Table game device

The table game device addresses the lack of score display by incorporating a display unit and sensor system, automating scoring and enriching gameplay with lighting and sound, thus improving usability and enjoyment.

JP2026075536APending Publication Date: 2026-05-08NIKKEN KK
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
NIKKEN KK
Filing Date
2024-10-22
Publication Date
2026-05-08

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing table game devices lack a score display function, requiring manual counting and making it difficult to understand the game's progress.

Method used

A table game device equipped with a display unit to show scores, a sensor unit to detect goals, and a measuring unit to count points, along with additional features like lighting, projection, and sound units to enhance gameplay experience.

Benefits of technology

Automatically tracks scores and game progress, saving time and effort, and enhances entertainment value through visual and auditory effects.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

Smart Images

  • Figure 2026075536000001_ABST
    Figure 2026075536000001_ABST
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Abstract

To provide a table game device that eliminates the need for manual score counting, saving time and effort, and making the game's progress easy to understand. [Solution] The present invention is a table game device for playing a ball game using legs, and is characterized by comprising: a game table having a table top made of a transparent material; a table side wall made of a transparent material, provided below the table top so as to surround the game table; a game space defined below the table top by at least the table top and the table side wall; a pair of openings provided at opposing positions in the game space; a pair of sheets arranged connected to the pair of openings; and a display unit for displaying scores.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a table game device.

Background Art

[0002] A table game device that allows a soccer game to be played while sitting has been proposed and has been widely popularized as a device that allows a soccer game to be enjoyed easily even indoors (for example, Non-Patent Document 1, Patent Document 1).

[0003] This table game device includes, for example, a game table, a channel-shaped game space defined below the game table, a first sheet connected and disposed at a first opening of the game space, and a second sheet connected and disposed at a second opening of the game space (for example, Patent Document 1).

[0004] Players can insert their legs through the first opening and the second opening at both ends of the channel-shaped game space where the upper surface and the side surface are see-through, and play a soccer game by kicking a ball.

Prior Art Documents

Non-Patent Documents

[0005]

Non-Patent Document 1

Patent Documents

[0006]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0007] However, the table game devices described in Non-Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 1 did not have a score display function, so scores had to be counted manually separately, which was time-consuming and made it difficult to understand the progress of the game.

[0008] The objective of this invention is to provide a table game device that eliminates the need for manual score counting, saving time and effort, and making the game's progress easy to understand. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] These objectives are achieved by the following inventions (1) to (7). (1) A table game device for playing ball games using the legs, A game table with a tabletop made of transparent material, The table side wall portion, located below the table top and surrounding the game table, is made of a transparent material and comprises: Below the tabletop, there is a game space defined by being enclosed at least by the tabletop and the side walls of the table, A pair of openings provided at opposing positions in the aforementioned game space, A pair of sheets arranged connected to each of the aforementioned pair of openings, A table game device characterized by comprising at least a display unit that displays scores.

[0010] (2) The display unit is positioned above the tabletop via a support stand, as described in (1) above, in the table game device.

[0011] (3) The table game device according to (1) or (2) above, further comprising a sensor unit provided on the pair of sheets for sensing when the ball has gone into a goal, and a measuring unit for counting points according to the goal.

[0012] (4) The table game device according to any one of (1) to (3) above, further comprising a lighting unit for illuminating the interior of the game space.

[0013] (5) The table game device according to any one of (1) to (4) above, further comprising a projection unit that is disposed above the table top plate via a support base and projects an image or video toward the table top plate.

[0014] (6) The table game device according to any one of (1) to (5) above, further comprising a sound unit that generates music, voice, or sound effects.

[0015] (7) The table game device according to any one of (1) to (6) above, further comprising a block plate provided on the side of the sheet facing the game table, and moving means for moving the block plate in the vertical or horizontal direction.

Advantages of the Invention

[0016] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a table game device that does not require manual counting of scores, saves labor, and makes the progress of the game easy to understand.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0017] [Figure 1] It is a diagram showing a configuration example of the table game device of the present invention, where (a) is a perspective view and (b) is a top view. [Figure 2] It is a diagram showing a configuration example of the table game device of the present invention, where (a) is a perspective view and (b) is a top view. [Figure 3] It is a perspective view showing an example of use of the table game device of the present invention. [Figure 4] It is a perspective view showing a configuration example of the table game device of the present invention. [Figure 5] It is a perspective view showing a configuration example of the table game device of the present invention. [Figure 6] It is a perspective view showing a configuration example of the table game device of the present invention. [Figure 7] It is a perspective view showing an example of use of the table game device of the present invention. [Figure 8] It is a perspective view showing an example of use of the table game device of the present invention. [Figure 9] It is a perspective view showing an example of use of the table game device of the present invention. [Figure 10] It is a perspective view showing an example of use of the table game device of the present invention. [Figure 11] It is a perspective view showing an example of use of the table game device of the present invention. [Figure 12] It is a perspective view showing an example of use of the table game device of the present invention.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0018] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail. [1] Table game device Hereinafter, the table game device of the present invention will be described.

[0019] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the table game device of the present invention, (a) is a perspective view, and (b) is a top view. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the table game device of the present invention, (a) is a perspective view, and (b) is a top view. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing an example of use of the table game device of the present invention.

[0020] The present invention relates to a table game device 1 for playing a ball game using legs, and is characterized by comprising: a game table 10 having a table top 11 made of a transparent material; a table side wall 20 made of a transparent material, provided below the table top 11 and surrounding the game table 10; a game space 30 defined below the table top 11, enclosed by at least the table top 11 and the table side wall 20; a pair of openings (first opening 31A, second opening 31B) provided at opposing positions in the game space 30; a pair of sheets 40 (first sheet 40A, second sheet 40B) arranged and connected to the pair of openings (first opening 31A, second opening 31B); and a display unit 60 that displays at least the score.

[0021] According to the table game device 1 of the present invention, since it is equipped with a display unit 60 that displays the score, there is no need to manually count the score, saving time and effort, and making it easier to understand the progress of the game.

[0022] In this invention, "transparent" means that one can visually see through a predetermined member from one side to the other side. In other words, "transparent" means that during gameplay, players and spectators can see inside the game space 30 through the table top 11 or the table side wall 20.

[0023] The table game device 1 of this embodiment includes a game table 10 having a table top 11 made of a transparent material and a plurality of table legs 12 that support the table top 11, and a table side wall 20 made of a transparent material that is provided on the underside of the table top 11 and surrounds the game table 10.

[0024] Below the tabletop 11, a channel-shaped game space 30 is defined by a space enclosed at least by the tabletop 11 and the table side wall 20.

[0025] Furthermore, a first opening 31A and a second opening 31B are provided at opposing positions in the game space 30. The first opening 31A and the second opening 31B are, for example, the areas around the underside of the table top 11 where the table side wall 20 is not provided.

[0026] The first sheet 40A is connected to the first opening 31A, and the second sheet 40B is connected to the second opening 31B.

[0027] Then, as shown in Figure 3, the two players PA and PB can, while seated on the first seat 40A and the second seat 40B respectively, insert their legs into the game space 30 through the first opening 31A and the second opening 31B, and play a ball game using their legs, specifically, for example, a soccer game by kicking ball X within the game space 30.

[0028] [1-1] Game Table The game table 10 comprises a tabletop 11 made of a transparent material, and a plurality of table legs 12 that support the tabletop 11.

[0029] The tabletop 11 is arranged to extend horizontally, and the table legs 12 are arranged to extend vertically.

[0030] In this specification, "horizontal," "vertical," and "parallel" do not have a mathematically strict meaning, and some degree of error is acceptable.

[0031] [1-1-1] Tabletop The tabletop 11 is made of a transparent material that is, for example, rigid, flexible, or elastic.

[0032] The transparent components can be formed from, for example, glass, tempered glass, acrylic, plastic, textile, woven fabric, nonwoven fabric, or composite materials thereof.

[0033] The table top 11 is preferably made of a rigid material, such as a transparent plate-like member. This allows the game table 10 to be used as a regular table when not playing games.

[0034] The tabletop 11 only needs to have a transparent portion that allows the game situation in the game space 30 to be recognized, specifically, for example, the position of the ball X in a soccer game, but it does not have to be entirely transparent. For example, the central part of the tabletop 11 may be transparent in a plan view, while the periphery is opaque.

[0035] The tabletop 11 may be made of a net-like or mesh-like material having numerous openings. The interior of the game space 30 can be seen through the numerous openings in the net-like or mesh-like material.

[0036] The plan view shape of the table top 11, or in other words, the plan view shape of the game table 10, is not particularly limited, but from the viewpoint of players PA and PB being positioned opposite each other on either side of the game table 10 while playing, it is preferable that it be an even-numbered polygon shape such as a square or hexagon.

[0037] The example shown in the figure illustrates the case where the table top 11 is rectangular in shape.

[0038] The width of the tabletop 11, in other words, the width of the game table 10, is not particularly limited, but may be 60 cm or more, or 70 cm or more, or 90 cm or more, or even 95 cm or more.

[0039] This means that the distance (spacing) between the pair of table sidewalls 20, 20 may be within the range described above.

[0040] In other words, in the game space 30, the widths of the first opening 31A and the second opening 31B are not particularly limited, but may be 60 cm or more, 70 cm or more, or 90 cm or more.

[0041] This makes it possible to secure an appropriate amount of space for the game in the width direction of the game space 30.

[0042] The length of the table top 11, in other words, the length of the game table 10, is not particularly limited, but may be 100 cm or more, 120 cm or more, 140 cm or more, or even 160 cm or more.

[0043] This means that the distance (spacing) between a pair of opposing ends in the longitudinal direction of the table top 11 may be within the above range.

[0044] In other words, in the game space 30, the distance (spacing) between the first opening 31A and the second opening 31B is not particularly limited, but may be 100 cm or more, 120 cm or more, or 140 cm or more.

[0045] This effectively prevents collisions between players' legs during gameplay and ensures adequate space for the game in the longitudinal direction of the game space 30.

[0046] [1-1-2] Table legs The table legs 12 are provided on the underside of the peripheral edge of the table top 11 and are not particularly limited as long as they support the table top 11 horizontally, but for example, they can be provided on the underside of the corners of a polygonal table top 11.

[0047] The table legs 12 are made of a rigid material such as wood or metal.

[0048] The length of the table legs 12, in other words, the height of the game table 10, is not particularly limited, but may be 55 cm or more, 65 cm or more, or 75 cm or more.

[0049] This means that the top surface of the tabletop 11 or game table 10 is at the aforementioned height from the floor, ground, or table bottom 13.

[0050] In other words, the heights of the first opening 31A and the second opening 31B in the game space 30 are not particularly limited, but may be 55 cm or more, 65 cm or more, or 75 cm or more from the floor, ground, or table bottom surface 13.

[0051] This allows players PA and PB to insert their legs into the game space 30 through the first opening 31A and the second opening 31B of the game space 30 and play the soccer game effectively.

[0052] Furthermore, the length of the table legs 12, in other words, the height of the game table 10, may be adjustable. This allows, for example, the height of the game table 10 to be adjusted to match the height of the players PA, PB, etc.

[0053] Furthermore, by increasing the height of the game table 10, the game can be played even when players PA and PB are standing, as will be explained later.

[0054] [1-2] Side wall section The table side wall 20 is made of a transparent material and is provided to surround the game table 10. The table side wall 20 is arranged to extend in a vertical direction.

[0055] In this embodiment, the table side wall portion 20 is formed of, for example, a transparent member having rigidity, flexibility, or elasticity.

[0056] The transparent components can be formed from, for example, glass, tempered glass, acrylic, plastic, textile, woven fabric, nonwoven fabric, or composite materials thereof.

[0057] The table side wall 20 may be made of a net-like or mesh-like member having a large number of openings. The interior of the game space 30 can be seen through the numerous openings in the net-like or mesh-like member.

[0058] Furthermore, by providing portions where the table side wall portion 20 is not present at opposing positions on the game table 10, the first opening 31A and the second opening 31B are formed.

[0059] In other words, a first opening 31A and a second opening 31B are provided at opposing positions in the game space 30. Players PA and PB insert their legs into the game space 30 through these first openings 31A and 31B to play the game.

[0060] In this embodiment, a rectangular game table 10 is provided with a pair of table sidewalls 20, 20 along a pair of long sides, while the pair of short sides are not provided with table sidewalls 20 and are instead designated as a first opening 31A and a second opening 31B.

[0061] The table side wall portion 20 may be detachably fixed to the game table 10.

[0062] Any known removable fastening structure can be used, such as mechanical fasteners, quick connectors, screws, fins, or Velcro® connections.

[0063] Furthermore, if the table side wall portion 20 is made of a flexible material, it is also possible to roll up the table side wall portion 20.

[0064] This allows, for example, when playing a game by connecting multiple game tables 10 in the width direction, as described later, to connect multiple game spaces 30 to form one large game space 30 by removing or rolling up the table side walls 20.

[0065] The table game device 1 may also have a table bottom portion 13 provided opposite the table top 11 of the game table 10.

[0066] The table bottom surface 13 can be constructed, for example, using a mat or board material that forms the bottom surface of the game space 30 inside the game table 10.

[0067] [1-3] Sheet The table game device 1 includes a pair of seats 40 (first seat 40A and second seat 40B) on which players PA and PB are seated, respectively.

[0068] The first sheet 40A and the second sheet 40B are used together with the game table 10 in the table game device 1.

[0069] The first seat 40A and the second seat 40B allow players PA and PB to sit outside the game space 30 during play, such that their legs are positioned inside the game space 30 through the first opening 31A and the second opening 31B of the game space 30.

[0070] The first sheet 40A and the second sheet 40B have substantially the same configuration. In the following description, the first sheet 40A and the second sheet 40B may be collectively referred to as "sheet 40".

[0071] The seat 40 includes a seat top portion 41 that constitutes the seat surface, a plurality of seat legs 42 positioned below the seat top portion 41 to support the seat top portion 41, a pair of seat side walls 43, 43 positioned on the lower sides of the seat top portion 41, and a seat rear wall portion 44 extending to the lower rear side of the seat top portion 41.

[0072] The seat top portion 41 is arranged to extend horizontally, while the seat legs 42, seat side walls 43, and seat rear wall 44 are arranged to extend vertically.

[0073] Below the sheet top portion 41, a goal space 50 is defined by a space enclosed by at least the sheet top portion 41, the sheet side wall portion 43, and the sheet rear wall portion 44. The portion below the sheet top portion 41 that is not enclosed by the sheet side wall portion 43 and the sheet rear wall portion 44 becomes the goal opening 51 (first goal opening 51A, second goal opening 51B).

[0074] In the following explanation, the first goal opening 51A and the second goal opening 51B may be collectively referred to as "goal opening 51".

[0075] The goal space 50 is enclosed by at least the sheet top portion 41, the sheet side wall portion 43, and the sheet rear wall portion 44, so that the ball X is prevented from flying out of the goal space 50 during gameplay.

[0076] The first sheet 40A is positioned so that the first goal opening 51A faces the first opening 31A of the game space 30, and the second sheet 40B is positioned so that the second goal opening 51B faces the second opening 31B of the game space 30.

[0077] The seat top portion 41 and the seat leg portion 42 are made of a rigid material such as wood or metal.

[0078] The upper surface of the seat top portion 41 may be fitted with cushioning material or the like to improve seating comfort.

[0079] Furthermore, the seat top portion 41 may be flipped up, folded, or detachable from the seat legs 42. This allows players PA and PB to play the game standing up, without sitting on the seat 40, by flipping up, folding, or removing the seat top portion 41.

[0080] The width of the seat top portion 41, in other words, the width of the seat 40, is not particularly limited, but may be 60 cm or more, 70 cm or more, 90 cm or more, or even 95 cm or more.

[0081] This means that the distance (spacing) between the pair of sheet sidewalls 43, 43 may be within the range described above.

[0082] In other words, the width of the goal opening 51 of the goal space 50 is not particularly limited, but may be 60 cm or more, 70 cm or more, or 90 cm or more. This ensures that an appropriate space for the game is secured in the width direction of the goal.

[0083] The length of the seat legs 42, in other words, the height of the seat 40, is not particularly limited, but is preferably between 1 cm and 1000 cm, more preferably between 5 cm and 700 cm, and even more preferably between 10 cm and 400 cm.

[0084] This means that the seat top portion 41 is at the aforementioned height from the floor, ground, or table bottom portion 13.

[0085] The height of the goal opening 51 in the goal space 50 is not particularly limited, but is at least greater than the diameter of the ball X, and is preferably 15 cm to 1000 cm from the floor, ground or table bottom surface 13, more preferably 20 cm to 700 cm, and even more preferably 25 cm to 400 cm.

[0086] This makes it possible to ensure a comfortable seating experience for the seat 40 while also securing the appropriate height and space for gaming. Players PA and PB can comfortably play the game by inserting their legs into the game space 30 while seated in the seat 40.

[0087] Furthermore, the length of the seat legs 42, in other words, the height of the seat 40, may be adjustable. This allows, for example, the height of the seat 40 to be adjusted to match the height of the player PA, PB, etc.

[0088] In the table game device 1, the heights of the first opening 31A and the second opening 31B of the game space 30 are higher than the heights of the first seat 40A and the second seat 40B.

[0089] In other words, the tabletop 11 is positioned higher than the seat top 41. This allows players PA and PB, while seated on the first seat 40A and the second seat 40B, respectively, to insert their legs into the game space 30 through the first opening 31A and the second opening 31B.

[0090] In the table game device 1, the seat 40 is mechanically connected to or fixed to the game table 10.

[0091] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 2(b), a pair of parallel slide rails 45, 45 are connected to the lower part of the game table 10, and the seats 40 are attached to the slide rails 45 so that they can move (slide) along the slide rails 45.

[0092] Then, by sliding the seat 40 along the slide rail 45, the seat 40 can be moved forward (towards the game table 10) and backward (away from the game table 10) with minimal force.

[0093] In Figure 1, the sheet 40 is shown in the position where it is moved backward relative to the game table 10, while in Figure 2, the sheet 40 is shown in the position where it is pulled forward relative to the game table 10.

[0094] The position of the seat 40 relative to the game table 10 can be adjusted as appropriate according to the height and leg length of the players PA and PB.

[0095] The seat 40 may have a chucking mechanism that causes it to sink down due to the weight of the players PA and PB when they sit on it, and to be fixed to the slide rail 45.

[0096] Furthermore, since the sheet 40 is connected to the game table 10, it is possible to effectively prevent the sheet 40 from being taken out or stolen.

[0097] The sheet 40 preferably includes a sensor unit (not shown) that detects when the ball X has gone into the goal opening 51, and a measuring unit (not shown) that is electrically connected to the sensor unit and counts points according to the goal.

[0098] This allows the system to automatically detect when ball X has scored a goal and automatically count the score, eliminating the need for manual score counting. Furthermore, it enables more accurate goal determination compared to visually judging a goal. The score is displayed on the display unit 60.

[0099] The sensor unit includes, for example, a light-emitting sensor located on one of the pair of seat legs 42, 42 on the side facing the game table 10, and a light-receiving sensor located on the other seat leg 42 opposite the light-emitting sensor.

[0100] When ball X enters the goal space 50, the light-receiving sensor detects when the light emitted from the light-emitting sensor is blocked, and determines that a goal has been scored. The light-emitting sensor and the light-receiving sensor must be positioned lower than the height (diameter) of ball X so that the light is blocked as ball X passes between them.

[0101] In the above explanation, we described a case where a light-emitting sensor and a light-receiving sensor are provided as a pair in the sensor unit. However, instead of a light-receiving sensor, a reflector may be provided, and the blockage of light may be detected by receiving the reflected light that returns to the light-emitting sensor after the light emitted from the light-emitting sensor is reflected by the reflector.

[0102] [1-4]Display section The table game device 1 of the present invention includes at least a display unit 60 that displays scores.

[0103] This eliminates the need to manually count scores, saving time and making it easier to understand the game's progress.

[0104] The display unit 60 includes a display panel such as an electronic display device. The display unit 60 is positioned above the tabletop 11, for example, via a support base 61. Preferably, the display unit 60 is visible from both players PA and PB.

[0105] In the example shown in the figure, the display unit 60 is positioned above the center of the tabletop 11 via a support base 61.

[0106] This allows for a clearer display of the game's progress to both players (PA, PB) and spectators.

[0107] The display unit 60 can output a variety of display patterns related to the game being played on the table game device 1. For example, the display unit 60 can display the game score, as well as indications of the start and end of the game, indications that a point has been scored (in other words, an indication that a goal has been scored), the remaining game time, and so on.

[0108] The display unit 60 can enhance the entertainment value experienced by players and spectators by displaying effects that match the game situation, such as at the start of the game, when a goal is scored, and when the game ends.

[0109] [1-5] Lighting section Figure 4 is a perspective view showing one example configuration of the table game device of the present invention.

[0110] As shown in Figure 4, it is preferable that the table game device 1 further includes a lighting unit 70 that illuminates the inside of the game space 30.

[0111] The lighting unit 70 can include, for example, multiple LEDs (light-emitting diodes), blacklights, etc., and can output lighting patterns by blinking the LEDs or by utilizing the hue of the LEDs.

[0112] The lighting unit 70 is positioned, for example, on the underside of the tabletop 11, and can illuminate the inside of the game space 30. This makes the inside of the game space 30 easier to see even when the surroundings are dark, allowing for optimal gameplay.

[0113] Furthermore, the lighting unit 70 may be placed on the tabletop 11 to illuminate the tabletop 11. However, it is not limited to this.

[0114] The lighting unit 70 can output a variety of lighting patterns related to the game played in the table game device 1. For example, by lighting up the inside of the game space 30, various color effects can be created. It is also possible to use black light to make the inside of the game space 30 stand out. For example, by lighting up the inside of the game space 30 in a dark room, the inside of the game space 30 becomes easier to see for the player PA and PB, and it can be made to appear to spectators that the inside of the game space 30 is floating in mid-air.

[0115] The lighting unit 70 can enhance the entertainment value experienced by players and spectators by creating lighting effects that match the game situation, such as at the start of the game, when a goal is scored, and when the game ends.

[0116] [1-6] Projection section Figure 5 is a perspective view showing one example configuration of the table game device of the present invention. Figure 6 is a perspective view showing one example configuration of the table game device of the present invention.

[0117] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the table game device 1 preferably further comprises a projection unit 80 that is positioned above the tabletop 11 via a support base 61 and projects images or videos toward the tabletop 11. In the example shown in the figures, the projection unit 80 is integrally formed with the display unit 60 and is positioned above the center of the tabletop 11 via the support base 61.

[0118] The projection unit 80 can output a variety of video patterns related to the game played in the table game device 1. For example, as shown in Figure 5, projection mapping can be projected onto the upper surface of the table top 11 to create various effects such as scoring effects. Also, as shown in Figure 6, projection mapping can be projected onto the bottom surface of the game space 30 through the transparent table top 11 to create various effects.

[0119] The projection unit 80 can enhance the entertainment value experienced by players and spectators by producing visual effects that match the game situation, such as at the start of the game, when a goal is scored, and when the game ends.

[0120] [1-7] Sound department Furthermore, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, it is preferable that the table game device 1 further includes an acoustic unit 90 that generates music, voices, or sound effects.

[0121] The sound unit 90 includes a speaker that outputs sound and can output a variety of sound patterns related to the game played in the table game device 1.

[0122] The sound unit 90 can enhance the entertainment value experienced by players and spectators by producing sound effects that match the game situation, such as at the start of the game, when a goal is scored, and when the game ends.

[0123] The table game device 1 may also include a control unit (not shown) that controls the entire device. The control unit is, for example, a computer. In the table game device 1, the sensor unit, measurement unit, display unit 60, lighting unit 70, projection unit 80, and sound unit 90 described above are connected to the control unit and controlled by the control unit.

[0124] Furthermore, the table game device 1 may include a coin insertion unit 100 connected to the control unit.

[0125] The coin insertion unit 100 is equipped with a coin slot 101 into which players PA and PB insert coins or other credits. When playable credits are inserted into the coin slot 101, the game becomes playable.

[0126] Furthermore, the coin slot 101 may also be equipped with a banknote dispenser, an electronic money input device, or the like.

[0127] Furthermore, the table game device 1 may be equipped with a start button (not shown) for starting the game, either in place of or alongside the coin insertion unit 100. Pressing the start button will allow you to play the game.

[0128] The table game device 1 of the present invention may be used for commercial (private) purposes in amusement facilities such as game centers, sports facilities, rehabilitation facilities, etc., or it can also be used for home use.

[0129] [2] How to play the game Next, a method for playing a ball game, specifically a soccer game, using the table game device 1 of this embodiment will be described.

[0130] First, the two players, PA and PB, stand by outside the game space 30 at opposite ends of the game space 30, in other words, at the longitudinal ends of the game table 10.

[0131] Players PA and PB enter with seat 40 moved backward, then pull seat 40 forward and take their seats in the first seat 40A and the second seat 40B, respectively.

[0132] Since the seat 40 and the game table 10 are connected by a slide rail 45, the seat 40 can be slid back and forth relative to the game table 10 with minimal effort.

[0133] When the player PA and PB sit down, seat 40 sinks down due to the weight of the player PA and PB and is fixed to the slide rail 45.

[0134] When the required number of coins are inserted into the coin slot 101 of the coin insertion unit 100, music plays, the display unit 60 lights up, and the game begins. Alternatively, the game can be started by pressing the start button. The remaining game time is then displayed on the display unit 60.

[0135] The actual game takes place within the game space 30, using the legs. As shown in Figure 3, players PA and PB insert their legs into the game space 30 through the first opening 31A and the second opening 31B at both ends of the game space 30, respectively, and kick the ball X into the opponent's goal space 50. The goal space 50 is defined below the opponent's sheet 40. They also use their legs to defend the ball X kicked by the opponent from entering their own goal space 50.

[0136] The game space 30 is enclosed by the table top 11 and the table side walls 20, preventing the ball X from flying out of the game space 30. Furthermore, the transparent table top 11 allows players (PA, PB) and spectators to visually view the inside of the game space 30 from above the game table 10. Additionally, the transparent table side walls 20 allow players (PA, PB) and spectators to visually view the inside of the game space 30 from the side of the game table 10.

[0137] Therefore, players PA and PB do not need to be inside the game space 30, or look into the game space 30 through the first opening 31A and the second opening 31B, as they can still play the game while checking the game status.

[0138] When the ball X is placed into the opponent's goal space 50 and a goal is scored, the sensor unit detects it and the score is displayed on the display unit 60. The display unit 60 displays, for example, your score, the opponent's score, and the remaining game time.

[0139] The goal space 50 is surrounded by at least the sheet top portion 41, the sheet side wall portion 43, and the sheet rear wall portion 44, so that the ball X is prevented from flying out of the goal space 50. When the remaining time in the game reaches 0, music will play and the game will end.

[0140] Table game device 1, as shown in Figures 4 to 6, for example, can effectively enhance the entertainment value experienced by players and spectators by coordinating various effects such as lighting, sound, and video in accordance with the game situation, such as at the start of the game, when a score is made (goal is scored), and when the game ends.

[0141] Thus, in the table game device 1 of the present invention, the enclosed game space 30 prevents the ball X from flying out, making it possible to easily play a soccer game indoors.

[0142] In particular, the table game device 1 of the present invention is equipped with at least a display unit 60 that displays the score, eliminating the need to manually count the score, saving time and effort, and making it easier to understand the progress of the game.

[0143] Furthermore, players PA and PB can play the game while seated in Seat 40, allowing them to exercise their legs and lower body. This means that people with limited leg mobility or limited ability to support their body with their legs can also play the soccer game while seated in Seat 40. This is suitable for rehabilitation or exercise for people with leg or lower body injuries.

[0144] <Ball shape> The shape of the ball X used in the game is not particularly limited; for example, in addition to a spherical shape, a rugby-shaped ball or other similar balls can also be used.

[0145] Furthermore, the ball X may have an IC chip embedded in it, for example. This would prevent the ball X from being taken outside, for example, by a detector installed at the entrance gate of the room where the table game device 1 is installed detecting the IC chip and sounding a warning.

[0146] Figure 7 is a perspective view showing an example of the use of the table game device of the present invention. Furthermore, when not playing a game, the table game device 1 can be used as a regular table and seat set, as shown in Figure 7.

[0147] The game table 10 and seat 40 are height-adjustable, so they can be raised to suit different situations. For example, the game table 10 and seat 40 can be raised and used as a counter table and stool.

[0148] [2-1] Tall type Figure 8 is a perspective view showing an example of the use of the table game device of the present invention.

[0149] The above description described the case where the player plays the game while seated on seat 40, but in the table game device 1 of this embodiment, it is also possible for the player to play the game while standing.

[0150] As shown in Figure 8, by flipping up or folding the seat top portion 41 of the seat 40 backward relative to the seat legs 42, a space is created where the seat top portion 41 was, allowing players PA and PB to play the game while standing.

[0151] Furthermore, the game table 10 is height-adjustable, and by raising the height of the game table 10, it becomes possible to play games while standing.

[0152] The height of the game table 10 is not particularly limited and can be set appropriately to suit the height of the players (PA, PB, etc.).

[0153] Furthermore, the game may be played with the tabletop 11 removed from the table legs 12 on the game table 10. This makes the inside of the game space 30 easier to see even from a high position, allowing for a more optimal gameplay experience.

[0154] [2-2] Single-player mode Furthermore, the table game device 1 of the present invention can also be played by one person.

[0155] The following describes a case where one person plays a game using the table game device 1 of the present invention.

[0156] Figure 9 is a perspective view showing an example of use of the table game device of the present invention. Figure 10 is a perspective view showing an example of use of the table game device of the present invention.

[0157] In single-player mode, for example, the game is played with the top part 41 of the opponent's sheet 40, for example, the second sheet 40B, flipped up.

[0158] By blocking the upper side of the second opening 31B with the raised seat top portion 41, the ball X is effectively prevented from flying out of the second opening 31B.

[0159] The sheet 40 further includes a block plate 52 provided on the side facing the game table 10, and a means (not shown) for moving the block plate 52 in the vertical or horizontal direction.

[0160] When the game starts, the remaining game time is displayed on the display unit 60, and the block plate 52 begins to move up and down or left and right. Figure 10 shows an example where the block plate 52 moves in the up and down direction.

[0161] Because the ball X is blocked by the block board 52, the ball X will not enter the goal space 50 unless it is kicked with good timing and aim. In single-player mode, the goal is to score as many points as possible within the time limit. The display unit 60 shows the player's score and the remaining game time.

[0162] [2-3] Large group mode Furthermore, in the table game device 1 of the present invention, multiple game tables 10 can be connected in the width direction to allow more than two people to play.

[0163] The following describes how to play a game with a large number of people using the table game device 1 of the present invention.

[0164] Figure 11 is a perspective view showing an example of use of the table game device of the present invention. Figure 12 is a perspective view showing an example of use of the table game device of the present invention.

[0165] When multiple game tables 10 are brought together with their side walls 20 facing each other, the inner side walls 20 are rolled up or removed, and the multiple game tables 10 are connected in the width direction. As a result, multiple game spaces 30 are connected to form one large game space 30.

[0166] Figure 11 shows a case where two game tables 10 are connected and two players each play a game, while Figure 12 shows a case where four game tables 10 are connected and four players each play a game. Then, multiple players kick ball X back and forth, aiming for the opponent's goal.

[0167] There is no limit to the number of Game Table 10s that can be connected, and any number can be linked together, making it possible to have matches between teams of two or more players. Multiple players can kick ball X back and forth, and a point can be scored regardless of which goal it lands in on the opponent's side.

[0168] In this case, the number of balls X used may be one or multiple balls. The number of balls can be changed as appropriate depending on the number of connected game tables 10 and the number of players. The difficulty of the game can be changed by the number of balls used.

[0169] Although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0170] For example, the table game device of the present invention may have components other than those described above.

[0171] Furthermore, the method of playing games using the table game device of the present invention is not limited to the examples described above. [Industrial applicability]

[0172] According to the table game device of the present invention, since it is equipped with at least a display unit that shows the score, there is no need to manually count the score, saving time and effort, and the progress of the game becomes easier to understand.

[0173] Therefore, the table game device of the present invention has industrial applicability as a table game device for amusement facilities, sports facilities, homes, etc. [Explanation of symbols]

[0174] 1 Table game device 10 Game Tables 11 Tabletop 12 Table legs 13 Table bottom 20 Table side wall 30 Game Spaces 31A 1st opening 31B 2nd opening 40 sheets 40A 1st Sheet 40B, Seat 2 41. Seat top section 42 Seat Legs 43. Side wall of the seat 44 Rear wall section of the seat 45 slide rails 50 Goal Space 51 Goal opening 51A First Goal Opening 51B Second Goal Opening 52 Block boards 60 Display section 61 Support stand 70 Lighting Section 80 Projection section 90 Sound department 100 Coin Insertion Unit 101 Coin slot PA Player PB Player X Ball

Claims

1. A table game device for playing ball games using the legs, A game table with a tabletop made of transparent material, The table side wall portion, located below the table top and surrounding the game table, is made of a transparent material and comprises: Below the tabletop, there is a game space defined by being enclosed at least by the tabletop and the side walls of the table, A pair of openings provided at opposing positions in the aforementioned game space, A pair of sheets arranged connected to each of the aforementioned pair of openings, A table game device characterized by comprising at least a display unit that displays scores.

2. The table game device according to claim 1, wherein the display unit is positioned above the tabletop via a support stand.

3. The table game device according to claim 1, further comprising a sensor unit provided on the pair of sheets for detecting when the ball has gone into a goal, and a measuring unit for counting points according to the goal.

4. The table game device according to claim 1, further comprising a lighting unit for illuminating the interior of the game space.

5. The table game device according to claim 1, further comprising a projection unit positioned above the tabletop via a support base and projecting an image or video toward the tabletop.

6. The table game device according to claim 1, further comprising an acoustic unit for generating music, voice, or sound effects.

7. The table game device according to claim 1, further comprising a block plate provided on the side of the sheet facing the game table, and a means for moving the block plate in an up-and-down or left-and-right direction.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Game Tables and Gaming Devices

    JP2021508573A