Pivoting Coin Track With Spring Release for Skill-Based Pusher Play
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pusher amusement machines lack features that allow for the exercise of skill and efficient reintroduction of playing pieces, such as coins or tokens, into the game, often relying on gravity-fed systems that are prone to tampering and maintenance issues.
Innovation Solution
A game piece transport system with a motor-powered pusher element and spring-assisted release mechanism, allowing players to control the timing and direction of game piece propulsion, combined with a closed-loop system for reintroduction and detection, enhancing player interaction and reducing maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If gravity-fed devices are used to introduce coins to the playfield, then the system is simple in structure, but the system is prone to tampering and maintenance issues
Solution Approach 1:
A motor-driven pusher mechanism is introduced as an intermediary between the coin hopper and playfield, replacing the direct gravity-fed delivery system. This intermediary mechanism provides controlled, reliable coin introduction while maintaining structural simplicity through the use of a straightforward motor-pusher assembly.
2Device complexity
If conventional pusher mechanisms are used, then the device structure is simple, but skill-based gameplay is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The pusher mechanism is made dynamic by allowing players to control its motion through buttons or switches. The pusher can be activated at different times and with different forces, enabling players to exercise skill in timing and strategy while the underlying mechanical structure remains relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates player input through controls that provide feedback to the pusher mechanism. Player actions are immediately reflected in the pusher's motion, creating an interactive skill-based gameplay experience without requiring complex mechanical systems.
3Use of energy by moving object
If gravity-fed coin introduction is used, then energy consumption is low, but control over coin placement is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The motor-driven pusher mechanism propels coins forward automatically after players load them into the hopper. This self-service approach requires minimal additional energy input from players while providing precise control over coin placement and timing through the motorized pusher action.
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
Enhances player engagement through skill-based gameplay and reduces maintenance by incorporating a closed-loop system for coin circulation, providing control over game piece release and detection, while preventing tampering.
Implementation Method 1
the distal end of the coin track is provided with a spring-controlled retainer device that, when in a first position, holds the game pieces within the track. When the hopper motor pushes coins into the bottom of the track a sufficient force is imposed on the chain of adjacent coins and, ultimately to the coin at the end of the track, which pushes against the retainer device to raise the end of a retainer bar on a retainer device out of a first position that blocks the path of the track, and thereby allows the release of the coin from the end of the track. As the retainer bar returns to the first position it again blocks the track, and, as the spring pulls the retainer bar back to a home position, it exerts a force on the rear of a coin in the track and propels the coin into the air toward the playfield.
Data Source
AI summary
A pusher-type amusement machine that includes a motorized coin track assembly for the introduction of coins that has an track end that sweeps across a playfield and includes a base, a coin hopper for collection and ejecting coins and a track that extends from the coin hopper to a track end opening and a control switch to activate the hopper to push coins through the track so that they are ejected from the end of the track towards a playfield on the machine.