Prize obtaining game device

Abstract

The utility model provides a prize obtaining game device which can properly set the descending position of a lifting part. A prize obtaining game device (100) is provided with a linear scale (710) provided in the vertical direction in a lifting track (610) or a prize moving device (500), and a scale sensor (720) for detecting the scale of the linear scale (710). Therefore, the descending position of the prize moving device (500) can be controlled with high precision based on the scales of the linear scale (710). Therefore, the descending position of the prize moving device (500) can be properly set.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The utility model relates to a prize obtaining game device, which comprises a lifting part which can be lifted and lowered along an up-and-down direction. Background Art

[0002] In the past, a prize obtaining game device including a lifting unit that can be raised and lowered in the vertical direction is known (see Patent Document 1). The prize obtaining game device includes a prize obtaining unit (lifting unit) and a lifting mechanism that enables the prize obtaining unit to move horizontally. The prize obtaining unit can be raised and lowered relative to the lifting mechanism. In addition, the prize obtaining unit includes a hanging claw, a supporting chain suspended from the hanging claw, and a hook installed on the lower end of the supporting chain. Moreover, the prize obtaining unit is moved horizontally by the player's button operation. When the button operation is stopped at the moment when the prize obtaining unit reaches directly above the target prize, the prize obtaining unit automatically descends. Thus, the hook equipped with the prize obtaining unit can lock the ring arranged on the prize.

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Utility Model Patent No. 3167572 Utility Model Content

[0006] Issues to be solved by utility models

[0007] However, in conventional prize-obtaining game devices, it is difficult to appropriately set the descending position of the lifting portion.

[0008] The object of the present invention is to appropriately set the descending position of the lifting unit.

[0009] Means for solving problems

[0010] In order to achieve the above-mentioned purpose, the first utility model relates to a prize-obtaining game device, which is characterized in that it includes: a track portion extending in the up-down direction; a lifting portion, which includes a prize contact portion that contacts the prize and can be lifted and lowered along the track portion; and a linear encoder, which includes a linear scale and a sensor for detecting the scale of the linear scale, wherein the linear scale is arranged on one of the track portion and the lifting portion in a manner extending in the up-down direction, and the sensor is arranged on the other of the track portion and the lifting portion.

[0011] The prize-winning game device according to the first utility model includes a linear scale disposed vertically on a track or a lift, and a sensor for detecting the scale's graduations. This allows the lift's descending position to be controlled with high precision based on the linear scale's graduations. Consequently, the lift's descending position can be appropriately set.

[0012] Here, the rail portion corresponds to, for example, the lifting rail 610 described later. The prize contact portion corresponds to, for example, the hook 522 described later. The lifting portion corresponds to, for example, the prize moving device 500 described later. The linear scale corresponds to, for example, the linear scale 710 described later. The sensor corresponds to, for example, the scale sensor 720 described later. The linear encoder corresponds to, for example, the linear encoder 700 described later.

[0013] The prize-winning game device according to the second utility model is characterized in that, in the prize-winning game device according to the first utility model, the linear scale is formed by coating a base material composed of a resin film with a paint containing metal.

[0014] In the prize obtaining game device according to the second invention, the linear scale can be manufactured inexpensively and easily.

[0015] The prize-obtaining game device according to the third utility model is characterized in that, in the prize-obtaining game device according to the first utility model or the second utility model, a counterweight connected to the lifting portion via a wire is included.

[0016] In the prize obtaining game device according to the third invention, the lifting portion can be raised and lowered with a relatively small force, and the descending position of the lifting portion can be controlled with higher precision.

[0017] Here, the counterweight corresponds to, for example, a counterweight 622 described later.

[0018] Utility model effect

[0019] According to the present invention, the descending position of the lifting unit can be appropriately set. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] Figure 1 1 is a perspective view showing a state of the prize obtaining game unit 1 as viewed from above;

[0021] Figure 2 1 is a perspective view showing a state of the prize obtaining game unit 1 as viewed from the bottom side;

[0022] Figure 3 3 is a perspective view of the hoisting device 300 showing a state where the prize moving device 500 is arranged at the upper limit position;

[0023] Figure 4 It means in Figure 3 FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a state in which the front frame 511 of the prize moving device 500 is removed from the lifting device 300;

[0024] Figure 5 It means in Figure 3FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a state in which the lifting rail 610 of the lifting device 600 is removed from the lifting device 300;

[0025] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the lifting device 300 showing a state where the prize moving device 500 is arranged at the lower limit position;

[0026] Figure 7 It means in Figure 6 FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a state in which the front frame 511 of the prize moving device 500 is removed from the lifting device 300;

[0027] Figure 8 It means in Figure 6 FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a state in which the lifting rail 610 of the lifting device 600 is removed from the lifting device 300;

[0028] Figure 9 5 is a perspective view showing a hook device 520 in a state where the hook 522 is arranged in a non-engaging position;

[0029] Figure 10 5 is a perspective view showing a hook device 520 in which the hook 522 is arranged in a locked position;

[0030] Figure 11 is a top view of the linear scale 710;

[0031] Figure 12 1 is a block diagram showing the structure of a control system of the prize-earning game device 100 .

[0032] Reference Signs List

[0033] 100. Prize obtaining game device; 500. Prize moving device; 522. Hook; 610. Lifting track;

[0034] 622. Counterweight; 700. Linear encoder; 710. Linear scale; 720. Scale sensor. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0036] In this embodiment, an example in which the prize obtaining game device according to the present invention is applied to a prize obtaining game device 100 capable of executing a prize obtaining game will be described.

[0037] The “prize obtaining game” is a game in which a player (user) operates the prize moving device 500 by manipulating the operation unit 16 to drop a prize arranged in the game area GE into the opening area OE, thereby obtaining the prize.

[0038] In this embodiment, a D-ring (not shown) is attached to the top surface of the prize. Here, the "D-ring" is composed of a base attached to the top surface of the prize and a ring-shaped (D-shaped) engaging portion attached to the base. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the prize moving device 500 includes a hook 522, described later. By engaging (hooking) the end of the hook 522 with the engaging portion of the D-ring attached to the prize, the prize can be moved toward the opening area OE.

[0039] A "prize" can be an item that is given to the player upon acquisition, or an item that is not given to the player even if acquired but can be exchanged for another item (an item given to the player) after acquisition. It should be noted that in this embodiment, the "prize" includes the D-ring attached to the prize.

[0040] (Structure of Prize Obtaining Game Unit 1)

[0041] First, the structure of the prize obtaining game unit 1 will be described.

[0042] Figure 1 It is a perspective view showing a state of the prize obtaining game unit 1 as viewed from above. Figure 2 It is a perspective view showing a state of the prize obtaining game unit 1 as viewed from the bottom.

[0043] here, Figure 1 and Figure 2 The example shown shows an example in which four prize-winning game devices 100 are constructed in one prize-winning game unit 1. That is, the four prize-winning game devices 100 use a common housing 10. It should be noted that one prize-winning game device 100 can also be constructed in one prize-winning game unit 1 (housing 10).

[0044] In the following description, each prize obtaining game device 100 constructed in the prize obtaining game unit 1 may be referred to as a "machine." That is, four machines are constructed in one prize obtaining game unit 1 .

[0045] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the prize obtaining game unit 1 is configured to include a housing 10 , a rotating unit 20 supported by the housing 10 , and four prize obtaining game devices 100 built in the housing 10 .

[0046] (Frame 10)

[0047] Next, the structure of the housing 10 will be described.

[0048] The housing 10 is formed in a cylindrical box shape. A game area GE where a prize-winning game is played is constructed within the housing 10. The housing 10 includes an upper housing 11 and a lower housing 12.

[0049] The outer peripheral surface of the upper housing 11 is made of a transparent plate material such as glass or acrylic plate, so that the player can observe the game area GE constructed inside the upper housing 11 from the outside of the housing 10 .

[0050] The outer peripheral surface of the upper frame 11 is constituted by a sliding door and can be opened and closed. Thus, the operator can arrange and move prizes in the game area GE by opening the outer peripheral surface of the upper frame 11.

[0051] A control panel 13 corresponding to each machine is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the lower housing 12. Each control panel 13 is provided with a coin slot 14, a display unit 15, and an operation unit 16.

[0052] The coin slot 14 allows players to insert coins. By inserting coins into the coin slot 14, players can earn points for playing games on the machine, which can be used to win prizes. It should be noted that a settlement device using electronic currency stored in a storage medium such as a prepaid card or credit card can also be provided, allowing players to earn points through electronic currency settlement.

[0053] The display unit 15 can display various images. It includes multiple display areas, each of which can display numbers. The display unit 15 displays various information, such as the remaining number of points earned by the player. Specifically, each time a coin is inserted into the coin slot 14 to earn points, the remaining number of points displayed on the display unit 15 increases. Furthermore, each time a prize-winning game is played, the remaining number of points displayed on the display unit 15 decreases.

[0054] The operating unit 16 receives operations from the player. The operating unit 16 is configured to include a joystick 16a and a button 16b. The joystick 16a receives operations to move the prize moving device 500 in the horizontal direction (radial direction in this embodiment) during the prize obtaining game. Specifically, in the prize obtaining game, when the joystick 16a is tilted to one side, the prize moving device 500 is moved to one radial side (inward side). In addition, in the prize obtaining game, when the joystick 16a is tilted to the other side, the prize moving device 500 is moved to the other radial side (near front side). The button 16b receives operations to move the prize moving device 500 in the up and down direction (downward direction in this embodiment) during the prize obtaining game. Specifically, in the prize obtaining game, when the button 16b is pressed, the prize moving device 500 automatically descends to a pre-set descending position.

[0055] Note that the operation unit 16 may also include a first button for receiving an operation to move the prize moving device 500 radially during the prize obtaining game and a second button for receiving an operation to lower the prize moving device 500 during the prize obtaining game.

[0056] Furthermore, prize removal ports 17 corresponding to each machine are provided on the outer peripheral surface of the lower frame 12. Specifically, opening areas OE corresponding to each machine are provided outside the gaming area GE. Prizes dropped into the opening areas OE of each machine are guided to the prize removal ports 17, and players can obtain their prizes by removing them from the prize removal ports 17.

[0057] Furthermore, opening and closing doors 19 corresponding to the respective machines are provided on the outer peripheral surface of the lower frame 12. Furthermore, various control boards (main control board 30 and the like) are arranged inside the opening and closing doors 19.

[0058] (Rotation unit 20)

[0059] Next, the structure of the rotation unit 20 will be described.

[0060] The rotating unit 20 is a device commonly used in all machines. The rotating unit 20 is arranged inside the lower frame 12. When viewed from above, the rotating unit 20 is formed into a disk shape. A central rotating shaft (not shown) extending in the vertical direction is provided at the center of the rotating unit 20. In addition, the rotating unit 20 can be rotated by the rotating unit motor m1 (see Figure 12 ) rotates relative to the lower frame 12 around the central rotation axis.

[0061] A game area GE, where the prize-winning game is played, is constructed on the upper surface of the rotating unit 20. Multiple prizes are arranged (placed) in the game area GE. Thus, the game area GE is constructed inside the upper frame 11. Furthermore, four machines are constructed within the prize-winning game unit 1 to surround the game area GE. Openings OE corresponding to each machine are provided inside the lower frame 12 to surround the rotating unit 20 (game area GE).

[0062] The "game area GE" is an area where prizes are placed and a prize-winning game is played, and the "opening area OE" is an area where prizes can fall and be won.

[0063] In this embodiment, multiple regions of varying heights are formed on the top surface (game area GE) of the rotation unit 20. Specifically, the top surface (game area GE) of the rotation unit 20 includes an inner region GE1 located on the inner periphery and an outer region GE2 located on the outer periphery. The inner region GE1 is formed to surround the central rotation axis. The outer region GE2 is formed to surround the inner region GE1. Furthermore, the inner region GE1 is higher than the outer region GE2.

[0064] (Each Prize Obtaining Game Device 100)

[0065] Next, the structure of each prize obtaining game device 100 will be described.

[0066] Each prize-winning game device 100 is configured to include a grabbing unit 200 mounted on a housing 10, a speaker 18 mounted on the housing 10 (see FIG. Figure 12 ), a main control substrate 30 (see Figure 12 ) and a control panel 13 installed on the frame 10.

[0067] (Grab unit 200)

[0068] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the hoisting device 300 showing a state in which the prize moving device 500 is arranged at the upper limit position. Figure 4 It means in Figure 3 The illustrated diagram shows a state in which the front frame 511 of the prize moving device 500 is removed from the lifting device 300 . Figure 5 It means in Figure 3 The figure shows a state in which the lifting rail 610 of the lifting device 600 is removed from the lifting device 300. Figure 6 This is a perspective view of the hoisting device 300 showing a state in which the prize moving device 500 is arranged at the lower limit position. Figure 7 It means in Figure 6 The illustrated diagram shows a state in which the front frame 511 of the prize moving device 500 is removed from the lifting device 300 . Figure 8 It means in Figure 6 The figure shows a state in which the lifting rail 610 of the lifting device 600 is removed from the lifting device 300. Figure 9 It is a perspective view of the hook device 520 showing a state in which the hook 522 is arranged in the non-engaging position. Figure 10 It is a perspective view of the hook device 520 showing a state in which the hook 522 is arranged at the locking position. Figure 11 is a top view of the linear scale 710. It should be noted that Figures 3 to 8 The hook device 520 is omitted.

[0069] like Figure 2 As shown, the grabbing unit 200 includes a grabbing device 300 and a horizontal moving device 400 that moves the grabbing device 300 in a horizontal direction (radial direction in this embodiment).

[0070] The horizontal moving device 400 is composed of a radial rail 410 and a radial motor m2 (see Figure 12 The radial rail 410 is mounted on the top surface (inside) of the upper frame 11. The radial rail 410 extends linearly in the radial direction from a position corresponding to the center of the rotating unit 20 (game area GE) on the top surface of the upper frame 11 toward the outside.

[0071] The grabbing device 300 is mounted on the radial track 410. The grabbing device 300 can move (slide) along the radial track 410. The radial motor m2 is driven to move the grabbing device 300 along the radial track 410. The grabbing device 300 can move between a near-front position (not shown) and a rear position (not shown).

[0072] like Figures 3 to 8 As shown, the crane device 300 includes a prize moving device 500 , a lifting device 600 for lifting the prize moving device 500 , and a linear encoder 700 for detecting the position (vertical position) of the prize moving device 500 .

[0073] The lifting device 600 includes a lifting rail 610 and an elevator 620. The upper end of the lifting rail 610 is attached to the radial rail 410. The lifting rail 610 extends linearly downward from the radial rail 410 in the vertical direction.

[0074] The elevator 620 is composed of a pulley 621 and an elevator motor m3 (see Figure 12 ), a wire (not shown) suspended from a pulley 621, and a counterweight 622 attached to the wire. The pulley 621 is attached to the upper end of the lifting rail 610. In the lift 620, the pulley 621 can be rotated (driven) by driving the lifting motor m3.

[0075] The weight of the counterweight 622 is roughly the same as that of the prize moving device 500. Moreover, the prize moving device 500 is installed on one end of the wire rod hanging from the pulley 621. In addition, the counterweight 622 is installed on the other end of the wire rod hanging from the pulley 621. Thus, the lifting device 300 is in a state where the prize moving device 500 and the counterweight 622 are balanced with each other via the pulley 621. At this time, the wire rod is in a state where a specified tension is applied. Moreover, by rotating the pulley 621 to one side using the lifting motor m3, the prize moving device 500 can be raised along the lifting track 610 (at this time, the counterweight 622 descends). On the other hand, by rotating the pulley 621 to the other side using the lifting motor m3, the prize moving device 500 can be lowered along the lifting track 610 (at this time, the counterweight 622 ascends). In this case, by providing the counterweight 622 , the prize moving device 500 can be raised and lowered with a smaller force, and the position of the prize moving device 500 can be controlled with higher precision.

[0076] The prize moving device 500 is configured to include a frame portion 510 and a hook device 520 attached to the lower end portion of the frame portion 510 (see FIG. Figure 1 and Figure 2 ).

[0077] The frame portion 510 is formed into a generally square cylindrical shape by a front frame 511 and a rear frame 512. The frame portion 510 extends vertically. The upper end of the frame portion 510 is attached to the lifting rail 610. At this time, the upper end of the frame portion 510 is attached to the lifting rail 610 with the lower end of the frame portion 510 inserted into the inner side of the lifting rail 610. This allows the frame portion 510 (prize moving device 500) to move (lift, lower, slide) along the lifting rail 610.

[0078] The prize moving device 500 (frame portion 510) can be moved to the upper limit position (refer to Figures 3 to 5 ) and the lower limit position (refer to Figures 6 to 8 ) between the upper and lower positions (lifting, sliding). At this time, when the prize moving device 500 is configured in the upper limit position, substantially the entire length of the lifting rail 610 is accommodated inside the frame portion 510, whereby the lifting rail 610 and the frame portion 510 are in a retracted upward state. On the other hand, when the prize moving device 500 is configured in the lower limit position, substantially the entire length of the lifting rail 610 extends from the inner side of the frame portion 510, whereby the lifting rail 610 and the frame portion 510 are in an extended downward state.

[0079] like Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the hook device 520 is composed of a base 521, a hook 522 that can be displaced relative to the base 521, and a hook motor m4 (see Figure 12 ).

[0080] The base 521 is formed in a box shape.

[0081] The hook 522 is formed into a hook shape. The front end of the hook 522 is formed into an R-curved surface (hemispherical) by chamfering. The hook 522 can use its base end as a fulcrum to displace (change) the direction of its end. The hook 522 is displaced by driving the hook motor m4. The hook 522 can be in a non-locking position (refer to Figure 9 ) and the locking position (refer to Figure 10 ) between the hook 522 and the game area GE. At this time, when the hook 522 is arranged in the non-locking position, the end of the hook 522 is arranged in a manner extending in the horizontal direction. On the other hand, when the hook 522 is arranged in the locking position, the end of the hook 522 is arranged in a manner extending in the vertical direction. Moreover, when the hook 522 is arranged in the locking position, the end of the hook 522 is arranged at a lower position than when the hook 522 is arranged in the non-locking position. Thus, when the hook 522 is arranged in the locking position, the end of the hook 522 can be used to contact (lock) with the prize (the locked portion of the D-ring) arranged in the game area GE.

[0082] In particular, a scale (not shown) is provided at the end of hook 522. Specifically, the end of hook 522 is provided with a scale consisting of multiple parallel scale lines. In this embodiment, the end of hook 522 is provided with a scale consisting of five scale lines spaced 1 mm apart. When hook 522 is in the locked position, each scale line extends horizontally and rotates around the outer circumference of hook 522.

[0083] like Figure 4 and Figure 7 As shown, the linear encoder 700 includes a linear scale 710 and a scale sensor 720 that detects the slit (scale / detected portion) of the linear scale 710. In this embodiment, the linear encoder 700 is constructed as an optical linear encoder. However, the linear encoder 700 may also be constructed as a magnetic linear encoder.

[0084] like Figure 11As shown, the linear scale 710 is formed in a long strip shape. Moreover, a plurality of slits (scales and detected parts) are provided in the linear scale 710 at predetermined intervals (1 [mm] intervals in this embodiment) along the longitudinal direction. The linear scale 710 can allow light to pass through each slit (detected part) and cannot allow light to pass through other parts except the slits. In this embodiment, the linear scale 710 is formed by a resin film. Specifically, after a paint containing metal (a paint that is not transparent to light) is coated on the surface of a transparent resin (PET) film (substrate) that allows light to pass, the paint is removed by etching to form a plurality of slits (scales and detected parts). As a result, the linear scale 710 can be manufactured cheaply and easily. It should be noted that the linear scale 710 can also be a structure in which a plurality of slits are formed in a metal plate that is not transparent to light by cutting or the like.

[0085] The scale sensor 720 can be formed from a light sensor, etc. The scale sensor 720 includes a light projecting unit and a light receiving unit that receives the light projected from the light projecting unit. Furthermore, in response to the light receiving unit receiving (detecting) light projected from the light projecting unit, the scale sensor 720 outputs a detection signal to the main control board 30 (setting the pulse signal to a high level). When the light receiving unit does not receive (detect) light projected from the light projecting unit, the scale sensor 720 stops outputting the detection signal to the main control board 30 (setting the pulse signal to a low level).

[0086] In this embodiment, a linear scale 710 is disposed in the prize moving device 500. Specifically, the linear scale 710 is attached to the inner side of the front frame 511, extending in the vertical direction. Furthermore, in this embodiment, a scale sensor 720 is disposed in the lifting device 600. Specifically, the scale sensor 720 is disposed on the inner side (lower end) of the lifting rail 610. The scale sensor 720 is positioned so that the linear scale 710 is sandwiched between a light projecting portion and a light receiving portion (such that light projected from the light projecting portion illuminates the surface of the linear scale 710). Furthermore, as the prize moving device 500 is raised or lowered along the lifting rail 610, the linear scale 710 rises or falls relative to the scale sensor 720, allowing the scale sensor 720 to detect (read) the slit (scale / detected portion) of the linear scale 710. Consequently, the main control board 30 can detect the vertical position of the prize moving device 500 (particularly the lowered position, described later) based on the input of the detection signal from the scale sensor 720.

[0087] In this embodiment, when the prize moving device 500 is positioned at the upper limit position, the scale sensor 720 is positioned at the lower end of the linear scale 710 (hereinafter referred to as the "lower limit scale position"). Specifically, when the prize moving device 500 is positioned at the upper limit position, light projected from the light projection portion of the scale sensor 720 illuminates the lower limit scale position of the linear scale 710. On the other hand, when the prize moving device 500 is positioned at the lower limit position, the scale sensor 720 is positioned at the upper end of the linear scale 710 (hereinafter referred to as the "upper limit scale position"). Specifically, when the prize moving device 500 is positioned at the lower limit position, light projected from the light projection portion of the scale sensor 720 illuminates the upper limit scale position of the linear scale 710.

[0088] In this embodiment, no slit (scale / detected portion) is formed within a predetermined range (e.g., 5 mm) from the lower limit scale position toward the upper limit scale position of the linear scale 710. Furthermore, no slit (scale / detected portion) is formed within a predetermined range (e.g., 5 mm) from the upper limit scale position toward the lower limit scale position of the linear scale 710. This prevents the scale sensor 720 from erroneously detecting the slit (scale / detected portion) in the linear scale 710 due to the rebound of the prize moving device 500 against the stopper when the prize moving device 500 is moved to the upper limit position or the lower limit position. This prevents the position of the prize moving device 500 detected by the main control board 30 from deviating from the actual position of the prize moving device 500.

[0089] (Structure of control system)

[0090] Next, the configuration of the control system of the prize obtaining game device 100 will be described.

[0091] Figure 12 1 is a block diagram showing the structure of a control system of the prize-earning game device 100 .

[0092] like Figure 12 As described above, each prize-obtaining game device 100 includes a main control substrate 30 .

[0093] The main control board 30 comprehensively controls the progress of the prize obtaining game. The main control board 30 is disposed inside the lower housing 12. The main control board 30 includes a processing unit 31, a storage unit 32, and the like.

[0094] The processing unit 31 is composed of a microcomputer including a CPU, ROM, RAM, etc. The processing unit 31 executes processing necessary for the progress of the prize obtaining game based on various detection signals input from the operation unit 16 and programs and data stored in the storage unit 32. Furthermore, the processing unit 31 executes processing related to various settings of the prize obtaining game device 100 (particularly, the setting of the lowering position described later) based on various detection signals input from the operation unit 16 and programs and data stored in the storage unit 32.

[0095] In addition, the processing unit 31 receives input of a detection signal output in response to the tilting operation of the joystick 16a, a detection signal output in response to the pressing operation of the button 16b, a detection signal output in response to the insertion of a coin into the coin slot 14, and the like.

[0096] The storage unit 32 is composed of a nonvolatile memory, etc. The storage unit 32 stores programs and data necessary for the progress of the prize obtaining game, various settings of the prize obtaining game device 100, and the like.

[0097] The main control board 30 controls the rotation of the rotating unit 20 by controlling the drive of the rotating unit motor m1. In this embodiment, while the prize-winning game unit 1 is powered on, the rotating unit 20 rotates at a constant speed in a predetermined direction. Furthermore, the main control board 30 controls the movement (radial and vertical) of the prize moving device 500 by controlling the drive of the radial motor m2 and the lift motor m3. Furthermore, the main control board 30 controls the displacement of the hook 522 by controlling the drive of the hook motor m4.

[0098] The prize-winning game device 100 is equipped with a radial position sensor 50 for detecting the radial position of the prize moving device 500 and a scale sensor 720 for detecting the vertical position of the prize moving device 500. In this embodiment, a rotary encoder (not shown) is provided in the radial motor m2. The rotary encoder comprises an encoder disc disposed on the motor's rotating shaft and a photointerrupter for detecting the slit (scale / detected portion) of the encoder disc. This photointerrupter constitutes the radial position sensor 50.

[0099] The processing unit 31 controls the driving of the radial motor m2 based on the detection signal input from the radial position sensor 50. The processing unit 31 controls the driving of the lifting motor m3 based on the detection signal input from the scale sensor 720 and a preset descending position.

[0100] Furthermore, the processing unit 31 controls the display of the display unit 15 , the sound output of the speaker 18 , and the like according to the progress of the prize obtaining game.

[0101] (Prize-winning game progress)

[0102] Next, the process of the prize obtaining game will be described.

[0103] In the prize-winning game unit 1, multiple prizes are placed on the upper surface (game area GE) of the rotating unit 20. A D-ring is pre-attached to the top surface of each prize. While the prize-winning game unit 1 is powered on, the upper surface (game area GE) of the rotating unit 20 constantly rotates at a constant speed in a predetermined direction.

[0104] In each machine (each prize-winning game device 100), each time a predetermined number of coins are inserted into the coin slot 14, the credit counter increments by "1." Furthermore, when the credit counter value is "1" or greater, the prize-winning game can be played. In other words, when the credit counter value is "1" or greater, the operating unit 16 can be operated.

[0105] When the prize-winning game begins, the hoisting device 300 is positioned near the front, the prize moving device 500 is positioned at the upper limit, and the hook 522 is positioned in the unlatched position. Furthermore, after the prize-winning game begins, the hoisting device 300 (prize moving device 500) can be moved radially by tilting the joystick 16a between the start of the game and the elapse of a predetermined time (e.g., 30 seconds). In this case, tilting the joystick 16a to one side moves the hoisting device 300 (prize moving device 500) radially toward one side (the inner side), while tilting the joystick 16a to the other side moves the hoisting device 300 (prize moving device 500) radially toward the other side (the near front).

[0106] If the button 16b is pressed before the specified time has passed since the start of the prize obtaining game, the hoisting device 30 starts the prize obtaining action in response to the pressing operation. Alternatively, if the button 16b is not pressed before the specified time has passed since the start of the prize obtaining game, the hoisting device 30 starts the prize obtaining action in response to the passage of the specified time.

[0107] When the prize obtaining action begins, first, the prize moving device 500 automatically descends from the upper limit position to the pre-set descending position. Thereafter, when the prize moving device 500 is configured in the descending position, the hook 522 is displaced from the non-locking position to the locking position. At this time, if the prize happens to be configured below the hook 522 and can be hung on the locked portion of the D-ring through the front end of the hook 522, the prize can be suspended using the hook 522. Thereafter, when the hook 522 is configured in the locking position, the prize moving device 500 rises from the descending position to the upper limit position. Thereafter, when the prize moving device 500 is configured in the upper limit position, the lifting device 30 (prize moving device 500) is moved to the upper side (near front side) of the opening area OE. Then, above the opening area OE, the hook 522 is displaced from the locking position to the non-locking position. Thus, when the prize is locked by the hook 522, the prize hanging from the hook 522 falls into the opening area OE, and the prize can be obtained.

[0108] (Setting of the descending position)

[0109] Next, the setting of the lowered position will be described.

[0110] The "descending position" is the position (height) at which the prize moving device 500 descends during a prize-winning operation. In particular, the administrator can set an arbitrary position (height) as the descending position for each machine (each prize-winning game device 100). This allows the prize moving device 500 to automatically descend to the arbitrarily set descending position during a prize-winning operation.

[0111] In particular, each machine (each prize-winning game device 100) can have a lowered position set for each inner region GE1 and outer region GE2. Thus, when the prize moving device 500 is located above inner region GE1 and a prize-winning action is performed, the prize moving device 500 descends to the lowered position set for inner region GE1. On the other hand, when the prize moving device 500 is located above outer region GE2 and a prize-winning action is performed, the prize moving device 500 descends to the lowered position set for outer region GE2.

[0112] Here, if the prize-winning game device 100 utilizes the tip of the hook 522 to secure the prize, the probability of winning the prize can vary significantly with even slight changes in the lowering position. In this case, the lower the lowering position, the higher the probability of winning the prize. For example, lowering the lowering position by just 1 mm can multiply the probability of winning the prize several times. Therefore, the setting of the lowering position must be as detailed as possible, and the placement of the prize moving device 500 at the set lowering position must be controlled with as much precision as possible.

[0113] To this end, in the prize-winning game device 100, a linear scale 710 disposed on the prize moving device 500 and a scale sensor 720 disposed on the lifting device 600 are used to detect the vertical position (height) of the prize moving device 500, and the lifting and lowering of the prize moving device 500 are controlled based on the detected vertical position (height). This allows for more detailed setting of the lowered position than when a rotary encoder is used, and allows for more precise control of the placement of the prize moving device 500 at the set lowered position.

[0114] That is, in this embodiment, a plurality of slits (scale / detection portion) are provided along the length of the linear scale 710 at intervals of 1 mm. This allows the position (height) of the prize moving device 500 to be detected in 1 mm increments. Therefore, the lowered position can be set in 1 mm increments, and the raising and lowering of the prize moving device 500 can be controlled in 1 mm increments.

[0115] The intervals between the slits (scales and detected parts) can be set appropriately. For example, the intervals between the slits (scales and detected parts) can be set to 0.1 mm or 5 mm.

[0116] In each machine (each prize-winning game device 100), a setting button (not shown) is provided inside the opening and closing door 19. The administrator can activate the lowered position setting mode by pressing the setting button.

[0117] When the descent position setting mode is activated, the hook 522 is moved to the locked position. Furthermore, the descent position set for the inner region GE1 (in this embodiment, a numerical value indicating the distance from the upper limit position) is displayed in the first display area of ​​the display unit 15, and the descent position set for the outer region GE2 (in this embodiment, a numerical value indicating the distance from the upper limit position) is displayed in the second display area of ​​the display unit 15.

[0118] Here, in each machine (each prize-winning game device 100), a first movement button (not shown) and a second movement button (not shown) are provided on the inner side (inside the sliding door) of the upper frame 11. Furthermore, when the lowered position setting mode is activated, pressing the first movement button moves the prize moving device 500 radially to one side (the inner side), while pressing the second movement button moves the prize moving device 500 radially to the other side (the near side).

[0119] When the descent position setting mode is activated, if the prize moving device 500 is moved above the inner area GE1 by pressing the first and second move buttons, the prize moving device 500 is positioned (moved) to the descent position set for the inner area GE1 (in this embodiment, the distance from the upper limit position). Furthermore, when the prize moving device 500 is moved above the inner area GE1, the descent position set for the inner area GE1 can be changed. Each time the joystick 16a is tilted to one side, the descent position set for the inner area GE1 is changed to a position 1 mm higher. Accordingly, the descent position displayed in the first display area is changed to a position 1 mm higher (the number indicating the distance from the upper limit position displayed in the first display area decreases by "1"), and the prize moving device 500 is positioned (moved) to the changed descent position (a position 1 mm higher). On the other hand, each time the joystick 16a is tilted to the other side, the descending position set for the inner area GE1 is changed to a position 1 [mm] lower, and accordingly, the descending position displayed in the first display area is changed to a position 1 [mm] lower (the number indicating the distance from the upper limit position indicated in the first display area increases by "1"), and the prize moving device 500 is configured (moved) to the changed descending position (position 1 [mm] lower).

[0120] Furthermore, when the prize moving device 500 is moved above the outer area GE2 by pressing the first and second move buttons during descent position setting mode, the prize moving device 500 is positioned (moved) to the descent position set for the outer area GE2 (in this embodiment, the distance from the upper limit position). Furthermore, when the prize moving device 500 is moved above the outer area GE2, the descent position set for the outer area GE2 can be changed. In this case, each time the joystick 16a is tilted to one side, the descent position set for the outer area GE2 is changed to a position 1 mm higher. Accordingly, the descent position displayed in the second display area is changed to a position 1 mm higher (the number indicating the distance from the upper limit position displayed in the second display area decreases by "1"), and the prize moving device 500 is positioned (moved) to the changed descent position (a position 1 mm higher). On the other hand, each time the joystick 16a is manipulated to tilt toward the other side, the descending position set for the outer area GE2 is changed to a position 1 [mm] lower, and accordingly, the descending position displayed in the second display area is changed to a position 1 [mm] lower (the number indicating the distance from the upper limit position displayed in the second display area is increased by "1"), and the prize moving device 500 is configured (moved) to the changed descending position (position 1 [mm] lower).

[0121] Therefore, when the descent position setting mode is activated, the administrator can adjust the descent position of the prize moving device 500 by visually observing the relationship between the locked portion of the D-ring installed on the prize and the front end of the hook 522 displaced to the locked position, and manipulating the joystick 16a to tilt it, thereby specifically adjusting the height of the front end of the hook 522 displaced to the locked position.

[0122] At this time, since the end of hook 522 is provided with a scale, the probability of winning a prize can be adjusted by adjusting the lowering position by placing the locked portion of the D-ring attached to the prize at any scale line that constitutes the scale. In other words, by empirically determining the probability of winning a prize when the locked portion of the D-ring attached to the prize is placed at each scale line that constitutes the scale, the probability of winning a prize can be adjusted based on the relationship between the locked portion of the D-ring attached to the prize and the scale provided on hook 522. In particular, the relationship between each scale line and the probability of winning a prize, empirically determined for one machine, can also be applied to other machines and other frames (prize-winning game unit 1), making it easier to adjust the probability of winning a prize. It should be noted that when the lowering position setting mode is activated, the administrator can terminate the lowering position setting mode by pressing the set button.

[0123] (Variation)

[0124] As mentioned above, although description was given based on embodiment of this invention, various changes can be made in the said embodiment.

[0125] For example, in the above embodiment, the linear scale 710 is disposed in the prize moving device 500 and the scale sensor 720 is disposed in the lifting device 600 . However, the linear scale 710 may be disposed in the lifting device 600 and the scale sensor 720 may be disposed in the prize moving device 500 .

[0126] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the hook device 520 is attached to the lower end of the frame portion 510. However, a configuration may be adopted in which a boom device capable of opening and closing a pair of booms is attached to the lower end of the frame portion 510.

[0127] Furthermore, two or more structures may be appropriately combined among the structures according to the above-described embodiment and the structures according to the above-described modifications.

[0128] (Function of Prize Obtaining Game Device 100)

[0129] The prize-earning game device 100 includes: a vertically extending elevating rail 610; a prize moving device 500 including a hook 522 that contacts a prize and is movable along the elevating rail 610; and a linear encoder 700 including a linear scale 710 and a scale sensor 720 for detecting the scale of the linear scale 710. The linear scale 710 is provided vertically extending on one of the elevating rail 610 and the prize moving device 500, while the scale sensor 720 is provided on the other of the elevating rail 610 and the prize moving device 500.

[0130] Specifically, the prize-earning game device 100 includes a linear scale 710 provided in the vertical direction on the lifting rail 610 or the prize moving device 500, and a scale sensor 720 for detecting the scale of the linear scale 710. This allows the descending position of the prize moving device 500 to be controlled with high precision based on the scale of the linear scale 710. Therefore, the descending position of the prize moving device 500 can be appropriately set.

[0131] In the prize-winning game device 100 , the linear scale 710 is formed by coating a base material made of a resin film with a paint containing metal. This allows the linear scale 710 to be manufactured easily and at low cost.

[0132] Furthermore, the prize obtaining game device 100 includes a counterweight 622 connected to the prize moving device 500 via a wire. Thus, the prize moving device 500 can be raised and lowered with less force, and the descending position of the prize moving device 500 can be controlled with higher precision.

Claims

1. A prize-winning game device, characterized in that: include: A rail portion extending in an up-down direction; a lifting portion, comprising a prize contact portion for contacting the prize and capable of rising and falling along the track portion; as well as A linear encoder comprises a linear scale and a sensor for detecting the scale of the linear scale. The linear scale is provided on one of the rail portion and the lifting portion in a manner extending in the up-down direction. The sensor is disposed on the other of the rail portion and the lifting portion.

2. The prize-winning game device according to claim 1, wherein: The linear scale is formed by coating a base material composed of a resin film with a paint containing metal.

3. The prize-winning game device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: include: A counterweight is connected to the lifting part via a wire.

Images