Dispensing mechanism and game device

Abstract

The dispensing mechanism of the present invention is configured to dispense game-related items and includes: a push-out mechanism for pushing out the aforementioned items; a receiving section adjacent to the push-out mechanism for receiving the aforementioned items; and a pre-dispensing holding section disposed around the receiving section for holding the aforementioned items as if they were to be dispensed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a dispensing mechanism and a gaming device, particularly to a dispensing mechanism for dispensing game-related items and a gaming device equipped with the dispensing mechanism. Prior Technology

[0002] Game devices that distribute different items based on the game outcome are known (e.g., Patent Document 1). The game device described in Patent Document 1 includes: a receiving mechanism for receiving a plurality of items; a pre-distribution holding mechanism for holding a plurality of items delivered from the receiving mechanism as items to be distributed; an identification information reading mechanism for reading identification information of the items; and a control mechanism for determining, based on the read identification information, which item to be distributed from the pre-distribution pool.

[0003] In the aforementioned gaming device, the receiving mechanism and the pre-dispensing holding mechanism are configured as a dispensing mechanism for dispensing items. A control mechanism of the gaming device controls the game being played and the dispensing mechanism, determining which items to dispense based on the game's outcome. Therefore, if a problem arises in the dispensing mechanism, such as a failure to dispense items, repairs are required not only to the dispensing mechanism itself but also to the control mechanism (e.g., complete software replacement). Consequently, maintenance of the dispensing mechanism is not easily performed.

[0004] Furthermore, it is desirable to integrate this dispensing mechanism into other gaming devices. Specifically, in gaming devices equipped with a printing mechanism for printing dispensed materials, it is desirable to replace the printing mechanism with the aforementioned dispensing mechanism. However, due to the fact that the control mechanism of the gaming device controls the dispensing mechanism, it is difficult to separate the dispensing mechanism from the gaming device and adapt it to another gaming device. Therefore, a dispensing mechanism that improves upon this problem is requested. [Previous Technical Documents] [Patent Literature]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2012-157605 Summary of the Invention

[0006] (The problem the invention aims to solve)

[0007] The purpose of this invention is to provide a dispensing mechanism that is easy to repair and has universality, and a gaming device equipped with the dispensing mechanism. (Solutions)

[0008] This objective is achieved by the present invention described in (1) to (10) below.

[0009] (1) A dispensing mechanism for dispensing game-related items, the dispensing mechanism comprising: The issuing organization is responsible for issuing the aforementioned distributed items; The containment unit is adjacent to the aforementioned launch mechanism and houses the aforementioned issued items; and The pre-distribution holding unit is arranged around the aforementioned receiving unit and holds the aforementioned distributed items as pre-distribution items.

[0010] (2) The dispensing mechanism as described in (1) above, wherein the aforementioned launching mechanism includes a first launching section and a second launching section orthogonal to the aforementioned first launching section.

[0011] (3) The dispensing mechanism as described in (2) above, wherein the first pushing part and the second pushing part respectively perform linear motion.

[0012] (4) The dispensing mechanism as described in (2) above, wherein the first ejection part of the aforementioned ejection mechanism is located below the aforementioned containment part.

[0013] (5) The dispensing mechanism as described in (2) above, wherein the second dispensing part of the aforementioned dispensing mechanism dispenses the aforementioned dispensing item held by the aforementioned pre-dispensing holding part.

[0014] (6) The dispensing mechanism as described in (1) above, wherein the aforementioned ejection mechanism is located at the center of the aforementioned pre-dispensing holding section.

[0015] (7) The dispensing mechanism as described in (2) above, wherein the first ejection part and the second ejection part are elongated, and the length of the second ejection part extending along the length direction is greater than the length of the first ejection part extending along the length direction.

[0016] (8) The dispensing mechanism as described in (7) above, wherein the aforementioned receiving section includes a pair of receiving sections, and the aforementioned ejection mechanism ejects the aforementioned dispensing items contained in the aforementioned pair of receiving sections in turn.

[0017] (9) The dispensing mechanism as described in (1) above, wherein the aforementioned receiving part has a notch extending along the length direction of its side.

[0018] (10) A gaming device, characterized by having: The display unit shows designated images related to the game. The game control unit is used to control the progress of the aforementioned game; The operation unit, which receives user input for the purpose of playing the aforementioned game; and The aforementioned dispensing mechanism in any of (1) to (9) above dispenses the aforementioned dispensing items related to the aforementioned game based on the aforementioned operational input. (Effects of the invention)

[0019] When using the present invention, a dispensing mechanism that is easy to repair and has universality can be provided, as well as a game device equipped with the dispensing mechanism. Simple Explanation of the Diagram

[0020] [Figure 1] is a perspective view showing the configuration of the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] is a top view showing the recording medium of the game device used in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] is a block diagram showing the structure of the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] is a perspective view showing the dispensing mechanism of the game device provided in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] is a block diagram showing the configuration of the dispensing mechanism of the game device provided in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] is a side view showing the dispensing mechanism of the game device provided in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] is a top view showing the dispensing mechanism (excluding the housing part) of the game device provided in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] is a perspective view showing the placement part and the ejection mechanism provided in the dispensing mechanism of the game device provided in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] is a bottom view showing the ejection mechanism provided in the dispensing mechanism of the game device in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] is a flowchart showing an example of a method for distributing a device in the distributing mechanism of a game device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] is a flowchart showing an example of the processing of a game device according to a first embodiment of the present invention and an example of the processing of a dispensing mechanism accompanying the processing. [Figure 12] is a flowchart showing an example of a method for supplementing the dispensed items in the dispensing mechanism of the game device in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] is a top view of the dispensing mechanism of the second embodiment of the present invention. Implementation

[0021] Before describing the dispensing mechanism of the present invention, the game device of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the suitable embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings. For ease of explanation, the upper side in the drawings will be referred to as "upper", the lower side as "lower", the left side as "left", the right side as "right", the near end of the paper as "front", and the far end of the paper as "rear".

[0022] <<First Implementation Form>>

[0023] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 is a top view showing the recording medium used in the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 1. Game device

[0024] The game device 1 of this embodiment, as shown in Figures 1 and 3, includes: a frame 2, an operation unit 3, a reading unit 4, a speaker 5, a display unit 6, a memory unit 7, a game control unit 8, and a communication unit 9. Figure 1 shows the game device 1 in a state where the front door of the frame 2 is opened, allowing the dispensing mechanism 10 disposed inside the frame 2 to move to the front. Before describing each part, an overview of the game played by the game device 1 and the dispensing components used in the game device 1 will be explained.

[0025] The game device 1 can use game-related distributed media (hereinafter also referred to as "recording media" 100) to play games, such as a battle game. The recording media 100 is configured to store identification information such as character information (hereinafter referred to as "character information"). The game device 1 obtains the character information recorded on the recording media 100 by scanning the recording media 100. Then, the game device 1 displays the image of the character on the display unit 6. In this way, the game device 1 can play a battle game in which the character battles against the opponent's character. After the game ends, a new recording media 100 is distributed from the game device 1. In addition, the game played by the game device 1 is not limited to the battle game described above, but can also be a role-playing game, board game, simulation game, action game, etc.

[0026] As shown in Figure 2, the issued item 100 is roughly rectangular in shape. The issued item 100 has a QR code 101 on its surface. The QR code 101 records identification information (second identification information) such as character information and item information. Examples of QR codes 101 include QR codes (registered trademarks) and Z codes (registered trademarks). The second identification information recorded in the QR code 101 can be identifiable under invisible light (infrared) or visible light. Furthermore, the issued item 100 can also be distinguished based on character information: rare issued items (e.g., issued items for characters with a specified level of rarity) and ordinary issued items (e.g., issued items for characters with a level of rarity below a specified level).

[0027] In addition, the game device 1 can also utilize an IC card that records player information or a designated ticket that records information for expanding game content. The following describes the components of the game device 1. <Frame>

[0028] As shown in Figure 1, the frame 2 is roughly cubic in shape and functions to house or store the components of the game device 1. An operation unit 3, a reading unit 4, a speaker 5, and a display unit 6 are mounted on the top of the frame 2. Furthermore, a memory unit 7, a game control unit 8, a communication unit 9, and a dispensing mechanism 10 are housed inside the frame 2. The frame 2 also has a dispensing port 21 for dispensed items 100, a coin insertion port 22, and a coin ejection port 23. Dispensed items 100 are dispensed from the dispensing mechanism 10 through the dispensing port 21. Additionally, a coin holder and the CPU of the game device 1 are housed inside the frame 2, but these are omitted for clarity. The shape and number of frames 2 are not particularly limited, and there can be two or more frames 2. The game device 1 can also be configured with two frames adjacent to each other (2-in-1 configuration), each having one display unit and one control unit. Operations Department

[0029] The control unit 3 has the function of accepting operation inputs from the player to perform the game. The control unit 3 has: two buttons 31 and a ball-shaped joystick 32. The buttons 31 are arranged symmetrically to the left and right of the center of the width direction of the frame 2 on the front side of the upper part of the frame 2. The player presses the button 31 when selecting the screen to be displayed on the display unit 6. In addition, the player can press the button 31 repeatedly during battle. The joystick 32 is provided between these buttons 31. The player operates by pushing the joystick 32 when certain conditions are met in the game, thereby producing a specific action. The shape of the joystick 32 is not particularly limited, and it can also be cylindrical or cubic. In addition, the position of the joystick 32 is not particularly limited, and it can also be near the button 31. <Reading Department>

[0030] The reader 4 has the function of reading information recorded on the dispensed item 100, the IC card, and the designated ticket. The reader 4 has: two insertion slots 41 and two scanners 42. In addition, each insertion slot 41 is equipped with a camera device (e.g., a visible light camera). In addition, each scanner 42 is equipped with a camera device (e.g., a visible light camera) or a reader device (e.g., a contactless card reader).

[0031] The player inserts the item 100 used in the game into the insertion port 41. In this state, the camera device captures the QR code 101 on the item 100. As a result, the reading unit 4 can read the character information and other identification information recorded in the QR code 101 on the item 100. Therefore, the player can select the character to use in battle.

[0032] In addition, players can place IC cards in scanner 42 to reflect past game results in new games. Furthermore, players can also place specific tickets in scanner 42, for example, to play games at specific amusement parks. <Speaker>

[0033] The speaker 5 has the function of outputting various sounds. In this embodiment, two speakers 5 are arranged on the top of the frame 2 between the operation unit 3 and the display unit 6. The sounds output by the speakers 5 include music and sound effects stored in the memory unit 7. The number of speakers 5 is not particularly limited and can be any natural number. Display Department

[0034] Display unit 6 has the function of displaying game images (designated images). As shown in Figure 1, display unit 6 is erected at the upper far end of frame 2. Display unit 6 is composed of one display panel, but it can also be composed of two or more display panels. In addition, the display panel can also be a touch panel. Furthermore, display unit 6 is square in shape when viewed from the front, but it is not limited to this; the shape of display unit 6 when viewed from the front can also be circular or triangular. <Memory Department>

[0035] Next, the memory section (first memory section) 7 will be explained. The memory section 7 stores the game program and game data. The game program is the program used to make the game device 1 execute the game, and it is achieved through cooperation with the hardware. In addition, the game data is the data related to the game, and includes: character data, music data, video data, sound effect data, designated event data, etc.

[0036] Character data includes information such as a character's name, special moves, weapons, strength, rarity, and visuals. In other words, character data is identification information that identifies each character based on the aforementioned character information. Music data refers to the music played from speaker 5. Music data may include multiple tracks, such as songs by the artist and game music. Video data refers to data about specific videos, i.e., game video data. Game video data may include: character videos, background videos, field videos, and various effect videos. Sound effect data refers to the sound data played during gameplay. Sound effect data may include evaluation sounds played based on the player's actions. Specific event data includes: boss appearance event data, reward event data, and group battle event data.

[0037] In addition, the memory unit 7 can also store information read from the IC card and designated tickets. Furthermore, the memory unit 7 can also store information provided by the distributing agency 10. For example, the memory unit 7 can also temporarily store the planned distribution determined by the distributing agency 10. Game Control Department

[0038] Next, the game control unit 8 will be explained. The game control unit (first control unit) 8 controls all functions related to the execution of the game. As shown in Figure 3, this game control unit 8 includes: an acquisition mechanism 81, a game processing mechanism 82, a display control mechanism 83, a sound output control mechanism 84, and an information providing mechanism 85. (Obtaining Institution)

[0039] The acquisition mechanism 81 has the function of acquiring information input by the player, character information of the distributed item 100, etc. The acquisition mechanism 81 acquires the input information by the player pressing button 31. In addition, the acquisition mechanism 81 acquires character information read by the reading unit 4. Furthermore, the acquisition mechanism 81 acquires information from the second control unit 18 that controls the distribution mechanism 10. For example, the acquisition mechanism 81 can acquire information about the planned distribution determined by the distribution mechanism 10. The acquisition mechanism 81 can acquire other information, such as various information received via the communication unit 9. (Game processing agency)

[0040] The game processing mechanism 82 has the function of processing the game's progress. For example, the game processing mechanism 82 processes the game's progress based on the information stored in the memory unit 7. Specifically, the game processing mechanism 82 determines specific game image data from the image data stored in the memory unit 7 and provides it to the display control mechanism 83. In addition, the game processing mechanism 82 determines specific music data from the music data stored in the memory unit 7 and provides it to the sound output control mechanism 84.

[0041] Furthermore, the game processing unit 82 processes the game's progress based on information obtained by the acquisition unit 81. For example, the game processing unit 82 may process the game's progress based on information from the second control unit 18 of the control distribution unit 10. Specifically, the game processing unit 82 may also process the game's progress based on the type of the distributed item 100 disposed in the pre-distribution holding unit 13 and / or based on the type of distributed item 100. Therefore, the game processing unit 82 processes the entire game's progress. (Display control mechanism)

[0042] The display control mechanism 83 has the function of controlling the display of game images. That is, the display control mechanism 83 controls the display of game image data, etc., determined by the game processing mechanism 82. (Sound output control mechanism)

[0043] The sound output control mechanism 84 controls the output of sound and music related to the game. Specifically, the sound output control mechanism 84 controls the output of music data, etc., determined by the game processing mechanism 82. The sound output control mechanism 84 provides music data, etc., to the speaker 5, and the speaker 5 can output sound and music. (Information provider)

[0044] The information provider 85 has the function of providing the information processed by the game processing unit 82 to the second control unit 18 of the distribution unit 10. For example, after the game is played, the information provider 85 can provide the second control unit 18 with information about the distributed item 100 to be distributed. <Communications Department>

[0045] The communication unit 9 has the function of communicating with external devices via wired or wireless means and through a network (LAN, WAN, Internet, etc.). Thus, the game device 1 can communicate data with other game devices and information terminals via the communication unit 9. For example, the acquisition unit 81 can obtain music data and game programs by communicating with external devices through the communication unit 9. As a result, by updating the game program, the game device 1 can provide the player with the latest game. Alternatively, the game device 1 may not have a communication unit 9. <Distribution Agency>

[0046] Furthermore, the game device 1 is equipped with a dispensing mechanism 10 that is easily repairable and versatile. The dispensing mechanism 10 is an example of the dispensing mechanism of the present invention. Hereinafter, the configuration of the dispensing mechanism 10 will be described in detail with reference to a suitable embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings. A. Composition of the distribution mechanism

[0047] Figure 4 is a perspective view of the dispensing mechanism of the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the dispensing mechanism of the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6 is a side view of the dispensing mechanism of the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 is a top view of the dispensing mechanism (excluding the receiving part) of the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8 is a perspective view of the placement part and the ejection mechanism provided in the dispensing mechanism of the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9 is a bottom view of the ejection mechanism provided in the dispensing mechanism of the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the dispensing mechanism 10 includes: a placement section 11, a receiving section 12, a pre-dispensing holding section 13, a pushing mechanism 14, a camera section 15, a detection section 16, a gate section 17, a second control section 18, a second memory section 19, and a base section 20. (Placement section)

[0049] The placement section 11 is disc-shaped and has the function of placing various components on its surface (placement surface). The placement section 11 houses the receiving section 12, the ejection mechanism 14, the camera section 15, and the second control section 18. Furthermore, a notch is formed in the center of the placement section 11. This allows the first ejection section 141 of the ejection mechanism 14 to be effectively mounted via the placement section 11 (Figures 8 and 9). The placement section 11 is located in the center of the base section 20 and is fixed to the base section 20. The shape of the placement section 11 is not particularly limited and can be polygonal, etc. (Containment Department)

[0050] The receiving section 12 has the function of receiving a plurality of dispensed items 100. The receiving section 12 has a plurality of storage sections 121 as a plurality of receiving sections. The receiving section 12 of this embodiment has a first storage section and a second storage section 121. The first and second storage sections 121 are arranged opposite to each other on the top of the placement section 11. That is, the first and second storage sections 121 constitute a pair of receiving sections 12. By providing such a pair of receiving sections 12 inside the pre-dispensing holding section 13 described later, the dispensing mechanism 10 can be reduced in size, and it is helpful to effectively place the dispensed items 100 in the pre-dispensing holding section 13.

[0051] In this embodiment, the storage section 121 is fixed to the placement section 11, but it can also be detachably provided on the placement section 11. This allows for easy replenishment of the dispensed items 100 to the receiving section 12. Furthermore, the number of storage sections 121 in this embodiment is two, but it is not limited to this and can be any natural number. Moreover, there is no particular limitation on the number of dispensed items 100 that can be stored in each storage section 121; for example, it can be 50 items. Each storage section 121 typically contains a package (compressed) of randomly bundled rare dispensed items 100 and common dispensed items 100. Multiple storage sections 121 can also separately store different types of dispensed items 100. For example, multiple storage sections 121 can each store various types of dispensed items 100 at a specified ratio. This allows for adjustment of the ratio of the types of dispensed items 100 arranged in the prepared dispensed item holding section 13. As a result, the distribution agency 10 can effectively distribute different items 100 according to the game results.

[0052] As shown in Figures 4 and 6, each storage section 121 is formed in a tower shape. Each storage section 121 has a main body 122, a middle section 123, and a foot 124. The main body 122 is cylindrical and configured to hold a plurality of dispensed items 100. The planar shape of the main body 122 is roughly rectangular, corresponding to the shape of the dispensed items 100. Furthermore, the main body 122 has a notch 122c on one side. Through the notch 122c, for example, a part of a hand (fingers) can be inserted into the main body 122. This allows a plurality of dispensed items 100 to be supported by hand and easily housed in the storage section 121.

[0053] Furthermore, the number of dispensed items 100 stored in the storage section 121 can be detected by the sensor of the detection section 16 (described later) via the notch 122c. Additionally, the dispensed items 100 can be visually viewed when the front door of the frame 2 is opened, for example. This also provides the advantage of easy management of the game device 1. In this way, the situation where not all dispensed items 100 are stored in the storage section 121 can be avoided, and the dispensed items 100 can be reliably dispensed.

[0054] The body portion 122 has four beam portions 122a along its length on its outer peripheral surface. The beam portions 122a are formed along the entire length including the body portion 122. Screw holes for engagement with the foot portion 124 are formed at the lower end of the beam portions 122a via an intermediate portion 123. The intermediate portion 123 functions as an intermediate material for engaging the body portion 122 with the foot portion 124. The intermediate portion 123 is formed such that it extends outwards when viewed along the plane of the storage portion 121 (Fig. 6). This helps to securely engage the body portion 122 with the foot portion 124.

[0055] As shown in Figures 7 and 8, two feet 124 are provided in the placement portion 11. That is, the feet 124 are arranged symmetrically along their length direction, passing through the center line of the placement portion 11 (in Figure 7, corresponding to the line along the diameter of the placement portion 11 in the horizontal direction). The pair of feet 124 are separated such that the first push-out portion 141, described later, can be provided. Furthermore, the height of the feet 124 (the height from the placement surface of the placement portion 11 to the top of the feet 124) is the same as the thickness of the first push-out portion 141 and the thickness of the dispenser 100. Then, the dispenser 100 at the bottom of the storage portion 121 is located between the pair of feet 124 and below the main body portion 122 (Figure 6). (Prepared for distribution of the maintenance unit)

[0056] The pre-dispensing holding unit 13 has the function of holding a plurality of dispensing items 100 that have been sent out from the receiving unit 12 and are ready for dispensing. In this embodiment, the pre-dispensing holding unit 13 is configured to rotate. As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the pre-dispensing holding unit 13 includes: a support unit 131, an arranging unit 132, and a first motor D1. The first motor D1 has a first gear D1a and is configured to power the support unit 131 (Figure 6).

[0057] The support portion 131 is formed in a ring shape and functions to support the arrangement portion 132 and to receive power from the first motor D1. The side portion (peripheral portion) of the support portion 131 is formed in a gear shape and is configured to mesh with the gear D1a of the first motor D1. The top of the support portion 131 is covered by the arrangement portion 132.

[0058] The arrangement portion 132 is formed in a ring shape and has a plurality of (16 in this embodiment) retaining recesses 132a. The dispensed item 100 held by the plurality of retaining recesses 132a becomes a ready dispenser. Therefore, the more retaining recesses 132a there are, the more ready dispensers there are, and the dispensing mechanism 10 can improve the efficiency of dispensing the dispensed item 100 in an on-demand manner.

[0059] As shown in Figure 7, a plurality of retaining recesses 132a are provided on the top of the arrangement portion 132 along the circumferential direction of the arrangement portion 132. Each retaining recess 132a has a partition wall along the circumferential direction of the arrangement portion 132. The partition wall is triangular in plan view. The height of the partition wall is the same as the thickness of the dispensing item 100. Furthermore, each retaining recess 132a does not have a partition wall in the radial direction of the arrangement portion 132. In this way, the dispensing item 100 can be delivered from the inside of the arrangement portion 132 to the retaining recess 132a, and the dispensing item 100 can be delivered from the retaining recess 132a to the outside of the arrangement portion 132.

[0060] Above the retaining recess 132a are provided: a recess identification code 132b for confirming that the dispensed item 100 is not retained; and a numbering column 132c for visually distinguishing each retaining recess 132a. By recording numbers in the numbering column 132c, each retaining recess 132a can be visually distinguished, and maintenance of the dispensing mechanism 10 can be easily performed.

[0061] Furthermore, the recess identification code 132b is configured for reading by the camera unit 15, as described later, for example, as a micro QR code. The recess identification code 132b records the position information (recess number information) of the holding recess 132a. The information recorded in the recess identification code 132b is called first identification information. When the camera unit 15 reads the first identification information recorded in the recess identification code 132b, it indicates that the holding recess 132a is not holding the dispensed item 100 (empty state). (Issuing Institution)

[0062] The ejection mechanism 14 has the function of ejecting the dispensed item 100. Specifically, the ejection mechanism 14 has the function of ejecting the dispensed item 100 housed in the housing section 12 to the pre-dispensing holding section 13 (first function); and the function of ejecting the dispensed item 100 held in the pre-dispensing holding section 13 to the outside of the pre-dispensing holding section 13 (second function). In order to perform these functions, the ejection mechanism 14 of this embodiment has a first ejection section (dispensing ejection section) 141 that performs the first function; and a second ejection section (payment ejection section) 142 that performs the second function. That is, the first ejection section 141 and the second ejection section 142 each have a separate function. In this way, the first ejection section 141 and the second ejection section 142 can be simply constructed. As a result, the first ejection section 141 and the second ejection section 142 are less prone to failure, and the robustness of the dispensing mechanism 10 can be improved.

[0063] As shown in Figures 7 and 8, the first ejector portion 141 is plate-shaped, and its thickness is the same as that of the dispensed item 100. This allows the first ejector portion 141 to effectively eject the dispensed item 100 housed in the receiving portion 12. Furthermore, the first ejector portion 141 is positioned between a pair of receiving portions 12, specifically between the first storage portion 121 and the second storage portion 121. This allows the first ejector portion 141 to be effectively positioned in the placement portion 11, thus reducing the size of the dispensing mechanism 10. Consequently, the dispensing mechanism 10 can be adapted to various game devices, improving its versatility. The first ejector portion 141 includes: a plate-shaped support plate 141a and a second motor D2. The second motor D2 has a second gear D2a and is configured to power the support plate 141a (Figures 8 and 9).

[0064] The support plate 141a supports the first push-out portion 141 via the placement portion 11 and receives power from the second motor D2. As shown in FIG9, one side of the support plate 141a is formed in a gear shape and is configured to mesh with the gear D2a of the second motor D2. In this way, the first push-out portion 141 can move linearly.

[0065] The first ejector 141 is configured on the placement surface of the placement section 11 to alternately eject the dispensed item 100 housed in the first storage section 121 and the dispensed item 100 housed in the second storage section 121. In this way, the first ejector 141 can effectively eject the dispensed item 100.

[0066] Furthermore, a portion of the first ejector 141 is located below at least one of the first storage portion 121 and the second storage portion 121 of the pair of receiving portions 12. Therefore, the length of the first ejector 141 can be adequately ensured, and the first ejector 141 can be effectively placed in the placement portion 11. Thus, various shapes and sizes of dispensers 100 can be reliably ejected, and the dispensing mechanism 10 can be miniaturized. As a result, the dispensing mechanism 10 can be easily adapted to various gaming devices, further improving the versatility of the dispensers 100.

[0067] Next, the second ejection part 142 will be described. The second ejection part 142 is elongated and configured to eject the dispensed item 100 held in the pre-dispensing holding part 13 through the gate part 17. As shown in FIG8, a portion of the second ejection part 142 (the end located at the center side of the placement part 11) overlaps with the first ejection part 141. In this way, the first ejection part 141 and the second ejection part 142 can be effectively placed in the placement part 11, which helps to reduce the size of the dispensing mechanism 10. As a result, the dispensing mechanism 10 can be applied to various game devices, and the versatility of the dispensing mechanism 10 can be improved. The second ejection part 142 has: an abutment part 142a, a seat part 142b, a track part 142c, and a third motor D3. The third motor D3 has a third gear D3a and is configured to power the seat part 142b (FIG8).

[0068] The abutting portion 142a is formed in such a way as to constitute the front end of the second push-out portion 142. The thickness of the abutting portion 142a is the same as the thickness of the dispenser 100. In this way, the abutting portion 142a can reliably abut against the dispenser 100.

[0069] The seat portion 142b is elongated and located above the second ejector portion 142. Furthermore, the side portion of the seat portion 142b is gear-shaped and configured to mesh with the gear D3a of the third motor D3. Here, the seat portion 142b extends in a manner that overlaps with the first ejector portion 141. This restricts the size of the second ejector portion 142 and ensures sufficient length of the seat portion 142b. As a result, the operating area of ​​the second ejector portion 142 is expanded, which helps to reduce the size of the dispensing mechanism 10 and allows for the reliable dispensing of various shapes and sizes of dispensing items 100.

[0070] The track section 142c is constructed from a pair of track members. The pair of track members are separated in the placement section 11 and are positioned such that their width is smaller than that of the retaining recess 132a. Furthermore, for ease of explanation, a portion of the ejection mechanism 14 (a portion of the track members, etc.) is omitted in Figure 8. One end of the track section 142c (the end located on the side of the arrangement section 132) extends from the placement section 11, including the arrangement section 132. This allows the second ejection section 142 to move (linear motion) overlapping the retaining recess 132a, reliably ejecting the dispenser 100 held in the retaining recess 132a.

[0071] Furthermore, the other end of the track section 142c (the end located on the center side of the placement section 11) extends above the first push-out section 141. This allows a portion of the second push-out section 142 to move (linearly) to overlap with the first push-out section 141.

[0072] Therefore, the second ejector 142 is configured to move linearly from the placement section 11, which includes the pre-dispensing holding section 13. In this way, the second ejector 142 can effectively dispense the item 100.

[0073] Furthermore, the second ejector 142 is positioned between the pair of receiving portions 12 along the center line of the placement portion 11 (in Figure 7, the line corresponding to the diameter of the placement portion 11 along the vertical direction) in a manner orthogonal to the length direction of the first ejector 141. That is, when the dispensing mechanism 10 is viewed in plan, the length direction of the first ejector 141 is orthogonal to the length direction of the second ejector 142. This allows for a smaller configuration of the dispensing mechanism 10, and consequently, improves its versatility by making it applicable to various gaming devices.

[0074] Furthermore, the contact portion (front end) 142a of the second ejector 142 is configured to be located on the same plane (placement surface) as the first ejector 141, and to dispense the dispensing item 100. This configuration allows the first ejector 141 and the second ejector 142 to effectively act on the pre-dispensing holding portion 13. As a result, the dispensing item 100 can be effectively dispensed.

[0075] The aforementioned ejection mechanism 14 is configured to deliver the dispensed item 100 from the receiving section 12 to the pre-dispensing holding section 13, and further from the pre-dispensing holding section 13 to the gate section 17. Therefore, the configuration of the ejection mechanism 14 is not particularly limited as long as it can perform the function of dispensing the dispensed item 100 between sections. That is, the ejection mechanism 14 only needs to be configured to function as a dispensing section that delivers the dispensed item 100 to each section. (Camera Department)

[0076] The camera unit 15 has the function of reading the recess identification code 132b provided in the holding recess 132a; and recording the second identification information of the QR code 101 of the dispensed item 100 held in the holding recess 132a. That is, the camera unit 15 performs the function of an identification information reading unit. As shown in FIG6, the camera unit 15 has a camera 151 provided above the arrangement unit 132. There is no particular limitation on the type of camera 151, and examples include visible light cameras, infrared cameras, full-spectrum cameras, etc. The camera 151 in this embodiment is composed of a visible light camera. Since the pre-dispensing holding unit 13 rotates below the camera 151, the camera 151 captures the recess identification code 132b of each holding recess 132a; and the QR code 101 of the dispensed item 100 held in the holding recess 132a; and can read the information recorded thereon. (Testing Department)

[0077] The detection unit 16 has the function of detecting and sensing the state of the dispensing mechanism 10 (e.g., position information of each part, and quantity information of the dispensed items 100 housed in each storage section 121). For example, the detection unit 16 can detect the position information (recess number information) of each holding recess 132a provided in the pre-dispensing holding section 13. In order to detect such position information, the detection unit 16 of this embodiment has a first sensor 161 and a second sensor 162.

[0078] Specifically, the detection unit 16 includes: a first sensor (index sensor) 161 for detecting a reference retaining recess 132a among the retaining recesses 132a; and a second sensor 162 for sequentially detecting position information of each retaining recess 132a from the reference retaining recess 132a. The first sensor 161 and the second sensor 162 are configured to detect the position information of each retaining recess 132a from below (FIG. 6).

[0079] Furthermore, as shown in FIG6, the detection unit 16 has a third sensor 163 disposed adjacent to the gate unit 17 described later. The third sensor 163 has the function of detecting the dispensed item 100 passing through the gate unit 17. Thereby, the detection unit 16 can detect whether the dispensed item 100 has been paid through the gate unit 17. That is, the detection unit 16 can also detect payment abnormality information of the dispensed item 100. At this time, the information acquisition unit 181 can also acquire the payment abnormality information. In addition, the payment abnormality information can also be provided to the game control unit 8 by the information providing unit 184, and the game processing mechanism 82 temporarily suspends the game.

[0080] Additionally, the detection unit 16 may also include a fourth sensor for detecting the quantity of dispensed items 100 stored in the storage unit 121. This fourth sensor can be configured to detect the quantity of dispensed items 100 via a notch 122c in the main body 122 of the storage unit 121. This fourth sensor can detect whether the quantity of dispensed items 100 stored in the storage unit 121 exceeds or falls below a specified number. This facilitates the replenishment (replacement) of dispensed items 100. The location and quantity of this fourth sensor only need to be adjusted according to the configuration of the storage unit 12 (e.g., the location of the notch 122c).

[0081] Each sensor can be any type of sensor, such as a reflective photoelectric sensor, a transmissive photoelectric sensor, a magnetic sensor, an infrared sensor, a proximity sensor, or a mechanical contact sensor. Furthermore, there are no particular limitations on the type, quantity, or placement of the sensors, as long as they function correctly. (Gate section)

[0082] The gate section 17 functions as an outlet for the dispensing mechanism 100, which is pushed out from the holding recess 132a, and directed to the dispensing port 21. The number of gate sections 17 can be appropriately selected according to the configuration of the game device 1. In this embodiment, one gate section 17 is provided adjacent to the pre-dispensing holding section 13 in a manner corresponding to the front of the game device 1. The gate section 17 includes a flap 171 and a dispensing path 172.

[0083] The baffle 171 is configured to move by contact with the dispensed item 100 pushed out from the pre-dispensing holding section 13. The third sensor 163 can detect this movement. In this way, the detection section 16 can detect the dispensing of the dispensed item 100 through the gate section 17.

[0084] The dispensing path 172 has the function of guiding the dispensed item 100 passing through the baffle 171 to the dispensing port 21. The configuration of the dispensing path 172 is not particularly limited, as long as it has this function. In this embodiment, the dispensing path 172 is constructed with an inclined surface. Thereby, the dispensed item 100 slides down the inclined surface and into the dispensing port 21 by its own weight. (Second Control Department)

[0085] The second control unit 18, independently of the game control unit 8, has the function of controlling the processing of the dispensing mechanism 10. The second control unit 18 includes: an information acquisition unit 181, an information processing unit 182, an action control unit 183, and an information provision unit 184.

[0086] The information acquisition unit 181 has the function of acquiring various information related to the dispensing mechanism 10. For example, the information acquisition unit 181 can acquire position information of each of the plurality of holding recesses 132a detected by the detection unit 16. In addition, the information acquisition unit 181 can acquire first identification information of the recess identification code 132b of each holding recess 132a read by the camera unit 15. In addition, the information acquisition unit 181 can acquire second identification information of the dispensed item 100 held in each holding recess 132a read by the camera unit 15. In addition, the information acquisition unit 181 can acquire information provided by the information providing mechanism 85.

[0087] The information processing unit 182 has the function of processing the information acquired by the information acquisition unit 181. For example, the information processing unit 182 can determine the item to be distributed (the item to be distributed) 100 based on the second identification information of the items 100 held in each holding recess 132a. This allows the item 100 with the highest rarity among the plurality of items 100 held in the distribution holding unit 13 to be included in the distribution. That is, the information processing unit 182 can adjust the distribution to increase the variety of the game device 1. Furthermore, the information processing unit 182 can also determine the item to be distributed based on player information (character information related to the player, etc.). In addition, the information processing unit 182 can confirm the type of item 100 to be distributed based on the type of item 100 held in each holding recess 132a acquired by the information acquisition unit 181. Furthermore, the information processing unit 182 can confirm the quantity of the distributed items 100 held in the pre-distribution holding unit 13.

[0088] The motion control unit 183 has the function of controlling the operation of each part of the dispensing mechanism 10. For example, the motion control unit 183 can independently control the operation of the pre-dispensing holding unit 13 and the operation of the ejection mechanism 14 based on the information obtained by the information acquisition unit 181. This allows for the smooth placement of the dispensed item 100 from the receiving unit 12 into the pre-dispensing holding unit 13 and the dispensing of the dispensed item 100 from the pre-dispensing holding unit 13. Furthermore, the motion control unit 183 can control the pre-dispensing holding unit 13 to rotate clockwise or counterclockwise. Moreover, the motion control unit 183 can also freely change the rotation speed. Therefore, the motion control unit 183 can control the operation of each part of the dispensing mechanism 10.

[0089] Furthermore, the information providing unit 184 has the function of providing information about the distribution unit 10 to the game control unit 8 of the game device 1. For example, the information providing unit 184 can provide information about the distribution item 100 that has been determined by the information processing unit 182 to be prepared for distribution to the game control unit 8.

[0090] Therefore, the dispensing mechanism 10 has a second control unit 18 that can independently control the processing of the dispensed item 100 by the dispensing mechanism 10, separate from the game control unit 8. This allows the dispensing mechanism 10 to be detached from the game device 1 and installed in older game devices (e.g., game devices with a printing mechanism) in place of the printing mechanism. Thus, the dispensing mechanism 10 has high versatility. Furthermore, because the dispensing mechanism 10 has a second control unit 18, for example, even if a problem occurs where the dispensed item 100 cannot be dispensed, only the second control unit 18 needs to be repaired as needed, not the game control unit 8. Therefore, maintenance of the dispensing mechanism 10 can be easily performed. Moreover, it is also easy to repair the dispensing mechanism 10 during gameplay using the game control unit 8. (Second Memory Department)

[0091] Furthermore, the dispensing mechanism 10 and the memory unit 7 of the gaming device 1 each independently possess a second memory unit 19. The second memory unit 19 has the function of storing information about the dispensing mechanism 10. For example, the second memory unit 19 can store the position information of each part detected by the detection unit 16. In addition, since the placement unit 11 is not movable, the position information of the first storage unit 121, the second storage unit 121, the second ejection unit 142, and the camera unit 15 provided on the placement unit 11 can also be pre-stored in the second memory unit 19. That is, in FIG7, the second memory unit 19 can also store the camera unit 15 located at the top (12 o'clock position); the second storage unit 121 located at the right (3 o'clock position); the second ejection unit 142 located at the bottom (6 o'clock position); and the first storage unit 121 located at the left (9 o'clock position).

[0092] Furthermore, since the containment unit 12 in this embodiment has a plurality of storage units 121, the second memory unit 19 can also store information about the plurality of storage units 121 (hereinafter referred to as "storage unit information"). Storage unit information may include, for example, information about the types of dispensed items 100 contained in the storage units 121, and the quantity of dispensed items 100 contained in the storage units 121. Additionally, the information stored in the second memory unit 19 can also be stored in the memory unit 7. (Base section)

[0093] The base portion 20 supports all the components. In this embodiment, the base portion 20 supports the placement portion 11, the receiving portion 12, the pre-dispensing holding portion 13, the ejection mechanism 14, the camera portion 15, the detection portion 16, the gate portion 17, the second control portion 18, and the second memory portion 19. Furthermore, the base portion 20 may also house the memory portion 7 of the game device 1. The base portion 20 can be of any shape or configuration, as long as it fulfills this function. B. Operating methods of the dispensing mechanism

[0094] Next, an example of the operation method of the dispensing mechanism of the present invention will be described. FIG10 is a flowchart showing an example of a method for dispensing the dispensed items in the dispensing mechanism of the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG11 is a flowchart showing an example of a process of the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention and an example of a process of the dispensing mechanism along with the process. FIG12 is a flowchart showing an example of a method for replenishing the dispensed items in the dispensing mechanism of the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. (1) Method for preparing the distributed items

[0095] Referring to FIG10, an example is described in which the dispensers 100 housed in the first and second storage sections 121 of the storage section 12 are placed in the first to sixteenth holding recesses 132a of the pre-dispensing holding section 13 without all dispensers 100 being placed in the pre-dispensing holding section 13 (initial state).

[0096] In the initial state, the dispensing item 100 is configured (S100). Then, the motion control unit 183 rotates the pre-dispensing holding unit 13 (S101). At this time, the detection unit 16 detects the position information of the first to sixteenth holding recesses 132a (S102). Specifically, the detection unit 16 uses a first sensor 161 to detect the position information (index information) of the reference holding recess 132a, and uses a second sensor 162 to sequentially detect the position information (position relative to the index) of each holding recess 132a starting from the reference holding recess 132a. In this way, the information acquisition unit 181 can acquire the position information of the first to sixteenth holding recesses 132a. The detected position information is stored in the second memory unit 19.

[0097] After detecting the position information of the first to sixteenth retaining recesses 132a, the motion control unit 183 stops the rotation of the pre-dispensing retainer 13 (S103). Then, the motion control unit 183 controls the operation of the pre-dispensing retainer 13 to place the designated retaining recess 132a (e.g., the first retaining recess 132a) opposite to the designated storage section 121 (e.g., the storage section 121 located at the 9 o'clock position in FIG. 7) (S104). At this time, in FIG. 7, even for the second storage section 121 located at the 3 o'clock position, the designated retaining recess 132a (the ninth retaining recess 132a) is still in the correct position. That is, the motion control unit 183 controls the operation of the pre-dispensing retainer 13 to place the two designated retaining recesses 132a opposite to the first and second storage sections 121, respectively.

[0098] With the first and ninth retaining recesses 132a respectively facing the first and second storage sections 121, the motion control unit 183 controls the operation of the first ejector 141 (S105). Here, the first ejector 141 moves linearly in a manner that the dispenser 100 of the first storage section 121 and the dispenser 100 of the second storage section 121 are ejected alternately. In other words, the motion control unit 183 controls the operation of the first ejector 141 in a manner that the first ejector 141 moves linearly between the pair of receiving sections 12 (S105).

[0099] As a result, the dispenser 100 (the dispenser 100 in contact with the placement surface of the placement section 11) stored in the lowermost part of the first storage section 121 is pushed out by the first push-out section 141 and held in the first holding recess 132a. At this time, the first push-out section 141 can also temporarily maintain the state of pushing out the dispenser 100, that is, the state located below the storage section 121.

[0100] Continuing, the first ejector 141 moves linearly to eject the dispenser 100 housed at the bottom of the storage section 121. Specifically, since the ninth retaining recess 132a is opposite to the second storage section 121, the first ejector 141 moves linearly toward the ninth retaining recess 132a. As a result, the dispenser 100 housed at the bottom of the second storage section 121 is ejected by the first ejector 141 and held in the ninth retaining recess 132a. The first ejector 141 remains in the state of ejecting the dispenser 100, that is, remains in the state below the second storage section 121.

[0101] Then, steps 104 to 105 (S106) are repeated before the dispenser 100 is placed in all the holding recesses 132a of the pre-dispensing holding unit 13. After the dispenser 100 is placed in all the holding recesses 132a (Yes in S106), the process proceeds to step 107. That is, after the dispenser 100 is placed in the pre-dispensing holding unit 13, the motion control unit 183 controls the operation of the pre-dispensing holding unit 13, and places the designated holding recesses 132a below the camera unit 15 (S107). Then, the camera 151 of the camera unit 15 captures the QR code 101 of the dispenser 100 placed in the designated holding recesses 132a. Herein, the information acquisition unit 181 acquires information that the dispenser 100 is disposed in the designated retaining recess 132a, and information about the type of the dispenser 100 (hereinafter referred to as "retaining recess information") (S108).

[0102] Then, steps 107 to 108 are repeated (S109) before obtaining information about all the retaining recesses 132a. Specifically, the motion control unit 183 controls the operation of the pre-dispensing retainer 13 to place the first retaining recess 132a below the camera unit 15 (S107). Then, the camera 151 of the camera unit 15 captures the QR code 101 of the dispensed item 100 placed in the first retaining recess 132a. Steps 107 to 108 are repeated until information about all the retaining recesses 132a of the pre-dispensing retainer 13, that is, the first to the sixteenth retaining recesses 132a, is obtained (Yes in step 109), at which point the dispensing of the dispensed item 100 is completed (S110).

[0103] As mentioned above, the motion control unit 183 can independently control the operation of the pre-dispensing holding unit 13 and the operation of the first ejector 141. This allows for the smooth placement of the dispensed item 100 into the pre-dispensing holding unit 13. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the pre-dispensing holding unit 13 is located around the placement unit 11. Therefore, the pre-dispensing holding unit 13 can rotate with the placement unit 11 as its center. This allows for effective alignment between designated storage sections 121 of the plurality of storage sections 121 located in the placement unit 11 and designated holding recesses 132a of the plurality of holding recesses 132a. Then, the motion control unit 183 can control the operation of the first ejector 141 to effectively deliver the dispensed item 100 housed in the lowermost part of the designated storage section 121 to the designated holding recess 132a.

[0104] Additionally, in step 108, when the information acquisition unit 181 acquires the first identification information recorded in the recess identification code 132b, the information acquisition unit 181 also acquires information indicating that the dispensed item 100 is not disposed in the holding recess 132a (configuration error information). The information processing unit 182 can also process the configuration error information and temporarily stop the dispensing mechanism 10. Furthermore, when the information acquisition unit 181 cannot acquire the QR code 101 of the dispensed item 100 or the recess identification code 132b of the holding recess 132a (for example, when a foreign object is attached to the holding recess 132a), the information acquisition unit 181 can also acquire foreign object information. By providing the foreign object information to the game control unit 8 through the information providing unit 184, the game processing mechanism 82 can also interrupt the start of the game.

[0105] As described above, the dispenser 100 is disposed in the first to sixteenth holding recesses 132a. When the dispenser 100 housed in the storage unit 121 contains rare dispenser 100 and common dispenser 100 in a specified ratio, the dispenser 100 disposed in the pre-dispensing holding unit 13 contains rare dispenser 100 and common dispenser 100 in the same ratio. An example of the information (hereinafter referred to as "holding recess table information") of the first to sixteenth holding recesses 132a in which the dispenser 100 is disposed is shown in Table 1 below. The holding recess table information is acquired by the information acquisition unit 181 and stored in the second memory unit 19. The information providing unit 184 can provide the holding recess table information stored in the second memory unit 19 to the game control unit 8. Thereby, the acquisition mechanism 81 acquires the holding recess table information, and the game processing mechanism 82 can use the holding recess table information to perform the game.

[0106] Table 1 First retaining recess 132a Standard Issues 100A Second retaining recess 132a Standard rations 100B Third retaining recess 132a Standard ration 100C Fourth, retain the recess 132a Standard 100D Fifth retaining recess 132a Standard issue 100E Sixth retaining recess 132a Rare allergen 100A The seventh recess 132a Rare Assortment 100B Eighth, retain the recess 132a Rare allergen 100C Ninth recess 132a Standard issued supplies 100F The tenth recess 132a 100g of standard supplies Eleventh, retain the concave area 132a Standard Dispensing 100H Twelfth, retain the concave part 132a Standard ration 100I Thirteenth, retain the concave area 132a Rare allergen 100D Fourteenth, maintain the recess 132a Rare Conjugate 100E The fifteenth recess 132a Rare Assortment 100F Sixteenth, retain the concave area 132a 100J of standard supplies (2) Regarding the distribution and handling of game games

[0107] Refer to Figure 11 to illustrate one example of the control before starting the game and distributing the item 100 from the distribution port 21.

[0108] As the player interacts with the game, the game control unit 8 starts the game (S1). At this time, the information providing unit 85 provides the game-started information to the second control unit 18 of the distribution unit 10 (S2). The information acquiring unit 181 of the distribution unit 10 then acquires the game-started information (S3). Subsequently, the information providing unit 184 provides the holding recess information stored in the second memory unit 19 to the game control unit 8 (S4). The acquiring unit 81 then acquires the holding recess information (S5). The acquired holding recess information is temporarily stored in the memory unit 7. Additionally, the information providing unit 184 can also provide the holding recess information stored in the second memory unit 19 to the game control unit 8 before the game starts. Furthermore, in step 1, the acquiring unit 81 can also acquire information about the IC card and the designated ticket placed in the scanner 42.

[0109] Next, the game processing unit 82 determines the items to be distributed (items to be distributed) 100 (S6). Here, the game processing unit 82 determines three items to be distributed as shown in Table 2 below. In addition, when the acquisition unit 81 obtains information about the IC card placed in the scanner 42, it can also determine the items to be distributed based on the player information.

[0110] Table 2 Players Rare allergen 100A (Sixth retaining recess 132a) Standard ration 100I (Twelfth retaining recess 132a) 100J of standard supplies (Sixteenth retaining recess 132a)

[0111] The decision to temporarily allocate the game data is then stored in the memory unit 7. The game processing unit 82 then executes the game program to begin the game (S7).

[0112] After playing the game, the game processing unit 82 selects all or part of the pre-selected pre-selected items, and the display unit 6 displays the selected pre-selected items (S8). Here, the game processing unit 82 selects all the pre-selected items displayed in Table 2.

[0113] Next, the operation unit 3 receives the player's input (S9), and the player selects the item to be distributed from the displayed pre-distributed items. For example, the player selects the rare item 100A (item 100 held in the sixth holding recess 132a). This determines the item to be distributed (S10), and the receiving mechanism 81 obtains the information about the item to be distributed. Then, the information providing mechanism 85 provides the information about the item to be distributed to the second control unit 18 (S11).

[0114] Then, the information acquisition unit 181 acquires information about the dispensed item to be distributed (S12). The motion control unit 183 independently controls the operation of the pre-dispensing holding unit 13 and the operation of the second ejection unit 142 based on the information about the dispensed item to be distributed (S13~S14). Thereby, the second ejection unit 142 ejects the rare dispensed item 100A from the sixth holding recess 132a and pays the rare dispensed item 100A from the game device 1 (S15).

[0115] Steps 13 to 15 will be explained in detail. First, in order to distribute the rare item 100A selected by the player, the motion control unit 183 controls the action of the pre-distribution holding unit 13 and places the sixth holding recess 132a in a position opposite to the second push-out part 142 (S13).

[0116] In this state, the motion control unit 183 controls the operation of the second ejector 142 (S14). Driven by the third motor D3, the second ejector 142 moves linearly along the track section 142c, and its contact portion 142a contacts the dispensed item 100 held in the sixth holding recess 132a. Then, the second ejector 142 ejects the rare dispensed item 100A held in the sixth holding recess 132a. As a result, the rare dispensed item 100A is sent towards the gate section 17. Then, the rare dispensed item 100A moves towards the dispensing port 21 by its own weight and is dispensed (S15). Additionally, the second ejector 142 is pulled back along the track section 142c by being driven in the opposite direction by the third motor D3. Therefore, the second ejector 142 is configured to move linearly. In this way, the second ejector 142 can effectively dispense the dispensed item 100.

[0117] Therefore, by independently controlling the movement of the pre-dispensing holding part 13 and the movement of the second pushing part 142 by the motion control unit 183, the dispensed item 100 can be smoothly dispensed from the pre-dispensing holding part 13. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the pre-dispensing holding part 13 is located around the placement part 11. Therefore, the pre-dispensing holding part 13 can rotate with the placement part 11 as its center. This allows the second pushing part 142 located on the placement part 11 to effectively correspond to the designated holding recesses 132a of the plurality of holding recesses 132a. Therefore, the designated dispensed item 100 can be effectively dispensed from the plurality of dispensed items 100 held in the pre-dispensing holding part 13. As described above, the pre-dispensing holding part 13 can effectively operate on a plurality of storage parts 121 and the second ejection part 142. From this point of view, the placement part 11 and the pre-dispensing holding part 13 should preferably be arranged adjacent to each other. In this way, the operation control part 183 can effectively provide each holding recess 132a of the pre-dispensing holding part 13 on each part placed in the placement part 11. As a result, the dispensing mechanism 10 can effectively dispense the dispensing item 100.

[0118] Using the above control, the player can pay the rare item 100A selected by the player. Then, the game ends (S16). Alternatively, the player can select multiple items 100 according to the game content. In this case, steps 13 to 15 are repeated.

[0119] As described above, a rare dispenser 100A is dispensed from the sixth holding recess 132a. Therefore, the sixth holding recess 132a is in an empty state (no dispenser 100 is dispensed). To confirm this empty state, the motion control unit 183 rotates the pre-dispensing holding unit 13, positioning the sixth holding recess 132a below the camera unit 15. In this state, the camera unit 15 captures the recess identification code 132b provided on the sixth holding recess 132a. Herein, the information acquisition unit 181 can acquire information indicating that the sixth holding recess 132a is empty (first identification information). Therefore, the information acquisition unit 181 can acquire the first identification information for each holding recess 132a. Furthermore, the information processing unit 182 can manage information indicating which holding recess 132a is empty (hereinafter referred to as "holding recess empty information"). The holding recess empty information is stored in the second memory unit 19. Based on the information that the recess is empty, the motion control unit 183 can dispense the dispensed item 100 housed in the housing unit 12 to the pre-dispensing holding unit 13. In this way, the dispensed item 100 can be smoothly replenished to the pre-dispensing holding unit 13.

[0120] In this case, the distributed items 100 can be replenished after each game. Hereinafter, an example of a method for replenishing the distributed items 100 will be described with reference to FIG12. Alternatively, the replenishment of the distributed items 100 may not be performed after each game, but rather appropriately based on the number of distributed items 100 remaining in the pre-distribution holding section 13. For example, the distributed items 100 may be replenished when the number of distributed items 100 remaining in the pre-distribution holding section 13 is less than half (8 pieces or less). (3) Methods for replenishing the distributed items

[0121] The motion control unit 183 begins to replenish the dispensed item 100 based on the information stored in the second memory unit 19 regarding maintaining the recessed surface and maintaining the recessed area empty (S201).

[0122] Here, the explanation focuses on the empty state of the first holding recess 132a. In step 202, the motion control unit 183 controls the operation of the pre-dispensing holding unit 13. This positions the first holding recess 132a opposite to the first storage unit 121. Next, the motion control unit 183 controls the operation of the first ejection unit 141 (S203). This ejects the dispensed item 100 housed at the bottom of the first storage unit 121 and places it in the empty first holding recess 132a.

[0123] After a new dispenser 100 is placed in the first holding recess 132a, the motion control unit 183 controls the operation of the pre-dispensing holding unit 13 to position the first holding recess 132a below the camera unit 15 (S204). Then, the camera 151 of the camera unit 15 captures the QR code 101 of the new dispenser 100 placed in the first holding recess 132a. In doing so, the information acquisition unit 181 obtains information about the holding recess of the newly placed dispenser 100 in the first holding recess 132a (S205).

[0124] Here, by placing a new dispenser 100 in the first retaining recess 132a, all retaining recesses 132a are provided with dispensers 100, thus the supplement is completed (S206).

[0125] Furthermore, when multiple dispensed items 100 need to be replenished, the information processing unit 182, after step 205, checks whether dispensed items 100 should be placed in all the retaining recesses 132a of the pre-dispensing retaining unit 13 based on the information on the retaining recess table and the information on whether the retaining recesses are empty. At this time, steps 202 to 205 are repeated until dispensed items 100 are placed in all the retaining recesses 132a, and then the replenishment ends. Based on the above supplementary results, the information acquisition unit 181 can acquire new information on the retaining recess surface. This new retaining recess surface information is stored in the second memory unit 19. Furthermore, based on the above supplementary results, the information processing unit 182 can also update the retaining recess surface information.

[0126] As described above, the aforementioned processing method can be created using a computer-executed program. This program is implemented using a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a microprocessor, a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read-Only Memory), etc. <<Second Implementation Form>>

[0127] Secondly, a second embodiment of the dispensing mechanism of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0128] Figure 13 is a top view showing the dispensing mechanism of the second embodiment of the present invention. The following describes the second embodiment, but mainly focuses on the differences from the first embodiment described above, while omitting descriptions of the same matters. In addition, the same symbols are used to annotate the same components as in the first embodiment described above.

[0129] The dispensing mechanism 10A of this embodiment differs from the dispensing mechanism 10 of the first embodiment in that the composition of the ejection mechanism and the arrangement of the gate portion are different. Specifically, the ejection mechanism 14A of this embodiment is composed of a first ejection portion 141. One end of the first ejection portion 141 (the end located on the right side in FIG. 13) has the function of ejecting the dispensed item 100 housed in the housing portion 12 toward the pre-dispensing holding portion 13. In addition, the other end of the first ejection portion 141 (the end located on the left side in FIG. 13) has the function of ejecting the dispensed item 100 held in the pre-dispensing holding portion 13 to the outside of the pre-dispensing holding portion 13. With the gate portion 17 arranged along the length direction of the first ejection portion 141, this dispensing mechanism 10A of this embodiment also has the same effect as the dispensing mechanism 10 of the first embodiment.

[0130] The above description of the game device and dispensing mechanism of the present invention is based on suitable embodiments; however, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. The configuration of each part can be modified or replaced with any configuration having the same function. Furthermore, any other mechanisms or components can be added to the present invention. Moreover, in the present invention, any two or more configurations (features) from each embodiment can be combined.

[0131] For example, protective covers may be provided in each part. Furthermore, there are no particular limitations on the composition of each part, as long as it effectively fulfills its function. For example, each part may be formed from rigid resin materials, metal materials, ceramic materials, etc. [Industrial Applicability]

[0132] The dispensing mechanism of this invention is configured to dispense game-related items and includes: a receiving section for storing the items; a pre-dispensing holding section for holding the items as if they were to be dispensed; a dispensing mechanism for pushing the items stored in the receiving section to the pre-dispensing holding section; and a control section for controlling the operation of the dispensing mechanism. This provides a dispensing mechanism that is easy to maintain and has versatility, as well as a game device equipped with such a dispensing mechanism. Therefore, this invention has industrial applicability.

[0133] 1: Game device 2: Frame 3: Operations Department 4: Reading Department 5: Speaker 6: Display Section 7: Memory Department 8: Game Control Department 9: Communications Department 10,10A: Distribution Agency 11: Placement Section 12: Containment Department 13: Preparation for distribution of the retention section 14,14A: Issuing agency 15: Camera Department 16: Testing Department 17: Gate section 18: Second Control Unit 19: Second Memory Department 20: Base section 21: Distribution Port 22: Coin slot 23: Coin ejector 31: Button 32: Joystick 41: Insertion port 42: Scanner 81: Acquiring Institution 82: Game Processing Organization 83: Display control mechanism 84: Sound output control mechanism 85: Information Providers 100: Recording Media 101: QR code 121: First and Second Storage Sections 122: Ontology part 122a: Beam section 122c: Notch 123: Middle section 124: Feet 131: Support section 132: Arrangement Section 132a: Keep the concave area 132b: Recessed area identification code 132c: Number Record Column 141: First Launch Section 141a: Support plate 142: Second Launch Section 142a: Abutment part 142b: Seat 142c: Track section 151: Camera 161: First Sensor 162: Second sensor 163: Third Sensor 171: Baffle 172: Distribution Path 181: Information Acquisition Department 182: Information Processing Department 183: Motion Control Department 184: Information Provision Department D1: First Motor D1a: First gear D2: Second motor D2a: Second gear D3: Third Motor D3a: Third gear

Claims

1. A dispensing mechanism for dispensing game-related items, the dispensing mechanism comprising: The ejection mechanism ejects the aforementioned issued item; the receiving section is adjacent to the ejection mechanism and receives the aforementioned issued item; and the pre-issue holding section is arranged around the receiving section and holds the aforementioned issued item as a pre-issue item; wherein the aforementioned pre-issue holding section is configured to rotate independently of the operation of the ejection mechanism.

2. The distributing agency as described in claim 1, wherein, The aforementioned launch mechanism includes a first launch section and a second launch section orthogonal to the first launch section.

3. The distributing mechanism as described in claim 2, wherein, The aforementioned first and second ejection parts each perform linear motion.

4. The distributing mechanism as described in claim 2, wherein, The aforementioned first launch section of the aforementioned launch mechanism is located below the aforementioned containment section.

5. The distributing agency as described in claim 2, wherein, The aforementioned second launching section of the aforementioned launching mechanism launches the aforementioned dispensing item held by the aforementioned pre-dispensing holding section.

6. The distributing agency as described in claim 1, wherein, The aforementioned launching mechanism is located at the center of the aforementioned pre-distribution and holding section.

7. The distributing mechanism as described in claim 2, wherein, The aforementioned first and second ejection portions are elongated, and the length of the second ejection portion extending along the length direction is greater than the length of the first ejection portion extending along the length direction.

8. The distributing agency as described in claim 7, wherein, The aforementioned containment unit comprises a pair of containment units, and the aforementioned ejection mechanism is used to eject the aforementioned distributed items contained in the aforementioned pair of containment units in turn.

9. The distributing mechanism as described in claim 1, wherein, The aforementioned receiving part has a notch extending along its length.

10. A gaming device comprising: a display unit for displaying a specified image of a game; a game control unit for controlling the operation of the game; an operation unit for receiving operation input from a user for performing the game; and the aforementioned dispensing mechanism mentioned in any one of requests 1 to 9 for dispensing the aforementioned dispensing items related to the game based on the aforementioned operation input.

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