JP2024026954A - game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a game machine that can suppress deterioration in amusement.SOLUTION: A game machine 1 provides a crane game that moves a crane 13 in accordance with operation that is input through an input device IP. The game machine 1 is provided with a pressing pressure adjustment spring 22A for biasing the crane 13 in a direction of hanging up the crane via a wire 21A; and a hanging adjustment mechanism 22 for changing the biasing force. The hanging adjustment mechanism 22 is provided with an operation dial 23 operated by being rotated about a rotation shaft 24 so as to maintain a relative positional relationship to an exterior 20W of a lifting device part 20 for accommodating the hanging adjustment mechanism 22 before and after operation; a ratchet gear 22C disposed to the rotation shaft 24 concentrically with the operation dial 23; and a spring pressing down member 22B that operates so as to change biasing force of the pressing pressure adjustment spring 22A with rotation of the ratchet gear 22C.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

The present invention provides a displacement execution section that is suspended via a hanging member above a storage section that houses a physical game object, and that executes a series of operations for displacing the position of the game object. The present invention provides a prize winning game in which a prize is given to a user when a game body moves to a predetermined position by operating in accordance with a play action inputted through a player, and a direction in which the displacement execution unit is lifted through a hanging member. The present invention relates to a game machine provided with a biasing means for biasing the biasing means and a biasing force changing means for changing the biasing force of the biasing means.

A displacement execution section is suspended via a hanging member above a storage section that houses a physical game object, and the displacement execution section executes a series of operations for displacing the position of the game object. The present invention provides a prize winning game in which a prize is given to a user when a game object moves to a predetermined position by operating in response to a play action, and the displacement executing section is biased in a direction to be lifted via a hanging member. There is a game machine that is provided with a biasing device and a biasing force changing device that changes the biasing force of the biasing device. For example, a prize acquisition game device is known that provides a crane game using a prize acquisition section imitating a crane as such a displacement execution section (for example, Patent Document 1).

Patent No. 6307721

In the prize acquisition game device disclosed in Patent Document 1, the prize acquisition section is biased in a lifting direction by a coil spring, and the biasing force of the coil spring is adjusted by a screw mechanism through displacement of its tip. This screw mechanism is provided with an adjustment knob for displacing the position of the tip. A rotation operation is performed on this adjustment knob to move the tip forward or backward. This rotation operation is performed manually, but may also be realized by a drive device such as a motor through an external operation command (in other words, the biasing force of the coil spring is adjusted via the drive device). However, in such a screw mechanism, it is possible to recognize how the biasing force of the coil spring is being adjusted by looking at the state of the adjustment knob.

Specifically, in this screw mechanism, when the adjustment knob is pushed in (advanced) so that the tip is displaced to a position where it presses the movable restraining plate member, the biasing force of the coil spring increases. On the other hand, when the adjustment knob is pulled out (retracted) so that the tip is displaced to a position where the movable restraining plate member is retreated, the biasing force of the coil spring is reduced. In other words, the degree (state) in which the adjustment knob is pressed is directly related to the biasing force of the coil spring. On the other hand, the adjustment knob is exposed to the outside for reasons such as ease of adjustment, and is also visible to the player. As a result, it is possible for the player to recognize the biasing force of the coil spring through the state of the adjustment knob. Since the biasing force of the coil spring acts in a direction to lift the prize acquisition section, it affects, for example, the pushing force when the prize acquisition section and the prize collide. Such pushing force often affects the acquisition of prizes. If the setting of elements that affect the biasing force of the coil spring and, by extension, the outcome of the game, is recognized through the state of the adjustment knob, the enjoyment (interest) of the play may be reduced.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a game machine that can suppress the decline in interest.

The game machine of the present invention includes a displacement execution section that is suspended via a hanging member above a storage section that accommodates a physical game object, and that executes a series of operations for displacing the position of the game object. , a prize winning game is provided in which a prize is given to a user when the game body moves to a predetermined position by operating according to a play action inputted through an input device; A game machine is provided with a biasing means for biasing in a lifting direction via a lowering member, and a biasing force changing means for changing the biasing force of the biasing means, the biasing force changing means including an operation. an operation member that is operated so that a relative positional relationship with respect to a reference position is maintained before and after the operation member; and an operation conversion mechanism that converts an operation on the operation member into a change in the urging force of the urging means. This is what is being done.

Furthermore, the game machine of the present invention is suspended via a hanging member above a housing section that accommodates a physical game object, and the displacement execution unit executes a series of operations for displacing the position of the game object. The present invention provides a prize winning game in which a prize is awarded to a user when the game body moves to a predetermined position by operating the displacement execution unit in accordance with a play action inputted via an input device, and the displacement execution unit A game machine is provided with a biasing means for biasing in a lifting direction via the hanging member, and a biasing force changing means for changing the biasing force of the biasing means, the biasing force changing means comprising: The device is provided with an operation member that is operated so that the amount of operation is not recognized after the operation, and an operation conversion mechanism that converts the operation on the operation member into a change in the urging force of the urging means.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a game machine according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram showing main parts of a control system of a game machine. The perspective view which shows the crane device in the state removed from the game machine. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the example of the crane device shown in FIG. 2 viewed diagonally from above. FIG. 3 is an enlarged view showing a part of the inside of the elevating device section. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the relationship between the rotation of the ratchet gear and the operation of the spring pressing member. FIG. 3 is a front view showing the inside of the elevating device. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the entire interior of the elevating device section. FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing the entire interior of the lifting device section corresponding to a different angle from the example shown in FIG. 8; A perspective view showing a connection pipe. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an example of a modification. FIG. 7 is a functional block diagram showing main parts of a control system of a game machine according to a modification. The figure which shows an example of a structure of tactile sensation data. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for result notification processing.

An example of a game machine according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described below. First, with reference to FIG. 1, the configuration of a game machine according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described. The game machine 1 is configured as a game device that provides a prize winning game (prize game). In the prize winning game, an operating means for changing the position of a physical game object in a storage section that houses the physical game object is operated in response to a play action input through an input device, and through the operation of the operating means. This is a type of game in which a prize is given to the user when the game object moves to a predetermined position. The game machine 1 may be configured as a home game machine, but in the example shown in FIG. 1, it is configured as a commercial (business use) game machine (sometimes referred to as an arcade game machine).

An arcade game machine is a type of computer device installed in a predetermined facility for the main purpose of increasing profits by having a large number of users repeatedly play games. The game machine 1 includes a computer device (including a user terminal device such as a stationary or book-type personal computer, a mobile phone such as a smartphone, a stationary home game machine, a portable game machine, or a portable tablet terminal device). Although the game may be played remotely via a computer, the example shown in FIG. 1 is configured so that the user can play the game directly at a facility or the like. Further, the game machine 1 may provide a prize winning game for free as appropriate, such as when a separate consideration is collected such as an admission fee to a predetermined facility, but as an example, the game machine 1 may provide a prize winning game for a fee. . In other words, the game machine 1 is configured as a commercial game machine that allows the user to play a prize winning game within a range corresponding to the play fee in exchange for payment of a predetermined play fee.

The operating means of the game machine 1 may be configured as appropriate, for example, as a device that displaces the position of the game object by pushing it (including a type in which the part that pushes the game object is suspended like a crane). However, in the example shown in FIG. 1, it is configured as a crane device. A crane device is a type of device for capturing (obtaining) a physical object to be captured (for example, a game object), and is a type of operating means that grasps and transports the object to be captured. The game machine 1 uses such a crane device and provides a crane game as an example of a prize winning game. In other words, the game machine 1 is configured as a crane game machine that provides crane games.

The crane device may be provided with various mechanisms, and in the example of FIG. 1, a crane 13 is shown as a part thereof. The crane 13 is a part that functions as a displacement execution unit for displacing the position of the game object. The crane 13 has a plurality of arms (two arms are shown in the example in FIG. 1, but any suitable number may be used) for holding the object to be captured, and the crane 13 can hold the object to be captured by holding the object between these arms. Constructed to be grasped (captured). Further, such a crane 13 is disposed above the storage section that accommodates the capture target, and the position where the capture operation for grasping the capture target is performed is determined through the user's play action in two axial directions, the left-right direction and the depth direction. Ru. The crane 13 descends at a position specified through the user's play action and performs a capturing operation. The capture target is often the prize itself, but may also be a substitute associated with the prize. Then, when such a capture target is captured by the crane 13 and transported to a predetermined position, a prize is given to the user.

Specifically, the game machine 1 has a housing 10. The housing 10 is provided with a housing section 11, an outlet 12, and an input device IP. The discharge port 12 is an opening for discharging the PS to be captured as a game object. The housing section 11 is a space for housing the PS to be captured. The housing section 11 is partitioned into an outside and an inside by a transparent material such as acrylic or glass that allows the inside to be seen, and is configured so that the inside can be seen from the outside. The storage unit 11 is configured to be able to store many PSs to be captured.

A crane 13 and a release port 14 are provided inside the housing section 11 . The crane 13 operates to capture the PS to be captured stored inside the storage section 11 . Specifically, the crane 13 is suspended from the upper part of the storage section 11 via a hanging member, and, for example, can move in the horizontal direction in the storage section 11, move up and down in the vertical direction, and open and close the arm (grasp the PS to be captured). A series of operations are executed to acquire (displace) the capture target PS, including operations such as (actions). In order to realize movement in the horizontal direction, the crane 13 is moved in the left-right direction XD and in the depth direction so that it is placed at each coordinate position on the It is configured to be movable in two axis directions of YD. Then, the crane 13 performs a descending operation to descend to a predetermined height (predetermined lowering position) at each of these coordinate positions, and also performs a capturing action (grasping action) to grasp the capture target PS at the predetermined height. After executing this, it is now possible to sequentially perform a rising motion to rise (return) to the original height, and a carrying motion to carry the captured capture target PS (which does not actually have to be grasped) to a predetermined position. configured. Further, the carrying operation includes a releasing operation of releasing the capture target PS gripped at a predetermined position. That is, the crane 13 sequentially executes a series of operations including a moving operation to move to a position for a lowering operation, a lowering operation, a capturing operation, a raising operation, a transporting operation, and a releasing operation.

The input device IP is an input device for inputting the user's play behavior. Although various play actions may be performed as appropriate on the input device IP, the example in FIG. 1 shows a case where an operation is performed as a play action. Further, the input device IP may be provided with an appropriate operation section depending on the type of operation as a play action, and in the example of FIG. 1, a direction operation section IP1 and a decision operation section IP2 are provided. The direction operation unit IP1 is an operation unit on which an operation for instructing the direction in the movement operation of the crane 13 is executed. That is, the moving direction of the crane 13 in the XY plane is specified through the operation on the direction operation unit IP1. On the other hand, the determining operation section IP2 is an operation section on which an operation for determining the position where the crane 13 should perform the lowering operation on the XY plane is performed. Specifically, when the determination operation unit IP2 is operated at a position on the XY plane located through the operation of the direction operation unit IP1, the crane 13 performs a descending operation at that position, and the crane 13 and the capture target are A capture operation is further performed at a predetermined height, such as the height at which contact with the PS or the like (so-called bottoming out) is detected.

The release port 14 opens into a connection passage 15 that connects the release port 14 and the discharge port 12. That is, the inside of the accommodating portion 11 is connected to the discharge port 12 via the release port 14 . The release port 14 then functions as a predetermined position where a release operation is to be performed by the crane 13. Therefore, if the PS to be captured is actually grabbed by the crane 13, the PS to be captured will be released above the release port 14 and fall through the release port 14, and the PS to be captured will fall to the discharge port 12 through the release port 14. is discharged from. Although the capture target PS may be a substitute for the prize as described above, the prize itself is used as an example. Specifically, the capture target PS is configured as a capsule containing a prize. Therefore, when the PS to be captured is discharged from the discharge port 12, the PS to be captured, in other words, the prize included therein, is given to the user playing the crane game. That is, when the PS to be captured is released above the release port 14, the prize is directly given to the user through the ejection of the PS to be captured.

Next, the main parts of the control system of the game machine 1 will be explained with reference to FIG. The game machine 1 is provided with a control unit 31 as a computer, a storage unit 32 as a storage means, a crane device CU, a performance device 34, a transport device 35, and the above-mentioned input device IP. The storage unit 32, crane device CU, performance equipment 34, transport device 35, and input device IP are all connected to the control unit 31. Although the game machine 1 may be appropriately provided with various output devices and input devices, these are shown in the example of FIG.

The input device IP is as described above, and inputs signals to the control unit 31 in response to pressing operations on the direction operation section IP1 and the decision operation section IP2. On the other hand, the crane device CU, the performance device 34, and the transport device 35 are examples of output devices provided in the game machine 1, but they may also have various sensors (detection devices), and in that case, they can be used as input devices. also works. The operations of all of these are controlled by the control unit 31. For example, the production device 34 is a device for realizing various productions of a crane game. The performance equipment 34 includes various output devices such as speakers, display devices, and lighting equipment. The effect device 34 operates to realize various effects according to the output signal from the control unit 31.

Further, although the crane device CU is as described above, it is provided with a drive source (for example, a motor) for realizing operations such as a capturing operation, a lifting operation, or a releasing operation. The drive source is controlled by the control unit 31, and the crane device CU realizes various operations. The conveying device 35 is a device for realizing horizontal movement such as a moving operation or a conveying operation. The transport device 35 may be configured as appropriate and may function as a part of the crane device CU, but includes, for example, a drive source for realizing horizontal movement of the crane device CU. The drive source is controlled by the control unit 31 to realize horizontal movement of the crane device CU.

The control unit 31 is configured as a computer that combines a CPU, which is an example of a processor, that executes various processes according to a predetermined computer program, and internal memory and other peripheral devices necessary for its operation. The control unit 31 is provided with a logical device realized by a combination of the hardware resources of the control unit 31 and the game program PG as software resources. The control unit 31 may be provided with such a logical device as appropriate, but in the example of FIG. 2, an operation control section 37 and a production control section 38 are shown.

The operation control section 37 is a logical device that executes various processes for controlling the operations of the crane device CU and the transport device 35, and the production control section 38 for controlling the operations of the production equipment 34, respectively. The processing executed by the operation control unit 37 includes, for example, a process for causing the crane device CU to execute a series of operations such as a moving operation, a lowering operation, a capturing operation, a transporting operation, or a releasing operation in response to various operations on the input device IP. Includes processing. Similarly, the processing executed by the production control unit 38 includes, for example, processing for causing the production equipment 34 to perform various productions.

The storage unit 32 is an external storage device realized by a unit including a nonvolatile storage medium (computer-readable storage medium) such as a hard disk or a semiconductor storage device. In addition to the game program PG described above, various types of data can be recorded in the storage unit 32, and in the example of FIG. 2, game data GD is shown. The game data GD is data for allowing the user to play the crane game according to the game program PG. The game data GD includes various data necessary for providing the crane game, such as setting data for managing various settings such as parameters related to the operation of the crane device CU, or audio data for reproducing various sounds such as BGM, as appropriate. include.

Next, the crane device CU will be explained with reference to FIGS. 3 to 10. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the crane device CU in a state where it is removed from the game machine 1. As shown in FIG. 3, the crane device CU is provided with a lifting device section 20 as a housing, a crane 13, and a connecting pipe CP. The elevating device section 20 is configured as a casing that accommodates various mechanisms and the like. The elevating and lowering device section 20 is provided with various mechanisms and the like for realizing vertical movements such as a lowering operation and an upward movement (returning operation) of the crane 13, for example.

The crane 13 is provided with an arm section 13A and a switchgear section 13B. The arm portion 13A is a portion that performs an action of grasping (pinching) the PS to be captured. The arm portion 13A is provided below the opening/closing device portion 13B. The arm portion 13A may be composed of an appropriate number of arms, but in the example shown in FIG. 3, it is composed of three arms. The opening/closing device section 13B is provided with various mechanisms (not shown) for realizing opening/closing operations of the arm section 13A, such as grasping operations and releasing operations. Operating elements such as the gripping (pinching) force of the arm portion 13A in the gripping operation or the spacing between the arms may be fixed, but are configured to be adjustable (variable), for example. Further, in the arm portion 13A, appropriate operating elements may be configured to be adjustable, and as an example, the spacing between the arms may be configured to be adjustable. In this case, the mechanism of the opening/closing device section 13B includes an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the interval between the arm sections 13A. The adjustment mechanism may adjust the interval as appropriate, and for example, it is adjusted by turning the adjustment knob RP. The adjustment knob RP may be provided on the opening/closing device section 13B as appropriate, but in the example of FIG. 3, it is provided so as to protrude above the opening/closing device section 13B. That is, the adjustment knob RP is arranged so as to be operable when the crane device CU is attached to the game machine 1.

The connection pipe CP is a member that connects the lifting device section 20 and the crane 13. The connecting pipe CP is provided to connect the lower side of the lifting device section 20 and the upper side of the opening/closing device section 13B, and is configured to be expandable and contractible to correspond to the vertical movement of the crane 13 (see FIG. 10). ).

FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the example crane device CU of FIG. 2 viewed diagonally from above. As shown in FIG. 4, the lifting device section 20 is provided with a hanging mechanism 21 and a hanging adjustment mechanism 22 as a biasing force changing means. The suspension mechanism 21 is a mechanism for suspending the crane 13 so that it can be raised and lowered. The suspension adjustment mechanism 22 is a mechanism for adjusting the force of the suspension mechanism 21 to suspend the crane 13. The suspension force may be adjusted through appropriate operations, and the suspension adjustment mechanism 22 may be provided with various operation members corresponding to such operations, but in the example of FIG. 4, the operation dial 23 is an example of the operation member. is provided.

The operation dial 23 is an operation member configured as a rotating member that rotates around the rotation shaft 24 so that a rotation operation for rotating the rotation shaft 24 is executed. The operation dial 23 is provided on the side surface of the elevating device section 20 so as to be operable when it is attached to the game machine 1. Specifically, a rotating shaft 24 is provided in the lifting device section 20 so as to protrude from an exterior 20W that separates the inside and the outside, and the operation dial 23 is provided on one end side (external side) of the rotating shaft 24. . That is, the operation dial 23 is installed at a position protruding from the exterior 20W of the rotary shaft 24 extending from the inside to the outside of the lifting device section 20, and is located at a certain distance from the exterior 20W to allow rotational operation. . A rotation operation is performed on the operation dial 23 to rotate it around the rotating shaft 24 while maintaining the distance (positional relationship) between it and the exterior 20W. Then, the rotational operation is converted into a change in the hanging force via the rotation shaft 24 in the hanging adjustment mechanism 22. In this example, the position of the exterior 20W functions as the reference position of the present invention.

The suspension adjustment mechanism 22 will be further described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6. FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of a part of the inside of the lifting device section 20. As shown in FIG. The example in FIG. 5 shows a state in which the exterior 20W of the lifting device section 20 is removed for convenience of explanation. As shown in FIG. 5, the hanging mechanism 21 is provided with a wire 21A, a movable arm 21B, and a tension pulley 21C. The wire 21A is a member that suspends and supports the crane 13 via the tension pulley 21C, and functions as a hanging member. The tension pulley 21C is a pulley used for winding the wire 21A. A wire 21A is installed on the tension pulley 21C so that the load of the crane 13 acts downward. The tension pulley 21C is rotatably attached to one end of the movable arm 21B so as to function as a movable pulley.

The movable arm 21B is a member that is movable to rotate around the arm rotation axis Aax. Although the movable arm 21B may be composed of a single member, in the example shown in FIG. 5, it is composed of two members assembled to sandwich the tension pulley 21C. Movable arm 21B is attached to mounting wall 25 via arm rotation axis Aax. A tension pulley 21C is provided at one end of the movable arm 21B, and a mounting portion 26 is provided at the other end. The movable arm 21B operates to vertically move the tension pulleys 21C and the mounting portion 26 at both ends by rotating around the arm rotation axis Aax. Specifically, the movable arm 21B operates to move the tension pulley 21C upward by applying a load to the attachment part 26, and to move the attachment part 26 upward by applying a load to the tension pulley 21C. The load of the crane 13 acts on the tension pulley 21C via the wire 21A. Therefore, the movement of the movable arm 21B (the vertical movement of the tension pulley 21C) is related to the vertical movement of the crane 13.

The suspension adjustment mechanism 22 is provided with a pressure adjustment spring 22A as a biasing means, a spring depressing member 22B, a ratchet gear 22C as a rotating disk and a rotation converting member, a rotating shaft 24, and an operation dial 23. The rotating shaft 24 and the operation dial 23 are as described above. The ratchet gear 22C is a gear installed so that the rotation direction is limited to a certain direction. The fixed direction may be set as appropriate, but as an example, it is set to the right (clockwise). The ratchet gear 22C is provided coaxially with the operation dial 23 at the other end of the rotating shaft 24 (on the opposite side from the operation dial 23), and rotates as the operation dial 23 is rotated. On the other hand, the rotation direction of the ratchet gear 22C is limited to clockwise rotation. Therefore, the rotation operation of the operation dial 23 is limited to only a clockwise rotation operation via the ratchet gear 22C. In other words, the operation dial 23 is configured to allow only clockwise rotation via the ratchet gear 22C.

The pressure adjustment spring 22A is a spring for biasing the mounting portion 26 so as to pull it downward. In other words, the pressure adjustment spring 22A is a spring for urging the other end of the movable arm 21B to move the tension pulley 21C upward (in the direction of lifting the crane 13). One end of the pressure adjustment spring 22A is attached to the attachment portion 26, and the other end is attached to the other end of the spring pressing member 22B.

The spring pressing member 22B is a member that is attached to rotate around a member rotation axis Bax that is a fixed rotation axis. The member rotation axis Bax is provided on one end side so as to rotate the other end of the spring pressing member 22B. Further, an engaging member 27 as a limiting member is provided near the center of the spring pressing member 22B (between one end and the other end). The meshing member 27 is a member that meshes with the ratchet gear 22C so as to limit rotation. The meshing member 27 is pushed down or loosened as the ratchet gear 22C rotates. Therefore, the other end of the spring push-down member 22B is moved downward by being pushed down by the ratchet gear 22C, and moved upward by the urging of the pressure adjustment spring 22A as the push-down loosens. In other words, the spring push-down member 22B operates to strengthen or weaken the downward bias (in the direction of lifting the crane 13) of the pressure adjustment spring 22A as the ratchet gear 22C rotates.

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the relationship between the rotation of the ratchet gear 22C and the operation of the spring pressing member 22B. In the example of FIG. 6, a ratchet gear 22C, a spring pressing member 22B, and a pressure adjustment spring 22A are schematically shown. Moreover, in the example of FIG. 6, two types of states of the spring pressing member 22B are shown. Specifically, FIG. 6A shows the first state, and FIG. 6B shows the second state. As shown in FIG. 6, the ratchet gear 22C is provided with a plurality of teeth C having different tooth depths H. In other words, in the ratchet gear 22C, the radius R to each tooth root circle (each tooth root is formed flat and does not correspond to an arc, but is called a tooth root circle like a general gear) is the tooth root circle. It is configured differently for each. The radius R is the length (distance) from the rotation center CL of the rotation shaft 24 to the bottom of the tooth. Therefore, the distance between the rotating shaft 24 and the meshing member 27 differs depending on which tooth C of the ratchet gear 22C the meshing member 27 meshes with, that is, which tooth root circle it fits into. As a result, the ratchet gear 22C operates the spring pressing member 22B through the difference in radius R for each root circle, producing different states.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6A, in the first state, the meshing member 27 is located in a root circle with a relatively short radius R. Since the other end of the spring push-down member 22B is biased upward by the pressure adjustment spring 22A, this bias causes the spring push-down member 22B to rotate (lift) upward around the member rotation axis Bax. Operate. Then, the meshing member 27 meshes with the tooth C having a relatively long tooth depth H, and enters into the root circle having a relatively short radius R. In this case, the distance between the meshing member 27 and the rotating shaft 24 is relatively short. For this reason, for example, when the state in which the member rotation axis Bax and the meshing member 27 are aligned in the horizontal direction is used as a reference, the meshing member 27 moves upward so as to approach the rotation shaft 24 compared to this reference state. When the position of the attachment portion 26 is constant, upward movement of the other end of the spring pressing member 22B acts in a direction to reduce the force (tensile force) that pulls the pressure adjustment spring 22A. That is, in the first state, the tensile force with which the spring push-down member 22B pulls the pressure adjustment spring 22A is reduced compared to the reference state.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 6(B), in the second state, the meshing member 27 is located in a tooth root circle whose radius R is relatively longer than in the first state. The ratchet gear 22C may be appropriately provided with a root circle with a relatively longer radius R than in the first state, but as an example, in the second state, when the operation dial 23 is rotated, the ratchet gear 22C is in the first state. This corresponds to a state rotated by one tooth C from the state. The tooth bottom is formed between the teeth C and has a flat part and a curved part. The curved portion is provided so as to form the tip of the tooth C adjacent to the left (one position before the operating direction) from the flat portion, and plays the role of guiding the meshing member 27 to the root circle of the next tooth C. Therefore, when rotating counterclockwise (counterclockwise), the tooth depth H acts to restrict the movement of the meshing member 27, but when rotating clockwise (operating direction), the movement of the meshing member 27 is restricted. There is no tooth depth H that limits . Rather, each tooth C is configured to guide the meshing member 27 into engagement with the next tooth C through a curved portion. Therefore, the meshing member 27 does not become an obstacle in clockwise rotation, and the clockwise rotation of the ratchet gear 22C and the clockwise rotation operation of the operation dial 23 coaxial therewith are permitted.

In the next tooth C, the radius R of the root circle is relatively longer than in the first state. Therefore, the distance between the meshing member 27 and the rotating shaft 24 becomes longer than in the first state. In this case, the rotation of the ratchet gear 22C acts in a direction that pushes down the meshing member 27 compared to the first state, and rotates (depresses) the spring push-down member 22B downward about the member rotation axis Bax. The other end of the spring push-down member 22B is biased upward by a pressure adjustment spring 22A. Therefore, the other end of the spring pressing down member 22B is lifted by the pressing adjustment spring 22A, and the meshing member 27 meshes with the next tooth C having a longer radius R than in the first state and enters the root circle thereof. However, the spring pressing member 22B moves downward so that the meshing member 27 is separated from the rotating shaft 24 compared to the reference state. Therefore, along with this movement, the spring pushing down member 22B pushes down the pressure adjustment spring 22A at the other end. When the position of the attachment portion 26 is constant, downward movement of the other end of the spring pressing member 22B acts in a direction to increase the tensile force that pulls the pressure adjustment spring 22A. That is, in the second state, the tensile force with which the spring push-down member 22B pulls the pressure adjustment spring 22A increases compared to the reference state. As a result, the tensile force applied to the pressure adjustment spring 22A in the second state is greater than that in the first state, and a relationship of second state>first state is formed.

In addition to the first state and the second state, the spring push-down member 22B has a plurality of states that generate a tensile force of the pressure adjustment spring 22A depending on the difference in the radius R of the ratchet gear 22C, etc. The suspension adjustment mechanism 22 controls the rotation operation of the operation dial 23 through the relationship between the rotation of the ratchet gear 22C and the operation of the spring push-down member 22B. convert it into an urging force). In other words, the suspension adjustment mechanism 22 is configured to adjust the biasing force of the pressure adjustment spring 22A by changing the state of the spring pressing member 22B as the ratchet gear 22C rotates. In this example, the combination of the rotating shaft 24, the ratchet gear 22C, and the spring pressing member 22B functions as the operation conversion mechanism of the present invention. Further, the spring push-down member 22B, which limits the counterclockwise rotation of the ratchet gear 22C so as to maintain the rotated position via the meshing member 27 after operation, functions as a rotation limiting mechanism of the present invention.

7 to 9 are a front view showing the inside of the lifting device section 20, a perspective view showing the entire inside of the lifting device section 20, and a perspective view of the lifting device section 20 corresponding to a different angle from the example of FIG. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the entire interior. The example in FIG. 7 shows the inside of the elevator unit 20 in the example in FIG. 5 as viewed from the front (diagonally to the left in the example in FIG. 5). In the example of FIG. 7, for convenience of explanation, one of the two members forming the movable arm 21B (the one located on the left side in the example of FIG. 5) is moved so that the tension pulley 21C and the like are exposed. It has been removed. Similarly, in the example of FIG. 7, for convenience of explanation, other appropriate members are removed compared to the lifting device section 20 of FIG. 5.

As shown in FIGS. 7 to 9, a motor MO and a wire take-up pulley 29 are provided inside the lifting device section 20. The wire take-up pulley 29 is a pulley for winding the wire 21A. The wire take-up pulley 29 winds up the wire 21A via the tension pulley 21C, but is positioned at a lower position than the tension pulley 21C so that the tension of the wire 21A (downward pulling force due to the load of the crane 13) is applied to the tension pulley 21C. will be placed in The motor MO is a drive source for causing the wire take-up pulley 29 to perform a winding operation on the wire 21A. The motor MO and the wire take-up pulley 29 realize winding of the wire 21A, in other words, lifting of the crane 13 suspended via the wire 21A.

Further, as shown in FIG. 7, for example, the movable arm 21B is bent at the position of the arm rotation axis Aax, and is formed in a substantially U-shape. Although the shape of the movable arm 21B may be arbitrary, it is formed like this as an example. A lift-down sensor dog 21D is further provided at one end of the movable arm 21B at the tip of the tension pulley 21C. Similarly, a lift-down sensor 28 is provided inside the lifting device section 20 at a position corresponding to the lift-down sensor dog 21D. The lift-down sensor 28 is a sensor for detecting the vertical movement of the movable arm 21B. The lift-down sensor 28 may be any type of sensor, but is configured, for example, as an optical sensor that detects whether light is blocked by the lift-down sensor dog 21D (see FIG. 8). Therefore, the lift-down sensor dog 21D is configured as a detected portion at one end (free end) of the movable arm 21B so as to enter the lift-down sensor 28.

Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 7 to 9, when the lift-down sensor dog 21D is inserted into the lift-down sensor 28, light is blocked by the lift-down sensor dog 21D. In this case, the lift-down sensor 28 detects a state in which the movable arm 21B is not lifted. On the other hand, when the movable arm 21B rotates around the arm rotation axis Aax and the lift-down sensor dog 21D is lifted, the lift-down sensor dog 21D that blocks light moves above the lift-down sensor 28. In this case, the lift-down sensor 28 detects a transmission state in which light is not blocked. Since the load of the crane 13 acts downwardly on the tension pulley 21C of the movable arm 21B via the wire 21A, a light shielding state is normally formed. On the other hand, for example, when the crane 13 reaches the capture target PS or the bottom of the housing section 11 as it descends (a so-called bottoming state occurs), the tension applied to the wire 21A is loosened. At this time, the other end (attachment portion 26) of the movable arm 21B may be pulled down by the downward biasing force of the pressure adjustment spring 22A, and the lift-down sensor dog 21D at one end may move upward. The lift-down sensor 28 detects the rise of the lift-down sensor dog 21D, in other words, the bottomed-out state by detecting the transmission state. The detection result is used for determining when to stop the descending operation (in other words, when to execute the capturing operation).

FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the connection pipe CP. The example in FIG. 10 shows the connecting pipe CP in a state of being removed from the crane device CU. As shown in FIG. 10, the connection pipe CP is configured as a tube with a space formed inside and into which the wire 21A is inserted. Further, the connection pipe CP is configured to be expandable and contractible in accordance with the elevation and descent of the crane 13. Specifically, the connection pipe CP is configured by a plurality of pipes CPp having different diameters being fitted together in a nested manner. Each pipe CPp is formed so that its diameter gradually decreases as it goes downward so that the upper pipe CPp accommodates the lower pipe CPp in order. The connecting pipe CP expands and contracts when the lower pipe CPp moves out of or is accommodated in the upper pipe CPp. For example, when the wire 21A is wound around the wire take-up pulley 29 via the motor MO, the crane 13 is pulled up and the connecting pipe CP is contracted. On the other hand, when the winding of the wire winding pulley 29 is loosened, the crane 13 descends due to its own weight, and the connecting pipe CP extends. Although the connecting pipe CP may have an appropriate expandable and contractible configuration, it is configured like this as an example.

As described above, according to this embodiment, a rotational operation on the operation dial 23 is converted into a change in the biasing force of the pressure adjustment spring 22A via the ratchet gear 22C and the spring push-down member 22B. In other words, the biasing force of the pressure adjustment spring 22A is adjusted by rotating the operation dial 23. The biasing force of the pressure adjustment spring 22A acts via the movable arm 21B in the direction of lifting the crane 13, which executes a series of operations to capture the capture target PS. Further, when the capture target PS and the crane 13 come into contact, the value obtained by subtracting the biasing force of the pressure adjustment spring 22A from the load of the crane 13 acts on the capture target PS as a pushing force (pressing force). Therefore, the biasing force of the pressure adjustment spring 22A influences the acquisition of the PS to be captured, that is, the result of the game. On the other hand, the operation dial 23 is rotated so that the relative positional relationship with the exterior 20W is maintained before and after the operation. In other words, the operation dial 23 is configured such that an operation is performed whose amount of operation is not known after the operation. Therefore, the setting results of the elements that influence the outcome of the game can be recognized from the state after the operation, and it is possible to prevent the enjoyment (interest) of the play from decreasing.

Further, when the operation dial 23 is rotated, the urging force of the pressure adjustment spring 22A acts via the ratchet gear 22C and the spring pressing member 22B. Therefore, resistance corresponding to the urging force is generated in the setting person who performs the rotation operation on the operation dial 23. For example, when the operation dial 23 is rotated in a direction in which the biasing force of the pressure adjustment spring 22A becomes stronger, strong resistance is generated in the rotation operation, and a strong force is required. Furthermore, the stronger the biasing force of the pressure adjustment spring 22A, the greater the reaction (impact) that occurs when the meshing member 27 meshes with the teeth C of the ratchet gear 22C. Similarly, the opposite situation occurs when the biasing force is rotated in a direction where it becomes weaker. Therefore, the setter can recognize the changed biasing force of the pressure adjustment spring 22A based on these resistances and reactions (vibrations). In other words, the setting result (adjustment result) of the biasing force is notified to the setter by vibrations or the like generated on the operation dial 23. Therefore, it is possible to omit the installation of a display device or the like for notifying the setting results. Furthermore, tactile sensations such as resistance and vibration given to the user are less likely to be known to those around them than visual information. Therefore, by notifying the setting results through vibration etc., compared to the case where the setting results of biasing forces (elements that affect the game results) are notified through visual information such as a display device, the settings It is possible to prevent the result from being recognized by the player (user playing the game).

The present invention is not limited to the form described above, and may be implemented in forms with appropriate modifications or changes. Further, the present invention may be implemented in a form obtained by appropriately combining various technical means included in the above-described form and the following modified form. For example, in the above embodiment, the ratchet gear 22C plays the role of both fixing the position after the operation and converting the rotation operation into urging force. In this case, the number of parts can be relatively reduced. Further, an operation dial 23 on which a rotational operation is performed is used as an operation member. However, the present invention is not limited to these forms. For example, fixing the position after the operation (maintaining the positional relationship) and converting the operation into an urging force may be realized by separate members. Furthermore, the operation to be converted may be any appropriate operation, and various members may be appropriately applied as operation members depending on the operation to be converted.

FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an example of a modification. In the example of FIG. 11, (A) shows a modification regarding the conversion method, and (B) shows a modification regarding the operating member. As shown in FIG. 11A, in a modification of the conversion method, a positioning mechanism 50 and a cam 55 are provided in place of the ratchet gear 22C. The positioning mechanism 50 is a mechanism for achieving fixation of the position after operation. The positioning mechanism 50 may be implemented as appropriate including various ratchet mechanisms, but in the example of FIG. 11 it includes a plunger 51, a spring 52, and a positioning disk 53.

The positioning disk 53 is a rotating body that is provided on the rotation shaft 24 and rotates coaxially with the operation dial 23 as the operation dial 23 is rotated. The positioning disk 53 may be provided with grooves 53A at appropriate intervals, and in the example of FIG. 11, four grooves 53A are provided. The spring 52 is an elastic body that biases the plunger 51 in the direction of the positioning disk 53. The plunger 51 is a member for restricting rotation of the positioning disk 53. The plunger 51 is biased by the spring 52 so as to enter the groove 53A of the positioning disk 53. In this case, when the rotation operation is performed with a force exceeding the urging force of the spring 52, the plunger 51 is pushed up according to the curvature of the groove 53A, and the rotation of the positioning disk 53 is allowed. On the other hand, when the next groove 53A reaches the position of the plunger 51, the plunger 51 enters the groove 53A again due to the bias of the spring 52, and acts as a resistance to rotation so as to fix the position.

The cam 55 is a member whose radius changes depending on the position. The cam 55 is provided on the rotating shaft 24 coaxially with the operation dial 23, rotates as the operation dial 23 is rotated, and converts the operation on the operation dial 23 into a tensile force of the pressure adjustment spring 22A. Specifically, the spring pressing member 22B is arranged so as to be in contact with the cam 55 in the meshing member 27 via the pressing adjustment spring 22A on the other end side. On the other hand, the cam 55 is different from the perfect circle HC shown by the dotted line in the example of FIG. 11, and has a radius that varies depending on the position. The distance between changes. As a result, similar to the ratchet gear 22C, the rotational operation of the operation dial 23 via the cam 55 is converted into a tensile force of the pressure adjustment spring 22A. In this case, the positioning disk 53 and the cam 55 function as a rotary disk and a rotation conversion member of the present invention. Further, the combination of the plunger 51 and the spring 52 functions as a rotation limiting mechanism of the present invention.

Further, as shown in FIG. 11(B), in a modified example of the operating member, an operating lever 60 is used as the operating member instead of the operating dial 23. The operating lever 60 is an operating member that can be pressed down. Specifically, in the modified example, an operating lever 60, a restoring spring 61, a rotating gear 62, and a gear pushing member 63 are provided. The restoring spring 61 is an elastic body that urges the operating lever 60 upward. The gear pushing member 63 is a member for pushing the rotary gear 62 to rotate. The gear pushing member 63 is connected to the side opposite to the operating side of the operating lever 60 in the left-right direction so as to push the lower rotary gear 62 when the operating lever 60 is pushed down. The gear pushing member 63 acts to rotate the rotary gear 62 in a predetermined direction when the operating lever 60 is pushed down. The rotating gear 62 is a gear provided to rotate around the rotating shaft 24. That is, when the rotating gear 62 rotates, the ratchet gear 22C also rotates via the rotating shaft 24.

In the configuration of the modified example, a push-down operation on the operating lever 60 is converted into rotation of the rotary gear 62 via the gear pushing member 63, which rotates the ratchet gear 22C and converts the biasing force of the pressure adjustment spring 22A. On the other hand, after the operation lever 60 is operated, it is restored to its original position by the bias of the restoring spring 61, and the position is maintained before and after the operation. As an example of a modification, such an operation lever 60 may be adopted as an operation member, but the invention is not limited to this. For example, a push button that is restored to its original position, etc. Various operating members may be used in which the positional relationship between the operating member and the operating member (which may be in various positions depending on the operating member, such as the external cover 20W) or the exterior 20W may be used.

Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the rotational operation of the operation dial 23 is converted into an urging force of the pressure adjustment spring 22A. In other words, the biasing force of the pressure adjustment spring 22A is used as the element to be converted. However, the present invention is not limited to such a form. For example, an operation element of the arm portion 13A, such as a distance or a pinching force, may be used as the element to be converted. In other words, the ratchet gear 22C, the spring pressing member 22B, etc. may be applied so that the rotational operation of the adjustment knob RP is converted into a pinching force or an interval between the arms 13A.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the biasing force after the change of the pressure adjustment spring 22A is determined by the force required for the rotational operation of the operation dial 23 or by the difference in the tooth height H between the meshing member 27 of the spring push-down member 22B and the ratchet. The operator of the operation dial 23 is notified by a tactile sensation such as vibration generated by the biasing force of the pressure adjustment spring 22A when the teeth C of the gear 22C mesh with each other. That is, the pressure adjustment spring 22A generates different vibrations in the ratchet gear 22C via the spring push-down member 22B depending on the radius R, and the setting result is notified through the vibration transmitted to the operation dial 23 via the rotating shaft 24. . In this case, the pressure adjustment spring 22A functions as a result notification means for notifying the setting result of the biasing force, and the setting result is mechanically notified through tactile sensation. However, the present invention is not limited to such a form. For example, if the biasing force of the pressure adjustment spring 22A is electronically measured and a tactile sensation generating device is provided that generates a tactile sensation, the tactile sensation generating device generates a different tactile sensation depending on the setting result, and the setting result is notified. It's okay. That is, the setting result may be electronically notified through the tactile sensation generating device. Further, such a tactile sensation generating device may be applied to notification of various setting results. For example, the tactile sensation generating device may be applied to notify setting results through operations on a touch pad.

FIG. 12 is a functional block diagram showing main parts of a control system of a game machine according to a modification. The example in FIG. 12 shows a case where the result of an operation on the touch pad is notified via the tactile sensation generating device. Although the touch pad may be applied to various settings, the example in FIG. 12 shows a case where it is applied to adjustment of the biasing force of the pressure adjustment spring 22A in the crane device CU. As shown in the example of FIG. 12, compared to the example of FIG. 2, the game machine 1 according to the modification includes a touch pad TP, a tactile sensation generating device TD, a drive source MS, a setting management section 39, and a tactile sensation data HD. It will be done.

The touch pad TP is a well-known input device for inputting touch operations. The touch pad TP is connected to the control unit 31 and outputs a signal to the control unit 31 according to the touch position. The touch pad TP can be used for various settings, but as an example, it is used for setting the biasing force of the pressure adjustment spring 22A. In the touch pad TP, the biasing force of the pressure adjustment spring 22A may be adjusted as appropriate through a touch operation, but for example, it is adjusted according to the direction of the touch operation and the amount of change in position so that the biasing force after the change is not recognized. . For example, with reference to the position where the touch operation is started, an operation to the right is set to increase the force, and an opposite operation to the left is set to decrease the force. Further, the amount of change from the start position to the end position of the touch operation is set to an increase amount or a decrease amount. That is, the biasing force is adjusted to increase as the amount of change increases in the right direction from the start position of the touch operation, and the opposite is adjusted for the operation in the left direction.

The drive source MS is a drive source provided in the crane device CU so as to rotate the rotating shaft 24 in response to a touch operation on the touch pad TP. In the above embodiment, the rotation shaft 24 is rotated through a rotation operation on the operation dial 23, but in the modified example, instead of the rotation operation on the operation dial 23, the drive source MS rotates the rotation shaft 24. That is, in the modified example, the biasing force of the pressure adjustment spring 22A is set through a touch operation on the touch pad TP. The drive source MS is connected to the control unit 31, and is controlled by the control unit 31 to rotate the rotating shaft 24 in response to a touch operation instruction based on an input signal from the touch pad TP. Although any suitable drive source can be used as such a drive source MS, a motor is used as an example.

The tactile sensation generating device TD is a well-known output device that provides a predetermined tactile sensation to the setter. The tactile sensation generating device TD notifies the setter of the setting result by providing different tactile sensations depending on the setting result. As such a tactile sensation generating device TD, an appropriate device that generates various tactile sensations may be used. For example, motors that generate tactile sensations such as vibrations and shocks, various temperature devices that generate tactile sensations such as cold or warm sensations, fans that generate tactile sensations related to wind, or tactile sensations that make you feel like you are touching a part other than the operating part. An ultrasonic device or the like that generates may be applied as the tactile sensation generating device TD. Different tactile sensations depending on the setting results may be realized as appropriate through these tactile sensation generating devices TD. In this way, various devices can be used as the tactile sensation generating device TD, but in a modified example, a motor that generates vibrations on the touch pad TP is used.

The tactile sensation generating device TD (motor) may appropriately realize different vibrations depending on the setting result. For example, the number of vibrations increases as the setting value becomes higher. Good too. Similarly, the tactile sensation generating device TD may generate a plurality of vibrations as different tactile sensations at a frequency and interval depending on the setting result, such as a plurality of vibrations whose intervals become shorter as the setting value becomes higher. Further, the tactile sensation generating device TD may generate a vibration whose position changes depending on the setting result as a different tactile sensation, such as changing the generation position of the vibration clockwise depending on the setting result. In this way, the tactile sensation generating device TD can generate various kinds of vibrations as different vibrations, but as an example, the tactile sensation generating device TD can generate various types of vibrations as different vibrations. ) as a different tactile sensation. That is, when the setter instructs the amount of rotation of the ratchet gear 22C via the touch pad TP, a vibration of a strength corresponding to the biasing force after the rotation is generated on the touch pad TP. Then, the setter recognizes the setting result based on the strength of the vibration. For this reason, the tactile sensation generating device TD is connected to the control unit 31, and is controlled by the control unit 31 to generate vibrations of different strengths according to the amount of operation instructed by the touch operation based on the input signal from the touch pad TP. controlled.

The settings management section 39 is a logical device provided in the control unit 31. The setting management unit 39 executes various processes for realizing control of the drive source MS and the tactile sensation generating device TD according to input signals from the touch pad TP. The setting management unit 39 can perform various types of processing, such as result notification processing. The result notification process is a process for controlling the tactile sensation generating device TD to generate different vibrations depending on the touch operation based on the input signal from the touch pad TP.

The tactile data HD is data stored in the storage unit 32 as part of the game data GD. The tactile sensation data HD is used in the result notification process to cause the tactile sensation generating device TD to generate different vibrations depending on the setting results. The tactile sensation data HD may include various types of information as appropriate, but one example is information on the biasing force of the pressure adjustment spring 22A and information on the type of vibration that the tactile sensation generating device TD should generate according to the biasing force. are described so that they are associated with each other.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the structure of the tactile data HD. As shown in FIG. 13, the tactile data HD includes a tactile record HDR for managing information on the type of vibration for each setting result of the biasing force of the pressure adjustment spring 22A. Furthermore, the tactile record HDR includes information on "setting result" and "type" in order to realize such management. This information is recorded in the tactile record HDR so as to be correlated with each other.

Specifically, the "setting result" is information indicating the state of the biasing force of the pressure adjustment spring 22A after the setting. The "setting result" may appropriately describe various types of information indicating the state of the biasing force, such as the state of the ratchet gear 22C (for example, the state distinguished by which tooth C meshes with the meshing member 27). Although information indicating the force may be written, as an example, information indicating the degree of the urging force may be written. The biasing force changes depending on the radius R of each root circle. Therefore, the urging force of the ratchet gear 22C has a degree (state) of a number corresponding to the number of teeth C depending on the radius R of each root circle. For example, when the ratchet gear 22C has five teeth C, five levels of urging force are generated in the pressure adjustment spring 22A. In this case, one of these five levels of biasing force is described in the "setting result". On the other hand, "type" is information indicating the type of vibration to be generated by the tactile sensation generating device TD. When the biasing force of the pressure adjustment spring 22A is notified by the strength of vibration, information indicating the strength of vibration is described in "Type". Note that the tactile record HDR is not limited to these, and may include appropriate information. Alternatively, each of the above information may be omitted as appropriate.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the procedure of result notification processing. When the setting management unit 39 receives the result of the touch operation related to setting the biasing force from the touch pad TP, it starts the result notification process shown in FIG. 14, and first obtains the result of the operation (setting result) (step S101). . Next, the setting management unit 39 determines the type of vibration that should be generated by the tactile sensation generating device TD (step S102). This determination is performed as follows, for example.

That is, the setting management unit 39 first determines the biasing force of the pressure adjustment spring 22A after setting. The biasing force of the pressure adjustment spring 22A may be determined as appropriate. For example, if a measuring device is provided to measure the biasing force, the biasing force may be determined based on the measurement results. For example, the state of the ratchet gear 22C may be determined. It is determined based on. The state of the ratchet gear 22C is managed, for example, by a predetermined table. This table initially describes the initial state of the ratchet gear 22C, and when the amount of rotation is specified, the amount of rotation is reflected in the initial state and updated. The setting management unit 39 refers to this table and determines the state of the ratchet gear 22C after setting. Then, the setting management unit 39 refers to the tactile record HDR and determines the type of vibration corresponding to the state of the ratchet gear 22C after setting. As an example, the setting management unit 39 determines the type of vibration that should be generated by the tactile sensation generating device TD in this way.

Subsequently, the setting management unit 39 controls the tactile sensation generating device TD to generate a vibration corresponding to the type determined in step S102 (step S103). After this control, the setting management unit 39 ends the current result notification process. As a result, when the biasing force of the pressure adjustment spring 22A is adjusted through a touch operation, a vibration with a strength corresponding to the biasing force (setting result) set by the touch operation is applied to the setter through the tactile sensation generating device TD. , the setting result will be notified through the strength of the vibration. That is, notification of the setting result is electronically realized via the tactile sensation generating device TD. Therefore, the game machine 1 according to the modified example of FIG. 12 can also prevent the enjoyment (interest) of play from decreasing through recognition of the setting results.

In the modification shown in FIG. 12, the setting management section 39 of the game machine 1 functions as the result acquisition means and tactile control means of the present invention by executing the procedure shown in FIG. Specifically, the setting management section 39 functions as a result acquisition means by executing the procedure of step S101 in FIG. 14, and functions as a tactile sensation control means by executing the procedure of step S103. Further, the touch pad TP functions as a setting input device of the present invention.

In the above-described embodiment (including the modified examples), the crane device CU is used as the operating means, and the biasing force acting on the crane 13 of the crane device CU is used as the setting target. However, the present invention is not limited to such a form. For example, as described above, the setting target may be the operating element (interval or pinching force) of the arm portion 13A that is set via the adjustment knob RP. Further, when the setting result is notified via the tactile sensation generating device TD as in the modification example of FIG. 12, the operating section, such as the touch position (operating section) of the touch pad TP, may be configured as appropriate. For this reason, for example, a belt conveyor or a support body that operates from a state of supporting the fall of the game object to a state of causing it to fall (change in position) may be used as the operating means. These appropriate elements may be used as setting targets.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, a prize winning game (prize game) is provided, and elements that influence the prize winning are used as setting targets. However, the present invention is not limited to such a form. For example, when the setting result is notified via the tactile sensation generating device TD as in the modified example of FIG. 12, various input devices such as a touch pad TP may be used for the setting. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to prize winning games, and may be applied to settings of various games. For example, a medal game may be provided as an example of a game medium in which the player aims to acquire a large number of medals by consuming medals. In this case, various elements related to medal acquisition may be used as setting targets. For example, if a rate calculated based on the amount of medals earned in a certain period and the amount of medals consumed for play in that period is set to affect various settings, the rate may be used as a setting target. Alternatively, if an element such as the amount of operation or weight of a steering wheel-type operation unit for operating a car in a racing game can be set, that element may be used as a setting target. In other words, there is an operation section where operations are performed to set elements that affect the play result, and there are various types of controls that cause the elements to be set to have different effects depending on the results of the settings performed through that operation section. Any suitable element of the game may serve as the setting target.

Various aspects of the present invention derived from each of the embodiments and modifications described above will be described below. In the following description, corresponding members illustrated in the accompanying drawings are added in parentheses in order to facilitate understanding of each aspect of the present invention, but the present invention is thereby limited to the illustrated form. It's not a thing.

The game machine of the present invention is suspended via a hanging member (21A) above a housing section (11) that accommodates a physical game object (PS), and has a series of devices for displacing the position of the game object. The user receives a prize when the game body moves to a predetermined position (14) by operating the displacement execution unit (13) that executes the operation according to the play action input via the input device (IP). (PS), and a biasing means (22A) that biases the displacement execution unit in a direction to lift it up via the hanging member, and a biasing force of the biasing means is changed. A game machine (1) provided with a biasing force changing means (22), wherein the biasing force changing means is configured to maintain a relative positional relationship with respect to a reference position (20W) before and after an operation. An operating member (23) to be operated and an operation conversion mechanism (24, 22C, 22B) that converts an operation on the operating member into a change in the urging force of the urging means are provided.

According to the present invention, an operation on the operating member is converted into a change in the urging force of the urging means. In other words, the biasing force of the biasing means is adjusted through the operation of the operating member. The biasing force of the biasing means acts in the direction of lifting the displacement execution section that executes a series of operations for displacing the position of the game object. Therefore, the urging force of the urging means influences the outcome of the game. On the other hand, the operating member is operated so that the relative positional relationship with respect to the reference position is maintained before and after the operation. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the setting results of elements that influence the outcome of the game from being recognized from the positional relationship after the operation, thereby reducing the enjoyment (interest) of the play.

The operation conversion mechanism may be configured as appropriate as long as it can convert an operation on the operation member into a change in the urging force of the urging means. For example, in one aspect of the game machine of the present invention, the operation conversion mechanism includes a rotating shaft (24) and a rotary disk (22C, 53) that rotates about the rotating shaft in accordance with the operation of the operating member. , a rotation limiting mechanism (22B, 51, 52) for restricting the rotation of the rotary disk so that the position after rotation is maintained; A rotation converting member (22C, 55) disposed on the rotating shaft as a rotating body having a radius that changes according to the rotational speed may be provided.

In the case where a rotary disk and a rotation converting member are provided, one member may also serve as these roles, or a plurality of members may share these roles. That is, a member that functions as both a rotary disk and a rotation converting member may be provided, or a plurality of members that function as a rotary disk and a rotation converting member, respectively, may be provided. For example, a cam may be used as the rotation conversion member, and the rotation of the rotary disk may be converted into force via the cam. Alternatively, a gear having a different radius for each root circle may function as both a rotary disk and a rotation converting member. Specifically, for example, in an embodiment in which a rotary disk and a rotation converting member are provided, the rotary disk has a plurality of teeth whose radius (R) from the rotation axis to each root circle is different for each root circle. (C), and the rotation limiting mechanism is provided with a limiting member (27) between one end and the other end that limits the rotation of the gear by entering the bottom of each tooth. , one end of the rotation limiting mechanism is fixed via a fixing rotation shaft (Bax) so as to rotate according to a change in the radius of the root circle into which the limiting member enters, and the other end of the rotation limiting mechanism is may be connected to the biasing means so as to change the biasing force by an operation accompanying rotation about the fixing rotation shaft, and the gear may function as the rotation conversion member. In this case, the number of parts can be relatively reduced.

The operating member may be operated as appropriate and may be configured as appropriate depending on the operation to be performed. For example, a lever that returns to its original position after being pushed down may be used as the operating member. Alternatively, a push button that restores its original state after being pressed may be used. In other words, a pushing operation or a pushing operation may be performed as an operation on the operating member. In these cases, for example, the position of the operating member before operation may function as the reference position. Alternatively, if the operating member is exposed from inside the housing, the position of the exterior of the housing may function as the reference position. This is because the positional relationship with respect to the exterior of the casing etc. is maintained after restoration. Similarly, for example, a rotating member provided on a rotating shaft for rotating a rotating disk or the like may function as an operating member. That is, a rotation operation of rotating the operating member may be performed as an operation on the operating member. In this case, the rotating member is not displaced in the axial direction of the rotating shaft, but rotates on the spot together with the rotating shaft. The position of the operating member itself does not change before and after the operation. Therefore, for example, if the operating member is exposed from inside the housing, there is no change in the positional relationship such as the distance from the housing. In this case, at least the positional relationship with respect to the exterior such as the housing is maintained. Therefore, the position of the exterior may function as a reference position. Furthermore, the operation member may be arranged so that it is always exposed (visible), or it may be placed inside the housing and exposed only when operated, so that it may be visible in certain cases. It may be arranged so that it has.

Specifically, in an embodiment in which a gear is used as the rotation conversion member of the present invention, the displacement execution unit is suspended by the suspension member via a casing (20), and the rotation axis is connected to the casing. The operating member is provided at a position protruding from the exterior of the rotating shaft, and the operating member is provided at a position protruding from the exterior of the rotating shaft, and the operating member is provided at a position protruding from the exterior of the rotating shaft. The operating member is configured as a rotating member that rotates coaxially with the outer sheath, and the operating member is configured to perform a rotational operation for rotating the gear via the rotating shaft such that a positional relationship with the exterior is maintained. , the position of the exterior may function as the reference position.

Furthermore, the game machine of the present invention is suspended via a hanging member (21A) above the housing section (11) that accommodates a physical game object (PS), and is configured to displace the position of the game object. When the game body moves to a predetermined position, the user receives a prize ( PS), and a biasing means (22A) for biasing the displacement execution unit in a direction in which it is lifted up via the hanging member, and a biasing force for changing the biasing force of the biasing means. A game machine (1) provided with a force changing means (22), wherein the urging force changing means includes an operating member (23) that is operated so that the amount of operation is not recognized after the operation, and the operating member An operation conversion mechanism (24, 22C, 22B) for converting an operation to a change in the urging force of the urging means is provided. In this case as well, it is possible to prevent the setting results of elements that influence the outcome of the game from being recognized and reducing the enjoyment (interest) of the play.

(Reference example)
In the game machine disclosed in Patent Document 1, the prize acquisition section is biased in a lifting direction by a coil spring, and the biasing force of the coil spring is adjusted by a screw mechanism through displacement of the tip. This screw mechanism is provided with an adjustment knob for displacing the position of the tip. A rotation operation is performed on this adjustment knob to move the tip forward or backward. Specifically, in this screw mechanism, when the adjustment knob is pushed in (advanced) so that the tip is displaced to a position where it presses the movable restraining plate member, the biasing force of the coil spring increases. On the other hand, when the adjustment knob is pulled out (retracted) so that the tip is displaced to a position where the movable restraining plate member is retreated, the biasing force of the coil spring is reduced. In other words, the biasing force of the coil spring is directly related to the degree (state) in which the adjustment knob is pressed, and is adjusted by moving the adjustment knob forward and backward. Additionally, the biasing force of the coil spring after adjustment is notified via the state of the adjustment knob (the degree to which the adjustment knob is pressed).

However, the adjustment knob is exposed to the outside for ease of adjustment and is also visible to the player, so there is a possibility that the biasing force of the coil spring will be recognized by the player through the state of the adjustment knob. Since the biasing force of the coil spring acts in the direction of lifting the prize acquisition part, it affects the pushing force when the prize acquisition part and the prize collide, for example. Such pushing force often affects the acquisition of prizes. Therefore, if the biasing force of the coil spring and, by extension, the settings of elements that affect the outcome of the game are recognized through the state of the adjustment knob, the enjoyment (interest) of the play may be reduced.

Therefore, the purpose of the reference example is to provide a game machine or the like that can suppress a decrease in interest.

The game machine of the reference example is provided with an operation section (23, TP) on which an operation for setting an influencing element as an element that influences the play result is performed, and the setting result of the setting performed through the operation section is provided. A game machine (1) that provides a game in such a way that the influencing elements produce different effects depending on the operation unit, and when the setting of the influencing elements is executed through the operation unit, the setter who executed the setting. A result notification means (22A, TD) is provided for providing a tactile sensation according to the setting results of the influencing factors.

According to the reference example, the setting result of the influencing element is notified through the tactile sensation given to the setter. Tactile sensations are less likely to be known to those around you than visual information. Therefore, by notifying the setting result through tactile sensation, the result of the operation for setting the element that affects the outcome of the game is recognized more easily than when the result is notified through visual information such as a display device. It is possible to prevent the enjoyment (interest) of play from decreasing.

The result notification means may be realized mechanically (structurally) or electronically. For example, one aspect of the game machine of the reference example is a setting input device (TP) that includes the operation section and inputs the settings of the influencing factors through the operation of the operation section, and a tactile sensation that provides the setter with a predetermined tactile sensation. a generating device (TD); a result acquisition means (39) for acquiring a setting result of the influencing element inputted via the setting input device; A mode may be adopted that includes a tactile sensation control means (39) that controls the tactile sensation generation device so that the tactile sensation generation device functions as the result notification means by giving the result to a person. In this case, the result notification means can be implemented electronically.

When a tactile sensation generating device is used, an appropriate device that generates various tactile sensations may be used as the tactile sensation generating device. For example, motors that generate tactile sensations such as vibrations and shocks, various temperature devices that generate tactile sensations such as cold or warm sensations, fans that generate tactile sensations related to wind, or tactile sensations that make you feel like you are touching a part other than the operating part. An ultrasonic device or the like that generates tactile sensation may be used as the tactile sensation generator. Different tactile sensations depending on the setting results may be realized as appropriate through these tactile sensation generating devices. For example, when a motor that generates vibrations is used as a tactile sensation generating device, the motor may generate vibrations a number of times as different tactile sensations depending on the setting result, such as increasing the number of vibrations as the setting value becomes higher. Similarly, the motor may generate multiple vibrations as different tactile sensations at frequencies and intervals depending on the setting result, such as multiple vibrations with shorter intervals as the setting value becomes higher. Further, the motor may generate vibrations whose positions change depending on the setting results as different tactile sensations, such as changing the generation position of the vibrations clockwise depending on the setting results. Alternatively, the motor may generate different tactile sensations with different intensities (strengths) depending on the setting results. Specifically, for example, in an embodiment using the tactile sensation generating device of the reference example, the tactile sensation control means may generate a plurality of tactile sensations with intervals varying depending on the setting results of the influencing elements, or The tactile sensation generating device may be controlled to generate one of the tactile sensations whose intensity changes according to the different tactile sensations.

Alternatively, in one aspect of the game machine of the reference example, the radius (R) from the rotation axis (24) to each root circle is configured to be different for each root circle, and the operation amount of the operation portion is A gear (22C) that rotates according to the rotation, and a restriction member (27) that restricts the rotation of the gear by entering the bottom of each tooth are disposed between one end and the other end, and after rotation through the restriction member. a rotation limiting mechanism (22B) that limits the rotation of the gear so that the position of the gear is maintained; A rotating member (23) is used to perform a rotational operation for rotating the gear, and one end of the rotation limiting mechanism is fixed to rotate in accordance with a change in the radius of a root circle into which the limiting member enters. The other end of the rotation limiting mechanism is connected to a biasing means (22A) that biases the limiting member in the direction of entering the bottom of each tooth of the gear. The biasing means causes different vibrations depending on the radius of each root circle between the limiting member and the tooth root into which the limiting member is inserted by urging the other end of the rotation limiting mechanism, and causes the rotation shaft to rotate. It may function as the result notification means through the vibration transmitted to the operation section via. In this case, the result notification means can be realized mechanically.

Various elements included in the game may function as influencing elements as appropriate. Additionally, various games may be provided as appropriate. For example, factors such as the force for capturing (grasping) a prize and the conveyance speed in a prize winning game in which a crane is used to capture and transport a prize may be used as influencing factors. Furthermore, a medal game in which the player aims to acquire many medals by consuming medals, which is an example of a game medium, may be provided as a game. In this case, various factors related to medal acquisition may be used as influencing factors. For example, if a rate calculated based on the amount of medals earned in a certain period and the amount of medals consumed for play in that period is set to affect various settings, the rate may be used as an influencing factor. Alternatively, if elements such as the amount of operation and weight of a steering wheel-type operation unit for operating a car in a racing game can be set, those elements may be used as influencing elements. For example, one aspect of the game machine of the reference example includes a storage section (11) that stores a physical game object (PS), and an operating means (CU) that operates to change the position of the game object in the storage section. ) and a play input device (IP) into which a play action for operating the operating means is input, and as the game, the game object moves to a predetermined position (14) through the operation of the operating means. A mode may be adopted in which a prize winning game is provided in which a prize is given to the player of the game when the player of the game plays the game.

The operating section may be configured as appropriate. For example, when the operating section is arranged so as not to be visually recognized, the operating section may be configured so that the amount of operation (setting result) can be grasped after the operation. Alternatively, the operation unit may be arranged so as to be visible, but in that case, it is preferable to configure the operation unit so that the operation amount (operation result) cannot be grasped after the operation. For example, if multiple operation parts (for example, a push button that restores the original state) are configured to restore the state before the operation after operation (no change in state occurs before and after the operation), multiple types of settings may be required. may be provided so as to correspond to each other. Then, the settings may be executed through operation on any of the operation units. Specifically, for example, in one aspect of the game machine of the reference example, the operation unit is configured to perform an operation whose operation result is not known after the operation, and is arranged so as to be visible to the player of the game. It's okay.

On the other hand, the computer program of the reference example is provided with an operation section on which an operation for setting an influencing element as an element that influences the play result is performed, and according to the setting result of the setting executed through the operation section. A game machine (1) that provides a game so that the influencing elements produce different effects, the setting input device (TP) including the operating section and inputting the settings of the influencing elements through the operation of the operating section. and a tactile sensation generating device (TD) that provides a predetermined tactile sensation to a setter who has executed the setting when the setting of the influencing element is executed through the operation unit (31). a result acquisition means for acquiring a setting result of the influencing element inputted via the setting input device, and generating the tactile sensation by giving the setter a different tactile sensation according to the setting result as the predetermined tactile sensation. The apparatus is configured to function as a tactile sensation control means for controlling the tactile sensation generating device so that the apparatus functions as a result notification means for giving the setter a tactile sensation according to the setting result of the influencing element.

In addition, the control method of the reference example is provided with an operation section on which an operation for setting an influencing element as an element that influences the play result is performed, and according to the setting result of the setting performed through the operation section. A game machine (1) that provides a game so that the influencing elements produce different effects, the setting input device (TP) including the operating section and inputting the settings of the influencing elements through the operation of the operating section. and a tactile sensation generating device (TD) that provides a predetermined tactile sensation to a setter who has executed the setting when the setting of the influencing element is executed through the operation unit. In (31), a result acquisition procedure of acquiring a setting result of the influencing element inputted via the setting input device, and providing the setter with a different tactile sensation according to the setting result as the predetermined tactile sensation; and a tactile sensation control procedure for controlling the tactile sensation generating device so that the tactile sensation generating device functions as a result notification means for giving the setter a tactile sensation according to the setting result of the influencing element. By executing the computer program or the control method of the reference example in a game machine that includes a tactile sensation generating device, it is possible to realize a game machine that uses the tactile sensation generating device among the game machines of the reference example.

1 Game machine 11 Storage part 13 Crane (displacement execution part)
14 Release port (prescribed position)
20 Lifting device section (housing)
22 Suspension adjustment mechanism (biasing force changing means)
23 Operation dial (operation member)
24 Rotation axis (operation conversion mechanism)
27 Engaging member (limiting member)
31 Control unit (computer)
39 Settings management unit (result acquisition means, tactile control means)
21A wire (hanging member)
22A Pressure adjustment spring (biasing means, result notification means)
22B Spring pressing member (operation conversion mechanism, rotation restriction mechanism)
22C Ratchet gear (operation conversion mechanism, rotary disk, rotation conversion member)
20W Exterior (standard position)
C Teeth R Radius CU Crane device (operation means)
IP input device (play input device)
PG game program (computer program)
PS Capture target (gaming object)
TD Tactile sensation generator (result notification means)
TP Touchpad (input device, setting input device)
Bax Component rotation axis (fixing rotation axis)

Claims (5)

A displacement execution unit that is suspended via a hanging member above a storage unit that accommodates a physical game object, and that executes a series of operations for displacing the position of the game object is inputted via an input device. A prize winning game is provided in which a prize is given to a user when the game body moves to a predetermined position by operating the game body in accordance with a play action performed, and a direction in which the displacement executing unit is lifted via the hanging member. A game machine is provided with a biasing means for biasing the biasing means, and a biasing force changing means for changing the biasing force of the biasing means,
The biasing force changing means includes an operating member that is operated so that a relative positional relationship with respect to a reference position is maintained before and after the operation, and an operation member that changes the biasing force of the biasing unit when the operating member is operated. A game machine provided with an operation conversion mechanism for conversion. The operation conversion mechanism includes a rotating shaft, a rotating disk that rotates about the rotating shaft in accordance with the operation of the operating member, and a rotation that limits rotation of the rotating disk so that the position after rotation is maintained. A restriction mechanism and a rotation converting member disposed on the rotating shaft as a rotating body having a radius that changes depending on the position in order to convert the rotation of the rotary disk into a biasing force of the biasing means. The game machine according to claim 1. The rotary disk is configured as a gear having a plurality of teeth in which the radius from the rotation axis to each root circle is different for each root circle,
The rotation restriction mechanism is provided with a restriction member between one end and the other end that restricts rotation of the gear by entering the bottom of each tooth,
One end of the rotation limiting mechanism is fixed via a fixing rotation shaft so as to rotate in accordance with a change in the radius of a root circle into which the limiting member is inserted;
The other end of the rotation limiting mechanism is connected to the biasing means so as to change the biasing force by an operation accompanying rotation about the fixing rotation axis,
The game machine according to claim 2, wherein the gear functions as the rotation conversion member. The displacement execution unit is suspended by the suspension member via the casing,
The rotating shaft extends from the inside of the housing toward the outside, and is provided so as to protrude from an exterior that separates the inside and outside of the housing,
The operating member is provided at a position protruding from the exterior of the rotating shaft, and is configured as a rotating member that rotates coaxially with the gear,
The operation member is configured to perform a rotation operation for rotating the gear via the rotation shaft so as to maintain a positional relationship with the exterior;
The game machine according to claim 3, wherein the position of the exterior serves as the reference position. A displacement execution unit that is suspended via a hanging member above a storage unit that accommodates a physical game object, and that executes a series of operations for displacing the position of the game object is inputted via an input device. A prize winning game is provided in which a prize is given to a user when the game body moves to a predetermined position by operating the game body in accordance with a play action performed, and a direction in which the displacement executing unit is lifted via the hanging member. A game machine is provided with a biasing means for biasing the biasing means, and a biasing force changing means for changing the biasing force of the biasing means,
The biasing force changing means includes an operating member that is operated so that the amount of operation is not recognized after the operation, and an operation conversion mechanism that converts an operation on the operating member into a change in the biasing force of the biasing unit. A game console.

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