Further, the first step 113 and the second step 114 may extend so as to descend in a stepped manner toward the first medal slot 108-1 and the second medal slot 109-1. Good.
• the medal insertion mechanism 100 in the first embodiment of the present invention described above even if the game player continuously inserts the game medium for a long time, the fatigue felt by the game player is greatly reduced. It becomes possible. In addition, since almost no nerve is used for the introduction of game media, it is possible to concentrate on the game itself and enjoy the game sufficiently.
• FIG. 17 is a perspective view showing a medal insertion mechanism according to this modification.
• FIG. 17 is a perspective view showing a medal insertion mechanism according to this modification.
• only differences from the above-described medal insertion mechanism 100 will be described, and redundant description will be omitted.
• the plurality of protrusions 120 scattered in the first inclined wall upper region 106 and the second inclined wall upper region 107 reduces the contact area with the medal M, and for this reason, This is effective for reducing the frictional resistance with medal M.
• the interval between the adjacent protrusions 120 is preferably sufficiently narrower than the radial dimension of the medal M. Furthermore, it is more preferable that the plurality of protrusions 120 are regularly scattered at regular intervals.
• the medals M rolling on the first step portion 113 and the second step portion 114 slide while being in contact with the plurality of projections 120 that are scattered. Therefore, the contact area between the medal M and the first inclined wall upper region 106 and the second inclined wall upper region 107 is reduced, and the frictional resistance can be effectively reduced. From the viewpoint of reducing the frictional force, it is preferable that the tops of the plurality of protrusions 120 are rounded! /.
• the vibration motor 121 is connected to each of the first inclined wall and the second inclined wall. It is effective to provide the first inclined wall and the second inclined wall so as to give a minute vibration to the back side.
• the effective contact area between the medal M and the first and second inclined walls can be reduced, and the frictional resistance can be effectively reduced.
• the vibration applied to the first inclined wall and the second inclined wall is not so great that the medal M does not become unstable when rolling along the first stepped portion 113 and the second stepped portion 114. It should be noted. In addition, too large vibration is preferable because it may cause discomfort to the game player.
• FIG. 19 is a perspective view showing a medal insertion mechanism according to this modification.
• FIG. 19 is a perspective view showing a medal insertion mechanism according to this modification.
• only differences from the above-described medal insertion mechanism 100 will be described, and redundant description will be omitted.
• the first inclined wall upper region 106 and the second inclined wall upper region 107 are A plurality of ventilation holes 122 are provided, and a blower fan 123 is provided on the back side of each of the first inclined wall upper region 106 and the second inclined wall upper region 107.
• the medal M By blowing air through the plurality of ventilation holes 122, the medal M has a buoyancy in a direction in which the medal M is buoyant from the first inclined wall upper region 106 and the second inclined wall upper region 107.
• the contact force between the medal M and the first inclined wall upper region 106 and the second inclined wall upper region 107 is reduced, and as a result, the medal M and the first inclined wall upper region 106 and The frictional force with the second inclined wall upper area 107 is reduced.
• the interval between the adjacent ventilation holes 122 is preferably sufficiently narrower than the radial dimension of the medals M. Furthermore, it is more preferable that the plurality of ventilation holes 122 are regularly scattered at regular intervals.
• the blower fan 123 is realized by arranging it on the back side of the first inclined wall upper region 106 and the second inclined wall upper region 107. Is possible. With this configuration, the medal M that rolls the first stepped portion 113 and the second stepped portion 114 has the medal due to the buoyancy provided by the air blown through the plurality of the vent holes 122 that are scattered. In a state where the contact force between M and the first inclined wall upper region 106 and the second inclined wall upper region 107 is reduced, the medal M becomes the first stepped portion 113 and the second stepped portion 114. Therefore, the frictional resistance can be effectively reduced.
• FIG. 20 is a perspective view showing a medal insertion mechanism according to this modification.
• FIG. 20 is a perspective view showing a medal insertion mechanism according to this modification.
• only differences from the above-described medal insertion mechanism 100 will be described, and redundant description will be omitted.
• the first inclined wall upper region 106 and the second inclined wall are used.
• the upper wall region 107 may be constituted by a reticulated inclined wall 124.
• the lattice spacing of the net is sufficiently smaller than the radial dimension of the medal M.
• the first inclined wall upper region 106 and the second inclined wall upper region 107 are constituted by a net-like inclined wall 124, so that the medal M and the first inclined wall upper region 106 and the second inclined wall are formed. The contact area with the upper region 107 is reduced, and the frictional resistance can be effectively reduced.
• FIG. 21 is a perspective view showing a medal insertion mechanism according to this modification.
• FIG. 21 is a perspective view showing a medal insertion mechanism according to this modification.
• each inclined wall is configured by the inclined wall upper region and the inclined wall lower region, and the step constituting the guide unit along the boundary between the inclined wall upper region and the inclined wall lower region.
• a difference portion is formed.
• the step portion is configured to extend from the side force of the upper region of the inclined wall located on the opposite side to the medal slot to the medal slot.
• the step portion is configured to extend over the entire area of the inclined wall.
• the stepped portion is from an inner position separated from the side portion of the inclined wall upper region located on the side opposite to the medal entrance by a distance equal to or larger than the radial dimension of the medal alone. The configuration extends to the medal slot. Is possible.
• the stepped portion By extending the stepped portion from the side of the upper region of the inclined wall to the inner position force separated by a distance equal to or larger than the radial dimension of the medal alone, the stepped portion is not formed!
• the medal is inclined via the inclined plane portion. It is possible to move to the upper wall area.
• the second inclined wall includes a second inclined wall upper region 107, a third inclined wall lower region 125, and a fourth inclined wall lower region 126.
• the second stepped portion 114 constituting the second guide portion is formed along the boundary between the third inclined wall lower region 125 and the second inclined wall upper region 107.
• the fourth inclined wall lower region 126 and the second inclined wall upper region 107 form a single plane, and a step is formed at the boundary between the fourth inclined wall lower region 126 and the second inclined wall upper region 107. Is not formed.
• the third inclined wall lower region 125 can be constituted by a substantially wedge-shaped flat plate provided on one plane composed of the fourth inclined wall lower region 126 and the second inclined wall upper region 107.
• the thickness of the substantially wedge-shaped flat plate corresponds to the step width of the step 114 described above, the thickness is determined based on the step width of the second step 114 described above. Further, the horizontal dimension of the fourth inclined wall lower area 126 is larger than the radial dimension of the medal M. The force M is passed through the fourth inclined wall lower area 126 to the second inclined wall upper area 107. Necessary to move.
• the game player moves the storage unit 101 to the second inclined wall upper area 107 via the fourth inclined wall lower area 126 while holding the medal M with his finger, It is further moved to a position above the third inclined wall lower region 125.
• the medal M slides down the second sloped wall upper area 107 and is locked by the second step 114 formed by the upper side of a generally wedge-shaped flat plate. Is done.
• the medal M slides into the second medal slot 109-1 along the second step 114.
• the medal M since no step is formed at the boundary between the fourth inclined wall lower region 126 and the second inclined wall upper region 107, the medal M does not pass through the second step 114. It is possible to move to the upper region 107 of the inclined wall.
• the third inclined wall lower region 125 can be constituted by a plate having a substantially wedge-shaped thickness, instead of a substantially wedge-shaped flat plate.
• the upper side of the generally wedge shape has a thickness corresponding to the step width of the second stepped portion 114 described above, while the lower side of the approximately wedge shape. It is possible to reduce the thickness as it approaches the side, and to make the thickness substantially close at the lower side of the generally wedge shape. With this configuration, it is not necessary to form a step on the lower side of the third inclined wall lower region 125.
• the game player moves the storage unit 101 to the second inclined wall upper area 107 via the fourth inclined wall lower area 126 while pressing the medal M with a finger.
• it since there is no step on the lower side of the third inclined wall lower region 125, it may be moved to the second inclined wall upper region 107 via the third inclined wall lower region 125.
• the medal M slides on the second inclined wall upper area 107. It falls and is locked by a second step 114 formed by the upper side of a generally wedge-shaped flat plate. Thereafter, as described above, the medal M slides into the second medal slot 109-1 along the second step 114.
• FIG. 23 is a front view of the medal insertion mechanism shown in FIG.
• FIG. 24 is a top view of the medal insertion mechanism shown in FIG.
• FIG. 25 is a rear view of the medal insertion mechanism shown in FIG.
• the medal insertion mechanism 130 includes an upper horizontal region 24, a first inclined region 25 and a second inclined region 26 located on both sides of the upper horizontal region 24, and an outer side of the first inclined region 25. A first lower horizontal region 27 positioned; and a second lower horizontal region 28 positioned outside the second inclined region 26.
• the medal insertion mechanism 130 includes an upper storage unit 131 that stores a plurality of medals.
• the upper storage part 131 constitutes an upper horizontal region 24 of the medal insertion mechanism 130.
• the medal insertion mechanism 130 includes a first lower storage unit 144 that stores a plurality of medals.
• the first lower storage portion 144 constitutes a first lower horizontal region 27 of the medal insertion mechanism 130.
• the medal insertion mechanism 130 includes a second lower storage unit 145 that stores a plurality of medals.
• the second lower storage section 145 constitutes a second lower horizontal area 28 of the medal insertion mechanism 130.
• the medal insertion mechanism 130 further includes a first inclined wall that extends while inclining continuously downward from the first boundary region 1 32 that contacts the first side portion of the upper storage portion 131.
• the first inclined wall forms a first inclined region 25.
• the first inclined wall is a first inclined wall lower region 13. 6 and a first inclined wall upper region 134.
• the first boundary region 132 is composed of a curved surface.
• the medal insertion mechanism 130 is further continuously inclined downward from the second boundary region 133 in contact with the second side portion of the upper storage portion 131 located on the opposite side of the first side portion. Including a second inclined wall extending.
• the second inclined wall forms a second inclined region 26.
• the second inclined wall is composed of a second inclined wall lower region 137 and a second inclined wall upper region 135.
• the second boundary region 133 is composed of a curved surface.
• the medal insertion mechanism 130 further includes a first lower reservoir 144 that extends continuously in the horizontal direction via a third boundary region 142 that contacts the outer side of the first inclined wall lower region 136. Including The first lower storage portion 144 forms a first lower horizontal region 27.
• the medal insertion mechanism 130 further includes a second lower reservoir 145 continuously extending in the horizontal direction via a fourth boundary region 143 in contact with the outer side of the second inclined wall lower region 137. Including The second lower reservoir 145 forms a second lower horizontal region 28.
• the medal insertion mechanism 130 further includes a first medal insertion part 138 having a first medal insertion port 138-1 at a position close to the first inclined wall, and a position close to the second inclined wall. And a second medal slot 139-1 having a second medal slot 139-1.
• the first boundary area 1 32, the first inclined wall lower area 136, the first inclined wall upper area 134, the first medal insertion part 138, and the third boundary area 142 are a medal insertion mechanism.
• 130 first inclined regions 25 are formed.
• the second boundary region 133, the second inclined wall lower region 137, the second inclined wall upper region 135, the second medal insertion portion 139, and the fourth boundary region 143 are the medal insertion mechanism 1 Thirty second inclined regions 26 are formed.
• the first medal insertion portion 138 further has a first mounting flange 146, and the first mounting flange 146 has a partial force in the third boundary region 142 as well as the first lower storage portion. It extends over part of 144.
• the second medal insertion portion 139 further has a second mounting flange 147, and the second mounting flange 147 extends from a part of the fourth boundary region 143 to a part of the second lower storage part 145. It extends to.
• the first mounting flange 146 extending on the first lower reservoir 144 and the second mounting flange 147 extending on the second lower reservoir 145 are greatly rounded as shown in FIG. Has a corner.
• the second mounting flange 147 defines a medal storage area for storing the medal M on the first lower storage portion 144 and the second lower storage portion 145.
• the medal M is supplied from the medal supply side 152 of the upper storage unit 131.
• the first lower storage section 144 includes a first medal restraining plate 148 for preventing the medal M from spilling down, and a first lower storage for isolating the medal M stored in the adjacent medal insertion mechanism.
• a storage partition 150 is provided.
• the second lower storage 145 includes a second medal restraint plate 149 for preventing the medal M from falling down and a second medal M for storing the medal M stored in the adjacent medal insertion mechanism.
• a lower storage section partition section 151 is provided. Further, although not shown, a medal restraining plate that prevents the medal M from spilling down may be provided on the front side of the upper storage portion 131.
• a first guide 113 is formed at the boundary between the first inclined wall lower region 136 and the first inclined wall upper region 134.
• the first guide portion 113 locks a medal sliding down the first inclined wall upper region 134, and slides into the first medal insertion port 138-1 along the first guide portion.
• the first guide portion 113 includes a first step 113 formed at the boundary between the first inclined wall lower region 136 and the first inclined wall upper region 134.
• the first step 113 extends while descending linearly toward the first medal slot 138-1.
• the first inclined wall upper region 134 has at least one protrusion formed so as to reduce friction with the medal M that slides and moves along the first guide portion 113.
• the first inclined wall upper region 134 is spaced upward from the first guide portion 113 by a distance smaller than the diameter of the medal M, and generally extends in the direction in which the first guide portion 113 extends. It has at least one ridge-shaped protrusion 140 extending in parallel. Specifically, as shown in the drawing, a plurality of ridge line-shaped protrusions 140 are formed.
• a second guide portion 114 is formed at the boundary between the second inclined wall lower region 137 and the second inclined wall upper region 135.
• the second guide portion 114 locks a medal that slides down the second inclined wall upper region 135, and slides into the second medal slot 139-1 along the second guide portion.
• the second guide part 114 includes a second step 114 formed at the boundary between the second inclined wall lower region 137 and the second inclined wall upper region 135.
• the second step 114 extends while descending linearly toward the second medal slot 139-1.
• the second inclined wall upper region 135 slides along the second guide portion 114. It has at least one protrusion formed to reduce friction with the moving medal M.
• the second inclined wall upper region 135 is spaced upward from the second guide portion 114 by a distance smaller than the diameter of the medal M, and generally extends in the direction in which the second guide portion 114 extends. It has at least one ridge-shaped protrusion 141 extending in parallel. Specifically, as shown in the drawing, a plurality of ridge line-shaped protrusions 141 are formed.
• the upper reservoir 131, the first boundary region 132, the second boundary region 133, the first inclined wall lower region 136, the second inclined wall lower region 137, and the first inclined wall upper region 134 If the second inclined wall upper area 135, the third boundary area 142, the fourth boundary area 143, the first lower storage section 144, and the second lower storage section 145 are made of the same member, There is no joint in the region where M is movable, and resistance can be reduced.
• the first medal slot 138-1 of the first medal slot 138 and the second medal slot 139-1 of the second medal slot 139 are connected to the medal M Have dimensions that allow only one to enter at a time.
• the first medal slot 138 or the second medal slot 139-1 is to prevent the medal M from clogging 139 with certainty.
• the above-described medal insertion mechanism 130 has a generally symmetric shape and structure with respect to an intermediate position between the first and second side portions.
• the first medal insertion unit 138 and the second medal insertion unit 139 have the same structure as the first medal insertion unit 108 and the second medal insertion unit 109 described above with reference to FIG. Description of the internal structure of is omitted.
• the game player extends the first inclined wall upper region 134 and the first inclined wall M that are stored in the upper storage portion 131 while continuously inclining downward from the upper storage portion 131. 2
• the medal M slides down the first inclined wall upper area 134 and the second inclined wall upper area 135 by gravity.
• the first step portion 113 constituting the first guide portion 113 and the second step portion 114 constituting the second guide portion 114 are locked.
• the first step portion 113 and the second step portion 114 are configured such that the medal M is gravity-induced by the first medal insertion port 138-1 and the second medal insertion port 139. 1 It is configured to slide into 1 part.
• the game player extends the first inclined wall upper region 134 and the second inclined wall upper region 135 that extend while tilting the medal M downward from the upper storage portion 131 continuously.
• the medal M slides down the first inclined wall upper region 134 and the second inclined wall upper region 135 due to gravity, and the first The medal M is locked to the stepped portion 113 and the second stepped portion 114, and then the medal M is moved along the first stepped portion 113 and the second stepped portion 114 to the first medal of the first inserting portion. Slide into the slot 138-1 and the second medal slot 139-1 by gravity.
• the medal M rolls along the first stepped portion 113 and the second stepped portion 114, the medal M is in contact with the first inclined wall lower region 136 and the first inclined wall upper region 134. Will slide. That is, the game player moves the medal M to the upper areas of the first inclined wall upper area 134 and the second inclined wall upper area 135 and releases the medal M as in the conventional case.
• the upper storage portion 131 does not need to be transported to the first medal slot 138-1 and the second medal slot 139-1. In other words, gravity is used effectively to make the game player's hands move easily.
• the medal M may not be locked to the first step portion 113 and the second step portion 114.
• the medal M slides down the first and second inclined walls beyond the first step portion 113 and the second step portion 114, and the first and second lower storage portions 144, 145 It is stored here.
• the game media stored in the first and second lower storage units 144 and 145 can be used as they are.
• the game player slides the medal M stored in the first and second lower storage portions 144, 145 along the first and second inclined walls, and then from the medal M
• the first sloped wall upper region 134 and the second sloped wall upper region 135 are slid down by gravity and locked to the first stepped portion 113 and the second stepped portion 114.
• the medal M slides into the first medal slot 138-1 and the second medal slot 139-1 by gravity along the first step 113 and the second step 114. This mechanism is the same as described in the first embodiment.
• the game player places the medal M on the first inclined wall upper region 134 and the second inclined wall upper region 135 that continuously extend from the upper storage portion 131 while being inclined downward. If the medal M force is released, the medal M slides down the first inclined wall upper region 134 and the second inclined wall upper region 135 by gravity, and the first medal M force is released. The medal M is then locked to the first step portion 113 and the second step portion 114, and the medal M is then moved along the first step portion 113 and the second step portion 114. And slide into the second medal entrance 139-1 by gravity. Furthermore, the game player slides down the first inclined wall lower region 136 and the second inclined wall lower region 137 without being locked by the first stepped portion 113 and the second stepped portion 114.
• the first sloped wall upper region 134 and the second sloped wall upper region 135 are slid down by gravity and locked to the first stepped portion 113 and the second stepped portion 114.
• the first medal slot 138-1 and the second medal slot 139-1 are slid into the first medal slot 138-1 along the first step 113 and the second step 114 by gravity.
• the first step portion 113 and the second step portion 114 have a function of locking the medal M sliding down the first inclined wall upper region 134 and the second inclined wall upper region 135 by gravity. And a function of sliding in the first medal slot 138-1 and the second medal slot 139-1 by gravity along the first step 113 and the second step 114. Good.
• the medals M stored in the first and second lower storage portions 144 and 145 are converted into the first guide portion 113, that is, the first step portion 113 and the second guide portion 114, that is, the second guide portion.
• the first guide portion 113 that is, the first step portion 113 and the second guide portion 114, that is, It is preferable that the presence of the second step 114 does not hinder.
• the first guide portion 113 It is significant that the first step portion 113 is formed and the second guide portion 114 is formed of the second step portion 114.
• the first inclined wall upper region 134 and the second inclined wall upper region 135 can be slid down and locked by the step surfaces of the first step 113 and the second step 114.
• the step surfaces of the first step 113 and the second step 114 face downward, the first inclined wall lower region 136, the first inclined wall upper region 134, and the second inclined wall lower region 137
• the medal M sliding up along the upper inclined wall upper region 135 is blocked, and the first medal slot 138-1 and the second medal slot 139— Can't slide into 1 due to gravity! /.
• the first step 113 can be realized by making the first inclined wall lower region 136 thicker than the first inclined wall upper region 134. Further, the second step 114 can be realized by forming the second inclined wall lower region 137 thicker than the second inclined wall upper region 135.
• the first inclined wall and the second inclined wall may be configured by combining a first flat plate extending in both the upper and lower regions and a second flat plate extending only in the lower region. Further, the first inclined wall and the second inclined wall may be formed by thinning only the lower region of the first flat plate extending over both the upper and lower regions.
• the first step 113 and the second step 114 can be realized using existing technology.
• the first step 113 and the second step 114 can be configured to extend to the first medal slot 138-1 and the second medal slot 139-1. . At this time, the medal M locked by the first step 113 and the second step 114 is guided to the first medal slot 138-1 and the second medal slot 139-1 by gravity. Since it is necessary, the first medal slot 138-1 and the second medal slot 139-1 are extended so as to move downward. Specifically, the first step 113 and the second step 114 are configured to descend linearly toward the first medal slot 138-1 and the second medal slot 139-1. And However, as a modified example, the first step 113 and the second step 114 descend in a curve toward the first medal slot 138-1 and the second medal slot 139-1.
• the medal M is locked toward the first medal slot 138-1 and the second medal slot 139-1. It has the minimum tilt angle necessary to roll and guide by gravity.
• the first step 113 and the second step 114 cause the medal M to slide into the first medal slot 138-1 and the second medal slot 139-1 by gravity. It must be terminated.
• the terminal portions of the first step 113 and the second step 114 are brought close to the first medal slot 138-1 and the second medal slot 139-1.
• the end portions of the first step 113 and the second step 114 are not in contact with the first medal slot 138-1 and the second medal slot 139-1, and there is a gap.
• the medal M that has rolled the first step 113 and the second step 114 is finally rolled into the first medal slot 138-1 and the second medal slot 139-1. That's fine.
• the first medal slot 138-1 of the first slot 108 and the second medal slot 1 39-1 of the second slot 109 are arranged on the first slope. It is provided at a position close to the wall and the second inclined wall.
• the width of the step surface of the first step 113 and the second step 114 in other words, the size of the first step 113 and the second step 114 is determined by the first inclined wall upper region. It is determined that the medal M sliding down 134 and the second inclined wall upper region 135 can be locked by the step surfaces of the first step 113 and the second step 114.
• the minimum required size of the first step 113 and the second step 114 depends on the inclination angles of the first and second inclined walls and the thickness of the medal M. For example, when the inclination angle of the first inclined wall and the second inclined wall is large, the first step difference is compared with the case where the inclination angle of the first inclined wall and the second inclined wall is small.
• the width of the step surface of 113 and the second step 114 should be larger.
• the width of the step surface of the first step 113 and the second step 114 is too small compared to the thickness of the medal M, the first inclined wall upper region 134 and the second step 114 will be described.
• the medal M that slides down the sloped wall upper area 135 cannot be locked, and the medal M passes over the first step 113 and the second step 114 and passes through the first lower storage portion 144 and the second lower portion 114. Sliding down to the reservoir 145!
• the minimum width of the step surface of the first step 113 and the second step 114 that can lock the medal M is required. If the width of the step surface of the first step 113 and the second step 114 is larger than the thickness of the medal M, the medal that slides down the first inclined wall upper region 134 and the second inclined wall upper region 135 The possibility of locking M increases.
• the width of the step surface of the first step 113 and the second step 114 is larger than twice the thickness of the medal M, the first inclined wall upper region 134 and the second inclined wall Two overlapping medals M sliding down the upper area 135 can be locked simultaneously.
• the width of the step surface of the first step 113 and the second step 114 is made too large, the medal M may be slid up beyond the first step 113 and the second step 114. The medal M may fall down at the first step 113 and the second step 114, and the medal M may not roll the first step 113 and the second step 114 well. It should be noted.
• the first step is equal to or greater than the rounded thickness R. If there is a width W2 of the step surface of 113 and the second step 114, there is a possibility that the medal M can be locked. However, in actuality, when the medal M sliding down the first inclined wall upper region 134 and the second inclined wall upper region 135 comes into contact with the first step 113 and the second step 114, There is a possibility that the first step 113 and the second step 114 are not locked due to impact or vibration. Therefore, the widths of the step surfaces of the first step 113 and the second step 114 which are larger than the theoretically required width W2 are designed.
• the widths of the step surfaces of the first step 113 and the second step 114 that are larger than the theoretical minimum width W1 are set. design.
• the width of the step surface of the first step is approximately equivalent to the thickness of the game medium alone.
• “substantially” includes an error corresponding to the thickness R of the rounded portion.
• the step surface angle of the first step is preferably a right angle or an acute angle with respect to the first inclined wall. If the angle of the step surface of the first step is an obtuse angle with respect to the first inclined wall, the game medium that has slid down the first inclined wall is not locked to the first step. There is a high possibility of slipping off.
• the medal M is transferred from the first lower storage portion 144 to the first inclined wall lower region 136 and the first inclined wall upper region 134. It is easy to slide the second inclined wall lower area 137 and the second inclined wall upper area 135 from the second lower storage section 145, but the game player releases his hand from the medal M. Thereafter, since the frictional force between the medal M and the first inclined wall and the second inclined wall increases, the medal M becomes the first inclined wall upper region 134 and the second inclined wall upper region 135.
• the medal M rolls along the first step 113 and the second step 114 due to gravity, and the upper region of the first inclined wall 134 and the second inclined wall upper region 135, because the frictional force when sliding is large, it stops halfway, and the first medal slot 138-1 and the second medal slot 139-1 There is a possibility that it may not be. Therefore, the inclination angles of the first inclined wall lower region 136 and the first inclined wall upper region 134, and the second inclined wall lower region 137 and the second inclined wall upper region 135 take these into account. However, it is necessary to make the angle not too close to vertical and not too close to horizontal.
• the inclination angle of the first inclined wall lower region 136 and the first inclined wall upper region 134 and the second inclined wall lower region 137 and the second inclined wall upper region 135 is 20 degrees or more and 70 degrees or less. Furthermore, it is more preferable to set it to 30 degrees or more and 60 degrees or less.
• the slope angle of the first sloped wall lower region 136 and the first sloped wall upper region 134, and the second sloped wall lower region 137 and the second sloped wall upper region 135 are typically about 45. May be degrees.
• the medal M stored in the first lower storage portion 144 and the second lower storage portion 145 can be converted into the first inclined wall lower region 136 and the second inclined wall lower region 137.
• the third boundary region 142 and the fourth boundary region 143 are formed with curved surfaces.
• the preferable curvature of the curved surface depends on the radial dimension of the medal M, but it is sufficient that the curvature radius force of the curved surface is substantially larger than the radial dimension of the medal M.
• the preferred curvature can be easily determined empirically.
• the first inclined wall and the second inclined wall and the medal M it is preferable to reduce the frictional resistance between the first inclined wall and the second inclined wall and the medal M as much as possible.
• the first plurality of ridgeline-shaped protrusions 140 and the second plurality of ridgeline-shaped protrusions 141 are effective.
• the medal M has a generally disc shape. Further, when the first inclined wall upper region 134 and the second inclined wall upper region 135 have a flat surface, the entire area of the side surface of the medal M is the first inclined wall upper region 134 and the second inclined wall upper region 134 and the second inclined wall upper region 134. In contact with the flat surface of the upper area 135 of the inclined wall.
• the medal M and the first inclined wall upper region 134 and the second inclined wall upper region 134 It is effective to reduce the contact area with the inclined wall upper region 135.
• the first plurality of ridgeline-shaped protrusions 140 and the second plurality of ridgeline-shaped protrusions 141 are formed in the first inclined wall upper region 134 and the second inclined wall upper region 135. Is done.
• first inclined wall upper region 134 and the second inclined wall upper region 135 are made of a substance having self-lubricating properties. Only the surface may be made of a self-lubricating material, and the entire first inclined wall upper region 134 and the second inclined wall upper region 135 may be made of a self-lubricating material. Good.
• the first inclined wall upper region 134 and the second inclined wall upper region 135 the first inclined wall lower region 136, the second inclined wall lower region 137, the first boundary region 132, the second Self-lubricating the surface or the whole of the boundary region 133, the third boundary region 142, the fourth boundary region 143, the upper reservoir 131, the first lower reservoir 144, and the second lower reservoir 145 It may be composed of a certain substance.
• Typical examples of self-lubricating substances include engineering plastics such as Teflon (registered trademark) and oil-impregnated sintered metals (product examples: Oiles metal plate). .
• At least the surfaces of the first inclined wall upper region 134 and the second inclined wall upper region 135 are made of a material having a self-lubricating property, and instead of being made of a self-lubricating material, a first plurality of ridged linear protrusions provided for the purpose of reducing frictional resistance It is also possible to omit the part 140 and the second plurality of ridgeline-shaped protrusions 141.
• the medal insertion mechanism 130 includes the upper storage unit 131 that stores a plurality of medals.
• the upper storage part 131 constitutes an upper horizontal region 24 of the medal insertion mechanism 130.
• the medal insertion mechanism 130 includes a first lower storage unit 144 that stores a plurality of medals.
• the first lower storage section 144 constitutes a first lower horizontal area 27 of the medal insertion mechanism 130.
• the medal insertion mechanism 130 includes a second lower storage unit 145 that stores a plurality of medals.
• the second lower storage section 145 constitutes a second lower horizontal area 28 of the medal insertion mechanism 130.
• the medal insertion mechanism 130 further includes a first inclined wall that extends while inclining continuously downward from the first boundary region 1 32 contacting the first side portion of the upper storage portion 131.
• the first inclined wall forms a first inclined region 25.
• the first inclined wall is composed of a first inclined wall lower region 136 and a first inclined wall upper region 134.
• the first inclined wall and the second inclined wall need only be configured so that a medal as a game medium can be slid up and down, and is not necessarily configured by an inclined plane having a certain inclination angle. .
• the The first inclined wall and the second inclined wall may be configured by an inclined curved surface whose inclination angle changes.
• the guide unit for sliding the medal M as the game medium into the first medal slot 138-1 and the second medal slot 139-1 is the first medal slot.
• the first step 113 and the second step 114 that extend downwardly and linearly toward the 138-1 and the second medal slot 139-1 respectively.
• the medal locked to the first step 113 and the second step 114 slides into the first medal inlet 108-1 and the second medal inlet 109-1 due to gravity.
• the first step 113 and the second step 114 do not necessarily have to extend so as to incline downward. That is, the medals locked to the first step 113 and the second step 114 slide into the first medal slot 138-1 and the second medal slot 139-1 due to gravity.
• the first step 113 and the second step 114 are generally lowered toward the first medal slot 138-1 and the second medal slot 139-1. Good. In other words, the first medal slot 138-1 and the second medal slot 139-1 are locked to the first step 113 and the second step 114 rather than the potential energy of the medal M located at the position 1.
• the medal M's potential energy should be higher overall. For example, even if there is a rising part in the middle of the first step 113 and the second step 114, if the kinetic energy of the medal M is greater than the sum of the potential energy and the friction energy of the rising part, the medal M Will climb up the ascending section with the momentum of rolling until then and move into the first slot.
• the medal M Even if there is a rising part in the middle of the first step 113 and the second step 114 and the kinetic energy of the medal M is smaller than the sum of the potential energy and the friction energy of the rising part, the medal M There is no problem as long as it is possible to move up to the first insertion port by being pushed by the medal M that has been rolling and climbing up the ascending portion. Further, the first step 113 and the second step 114 may extend so as to descend in a stepped manner toward the first medal slot 138-1 and the second medal slot 139-1. Good.
• the medal insertion mechanism 130 in the first embodiment of the present invention described above even if the game player continuously inserts game media for a long time, the fatigue felt by the game player is felt. It can be greatly reduced. In addition, since almost no nerve is used for the introduction of game media, it is possible to concentrate on the game itself and enjoy the game sufficiently.
• FIG. 26 is a perspective view showing a medal insertion mechanism according to this modification.
• FIG. 26 is a perspective view showing a medal insertion mechanism according to this modification.
• the first plurality of ridgeline-shaped protrusions 115 and the second plurality of ridgeline-shaped protrusions 116 are formed in the first inclined wall upper region 134 and the second inclined wall upper region 135, respectively.
• forming the plurality of scattered protrusions 153 in the first inclined wall upper region 134 and the second inclined wall upper region 135 reduces the contact area with the medal M, and for this reason, This is effective for reducing the frictional resistance with medal M.
• the interval between the adjacent protrusions 153 is preferably sufficiently narrower than the radial dimension of the medal M.
• the plurality of protrusions 153 are regularly scattered at regular intervals.
• the medals M rolling on the first step portion 113 and the second step portion 114 slide while contacting the plurality of scattered protrusions 153. Therefore, the contact area between the medal M and the first inclined wall upper region 134 and the second inclined wall upper region 135 is reduced, and the frictional resistance can be effectively reduced.
• the plurality of protrusions 153 are preferably rounded at the top! /.
• FIG. 27 is a perspective view showing a medal insertion mechanism according to this modification.
• FIG. 27 is a perspective view showing a medal insertion mechanism according to this modification.
• the vibration motor 154 is connected to each of the first inclined wall and the second inclined wall. It is effective to provide the first inclined wall and the second inclined wall so as to give a minute vibration to the back side. By applying slight vibration to the first inclined wall and the second inclined wall, the medal M and the first inclined wall and the second inclined wall are prevented from coming into close contact with each other. To effectively reduce the frictional resistance by reducing the effective contact area between the medal M and the first inclined wall and the second inclined wall. Is possible.
• the vibration applied to the first inclined wall and the second inclined wall is not so great that the medal M does not become unstable when rolling along the first stepped portion 113 and the second stepped portion 114. It should be noted. In addition, too large vibration is preferable because it may cause discomfort to the game player.
• FIG. 28 is a perspective view showing a medal insertion mechanism according to this modification.
• FIG. 28 is a perspective view showing a medal insertion mechanism according to this modification.
• the first inclined wall upper region 134 and the second inclined wall upper region 135 The ventilation fan 156 is provided on the back side of each of the first inclined wall upper region 134 and the second inclined wall upper region 135.
• the medal M By sending air through the plurality of ventilation holes 155, the medal M has a buoyancy in a direction in which the medal M is buoyant from the first inclined wall upper region 134 and the second inclined wall upper region 135.
• the contact force between the medal M and the first inclined wall upper region 134 and the second inclined wall upper region 135 is reduced, and as a result, the medal M and the first inclined wall upper region 134 and The frictional force with the second inclined wall upper region 135 is reduced.
• the interval between the adjacent ventilation holes 155 is preferably sufficiently narrower than the radial dimension of the medals M.
• the plurality of ventilation holes 155 are more preferably scattered regularly at regular intervals.
• the blower fan 156 can be realized by being arranged on the back side of the first inclined wall upper region 134 and the second inclined wall upper region 135.
• the medal M that rolls the first stepped portion 113 and the second stepped portion 114 has the medal due to the buoyancy provided by the air blowing through the plurality of interstitial ventilation holes 155.
• the medal M has the first step portion 113 and the second step portion 114. Therefore, the frictional resistance can be effectively reduced.
• FIG. 29 is a perspective view showing a medal insertion mechanism according to this modification.
• FIG. 29 is a perspective view showing a medal insertion mechanism according to this modification.
• the first inclined wall upper region 134 and the second inclined wall are effective.
• the upper wall region 135 may be constituted by a net-like inclined wall 157.
• the lattice spacing of the net is sufficiently smaller than the radial dimension of the medal M.
• the first inclined wall upper region 134 and the second inclined wall upper region 135 are constituted by a net-like inclined wall 157, so that the medal M and the first inclined wall upper region 134 and the second inclined wall are formed. The contact area with the upper region 135 is reduced, and the frictional resistance can be effectively reduced.
• FIG. 30 is a perspective view showing a medal insertion mechanism according to this modification.
• FIG. 30 is a perspective view showing a medal insertion mechanism according to this modification.
• each inclined wall is configured by the inclined wall upper region and the inclined wall lower region, and the step constituting the guide portion along the boundary between the inclined wall upper region and the inclined wall lower region.
• a difference portion is formed.
• the step portion is configured to extend from the side force of the upper region of the inclined wall located on the opposite side to the medal slot to the medal slot.
• the step portion is configured to extend over the entire area of the inclined wall.
• the stepped portion is from an inner position separated from the side portion of the inclined wall upper region located on the side opposite to the medal entrance by a distance equal to or larger than the radial dimension of the medal alone. A structure extending to the medal slot can be adopted.
• the stepped portion By extending the stepped portion from the side of the upper region of the inclined wall to the inner position force separated by a distance equal to or larger than the radial dimension of the medal alone, the stepped portion is not formed!
• the medal is inclined via the inclined plane portion. It is possible to move to the upper wall area.
• the first inclined wall includes a first inclined wall upper region 134, a third inclined wall lower region 125, and a fourth inclined wall lower region 126.
• the first step 113 that constitutes the second guide portion is formed along the boundary between the third inclined wall lower region 125 and the first inclined wall upper region 134.
• the fourth inclined wall lower region 126 and the first inclined wall upper region 134 form a plane, and the fourth inclined wall lower region 126 and the first inclined wall No step is formed at the boundary with the upper wall region 134.
• the third inclined wall lower region 125 can be constituted by a substantially wedge-shaped flat plate provided on one plane constituted by the fourth inclined wall lower region 126 and the first inclined wall upper region 134. It is.
• the thickness of the substantially wedge-shaped flat plate corresponds to the step width of the step 113 described above, the thickness is determined based on the step width of the first step 113 described above. Further, the horizontal dimension of the fourth inclined wall lower region 126 is larger than the radial dimension of the medal M. The force M is passed through the fourth inclined wall lower region 126 to the first inclined wall upper region 134. Necessary to move.
• the game player moves from the first lower reservoir 144 to the first inclined wall upper area 134 via the fourth inclined wall lower area 126 while pressing the medal M with his / her finger. It is moved and further moved to a position above the third inclined wall lower region 125. At this position, by releasing the game player force S medal M, the medal M slides down the first inclined wall upper region 1 34 and the first step portion 113 constituted by the upper side of the generally wedge-shaped flat plate 113. It is locked with. Thereafter, as described above, the medal M slides into the first medal inlet 138-1 along the first step 113.
• the medal M is inserted into the first step without exceeding the first step portion 113. It is possible to move to the upper region 134 of the inclined wall.
• the third inclined wall lower region 125 may be formed of a plate having a substantially wedge-shaped thickness, instead of a substantially wedge-shaped flat plate.
• the upper side of the approximate wedge shape has a thickness corresponding to the step width of the first step 113 described above, while the thickness gradually decreases as it approaches the lower side of the approximate wedge shape. It is possible to make the thickness substantially lower at the lower side of the generally wedge shape. With this configuration, it is not necessary to form a step on the lower side of the third inclined wall lower region 125.
• the game player moves from the first lower reservoir 144 to the second inclined wall upper area 107 via the fourth inclined wall lower area 126 while pressing the medal M with a finger. Since there is no step on the lower side of the third inclined wall lower region 125, it may be moved to the second inclined wall upper region 107 via the third inclined wall lower region 125. Good.
• the medal M moves the first inclined wall upper area 134. It slides down and is locked by a first step 113 formed by the upper side of a generally wedge-shaped flat plate. After that, as described above, the medal M slides into the first medal insertion slot 138-1 along the first step 113.

Landscapes

• Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
• General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
• Slot Machines And Peripheral Devices (AREA)
• Toys (AREA)
• Pinball Game Machines (AREA)

Priority Applications (2)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Publications (1)

Family

ID=37942516

Family Applications (1)

Country Status (5)

Families Citing this family (2)

Citations (4)

• 2005
  • 2005-10-13 JP JP2005298701A patent/JP2007105220A/ja active Pending
• 2006
  • 2006-09-07 GB GB0808452A patent/GB2445709B/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
  • 2006-09-07 WO PCT/JP2006/317757 patent/WO2007043259A1/ja active Application Filing
  • 2006-09-28 TW TW095136024A patent/TW200730225A/zh not_active IP Right Cessation
• 2009
  • 2009-01-15 HK HK09100420.1A patent/HK1123237A1/xx not_active IP Right Cessation

Patent Citations (4)

Also Published As

Similar Documents

Legal Events