JP2011092439A - Foot controller and game device - Google Patents

Abstract

An object of the present invention is to allow a player to operate a moving / stopping operation target while balancing on a control board.
A foot controller 30 operates a moving direction and a stop position of a prize gripping portion 26 by a horizontal moving mechanism 27 by tilting a control board 40 on which a player stands. The foot controller 30 includes a support mechanism 160 and a sensor mechanism 170. The support mechanism 160 is configured to support the control board 40 so as to be swingable in the X and Y directions, and to stably hold the horizontal state when the control board 40 is in the horizontal state. The sensor mechanism 170 detects the direction in which the control board 40 is tilted and outputs the sensor signal to the control unit 90. The control unit 90 determines the operation direction instructed by the control board 40 based on the combination of the sensor signals in each direction output from the sensor mechanism 170, and generates a control signal for controlling the moving direction of the prize gripping unit 26. .
[Selection] Figure 9

Description

  The present invention relates to a foot controller and a game device, and more particularly to a foot controller and a game device configured to allow a player to freely move and enjoy the body.

  For example, there is a prize acquisition game device configured to acquire an arbitrary prize by a player's button operation (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

  In this type of game device, a plurality of prizes are placed in a casing surrounded by a transparent acrylic plate, and a prize holding mechanism (near a ceiling inside the casing by a player operating a push button) When the operation target) is moved above the desired prize and the down button is turned on, the grip portion of the prize gripping mechanism is lowered. Furthermore, in this game device, when the player turns on the up button, the gripping portion of the prize gripping mechanism moves upward while performing the action of grabbing the prize, and the action of dropping the prize grabbed at the prize drop opening is performed. It is.

  Further, as a controller of the game device, in addition to the method in which the player operates the push button as in the above cited reference 1, for example, a character or the like displayed on the monitor screen by operating the joystick or a pseudo moving body (for example, , Cranes, airplanes, UFOs, cars, submarines, etc.).

  In addition to the above-described manual control, when controlling a game device installed mainly in an amusement facility, for example, a sensor is used to detect that a player moves weight while standing on a control board as a pseudo skateboard. There is a foot-type controller that controls the sliding direction of a character (skateboarder) that is detected by the sensor and displayed on the video screen by a sensor signal from the sensor (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

JP-A-2005-31926 JP-A-10-225573

  In the above-mentioned conventional prize-winning game device, since the player is operated by pressing a push button, the player feels that the operation method is monotonous and lacks the freshness, and will try many times. The feeling of being is fading.

  In addition, in a foot-type controller in which a player stands on a control board installed on the floor and generates a control signal by tilting the control board by moving the player's own weight, the player balances on the control board. For example, if the operation target is always moved, it can be operated continuously. However, even if the operation target is stopped at an arbitrary position, the fluctuation of the control board is detected by the sensor. Therefore, there is a problem that it is difficult to stop the operation target.

  In particular, even when trying to combine a game device and a foot-type controller for the purpose of acquiring a prize, the player is always in a state of wobbling on the control board, so the prize acquisition mechanism can be stopped above the desired prize. Since it is difficult and operation for obtaining a desired prize becomes difficult, a game device using a foot controller cannot be realized.

  In view of the above circumstances, an object of the present invention is to provide a foot controller and a game device that have solved the above-described problems.

In order to solve the above problems, the present invention has the following means.
(1) The present invention includes a support mechanism that swingably supports a control board on which a player's foot is placed, and a sensor mechanism that detects the swinging direction of the control board. In the foot controller that inputs the output sensor signal to the control unit of the game device,
The support mechanism is
An X-direction support portion for supporting the control board in a swingable manner in the X direction;
A Y-direction support portion for supporting the control board in a swingable manner in the Y direction;
A horizontal holding unit for holding the control board in a horizontal state;
It is characterized by having.
(2) The X direction support part of the present invention 2
An X-direction guide member for guiding the swing of the control board in the X direction;
The Y-direction support part is
A Y-direction guide member for guiding the swinging of the control board in the Y direction;
The X-direction guide member and the Y-direction guide member have a horizontal contact surface that keeps the control board in a horizontal state when the control board is in a horizontal state.
(3) The X-direction support part of the present invention includes:
An X-direction guide member that guides swinging of the control board in the X direction;
A first frame provided on a lower surface side of the control board and contacting an upper surface of the X-direction guide member;
A first rod that pivotably connects a side surface of the first frame to a side surface of the X-direction guide member;
The Y-direction support part is
A Y-direction guide member for guiding the swing of the control board in the Y direction;
A second frame provided on the lower surface side of the control board and contacting the upper surface of the Y-direction guide member;
And a second rod that pivotably connects a side surface of the second frame to a side surface of the Y-direction guide member.
(4) The sensor mechanism of the present invention includes:
A pair of X direction detection sensors for detecting swinging of both ends of the X direction support portion;
A pair of Y direction detection sensors for detecting the swing of both ends of the Y direction support part;
The pair of X direction detection sensors output sensor signals corresponding to the tilt direction of the control board in the X direction,
The pair of Y direction detection sensors output a sensor signal corresponding to a tilt direction of the control board in the Y direction.
(5) The support mechanism of the present invention includes:
An X-direction stopper unit that generates an elastic force against the control board according to an inclination angle of the control board in the X direction;
And a Y-direction stopper unit that generates an elastic force with respect to the control board in accordance with an inclination angle of the control board in the Y direction.
(6) The support mechanism of the present invention includes:
A diagonal between the X-direction stopper unit and the Y-stopper unit that generates an elastic force with respect to the control board in accordance with an inclination angle in an oblique direction that is substantially between the X-direction and the Y-direction of the control board. And a direction stopper unit.
(7) The stopper unit of the present invention is
An elastic roller;
An arm that rotatably supports the elastic roller;
A biasing member that biases the arm upward;
It is characterized by having.
(8) In the present invention, the control board is inserted into a recess provided in an installation base installed on the floor surface,
Provide a shielding member that slides in the tilt direction of the control board on the outer peripheral edge of the control board,
A gap formed between an outer peripheral edge portion of the control board and a concave portion of the fixed plate is shielded by the shielding member.
(9) The present invention provides a game device that operates an operation target in accordance with a control signal input by a player's operation.
The said control signal is produced | generated according to the sensor signal output from the sensor mechanism which detects the inclination direction of the control board of the foot controller in any one of the said Claim 1 thru | or 8.
(10) The present invention includes a control unit that receives a control signal according to a player's operation, and a drive unit that is driven by the control signal from the control unit, and is driven by the driving force from the drive unit. In a game device that moves an operation target,
The control signal is generated according to a sensor signal output from a sensor mechanism for detecting a tilt direction of a control board of a foot controller according to any one of claims 1 to 8.
(11) The present invention provides a housing for storing a plurality of prizes, a control unit to which a control signal is input according to a player's operation, and a control signal provided on the ceiling of the housing from the control unit. A driving unit that generates driving force in the X direction and the Y direction, and a prize acquisition mechanism that moves the prize gripping unit in the X direction and the Y direction by the driving force in the X direction and the Y direction from the driving unit, In the game device for gripping the prize by the ascending / descending operation of the prize gripping section, transporting the gripped prize above the prize slot, and dropping it.
The control signal is generated according to a sensor signal output from a sensor mechanism for detecting a tilt direction of a control board of a foot controller according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

  According to the present invention, the support mechanism supports the control board so that it can swing in the X direction, the Y direction support section that supports the control board so that it can swing in the Y direction, and the control board in a horizontal state. Since the player has a horizontal holding unit for holding the control board, the player can operate to keep the control board in a horizontal state, and the operation target can be stopped by keeping the sensor signal of the sensor mechanism constant. .

  Further, according to the present invention, the control board is kept in a horizontal state by the horizontal contact surfaces of the X direction guide member and the Y direction guide member, so that the player can easily balance on the control board. Even when the operation object is tilted, the operation object can be reliably stopped by returning the control board to the horizontal state.

  According to the present invention, the X direction stopper unit that generates elastic force when the X direction inclination of the X direction support part reaches a predetermined angle, and the Y direction inclination of the Y direction support part reaches the predetermined angle. Since it has a Y-direction stopper unit that sometimes generates elastic force, the operation when tilting the control board can be buffered, and the reaction of the player's operation is prevented from being transmitted to the player, and the player's feeling of operation Can be improved.

  According to the present invention, the gap formed between the peripheral edge of the control board and the opening of the fixed plate is shielded by the slide plate, so that something can be done when the player operates the control board. It is possible to prevent the gap between the control board and the fixed plate.

It is a perspective view which shows one Example of the foot controller and game device by this invention. It is the front view which looked at the game device from the front. It is the left view which looked at the game device from the left side. It is a figure which shows the modification of a prize holding part. It is a top view which shows the position where a player stands on a control board. It is a front view which shows a mode that a player operates while balancing on a control board during a game. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the control system of a game device. It is a perspective view which shows the attachment structure of an approach baffle mechanism. It is a longitudinal cross-sectional view which shows the attachment structure of an approach baffle mechanism. It is a figure for demonstrating the movement path | route of the prize holding part. It is a perspective view which shows the floor installation part which removed the handrail of the foot controller. It is a disassembled perspective view which shows the main structures of a foot controller. It is a disassembled perspective view which shows a X and Y sensor unit. It is a top view which shows a support mechanism and a stopper mechanism. It is a perspective view which shows a support mechanism and a stopper mechanism. It is a perspective view which expands and shows a stopper unit. It is a disassembled perspective view which shows the structure of a stopper unit. It is a front view which shows the principal part of a foot controller. It is a side view which shows the principal part of a foot controller. It is front sectional drawing of the principal part of a foot controller. It is side surface sectional drawing of the principal part of a foot controller. It is a perspective view which shows the operation state which inclined the control board to the player's left side. It is a front view which shows the operation state which inclined the control board to the player's left side. It is front sectional drawing which shows the operation state which inclined the control board to the player's left side. It is a perspective view which shows the operation state which inclined the control board ahead of the player. It is a side view which shows the operation state which inclined the control board ahead of the player. It is side surface sectional drawing which shows the operation state which inclined the control board ahead of the player. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the game control process which a control part performs. It is a subroutine for demonstrating the sensor detection position control process which a control part performs. It is a subroutine for demonstrating the command interruption process which a control part performs. It is the perspective view which looked at the modification of the foot controller from diagonally upward. It is the perspective view which looked at the modification of the foot controller from diagonally downward.

  Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1A is a perspective view showing an embodiment of a foot controller and a game apparatus according to the present invention. FIG. 1B is a front view of the game apparatus as viewed from the front. FIG. 1C is a left side view of the game apparatus as viewed from the left side. As shown in FIGS. 1A to 1C, the game apparatus 10 is a combination of a game apparatus body 20 and a foot controller 30.

  The game apparatus body 20 is a prize acquisition game apparatus, and includes a housing 21, a prize placement table 22, a prize acquisition mechanism 24, and a prize drop opening 25. The game apparatus main body 20 is surrounded by a transparent plate 29 made of a transparent acrylic plate or a glass plate in the front and left and right directions other than the back surface between the prize placing table 22 and the ceiling 23. The transparent plate 29 is normally locked, and the prize K is stored in a space surrounded by the transparent plate 29.

  The prize placing table 22 is formed inside the casing 21 and a plurality of prizes K are placed thereon. The prize acquisition mechanism 24 is suspended from the ceiling 23 of the housing 21, and the movement direction and stop position are instructed by a control signal from the foot controller 30 operated by the player. In the present embodiment, the case where the operation of the premium acquisition mechanism 24 is operated by the foot controller 30 is described as an example. However, the operation target to be operated by the operation of the foot controller 30 is not limited to the premium acquisition mechanism 24. For example, it can be used as a controller for operating a character image displayed on a monitor by a video game by a player's operation.

  The prize acquisition mechanism 24 includes a prize gripping part 26, a horizontal movement mechanism 27, and an elevating mechanism 28. The prize gripping portion 26 has a pair of claw portions 26A and 26B for gripping an arbitrary prize K from among a plurality of prizes K placed on the prize placing table 22. The horizontal movement mechanism 27 moves the prize gripping portion 26 in eight horizontal directions (each direction at 45 ° intervals) by a control signal from the foot controller 30.

  The elevating mechanism 28 is a mechanism for raising and lowering the prize gripping portion 26 when the player performs a button operation. After the prize gripping portion 26 is stopped at the prize acquisition position, the prize gripping portion 26 is lowered, After the claw portions 26A and 26B are closed so as to grip the prize K, the prize gripping portion 26 is raised.

  The prize gripping portion 26 is provided so that the pair of claw portions 26A and 26B can be opened and closed, and the pair of claw portions 26A and 26B can move in the closing direction by a player's button operation, and the prize K can be gripped. The prize K held by the pair of claws 26A, 26B moving in the opening direction can be dropped to the prize drop opening 25.

  The foot controller 30 is an input means for inputting a signal to control the operation (movement) and stop of the prize acquisition mechanism 24, and by tilting the control board 40 on which the player stands, It is possible to input a control signal instructing the moving direction and the stop position.

  An entrance baffle mechanism 100 described later is provided around the gift drop opening 25. The player moves the course in which the prize gripper 26 avoids the entry baffle mechanism 100 when operating the foot controller 30 and moving the prize gripper 26 above the prize drop opening 25 in relation to the time limit. Or to move a course that breaks through the approach-disturbing mechanism 100.

  Further, a coin insertion slot 36 and a display unit 38 are provided on the front surface of the housing 21. The display unit 38 displays the number of credits acquired by inserting coins and the number of gauges acquired during the game, and displays it easily for the player by turning on the LED lamp or displaying an image on a liquid crystal display monitor.

  As shown in FIG. 1D, for example, a larger bucket may be used as a modification of the pair of claws 26A and 26B. In that case, the pair of claw portions 26A and 26B can easily acquire a plurality of prizes K by closing, and the prize acquisition rate is increased.

  As shown in FIG. 1A to FIG. 1C, the foot controller 30 has a control board 40 arranged at the center of the upper surface of the installation table 50 installed on the floor, and a pair of players grasping the peripheral portion of the installation table 50. The handrail 60 is provided from the left and right sides to the front side. An operation box 70 is provided above the right handrail 60. The operation box 70 is provided with a game start switch 71, a nail gripper switch 72 for closing the nail portions 26A and 26B, and a nail release switch 73 for opening the nail portions 26A and 26B. Each of the switches 71 to 73 is a push-type switch having a push button, and is housed in the operation box 70, and the button portion is provided on the operation surface of the operation box 70 (surface facing the player).

  Since the handrail 60 is formed by bending a metal pipe, each end is fixed to the installation base 50. In addition, a cover member 62 is attached around the handrail 60 to prevent the player's feet from protruding outside the installation base 50.

  FIG. 2A is a plan view showing a position where the player stands on the control board. FIG. 2B is a front view showing a player operating while balancing on the control board during the game.

  As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the player P starts the game with both feet P1 and P2 placed on the control board 40 while holding the handrail 60 with both hands.

  The player puts both feet P1 and P2 on the control board 40 of the foot controller 30, and drives the horizontal movement mechanism 27 by tilting the control board 40 in any of the eight horizontal directions by an operation by weight movement. Thus, the prize gripping portion 26 can be moved in an arbitrary horizontal direction. That is, the player inputs a control signal for instructing the moving direction of the prize gripping part 26 by tilting the control board 40. Further, the player returns the control board 40 to a horizontal state and stops the movement of the prize gripping part 26 when the prize gripping part 26 moves above the prize K to be acquired.

  Then, the player P operates to turn on the switch 72 for gripping the nail of the operation box 70. As a result, the elevating mechanism 28 lowers the prize gripping portion 26 to the prize placing table 22, and drives the pair of claw portions 26 </ b> A and 26 </ b> B in the closing direction to grasp the prize K placed on the prize placing table 22. Next, the elevating mechanism 28 raises the prize gripping portion 26 and lifts the gripped prize K.

  Then, the player P again tilts the control board 40 in any of the eight horizontal directions by an operation based on weight movement, thereby driving the horizontal movement mechanism 27 to move the prize gripping portion 26 to the prize drop opening 25. Move upward and stop. Thereafter, when the player P presses the button of the claw release switch 73 to turn it on, the prize gripper 26 moves the pair of claws 26A and 26B in the opening direction to drop the prize K into the prize drop opening 25. Let Thereby, the player P can receive the prize K from the prize acquisition port 80 provided in front of the game apparatus body 20.

  In the present embodiment, when a coin is inserted into the coin insertion slot 36, a timer for a preset game time limit is activated, and the count value of the timer is set to the time limit (for example, 1 minute to 2 minutes). When the game time is reached, the game is over, but the player can repeat the prize acquisition operation any number of times until the time limit is reached.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the control system of the game apparatus. As shown in FIG. 3, the foot controller 30 includes an X1 direction detection sensor 31, an X2 direction detection sensor 32, a Y1 direction detection sensor 33, and a Y2 direction detection sensor 34.

  The control unit 90 is mounted on the game apparatus main body 20, and includes a display unit 38, a game start switch, in addition to the X1 direction detection sensor 31, the X2 direction detection sensor 32, the Y1 direction detection sensor 33, and the Y2 direction detection sensor 34. 71, a claw gripping switch 72, a claw release switch 73, a coin insertion detection switch 76, a timer setting unit 77, a memory 78, and a lock mechanism 150 are connected.

  When a coin detection signal is input from the coin insertion detection switch 76, the control unit 90 starts a timer for a time limit, reads a control program stored in the memory 78, and executes a control process based on the control program. . For example, the control unit 90 determines the operation direction (tilt direction) of the control board 40 from the on / off combination of sensor signals input from the direction detection sensors 31 to 34, and the prize gripping unit X of the horizontal movement mechanism 27. A control signal is output to the direction drive motor 27A and / or the prize gripping portion Y-direction drive motor 27B.

  Further, when the nail grip switch 72 is turned on and the signal is input, the control unit 90 rotates the prize gripping part lifting motor 28A of the lifting mechanism 28 in the descending direction to lower the prize gripping part 26. . Further, after the claw portion opening / closing motor 26C is driven in the closing direction and the pair of claw portions 26A, 26B are closed, the control unit 90 rotates the prize gripping portion lifting motor 28A of the lifting mechanism 28 in the upward direction. The giveaway grip 26 is raised.

  Further, when the pair of claw portions 26A and 26B grips the prize K, the control unit 90 turns on the claw release switch 73 and inputs a signal to the claw portion opening / closing motor 26C of the prize gripping portion 26. Is driven in the opening direction to open the pair of claw portions 26A and 26B, thereby dropping the gripped prize K.

  Here, the entry obstruction mechanism 100 provided inside the housing 21 of the game apparatus body 20 will be described. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing an attachment structure of the entry baffle mechanism. FIG. 5 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing the structure for attaching the entrance obstruction mechanism.

  As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the entry baffle mechanism 100 stands up alternately with the first and second entry prevention rods 110 and 120 on the upper surface of the fixed base 102 fixed to the prize placing table 22. . Note that it is not always necessary to alternately arrange the first and second entry prevention rods 110 and 120. For example, a plurality of first and second entry prevention rods 110 and 120 are grouped separately. It may be arranged so that the difficulty when the prize gripping part 26 breaks through changes, or only one of the first and second entry preventing rods 110 and 120 may be arranged.

  The first intrusion prevention rod 110 includes a fixing portion 112, an elastic member 114, a mandrel 116, and a flexible member 118. The fixing portion 112 is screwed onto the fixing base 102 with a fastening screw screwed from below. The elastic member 114 is formed to be deformable by a coil spring or the like, for example, and the lower end is fitted to the upper end of the fixed portion 112. Further, the elastic member 114 sets the spring constant to an appropriate value so that the prize K can be dropped while being easily bent by the force from the horizontal direction when the prize K gripped by the prize gripping portion 26 collides. . In addition, the elastic member 114 prevents the prize K and the prize gripping portion 26 from being damaged by being deformed flexibly when the prize K and the prize gripping portion 26 collide with each other.

  The mandrel 116 is made of a resin material, and the upper end of the elastic member 114 is fitted in the lower end recess. The upper end of the mandrel 116 is fitted in the hollow portion 118 a of the flexible member 118. Further, the flexible member 118 is formed of a relatively soft material such as urethane foam or sponge so that the prize gripping portion 26 is not damaged.

  The second intrusion prevention rod 120 includes a resin rod 122 and a flexible member 124. The resin rod 122 has flexibility so as to be elastically deformed by a lateral force, and a lower end thereof is fixed on the fixed base 102. The flexible member 124 has a hollow portion 124 a through which the resin rod 122 is inserted, and the upper end is coupled to the resin rod 122.

  Since the first and second entry preventing rods 110 and 120 are arranged around the prize drop opening 25, the player does not move the prize gripping portion 26 linearly toward the prize drop opening 25. The first and second approach prevention rods 110 and 120 are turned around to avoid them. Thereby, the time limit set in advance in the timer is shortened by the time for the avoidance operation, which is disadvantageous for the player.

  Since the elastic member 114 connected to the fixed base 102 is easily bent, the first entry preventing rod 110 escapes in the moving direction of the prize gripping portion 26 when the prize gripping portion 26 breaks through forcefully. 26 travel time can be shortened.

  Since the resin rod 122 has a lower rigidity than the first entry preventing rod 110, the second entry preventing rod 120 moves the prize gripping portion 26 that holds the prize K linearly toward the prize drop opening 25. It can escape easily so that it can be elastically deformed and fall down. Therefore, the player initially operates the control board 40 so as to perform the avoidance operation so as not to contact the first entry prevention rod 110 and the second entry prevention rod 120. As a result, extra time is required for the avoidance operation, and it is difficult to increase the number of prizes acquired within the time limit set by the timer.

  Further, when the player notices that the first and second entry preventing rods 110 and 120 can be elastically deformed, the player forcibly breaks through the first and second entry preventing rods 110 and 120. In this way, the control board 40 is operated so as to move the prize gripping portion 26 to the prize drop opening 25 in the shortest course.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining the movement path of the prize gripping portion 26. As shown in FIG. 6, by arranging a plurality of first and second entry preventing rods 110, 120 on the rear side and the right side of the prize drop opening 25, the player places the prize gripping portion 26 in the prize acquisition position. It becomes difficult to move it linearly toward the prize drop opening 25 from the top.

  As a movement path when the prize gripper 26 moves from the prize acquisition position L to the prize drop opening 25, a first movement path LA that avoids contact with the first and second entry preventing rods 110 and 120 is avoided. And a second movement route LB that moves the shortest distance by pushing down the first entry preventing rod 110.

  When the player is not particularly concerned about the time limit (remaining time) of the timer at the beginning of the game, the player selects the first moving route LA having a long moving distance, and the prize gripping unit 26 is the first, The control board 40 is operated so as not to contact the second entry preventing rods 110 and 120. However, when the prize holder 26 comes into contact with the first and second entry prevention bars 110 and 120 during the game, the player is inclined in the direction in which the first and second entry prevention bars 110 and 120 are pressed. When it is known that the user has escaped, the control board 40 is operated so as to move the second movement route LB that is the shortest course to the prize drop opening 25. Thus, the player can increase the number of prizes K acquired by shortening the movement time of the prize gripping portion 26 to the prize drop opening 25 and increasing the number of round trips within the set time of the timer.

  Here, the structure of the principal part of the foot controller 30 of this invention is demonstrated. FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing the floor installation part with the handrail of the foot controller removed. FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view showing the main configuration of the foot controller.

  As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the installation base 50 installed on the floor of the foot controller 30 is formed in a rectangular shape when viewed from above, and is L-shaped on each outer peripheral side surface in the four directions. The bent bracket 52 is attached so as to be fixed to the floor surface. Height adjusting parts 54 for adjusting the upper surface of the control board 40 to be horizontal are provided at the four corners of the bottom of the installation base 50.

  The installation base 50 is provided with an octagonal control board 40 at the center of the upper surface so as to be swingable. A pair of upper surface covers 56 </ b> A and 56 </ b> B are attached to the outside of the control board 40. On the inner side of the pair of upper surface covers 56A and 56B, recesses 56A-1 and 56B-1 each having a half size of an octagon corresponding to the outer contour shape of the control board 40 are formed. The pair of upper surface covers 56 </ b> A and 56 </ b> B are fixed so as to cover the upper surface of the installation base 50 excluding the control board 40.

  The inner edges of the recesses 56A-1 and 56B-1 are formed at positions that do not come into contact with the outer surface of the control board 40 even when the control board 40 swings. (5 mm to 10 mm).

  A shielding member 58 that shields the gap between the inner edge of the recesses 56A-1 and 56B-1 and the outer peripheral edge of the control board 40 is provided below the upper surface covers 56A and 56B. . The shielding member 58 is an octagonal frame body, the inside is formed to have a size that fits with the outer peripheral edge of the control board 40 without a gap, and the outside is outside the inner edges of the recesses 56A-1 and 56B-1. It is formed so that it may be located in. The overlapping portion between the shielding member 58 and the upper surface covers 56A and 56B is the operation between the inner edge of the recesses 56A-1 and 56B-1 and the outer surface of the control board 40 in each direction. It is formed in a dimension that is wider than the total value with the range.

  Further, since the shielding member 58 is provided so as to be movable relative to the upper surface covers 56A and 56B in the horizontal direction, the shielding member 58 slides in the tilt direction of the control board 40 while being fitted to the outer surface of the control board 40. be able to. Therefore, since the outside of the control board 40 is surrounded by the shielding member 58 regardless of the direction in which the control board 40 is inclined, there is a gap between the control board 40 and the recesses 56A-1 and 56B-1 of the upper surface covers 56A and 56B. It is prevented from being exposed. As a result, foreign matter can be prevented from being caught in the gaps between the control board 40 and the recesses 56A-1 and 56B-1 of the upper surface covers 56A and 56B, and dust floating in the air can be placed on the lower side of the control board 40. Since entry can be prevented, it is also possible to prevent a decrease in detection sensitivity of the sensor due to dust.

  An anti-slip plate made of rubber or the like is mounted on the upper surface of the control board 40 so that the player's feet (shoes) do not slip when the control board 40 is tilted.

  An X, Y sensor unit 140, a lock mechanism 150, and a stopper mechanism 340 are accommodated in the central recess 59 of the installation base 50. The lock mechanism 150 is composed of, for example, an electromagnetic solenoid, and before inserting the coin, the locking portion protrudes into the central recess 59 so as to lock the control board 40 from two directions orthogonal to the X1 direction and the Y1 direction. The board 40 is held in a horizontal state. Therefore, even if a player gets on the control board 40 before inserting coins, the control board 40 does not swing and maintains a horizontal state. When a coin is inserted into the coin insertion slot 36 and the coin insertion detection switch 76 outputs a coin detection signal to the control unit 90, the control unit 90 outputs a control signal for unlocking to the lock mechanism 150. .

  Next, the configuration of the X and Y sensor unit 140 will be described. FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view showing the X, Y sensor unit.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the X and Y sensor unit 140 includes a support mechanism 160 and a sensor mechanism 170. The support mechanism 160 is configured to swingably support the control board 40, and is configured to stably hold the horizontal state when the control board 40 is in the horizontal state. Part 190.

  Further, as will be described later, the sensor mechanism 170 detects that the control board 40 is tilted in either the X1, X2 direction or the Y1, Y2 direction, and outputs a sensor signal in each direction to the control unit 90. . The control unit 90 determines the operation direction (movement direction) instructed by the control board 40 based on the ON / OFF combination of the sensor signals in each direction output from the sensor mechanism 170, and A control signal for controlling the moving direction is generated.

  The X direction support portion 180 and the Y direction support portion 190 are stacked on the same axis so that the central axes in the Z1 and Z2 directions coincide with each other. Moreover, the X direction support part 180 and the Y direction support part 190 have a horizontal holding part that holds the control board 40 in a horizontal state, as will be described later.

  The X direction support portion 180 is configured to support the control board 40 so as to be swingable in the X1 and X2 directions, and includes a mounting plate 210, an X frame 220 (first frame), and a pair of X blocks (X (Direction guide member) 230 and an X rod 240. The mounting plate 210 has an alignment hole 214 in which the connecting pin 221 of the X frame 220 is fitted in the flat surface portion 212. A plurality of mounting plates 210 are formed on the lower surface of the control board 40 on the Y1 direction side and the Y2 direction side of the flat surface portion 212. The fixing portions 216 and 218 are fixed by the fastening screws.

  The X frame 220 is arranged so that the upper plate 222 having the connecting pin 221 is brought into contact with the lower surface of the mounting plate 210, and the rod is inserted in the center of the side plate 224 on the Y1 direction side and the Y2 direction side in the Y1 and Y2 directions. A hole 224a is opened, and projecting pieces (sensor detection pieces) 225 and 226 extending in the X1 and X2 directions are provided at both ends of the side plate 224.

  The pair of X blocks 230 are support bases in the X direction that respectively support the X frame 220 so as to guide the swing in the X1 and X2 directions, and the bottom surface of the X frame 220 when the X frame 220 is horizontal at the center of the top surface. Has a horizontal surface 232 in contact with the surface. Further, inclined surfaces 234 and 236 extending on the X1 direction side and the X2 direction side of the horizontal plane 232 are provided on the upper surfaces of the pair of X blocks 230. The inclined surfaces 234 and 236 are formed to have an inclination angle of 3 ° to 10 ° downward with respect to the horizontal plane 232. The horizontal surface 232 forms a horizontal holding portion that holds the control board 40 in a horizontal state.

  In addition, the pair of X blocks 230 has a through hole 238 formed in an oval shape in the inner periphery when viewed from the Y direction (a shape having a small diameter on the lower side and a large diameter on the upper side) that penetrates in the Y direction at the center of the side surface. The X rod 240 is positioned so as to be arranged in parallel in the direction extending in the X1 and X2 directions by being inserted into the through hole 238 and the rod insertion hole 224a of the X frame 230, and the side plate of the X frame 220 224. Note that a retaining ring for preventing falling off that contacts the side plate 224 of the X frame 220 is fitted to both ends of the X rod 240. Further, since the X rod 240 is loosely fitted to the egg-shaped through hole 238 on the upper side, the X rod 240 is displaced upward from below the through hole 238 in accordance with the inclination angle of the X frame 220 in the X1 and X2 directions. Thus, the side plate 224 of the X frame 220 is connected so as to be swingable.

  In addition, a pair of holes 239 into which fastening screws for fastening to the Y frame 250 of the Y direction support portion 190 are inserted from above are vertically penetrated on the upper surface side of the X block 230. Further, the pair of X blocks 230 are formed in the same shape, and are arranged in parallel so that the separation distances in the Y1 and Y2 directions are constant, and the insertion positions of the X rod 240 are Z1 and Z2. It is arranged so as to intersect the central axis of the direction (axis of the center of gravity position).

  In this embodiment, the cost can be reduced by reducing the installation width of the pair of X blocks 230 with respect to the X frame 220 and the stability of the swinging operation of the X frame 220 is ensured. Instead of being divided like the X block 230, the swing direction of the X frame 220 may be guided by one block wide in the Y direction so that the installation area with respect to the X frame 230 becomes large.

  The Y direction support portion 190 is configured to support the control board 40 so as to be swingable in the Y1 and Y2 directions, and includes a Y frame 250 (second frame) and a pair of Y blocks (Y direction guide members) 260. And a Y rod 270. The Y frame 250 has a screw hole 253 into which the fastening screw inserted into the hole 239 of the pair of X blocks 230 is inserted into the flat portion 252 and is bent downward in the X1 and X2 direction side of the flat portion 252. A rod insertion hole 254a penetrating in the X1 and X2 directions is opened at the center of the side plate 254, and projecting pieces (sensor detection pieces) 255 and 256 extending in the Y1 and Y2 directions of the side plate 254 are further provided.

  The pair of Y blocks 260 are Y-directional support bases that support the Y-frame 250 in the Y1 and Y2-direction swings, respectively, and the bottom surface of the Y-frame 250 when the Y-frame 250 is horizontal at the center of the top surface. And a horizontal surface 262 abutting on the surface. Further, inclined surfaces 264 and 266 extending on the Y1 direction side and the Y2 direction side of the horizontal plane 262 are provided on the upper surfaces of the pair of Y frames 250. The inclined surfaces 264 and 266 are formed to have an inclination angle of 3 ° to 10 ° downward with respect to the horizontal surface 262. The horizontal plane 262 and the horizontal plane 232 of the X block 230 form a horizontal holding unit that holds the control board 40 in a horizontal state.

  In addition, the pair of Y blocks 260 has a through hole 268 formed in an egg shape (a shape with a small diameter on the lower side and a shape with a large diameter on the upper side) as viewed from the X direction, penetrating in the X direction at the center of the side surface. The Y rod 270 is inserted into the through hole 268 and the rod insertion hole 254a of the Y frame 250, so that the Y rod 270 is positioned so as to be parallel in the direction extending in the X1 and X2 directions, and the side plate 254 of the Y frame 250 Connected. In addition, a retaining ring for preventing falling off that contacts the side plate 254 of the Y frame 250 is fitted to both ends of the Y rod 270. Further, since the Y rod 270 is loosely fitted to the egg-shaped through hole 268 on the upper side, the Y rod 270 is displaced upward from below the through hole 268 in accordance with the inclination angle of the Y frame 250 in the Y1 and Y2 directions. Thus, the side plate 254 of the Y frame 250 is connected so as to be swingable.

  In addition, a pair of holes 269 into which fastening screws for fastening to the sensor mechanism 170 are inserted from above are vertically penetrated on the upper surface side of the Y block 260. Furthermore, the pair of Y blocks 260 are formed in the same shape, are arranged so that the separation distances in the X1 and X2 directions are parallel to each other, and the insertion position of the Y rod 270 is Z1, It is arranged so as to intersect with the central axis in the Z2 direction (axis of gravity center position).

  In this embodiment, the installation width of the pair of Y blocks 260 with respect to the Y frame 250 can be reduced, and the stability of the swinging operation of the Y frame 250 is ensured. Instead of being divided like the Y block 260, the swing direction of the Y frame 250 may be guided by one block wide in the X direction so that the installation area with respect to the Y frame 250 is increased.

  When the player wants to operate the control board 40 in a horizontal state, the horizontal holding portion formed by four positions of the horizontal plane 232 of the pair of X blocks 230 and the horizontal plane 262 of the pair of Y blocks 260 is the control board 40. And it will stably support the player's load. Therefore, even when the player returns the control board 40 from the tilted state to the horizontal state, the player can easily balance the control board 40 in the horizontal state.

  Further, the inclined surfaces 234 and 236 of the pair of X blocks 230 and the inclined surfaces 264 and 266 of the pair of Y blocks 260 are arranged so as to be symmetric in the X and Y directions. Therefore, when the player operates the control board 40 to tilt in any direction, any two of the inclined surfaces 234 and 236 of the pair of X blocks 230 and the inclined surfaces 264 and 266 of the pair of Y blocks 260 are detected. It will be supported by the inclined surface.

  The inclined surfaces 234, 236, 264, and 266 are escapes for allowing the control board 40 to be tilted in any direction, and do not guide the tilt of the control board 40. Can be operated to tilt the control board 40 in any direction by moving the weight.

  The sensor mechanism 170 includes a sensor plate 280, an X1 direction detection sensor 31, an X2 direction detection sensor 32, a Y1 direction detection sensor 33, and a Y2 direction detection sensor 34. A bracket 284 that supports the X1 direction detection sensor 31 is fixed to the sensor plate 280 on the X1 direction side of the flat portion 282. A bracket 286 that supports the X2 direction detection sensor 32 is fixed to the X2 direction side of the flat portion 282 of the sensor plate 280.

  The Y1 direction detection sensor 33 is fixed to the side plate 288 erected on the Y1 direction side of the flat portion 282 of the sensor plate 280. The Y2 direction detection sensor 34 is fixed to the side plate 289 erected on the Y2 direction side of the flat portion 282 of the sensor plate 280.

  Each of the direction detection sensors 31 to 34 includes, for example, a photo interrupter that is integrally molded so that the light emitting element and the light receiving element face each other. In addition, in each of the direction detection sensors 31 to 34, when the protruding pieces 225, 226, 255, and 256 are interposed between the light emitting element and the light receiving element, the light is blocked and the sensor signal is turned off. In the present embodiment, when the control board 40 is in a horizontal state, the protruding pieces 225, 226, 255, and 256 are the lights of the X1 direction detection sensor 31, the X2 direction detection sensor 32, the Y1 direction detection sensor 33, and the Y2 direction detection sensor 34. Is set to block.

  Each of the direction detection sensors 31 to 34 receives light and turns on the sensor signal when the protruding pieces 225, 226, 255, and 256 are retracted upward from between the light emitting element and the light receiving element. In this embodiment, when the control board 40 is operated to be inclined, the protruding pieces 180 degrees opposite to the inclined direction of the protruding pieces 225, 226, 255, and 256 are retracted upward, and each direction detection sensor. Any of 31 to 34 is set to receive light and output a sensor signal ON.

  FIG. 10 is a plan view showing the support mechanism and the stopper mechanism. FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing the support mechanism and the stopper mechanism unit. As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the stopper mechanism 340 disposed around the support mechanism 160 is configured by eight stopper units 340 </ b> A to 340 </ b> H arranged in a radial manner (each direction at 45-degree intervals in the horizontal direction). Yes. The eight directions are the X1, X2, Y1, and Y2 directions, (X1, Y1) oblique direction, (X2, Y1) oblique direction, (X2, Y2) oblique direction, (X1 , Y2) means four directions in an oblique direction.

  In the present embodiment, the X rod 240 and the Y rod 270 of the support mechanism 160 function as positioning members between the pair of X blocks 230 and the pair of Y blocks 260 rather than the rotation shaft when the control board 40 is tilted. Is. Therefore, when the control board 40 is inclined more than the inclined surfaces 234, 236, 264, 266, there is a high possibility that an excessive force acts on the X rod 240 and the Y rod 270. Is provided with a stopper mechanism 340 for limiting the inclination angle of the control board 40.

  Each of the stopper units 340 </ b> A to 340 </ b> H has the same configuration and is fixed to the bottom surface of the central recess 59 of the installation base 50. Each of the stopper units 340A to 340H is in uniform contact with the lower surface of the control board 40 when the control board 40 is in a horizontal state. When the control board 40 is tilted by the player's operation, The stopper unit disposed on the control board 40 is strongly pressed against the lower surface of the control board 40.

  Further, when the control board 40 is operated so as to be inclined, the lower surface comes into contact with one or two stopper units 340 in the inclination direction among the stopper units 340A to 340H, and the inclination operation is buffered. The angle is limited to a predetermined angle (an angle smaller than the inclination angle of the inclined surfaces 234, 236, 264, 266). That is, when each of the stopper units 340A to 340H is operated in a direction in which the control board 40 is inclined, the lower surface of the control board 40 is the inclined surfaces 234, 236 of the pair of X blocks 230 or the inclined surfaces 264 of the pair of Y blocks 260. , 266 acts to limit the tilt of the control board 40 before it abuts.

  In this embodiment, the case where eight stopper units 340A to 340H are arranged around the support mechanism 160 has been described. However, each stopper unit 340 includes at least X-direction stopper units 340A and 340E, Y By arranging the direction stopper units 340C and 340G, it is possible to limit the inclination of the control board 40 with respect to any direction.

  In the present embodiment, the oblique direction stopper units 340B, 340D, 340F, and 340H are also arranged in the 45 degree directions that are the intermediate directions between the X direction stopper units 340A and 340E and the Y direction stopper units 340C and 340G. As a result, the tilt angle of the control board 40 can be limited with respect to eight directions at intervals of 45 degrees.

  FIG. 12 is an enlarged perspective view showing the stopper unit. FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view showing the structure of the stopper unit.

  As shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, the stopper units 340 </ b> A to 340 </ b> H are each composed of an elastic roller 342, a rotating arm 344, a pair of connecting pins 346 and 347, a bracket 348, and a torsion spring (biasing member). 350. The elastic roller 342 is formed into a roller shape by, for example, elastic urethane rubber or the like, and is rotatably supported by one end of the rotating arm 344 by a connecting pin 346. The rotating arm 344 has a pair of support portions 344a and 344b that are bent so as to support both ends of the elastic roller 342. The pair of support portions 344a and 344b are provided with holes 344c through which the pair of connection pins 346 and 347 are inserted in the vicinity of both ends, and the connection portion 344d is horizontally placed between the intermediate portions.

  The bracket 348 includes a pair of support portions 348a and 348b through which a connection pin 347 that rotatably supports the other end of the rotation arm 344 is inserted. A torsion spring 350 that biases one end of the rotating arm 344 upward is wound around the connecting pin 347 inserted through the pair of support portions 348a and 348b.

  Further, the bracket 348 has fixing portions 348c and 348d protruding on both sides of the pair of support portions 348a and 348b, and has a roller contact portion 348e that connects the pair of support portions 348a and 348b.

  Further, one end of the torsion spring 350 biases the rotating arm 344 upward, and the other end extends below the roller contact portion 348e of the bracket 348. Therefore, the elastic roller 342 is attached to the control board 40. A pressing force is generated to press against the lower surface. Therefore, when the elastic roller 342 contacts the lower surface of the control board 40 and the rotating arm 344 rotates downward, the inclination of the control board 40 is buffered by the spring force of the torsion 350.

  The roller contact portion 348e is a stopper portion with which the elastic roller 342 contacts when the elastic roller 342 is pressed downward. When the elastic roller 342 comes into contact with the roller contact portion 348e, the further lowering of the control board 40 is restricted, and the elastic roller 342 compresses between the roller contact portion 348e and the lower surface of the control board 40. By receiving and elastically deforming, the reaction to the player who operates the control board 40 is relieved and the operation feeling is improved.

  Thereby, even if the player tilts the control board 40 in any direction, the spring force of the torsion 350 and the elastic deformation of the elastic roller 342 suppress the impact during the tilting operation of the control board 40 and enable a smooth operation. Become.

  Here, operation states of the support mechanism 160 and the stopper mechanism 340 configured as described above will be described. FIG. 14A is a front view showing a main part of the foot controller. FIG. 14B is a side view showing the main part of the foot controller. FIG. 14C is a front sectional view of the main part of the foot controller. FIG. 14D is a side sectional view of the main part of the foot controller.

  14A to 14D, when the control board 40 is in a horizontal state (neutral position), each of the stopper units 340A to 340H causes the elastic roller 342 to be evenly moved by the spring force of the torsion 350. It is made to contact. Further, since the X frame 220 and the Y frame 250 of the support mechanism 160 are in a horizontal state like the control board 40, the protruding pieces 225, 226, 255, and 256 are at the light blocking positions of the direction detection sensors 31 to 34, respectively. Yes, sensor signal is off.

  The lock mechanism 150 provided on the side of the control board 40 is a solenoid that is excited or demagnetized by a control signal from the control unit 90. Accordingly, the lock mechanism 150 has a locking portion 152 that locks the locked plate 42 extending downward from the side surface of the control board 40 in a state in which it cannot swing until the coin is inserted. In the meantime, the locking portion 152 is moved away from the locked plate 42 extending below the control board 40 so as to release the lock.

  FIG. 15A is a perspective view showing an operation state in which the control board is tilted to the left of the player. FIG. 15B is a front view showing an operation state in which the control board is tilted to the left of the player. FIG. 15C is a front sectional view showing an operation state in which the control board is tilted to the left of the player.

  As shown in FIGS. 15A to 15C, when the player moves his / her weight so that the control board 40 is lowered to the left (X1 direction), the left side (X1 direction side) of the X frame 220 is lowered and X The right side (X2 direction side) of the frame 220 is raised. As a result, the protruding piece 226 on the right side of the X frame 220 is detached upward from the X2 direction detection sensor 32, and even if the protruding piece 225 on the left side of the X frame 220 is lowered, the X1 direction detection sensor 31 It is in the light blocking position. Therefore, the sensor signal of the X2 direction detection sensor 32 is switched to the on state, and the sensor signal of the X1 direction detection sensor 31 remains in the off state.

  In this case, the elastic roller 342 of the stopper unit 340A in the X1 direction comes into contact with the roller contact portion 348e, and the spring force of the torsion spring 350 and the elastic force accompanying the elastic deformation of the elastic roller 342 are applied to the control board 40. The

  Further, since the Y frame 250 remains in a horizontal state, the projecting pieces 255 and 256 are at the light blocking positions of the Y1 direction detection sensor 33 and the Y2 direction detection sensor 34, and both Y direction sensor signals are turned off. . Therefore, when only the sensor signal of the X2 direction detection sensor 32 among the four direction detection sensors 31 to 34 is turned on, the control board 40 causes the control board 40 to lower left (X1 direction). It is possible to determine that the operation has been performed in a tilted state.

  Further, when the player moves his / her weight so that the control board 40 is tilted to the right (X2 direction), the right side (X2 direction side) of the X frame 220 descends and the left side (X1 direction side) of the X frame 220 Therefore, the sensor signal of the X1 direction detection sensor 31 is switched to the ON state, and the sensor signal of the X2 direction detection sensor 32 remains in the OFF state. Therefore, in the control unit 90, when only the sensor signal of the X1 direction detection sensor 31 is turned on, it is possible to determine that the control board 40 has been operated in a state tilted to the right (X2 direction). become.

  In this case, the elastic roller 342 of the stopper unit 340E in the X2 direction comes into contact with the roller contact portion 348e, and the spring force of the torsion spring 350 and the elastic force accompanying the elastic deformation of the elastic roller 342 are applied to the control board 40. The

  FIG. 16A is a perspective view showing an operation state in which the control board is tilted forward of the player. FIG. 16B is a side view showing an operation state in which the control board is tilted forward of the player. FIG. 16C is a side sectional view showing an operation state in which the control board is tilted forward of the player.

  As shown in FIGS. 16A to 16C, when the player moves his / her weight so that the control board 40 is tilted forward (Y1 direction), the front side (Y1 direction side) of the Y frame 250 is lowered and the Y frame The rear side (Y2 direction side) of 250 rises. As a result, the protruding piece 256 arranged on the rear side of the Y frame 250 is detached from the Y2 direction detection sensor 34, and the protruding piece 255 arranged on the front side of the Y frame 250 is at the light blocking position of the Y1 direction detection sensor 33. . Therefore, the sensor signal of the Y2 direction detection sensor 34 is switched to the on state, and the sensor signal of the Y1 direction detection sensor 33 remains in the off state.

  In this case, the elastic roller 342 of the stopper unit 340C in the Y1 direction comes into contact with the roller contact portion 348e, and the spring force of the torsion spring 350 and the elastic force accompanying the elastic deformation of the elastic roller 342 are applied to the control board 40. The

  Further, since the X frame 220 remains in a horizontal state, the protruding pieces 225 and 226 are at the light blocking positions of the X1 direction detection sensor 31 and the X2 direction detection sensor 32, and both sensor signals in the X direction are turned off. . Therefore, when only the sensor signal of the Y2 direction detection sensor 34 among the four direction detection sensors 31 to 34 is turned on, the control board 40 is tilted forward (Y1 direction) in the control unit 90. It is possible to determine that it has been operated.

  Further, when the player moves his / her weight so that the control board 40 is tilted backward (Y2 direction), the rear side (Y2 direction side) of the Y frame 250 is lowered and the front side (Y1 direction side) of the Y frame 250 is lowered. Therefore, the sensor signal of the Y1 direction detection sensor 33 is switched to the ON state, and the sensor signal of the Y2 direction detection sensor 34 remains in the OFF state. Therefore, in the control unit 90, when only the sensor signal of the Y1 direction detection sensor 33 is turned on, it is possible to determine that the control board 40 has been operated in a state tilted to the right (X2 direction). become.

  In this case, the elastic roller 342 of the stopper unit 340D in the Y2 direction is in contact with the roller contact portion 348e, and the spring force of the torsion spring 350 and the elastic force accompanying the elastic deformation of the elastic roller 342 are applied to the control board 40. The

  Further, when the player tilts the control board 40 in an oblique direction of 45 degrees with respect to the X direction and the Y direction, the direction detection sensors 31 to 34 in the four directions are opposite to the tilt direction by 180 degrees. The sensor signals of the two arranged sensors are switched to the on state, and the sensor signals of the other two sensors are in the off state. Therefore, in the control unit 90, when the sensor signals of two sensors among the four direction detection sensors 31 to 34 are turned on, the control board 40 is in the (X1, Y1) diagonal direction, (X2, Y1). ) It is possible to determine that the operation is performed in a state tilted in any one of the oblique direction, (X2, Y2) oblique direction, and (X1, Y2) oblique direction.

  Here, the game control process executed by the control unit 90 will be described. FIG. 17 is a flowchart for explaining a game control process executed by the control unit. Note that the control unit 90 repeatedly executes the control process of FIG. 17 at predetermined time intervals.

  In S11 of FIG. 17, since it is before coin insertion, an advertising process is performed by music before the game, lamp lighting display, or the like.

  In the next S12, the detection signal of the coin insertion detection switch 76 is read to check whether or not a coin has been inserted into the coin insertion slot 36. In S12, when the coin detection signal of the coin insertion detection switch 76 is switched on (in the case of YES), it is determined that a coin has been inserted, and the process proceeds to S13. In S12, when the coin detection signal of the coin insertion detection switch 76 is OFF (in the case of NO), it is determined that no coin has been inserted, and the processing of S11 is repeated.

  In S13, it is checked whether or not the game start switch 71 of the operation box 70 is turned on after the coin is inserted. In S13, when the player presses the button of the game start switch 71 of the operation box 70 and the switch signal from the game start switch 71 is turned on (in the case of YES), the process proceeds to S14, and the timer time (for example, 30 seconds) is previously set. Start countdown of timer set for ~ 60 seconds). Instead of the game start switch 71, the player may get on the control board 40 after inserting coins, and the game may be started by detection by any direction detection sensor.

  In the next step S15, the solenoids of the pair of lock mechanisms 150 are excited so as to release the lock on the control board 40, and the locking portion 152 is separated from the locked plate 42 of the control board 40. Then, it progresses to S16 and it is checked whether the sensor signal of each direction detection sensor 31-34 has switched from OFF to ON. In S16, when any one or two sensor signals of each of the direction detection sensors 31 to 34 are switched from OFF to ON (in the case of YES), the process proceeds to S17, and the inclination direction of the control board 40 (by the player) The operation direction is determined, and a drive signal is output to the prize gripping part X-direction drive motor 27A and / or the prize gripping part Y-direction drive motor 27B of the horizontal movement mechanism 27 according to the determination result. As a result, the prize gripping portion 26 is moved in the X and Y directions by the horizontal movement mechanism 27.

  In S16, when the sensor signals of the direction detection sensors 31 to 34 are all off (in the case of NO), the player does not operate (tilt operation) the control board 40. The process is omitted.

  In the next S18, it is checked whether or not the prize gripping portion 26 moved to an arbitrary position according to the operation of the control board 40 is stopped, and the button of the switch 72 for gripping the nail of the operation box 70 is pressed. In S18, when the button of the switch 72 for gripping the nail is pressed and the switch signal is turned on (in the case of YES), the process proceeds to S19, and the pair of nail portions 26A and 26B are first operated in the opening direction. Further, the prize gripping portion 26 is lowered to the prize placing table 22, and the pair of claw portions 26A and 26B are operated in the closing direction. Thereafter, the prize gripping portion 26 is raised both when the prize K is gripped by the pair of claws 26A and 26B and when the prize K cannot be gripped.

  When the player holds the prize K by the pair of claws 26A and 26B, the player operates the control board 40 to move the prize gripping part 26 above the prize drop opening 25, and then the claw release switch of the operation box 70. The button 73 is pressed.

  In S20, when the button of the claw release switch 73 is pressed and the claw release signal is output from the claw release switch 73 (in the case of YES), the process proceeds to S21, and the pair of claw portions 26A and 26B are opened. The prize K that has been gripped by moving in the direction is dropped into the prize drop opening 25. In S20, when the button of the nail release switch 73 is not pressed (in the case of NO), the process of S21 is omitted.

  Subsequently, in S22, it is checked whether or not the time limit by the timer remains. In S22, when the time limit by the timer remains (in the case of YES), the process returns to S16, and the processes of S16 to S22 are repeated. Therefore, during the game, the processes of S16 to S22 are repeated, and the movement and stop operation of the prize gripping portion 26 and the operation of gripping and releasing the prize K by the prize gripping portion 26 can be performed any number of times.

  Further, in S22, when the time limit becomes zero due to the countdown of the timer (in the case of NO), the process proceeds to S23, it is determined that the game is over, and in S24, whether or not the credit due to coin insertion exists in the memory 78. To check. If the credit is registered in the memory 78 in S24 (in the case of YES), the process returns to S13, and the game is started again when the game start switch 71 of the operation box 70 is turned on. The subsequent control processing is repeated.

  If the credit is not registered in the memory 78 in S24 (in the case of NO), the process proceeds to S25, the solenoid of the lock mechanism 150 is demagnetized, and the locking portion 152 is attached to the locked plate 42 of the control board 40. The control board 40 is locked in a non-swingable state by fitting.

  In the next S26, a drive signal is output to the prize gripping part X-direction drive motor 27A and / or the prize gripping part Y-direction drive motor 27B of the horizontal movement mechanism 27 so as to move the prize gripping part 26 to the home position. Note that, as the home position of the present embodiment, the right end portion of the prize placing table 22 is set, but the present invention is not limited to this, and it may be above the prize drop opening 25 or the left end portion of the prize placing table 22. It is good also as a home position.

  Next, the sensor detection position control process based on the sensor signals of the direction detection sensors 31 to 34 executed in S16 will be described. FIG. 18 is a subroutine for explaining sensor detection position control processing executed by the control unit.

  As shown in FIG. 18, in S31, the sensor signals of the direction detection sensors 31 to 34 are read. Then, it progresses to S32 and it is checked whether the sensor signals of each direction detection sensor 31-34 are all OFF. In S32, when all the sensor signals of the respective direction detection sensors 31 to 34 are OFF (in the case of YES), the process proceeds to S33, and a stop signal for stopping the prize gripping unit 26 is output.

  In S32, when all the sensor signals of the direction detection sensors 31 to 34 are not off, the process proceeds to S34 to check whether only the sensor signal of the X1 direction detection sensor 31 is on. In S34, when only the sensor signal of the X1 direction detection sensor 31 is ON (in the case of YES), the process proceeds to S35, where it is determined that the control board 40 is tilted in the X2 direction, and the X2 direction drive signal is sent to the horizontal movement mechanism 27. Output.

  In S34, when only the sensor signal of the X1 direction detection sensor 31 is not on, the process proceeds to S36 and it is checked whether only the sensor signal of the X2 direction detection sensor 32 is on. In S36, when only the sensor signal of the X2 direction detection sensor 32 is ON (in the case of YES), the process proceeds to S37, it is determined that the control board 40 is tilted in the X1 direction, and the X1 direction drive signal is sent to the horizontal movement mechanism 27. Output.

  In S36, when only the sensor signal of the X2 direction detection sensor 32 is not ON, the process proceeds to S38, and it is checked whether only the sensor signal of the Y1 direction detection sensor 33 is ON. In S38, when only the sensor signal of the Y1 direction detection sensor 33 is ON (in the case of YES), the process proceeds to S39, it is determined that the control board 40 is tilted in the Y2 direction, and the Y2 direction drive signal is sent to the horizontal movement mechanism 27. Output.

  In S38, when only the sensor signal of the Y1 direction detection sensor 33 is not on, the process proceeds to S40 and it is checked whether only the sensor signal of the Y2 direction detection sensor 34 is on. In S40, when only the sensor signal of the Y2 direction detection sensor 34 is ON (in the case of YES), the process proceeds to S41, where it is determined that the control board 40 is tilted in the Y1 direction, and the Y1 direction drive signal is sent to the horizontal movement mechanism 27. Output.

  In S40, when only the sensor signal of the Y2 direction detection sensor 34 is not ON, the process proceeds to S42, in which both the sensor signals of the X1 direction detection sensor 31 and the Y1 direction detection sensor 33 are OFF, and the X2 direction detection sensor 32 and the Y2 direction detection are detected. It is checked whether both sensor signals of the sensor 34 are on. If the sensor signals of the X1 direction detection sensor 31 and the Y1 direction detection sensor 33 are both OFF and the sensor signals of the X2 direction detection sensor 32 and the Y2 direction detection sensor 34 are both ON in S42 (YES), S43 The control board 40 determines that the control board 40 is tilted in the (X1, Y1) oblique direction (see FIG. 10), and outputs an (X1, Y1) direction drive signal to the horizontal movement mechanism 27.

  If NO in S42, the process proceeds to S44, in which both the sensor signals of the X2 direction detection sensor 32 and the Y1 direction detection sensor 33 are off and whether the sensor signals of the X1 direction detection sensor 31 and the Y2 direction detection sensor 34 are both on. To check. If YES in S44, the process proceeds to S45, where it is determined that the control board 40 is tilted in the (X2, Y1) diagonal direction (see FIG. 10), and the (X2, Y1) direction drive signal is output to the horizontal movement mechanism 27. To do.

  If NO in S44, the process proceeds to S46, and whether or not the sensor signals of the X2 direction detection sensor 32 and the Y2 direction detection sensor 34 are both off and whether the sensor signals of the X1 direction detection sensor 31 and the Y1 direction detection sensor 33 are both on. To check. If YES in S46, the process proceeds to S47, where it is determined that the control board 40 is tilted in the (X2, Y2) diagonal direction (see FIG. 10), and the (X2, Y2) direction drive signal is output to the horizontal movement mechanism 27. .

  If NO in S46, the process proceeds to S48, in which both the sensor signals of the X1 direction detection sensor 31 and the Y2 direction detection sensor 34 are off, and the sensor signals of the X2 direction detection sensor 32 and the Y1 direction detection sensor 33 are both on. To check. If YES in S48, the process proceeds to S49, where it is determined that the control board 40 is tilted in the (X1, Y2) diagonal direction (see FIG. 10), and the (X1, Y2) direction drive signal is output to the horizontal movement mechanism 27. .

  As described above, the control unit 90 determines whether the operation direction of the control board 40 is any one of the eight directions based on the combination of ON / OFF of the sensor signals of the direction detection sensors 31 to 34. Is possible. Therefore, in the control unit 90, it becomes possible to accurately determine the operation direction when the player tilts the control board 40 while balancing the body, and the prize gripping unit 26 is positioned in any of the eight directions. Can also be moved.

  FIG. 19 is a subroutine for explaining command interruption processing executed by the control unit. As shown in FIG. 19, in S51, for example, when the button 72 of the nail grip switch 72 is pressed to move the prize gripping portion 26 up or down, or the button of the claw release switch 73 is pressed to operate the prize K as a prize. The command acceptance of the command interruption process is started when dropping into the insertion port 25.

  Then, it progresses to S52 and the sensor signal of the X1 direction detection sensor 31 and the X2 direction detection sensor 32 is read. In next S53, it is checked whether the sensor signals of the X1 direction detection sensor 31 and the X2 direction detection sensor 32 are alternately switched from off to on and from on to off. In S53, in the case of YES, it is determined that the player has performed the operation of alternately tilting the control board 40 in the left and right directions (X1 and X2 directions) three times or more, and the gauge displayed on the display 38 is set to 1. To increase the number of gauges. Note that the processing of S53 is not limited to this, and is displayed on the display unit 38 when, for example, the player turns the waist to change the tilt direction of the control board 40 to the turning direction. The number of gauges may be increased by adding 1 to the gauge.

  In the next S55, it is checked whether or not the gauge has reached a predetermined number (upper limit value). If YES in S55, the process proceeds to S56 to execute special conditions. As this special condition, for example, an event such as stopping the countdown of the timer for several seconds can be executed. Alternatively, an event may be executed in which the movement speed when moving the prize gripping portion 26 can be moved by 20% faster than usual.

  In S53, if NO, the processes in S54 to S56 are omitted. If NO in S55, the process in S56 is omitted.

  In the next S57, it is checked whether or not the game is over. If the time limit of the timer remains in S57, the process returns to S52, and the processes after S52 are repeated. In S57, when the time limit of the timer becomes zero, it is determined that the game is over, the process proceeds to S58, and the command acceptance is finished.

  Thus, for example, during the game, while the prize gripping portion 26 is moved up and down by the lifting mechanism 28, the horizontal movement mechanism 27 cannot be operated. In this situation, the player moves the control board 40 left and right. When a special operation (operation that is not normally performed) such as an operation of alternately tilting in the direction (X1, X2 direction) is detected three times or more, a special condition that is more advantageous than usual is executed as an event. , It can be set as a player's hidden technique.

  For this reason, the player not only performs a normal operation method but also performs something interesting and special in a standby state in which the prize gripping portion 26 is moved up and down by the lifting mechanism 28, for example. As a result, the player can increase the gauge by doing special things such as dancing on the control board 40 and performing various performances in the hope that special conditions will be added. At the same time, it is possible to entertain the spectators who are watching the special behaviors of the players and to make them want to participate in the game.

  Here, a modified example will be described.

  FIG. 20A is a perspective view of a modification of the foot controller as viewed obliquely from above. FIG. 20B is a perspective view of a modified example of the foot controller as viewed obliquely from below.

  As shown in FIGS. 20A and 20B, the foot controller 400 according to the modification includes a control board 410 and an X and Y sensor unit 420. The X and Y sensor unit 420 includes a support mechanism 460 and a sensor mechanism 470 on the installation base 430. The support mechanism 460 includes an X direction support portion 460A and a Y direction support portion 460B that support the control board 410 so as to be swingable in the X direction and the Y direction.

  The sensor mechanism 470 includes an X1 direction sensor unit 480, an X2 direction sensor unit 490, a Y1 direction sensor unit 500, and a Y2 direction sensor unit 510 that are erected so as to face each of the four directions of the support mechanism 460. Have. Each sensor unit 480, 490, 500, 510 detects that the control board 410 is tilted in the X1, X2 direction and Y1, Y2 direction and outputs each sensor signal to the control unit 90, as will be described later. Note that the control unit 90 determines the operation direction instructed by the control board 410 based on the combination of the sensor signals output from the sensor mechanism 470 in the same manner as in the above-described embodiment, and also the prize gripping unit 26. A control signal for controlling the moving direction of the is generated.

  Here, the configuration of the X1 direction sensor unit 480 will be described.

  The X1-direction support portion 480 has a pair of urging mechanisms 484 that urge the rubber member 483 in contact with the lower surface of the control board 410 upward on both sides of the bracket 482 fixed to stand on the base 450. Each urging mechanism 484 includes a spring member that is compressed according to the magnitude of the load to generate a spring force.

  A link mechanism 485 that rotates according to the operation of the pair of urging mechanisms 484 is provided at the center of the inner wall of the bracket 482. An X1 direction detection sensor 487 that detects the rotational displacement of the rotation member 486 that is rotated in the vertical direction by the link mechanism 485 is provided on the outer wall of the bracket 482.

  A total of eight rubber members 483 are provided, one in each of the four directions, and also function as a horizontal holding portion that holds the control board 410 in a horizontal state. When each of the urging mechanisms 484 comes into contact with the rubber member 483 and a load is applied to the rubber member 483, the urging mechanism 484 descends to detect the link mechanism 485 and increase the urging force to the control board 410. Thereby, the tilting operation of the control board 410 can be buffered to improve the player's feeling of operation.

  Each urging mechanism 484 also serves as a stopper mechanism that limits the inclination angle of the control board 410 to a predetermined angle.

  The sensor units 490, 500, 510 other than the sensor unit 480 have the same configuration as the sensor unit 480, and include brackets 492, 502, 512, rubber members 493, 503, 513, and biasing mechanisms 494, 504, 514. And link mechanisms 495, 509, 515, rotating members 496, 506, 516, and direction detection sensors 497, 507, 517.

  The support mechanism 460 supports a bearing 462 through which a shaft 412 protruding downward from the center of the lower surface of the control board 410 is inserted by a support base 464. A guide member 465 is attached to the inner wall of the center hole 463 of the bearing 462. The guide member 465 forms a square guide edge 464 that serves as a fulcrum for swinging movements in the X1, X2, Y1, and Y2 directions. On the other hand, an inclined portion 414 that is inclined in each direction of the X1, X2, Y1, and Y2 directions is provided at the base of the shaft 412. The inclined portion 414 is formed in a quadrangular pyramid shape having inclined surfaces in four directions, and abuts on the guide edge portion 464 of the guide member 465 so as to be swingable in each direction of the X1, X2, Y1, and Y2 directions. Supported.

  The control board 410 has a circular outer shape and has a gently curved upper surface. In addition, a shaft 412 protrudes downward from the center of the lower surface of the control board 410, and a lower end of the shaft 412 contacts the upper surface of the installation base 430 when the player descends with the weight on the control board 410. A disk portion 416 is provided. Therefore, the disk portion 416 assists the player in operating the control board 410 in a horizontal state by having the lower surface abut on the upper surface of the installation base 430.

  Further, the X-direction support portion 460A includes an inclined surface in the X1 and X2 directions of the inclined portion 414 and an edge portion in the X1 and X2 directions of the guide edge portion 464. Further, the Y-direction support portion 460B is composed of an inclined surface in the Y1, Y2 direction of the inclined portion 414 and an edge portion in the Y1, Y2 direction of the guide edge portion 464.

  The X1 direction detection sensor 487, the X2 direction detection sensor 497, the Y1 direction detection sensor 507, and the Y2 direction detection sensor 517 are made of, for example, a photo interrupter that is integrally molded so that the light emitting element and the light receiving element face each other. Further, the direction detection sensors 487, 497, 507, and 517 are configured such that when the protruding pieces of the rotating members 486, 496, 506, and 516 are interposed between the light emitting element and the light receiving element, the light is blocked and the sensor signal Is turned off. In the present embodiment, when the control board 410 is in a horizontal state, the protruding pieces of the rotating members 486, 496, 506, and 516 are set so as to block the light of the direction detection sensors 487, 497, 507, and 517. Yes.

  Further, in each direction detection sensor 487, 497, 507, 517, when the protruding piece is retracted from between the light emitting element and the light receiving element, the light is received and the sensor signal is turned on. In this embodiment, when the control board 410 is operated so as to be inclined in any direction, any one of the protruding pieces of the rotating members 486, 496, 506 and 516 is displaced downward to detect each direction. Any one of the sensors 487, 497, 507, and 517 is set to be turned on.

  Therefore, the control unit 90 determines whether the operation direction of the control board 410 is one of the eight directions based on the combination of the sensor signals of the direction detection sensors 487, 497, 507, and 517. It becomes possible to do. Therefore, in the control unit 90, it becomes possible to accurately determine the operation direction by tilting the control board 410 while the player balances the body, and the prize gripping unit 26 is set in any of the eight directions. Can also be moved.

  In the above-described embodiment, the case where the horizontal movement direction of the prize gripping unit 26 is operated by tilting the control boards 40 and 410 has been described as an example. However, as an operation target to be operated by the operation of the control boards 40 and 410, However, the present invention is not limited to the prize gripping unit 26. For example, a controller for causing a player to operate an image of a character displayed on a monitor by a video game, or a player can arbitrarily play a ball such as tennis or soccer. Of course, the present invention can also be applied to a controller or the like for operating to move in a direction.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Game apparatus 20 Game apparatus main body 30 Foot controller 21 Case 22 Premium placement base 23 Ceiling 24 Premium acquisition mechanism 25 Premium drop opening 26 Premium gripping part 26A, 26B Claw part 26C Claw part opening / closing motor 27 Horizontal movement mechanism 27A Premium gripping part X Direction drive motor 27B Prize gripper Y direction drive motor 28 Lift mechanism 28A Prize gripper lift motor 30 Foot controller 31 X1 direction detection sensor 32 X2 direction detection sensor 33 Y1 direction detection sensor 34 Y2 direction detection sensor 36 Coin slot 38 Display unit 40 Control board 50 Installation base 56A, 56B Top cover 58 Shield member 60 Handrail 70 Operation box 71 Game start switch 72 Claw grab switch 73 Claw release switch 76 Coin insertion detection switch 77 Timer setting unit 78 Memory 90 Control unit 10 Intrusion baffle mechanism 110 First intrusion prevention rod 120 Second intrusion prevention rod 140 X, Y sensor unit 150 Lock mechanism 152 Locking portion 160 Support mechanism 170 Sensor mechanism 180 X direction support portion 190 Y direction support portion 210 Mounting plate 220 X frame 225, 226, 255, 256 Protruding piece 230 X block 232, 262 Horizontal surface 234, 236, 264, 266 Inclined surface 240 X rod 250 Y frame 260 Y block 270 Y rod 280 Sensor plate 340 Stopper mechanism 340A to 340H Stopper unit 342 Elastic roller 344 Rotating arm 346, 347 Connecting pin 348 Bracket 350 Torsion spring 400 Foot controller 410 Control board 420 X, Y sensor unit 430 Installation base 460 Support machine 460A X direction support portion 460B Y direction support portion 470 Sensor mechanism 480 X1 direction sensor unit 490 X2 direction sensor unit 500 Y1 direction sensor unit 510 Y2 direction sensor unit 482, 492, 502, 512 Bracket 483, 493, 503, 513 Rubber member 484, 494, 504, 514 Energizing mechanism 485, 495, 509, 515 Link mechanism 486, 496, 506, 516 Rotating member 487 X1 direction detection sensor 497 X2 direction detection sensor 507 Y1 direction detection sensor 517 Y2 direction detection sensor

Claims (11)

A support mechanism for swingably supporting a control board on which a player's foot is placed and a sensor mechanism for detecting the swinging direction of the control board, and the sensor signal output by the sensor mechanism is used as a game In the foot controller that inputs to the control unit of the device,
The support mechanism is
An X-direction support portion for supporting the control board in a swingable manner in the X direction;
A Y-direction support portion for supporting the control board in a swingable manner in the Y direction;
A horizontal holding unit for holding the control board in a horizontal state;
A foot controller characterized by comprising: The X-direction support part is
An X-direction guide member for guiding the swing of the control board in the X direction;
The Y-direction support part is
A Y-direction guide member for guiding the swinging of the control board in the Y direction;
The foot controller according to claim 1, wherein the X-direction guide member and the Y-direction guide member have a horizontal contact surface that keeps the control board in a horizontal state when the control board is in a horizontal state. The X-direction support part is
An X-direction guide member that guides swinging of the control board in the X direction;
A first frame provided on a lower surface side of the control board and contacting an upper surface of the X-direction guide member;
A first rod that pivotably connects a side surface of the first frame to a side surface of the X-direction guide member;
The Y-direction support part is
A Y-direction guide member for guiding the swing of the control board in the Y direction;
A second frame provided on the lower surface side of the control board and contacting the upper surface of the Y-direction guide member;
The foot controller according to claim 1, further comprising: a second rod that pivotably connects a side surface of the second frame to a side surface of the Y-direction guide member. The sensor mechanism is
A pair of X direction detection sensors for detecting swinging of both ends of the X direction support portion;
A pair of Y direction detection sensors for detecting the swing of both ends of the Y direction support part;
The pair of X direction detection sensors output sensor signals corresponding to the tilt direction of the control board in the X direction,
4. The foot controller according to claim 1, wherein the pair of Y direction detection sensors output a sensor signal corresponding to a tilt direction of the control board in the Y direction. 5. The support mechanism is
An X-direction stopper unit that generates an elastic force against the control board according to an inclination angle of the control board in the X direction;
The foot controller according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a Y-direction stopper unit that generates an elastic force with respect to the control board in accordance with an inclination angle of the control board in the Y direction. The support mechanism is
A diagonal between the X-direction stopper unit and the Y-stopper unit that generates an elastic force with respect to the control board in accordance with an inclination angle in an oblique direction that is substantially between the X-direction and the Y-direction of the control board. 6. The foot controller according to claim 1, further comprising a direction stopper unit. The stopper unit is
An elastic roller;
An arm that rotatably supports the elastic roller;
A biasing member that biases the arm upward;
The foot controller according to claim 5 or 6, characterized by comprising: Insert the control board into the recess provided on the installation base installed on the floor,
Provide a shielding member that slides in the tilt direction of the control board on the outer peripheral edge of the control board,
The foot controller according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein a gap formed between an outer peripheral edge portion of the control board and a concave portion of the fixed plate is shielded by the shielding member. In a game device that operates an operation target in accordance with a control signal input by a player's operation,
The game apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control signal is generated in accordance with a sensor signal output from a sensor mechanism that detects a tilt direction of a control board of any one of the foot controllers according to claim 1. A game apparatus having a control unit to which a control signal corresponding to a player's operation is input and a drive unit driven by the control signal from the control unit, and moves an operation target by a driving force from the drive unit In
The game apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control signal is generated in accordance with a sensor signal output from a sensor mechanism that detects a tilt direction of a control board of the foot controller according to claim 1. A housing for storing a plurality of prizes, a control unit to which a control signal is input according to a player's operation, and a control signal provided on the ceiling of the housing in the X and Y directions by the control signal from the control unit A driving unit for generating a driving force, and a prize acquisition mechanism for moving the prize gripping part in the X direction and the Y direction by the driving force in the X direction and the Y direction from the driving part. In the game device for gripping the prize by the above, transporting the gripped prize above the prize slot and dropping it,
The game apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control signal is generated in accordance with a sensor signal output from a sensor mechanism that detects a tilt direction of a control board of the foot controller according to claim 1.

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