JP5771808B2 - Game machine with medal transport device - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a game machine in which a game is played using medals, and more particularly to a game machine including a medal transport device that transports medals to a desired position by moving medals within a predetermined passage.
The “medal” used in the present specification includes tokens such as tokens and tokens of game machines, coins as currency, and similar items.

  Many game machines performed using medals have been conventionally proposed. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a medal game machine having first and second game fields. In the medal game machine disclosed in Patent Document 1, the medal inserted into the medal slot by the player is guided to the hopper of the medal sending device, and the medal in the hopper is first sent through the medal moving path by the medal sending device. Sent to the top of the game field. The medal sent to the upper part of the first game field descends due to gravity, and a winning game based on whether or not it passes through a winning chucker provided in the first game field during the descent progresses. The pusher game proceeds in the second game field in the associated form.

  In the medal game machine of Patent Document 1, a plurality of medals are packed in the medal movement path so that they are in contact with each other, and each time one medal is pushed out from the medal sending device into the medal movement path, When the upper medal is pushed up by the lower medal, the medal in the medal passage is moved upward.

Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2005-21490 (FIGS. 1, 2, and 10, paragraph numbers 0014 to 0018, 0027 to 0029, and 0033 to 0037)

  In the medal game machine disclosed in Patent Document 1, the medal movement path is disposed inside the housing, and the movement of the medals in the medal movement path cannot be visually recognized by the player. In addition, since the movement of the medals in the medal movement path is linear, even if the movement of the medals can be visually recognized, the movement cannot be enjoyed and the visual effect cannot be enhanced. Therefore, there is a problem that the state in which medals are conveyed cannot be used for game production.

  On the other hand, the medals in the medal movement path are conveyed by the lower medals pushing the upper medals in an aligned state, so that medals having different outer diameters (that is, diameters) cannot be handled. That is, the inner dimension of the medal movement path must be compatible with the medal to be transported, and the range of the outer diameter of the compatible medal is small. For example, even if you try to transport a medal whose outer diameter is smaller than the inner dimension of the medal movement path, the medal will not be properly aligned in the medal movement path and will be zigzag shaped, increasing the frictional resistance during transportation. It is difficult to carry coins stably. Also, when medals with different thicknesses are mixed even if the outer diameter is the same, the thickness of the medal movement path is set corresponding to the medal with the maximum thickness. The lower end of the upper medal cannot be pushed up by the upper end of the lower medal, and the upper end and the lower end overlap with each other, making it impossible to move on the medal movement path, resulting in a so-called medal jam. Therefore, there is a problem that medals having different outer diameters and thicknesses cannot be mixed and used.

The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems of the prior art, and an object of the present invention is to provide a game machine that can utilize the manner in which medals are transported in the production of a game.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a game machine having an excellent visual effect in moving medals.
Still another object of the present invention is to provide a game machine that can use medals having different outer diameters and thicknesses.
Still another object of the present invention is to provide a game machine capable of creating new game characteristics.

  Other objects of the present invention which are not specified here will be apparent from the following description and the accompanying drawings.

  In order to achieve this object, the present invention is configured as follows.

(1) A game machine according to the present invention includes a medal transport device that transports medals from a first position toward a second position, and the medal transport device guides a circumferential surface of the medal. A medal guide passage having first and second guide surfaces and third and fourth guide surfaces for guiding front and back surfaces of the medal, respectively, extending from the first position toward the second position; a plurality of rotating disk rotating respectively around the first guide surface or the second along a guide surface arranged in a predetermined order and said third and fourth guide surface substantially perpendicular to the plurality of rotational axis, said plurality Each of the turntables protrudes from the surface located on the medal guide passage side and is disposed to face the rotation axis of the corresponding turntable, and rotates by integrally rotating with the corresponding turntable. The rotation to First and second medal pushers that circulate around a line, and provided on the back surface of each of the plurality of rotating disks opposite to the medal guide passage side, and adjacent to each other among the plurality of rotating disks. Two base gears that mesh with each other in the rotary disk, a base body that forms the fourth guide surface and accommodates the gears of the plurality of rotary disks, and a bottom surface forms the third guide surface; A pair of side surfaces perpendicular to the bottom surface and opposed to each other form a guide groove constituting the first and second guide surfaces, and the guide body and the surface of the base body are opposed to each other. A hip body fixed to the surface, and one of the pair of adjacent rotating disks among the plurality of rotating disks rotates in the first rotating direction and the other rotates in the opposite direction to the first rotating direction. Rotate in the direction And, rotation of the one to the first and second medal pusher of the one rotating disk and said other of the rotating disk of the first and second medal pusher circulates while maintaining a predetermined rotation phase difference A rotational position of each of the disk and the other rotating disk is set, and the first and second guide surfaces are formed along a curve connecting a plurality of arcs around the rotation axes. The plurality of turntables are supported by rotating shafts provided on the base body so that the respective surfaces of the plurality of turntables are substantially flush with the surface of the base body. The respective surfaces of the base body together with the surface of the base body constitute the fourth guide surface, and the front and back surfaces of the medals in the medal guide passage are directly guided by the third and fourth guide surfaces and circulate. 1 and By pushing the medals circumferential surface of the second medal pusher is in contact with the peripheral surface of the medal is the gaming machine is Ru configured to convey toward the medal from the first position to the second position .

  In the game machine of the present invention, the medal transport device has the medal guide passage extending from the first position toward the second position. The medal guide passage includes the first and second guide surfaces that guide the circumferential surface of the medal, and the third and fourth guide surfaces that guide the front and back surfaces of the medal, respectively. The first and second guide surfaces are formed along a curve connecting a plurality of arcs around each of the plurality of rotation axes. In other words, the medal guide path meanders along a curve connecting arcs. Therefore, the medal in the medal guide passage moves from the first position to the second position while meandering along the medal guide passage. Therefore, by configuring the medal transport device using a member that allows the medal movement to be visually observed from at least the front of the game machine, the medal transport by the medal transport device is visualized, and the state of the game machine is Visible from the front. The state of the medal moving while meandering brings about an excellent visual effect and can be used to produce a game.

  Further, in the game machine according to the present invention, the medal transport device includes the plurality of turntables that respectively rotate around the plurality of rotation axes substantially perpendicular to the third and fourth guide surfaces, and the plurality of turntables. And a plurality of medal pushing means provided respectively. The plurality of turntables are arranged in a predetermined order from the first position toward the second position. The plurality of medal pushing means protrude into the medal guide passage and push the medal by circling around the corresponding rotation axis. One of the pair of adjacent rotating disks among the plurality of rotating disks rotates in the first rotating direction, and the other rotates in the second rotating direction opposite to the first rotating direction. The rotational positions of the one rotating disk and the other rotating disk are such that the medal pushing means of the one rotating disk and the medal pushing means of the other rotating disk have the predetermined rotational phase difference. It is set to lap while keeping. The predetermined rotational phase difference is set so that, for example, a rotational position where the medal pushing means of the one rotating disk and the medal pushing means of the other rotating disk are substantially opposed to each other is obtained. As a result, the medals that have been pushed by the medal pushing means of the one rotating disk can be subsequently pushed by the medal pushing means of the other rotating disk. Therefore, the medals located at the first position are sequentially pushed by the plurality of coin pushing means that circulate, and are moved to the second position along the medal guide path.

  In this way, the medal pusher that circulates around the rotation axis of the medal, the circumferential surface of which is guided by the first and second guide surfaces and the front and back surfaces of which are guided by the third and fourth guide surfaces. When the medal is moved by being pushed by the moving means, the range of the outer diameter (diameter) or thickness of the medal that can be conveyed becomes wide. That is, since the medal pushing means protruding into the medal guide passage is disposed between the first and second guide surfaces, the medal pushing means is provided between the first and second guide surfaces and the coin pushing means. If the medal has an outer diameter (diameter) in a range larger than the interval and smaller than the interval between the first and second guide surfaces, either one of the first and second guide surfaces and the medal pusher It can be transported while being supported by the moving means. Accordingly, the outer diameter range of medals that can be conveyed is widened. On the other hand, since the medals are pushed and conveyed one by one by each of the medal pushing means, the adjacent medals do not overlap in the medal guide passage. Therefore, even if the distance between the third and fourth guide surfaces is set wide, there is no medal clogging. Accordingly, the thickness range of medals that can be conveyed is widened. Therefore, medals with different outer diameters and thicknesses can be used.

  The game machine according to the present invention has an excellent visual effect in the movement of medals, and can use the state in which the medals are transported for the production of the game and can use medals having different outer diameters and thicknesses. This can create new game characteristics.

  (2) In a preferred example of the game machine of the present invention, a light emitting means is provided on at least one of the rotating disk and the pushing means. In this case, since the light emitting means rotates while emitting light, there is an advantage that the visual effect is further enhanced.

  (3) In another preferred example of the game machine of the present invention, in the game machine of (2), the medal transport device is electrically connected to the light emitting means and rotates integrally with the rotating disk. The power generation means includes a coil and a magnet body that supplies magnetic flux to the power generation coil, and the power generation coil and the magnet body drive the light emitting element. In this case, since the amount of power generated by the power generation means corresponds to the rotation speed of the rotating disk, the luminance of the light emitting means is changed by changing the rotation speed of the rotating disk, thereby further enhancing the visual effect. There is.

  (4) In still another preferred example of the game machine of the present invention, the medal guide passage extends along a one-stroke two-dimensional pattern on a predetermined surface. In other words, the medal guide passage extends so as to draw a continuous one-stroke plane pattern without crossing each other while changing the traveling direction vertically and horizontally. In this case, there is an advantage that a new visual effect suitable for the game content can be created by designing the two-dimensional pattern according to the game content.

  (5) In still another preferred example of the game machine according to the present invention, the first and second positions are the same, and the medal guide passage extends in a loop on a predetermined surface. In this case, there is an advantage that the medal can be moved in a so-called endless state, and a new visual effect can be created.

  (6) In still another preferred example of the game machine of the present invention, the medal transport device includes a base body on which the plurality of rotating disks are disposed and the fourth guide surface is formed, and the base body is disposed on the base body. And a cover body that forms the first to third guide surfaces, and the cover body is supported to be pivotable with respect to the base body. In this case, by pivoting the hip body, a part of the hip body is separated from the base body, and the medal in the medal guide passage can be dropped downward, thereby creating a new visual effect. There are advantages.

  (7) In still another preferred example of the game machine of the present invention, the medal guide passage is filled with liquid. In this case, an irregular change occurs in the movement of the medal moving in the medal guide passage due to the fluid resistance of the liquid, and there is an advantage that a new visual effect can be created.

  (8) In still another preferred example of the game machine of the present invention, the game machine has shooting means disposed in front of the medal transport device, and the medal transported by the medal transport device is shot using the shooting means. The In this case, there is an advantage that a new shooting game with a high visual effect targeting the medal moving while meandering can be realized.

  (9) In still another preferred example of the game machine of the present invention, the medal guide passage (110) extends from the front of the game machine to the rear or from the rear to the front. In this case, there is an advantage that a new visual effect of the sense that the medal moves in three dimensions can be created.

  (10) In still another preferred example of the game machine of the present invention, medal distribution means for distributing the advancing direction of the medals at the second position is arranged, and the medal distribution means have first and second payout directions different from each other. The medal is paid out to the second payout exit. In this case, for example, the payout position can be changed as appropriate according to the game content, and there is an advantage that the game performance can be improved.

  (11) In still another preferred example of the game machine of the present invention, in the game machine of (10), the medal transport device has medal identification means for identifying the type of the medal, and identification of the medal identification means One of the first and second payout ports is selected according to the result, and the medal is paid out. In this case, by applying to a game using a plurality of types of medals, there is an advantage that a new game property of changing the payout position according to the types of medals can be realized.

  (12) In still another preferred example of the game machine of the present invention, in the game machine of (11), the medal identification unit is at least one of an outer diameter detection unit, a pattern detection unit, a color detection unit, and a material detection unit. Have one. In this case, there is an advantage that a new game property can be realized in which a plurality of types of medals having different outer diameters, uneven patterns, colors, and materials are used and the payout position is changed according to the type of medals. .

  (13) In still another preferred example of the game machine of the present invention, in the game machine of the above (11), the medal identification unit has a communication unit capable of communicating with an IC medal. In this case, there is an advantage that a new game property can be realized in which a normal medal and an IC medal are used and the IC medal is paid out to a payout position different from the normal medal.

  (14) In still another preferred example of the game machine of the present invention, a medal distribution means having an entrance and a plurality of exits, and selectively feeding the coins introduced into the entrances to the plurality of exits. A plurality of medal transport devices connected to each of the inlet and the plurality of outlets of the medal distribution means. In this case, after the medal is transported by the medal transporting device connected to the entrance of the medal sorting unit, any one of the plurality of medal transporting devices connected to the exit of the medal sorting unit. The medals can be further transported using. In other words, there is an advantage that the medal transport route can be selected and the game performance can be improved. Further, even when the movement distance of the medals is set to be long, there is an advantage that the load of each driving means can be reduced by providing the medals transporting device with driving means for rotating the rotating disk. .

  (15) In still another preferred example of the game machine of the present invention, a plurality of types of medals having different outer diameters corresponding to added values are transported by the medal transport device. In this case, for example, by increasing the outer diameter of a medal with higher added value, there is an advantage that the visual effect on the player is increased, the player's expectation is increased, and a new game property can be realized.

  In the game machine of the present invention, (a) the state in which the medals are conveyed can be used for game production, (b) an excellent visual effect, (c) medals with different outer diameters can be used, (d) new It has the effect of creating a new game.

It is a principal part front view which shows the game machine of Example 1 of this invention. It is sectional drawing along the II-II line of FIG. It is sectional drawing along the III-III line of FIG. It is a principal part perspective view which shows the medal conveyance apparatus which comprises the game machine of FIG. It is the principal part disassembled perspective view which looked at the medal conveyance apparatus of FIG. 4 from the front side. It is the principal part disassembled perspective view which looked at the medal conveyance apparatus of FIG. 4 from the back side. It is the top view seen from the back side of the cover body which comprises the medal conveyance apparatus of FIG. It is a front view of the base body which comprises the medal conveyance apparatus of FIG. It is sectional drawing along the IX-IX line of FIG. It is a front view of the state which removed the cover body for demonstrating operation | movement of the medal conveyance apparatus of FIG. FIG. 10 is a front view of the state where the cover body is removed for explaining the operation of the medal transport device of FIG. 4 and is a continuation of FIG. 10. FIG. 12 is a front view of the state where the cover body is removed for explaining the operation of the medal transport device of FIG. 4 and is a continuation of FIG. 11. FIG. 13 is a front view of the state where the cover body is removed for explaining the operation of the medal transport device of FIG. 4 and is a continuation of FIG. 12. FIG. 14 is a front view of the state where the cover body is removed for explaining the operation of the medal transport device of FIG. 4 and is a continuation of FIG. 13. FIG. 15 is a front view of the state where the cover body is removed for explaining the operation of the medal transport device of FIG. 4 and is a continuation of FIG. 14. FIG. 16 is a front view of the state where the cover body is removed for explaining the operation of the medal transport device of FIG. 4 and is a continuation of FIG. 15. FIG. 17 is a front view showing a state where a cover body is removed for explaining the operation of the medal transport device of FIG. 4 and is a continuation of FIG. 16. It is a figure which shows the medal conveyance apparatus which comprises the game machine of Example 2 of this invention, and is a front view of a base body. It is sectional drawing along the XIX-XIX line | wire of FIG. It is sectional drawing which shows the medal conveyance apparatus which comprises the game machine of Example 3 of this invention. It is a front view which shows the game machine of Example 4 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the game machine of Example 5 of this invention, (A) is a front view, (B) is sectional drawing along the XXII-XXII line. It is a figure which shows the game machine of Example 6 of this invention, (A) is a front view, (B) is a side view. It is a figure which shows the game machine of Example 7 of this invention, (A) is a front view, (B) is sectional drawing along the XXIV-XXIV line. It is a figure which shows the game machine of Example 8 of this invention, (A) is a top view, (B) is a front view. It is a figure which shows the medal conveyance apparatus which comprises the game machine of FIG. 25, and is a front view of the state which removed the hip body. It is a block diagram which shows the medal identification device of the game machine of FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the game machine of FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the medal identification apparatus which comprises the game machine of Example 9 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the medal identification apparatus which comprises the game machine of Example 10 of this invention. It is a front view which shows the game machine of Example 11 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the game machine of Example 12 of this invention, (A) is a front view, (B) is a principal part enlarged view which shows a medal conveyance apparatus. It is a principal part enlarged view which shows the medal conveyance apparatus which comprises the game machine of Example 15 of this invention.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

(Game console configuration)
1 and 2 show a medal game machine GM1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The medal game machine GM1 is a so-called arcade type, and is a game board 1 that is erected in an upper portion of a housing (not shown), a pusher game mechanism 2 that is arranged on the lower front side of the game board 1, and a pusher game. Two medal transport devices 5A and 5B arranged on both sides of the mechanism 2 and medal hopper devices 6A and 6B for feeding medals one by one to the medal transport devices 5A and 5B are provided. The medal game machine GM1 has a first game area GF1 and a second game area GF2. The first game area GF1 is formed by the game board 1, and is an area for lowering medals along the board surface of the game board 1. The second game area GF2 is an area for playing a pusher game by using the pusher game mechanism 2.

  The game board 1 has an upstanding main body board 10 and a synthetic resin transparent plate 11 arranged at a predetermined interval on the front side of the main body board 10. A space formed between the main board 10 and the transparent plate 11 is a first game area. The medal hopper devices 6A and 6B separate two types of medals M (that is, the normal medal NM and the special medal SM) stored in the holding bowls 8A and 8B one by one and send them to the medal transport devices 5A and 5B. The medal transport devices 5A and 5B transport the sent medals NM and SM upward and release them to the top of the first game area GF1 through the medal shoots 7A and 7B. The released medals NM and SM are lowered by their own weight in the first game area GF1, and the medals NM and SM that have reached the bottom of the first game area GF1 are supplied onto the pusher game mechanism 2. .

  The game board 1 includes a plurality of swing arms 12 that always swing within a predetermined angle range in the upper part of the first game area GF1, and a plurality of fixed pins 13 for changing movement when the medals NM and SM are lowered. The plurality of through chuckers 14A to 14D arranged at predetermined positions in the first game area GF1, the image display 15 arranged almost at the center of the first game area GF1, and the horizontal direction below the image display 15 And a pair of medal guides 4 arranged at a predetermined interval. On the back side of the main body board 10, a passage sensor S1 that detects passage of the medals NM and SM is disposed at a position corresponding to the through chuckers 14A to 14D. The passing sensor S1 is composed of, for example, a reflective optical sensor, and outputs a winning signal CPS to the game control circuit 9 when the medals NM and SM pass through the corresponding through chuckers 14A to 14D. The game control circuit 9 is configured to execute a predetermined game process based on the input winning signal CPS. The medals NM and SM that have passed through the through chucker 14A continue to descend, and the medals NM and SM that have passed through the through chuckers 14C and 14D are supplied onto the pusher game mechanism 2. The medals NM and SM that have passed through the through chucker 14B are guided onto the medal storage / dispensing device 3 by a guide plate 18 provided below the through chucker 14B.

  The medal storage / payout device 3 is disposed on the side of the pusher game mechanism 2 and includes a medal receiving member 3a, a pair of support frames 3b, and a reciprocating body 3c. The medal receiving member 3a has a tray shape on which a relatively large number of medals NM and SM can be placed. The medal receiving member 3a is supported by a pair of support frames 3b via a shaft 3d and is indicated by an arrow N1 with the shaft 3d as a center. It can swing in the vertical direction. The medals NM and SM guided by the guide plate 18 of the through chucker 14B are supplied and held on the medal receiving member 3a. The reciprocating body 3c is a swinging mechanism configured using a linear motor, an electromagnetic solenoid, a pneumatic cylinder, or the like, so that the medal receiving member 3a can be switched between a horizontal posture and a posture inclined forward and downward. Mechanism. When the medal receiving member 3a is tilted, all of the medals NM and SM held on the medal receiving member 3a fall on the pusher game mechanism 2.

  The medal guide 4 includes two rotating disks 4a and 4b and a guide main body 4c. The turntable 4a is a transparent synthetic resin-made circular plate in front view, and the turntable 4b is a plate-like body having the same shape as the turntable 4a. The guide body 4c is made of a rod-shaped body having a rectangular cross section, is disposed between the rotating disks 4a and 4b, and is fixed to each of the rotating disks 4a and 4b using means such as adhesion and screwing. In other words, the turntable 4a is attached to the front side of the turntable 4b via the guide body 4c. The gap formed between the turntables 4a and 4b functions as a passage through which the medals NM and SM can enter and forms part of the first game area GF1. Circular holes 10a and 11a (not shown) are respectively formed in the main body board 10 and the transparent plate 11 of the game board 1, and the rotary disks 4a and 4b are respectively disposed in the circular holes 10a and 11a.

  The rotating disk 4b is provided with a shaft 4d, and the shaft 4d is rotatably supported by a plurality of bearings 4i. A gear 4g that meshes with a gear 4f that can be rotationally driven by an electric motor 4h is attached to the shaft 4d. For this reason, the turntables 4a and 4b and the guide body 4c rotate around the shaft 4d by the driving force of the electric motor 4h. A plurality of marks 4e are provided on the back surface of the turntable 4b, and a plurality of reflective optical sensors S2 for detecting the marks 4e are disposed in the vicinity of the back side of the turntable 4b. The mark 4e and the optical sensor S2 are for stopping the rotation of the medal guide 4 in a predetermined posture.

  The medal guide 4 rotates continuously at a normal time during the game. When the game is in a predetermined progress state, the medal guide 4 stops rotating under the control of the game control circuit 9. As shown in FIG. 1, the posture in which the rotation of the medal guide 4 is stopped is a posture in which the guide body 4c is inclined obliquely and the entrance of the through chucker 14B is located near the extension line of the guide body 4c. Further, another posture in which the rotation of the medal guide 4 is stopped is a posture that is 90 degrees different from the case where the inclination of the guide body 4c is shown in FIG. In this posture, the entrance of the through chucker 14D is located near the extension line of the guide body 4c.

  The pusher game mechanism 2 has a fixed table 20 and a slide table 21 arranged on the fixed table 20. The slide table 21 can reciprocate with a constant stroke in the direction of the arrow N2 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, and is constantly reciprocating during the game period. In the pusher game mechanism 2, when the medals NM and SM fall from the front edge of the fixed table 20 to the near side thereof, the dropped medals NM and SM are guided to a medal payout outlet (not shown) and paid out to the player. ing.

  The medal transport devices 5A and 5B and the medal hopper devices 6A and 6B are used for guiding the medals NM and SM inserted by the player into the medal slot (not shown) to the upper part of the first game area GF1. As described above, since the medal game machine GM1 of the first embodiment uses two types of medals NM and SM having different outer diameters, the so-called size capable of handling medals having different outer diameters as the medal hopper devices 6A and 6B. A free hopper device is required. A size-free hopper device has been conventionally proposed. For example, the applicant of the present application has already proposed a device disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-97322. In the medal game machine GM1 of the first embodiment, the device disclosed in the above publication is used. Therefore, description of the configuration of the medal hopper devices 6A and 6B is omitted here. The medal delivery ports 6a of the medal hopper devices 6A and 6B are connected to the medal transport devices 5A and 5B, respectively. The two types of medals NM and SM stored in the holding bowls 8A and 8B of the medal hopper devices 6A and 6B are the medal hopper device 6A. , 6B are separated one by one and sent out to the medal receiving ports 102 of the medal transport devices 5A, 5B, respectively.

  The medal transport devices 5A and 5B transfer the medals NM and SM sent from the medal hopper devices 6A and 6B from the medal receiving port 102 (in other words, the first position P1) to the medal payout port 104 (in other words, the second position P2). ). The medal transport devices 5A and 5B are configured so that the player can visually observe the movement of the medals NM and SM. The medals NM and SM moved to the medal payout exit 104 by the medal transport devices 5A and 5B are discharged to the upper part of the first game area GF1 through the medal shooters 7A and 7B connected to the medal payout exit 104. Similarly to the medal hopper devices 6A and 6B, the medal transport devices 5A and 5B need to be size-free. Therefore, in the first embodiment, the medal transport device shown in FIGS. 4 to 9 is used. Details of the medal transport devices 5A and 5B will be described later.

(Game machine operation)
When the medals NM and SM are inserted into the medal slot (not shown), the medals NM and SM are supplied into the holding bowls 8A and 8B of the medal hopper devices 6A and 6B through a known medal chute (not shown). Is done. When an operation switch (not shown) is operated by the player, the medal hopper devices 6A and 6B and the medal transport devices 5A and 5B are driven, and the medals NM and SM in the holding bowls 8A and 8B are in the first game area GF1. Supplied at the top. The medals NM and SM supplied to the first game area GF1 move down the first game area GF1 while inadvertently changing the course by colliding with the plurality of swing arms 12 and the plurality of fixed pins 13. . When the medals NM and SM that have entered between the turntables 4a and 4b of the medal guide 4 hit the guide main body 4c, they are guided to advance in the longitudinal direction of the guide main body 4c. The pair of medal guides 4 is always rotating in a direction opposite to each other or in the same direction at a constant speed, and a change is given to the directions in which the medals NM and SM are guided by changing the posture of each guide body 4c. Therefore, it will be interesting for players. For example, when each medal guide 4 is at a rotation angle as shown in FIG. 1, the medals NM and SM that have advanced to the medal guide 4 are guided onto the through chucker 14B. As a result, even the medals NM and SM that have not progressed toward the through-chucker 14B may enter the through-chucker 14B by being guided by the medal guide 4, which is even more interesting. As described above, the medals NM and SM that have passed through the through chucker 14B are guided and stored on the medal receiving member 3a of the medal storage / dispensing device 3 by the guide plate 18.

  After the medal game is started, the game control circuit 9 executes, for example, an electronic game that advances a predetermined game while displaying an animation character or the like on the image display 15. When a predetermined result occurs in the electronic game, the game control circuit 9 stops the rotation of the medal guide 4 for a certain period of time so that the guide body 4c of the medal guide 4 is inclined at an angle shown in FIG. This makes it easier for the medals NM and SM to enter the through chucker 14B, which intrigues the player. In addition, a large number of medals are stored on the medal receiving member 3a in a short time.

  When “winning” occurs in the electronic game, the game control circuit 9 operates the reciprocating body 3 c of the medal storage and payout device 3. As a result, the medal receiving member 3 a is inclined, and a plurality of medals NM and SM stored in the medal receiving member 3 a are thrown onto the pusher game mechanism 2. The larger the number of medals NM and SM at that time, the larger the movement amount of the medals NM and SM on the pusher game mechanism 2, and the more medals NM and SM fall from the front edge of the fixed table 20. Therefore, the number of medals NM and SM paid out to the player increases. However, the number of medals NM and SM stored on the medal receiving member 3a is not constant, and depending on the timing at which the medal receiving member 3a is tilted, the medals NM and NM supplied to the pusher game mechanism 2 from the medal receiving member 3a In some cases, the number of SMs is quite small. Therefore, such a difference in the number of sheets also increases the fun of the game.

  In the electronic game, the game control circuit 9 rotates the rotation so that the guide body 4c of the medal guide 4 tilts at an angle different from that shown in FIG. Stop for a certain time. As a result, the medals NM and SM are difficult to enter the through chucker 14B, while the medals NM and SM are easy to enter the through chucker 14D. In this case, the number of wins that the medals NM and SM enter the through chucker 14D can be greatly increased, and this can greatly increase the player's interest. If the through-chucker 14D is opened and closed, and the medal guide 4 is stopped in a posture different from that shown in FIG. 1 only when the through-chucker 14D is open, the game becomes more interesting. When a predetermined number of medals NM and SM are inserted into the through chucker 14D, the game control circuit 9 drives, for example, the medal hopper devices 6A and 6B and the medal transport devices 5A and 5B to place a large number of medals NM and SM. Control is performed so as to supply to one game area GF1.

In the medal game machine GM1, it is possible to use the normal medal NM and the special medal SM having a large diameter and high value with respect to the normal medal NM. The special medal SM has, for example, an outer diameter that is approximately 1.2 times that of the normal medal NM, and is worth 10 normal medals. The large-diameter special medal SM occupies a large area on the pusher game mechanism 2, and the amount of movement on the pusher game mechanism 2 also increases. Therefore, more medals NM and SM are dropped from the front edge of the fixed table 20, so that the number of medals NM and SM to be paid out to the player is increased. In addition, when the special medal SM is paid out, the value of 10 pieces can be obtained by one piece, which will arouse the player's expectation.
(Composition of medal transport device)

  Next, the medal transport devices 5A and 5B will be described with reference to FIGS. The medal transport devices 5A and 5B are configured to be symmetrical (in other words, line symmetric) with respect to the vertical center axis of the medal game machine GM1. Therefore, only the medal transport device 5A will be described here, and the description of the medal transport device 5B will be omitted.

  As shown in FIGS. 4 to 6, the medal transport device 5 </ b> A includes a medal guide portion 100 having a medal guide passage 110 extending from the medal receiving port 102 toward the medal payout port 104, and first medal pushers 411 a to 418 a. And a medal pushing mechanism 400 having first to eighth rotating disks 401 to 408 provided with second medal pushing bodies 411b to 418b, respectively, and a rotation driving device 500 for rotating the medal pushing mechanism 400. Contains. Actually, the medal pushing mechanism 400 has a larger number of turntables corresponding to the medal transport distance, but here, in order to simplify the explanation, a case of having eight turntables 401 to 408. explain.

  First, the medal guide unit 100 will be described. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the medal guiding unit 100 includes a base body 200 and a cover body 300 provided on the base body 200. The base body 200 has a structure in which a second member 208 is stacked on a flat plate-like first member 206, and a through hole 215 is formed in the second member 208. The through-hole 215 has a planar shape in which eight circular holes are connected in a zigzag shape, and a recess 216 capable of accommodating the medal pushing mechanism 400 is formed on the surface 202 side of the base body 200. First to eighth rotating shafts 231 to 238 having first to eighth rotating axes 221 to 228 that are substantially perpendicular to the surface 202 of the base body 200 are provided on the bottom surface 218 of the recess 216. As shown in FIGS. 6 and 9, the first to eighth rotating shafts 231 to 238 are fixed by a fixing screw 210 inserted into the screw hole 240 through the first member 206 from the back surface 204 side of the base body 200. It is fixed to the base body 200.

  As shown in FIGS. 6, 7, and 9, the cover body 300 has a front surface 302 and a back surface 304 that are parallel to each other, and the base body 200 with the back surface 304 superimposed on the front surface 202 of the base body 200. It is fixed to. The front surface 302 and the back surface 304 of the cover body 300 are substantially perpendicular to the first to eighth rotation axes 221 to 228. A medal guide groove 306 extending from the medal receiving port 102 toward the medal paying port 104 is formed on the back surface 304 side of the hip body 300. The medal guide groove 306 has a bottom surface 310 and first and second side surfaces 312 and 314, and the bottom surface 310 is substantially perpendicular to the first to eighth rotation axes 221 to 228.

  The width wg and depth dg of the medal guide groove 306 are set to be slightly larger than the outer diameter and thickness of the medal to be transported. In other words, the width wg of the medal guide groove 306 and the medal guide groove 306 can be passed through the medal guide groove 306 while being guided by the bottom surface 310 and the first and second side surfaces 312 and 314. Depth dg is set. When a plurality of denomination medals having different diameters and thicknesses are conveyed, the width wg and the depth dg of the medal guide groove 306 are set according to the maximum diameter and the maximum thickness of the medals.

  The first side surface 312 is formed along a curve 318 formed by connecting a plurality of arcs with the second, fourth, sixth, and eighth rotation axes 222, 224, 226, and 228 as centers. The second side surface 314 is formed along a curve 316 formed by connecting a plurality of arcs with the first, third, fifth and seventh rotation axes 221, 223, 225 and 227 as centers. Further, an annular groove 322 that prevents contact with the cover body 300 when the later-described first medal pushers 411a to 418a and second medal pushers 411b to 418b go around on the back surface 304 of the cover body 300. Is formed corresponding to each of the first to eighth rotation axes 221 to 228.

  The medal guide passage 110 is configured by the surface 202 of the base body 200, the bottom surface 310 of the medal guide groove 306 of the cover body 300, and the first and second side surfaces 312 and 314. In other words, the surface 202 of the base body 200 functions as a guide surface (corresponding to the fourth guide surface) 118 on the back of the medal guide passage 110, and the bottom surface 310 of the medal guide groove 306 of the hip body 300 is formed on the medal guide passage 110. It functions as a front guide surface (corresponding to the third guide surface) 116, and the first and second side surfaces 312 and 314 of the medal guide groove 306 of the hip body 300 are the left and right guide surfaces (first and second guide surfaces) of the medal guide passage 110. 2 and 112). In the medal guide passage 110, the peripheral surface of the medal introduced from the medal receiving passage 102 is the left and right guide surfaces 112, 114 of the medal guide passage 110 (that is, the first and second side surfaces 312 of the medal guide groove 306, 314). The front and back surfaces of the medal are guided by the front and back guide surfaces 116 and 118 of the medal guide passage 110 (that is, the bottom surface 310 of the medal guide groove 306 and the surface 202 of the base body 200). Thereby, when the medals NM and SM are conveyed in the medal guide passage 110, the medals NM and SM move while meandering along the curves 316 and 318.

  The cover body 300 is formed using a light-transmitting material. As the material having optical transparency, for example, a transparent or translucent thermoplastic resin such as an acrylic resin is used. Thereby, the inside of the medal guide passage 110 can be visually observed through the hip body 300, and the state in which the medals NM and SM move while meandering in the medal guide passage 110 is visually recognized from the front side of the medal transport device 5A. It becomes possible.

  Next, the medal pushing mechanism 400 will be described. As shown in FIGS. 5, 6, 8, and 9, the medal pushing mechanism 400 includes first to eighth rotating disks 401 to 408 into which the first to eighth rotating shafts 231 to 238 are inserted. Have. The first to eighth rotating discs 401 to 408 have a substantially circular outer shape in plan view, and are supported by the corresponding first to eighth rotating shafts 231 to 238 so as to be rotatable in both forward and reverse directions. . In other words, the first to eighth rotating disks 401 to 408 can rotate around the corresponding first to eighth rotating axes 221 to 228.

The first to eighth rotating disks 401 to 408 are provided with a pair of first and second medal pushers 411a to 418a and 411b to 418b, each having a cylindrical outer shape. That is, first and second medal pushers 411 a and 411 b protruding from the surface 422 of the first turntable 401 are provided in the peripheral portion 424 of the first turntable 401. The first and second medal pushers 411a and 411b are arranged to face each other with the first rotation shaft 231 therebetween. In other words, the first and second medal pushers 411a and 411b are the first turntable 401. Are arranged on a straight line passing through the first rotation axis 221. As for the second to eighth turntables 402 to 408, similarly to the first turntable 401, in the peripheral part 424 of the second to eighth turntables 402 to 408, the surface of the second to eighth turntables 402 to 408. First and second medal pushers 412a to 418a and 412b to 418b protruding from 422 are provided. First and second medal pusher 412a~418a, 412b~418b are arranged on opposite sides of the second to eighth rotational axis 222-228, in other words, the first and second medal pusher 412a-418a, 412b-418b are arrange | positioned on the straight line which passes along 2nd-8th rotating shaft line 222-228 in 2nd- 8th rotating disk 402-408. And if the 1st-8th turntable 401-408 rotates, the 1st and 2nd medal pushing bodies 411a-418a, 411b-418b will circulate around the 1st-8th rotating shaft lines 221-228.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the first, third, fifth, and seventh rotation axes 221, 223, 225, and 227 are arranged in a row on the first axis array line 212 with a predetermined interval d. Is done. The second, fourth, sixth, and eighth rotation axes 222, 224, 226, 228 are parallel to the first axis arrangement line 212 and are arranged at a predetermined interval w. On 214, it arrange | positions at predetermined intervals d in a line. The second, fourth, sixth, and eighth rotational axes 222, 224, 226, 228 are defined with respect to the first, third, fifth, and seventh rotational axes 221, 223, 225, 227. Offset by distance s. In other words, the first to eighth rotation axes 221 to 228 are arranged in a zigzag shape (that is, a zigzag shape) along the extending direction of the medal guide passage 110.

  First to eighth gears 431 to 438 are provided on the back surfaces of the first to eighth rotating disks 401 to 408, respectively. First to eighth rotary shafts 231 to 238 are inserted into shaft insertion holes (not shown) of the first to eighth gears 431 to 438, respectively. The first to eighth gears 431 to 438 are fixed to the first to eighth rotating plates 401 to 408, and the first to eighth gears 431 to 438 correspond to the corresponding first to eighth rotating plates 401 to 408. Rotate with.

  In this embodiment, in order to reduce the manufacturing cost of the medal pushing mechanism 400, the first to eighth gears 431 to 438 corresponding to the first to eighth gears 431 to 438 are corresponding to the first to eighth rotating disks 401 to 408. The second medal pushers 411a to 418a and 411b to 418b are integrally formed. However, the first to eighth rotating disks 401 to 408, the first to eighth gears 431 to 438, and the first and second medal pushers 411a to 418a and 411b to 418b are separately manufactured, and they are appropriately set. It is also possible to use the one assembled by the method.

  The first to eighth gears 431 to 438 are adjacent to each other. That is, the second gear 432 is in mesh with the first and third gears 431 and 433. Similarly, the fourth gear 434 meshes with the third and fifth gears 433 and 435, and the sixth gear 436 meshes with the fifth and seventh gears 435 and 437. The eighth gear 408 meshes with the seventh gear 437. Therefore, the first, third, fifth and seventh turntables 401, 403, 405 and 407 and the second, fourth, sixth and eighth turntables 402, 404, 406 and 408 are shown in FIG. As shown by arrows R1 and R2, they rotate in opposite directions. In other words, the first and second medal pushers 411a, 411b, 413a, 413b, 415a, 415b, 417a, 417b, and the first and second medal pushers 412a, 412b, 414a, 414b, 416a, 416b, 418a. 418b circulates in the opposite directions R1 and R2.

  In adjacent pairs of the first to eighth rotating disks 401 to 408, the first and second medal pushers 411a to 418a and 411b to 418b are arranged so as to maintain a predetermined rotational phase difference. For example, in the adjacent first and second turntables 401 and 402, the first medal pushers 411a and 412a and the second medal pushers 411b and 412b are arranged to maintain a predetermined rotational phase difference. Specifically, when the rotating first medal pusher 411a reaches the plane P including the first and second rotation axes 221, 222, the rotating first medal pusher 412a has a gear pitch with respect to the plane P. The first medal pushers 411a and 412a are arranged so as to reach the position in front of this half. In other words, the first and second medal pushers 411a and 411b of the first turntable 401 and the first and second medal pushers 412a and 412b of the second turntable 402 can obtain rotational positions almost opposite to each other. Is set. Similarly, when the rotating second medal pusher 411b reaches the plane P including the first and second rotation axes 221, 222, the rotating second medal pusher 412b has a gear pitch of 1 with respect to the plane P. The second medal pushers 411b and 412b are arranged so as to reach the front position by / 2. Second and third turntables 402 and 403, third and fourth turntables 403 and 404, fourth and fifth turntables 404 and 405, fifth and sixth turntables 405 and 406, sixth and seventh rotations The same applies to each of the panels 406 and 407, and the seventh and eighth rotating disks 407 and 408.

The medal pushing mechanism 400 having the above configuration is housed in the recess 216 of the base body 200. That is, the first to eighth rotating disks 401 to 408 and the first to eighth gears 431 to 438 are accommodated in the recess 216. The respective surfaces 422 of the first to eighth turntables 401 to 408 are arranged to be substantially flush with the surface 202 of the base body 200. Therefore, the first and second medal pushers 411 a to 418 a and 411 b to 418 b provided on the respective surfaces 422 of the first to eighth turntables 401 to 408 are directed upward from the surface 202 of the base body 200. Protruding. In other words, the first and second medal pushers 411a to 418a and 411b to 418b protrude into the medal guide passage 110, respectively. Therefore, when the first and second medal pushers 411a to 418a and 411b to 418b go around, the first and second medal pushers 411a to 418a and 411b to 418b come into contact with the circumferential surface of the medal in the medal guide passage 110. While moving along the rotation direction, the medal is pushed.

As described above, the surfaces 422 of the first to eighth turntables 401 to 408 are arranged so as to be substantially flush with the surface 202 of the base body 200, so that the surface 422 is behind the medal guide passage 110. Since the medals are guided in cooperation with the guide surface 118, the medals can be conveyed more smoothly.

  Next, the rotation drive device 500 will be described. The rotary drive device 500 includes an electric motor 502 and a speed reduction mechanism 504 to which a drive shaft (not shown) of the electric motor 502 is connected. An output shaft (not shown) of the speed reduction mechanism 504 is connected to the first rotation shaft 231. The first rotating disk 401 and the first gear 431 are connected to the output shaft of the speed reduction mechanism 504 via the first rotating shaft 231.

  In order for the first gear 431 to function as a driving gear, the first rotating disk 401 and the first gear 431 are fixed to the first rotating shaft 231. Therefore, when the electric motor 502 operates, the rotation of the drive shaft of the electric motor 502 is transmitted to the first rotating shaft 231 via the speed reduction mechanism 504, and the first rotating disk 401 and the first gear 431 rotate. Since the adjacent first to eighth gears 431 to 438 mesh with each other, the rotation of the first gear 431 is sequentially transmitted to the second to eighth gears 432 to 438. That is, the second to eighth gears 432 to 438 function as driven gears. In this way, the medal pushing mechanism 400 is driven, the first to eighth rotating disks 401 to 408 rotate, and the first and second medal pushing bodies 411a to 418a and 411b to 418b go around.

  Note that the medal pushing mechanism 400 of the medal transport device 5A (and 5B) may be driven by transmitting the driving force of the medal hopper device 6A (and 6B) to the first gear 431 via another gear. In that case, since the rotation drive device 500 can be omitted, the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

(Operation of medal transport device)
Next, the operation of the medal transport device 5A will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 10 shows a state where the medal M1 is introduced from the medal receiving port 102 into the medal guide passage 110 in a state where the electric motor 502 is operated and the medal pushing mechanism 400 is driven. In FIG. 10, the first turntable 401 rotates counterclockwise (ie, R1 direction), and the second turntable 402 rotates clockwise (ie, R2 direction). With the rotation of the first turntable 401, the first medal pusher 411a circulates in the R1 direction and comes into contact with the circumferential surface of the medal M1. When the first medal pusher 411a further moves in the R1 direction, the medal M1 is pushed by the first medal pusher 411a in the upper right direction in FIG. 10, and the circumferential surface of the medal M1 is the right guide surface 114 of the medal guide passage 110. Pressed against.

  Further, when the first medal pusher 411a continues to push the medal M1, as shown in FIG. 11, the medal M1 is guided on the circumferential surface by the right guide surface 114, and the extending direction of the medal guide passage 110 ( That is, it moves in the upward direction in FIG.

  When the first medal pusher 411a passes the 3 o'clock position of the watch, as shown in FIG. 12, the medal M1 is pushed upward by the first medal pusher 411a, and the circumferential surface of the medal M1 is the medal guide passage. 110 is pressed against the left guide surface 112. Then, the medal M1 is guided on the circumferential surface by the left guide surface 112, and moves in the medal guide passage 110 upward. Further, as the second turntable 402 rotates in the R2 direction, the first medal pusher 412a approaches the medal M1.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 13, while the first medal pusher 411a of the first turntable 401 is in contact with the circumferential surface of the medal M1, the first medal pusher 412a of the second turntable 402 is further moved to the medal M1. Contact the peripheral surface. In this state, both the first medal pushers 411a and 412a push the medal M1 in the upper left direction, so that the medal M1 is guided on the circumferential surface by the left guide surface 112 and moves upward through the medal guide passage 110 in the upward direction. Moving. Further, the next medal M <b> 2 is introduced from the medal receiving port 102 into the medal guide passage 110.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 14, the further rotation of the first turntable 401 releases the contact of the first medal pusher 411a with the circumferential surface of the medal M1, and the second medal pusher 411b becomes the medal M2. It touches the peripheral surface. Therefore, the medal M1 is pushed by the first medal pusher 412a of the second rotary board 402, and the medal M2 is pushed by the second medal pusher 411b of the first rotary board 401. As in the case of the medal M1, the medal M2 is guided by the right guide surface 114 of the medal guide passage 110 and moves upward.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 15, the first medal pusher 413a of the third turntable 403 contacts the circumferential surface of the medal M1, and both the first medal pushers 412a and 413a push the medal M1 in the upper right direction. To do. The medal M1 is guided in the circumferential direction by the right guide surface 114 of the medal guide passage 110 and moves upward. Further, the medal M2 is pushed by the second medal pusher 411b of the first turntable 401, and the circumferential surface is guided by the right guide surface 114 of the medal guide passage 110 to move upward.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 16, the contact of the first medal pusher 412 a with the circumferential surface of the medal M <b> 1 is released by the further rotation of the second turntable 402. Therefore, the medal M1 is pushed by the first medal pusher 413a of the third turntable 403, and the circumferential surface is guided by the right guide surface 114 of the medal guide passage 110 to move upward. Further, the medal M2 is pushed by the second medal pusher 411b of the first turntable 401, and the circumferential surface is guided by the left guide surface 112 of the medal guide passage 110 to move upward. Further, the next medal M <b> 3 is introduced into the medal guide passage 110 from the medal receiving port 102.

  By repeating the operation of the medal pushing mechanism 400, as shown in FIG. 17, the medals M1, M2, and M3 are conveyed in the medal guide passage 110 from the medal receiving port 102 toward the medal paying port 104. . Then, medals M1, M2, and M3 are sequentially discharged from the medal payout opening 104. When the medals M1, M2, and M3 are discharged, the number of medals discharged is counted by a medal number counter 120 provided near the medal payout opening 104.

  As described above, in the medal game machine GM1 of the first embodiment, the medal transport devices 5A and 5B extend from the medal receiving port 102 (that is, the first position P1) toward the medal payout port 104 (that is, the second position P2). An existing medal guide passage 110 is provided. The medal guide passage 110 has left and right guide surfaces (that is, first and second guide surfaces) 112 and 114 that guide the peripheral surface of the medal, and front and back guide surfaces that guide the front and back surfaces of the medal (that is, the third guide surface). And the fourth guide surface) 116, 118, and the movement of the medal is configured to be visible from at least the front of the medal game machine GM1. The first and second guide surfaces 112 and 114 are formed along curves 316 and 318 connecting a plurality of arcs around the rotation axes 221 to 228, respectively. In other words, the medal guide passage 110 meanders along the curves 316 and 318 connecting arcs. Therefore, the medals in the medal guide passage 110 move from the medal receiving port 102 (that is, the first position P1) to the medal payout port 104 (that is, the second position P2) while meandering along the medal guide passage 110. Moreover, the situation can be visually recognized from the front of the medal game machine. The medal moving while meandering provides an excellent visual effect and enhances the performance of the game.

  Further, the plurality of turntables 401 in which the medal transport devices 5A and 5B rotate around a plurality of rotation axes 221 to 228 substantially perpendicular to the front and back guide surfaces (that is, the third and fourth guide surfaces) 116 and 118, respectively. 408 and a plurality of medal pushers 411a to 418a and 411b to 418b provided on the plurality of rotating disks 401 to 408, respectively. The plurality of turntables 401 to 408 are arranged in a predetermined order from the medal receiving port 102 (that is, the first position P1) toward the medal payout port 104 (that is, the second position P2). The plurality of medal pushers 411a to 418a, 411b to 418b project into the medal guide passage 110 and push the medal by circling around the corresponding rotation axes 221 to 228. In an adjacent pair of the plurality of turntables 401 to 408, one turntable 401, 403, 405, 407 rotates in the first rotation direction R1, and the other turntable 402, 404, 406, 408 rotates in the first rotation. It rotates in the second rotation direction R2 opposite to the direction R1. The respective rotary positions of the one rotary disk 401, 403, 405, 407 and the other rotary disk 402, 404, 406, 408 are the medal pushers 411a, 413a, 415a of the one rotary disk 401, 403, 405, 407, respectively. 417a, 411b, 413b, 415b, 417b and the medal pushers 412a, 414a, 416a, 418a, 412b, 414b, 416b, 418b of the other rotating disk 402, 404, 406, 408 maintain a predetermined rotational phase difference. It is set to go around. The predetermined rotational phase difference is, for example, the medal pushers 411a, 413a, 415a, 417a, 411b, 413b, 415b, and 417b of one of the rotating disks 401, 403, 405, and 407 and the other rotating disks 402, 404, and 406, 408 medal pushers 412a, 414a, 416a, 418a, 412b, 414b, 416b, and 418b are set so as to obtain a rotational position substantially opposite to each other. As a result, the medals that have been pushed by the medal pushers 411a, 413a, 415a, 417a, 411b, 413b, 415b, and 417b of one of the turntables 401, 403, 405, and 407 are transferred to the other turntables 402, 404, and 406. , 408 medal pushers 412a, 414a, 416a, 418a, 412b, 414b, 416b, 418b. Therefore, the medals positioned at the medal receiving slot 102 (that is, the first position P1) are sequentially pushed by the plurality of rotating medal pushers 411a to 418a and 411b to 418b, and the medal payout opening along the medal guide passage 110. It is moved to 104 (that is, the second position P2).

  As described above, the peripheral surfaces are guided by the left and right guide surfaces (ie, the first and second guide surfaces) 112 and 114, and the front and back guide surfaces (ie, the third and fourth guide surfaces) 116 and 118 are used. When the medals guided on the front and back surfaces are pushed by the medal pushers 411a to 418a and 411b to 418b that circulate around the first to eighth rotation axes 221 to 228, The range of outer diameter (diameter) or thickness becomes wider. That is, since the medal pushers 411a to 418a and 411b to 418b protruding into the medal guide passage 110 are disposed between the left and right guide surfaces (that is, the first and second guide surfaces) 112 and 114, the left and right guides It is larger than the space | interval between surface (namely, 1st and 2nd guide surface) 112,114 and medal pushing bodies 411a-418a, 411b-418b, and left and right guide surface (namely, 1st and 2nd guide). If the medal has an outer diameter (diameter) in a range smaller than the interval between the surface), one of the left and right guide surfaces (that is, the first and second guide surfaces) and the medal pushers 411a to 418a, 411b to It is moved while being supported by 418b and can be conveyed. Accordingly, the outer diameter range of medals that can be conveyed is widened. On the other hand, since the medals pushers 411a to 418a and 411b to 418b push the medals one by one and transport them, adjacent medals do not overlap in the medal guide passage 110. Therefore, even if the distance between the front and back guide surfaces (that is, the third and fourth guide surfaces) 116 and 118 is set wide, clogging of medals does not occur. Accordingly, the thickness range of medals that can be conveyed is widened. Therefore, medals with different outer diameters and thicknesses (that is, normal medals NM and special medals SM) can be used.

  As described above, by using the normal medal NM and the special medal SM in combination, the player is more enthusiastic about the game in the hope that the high-value special medal SM will be paid out. Therefore, a new game characteristic is created in the medal game machine GM1.

  18 and 19 show a base body 200A of the medal transport device 5AA constituting the medal game machine according to the second embodiment of the present invention. The medal transport device 5AA according to the second embodiment is different from the medal transport device 5A according to the first embodiment in that each of the first to eighth turntables 401A to 408A of the base body 200A includes a plurality of light emitting units 601. Other than that, since it has substantially the same configuration as the medal transport device 5A of the first embodiment, in FIG. 18 and FIG. 19, the same elements as those of the medal transport device 5A of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals. The description is omitted. The medal transport device 5AB corresponding to the medal transport device 5B of the first embodiment also has the same configuration as the medal transport device 5AA, and only the medal transport device 5AA will be described here, and the medal transport device 5AB will be described. The description of is omitted.

  As shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, in the medal transport device 5AA, the light emitting means 601 included in each of the first to eighth turntables 401A to 408A is arranged around the first to eighth rotation axes 221 to 228. They are arranged on the circle 440 at equal intervals. The light emitting means 601 includes a light emitting element 602 and a cover lens 603. The light emitting element 602 is, for example, a light emitting diode. The first to eighth turntables 401A to 408A and the first to eighth gears 431 to 438 are formed with storage holes 606 having a circular shape in plan view at positions where the light emitting means 601 is disposed, and the light emitting means 601 corresponds to the corresponding storage holes. 606. The cover lens 603 has a disk shape having substantially the same diameter as the storage hole 606 and is disposed so that the surface thereof is flush with the surfaces of the first to eighth rotary plates 401A to 408A, and closes the storage hole 606. ing. The light emitting element 602 is disposed at a position retracted in the housing hole 606 from the cover lens 603, and the whole is housed in the housing hole 606. On the back side of the first to eighth gears 431 to 438, an opening 607 is formed which has a cylindrical shape larger in diameter than the storage hole 606 and communicates with the storage hole 606. A pair of contacts 604 having a spring property is disposed in the opening 607, and the pair of contacts 604 are electrically connected to positive and negative input terminals (not shown) of the light emitting element 602, respectively. In the recess 216 of the base body 200A, a wiring pattern 605 for supplying power to the light emitting element 602 is formed on the first member 206 of the base body 200A. When the contact 604 contacts the wiring pattern 605, the wiring pattern 605 is electrically connected to the light emitting element 602 through the contact 604. The wiring pattern 605 has a circular pattern portion (not shown) with the first to eighth rotation axes 221 to 228 as the center, and even if the first to eighth rotating disks 401A to 408A are rotated, the contactors The contact state between the contact 604 and the wiring pattern 605 is maintained by sliding the 604 on the circular pattern portion, and power can be supplied to the light emitting element 602.

  In the medal game machine of the second embodiment, the light emitting means 601 emits light when the medal transport devices 5AA and 5AB transport the medals NM and SM. Thereby, when the medals NM and SM are transported, the light emitting means 601 emits light while circling around the first to eighth rotation axes 221 to 228 as the first to eighth rotating disks 401A to 408A rotate. Therefore, the visual effect is further enhanced, and a unique presentation effect is obtained.

  In the second embodiment, eight light emitting units 601 are provided in each of the first to eighth rotating disks 401A to 408A, but the number of the light emitting units 601 can be changed as appropriate. Further, the light emitting means 601 can be provided on the first and second medal pushers 411a to 418a, 411b to 418b, or the first to eighth turntables 401A to 408A and the first and second medal pushers 411a to 411a. It is also possible to provide them in both of 418a, 411b to 418b.

  FIG. 20 shows a base body 200B of the medal transport device 5BA constituting the medal game machine according to the third embodiment of the present invention. The medal transport device 5BA according to the third embodiment is different from the medal transport device 5AA according to the second embodiment in that the first to eighth turntables 401B to 408B of the base body 200B have power generation units 611 corresponding to the light emitting units 601, respectively. Is different. Other than that, since it has substantially the same configuration as the medal transport device 5AA of the second embodiment, the same elements as those of the medal transport device 5AA of the second embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals in FIG. Omitted. The medal transport device 5BB corresponding to the medal transport device 5B of the first embodiment also has the same configuration as the medal transport device 5BA. Here, only the medal transport device 5BA will be described, and the medal transport device 5BB will be described. The description of is omitted.

As shown in FIG. 20, the power generation means 611 included in the second turntable 40 2 B includes a power generation coil 612 and a magnet body 613. An opening 614 is formed on the back side of the second gear 432, and the power generation coil 612 and the magnet body 613 are disposed in the opening 614. The power generation coils 612 are disposed corresponding to the light emitting units 601, respectively. The magnet body 613 is fixed to the first member 206 of the base body 200B in the opening 614, and the N pole and the S pole are arranged in a direction perpendicular to the second rotation axis 222. The power generation coil 612 is disposed between the N pole and the S pole of the magnet body 613 and is fixed to the second gear 432 in the opening 614. In other words, the power generation coil 612 can circulate around the second rotation axis 222 as the second gear 432 and the second turntable 402B rotate. A pair of output terminals (not shown) of the power generation coil 612 are electrically connected to the positive and negative input terminals of the corresponding light emitting element 602 via the rectifier circuit 615. The magnetic flux formed between the N pole and the S pole of the magnet body 613 is supplied to the power generation coil 612. When the power generation coil 612 circulates around the second rotation axis 222 in this state, power is generated in the power generation coil 612. . The generated electric power is AC-DC converted by the rectifier circuit 615 and supplied to the corresponding light emitting element 602. Accordingly, the light emitting element 602 emits light. The first turntable 401B and the third to eighth turntables 403B to 408B are also configured similarly to the second turntable 402B, and the corresponding light emitting element 602 emits light by the power generation means 611 provided in each.

  In the medal game machine of the third embodiment, the amount of electric power generated by the power generation means 611 corresponds to the rotation speed of the first to eighth turntables 401B to 408B, so the rotation speed of the first to eighth turntables 401B to 408B is changed. As a result, the luminance of the light emitting means 601 changes, and the visual effect is further enhanced.

  FIG. 21 shows a medal game machine GM4 according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention. The medal game machine GM4 of the fourth embodiment replaces the medal transport device 5A of FIG. 1 with a medal transport device 5CA including line transport portions 621 and 622 and a surface transport portion 623, and the medal of FIG. This corresponds to an apparatus in which the transport device 5B is omitted. Other than that, since it has substantially the same configuration as the medal game machine GM1 of the first embodiment, the same elements as those of the medal game machine GM1 of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals in FIG. Omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 21, the medal transport device 5CA of the medal game machine GM4 includes line transport portions 621 and 622 that transport the medals NM and SM in one direction, and a two-dimensional one-stroke writing while changing the transport direction. A surface transport portion 623 that transports medals NM and SM so as to draw a pattern. Similar to the medal transport device 5A in FIG. 1, the line transport portion 621 has a medal guide passage 110 extending in the vertical direction, and transports the medals NM and SM sent out from the medal hopper device 6A vertically upward. . The line transport portion 622 has a medal guide passage 110 that is connected to the line transport portion 621 and extends in the right direction, and transports the medals NM and SM transported by the line transport portion 621 in the horizontal direction. The surface conveyance portion 623 is connected to the line conveyance portion 622 and has a medal guide passage 110 that extends while changing its direction vertically or horizontally. The medal guide passage 110 of the surface transport portion 623 forms a two-dimensional pattern of one-stroke writing that does not cross each other on a predetermined surface. The medals NM and SM transported by the surface transport portion 623 are discharged from the medal payout exit 104 to the first game area GF1.

  In the medal game machine GM4 according to the fourth embodiment, the medal guide passage 110 in the surface transport portion 623 of the medal transport device 5CA forms a two-dimensional pattern. By designing the two-dimensional pattern according to the game content, Create new visual effects that match the game content.

  FIG. 22 shows a medal game machine GM5 according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention. The medal game machine GM5 of the fifth embodiment is obtained by replacing the medal transport device 5CA of FIG. 21 with a medal transport device 5DA having a medal release mechanism 631. Other than that, since it has almost the same configuration as the medal game machine GM4 of the fourth embodiment, the same elements as those of the medal game machine GM4 of the fourth embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals in FIG. Omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 22, the medal transport device 5DA of the medal game machine GM5 has a medal release mechanism 631 that simultaneously releases the medals NM and SM in the medal guide passage 110 into the first game area GF1 in the surface transport portion 623. doing. The surface transport portion 623 includes a first area 623a that does not release medals NM and SM, and a second area 623b that can emit medals NM and SM. The cover body 300D of the surface conveyance portion 623 includes a first cover body portion 300Da corresponding to the first region 623a and a second cover body portion 300Db corresponding to the second region 623b. The first cover body portion 300Da is fixed to the base body 200D. The upper end of the second cover body portion 300Db is pivotally supported with respect to the base body 200D by being rotatably supported by a support shaft 632 provided on the surface of the base body 200D. The second cover body portion 300Db is urged by the urging means 637 in the direction toward the base body 200D (counterclockwise direction in FIG. 22B), and the second cover body portion 300Db is brought into close contact with the base body 200D during conveyance. Maintained. The medal releasing mechanism 631 includes a second cover body portion 300Db and a drive device 633 that pivots the second cover body portion 300Db.

  In the lower right part of the second region 623b, a driving device 633 is disposed on the back side of the base body 200D. The driving device 633 is a solenoid 634 having an armature 635. A through hole 636 is formed at a position corresponding to the armature 635 of the base body 200D from the front surface to the back surface of the base body 200D. The armature 635 is inserted into the through hole 636, and the tip thereof is in contact with the back surface of the second cover body portion 300Db. In a state where the solenoid 634 is demagnetized, the armature 635 is pushed back via the second cover body portion 300Db by the urging force of the urging means 637, and the second cover body portion 300Db comes into close contact with the base body 200D. Thereby, the medal guide passage 110 is formed in the second area 623b, and the medals NM and SM can be moved in the medal guide passage 110. When the solenoid 634 is excited, the armature 635 protrudes against the urging force of the urging means 37, and the second cover body portion 300Db pivots clockwise in FIG. 22B. Accordingly, the second cover body portion 300Db is separated from the base body 200D, and the medals NM and SM in the medal guide passage 110 are released to the first game area GF1 in the second area 623b.

  In the medal game machine GM5 of the fifth embodiment, when a predetermined “winning” occurs in the electronic game, the medal release mechanism 631 releases the medals NM and SM from the second area 623b of the surface transport portion 623 all at once. Release to region GF1. As a result, the medals NM and SM are poured down from above the first game area GF1 like a distribution, so that a new visual effect is obtained and a new game characteristic is created.

  FIG. 23 shows a shooting game machine GM6 according to Embodiment 6 of the present invention. The shooting game machine GM6 of the sixth embodiment is an application of the medal transport device of FIG. 4 to a shooting game, and is a game machine that performs shooting targeting a moving medal. The shooting game machine GM6 includes a target area 703 standing up in the upper part of the housing 701, a shooting gun 702 that fires bullets at the target of the target area 703, and a lower part of the housing 701. The arranged medal hopper device 6E, the medal transport device 5E for transporting the medal sent out from the medal hopper device 6E to the target area 703, the medal receiving container 705 for receiving the dropped medal, and the medal in the medal receiving container 705 And a medal chute 706 leading to the payout port 707.

  The target area 703 is an area defined by an opening 701a formed on the front surface of the housing 701, and has a rectangular shape in plan view. The shooting gun 702 is installed on a support arm 704 extending upward from the table 701b of the casing 701, and is supported so that the direction of the muzzle can be changed vertically and horizontally. The medal hopper device 6E is the same as the medal hopper device 6A of FIG. 1, and separates two types of medals M having different outer diameters (that is, a normal medal NM and a special medal SM) one by one and sends them to the medal transport device 5E.

  The medal transport device 5E has substantially the same configuration as the medal transport device 5A of FIG. 1, and after the medals NM and SM sent from the medal hopper device 6E are transported vertically upward, the transport direction is changed to the horizontal direction, and the target area In 703, the medals NM and SM are moved in the horizontal direction. Therefore, the medal guide passage 110 of the medal transport device 5E has an inverted L shape. The medal payout port 104 of the medal transport device 5E is connected to a medal chute 709 that discharges the transported medals NM and SM to the medal storage container 708.

  In the target area 703, a part of the cover body 300E of the medal transport device 5E is removed. That is, a portion above the curve CL formed along the second side surface 314E of the medal guide groove (not shown) is deleted. In other words, only a slight region below the curve CL remains on the bottom surface 310E of the medal guide groove. As a result, one surface of the medals NM and SM moving in the target area 703 is guided by a small remaining bottom surface 310E, and when a bullet hits, it is thrown forward by its impact force.

  The medal receiving container 705 is a funnel-shaped container disposed with a rectangular opening 705a facing upward and below the target area 703. The medal receiving container 705 has an inclined surface 705b on the side and a medal drop opening 705c on the bottom. ing. The medal chute 706 is disposed between the medal receiving container 705 and the payout opening 707, and communicates with the medal receiving container 705 through the medal drop opening 705c. The medals NM and SM received in the medal receiving container 705 slide down the inclined surface of the medal receiving container 705, move to the medal dropping opening 705c, and are guided to the payout outlet 707 through the medal chute 706.

Next, the operation of the shooting game machine GM6 will be described. In the medal hopper device 6E, a normal medal NM and a special medal SM having a small diameter and high value with respect to the normal medal NM are stored in advance. When the game is started, stored medals NM, SM is fed into the medal transporting apparatus 5E by the medal hopper device 6E, conveys medals NM, the SM medals to the medal transporting apparatus 5E has regions 703. In the target area 703, the medals NM and SM are moved while meandering up and down by the medal transport device 5E. The player fires bullets at the targeted medals NM and SM while moving the muzzle of the shooting gun 702 up, down, left and right. When the bullet hits the medals NM and SM, the medals NM and SM are thrown forward by the impact force of the bullets and fall into the medal receiving container 705. The dropped medals NM and SM are paid out to the payout exit 707 via the medal chute 706. The medal that has not hit the bullet is moved out of the target area 703 by the medal transport device 5E, falls downward from the medal payout opening 104, and is released to the medal storage container 708 through the medal chute 709.

  In the shooting game machine GM6 of the sixth embodiment, the normal medal NM and the special medal SM having a small diameter and high value with respect to the normal medal NM are used as targets. Therefore, even if the player tries to shoot down the high value special medal SM, it is difficult to hit the small diameter special medal SM with a bullet. Moreover, since the medals NM and SM are moved while meandering in the vertical direction by the medal transport device 5E, it becomes more difficult to hit the small-diameter special medal SM with a bullet. Therefore, the satisfaction when shooting down the high value special medal SM is increased. Therefore, a high visual effect is obtained in the movement of medals, and a new game characteristic is created.

  FIG. 24 shows a shooting game machine GM7 according to Embodiment 7 of the present invention. This shooting game machine GM7 is different from the shooting game machine GM6 of FIG. 23 in that the medal transport device 5F is arranged so as to cross the target area 703 from side to side and from front to back. Other than that, since it has the same configuration as the shooting game machine GM6 of the sixth embodiment, the same components as those of the shooting game machine GM6 of the sixth embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals in FIG. Is omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 24, the shooting game machine GM7 of the seventh embodiment includes a medal transport device 5F arranged obliquely in plan view. That is, the medal transport device 5F is positioned relatively forward in the left side of the housing 701, and the medal transport device 5F is positioned relatively rear in the right side of the housing 701. Therefore, the medals NM and SM transported by the medal transport device 5F are located forward when they appear at the left end 703a of the target area 703, and reach the right end 703b of the target area 703 while moving away to the right as they move rightward. . In other words, the medals NM and SM transported by the medal transport device 5F are not only moved left and right in the target area 703 but also moved back and forth.

  In the shooting game machine GM7 of the seventh embodiment, a sense of depth is added to the movement of the medals NM and SM, and a three-dimensional visual effect is obtained. The medal transport device 5F may be arranged so as to cross the target area 703 from side to side and from the rear to the front. Even in that case, a similar three-dimensional visual effect can be obtained.

FIG. 25 shows a medal game machine GM8 according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention. The medal game machine GM8 of the eighth embodiment is composed of an assembly of a plurality of medal game tables GMS1 to GMS6, and a player can play a game on each of the medal game tables GMS1 to GMS6. Gaming machine GM8 includes a plurality of medal transporting device 801-80 6, a plurality of medal sorting device 810 and the medal identification device 820 provided corresponding to each of the medal transporting device 801 to 806, the . The plurality of medal transport devices 801 to 806 are arranged between adjacent medal game tables GMS1 to GMS6. That is, the medal transport device 801 is disposed between the medal game tables GMS1 and GMS6, and the medal transport device 802 is disposed between the medal game tables GMS1 and GMS2. A medal transport device 803 is disposed between the medal game tables GMS3 and GMS2, and a medal transport device 804 is disposed between the medal game tables GMS3 and GMS4. A medal transport device 805 is disposed between the medal game tables GMS5 and GMS4, and a medal transport device 806 is disposed between the medal game tables GMS5 and GMS6.

  The medal transport devices 801 to 806 have the same configuration, and only the medal transport device 801 will be described here, and the description of the medal transport devices 802 to 806 will be omitted. Further, as shown in FIG. 26, the medal transport device 801 has substantially the same configuration as the medal transport device 5A in FIG. Therefore, in FIG. 26, the same elements as those of the medal transport device 5A of FIG. In the upper part of the medal transport device 801, the medal guide passage 110 extends linearly upward. The medal payout port 104 of the medal transport device 801 communicates with the sorting passage 818 of the medal sorting device 810.

  The medal distribution device 810 has a function of distributing medals to the left and right, and here, the distribution device disclosed in Japanese Patent No. 3994132 is used. However, the configuration is not particularly limited as long as it has a similar function. As shown in FIG. 26, the medal distribution device 810 has a moving roller 815 and a deflection pin 813 arranged on an extension line of the medal guide passage 110 of the medal transport device 801. The deflection pin 813 is slidably inserted into a guide hole 813 a drilled in the base body 200, and is disposed on the left side of the center line CL on the extended line of the medal guide passage 110. The deflection pin 813 can be moved between a position protruding into the sorting passage 818 and a position leaving the sorting passage 818 by the position changing device 817. The moving roller 815 is rotatably supported by a moving shaft 814 disposed on the right side with respect to the center line CL of the medal guide passage 110. The moving shaft 814 is inserted into a long hole 816 drilled in the base body 200, and is movable along the long hole 816. The moving shaft 814 is urged to approach the medal guide passage 110 by urging means (not shown).

  When the deflection pin 813 protrudes into the distribution passage 818 by the position changing device 817, the medal sent out from the medal payout opening 104 is prevented from entering the left passage 819a by the deflection pin 813 in the distribution passage 818. . Therefore, the medals in the sorting passage 818 enter the right passage 819b while pushing up the moving roller 815 and are discharged from the right payout exit 812. On the other hand, when the deflection pin 813 is withdrawn from the distribution passage 818 by the position changing device 817, the medals in the distribution passage 818 can enter the left passage 819a. In order to enter the right passage 819b, it is necessary to resist the urging force of the moving roller 815, and the medal is guided to the left passage 819a and discharged from the left payout exit 811.

  The medal identification device 820 is arranged in the vicinity of the medal payout port 104 of the medal transport devices 801 to 806 and identifies the type of medal that passes through each medal payout port 104. The identification is performed based on identification target items such as an outer diameter (diameter) of the medal, a pattern formed on one surface, a color, and a material. The configuration of the medal identification device 820 is set according to the identification target item, and here, the outer diameter of the medal is set as the identification target item. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 28, the medal identification device 820 includes a diameter detection device 821 that detects the diameter of a medal, and a medal identification control device 822 that identifies the type of medal from the detection result of the diameter detection device 821. Composed. As the diameter detection device 821, an image processing type using an imaging device, a coil type that detects a change in coil current, a contact type that detects a displacement amount of the contact, and the like can be used. Here, the diameter is detected by image processing. The diameter detection device 821 outputs a diameter identification signal DS corresponding to the detected diameter value to the medal identification control device 822. The medal identification control device 822 identifies the type of medal based on the supplied diameter identification signal DS and outputs a medal identification signal MDS.

  As shown in FIG. 28, in each of the medal transport devices 801 to 806, the medal identification signal MDS output from the medal identification device 820 is supplied to the game machine control device 807. The game machine control device 807 outputs a distribution control signal SCS to the corresponding medal distribution device 810 based on the supplied medal identification signal MDS. The medal distribution device 810 releases medals from either the left payout exit 811 or the right payout exit 812 based on the supplied distribution control signal SCS.

  In the medal game machine GM8 according to the eighth embodiment, the medal transport devices 801 to 806 are arranged between the adjacent medal game tables GMS1 to GMS6, and the medal distribution device 810 allows the medal to be distributed between the left payout exit 811 and the right payout exit 812. Release from either side. Therefore, the medals transported by the medal transport device 801 are supplied to one of the adjacent medal game tables GMS1 and GMS6. Similarly, medals transported by the medal transport devices 802 to 806 are supplied to any of the adjacent medal game platforms GMS1 to GMS6. Then, the player can visually recognize how the medal moves. Therefore, the game progresses while giving the player a sense of expectation whether or not medals will be supplied to the game table that the player faces. If the normal medal NM and the special medal SM are mixed by the medal transport devices 801 to 806, the player's expectation is further enhanced. Therefore, a high visual effect is obtained in the movement of medals, and a new game characteristic is created.

  FIG. 29 shows a medal identification device 820A constituting the medal game machine according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention. The medal identification device 820A of the ninth embodiment is obtained by adding a pattern detection device 823, a material detection device 824, and a color detection device 825 to the diameter detection device 821 of the medal identification device 820 of FIG. Other than that, it has the same configuration as the medal game machine GM8 of the eighth embodiment.

  In the medal game machine of the ninth embodiment, the diameter detection device 821 outputs a diameter identification signal DS corresponding to the detected diameter value to the medal identification control device 822 as in the case of the medal identification device 820 of FIG. The pattern detection device 823 detects a pattern formed on one surface of the medal, and outputs a pattern identification signal PS corresponding to the detected pattern to the medal identification control device 822A. As the pattern detection device 823, an image processing type using an imaging device is generally used. The material detection device 824 detects the material of the medal and outputs a material identification signal MS corresponding to the detected material to the medal identification control device 822A. Further, the color detection device 825 detects the color of the medal surface, and outputs a color identification signal CS corresponding to the detected color to the medal identification control device 822A. The medal identification control device 822A identifies the type of medal based on the supplied diameter identification signal DS, pattern identification signal PS, material identification signal MS, and color identification signal CS, and outputs a medal identification signal MDS. That is, a medal can be identified by the difference in diameter, pattern, material and color. Thus, the game can be performed in a state where various medals having different diameters, patterns, materials, and colors are mixed, so that a higher visual effect than the medal game machine GM8 of the eighth embodiment can be obtained in the movement of medals. As a result, new game characteristics are created.

  FIG. 30 shows a medal identification device 820B constituting the medal game machine according to the tenth embodiment of the present invention. The medal identification device 820B of the tenth embodiment is obtained by replacing the diameter detection device 821 and the pattern detection device 823 of the medal identification device 820 of FIG. 27 with an IC medal communication device 826. Other than that, it has the same configuration as the medal game machine GM8 of the eighth embodiment.

  In the medal game machine of the tenth embodiment, the IC medal communication device 826 can communicate with the IC medal and receive information stored in the IC medal. The IC medal communication device 826 determines that it is an IC medal when communication is possible, determines that it is a normal medal when communication is not possible, and uses the determination result and information received from the IC medal as a communication result signal CRS as a medal identification control device 822B. Output to. The medal identification control device 822B identifies the type of medal based on the supplied communication result signal CRS, and outputs a medal identification signal MDS. That is, the normal medal NM and the IC medal can be identified from the communication result. As described above, since the game can be performed in a state where the IC medal as the special medal and the normal medal are mixed, a high visual effect can be obtained in the movement of the medal similarly to the medal game machine GM8 of the eighth embodiment. At the same time, new game characteristics are created. Further, by storing the value information in the IC medal, each IC medal can be functioned as a special medal having a different value, and the player's sense of expectation can be further enhanced.

  FIG. 31 shows a medal game machine GM11 according to Embodiment 11 of the present invention. The medal game machine GM11 of the eleventh embodiment is obtained by replacing the medal transport device 5A of FIG. 1 with a bifurcated medal transport device 5K. Other than that, since it has almost the same configuration as the medal game machine GM1 of the first embodiment, the same elements as those of the medal game machine GM1 of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals in FIG. Omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 31, in the medal transport device 5K of the medal game machine GM11, the medal receiving port 102 is connected to the medal transport device 5KA having the medal distribution device 810 and the left payout port 811 of the medal distribution device 810. The medal transport device 5KB and the medal transport device 5KC in which the medal receiving port 102 is connected to the right payout port 812 of the medal distribution device 810 are configured. The medal transport devices 5KA, 5KB, and 5KC are configured so that the medals NM and SM move in the medal guide passage 110 in the same manner as the medal transport device 5A in FIG.

  The medal receiving port 102 of the medal transport device 5KA is connected to a medal delivery port (not shown) of the medal hopper device 6A, similarly to the medal transport device 5A of FIG. The medal transport device 5KA has a function of moving the medals NM and SM sent from the medal hopper device 6A from the medal receiving port 102 to the medal distribution device 810. As the medal distribution device 810, the medal distribution device 810 in the medal game machine GM8 of the eighth embodiment shown in FIG. 26 is used. A medal identification device 820 shown in FIG. 27 is arranged in the vicinity of the medal distribution device 810, and the medal identification device 820 identifies the type of medal (that is, the normal medal NM and the special medal SM). Then, the medal distribution device 810 distributes to either the left payout exit 811 or the right payout exit 812 with a probability predetermined for each medal type. The probability of being distributed to the right payout port 812 is set to a high probability (for example, 1.5 times the probability) with respect to the normal medal NM in the case of the special medal SM.

The medal transport device 5KB has a function of moving the medals NM and SM released from the left payout port 811 of the medal distribution device 810 from the medal receiving port 102 of the medal transfer device 5KB to the medal payout port 104. The medals NM and SM moved to the medal payout opening 104 of the medal transport device 5KB are discharged to the upper part of the first game area GF1 via the medal chute 7KB connected to the medal payout opening 104. In the vicinity of the medal receiving opening 102 of the medal transporting device 5KB, the medal sensor 12 1 is disposed. Medals NM by the medal sensor 12 1, if the SM is detected, the electric motor 502 of the medal transporting device 5KB (Figure 4) operates. Medal by the medal sensor 12 1 NM, when the detection of the SM is not the predetermined time, the operation of the electric motor 502 of the medal transporting device 5KB is stopped. Thereby, power consumption can be suppressed. Further, since the medals NM and SM are transported by the two medal transport devices 5KA and 5KB each having a rotation drive device, there is an advantage that the driving load is reduced compared to the medal transport device 5A of FIG.

The medal transport device 5KC has a function of moving the medals NM and SM released from the right payout port 812 of the medal distribution device 810 from the medal receiving port 102 of the medal transfer device 5KC to the medal payout port 104. The medals NM and SM moved to the medal payout port 104 of the medal transport device 5KC are released to the vicinity of the through chucker 14B in the first game area GF1 through the medal chute 7KB connected to the medal payout port 104. Like the medal transporting device 5KB, in the vicinity of the medal receiving opening 102 of the medal transporting device 5Kc, the medal sensor 12 1 is disposed. Medals NM by the medal sensor 12 1, if the SM is detected, the electric motor 502 of the medal transporting device 5KC (Figure 4) operates. Medal by the medal sensor 12 1 NM, when the detection of the SM is not the predetermined time, the operation of the electric motor 502 of the medal transporting device 5KC is stopped.

  In the medal game machine GM11 of the eleventh embodiment, the medals NM and SM sent out from the medal hopper device 6A are moved to the medal distribution device 810 by the medal transport device 5KA, and are distributed by the medal distribution device 810. It is transported by either 5KB or 5KC. Then, the medals NM and SM transported by the medal transport device 5KB are discharged to the upper part of the first game area GF1. The medals NM and SM transported by the medal transport device 5KC are discharged in the vicinity of the through chucker 14B. Therefore, the medals NM and SM transported by the medal transport device 5KC are easier to enter the through chucker 14B than the medals NM and SM transported by the medal transport device 5KB. In other words, it is more advantageous for the player to be transported by the medal transport device 5KC than to be transported by the medal transport device 5KB. Moreover, the probability that the special medal SM is transported by the medal transport device 5KC is set higher than that of the normal medal NM. Therefore, a new game characteristic is created in which a medal can be easily obtained by using the special medal SM. Further, since the movement of medals becomes more complicated by the bifurcated medal transport device 5K, the visual effect is further enhanced.

  FIG. 32 shows a medal game machine GM12 according to the twelfth embodiment of the present invention. This medal game machine GM12 is a roulette game machine using a medal transport device 910 having a medal guide passage 110 formed in a loop shape. The medal game machine GM12 includes a roulette area 902 arranged upright in the upper portion of the housing 901, a medal insertion slot 903 into which a player inserts a medal, and a medal payout opening for paying out a dividend medal to the player 904, medal payout devices 905 and 906 for supplying a payout medal to the medal payout outlet 904, and a game machine control device 907 for controlling the roulette area 902 and the medal payout devices 905 and 906.

  The roulette area 902 includes a medal transport apparatus 910 having a medal guide path 110 formed along a track-shaped medal movement area 911, and a medal identification apparatus 913 for identifying a medal stopped in the hit determination area 912. . The medal transport device 910 is the same as the medal transport device 5A of FIG. 4 except that the first position P1 and the second position P2 are arranged at the same position, and a loop-shaped pattern is formed by the medal guide passage 110. The medal transport device 5A has substantially the same configuration. There are a plurality of normal medals NM and special medals SM in the medal guide passage 110, and the medals NM and SM are moved in the medal guide passage 110 in the direction of the arrow in FIG. The medal transport device 910 is also configured so that the medal NM and SM can be visually recognized as they move in the medal guide passage 110. A hit determination area 912 is defined on the medal guide passage 110 below the roulette area 902, and the medal identification device 913 is disposed at a position corresponding to the hit determination area 912. The medal identification device 913 has the same configuration as the medal identification device 820 of FIG. 27, and uses the outer diameter of the medal as an identification target item. That is, the medal identification device 913 has a function of identifying the normal medal NM and the special medal SM according to the diameter value of the medal stopped in the hit determination area 912. Note that a circle indicated by a dotted line in the medal guide passage 110 in FIG. 32B indicates that no medal exists at the position where the medal originally exists, and the stop determination area 912 stops in a state where there is no medal. Becomes “losing” and the diameter value becomes zero.

  The medal payout device 905 includes, for example, a hopper device with an escalator 908 and a medal chute 909 disclosed in JP-A-5-94575, and supplies a normal medal NM to the medal payout port 904. The medal payout device 906 has the same configuration as the medal payout device 905, and supplies the special medal SM to the medal payout port 904.

  When a medal is inserted into the medal insertion slot 903, the game machine control device 907 controls the medal transport device 910 and the medal identification device 913 in the roulette area 902 to execute the roulette game, and a payout medal corresponding to the game result is obtained. The medal payout devices 905 and 906 are controlled so as to be supplied to the medal payout outlet 904. That is, when the normal medal NM stops in the hit determination area 912, the normal medal NM is supplied to the medal payout opening 904 by the medal payout device 905. When the special medal SM stops in the hit determination area 912, the special medal SM is supplied to the medal payout opening 904 by the medal payout device 906. In the case of “missing”, the medals NM and SM are not supplied from the medal payout devices 905 and 906 to the medal payout exit 904.

  In the medal game machine GM12 of the twelfth embodiment, the medals NM and SM transported by the medal transport device 910 are moved while meandering in the roulette area 902. Therefore, a high visual effect can be obtained in the movement of medals. Further, the player watches the special medal SM stopping in the hit determination area 912 while expecting to pay out the high-value special medal SM, and a new game characteristic is created.

  FIG. 33 shows a medal transport device 910A constituting the medal game machine according to the thirteenth embodiment of the present invention. The medal transport device 910A of the thirteenth embodiment is different from the medal transport device 910 of FIG. 32 in that the medal movement area 911 is filled with the liquid 920 and has a medal identification device 913A that detects the diameter and pattern of the medal. To do. Other than that, since it has the same configuration as the medal game machine GM12 of the twelfth embodiment, the same components as those of the medal game machine GM12 of the twelfth embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals in FIG. To do.

  In the medal game machine of the thirteenth embodiment, as shown in FIG. 33, the liquid 920 is filled in the medal movement area 911 of the medal transport device 910A. Thereby, the medal moved in the medal guide passage 110 receives fluid resistance by the liquid 920 and moves while swinging irregularly.

  In addition to the normal medal NM and the special medal SM, a premium medal PM having a higher value than the special medal SM exists in the medal guide passage 110. The premium medal PM has the same outer diameter as the special medal SM, and a fish pattern FP is formed on one surface. Therefore, the medal identification device 913A has a function of detecting not only the outer diameter of the medal but also the pattern FP. Thereby, the medal identification device 913A identifies the normal medal NM, the special medal SM, and the premium medal PM from the diameter value of the medal, and identifies the special medal SM and the premium medal PM from the presence / absence of the pattern.

  The game machine control device 907 performs a roulette game in the roulette area 902 when a medal is inserted into the medal insertion slot 903, and controls so that a payout medal according to the game result is supplied to the medal payout opening 904. That is, when the normal medal NM stops in the hit determination area 912, the normal medal NM is supplied to the medal payout opening 904 by the medal payout device 905. When the special medal SM stops in the hit determination area 912, the special medal SM is supplied to the medal payout opening 904 by the medal payout device 906. When the premium medal PM stops in the hit determination area 912, two special medals SM are supplied to the medal payout exit 904 by the medal payout device 906. In the case of “missing”, the medals NM and SM are not supplied from the medal payout devices 905 and 906 to the medal payout exit 904.

  In the medal game machine of the thirteenth embodiment, the medal that receives fluid resistance by the liquid 920 moves while swinging irregularly. Moreover, since the fish pattern is formed on the premium medal PM, a visual effect is produced as if the fish are swimming. Therefore, a higher visual effect than the medal game machine GM12 of the twelfth embodiment can be obtained in the movement of medals. In addition, since there are three types of hits, the normal medal NM, the special medal SM, and the premium medal PM, each having a different payout, higher game performance is created.

  In addition, this invention is not limited to said Example, A various change is possible. For example, three or more types of medals having different outer diameters can be used, and medals of different colors and materials can be mixed as well as patterns. In that case, it becomes possible to create other new game characteristics. Of course, application to game machines other than pusher games, shooting games, and roulette games is also possible.

  The present invention can be suitably used for a game machine that uses medals and coins, and in particular, can be suitably used for a game machine having a function of moving medals and coins.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Game board 2 Pusher game mechanism 3 Medal storage / dispensing device 3a Medal receiving member 3b Support frame 3c Reciprocating body 3d Axis 4 Medal guide 4A, 4B Medal transport device 4a, 4b Rotary disc 4c Guide body 4d Axis 4e Mark 4f Gear 4g Gear 4h Electric motor 4i Bearing 5A, 5B, 5AA, 5AB, 5BA, 5BB Medal transport device 5CA, 5DA Medal transport device 5E, 5F Medal transport device 5K, 5KA, 5KB, 5KC Medal transport device 6a Medal delivery port 6A, 6B, 6E Medal hopper device 7A, 7B, 7KB Medal shoot 8A, 8B Reservation bowl 9 Game control circuit 10 Main board 10a, 11a Circular hole 11 Transparent plate 12 Swing arm 13 Fixing pins 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D Through chucker 15 Image display 18 Guide plate 20 Fixed table 21 Slide table 37 Energizing means 100 Medal guide part 102 Medal receiving port 104 Medal payout port 110 Medal guide passages 112, 114 Left and right guide surfaces 116, 118 Front and back guide surfaces 120 Medal number counter 121 Medal sensors 200, 200A , 200B, 200D Base body 202 Front surface 204 Back surface 206 First member 208 Second member 210 Fixing screw 212 First shaft array line 214 Second shaft array line 215 Through hole 216 Recess 218 Bottom surface 221 to 228 First to eighth Rotation axis 240 Screw hole 300, 300D, 300E Cover body 300Da First cover body portion 300Db Second cover body portion 302 Front surface 304 Back surface 306 Medal guide groove 310, 310E Bottom surface 312 First side surface 314, 314E Second side surface 316, 318 Curve 322 groove 400 medal Moving mechanisms 401-408 First to eighth rotating disks 411a-418a First medal pushers 411b-418b Second medal pushers 422 Surface 424 Peripheral parts 431-438 First to eighth gears 440 Arrangement circle 500 Rotation drive device 502 Electric motor 504 Deceleration mechanism 601 Light emitting means 602 Light emitting element 603 Cover lens 604 Contact 605 Wiring pattern 606 Storage hole 607 Opening 611 Power generating means 612 Power generating coil 613 Magnet body 614 Opening 615 Rectifier circuit 621, 622 Line transfer portion 623 Surface transfer portion 623a First area 623b Second area 631 Medal release mechanism 632 Support shaft 633 Drive device 634 Solenoid 635 Armature 636 Through hole 637 Energizing means 701 Housing 701a Opening 701b Table 702 Shooting gun 703 Target area 703a Left end 703b Right end 04 support arm 705 medal receiving container 705a opening 705b inclined surface 705c medal drop opening 706 medal chute 707 payout outlet 708 medal storage container 709 medal chute 801-806 medal transport device 807 game machine control device 810 medal distribution device 811 left payout port 812 Right discharge port 813 Deflection pin 813a Guide hole 814 Movement shaft 815 Movement roller 816 Long hole 817 Position change device 818 Distribution passage 819a Left passage 819b Right passage 820, 820A, 820B Medal identification device 821 Diameter detection device 822, 822A, 822B Medal Identification control device 823 Pattern detection device 824 Material detection device 825 Color detection device 826 Medal communication device 901 Case 902 Roulette area 903 Medal insertion port 904 Medal payout port 905, 906 Medal payout device 907 Game machine control device 908 Hopper device with escalator 909 Medal chute 910, 910A Medal transport device 911 Medal movement region 912 Determination region 913, 913A Medal identification device 920 Liquid GF1 First game region GF2 Second game region GM1, GM4 , GM5, GM6, GM8, GM11, GM12 Medal game machines GM6, GM7 Shooting game machines GMS1 to GMS6 Medal game stand P1 First position P2 Second position S1 Pass sensor S2 Optical sensor M, M1, M2, M3 Medal NM Normal Medal PM Premium Medal SM Special Medal FP Pattern CPS Prize Signal CRS Communication Result Signal CS Color Identification Signal DS Diameter Identification Signal MDS Medal Identification Signal MS Material Identification Signal PS Pattern Identification Signal SCS Distribution Control Signal

Claims (1)

A game machine including a medal transport device that transports medals from a first position toward a second position,
The medal conveying device is
The first and second guide surfaces for guiding the peripheral surface of the medal, and the third and fourth guide surfaces for guiding the front and back surfaces of the medal, respectively, from the first position toward the second position A medal guide passage that extends,
A plurality of turntables arranged respectively in a predetermined order along the first guide surface or the second guide surface and rotating about a plurality of rotation axes substantially perpendicular to the third and fourth guide surfaces;
Each of the plurality of turntables protrudes from the surface located on the medal guide passage side, and is disposed to face the rotation axis of the corresponding turntable, and rotates integrally with the corresponding turntable. The first and second medal pushers that circulate around the corresponding rotation axis by:
A gear that is provided on a back surface that is located on the opposite side of the medal guide passage side in each of the plurality of turntables, and that meshes with each other in two adjacent turntables of the plurality of turntables;
A base body that constitutes the fourth guide surface and is formed with an opening that accommodates the gears of the plurality of turntables;
A pair of side surfaces that form the third guide surface and are perpendicular to the bottom surface and face each other are formed with guide grooves that form the first and second guide surfaces, and the guide groove and the base body A hip body fixed to the surface of the base body so as to face the surface;
With
One of the two adjacent turntables of the plurality of turntables rotates in the first rotation direction, the other rotates in the second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction, and the one turntable turntable and the other of the rotating disk of the one to the first and second medal pusher of said other of the rotating disk of the first and second medal pusher circulates while maintaining a predetermined rotation phase difference And the first and second guide surfaces are formed along a curve connecting a plurality of arcs around each of the plurality of rotation axes ,
The plurality of turntables are supported by rotation shafts provided on the base body so that the respective surfaces of the plurality of turntables are substantially flush with the surface of the base body. Each surface constitutes the fourth guide surface together with the surface of the base body,
While the front and back surfaces of the medal in the medal guide passage are directly guided by the third and fourth guide surfaces, the circumferential surfaces of the first and second medal pushers that circulate contact the circumferential surface of the medal. wherein by pushing the medals, game machine that will be configured for transporting the medal from the first position to the second position.

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