JP7601968B2 - Pressing Mechanism - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a pressing mechanism used in a game device where prizes can be won.

As a game device in which prizes can be won, for example, a prize-winning amusement machine that drops prizes placed on a turntable has been considered (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In the prize-winning amusement machine described in Patent Document 1, a turntable is provided with multiple prize stands, prizes are placed individually on each prize stand, and a target is provided at the end of an arm extending from the prize stand. When playing a game, the player operates the lift stand to move, and by hitting the target with a hitting part provided on the lift stand, the prize stand can be tilted to release a prize.

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 10-76070

In this way, in the prize-winning game machines described in the conventional patent documents, the lifting platform is tilted by hitting the hitting part of the lifting platform against a target that is fixedly attached to the prize platform of the turntable. The lifting platform is a relatively small and lightweight component that is provided for placing individual products on it, so the lifting platform can be tilted simply by causing the hitting part of the lifting platform to perform an action (revolution) to hit the target, causing the hitting part to collide with the target.

However, for example, if the prize stand (or turntable) is heavy, it is not possible to tilt the prize stand just by having the winning part collide with the target.

The present invention was made in consideration of the above-mentioned circumstances, and its purpose is to provide a pressing mechanism that can be continuously pressed to tilt the platform.

In order to solve the above problems, the pressing mechanism used in the game device in which prizes can be obtained in this embodiment has a first mechanism having a receiving member fixed to a tiltable platform, and a second mechanism that presses the receiving member of the first mechanism to tilt the platform fixed to the first mechanism , the second mechanism has a configuration for moving and pressing the pressing member in a predetermined direction, and the first mechanism enables the receiving member to be moved relative to the platform within a specified range by pressing the pressing member against the receiving member.

The present invention provides a pressing mechanism that can be continuously pressed to tilt the platform.

1 is a perspective view showing the external configuration of a game device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a plan view of the inside of the housing of the game device according to the embodiment. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a pusher mechanism in the embodiment. FIG. 2 is a plan view showing the configuration of a left unit of the game device according to the embodiment. An oblique view showing the pusher mechanism and prize stand with prizes placed on the prize table in this embodiment. An oblique view showing the pusher mechanism and the prize stand when the prize table is tilted. An external view of the tilting mechanism provided at the bottom of the prize table in this embodiment. A diagram showing the external configuration of the shaft member that supports the prize table from below and rotates on the shaft. A diagram showing the external configuration of the shaft member when the prize table is tilted. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a target mechanism to which a receiving member is attached. FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing an internal structure of the target mechanism shown in FIG. 10 . 11A to 11C are diagrams for explaining the movement of the target mechanism shown in FIG. 10 . 11A to 11C are diagrams for explaining the movement of the target mechanism shown in FIG. 10 . FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a target mechanism to which a receiving member is attached. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a target mechanism to which a receiving member is attached. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the game device according to the embodiment. 4 is a flowchart showing a game control process executed based on a game control program of the game device.

The following describes an embodiment of the present invention with reference to the drawings.

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

In this embodiment, the game device 10 allows prizes placed on a prize table 18 (18L, 18R) of a prize stand 17 (17L, 17R) installed inside the housing to fall and be acquired by tilting the prize table 18. The prize table 18 (18L, 18R) rotates horizontally on a rotation axis with prizes placed on it, and the entire prize table 18 can be tilted by pressing (pushing downward) the outer periphery of the prize table 18 with a pusher mechanism 19 (19L, 19R) (second mechanism) that operates in response to user operation. In this embodiment, the prize table 18 is formed, for example, in a circular shape.

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

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

On the field board 16 laid out at the bottom inside the upper housing 12, a prize stand 17L and a pusher mechanism 19L are arranged on the left unit 10L side, and a prize stand 17R and a pusher mechanism 19R are arranged on the right unit 10R side, so as to be symmetrical. The pusher mechanism 19L is arranged near the left rear corner of the field board 16, and the pusher mechanism 19R is arranged near the right rear corner of the field board 16. The prize stand 17L is arranged to the right of the pusher mechanism 19L, and the prize stand 17R is arranged to the left of the pusher mechanism 19R. In addition, a prize drop opening 20L is formed in the left front corner of the field board 16, and a prize drop opening 20R is formed in the right front corner.

In addition, prize stock shelves 25L, 25R are provided on the left and right sides at the top of the inside of the upper housing 12 for storing replenishment prizes, decorative prizes, etc.

A prize guide space is provided below each of the prize drop openings 20L, 20R to guide prizes dropped from the prize tables 18L, 18R to the prize outlets 21L, 21R provided on the front side of the lower housing 13. The prize guide space also has an inclined surface that is higher on the back side and lower on the front side. By providing an inclined surface, prizes that drop from the prize drop openings collide with the inclined surface and tend to fall to the front side of the lower housing 13 where the prize outlets 21L, 21R are provided. This makes it easier to take prizes from the prize outlets 21L, 21R. A prize detection sensor is provided in each of the prize drop openings 20L, 20R to detect when a prize has fallen into the prize drop openings 20L, 20R (when a prize is paid out to a player).

The prize stand 17L supports the prize table 18L on which the prizes are placed from below, and rotates it with the prizes placed on it. The prize stand 17L is also provided with a tilting mechanism that tilts the prize table 18L in a predetermined direction when the outer periphery of the prize table 18 is pushed down by a pusher mechanism 19L that operates in response to user operation. Similarly, the prize stand 17R supports the prize table 18R on which the prizes are placed from below, and rotates it with the prizes placed on it. The prize stand 17R is also provided with a tilting mechanism that tilts the prize table 18R in a predetermined direction when the outer periphery of the prize table 18 is pushed down by a pusher mechanism 19R that operates in response to user operation.

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

The prize outlets 21L, 21R are for removing prizes from inside the upper housing 12 to the outside, and are connected to a prize guide space provided in the lower part of the field board 16. Prizes can be removed from the prize outlets 21L, 21R by tilting the prize tables 18L, 18R to drop them into the prize drop holes 20L, 20R.

The front maintenance door 22 can be opened by the administrator (with a key) when performing work on the control unit (control unit) and other mechanism parts housed inside the lower housing 13. Inside the front maintenance door 22, for example, a main power switch for controlling the operation of the game device 10, a volume for adjusting the volume from the speaker, a setting device (setting device 74 shown in FIG. 16) for the administrator to perform various settings, etc., and a storage space for storing prizes for refilling are provided. The setting device can set, for example, the rotation speed and rotation direction of the prize tables 18L and 18R, the initial operation state and the push operation speed of the pusher mechanisms 19L and 19R, etc. The setting device can set various settings for the left unit 10L and the right unit 10R individually. Note that instead of the setting device 74, various settings can be set by the administrator operating a setting screen displayed on a touch panel 27 described later, or by the administrator operating a setting operation button provided on the upper housing 12 inside the transparent plate 15, which can be operated by opening the transparent plate 15.

Start buttons 26L, 26R are provided on the control panels 23L, 23R, respectively, which are operated by the player to operate the pusher mechanisms 19L, 19R. A player playing a game on the left unit 10L controls the operation of the pusher mechanism 19L only by operating the single start button 26L provided on the control panel 23L. Similarly, a player playing a game on the right unit 10R controls the operation of the pusher mechanism 19R only by operating the single start button 26R provided on the control panel 23R. In other words, the game device 10 of this embodiment simplifies the operation method so that even a player using it for the first time can easily understand the game content.

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

In addition, lighting devices (LED group 93) such as LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) and lamps are provided on the outside of the housing of the game device 10 for use in lighting and light-based game effects. In addition, a speaker is provided inside the housing of the game device 10 for outputting sound effects, music, voice messages, and the like during game execution.

Figure 3 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the pusher mechanism 19 (19L, 19R) in this embodiment. In Figure 3, the housing plate that covers the exterior is removed so that the internal structure can be seen.

The pusher mechanism 19 is formed into a vertically long housing, with a pusher motor 19M provided near the bottom. A lower pulley 19D1 is provided at the bottom of the vertically long housing of the pusher mechanism 19, and an upper pulley 19D2 is provided at the top. A belt 19D3 is stretched between the lower pulley 19D1 and the upper pulley 19D2. The rotational power of the pusher motor 19M is transmitted to the lower pulley 19D1 via, for example, a gear (not shown). This causes the belt 19D3 to rotate (move) between the lower pulley 19D1 and the upper pulley 19D2.

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

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

For example, when a game is being played, the push member 19P is positioned at the initial position by moving it to an upper limit position detected by the position sensor 19S1, then moving it downward until it is detected by the position sensor 19S2, and then moving it downward from the initial position in response to an operation by the player. By moving downward from the initial position, the push member 19P presses against a target mechanism 18C (receiving member 50) described below, causing the prize table 18 to tilt.

In the configuration shown in FIG. 3, three position sensors 19S1, 19S2, and 19S3 are provided, but position sensor 19S2 may be omitted. For example, after moving the pusher member 19P upward to the upper limit position detected by position sensor 19S1, the pusher motor 19M is operated to move the pusher member 19P downward by a predetermined momentum (number of drive pulses) and then stopped, so that the pusher member 19P can be positioned at the initial position. This makes it possible to omit position sensor 19S2 for detecting the initial position.

Figure 4 is a plan view showing the configuration of the left unit 10L of the game device 10 in this embodiment. Note that the following explanation focuses on the left unit 10L, but the right unit 10R is configured symmetrically to the left unit 10L and has essentially the same configuration as the left unit 10L, so a description of it will be omitted.

As shown in FIG. 4, the prize table 18L provided on the prize stand 17L rotates clockwise (right) during the game, as indicated by the arrow in the figure. On the back surface near the outer periphery of the prize table 18L, multiple target mechanisms 18C (18C1, 18C2, 18C3, 18C4) (first mechanisms) are provided at equal intervals. FIG. 4 shows an example in which four target mechanisms 18C1, 18C2, 18C3, 18C4 are provided, but it is sufficient that at least one is provided. Additionally, the multiple target mechanisms 18C do not need to be provided at equal intervals.

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

The target mechanism 18C is provided with receiving members (catch covers) 50 (50a, 50b, 50c) against which the push member 19P of the pusher mechanism 19L is pressed. The receiving members 50 protrude from the outer periphery of the prize table 18L, and pass under the push member 19P of the pusher mechanism 19L as the prize table 18L rotates. Because the target mechanism 18C is provided near the outer periphery of the prize table 18L, the outer periphery of the prize table 18L is pushed down by the push member 19P, and thus the outer periphery of the prize table 18L is pushed down.

In the example shown in FIG. 4, the target mechanisms 18C2 and 18C4 are provided with receiving members 50a, the target mechanism 18C1 is provided with receiving members 50b, and the target mechanism 18C3 is provided with receiving members 50c. The receiving members 50a, 50b, and 50c each have a different shape of the contact surface (upper surface) with the pressing member 19P. For example, the receiving member 50b has a flat contact surface and has the largest area. The receiving member 50a has a flat contact surface and has a smaller area than the receiving member 50a. The receiving member 50c has a curved contact surface. In other words, the structure is such that the pressing member 19P can be easily moved downward and pressed in the order of receiving member 50b, receiving member 50a, and receiving member 50c. The receiving members 50a, 50b, and 50c are detachable and can be replaced as desired. In other words, the difficulty level of the game can be adjusted by allowing the player to select the receiving members 50a, 50b, and 50c to be attached to the target mechanism 18C. The detailed configuration of the target mechanism 18C and the receiving members 50 will be described with reference to Figures 10 to 15.

The prize table 18L is tilted when one of the multiple receiving members 50 is pushed down by the push member 19P of the pusher mechanism 19L. The tilt mechanism provided in the prize stand 17L tilts the prize table 18L on axis P1 shown by the dashed line in FIG. 4. That is, the position where the outer periphery of the prize table 18L is pushed down is the position below the push member 19P, but the prize table 18L is configured to be tilted in a direction different from the pushed-down position. The prize table 18L is tilted in the direction where the prize drop opening 20L is located, so that the prizes placed on it can be dropped into the prize drop opening 20L.

In this way, by tilting the prize table 18L in a direction different from the pushed-down position, the pushing member 19P is not present in the direction in which the prize falls, and does not become an obstacle when the prize falls. Therefore, even if a large prize is placed on the prize table 18L, the tilt of the prize table 18L ensures that the prize falls reliably into the prize drop hole 20L.

In the game device 10 of this embodiment, a target mechanism 18C configured separately from the prize table 18L is provided on the outer periphery of the prize table 18L, and the receiving member 50 of the target mechanism 18C is pushed down by a pushing member 19P. However, it is also possible to use a member integrated with the prize table 18L, or to push down the prize table 18L directly with the pushing member 19P.

Figure 5 is a perspective view showing the pusher mechanism 19L and the prize stand 17L in a state where a prize (e.g., a stuffed toy) is placed on the prize table 18L in this embodiment. Note that the number of prizes placed on the prize table 18L is not limited to one, but may be multiple, and different types of prizes may be mixed together. When placing multiple prizes, partition plates may be provided to divide the top surface of the prize table 18L, and the prizes may be placed in each section so that only some of the prizes will fall when the prize table 18L is tilted.

During game execution, the game device 10 rotates the prize table 18L in the direction of the arrow in FIG. 5. That is, the receiving member 50 of the target mechanism 18C provided on the outer periphery of the prize table 18L moves toward the lower part of the pushing member 19P of the pusher mechanism 19L. Through the transparent plate 15 on the front or side of the game device 10, the player can see how the receiving member 50 moves toward the lower part of the pushing member 19P. While seeing how the receiving member 50 moves, the player can press the start button 26L at the appropriate timing to start the downward movement of the pushing member 19P.

Figure 6 is an oblique view showing the pusher mechanism 19L and the prize stand 17L when the prize table 18L is tilted.

When the push member 19P is moved downward in response to the operation of the start button 26L and is pressed against the upper surface of the receiving member 50, which has moved at the right time, the prize table 18L can be tilted if the receiving member 50 can be pressed down. As shown in FIG. 6, when the push member 19P is pressed against the upper surface of the receiving member 50b, for example, the prize table 18L is separated from the rotation drive system and stops rotating, and the tilt (gradient) increases in accordance with the downward movement of the push member 19P. As a result, the prizes placed on the prize table 18L move in the tilted direction and even fall from the prize table 18L. Details of the tilt mechanism that separates the prize table 18L from the rotation drive system will be described using FIG. 7 to FIG. 9.

When the push member 19P is pressed against the receiving member 50 and the push member 19P continues to move while the push member 19P and the receiving member 50 remain in a pressed state, the prize table 18L is tilted to a maximum angle set so that the prizes placed on it will definitely fall. For example, a tilt detection sensor (not shown) is provided to detect when the prize table 18L has tilted to the maximum angle, and the push member 19P continues to move downward until the tilt detection sensor detects this.

Furthermore, if the pushing member 19P is pressed against the receiving member 50 but moves and comes off the receiving member 50 before tilting to the maximum angle, the prize table 18L returns to its original horizontal state at that point. In this case, the prize may fall before tilting to the maximum angle, or it may not fall and the prize placement position or posture may be changed, for example. Even if the prize cannot be dropped, by changing the prize placement position or posture, it can be made easier to drop the next time the game is played.

If the timing of the movement of the push member 19P is not right and it fails to come into contact with the receiving member 50, the push member 19P is moved as it is to the lowest position detected by the position sensor 19S3, and then moved upward and returned to, for example, the initial position. In this case, the receiving member 50 may collide with the side of the push member 19P as the prize table 18L rotates. In this case, the rotation of the prize table 18L is restricted by the collision of the receiving member 50, and the prize table 18L is disconnected from the rotation drive system and stops rotating.

Next, we will explain the tilting mechanism for tilting the prize table 18 in the prize stand 17 of this embodiment.

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

As shown in FIG. 8, the prize table 18 is attached with an axial member that is supported from the center of the bottom and rotates about an axis. The axial member is formed by a first member 35 having one end fixed to the bottom of the prize table 18 and a second member 31 having one end fixed to a rotating shaft of a table motor 30 for axially rotating the axial member, and a first magnet 39 provided at the other end of the first member 35 and a second magnet 32 provided at the other end of the second member 31 being magnetically coupled together. The first member 35 is supported by a support member 36 in a rotatable state, and is held in an inclined state by the support member 36 when the prize table 18 is tilted.

In this embodiment, an elastic member 40 such as rubber is provided between the first magnet 39 and the second magnet 32, and the first magnet 39 and the second magnet 32 are connected via the elastic member 40. The elastic member 40 is, for example, glued and fixed to the upper surface of the second magnet 32, and is detachably attached to the lower surface of the first magnet 39. In other words, when the prize table 18 is not tilted, the lower surface of the first magnet 39 and the elastic member 40 are pressed against each other, and the first magnet 39 and the second magnet 32 are coupled together by the magnetic force of the first magnet 39 and the second magnet 32. This transmits the rotational power of the table motor 30 to the prize table 18.

On the other hand, when the prize table 18 is tilted, as shown in FIG. 9, the axial direction of the first member 35 and the axial direction of the second member 31 do not coincide, and the first magnet 39 moves away from the elastic member 40 (second magnet 32) against the magnetic force between the first magnet 39 and the second magnet 32. This causes the prize table 18 to be disconnected from the rotation drive system (the rotation shaft of the table motor 30), and the rotation of the prize table 18 is stopped.

Because the first member 35 (first magnet 39) and the second member 31 (second magnet 32) are not fixed, the prize table 18 does not rotate in perfect synchronization with the rotation of the table motor 30. For example, when rotating the prize table 18 in a stopped state, even if the driving of the table motor 30 is started, if the mass of the prize table 18 is relatively large, the prize table 18 does not rotate in synchronization with the start of driving of the table motor 30 due to inertia, and the rotation of the table motor 30 is transmitted from the second magnet 32 to the elastic member 40, and further from the elastic member 40 to the first magnet 39, thereby rotating the prize table 18. In other words, the rotational power of the table motor 30 is transmitted to the prize table 18 via the elastic member 40, so that it is transmitted to the prize table 18 so as to follow the rotation of the table motor 30. After the rotation of the prize table 18 becomes stable, the prize table 18 rotates stably in accordance with the rotation of the table motor 30.

In a configuration in which the elastic member 40 is not provided between the first magnet 39 and the second magnet 32, for example, when rotating the prize table 18 that is in a stopped state, the second member 31 (second magnet 32) starts to rotate by starting the driving of the table motor 30, but since the prize table 18 and the first member 35 (first magnet 39) do not rotate due to inertia, the first magnet 39 and the second magnet 32 are slightly misaligned, and then the first magnet 39 and the second magnet 32 are coupled together and the prize table 18 is rotated. Furthermore, as the table motor 30 rotates, the first magnet 39 and the second magnet 32 are repeatedly misaligned and coupled together, causing the prize table 18 to move in an awkward manner that is not constant, for example by repeatedly accelerating and decelerating.

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

As shown in FIG. 7, the support member 36 is fixed to the upper surface of the table support member 37. The table support member 37 is supported so as to be rotatable by pivot shafts 42a, 42b that are provided symmetrically on the left and right. Therefore, since the table support member 37 holds the prize table 18 via the support member 36, the prize table 18 can be tilted by rotating the table support member 37 by the pivot shafts 42a, 42b.

A tilt mechanism bottom member 43 is fixed to the top surface of the main body housing of the table motor 30, and shaft support members 41a and 41b are arranged vertically spaced apart on the top surface of the tilt mechanism bottom member 43. The shaft support member 41a rotatably supports the rotating shaft portion 42a, and the shaft support member 41b rotatably supports the rotating shaft portion 42b.

A tension coil spring 46 is disposed between the table support member 37 and a member 47 fixed to the installation surface of the table motor 30. When the prize table 18 is tilted as shown in FIG. 9, the table support member 37 rotates by the pivot shafts 42a and 42b, and the attachment portion of the tension coil spring 46 moves upward. As a result, the tension coil spring 46 expands between the table support member 37 and the member 47, and urges the prize table 18 to return to its original horizontal state. When the pusher mechanism 19 (pushing member 19P) is no longer pressing the prize table 18, the tension coil spring 46 urges the prize table 18 back to its original horizontal state. In this embodiment, the tension coil spring 46 is used, but other members can be used as long as they can urge the prize table 18 back to its original state.

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

The target mechanism 18C is provided with a fixed member 55 that supports the shaft member 51 so that it can rotate, and an outer peripheral member 54 that covers the fixed member 55, and the fixed member 55 and the outer peripheral member 54 are fixed to the back surface of the prize table 18. Therefore, the shaft member 51 is held so that it can rotate at a fixed position relative to the prize table 18. A receiving member 50a is fixed to the shaft member 51, for example, by a screw 62. Also, as shown in FIG. 11, a torsion coil spring 61 is wound around the shaft member 51 inside the fixed member 55, and both ends 61a, 61b of the torsion coil spring 61 are pressed against the fixed member 59. The fixed member 59 is fixed to the fixed member 55 attached to the prize table 18. Therefore, the range in which the shaft member 51 can rotate around the rotation axis (axis P2 shown by a dashed line in FIG. 11) and the braking strength are determined by the torsion coil spring 61. It is also possible to provide another elastic member in place of the torsion coil spring 61 to determine the range within which the shaft member 51 can rotate and the braking strength.

A rod-shaped member 58 is attached to the shaft member 51 at a predetermined interval near both ends by connecting members 57a and 57b. Since connecting members 57a and 57b are fixed to the shaft member 51 and rod-shaped member 58, as the shaft member 51 rotates, the rod-shaped member 58 moves in an arc around axis P2 within a range defined by the coil spring 61.

A planar front member 53 that covers the fixed member 55 and the outer peripheral member 54 is provided on the side where the receiving member 50a of the fixed member 55 and the outer peripheral member 54 are attached. One end of the shaft member 51 and the rod-shaped member 58 protrudes from the front member 53, and the connecting member 57b is attached to this protruding portion. The front member 53 also has an arc-shaped slit 53a centered on the axis P2, which has a width that allows the rod-shaped member 58 to pass through. Therefore, as the shaft member 51 rotates, the rod-shaped member 58 moves in an arc and passes through the slit 53a.

The receiving member 50a is formed with a contact surface 50aW against which the pushing member 19P of the pusher mechanism 19 is pressed. In the receiving member 50a, for example, the contact surface 50aW is formed in a planar shape with an approximately rectangular outer shape. As shown in FIG. 11, the contact surface 50aW is formed so as to be positioned away from the axis P2, that is, to be positioned lower than the axis P2 by a height of 50H.

For example, when the pressing member 19P is moved downward and contacts the contact surface 50aW at a position that is perpendicular to the axis P2 of the contact surface 50aW, the pressing member 19P is pressed almost perpendicularly against the contact surface 50aW, and the receiving member 50 is pressed downward.

When the pressing member 19P contacts the contact surface 50aW at a position that does not coincide with the axis P2 of the contact surface 50aW in the vertical direction, the axis member 51 rotates by the axis P2 in a direction in which the contact surface 50aW is perpendicular to the pressing member 19P. At this time, the torsion coil spring 61 can cushion the impact when the pressing member 19P contacts the contact surface 50aW and brake the rotation. This allows the pressing member 19P to maintain its contact state with the contact surface 50aW and continue to press down the receiving member 50 (target mechanism 18C) in response to the downward movement of the pressing member 19P. Note that the ease of maintaining the pressing state of the pressing member 19P against the contact surface 50aW can be adjusted by increasing or decreasing the strength of the torsion coil spring 61.

When the push member 19P continues to push down, the prize table 18 tilts. At this time, the shaft member 51 rotates by the shaft P2 in a direction in which the contact surface 50aW is perpendicular to the push member 19P in accordance with the tilt of the prize table 18. This makes it possible to maintain the state in which the push member 19P pushes down on the contact surface 50aW from a direction that is nearly perpendicular to the push member 19P.

For example, as shown in FIG. 12, the push member 19P is moved downward to come into contact with the contact surface 50aW of the receiving member 50a, and is then pushed down in that state. In this case, as shown in FIG. 13, the prize table 18 tilts, but the shaft member 51 rotates, so that the contact surface 50aW of the receiving member 50a becomes nearly perpendicular to the push member 19P. Therefore, even if the tilt angle of the prize table 18 changes in response to the push down by the push member 19P, the push down can continue stably.

In this way, by providing the contact surface of the receiving member 50, which is pressed down by the pressing member 19P, at a position that is separate from the shaft member 51 that allows the receiving member 50 to rotate, the receiving member 50 can continue to be pressed down in accordance with the prize table 18, whose tilt changes in response to being pressed down. In addition, by defining the range within which the receiving member 50 can rotate and the braking strength by the torsion coil spring 61, the ease with which the pressing member 19P presses down on the receiving member 50 can be adjusted. Therefore, for example, when the pressing member 19P is pressed against the edge of the contact surface 50aW, the pressing member 19P can be pressed down in that state until the prize table 18 is tilted until the prize falls, or the pressing member 19P can come off the contact surface 50aW in the middle of the pressing down, interrupting the pressing down and causing the prize table 18 to vibrate.

Figure 14 is a perspective view showing the configuration of a target mechanism 18C to which a receiving member 50b is attached. The target mechanism 18C shown in Figure 14 is equipped with a receiving member 50b that is different from the receiving member 50a shown in Figure 10.

As shown in FIG. 14, like receiving member 50a, receiving member 50b is provided with a contact surface 50bW formed in a substantially rectangular plane against which the push member 19P of the pusher mechanism 19 is pressed. However, the width W2 of contact surface 50bW in a direction perpendicular to the axis of shaft member 51 is greater than the width W1 of contact surface 50aW in a direction perpendicular to the axis of shaft member 51. In other words, the shape of receiving member 50b makes it easier to be pushed down (pressed) by the push member 19P than receiving member 50a. The rest of the configuration is the same as described above, so a description will be omitted.

Figure 15 is a perspective view showing the configuration of a target mechanism 18C to which a receiving member 50c is attached. The target mechanism 18C shown in Figure 15 is equipped with a receiving member 50c that is different from the receiving members 50a and 50b shown in Figures 10 and 14.

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

In this way, by providing multiple types of receiving members 50 and allowing them to be attached to the target mechanism 18C in an interchangeable manner, the difficulty level of the game can be adjusted.

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

For example, in the receiving members 50a, 50b, the outer shape of the contact surfaces 50aW, 50bW is approximately rectangular, but other shapes (circular, polygonal, etc.) are also possible, and the difficulty level may be changed not only by the area of the contact surface, but also by the shape of the contact surface.

Although the contact surfaces 50aW, 50bW of the receiving members 50a, 50b are flat, they can have other shapes. For example, they can be uneven, or have protrusions formed on some parts. Furthermore, multiple receiving members 50 with different materials for the contact surface can be provided. For example, multiple materials with different coefficients of friction with the pressing member 19P (material of the tip) can be used. In this way, by attaching a receiving member 50 made of a material with a high coefficient of friction to the target mechanism 18C, it is possible to make it easier for the pressing member 19P to press against it.

Furthermore, as shown in the receiving member 50c, the contact surface with the pressing member 19P may be a concave curved surface rather than a convex curved surface. By making it a concave curved surface, it becomes easier for the pressing member 19P to engage with the receiving member 50, and it becomes easier to press down with the pressing member 19P.

In the above description, multiple types of receiving members 50 are provided, but the contact portion of the pressing member 19P with the receiving member 50, or the entire pressing member 19P, may be replaceable. In the above description, the lower tip of the pressing member 19P is formed of, for example, an elastic material with a tapered shape, but it may be formed of a material that is easier to press against the receiving member 50 than an elastic material (having a large coefficient of friction), or a material with the opposite properties. Furthermore, the lower tip of the pressing member 19P is tapered, but the shape of the tip of the pressing member 19P can be changed by making it even sharper to make it more difficult to press the receiving member 50, or by increasing the area of the lower tip of the pressing member 19P to make it easier to press the receiving member 50.

In the game device 10 of this embodiment, the difficulty of the pressing member 19P pressing down on the receiving member 50 can be adjusted by changing the combination of the pressing member 19P and the receiving member 50.

Next, we will explain the functional configuration of the game device 10 in this embodiment.

Figure 16 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the game device 10 in this embodiment. Figure 16 shows the control unit 70, which is used in common by the left unit 10L and the right unit 10R, the main control panel 24, and the control panel 23L and mechanism unit 72L provided on the left unit 10L. The right unit 10R is provided with the same configuration as the control panel 23L and mechanism unit 72L, so a description of this will be omitted.

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

The control unit 70 includes a CPU 80, a RAM 81, a storage device 82, an input/output processing unit 83, as well as a table motor drive unit 84 and a pusher motor drive unit 85 for controlling the mechanism unit 72L provided in the left unit 10L. Although not shown, communication devices for communicating with external devices via a network such as a LAN (Local Area Network) are also provided. Note that while FIG. 16 only shows the mechanism unit 72L provided in the left unit 10L, a mechanism unit having a similar configuration to the mechanism unit 72L is provided in the right unit 10R. A detailed description of the control unit 70 will be omitted, as it controls the mechanism unit of the right unit 10R in the same way as the mechanism unit 72L.

The CPU 80 controls the entire game device 10 by executing the control program or game control program stored in the RAM 81 or the storage device 82. The CPU 80 records credit data indicating the number of times each of the left unit 10L and the right unit 10R can be played in the RAM 81 in response to a deposit notification from the electronic money units 28L and 28R or a coin insertion detection signal from the coin insertion sensors 99L and 99R, which are input via the input/output processing unit 83. The CPU 80 also controls the pusher motor drive unit 85 to operate the pusher motor 19M in response to an instruction according to a user's operation on the start button 26L of the control panel 23L, which is input via the input/output processing unit 83, and a detection signal from the position sensor 19S (19S1, 19S2, 19S3). The CPU 80 also controls the sound output from the speaker 73, the display on the touch panel 27, and the lighting/flashing of the LED group 93, via the input/output processing unit 83.

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

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

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

The table motor 30 is driven by the table motor drive unit 84 and is used to rotate the prize table 18L. The pusher motor 19M is driven by the pusher motor drive unit 85 and is used to move the push member 19P of the pusher mechanism 19L in the vertical direction.

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

Although not shown, the game device 10 is provided with various sensors for detecting the amount of rotation (rotation speed) of the prize table 18L rotated by the table motor 30 and whether the prize table 18L is in a preset inclined (gradient) state, and detection signals are sent to the CPU 80 via the input/output processing unit 83. The CPU 80 controls the drive of each section in response to notifications from each sensor.

Only one start button 26L is provided on the control panel 23L. Therefore, the player can easily understand that the game involves operating only the start button 26L.

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

The electronic money units 28L and 28R are units for depositing the amount of the game fee when an electronic money card is brought close to them. The electronic money units 28L and 28R can set the game fee to be deposited under the control of, for example, a server device connected to the game device 10 via a network (such as a LAN) or the control unit 70 (CPU 80).

The coin insertion sensor 99L detects a coin inserted through the coin insertion slot 29L and outputs a detection signal indicating the insertion of the coin to the input/output processing unit 83. The coin insertion sensor 99R detects a coin inserted through the coin insertion slot 29R and outputs a detection signal indicating the insertion of the coin to the input/output processing unit 83. The CPU 80 records credit data indicating the number of times that the left unit 10L or right unit 10R can be played in response to the detection signals from the coin insertion sensors 99L, 99R received through the input/output processing unit 83.

The touch panel 27 displays various information under the control of the CPU 80. For example, the number of credits (number of plays possible) and the operation mode are displayed on the touch panel 27. The touch panel 27 also displays the game fee, the amount deposited, the number of remaining plays (number of credits), a function setting menu (button), and messages for the player. The function setting menu (setting screen) is not normally displayed so that the player cannot operate it, and is displayed by performing a predetermined operation. For example, a setting button is provided on the upper housing 12 inside the transparent plate 15. When this setting button is operated, the CPU 80 changes the display of the touch panel 27 from a game display to various settings (function setting menu). The CPU 80 executes various settings in response to the operation on the function setting menu (storage of setting data), and after the settings are completed, changes the display of the touch panel 27 to a game display. In this way, by making it possible to perform various settings using the touch panel 27 provided on the main control panel 24, the setting work can be performed in a comfortable position.

The setting device 74 is used by the administrator to set various settings for the game device 10, and is equipped with, for example, multiple buttons (selection button, decision button, up/down/left/right buttons, etc.) for inputting various setting operations, a display for displaying various setting screens, etc. The CPU 80 stores the setting data set in the setting device 74, for example in the storage device 82, and controls the game according to this setting data. The setting data includes, for example, the rotation speed and rotation direction (right rotation, left rotation) of the prize table 18L when the game is executed, the initial position (height) of the push member 19P, and the speed at which the push member 19P moves downward in response to the operation of the start button 26L. The administrator of the game device 10 can adjust the difficulty of the game, i.e., the difficulty of pushing down the prize table 18L with the push member 19P, by changing the contents of the setting data.

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

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

Figure 17 is a flowchart showing the game control process executed based on the game control program of the game device 10.

The CPU 80 of the game device 10 can execute, for example, a demonstration operation while the player is not playing the game. For example, the CPU 80 can also rotate the prize table 18 by driving the table motor 30 via the table motor drive unit 84. This rotates the prizes placed on the prize table 18, appealing to the player and encouraging them to play the game, while also allowing the player to understand the rotation speed of the prize table 18 (the speed at which the receiving member 50 reaches the bottom of the pushing member 19P), etc.

The CPU 80 also drives the pusher motor 19M via the pusher motor drive unit 85 to move the push member 19P of the pusher mechanism 19 up and down, for example, within a range that does not reach the receiving member 50. This allows the player to understand the action that occurs when the start buttons 26L, 26R are operated and the moving speed of the push member 19P before the game starts.

In this way, by executing the demonstration operation, the player can recognize the current setting state of the game device 10 (the rotation speed of the prize table 18, the movement speed of the push member 19P), making it easier to play the game. In particular, even players who have never used the game device 10 can easily understand the game content.

In addition, instead of constantly executing the demonstration operation, a human presence sensor (not shown) may be provided on the game device 10 so that the demonstration operation is executed when it is detected that a person has moved near the game device 10.

When playing a game, the player pays for playing the game by inserting a specified coin into the coin slot 29L or by performing a specified operation on the electronic money unit 28L. When the CPU 80 receives a detection signal of the insertion of a coin from the coin insertion sensor 99L (step A1, Yes) or a deposit notification (billing process) from the electronic money unit 28L (step A2, Yes), it starts the initial game operations before accepting operations by the player.

The CPU 80 drives the pusher motor 19M via the pusher motor drive unit 85 to position the push member 19P at the initial position (step A3). That is, for example, the CPU 80 moves the push member 19P (detection member 19P3) to the upper limit position detected by the position sensor 19S1, and then moves it downward until it is detected by the position sensor 19S2. When the positioning of the push member 19P at the initial position is completed, the CPU 80 starts a time count to determine the valid time for the player to operate the start button 26L (step A4), and enters a waiting state for the operation of the start button 26L (step A6, No). During this time, the CPU 80 can notify the player of the remaining time until the valid operation time by displaying it on the touch panel 27 (e.g., the number of remaining seconds), by sound from the speaker 73, or by lighting/flashing the LED group 93.

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

On the other hand, when the CPU 80 detects that the start button 26L has been operated within the valid operation time (step A5, Yes), it drives the pusher motor 19M via the pusher motor drive unit 85 so as to move the push member 19P downward from the initial position. As a result, the push member 19P of the pusher mechanism 19 starts to move downward.

As a result, when the pusher 19P is pressed against the receiving member 50 of one of the target mechanisms 18C provided on the outer periphery of the prize table 18L and the pusher 19P is pressed down, the prize table 18L begins to tilt due to the tilting mechanism, and as a result of this tilting, the connection (coupling) between the first member 35 and the second member 31 is released, and the rotation of the prize table 18L is stopped.

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

In addition, if a communication device for communicating with external devices via a network is provided, the CPU 80 may notify the administrator of the game device 10 that a prize has been won by the player, and prompt the administrator to replenish the prizes.

On the other hand, if the tilt detection sensor (not shown) detects that the prize table 18L has tilted to the maximum angle, or the position sensor 19S3 detects that the push member 19P has been moved to the lowest position (Step A11, Yes), the CPU 80 changes the movement direction of the push member 19P to an upward direction and moves it to a predetermined position (e.g., the initial position), thereby ending the game.

When the push member 19P is no longer pushing down on the prize table 18L, the tension coil spring 46 biases the prize table 18L back to its original horizontal position, as described above.

In this way, the game device 10 of this embodiment can provide a game in which the push member 19P starts to move simply by operating the start button 26L, and the push member 19P tilts the prize table 18L, causing the prizes placed on the prize table 18L to fall. In other words, it is possible to provide a game device that allows the player to easily understand the game content and appeals to the player how easy it is to obtain prizes.

In the game device 10 of this embodiment, the rotation speed of the prize table 18L and the vertical movement speed of the push member 19P are constant, but the speed may be changed during the game, or movement/stop control may be added to the push member 19P. This allows the difficulty level of the game and the game content to be adjusted.

In the above explanation, the pusher mechanism 19 moves the pushing member 19P downward to push (press down) the receiving member 50 of the target mechanism 18C downward, but the pushing mechanism in this embodiment is not limited to pushing downward (vertically) and can also be used to push in other directions, such as diagonally downward, horizontally, or even upward.

The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment as it is, and in the implementation stage, the components can be modified and embodied without departing from the gist of the invention. Various inventions can be formed by appropriately combining the multiple components disclosed in the above-described embodiment. For example, some components may be deleted from all the components shown in the embodiment. Furthermore, components from different embodiments may be appropriately combined.

10...game device, 12...upper housing, 13...lower housing, 15...transparent plate, 16...field plate, 17 (17L, 17R)...prize stand, 18 (18L, 18R)...prize table, 18C (18C1, 18C2, 18C3, 18C4)...target mechanism, 19 (19L, 19R)...pusher machine, 19P...push member, 20 (20L, 20R)...prize drop hole, 21 (21L, 21R )...prize removal port, 22...front maintenance door, 23 (23L, 23R)...control panel, 24...main control panel, 25...prize stock shelf, 26L, 26R...start button, 27...touch panel, 28 (28L, 28R)...electronic money unit, 29 (29L, 29R)...coin insertion port, 50 (50a, 50b, 50c)...receiving member (catch cover).

Claims (5)

A pressing mechanism used in a game device in which a prize can be obtained,
a first mechanism having a receiving member fixed to the tiltable platform;
a second mechanism for pressing the receiving member of the first mechanism to tilt the platform fixed to the first mechanism ,
The second mechanism has a configuration for moving and pressing a pressing member in a predetermined direction,
The first mechanism is a pressing mechanism that enables the receiving member to move relative to the platform within a specified range by pressing the pressing member against the receiving member . The pressing mechanism according to claim 1 , wherein the first mechanism includes a shaft member that allows the receiving member to rotate relative to the platform by being pressed against the pressing member. The pressing mechanism according to claim 2, further comprising a member that defines the rotation range of the shaft member. The pressing mechanism according to claim 1 , wherein the first mechanism is configured to make the receiving member detachable. The pressing mechanism according to claim 1, wherein the second mechanism has a configuration in which the contact portion of the pressing member with the receiving member is replaceable.