Island Facilities

Abstract

To make game machines replaceable.SOLUTION: An island facility capable of interchangeably installing a game machine 20P and a game machine 20S, includes: an upper support part 61; a lower support part 62; a game machine frame 40 installed between the upper support part 61 and the lower support part 62 and capable of interchangeably storing the game machine 20P and the game machine 20S; an upper fixing mechanism 61b; and a lower fixing mechanism 62b. Installation modes of the game machine frame 40 include: a first mode in which a first end E1 is arranged on the upper side; and a second mode in which a second end E2 is arranged on the upper side. When the game machine frame 40 is in the first mode, the upper support part 61 and the first end E1 can be fixed by the upper fixing mechanism 61b, and the lower support part 62 and the second end E2 can be fixed by the lower fixing mechanism 62b. When the game machine frame 40 is in the second mode, the upper support part 61 and the second end E2 can be fixed by the upper fixing mechanism 61b, and the lower support part 62 and the first end E1 can be fixed by the lower fixing mechanism 62b.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] Conventionally, gaming machines are installed in island facilities. Known gaming machines include pachinko gaming machines and rotary gaming machines. These gaming machines vary in installation height, shape, and size due to differences in their internal structures (e.g., Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-104270 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Assume that there are two gaming machines, a first gaming machine and a second gaming machine, which have different installation heights, shapes, and sizes. In conventional island facilities, the position, shape, and size of the space for accommodating the gaming machines are fixed. For this reason, it is difficult to switch between the first gaming machine and the second gaming machine in conventional island facilities. It is expected that conventional island facilities will be easily renovated to allow for the switching of gaming machines. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] To solve the above problems Island Facilitiesis an island equipment in which a first gaming machine and a second gaming machine can be installed interchangeably, the island equipment comprising: a first support part; a second support part; a storage component installed between the first support part and the second support part and capable of accommodating the first gaming machine and the second gaming machine interchangeably; a first fixing mechanism capable of fixing the first support part and the storage component; and a second fixing mechanism capable of fixing the second support part and the storage component, wherein the installation modes of the storage component include a first mode in which a first end of the storage component is arranged on the upper side, and a second mode in which a second end opposite to the first end is arranged on the upper side, the storage component is a rectangular frame-like member extending along the height direction of the first gaming machine and the second gaming machine, and is provided with a space large enough to store the first gaming machine and the second gaming machine, the storage component has a first side wall and a second side wall extending along the height direction, and a first protrusion and a second protrusion that protrude into the space from the inner surface of the first side wall and the inner surface of the second side wall, respectively, and extend along the height direction are arranged on an opening end side that is in front of the storage component when the second gaming machine is stored in the space with the installation mode of the storage component set to the second mode, thereby making it possible to make the distance between the inner surface of the first protrusion and the inner surface of the second protrusion larger than the width of the second gaming machine and smaller than the width of the first gaming machine, The gist of the present invention is that when the storage component is in the first state, the first support portion and the first end portion can be fixed by the first fixing mechanism, and the second support portion and the second end portion can be fixed by the second fixing mechanism, and when the storage component is in the second state, the first support portion and the second end portion can be fixed by the first fixing mechanism, and the second support portion and the first end portion can be fixed by the second fixing mechanism. [Effects of the Invention]

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

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

[0008] An embodiment of the island equipment will be described below. (Outline of island facilities) As shown in FIG. 1, the island equipment 10 is installed on an installation surface G of an amusement parlor or the like. The island equipment 10 can accommodate multiple gaming machines 20. The island equipment 10 can accommodate multiple types of gaming machines 20. The gaming machine 20 is a pachinko gaming machine 20P (hereinafter simply referred to as gaming machine 20P), which is an example of a first gaming machine. The gaming machine 20 is a rotary gaming machine 20S (hereinafter simply referred to as gaming machine 20S), which is an example of a second gaming machine. A mixture of gaming machines 20P and 20S can be installed on the island equipment 10. Only gaming machine 20P can be installed on the island equipment 10. Only gaming machine 20S can be installed on the island equipment 10. In the following description, when there is no need to distinguish between gaming machines 20P and 20S, they will be simply referred to as gaming machine 20. As will be described later, the island equipment 10 is configured so that the gaming machine 20P and the gaming machine 20S can be installed interchangeably.

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

[0010] In the island facility 10, a management unit 30 is provided adjacent to each gaming machine 20. Each gaming machine 20 is connected to the management unit 30 so that they can communicate with each other. The management unit 30 may be connected to a hall computer installed in the gaming parlor's office or the like. The management unit 30 may be connected to a server device installed in a specified data center via a telecommunications line such as the Internet.

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

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

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

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

[0015] When the counting switch is operated, the processor subtracts the number of transferred gaming media from the number of gaming media A2. The processor transmits counting information that can identify the number of transferred gaming media to the management unit 30. The processor receives payout information that can identify the number of paid-out gaming balls. The processor adds the payout number that can be identified from the payout information to the number of gaming media A2.

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

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

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

[0019] When the counting switch is operated, the processor subtracts the number of transferred gaming media from the number of gaming media A2. The processor transmits counting information that can identify the number of transferred gaming media to the management unit 30. The processor receives payout information that can identify the number of paid-out gaming media. The processor adds the payout number that can be identified from the payout information to the number of gaming media A2.

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0026] The gaming machine frame 40 is an example of a housing component (member) that can house the gaming machine 20P and the gaming machine 20S interchangeably. The orientation P1 is an orientation suitable for installing the gaming machine 20P. When the gaming machine 20P is held in the island equipment 10 with the gaming machine frame 40 in the orientation P1, the gaming machine 20P is installed at the recommended height HP (see FIG. 1). The orientation P2 is an orientation suitable for installing the gaming machine 20S. When the gaming machine 20S is held in the island equipment 10 with the gaming machine frame 40 in the orientation P2, the gaming machine 20S is installed at the recommended height HS (see FIG. 1). Thus, the installation modes of the gaming machine frame 40 include a first mode (orientation P1) in which the first end E1 of the gaming machine frame 40 is positioned on the upper side, and a second mode (orientation P2) in which the second end E2 opposite the first end E1 is positioned on the upper side. When the gaming machine frame 40 is installed in the orientation P1 and a gaming machine 20P is housed in the gaming machine frame 40, the gaming machine 20P has an installation height corresponding to the gaming machine 20P. When the gaming machine frame 40 is installed in the orientation P2 and a gaming machine 20S is housed in the gaming machine frame 40, the gaming machine 20S has an installation height corresponding to the gaming machine 20S.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0046] (Installation part) As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the island equipment 10 has an installation section 60 on which the gaming machine frame 40 is installed. The installation section 60 has an upper support section 61 arranged above the gaming machine frame 40 and a lower support section 62 arranged below the gaming machine frame 40. The upper support section 61 is a plate-shaped section extending along the width direction Dw. The upper support section 61 is a so-called "cap board" or "cap board." The lower support section 62 is a plate-shaped section extending along the width direction Dw. The lower support section 62 is a so-called "column board." The lower surface 61a of the upper support section 61 faces the upper surface 62a of the lower support section 62 in the height direction Dh, with a space S3 between them. The island equipment 10 has multiple island pillars 11 arranged at predetermined intervals along the width direction Dw. The support sections 61, 62 are supported by being spanned across the multiple island pillars 11. The upper support portion 61 is an example of a first support portion. The lower support portion 62 is an example of a second support portion. The gaming machine frame 40 is installed between the upper support portion 61 and the lower support portion 62. The unit frame 50 is also installed in the installation portion 60.

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

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

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

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

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

[0052] When installing a gaming machine 20S in a conventional island facility 10, the dimensions of each component are determined so that the support surface height 60h matches the recommended height HS of the gaming machine 20S. In the conventional island facility 10, the gaming machine 20S is installed by fixing the cabinet B to the cap board 66 and the waist board 67 using fixing members. In the conventional island facility 10, the management unit 30W is installed by fixing the cap board 66 and the waist board 67 using fixing members. When switching between the gaming machine 20P and the gaming machine 20S in the conventional island facility 10, the installation height of the waist board 67 must be adjusted to match the recommended height of each gaming machine 20. The space S3 is an example of a space for accommodating the gaming machine 20P or the gaming machine 20S. The cap board 66 is an example of a first support member in the conventional island facility 10, and the waist board 67 is an example of a second support member in the conventional island facility 10. The cap board 66 and the waist board 67 are parts arranged to sandwich the space S3.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0063] (How to replace the management unit) First, remove the management unit 30 from the unit frame 50. If installing a management unit 30 with the same width as the removed management unit 30, attach the new management unit 30 to the unit frame 50. Then, the work is completed. On the other hand, if installing a management unit 30 with a different width from the removed management unit 30, select the orientation of the unit frame 50 according to the newly installed management unit 30. When installing management unit 30N, the unit frame 50 should be re-fixed in orientation P1. At this time, the first surface m1, which has a predetermined decoration, is positioned on the player side. When installing management unit 30W, the unit frame 50 should be re-fixed in orientation P2. At this time, the second surface m2, which has a predetermined decoration, is positioned on the player side.

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

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

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

[0067] (3) The fixing mechanisms 61b and 62b are provided, so that the gaming machine frame 40 can be fixed, facilitating the replacement of the gaming machine 20. (4) The fixing mechanisms 61b, 62b are configured to include nuts and bolts, so that the gaming machine frame 40 can be fixed with a simple configuration.

[0068] (5) The upper fixing mechanism 61b and the lower fixing mechanism 62b can be used when installing the gaming machine frame 40 in either the first mode (position P1) or the second mode (position P2). Therefore, there is no need to modify the mechanism for fixing the gaming machine frame 40 to the island equipment 10 every time the installation mode of the gaming machine frame 40 is changed. Therefore, the installation mode of the gaming machine frame 40 can be easily changed according to the type of gaming machine 20. Therefore, the gaming machines 20 can be replaced.

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

[0070] (7) The gaming machine 20S has a smaller width than the gaming machine 20P. The gaming machine frame 40 has protrusions 46, 47 that protrude into the space S1. Therefore, even when the gaming machine 20S is installed with the gaming machine frame 40 in the position P2, gaps are unlikely to occur on the left and right sides of the gaming machine 20S. This allows the gaming machine to be installed in an attractive manner.

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

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

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

[0074] (11) The management unit 30N has a smaller width than the management unit 30W. The unit frame 50 has protrusions 56, 57 that protrude into the space s1. Therefore, even when the management unit 30N is installed with the unit frame 50 in position p1, gaps are unlikely to form on the left and right sides of the management unit 30N. This allows for an attractive installation of external devices.

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

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

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

[0078] The above-described embodiment can be modified as follows: The above-described embodiments and the following modifications can be combined with each other within the scope of technical compatibility. The method for installing the gaming machine frame 40 is not limited to using the cap plate 66 as the upper support portion 61 without moving it. For example, the cap plate 66 may be removed and a new upper support portion 61 may be attached. In this case, nuts may be embedded in the upper support portion 61 in advance. In the method for installing the gaming machine frame 40, the cap plate 66 may be moved upward or downward. Furthermore, when a new upper support portion 61 is attached, its lower surface 61a may be positioned higher or lower than the lower surface 66a of the existing cap plate 66. Furthermore, in the method for installing the gaming machine frame 40, the waist plate 67 may be used as the lower support portion 62. In this case, the waist plate 67 may be moved downward, upward, or may not be moved. In other words, in the method for installing the gaming machine frame 40, the first support portion and the second support portion to be moved or replaced may be arbitrarily changed as long as the space S3 can be expanded so that the gaming machine frame 40 can be installed.

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

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

[0081] The surfaces M1 and M2 of the gaming machine frame 40 may be covered with a lenticular sheet. The lenticular sheet includes a lenticular lens having multiple convex lenses extending parallel to each other along the height direction Dh, and a composite image layer for the lenticular lens, which combines multiple types of images (for example, two types). With this configuration, even when viewing the same position in the height direction Dh, the lenticular sheet displays different images depending on the angle of the line of sight from the width direction Dw relative to the same position. Furthermore, if the lenticular sheet is positioned so that the lenticular lens extends along the width direction Dw, different images can be viewed depending on the angle of the line of sight in the height direction Dh. The surfaces m1 and m2 of the unit frame 50 can also be similarly changed.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0089] Next, the technical ideas that can be understood from the above-described embodiment and modified examples will be described. (1) An installation method for installing a storage component capable of accommodating a first gaming machine and a second gaming machine interchangeably in island equipment, the method comprising the steps of: expanding the space by moving or exchanging at least one of a first support portion and a second support portion, which are portions arranged on either side of the space for accommodating the first gaming machine or the second gaming machine; and installing the storage component in the expanded space.

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

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

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

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

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

Claims

[Claim 1] An island facility in which a first gaming machine and a second gaming machine can be installed interchangeably, A first support portion; A second support portion; a housing component that is installed between the first support portion and the second support portion and that can house the first gaming machine and the second gaming machine interchangeably; a first fixing mechanism capable of fixing the first support portion and the housed component; a second fixing mechanism capable of fixing the second support portion and the housed component, The installation mode of the accommodated component includes a first mode in which a first end of the accommodated component is disposed on an upper side, and a second mode in which a second end opposite to the first end is disposed on an upper side, the housing component is a rectangular frame-like member extending along the height direction of each of the first gaming machine and the second gaming machine, and has a space large enough to house the first gaming machine and the second gaming machine; The housing component includes a first side wall and a second side wall extending along the height direction, When the installation mode of the storage component is the second mode and the second gaming machine is stored in the space, a first protrusion and a second protrusion that protrude into the space from the inner surface of the first side wall and the inner surface of the second side wall and extend along the height direction are arranged on the opening end side that is in front of the storage component, thereby making it possible to make the distance between the inner surface of the first protrusion and the inner surface of the second protrusion larger than the width of the second gaming machine and smaller than the width of the first gaming machine, When the accommodated component is in the first aspect, the first support portion and the first end portion can be fixed by the first fixing mechanism, and the second support portion and the second end portion can be fixed by the second fixing mechanism, An island equipment characterized in that when the stored component is in the second aspect, the first support portion and the second end portion can be fixed by the first fixing mechanism, and the second support portion and the first end portion can be fixed by the second fixing mechanism.

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