Island Facilities

The divided-type setup with detachable gaps in the island equipment simplifies maintenance by allowing access to interior components while supporting gaming machines, enhancing both aesthetics and structural integrity.

JP7627501B2Active Publication Date: 2025-02-06NEWGIN KK
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Patent Information

Application Number
JP2022203266
Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Patents
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2022-12-20
Publication Date
2025-02-06
Estimated Expiration
2042-12-20

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Conventional island equipment for gaming machines is difficult to maintain due to components obstructing access to the interior, making maintenance cumbersome.

Method used

The island equipment features a divided-type setup with plate-like members arranged in intersecting directions, allowing for detachable gaps that facilitate access to the interior while supporting gaming machines, and includes auxiliary members for structural support and ease of maintenance.

Benefits of technology

This configuration enables easy maintenance of the interior components, maintains aesthetic appearance, allows for increased installation of gaming machines, and ensures structural integrity during maintenance.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

Smart Images

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Patent Text Reader

Abstract

To provide easy-to-maintain island facilities.SOLUTION: Island facilities 10 comprise a first member 34, a second member 35 and a third member 36, where at least the first member 34 out of the first member 34 and the second member 35 includes a placement part 30a, the part on which a game machine 11 is placed. The first member 34 and the second member 35 are juxtaposed along a prescribed direction orthogonal to a vertical direction, with a clearance S1 formed between the first member 34 and the second member 35. An internal space SA of the island facilities 10 communicates with an external space via the clearance S1, and the third member 36 is configured to be detachably attached to fill the clearance S1. A conveyance device 60, etc., can be installed in the internal space SA.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4
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Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an island installation. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, gaming machines such as pachinko machines are installed on island equipment (for example, Patent Document 1). In the island equipment, the gaming machines are placed on a member extending horizontally and fixed to the member using nails or the like. In the island equipment, the member for supporting the gaming machines is also called a tray. Generally, the island equipment houses things necessary for the operation of the gaming machines, such as a transport device for gaming media such as gaming balls, various wiring, pipes, and other equipment. Since these equipment and parts are housed inside the island equipment, they are difficult for players to see, and the aesthetic appearance of the installation location of the gaming machines is maintained. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2013-118881 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in the conventional island equipment, there may be a situation where the maintenance work on the inside must be performed through the members for supporting the gaming machines. In such a case, the members for supporting the gaming machines get in the way of the maintenance work. Therefore, it is difficult to say that the conventional island equipment is easy to perform maintenance on. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The island equipment that solves the above problem is an island equipment for installing gaming machines, The present invention is provided with an island pillar, a split type tray, and an auxiliary member for supporting the split type tray, and the split type tray is each a plate-shaped tray. A first member, a second member, and a third member HasOf the first member and the second member, at least the first member is a portion on which the gaming machine is placed. and a surface to which the gaming machine is fixed The first member and the second member are aligned along a predetermined direction intersecting a vertical direction, the first member has a fixed end fixed to a first island post among the island posts, and a free end opposite to the fixed end, the second member has a fixed end fixed to a second island post among the island posts, and a free end opposite to the fixed end, The first member Free end of and the second member Free end of A gap is formed between the third member and the island equipment, and the internal space of the island equipment is connected to the external space through the gap, and the third member is With respect to the free end of the first member and the free end of the second member, It is configured so that it can be attached and detached to fill the gap. The free end of the first member is supported by a first auxiliary member that can be attached and detached among the auxiliary members, and the free end of the second member is supported by a second auxiliary member that can be attached and detached among the auxiliary members. The gist of the present invention is as follows. Effect of the Invention

[0006] According to the present invention, maintenance is easy to perform. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a schematic diagram of an island equipment when viewed from the front. [Diagram 2] 2 is a diagram showing a cross section assumed to be cut along line II shown in FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of a portion of the island equipment. [Figure 4] FIG. 13 is a front view showing a gap when a third member is attached. [Diagram 5] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a gap when a third member is attached in a plan view. [Figure 6] FIG. 13 is a front view showing a gap with a third member removed. [Figure 7] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a gap in a plan view with a third member removed. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a schematic diagram of an island equipment when viewed from the front. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0008] An embodiment of the island equipment will be described below. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the island equipment 10 is installed in an amusement facility or the like. The island equipment 10 is equipment for installing gaming machines 11. A plurality of gaming machines 11 can be installed on the island equipment 10. As an example, each gaming machine 11 is a pachinko gaming machine 12. A plurality of management units 14 can be installed on the island equipment 10. One management unit 14 is installed for each gaming machine 11. As an example, one gaming machine 11 and one management unit 14 are lined up without any gaps. In the island equipment 10, the plurality of gaming machines 11 are lined up along a predetermined direction that intersects with the vertical direction.

[0009] The pachinko gaming machine 12 includes a rectangular frame, a gaming board with a gaming area, and a launch handle. The pachinko gaming machine 12 may be a circulation type gaming machine that circulates gaming balls inside the machine, or a non-circulation type gaming machine that transfers gaming balls to and from the outside of the machine. The management unit 14 manages the remaining amount of money inserted stored in an IC card or the like, and the number of gaming media deposited in the gaming facility. Each management unit 14 is connected to one gaming machine 11 so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0010] The structure of the island equipment 10 will be described in detail below. For ease of explanation, in this specification, each direction of the island equipment 10 is defined as follows. The direction in which the multiple gaming machines 11 are lined up is defined as the width direction Dw of the island equipment 10. One of the width directions Dw is defined as the first direction D1, and the opposite direction is defined as the second direction D2. The vertical direction is defined as the height direction Dh of the island equipment 10. The direction perpendicular to the width direction Dw and the height direction Dh is defined as the depth direction Dd of the island equipment 10. The surface that faces the player when playing is defined as the front of the island equipment 10.

[0011] As an example, the structure of the island equipment 10 is symmetrical with respect to a plane perpendicular to the depth direction Dd, so the structure on one side in the depth direction Dd will be described in detail, and the description of the structure on the opposite side will be omitted or simplified. The island equipment 10 has a first end e1 on the first direction D1 side in the width direction Dw, and a second end e2 on the second direction D2 side.

[0012] As shown in Figs. 1 to 7, the island equipment 10 comprises a number of island pillars 20a to 20d erected on an installation surface G. The island pillars 20a to 20d are arranged in the order of island pillar 20a, island pillar 20b, island pillar 20c, and island pillar 20d from the first end e1 toward the second end e2. The island pillar 20a is located at the first end e1. The island pillar 20d is located at the second end e2. The island pillars 20a to 20d may be plate-like members arranged in parallel to each other, or may be a single frame-like member, or may be a member formed by combining a number of frames.

[0013] The island equipment 10 includes a plurality of tray boards 30 on which one or more gaming machines 11 can be placed. The lower edge of the frame of the gaming machine 11 is fixed to the plurality of tray boards 30. Each of the plurality of tray boards 30 is arranged so as to span two adjacent island pillars. The plurality of tray boards 30 are arranged along the width direction Dw. In other words, the plurality of tray boards 30 can be said to form one tray board that extends across the entire width or approximately the entire width of the island equipment 10.

[0014] The multiple tray boards 30 include an integral tray board made of one member and a split tray board made of two or more members. The integral tray board 30 can be said to be not intended to be separated. The split tray board 30 can be said to be intended to be separated. As an example, the tray board 30 that is hung between the island posts 20a and 20b is an integral tray board 31. Of both ends of the tray board 31 in the width direction Dw, the end on the first direction D1 side is fixed to the island post 20a, and the end on the second direction D2 side is fixed to the island post 20b. As an example, the tray board 30 that is hung between the island posts 20c and 20d is an integral tray board 32. Of both ends of the tray board 32 in the width direction Dw, the end on the first direction D1 side is fixed to the island post 20c, and the end on the second direction D2 side is fixed to the island post 20d.

[0015] As an example, the tray board 30 that is hung between the island pillars 20b, 20c is a split tray board 33. As an example, the split tray board 33 is composed of a combination of three members: a first member 34, a second member 35, and a third member 36. The first member 34, the second member 35, and the third member 36 are arranged in this order from the first direction D1 side to the second direction D2 side. The first member 34, the second member 35, and the third member 36 are arranged along the width direction Dw, which is an example of a predetermined direction.

[0016] Of both ends of the first member 34 in the width direction Dw, the end on the first direction D1 side is fixed to the island pillar 20b, and the end on the second direction D2 side is not fixed to the island pillar. That is, the first member 34 has a fixed end fixed to the island pillar 20b and a free end on the opposite side. Of both ends of the second member 35 in the width direction Dw, the end on the second direction D2 side is fixed to the island pillar 20c, and the end on the first direction D1 side is not fixed to the island pillar. That is, the second member 35 has a fixed end fixed to the island pillar 20c and a free end on the opposite side. The end of the first member 34 on the second direction D2 side and the end of the second member 35 on the first direction D1 side are spaced apart in the width direction Dw and face each other. That is, a gap S1 is formed between the first member 34 and the second member 35. The internal space SA of the island equipment 10 communicates with the external space through the gap S1.

[0017] In the island equipment 10, the third member 36 can be held by being sandwiched between an end of the first member 34 on the second direction D2 side and an end of the second member 35 on the first direction D1 side. The third member 36 is configured so as to be attached and detached so as to fill the gap S1. The configuration for holding the third member 36 will be described later.

[0018] Each of the members 34-36 constituting the tray 31, 32 and the tray 33 has a rectangular base 30b extending along the width direction Dw. The tip of each of the two ends of the base 30b in the depth direction Dd is a free end that protrudes from the front of the island equipment 10. In other words, the part of the base 30b that protrudes toward the player becomes a table-like part on which the player can place his / her belongings, such as drinks and keys, while playing.

[0019] Each of the trays 31, 32 and the members 34-36 constituting the tray 33 has a rectangular plate-shaped mounting portion 30a extending along the width direction Dw. The mounting portion 30a is arranged to extend along the base end portion of the base 30b. In the island equipment 10, each gaming machine 11 is placed on the mounting portion 30a. In the island equipment 10, each gaming machine 11 is fixed to the mounting portion 30a using nails or the like. In this manner, the first member 34 has a portion on which the gaming machine 11 is placed. The second member 35 has a portion on which the gaming machine 11 is placed. The third member 36 has a portion on which the gaming machine 11 is placed. As an example, a part of the gaming machine 11 is placed on the third member 36 so as to straddle the first member 34.

[0020] The island equipment 10 includes multiple waist frames 40 that are installed to support multiple tray boards 30 from below. Each of the multiple waist frames 40 is arranged to span two adjacent island pillars. The multiple waist frames 40 are aligned along the width direction Dw. In other words, the multiple waist frames 40 can be said to form a single waist frame that extends across the entire width or approximately the entire width of the island equipment 10.

[0021] The multiple waist frames 40 include an integrated waist frame formed by one waist frame and a split waist frame formed by two or more waist frames. As an example, the waist frame 40 that is hung between the island posts 20a and 20b is an integrated waist frame 41. Of both ends of the waist frame 41 in the width direction Dw, the end on the first direction D1 side is fixed to the island post 20a, and the end on the second direction D2 side is fixed to the island post 20b. The table board 31 and the waist frame 41 may be fixed to each other in a state where the table board 31 is placed on the waist frame 41. As an example, the waist frame 40 that is hung between the island posts 20c and 20d is an integrated waist frame 42. Of both ends of the waist frame 42 in the width direction Dw, the end on the first direction D1 side is fixed to the island post 20c, and the end on the second direction D2 side is fixed to the island post 20d. The tray board 32 and the frame 42 may be fixed to each other with the tray board 32 placed on the frame 42.

[0022] As an example, the waist frame 40 that is hung between the island pillars 20b, 20c is a split type waist frame 43. As an example, the split type waist frame 43 is composed of a combination of three parts: a first waist frame 44, a second waist frame 45, and a third waist frame 46. The first waist frame 44, the second waist frame 45, and the third waist frame 46 are lined up in this order from the first direction D1 side to the second direction D2 side. The first waist frame 44, the second waist frame 45, and the third waist frame 46 are lined up along the width direction Dw.

[0023] Of both ends of the first waist frame 44 in the width direction Dw, the end on the first direction D1 side is fixed to the island pillar 20b, and the end on the second direction D2 side is not fixed to the island pillar. In other words, the first waist frame 44 has a fixed end fixed to the island pillar 20b and a free end on the opposite side. The length of the first waist frame 44 along the width direction Dw is longer than that of the first member 34. Therefore, the free end of the first waist frame 44 protrudes from the free end of the first member 34 in the second direction D2 to form a step portion 44a. The first member 34 and the first waist frame 44 may be fixed to each other in a state in which the first member 34 is placed on the first waist frame 44.

[0024] Of both ends of the second waist frame 45 in the width direction Dw, the end on the second direction D2 side is fixed to the island pillar 20c, and the end on the first direction D1 side is not fixed to the island pillar. That is, the second waist frame 45 has a fixed end fixed to the island pillar 20c and a free end on the opposite side. The length of the second waist frame 45 along the width direction Dw is longer than that of the second member 35. Therefore, the free end of the second waist frame 45 protrudes in the second direction D2 from the free end of the second member 35 to form a step portion 45a. The second member 35 and the second waist frame 45 may be fixed to each other in a state in which the second member 35 is placed on the second waist frame 45. The end of the first waist frame 44 on the second direction D2 side and the end of the second waist frame 45 on the first direction D1 side are separated in the width direction Dw and face each other. That is, a gap S2 is formed between the first waist frame 44 and the second waist frame 45. The internal space SA of the island equipment 10 communicates with the external space via a gap S2.

[0025] In the island equipment 10, the third waist frame 46 can be held so as to be sandwiched between the end of the first waist frame 44 on the second direction D2 side and the end of the second waist frame 45 on the first direction D1 side. As an example, the end of the third waist frame 46 on the first direction D1 side is detachably fixed to the end of the first waist frame 44 on the second direction D2 side using a bolt or the like. As an example, the end of the third waist frame 46 on the second direction D2 side is detachably fixed to the end of the second waist frame 45 on the first direction D1 side using a bolt or the like. In other words, the third waist frame 46 is configured so as to be attached and detached so as to fill the gap S2. As an example, both ends of the third waist frame 46 in the width direction Dw and the free ends of each waist frame 44, 45 are both surfaces. When the third waist frame 46 is attached to the gap S2, both end faces of the third waist frame 46 and the free end faces of each waist frame 44, 45 are in surface contact with each other.

[0026] In the width direction Dw, the third member 36 is longer than the third waist frame 46 by the amount that the first member 34 and the second member 35 are shorter than the waist frames 44, 45. The third member 36 is held by fitting into the step portion 44a of the first waist frame 44 and the step portion 45a of the second waist frame 45. In other words, the third member 36 is attached so as to bridge the free end of the first waist frame 44 and the free end of the second waist frame 45. The third member 36 is attached so as to fill the gaps S1 and S2 in a plan view. The third member 36 and the third waist frame 46 may be fixed to each other using bolts or the like with the third member 36 placed on the third waist frame 46.

[0027] The island equipment 10 includes an auxiliary member 48 for supporting the split-type tray 33. The auxiliary member 48 is a columnar member extending along the height direction Dh. As an example, the auxiliary member 48 supports the tray 33 via a split-type waist frame 43. The auxiliary member 48 includes a first auxiliary member 48a and a second auxiliary member 48b. The first auxiliary member 48a is disposed below the ends of the first member 34 and the first waist frame 44 on the second direction D2 side. The first auxiliary member 48a supports the free ends of the first member 34 and the first waist frame 44. The second auxiliary member 48b is disposed below the ends of the second member 35 and the second waist frame 45 on the first direction D1 side. The second auxiliary member 48b supports the free ends of the second member 35 and the second waist frame 45.

[0028] The lower end of each of the auxiliary members 48a, 48b contacts the installation surface G. The upper end of each of the auxiliary members 48a, 48b contacts the lower surface of the waist frame 44, 45, respectively. Each of the auxiliary members 48a, 48b is equipped with a height adjustment mechanism. As an example, the height adjustment mechanism may be a nut fixed to the end of the columnar member and a bolt screwed into the nut. The first auxiliary member 48a is configured to be attached to a position corresponding to the opening 52 so as to support the first member 34 and to be detached. The second auxiliary member 48b is configured to be attached to a position corresponding to the opening 52 so as to support the second member 35 and to be detached.

[0029] The island equipment 10 includes a plurality of wainscots 50. The plurality of wainscots 50 are arranged so as to span two adjacent island pillars. The plurality of wainscots 50 are arranged along the width direction Dw. In other words, the plurality of wainscots 50 can be said to constitute one wainscot extending across the entire width or substantially the entire width of the island equipment 10.

[0030] As one example, of the multiple wainscots 50, wainscot 51 fixed between island pillars 20b, 20c has an opening 52 formed therein as a lower inspection hatch. As one example, opening 52 is a rectangular opening extending along the width direction Dw. The lower edge of opening 52 is the installation surface G. In this way, the island equipment 10 has opening 52 formed at a position lower than the lower end of the tray 33, which opens up the internal space SA of the island equipment 10.

[0031] The wainscot 51 has a lower door 53 that covers the opening 52. As an example, the lower door 53 is formed by combining multiple lower door members 54. Each lower door member 54 may be supported so as to be rotatable about its upper edge or lower edge, and may be assembled so as to be freely attached and detached. A manager or the like of the island equipment 10 can access the internal space SA of the island equipment 10 through the opening 52 by opening each lower door member 54.

[0032] The island equipment 10 includes an inspection door member 58. The door member 58 includes an inspection door frame 58a and an inspection door 58b pivoted on one side edge of the inspection door frame 58a. The inspection door frame 58a is fixed to the mounting portion 30a of the third member 36 using nails, screws, or the like while being placed on the mounting portion 30a. By opening the door member 58, the internal space SA of the island equipment 10 can be accessed through the door member 58. In this way, the portion of the third member 36 on which the gaming machine 11 is placed constitutes the lower edge of the mounting portion 58c to which the door member 58 can be attached when the gaming machine 11 is not placed on that portion.

[0033] The island equipment 10 includes a plurality of tabletops 55. The upper edge of the frame of the gaming machine 11 is fixed to the plurality of tabletops 55. The lower surface of each tabletop 55 and the upper surface of the placement portion 30a of each tray 30 face each other as the surface for fixing the frame of the gaming machine 11. The plurality of tabletops 55 are arranged so as to span two adjacent island pillars. The plurality of tabletops 55 are arranged along the width direction Dw. In other words, the plurality of tabletops 55 can be said to constitute one tabletop extending over the entire width or substantially the entire width of the island equipment 10. As an example, the plurality of tabletops 55 are all integrally formed by one tabletop.

[0034] The island equipment 10 includes a plurality of decorative panels 59 that cover the portions between the tray 30 and the top plate 55 where the gaming machines 11, the management unit 14, and the door members 58 are not disposed. As an example, the decorative panels 59 may be fixed at their upper ends to the top plate 55 and at their lower ends to the tray 30.

[0035] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the internal space SA of the island equipment 10 is large enough to accommodate a transport device 60 that transports game balls, which are an example of game media. For ease of explanation, Figures 1 to 7 show the island equipment 10 in a state in which the transport device 60 is installed. The transport device 60 is accommodated in the internal space SA of the island equipment 10. The transport device 60 includes a lower unit 61 and an upper unit 65 as multiple units that can be separated from each other.

[0036] The lower unit 61 includes an intake section 62 that takes in game balls, and a first transport path member 63 that forms a transport path for the game balls. In the island equipment 10, the transport device 60 (units 61, 65) is fixed to the installation surface G while being placed on a slide plate 64. The intake section 62 takes in game balls that have flowed down a recovery gutter (not shown). The recovery gutter is disposed in the internal space SA so as to receive game balls discharged from each gaming machine 11. The first transport path member 63 is a cylindrical member that curves in an arc shape so as to rise upward as it approaches the second direction D2. The tip portion (upper end portion) of the first transport path member 63 is a portion that extends upward.

[0037] The lower unit 61 extends along the width direction Dw as a whole when viewed from the depth direction Dd. The lower unit 61 is entirely below the lower surface of the waist frame 40, except for the tip of the first transport path member 63. That is, the lower unit 61 is below the tray 30, except for a part. The lower unit 61 is below the waist frame 40, except for a part. When viewed from the depth direction Dd, the size of the opening 52 is larger than the part of the lower unit 61 that is below the lower surface of the waist frame 40. When viewed from the depth direction Dd, the opening 52 overlaps with the part where the lower unit 61 is disposed. That is, the island equipment 10 can install the transport device 60 at a position corresponding to the opening 52 in the internal space SA. When viewed from the depth direction Dd, each auxiliary member 48a, 48b overlaps with the part where the lower unit 61 is disposed.

[0038] On the other hand, the tip portion of the first transport path member 63 is located above the bottom surface of the waist frame 40. When viewed from the depth direction Dd, the gaps S1 and S2 overlap with the portion where the tip portion of the first transport path member 63 is disposed. That is, the island equipment 10 is capable of installing the transport device 60 at positions in the internal space SA corresponding to the gaps S1 and S2. The tip portion of the first transport path member 63 is thinner than the gaps S1 and S2.

[0039] The upper unit 65 includes a second transport path member 66 that forms a transport path for game balls, a tank 67 for game balls, and a transport motor 68. The second transport path member 66 is a cylindrical member extending along the height direction Dh. The lower end of the second transport path member 66 is connected to the upper end of the first transport path member 63. In other words, the transport path formed by the first transport path member 63 and the transport path formed by the second transport path member 66 are connected to form one continuous transport path. A transport screw (not shown) is housed in the transport path formed by each of the transport path members 63 and 66.

[0040] The upper end of the second transport path member 66 is connected to a tank 67. The output shaft of a transport motor 68 is connected to the transport screw. The transport motor 68 rotates the transport screw. When the transport screw rotates, the game balls in the transport path are transported toward the tank 67. The game balls stored in the tank 67 are distributed to each gaming machine 11 by a supply gutter (not shown). The lower unit 61 and the upper unit 65 can be separated by releasing the connection between the first transport path member 63 and the second transport path member 66.

[0041] The procedure for performing maintenance on the island equipment 10 will now be described together with its function. It is assumed that a transport device 60 is installed in the internal space SA of the island equipment 10. In this case, each gaming machine 11 may be a pachinko gaming machine 12 of a non-circulating type.

[0042] First, the normal maintenance procedure will be described. The manager of the amusement facility or the like can access the internal space SA by opening the door member 58. The door member 58 is provided at a position corresponding to each of the transport path members 63, 66 that constitute the transport device 60. Therefore, the manager can easily perform maintenance on each of the transport path members 63, 66. After the maintenance is completed, the door member 58 is closed. The manager of the amusement facility or the like can access the internal space SA by opening the opening 52. The opening 52 is provided at a position corresponding to the lower unit 61 that constitutes the transport device 60. Therefore, the manager can easily perform maintenance on the lower unit 61. After the maintenance is completed, the opening 52 is closed.

[0043] Next, special maintenance procedures will be described. 4 and 5, the gaming machine 11 and the door member 58 that are fixed in a state of being placed on the third member 36 are removed. Furthermore, one or more decorative panels 59 may be removed.

[0044] As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the third member 36 is removed from the gap S1. In the case where the third member 36 and the third waist frame 46 are fixed to each other, it is advisable to release the third member 36 from the third waist frame 46 before removing the third member 36. Next, release the third waist frame 46 from the first waist frame 44 and the second waist frame 45. The third waist frame 46 is removed from the gap S2. This opens the gaps S1 and S2, making it easier to access the internal space SA. This makes it easier for managers and the like to perform maintenance on the entire lower unit 61.

[0045] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, when maintenance of the internal space SA is completed, the third waist frame 46 is fitted into the gap S2. The third waist frame 46 is fixed to the first waist frame 44 and the second waist frame 45 using bolts or the like. Next, the third member 36 is fitted into the gap S1 by being placed on the free ends (step portions 44a, 45a) of the first waist frame 44 and the second waist frame 45 and the third waist frame 46. In the case where the third member 36 and the third waist frame 46 are configured to be fixed, the third member 36 and the third waist frame 46 are fixed. The gaming machine 11 and the door member 58 are attached. If there is a removed decorative panel 59, the decorative panel 59 is attached.

[0046] Next, a procedure for removing the transport device 60 for maintenance will be described. As shown in Figures 4 to 7, the procedure up to removing the third member 36 and the third waist frame 46 is the same as the special maintenance procedure, except that the gaming machines 11, the management unit 14, the door member 58, and the decorative panel 59, which are fixed while placed on the tray 33, are all removed. Next, the lower door 53 (the multiple lower door members 54) is removed. This opens the opening 52. Furthermore, the auxiliary members 48a, 48b are removed. Next, the connection between the first transport path member 63 of the lower unit 61 and the second transport path member 66 of the upper unit 65 is released. The upper unit 65 is removed by pulling it up above the island equipment 10.

[0047] Next, the lower unit 61 is pulled out from the opening 52 along the depth direction Dd. Each element constituting the lower unit 61 is placed on a slide plate 64. Therefore, by sliding the slide plate 64, the lower unit 61 can be easily removed from the internal space SA of the island equipment 10. At this time, the tip (upper end) of the first transport path member 63 passes through the gaps S1 and S2 and does not interfere with the tray plate 33.

[0048] The manager or the like can easily perform maintenance on the internal space SA from which the transport device 60 has been removed by using the internal space SA. The manager or the like can perform maintenance on the transport device 60 removed from the island equipment 10. Also, by transporting the transport device 60 to the manufacturer's workshop, more appropriate maintenance can be performed. After maintenance is completed, the lower unit 61 of the transport device 60 is inserted into the internal space SA from the opening 52. At this time, too, the tip (upper end) of the first transport path member 63 passes through the gaps S1 and S2, and does not interfere with the tray plate 33.

[0049] Next, the upper unit 65 is lowered from above the island equipment 10 and assembled to the lower unit 61. The first transport path member 63 of the lower unit 61 and the second transport path member 66 of the upper unit 65 are connected. Next, the auxiliary members 48a, 48b and the lower door 53 are assembled in this order. The procedure thereafter is the same as the special maintenance procedure.

[0050] The effects of this embodiment will be described below. (1) The gap S1 between the first member 34 on which the gaming machine 11 is placed and the second member 35, which is different from the first member 34, is filled with the third member 36. This can prevent deterioration in appearance or functionality due to the gap S1 between the first member 34 and the second member 35. Moreover, by removing the third member 36 from this gap S1, it becomes easier to access the internal space SA of the island equipment 10. This makes it easier to perform maintenance on the inside of the island equipment 10.

[0051] (2) The first member 34 and the second member 35 are arranged in a predetermined direction intersecting the vertical direction, and both are members on which the gaming machines 11 are placed. That is, in the island equipment 10, the multiple gaming machines 11 are arranged side by side in a predetermined direction. If there was no gap S1 between the first member 34 and the second member 35, these members would become an obstacle, making it difficult to perform maintenance on the internal space SA of the island equipment 10. In contrast, since there is a gap S1 between the first member 34 and the second member 35, it is easy to perform maintenance on the inside of the island equipment 10.

[0052] (3) The third member 36 filling the gap S1 can also carry the gaming machines 11. This allows the number of gaming machines 11 that can be installed on the island equipment 10 to be increased. (4) When the gaming machine 11 is not placed on the third member 36, the door member 58 can be attached to the attachment portion 58c that utilizes the portion on which the gaming machine 11 is placed. Therefore, even when the gaming machine 11 is not placed on the third member 36, the door member 58 prevents the inside from being visible. In addition, by opening the door member 58, it is possible to ensure ease of maintenance.

[0053] (5) A gap S1 is formed between the first member 34 on which the gaming machine 11 is placed and the different second member 35. The manager of the gaming machine 11 can easily access the internal space SA of the island equipment 10 from this gap S1. Therefore, even if a transport device 60 is installed in the internal space SA of the island equipment 10, maintenance of the device is easy.

[0054] (6) The gap S1 between the first member 34 and the second member 35 is wider than the width of the upwardly extending first transport path member 63. Therefore, the first transport path member 63 can be removed from the gap S1. This makes it easy to perform maintenance on the inside of the island equipment 10.

[0055] (7) Since the opening 52 is formed at a position lower than the first member 34, it is easy to access the internal space SA of the island equipment 10. Also, since the transport device 60 is placed on the slide plate 64 in the internal space SA of the island equipment 10, it is easy to pull out the transport device 60 from the opening 52 to the outside. Therefore, it is easy to perform maintenance on the inside of the island equipment 10.

[0056] (8) The first member 34 and the second member 35 are supported by the auxiliary members 48a, 48b, respectively. Therefore, even if the gap S1 and the opening 52 are present, the strength sufficient to support the gaming machine 11 can be ensured.

[0057] (9) The members 34-36 constituting the tray 33 are reinforced by the waist frames 44-46, respectively. Therefore, the height of the portion on which the gaming machine 11 is placed can be adjusted to a height suitable for the pachinko gaming machine 12, while increasing its strength. In addition, a gap S2 is formed between the first waist frame 44 and the second waist frame 45, making it easy to perform maintenance on the internal space SA.

[0058] (10) The gap S2 can be filled by using the third frame 46. This increases the strength of the frame 43 that supports the tray 33. (11) The third member 36 is suspended across the steps 44a, 45a of the waist frames 44, 45. Therefore, compared to a configuration in which the width of the third member 36 is the same as the width of the third waist frame 46, the strength of the portions filling the gaps S1, S2 can be increased.

[0059] The above embodiment can be modified as follows: The above embodiment and the following modifications can be combined with each other to the extent that no technical contradiction occurs. 8, the island equipment 10 may have gaming machines 11 installed therein instead of the door members 58. According to this modification, the number of gaming machines 11 that can be installed can be further increased.

[0060] One or more gaming machines 11 may be fixed in a state in which they are placed on the third member 36 without being straddled by the other members 34, 35. The procedure for opening the gaps S1, S2 and the opening 52 as described in the above embodiment may be used when removing the transport device 60. For example, assume that the non-circulating pachinko gaming machines 12 and the transport device 60 are installed in the island equipment 10. In this case, after removing the non-circulating pachinko gaming machines 12 and the transport device 60, it is preferable to install the circulating pachinko gaming machines 12 without installing the transport device 60. In this case, it is preferable to install the pachinko gaming machines 12 instead of the door members 58 from the viewpoint of increasing the number of installed machines.

[0061] The procedure for opening the gaps S1, S2 and the opening 52 may be used when installing the transport device 60. For example, assume that a circulating pachinko game machine 12 is installed in the island equipment 10. In this case, after removing the circulating pachinko game machine 12, the transport device 60 can be installed together with the non-circulating pachinko game machine 12. In this case, it is preferable to install a door member 58 from the viewpoint of improving the maintainability of the transport device 60.

[0062] The island equipment 10 may be configured without including the waist frames 41 to 43. The top plate 55 between the island pillars 20b, 20c may be formed by combining the first to third members, similar to the tray board 33. In the top plate 55, the top plate gap between the first and second members can be opened to communicate with the internal space SA by removing the third member. The width of the top plate gap is made wider than the thickness of the second transport path member 66. This allows the transport device 60 to be pulled out with the upper unit 65 still attached. The second transport path member 66 passes through the top plate gap.

[0063] The transport device 60 may be configured to be capable of cleaning the game media while transporting them. The transport device 60 may be configured to polish the game media by transporting them together with pellets of resin such as polycarbonate. The first transport path member 63 may extend entirely along the vertical direction. The tip end (upper end) of the first transport path member 63 only needs to extend along the vertical direction, and is not limited to being erected vertically. For example, it may extend so as to be inclined diagonally upward. In other words, the first transport path member 63 may be a portion that extends all or partly upward.

[0064] The portion of the transport device 60 that passes through the gaps S1 and S2 when being removed from the internal space SA may include a member different from the first transport path member 63 in addition to or instead of the first transport path member 63. For example, it may include a pillar supporting the tank 67, wiring for the transport motor 68, or the like.

[0065] The "position corresponding to" the gap S1, the gap S2, or the opening 52 is not limited to a position overlapping with these when viewed from the depth direction Dd. For example, the position corresponding to the gap S1 (hereinafter referred to as the corresponding position) may be arranged so that the external space and the corresponding position are connected, such as when viewed from a direction intersecting the height direction Dh and the width direction Dw, the gap S1 and the corresponding position overlap each other. The same applies to the gap S2 and the opening 52.

[0066] The transport device 60 is not limited to a configuration in which it is placed on the slide plate 64, and may be fixed directly to the installation surface G without any other members being interposed therebetween. The island equipment 10 may be capable of installing a slot machine as the gaming machine 11 together with the pachinko gaming machine 12 or instead of the pachinko gaming machine 12. The slot machine includes a rectangular box-shaped housing, a reel unit, a stop button, a start lever, and a bet button. The slot machine may be a gaming machine that does not use gaming medals as a gaming medium, or may be a gaming machine that uses gaming medals. In this modified example, the island equipment 10 may be configured so that the height of the portion on which the gaming machine 11 is placed can be adjusted to a height suitable for the slot machine by removing the waist frame 40. The transport device 60 may be a device that transports gaming medals.

[0067] The second member forming the gap S1 with the first member is not limited to the second member 35. For example, the second member may be any of the island pillars 20a to 20d, or may be a side wall of the island equipment 10. The second member in this modified example is a member on which the gaming machine 11 cannot be placed. Of the first and second members, the island equipment 10 is configured such that at least the first member has a portion on which the gaming machine 11 can be placed. Also, the third member 36 as the third member does not have to have a portion on which the gaming machine 11 can be placed.

[0068] The island equipment 10 is not limited to being configured to be symmetrical in the depth direction Dd. For example, the gaps S1 and S2 may be formed in one tray 33 in the depth direction Dd, but not in the other tray.

[0069] The internal space SA of the island equipment 10 may house various wiring and pipes for circulating ventilation air and game media. The internal space SA of the island equipment 10 may house various devices in addition to or instead of the transport device 60. For example, the various devices may be communication devices that communicate with a hall computer, or relay devices that establish a wireless LAN.

[0070] The island equipment 10 may be configured in a circular shape with multiple gaming machines 11 lined up along the circumferential direction, or in a rectangular shape with the gaming machines 11 lined up on all four sides, or in a rectangular shape with the gaming machines 11 lined up on only one side in the depth direction Dd.

[0071] Next, the technical ideas that can be understood from the above embodiment and modified examples will be described. (Additional Note 1) An island equipment for installing gaming machines, comprising a first member, a second member, and a third member, wherein of the first member and the second member, at least the first member has a portion on which the gaming machine is placed, the first member and the second member are aligned along a predetermined direction that intersects with the vertical direction, and a gap is formed between the first member and the second member, the internal space of the island equipment is connected to the external space through the gap, and the third member is configured to be attached so as to fill the gap and to be removable.

[0072] (Appendix 2) The second member is an island equipment as described in Appendix 1 having a portion on which the gaming machine is placed. (Appendix 3) The third member is an island equipment as described in Appendix 1 or Appendix 2 having a portion on which the gaming machine is placed.

[0073] (Appendix 4) An island equipment described in any one of Appendices 1 to 3, wherein the portion of the third member on which the gaming machine is placed forms the lower edge of an attachment portion to which a door member can be attached when no gaming machine is placed on that portion.

[0074] (Supplementary Note 5) The island equipment according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 4, wherein an internal space of the island equipment is capable of accommodating a transport device for game media. (Appendix 6) An island equipment for installing gaming machines, comprising a first member and a second member, wherein of the first member and the second member, at least the first member has a portion on which the gaming machine is placed, the first member and the second member are aligned along a predetermined direction that intersects with the vertical direction, and a gap is formed between the first member and the second member, the internal space of the island equipment is connected to an external space through the gap, and a gaming medium transport device can be installed in a position of the internal space corresponding to the gap.

[0075] (Appendix 7) An island equipment as described in Appendix 6, comprising a third member, the third member being configured to be attached and removed so as to fill the gap. (Appendix 8) The transport device is provided with a transport path member having a transport path along which the game medium is transported, the transport path member having a portion extending upward, the thickness of which is thinner than the gap. An island equipment as described in Appendix 6 or Appendix 7.

[0076] (Appendix 9) An island equipment described in any one of Appendices 6 to 8, in which an opening that opens the internal space of the island equipment is formed at a position lower than the lower end of the first member, and the conveying device is placed on a sliding plate in the internal space of the island equipment.

[0077] (Appendix 10) An island equipment as described in Appendix 9, comprising a first auxiliary member configured to be attached and removed to support the first member at a position corresponding to the opening, and a second auxiliary member configured to be attached and removed to support the second member at a position corresponding to the opening. [Explanation of symbols]

[0078] 10...Island equipment 11...Amusement machine 12...Pachinko game machine 30...Table 30a...Placement portion 30b...Base 34...First member 35...Second member 36...Third member 48a...First auxiliary member 48b...Second auxiliary member 52...Opening 58...Door member 60...Transportation device 63...First transport path member 64...Slide plate Dw...Width direction Dh...Height direction Dd...Depth direction S1, S2...Gap SA...Internal space

Claims

1. In island facilities for installing gaming machines, Island pillars and A split tray and An auxiliary member for supporting the split tray; The split type tray has a first member, a second member, and a third member, each of which is plate-shaped, Of the first member and the second member, at least the first member is a portion on which the gaming machine is placed and has a surface to which the gaming machine is fixed; the first member and the second member are aligned along a predetermined direction intersecting with the vertical direction, the first member has a fixed end fixed to a first island post among the island posts and a free end opposite to the fixed end, the second member has a fixed end fixed to a second island post among the island posts and a free end opposite to the fixed end, a gap is formed between the free end of the first member and the free end of the second member, and an internal space of the island equipment is in communication with an external space via the gap, the third member is configured to be attached to and detached from the free end of the first member and the free end of the second member so as to fill the gap; An island equipment characterized in that a free end of the first member is supported by a first auxiliary member among the auxiliary members that can be attached and removed, and a free end of the second member is supported by a second auxiliary member among the auxiliary members that can be attached and removed.

2. A split-type waist frame is provided to support the split-type tray, The split type waist frame includes a first waist frame that supports the first member and a second waist frame that supports the second member, the first waist frame has a fixed end fixed to a first island post among the island posts and a free end opposite the fixed end, the second waist frame has a fixed end fixed to a second island post among the island posts and a free end opposite the fixed end, A free end of the first member is supported by the first auxiliary member via the first waist frame, and a free end of the second member is supported by the second auxiliary member via the second waist frame, A free end of the first frame protrudes into the gap further than a free end of the first member, A free end of the second waist frame protrudes into the gap further than a free end of the second member, The island equipment as described in claim 1, wherein the third member is attached to the free end of the first member and the free end of the second member in a state in which the free end of the first waist frame and the free end of the second waist frame are bridged over each other.

Citation Information

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