Game Apparatus Circulating Mechanism for 3D Objects

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional pusher game apparatuses are inadequate for efficiently transporting three-dimensional game objects, which are rollable regardless of orientation, as they lack a suitable mechanism to replace the lift hopper used for token coins.

Innovation Solution

A game apparatus with a circulating mechanism that includes a conveyor device to transport three-dimensional game objects from a higher position to a lower position, and paths for supplying them to a game object utilizer, allowing continuous circulation and distribution within the game field.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a lift hopper mechanism is used to transport token coins, then token coins can be transported effectively, but the mechanism is not suitable for three-dimensional game objects that are rollable regardless of orientation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesuitability for three-dimensional game objectsVSAvoidtransport efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The transport path is divided into multiple segments: a first path for downward movement, a second path for upward movement, and a supply path branching off. This segmentation allows the system to handle three-dimensional objects effectively by providing dedicated pathways for different transport needs, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention introduces a vertical dimension to the transport system with the conveyor device moving objects from a lower position to a higher position, creating a multi-level path structure. This dimensional change enables efficient handling of three-dimensional game objects by utilizing vertical space rather than only horizontal movement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Productivity

If conventional token coin transport mechanisms are used, then the apparatus configuration remains simple, but continuous circulation and supply of three-dimensional game objects cannot be achieved

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontinuous circulation capabilityVSAvoidcirculating mechanism structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The circulating mechanism enables continuous circulation of three-dimensional game objects through a closed-loop path system. Objects that complete their game cycle are automatically collected and returned to the supply path, ensuring uninterrupted gameplay without manual intervention, thus achieving continuous productive action.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Solution Approach 2:

The circulating mechanism serves multiple functions: it transports objects from lower to higher positions, distributes them through the supply path to the game field, and collects used objects for return circulation. This multi-functionality achieves continuous circulation while managing the necessary complexity through integrated design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If three-dimensional game objects are used instead of token coins, then gameplay variety is enhanced, but a new transport mechanism must be developed to replace the lift hopper

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegame object type flexibilityVSAvoidtransport mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The conveyor device acts as an intermediary mechanism between the collection point and the supply path. It mediates the transport of three-dimensional game objects vertically, enabling the system to handle these objects effectively without requiring complete redesign of the entire transport system, thus balancing adaptability with manufacturing ease.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables efficient and continuous transportation and supply of three-dimensional game objects, enhancing gameplay by ensuring uninterrupted operation and simplifying the game apparatus configuration.

Implementation Method 1

a conveyor device configured to transport the three-dimensional game objects from a first position to a second position that is higher than the first position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Mechanical Force

Implementation Method 2

a first path configured to move the three-dimensional game objects from the second position to a third position that is lower than the second position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGravitation: Gravitation

Implementation Method 3

a second path configured to move a part of the three-dimensional game objects not entering the supply path, to the first position that is lower than the third position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGravitation: Gravitation

Data Source

PatentUS11058941B2Game apparatus
Publication Date: 2021.07.13 KONAMI AMUSEMENT CO LTD
  • US11058941B2 patent drawing
  • US11058941B2 patent drawing
  • US11058941B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A game apparatus provides a game using three-dimensional game objects rollable regardless of their orientation, and includes a circulating mechanism configured to circulate the three-dimensional game objects. The circulating mechanism includes: a conveyor device configured to transport the three-dimensional game objects from a first position to a second position higher than the first position; a first path configured to move the three-dimensional game objects from the second position to a third position lower than the second position; a supply path for supply of a part of the three-dimensional game objects to a game object utilizer that uses the supplied three-dimensional game objects in the game, the part entering the supply path at a position between the second position and the third position; and a second path configured to move a part of the three-dimensional game objects not entering the supply path, to the first position lower than the third position.