Gaming machine

Abstract

To improve usability. [Solution] The game board has a game area formed in front of it through which game balls flow down; a launch input device 200 provided on the front side of the game board and having a rotating operation part 202a that is rotatable around a rotation axis extending in a direction perpendicular to the front of the game board, and launches game balls into the game area with an intensity corresponding to the amount of rotation of the rotating operation part; and a plurality of operation parts 222, 224, 232, 234 provided between the rotating operation part and the front of the game board, each having a different purpose, and the plurality of operation parts are provided in a position where they can be operated by fingers different from the fingers of the player that are in contact with the rotating operation part.

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] For example, as disclosed in Patent Document 1, there is known a gaming machine provided with a shooting input device having a pair of rotary operation parts rotatable around a rotation shaft extending in the width direction. [Prior Art Literature] [Patent Literature]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2023-63628 [Summary of the Invention] [Problem to be Solved by the Invention]

[0004] In a gaming machine, various operation parts are provided, such as an operation part that accepts operations for changing volume and light intensity, and an operation part that requests rental of game balls. It is extremely complicated to input operations to these operation parts while performing a shooting operation for game balls, and there is a demand for improving the operability for players.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of improving operability. [Means for Solving the Problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above problem, the gaming machine of the present invention: a game board having a game area where game balls flow down formed on a front face thereof, a shooting input device provided on a front side of the game board, having a rotary operation part rotatable around a rotation shaft extending in a direction intersecting a direction perpendicular to the front face of the game board, and configured to shoot a game ball into the game area with an intensity corresponding to a rotation amount of the rotary operation part, and a plurality of operation parts provided between the rotary operation part and the front face of the game board, the plurality of operation parts having different uses from each other, Equipped with, The aforementioned plurality of operating units are It is positioned so that it can be operated by a finger different from the player's finger that is in contact with the aforementioned rotating operating part. It is characterized by the following:

[0007] Furthermore, the rotating operating part may be provided with a fixing part adjacent to it in the direction of the rotation axis, and which can be touched by the hand of the player operating the rotating operating part.

[0008] To solve the above problems, the gaming machine of the present invention is: A game board with a game area formed in front through which game balls flow, A launch input device is provided on the front side of the game board and has a rotational operating part that is rotatable around a rotation axis extending in a direction perpendicular to the front of the game board, and launches game balls into the game area with an intensity corresponding to the amount of rotation of the rotational operating part. A fixing portion is provided adjacent to the rotation operating portion in the direction of the rotation axis, A plurality of operating units, each with a different purpose, are provided between the rotating operating unit and the fixed unit and the front of the game board. Equipped with, The aforementioned plurality of operating units are A plane perpendicular to the rotation axis, passing through the boundary between the rotation operation part and the fixed part, or between the rotation operation part and the fixed part, and located on the fixed part side of a virtual plane that intersects with the front of the game board, It is characterized by the following:

[0009] Furthermore, the aforementioned multiple operating units are A first operating unit is located on a first substrate, and a second operating unit is located on a second substrate different from the first substrate. It may include.

[0010] Furthermore, the first operating section may be provided at a position that is at a different vertical height from the second operating section.

[0011] Further, the first surface on which the first operating unit is provided may have a different inclination angle from the second surface on which the second operating unit is provided. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] According to the present invention, operability can be improved. [Brief Description of the Drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] It is a front view of the main body frame of a gaming machine. [Figure 2] It is a front view of the front door of a gaming machine. [Figure 3] It is a front view of a game board. [Figure 4] It is a block diagram of a gaming machine. [Figure 5] It is a diagram explaining a frame control board. [Figure 6] It is a diagram explaining a sub control board. [Figure 7] It is a perspective view of the front door of a gaming machine. [Figure 8] It is a side view of the front door of a gaming machine. [Figure 9] It is a partially enlarged view of FIG. 2. [Mode for Carrying Out the Invention]

[0014] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Dimensions, materials, other specific numerical values and the like shown in these embodiments are merely exemplifications for facilitating the understanding of the invention, and do not limit the present invention unless otherwise specified. In the present specification and the drawings, elements having substantially the same function and configuration are denoted by the same reference numerals to omit duplicate description, and elements not directly related to the present invention are omitted from illustration.

[0015] Figure 1 is a front view of the main frame 101 of the gaming machine 100, and Figure 2 is a front view of the front door 102 of the gaming machine 100. The gaming machine 100 comprises the main frame 101 shown in Figure 1 and the front door 102 shown in Figure 2. In the gaming machine 100, the front door 102 is supported on the front side of the main frame 101 so as to be openable and closable. The main frame 101 holds the game board 104, which will be described later. Also, as shown in Figure 2, the front door 102 holds a transparent plate 106. When the front door 102 is closed relative to the main frame 101, the transparent plate 106 faces the game board 104 while maintaining a predetermined distance.

[0016] Figure 3 is a front view of the game board 104. A game area 110 is formed on the front side of the game board 104, that is, on the side of the transparent plate 106 of the game board 104. In other words, the game area 110 is the space formed in the gap between the game board 104 and the transparent plate 106, and is an area in which game balls can flow or roll. The game board 104 is equipped with numerous nails and windmills, and game balls guided into the game area 110 collide with the nails and windmills, causing them to flow or roll in irregular directions.

[0017] The game area 110 comprises a first game area 110a and a second game area 110b, which differ in the degree to which game balls enter each other depending on the launch intensity of the launch input device 200 described later. The first game area 110a is located on the left side of the game area 110 as viewed from a player facing the game machine 100, and the second game area 110b is located on the right side of the game area 110 as viewed from a player facing the game machine 100. Rails 112a and 112b are provided on the left side of the game board 104, and game balls launched by the launch input device 200 are guided by rails 112a and 112b to enter the game area 110. At this time, game balls launched with a launch intensity below a predetermined intensity enter the first game area 110a, and game balls launched with a launch intensity of the predetermined intensity or higher enter the second game area 110b.

[0018] Furthermore, the game area 110 is provided with a general prize entry point 118, a first start entry point 120, and a second start entry point 122 into which game balls can be entered. When a game ball enters one of these general prize entry points 118, the first start entry point 120, or the second start entry point 122, a predetermined number of prize balls are dispensed to the player. The number of prize balls dispensed can be any number, one or more, and the number of prize balls dispensed from each of the general prize entry point 118, the first start entry point 120, and the second start entry point 122 may be different or the same. In this case, it is also possible to set the number of prize balls dispensed when a game ball enters the first start entry point 120 to be less than the number of prize balls dispensed when a game ball enters the second start entry point 122.

[0019] Although a detailed explanation will be omitted, when a game ball enters the first starting port 120 or the second starting port 122, a special symbol lottery is held to determine one of several pre-determined special symbols. Each special symbol is associated with various game benefits, such as whether or not a major or minor winning game that is advantageous to the player can be performed, and what kind of game state the subsequent game will be in. Therefore, when a game ball enters the first starting port 120 or the second starting port 122, the player not only wins a predetermined number of prize balls but also gains the opportunity to acquire the right to receive various game benefits.

[0020] The first starting opening 120 is located below the game area 110, and is either accessible only to game balls flowing down the first game area 110a, or is positioned in such a location that game balls entering the first game area 110a are more likely to enter than game balls entering the second game area 110b.

[0021] Furthermore, the second starting port 122 is located in the second game area 110b, and only game balls flowing down the second game area 110b can enter it, or the port is positioned in such a way that game balls entering the second game area 110b are more likely to enter than game balls entering the first game area 110a.

[0022] The second starting port 122 is composed of a variable starting port (variable starting prize device) having a movable piece 122b, and the ease with which game balls can enter the second starting port 122 is variable. Normally, the movable piece 122b is retracted into the back side of the game board 108. In this state, the second starting port 122 is closed, and game balls flow down the front side of the movable piece 122b, making it impossible or difficult for game balls to enter the second starting port 122.

[0023] In contrast, when a game ball passes through the gate 124 located in the second game area 110b, a regular lottery is held. If a winner is selected in this regular lottery, an auxiliary game is performed in which the movable piece 122b is controlled to be open for a predetermined time. During the auxiliary game, the movable piece 122b protrudes to the front side of the game board 108, making it easier for the game ball to enter the second starting opening 122.

[0024] Furthermore, the first large prize opening 126 and the second large prize opening 128 are positioned at least in a location where game balls flowing down the second game area 110b can enter. Specifically, the first large prize opening 126 is located above the second starting opening 122 in the second game area 110b. The second large prize opening 128 is located below the second starting opening 122 in the second game area 110b.

[0025] The first major prize slot 126 is equipped with a movable piece 126b that can be opened and closed. Normally, the movable piece 126b closes the first major prize slot 126, making it impossible for game balls to enter it. When a major prize game is started, the movable piece 126b opens, allowing game balls to enter the first major prize slot 126.

[0026] Furthermore, the second large prize slot 128 is equipped with a movable piece 128b that can be opened and closed. Normally, the movable piece 128b closes the second large prize slot 128, making it impossible for game balls to enter it. When a minor prize is awarded, the movable piece 128b opens, allowing game balls to enter the second large prize slot 128.

[0027] At the bottom of the game area 110, there is an outlet 130 that discharges game balls that do not enter any of the general prize pockets 118, the first start pocket 120, the second start pocket 122, the first major prize pocket 126, or the second major prize pocket 128 from the game area 110 to the back side of the game board 108.

[0028] Returning to Figure 2, a launch input device 200 is provided at the bottom of the gaming machine 100. The launch input device 200 is located approximately in the center of the width direction of the gaming machine 100, and is also located vertically below the transparent plate 106. Furthermore, the launch input device 200 is located on the front side of the transparent plate 106. The launch input device 200 is spaced apart from the transparent plate 106 in the depth direction of the gaming machine 100.

[0029] The launch input device 200 includes a pair of rotary operating parts 202a and 202b. Rotary operating part 202a is located to the right of the center in the width direction of the gaming machine 100 when viewed from the front, and rotary operating part 202b is located to the left of the center in the width direction of the gaming machine 100 when viewed from the front. Although a detailed explanation is omitted, rotary operating parts 202a and 202b are each connected to a rotating shaft and are rotatable around the rotating shaft. The axial directions of the rotating shafts of rotary operating parts 202a and 202b intersect with each other, but these two rotating shafts are connected via gears. As a result, when rotational power is applied to one of the rotary operating parts 202a or 202b, the rotational power is transmitted to the other rotary operating part 202a or 202b via both rotating shafts and gears. In other words, rotary operating parts 202a and 202b rotate as a single unit.

[0030] Here, the rotation axes of the rotary operation units 202a and 202b extend substantially horizontally. However, the axial directions of the rotation axes of the rotary operation units 202a and 202b are not parallel to the width direction of the gaming machine 100. Specifically, the axial direction of the rotation axis of the rotary operation unit 202a approaches the front door 102 as it moves to the left side of the gaming machine 100, and moves away from the front door 102 as it moves to the right side of the gaming machine 100. Similarly, the axial direction of the rotation axis of the rotary operation unit 202b approaches the front door 102 as it moves to the right side of the gaming machine 100, and moves away from the front door 102 as it moves to the left side of the gaming machine 100. Note that the angle at which the rotary operation units 202a and 202b intersect the horizontal direction is not particularly limited. For example, the rotation axes of the rotary operation units 202a and 202b may extend along the horizontal direction. In any case, the rotating operation units 202a and 202b only need to be provided on the front side of the game board 104 and be rotatable around a rotation axis that extends in a direction perpendicular to the front of the game board 104 and intersects with it.

[0031] Fixed parts 204a and 204b are provided on the outer side in the width direction of the gaming machine 100, beyond the rotating operation parts 202a and 202b, respectively. That is, the fixed parts 204a and 204b are provided adjacent to the rotating operation parts 202a and 202b in the direction of the rotation axis. Specifically, fixed part 204a is provided to the right of the rotating operation part 202a, and fixed part 204b is provided to the left of the rotating operation part 202b. Furthermore, fixed parts 204a and 204b have a curved shape that bulges outward in the width direction of the gaming machine 100. Fixed parts 204a and 204b are configured so that the hands of a player operating the rotating operation parts 202a and 202b can reach them.

[0032] When operating the rotating control unit 202a, the player rotates the rotating control unit 202a with two to three fingers of their right hand hooked onto it. At this time, the palm of the player's right hand makes contact with the fixed part 204a, covering it. Similarly, when operating the rotating control unit 202b, the player rotates the rotating control unit 202b with two to three fingers of their left hand hooked onto it. At this time, the palm of the player's left hand makes contact with the fixed part 204b, covering it. In this way, the player can operate the rotating control units 202a and 202b with their hands resting on the fixed parts 204a and 204b, thereby reducing fatigue.

[0033] Furthermore, the player can increase the firing intensity by rotating the front side of the rotating control unit 202a and 202b upwards and the back side (towards the game board 104) downwards. Conversely, the player can decrease the firing intensity by rotating the front side of the rotating control unit 202a and 202b downwards and the back side upwards.

[0034] The firing input device 200 also includes firing stop buttons 206a and 206b. The firing stop button 206a is positioned adjacent to the rotary operating unit 202a in the direction of the rotation axis. The firing stop button 206a is located on the opposite side of the rotation axis from the fixed unit 204a, with the rotary operating unit 202a as the boundary. Similarly, the firing stop button 206b is positioned adjacent to the rotary operating unit 202b in the direction of the rotation axis. The firing stop button 206b is located on the opposite side of the rotation axis from the fixed unit 204b, with the rotary operating unit 202b as the boundary.

[0035] The launch stop buttons 206a and 206b accept the player's command to stop launching. When a launch stop command is input to either of the launch stop buttons 206a or 206b, the launch of the game balls stops, regardless of the operating angle of the rotation control units 202a and 202b.

[0036] Furthermore, a performance input device 210 is provided in the center of the width direction of the gaming machine 100, between the launch input device 200 and the transparent plate 106. The performance input device 210 is designed to be tiltable, and a performance button 210a is provided at its tip. The performance input device 210 can be operated in accordance with various performances during gameplay, and various performances proceed based on the operation input to the performance input device 210.

[0037] Furthermore, the front door 102 is equipped with a speaker 212 and a lamp 214. Although not shown in the illustration, the game board 104 is also equipped with numerous lamps 214g. During gameplay, sound such as background music is output from the speaker 212, and the lamps 214 are controlled to light up. Additionally, the front door 102 is equipped with a liquid crystal display device 502, which will be described later. The liquid crystal display device 502 is located on the back side of the game board 104. A through-hole is provided in the center of the game board 104, allowing the player to view the liquid crystal display device 502 from the front side of the game machine 100 through the through-hole. The liquid crystal display device 502 displays, for example, an image that suggests the likelihood of winning a big win or a small win in the special symbol lottery described above, and executing a big win game or a small win game. Along with the display of such an image, sound is output from the speaker 212, and the lamps 214 are controlled to light up.

[0038] In this embodiment, the player can make various settings related to the effects. These settings include, for example, setting the volume of the sound output from the speaker 212, setting the light intensity of the liquid crystal display device 502, and setting the appearance rate of various other effects. The front door 102 is provided with a first base surface 220, and the first base surface 222 is provided with a first operation unit 222, a second operation unit 224, and a third operation unit 226.

[0039] The first base surface 220 is located on the right side in the width direction of the gaming machine 100. More specifically, the first base surface 220 is located to the right of the launch input device 200 and at a distance from the launch input device 200. Here, the vertical height of the first base surface 220 is within the range of the heights of the rotating operation sections 202a, 202b and the fixed sections 204a, 204b.

[0040] Furthermore, the first operation unit 222 is located furthest to the launch input device 200 among the three operation units provided on the first base surface 220. Here, as an example, the first operation unit 222 receives volume adjustment operations to adjust the volume. The second operation unit 224 is located in the center of the width direction of the gaming machine 100 among the three operation units provided on the first base surface 220. The second operation unit 224 is positioned to the right of the first operation unit 222, maintaining a small gap between them. Here, as an example, the second operation unit 224 receives light intensity adjustment operations to adjust the light intensity.

[0041] The third control unit 226 is located furthest from the launch input device 200 among the three control units provided on the first base surface 220. The third control unit 226 consists of so-called directional buttons, including left, right, up, and down buttons. By operating the third control unit 226 at a predetermined timing, the player can display a menu screen on the liquid crystal display device 502 and set the appearance rate of various effects according to the menu screen.

[0042] Furthermore, the gaming machine 100 of this embodiment is a so-called managed gaming machine in which the lending of gaming balls used in the game and the management of gaming balls held by players are performed electronically. The gaming machine 100 is connected to a dedicated unit 450, which will be described later. The dedicated unit 450 includes, for example, a banknote slot for inserting banknotes, a card slot for inserting IC cards, and an LCD display that shows the remaining balance, etc. Based on the player's operation, the dedicated unit 450 updates the balance on the IC card and lends out gaming balls. The dedicated unit 450 is also connected to the hall computer of the gaming arcade and transmits gaming machine information, etc. from the gaming machine 100 to the hall computer.

[0043] The front door 102 is provided with a second base surface 230, on which the fourth operation section 232 and the fifth operation section 234 are provided. The second base surface 230 is located between the game board 104 and the transparent plate 106 and the launch input device 200 (rotation operation section 202a). In other words, in the game machine 100, the launch input device 200 (rotation operation sections 202a, 202b), the second base surface 230, the transparent plate 106, and the game board 104 are arranged in order from the front to the back. Furthermore, the second base surface 230 is located vertically above the launch input device 200 and the first base surface 220.

[0044] Furthermore, the fourth operation unit 232 and the fifth operation unit 234 are arranged side by side in the width direction of the gaming machine 100. Here, the fourth operation unit 232 is located on the central side in the width direction of the gaming machine 100, and the fifth operation unit 234 is located on the outer side in the width direction of the gaming machine 100. Here, as an example, the fourth operation unit 232 receives a loan operation to request the loan of gaming balls. When a loan operation is input to the fourth operation unit 232, loan request information is transmitted from the gaming machine 100 to the dedicated unit 450. When the dedicated unit 450 receives the loan request information, the balance on the IC card is updated and gaming balls are loaned out.

[0045] As an example, the fifth operation unit 234 receives a counting operation requesting the counting of game balls. When a counting operation is input to the fifth operation unit 234, counting request information is transmitted from the gaming machine 100 to the dedicated unit 450. Upon receiving the counting request information, the dedicated unit 450 counts the number of game balls held by the player.

[0046] Figure 4 is a block diagram of the gaming machine 100. The gaming machine 100 comprises a main control board 300A, a frame control board 400A, and a sub-control board 500A. The main control board 300A controls the basic operation of the game, i.e., the progress of the game. The main control board 300A comprises a main CPU 300a, a main ROM 300b, and a main RAM 300c. The main CPU 300a reads the program stored in the main ROM 300b and performs calculations based on input signals from various detection switches and timers, and also directly controls various devices and displays, or sends commands to other boards according to the results of the calculations. The main RAM 300c functions as a data work area during calculations performed by the main CPU 300a.

[0047] The gaming machine 100 is broadly divided into two types: special games, which are mainly started by the entry of game balls into the first start port 120 or the second start port 122, and regular games, which are started when game balls pass through the gate 124. The main ROM 300b of the main control board 300A stores various programs for running the special games and regular games, as well as data and tables necessary for each type of game.

[0048] The main control board 300A is connected to the following: a general prize entry detection switch 118s for detecting when a game ball enters the general prize entry

[0049] Furthermore, the main control board 300A is connected to a standard electric mechanism solenoid 122c that operates the movable piece 122b of the second start opening 122, a first large prize opening solenoid 126c that operates the opening / closing door 126b that opens and closes the first large prize opening 126, and a second large prize opening solenoid 128c that operates the opening / closing door 128b that opens and closes the second large prize opening 128. Thus, the main control board 300A controls the opening and closing of the second start opening 122, the first large prize opening 126, and the second large prize opening 128.

[0050] Furthermore, the main control board 300A is connected to multiple displays that show the progress of the game managed by the main control board 300A. Here, each of these displays is referred to as the main display unit 140. The main control board 300A controls the display of the main display units 140. Note that Figure 4 shows only some of the various devices connected to the main control board 300A; many other devices are also connected to the main control board 300A.

[0051] Furthermore, the frame control board 400A and the sub-control board 500A are connected to the main control board 300A.

[0052] The frame control board 400A includes a frame control CPU 400a, a frame control ROM 400b, and a frame control RAM 400c. Together with the main control board 300A, the frame control board 400A performs various controls related to the progress of the game, such as controls for launching game balls and controls for dispensing prize balls. The frame control board 400A is connected to the main control board 300A in a way that allows for bidirectional communication.

[0053] The sub-control board 500A includes a sub-CPU 500a, a sub-ROM 500b, and a sub-RAM 500c. The sub-control board 500A primarily controls the game's visual effects during gameplay.

[0054] Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating the frame control board 400A. The frame control board 400A is equipped with a firing intensity volume 402. The firing intensity volume 402 controls the current value of the firing solenoid 404c, which will be described later, and fires the game balls with a firing intensity determined based on the rotation direction and rotation angle of the rotation operation units 202a and 202b.

[0055] Furthermore, the frame control board 400A is connected to a firing solenoid 404c, a firing stop switch 206s, a touch sensor 408s, a rotary encoder 410, a fourth operation unit detection sensor 232s, a fifth operation unit detection sensor 234s, and a dedicated unit 450.

[0056] The launch solenoid 404c is installed in the launch input device 200 and launches game balls toward the game area 110. This ensures that game balls are launched during gameplay within the limits of the number of game balls the player possesses. The launch solenoid 404c is controlled by the frame control board 400A.

[0057] The launch stop switch 206s detects the player's launch stop operation on the launch stop buttons 206a and 206b provided on the launch input device 200. When the launch stop buttons are operated, the launch of game balls is stopped regardless of the operation of the rotation operation units 202a and 202b.

[0058] The touch sensor 408s is provided on the rotary operation units 202a and 202b and detects when the player's hand is touching the rotary operation units 202a and 202b.

[0059] The rotary encoder 410 detects the rotation direction and rotation angle of the rotary operating units 202a and 202b. If a magnetic rotary encoder is used as the rotary encoder 410, the amount of rotation ("rotation angle") is detected based on a pulse signal obtained from an internal sensor. In this case, the "rotation angle" may also be determined on the frame control board 400A side based on the rotation direction of the detected object (e.g., a gear-shaped magnetic body) and the number of input signals based on the detection. Furthermore, if an optical rotary encoder is used as the rotary encoder 410, and it is an incremental encoder type, the rotation angle is detected based on the number of input pulse signals, similar to the magnetic type. Alternatively, an absolute encoder type that outputs the absolute value of the rotation amount (rotation angle) may be used as the optical rotary encoder.

[0060] The fourth operation unit detection sensor 232s is installed on the fourth operation unit 232 and detects the player's lending operation to the fourth operation unit 232. The fifth operation unit detection sensor 234s is installed on the fifth operation unit 234 and detects the player's counting operation to the fifth operation unit 234. When the frame control board 400A receives a detection signal from the fourth operation unit detection sensor 232s, it transmits lending request information to the dedicated unit 450. Also, when the frame control board 400A receives a detection signal from the fifth operation unit detection sensor 234s, it transmits counting request information to the dedicated unit 450.

[0061] The dedicated unit 450 is connected to the frame control board 400A in a bidirectional manner. When the dedicated unit 450 receives a loan request, it executes a process to loan out game balls and transmits loan completion information to the frame control board 400A. Also, when the dedicated unit 450 receives a counting request, it executes a process to count the number of game balls held by the player and transmits counting completion information to the frame control board 400A.

[0062] Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating the sub-control board 500A. The sub-control board 500A is connected to the following: the performance input device detection sensor 210s, the speaker 212, the lamp 214, the liquid crystal display device 502, the first operation unit detection sensor 222s, the second operation unit detection sensor 224s, and the third operation unit detection sensor 226s.

[0063] The performance input device detection sensor 210s is installed on the performance input device 210 and detects the tilting operation of the performance input device 210 and the pressing operation of the performance button 210a.

[0064] Furthermore, the sub-control board 500A controls the sound output of the speaker 212, the illumination of the lamp 214, and the image display of the liquid crystal display device 502 based on commands received from the main control board 500A.

[0065] The first operation unit detection sensor 222s is provided on the first operation unit 222 and detects the player's volume adjustment operation on the first operation unit 222. When the sub-control board 500A receives a detection signal from the first operation unit detection sensor 222s, it sets the volume output from the speaker 212.

[0066] The second operation unit detection sensor 224s is provided on the second operation unit 224 and detects the player's operation to adjust the light intensity on the second operation unit 224. When the sub-control board 500A receives a detection signal from the second operation unit detection sensor 224s, it sets the light intensity of the liquid crystal display device 502.

[0067] The third operation unit detection sensor 226s is installed on the third operation unit 226 and detects the player's pressing operation on the third operation unit 226. When the sub-control board 500A receives a detection signal from the third operation unit detection sensor 226s, it displays a menu screen on the liquid crystal display device 502 and sets the appearance rates of various effects.

[0068] Here, as shown in Figure 5, the fourth operation unit detection sensor 232s and the fifth operation unit detection sensor 234s, which input detection signals to the frame control board 400A, are provided on a single main system board 240. That is, the fourth operation unit 232 and the fifth operation unit 234 are provided on a common main system board 240. Also, as shown in Figure 6, the first operation unit detection sensor 222s, the second operation unit detection sensor 224s, and the third operation unit detection sensor 226s, which input detection signals to the sub-control board 500A, are provided on a single sub-system board 242. That is, the first operation unit 222, the second operation unit 224, and the third operation unit 226 are provided on a common sub-system board 242. The second base surface 230 houses the main system board 240, and the first base surface 220 houses the sub-system board 242.

[0069] Thus, since the main system board 240 and the sub-system board 242, which have different connection destinations, are housed on the second base surface 230 and the first base surface 220, which are spaced apart from each other, wiring errors are less likely to occur. Furthermore, for the player, the areas and ranges of operation for the dedicated unit 450 and the operations for the effects are different, making it less likely for errors to occur. The first base surface 220 and the second base surface 230 will be described in more detail below.

[0070] Figure 7 is a perspective view of the front door 102 of the gaming machine 100. Figure 8 is a side view of the front door 102 of the gaming machine 100. As is clear from Figures 7 and 8, the first base surface 220 and the second base surface 230 are at different vertical heights. Therefore, the first operation unit 222, the second operation unit 224, and the third operation unit 226, which are located on the first base surface 220, are located at different vertical heights than the fourth operation unit 232 and the fifth operation unit 234, which are located on the second base surface 230. In this way, the operation units that receive operations related to the game's presentation and the operation units that receive operations related to the game's progress are located at different vertical heights, which helps to suppress errors.

[0071] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 8, the first base surface 220, on which the first operating section 222, the second operating section 224, and the third operating section 226 are provided, has a different inclination angle than the second base surface 230, on which the fourth operating section 232 and the fifth operating section 234 are provided. Specifically, as shown by the dashed line in Figure 8, the inclination angle θ1 of the first base surface 220 with respect to the horizontal is greater than the inclination angle θ2 of the second base surface 230 with respect to the horizontal.

[0072] Here, the inclination angle θ1 of the first base surface 220, which is located relatively vertically below, is greater than the inclination angle θ2 of the second base surface 230, which is located relatively vertically above. This makes it easier for a player facing the gaming machine 100 to see the operating parts provided on the first base surface 220 and the second base surface 230. Furthermore, because the inclination angles of the first base surface 220 and the second base surface 230 are different, it is possible to give the player the impression that the operating parts provided on the first base surface 220 and the operating parts provided on the second base surface 230 have different purposes, thereby suppressing misoperation.

[0073] In this embodiment, the player can launch a game ball into the game area 110 regardless of whether they rotate the rotating operation unit 202a or 202b. For example, the player can launch a game ball by operating the rotating operation unit 202b with their left hand while operating the operation unit provided on the first base surface 220 or the second base surface 230 with their right hand. On the other hand, some players may want to operate the launching operation with their right hand, for example, when fine-tuning the launching strength of the game ball or when performing some task with their left hand.

[0074] According to this embodiment, the player can operate the rotating control unit 202a with their right hand while simultaneously operating the control units provided on the first base surface 220 and the second base surface 230 with their right hand. Specifically, the player places the palm of their right hand on the fixing part 204a and hooks their right thumb onto the rotating control unit 202a. At this time, the player can adjust the amount and angle of rotation of the rotating control unit 202a by moving their right thumb up and down while performing the firing operation.

[0075] Then, during the firing operation described above, for example, when performing a lending operation, the fourth operating section 232 is pressed with the index finger or middle finger of the right hand. Alternatively, when adjusting the volume during the firing operation, the first operating section 222 is pressed with the ring finger or little finger of the right hand. Thus, in this embodiment, at least the first operating section 222, the second operating section 224, the fourth operating section 232, and the fifth operating section 234 are positioned so that they can be operated by fingers different from the player's fingers that are in contact with the rotating operating section 202a.

[0076] In this case, the third operating section 226 is positioned outside the range that can be operated by a finger different from the player's finger that is in contact with the rotating operating section 202a. Thus, it is not necessary for all operating sections to be located within reach of the hand of the person performing the firing operation during the firing operation. However, the third operating section 226 may also be located within the range that can be operated by a finger different from the player's finger that is in contact with the rotating operating section 202a.

[0077] Figure 9 is a partially enlarged view of Figure 2. Figure 9 shows the positional relationship of the first operating section 222, second operating section 224, third operating section 226, fourth operating section 232, and fifth operating section 234 with respect to the rotating operating section 202a and the fixed section 204a. As described above, the rotating operating section 202a and the fixed section 204a are adjacent to each other in the direction of the rotation axis of the rotating operating section 202a. The first operating section 222, second operating section 224, third operating section 226, fourth operating section 232, and fifth operating section 234 are all located on the fixed section 204a side of the rotating operating section 202a.

[0078] Specifically, the virtual surface VF is defined as a plane perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotary operation unit 202a, passing through the boundary between the rotary operation unit 202a and the fixed unit 204a, or between the rotary operation unit 202a and the fixed unit 204a, and intersecting the front surface of the game board 104. In this case, the first operation unit 222, the second operation unit 224, the third operation unit 226, the fourth operation unit 232, and the fifth operation unit 234 are all located on the fixed unit 204a side of the virtual surface VF. In this way, all the operation units are concentrated on the fixed unit 204a side opposite the rotary operation unit 202a with respect to the virtual surface VF, thereby improving the operability for the player.

[0079] The uses of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth operation units 222, 232, and 234 described above are merely examples and can be modified as appropriate. Furthermore, any number of operation units is not particularly limited; multiple operation units are sufficient. For example, in the above embodiment, only the fourth and fifth operation units 232 and 234 may be provided. Alternatively, in the above embodiment, only the first and second operation units 222 and 224 may be provided. Even further, in the above embodiment, only the second and fifth operation units 224 may be provided. The positions and uses of each operation unit in the above embodiment can be combined as appropriate.

[0080] Therefore, in the above embodiment, the sub-system substrate 242 is housed on the first base surface 220, and the main system substrate 240 is housed on the second base surface 230. However, for example, if the first base surface 220 is not provided and only the second base surface 230 is provided, either or both of the main system substrate 240 and the sub-system substrate 242 may be housed on the second base surface 230. Similarly, for example, if the second base surface 230 is not provided and only the first base surface 220 is provided, either or both of the main system substrate 240 and the sub-system substrate 242 may be housed on the first base surface 220.

[0081] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, rotating operation units 202a and 202b that rotate integrally with each other are provided. However, for example, only one of the rotating operation units 202a or 202b may be provided. In other words, the launch input device 200 only needs to have at least one rotating operation unit.

[0082] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the rotation axes of the rotary operation units 202a and 202b extend in a direction intersecting the width direction of the gaming machine 100. However, the rotation axes of the rotary operation units 202a and 202b may be parallel to the width direction of the gaming machine 100. In any case, the rotary operation units 202a and 202b only need to be provided on the front side of the game board 104 and rotatable around a rotation axis that extends in a direction intersecting the direction perpendicular to the front of the game board 104.

[0083] Furthermore, although fixing parts 204a and 204b are provided in the above embodiment, fixing parts 204a and 204b are not essential.

[0084] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the fourth operating section 232 and the fifth operating section 234 are provided at positions with different vertical heights from the first operating section 222, the second operating section 224, and the third operating section 226. However, for example, the vertical heights of the second base surface 230 and the first base surface 220 may be equal, and the vertical heights of the five operating sections may be the same.

[0085] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the inclination angles of the first base surface 220 and the second base surface 230 are different, but the inclination angles of the first base surface 220 and the second base surface 230 may be the same.

[0086] In any case, the present invention is A game board (game board 104) has a game area (game area 110) formed in front of it through which game balls flow, A launch input device (launch input device 200) is provided on the front side of the game board and has a rotating operating part (rotating operating part 202a) that is rotatable around a rotation axis extending in a direction perpendicular to the front of the game board and intersecting the front of the game board, and launches game balls into the game area with an intensity corresponding to the amount of rotation of the rotating operating part, It is located between the rotary control unit and the front of the game board, and comprises multiple control units (first control unit 222, second control unit 224, fourth control unit 232, fifth control unit 234) with different purposes. Equipped with, Multiple control panels, It is preferable that the rotating control part be positioned so that it can be operated by a finger different from the player's finger that is in contact with it.

[0087] Furthermore, in the above, a fixing part (fixing part 204a) may be provided adjacent to the rotating operating part in the direction of the rotation axis, and which can be touched by the hand of the player operating the rotating operating part.

[0088] Furthermore, the present invention is A game board (game board 104) has a game area (game area 110) formed in front of it through which game balls flow, A launch input device (launch input device 200) is provided on the front side of the game board and has a rotating operating part (rotating operating part 202a) that is rotatable around a rotation axis extending in a direction perpendicular to the front of the game board and intersecting the front of the game board, and launches game balls into the game area with an intensity corresponding to the amount of rotation of the rotating operating part, A fixed part (fixed part 204a) is provided adjacent to the rotating operating part in the direction of the rotation axis, It is located between the rotary control unit and the front of the game board, and comprises multiple control units (first control unit 222, second control unit 224, fourth control unit 232, fifth control unit 234) with different purposes. Equipped with, Multiple control panels, It is preferable that the position be on the side of the fixed part that is perpendicular to the axis of rotation, passes through the boundary between the rotating operation part and the fixed part, or between the rotating operation part and the fixed part, and intersects with the front of the game board (virtual surface VF).

[0089] Furthermore, the multiple control units are A first operating section (fourth operating section 232, fifth operating section 234) is located on the first circuit board (main system circuit board 240), and a second operating section (first operating section 222, second operating section 224) is located on a second circuit board (sub-system circuit board 242) that is different from the first circuit board. It may include.

[0090] Furthermore, the first operating section may be provided at a position that is at a different vertical height from the second operating section.

[0091] Furthermore, the first surface (second base surface 230) on which the first operating section is provided may have a different inclination angle from the second surface (first base surface 220) on which the second operating section is provided.

[0092] Although a preferred first embodiment of the present invention has been described above with reference to the attached drawings, it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to this first embodiment. It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that various modifications or alterations can be conceived within the scope of the claims, and these will naturally also fall within the technical scope of the present invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0093] 100 gaming machines 104 Game Boards 110 Gaming Area 200 Launch Input Device 202a Rotation operation unit 204a Fixed part 222 1st operation section 224 2nd operation section 232 4th operation section 234 5th operation section VF Virtual Surface

Claims

1. A game board with a game area formed in front through which game balls flow, A launch input device is provided on the front side of the game board and has a rotational operating part that is rotatable around a rotation axis extending in a direction perpendicular to the front of the game board, and launches game balls into the game area with an intensity corresponding to the amount of rotation of the rotational operating part. A plurality of operating units, each with a different purpose, are provided between the aforementioned rotating operating unit and the front of the game board. Equipped with, The aforementioned plurality of operating units are It is positioned so that it can be operated by a finger different from the player's finger that is in contact with the aforementioned rotating operating part. A gaming machine characterized by the following features.

2. The rotating operating part is provided adjacent to the rotating operating part in the direction of the rotating axis, and includes a fixing part that can be touched by the hand of the player operating the rotating operating part, The gaming machine according to claim 1.

3. A game board with a game area formed in front through which game balls flow, A launch input device is provided on the front side of the game board and has a rotational operating part that is rotatable around a rotation axis extending in a direction perpendicular to the front of the game board, and launches game balls into the game area with an intensity corresponding to the amount of rotation of the rotational operating part. A fixing portion is provided adjacent to the rotation operating portion in the direction of the rotation axis, A plurality of operating units, each with a different purpose, are provided between the rotating operating unit and the fixed unit and the front of the game board. Equipped with, The aforementioned plurality of operating units are A plane perpendicular to the rotation axis, passing through the boundary between the rotation operation part and the fixed part, or between the rotation operation part and the fixed part, and located on the fixed part side of a virtual plane that intersects with the front of the game board, A gaming machine characterized by the following features.

4. The aforementioned plurality of operating units are A first operating unit is arranged on a first substrate, and a second operating unit is arranged on a second substrate different from the first substrate. including, A gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The first operating section is provided at a position where it is at a different vertical height from the second operating section. The gaming machine according to claim 4.

6. The first surface on which the first operating section is provided has a different inclination angle from the second surface on which the second operating section is provided. The gaming machine according to claim 4.

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