A ball hitting game machine

Abstract

The application discloses a ball hitting game machine, which comprises a frame, a ball distributing mechanism, a ball hitting mechanism and a ball launching mechanism. The ball distributing mechanism comprises a first reward assembly, a second reward assembly and a guide track. The first reward assembly comprises a first rotating disc and a ball falling channel. A plurality of first ball inlets are arranged at the first rotating disc in a circumferential direction. At least one of the first ball inlets is communicated with the ball falling channel. The second reward assembly comprises a second rotating disc. A plurality of second ball inlets are arranged at the second rotating disc in a circumferential direction. The guide track is arranged at the periphery of the first rotating disc and the second rotating disc to guide the ball from the ball falling channel to the second ball inlets. The ball launching mechanism is used to send the ball falling from the ball distributing mechanism to the ball launching point. The ball hitting mechanism is used to move the ball from the ball launching point to the first ball inlets. The application can realize multi-stage variable force output and improve the game experience. In addition, different paths are added to avoid fatigue.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the technical field of amusement equipment, and more specifically, to a ball-hitting amusement machine. Background Technology

[0002] A ball-shooting amusement machine is a type of arcade game equipment. In related technologies, a ball-shooting amusement machine includes a game panel and a ball-throwing mechanism. A reward channel is set on the front of the game panel. Players control the ball-throwing mechanism to throw balls into the game panel. The balls randomly roll and fall into the reward channel, thereby scoring points or triggering reward modes.

[0003] However, as players' demands for game diversity, strategic depth, and immersion continue to increase, the aforementioned ball-hitting arcade machines have become less fun and less engaging, failing to meet the needs of increasingly demanding players. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a ball-hitting amusement machine that, on the one hand, can achieve multi-level variable force output to enhance the gaming experience, and on the other hand, by adding different paths, can make the game feedback mode more diverse to enhance the fun and avoid the fatigue of long-term repetitive play caused by reward dulling.

[0005] The ball-hitting amusement machine provided in this application adopts the following technical solution:

[0006] A ball-hitting amusement machine, comprising:

[0007] A frame, wherein the frame is provided with a game table, and the game table is inclined along a first direction;

[0008] A ball-distributing mechanism is disposed on the game table. The ball-distributing mechanism includes a first reward component, a second reward component, and a guide rail. The first reward component and the second reward component are inclined along a first direction. The first reward component includes a first turntable and a ball-dropping channel. The first turntable has a plurality of first scoring holes spaced apart in the circumferential direction, and at least one of the plurality of first scoring holes is connected to the ball-dropping channel. The second reward component includes a second turntable, which has a plurality of second scoring holes spaced apart in the circumferential direction. The guide rail is disposed around the first turntable and the second turntable to guide the ball from the ball-dropping channel to the second scoring hole.

[0009] A ball-hitting mechanism is provided on the frame. The ball-hitting mechanism includes a ball guide groove and a pull rod. The ball guide groove is provided with a ball-launching point. The pull rod slides along the length of the ball guide groove so that the ball moves along the ball guide groove to the ball-launching point to the first ball-scoring hole.

[0010] A ball-serving mechanism, disposed on the frame, is used to deliver a ball that falls from the ball-distributing mechanism to the serving point.

[0011] In some technical solutions, at least two of the multiple first goal openings are configured as first bonus goal positions, and all the first goal openings configured as first bonus goal positions are connected to the ball landing channel; one of the multiple second goal openings is configured as a second bonus goal position.

[0012] In some technical solutions, the first reward component further includes a first driving element, which is used to drive the first turntable to rotate so that the ball can enter one of the first scoring ports;

[0013] The second reward component also includes a second drive unit for driving the second turntable to rotate so that each of the second ball-filling holes can align with the guide rail.

[0014] In some technical solutions, the first driving component includes a first driving source, a fixed shaft, and a transmission module. One end of the fixed shaft is connected to the first turntable, and the other end is connected to the transmission module. The first driving source is used to drive the transmission module to rotate the first turntable.

[0015] In some technical solutions, the ball-hitting mechanism further includes a sliding component, which includes a slider, a slide rail, a connecting shaft, and a tension spring. The slide rail is slidably connected to the slider, and the length direction of the slide rail is the same as the length direction of the ball guide groove. The slide rail is fixedly mounted on the frame.

[0016] The connecting shaft passes through the slider and is fixedly connected to the slider. The end of the connecting shaft away from the ball guide groove is fixedly connected to the pull rod. The length direction of the tension spring is the same as the movement direction of the pull rod. One end of the tension spring is connected to the slider, and the other end is connected to the slide rail.

[0017] In some technical solutions, the serving mechanism includes a ball delivery component and a ball return component. The ball delivery component is provided with a ball delivery groove, which is connected to the ball guide groove so that the ball in the ball delivery groove moves to the serving point.

[0018] The ball return assembly includes a ball return groove and a fourth drive component. The ball return groove is used to collect the ball after being hit, and the ball return groove is connected to the ball delivery groove. The fourth drive component is used to push the ball in the ball return groove into the ball delivery groove.

[0019] In some technical solutions, the ball delivery assembly further includes a third driving member and a ball separating member. The bottom of the ball delivery groove is provided with a clearance hole. The ball separating member includes a plurality of partitions that are spaced apart and evenly arranged along the circumferential direction. At least one of the partitions passes through the clearance hole and is located in the ball delivery groove. The third driving member drives the ball separating member to rotate to separate two adjacent balls.

[0020] In some technical solutions, a connecting part is provided between two adjacent dividing parts. The connecting part is configured as an arc shape that is concave towards the center of the ball-separating component. The connecting part is used to adapt to the shape of the ball so that the ball-separating component drives the ball to move synchronously.

[0021] In some technical solutions, the ball return groove includes a first guide groove, a second guide groove, and a third guide groove that are interconnected. The first guide groove is disposed on the game table to collect balls falling from the ball distribution mechanism. The second guide groove is connected to the end of the first guide groove and is inclined along a second direction. The third guide groove is configured as an arc-shaped groove and is disposed in a vertical direction. The connection between the first guide groove and the second guide groove is located at the lower end of the ball return groove, and the fourth driving member is disposed at the lower end.

[0022] In some technical solutions, the fourth driving component includes a fourth driving source and a pusher wheel. The pusher wheel is located in the ball return groove and is connected to the output end of the fourth driving source. The fourth driving source drives the pusher wheel to rotate so that the pusher wheel pushes the ball to move along the direction of the ball delivery groove.

[0023] As can be seen from the above technical solutions, the embodiments of this application have the following advantages:

[0024] The ball is delivered to the serving point via the serving mechanism. Players control the lever to different travel positions to launch the ball from the serving point. The ball moves along the guide groove until it enters the first scoring hole to score a specific point. If the first scoring hole is connected to the drop channel, the ball moves in the first direction under the influence of gravity based on the tilted game surface, and then enters the second turntable under the guidance of the guide rail. The ball moves in the second turntable until it enters one of the second scoring holes to score additional points. This application, on the one hand, allows for intuitive control of the serving force by manipulating the travel distance of the lever, achieving multi-level variable force output and enhancing the gaming experience. On the other hand, different turntable combinations set different prize types, allowing players to try different paths, so that each game can try different combinations to generate multiple reward strategies. The diverse game feedback modes enhance the fun and avoid the fatigue of long-term repetitive gameplay caused by reward dulling. Attached Figure Description

[0025] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments recorded in this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings.

[0026] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of a ball-hitting amusement machine disclosed in an embodiment of this application;

[0027] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing the coordinated structure of a ball-playing amusement machine according to an embodiment of this application, highlighting the ball-distributing mechanism, the ball-hitting mechanism, and the ball-serving mechanism.

[0028] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a ball-distributing mechanism in a ball-hitting amusement machine disclosed in an embodiment of this application;

[0029] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first reward component in the ball-distributing mechanism of a ball-hitting amusement machine disclosed in an embodiment of this application;

[0030] Figure 5 This is an enlarged view of the structure of the ball-launching component in the ball-launching mechanism of a ball-playing amusement machine disclosed in an embodiment of this application;

[0031] Figure 6 This is an enlarged view of the structure of the ball-hitting amusement machine disclosed in this application, highlighting the ball-hitting mechanism and the ball-dispensing assembly;

[0032] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the ball return component in the ball-launching mechanism of a ball-playing amusement machine disclosed in an embodiment of this application;

[0033] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the ball return component in the ball-serving mechanism of a ball-hitting amusement machine disclosed in an embodiment of this application.

[0034] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0035] 1. Frame; 11. Game table; 2. Ball distribution mechanism; 21. First reward component; 211. First turntable; 2111. First ball inlet; 212. Ball drop channel; 213. First drive component; 2131. First drive source; 2132. Fixed shaft; 2133. Transmission module; 2134. First sensor component; 22. Second reward component; 221. Second turntable; 2211. Second ball inlet; 222. Second drive component; 23. Guide rail; 231. First guide section; 232. Second guide section; 3. Ball striking mechanism; 31. 32. Ball guide groove; 33. Pull rod; 34. Sliding assembly; 35. Slider; 36. Slide rail; 37. Connecting shaft; 38. Tension spring; 49. Ball serving mechanism; 40. Ball delivery assembly; 411. Ball feeding groove; 4111. Clearance hole; 412. Third drive component; 413. Ball separating component; 4131. Separator; 4132. Connecting part; 42. Ball return assembly; 421. Ball return groove; 4211. First guide groove; 4212. Second guide groove; 4213. Third guide groove; 422. Fourth drive component; 4221. Fourth drive source; 4222. Push wheel. Detailed Implementation

[0036] The present application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0037] This application provides a ball-hitting amusement machine that, on the one hand, can achieve multi-level variable force output to enhance the gaming experience, and on the other hand, by adding different paths, can make the game feedback mode more diverse to enhance the fun and avoid the fatigue of long-term repetitive play caused by reward dulling.

[0038] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the present application, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present application, and not all of them. Based on the embodiments of the present application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort should fall within the scope of protection of the present application. Furthermore, the technical solutions of various embodiments can be combined with each other, but this must be based on the ability of those skilled in the art to implement them. When the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or cannot be implemented, it should be considered that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection claimed by the present application.

[0039] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2This is one embodiment of the ball-hitting game machine in this application. The ball-hitting game machine includes a frame 1, a ball-distributing mechanism 2, a ball-hitting mechanism 3, and a ball-serving mechanism 4. The frame 1 is provided with a game table 11, the ball-distributing mechanism 2 is provided on the game table 11, and the ball-hitting mechanism 3 and the ball-serving mechanism 4 are both provided on the frame 1. The ball is sent to the serving point via the ball-serving mechanism 4. The player operates the ball-hitting mechanism 3 to launch the ball from the serving point. The ball-hitting mechanism 3 initiates each hit to launch the ball from a stationary or ready-to-go state to the ball-distributing mechanism 2. The ball travels along different paths through the ball-distributing mechanism 2, generating various reward strategies to obtain rewards. The ball-serving mechanism 4, the ball-hitting mechanism 3, and the ball-distributing mechanism 2 work together to ensure that after the ball completes a valid hit or falls into a specific area, it is retrieved and sent back to the serving point, forming a continuous game cycle.

[0040] For ease of understanding, it should be noted that the first direction is set along the width direction of the frame 1, and is specifically defined as the direction from the far side of the frame 1 to the near side of the frame 1; the second direction is set along the width direction of the frame 1, and is specifically defined as the direction from the near side of the frame 1 to the far side of the frame 1; and the third direction is the length direction of the frame 1. The first direction and the second direction are opposite to each other, and the first direction and the third direction are perpendicular to each other.

[0041] Please see Figure 2 The game surface 11 is tilted along a first direction. By tilting the game surface 11 along the first direction, gravity provides a continuous and predictable power source for the ball's movement. Specifically, after the ball is hit or launched, in addition to the initial velocity given at the moment of impact, it will also gain continuous acceleration due to the gravitational component generated by the tilt of the game surface 11. Based on the tilted game surface 11, the ball moves towards the first direction under the action of gravity, ensuring that the ball rolls more smoothly and naturally on the game surface 11, and avoiding premature stopping caused by the rapid consumption of kinetic energy due to friction.

[0042] Currently, most ball-shooting arcade games on the market have established mature scoring and reward triggering mechanisms. For example, they often use a single scoring hole combined with a weighted coefficient, where different scoring holes correspond to different base scores, and the ball landing in a scoring hole generates a fixed score or a one-time reward. This model focuses the player's anticipation on the moment of a successful shot, lacking a gradual psychological progression from base scores to accumulated rewards and ultimately to a reward. This can lead to a sense of reward desensitization in repeated play, reducing the game's appeal.

[0043] Please see Figure 2 and Figure 3The ball-distributing mechanism 2 includes a first reward component 21, a second reward component 22, and a guide track 23. These components are positioned on the game table 11. The first and second reward components 21 and 22 are tilted along a first direction and are parallel to each other along that direction. The first reward component 21 provides stable, rapid, and frequently obtainable small rewards, triggered by hitting a specific area. The second reward component 22 provides rare, high-value, and explosive large rewards, requiring completion of a specific sequence to unlock a significant score boost. This application achieves a tiered reward logic and progressive player incentives by setting the first and second reward components 21 and 22.

[0044] In some optional embodiments, multiple first reward components 21 and multiple second reward components 22 are provided, with the multiple first reward components 21 arranged side by side along a third direction, and the multiple second reward components 22 arranged side by side along a third direction. In this embodiment, two first reward components 21 and two second reward components 22 are provided, with two first reward components 21 arranged side by side along a third direction, and two second reward components 22 arranged side by side along a third direction. It can be understood that setting two first reward components 21 and two second reward components 22 to realize two-player gameplay solves the problems of large footprint and long player waiting time in traditional two single-player machines. The two-player single-player machine allows two people to play at the same time, increasing the output per unit area while creating emotional tension and replay value far exceeding the single-player mode; secondly, if a mechanical failure occurs in one of the first reward components 21, the system can automatically switch to single-player full-machine mode, allowing another player to continue using all components, avoiding machine shutdown.

[0045] Please see Figure 3 and Figure 4 The first reward component 21 includes a first turntable 211, a ball drop channel 212, and a first drive component 213. The first turntable 211 has a plurality of first ball drop ports 2111 spaced apart in the circumferential direction. The first drive component 213 is used to drive the first turntable 211 to rotate so that the ball can enter one of the first ball drop ports 2111. At least one of the plurality of first ball drop ports 2111 is connected to the ball drop channel 212.

[0046] To enhance the fun, different first scoring slots 2111 correspond to different score rewards, thus the score rewards obtained by the player are random. At least two of the multiple first scoring slots 2111 are configured as first bonus scoring positions, and all first scoring slots 2111 configured as first bonus scoring positions are connected to the ball drop channel 212. The first driving component 213 drives the first turntable 211 to rotate. As the ball rolls along the first turntable 211, it can randomly roll into one of the first scoring slots 2111 in the circumferential direction of the first turntable 211. When the ball enters the first scoring slot 2111 located in the first bonus scoring position, it receives a specific score, and the ball randomly gains additional points as it enters the second bonus component 22 along the ball drop channel 212. When the ball enters a first scoring slot 2111 that is not a first bonus scoring position, it only receives a specific score.

[0047] For ease of understanding, this embodiment uses six first goal openings 2111 as an example. The six first goal openings 2111 are divided into three scoring mechanisms. That is, each pair of first goal openings 2111 is configured as a scoring mechanism. One of the three groups is the first bonus goal position. The first goal openings 2111 configured as the first bonus goal position are all connected to the ball landing channel 212.

[0048] Furthermore, the first bonus goal position includes two first goal openings 2111, which are set along the diameter of the first turntable 211. By aligning the two first goal openings 2111 relative to each other along the diameter of the first turntable 211, the ball is guaranteed to be received by a corresponding first goal opening 2111 regardless of whether it rolls into the area of ​​the first turntable 211 from the left or right. This avoids potential "dead zones" or path blind spots that might result from a single first goal opening 2111, significantly improving the physical probability and trigger stability of the ball entering the bonus area. Simultaneously, this symmetrical layout ensures that during the rotation of the first turntable 211, the two first goal openings 2111 alternately face different directions of incoming balls. Even while the first turntable 211 is dynamically rotating, there is always one first goal opening 2111 closer to the ball's trajectory, reducing the frustration of missing a bonus due to the random position of the first turntable 211 and improving the smoothness and fairness of the game.

[0049] Please see Figure 4In this embodiment, the first driving component 213 includes a first driving source 2131, a fixed shaft 2132, and a transmission module 2133. One end of the fixed shaft 2132 is connected to the first turntable 211, and the other end is connected to the transmission module 2133. The first driving source 2131 drives the transmission module 2133 to rotate the first turntable 211. The transmission module 2133 can be selected from either a gear transmission module or a conveyor belt transmission module. The speed and torque of the transmission module 2133 can be adjusted according to design requirements.

[0050] Understandably, the first drive source 2131, as the power core, transmits torque to the fixed shaft 2132 via the transmission module 2133. The fixed shaft 2132 ensures the axial stability of the first turntable 211 during rotation, preventing swaying or jamming, thereby driving the first turntable 211 to rotate precisely and avoiding the unpredictability caused by manual or random rotation. In this application, through the coordinated cooperation of the drive source, the fixed shaft 2132, and the transmission module 2133, a smooth and controllable drive of the first turntable 211 is achieved, enabling the first turntable 211 to respond quickly to goal events and present reward results at an appropriate speed. This improves mechanical reliability while enhancing the player's visual anticipation and control over the game rhythm.

[0051] Furthermore, the first turntable 211 is set with an initial position, and the first drive unit 213 also includes a first sensor assembly 2134, which is used to detect whether the first turntable 211 has reached the initial position. In this embodiment, the first sensor assembly 2134 is configured as a photodetector and an infrared blocking plate. By setting the initial position of the first turntable 211 and cooperating with the first sensor assembly 2134 for detection, a precise reset and zeroing mechanism is introduced for the first turntable 211. Each time a round of reward determination ends or the game restarts, the first sensor component 2134 can monitor in real time whether the first turntable 211 accurately returns to the preset starting angle, ensuring that the starting state of the turntable is consistent each time, avoiding the deviation of the starting position caused by accumulated errors or human disturbance; at the same time, during the rotation of the first turntable 211, the system can determine whether the turntable has completed a full rotation or stopped at the expected position based on the sensor signal, thus serving as a reliable basis for triggering the next stage of logic. This not only improves the repeatability and mechanical safety of the first turntable 211's actions, but also ensures the fairness and predictability of the reward determination results, enhancing players' trust in the game rules.

[0052] Please continue reading. Figure 2 and Figure 3The second reward component 22 includes a second turntable 221 and a second drive component 222. The second turntable 221 has a plurality of second ball-scoring ports 2211 spaced apart in the circumferential direction. The second drive component 222 is used to drive the second turntable 221 to rotate so that each second ball-scoring port 2211 can be connected to the guide rail 23. The guide rail 23 is located around the first turntable 211 and the second turntable 221 to guide the ball from the ball-dropping channel 212 to the second ball-scoring port 2211.

[0053] Users manipulate the ball by striking it to enter the first reward component 21. The rotation of the first turntable 211 causes the ball to randomly roll into one of the first scoring slots 2111 in the circumferential direction of the first turntable 211, thus earning a specific score. If this first scoring slot 2111 is connected to the ball drop channel 212, the ball, based on the tilted game surface 11, moves in the first direction under the influence of gravity, and then enters the second turntable 221 under the guidance of the guide track 23. The ball moves within the second turntable 221 until it enters one of the second scoring slots 2211 to earn a cumulative score. Different turntable combinations can be used to set different prize types, allowing players to try different paths and generate various reward strategies with different combinations each game. The diverse game feedback modes enhance the fun. Compared to a single reward, multiple prize types can maintain the dopamine release curve, preventing reward dulling and avoiding fatigue from long-term repetitive gameplay.

[0054] For ease of understanding, this embodiment uses six second goal openings 2211 as an example. Of the six second goal openings 2211, one is configured as a second bonus goal position, which is the goal position that triggers the grand prize. The other five second goal openings 2211 are not second bonus goal positions and do not trigger the grand prize mechanism.

[0055] The guide track 23 is generally arranged in the shape of an "8". The guide track 23 includes a first guide section 231 and a second guide section 232. The first guide section 231 and the second guide section 232 are integrally formed. A connecting channel is provided between the first guide section 231 and the second guide section 232. The connecting channel is used to allow the ball to enter the area of ​​the second guide section 232 from the area of ​​the first guide section 231. The first guide section 231 is arranged around the ball drop channel 212 to guide the ball to the second guide section 232. The second guide section 232 is arranged around the second turntable 221 to guide the ball to the second ball inlet 2211.

[0056] Understandably, by setting up a guide track 23 consisting of a first guide section 231, a second guide section 232, and a connecting channel between them, a complete and enclosed physical guidance path is constructed from the ball drop channel 212 to the second ball inlet 2211 of the second turntable 221. First, the first guide section 231 surrounds the ball drop channel 212, ensuring that the ball does not bounce around or deviate from the predetermined route after leaving the first reward component 21, but is reliably gathered and sent into the connecting channel; subsequently, the second guide section 232 is further positioned around the second turntable 221, accurately guiding the ball transmitted through the channel to the second ball inlet 2211, which not only avoids the ball getting stuck, flying out, or accidentally entering other non-reward areas during the transfer process, but also ensures the reliability of the reward process.

[0057] In this embodiment, since the structure and function of the second driving member 222 are the same as those of the first driving member 213, they will not be described again here.

[0058] To facilitate user identification of the first and second bonus goal positions, the first bonus component 21 also includes a first indicator, which rotates synchronously with the first turntable 211 and points to the first bonus goal position; the second bonus component 22 also includes a second indicator, which rotates synchronously with the second turntable 221 and points to the second bonus goal position. By setting synchronously rotating first and second indicator indicators for the first and second turntables 211 and 221 respectively, and having the two indicators rotate with their respective turntables and always accurately point to the first and second bonus goal positions, players can instantly identify where to hit the ball to trigger the bonus without relying on textual explanations or repeated trial and error. This transforms the abstract bonus goal position into a dynamic and intuitive visual indicator, improving the game's ease of use, operational certainty, and immersive experience.

[0059] Please see Figure 2 and Figure 5 The serving mechanism 4 includes a ball-launching component 41 and a ball-returning component 42. The ball-returning component 42 is used to collect the ball after it has been hit and push the ball to the ball-launching component 41. The ball-launching component 41 is used to retrieve the ball one by one and send the ball to the serving point. The hitting mechanism 3 initiates each shot to launch the ball at the serving point onto the game table 11 so that the ball randomly enters the scoring area.

[0060] Please see Figure 5Specifically, the ball feeding assembly 41 includes a ball feeding groove 411, a third driving member 412, and a ball separating member 413. The length direction of the ball feeding groove 411 is arranged along the width direction of the frame 1, and the bottom of the ball feeding groove 411 is provided with a clearance hole 4111. The ball separating member 413 includes a plurality of partitions 4131 that are spaced apart and evenly arranged along the circumferential direction. At least one partition 4131 passes through the clearance hole 4111 and is located inside the ball feeding groove 411. The first driving member 213 drives the ball separating member 413 to rotate to separate two adjacent balls.

[0061] Understandably, the ball moves along the ball feed groove 411 to the ball separator 413. The separator 4131 located in the ball feed groove 411 blocks the ball, keeping it stationary within the ball feed groove 411 and preventing it from rolling. When a shot is needed, the third drive member 412 drives the ball separator 413 to rotate, causing the separator 4131 located in the ball feed groove 411 to rotate to the area below the ball feed groove 411. At the same time, adjacent separators 4131 rotate into the ball feed groove 411 to separate adjacent balls, thereby achieving the effect of the balls rolling one by one to the guide groove 31.

[0062] Furthermore, a connecting portion 4132 is provided between two adjacent separating portions 4131. The connecting portion 4132 is configured as an arc shape that is concave towards the center of the ball-splitting component 413. The connecting portion 4132 is used to adapt to the shape of the ball so that the ball-splitting component 413 drives the ball to move synchronously. By providing an arc-shaped connecting portion 4132, it can form a conformal fit with the spherical surface of the ball. When the ball-splitting component 413 rotates, the concave arc surface can wrap around part of the outer contour of the ball, thereby significantly increasing the contact area and friction between the ball and the ball-splitting component 413. This ensures that the ball is firmly embedded in the connecting portion 4132, preventing the ball from sliding, rolling, or accidentally coming off during movement. At the same time, the arc design conforms to the natural geometry of the ball, preventing stress concentration or compression deformation. This protects the surface of the ball from scratches and ensures that the ball-splitting component 413 can accurately and synchronously drive the ball to the serving position, thereby improving the reliability and transmission accuracy of the ball-splitting action.

[0063] The ball-dispensing assembly 41 also includes a second sensor assembly (not shown in the figure). The ball-dispensing component 413 is set with an initial position, and the second sensor assembly is used to detect whether the ball-dispensing component 413 has reached the initial position. In this embodiment, the second sensor assembly includes a photoelectric sensor and an infrared blocking plate. Whenever a ball-dispensing action is completed or the game is restarted, the second sensor assembly can provide real-time feedback on whether the ball-dispensing component 413 has accurately returned to the preset starting angle or starting position, ensuring that the ball-dispensing component 413 is in a consistent standard position before each ball dispensing, thereby avoiding the deviation of the starting position caused by cumulative errors, mechanical slippage, or human disturbance, and ensuring that the number of balls separated each time is consistent; at the same time, when the ball-dispensing component 413 fails to reset successfully due to jamming, obstruction by foreign objects, or drive failure, the second sensor assembly can send an abnormal signal to the control system, triggering protection responses such as alarm, shutdown, or automatic retry in a timely manner, preventing faults such as no-fire, multiple fires, or ball jamming, thereby improving the operational reliability and fault self-diagnosis capability of the ball-dispensing assembly 41.

[0064] Please see Figure 2 and Figure 6 The striking mechanism 3 includes a ball guide groove 31, a pull rod 32, and a sliding assembly 33. A ball feed groove 411 is connected to the ball guide groove 31, and the length direction of the ball feed groove 411 is the same as that of the ball guide groove 31. The ball guide groove 31 has a serving point, and the connection point between the ball guide groove 31 and the ball feed groove 411 is the serving point. The sliding assembly 33 is located at the end of the pull rod 32 near the ball guide groove 31, allowing the pull rod 32 to slide along the length direction of the ball guide groove 31. The pull rod 32 slides relative to the ball guide groove 31 to strike the ball, causing the ball to move along the serving point of the ball guide groove 31 to the first inlet 2111.

[0065] The balls located in the ball delivery groove 411 enter the serving point of the ball guide groove 31 one by one via the ball separator 413. The player operates the lever 32 to different stroke positions to release the ball from the serving point. The ball moves along the ball guide groove 31 until it enters the first scoring hole 2111 to obtain a specific score. During this process, the stroke distance of the lever 32 directly controls the serving power. That is, the longer the lever 32 is pulled, the farther the ball bounces, and the shorter the lever 32 is pulled, the closer the ball bounces. The pull distance of the lever 32 determines the serving power and the bounce distance, realizing multi-level variable power output. By adding a sliding component 33 to replace the traditional direct sliding contact between the lever 32 and the sleeve, the friction wear and operating resistance of the lever 32 can be significantly reduced. At the same time, it avoids the wear, jamming or shaking of the lever 32 due to long-term use, making the serving action smoother, less effort and more consistent, and improving the game experience.

[0066] In this embodiment, the sliding assembly 33 includes a slider 331, a slide rail 332, a connecting shaft 333, and a tension spring 334. The slide rail 332 is slidably connected to the slider 331, and the length direction of the slide rail 332 is the same as the length direction of the ball guide groove 31. The slide rail 332 is fixedly mounted on the frame 1. The connecting shaft 333 passes through the slider 331 and is fixedly connected to the slider 331. One end of the connecting shaft 333 away from the ball guide groove 31 is fixedly connected to the pull rod 32. The length direction of the tension spring 334 is the same as the movement direction of the pull rod 32. One end of the tension spring 334 is connected to the slider 331, and the other end is connected to the slide rail 332 to facilitate the automatic return of the pull rod 32. In this embodiment, two tension springs 334 are provided, and the two tension springs 334 are respectively located on both sides of the slider 331 to apply a balanced rebound force to the slider 331.

[0067] Understandably, the connecting shaft 333, as an intermediate force transmission component, securely connects the pull rod 32 and the slider 331 at their shaft ends. This allows the push and pull force applied by the pull rod 32 to be evenly transmitted to the entire slider 331 through the connecting shaft 333, avoiding stress concentration or wobbling that might occur if the pull rod 32 is directly connected to the slider 331 at a single point. This improves transmission rigidity and makes the serving action more stable and reliable. Secondly, as an independent connecting component, the length and diameter of the connecting shaft 333 can be flexibly designed according to the actual installation space, making it easy to adjust the extension length and operating position of the pull rod 32 in different models. This enhances the structural adaptability and modularity of the serving mechanism 4.

[0068] The slider 331, acting as an intermediate support, moves along the slide rail 332 with low friction. The pull rod 32 only needs to connect with the slider 331, thus transforming the original surface contact friction into point or line contact sliding friction, significantly reducing the coefficient of friction and starting force. By introducing a mating structure between the slider 331 and the slide rail 332 to replace the traditional direct sliding contact between the pull rod 32 and the sleeve, the mating clearance between the slide rail 332 and the slider 331 can be precisely controlled, guiding the movement stroke of the pull rod 32 and preventing uneven wear, jamming, or wobbling caused by long-term use. This makes the serving action smoother, less strenuous, and more consistent. At the same time, the heat and wear generated by friction are transferred to the easily replaceable slider 331 and slide rail 332. During maintenance, only cleaning or replacing the slider 331 is needed to restore a smooth feel, thereby reducing the long-term maintenance cost and failure rate of the entire machine.

[0069] Please see Figure 7 and Figure 8The ball return assembly 42 includes a ball return groove 421 and a fourth drive member 422. The ball return groove 421 is used to collect the ball after being hit, that is, the ball that comes out from the first ball inlet 2111 and the second ball inlet 2211. The ball return groove 421 is connected to the ball delivery groove 411. The fourth drive member 422 is used to push the ball in the ball return groove 421 into the ball delivery groove 411. The ball return groove 421 serves as a buffer area, which can reliably collect the ball after being hit from various parts of the game table 11, preventing the ball from scattering or being lost. The ball return groove 421 is connected to the ball delivery groove 411. With the assistance of the fourth drive component 422, the ball can naturally transition to the vicinity of the ball delivery groove 411 entrance. The fourth drive component 422 undertakes the active pushing task, which can push the balls accumulated in the return groove 421 into the ball delivery groove 411 as needed and in an orderly manner. This overcomes the problems of ball congestion, stagnation or untimely delivery that may occur when relying solely on gravity for delivery, ensuring that the ball delivery groove 411 always has balls available for the next serve, thereby ensuring the continuity and reliability of the game cycle. It is especially suitable for game scenarios where multiple balls run simultaneously or high-speed continuous hitting.

[0070] Specifically, the ball return channel 421 includes a first guide channel 4211, a second guide channel 4212, and a third guide channel 4213 that are interconnected. The first guide channel 4211 is disposed on the game table surface 11 to collect balls falling from the ball distribution mechanism 2. The second guide channel 4212 is connected to the end of the first guide channel 4211 and is inclined along a second direction. The first guide channel 4211 and the second guide channel 4212 are configured as straight channels, and the third guide channel 4213 is configured as an arc-shaped channel and is arranged in a vertical direction. The connection between the first guide channel 4211 and the second guide channel 4212 is located at the lower end of the ball return channel 421, and the fourth driving member 422 is disposed at the lower end. For ease of understanding, it should be noted that the width of the ball return channel 421 only allows a single ball to pass through, and the lower end of the ball return channel 421 is the lowest point of the ball return channel 421 in the vertical direction, that is, the connection between the second guide channel 4212 and the third guide channel 4213. The tilt direction of the game platform 11 is opposite to the tilt direction of the second guide channel 4212 in order to reduce the floor space and shrink the overall size of the amusement machine.

[0071] After being fired, the ball rolls onto the game table 11 and enters the first guide groove 4211. The first guide groove 4211 is used to arrange the fired balls that fall from various parts of the game table 11 in order, so that the balls entering the second guide groove 4212 maintain a certain order. The second guide groove 4212 is inclined so that the ball rolls along the second guide groove 4212 to the lower end under the action of gravity. Then, the ball at the lower end is pushed into the ball delivery groove 411 as needed and in an orderly manner through the third guide groove 4213 by the fourth drive member 422.

[0072] Please continue reading. Figure 7In this embodiment, the fourth driving component 422 includes a fourth driving source 4221 and a pusher wheel 4222. The pusher wheel 4222 is located inside the ball return groove 421 and is connected to the output end of the fourth driving source 4221. The fourth driving source 4221 drives the pusher wheel 4222 to rotate, so that the pusher wheel 4222 pushes the ball along the direction of the ball delivery groove 411. The pusher wheel 4222 rotates continuously under the drive of the fourth driving source 4221. Its rim generates rolling friction or a pushing action with the surface of the ball, which can push the balls accumulated in the ball return groove 421 one by one and smoothly along the direction of the third guide groove 4213. This avoids the impact noise and mechanical jamming that may be generated by intermittent pushing mechanisms such as cylinders or levers, and realizes continuous, controllable and low-noise pushing of the ball. At the same time, the rotation speed of the pusher wheel 4222 can be steplessly adjusted by the driving source, so as to flexibly match the ball output frequency requirements of different game modes.

[0073] Furthermore, the peripheral wall of the pusher wheel 4222 is formed with a groove by removing part of the structure. The concave contour of the groove can form a partial fit with the surface of the ball, increasing the contact area and friction between the pusher wheel 4222 and the ball. When the pusher wheel 4222 rotates, it can use the edge of the groove to generate a more reliable pushing and guiding effect on the ball, thereby effectively preventing the ball from slipping or deviating from the predetermined direction during the pushing process. At the same time, the groove structure is equivalent to building multiple receiving positions on the rim, so that the pusher wheel 4222 can stably hook or support a ball every time it rotates a certain angle, realizing intermittent and quantitative pushing of the ball, avoiding the problem of pushing multiple balls at one time or getting stuck.

[0074] It should be noted that the addition of terms such as "first," "second," and "third" to some technical feature names in this application is merely to distinguish similar objects and is not intended to limit quantity, priority, or other limitations. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments described herein can be implemented in a sequence other than that illustrated or described herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that includes a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units not explicitly listed or inherent to such processes, methods, products, or apparatus.

[0075] The various embodiments in this specification are described in a progressive or parallel manner, with each embodiment focusing on its differences from other embodiments. Similar or undescribed parts between embodiments can be referred to interchangeably. The above description of the disclosed embodiments enables those skilled in the art to make or use this application. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be implemented in other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of this application. Therefore, this application is not to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A ball-hitting amusement machine, characterized in that, include: A frame, wherein the frame is provided with a game table, and the game table is inclined along a first direction; A ball-distributing mechanism is disposed on the game table. The ball-distributing mechanism includes a first reward component, a second reward component, and a guide rail. The first reward component and the second reward component are inclined along a first direction. The first reward component includes a first turntable and a ball-dropping channel. The first turntable has a plurality of first scoring holes spaced apart in the circumferential direction, and at least one of the plurality of first scoring holes is connected to the ball-dropping channel. The second reward component includes a second turntable, which has a plurality of second scoring holes spaced apart in the circumferential direction. The guide rail is disposed around the first turntable and the second turntable to guide the ball from the ball-dropping channel to the second scoring hole. A ball-hitting mechanism is provided on the frame. The ball-hitting mechanism includes a ball guide groove and a pull rod. The ball guide groove is provided with a ball-launching point. The pull rod slides along the length of the ball guide groove so that the ball moves along the ball guide groove to the ball-launching point to the first ball-scoring hole. A ball-serving mechanism, disposed on the frame, is used to deliver a ball that falls from the ball-distributing mechanism to the serving point.

2. The ball-hitting amusement machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least two of the multiple first goal openings are configured as first bonus goal positions, and all the first goal openings configured as first bonus goal positions are connected to the ball landing channel; one of the multiple second goal openings is configured as a second bonus goal position.

3. The ball-hitting amusement machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first reward component also includes a first drive unit for driving the first turntable to rotate so that the ball can enter one of the first scoring ports; The second reward component also includes a second drive unit for driving the second turntable to rotate so that each of the second ball-filling holes can align with the guide rail.

4. The ball-hitting amusement machine according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first driving component includes a first driving source, a fixed shaft, and a transmission module. One end of the fixed shaft is connected to the first turntable, and the other end is connected to the transmission module. The first driving source is used to drive the transmission module to rotate the first turntable.

5. The ball-hitting amusement machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ball-hitting mechanism also includes a sliding assembly, which includes a slider, a slide rail, a connecting shaft, and a tension spring. The slide rail is slidably connected to the slider, and the length direction of the slide rail is the same as the length direction of the ball guide groove. The slide rail is fixedly mounted on the frame. The connecting shaft passes through the slider and is fixedly connected to the slider. The end of the connecting shaft away from the ball guide groove is fixedly connected to the pull rod. The length direction of the tension spring is the same as the movement direction of the pull rod. One end of the tension spring is connected to the slider, and the other end is connected to the slide rail.

6. The ball-hitting amusement machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The serving mechanism includes a ball delivery component and a ball return component. The ball delivery component is provided with a ball delivery groove, which is connected to the ball guide groove so that the ball in the ball delivery groove moves to the serving point. The ball return assembly includes a ball return groove and a fourth drive component. The ball return groove is used to collect the ball after being hit, and the ball return groove is connected to the ball delivery groove. The fourth drive component is used to push the ball in the ball return groove into the ball delivery groove.

7. The ball-hitting amusement machine according to claim 6, characterized in that, The ball delivery assembly further includes a third driving member and a ball separating member. The bottom of the ball delivery groove is provided with a clearance hole. The ball separating member includes a plurality of partitions that are spaced apart and evenly arranged along the circumferential direction. At least one of the partitions passes through the clearance hole and is located in the ball delivery groove. The third driving member drives the ball separating member to rotate so as to separate two adjacent balls.

8. The ball-hitting amusement machine according to claim 7, characterized in that, A connecting portion is provided between two adjacent dividing portions. The connecting portion is configured as an arc shape that is concave towards the center of the ball-splitting component. The connecting portion is used to adapt to the shape of the ball so that the ball-splitting component drives the ball to move synchronously.

9. The ball-hitting amusement machine according to claim 6, characterized in that, The ball return groove includes a first guide groove, a second guide groove, and a third guide groove that are interconnected. The first guide groove is disposed on the game table to collect balls falling from the ball distribution mechanism. The second guide groove is connected to the end of the first guide groove and is inclined along a second direction. The third guide groove is configured as an arc-shaped groove and is disposed in a vertical direction. The connection between the first guide groove and the second guide groove is located at the lower end of the ball return groove, and the fourth driving member is disposed at the lower end.

10. The ball-hitting amusement machine according to claim 6, characterized in that, The fourth driving component includes a fourth driving source and a pusher wheel. The pusher wheel is located in the ball return groove and is connected to the output end of the fourth driving source. The fourth driving source drives the pusher wheel to rotate so that the pusher wheel pushes the ball to move along the direction of the ball delivery groove.

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