Game machine

Abstract

To reduce player's fatigue.SOLUTION: A game machine comprises a game board in which a game area where game balls flow down is formed, and a shooting input device that shoots game balls into the game area on the basis of the operation by a player. The shooting input device is provided on the front side of the game board and includes a pair of operation units that can be rotated by the player, a base part whose upper surface is located vertically below at least a portion of the operation parts, and a relief portion formed as a recess or hole on the upper surface of the base part. Part or all of the relief portion is located vertically below the portion of the operation parts that is furthest from the game board.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 14

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a gaming machine. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, as shown in Patent Document 1, a gaming machine is known that is provided with a pair of left and right operating handles that are rotatable around a horizontal axis. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-63628 [Patent Document 2] Patent application No. 2023-176389 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In order to play, the player needs to operate the operating handle, which poses a problem in that the player is likely to become tired if he or she plays for a long period of time.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can reduce fatigue in players. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above problems, the gaming machine of the present invention is a gaming machine comprising a gaming board on which a gaming area into which gaming balls flow down is formed, and a launch input device that launches gaming balls into the gaming area based on the player's operation, wherein the launch input device is provided on the front side of the gaming board and comprises a pair of operating parts that can be rotated by the player, a base part whose upper surface is located vertically below at least a part of the operating parts, and an escape part consisting of a recess or hole formed in the upper surface of the base part, and part or all of the escape part is located vertically below the part of the operating parts that is farthest from the gaming board.

[0007] The base may be provided with a housing portion that houses a part of the operation portion, and the recess may be continuous with the housing portion or may be configured as a part of the housing portion. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, fatigue of the player can be reduced. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an operating handle unit. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the operating handle unit with some parts removed. [Figure 4] FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a front view of the operating handle unit. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a right side view of the operating handle unit. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a top view of the operating handle unit. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a first enlarged view of the operating handle unit with some parts removed. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a second enlarged view of the operating handle unit with some parts removed. [Figure 10] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating the display mode of a radiation intensity indicator. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a gaming machine. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a frame control board. [Figure 13] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a radiation intensity management process in the frame control board. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an operating handle unit. [Figure 15] FIG. [Figure 16]FIG. [Figure 17] FIG. 2 is a first exploded perspective view of the operating unit. [Figure 18] FIG. 2 is a second exploded perspective view of the operating unit. [Figure 19] FIG. [Figure 20] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a transmission mechanism. [Figure 21] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating the direction of a rotation axis of the operation unit. [Figure 22] FIG. 4 is a first diagram illustrating a biasing member and a first operation amount detection gear. [Figure 23] FIG. 10 is a second diagram illustrating the biasing member and the first operation amount detection gear. [Figure 24] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the operation unit and the base unit. [Figure 25] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state in which the operation unit is detached from the operation handle unit. [Figure 26] FIG. [Figure 27] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the operation unit and the base unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] First Embodiment A preferred first embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The dimensions, materials, and other specific values ​​shown in the first embodiment are merely examples for facilitating understanding of the invention and do not limit the present invention unless otherwise specified. In this specification and drawings, elements having substantially the same functions and configurations are designated by the same reference numerals to avoid redundant explanation, and elements not directly related to the present invention are not shown.

[0011] FIG. 1 is a front view of a gaming machine 100. The gaming machine 100 includes a gaming machine main body 102. The gaming machine main body 102 includes a main body frame and a front door that is supported on the main body frame so that it can be opened and closed freely. A gaming board 104 is held in the main body frame, and a transparent plate is held in the front door. When the front door is closed relative to the main body frame, the transparent plate faces the gaming board 104 while maintaining a predetermined distance therebetween.

[0012] An operating handle unit 400 is provided at approximately the center in the left-right direction of the lower part of the front door, protruding toward the front side of the gaming machine 100. This operating handle unit 400 will be described in detail later.

[0013] In addition, a firing intensity indicator 500 is provided on the upper part of the operating handle unit, protruding toward the front side of the gaming machine 100. This firing intensity indicator 500 will be described in detail later.

[0014] When a player performs a firing operation via the operating handle unit 400, a gaming ball is fired with a firing strength based on the player's operation. The gaming ball thus fired rises between rails 104a and 104b provided on the gaming board 104 and is guided to the playing area 110.

[0015] The play area 110 is a space formed between the play board 104 and the transparent plate, and is an area where the game balls can flow down or roll. The play board 104 is provided with a large number of nails and windmills, and the game balls guided into the play area 110 collide with the nails and windmills, causing them to flow down or roll in irregular directions.

[0016] The play area 110 includes a first play area 110a and a second play area 110b. The first play area 110a is located on the left side of the play area 110 as seen by a player facing the game machine 100, and the second play area 110b is located on the right side of the play area 110 as seen by a player facing the game machine 100. Because the rails 104a and 104b are located on the left side of the play area 110, a game ball launched with a launch intensity less than a predetermined intensity enters the first play area 110a, and a game ball launched with a launch intensity equal to or greater than the predetermined intensity enters the second play area 110b.

[0017] The gaming area 110 is also provided with a general prize opening 118, a first start opening 120, and a second start opening 122 through which game balls can enter, and when a game ball enters these general prize opening 118, first start opening 120, and second start opening 122, a predetermined prize ball is paid out to the player. The number of prize balls may be any number greater than or equal to one, and the number of prize balls paid out for each of the general prize opening 118, first start opening 120, and second start opening 122 may be different or the same number of prize balls. In this case, it is also possible to set the number of prize balls paid out when a game ball enters the first start opening 120 to be less than the number of prize balls paid out when a game ball enters the second start opening 122.

[0018] When a gaming ball enters the first start slot 120 or the second start slot 122, a lottery is held to determine one of a plurality of pre-established special symbols. Each special symbol is associated with various gaming benefits, such as whether or not a major or minor win game advantageous to the player can be executed, and what the subsequent gaming state will be. Therefore, when a gaming ball enters the first start slot 120 or the second start slot 122, the player not only acquires a predetermined prize ball, but also has the opportunity to acquire the right to receive various gaming benefits.

[0019] The first starting port 120 is located at the bottom of the game area 110, and is either capable of receiving only game balls flowing down the first game area 110a, or is located at a position where game balls that have entered the first game area 110a can enter more easily than game balls that have entered the second game area 110b.

[0020] The second starting opening 122 is located in the second game area 110b, and is either capable of receiving only game balls flowing down the second game area 110b, or is positioned so that game balls that have entered the second game area 110b can enter more easily than game balls that have entered the first game area 110a. The second starting opening 122 is configured as a variable starting opening having a movable piece 122b, and the ease with which game balls can enter the second starting opening 122 can be varied.

[0021] Specifically, second start opening 122 is provided with a movable piece 122b that can be opened and closed, and when this movable piece 122b is in a closed state, it is impossible or difficult for game balls to enter second start opening 122. Note that the specific configuration of second start opening 122 is not particularly limited, but here, movable piece 122b is recessed into the back side of game board 104 in the closed state, and protrudes into the front side of game board 104 in the open state. In the closed state with movable piece 122b recessed, second start opening 122 is closed, and game balls flow down the front side of second start opening 122.

[0022] In contrast, when a gaming ball passes through the gate 124 provided in the first gaming area 110a and the second gaming area 110b, it is determined whether or not to execute an auxiliary game in which the second start opening 122 is opened, and if it is determined that an auxiliary game is executed, the auxiliary game is executed in which the second start opening 122 is controlled to open and close. More specifically, on the condition that the gaming ball has passed through the gate 124, a lottery for a normal symbol is held, and if a winning combination is selected in this lottery, the movable piece 122b is controlled to be in an open state for a predetermined time.

[0023] In the open state in which the movable piece 122b protrudes, game balls flowing down the front side of the second starting opening 122 fall onto the movable piece 122b. The game balls that fall onto the movable piece 122b are guided by the movable piece 122b and led to the second starting opening 122. In this way, when the movable piece 122b is in the open state, the movable piece 122b functions as a tray that leads the game balls to the second starting opening 122, making it easier for the game balls to enter the second starting opening 122.

[0024] Furthermore, a large prize opening 126 is provided at the bottom of the game area 110. The large prize opening 126 is arranged in a position where at least game balls flowing down the second game area 110b can enter. An opening / closing door 126b is provided at the large prize opening 126 so that the opening / closing door 126b can open and close, and normally the opening / closing door 126b closes the large prize opening 126, preventing game balls from entering the large prize opening 126. In contrast, when the aforementioned large prize game or small prize game is executed, the opening / closing door 126b opens and functions as a tray, allowing game balls to enter the large prize opening 126. When a game ball enters the large prize opening 126, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out to the player.

[0025] In addition, at the bottom of the game area 110, there is a discharge outlet 130 that discharges game balls that do not enter any of the general prize opening 118, the first start opening 120, the second start opening 122, or the large prize opening 126 from the game area 110 to the back side of the game board 104.

[0026] Here, the gaming machine 100 of the first embodiment is a managed gaming machine in which gaming balls circulate within the gaming machine main body 102. A circulation unit (not shown) is provided in the gaming machine main body 102. The circulation unit is provided below the gaming board 104, and all gaming balls launched into the playing area 110 are collected in the circulation unit. The circulation unit aligns the collected gaming balls and sends them to a launching device (not shown), which then launches the gaming balls into the playing area 110 again.

[0027] Next, the operating handle unit 400 will be described. In the first embodiment, when viewed from the front of the gaming machine 100, the near side (front side) in the depth direction of the gaming machine 100 is referred to as the near direction, and the far side (rear side) is referred to as the far direction. When viewed from the front of the gaming machine 100, the right side in the width direction of the gaming machine 100 is referred to as the right direction, and the left side is referred to as the left direction. In addition, when viewed from the front of the gaming machine 100, the upper side is referred to as the upward direction, and the lower side is referred to as the downward direction.

[0028] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the operating handle unit 400. Fig. 3 is a perspective view of the operating handle unit 400 with some parts removed. As shown in Fig. 2, the operating handle unit 400 has a substantially bilaterally symmetrical appearance. As shown in Fig. 1, the operating handle unit 400 is disposed in the substantially center of the gaming machine 100 in the left-right direction.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 2, the operating handle unit 400 includes a main body portion 402 provided on the front side and an upright portion 404 provided on the back side.

[0030] A flat platform portion 406 is formed on the top surface of the main body portion 402 so that a player can place his / her hands on it.

[0031] 3, a storage section 408C is formed in the center of main body section 402, recessed downward from mounting base section 406. A storage section 408R is formed in the right rear side of main body section 402, recessed downward from mounting base section 406. A storage section 408L is formed in the left rear side of main body section 402, recessed downward from mounting base section 406.

[0032] Furthermore, a firing stop button 410R is provided on the right side of the standing portion 404. Furthermore, a firing stop button 410L is provided on the left side of the standing portion 404. Furthermore, a firing stop switch 410s (FIG. 12) that detects pressing of the firing stop buttons 410R and 410L is provided inside the standing portion 404.

[0033] A gripping base 412R that can be held by a player is fixed to the container 408R, as shown in Fig. 2. Also, a gripping base 412L that can be held by a player is fixed to the container 408L, as shown in Fig. 2. The gripping bases 412R and 412L are made of a conductive material (for example, metal).

[0034] As shown in FIG. 2, the storage section 408C is provided with a rotary operation unit 420 that can be rotated by a player. That is, the gripping bases 412R and 412L are provided to the sides of the rotary operation unit 420, independent of the rotational movement of the rotary operation unit 420. The gripping bases 412R and 412L are fixed in pair to the left and right of the rotary operation unit 420, independent of the rotational movement of the rotary operation unit 420. As a result, when the player operates the rotary operation unit 420 with his / her right hand, he / she can grip the gripping base 412R, and when the player operates the rotary operation unit 420 with his / her left hand, he / she can grip the gripping base 412L. Therefore, when playing for a long period of time, it becomes possible to play using the left and right hands alternately, thereby reducing fatigue accumulated in the player.

[0035] In the first embodiment, the expression "grasping" the gripping base portions 412R, 412L is used, but this is because when the player places his or her hands on the gripping base portions 412R, 412L with his or her hands relaxed, the gripping base portions 412R, 412L are in a state where they are being held in the palm of the player's hand. The gripping base portions 412R, 412L only need to be able to support the player's hands without putting any strain on them, and are not necessarily designed for the player to "grasp" them with force.

[0036] In addition, the player can operate the firing stop button 410R by holding the grip base 412R with his right hand and pressing it inward with his right index finger. This allows the player to operate the firing stop button 410R while operating the rotation operation unit 420 with his right hand.

[0037] In addition, the player can operate the firing stop button 410L by holding the grip base part 412L with the left hand and pressing the index finger of the left hand inward. This allows the player to operate the firing stop button 410L while operating the rotation operation part 420 with the left hand.

[0038] Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the rotary operation unit 420. As shown in Fig. 4, the rotary operation unit 420 includes a rotary shaft 422 and a rotary operation unit main body 424. The rotary shaft 422 is disposed so as to penetrate the rotary operation unit main body 424 in the left-right direction. The rotary shaft 422 is fixed to the rotary operation unit main body 424.

[0039] Rotation operation unit main body 424 also includes cylindrical body portion 426 provided in the center in the left-right direction, finger hook portion 428R provided on the right side of body portion 426, and finger hook portion 428L provided on the left side of body portion 426.

[0040] A plurality of recesses 430 for the player to place his / her fingers on in order to rotate the rotation operation unit 420 are formed at approximately equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the finger rests 428R and 428L.

[0041] Furthermore, body 426 and finger hooks 428R, 428L are integrally molded from a conductive material (for example, metal). However, body 426 and finger hooks 428R, 428L may be formed as separate bodies, with finger hooks 428R, 428L fixed to body 426. In either case, body 426 and finger hooks 428R, 428L are electrically connected to each other.

[0042] 3, a bearing 414R for rotatably supporting the rotating shaft 422 is formed between the accommodation portions 408R and 408C. A bearing 414L for rotatably supporting the rotating shaft 422 is formed between the accommodation portions 408L and 408C.

[0043] The rotation operation unit 420 is accommodated in the accommodation portion 408C so that the rotation shaft 422 is pivotally supported by the bearing portions 414R and 414L. That is, the rotation shaft 422 is disposed approximately parallel to the width direction (left-right direction) of the gaming machine 100. This allows a player facing the gaming machine 100 to rotate the rotation operation unit 420. Note that the rotation shaft 422 only needs to be approximately parallel to the width direction (left-right direction) of the gaming machine 100, and the rotation shaft 422 does not have to be completely parallel to the width direction (left-right direction) of the gaming machine 100.

[0044] In the gaming machine 100 of the first embodiment, as shown in Figures 2 to 4, the rotation operation unit 420 that the player rotates is positioned so that it is approximately half-buried in the storage section 408C, which is a recess formed in the mounting base section 406, and the area above the rotation axis 422 of the rotation operation unit 420 is covered by the gripping base sections 412R and 412L.This means that when the player places his or her hands on the operating handle unit 400, the player is encouraged to operate it in a position that puts less strain on the player, with his or her palms facing downward.

[0045] Fig. 5 is a front view of the operating handle unit 400. As shown in Fig. 5, the grip base portions 412R and 412L have a dome shape that bulges upward.

[0046] As shown in FIG. 5, the gripping base 412R has a top portion 432R that is located at the highest vertical height position, a center position 434R in the left-right direction, and an inclined portion 436R.

[0047] 5, apex 432R is located closer to rotation operation unit 420 than center position 434R. Then, grip base 412R has a smoothly curved shape whose height position increases from the left end side that contacts rotation operation unit 420 toward apex 432R, and has a smoothly curved shape (inclined portion 436R) whose height position decreases from apex 432R to the right end side. That is, inclined portion 436R is continuous with apex 432R, and its vertical height position decreases as it moves away from apex 432R toward the opposite side of rotation operation unit 420.

[0048] When turning the palm downward, if the thumb and little finger are at the same height, the wrist or arm will be twisted, and if the player plays for a long time in this state, there is a risk of fatigue building up in the player. In other words, when trying to place the palm of the hand on a roughly horizontal surface with relaxed strength, due to the structure of the body, a posture in which the thumb side is slightly raised is the most natural and least stressful state, and fatigue is less likely to build up.

[0049] In the first embodiment, by shaping the grip base 412R as described above, when a player holds the grip base 412R in his / her right hand, the apex 432R is positioned approximately midway between the index finger and middle finger of the player's right hand. This allows the thumb of the player's right hand to be positioned vertically above the little finger of the player's right hand when the player places his / her right hand on the base 406 and holds the grip base 412R with his / her right hand in a relaxed state. This means that twisting of the wrist or arm is not generated, or twisting of the wrist can be suppressed. This reduces fatigue accumulated in the player even when playing for long periods of time.

[0050] 5, the gripping base 412L has a vertex 432L, a center position 434L, and an inclined portion 436L, and has a shape that is bilaterally symmetrical with the gripping base 412R. Therefore, when a player grips the gripping base 412L with his / her left hand, twisting of the wrist or arm does not occur, or twisting of the wrist can be suppressed, so that fatigue accumulated in the player can be reduced even when playing for a long time.

[0051] FIG. 6 is a right side view of the operating handle unit 400. FIG. 7 is a top view of the operating handle unit. As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the main body 402 and the standing portion 404 are disposed with a gap 438 between them. That is, the gap 438 is provided at the rear side of the main body 402. This allows the player to insert their fingertips into the gap 438 when gripping the grip base portions 412R, 412L. Furthermore, when rotating the rotation operation unit 420, hooking a finger into the gap 438 makes it easier to grip the grip base portions 412R, 412L.

[0052] 7, the rear portion 412Ra located at the rear side of the gripping base portion 412R and the proximity portion 438R of the gap portion 438 located close to the rear portion 412Ra have shapes that are positioned further to the rear right as they are farther away from the rotation operation unit 420. Also, as shown in FIG. 7, the rear portion 412Ra is positioned on the opposite side to the rotation operation unit 420 in the left-right direction (the width direction of the gaming machine 100).

[0053] 7, the rear side portion 412La of the gripping base portion 412L and the adjacent portion 438L of the gap portion 438 adjacent to the rear side portion 412La have a shape that is positioned toward the rear left as it is farther away from the rotation operation unit 420. Also, as shown in FIG. 7, the rear side portion 412La is positioned on the opposite side to the rotation operation unit 420 in the left-right direction (the width direction of the gaming machine 100).

[0054] In the first embodiment, by making the grip base portions 412R, 412L have the above-described shape, when a player grips the grip base portion 412R with his / her right hand, the player's right hand is at a natural angle pointing toward the center of the player's body. Similarly, when a player grips the grip base portion 412L with his / her left hand, the player's left hand is at a natural angle pointing toward the center of the player's body. This makes it possible to reduce fatigue that accumulates in players even when playing for long periods of time.

[0055] Figure 8 is a first enlarged view of the operating handle unit 400 with some parts removed. Figure 8 shows the state in which the grip base part 412R has been removed. As shown in Figure 8, the right end part of the rotation shaft 422 is located inside the storage part 408R.

[0056] A gear 442R that rotates integrally with the rotary shaft 422 is provided on the right end of the rotary shaft 422.

[0057] A rotary damper 444R is provided within the accommodation section 408R. The rotary damper 444R applies a load in the direction opposite to the input rotation direction by utilizing the braking force due to the viscous resistance of the oil. The rotary damper 444R has a rotor shaft (not shown), and the rotor shaft is provided with a gear 448R that rotates integrally with the rotor shaft and meshes with the gear 442R.

[0058] As shown in FIG. 8, a leaf spring 450R made of a conductive material (e.g., metal) is provided inside the accommodation portion 408R. As shown in FIG. 8, the leaf spring 450R has a pressing portion 451R. The pressing portion 451R presses the right side surface of the rotation operation portion 420 by its elastic force. This allows the leaf spring 450R to be in constant contact with the right side surface of the rotation operation portion 420, which rotates in response to the player's operation. The leaf spring 450R is connected to the grip base portion 412R by a bolt made of a conductive material (e.g., metal). This allows the rotation operation portion 420 and the grip base portion 412R to be electrically connected to each other via the leaf spring 450R.

[0059] Figure 9 is a second enlarged view of the operating handle unit 400 with some parts removed. Figure 9 shows the state in which the grip base 412L has been removed. As shown in Figure 9, the left end of the rotation shaft 422 is located within the storage section 408L.

[0060] A gear 442L that rotates integrally with the rotary shaft 422 is provided on the left end of the rotary shaft 422.

[0061] A rotary damper 444L is also provided within the housing 408L. The rotary damper 444L has a rotor shaft (not shown), which is provided with a gear 448L that rotates integrally with the rotor shaft and meshes with the gear 442L. The rotary dampers 444R and 444L apply a load to the rotation of the rotary operation unit 420, making it easier for a player to make fine adjustments when rotating the rotary operation unit 420. The load (resistance) of the rotary dampers 444R and 444L also prevents the rotary operation unit 420 from rotating uncontrollably. In other words, the rotational position of the rotary operation unit 420 can be maintained even if the player removes their fingers from the finger rests 428R and 428L of the rotary operation unit 420.

[0062] As shown in FIG. 9, a leaf spring 450L made of a conductive material (for example, metal) is provided inside the accommodation portion 408L. As shown in FIG. 9, the leaf spring 450L has a pressing portion 451L. The pressing portion 451L presses the left side surface of the rotation operation portion 420 by its elastic force. This allows the leaf spring 450L to be in constant contact with the left side surface of the rotation operation portion 420, which rotates in response to the player's operation. The leaf spring 450L is also connected to the grip base portion 412L by a bolt made of a conductive material (for example, metal). This allows the rotation operation portion 420 and the grip base portion 412L to be electrically connected to each other via the leaf spring 450L.

[0063] A touch sensor 452s is directly connected to the leaf spring 450L. The touch sensor 452s is also connected to the frame control board 200A. The frame control board 200A can detect that a player has touched the leaf spring 450L based on a signal input from the touch sensor 452s. In the first embodiment, as described above, the leaf spring 450L is electrically connected to the gripping base 412L and the rotation operation unit 420, and the rotation operation unit 420 is electrically connected to the gripping base 412R via the leaf spring 450R. That is, the touch sensor 452s is indirectly connected (conductive) to the gripping bases 412R, 412L and the rotation operation unit 420. Therefore, the touch sensor 452s can effectively detect that a player has touched at least one of the gripping bases 412R, 412L and the rotation operation unit 420.

[0064] A rotary encoder 454 is also provided within the accommodation section 408L. The rotary encoder 454 has a rotor shaft 456, and the rotor shaft 456 is provided with a gear 458 that rotates integrally with the rotor shaft 456 and meshes with the gear 442L. The rotary encoder 454 is capable of detecting the rotation direction and rotation angle of the rotary operation unit 420. For example, an optical, magnetic, or electromagnetic induction rotary encoder may be used as the rotary encoder 454. Note that, although the first embodiment illustrates the case where the rotary encoder 454 detects the rotation direction and rotation angle of the rotary operation unit 420, a sensor or the like that can detect the rotation direction and rotation angle of the rotary operation unit 420 may also be used.

[0065] Next, the firing intensity indicator 500 will be described. Fig. 10 is a diagram illustrating the display mode of the firing intensity indicator 500. In the first embodiment, when the rotary operation unit 420 is rotated toward the back, the firing intensity of the gaming ball is adjusted to be stronger. On the other hand, when the rotary operation unit 420 is rotated toward the front, the firing intensity of the gaming ball is adjusted to be weaker.

[0066] The firing intensity display 500 allows the player to visually grasp the current firing intensity that is set based on the operation of the gaming ball rotation operation unit 420. As shown in Fig. 10, the firing intensity display 500 is provided with a firing intensity display area 510 that is composed of lamps such as LEDs. As shown in Fig. 10, the firing intensity display area 510 has a first area 510a, a second area 510b, and a third area 510c.

[0067] When a player rotates the rotation operation unit 420 in a launch permission state in which the game ball can be launched, the launch intensity display area 510 lights up in a manner corresponding to the operation direction (rotation direction) and operation amount (rotation amount).

[0068] For example, if a player rotates the rotary operation unit 420 from the state shown in Fig. 10(a) toward the back, as the operation amount (rotation amount) increases, the firing intensity display area 510 will be displayed in the order of Fig. 10(b) to Fig. 10(g). Note that the upper right hatching in the figure indicates a state in which the display is lit in a first light-emitting state, the cross hatching in the figure indicates a state in which the display is lit in a second light-emitting state different from the first light-emitting state, and the upper left hatching in the figure indicates a state in which the display is lit in a third light-emitting state different from the first and second light-emitting states.

[0069] Furthermore, when the player rotates the rotary operation unit 420 toward the player from the state shown in Fig. 10(g), as the operation amount (rotation amount) increases, the firing intensity display area 510 is illuminated in the manner from Fig. 10(g) to Fig. 10(b) in that order. Then, when the player rotates the rotary operation unit 420 further toward the player from the state shown in Fig. 10(b), the firing intensity becomes 0, that is, the game ball is not fired, and the firing intensity display area 510 is not illuminated as shown in Fig. 10(a).

[0070] Specifically, when the player is not operating the rotary operation unit in the firing permission state, or when the firing permission state is not established, the firing intensity display area 510 is not lit, as shown in FIG. 10(a).

[0071] Also, in the launch permission state, if the current launch intensity is such that the game ball does not reach the game area 110, part or all of the first area 510a is lit up depending on the value of the launch intensity, as shown in Figures 10(b) and (c).

[0072] Also, in the launch permission state, if the current launch intensity is such that the game ball reaches the first game area 110a, the first area 510a is lit up, and part or all of the second area 510b is lit up depending on the value of the launch intensity, as shown in Figures 10(d) and (e).

[0073] Also, in the launch permission state, if the current launch intensity is such that the game ball reaches the second game area 110b, the first area 510a and the second area 510b are lit up, and part or all of the third area 510c is lit up depending on the value of the launch intensity, as shown in Figures 10(f) and (g).

[0074] In the first embodiment, the first region 510a, the second region 510b, and the third region 510c are lit up in different luminous colors, but the first region 510a, the second region 510b, and the third region 510c may be lit up in the same luminous color but with different luminous intensities.

[0075] Next, the internal configuration of the gaming machine 100 will be described.

[0076] (Internal configuration of control means) 11 is a block diagram of the gaming machine 100. The gaming machine 100 includes a main control board 100A, a frame control board 200A, and a sub-control board 300A.

[0077] The main control board 100A controls the basic operations of the game. The main control board 100A is equipped with a main CPU 100a, a main ROM 100b, and a main RAM 100c. The main CPU 100a reads programs stored in the main ROM 100b and performs arithmetic processing based on input signals from each detection switch and timer, and also directly controls each device and display, or sends commands to other boards depending on the results of the arithmetic processing. The main RAM 100c functions as a data work area during arithmetic processing by the main CPU 100a.

[0078] The gaming machine 100 is broadly divided into a special game that is started when a gaming ball enters the first start hole 120 or the second start hole 122, and a normal game that is started when a gaming ball passes through a gate 124. The main ROM 100b of the main control board 100A stores various programs for progressing the special game and the normal game, as well as data and tables required for various games.

[0079] The main control board 100A is connected to a general prize opening detection switch 118s that detects when a game ball enters the general prize opening 118, a first start opening detection switch 120s that detects when a game ball enters the first start opening 120, a second start opening detection switch 122s that detects when a game ball enters the second start opening 122, a gate detection switch 124s that detects when a game ball passes through the gate 124, and a special prize opening detection switch 126s that detects when a game ball enters the special prize opening 126, and detection signals are input from each of these detection switches to the main control board 100A.

[0080] In addition, the main control board 100A is connected to a normal electric role solenoid 122c that operates the movable piece 122b of the second starting opening 122, and a large prize opening solenoid 126c that operates the opening and closing door 126b that opens and closes the large prize opening 126, and the opening and closing of the second starting opening 122 and the large prize opening 126 is controlled by the main control board 100A.

[0081] Furthermore, the main control board 100A is connected to a plurality of indicators that show the status of the game, such as a first special symbol indicator that displays special symbols, a second special symbol indicator, a first special symbol reserve indicator that displays the number of special 1 or special 2 reserves, a second special symbol reserve indicator, a normal symbol indicator that displays normal symbols, and a normal symbol reserve indicator that displays the number of normal symbols reserved. Here, each of these indicators is referred to as a main indicator 128. The display of the main indicator 128 is controlled by the main control board 100A.

[0082] An abnormality detection sensor 132s is also connected to the gaming machine 100. The abnormality detection sensor 132s is configured, for example, with a radio wave detection sensor that detects radio waves, a magnetic detection sensor that detects magnetism, etc. An abnormality detection signal is input from the abnormality detection sensor 132s to the main control board 100A.

[0083] Furthermore, a setting change switch 134s is provided on the back of the gaming board 104. The setting change switch 134s is configured to be accessible with a dedicated key. When the setting change switch 134s is turned on, it becomes possible to change and check the setting values. Although a detailed explanation will be omitted, the gaming machine 100 stores one of six setting values ​​with different degrees of advantage as a registered setting value in a setting value buffer, and the game progresses according to the stored registered setting value.

[0084] A setting value display 134 that displays registered setting values ​​is provided on the back of the game board 104. The main control board 100A displays the registered setting values ​​on the setting value display 134 while the setting values ​​are being changed or checked.

[0085] A RAM clear button is provided on the back of the gaming board 104 so that it can be pressed, and pressing of this RAM clear button is detected by a RAM clear switch 136s. The RAM clear switch 136s is connected to the main control board 100A, and a RAM clear operation signal is input from the RAM clear switch 136s to the main control board 100A. If a RAM clear operation signal is input from the RAM clear switch 136s when the power is turned on, the main CPU 100a clears the main RAM 100c.

[0086] Furthermore, a frame control board 200A and a sub-control board 300A are connected to the main control board 100A.

[0087] The frame control board 200A is equipped with a frame control CPU 200a, a frame control ROM 200b, and a frame control RAM 200c. The sub-control board 300A is equipped with a sub-CPU 300a, a sub-ROM 300b, and a sub-RAM 300c. The sub-control board 300A mainly controls the effects during play. Together with the main control board 100A, the frame control board 200A performs various controls related to the progress of the game, such as control for launching game balls and control for paying out prize balls. The frame control board 200A is connected to the main control board 100A so that it can communicate bidirectionally. The frame control board 200A will be described in detail below.

[0088] 12 is a diagram illustrating the frame control board 200 A. The frame control board 200 A is provided with a radiation intensity volume 202 .

[0089] The firing intensity volume 202 controls the current value of a firing solenoid 210c, which will be described later, and causes the gaming ball to be fired at a firing intensity determined based on the rotation direction and rotation angle of the rotation operation unit 420.

[0090] Furthermore, the frame control board 200A is connected to a firing solenoid 210c, a firing stop switch 410s, a touch sensor 452s, a rotary encoder 454, and a firing intensity indicator 500.

[0091] The launch solenoid 210c is provided in a launch device (not shown) and launches game balls toward the game area 110. As a result, game balls are launched during play within the number of game balls owned by the player. The launch solenoid 210c is controlled by the frame control board 200A.

[0092] The firing stop switch 410s detects the operation of the firing stop buttons 410R and 410L. When the firing stop buttons 410R and 410L are operated, the firing of the game balls is stopped regardless of the operation of the rotation operation unit 420.

[0093] The touch sensor 452s detects that the player's hand is touching at least one of the gripping base portions 412R, 412L and the rotation operation portion 420.

[0094] The rotary encoder 454 detects the rotation direction and rotation angle of the rotation operation unit 420. When a magnetic rotary encoder is used as the rotary encoder 454, the amount of rotation ("rotation angle") is detected based on a pulse signal detected by an internal sensor. In this case, the "rotation angle" may be determined on the frame control board 200A side based on the rotation direction of an internally provided detection target (e.g., a gear-shaped magnetic body) and the number of input signals based on the detection. When an optical rotary encoder is used as the rotary encoder 454 and an incremental encoder type is used, the rotation angle is detected based on the number of input pulse signals similar to a magnetic encoder. On the other hand, an absolute encoder type that outputs the absolute value of the amount of rotation (rotation angle) may also be used as the optical rotary encoder.

[0095] The firing intensity display 500 allows the player to visually grasp the current firing intensity that is set based on the operation of the game ball rotation operation unit 420.

[0096] The following describes the processing of the frame control board 200A in the gaming machine 100. Note that the following describes the characteristic processing of the frame control board 200A. Therefore, the processing described below is only a part of the processing performed by the frame control board 200A.

[0097] 13 is a sequence diagram showing the emission intensity management process in the frame control board 200 A. The emission intensity management process is executed by a timer interrupt.

[0098] (S1-1) The frame control CPU 200a determines whether the main control board 100A is set to a launch permission state that allows the launch of game balls. If the launch permission state is set, the process proceeds to step S1-3. If the launch permission state is not set, the process proceeds to step S1-15.

[0099] (S1-3) The frame control CPU 200a determines whether a signal indicating a player's touch has been input from the touch sensor 452s. If a signal indicating a player's touch has been input from the touch sensor 452s, the frame control CPU 200a proceeds to step S1-5. If a signal indicating a player's touch has not been input from the touch sensor 452s, the frame control CPU 200a proceeds to step S1-15.

[0100] (S1-5) The frame control CPU 200 a acquires the rotation angle based on the signal input from the rotary encoder 454 .

[0101] (S1-7) The frame control CPU 200a sets the setting value of the emission intensity based on the rotation angle acquired in step S1-5 above.

[0102] (S1-9) The frame control CPU 200a lights up the emission intensity indicator 500 based on the setting value set in step S1-7.

[0103] (S1-11) The frame control CPU 200a determines whether operation of the emission stop buttons 410R and 410L is detected based on the signal input from the emission stop switch 410s. If operation of the emission stop buttons 410R and 410L is detected, the emission intensity management process is terminated, and if operation of the emission stop buttons 410R and 410L is not detected, the process proceeds to step S1-13.

[0104] (S1-13) The frame control CPU 200a controls the current value of the firing solenoid 210c based on the setting value of the firing intensity set in the above step S1-9, executes a game ball firing process to fire a game ball at an intensity according to the operation direction (rotation direction) and operation amount (rotation amount) of the rotation operation unit 420, and terminates the firing intensity management process.

[0105] (S1-15) The frame control CPU 200a determines whether or not a set value for the emission intensity has been set in step S1-7 in the previous interrupt cycle. If a set value for the emission intensity has been set, the process proceeds to step S1-17. If a set value for the emission intensity has not been set, the process ends.

[0106] (S1-17) The frame control CPU 200a clears the setting value of the emission intensity set in step S1-7 above.

[0107] (S1-19) The frame control CPU 200a turns off the emission intensity indicator 500 and ends the emission intensity management process.

[0108] Although a preferred first embodiment of the present invention has been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to such a first embodiment. It is clear that a person skilled in the art can conceive of various modifications or alterations within the scope of the claims, and it is understood that these also naturally fall within the technical scope of the present invention.

[0109] In the first embodiment, a controlled gaming machine has been described as an example of a gaming machine. However, the gaming machine to which the present invention can be applied is not limited to a controlled gaming machine. For example, the present invention may be applied to a pachinko gaming machine that does not have a gaming ball circulation structure, or to other gaming machines in which the game progresses by shooting gaming balls (such as a jackpot gaming machine).

[0110] In any case, the present invention a rotation operation unit 420 having a rotation axis 422 substantially parallel to the width direction of the gaming machine 100 and capable of being rotated by a player facing the gaming machine 100; gripping bases 412R and 412L that are independent of the operation of the rotary operation unit 420, are provided on the sides of the rotary operation unit 420, and can be gripped by a player; Equipped with The gripping base parts 412R and 412L are Vertex portions 432R and 432L are located closer to the rotation operation unit 420 than the center positions 434R and 434L in the left-right direction and are located at the highest vertical height position in the vertical direction; The inclined portions 436R, 436L may be provided so as to be continuous with the vertices 432R, 432L and have a vertical height position that decreases as they move away from the vertices 432R, 432L toward the opposite side of the rotation operation unit 420.

[0111] In the first embodiment, a pair of gripping base portions 412R and 412L are provided, but only one of gripping base portion 412R or gripping base portion 412L may be provided.

[0112] Furthermore, in the firing intensity management process of the first embodiment described above, the lighting display of the firing intensity indicator (S1-9) is configured to be executed before the determination of whether the firing stop button has been operated (S1-11). However, when the firing stop button is being operated, if the firing intensity indicator 500 controls the display mode to notify the temporary suspension of firing (for example, by illuminating the first area 510a to the third area 510c in a single color (white)), the lighting display of the firing intensity indicator (S1-9) may be configured to be executed after the determination of whether the firing stop button has been operated (S1-11).

[0113] As another variation, in the first embodiment described above, the range of motion of the rotary operation unit 420 is infinite, and a load is applied to the rotary operation unit 420 by rotary dampers 444R and 444L, but as in the prior art, a mechanical stopper may be provided to limit the range of motion of the rotary operation unit 420 to a predetermined rotation angle, and a structure may be adopted in which a spring member (torsion spring, power spring, etc.) is provided inside to apply a rotational force toward the player (nearby).

[0114] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the firing stop buttons 410R, 410L are configured to protrude toward the player (front) on the upright portion 404 provided at the rear of the operating handle unit 400, but the firing stop buttons may be provided in the wall portions (proximal portions 438R, 438L) that form the gap portion 438. In this case, the player may grip the grip base portions 412R, 412L and operate the firing stop buttons protruding toward the rear from the wall portions (proximal portions 438R, 438L) toward the player by grasping them with the index finger, middle finger, etc.

[0115] In the first embodiment, the display mode of the firing intensity indicator 500 is described as changing from the first region 510a to the third region 510c, but the display mode of the firing intensity indicator 500 is not limited to the mode in which the light-emitting region expands, and the entire first region 510a may change from "blue" to "green" to "red," or a display mode that combines the expansion of the light-emitting region and the change in light color may be used. Alternatively, the firing intensity indicator 500 may be displayed using segments that display numerical values, or may be configured to display the percentage of the firing intensity with a maximum firing intensity of "99" using a two-digit seven-segment display, or may be configured so that the role of the firing intensity indicator 500 is assigned to the display region of an image display device that displays effect images.

[0116] Second Embodiment Next, a second embodiment will be described. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment only in that the operating handle unit 400 is replaced with an operating handle unit 1000, which will be described later. Therefore, the following will describe the operating handle unit 1000, which is a difference from the first embodiment, and the other components will be given the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0117] In the second embodiment, when viewed from the front of the gaming machine 100, the near side (front side) of the depth direction of the gaming machine 100 is referred to as the near direction, and the far side (rear side) is referred to as the far direction. Also, when viewed from the front of the gaming machine 100, the right side of the width direction of the gaming machine 100 is referred to as the right direction, and the left side is referred to as the left direction. Also, when viewed from the front of the gaming machine 100, the upper side is referred to as the upward direction, and the lower side is referred to as the downward direction.

[0118] Fig. 14 is a perspective view of the operating handle unit 1000. As shown in Fig. 14, the operating handle unit 1000 has a substantially bilaterally symmetrical appearance. The operating handle unit 1000 is disposed in the substantially center of the gaming machine 100 in the left-right direction.

[0119] As shown in FIG. 14, the operation handle unit 1000 can be roughly divided into an operation unit 1100 that can be operated by a player, and a base unit 1200.

[0120] FIG. 15 is a top view of operation unit 1100. As shown in FIG. 15, operation unit 1100 includes operation unit 1110R at the right end, operation unit 1110L at the left end, and connecting portion 1150 in the center between operation units 1110R and 1110L. Operation units 1110R and 1110L are each connected to connecting portion 1150. Operation units 1110R and 1110L are made of the same material and have the same shape, and are provided symmetrically. Therefore, hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between operation units 1110R and 1110L, they will be referred to as operation unit 1110. Hereinafter, details of operation unit 1110 will be described with reference to FIGS. 16 to 19.

[0121] Fig. 16 is a perspective view of the operating unit 1110. Fig. 17 is a first exploded perspective view of the operating unit 1110. Fig. 18 is a second exploded perspective view of the operating unit 1110. Fig. 19 is a front view of the second member 1130. As shown in Figs. 16 to 19, the operating unit 1110 is configured by assembling a first member 1120 and a second member 1130.

[0122] As shown in FIGS. 16 to 19, the first member 1120 includes a first flat portion 1121. The first flat portion 1121 is a circular flat member, and convex portions 1121a and concave portions 1121b are alternately provided on the outer peripheral surface. Here, eight convex portions 1121a and eight concave portions 1121b are provided on the outer peripheral surface of the first member 1120. The concave portions 1121b are curved surfaces that convex radially inward of the first flat portion 1121, and the convex portions 1121a are continuous with both ends of the concave portions 1121b. In other words, the convex portions 1121a are located radially outward of the first flat portion 1121 relative to the concave portions 1121b.

[0123] Here, the eight convex portions 1121a are provided at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the first member 1120. Therefore, the eight convex portions 1121a and concave portions 1121b all have the same circumferential length. However, the circumferential lengths of the convex portions 1121a and concave portions 1121b may be uneven. Furthermore, the convex portions 1121a and concave portions 1121b are not essential components, and if the convex portions 1121a and concave portions 1121b are provided, there is no particular limitation on the number thereof.

[0124] The first flat surface 1121 has a first front surface 1121F and a first back surface 1121B. The first front surface 1121F is the surface opposite to the side where the second member 1130 is assembled to the first member 1120. The first back surface 1121B is the surface where the second member 1130 is assembled to the first member 1120.

[0125] A first rotating shaft 1122F is provided at the center of the first surface 1121F. The first rotating shaft 1122F includes a cylindrical first large diameter portion 1122Fa and a cylindrical first small diameter portion 1122Fb having a smaller diameter than the first large diameter portion 1122Fa. The first large diameter portion 1122Fa protrudes from the center of the first surface 1121F, and the first small diameter portion 1122Fb protrudes from the tip of the first large diameter portion 1122Fa. The first rotating shaft 1122F is rotatably supported by the gripping portion 1210R or the gripping portion 1210L (described later), thereby allowing the first member 1120 to rotate about the first rotating shaft 1122F and the second rotating shaft 1122B.

[0126] 18, a second rotating shaft 1122B is provided at the center of the first back surface 1121B. The second rotating shaft 1122B includes a cylindrical second large diameter portion 1122Ba and a cylindrical second small diameter portion 1122Bb having a smaller diameter than the second large diameter portion 1122Ba. The second large diameter portion 1122Ba protrudes from the center of the first back surface 1121B, and the second small diameter portion 1122Bb protrudes from the tip of the second large diameter portion 1122Ba. A step surface is formed between the second large diameter portion 1122Ba and the second small diameter portion 1122Bb due to the difference in diameter.

[0127] The first back surface 1121B is provided with cylindrical portions 1123a, 1123b, and 1123c. The cylindrical portions 1123a, 1123b, and 1123c have the same cylindrical shape and protrude from the first back surface 1121B toward the second member 1130. The distal end of the cylindrical portions 1123a, 1123b, and 1123c has a smaller diameter than the proximal end. As a result, a stepped surface is formed at the distal end of the cylindrical portions 1123a, 1123b, and 1123c as shown in the figure. The cylindrical portions 1123a, 1123b, and 1123c are provided radially outwardly spaced from the second rotation shaft 1122B. The cylindrical portions 1123a, 1123b, and 1123c are also provided spaced from one another in the circumferential direction of the first member 1120. The protruding height of the cylindrical portions 1123a, 1123b, and 1123c is smaller than the protruding height of the second rotating shaft 1122B.

[0128] Furthermore, a weight 1124 is provided on the first back surface 1121B. The weight 1124 is provided near the outer circumferential surface of the first member 1120. Specifically, the weight 1124 is provided radially separated from the second rotating shaft 1122B and positioned radially inward of the first member 1120 relative to the recesses 1121b of the first member 1120. Here, the circumferential width of the weight 1124 is approximately equal to the circumferential width of one recess 1121b. In other words, the weight 1124 is provided between two adjacent protrusions 1121a. Therefore, the weight 1124 is located near the outer periphery in one of eight regions of the first back surface 1121B divided by imaginary lines connecting the protrusions 1121a and the second rotating shaft 1122B.

[0129] Here, weight 1124 is configured as a separate member from first member 1120, and weight 1124 is screwed to first back surface 1121B of first member 1120. However, weight 1124 may be configured as one unit with first member 1120, for example, by raising a portion of first back surface 1121B of first member 1120.

[0130] 16 to 19, the second member 1130 has a cylindrical shape and includes a circular second flat surface portion 1131 and an outer periphery portion 1132 that is continuous with the outer periphery of the second flat surface portion 1131. The outer periphery portion 1132 protrudes from the outer periphery of the second flat surface portion 1131 toward the first member 1120.

[0131] The portion of the outer circumferential portion 1132 that is continuous with the second flat portion 1131 is defined as the base end, and the surface that is closest to the first member 1120 is defined as the tip surface. In this case, the length from the base end to the tip surface of the outer circumferential portion 1132, i.e., the protruding height of the outer circumferential portion 1132, is equal to or greater than the protruding height of the cylindrical portions 1123a, 1123b, and 1123c of the first member 1120.

[0132] Furthermore, the diameter of the distal end surface of the outer circumferential portion 1132 is larger than the diameter on the base end side, i.e., the diameter of the second flat portion 1131. Therefore, the outer circumferential portion 1132 has a curved shape such that the diameter gradually decreases from the distal end surface on the first member 1120 side toward the second flat portion 1131. The outer circumferential portion 1132 is provided with alternating convex portions 1132a and concave portions 1132b. Here, the outer circumferential portion 1132 is provided with eight convex portions 1132a and eight concave portions 1132b. The concave portions 1132b have a curved surface that convex toward the radially inward direction of the second member 1130, and the convex portions 1132a are continuous with both ends of the concave portions 1132b. In other words, the convex portions 1132a are located radially outward of the second member 1130 relative to the concave portions 1132b.

[0133] The inner diameter of the convex portion 1132a of the second member 1130 is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the convex portion 1121a of the first member 1120. Similarly, the inner diameter of the concave portion 1132b of the second member 1130 is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the concave portion 1121b of the first member 1120. This makes it possible to accommodate the first member 1120 inside the second member 1130.

[0134] A cylindrical support portion 1133 is provided at the center of the surface of the second flat surface portion 1131 facing the first member 1120. An abutment surface 1133a is provided at the tip of the support portion 1133. The support portion 1133 also has an insertion hole 1133b that penetrates from the abutment surface 1133a to the surface of the second flat surface portion 1131 opposite the first member 1120. The inner diameter of the insertion hole 1133b is slightly larger than the diameter of the second small diameter portion 1122Bb of the second rotating shaft 1122B of the first member 1120 and smaller than the diameter of the second large diameter portion 1122Ba.

[0135] The second flat surface portion 1131 is provided with circular through-holes 1134a, 1134b, and 1134c that penetrate the second flat surface portion 1131. The through-holes 1134a, 1134b, and 1134c are provided at a distance radially outward from the support portion 1133. The through-holes 1134a, 1134b, and 1134c are also provided at a distance from one another in the circumferential direction of the second member 1130.

[0136] When the first member 1120 and the second member 1130 are assembled, the tips of the cylindrical portions 1123a, 1123b, and 1123c of the first member 1120 are inserted into the through-holes 1134a, 1134b, and 1134c of the second member 1130, respectively. At this time, the diameters of the through-holes 1134a, 1134b, and 1134c are slightly larger than the diameters of the tips of the cylindrical portions 1123a, 1123b, and 1123c and smaller than the diameters of the base ends. Therefore, when the first member 1120 and the second member 1130 are assembled, the stepped surfaces of the cylindrical portions 1123a, 1123b, and 1123c abut against the second flat portion 1131 of the second member 1130.

[0137] Furthermore, when the first member 1120 and the second member 1130 are assembled, the second small diameter portion 1122Bb of the second rotating shaft 1122B of the first member 1120 is inserted into the insertion hole 1133b of the support portion 1133 of the second member 1130. At this time, a step surface formed between the second large diameter portion 1122Ba and the second small diameter portion 1122Bb of the second rotating shaft 1122B abuts against the abutment surface 1133a of the support portion 1133. Furthermore, in this state, the tip side of the second small diameter portion 1122Bb of the second rotating shaft 1122B protrudes from the second flat portion 1131 of the second member 1130.

[0138] Furthermore, when the first member 1120 and the second member 1130 are assembled, the first member 1120 is housed within the outer circumferential portion 1132 of the second member 1130. At this time, the convex portion 1121a of the first member 1120 faces the radially inner side of the convex portion 1132a of the outer circumferential portion 1132 of the second member 1130, and the concave portion 1121b of the first member 1120 faces the radially inner side of the concave portion 1132b of the outer circumferential portion 1132 of the second member 1130.

[0139] As described above, when the first member 1120 and the second member 1130 are assembled, the first member 1120 and the second member 1130 are fitted together, and relative rotation between them is restricted. In other words, when the first member 1120 and the second member 1130 are assembled, the two rotate together.

[0140] 14 and 15, operation unit 1100 includes operation unit 1110R and operation unit 1110L. Operation unit 1110R and operation unit 1110L are provided spaced apart in the left-right direction, and a connecting unit 1150 is provided between operation unit 1110R and operation unit 1110L. Connection unit 1150 includes a casing 1151, and a transmission mechanism 1160 is provided inside casing 1151 to connect second rotation shafts 1122B of operation unit 1110R and operation unit 1110L.

[0141] 20 is a diagram illustrating the transmission mechanism 1160. In FIG. 20, the casing 1151 of the connecting portion 1150 and the second members 1130 of the operating units 1110R and 1110L are removed. The transmission mechanism 1160 includes a drive gear 1161, a driven gear 1162, a transmission shaft 1163, a biasing member 1164, a first operation amount detection gear 1165, a second operation amount detection gear 1170, and a rotary encoder 454.

[0142] The drive gears 1161 are provided on the second rotation shaft 1122B of each of the operation units 1110R and 1110L. Here, the drive gear 1161 provided on the second rotation shaft 1122B of the operation unit 1110R on the left side of the drawing will be described as drive gear 1161R, and the drive gear 1161 provided on the second rotation shaft 1122B of the operation unit 1110L on the right side of the drawing will be described as drive gear 1161L. Note that the drive gears 1161R and 1161L are the same member, and when there is no need to distinguish between them, they will be described as drive gear 1161. Furthermore, the second rotation shaft 1122B of the operation unit 1110R will be described as second rotation shaft 1122BR, and the second rotation shaft 1122B of the operation unit 1110L will be described as second rotation shaft 1122BL.

[0143] The drive gear 1161 is provided at the tip of the second rotating shaft 1122B and rotates integrally with the second rotating shaft 1122B. A pair of driven gears 1162 are provided at both ends of the transmission shaft 1163 and mesh with the drive gears 1161R and 1161L, respectively. Here, the driven gear 1162 meshing with the drive gear 1161R will be referred to as the driven gear 1162R, and the driven gear 1162 meshing with the drive gear 1161L will be referred to as the driven gear 1162L. Note that the driven gears 1162R and 1162L are the same member, and when there is no need to distinguish between them, they will be referred to as the driven gear 1162.

[0144] Although not shown, the transmission shaft 1163 is rotatably supported within the casing 1151. The drive gear 1161 and the driven gear 1162 are configured by bevel gears, and convert the rotation direction of the second rotation shaft 1122B into the rotation direction of the transmission shaft 1163. In the second embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, the direction of the operation units 1110R, 1110L intersects with the left-right direction, i.e., the width direction of the gaming machine 100.

[0145] Fig. 21 is a diagram illustrating the rotation axis direction of the operation unit 1110. Fig. 21 shows the second rotation axis 1122B and the transmission mechanism 1160 as viewed vertically from above. The axial direction of the transmission axis 1163 of the transmission mechanism 1160 is substantially parallel to the left-right direction, i.e., the width direction of the gaming machine 100. In contrast, the axial direction of the second rotation axis 1122B intersects with the axial direction of the transmission axis 1163 as shown in the figure.

[0146] Specifically, the imaginary extension line of the second rotation shaft 1122BR is defined as VR, and the imaginary extension line of the second rotation shaft 1122BL is defined as VL. The rotation axis direction of the transmission shaft 1163 is defined as VC. As is clear from FIG. 21 , the operation units 1110R and 1110L are disposed so that the imaginary extension lines VR and VL of the second rotation shafts 1122BR and 1122BL intersect. If the intersection of the imaginary extension lines VR and VL of the second rotation shafts 1122BR and 1122BL is defined as Is, the intersection Is is located further back than the transmission shaft 1163, i.e., closer to the game board 104 of the gaming machine 100. In other words, the intersection Is of the imaginary extension lines VR and VL of the second rotation shafts 1122BR and 1122BL is located closer to the game board 104 than the operation units 1110R and 1110L. At this time, the intersection point Is is located approximately in the center of the transmission shaft 1163 in the left-right direction.

[0147] When a player holds the operation unit 1110R and performs a rotation operation, the second rotation shaft 1122BR rotates by the rotation operation amount. When the second rotation shaft 1122BR rotates, the drive gear 1161R rotates integrally with the second rotation shaft 1122BR. When the drive gear 1161R rotates, the driven gear 1162R rotates, and the transmission shaft 1163 and driven gear 1162L rotate integrally with the driven gear 1162R. When the driven gear 1162L rotates, the drive gear 1161L and the second rotation shaft 1122BL rotate, and the operation unit 1110L rotates integrally with the second rotation shaft 1122BL.

[0148] The transmission shaft 1163 is provided with a biasing member 1164, and the biasing force of the biasing member 1164 holds the transmission shaft 1163 in the initial position.

[0149] Fig. 22 is a first diagram illustrating the biasing member 1164 and the first operation amount detection gear 1165, and Fig. 23 is a second diagram illustrating the biasing member 1164 and the first operation amount detection gear 1165. As shown in Figs. 22 and 23, the transmission shaft 1163 is provided with a first operation amount detection gear 1165. The first operation amount detection gear 1165 includes an inner cylindrical portion 1165a through which the transmission shaft 1163 is inserted.

[0150] Further, a flat surface 1163a is formed on the transmission shaft 1163. The transmission shaft 1163 is a cylindrical member whose cross section perpendicular to the axial direction is circular, and the flat surface 1163a is provided on a portion of the outer circumferential surface. The flat surfaces 1163a extend from both ends of the transmission shaft 1163 toward the center of the transmission shaft 1163 in the axial direction, but as shown in FIG. 23, the flat surfaces 1163a are not formed on a portion of the transmission shaft 1163 in the axial direction. However, as shown in FIG. 22, the flat surface 1163a is formed on a portion of the transmission shaft 1163 that is inserted into the inner cylindrical portion 1165a of the first operation amount detection gear 1165.

[0151] The inner peripheral shape of the inner cylindrical portion 1165a substantially matches the outer peripheral shape of the transmission shaft 1163. In other words, a flat surface facing the flat surface 1163a is provided on part of the inner peripheral surface of the inner cylindrical portion 1165a. This restricts the relative rotation between the transmission shaft 1163 and the first operation amount detection gear 1165, allowing them to rotate integrally.

[0152] The first operation amount detection gear 1165 is provided with an outer cylinder portion 1165b. The outer cylinder portion 1165b is radially spaced apart from the inner cylinder portion 1165a. Teeth that mesh with the second operation amount detection gear 1170 are formed on a part of the outer peripheral surface of the outer cylinder portion 1165b. The outer cylinder portion 1165b and the inner cylinder portion 1165a are connected by a flat surface 1165c, as shown in FIG. 23. As shown in FIG. 22, the flat surface 1165c is provided on the left side of the inner cylinder portion 1165a and the outer cylinder portion 1165b, and a rib that extends radially from the inner cylinder portion 1165a to the outer cylinder portion 1165b is provided on the right side of the flat surface 1165c.

[0153] 23, the first operation amount detection gear 1165 is formed with a circular ring portion 1165d. The circular ring portion 1165d is provided on the left side of the flat surface 1165c. The circular ring portion 1165d is radially separated from the transmission shaft 1163 and extends in the circumferential direction. An accommodation space 1166 is formed between the transmission shaft 1163 and the circular ring portion 1165d. The urging member 1164 is accommodated in this accommodation space 1166. A portion of the circular ring portion 1165d in the circumferential direction is cut out, providing a gap between one end and the other end of the circular ring portion 1165d in the circumferential direction. As shown in FIG. 23, the flat surface 1163a is not formed on a portion of the transmission shaft 1163 located radially inward of the circular ring portion 1165d.

[0154] The first operation amount detection gear 1165 is provided with a first restricting portion 1167 and a second restricting portion 1168. The first restricting portion 1167 and the second restricting portion 1168 are located radially outward of the annular portion 1165d and the outer cylinder portion 1165b. The first restricting portion 1167 and the second restricting portion 1168 are located at positions that are out of phase with each other in the rotation direction of the first operation amount detection gear 1165. The first restricting portion 1167 faces the first operation amount detection gear 1165 in a first direction R1, and the second restricting portion 1168 faces the first operation amount detection gear 1165 in a second direction R2. The first direction R1 is a direction that returns the operating unit 1110 to its initial position, and the second direction R2 is a direction that rotates the operating unit 1110 from its initial position to its maximum rotation position.

[0155] 24 is a cross-sectional view of the operation unit 1100 and the base unit 1200. The base unit 1200 is provided with a partition wall located near the first operation amount detection gear 1165, and a first abutment portion 1201 and a second abutment portion 1202 are provided on the partition wall. The first abutment portion 1201 is provided at a position where the first restriction portion 1167 abuts when the first operation amount detection gear 1165 rotates in the first direction R1. The second abutment portion 1202 is provided at a position where the second restriction portion 1168 abuts when the first operation amount detection gear 1165 rotates in the second direction R2.

[0156] Therefore, the first operation amount detection gear 1165 rotates within a range from a position where the first restriction portion 1167 contacts the first contact portion 1201 to a position where the second restriction portion 1168 contacts the second contact portion 1202. In other words, the rotation of the first operation amount detection gear 1165 in the first direction R1 is limited by the first contact portion 1201, and the rotation of the first operation amount detection gear 1165 in the second direction R2 is limited by the second contact portion 1202.

[0157] The biasing member 1164 is formed of a torsion spring, and is wound around the transmission shaft 1163, with one end fixed to the casing 1151. The biasing member 1164 applies a biasing force that rotates the first operation amount detection gear 1165 in a first direction R1. When the operating unit 1110 is not being operated, the first operation amount detection gear 1165 is biased in the first direction R1 by the biasing member 1164, and the first operation amount detection gear 1165 comes to a standstill when the first restricting portion 1167 comes into contact with the first abutting portion 1201. This state in which the first operation amount detection gear 1165 and the transmission shaft 1163 are stationary corresponds to the initial position of the operation unit 1100 and the operating unit 1110.

[0158] 15, for example, suppose that a player holds the operation unit 1110R with his or her right hand and performs a rotation operation while the operation unit 1100 is in the initial position. At this time, the player holds the operation unit 1110R so that the thumb of the right hand abuts against the recessed portion 1132b located in front of the rotation center of the operation unit 1110R, and the other fingers of the right hand abut against the recessed portion 1132b located behind the rotation center of the operation unit 1110R.

[0159] From this state, the player can rotate the operation unit 1110R so that the thumb of the right hand points upward or backward and the other fingers point backward or downward. In other words, the operation unit 1110 can be rotated from the initial position in a direction such that the side in front of the rotation center of the operation unit 1110 points upward and the side behind the rotation center of the operation unit 1110 points downward. In this way, the direction in which the player can perform rotational operation from the initial position is the second direction R2.

[0160] The operating unit 1110 can rotate from the initial position in the second direction R2 by a predetermined rotation angle (for example, 100 degrees). That is, when the operating unit 1110 rotates 100 degrees in the second direction R2 from the initial position, the second restricting portion 1168 abuts against the second abutment portion 1202, and further rotation in the second direction R2 is restricted. Therefore, the position rotated 100 degrees in the second direction R2 from the initial position is the maximum rotation position.

[0161] As shown in Fig. 20, a second operation amount detection gear 1170 is provided in the casing 1151 so as to mesh with the first operation amount detection gear 1165. A rotary encoder 454 is also provided in the casing 1151, and the rotation angle of the operation unit 1110 is detected by the rotary encoder 454. At this time, the current value of the launch solenoid 210c is controlled so that the larger the rotation angle, the stronger the launch strength. In other words, the larger the rotation amount in the second direction R2, the stronger the launch strength of the game ball.

[0162] When the player releases the operating unit 1110 after the operating unit 1110 has rotated in the second direction R2 from the initial position, the biasing force of the biasing member 1164 causes the operating unit 1110 to rotate in the first direction R1 back to the initial position.

[0163] As described above, in the second embodiment, when one of the operating units 1110R, 1110L is rotated, the other operating unit 1110R, 1110L is rotated integrally via the transmission mechanism 1160. This allows the player to perform the same rotation operation with either the right or left hand, and by changing the operating hand, fatigue can be reduced. Moreover, according to the second embodiment, the operating units 1110R, 1110L are arranged so that the imaginary extension lines VR, VL of the second rotation axes 1122BR, 1122BL, respectively, intersect. This allows the player to operate the operating units 1110R, 1110L with relaxed force, further reducing fatigue.

[0164] Note that backlash occurs at the meshing portion of the teeth of the drive gear 1161 and the driven gear 1162, which may result in a difference in the amount of rotation between the operation unit 1110R and the operation unit 1110L. For example, suppose the operation unit 1110R is rotated a predetermined angle in the second direction R2. In this case, the rotational power of the operation unit 1110R is transmitted to the operation unit 1110L via the second rotation shaft 1122BR, the transmission shaft 1163, and the second rotation shaft 1122BL. However, at this time, backlash occurs at the meshing portion between the drive gear 1161R and the driven gear 1162R and the meshing portion between the drive gear 1161L and the driven gear 1162L. As a result, the rotation angle of the operation unit 1110L in the second direction R2 is smaller than the rotation angle of the operation unit 1110R in the second direction R2.

[0165] Therefore, for example, if a player rotates the operation unit 1110R by a predetermined angle, then grips the operation unit 1110L with his / her left hand and changes the hand that operates it from the right hand to the left hand, there is a risk that the firing strength will change. Therefore, in the second embodiment, a weight 1124 is provided at a position where its own weight acts to rotate the operation unit 1110 in the second direction R2. By providing the weight 1124, the difference in the amount of rotation (rotation angle) between the operation unit 1110R and the operation unit 1110L is reduced, improving operability for the player.

[0166] In the second embodiment, the positions of the convex portion 1132a and the concave portion 1132b are approximately the same for the intensity at which a game ball is launched into the first game area 110a and the maximum intensity at which a game ball is launched into the second game area 110b. Specifically, for example, in order to cause a game ball to flow down into the first game area 110a, it is necessary to rotate the operation unit 1110 55 degrees in the second direction R2 from the initial position to a first position. On the other hand, when causing a game ball to flow down into the second game area 110b, it is assumed that the rotation angle of the operation unit 1110 at which the game ball's launch intensity is maximum is 100 degrees.

[0167] In this case, the difference in rotation angle of the operating unit 1110 between the first position and the second position where the launch strength of the game ball is maximum is 45 degrees. As described above, eight convex portions 1132a and eight concave portions 1132b are provided at equal intervals on the outer periphery of the operating unit 1110. Therefore, when the phase is shifted by 45 degrees in the rotation direction, the positions of the convex portions 1132a and the concave portions 1132b are the same. In the second embodiment, the positions of the convex portions 1132a and the concave portions 1132b are approximately the same when the game ball is caused to flow down into the first game area 110a and when the game ball is caused to flow down into the second game area 110b. This allows the player to continue playing with the same hand posture regardless of the launch position of the game ball, thereby improving operability and reducing fatigue.

[0168] In the second embodiment, a firing stop button is provided in the casing 1151. A firing stop switch 410s is provided inside the firing stop button, and when a player presses the firing stop button, the firing of game balls is stopped regardless of whether the operation unit 1110 is operated or not. Here, as shown in FIG. 15 , the firing stop buttons include rear firing stop buttons 1153R, 1153L provided on the rear side of the center in the depth direction of the casing 1151, and front firing stop buttons 1155R, 1155L provided on the front side of the center in the depth direction of the casing 1151. The rear firing stop buttons 1153R, 1153L are provided spaced apart from each other in the left-right direction, and the front firing stop buttons 1155R, 1155L are provided spaced apart from each other in the left-right direction. Further, the rear firing stop button 1153R and the rear firing stop button 1153L are provided symmetrically to each other, and the front firing stop buttons 1155R and 1155L are provided symmetrically to each other.

[0169] The rear firing stop button 1153R is located at a position where it can be pressed with the index finger of the right hand when the player is operating the operation unit 1110R with his right hand. Similarly, the rear firing stop button 1153L is located at a position where it can be pressed with the index finger of the left hand when the player is operating the operation unit 1110L with his left hand. Furthermore, the front firing stop button 1155R is located at a position where it can be pressed with the thumb of the right hand when the player is operating the operation unit 1110R with his right hand. Similarly, the front firing stop button 1155L is located at a position where it can be pressed with the thumb of the left hand when the player is operating the operation unit 1110L with his left hand. In this way, by providing four firing stop buttons, operability for the player is improved.

[0170] Next, a description will be given of the base unit 1200. Figure 25 is a diagram showing a state in which the operation unit 1100 is removed from the operation handle unit 1000.

[0171] As shown in FIGS. 14 and 25, the base unit 1200 includes a base portion 1205. The base portion 1205 is made of a flat plate member with an upper surface 1205a facing vertically upward. The upper surface 1205a of the base portion 1205 is provided with grip portions 1210R and 1210L that can be held by a player. The grip portion 1210R is located to the right of the operation portion 1110R on the base portion 1205, and the grip portion 1210L is located to the left of the operation portion 1110L on the base portion 1205. In other words, the grip portions 1210R and 1210L are located on the opposite side of the operation portions 1110R and 1110L from the position (intersection point Is) where the imaginary extension lines VR and VL of the second rotation axes 1122BR and 1122BL, respectively, intersect. The gripping portions 1210R and 1210L are made of the same material and have the same shape, and are provided symmetrically. Therefore, in the following description, when there is no need to distinguish between the gripping portions 1210R and 1210L, they will be referred to as gripping portion 1210.

[0172] FIG. 26 is a diagram illustrating the grip portion 1210. As shown in FIG. 26, the grip portion 1210 has an arcuate surface 1211. The arcuate surface 1211 is the surface that the palm of a player touches when the player holds the base unit 1200. In other words, the base unit 1200 has a pair of grip portions 1210 that can be held by a player. The arcuate surfaces 1211 are shaped so that the player can place their hands with their hands relaxed, and the player can operate the operation unit 1110 with their palms resting on the grip portions 1210.

[0173] 25, hand rests 1220R and 1220L are provided on base 1205. Hand rests 1220R and 1220L are made of the same material and have the same shape, and are provided symmetrically. Therefore, in the following, when hand rests 1220R and 1220L are not to be distinguished from each other, they will be described as hand rests 1220.

[0174] The hand rest 1220 is made of a cushioned material. The hand rest 1220 is provided on the outer side and in front of the gripping portion 1210 in the width direction. This allows the player to place their wrist on the hand rest 1220 with their palm resting on the gripping portion 1210, thereby reducing fatigue.

[0175] Fig. 27 is a cross-sectional view of the operation unit 1100 and the base unit 1200. As shown in Figs. 25 and 27, the base 1205 is provided with storage units 1230R and 1230L. The storage units 1230R and 1230L are formed by holes that penetrate the base 1205 in the vertical direction. The storage unit 1230R is provided adjacent to the left side of the grip unit 1210R, and the storage unit 1230L is provided adjacent to the right side of the grip unit 1210L.

[0176] Furthermore, the storage unit 1230R is located vertically below the operation unit 1110R, and the storage unit 1230L is located vertically below the operation unit 1110L. In other words, the storage unit 1230R is formed at a position facing the operation unit 1110R in the vertical direction, and the storage unit 1230L is formed at a position facing the operation unit 1110L in the vertical direction. The storage units 1230R and 1230L have the same shape, configuration, and function. Therefore, hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between the storage units 1230R and 1230L, the storage units 1230R and 1230L will be described as the storage unit 1230.

[0177] 27, upper surface 1205a of base 1205 is located vertically above a portion of the vertically lower portion of operation unit 1110. More specifically, the distance from upper surface 1205a of base 1205 to second rotation axis 1122B, which is the rotation axis of operation unit 1110, is smaller than the radius of outer circumferential portion 1132 of operation unit 1110. Therefore, a portion of the lower portion of operation unit 1110 is accommodated inside accommodation portion 1230.

[0178] In this way, by inserting a part of the operation unit 1110 into the housing portion 1230 formed in the base portion 1205, the distance between the operation unit 1110 and the base portion 1205 can be shortened. In other words, by providing the housing portion 1230, the vertical height of the operation unit 1110 can be reduced. Therefore, the player can easily hold the operation unit 1110 with the palm of his / her hand resting on the grip portion 1210. In other words, the player can operate the operation unit 1110 with relaxed strength.

[0179] There are no particular limitations on the relative positional relationship in the vertical direction between operation unit 1110 and base unit 1205. Top surface 1205a of base unit 1205 only needs to be located vertically below at least a portion of operation unit 1110. In other words, when operation unit 1110 is housed in housing unit 1230, at least a portion of operation unit 1110 only needs to be located vertically above top surface 1205a.

[0180] Here, the storage section 1230 includes recesses 1231 and 1232. The recess 1231 is a partial range on the front side of the storage section 1230, and part or all of the recess 1231 is located vertically below the portion of the operation unit 1110 that is farthest from the game board 104. In other words, the recess 1231 includes a range of the storage section 1230 that is located vertically below the portion of the operation unit 1110 that is farthest from the game board 104.

[0181] Further, the recess 1231 includes an inclined surface 1231a. The inclined surface 1231a is located at the frontmost side of the storage section 1230, and is a surface that slopes so that its vertical height decreases as it moves from the upper surface 1205a to the back. The shortest distance between the inclined surface 1231a and the operation unit 1110 is, for example, equal to or greater than the diameter of a gaming ball. By providing the recess 1231 and the inclined surface 1231a, the player can, for example, operate the operation unit 1110 by inserting his or her thumb from the inclined surface 1231a into the recess 1231 located below the operation unit 1110.

[0182] The clearance portion 1232 is a partial range on the far side of the storage portion 1230, and part or all of the clearance portion 1232 is located vertically below the portion of the operation unit 1110 that is closest to the game board 104. In other words, the clearance portion 1232 includes a range of the storage portion 1230 that is located vertically below the portion of the operation unit 1110 that is located closest to the game board 104.

[0183] The recess 1232 also includes an inclined surface 1232a. The inclined surface 1232a is located at the innermost side of the storage unit 1230 and is inclined so that its vertical height decreases from the upper surface 1205a toward the front. The shortest distance between the inclined surface 1232a and the operation unit 1110 is, for example, equal to or greater than the diameter of a gaming ball. By providing the recess 1232 and the inclined surface 1232a, a player can operate the operation unit 1110 by inserting, for example, their middle finger or ring finger from the inclined surface 1232a into the recess 1232 located below the operation unit 1110. Thus, according to the second embodiment, the provision of the recesses 1231 and 1232 in the base 1205 reduces player fatigue and improves operability.

[0184] Here, the accommodating portion 1230 is provided in the base portion 1205, but the accommodating portion 1230 is not an essential component. For example, the distance from the upper surface 1205a of the base portion 1205 to the second rotation axis 1122B, which is the rotation axis of the operation unit 1110, may be greater than the radius of the outer circumferential portion 1132 of the operation unit 1110. In this case, the accommodating portion 1230 may not be provided, and the upper surface 1205a may extend vertically below the operation unit 1110. However, even in this case, it is preferable that a relief portion 1231 is provided vertically below the portion of the operation unit 1110 that is farthest from the game board 104. In this case, the relief portion 1231 may be formed as a recess or a hole formed in the upper surface 1205a of the base portion 1205. In this way, regardless of whether or not the storage section 1230 is present, by providing the escape section 1231 vertically below the part of the operating section 1110 that is furthest from the game board 104, it is possible to reduce fatigue and improve operability, as described above.

[0185] In the second embodiment, the case where the recesses 1231 and 1232 are configured as part of the storage section 1230 has been described. However, for example, the recesses 1231 and 1232 may be configured as recesses, and these recesses 1231 and 1232 may be configured to be continuous with the storage section 1230.

[0186] 22, the base unit 1200 may be provided with a vibration unit 1240. The vibration unit 1240 includes, for example, a motor that generates vibrations, and by driving the motor, vibrations are applied to the player via the base unit 1200. By providing the vibration unit 1240, it is possible to improve the presentation effect.

[0187] Although the second preferred embodiment of the present invention has been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to this second embodiment. It is clear that a person skilled in the art can conceive of various modifications or alterations within the scope of the claims, and it is understood that these also naturally fall within the technical scope of the present invention.

[0188] In the second embodiment, the operating handle unit 1000 corresponds to the firing input device of the present invention. In the second embodiment, the operation unit 1110R and the operation unit 1110L correspond to the operation unit of the present invention. In the second embodiment, the base 1205 corresponds to the base of the present invention. In the second embodiment, the recessed portion 1231 and the recessed portion 1232 correspond to the recessed portion of the present invention. In the second embodiment, the storage section 1230 corresponds to the storage section of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0189] 100 gaming machines 104 Game Board 1000 Operating handle unit 1110R operation unit 1110L Operation unit 1205 Base 1210R grip part 1210L grip part 1230 Storage unit 1231 Relief 1232 Relief

Claims

1. A game board on which a game area where game balls flow down is formed; a launch input device that launches game balls into the game area based on the operation of a player; A gaming machine comprising: The firing input device A pair of operation units provided on the front side of the game board and rotatable by a player; a base portion having an upper surface positioned vertically below at least a portion of the operation portion; a recess or hole formed on the top surface of the base; Equipped with A part or all of the relief portion is located vertically below the portion of the operation portion that is farthest from the game board. A gaming machine characterized by:

2. the base portion is provided with a housing portion that houses a part of the operation portion, The recessed portion is continuous with the accommodation portion or is formed as a part of the accommodation portion.

2. The gaming machine according to claim 1 .

Images