Method for installing component to be stored

Abstract

To make game machines replaceable.SOLUTION: An installation method for installing, in an island facility, a game machine frame capable of interchangeably storing a Pachinko game machine and a rotary drum type game machine, has: steps S120, S130 of expanding a space by moving or exchanging at least one of an upper support part and a lower support part, which are portions arranged to sandwich the space for storing the Pachinko game machine or the rotary drum type game machine; and steps S150, S160 of installing the game machine frame in the expanded space.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for installing a housing component capable of housing a gaming machine. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, gaming machines are installed in island facilities. Known gaming machines include pachinko gaming machines and rotary gaming machines. These gaming machines differ in installation height, shape, and size due to differences in internal structure (for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2017-104270 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Assume that a first gaming machine and a second gaming machine are gaming machines with different installation heights, shapes, and sizes. In a conventional island facility, the position, shape, and size of the space for accommodating the gaming machines are fixed. For this reason, in the conventional island facility, it is difficult to replace the first gaming machine with the second gaming machine. In the conventional island facility, it is expected that the modification for replacing the gaming machines can be easily performed. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The installation method that solves the above problem is an installation method for installing, in island equipment, a storage component capable of accommodating a first gaming machine and a second gaming machine by switching between them, and includes the steps of: moving or exchanging at least one of a first support part and a second support part, which are parts arranged to sandwich a space for accommodating the first gaming machine or the second gaming machine, to expand the space; and installing the storage component in the expanded space. Effect of the Invention

[0006] According to the present invention, gaming machines can be replaced. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a front view showing a schematic diagram of the island equipment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the island equipment shown in FIG. [Diagram 3] In FIG. 3, (a) is a front view of the gaming machine frame in a state in which a pachinko gaming machine is housed, (b) is a right side view thereof, and (c) is a plan view thereof. [Figure 4] In FIG. 4, (a) is a front view of the game machine frame in a state in which the rotary game machine is housed, (b) is a right side view thereof, and (c) is a plan view thereof. [Diagram 5] In FIG. 5, (a) is a front view of the unit frame in a state in which a wide management unit is housed, (b) is a right side view thereof, and (c) is a plan view thereof. [Figure 6] In FIG. 6, (a) is a front view of the unit frame in a state in which a narrow management unit is housed, (b) is a right side view thereof, and (c) is a plan view thereof. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a front view showing a typical conventional island facility before the installation of game machine frames and unit frames. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the island installation shown in FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a method for installing a gaming machine frame and a unit frame. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0008] An embodiment of the island equipment will be described below. (Overview of island facilities) As shown in FIG. 1, the island equipment 10 is installed on an installation surface G of an amusement facility or the like. The island equipment 10 can accommodate a plurality of gaming machines 20. The island equipment 10 can accommodate a plurality of types of gaming machines 20. The gaming machine 20 is a pachinko gaming machine 20P (hereinafter simply referred to as gaming machine 20P), which is an example of a first gaming machine. The gaming machine 20 is a rotary gaming machine 20S (hereinafter simply referred to as gaming machine 20S), which is an example of a second gaming machine. The gaming machines 20P and 20S can be installed together on the island equipment 10. Only the gaming machine 20P can be installed on the island equipment 10. Only the gaming machine 20S can be installed on the island equipment 10. In the following description, when the gaming machines 20P and 20S are not distinguished from each other, they will be simply referred to as gaming machines 20. As will be described later, the island equipment 10 is configured so that the gaming machine 20P and the gaming machine 20S can be installed interchangeably.

[0009] In the island equipment 10, the multiple gaming machines 20 are installed lined up along the width direction Dw. A direction perpendicular to the height direction Dh and the width direction Dw is indicated as a depth direction Dd. As an example, the width direction Dw and the depth direction Dd may coincide with the horizontal direction. As an example, the height direction Dh may coincide with the vertical direction. In the following description, the dimensions (lengths) along the width direction Dw, height direction Dh, and depth direction Dd are simply indicated as the width dimension, height dimension, and depth dimension, respectively.

[0010] In the island facility 10, a management unit 30 is provided for each gaming machine 20. Each gaming machine 20 is connected to the management unit 30 so as to be able to communicate with each other. The management unit 30 may be connected to a hall computer installed in an office of the gaming establishment. The management unit 30 may be connected to a server device installed in a specified data center via a telecommunication line such as the Internet.

[0011] (Pachinko machine) As shown in Figs. 1 to 3, the gaming machine 20P is an enclosed gaming machine. In the gaming machine 20P, gaming balls, which are an example of gaming media, are circulated inside the machine. The gaming machine 20P does not require the supply of gaming balls from the island equipment 10. The gaming machine 20P does not require the return (discharge) of gaming balls to the island equipment 10.

[0012] The gaming machine 20P has a frame W, a game board YB, various operation devices, a display device DS, and a control device CU. The frame W includes an installation frame fixed to the island equipment, and a mounting frame for mounting the game board YB. The installation frame is a rectangular frame having openings on both sides in the depth direction Dd. The mounting frame is pivotally supported on the left edge of the installation frame. The mounting frame can be opened and closed so as to rotate around an axis. The various operation devices may include a launch handle, an operation button for effects, and a counting switch.

[0013] The game board YB has a game area where game balls flow down. A plurality of winning holes are opened in the game area. For example, the winning holes include a start winning hole and a big winning hole. The display device DS displays a variable game with a changing display of patterns. The control device CU has a board and a case. A processor and a memory are mounted on the board. The control device CU protrudes rearward beyond the rear end of the frame W at the rear side of the game board YB. The height dimension and width dimension of the control device CU are smaller than the height dimension Ph and width dimension Pw of the frame W, respectively.

[0014] The processor of the control device CU manages the number a2 of game media, which are balls held by the player. When a game ball is launched in response to the operation of the launch handle, the processor subtracts the number a2 of game media. When a game ball enters a start winning hole, the processor performs a jackpot lottery. If a jackpot is won in the jackpot lottery, the processor derives a jackpot pattern in a variable game and awards a jackpot game. In the jackpot game, the processor opens the large winning hole. When a game ball enters each winning hole, the processor adds the number determined for the winning hole to the number a2 of game media.

[0015] When the counting switch is operated, the processor subtracts the number of transferred game media from the number of game media A2. The processor transmits counting information capable of identifying the number of transferred games to the management unit 30. The processor receives payout information capable of identifying the number of paid-out game balls. The processor adds the payout number capable of being identified from the payout information to the number of game media A2.

[0016] (Rotary gaming machine) As shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 2, and FIG. 4, the gaming machine 20S is a medal-less gaming machine that does not use gaming medals as gaming media. The gaming machine 20S can proceed with a game using electronic gaming media. The gaming machine 20S does not need to be replenished with gaming medals from the island equipment 10 or the like. The gaming machine 20S may be a non-medal-less gaming machine that uses gaming medals as gaming media. The height dimension Sh of the gaming machine 20S is the same or approximately the same as the height dimension Ph of the gaming machine 20P. The width dimension Sw of the gaming machine 20S is smaller than the width dimension Pw of the gaming machine 20P. In other words, the gaming machine 20P is wider than the gaming machine 20S.

[0017] The gaming machine 20S has a cabinet B, a front door, multiple reels, various operating devices, and a control device. The cabinet B is a square box with an opening on the front side. The rear side of the cabinet B is sealed. The front door is pivoted on the left edge of the opening in the cabinet B. The front door can open and close the opening of the cabinet B by unlocking a locking device (not shown). Multiple symbols are arranged on the multiple reels. As an example, the various operating devices may include a stop button, a start lever, a bet button, and a counting switch. The control device has a board and a case. A processor and a memory are mounted on the board. The multiple reels and the control device are housed in the cabinet B.

[0018] The processor of the control device manages the number of gaming media A2, which are the balls held by the player. The processor of the control device increases the number of bets in response to the operation of the bet button. The processor subtracts the number of gaming media A2 in response to the increase in the number of bets. The processor spins the reels in response to the operation of the start lever. In other words, a variable game is started. The processor stops the reels in response to the operation of the stop button. When all the reels have stopped and a specific symbol combination is displayed, the processor adds a number corresponding to that symbol combination to the number of gaming media A2.

[0019] When the counting switch is operated, the processor subtracts the number of transferred game media from the number of game media A2. The processor transmits counting information capable of identifying the number of transferred games to the management unit 30. The processor receives payout information capable of identifying the number of paid-out game media. The processor adds the payout number capable of being identified from the payout information to the number of game media A2.

[0020] (Recommended height for installing gaming machines) In the island equipment 10, the recommended installation height of the gaming machine 20 (hereinafter, referred to as the recommended height) differs depending on the type of the gaming machine 20. The recommended height is set to a height that makes it easy for a player to operate various operation devices arranged on the gaming machine 20 while sitting on a chair. As an example, the recommended height HS of the gaming machine 20S is lower than the recommended height HP of the gaming machine 20P. The recommended height HS of the gaming machine 20S is preferably 450 mm to 550 mm, more preferably 490 mm to 510 mm, and even more preferably 500 mm, in terms of the height from the installation surface G of the island equipment 10 to the bottom surface of the gaming machine 20S. The recommended height HP of the gaming machine 20P is preferably 600 mm to 700 mm, more preferably 640 mm to 660 mm, and even more preferably 651 mm, in terms of the height from the installation surface G of the island equipment 10 to the bottom surface of the gaming machine 20P.

[0021] (Management Unit) As shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 5, and FIG. 6, the management unit 30 includes a housing 30B. The housing 30B is formed by folding a steel plate or the like and has a rectangular box shape. The management unit 30 includes an insertion port into which a management medium can be inserted. As an example, the management medium is an IC card or an IC coin. The management medium stores the remaining amount of money inserted and the number of game media a1 owned by the player. The management unit 30 includes a bill insertion port. The management unit 30 includes a bill validator. The bill validator identifies the type and authenticity of a bill inserted from the bill insertion port. The bill validator may be an external device. The bill validator returns the inserted bill when it determines that the bill is a counterfeit bill or cannot be identified. The management unit 30 includes a bill storage section that stores bills that have passed through the bill validator. When a bill is inserted, the management unit 30 adds the amount to the remaining amount stored in the management medium. The management unit 30 has a payout operation unit as an example of an operation device. When a payout operation of a gaming medium is performed using the payout operation unit, the management unit 30 transmits payout information to the gaming machine 20. When the management unit 30 receives the counting information, the management unit 30 adds the transfer number that can be specified from the counting information to the number of gaming media a1 stored in the management medium.

[0022] As an example, the management unit 30 includes a management unit 30N and a management unit 30W. The height dimension Nh of the management unit 30N and the height dimension Wh of the management unit 30W are the same or approximately the same. The width dimension Ww of the management unit 30W is larger than the width dimension Nw of the management unit 30N. As an example, the width dimension Nw of the management unit 30N may be 40 mm, and the width dimension Ww of the management unit 30W may be 100 mm. The management unit 30W may accommodate a larger number of bills than the management unit 30N. The height dimension Nh of the management unit 30N is the same or approximately the same as the height dimension Ph of the gaming machine 20P and the height dimension Sh of the gaming machine 20S. The height dimension Wh of the management unit 30W is the same or approximately the same as the height dimension Ph of the gaming machine 20P and the height dimension Sh of the gaming machine 20S.

[0023] (Recommended height for installing the management unit) In the island equipment 10, the recommended height of the management unit 30 varies depending on the type of gaming machine 20 to be connected. The recommended height of the management unit 30 is set to a height that allows a player to easily operate various operating devices arranged on the management unit 30 while sitting in a chair. The recommended height is set to a height that allows a player to easily insert bills into the bill insertion slot. As an example, the recommended height HN of the management unit 30N is the same as the recommended height HP of the gaming machine 20P. As an example, the recommended height HW of the management unit 30W is the same as the recommended height HS of the gaming machine 20S. Note that the recommended height HN of the management unit 30N may be the same as the recommended height HW of the management unit 30W, or may be different.

[0024] (Amusement machine frame) The island facility 10 includes a plurality of gaming machine frames 40 each holding a gaming machine 20. Each gaming machine frame 40 holds a prescribed number of gaming machines 20. As an example, the prescribed number is 1. That is, each gaming machine frame 40 holds one gaming machine 20. Each gaming machine frame 40 is configured to be able to hold both a gaming machine 20P and a gaming machine 20S. That is, in the island facility 10, each gaming machine frame 40 is installed in a state in which it holds one gaming machine 20P or one gaming machine 20S. Note that each gaming machine frame 40 has the same configuration, so one of them will be described in detail.

[0025] As shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 2, FIG. 3(a)-FIG. 3(c), and FIG. 4(a)-FIG. 4(c), the gaming machine frame 40 is a rectangular frame-shaped member extending along the height direction Dh. The gaming machine frame 40 is installed in a position P1 or a position P2. The position P1 is a position in which the first end E1 of the gaming machine frame 40 in the height direction Dh is disposed on the upper side, and the opposite second end E2 is disposed on the lower side. The position P1 is a position in which the first surface M1 of the gaming machine frame 40 in the depth direction Dd is disposed on the player side, and the opposite second surface M2 is disposed inside the island equipment 10. The position P2 is a position in which the second end E2 of the gaming machine frame 40 is disposed on the upper side, and the first end E1 is disposed on the lower side. The position P2 is a position in which the second surface M2 is disposed on the player side, and the first surface M1 is disposed inside the island equipment 10.

[0026] The gaming machine frame 40 is an example of a storage component (storage member) capable of storing the gaming machine 20P and the gaming machine 20S interchangeably. The position P1 is a position suitable for installing the gaming machine 20P. When the gaming machine 20P is held in the island equipment 10 with the gaming machine frame 40 in the position P1, the gaming machine 20P is installed so as to be at the recommended height HP (see FIG. 1). The position P2 is a position suitable for installing the gaming machine 20S. When the gaming machine 20S is held in the island equipment 10 with the gaming machine frame 40 in the position P2, the gaming machine 20S is installed so as to be at the recommended height HS (see FIG. 1). Thus, the installation mode of the gaming machine frame 40 includes a first mode (position P1) in which the first end E1 of the gaming machine frame 40 is arranged on the upper side, and a second mode (position P2) in which the second end E2 opposite to the first end E1 is arranged on the upper side. When the gaming machine frame 40 is installed in the attitude P1 and the gaming machine 20P is housed in the gaming machine frame 40, the gaming machine 20P has an installation height corresponding to the gaming machine 20P. When the gaming machine frame 40 is installed in the attitude P2 and the gaming machine 20S is housed in the gaming machine frame 40, the gaming machine 20S has an installation height corresponding to the gaming machine 20S.

[0027] The gaming machine frame 40 includes a first side wall 41 and a second side wall 42 as portions constituting the side walls of the gaming machine frame 40. The side walls 41, 42 are flat plate-like portions extending along the height direction Dh. The side walls 41, 42 extend parallel or approximately parallel to each other. The side walls 41, 42 face each other in the width direction Dw with a space S therebetween. The inner surface 41b of the first side wall 41 faces the inner surface 42b of the second side wall 42 with the space S therebetween.

[0028] The gaming machine frame 40 includes a first base 43 and a second base 44 as parts constituting the ceiling or bottom of the gaming machine frame 40. The bases 43, 44 are flat plate-like parts extending along the width direction Dw. The bases 43, 44 extend parallel or approximately parallel to each other. The first base 43 is connected to the first end E1 of the gaming machine frame 40 so as to connect the ends of the side walls 41, 42. It can also be said that the first base 43 constitutes the first end E1 of the gaming machine frame 40. The second base 44 is connected to the second end E2 of the gaming machine frame 40 so as to connect the ends of the side walls 41, 42. It can also be said that the second base 44 constitutes the second end E2 of the gaming machine frame 40. The bases 43, 44 face each other across the space S from the height direction Dh. A predetermined number of bolt holes (for example, two) are formed in each of the base portions 43 and 44.

[0029] The gaming machine frame 40 includes a third base 45 that is connected between the bases 43 and 44 so as to connect the side walls 41 and 42. The third base 45 is a flat plate-like portion extending along the width direction Dw. The third base 45 extends parallel or approximately parallel to the bases 43 and 44. The extending direction of the bases 43 to 45 and the extending direction of the side walls 41 and 42 intersect with each other, more preferably perpendicular to each other. The third base 45 divides the space S surrounded by the side walls 41 and 42 and the bases 43 and 44 in the height direction Dh to form a first space S1 and a second space S2. As described later, the first space S1 is a space for accommodating the gaming machines 20P and 20S. The second space S2 communicates the inside and outside of the island equipment 10 and is a space for maintenance and inspection of the inside of the island equipment 10. An inner surface 43b of the first base portion 43 and a surface 45b of the third base portion 45 face each other with a space S1 therebetween.

[0030] The gaming machine frame 40 includes a first protruding portion 46 that protrudes from the inner surface 41b of the first side wall 41 into the space S. The gaming machine frame 40 includes a second protruding portion 47 that protrudes from the inner surface 42b of the second side wall 42 into the space S. The protruding portions 46, 47 are provided on the edge portions of the side walls 41, 42 on the second surface M2 side. The protruding portions 46, 47 are each a rectangular columnar portion extending along the height direction Dh. The protruding portions 46, 47 are provided between the inner surface 43b of the first base portion 43 and the surface 45b of the third base portion 45. In other words, the protruding portions 46, 47 extend from the upper end to the lower end of the space S1. The protruding portions 46, 47 face each other across the space S1 in the width direction Dw. The inner surface 46b of the first protrusion 46 and the inner surface 47b of the second protrusion 47 face each other with the space S1 in between. Of the space S1, a portion sandwiched between the inner surface 46b of the first protrusion 46 and the inner surface 47b of the second protrusion 47 is space S1a. Of the space S1, a portion excluding the space S1a is space S1b.

[0031] The gaming machine frame 40 is provided with an inspection door Dr configured to be able to seal the entire or substantially entire second space S2 when viewed from the front. The inspection door Dr is a plate-shaped member. The inspection door Dr is configured to be able to be opened and closed freely so as to rotate around an axis provided on any one of the walls surrounding the space S2. The inspection door Dr may be provided with a locking mechanism so that it cannot be opened or closed without the use of a key. The inspection door Dr may be formed by combining multiple door members.

[0032] The height dimension H1 of the gaming machine frame 40 is larger than the width dimension H2 of the gaming machine frame 40. The separation distance between the inner surface 41b of the first side wall 41 and the inner surface 42b of the second side wall 42 in the width direction Dw is the width dimension Hwb of the space S1b. The width dimension Hwb of the space S1b is slightly larger than the width dimension Pw of the gaming machine 20P. The separation distance between the inner surface 46b of the first protrusion 46 and the inner surface 47b of the second protrusion 47 in the width direction Dw is the width dimension Hwa of the space S1a. The width dimension Hwa of the space S1a is smaller than the width dimension Pw of the gaming machine 20P and smaller than the width dimension Hwb of the space S1b. However, the width dimension Hwa is larger than the width dimension of the part (control device CU) of the gaming machine 20P that protrudes backward. The distance between the inner surface 43b of the first base 43 and the surface 45b of the third base 45 in the height direction Dh is the height dimension Hh of the space S1. The height dimension Hh of the space S1 is slightly larger than the height dimension Ph of the gaming machine 20P. Therefore, the space S1b has a shape corresponding to the outer shape of the gaming machine 20P and is large enough to accommodate the gaming machine 20P. The space S1a is large enough to accommodate the control device CU, but is not large enough to accommodate the entire gaming machine 20P.

[0033] The width dimension Hwb of the space S1b is larger than the width dimension Sw of the gaming machine 20S. The width dimension Hwa of the space S1a is slightly larger than the width dimension Sw of the gaming machine 20S, but smaller than the width dimension Pw of the gaming machine 20P. The height dimension Hh of the space S1 is slightly larger than the height dimension Sh of the gaming machine 20S. Therefore, the space S1a and the space S1b have a shape corresponding to the outer shape of the gaming machine 20S, and are large enough to accommodate the gaming machine 20S. The inner surface 46b of the first protrusion 46 and the inner surface 47b of the second protrusion 47 are closer to the side wall surface of the cabinet B than the inner surface 41b of the first side wall 41 and the inner surface 42b of the second side wall 42.

[0034] The first surface M1 is formed by one of both end surfaces of the side walls 41, 42 and the base 43-45 in the depth direction Dd. The first surface M1 is formed by one of both ends of the inspection door Dr in the depth direction Dd. The second surface M2 is formed by the other end surface of both ends of the side walls 41, 42 and the base 43-45 in the depth direction Dd. The second surface M2 is formed by the other of both ends of the inspection door Dr in the depth direction Dd. The first surface M1 and the second surface M2 are each decorated. The first surface M1 and the second surface M2 are decorated differently from each other. As an example, the decoration may be a character, a landscape, a pattern, a letter, etc. drawn on each surface M1, M2 using paint or the like. The decoration may be a character, a landscape, a pattern, a letter, etc. drawn on a sheet attached to each surface M1, M2.

[0035] (Unit slot) The island equipment 10 includes a plurality of unit frames 50 each holding a management unit 30. Each unit frame 50 holds a prescribed number of management units 30. As an example, the prescribed number is 1. That is, each unit frame 50 holds one management unit 30. Each unit frame 50 is configured to be able to hold both the management unit 30N and the management unit 30W. That is, in the island equipment 10, each unit frame 50 is installed in a state in which it holds one management unit 30N or one management unit 30W. Note that each unit frame 50 has the same configuration, so only one of them will be described in detail.

[0036] As shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 2, FIG. 5(a) to FIG. 5(c), and FIG. 6(a) to FIG. 6(c), the unit frame 50 is a rectangular frame-shaped member extending along the height direction Dh. The unit frame 50 is installed in a posture p1 or a posture p2. The posture p1 is a posture in which the first end e1 of the unit frame 50 in the height direction Dh is arranged on the upper side, and the opposite second end e2 is arranged on the lower side. The posture p1 is a posture in which the first surface m1 of the unit frame 50 in the depth direction Dd is arranged on the player side, and the opposite second surface m2 is arranged inside the island equipment 10. The posture p2 is a posture in which the second end e2 of the unit frame 50 is arranged on the upper side, and the first end e1 is arranged on the lower side. The posture p2 is a posture in which the second surface m2 is arranged on the player side, and the first surface m1 is arranged inside the island equipment 10.

[0037] The unit frame 50 is an example of a component that can accommodate the management units 30N and 30W interchangeably. The orientation p1 is an orientation suitable for installing the management unit 30N. In the island equipment 10, when the management unit 30N is held with the unit frame 50 in the orientation p1, the management unit 30N is installed so as to have a recommended height HN (see FIG. 1). The orientation p2 is an orientation suitable for installing the management unit 30W. In the island equipment 10, when the management unit 30W is held with the unit frame 50 in the orientation p2, the management unit 30W is installed so as to have a recommended height HW (see FIG. 1).

[0038] The unit frame 50 includes a first side wall 51 and a second side wall 52 as portions constituting the side walls of the unit frame 50. The side walls 51, 52 are flat plate-like portions extending along the height direction Dh. The side walls 51, 52 extend parallel or approximately parallel to each other. The side walls 51, 52 face each other across a space s in the width direction Dw. An inner surface 51b of the first side wall 51 and an inner surface 52b of the second side wall 52 face each other across the space s.

[0039] The unit frame 50 includes a first base 53 and a second base 54 as parts constituting the ceiling or bottom of the unit frame 50. The bases 53 and 54 are flat plate-like parts extending along the width direction Dw. The bases 53 and 54 extend parallel or approximately parallel to each other. The first base 53 is connected to the first end e1 of the unit frame 50 so as to connect the ends of the side walls 51 and 52. It can also be said that the first base 53 constitutes the first end e1 of the unit frame 50. The second base 54 is connected to the second end e2 of the unit frame 50 so as to connect the ends of the side walls 51 and 52. It can also be said that the second base 54 constitutes the second end e2 of the unit frame 50. The bases 53 and 54 face each other across the space s from the height direction Dh.

[0040] The unit frame 50 includes a third base 55 connected between the bases 53 and 54 so as to connect the side walls 51 and 52. The third base 55 is a flat plate-like portion extending along the width direction Dw. The third base 55 extends parallel or approximately parallel to the bases 53 and 54. The extending direction of the bases 53 to 55 and the extending direction of the side walls 51 and 52 intersect with each other, more preferably perpendicular to each other. The third base 55 divides the space s surrounded by the side walls 51 and 52 and the bases 53 and 54 in the height direction Dh to form a first space s1 and a second space s2. As described later, the first space s1 is a space for accommodating the management units 30N and 30W. The second space s2 communicates the inside and outside of the island equipment 10 and is a space for maintenance and inspection of the inside of the island equipment 10. An inner surface 53b of the first base portion 53 and a surface 55b of the third base portion 55 face each other with a space s1 therebetween.

[0041] The unit frame 50 includes a first protruding portion 56 that protrudes from the inner surface 51b of the first side wall 51 into the space s. The unit frame 50 includes a second protruding portion 57 that protrudes from the inner surface 52b of the second side wall 52 into the space s. The protruding portions 56, 57 are provided along the edge portions of the side walls 51, 52 on the first surface m1 side. The protruding portions 56, 57 are each a rectangular column-shaped portion extending along the height direction Dh. The protruding portions 56, 57 are provided between the inner surface 53b of the first base portion 53 and the surface 55b of the third base portion 55. That is, the protruding portions 56, 57 extend from the upper end to the lower end of the space s1. The protruding portions 56, 57 face each other across the space s1 in the width direction Dw. The inner surface 56b of the first protruding portion 56 and the inner surface 57b of the second protruding portion 57 face each other across the space s1. Of the space s1, a portion sandwiched between the inner surface 56b of the first protrusion 56 and the inner surface 57b of the second protrusion 57 is a space s1a. Of the space s1, a portion excluding the space s1a is a space s1b.

[0042] The unit frame 50 is provided with an inspection door dr configured to be able to seal the entire or substantially entire second space s2 when viewed from the front. The inspection door dr is a plate-shaped member. The inspection door dr is configured to be able to be opened and closed freely so as to rotate about an axis provided on any one of the walls surrounding the space s2. The inspection door dr may be provided with a locking mechanism so that it cannot be opened or closed without the use of a key. The inspection door dr may be formed by combining multiple door members.

[0043] The height dimension UH of the unit frame 50 is larger than the width dimension UW of the unit frame 50. The separation distance between the inner surface 51b of the first side wall 51 and the inner surface 52b of the second side wall 52 in the width direction Dw is the width dimension Uwb of the space s1b. The width dimension Uwb of the space s1b is slightly larger than the width dimension Ww of the management unit 30W. The separation distance between the inner surface 56b of the first protrusion 56 and the inner surface 57b of the second protrusion 57 in the width direction Dw is the width dimension Uwa of the space s1a. The width dimension Uwa of the space s1a is smaller than the width dimension Ww of the management unit 30W and smaller than the width dimension Uwb of the space s1b. The separation distance between the inner surface 53b of the first base 53 and the surface 55b of the third base 55 in the height direction Dh is the height dimension Uh of the space s1. The height dimension Uh of the space s1 is slightly larger than the height dimension Wh of the management unit 30W. Therefore, the space s1b has a shape corresponding to the outer shape of the management unit 30W and is large enough to accommodate the management unit 30W.

[0044] The width dimension Hwb of the space s1b is larger than the width dimension Nw of the management unit 30N. The width dimension Hwa of the space s1a is slightly larger than the width dimension Nw of the management unit 30N, but is smaller than the width dimension Ww of the management unit 30W. The height dimension Uh of the space s1 is slightly larger than the height dimension Nh of the management unit 30N. Thus, the space s1a and the space s1b have a shape corresponding to the outer shape of the management unit 30N, and are large enough to accommodate the management unit 30N. The inner surface 56b of the first protrusion 56 and the inner surface 57b of the second protrusion 57 are closer to the side wall surface of the management unit 30N than the inner surface 51b of the first side wall 51 and the inner surface 52b of the second side wall 52.

[0045] The first surface m1 is formed by one of both end surfaces of the side walls 51, 52 and the bases 53 to 55 in the depth direction Dd. The first surface m1 is formed by one of both ends of the inspection door Dr in the depth direction Dd. The second surface m2 is formed by the other end surface of both ends of the side walls 51, 52 and the bases 53 to 55 in the depth direction Dd. The second surface m2 is formed by the other of both ends of the inspection door Dr in the depth direction Dd. The first surface m1 and the second surface m2 are each decorated. The first surface m1 and the second surface m2 are decorated differently from each other. As an example, the decoration may be a character, a landscape, a pattern, a letter, etc. drawn on each surface m1, m2 using paint or the like. The decoration may be a character, a landscape, a pattern, a letter, etc. drawn on a sheet attached to each surface m1, m2.

[0046] (Installation part) As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the island equipment 10 includes an installation section 60 on which the gaming machine frame 40 is installed. The installation section 60 includes an upper support section 61 disposed on the upper side of the gaming machine frame 40, and a lower support section 62 disposed on the lower side of the gaming machine frame 40. The upper support section 61 is a plate-like section extending along the width direction Dw. The upper support section 61 is a so-called "cap board" or "cap board". The lower support section 62 is a plate-like section extending along the width direction Dw. The lower support section 62 is a so-called "table board". The lower surface 61a of the upper support section 61 faces the upper surface 62a of the lower support section 62 in the height direction Dh, sandwiching a space S3 therebetween. The island equipment 10 includes a plurality of island pillars 11 arranged at a predetermined interval along the width direction Dw. The support sections 61, 62 are supported so as to be spanned across the plurality of island pillars 11. The upper support portion 61 is an example of a first support portion. The lower support portion 62 is an example of a second support portion. The gaming machine frame 40 is installed between the upper support portion 61 and the lower support portion 62. In the installation portion 60, the unit frame 50 is also installed.

[0047] The distance between the lower surface 61a and the upper surface 62a along the height direction Dh is the height dimension Lh of the space S3. The height dimension Lh of the space S3 is slightly larger than the height dimension H1 of the gaming machine frame 40. The gaming machine frame 40 can be accommodated in the space S3 with the gaming machine 20P or the gaming machine 20S accommodated therein. The gaming machine frame 40 is placed on the upper surface 62a of the lower support portion 62. In other words, the upper surface 62a serves as a support surface that supports the gaming machine frame 40. The gaming machine frame 40 is fixed to the lower support portion 62 using the lower fixing mechanism 62b. The gaming machine frame 40 is fixed to the upper support portion 61 using the upper fixing mechanism 61b. As an example, each fixing mechanism 61b, 62b may be composed of a bolt and a nut. Each of the fixing mechanisms 61b, 62b may include a nut disposed on one of the support parts 61, 62 and a bolt disposed on the gaming machine frame 40. The upper fixing mechanism 61b may include a nut disposed on the upper support part 61 and a bolt disposed on the gaming machine frame 40. The lower fixing mechanism 62b may include a nut disposed on the lower support part 62 and a bolt disposed on the gaming machine frame 40. The upper fixing mechanism 61b is an example of a first fixing mechanism capable of fixing the first support part and the housed component. The lower fixing mechanism 62b is an example of a second fixing mechanism capable of fixing the second support part and the housed component. Each of the fixing mechanisms 61b, 62b may be a clamp, a screw, or a nail.

[0048] As shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, the distance between the installation surface G and the upper surface 62a of the lower support portion 62 in the height direction Dh is the support surface height 60h. The distance between the outer surface 44a of the second base portion 44 and the surface 45b of the third base portion 45 in the height direction Dh is the first adjustment height Hp. The dimensions of each part of the island equipment 10 are determined so that the recommended height HP, the support surface height 60h, and the adjustment height Hp in the gaming machine 20P satisfy the relational expression "HP=60h+Hp". The distance between the outer surface 43a of the first base portion 43 and the inner surface 43b of the first base portion 43 in the height direction Dh is the thickness of the first base portion 43, and is the second adjustment height Hs. The dimensions of each part of the island equipment 10 are determined so that the recommended height HS, the support surface height 60h, and the adjustment height Hs in the gaming machine 20S satisfy the relational expression "HS=60h+Hs".

[0049] As shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, the distance between the outer surface 54a of the second base 54 and the surface 55b of the third base 55 in the height direction Dh is the first adjustment height Un. The dimensions of each part of the island equipment 10 are determined so that the recommended height HN, the support surface height 60h, and the adjustment height Un in the management unit 30N satisfy the relational expression "HN=60h+Un". The distance between the outer surface 53a of the first base 53 and the inner surface 53b of the first base 53 in the height direction Dh is the thickness of the first base 53 and is the second adjustment height Uw. The dimensions of each part of the island equipment 10 are determined so that the recommended height HW, the support surface height 60h, and the adjustment height Uw in the management unit 30W satisfy the relational expression "HW=60h+Uw".

[0050] (Conventional island equipment) 7 and 8 show the conventional island equipment 10 with the gaming machine 20P installed. The conventional island equipment 10 does not include the gaming machine frame 40 and the unit frame 50. The conventional island equipment 10 includes a plurality of island pillars 11 arranged at a predetermined interval along the width direction Dw. The conventional island equipment 10 includes a cap board 66 and a waist board 67. The cap board 66 and the waist board 67 are plate-shaped members extending along the width direction Dw. The cap board 66 and the waist board 67 are each supported so as to span the plurality of island pillars 11. The upper surface 67a of the waist board 67 is a surface on which the gaming machine 20P is placed and supports the gaming machine 20P. The conventional island equipment 10 may include a supply gutter 68 for supplying gaming media (gaming balls, for example) to the gaming machine 20P. The conventional island equipment 10 may be provided with a recovery gutter 69 for recovering game media (for example, game balls) discharged from the game machines 20P. The repaired game balls may be lifted by a lifting device (not shown) and supplied again to each game machine 20P from the supply gutter 68.

[0051] The distance between the installation surface G and the upper surface 67a in the height direction Dh is the support surface height 60h. In the conventional island equipment 10, the dimensions of each part are determined so that the support surface height 60h coincides with the recommended height HP of the gaming machine 20P. In the conventional island equipment 10, the gaming machine 20P is installed by fixing the installation frame of the frame W to the cap board 66 and the waist board 67 using fixing members. As an example, the fixing members are nails and screws. In the conventional island equipment 10, the management unit 30N is installed by fixing to the cap board 66 and the waist board 67 using fixing members.

[0052] In the conventional island equipment 10, when the gaming machine 20S is to be installed, the dimensions of each part are determined so that the support surface height 60h coincides with the recommended height HS of the gaming machine 20S. In the conventional island equipment 10, the gaming machine 20S is installed by fixing the cabinet B to the cap board 66 and the waist board 67 using a fixing member. In the conventional island equipment 10, the management unit 30W is installed by fixing to the cap board 66 and the waist board 67 using a fixing member. In the conventional island equipment 10, when the gaming machine 20P and the gaming machine 20S are to be replaced with each other, it is necessary to change the installation height of the waist board 67 according to the recommended height of each gaming machine 20. The space S3 is an example of a space for accommodating the gaming machine 20P or the gaming machine 20S. The cap board 66 is an example of a first support part in the conventional island equipment 10, and the waist board 67 is an example of a second support part in the conventional island equipment 10. The top board 66 and the waist board 67 are parts arranged to sandwich the space S3.

[0053] (Method of installing gaming machine frames and unit frames) The method of installing the gaming machine frame 40 and its function will be described below. 9, the gaming machine 20 is removed from the conventional island equipment 10 (step S110). For example, the gaming machine 20P can be removed from the island equipment 10 by removing the fixing members that fix the frame W and the cap board 66 and the fixing members that fix the frame W and the waist board 67. For example, the gaming machine 20S can be removed from the island equipment 10 by removing the fixing members that fix the cabinet B and the cap board 66 and the fixing members that fix the cabinet B and the waist board 67.

[0054] The wainscot 67 is removed from the island equipment 10 (step S120). Next, the lower support 62 is attached to the island equipment 10 (step S130). That is, the wainscot 67 and the lower support 62 are replaced. At this time, the lower support 62 is fixed so that the height of its upper surface 62a becomes a predetermined support surface height 60h and is hung over a plurality of island columns 11. The support surface height 60h is lower than the recommended height HP of the gaming machine 20P. Therefore, in step S130, the space S3 is expanded compared to the conventional island equipment 10. Steps S120 and S130 are an example of a step of expanding the space S3 by moving or replacing at least one of the first support and the second support. As an example, a nut is embedded in the upper surface 62a of the lower support 62 in advance.

[0055] A nut is embedded in the lower surface 66a of the upper support part 61 (step S140). In this embodiment, the cap plate 66 provided in the conventional island equipment 10 is used as the upper support part 61 as is. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the cap plate 66 may be removed and the upper support part 61 may be fixed so as to span multiple island pillars 11. In this case, a nut may be embedded in the lower surface 61a of the upper support part 61.

[0056] The gaming machine frame 40 is installed in the installation section 60 (step S150). Next, the gaming machine frame 40 is fixed to each support section 61, 62 by bolting (step S160). As an example, a bolt is inserted into one of the bolt holes of the bases 43, 44 constituting the gaming machine frame 40, and is screwed into a nut on the upper support section 61 to fix the gaming machine frame 40. That is, the upper fixing mechanism 61b is formed. As an example, a bolt is inserted into the other of the bolt holes of the bases 43, 44 constituting the gaming machine frame 40, and is screwed into a nut on the lower support section 62 to fix the gaming machine frame 40. That is, the lower fixing mechanism 62b is formed. In steps S150 and S160, the posture of the gaming machine frame 40 may be selected depending on whether the gaming machine 20P or the gaming machine 20S is to be installed. When the gaming machine 20P is to be installed, the gaming machine frame 40 may be fixed in the posture P1. When the gaming machine 20S is to be attached, it is advisable to fix the gaming machine frame 40 in the position P2.

[0057] Steps S150 and S160 are an example of a step of installing the gaming machine frame 40 in the expanded space S3. Step S150 includes installing the gaming machine frame 40 so that it is in the posture P1 or the posture P2. Step S160 is an example of a step of providing a fixing mechanism that fixes at least one of the upper support portion 61 and the lower support portion 62 to the gaming machine frame 40. In this way, when the gaming machine frame 40 is in the first mode (posture P1), the upper support portion 61 and the first end portion E1 can be fixed by the upper fixing mechanism 61b, and the lower support portion 62 and the second end portion E2 can be fixed by the lower fixing mechanism 62b. Also, when the gaming machine frame 40 is in the second mode (posture P2), the upper support portion 61 and the second end portion E2 can be fixed by the upper fixing mechanism 61b, and the lower support portion 62 and the first end portion E1 can be fixed by the lower fixing mechanism 62b.

[0058] The gaming machine 20 is attached to the gaming machine frame 40 (step S170). When attaching the gaming machine 20P, the gaming machine 20P is placed on the surface 45b of the third base 45. Then, the top plate of the frame W is fixed to the first base 43 of the gaming machine frame 40. The bottom plate of the frame W is fixed to the third base 45 of the gaming machine frame 40. When attaching the gaming machine 20S, the gaming machine 20S is placed on the inner surface 43b of the first base 43. Then, the top plate of the cabinet B is fixed to the third base 45 of the gaming machine frame 40. The bottom plate of the cabinet B is fixed to the first base 43 of the gaming machine frame 40. When the gaming machine frame 40 is in the posture P1, the surface 45b of the third base 45 becomes a placement surface on which the gaming machine 20P is placed. When the gaming machine frame 40 is in the attitude P2, the inner surface 43b of the first base portion 43 serves as a placement surface on which the gaming machine 20S is placed.

[0059] The unit frame 50 is placed in the installation section 60 (step S180). The unit frame 50 is placed adjacent to the game machine frame 40. In step S180, the orientation of the unit frame 50 may be selected depending on whether the management unit 30N or the management unit 30W is to be installed. When attempting to install the management unit 30N, the unit frame 50 may be fixed in orientation P1. When attempting to install the management unit 30W, the unit frame 50 may be fixed in orientation P2.

[0060] The management unit 30 is attached to the unit frame 50 (step S190). When attaching the management unit 30N, the management unit 30N is placed on the surface 55b of the third base 55. Then, the top plate of the housing 30B is fixed to the first base 53 of the unit frame 50. The bottom plate of the housing 30B is fixed to the third base 55 of the unit frame 50. When attaching the management unit 30W, the management unit 30W is placed on the inner surface 53b of the first base 53. Then, the top plate of the housing 30B is fixed to the third base 55 of the unit frame 50. The bottom plate of the housing 30B is fixed to the first base 53 of the unit frame 50. In addition, by connecting communication lines to the gaming machine 20, the management unit 30, and other external devices, the installation of the gaming machine frame 40, the unit frame 50, the gaming machine 20, and the management unit 30 is completed. Furthermore, in the installation section 60 (space S3), in a portion where the game machine frame 40 or the unit frame 50 is not installed, a decorative member may be disposed to seal the opening.

[0061] (How to exchange gaming machines) First, the gaming machine 20 is removed from the gaming machine frame 40. When installing a gaming machine 20 of the same type as the removed gaming machine 20, the new gaming machine 20 is attached to the gaming machine frame 40. Then, the work is completed. On the other hand, when installing a gaming machine 20 of a different type from the removed gaming machine 20, the attitude of the gaming machine frame 40 may be selected according to the gaming machine 20 to be newly installed. When installing the gaming machine 20P, the gaming machine frame 40 may be fixed in the attitude P1. At this time, the first surface M1 with a predetermined decoration is placed on the player side. When installing the gaming machine 20S, the gaming machine frame 40 may be fixed in the attitude P2. At this time, the second surface M2 with a predetermined decoration is placed on the player side.

[0062] Next, the gaming machine 20 is attached to the gaming machine frame 40. When attaching the gaming machine 20P, the top plate of the frame W is fixed to the first base 43 of the gaming machine frame 40. The bottom plate of the frame W is fixed to the third base 45 of the gaming machine frame 40. When attaching the gaming machine 20S, the top plate of the cabinet B is fixed to the third base 45 of the gaming machine frame 40. The bottom plate of the cabinet B is fixed to the first base 43 of the gaming machine frame 40. Thereafter, the required wiring is performed, and the work is completed.

[0063] (How to replace the management unit) First, the management unit 30 is removed from the unit frame 50. When installing a management unit 30 with the same width dimension as the removed management unit 30, the new management unit 30 is attached to the unit frame 50. Then, the work is completed. On the other hand, when installing a management unit 30 with a width dimension different from that of the removed management unit 30, the posture of the unit frame 50 may be selected according to the newly installed management unit 30. When installing the management unit 30N, the unit frame 50 may be re-fixed in posture P1. At this time, the first surface m1 with a predetermined decoration is placed on the player side. When installing the management unit 30W, the unit frame 50 may be re-fixed in posture P2. At this time, the second surface m2 with a predetermined decoration is placed on the player side.

[0064] The management unit 30 is attached to the unit frame 50. When attaching the management unit 30N, the top plate of the housing 30B is fixed to the first base 53 of the unit frame 50. The bottom plate of the housing 30B is fixed to the third base 55 of the unit frame 50. When attaching the management unit 30W, the top plate of the housing 30B is fixed to the third base 55 of the unit frame 50. The bottom plate of the housing 30B is fixed to the first base 53 of the unit frame 50. Thereafter, the required wiring is performed, and the work is completed.

[0065] The effects of this embodiment will be described. (1) By moving or replacing at least one of the top board 66 and the waist board 67, the space S3 for accommodating the gaming machines 20 can be expanded. Then, in the expanded space S3, a gaming machine frame 40 capable of accommodating the gaming machine 20 can be installed. Thus, the gaming machines 20 can be replaced.

[0066] (2) The gaming machine frame 40 is installed in the first mode (position P1) or the second mode (position P2) according to the gaming machine 20 to be installed. Therefore, it is easy to install the desired gaming machine 20 out of the gaming machine 20P and the gaming machine 20S.

[0067] (3) Since the fixing mechanisms 61b, 62b are provided, the gaming machine frame 40 can be fixed, making it easier to replace the gaming machine 20. (4) Since the fixing mechanisms 61b, 62b are configured to include nuts and bolts, the game machine frame 40 can be fixed with a simple configuration.

[0068] (5) The upper fixing mechanism 61b and the lower fixing mechanism 62b can be used when installing the gaming machine frame 40 in either the first mode (position P1) or the second mode (position P2). Therefore, it is not necessary to modify the mechanism for fixing the gaming machine frame 40 to the island equipment 10 every time the installation mode of the gaming machine frame 40 is changed. Therefore, the installation mode of the gaming machine frame 40 can be easily changed according to the type of gaming machine 20. Therefore, the gaming machines 20 can be replaced.

[0069] (6) The recommended height when installing the gaming machine 20 varies depending on the type of gaming machine 20. For example, a patent document (JP Patent Publication 2015-228981 A) discloses an island equipment that allows the height when installing the gaming machine 20 to be adjusted. However, it is expected that the installation height of the gaming machine 20 can be adjusted more easily. The island equipment 10 of this embodiment can adjust the height of the placement surface (surfaces 43b, 45) of the gaming machine 20 in the gaming machine frame 40 to the recommended height simply by turning the gaming machine frame 40 upside down. Therefore, the type of the gaming machine 20 can be easily changed.

[0070] (7) The gaming machine 20S has a smaller width than the gaming machine 20P. The gaming machine frame 40 has protruding portions 46, 47 that protrude into the space S1. Therefore, even if the gaming machine 20S is installed with the gaming machine frame 40 in the position P2, gaps are unlikely to occur on the left and right sides of the gaming machine 20S. Therefore, the gaming machine can be installed with a good appearance.

[0071] (8) When the gaming machine frame 40 is in the posture P2, the protrusions 46, 47 are disposed along the edge on the player side (the second surface M2 side) in the depth direction Dd. This reduces the unevenness of the second surface M2 of the gaming machine frame 40, thereby improving the aesthetic appearance.

[0072] (9) In general, island equipment is decorated to improve the aesthetics of the amusement facility. For example, a sheet with a picture printed on it is attached to the island equipment. For example, a picture is painted on the island equipment using paint. However, in conventional island equipment, changing the decoration requires high skill. For this reason, it has been difficult to change the decoration of conventional island equipment. In contrast, in the island equipment 10, different decorations are applied to the faces M1 and M2 in the depth direction Dd of the game machine frame 40. Therefore, the decoration of the island equipment 10 can be easily changed by changing the position of the game machine frame 40.

[0073] (10) Conventionally, an external device is installed on an island facility together with a gaming machine 20 (for example, JP 2017-104270 A). As an example, the external device is a management unit 30. There are multiple types of external devices with different width dimensions. However, in conventional island facilities, the width dimension of the space in which the external device is installed is fixed. For this reason, when replacing the external device with one with a different width dimension, significant modifications to the island facility are required. Therefore, it is difficult to say that it is easy to install the external device. In contrast, in the island facility 10, the width dimension of the space in which the external device is installed can be adjusted simply by changing the attitude of the unit frame 50. Therefore, the type of external device can be easily changed.

[0074] (11) The management unit 30N has a smaller width than the management unit 30W. The unit frame 50 has protrusions 56, 57 that protrude into the space s1. Therefore, even if the management unit 30N is installed with the unit frame 50 in the attitude p1, gaps are unlikely to occur on the left and right sides of the management unit 30N. This allows external devices to be installed in a good-looking manner.

[0075] (12) When the unit frame 50 is in the posture p1, the protrusions 56, 57 are disposed along the edge on the player side (the first surface m1 side) in the depth direction Dd. This reduces the unevenness of the first surface m1 of the unit frame 50, improving the aesthetic appearance.

[0076] (13) Generally, island equipment is decorated to improve the aesthetics of the amusement park. For example, a sheet with a picture printed on it is attached to the island equipment. For example, a picture is painted on the island equipment using paint. However, in conventional island equipment, changing the decoration requires high skill. For this reason, it has been difficult to change the decoration of conventional island equipment. In contrast, in the island equipment 10, different decorations are applied to the faces m1 and m2 in the depth direction Dd of the unit frame 50. Therefore, the decoration of the island equipment 10 can be easily changed by changing the position of the unit frame 50.

[0077] (14) By opening the inspection door Dr of the gaming machine frame 40, the inside of the island equipment 10 can be inspected or maintenance can be performed through the space S2. (15) By opening the inspection door dr of the unit frame 50, the inside of the island equipment 10 can be inspected or maintenance can be performed through the space s2.

[0078] The above-described embodiment may be modified as follows: The above-described embodiments and the following modifications may be combined with each other to the extent that no technical contradiction occurs. The method of installing the gaming machine frame 40 is not limited to using the cap plate 66 as the upper support portion 61 without moving the cap plate 66. For example, the cap plate 66 may be removed and a new upper support portion 61 may be attached. In this case, it is preferable that a nut is embedded in the upper support portion 61 in advance. In the method of installing the gaming machine frame 40, the cap plate 66 may be moved upward or downward. In addition, when the upper support portion 61 is newly attached, its lower surface 61a may be located above or below the lower surface 66a of the conventional cap plate 66. In addition, in the method of installing the gaming machine frame 40, the waist plate 67 may be used as the lower support portion 62. In this case, the waist plate 67 may be moved downward, may be moved upward, or may not be moved. In other words, in the method of installing the gaming machine frame 40, the support portion to be moved or replaced may be arbitrarily changed between the first support portion and the second support portion as long as the space S3 can be expanded so that the gaming machine frame 40 can be installed.

[0079] In the method of replacing the gaming machine 20, when the type of gaming machine 20 is not changed, the gaming machine frame 40 may be flipped front to back and the faces M1 and M2 having different decorations may be swapped. According to this modified example, the decoration can be easily changed even when the type of gaming machine 20 is not changed. Also, the gaming machine 20 does not need to be replaced. In this case, it can be understood as a method of changing decorations using the gaming machine frame 40.

[0080] In the method of replacing the management unit, if the type of management unit 30 is not changed, the unit frame 50 may be flipped front to back and the faces m1 and m2, which have different decorations, may be swapped. According to this modified example, the decoration can be easily changed even if the type of management unit 30 is not changed. Also, it is not necessary to replace the management unit 30. In this case, this can be understood as a method of changing the decoration using the unit frame 50.

[0081] The surfaces M1 and M2 of the gaming machine frame 40 may be covered with a lenticular sheet. The lenticular sheet has a lenticular lens having a plurality of convex lenses extending in parallel along the height direction Dh, and a composite pattern layer for the lenticular lens, which is a composite of a plurality of types of patterns (for example, two types). With this configuration, even when the same position in the height direction Dh is viewed, the lenticular sheet allows different patterns to be viewed depending on the angle of the line of sight from the width direction Dw to the same position. Also, when the lenticular sheet is arranged so that the lenticular lens extends along the width direction Dw, different patterns can be viewed depending on the angle of the line of sight in the height direction Dh. The surfaces m1 and m2 of the unit frame 50 can be changed in the same manner.

[0082] The first surface M1 of the gaming machine frame 40 and the first surface m1 of the unit frame 50 may be decorated with a common element. The second surface M2 of the gaming machine frame 40 and the second surface m2 of the unit frame 50 may be decorated with a common element. The common element may be one or more of a color, a pattern, and a character. As an example, the first surfaces M1 and m1 may be decorated with the same decoration, and the second surfaces M2 and m2 may be decorated with the same decoration. According to this modified example, depending on the combination of the posture of the gaming machine frame 40 and the posture of the unit frame 50, it is possible to achieve a unified decoration or intentionally different decorations.

[0083] The decoration on the gaming machine frame 40 may be applied to only one of the first surface M1 and the second surface M2. The decoration on the unit frame 50 may be applied to only one of the first surface m1 and the second surface m2. The decoration on the first surface M1 and the second surface M2 is not limited to being applied to the entire surface, and may be applied to a part of one or both surfaces that can be selected arbitrarily. The decoration on the first surface m1 and the second surface m2 is not limited to being applied to the entire surface, and may be applied to a part of one or both surfaces that can be selected arbitrarily.

[0084] The protrusions 46, 47 of the gaming machine frame 40 are not limited to being provided along one edge in the depth direction Dd. For example, the protrusions 46, 47 may be provided in a central portion in the depth direction Dd. The protrusions 56, 57 of the unit frame 50 are not limited to being provided along one edge in the depth direction Dd. For example, the protrusions 56, 57 may be provided in a central portion in the depth direction Dd.

[0085] The protruding portions 56, 57 of the unit frame 50 may have a storage portion capable of storing a predetermined item. As an example, the storage portion may be a recess that opens to the first surface m1 side. The predetermined item may be a player's possession such as a key holder or a mobile phone, or may be an instruction manual for the gaming machine 20.

[0086] The protruding portions 46, 47 of the gaming machine frame 40 may be configured to include a movable portion supported to be displaceable along the width direction Dw, and a biasing portion that biases the movable portion toward the gaming machine 20. This allows the gaming machine 20 and the movable portion to come into close contact with each other, further reducing the gap, even if the width dimension or installation position of the gaming machine 20 changes. Similarly, the protruding portions 56, 57 of the unit frame 50 may be configured to include a movable portion supported to be displaceable along the width direction Dw, and a biasing portion that biases the movable portion toward the management unit.

[0087] The order of each step constituting the method of installing the gaming machine frame 40 may be changed as appropriate. For example, the gaming machine 20 may be attached to the gaming machine frame 40, and then the gaming machine frame 40 may be installed in the installation section 60. For example, the management unit 30 may be attached to the unit frame 50, and then the unit frame 50 may be installed in the installation section 60. The gaming machine frame 40 may be installed after the unit frame 50 is installed, or the gaming machine frame 40 and the unit frame 50 may be joined and installed at the same time.

[0088] The gaming machine frame 40 and the unit frame 50 may be integrated. The gaming machine frame 40 may be capable of holding a plurality of gaming machines 20. The unit frame 50 may be capable of holding a plurality of management units 30.

[0089] Next, the technical ideas that can be understood from the above embodiment and modified examples will be described. (1) A method for installing a storage component capable of accommodating a first gaming machine and a second gaming machine in an island facility, the method comprising the steps of: moving or exchanging at least one of a first support portion and a second support portion, which are portions arranged to sandwich a space for accommodating the first gaming machine or the second gaming machine, to expand the space; and installing the storage component in the expanded space.

[0090] (2) The installation manner of the storage component includes a first manner in which a first end of the storage component is arranged on the upper side, and a second manner in which a second end opposite to the first end is arranged on the upper side, and when the storage component is installed in the first manner and the first gaming machine is accommodated in the storage component, the first gaming machine has an installation height corresponding to the first gaming machine, and when the storage component is installed in the second manner and the second gaming machine is accommodated in the storage component, the second gaming machine has an installation height corresponding to the second gaming machine, and the step of installing the storage component includes installing the storage component to be in the first manner or the second manner.

[0091] (3) The installation method according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a step of providing a fixing mechanism for fixing at least one of the first support portion and the second support portion to the accommodated component. (4) An installation method according to any one of appendices 1 to 3, wherein the fixing mechanism includes a nut provided on the one support portion and a bolt provided on the housing component.

[0092] (5) An island facility capable of interchangeably installing a first gaming machine and a second gaming machine, the island facility comprising: a first support part; a second support part; a storage component installed between the first support part and the second support part and capable of interchangeably storing the first gaming machine and the second gaming machine; a first fixing mechanism capable of fixing the first support part and the storage component; and a second fixing mechanism capable of fixing the second support part and the storage component, the installation modes of the storage component including a first mode in which a first end of the storage component is disposed on the upper side; and a second aspect in which the first support part and the second end opposite the first support part are positioned on the upper side, wherein when the stored component is in the first aspect, the first support part and the first end can be fixed by the first fixing mechanism, and the second support part and the second end can be fixed by the second fixing mechanism, and when the stored component is in the second aspect, the first support part and the second end can be fixed by the first fixing mechanism, and the second support part and the first end can be fixed by the second fixing mechanism.

[0093] (6) The island equipment described in Appendix 5, wherein the first fixing mechanism includes a nut provided on the first support portion and a bolt provided on the housing part, and the second fixing mechanism includes a nut provided on the second support portion and a bolt provided on the housing part. [Explanation of symbols]

[0094] 10...Island equipment 20...Amusement machine 20P...Pachinko game machine 20S...Rotary game machine (slot machine) 40...Amusement machine frame 50...Unit frame 50 61...Upper support part 61b...Upper fixing mechanism 62...Lower support part 62b...Lower fixing mechanism 66...Cap board 67...Waist board E1...First end E2...Second end HP, HS...Recommended height P1, P2...Posture S1 to S3...Space S110 to S190...Step

Claims

1. A method for installing a storage component capable of accommodating a first gaming machine and a second gaming machine in an island facility, the method comprising: a step of moving or replacing at least one of a first support portion and a second support portion, which are portions disposed so as to sandwich a space for accommodating the first gaming machine or the second gaming machine, to expand the space; and installing the component in the expanded space.

2. The installation mode of the accommodated component includes a first mode in which a first end of the accommodated component is disposed on an upper side, and a second mode in which a second end opposite to the first end is disposed on an upper side, When the storage component is installed in the first manner and the first gaming machine is stored in the storage component, the first gaming machine is at an installation height corresponding to the first gaming machine, and when the storage component is installed in the second manner and the second gaming machine is stored in the storage component, the second gaming machine is at an installation height corresponding to the second gaming machine, The method for installing a contained component according to claim 1 , wherein the step of installing the contained component includes installing the contained component so that the contained component is in the first configuration or the second configuration.

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