Prize-winning game machine

Abstract

To easily excite a player's willingness in a prize acquisition game device.SOLUTION: A prize acquisition game device has: a prize exhibition space having a space for exhibiting a prize; a drop area for dropping a prize; a crane for guiding a prize to the drop area; an operation section for receiving a player's operation; and a crane control section for driving a crane according to operation. The crane includes: a support piece mounted to a body of the crane; an arm rotatably mounted to the support piece; and a movable piece connected to the arm mounted to the body. In the arm, a hook portion for hooking a prize is formed. The crane control section changes an angle of the arm by moving the movable piece.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a prize acquisition game device that moves and acquires articles such as prizes.

Background Art

[0002] Many game centers have installed crane game devices (prize acquisition game devices). Conventionally, as a type of crane game device, one having a rod-shaped member for holding a prize has been proposed. In this crane game device, a groove or the like is provided at the tip of the rod-shaped member, and a ring-shaped member attached to the prize is hooked on the groove and suspended. In this crane game device, the player operates the crane by making full use of the horizontal button and the vertical button. If the player can detach the ring-shaped member from the rod-shaped member by the crane and move the prize to the drop hole, the player can acquire the prize (see Patent Document 1).

[0003] In the crane game device of Patent Document 1, the ring-shaped member swings with the groove of the rod-shaped member as a fulcrum. That is, when the arm of the crane is brought into contact with the ring-shaped member, the prize swings. By making the prize swing, it is intended to give the player a sense of expectation of winning the prize.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The crane game device described in Patent Document 1 has a ring-shaped member that swings within the range of a groove or similar on a rod-shaped member. Therefore, even if the arm is brought into contact with the ring-shaped member, the swing of the ring-shaped member (and the prize) tends to be small. Because the swing of the prize is small, players may not get a sufficient sense of anticipation about winning a prize. In addition, there is a risk that players' motivation to try will decrease.

[0006] This invention was completed based on the above-mentioned problem recognition, and its main purpose is to provide a technology that makes it easier to stimulate the motivation of players in prize acquisition game machines. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A prize acquisition game device according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a prize display space having a space for displaying prizes, a drop area from which prizes should be dropped, a crane for guiding prizes to the drop area, an operating unit for receiving operations from a player, and a crane control unit for driving the crane according to the operations. The crane includes a support piece attached to the main body of the crane, an arm rotatably attached to the support piece, and a movable piece attached to the main body and connected to the arm. The arm has a hook-like section for attaching prizes. The crane control unit changes the angle of the arm by moving a movable piece. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, it becomes easier to stimulate the player's motivation in a prize-winning game device. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of the game device. [Figure 2] This is a functional block diagram of a game device. [Figure 3] This is a diagram showing the structure of the suspension member. [Figure 4]It is a diagram showing a state where a hanging member is supported by a support member. [Figure 5] It is a diagram showing how a crane abuts on a hanging member. [Figure 6] It is a conceptual diagram showing the state of the hanging member with respect to the support member. [Figure 7] It is a conceptual diagram showing the state of the hanging member with respect to the support member. [Figure 8] It is a diagram showing the overall configuration of the game device in the second embodiment. [Figure 9] It is a front view showing the configuration of the crane. [Figure 10] It is a diagram showing the operation of the crane. [Figure 11] It is a diagram showing a modification example in the second embodiment. [Figure 12] It is a diagram showing the structure of the crane in the third embodiment. [Figure 13] It is a diagram showing the structure of the detachable part. [Figure 14] It is a diagram showing the attachment mode of the support piece to the main body part. [Figure 15] It is a diagram showing a state where the crane is gripping a prize. [Figure 16] It is a diagram showing other usage forms. [Figure 17] It is a diagram showing other usage forms. [Figure 18] It is a diagram showing a modification example in the third embodiment.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the following description, for convenience, the positional relationship of each structure may be expressed based on the illustrated state. Also, for the following embodiments and their modification examples, substantially the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0011] [First Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of a prize acquisition game device (hereinafter referred to as "game device 1"). The game device 1 includes a rectangular parallelepiped base 2 and a box-shaped prize storage section 4 provided on the base 2. A prize display space S is formed inside the prize storage section 4. A support member 10 extends from an end face of a plate-like mounting table 5 in the prize display space S. The support member 10 is a rod-shaped member, and its proximal end is connected to the mounting table 5. A prize A is suspended from the tip of the support member 10 via a suspension member 50 described later. Hereinafter, the tip side in the extending direction of the support member 10 may be referred to as the right, and the proximal end side may be referred to as the left to indicate each direction. A dropping area R is provided below the prize display space S.

[0012] A crane 8 is provided above the prize display space S. The crane 8 can move the prize display space S in the front-rear, left-right, and up-down directions.

[0013] The front surface and the left and right side surfaces of the prize storage section 4 are covered with transparent glass, taking into account the visibility of the prize A from the outside. A door 11 is provided on the front surface of the prize storage section 4, and an operator such as a store clerk can open the door 11 and arrange the prize A inside the prize storage section 4.

[0014] Inside the base 2, a prize stock space 14 that communicates with the dropping area R and stores the prize A dropped from the dropping area R is formed. A prize outlet 16 for taking out the prize A that has dropped into the prize stock space 14 is formed on the front surface of the base 2.

[0015] An operation table 18 is provided on the front side of the base 2. A coin insertion slot 20, an IC card reader 21, an operation section 22, and an input reception section 24 are provided on the operation table 18. The player inserts a coin into the coin insertion slot 20 or touches an IC card on the IC card reader 21. In the latter case, payment processing using electronic money is executed, but since it is a known technique, the details thereof will be omitted.

[0016] The control unit 22 has control buttons 22a and 22b that the player operates to move the crane 8. The control unit 22 functions as an "input unit" that receives input signals based on the player's operations. Control button 22a is a button for moving the crane 8 left and right, and control button 22b is a button for moving the crane 8 forward and backward. In modified versions, a joystick or the like may be used to move the crane 8 forward, backward, left and right.

[0017] The input receiving unit 24 consists of a touch panel. The input receiving unit 24 functions as a "settings input unit" where the administrator inputs game setting information, and also functions as a "display unit" that displays information related to the game, such as the operation method of the operation unit 22 and game results. The game device 1 also includes a speaker (not shown) and external connection terminals.

[0018] The crane 8 comprises a crane body 25 and a pair of arms 26. The crane body 25 includes a motor that drives the arms 26 to open and close. The arms 26 are bent in shape and two are provided symmetrically on the lower part of the crane body 25. Since the structure of the crane 8 in this embodiment is publicly known, a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0019] The player operates the control unit 22 to move the crane 8. By moving the crane 8 and opening and closing the arm 26, the player can move prize A into the drop area R and win prize A. Details will be described later.

[0020] The crane 8 is movable along a guide rail (not shown) installed above the prize storage section 4 and is driven by a crane drive unit 28. The crane drive unit 28 includes a movement mechanism that drives the crane 8 in the forward / backward and left / right directions, and a lifting mechanism that drives it in the up / down direction. The crane drive unit 28 allows the crane 8 to be moved to any position in the prize display space S. Since such a drive mechanism is publicly known, a detailed explanation thereof is omitted.

[0021] Figure 2 is a functional block diagram of the game device 1. Each component of the game device 1 is realized by hardware including a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and various coprocessors, memory and storage devices, and wired or wireless communication lines connecting them, as well as software stored in the storage devices that supplies processing instructions to the arithmetic units. The computer program may consist of device drivers, an operating system, various application programs located at a higher layer, and libraries that provide common functions to these programs. The blocks described below represent functional units, not hardware units.

[0022] The game device 1 includes a user interface processing unit 100, a mechanism unit 120, a data processing unit 140, and a data storage unit 160. The user interface processing unit 100 accepts operations from the player via various input devices and is responsible for processing related to the user interface, such as image display and audio output. The mechanism unit 120 drives various mechanisms such as the crane 8 (see Figure 1). The data storage unit 160 stores various data. The data processing unit 140 executes various processes based on input from the user interface processing unit 100 and the data stored in the data storage unit 160.

[0023] The user interface processing unit 100 includes an input unit 102 that receives input from the player and an output unit 104 that outputs various information such as images and sounds to the player.

[0024] The input unit 102 includes a setting input unit 106 and a crane operation unit 108. The setting input unit 106 receives setting input from the operator via the input reception unit 24 (see Figure 1). The crane operation unit 108 receives operation input from the player via the operation unit 22 (see Figure 1). The game device 1 has a setting mode and a play mode. In setting mode, the operator performs various settings as described below. Prize delivery is also performed in setting mode. In play mode, the player operates the operation unit 22 to play the crane game.

[0025] The output unit 104 includes an image display unit 110 and an audio output unit 112. The image display unit 110 displays various images on the input receiving unit 24. The audio output unit 112 outputs audio.

[0026] The mechanism 120 includes a crane drive unit 28. As described above, the crane drive unit 28 controls the movement of the crane 8 and the opening and closing of the arm 26 (see Figure 1).

[0027] The data processing unit 140 includes a crane control unit 142 and a movement determination unit 144. The crane control unit 142 instructs the crane drive unit 28 to move the crane 8 and open / close the arm 26 according to the operation instructions from the crane operation unit 108 (see Figure 1). The movement determination unit 144 determines whether or not prize A has moved to the drop area R, in other words, whether or not prize A has been acquired.

[0028] The data storage unit 160 includes a game program storage unit 162. The game program storage unit 162 stores the game program for the crane game.

[0029] Figure 3 shows the structure of the suspension member 50. Figure 3(A) is a perspective view, Figure 3(B) is a plan view, and Figure 3(C) is a front view. The suspension member 50 has a main body 52, a semi-annular arm contact portion 54, and a semi-annular suspension portion 56. The main body 52 consists of a rectangular plate-shaped base portion 51 and two extending portions 53 that extend from both corners of the end face of the base portion 51 on the same plane as the base portion 51. The two extending portions 53 are parallel. In other words, the main body 52 has a bifurcated structure.

[0030] The suspension portion 56 extends perpendicularly from the main body portion 52 from the ends of the two extended portions 53. The arm contact portion 54 extends perpendicularly from the main body portion 52 from the end of the base portion 51 opposite to the extended portions 53. The direction of extension of the arm contact portion 54 is opposite to the direction of extension of the suspension portion 56. In other words, the suspension member 50 has a crank shape when viewed from the side. Hereinafter, the surface on the main body portion 52 that forms the base end of the arm contact portion 54 will be referred to as the "first surface F". The surface on the main body portion 52 that forms the base end of the suspension portion 56 will be referred to as the "second surface B".

[0031] Between the two extending portions 53 on the second surface B of the main body portion 52, two projections 60 are provided that protrude in the direction of extension of the suspension portion 56. The function of the projections 60 will be described later.

[0032] A reinforcing rib 55 is provided at the base end of the arm contact portion 54. The rib 55 extends along the edge of the main body portion 52. In addition, two hook portions 64 for suspending prize A (see Figure 1) are provided at the apex of the suspension portion 56. The hook portions 64 are projections that protrude radially inward at the apex of the suspension portion 56. Details on how prize A is hooked onto the hook portions 64 will be described later.

[0033] Figure 4 shows the state in which the suspension member 50 is supported by the support member 10. Figure 4(A) shows the first surface F side of the suspension member 50, and Figure 4(B) shows the second surface B side. The suspension member 50 is supported by the support member 10. More specifically, the tip of the support member 10 and the edge located on the second surface B of the base portion 51 are in point contact. When the main body portion 52 is supported by the support member 10, the arm contact portion 54 is located on the tip side in the extending direction of the support member 10 and extends upward from the main body portion 52. The suspension portion 56 is located on the base side in the extending direction of the support member 10 and extends downward from the main body portion 52. A plate-shaped swing suppression member 32 is attached to the middle of the support member 10. The swing suppression member 32 extends in a direction perpendicular to the extending direction of the support member 10. The function of the swing suppression member 32 will be described later.

[0034] The contact position of the support member 10 with the main body 52 is between the two protrusions 60. The two protrusions 60 restrict the suspension member 50 from sliding in a direction perpendicular to the extending direction of the support member 10. In other words, the protrusions 60 function as a "movement restricting structure" that restricts the movement of the suspension member 50 in this direction.

[0035] The end of prize A is hooked between the two hooking parts 64. Specifically, a hook member 66 is attached to prize A. By hooking the hook member 66 between the two hooking parts 64 in the suspension part 56, prize A is suspended from the suspension part 56. Alternatively, prize A may be suspended from the suspension part 56 by attaching a string to prize A and passing the string across the hooking parts 64.

[0036] The suspension member 50 makes point contact with the support member 10. This contact point serves as the fulcrum Ps of the suspension member 50 by the support member 10. Directly below this fulcrum Ps are the suspension point Ph of the hook member 66 and the suspension portion 56, as well as the center of gravity of the prize A.

[0037] Figure 5 shows the operation of the crane 8. Figure 5(A) shows the crane 8 positioned directly above the suspension member 50, Figure 5(B) shows the arm 26 in the open position and in contact with the suspension member 50, Figure 5(C) shows the arm 26 closed and the suspension member 50 caught on the arm 26, and Figure 5(D) shows the suspension member 50 detached from the arm 26. Note that the state in which the suspension member 50 is balanced with respect to the support member 10, as shown in Figure 5(A), is sometimes called the "equilibrium state".

[0038] The player first operates the control unit 22 (see Figure 1) to move the crane 8 above the suspension member 50. Once the player has finished operating the control unit 22, the arm 26 opens as shown in Figure 5(A).

[0039] After the arm 26 opens, the crane 8 descends. Once the descent is complete (Figure 5(B)), the arm 26 closes. If the player moves the crane 8 successfully, the arm 26 will come into contact with the arm contact portion 54, as shown in Figure 5(C).

[0040] The closing motion of the arm 26 causes the arm contact portion 54 to receive a force toward the tip of the support member 10, causing the suspension member 50 to move from its equilibrium state. In the example shown in Figure 5(C), the arm 26 is in contact with the arm contact portion 54 at a position offset from the apex Pm. As a result, the arm contact portion 54 receives a moment force around the fulcrum Ps and rotates in the horizontal plane. At this time, the suspension member 50 comes into contact with the oscillation suppression member 32, and its oscillation is restricted. That is, the oscillation suppression member 32 restricts the rotation of the suspension member 50 in the horizontal plane. The suspension member 50 receives a reaction force from the oscillation suppression member 32.

[0041] When the arm 26 is fully closed, the crane 8 rises as shown in Figure 5(D). As the crane 8 rises, the arm 26 detaches from the arm contact portion 54. With the arm 26 detached, the force acting on the arm contact portion 54 toward the tip of the support member 10 ceases. At this time, the suspension member 50 attempts to return to a state of equilibrium due to inertia. As a result, the suspension member 50 swings with the contact point with the support member 10 as the fulcrum Ps. The swinging of the suspension member 50 will be described in detail below.

[0042] Figures 6 and 7 are conceptual diagrams showing the operation of the suspension member 50 relative to the support member 10 (see Figure 5). Figure 6 shows a plan view, and Figure 7 shows a side view. Figures 6(A) and 7(A) show the state corresponding to Figure 5(A), Figures 6(B) and 7(B) show the state corresponding to Figure 5(C), and Figures 6(C) and 7(C) show the state corresponding to Figure 5(D). In Figures 6 and 7, the line extending horizontally through the support point Ps (see Figure 4(B)) is called "axis L1", and the line extending vertically through the support point Ps is called "axis L2".

[0043] In this embodiment, the suspension member 50 performs two types of oscillations. Specifically, the suspension member 50 oscillates around axis L2 and oscillates around axis L1. Figure 6 shows the former, and Figure 7 shows the latter.

[0044] Let's explain the oscillation around axis L2. As shown in Figure 6(A), in the equilibrium state, the longitudinal direction of the base portion 51 is parallel to the extending direction of the axis L1. As explained in relation to Figure 5(C), when the arm 26 contacts the arm contact portion 54, a force acts on the arm contact portion 54 toward the tip of the support member 10. At this time, if the arm 26 contacts the arm contact portion 54 at a position offset from the apex Pm, a moment acts about the axis L2. Therefore, as shown in Figure 6(B), the suspension member 50 rotates about the axis L2. In the example of Figure 5(C), it rotates counterclockwise. As shown in Figure 6(B), when the suspension member 50 contacts the swing suppression member 32, it does not rotate further counterclockwise. At this time, the suspension member 50 receives a reaction force from the swing suppression member 32.

[0045] When the arm 26 detaches from the arm contact portion 54, the suspension member 50 rotates clockwise around the axis L2 due to the reaction force it received from the swing suppression member 32, as shown in Figure 6(C).

[0046] Now, let's explain the function of the oscillation suppression member 32. Let's consider a scenario where the swing suppression member 32 is not provided. In this case, when the crane 8 is driven, the swing angle of the suspension member 50 may become large. If this angle is too large, the suspension member 50 may easily detach from the support member 10. As a result, prize A may be easily obtained, potentially leaving the player feeling unsatisfied. By installing the swing suppression member 32, the maximum swing angle of the suspension member 50 can be adjusted, making the difficulty of obtaining prize A appropriate. Therefore, players can be given a sense of satisfaction from playing.

[0047] The suspension member 50 is prevented from rotating around the axis L2 by the swing suppression member 32. The main body 52 slides toward the tip of the support member 10 while positioning its pivot point Ps between the two protrusions 60. The player rotates and slides the suspension member 50, and wins prize A by detaching the suspension member 50 from the tip of the support member 10.

[0048] The projection 60 is provided to restrict the suspension member 50 from moving in a direction perpendicular to the extending direction of the support member 10. Let's consider the case where the projection 60 is not provided. In this case, the contact point between the suspension member 50 and the support member 10 may move to the vicinity of the extending portion 53. Furthermore, the support member 10 may also come into contact with the extending portion 53, and the suspension member 50 may become locked in contact with the support member 10 at two points. If this happens, even if the arm 26 (see Figure 5) is brought into contact with the suspension member 50, the suspension member 50 will not rotate, making it difficult to win prize A. As a result, this may diminish the player's motivation.

[0049] In this embodiment, the movement of the pivot point Ps is restricted between the two protrusions 60. Therefore, the risk of the suspension member 50 locking up as described above is eliminated, and the desire to play can be maintained.

[0050] Let's explain the oscillation around axis L1. As shown in Figure 7(A), in the equilibrium state, the suspension point Ph is located directly below the fulcrum Ps. That is, the suspension point Ph lies on the axis L2. As explained in relation to Figure 5(C), when the arm 26 contacts the arm contact portion 54, a force acts on the arm contact portion 54 toward the tip of the support member 10. At this time, as shown in Figure 7(B), the suspension point Ph moves to a position separated from the axis L2.

[0051] As explained in relation to Figure 5(D), when the arm 26 detaches from the arm contact portion 54, the suspension member 50 attempts to return to a state of equilibrium due to inertia. At this time, as shown in Figure 7(C), the suspension point Ph moves to the opposite side of the axis L2 from the position of the suspension point Ph in the state shown in Figure 7(B). After the arm 26 (see Figures 5(C) and (D)) detaches from the arm contact portion 54, the suspension member 50 swings like a pendulum around the axis L1, but converges to a state of equilibrium.

[0052] As described above, according to this embodiment, the suspension member 50 moves when the arm 26 comes into contact with the arm contact portion 54. When the arm 26 is released from contact, the suspension member 50 rotates significantly around the axis L1 in an attempt to return to a balanced state. Consequently, the prize A suspended from the suspension portion 56 also swings. Therefore, it is possible to create a sense of anticipation in the player regarding winning prize A and stimulate their desire to play.

[0053] In this embodiment, the suspension member 50 is in point contact with the support member 10. Because the frictional force between the suspension member 50 and the support member 10 is small, the movement of the suspension member 50 can be greatly increased. In other words, the rotation of the suspension member 50 around the axis L1 or axis L2 can be greatly increased. Consequently, the prize A suspended from the suspension part 56 also rotates greatly. Therefore, it can stimulate the desire to play.

[0054] [Second Embodiment] The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the shape of the arm and suspension member. Figure 8 shows the overall configuration of the game device 200 in the second embodiment. In the game device 200, a display stand 202 is provided in the prize display space S. Prize A is placed on the display stand 202. A semi-annular suspension member 250 is attached to the top surface of prize A.

[0055] A crane 208 is installed above the prize display space S. The crane 208 has an arm 226. By hooking the arm 226 onto the suspension member 250 and moving prize A to the drop area R, the player can win prize A. The structure of the crane 208 will be described below.

[0056] Figure 9 is a front view showing the configuration of the crane 208. Figure 9(A) shows the arm 226 in a non-operating state, and Figure 9(B) shows the arm 226 in an operational state. The crane 208 includes a crane body 25, an arm 226, and a support mechanism M. The arm 226 comprises a first arm section 230 and a second arm section 234. The first arm section 230 is substantially L-shaped. The second arm section 234 consists of a rod-shaped section 235 supported by the crane body 25 via the support mechanism M, and a connecting section 236 extending diagonally downward from one end of the rod-shaped section 235. The first arm section 230 is attached to the tip of the connecting section 236 by a screw 232. The angle between the first arm section 230 and the second arm section 234 can be set arbitrarily. The lower end of the connecting section 236 and the upper end of the first arm section 230 are aligned and fastened with the screw 232. By adjusting both to a desired angle and fastening them with the screw 232, the angle between them can be fixed.

[0057] The crane body 25 and the second arm section 234 are connected by a support mechanism M. The support mechanism M includes a support member 209 and a connecting member 212. The support member 209 includes a support column 210 and a pair of ball chains 211. The support column 210 is suspended from the crane body 25 by the ball chains 211 and supports the end of the rod-shaped section 235 on the connecting section 236 side. The second arm section 234 rotates about a pivot point P1 provided on the support column 210.

[0058] The connecting member 212 consists of a ball chain 214 and a connecting piece 216. One end of the ball chain 214 supports the end of the second arm section 234, separated from the support column 210. The other end of the ball chain 214 is supported by the connecting piece 216. The connecting piece 216 is connected to a pivot shaft provided on the crane body 25. Driven by a motor provided on the crane body 25, the connecting piece 216 rotates around this pivot shaft. Hereinafter, the upward rotation of the connecting piece 216 may be referred to as "the connecting piece 216 opening." Conversely, the downward rotation may be referred to as "the connecting piece 216 closing." As the connecting piece 216 moves, the second arm section 234 rotates around the fulcrum P1. The connection point between the ball chain 214 and the second arm section 234 is the point of force application P2 in the rotational movement of the second arm section 234.

[0059] As shown in Figure 9(A), when the arm 226 is inactive (connecting piece 216 is closed), the rod-shaped portion 235 is horizontal. That is, the fulcrum P1 and the point of force application P2 are at approximately the same height. Also, the tip 231 of the first arm portion 230 is horizontal. On the other hand, as shown in Figure 9(B), when the arm 226 is active (connecting piece 216 is open), the rod-shaped portion 235 is inclined with respect to the horizontal. In this state, the point of force application P2 is higher than the fulcrum P1. Also, the tip 231 is inclined with respect to the horizontal.

[0060] Figure 10 shows the operation of the crane 208. Figure 10(A) shows the crane 208 positioned above prize A, Figure 10(B) shows the connecting piece 216 open and the crane 208 descending, Figure 10(C) shows the crane 208 descending and the connecting piece 216 beginning to close, Figure 10(D) shows the suspension member 250 suspended from the arm 226, and Figure 10(E) shows the connecting piece 216 open and prize A being dispensed. Note that the state in which the rod-shaped part 235 is kept horizontal, as shown in Figure 10(A), is sometimes referred to as the "initial state" of the arm 226.

[0061] The player first operates the control unit 22 (see Figure 1) to move the crane 208 above the suspension member 250, as shown in Figure 10(A). Once the player has finished operating the control unit 22, the connecting piece 216 opens and the arm 226 rotates around the pivot point P1, as shown in Figure 10(B).

[0062] After the arm 226 rotates, the crane 208 descends. Once the descent is complete, the connecting piece 216 closes, and the arm 226 attempts to rotate around the fulcrum P1 to return to its initial state. If the player's operation is successful, as shown in Figure 10(C), the first arm portion 230 comes into contact with the suspension member 250, and the tip portion 231 is inserted into the semi-annular portion of the suspension member 250. When the first arm portion 230 comes into contact with the suspension member 250, the arm 226 receives a reaction force from the suspension member 250 and rotates counterclockwise around the fulcrum P1.

[0063] Once the connecting piece 216 is fully closed, the crane 208 begins to rise. At this time, as shown in Figure 10(D), the suspension member 250 is hooked onto the tip 231. In other words, the first arm 230 functions as a "hook" for the suspension member 250. The crane 208 moves with the suspension member 250 still hooked onto the tip 231. As shown in Figure 10(E), if the connecting piece 216 opens and prize A can be moved into the drop area R (see Figure 8), the player can win prize A.

[0064] As described above, in this embodiment, the support mechanism M includes ball chains 211 and 214. This causes the support column 210 and arm 226 to swing when the crane 208 moves. This swinging increases the difficulty of hooking the first arm 230 onto the suspension member 250, stimulating the player's desire to challenge themselves. Furthermore, the first arm 230 is roughly L-shaped. Unlike when using an S-shaped hook, which is common as a hook, the crane 208 is structured in a way that makes it easy for the player to hook the suspension member 250 onto the first arm 230. In this embodiment, the shape of the first arm 230 makes it seem easier for the player to win prize A, while the swinging of the arm 226 stimulates the player's desire to challenge themselves. Therefore, it can stimulate the desire to play.

[0065] In this embodiment, when the first arm portion 230 contacts the suspension member 250, the arm 226 rotates around the pivot point P1. This rotation allows the game device 200 to provide the player with the excitement of whether or not they can win prize A.

[0066] In this embodiment, the arm 226 rotates around the pivot point P1. With this structure, after prize A is suspended from the first arm portion 230 of the suspension member, the game device 200 can rotate the arm 226 to dispense prize A. In other words, the game device 200 can release the suspension of prize A when dispensing prize A, even though the first arm portion 230 functions as a hook. Therefore, no human intervention is required to dispense prize A.

[0067] Figure 11 shows a modified example 1 of the second embodiment. In the modified example 1 of crane 308, the shape of the arm differs from that of crane 208. The arm 326 of crane 308 is T-shaped. In arm 326, the second arm portion 334 and the first arm portion 330 are integrally molded. The second arm portion 334 has a fulcrum P1 at one end and a point of force application P2 at the other end. The first arm portion 330 extends downward from between the fulcrum P1 and the point of force application P2. The first arm portion 330 is formed at the lower end of arm 326. The arm 326 that abuts the suspension member 250 (see Figure 8) has a rod-shaped second arm portion 334 formed at its upper part. The second arm portion 334 is supported by a support column 210 and a ball chain 214. Arm 326 rotates around the fulcrum P1 provided on the support column 210.

[0068] In the crane 308, the support mechanism M also includes ball chains 211 and 214. This causes the arm 326 to swing when the crane 308 moves. Therefore, similar to the second embodiment, it becomes easier to stimulate the desire to play.

[0069] In crane 308, the second arm portion 334 and the first arm portion 330 are integrally formed. Therefore, the number of parts is small and assembly is easy. On the other hand, the angle between the second arm portion 334 and the first arm portion 330 cannot be changed. In the second embodiment, the angle between the first arm portion 230 and the second arm portion 234 of crane 208 can be arbitrarily changed. In crane 208, by changing this angle, the way in which the first arm portion 230 holds the suspension member 250 can be changed. In other words, by changing this angle, the difficulty of winning prize A can be easily adjusted in crane 208.

[0070] [Third Embodiment] The third embodiment differs from the first and second embodiments in the structure of the crane. Figure 12 shows the structure of the crane 408 in the third embodiment. Figure 12(A) is a front view, and Figure 12(B) is a side view.

[0071] The crane 408 comprises a crane body 25 and two arms 426. Each arm 426 has a main body 428 and a detachable part 430. The main body 428 is bent in shape. The detachable part 430 is attached to the tip of the main body 428. A support piece 450 for supporting prize A (described later) is detachably attached to the detachable part 430. In this embodiment, two support pieces 450 are attached to each detachable part 430. Hereinafter, the upper surface of the detachable part 430 in Figure 12(A) will be referred to as the front surface, and the lower surface as the back surface.

[0072] Figure 13 shows the structure of the detachable part 430. Figure 13(A) is a plan view, and Figure 13(B) is a bottom view. The detachable part 430 is obtained by bending a plate material. The detachable part 430 has a base part 431 and a support piece mounting part 433. The base part 431 has a tapered shape that narrows towards the end. The center of its tip is open in a concave shape, forming an insertion part 432. The detachable part 430 is attached to the main body part 428 in a manner in which a screw is inserted through this insertion part 432 (details will be described later). The base end of the base part 431 and the upper end of the support piece mounting part 433 are connected, and the base part 431 and the support piece mounting part 433 form a predetermined angle.

[0073] The support piece mounting section 433 has a rectangular shape with its connection point to the base section 431 in the longitudinal direction. The support piece mounting section 433 is provided with five holes 434 along its longitudinal direction. The inner circumferential surface of each hole 434 is provided with a female thread (not shown), and the support piece 450 is attached by screwing it into a male thread (not shown) provided on the outer circumferential surface of the support piece 450.

[0074] Figure 14 shows the mounting configuration of the support piece 450 to the main body 428. Figure 14(A) shows the state before the support piece 450 is attached to the attachment / detachment part 430, Figure 14(B) shows the state after attachment, Figure 14(C) shows the state with the E-ring 460 attached, and Figure 14(D) shows the state after the attachment to the main body 428 is completed.

[0075] First, attach the support piece 450 to the attachment portion 430. As shown in Figures 14(A) and (B), insert the support piece 450 into the hole 434 in the direction from the front surface to the back surface of the attachment portion 430. When inserting, screw the female thread of the hole 434 with the male thread of the support piece 450. Next, as shown in Figure 14(C), the upper end of the support piece 450 protrudes from the top of the hole 434. The male thread of the support piece 450 also protrudes from this position. Fit the E-ring 460 onto the tooth surface of this male thread.

[0076] As shown in Figure 14(D), the back surface of the attachment / detachment part 430 to which the support piece 450 is attached is positioned opposite the tip of the main body part 428 of the arm 426. Then, the screw 470 is inserted through the insertion part 432 and screwed into the female thread (not shown) provided on the main body part 428. In this way, the attachment / detachment part 430 is assembled to the tip of the main body part 428 in such a manner that the insertion part 432 is sandwiched between the main body part 428 and the screw 470.

[0077] Figure 15 is a perspective view showing the crane 408 gripping prize A. As described above, multiple support pieces 450 are attached to the detachable part 430 (see Figure 12(A)). The crane 408 grips the prize A in such a manner that the bottom of the prize A is supported from below by the multiple support pieces 450.

[0078] As described above, according to this embodiment, the tip of the arm 426 is equipped with a detachable part 430 to which a support piece 450 can be attached. By changing the number and position of the support pieces 450 attached to the detachable part 430, the shape of the tip of the arm 426 can be easily changed. If the shape of the tip of the arm 426 is different, the contact position between the prize and the arm 426 will also be different. Therefore, by adopting the arm 426 of this embodiment, the ease and method of winning prizes can be appropriately changed. In other words, it is possible to keep players from getting bored and maintain their motivation to play.

[0079] Figures 16 and 17 illustrate other usage scenarios. Figures 16(A) and (B) show usage scenario 1, and Figures 17(A) and (B) show usage scenario 2, respectively. In Usage Mode 1, one support piece 450 is attached to the attachment part 430. The support piece 450 is attached to the central hole 434 of the five holes 434. By attaching the attachment part 430 of Usage Mode 1 to the main body 428, a game can be provided in which a ring-shaped hanging member 350 attached to prize A is hooked onto the support piece 450, as shown in Figure 16(B).

[0080] As shown in Figure 17(A), in usage configuration 2, one support piece 450 is attached to each of the pair of detachable parts 430. The support pieces 450 are attached to the leftmost hole 434 when the insertion part 432 of the detachable part 430 is facing upwards. That is, when the detachable parts 430 of usage configuration 2 are attached to the pair of main body parts 428, the contact positions of the support pieces 450 on the left and right sides of prize A will be shifted front to back, as shown in Figure 17(B). By changing the attachment position of the support pieces 450, the support point for prize A can be changed. Therefore, it is possible to provide a gameplay experience that requires stable support from the left and right arms 426. In other words, it is possible to make the player think about how to make the support pieces 450 contact prize A. Thus, it is possible to stimulate the desire to play.

[0081] In usage configuration 2, the left and right attachment parts 430 are brought close together. This configuration is convenient when the size of prize A is small. The distance between the left and right attachment parts 430 can be adjusted as appropriate depending on the size of prize A.

[0082] Figure 18 shows a modified example of the third embodiment (hereinafter referred to as "modified example 2"). Modified example 2 shows an assembly of the attachment 500 to the detachable part 430. Figure 18(A) shows the front surface of the attachment 500 attached to the detachable part 430, and Figure 18(B) shows the back surface. Figure 18(C) shows the structure of the attachment 500. In the modified example 2, an attachment 500 is attached to the detachable part 430 to increase the number of detachable support pieces 450. As shown in Figure 18(C), the attachment 500 is provided with a plurality of holes 534. The inner circumferential surface of the holes 534 is provided with female threads (not shown).

[0083] As shown in Figure 18(B), the attachment 500 and the detachable part 430 are assembled by inserting the support piece 450 through the holes 534 and 434 (see Figures 13(A) and (B)). After inserting through the holes 534 (and 434), a nut 600 is fastened to the male thread of the support piece 450. This prevents the support piece 450 from falling out of the holes 534 (and 434).

[0084] In Modification 2, the support pieces 450 can also be attached to and detached from the attachment section 430 and the attachment 500. Therefore, the shape of the tip of the arm 426 (see Figures 12(A) and (B)) can be easily modified. In addition, in Modification 2, many support pieces 450 can be attached and detached. Therefore, the number of support pieces 450 can be varied in various ways to suit the size of the prize, etc.

[0085] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments or modifications described above, and can be materialized by modifying the components without departing from the spirit of the invention. Various inventions may be formed by appropriately combining the multiple components disclosed in the embodiments and modifications described above. Furthermore, some components may be deleted from all the components shown in the embodiments and modifications described above.

[0086] In the first embodiment, the arm contact portion was described as being semi-annular. In modified examples, it may be a semi-disc shape or other solid shape.

[0087] Furthermore, the arm contact area is easily noticed by players as they need to make contact with the arm. Attaching advertisements or other materials to this arm contact area can be expected to have a significant advertising effect.

[0088] In the first embodiment, an example was described in which the arm contact portion and the suspension portion are provided at the end of the main body. In a modified example, they may be provided at a position closer to the center than the end of the main body. In any case, the arm contact portion and the suspension portion should extend in opposite directions on either side of the fulcrum, at a position separated from the contact point (fulcrum) with the support member 10 on the main body.

[0089] In the first embodiment, a case was described in which the suspension member has two protrusions. In the modified version, the number of protrusions can be set to any number, such as one or three. For example, if the number of protrusions is set to one, the degree of freedom of movement of the suspension member relative to the support member can be increased. If the number of protrusions is set to three, the contact point with the support member can be positioned between two adjacent protrusions, allowing the suspension member to be offset in the horizontal direction. Alternatively, instead of protrusions, a recess may be provided in the main body 52, and the pivot point Ps may be positioned within the range of the recess.

[0090] In the first embodiment, the material of the support member 10 was not specifically described. The material of the support member 10 may be a rod made of stainless steel or an aluminum alloy. Alternatively, the support member 10 may be made by wrapping a material with a high coefficient of friction, such as rubber, around the rod. This makes it more difficult for the hanging member 50 to come off the support member 10. Therefore, the difficulty of winning a prize increases, stimulating the player's desire to take on a challenge.

[0091] In the second embodiment, since the support mechanism includes a ball chain, the arm swings when the crane moves. In the modified version, not only a ball chain but also string, wire, or other linear, flexible material (such as a suspension member) may be used. In this case as well, the arm swings when the crane moves. Therefore, similar to the second embodiment, it can stimulate the player's desire to take on a challenge.

[0092] In the second embodiment and modification 1, the support column 210 is suspended from the crane body 25 via a ball chain. In other modifications, the support column may be directly attached to the crane body 25 by screws or the like. Even in this case, the arm 226 swings when it comes into contact with the suspension member 250. Therefore, it is possible to stimulate the player's desire to play the game.

[0093] In the third embodiment, a case was described in which screws are used to attach the detachable part 430 to the main body 428. In a modified example, a magnet may be attached to the tip of the main body 428, and the detachable part 430 may be attached by magnetic force, or other attachment methods may be used.

[0094] In the third embodiment, a female thread is provided on the inner circumferential surface of the hole 434, and a male thread is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the support piece, and the support piece is attached to the attachment / detachment part by screwing these together. An E-ring is further fitted to the tooth surface of the male thread on the support piece. In a modified example, a recess may be provided on the outer circumferential surface of the support piece, and the support piece may be attached to the attachment / detachment part by fitting an E-ring into the recess of the support piece through which the hole is inserted. In this case, it is not necessary to provide male and female threads, and the structure of the support piece and the hole can be simplified.

[0095] In the third embodiment, the number of holes 434 provided in the attachment portion 430 was described as five. The number of holes 434 in the attachment portion 430 is not limited to this, and may be any number, such as three. Similarly, the number of holes 534 provided in the attachment 500 may also be any number, such as ten.

[0096] The prize acquisition game device in this embodiment can also be applied to so-called net catchers. A net catcher is a crane game in which a player operates a crane game device located remotely by transmitting operation information while viewing the prize acquisition status in real time on a PC. The prize acquired by the player is mailed to the player.

[0097] The game device of the second embodiment can also be conceptually understood as follows: A prize acquisition game device of a certain form includes a prize display space having a space for displaying prizes, a suspension member from which prizes can be suspended, a drop area from which prizes should be dropped, a crane including an arm that can contact the suspension member and guide the prizes to the drop area, an operating unit that receives input from the player, and a crane control unit that drives the crane according to the input. The crane includes a support column suspended from the crane body and serving as a pivot point in the rotation of the arm, and a connecting member that connects the crane body and the arm and serves as a point of action in the rotation of the arm. The point of contact between the arm and the suspension member is the point of action in the rotation of the arm.

[0098] The game device of the third embodiment can also be conceptually understood as follows: A prize acquisition game device of a certain form includes a prize display space having a space for displaying prizes, a drop area from which prizes should be dropped, an arm portion capable of contacting prizes, and a crane body supporting the arm portion, and further comprises a crane for guiding prizes to the drop area, an operating unit for receiving operations from the player, and a crane control unit for driving the crane according to the operations. The tip of the arm portion has a detachable portion from which one or more support pieces for supporting prizes can be arbitrarily attached and detached. [Explanation of symbols]

[0099] 1 Game machine, 2 Base, 4 Prize storage area, 5 Mounting platform, 8 Crane, 10 Support member, 11 Door, 14 Prize stock space, 16 Prize dispensing outlet, 18 Control panel, 20 Coin slot, 21 IC card reader, 22 Operation unit, 24 Input reception unit, 25 Crane body, 26 Arm, 28 Crane drive unit, 32 Swing suppression member, 50 Suspension member, 51 Base unit, 52 Main body unit, 53 Extension unit, 54 Arm contact unit, 55 Rib, 56 Suspension unit, 60 Protrusion, 64 Hooking unit, 66 Hook member, 100 User interface processing unit, 102 Input unit, 104 Output unit, 106 Setting input unit, 108 Crane operation unit, 110 Image display unit, 112 Audio output unit, 120 Mechanism unit, 140 Data processing unit, 142 Crane control unit, 144 Movement determination unit, 160 Data storage unit, 162 Game program storage unit, 200 Game device, 202 Mounting platform, 208 Crane, 209 Support member, 210 Column body, 211 Ball chain, 212 Connecting member, 214 Ball chain, 216 Connecting piece, 226 Arm, 230 First arm section, 231 Tip section, 232 Screw, 234 Second arm section, 235 Rod-shaped section, 236 Connecting section, 250 Suspension member, 308 Crane, 326 Arm, 330 First arm section, 334 Second arm section, 350 Suspension member, 408 Crane, 426 Arm, 428 Main body section, 430 Detachable section, 431 Base section, 432 Insertion section, 433 Support piece mounting section, 433 Support piece attachment / detachment section, 434 Hole, 450 Support piece, 460 E-ring, 470 Screw, 500 Attachment, 534 Hole, 600 Nut, A Prize, B Second surface, F First surface, L1 Axis, L2 Axis, M Support mechanism, P1 Pivot point, P2 Point of force application, Ph Suspension point, Pm Apex, Ps Pivot point, R Drop area, S Prize display space.

Claims

1. A prize display space having a space for displaying prizes, The area from which the prize should be dropped, A crane for guiding the prize to the drop area, A control unit that receives input from the player, The system includes a crane control unit that drives the crane in accordance with the above operation, The crane includes a support piece attached to the main body of the crane, an arm rotatably attached to the support piece, and a movable piece attached to the main body and connected to the arm. The arm has a hook portion formed therein for hooking the prize. The prize is provided with a hanging member in advance for engaging with the hook portion. The crane control unit moves the movable piece in response to an operation from the player, thereby changing the angle of the arm and engaging the hook formed on the arm with the suspension member to move the prize, in a prize acquisition game device.

2. A prize display space having a space for displaying prizes, The area from which the prize should be dropped, A crane for guiding the prize to the drop area, A control unit that receives input from the player, The system includes a crane control unit that drives the crane in accordance with the above operation, The crane includes a support piece attached to the main body of the crane, an arm rotatably attached to the support piece, and a movable piece attached to the main body and connected to the arm. The arm includes a first arm and a second arm that are fixed to each other. A hook portion for attaching the prize is formed on the first arm. The second arm is connected to both the support piece and the movable piece. The relative angle of the first arm and the second arm is adjustable. The crane control unit changes the angle of the arm by moving the movable piece, and is a prize-winning game device.

3. A prize display space having a space for displaying prizes, The area from which the prize should be dropped, A crane for guiding the prize to the drop area, A control unit that receives input from the player, The system includes a crane control unit that drives the crane in accordance with the above operation, The crane includes a support piece attached to the main body of the crane, an arm rotatably attached to the support piece, and a movable piece attached to the main body and connected to the arm. The arm has a hook portion formed therein for hooking the prize. The arm is connected to the movable piece via a chain, The crane control unit changes the angle of the arm by moving the movable piece, and is a prize-winning game device.

4. A prize display space having a space for displaying prizes, The area from which the prize should be dropped, A crane for guiding the prize to the drop area, A control unit that receives input from the player, The system includes a crane control unit that drives the crane in accordance with the above operation, The crane includes a support piece attached to the main body of the crane, an arm rotatably attached to the support piece, and a movable piece attached to the main body and connected to the arm. One end of the arm is connected to the support piece, and the other end is connected to the movable piece. A projection is formed between the one end and the other end of the arm. A hook portion is formed on the projection for attaching the prize. The crane control unit changes the angle of the arm by moving the movable piece, and is a prize-winning game device.

5. The prize acquisition game device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the support piece is suspended from the main body of the crane by a chain.

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