Pusher Amusement Machine Prize Tracking in Closed-Loop Transport
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing amusement machines of the pusher type face challenges in accurately tracking and preventing loss of prizes within the machine, as well as requiring frequent operator intervention for prize replenishment.
Innovation Solution
The amusement machine incorporates a dual detection system to track prizes through a closed loop transport system, using detection modules to ensure prizes are reintroduced onto the playing surface and includes a control unit to manage prize circulation and detection, allowing for automated prize tracking and reduced operator intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If prizes are circulated in a closed loop in the machine, then operator intervention for prize replenishment is reduced, but prize loss and blocking within the machine cannot be accurately detected
Solution Approach 1:
The transport system is divided into multiple segments with detection modules positioned at different locations (first detection module at entry, second detection module at exit). This segmentation allows tracking of prizes through distinct zones, enabling accurate detection of prize movement and identification of loss or blocking events within the closed loop system.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit receives detection results from both detection modules and uses this feedback to monitor prize circulation. When a prize is detected by the first module but not by the second module within a predetermined time, the system generates an alarm, providing real-time feedback on prize status and enabling timely intervention.
2Productivity
If prizes are circulated in a closed loop, then frequent operator intervention is reduced, but the complexity of the transport and detection system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transport system serves multiple functions: it transports prizes from the collecting location back to the playing surface, and simultaneously provides a pathway for detection modules to monitor prize movement. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate detection mechanisms, thereby limiting the increase in system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Detection modules act as intermediaries between the transport system and the control unit. These modules detect prizes at specific locations and transmit information to the control unit, which processes the data and generates alarms or awards points. This intermediary structure simplifies the overall system architecture by decoupling detection from control logic.
3Reliability
If detection modules are added to track prizes, then prize loss prevention is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detection function is extracted as a separate, modular component from the transport system. Detection modules are positioned at critical locations (entry and exit of the transport system) and communicate with the control unit through standardized signals. This extraction allows the detection system to be added without fundamentally redesigning the transport mechanism, thereby limiting complexity increase.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is an amusement machine of the pusher type, including a playing surface on which playing pieces, as well as one or more prizes are supported, a playing piece pusher configured to move over the playing surface in order to disturb the playing pieces and one or more prizes supported on the playing surface; a transport system configured to transport a prize which has dropped over an edge; a first detection module configured to detect a prize which has dropped over the edge, at a first location, a second detection module configured to detect the prize at a second location; and a control unit configured to receive a first detection result from the first detection module and a second detection result from the second detection module, and to control the amusement machine in function of the first and/or second detection result.