Game apparatus

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

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a game apparatus.

Description of Related Art

There has been proposed in the art a pusher game apparatus in which disk-shaped token coins (medals) fed into a game field are moved, as is disclosed for example in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 2013-99632. A lift hopper or the like that moves token coins along a rail is used in the conventional pusher game apparatus to transport the token coins to a feeding portion.

Assumed is use of game objects (for example, spherical game objects) that are rollable regardless of an orientation of the game objects instead of use of token coins as used in the conventional pusher game apparatus. In a configuration in which three-dimensional game objects are used, necessity arises for a mechanism suitable for transporting the three-dimensional game objects in place of a lift hopper that transports token coins.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In view of the above circumstances, an object of the present invention is to provide a technique that enables efficient transport of three-dimensional game objects.

In one aspect, a game apparatus according to a preferred aspect of the present invention is a game apparatus for providing a game in which three-dimensional game objects that are rollable regardless of an orientation of the three-dimensional game objects are used, the game apparatus including a circulating mechanism configured to circulate the three-dimensional game objects. The circulating mechanism includes: a conveyor device configured to transport the three-dimensional game objects from a first position to a second position that is higher than the first position; a first path configured to move the three-dimensional game objects from the second position to a third position that is lower than the second position; a supply path for supply of a part of the three-dimensional game objects to a game object utilizer that uses the supplied three-dimensional game objects in the game, the part of the three-dimensional game objects entering the supply path at a position between the second position and the third position; and a second path configured to move a part of the three-dimensional game objects not entering the supply path, to the first position that is lower than the third position.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

Embodiments of the present invention are explained below with reference to the drawings. The dimensions and scales of parts in the drawings may be different from the dimensions and scales of actual configurations as appropriate. Various technically preferable limitations are included in the embodiments described below. The scope of the present invention is not limited to these embodiments exemplified below.

First Embodiment

FIG. 1is an external view illustrating a game apparatus10according to a first embodiment. The game apparatus10is installed in, for example, an entertainment facility (such as a game arcade or a casino) or a retail facility (such as a shopping mall). The game apparatus10is also referred to as a gaming machine when it is used in a casino.

A player plays a game of the game apparatus10by spending game values (value media). A game value is, for example, a tangible medium having a value, such as a token coin (a medal), a coin (money), or a ticket, or an intangible medium having a value, such as a credit or a point. The term “game value” can be reworded either as “game token” or “substitute money.” A player plays a game of the game apparatus10by spending game values. It is of note that a player may select and spend either a tangible game value, such as a token coin, or an intangible game value, such as a credit.

Game values are provided as a reward to a player in accordance with a result of a play of a game on the game apparatus10. Game values spent on a play of a game may be of the same type as or of a different type from game values provided as a reward to the player. For example, assuming a case in which the play of a game starts with input of a predetermined number of token coins, a number of token coins (game values of the same type) may be provided to the player in accordance with a result of the play, or a number of tickets (game values of a different type) may be provided to the player in accordance with the result of the play. It is of note that the term “spending game values” can be reworded as inputting (inserting) game values; and the term “granting game values” can be reworded as pay-out of game values.

In a case where intangible game values, such as credits, are provided as rewards to a player, the rewards may be converted into tangible game values, such as token coins, and paid to the player, with such conversion and payout being triggered, for example, by a predetermined user operation. The intangible game values, such as credits, are electronically managed by a management device, with the intangible game values being associated with identification information of the player. The management device is, for example, a computer installed in an entertainment facility or a commercial facility. The player may spend some or all of intangible game values managed by the management device in a game, or may deposit intangible game values provided as a reward into the management device.

A fixed value is set for a game value. However, the value of a game value may become a variable value by storing a quantity of game values or identification information representative of the quantity in a storage circuit (for example, an IC tag) or by printing a code (for example, a barcode or a QR code (registered trademark)) representative of the quantity of game values on the game values. Game values provided to a player may be exchanged for various goods, such as premium goods. In the first embodiment, a case is assumed in which game values spent on a game and game values provided to a player as a reward that accords with the result of the gameplay are token coins.

A game in which game objects are used is played on the game apparatus10. For example, game objects are used for a game responsive to expenditure of game values. For example, game objects that accord with the game values spent are fed into a game field. Tangible game values spent may be used directly in a game, or game objects that differ from the spent tangible game values may be used in a game. For example, token coins inserted by a player may be used directly as the game objects for a game, or balls different from the token coins inserted by a player may be used as the game objects for the game. In a configuration in which a different type of game object from spent game values are used in a game, a relation between an amount of spent game values and a quantity of game objects used in a game responsive to expenditure of the game objects can be changed, as appropriate. For example, two game objects may be fed into a game field in exchange for expenditure of one token coin, or one game object may be fed in exchange for expenditure of one token coin. When a player plays a game by spending intangible game values such as credits, game objects are fed into a game field, for example, by an operation of a predetermined operator (not shown) by the player.

While the game objects may be of any shape, in the first embodiment a case is assumed in which game objects of a three-dimensional shape (hereafter, “three-dimensional game objects”) are used. The three-dimensional game objects may be of a disk shape as in the case of token coins or coins, or of a solid shape as in the case of balls or cuboids. Particularly, in the first embodiment, there are used three-dimensional game objects that are rollable regardless of their orientation. Typical as an example of a three-dimensional game object that is rollable regardless of orientation is a spherical object (for example, a marble). However, the concept of three-dimensional game objects that are rollable regardless of orientation of the three-dimensional game objects also include, for example, a substantially spherical polyhedron, such as a truncated polyhedron. It is of note that some of the configurations adopted in the first embodiment are also applicable to a three-dimensional game object (for example, a disk-shaped three-dimensional game object) that does not roll in specific orientation.

In the first embodiment, two kinds of spherical objects having different diameters are used as the three-dimensional game objects. In the following explanations, a spherical object having a larger diameter between the two kinds of spherical objects is referred to as a “large ball” and a spherical object having a smaller diameter is referred to as a “small ball.” The three-dimensional game objects (the small balls and the large balls) in the first embodiment are formed from a light transmissive material.

As shown inFIG. 1, the game apparatus10of the first embodiment includes four stations100(100a,100b,100c, and100d) for use in playing games by different players, and four operating panels160(160a,160b,160c, and160d) respectively operated by the players. The four stations100are able to provide independent games of the same kind to different players in parallel. The stations100provide games that progress with movement of the three-dimensional game objects to players. Each of the four stations100are also able to individually function as a game apparatus. The total number of the stations100included in the game apparatus10is not limited to four and may be any number equal to or greater than one.

The two stations100aand100care adjacent to each other in a front-back direction of players (a Y direction inFIG. 1). Similarly, the two stations100band100dare adjacent to each other in the front-back direction. The two stations100aand100bare adjacent to each other in a right-left direction of players (an X direction inFIG. 1). Similarly, the two stations100cand100dare adjacent to each other in the right-left direction.

The four stations100have the same configuration. In the following explanation, the station100ais focused on, and explanations of the other stations100b,100c, and100dare omitted, as appropriate. A suffix “a” is appended to signs of elements constituting the station100a. For elements constituting other stations100b,100c, and100d, the suffix “a” of the elements of the station100ais replaced with “b,” “c,” and “d,” respectively. Elements having signs to which a combination of two suffixes is appended are elements shared by two stations100that respectively correspond to the two suffixes. For example, an element having a sign to which the suffix “ab” is appended is shared by the station100aand the station100b.

As shown inFIG. 1, the station100aincludes a payout port Ma. The payout port Ma is an opening for paying game values to a player in accordance with a result of a game.

FIG. 2is a schematic diagram showing the elements of the game apparatus10as viewed from above (in a Z direction inFIG. 1) in a vertical direction. As shown inFIG. 2, the station100aincludes a game field110a, a first lottery portion120a, a second lottery portion130a, and a conveyor device180a. The game apparatus10includes conveyor devices170acand170bd, third lottery portions140aband140cd, and a JP (jackpot) payout portion150in addition to the four stations100.

The game field110ais a space in which a game using three-dimensional game objects is performed. In the first embodiment, a pusher game using three-dimensional game objects is performed in the game field110a.FIG. 4is a perspective view illustrating the game field110a, andFIG. 5is a perspective view showing a state in which small balls M1and large balls M2have been supplied to the game field110a. As shown inFIGS. 4 and 5, a table111, a wall portion112, a pusher table113, feeding portions114L and114R, and a large ball feeding portion114B are arranged in the game field110a.

The table111is a flat member fixed substantially horizontally. There is formed in the left periphery of the table111acutout115L and in the right periphery a cutout115R. The cutouts115L and115R are of a dimension and shape that do not allow passage of the large balls M2, but do allow passage of the small balls M1. The pusher table113is a structure that reciprocates in front and back directions (a direction A and a direction B inFIG. 4) on the face of the table111. The wall portion112is arranged in such a manner that the bottom surface thereof faces the surface of the pusher table113.

The feeding portion114L feeds the small balls M1from the left side of the game field110aonto the face of the pusher table113. The feeding portion114R feeds the small balls M1from the right side of the game field110aonto the face of the pusher table113. The large ball feeding portion114B feeds the large balls M2onto the face of the table111.

In a state in which a game is actually performed, many small balls M1are placed on the faces of the table111and the pusher table113as shown inFIG. 5. The large balls M2fed from the large ball feeding portion114B are placed on the face of the table111. The small balls M1fed from the feeding portion114L or114R onto the face of the pusher table113are pushed by the wall portion112when the pusher table113moves backward (in the direction A inFIG. 4). The small balls M1sequentially move in the direction B as a result of being pushed by the wall portion112, and surplus small balls M1located near a forward edge of the pusher table113fall from the forward edge of the pusher table113onto the face of the table111. The small balls M1on the face of the table111sequentially move in the direction B as a result of being pushed by the pusher table113moving in the direction B, and surplus small balls M located near a forward edge116of the table111fall from the forward edge116.

A quantity of the game values corresponding to the number of small balls M1having fallen from the forward edge116is provided as a reward to the player. Meanwhile, small balls M1passing through the cutout115L or115R are not included in determining the quantity of the game values to be provided to the player.

The first lottery portion120ainFIG. 2is a physical lottery portion used for a first lottery. The first lottery is a physical lottery for determining the number of small balls M1to be used in a second lottery, as will be described later. The first lottery using the first lottery portion120ais performed each time a first condition is met. The first condition is, for example, falling of m large balls M2from the game field110a(where m is an integer equal to or greater than 1). In the following explanations, a case in which m is 1 is assumed. That is, the first lottery is performed each time one large ball M2falls from the forward edge116of the game field110a. The first condition is not limited to this example.

The second lottery portion130ais a physical lottery portion used for a second lottery. The second lottery is a physical lottery for determining whether to perform a third lottery, as will be described later. The second lottery using the second lottery portion130ais performed each time a second condition is met. The second condition is, for example, falling of n large balls M2from the game field110a. A case in which the number n is 3 is assumed in the following explanations. That is, the second lottery is performed each time three large balls M2fall from the game field110a.

The number of small balls M1used in the second lottery is the sum of results of n times of the first lottery performed before the second lottery is started. That is, the number of small balls M1determined according to a progress status of the game is used in the second lottery.

The third lottery portion140abis a physical lottery portion shared by the stations100aand100band used in the third lottery. The third lottery is a physical lottery for determining whether the JP payout portion150pays out many small balls M1. The third lottery using the third lottery portion140abis performed when in the second lottery it is determined that the third lottery is to be performed. Specifically, when the third lottery is determined to be performed in the second lottery using the second lottery portion130a, whether many small balls M1are to be paid out by the JP payout portion150to be fed into the game field110ais determined in the third lottery using the third lottery portion140ab. Further, when the third lottery is determined to be performed in the second lottery using the second lottery portion130a, whether many small balls M1are to be paid out by the JP payout portion150to be fed into the game field110bis determined by the third lottery using the third lottery portion140ab. Although description is given above that the third lottery portion140abis shared by the stations100aand100b, it is of note that the same applies to the third lottery portion140cdshared by the stations100cand100d.

The JP payout portion150is shared by the four stations100(100a,100b,100c, and100d). As shown inFIG. 2, the JP payout portion150is located at the center of the game apparatus10, as seen in a planar view in a vertical direction. The JP payout portion150in the first embodiment can switch a payout destination of the small balls M1to one of the game fields110a,110b,110c, and110d.

The operating panel160ainFIG. 2receives operations from the player.FIG. 3is a plan view illustrating a configuration of the operating panel160a. As shown inFIG. 3, the operating panel160ais configured to include slots161L and161R, and switch operation portions162L and162R. Tangible game values are inserted into the slots161L and161R by the player.

When a tangible game value is inserted into the slot161L, a small ball M1is fed into the game field110afrom the feeding portion114L on the left side of the game field110a. The switch operation portion162L is operated by the player to change the feeding direction of the small ball M1from the feeding portion114L. When a game value is inserted into the slot161R, a small ball M1is fed into the game field110afrom the feeding portion114R on the right side of the game field110a. The switch operation portion162R is operated by the player to change the feeding direction of the small ball M1from the feeding portion114R.

The conveyor device170acinFIG. 2transports small balls M1. Specifically, the conveyor device170acis shared by the stations100aand100cand transports, for example, small balls M1that have fallen from the game field110aor110cto a higher position. The small balls M1transported by the conveyor device170acare used by multiple elements (the stations100, for example). The conveyor device170bdis shared by the stations100band100dand transports small balls M1that have fallen from the game field110bor110dto a higher position.

The conveyor device180atransports small balls M1, for example, in the vertical direction. For example, an air lifter that transports small balls M1by sending air into a circular pipe that houses the small balls M is preferably used as the conveyor device180a. The inside diameter of the circular pipe is larger than the outside diameter of the small ball M1and is smaller than the size of 1.5 times of the outside diameter. As a difference (hereafter, “diameter difference”) between the inside diameter of the circular pipe and the outside diameter of the small ball M1approaches zero, an external force produced by the sending of air is more likely to act on the small balls M1in the circular pipe, whereby the small balls M1can be transported in a shorter time. Therefore, it is desirable that the diameter difference is close to zero. Further, when the diameter difference is close to zero, the outside diameter of the circular pipe is reduced and downscaling of the conveyor device180acan be realized. It is of note that the transport direction of the small balls M1by the conveyor device180ais not limited to the vertical direction. The small balls M1transported by the conveyor device180aare supplied to the third lottery portion140abor a game object housing space46(seeFIG. 28), as will be described later.

First lottery portion120aFIG. 6is a plan view illustrating a configuration of the first lottery portion120a. As shown inFIG. 6, the first lottery portion120aincludes a display1210and a passage1220.

The display1210includes a circular screen1211. Candidates C1to C4for the number of small balls M1to be used in the second lottery are displayed on the screen1211. The candidate C1indicates “ten balls,” the candidate C2indicates “seven balls,” the candidate C3indicates “three balls,” and the candidate C4indicates “five balls.” The total number of candidates displayed on the screen1211and the number of small balls M1indicated by each candidate are not limited to the above examples and may freely be changed.

Each time one large ball M2falls from the forward edge116, the candidates C1to C4are displayed on the screen1211and a small ball M1is fed to the passage1220. The passage1220is arc-shaped along the outer circumference of the screen1211. A protrusion1222for preventing the small ball M1from jumping out is placed at an end1221of the passage1220. A discharger1230passed by the small ball M1is formed in the middle of the passage1220.

The display1210changes the positions of the candidates C1to C4on the screen1211with a lapse of time. The small ball M1fed to the passage1220moves along the passage1220and finally passes through the discharger1230. At a point in time when the small ball M1passes through the discharger1230, the movement of the candidates C1to C4on the screen1211stops. A number indicated by a candidate having stopped at a position closest to the discharger1230among the candidates C1to C4is determined as the number of small balls M1to be used in the second lottery. The small ball M1having passed through the discharger1230falls onto the game field110a(the pusher table113, for example).

Second lottery portion130aFIG. 7is a perspective view illustrating a configuration of the second lottery portion130a. The second lottery portion130aincludes a first distributer1310, a second distributer1320, and an accessory1330. Each of the first distributer1310and the second distributer1320is a structure (a distributer or a sorter) that distributes small balls M1to a plurality of paths. When three large balls M2fall from the forward edge116(that is, when the second condition is met), small balls M1are fed to the first distributer1310each time one of the three large balls M2falls. The number of small balls M1fed each time is the sum of the numbers of small balls M1determined in the first lottery.

The small balls M1fed to the first distributer1310pass through any of through-holes1311,1312, and1313formed on the first distributer1310. Small balls M having passed through either the through-hole1311or1312are collected without being fed to the second distributer1320. Meanwhile, small balls M1having passed through the through-hole1313are fed to the second distributer1320via a passage1314.

The small balls M1fed to the second distributer1320pass through any of through-holes1321,1322, and1323formed on the second distributer1320. Small balls M1having passed through either the through-hole1321or1322are collected without being fed to the accessory1330. Meanwhile, small balls M1having passed through the through-hole1323are fed to the accessory1330via a passage1324.

The small balls M1fed to the accessory1330are discharged from a discharger1331formed on the accessory1330. When the small balls M1are discharged from the discharger1331, the third lottery using the third lottery portion140abis carried out.

Third lottery portion140abFIG. 8is a perspective view illustrating a configuration of the third lottery portion140ab. The third lottery portion140abincludes a distributer141and a small ball mover142. When small balls M1are discharged from the discharger1331of the second lottery portion130a, the small balls M1are fed to the distributer141of the third lottery portion140ab.

The small ball mover142is mounted at the center of the distributer141and rotates in both directions. The small balls M1fed to the distributer141hit the small ball mover142, thereby moving toward the outer circumference of the distributer141. As the above state is repeated, a small ball M1passes through any of through-holes143to148formed on the distributer141. When a small ball M1passes through any of the through-holes143to147, payout of many small balls M1by the JP payout portion150is not carried out. On the other hand, when a small ball M1passes through the through-hole148, payout of many small balls M1by the JP payout portion150is carried out.

Flow of three-dimensional game objects (small balls M1and large balls M2)FIG. 9is a block diagram for explaining a flow of small balls M1and large balls M2in the station100a. As shown inFIG. 9, the station100aincludes a large ball sensor190a, a counter220a, a first hopper230a, a second hopper240a, a third hopper250a, and path switchers270aand280ain addition to the configuration shown inFIG. 2. It is of note that for convenience the conveyor device170acis shown in the inner side of a frame border representing the station100ainFIG. 9, although the conveyor device170acis an element shared by the two stations100aand100c.

The large ball sensor190adetects large balls M2that have fallen from the forward edge116of the table111in the game field110a. The first lottery using the first lottery portion120aand the second lottery using the second lottery portion130aare carried out in accordance with a result of the detection using the large ball sensor190a.

Small balls M that have fallen from the forward edge116in the game field110aare supplied to the counter220a. The counter220ais a count hopper that reserves the small balls M1supplied from the forward edge116and counts the small balls M1. A count value of the counter220ais used to determine the quantity of the game values provided as a reward to a player. The counter220adischarges counted small balls M1.

The conveyor device170actransports up small balls M1used in a game and small balls M not used in the game from a lower part to an upper part in the vertical direction. The small balls M1used in a game are small balls M1discharged from the counter220a, small balls M1that have fallen from the cutout115L or115R, and small balls M1used in the second lottery portion130aor the third lottery portion140ab. The small balls M1not used in a game are small balls M1sorted into the station100aby a sorter260, which will be described later. The small balls M1transported by the conveyor device170acare supplied to a first path310ac.

The first path310acis a path on which small balls M1move. There are provided on the first path310acopenings (supply paths) for respectively supplying small balls M1to the first hopper230a, the second hopper240a, and the third hopper250a. Small balls M1transported by the conveyor device170accan enter the first hopper230a. The first hopper230areserves small balls M1that are supplied from the first path310ac, and sequentially supplies the small balls M to the path switcher270a.

First hopper230aFIG. 10is a plan view of the first hopper230a.FIG. 11is a sectional view along a line A-A inFIG. 10. As shown inFIGS. 10 and 11, the first hopper230aincludes a reserving container231, a bottom portion232, a rotating body233, and a drive mechanism234.

The reserving container231is a container for reserving small balls M1. Formed on the bottom surface of the reserving container231is a discharge path235through which the small balls M1can pass. The bottom portion232is a plate-like member facing the bottom surface of the reserving container231with a gap smaller than the outer dimension of the small ball M1between the bottom portion232and the bottom surface of the reserving container231. There is formed a circular opening2321on the bottom portion232. The rotating body233is a disk-shaped member mounted in the opening2321. There are formed through-holes2331on the rotating body233at equal intervals in a circumferential direction. The small balls M1reserved in the reserving container231can pass through the through-holes2331. The drive mechanism234is configured to include, for example, a motor and rotates the rotating body233.

The small balls M1reserved in the reserving container231are held in the through-holes2331of the rotating body233. When a through-hole2331reaches just above the discharge path235upon rotation of the rotating body233, the small ball M1in the through-hole2331falls in the discharge path235and is discharged outside the first hopper230a. That is, the first hopper230aallows the small balls M1reserved in the reserving container231to be sequentially discharged one by one. Detailed explanations of the second hopper240aand the third hopper250aare omitted because the configurations are substantially the same as that of the first hopper230a.

The path switcher270ainFIG. 9switches the supply destination of the small ball M1discharged from the first hopper230a. Specifically, the path switcher270aswitches the supply destination of the small ball M1to be any of the first lottery portion120a, the second lottery portion130a, and the conveyor device180a. For example, the path switcher270aincludes a discharger271athat discharges the small ball M1supplied from the first hopper230a. The discharger271ais pivoted about a rotation shaft272a. By turning the discharger271awith a drive mechanism (not shown) such as a motor, the small ball M1is supplied to any of the first lottery portion120a, the second lottery portion130a, and the conveyor device180a.

As will be understood from the above explanations, the first hopper230acorresponds to a game object utilizer that uses small balls M1in the first lottery carried out by the first lottery portion120a, or the second lottery carried out by the second lottery portion130a(that is, a physical lottery performed by a physical lottery portion).

When the first hopper230ais full, a supply path231ais blocked by small balls M1and therefore small balls M1transported by the conveyor device170acto the first path310accannot enter the first hopper230a. Small balls M1that have not entered the first hopper230afrom among the small balls M1transported by the conveyor device170acmay enter the second hopper240a. The second hopper240areserves small balls M1that are supplied from the first path310acand uses the small balls M1. Specifically, the second hopper240asequentially feeds the small balls M1from the feeding portion1141R onto the game field110a(specifically, the pusher table113).

When the first hopper230aand the second hopper240aare full, the supply path231aand a supply path241aare blocked by small balls M1and therefore the small balls M1transported by the conveyor device170acto the first path310accannot enter the first hopper230aor the second hopper240a. Small balls M1that have entered neither the first hopper230anor the second hopper240aamong the small balls M1transported by the conveyor device170acmay enter the third hopper250a. The third hopper250areserves the small balls M1supplied from the first path310acand uses the small balls M1. Specifically, the third hopper250asequentially feeds the small balls M1from the feeding portion114L onto the game field110a(namely, the pusher table113). As will be understood from the above explanations, the second hopper240aor240cand the third hopper250aor250care game object utilizers that use small balls M1for a game in the game field110a.

When the first hopper230a, the second hopper240a, and the third hopper250aare full, the supply paths231aand241aand a supply path251aare blocked by small balls M1, and as a result the small balls M1transported by the conveyor device170acto the first path310acare unable to enter any of the first hopper230a, the second hopper240a, or the third hopper250a. Small balls M1that have not entered the first hopper230a, the second hopper240a, or the third hopper250afrom among the small balls M1transported by the conveyor device170acare returned to the conveyor device170acvia the sorter260inFIG. 9and the like. That is, small balls M1circulate through a path including the conveyor device170acand the first path310ac. The circulation of small balls M1will be described later.

The conveyor device180asequentially transports small balls M1supplied from the first hopper230avia the path switcher270ato supply the small balls M1to the path switcher280a. The path switcher280aswitches the supply destination of the small balls M1transported by the conveyor device180a. Specifically, the path switcher280aswitches the supply destination of the small balls M1to either the third lottery portion140abor the game object housing space46. For example, the path switcher280amay include a discharger281athat discharges the small balls M1supplied from the conveyor device180a. The discharger281ais pivoted about a rotation shaft282a. By turning the discharger281awith a drive mechanism (not shown) such as a motor, the small balls M are supplied to either the third lottery portion140abor the game object housing space46.

The game object housing space46is shared by the four stations100(100a,100b,100c, and100d). The game object housing space46houses small balls M1to be discharged from the JP payout portion150to any of the four game fields110(110a,110b,110c, and110d).

As will be understood from the above explanations, small balls M1moving on the first path310acare used in common by the game in the game field110aand the physical lotteries carried out by the physical lottery portions (120a,130a, and140ab) in the first embodiment. An advantage is obtained thereby in that the configuration of the game apparatus10can be made simple as compared to a configuration in which a mechanism that supplies small balls M to the game field110aand a mechanism that supplies small balls M1to the physical lottery portions are provided independently of each other. Because a circulating mechanism20accontinuously circulates small balls M1, small balls M1used in the physical lotteries are continuously supplied from the first path310ac. Therefore, any number of small balls M1as determined in accordance with the progress status of the game can be used for the physical lotteries.

As described above, the game apparatus10includes a mechanism (hereafter, “circulating mechanism”) that circulates small balls M1. The circulating mechanism is installed for each pair of two stations100adjacent in the front-back direction.FIG. 12is an explanatory diagram of the circulating mechanism20accorresponding to the two stations100aand100c. A circulating mechanism20bdcorresponding to the two stations100band100dhas a configuration substantially the same as that of the circulating mechanism20acshown inFIG. 12.

As shown inFIG. 12, the circulating mechanism20acincludes the first path310ac, a second path340ac, a collection path330a, and the conveyor device170ac. The first path310ac, the second path340ac, and the conveyor device170acare shared by the stations100aand100c. A path for circulating small balls M1is constituted by the first path310ac, the second path340ac, a space in which small balls M1fall between the both paths (a space including the sorter260), and the conveyor device170ac. A path for collecting small balls M1used in the game field110ais constituted by the collection path330a, and a space in which small balls M1fall between the collection path330aand the second path340ac. As shown inFIG. 12, the counter220athat counts small balls M1can be installed in the middle of the path for collecting the small balls M1used in the game field110a. A sidewall (for example, a sidewall311inFIG. 13) for preventing falling of small balls M1is in practice mounted along the edge of each of the first path310ac, the second path340ac, and the collection path330a. However, for convenience, illustrations of the sidewalls are omitted fromFIG. 12.

The conveyor device170actransports small balls M1from a first position P1to a second position P2. The second position P2is higher than the first position P1. Specifically, the second position P2is located above the first position P1in the vertical direction. The first path310acis a path that moves small balls M1transported to the second position P2by the conveyor device170acto a third position P3. The third position P3is lower than the second position P2. The second position P2and the third position P3are different in the horizontal position.

The first path310acis configured to include a first discrete path315acand a second discrete path320ac. Each of the first discrete path315acand the second discrete path320acincludes a slope descending from the second position P2toward the third position P3. Therefore, small balls M1roll on the slopes and move toward the third position P3. The small balls M1transported by the conveyor device170acare discharged to the first discrete path315ac. The second discrete path320acis placed downstream of the first discrete path315ac. That is, the first path310acin the first embodiment consists of the first discrete path315ac, the second discrete path320ac, and a space in which the small balls M1fall between the two paths. Because the small balls M1roll on the first path310acas described above, there is no need for a power source to move the small balls M1on the first path310ac.

FIG. 13is a plan view of a part of the first path310acnear the first discrete path315ac. The right side inFIG. 13corresponds to the upstream side of the first discrete path315acand the left side inFIG. 13corresponds to the downstream side of the first discrete path315ac. The surface of the first discrete path315acis a slope descending to the downstream from the upstream.

As shown inFIG. 13, the supply path231aand a supply path231care formed on the first discrete path315ac. The supply path231ais an opening for supplying small balls M1to the first hopper230a. That is, small balls M1that have entered the supply path231aare supplied to the first hopper230a. Meanwhile, the supply path231cis an opening for supplying small balls M1to a first hopper230c. That is, small balls M1that have entered the supply path231care supplied to the first hopper230c.

In a configuration where the first discrete path315acand the first hopper230aare separated, a duct coupling the supply path231aon the first discrete path315acand the first hopper230ais formed, for example. In the configuration described above, small balls M can be further reserved in the duct even in a state where the reserving container231is full. The state where the first hopper230a(the reserving container231) is full means that the duct as well as the reserving container231is full. As will be understood from the above explanations, the duct coupling the supply path231aand the first hopper230afunction as a reserver that temporarily reserves small balls M1. The duct can be considered as a part of the reserving container231. The same holds true for the second hopper240aand the third hopper250a.

The conveyor device170ais a structure having a substantially cylindrical shape that is oriented in a vertical direction. The supply paths231aand231care provided in opposing relation to each other across the conveyor device170ac. Discharge ports1720are formed near the top end of the conveyor device170acin the circumferential direction. The small balls M1transported by the conveyor device170acare radially discharged from the discharge ports1720. That is, the small balls M1are discharged in different directions from the discharge ports1720. The small balls M1radially discharged from the conveyor device170acare supplied to destinations corresponding to the discharge directions of the small balls M1. The positions of the discharge ports1720of the conveyor device170accorrespond to the second position P2described above.

Specifically, small balls M1discharged from the conveyor device170actoward the supply path231aenter the supply path231a. Similarly, small balls M1discharged from the conveyor device170actoward the supply path231center the supply path231c. Small balls M1discharged to an upstream of the supply paths231aand231cin the first discrete path315acroll along the sidewall311of the first discrete path315acand enter the supply path231aor231c.

On the first discrete path315aca wall portion (hereafter, “regulator”)350ais formed downstream of the conveyor device170ac. Communication paths313are formed on both sides of the regulator350a. The communication paths313are openings for moving small balls M1from the first discrete path315acto the second discrete path320ac. Small balls M1discharged from the conveyor device170actoward the communication paths313move on the communication paths313, to fall from the first discrete path315acto the second discrete path320ac. Small balls M1discharged from the conveyor device170acto the downstream roll along the regulator350ato reach the communication paths313, to fall from the communication paths313to the second discrete path320ac. That is, the small balls M1are guided by the regulator350ato the communication paths313. When the first hopper230aor230cis full, the small balls M1roll to fall from the communication paths313to the second discrete path320acwithout entering the supply paths231aand231c. That is, the small balls M1discharged from the conveyor device170acare supplied to any of the supply path231a, the supply path231c, and the second discrete path320acdepending on the discharge directions.

As will be understood fromFIG. 13, the size of the opening of the supply path231acorresponding to the first hopper230ais different from that of the openings of the communication paths313corresponding to the second discrete path320ac. The size of the opening of a supply path is the area of the opening through which small balls M1enter the supply path. The openings of the communication paths313correspond to the opening to the second hopper240aand the third hopper250a. By use of the above configuration, it is possible to control the number of small balls M1supplied to the first hopper230aso as to be different from the number of small balls M1supplied to the second hopper240aor the third hopper250a. In the first embodiment, the opening of the supply path231ais larger than the openings of the communication paths313. Therefore, small balls M1can be preferentially supplied to the first hopper230aover the second hopper240aor the third hopper250a.

FIG. 14is a plan view of the second discrete path320acof the first path310ac. Similarly toFIG. 13, the right side inFIG. 14corresponds to the upstream side of the second discrete path320acand the left side inFIG. 14corresponds to the downstream side of the second discrete path320ac. The surface of the second discrete path320acis a slope descending to the downstream from the upstream. The position of an end322acof the second discrete path320acon the downstream side corresponds to the third position P3described above.

As shown inFIG. 14, there are formed on the second discrete path320acsupply paths241aand251aand supply paths241cand251c. The supply paths241aand241care formed on opposite sides of the second discrete path320ac, and the supply paths251aand251care formed on opposite sides of the second discrete path320ac.

The supply path241ais an opening for supplying small balls M1to the second hopper240aand the supply path251ais an opening for supplying small balls M1to the third hopper250a. Similarly, the supply path241cis an opening for supplying small balls M1to the second hopper240cand the supply path251cis an opening for supplying small balls M1to the third hopper250c. The supply paths241aand241care located further upstream than are the supply paths251aand251c.

As described above, in the first embodiment the circulating mechanism20acis shared by the game field110aand the game field110c. Therefore, an advantage is obtained in that the configuration of the game apparatus10can be kept simple as compared to a configuration in which different circulating mechanisms are installed in the game field110aand the game field110c, respectively.

Small balls M1rolling on the slope of the second discrete path320actoward the third position P3can enter the supply path241aor241c. Small balls M1that have entered the supply path241aare supplied to the second hopper240aand small balls M1that have entered the supply path241care supplied to the second hopper240c. However, for example, when the second hoppers240aand240care full, small balls M1on the second discrete path320accannot enter the second hopper240aor240cbecause the supply paths241aand241care blocked by small balls M1. It is of note that some of the small balls M1rolling on the slope cannot enter the supply path241aor241c, for example, due to changes in directions of the movement caused by collision between small balls M1even if the second hoppers240aor240cis not full; namely, when the supply paths241aand241care not blocked by small balls M1.

Small balls M1that do not enter either the supply path241aor241con the second discrete path320acare able to enter the supply path251aor251c. Small balls M1that have entered the supply path251aare supplied to the third hopper250a; and small balls M1that have entered the supply path251care supplied to the third hopper250c. However, when the third hoppers250aand250care full, the small balls M1on the second discrete path320acare not able to enter the third hoppers250aor250cbecause the supply paths251aand251care blocked by small balls M1. It is of note that some of the small balls M1rolling on the slope are not able to enter the supply path251aor251c, for example, due to changes in directions of movement caused by collision between small balls M1even if the third hoppers250aand250care not full; namely, when the supply paths251aand251care not blocked by small balls M1.

As in the example shown above, the supply path231afor supplying small balls M1to the first hopper230a, and the supply path241aor251adownstream of the supply path231aare formed on the first path310ac. Small balls M1traveling from the second position P2toward the supply path231amove toward the third position P3when the first hopper230ais full; namely, when small balls M1are not able to enter the supply path231a, but are allowed to enter the supply path241aor2511a. Accordingly, small balls M1can be preferentially supplied to the first hopper230aover the second hopper240aor the third hopper250a.

Similarly, there are formed on the first path310acthe supply path241afor supplying small balls M to the second hopper240a, and the supply path251aat the downstream of the supply path241a. Small balls M1traveling from the second position P2toward the supply path241amove toward the third position P3when the second hopper240ais full; namely, when the small balls M1are not able to enter the supply path241a, but are able to enter the supply path251a. Therefore, small balls M1can be preferentially supplied to the second hopper240aover the third hopper250a.

As shown inFIG. 13, small balls M1discharged from upstream discharge ports1720(hereafter, “first discharge ports1720A”) among the discharge ports1720move toward the respective openings of the supply path231acorresponding to the first hopper230aand the supply path231ccorresponding to the first hopper230c. Small balls M1discharged from downstream discharge ports1720(hereafter, “second discharge ports1720B”) among the discharge ports1720move toward the openings of the communication paths313. As shown inFIG. 13, the number of the first discharge ports1720A (ten ports) and the number of the second discharge ports1720B (two ports) are different. Assuming a case in which the same number of small balls M1are discharged from each of the discharge ports1720of the conveyor device170ac, the number of small balls M1discharged from the first discharge ports1720A is greater than the number of those discharged from the second discharge ports1720B since the number of the first discharge ports1720A is greater than that of the second discharge ports1720B. Therefore, small balls M1can be preferentially supplied to the first hopper230aover the second hopper240aor the third hopper250a.

Supply of the small balls M1to the conveyor device170acmay be adjusted to cause the number of small balls M1discharged from the first discharge ports1720A to be larger than the number of small balls M1discharged from the second discharge ports1720B. While a detailed configuration will be described later, the conveyor device170acof the first embodiment includes intake ports1710respectively corresponding to the discharge ports1720as shown inFIG. 26. Small balls M1supplied to any one of the intake ports1710are discharged from the discharge port1720corresponding to the intake port1710. Supply quantities of small balls M1to the intake ports1710are controlled such that small balls M1are preferentially supplied to intake ports1710corresponding to the first discharge ports1720A (intake ports1710on an X2side in an X direction and in a Y direction inFIG. 26) over intake ports1710corresponding to the second discharge ports1720B (intake ports1710on an X1side in the X direction). According to this configuration, small balls M1can be preferentially supplied to the first hopper230aover the second hopper240aor the third hopper250a, for example, even when the numbers of the first discharge ports1720A and the second discharge ports1720B are equal.

As described above, in the first embodiment the number of small balls M1traveling from the first discharge ports1720A to the first hopper230ais different from the number of small balls M1traveling from the second discharge ports1720B to the second hopper (240a,240c) or the third hopper (250a,250c). Therefore, the ratio between the number of small balls M1supplied to the first hopper230aand the number of small balls M1supplied to the second hopper or the third hopper can be brought close to a predetermined value. As shown in the above example, the total number of game object utilizers being the supply destinations of small balls M1discharged from the conveyor device170ac(which is six, including the first hoppers230aand230c, the second hoppers240aand240c, and the third hoppers250aand250c) is less than the total number of the discharge ports1720(12ports) in the conveyor device170ac. In other words, since a transport path is formed for each of the discharge ports1720, the total number of game object utilizers is less than the total number of transport paths.

As shown inFIG. 14, guides360ac,370ac,380ac, and390acfor regulating movement of small balls M1are placed on the slope of the second discrete path320ac. Each of the guides360ac,370ac,380ac, and390acis a protrusion extending from the slope of the second discrete path320ac.

The guide360acis mounted further upstream than the supply paths241aand241c, and guides small balls M1to the supply path241aor241c. The guide360acis a protrusion including faces361and362. The faces361and362are flat surfaces or curved surfaces at an angle to a direction (hereafter, “path direction”) in which the second discrete path320acextends. Small balls M1brought into contact with the face361roll along the face361to be guided to the supply path241a. Similarly, small balls M1brought into contact with the face362roll along the face362to be guided to the supply path241c. That is, small balls M1are likely to enter the supply path241aor241c. As explained above, small balls M1can be preferentially reserved in the second hoppers240aand240cover the third hoppers250aand250cwith the guide360ac.

The guides370acand380acare mounted further downstream than the supply paths241aand241cand further upstream than the supply paths251aand251c. The guide370acis a protrusion including a face371at an angle to the path direction, and a face372parallel to the path direction. Small balls M1brought into contact with the face371roll along the face371to be guided to the supply path241c. Similarly, a guide380acis a protrusion including a face381at an angle with respect to the path direction, and a face382parallel to the path direction. Small balls M1brought into contact with the face381roll along the face381to be guided to the supply path241a. Small balls M1brought into contact with the face372of the guide370acor the face382of the guide380acare guided to the guide390ac.

The guide390acis mounted further upstream than the supply paths251aand251c, and guides small balls M1to the supply path251aor251c. The guide390acis a protrusion including faces391and392at an angle to the path direction. Small balls M1brought into contact with the face391are guided to the supply path251a, and small balls M1brought into contact with the face392are guided to the supply path251c.

As explained above, small balls M1are preferentially supplied to a hopper (a game object utilizer) that is located upstream of the first path310ac. Small balls M1that do not enter any of the supply paths231aand231c, the supply paths241aand241c, and the supply paths2511aand251con the first path310acfall from the end322acon the downstream of the second discrete path320ac.

As shown inFIG. 12, the second path340acis a path that moves small balls M1that have fallen from the first path310acwithout entering any of the supply paths on the first path310acto the first position P. The first position P1is lower than the third position P3. Specifically, the second path340acmoves small balls M1that have fallen from the third position P3to a fourth position P4in a space between the first path310acand the second path340acto the first position P. The fourth position P4is lower than the third position P3and higher than the first position P1. The second path340acincludes a slope descending from the fourth position P4to the first position P1. Therefore, the small balls M1that have fallen from the first path310acto the fourth position P4move from the fourth position P4to the first position P1while rolling on the slope of the second path340ac. That is, the second path340acis a path that brings the small balls M1back to the first position P1. It is of note that the second path340acmay be coupled to the first path310ac. That is, the space between the first path310acand the second path340acand the sorter260may be omitted. In a configuration where the first path310acand the second path340acare coupled, the second path340acis a path that moves the small balls M1from the third position P3to the first position P1.

As shown inFIG. 12, an upstream end of the first path310acis located above a downstream end of the second path340acin a vertical direction. That is, the upstream end of the first path310acand the downstream end of the second path340acare close to each other in the horizontal position. Therefore, small balls M1that have reached the downstream of the second path340accan be supplied to the first path310acby way of a simple configuration of transporting small balls M1from a lower part to an upper part in a vertical direction. Further, a downstream end of the first path310acis located above an upstream end of the second path340acin a vertical direction. That is, the downstream end of the first path310acand the upstream end of the second path340acare close to each other in the horizontal position. Therefore, small balls M1that have reached the downstream of the first path310accan be supplied to the second path340acby way of a simple configuration in which small balls M1fall from the first path310ac. Because the first path310acand the second path340acare slopes that allow small balls M to roll, respective directions of the paths are not limited to linear directions and any direction can be selected. Consequently, the downstream end of the first path310acand the upstream end of the second path340accan be easily connected in such a manner that the horizontal positions become close to each other.

The conveyor device170acof the first embodiment continues to be in a state (hereafter, “operation state”) of transporting the small balls M1. Therefore, the small balls M1are continuously supplied to each of the game object utilizers (for example, the first hopper,230a, the second hopper240a, or the third hopper250a) of the circulating mechanism20ac. That is, it is not that the conveyor device170acintermittently transports small balls M each time small balls M1are required by each of the game object utilizers of the circulating mechanism20ac, but rather the conveyor device170accontinues to be operational regardless of whether small balls M1are used by each of the game object utilizers. As described above, in the first embodiment the conveyor device170acremains operational when small balls M1are transportable even when the game object utilizers of the circulating mechanism20acdo not actually use any small balls M1. The conveyor device170acremains operational, for example, even when no player plays a game (regardless of a presence or absence of a player).

There can be assumed a configuration of supplying small balls M1to a game object utilizer on the circulating mechanism20acin a limited case in which the game object utilizer needs small balls M1. However, in this configuration, it is necessary to detect whether there are small balls M1in the game object utilizers, which gives rise to a problem in that the configuration of the game apparatus10becomes complex. The above problem is particularly serious in a configuration where many game object utilizers are mounted. According to the first embodiment, the operation state of the conveyor device170accontinues as described above. As a result, an advantage is obtained in that there is no need for a configuration to detect whether there are small balls M1in the game object utilizers, or to control the conveyor device170acin accordance with a result of the detection. Further, due to constant circulation of small balls M1by the circulating mechanism20aceven when a game is not actually being played, people in the vicinity of the game apparatus10are made aware that the apparatus is in operation. A visually dramatic effect is also promising.

While the first path310acand the second path340accorresponding to the two stations100aand100care illustrated in the above explanations, a first path310bdand a second path340bdthat have substantially the same configurations are also provided for the pair of stations100band100d. As shown inFIG. 12, the sorter260is placed at a point where small balls M1falling from the downstream end of the first path310acand small balls M1falling from a downstream end of the first path310bdmerge. The sorter260is placed in a space between the first paths310acand310bd, and the second paths340acand340bd. Because small balls M1rolling on each of the first path310acand the first path310bdfall from the paths in an accelerated state due to rolling, trajectories of falling (hereafter, “falling paths”) of the small balls M1form parabolas. The sorter260is installed at the intersection between the falling path from the first path310acand the falling path from the first path310bd.

The sorter260sorts the small balls M1falling from the first path310acand the small balls M1falling from the first path310bdinto the second path340acof the circulating mechanism20acand the second path340bdof the circulating mechanism20bd. That is, the sorter260is shared by the circulating mechanism20acand the circulating mechanism20bd.

The sorter260is a structure including a first face261facing the circulating mechanism20acand a second face262facing the circulating mechanism20bd. The first face261and the second face262are flat surfaces or curved surfaces at an angle to the vertical direction. The first face261is a slope that allows small balls M1brought into contact with the first face261to roll in a direction toward the second path340acof the circulating mechanism20ac. The second face262is a slope that allows small balls M1brought into contact with the second face262to roll in a direction toward the second path340bdof the circulating mechanism20bd. An apex263where the first face261and the second face262intersect is the highest part in the sorter260.

The small balls M1falling from the first path310acmay differ in their speed depending on rolling states on the slope, or may differ in their falling trajectory due to collision between small balls M1. Therefore, the small balls M1that fall from the first path310acare grouped into small balls M1that have cleared the apex263and are brought into contact with the second face262across the apex263and small balls M1that are brought into contact with the first face261without clearing the apex263. Similarly, the small balls M1that fall from the first path310bdare grouped into small balls M1that have cleared the apex263and are brought into contact with the first face261across the apex263and small balls M1that are brought into contact with the second face262without clearing the apex263. Collision occurs also between small balls M1that fall from the first path310acand small balls M1that fall from the first path310bd. Small balls M that have a reduced speed due to collision are not able to clear the apex263and are brought into contact with the first face261or the second face262.

As described above, small balls M1that fall from the first path310acor310bdare sorted by the sorter260into the second paths340acand340bd. The probability of small balls M1moving from the sorter260to the second path340acand the probability of small balls M1moving therefrom to the second path340bdare substantially equal. That is, small balls M1that fall from the first path310acor310bdare sorted into the second paths340acand340bdsubstantially equally.

There is a case in which many small balls M1are located in one of the circulating mechanisms20acand20bd, for example, immediately after many small balls M1are paid by the JP payout portion150to a specific game field110. That is, the number of small balls M1circulated by the circulating mechanism20acand the number of small balls M1circulated by the circulating mechanism20bdmay greatly differ. In the first embodiment, small balls M1that fall from the first path310acor310bdare sorted by the sorter260into the second paths340acand340bd, as described above. Further, because the conveyor devices170acand170bdeach maintain a state of operation and are thus capable of transporting small balls M1, small balls M1continuously circulate in the circulating mechanism20acand the circulating mechanism20bd, respectively. Therefore, even in a case in which the number of small balls M1circulating in the circulating mechanism20acand the number of small balls M1circulating in the circulating mechanism20bdtemporarily substantially differ from each other, over time these numbers can be equalized.

FIG. 15is a plan view of the second path340ac. The left side inFIG. 15corresponds to the upstream side of the second path340acand the right side inFIG. 15corresponds to the downstream side of the second path340ac. The surface of the second path340acis a slope descending to the downstream from the upstream. The conveyor device170acis located downstream of the second path340ac. Therefore, small balls M1supplied to the second path340acroll toward the conveyor device170ac. Small balls M1sorted by the sorter260to the circulating mechanism20acmove from the fourth position P4that is an upstream end of the second path340acto the first position P1that is a downstream end thereof, namely; the small balls M1move to the conveyor device170ac.

As shown inFIG. 12, the second hopper240aand the third hopper250aserving as the game object utilizers that feed small balls M1to the game field110aare positioned lower than the first path310acand higher than the first position P1. As shown inFIGS. 12 and 15, small balls M1that fall from the forward edge116among the small balls M1fed onto the game field110aare supplied to the collection path330a. On the collection path330aa slope is formed that allows small balls M1to roll. The small balls M1supplied to the collection path330aroll on the slope to enter the counter220a. The small balls M1counted by the counter220aare supplied from the counter220ato the second path340ac. Small balls M1that fall from the forward edge116of the game field110care also supplied to the counter220cthrough the collection path330c, and are supplied to the second path340acafter being counted by the counter220c. As will be understood from the above explanations, small balls M1that have been used for games in the game fields110aand110care collected by the second path340acby moving downward in the vertical direction (that is, by falling). According to the above configuration, an advantage is obtained in that no power source is required to collect the small balls M1that have been used in the game fields110aand110c.

Small balls M1that fall from the cutout115L or115R of the game fields110aand110care also supplied to the second path340acin addition to the small balls M1sorted by the sorter260and the small balls M1discharged from the counters220aand220c. Small balls M1used in the physical lottery portions (120a,130a,140ab,120c,130c, and140cd) are also supplied to the second path340ac.

As will be understood from the above explanations, the conveyor device170acof the first embodiment collects small balls M1used by the first hopper230ain a physical lottery (the first lottery, the second lottery, or the third lottery) and small balls M1used by the second hopper240aor the third hopper250ain a game in the game field110aand transports the collected small balls M1to the upstream of the first path310ac. That is, the small balls M1used in a physical lottery and the small balls M1used in a game are transported to the upstream of the first path310acand are reused.

Configuration of Conveyor Device170ac

FIG. 16shows a side view of the conveyor device170ac. As shown inFIG. 16, the conveyor device170acof the first embodiment is an elongated columnar body oriented in a vertical direction and includes a rotating body1730, a supporter1740, an encircling member1750, guides1760, a holder1770, and a supplier1780. The holder1770constitutes the top end of the conveyor device170acand the supplier1780constitutes the bottom end of the conveyor device170ac. The rotating body1730, the supporter1740, the encircling member1750, and the guides1760are located between the holder1770and the supplier1780. While there is assumed a case in which a rotation axis C of the conveyor device170acis parallel to the vertical direction in the first embodiment, the rotation axis C may be at an angle to the vertical direction. If the angle of the rotation axis C relative to the vertical direction is equal to or smaller than 30°, it can be said that the conveyor device170acis oriented in the vertical direction.

FIG. 17is a side view of the conveyor device170acin which the encircling member1750is not shown.FIG. 18is a side view of the conveyor device170acin which the encircling member1750and the guides1760are not shown.

The rotating body1730is a columnar member rotating about the rotation axis C and constitutes a central shaft of the conveyor device170ac. The rotation axis C is a virtual axis parallel to the vertical direction. The rotating body1730rotates counterclockwise when viewed from above in a vertical direction. The rotating body1730of the first embodiment is rotatably pivoted on an axis between the holder1770and the supplier1780. The operation state of the conveyor device170acdescribed above is a state in which the rotating body1730is rotating about the rotation axis C.

The supporter1740is a helical member along the rotation axis C. Specifically, the supporter1740is configured to extend from a lower part to an upper part in the vertical direction in a clockwise helical manner when viewed from above in the vertical direction. The supporter1740of the first embodiment is placed on the outer circumferential surface of the rotating body1730. Specifically, the inner circumferential surface of the supporter1740and the outer circumferential surface of the rotating body1730are joined, and thus the supporter1740rotates with the rotating body1730about the rotation axis C. The supporter1740can be reworded as a portion that protrudes from the outer circumferential surface of the rotating body1730. As explained above, the conveyor device170acof the first embodiment is a screw lifter that transports small balls M1with a helix.

It is of note that the supporter1740may be formed as a body separate from the rotating body1730to be fixed to the rotating body1730; or may be formed as a single body integral with the rotating body1730. Alternatively, the rotating body1730and the supporter1740may be constituted by coupling unit members each constituting a partial section in the direction of the rotation axis C (for example, a section corresponding to one cycle of the supporter1740) of the rotating body1730and the supporter1740in the direction of the rotation axis C.

FIG. 19is a partially enlarged sectional view of the conveyor device170ac.FIG. 20is a sectional view of the conveyor device170acalong a plane perpendicular to the rotation axis C. As shown inFIGS. 19 and 20, a small ball M1is transported from a lower part to an upper part in the vertical direction in a state that it is placed on an upper face (hereafter, “mount face”) F of the supporter1740. The mount face F is a flat surface or a curved surface substantially perpendicular to the rotation axis C (that is, substantially parallel to the horizontal axis). An interval K in the helix of the supporter1740is larger than an outside diameter D of the small ball M1.

As shown inFIGS. 19 and 20, a width L1of the mount face F is larger than a radius D/2 of the small ball M1(L1>D/2). For example, the radius D/2 of the small ball M1is about 8.5 millimeters while the width L1of the mount face F is about 12 millimeters. Therefore, the center of mass (the center) of the small ball M1can be positioned on the mount face F. It is of note that the width L1of the mount face F is the distance between the inner periphery and the outer periphery of the supporter1740and is rephrased as the height of the supporter1740from the outer circumferential surface of the rotating body1730. By the above configuration in which the width L1of the mount face F is larger than the radius D/2 of the small ball M1, the possibility of the small ball M1falling from the mount face F can be reduced.

Each of the guides1760is a rod-like member mounted on an outer side of the supporter1740(on the opposite side across the supporter1740from the rotation axis C) and extending along the rotation axis C. Circular or rectangular cylinder members, for example, are suitable for use as the guides1760. The guides1760face the outer circumferential surface of the rotating body1730across the supporter1740. The top end of each of the guides1760is fixed to the holder1770and the bottom end of each of the guides1760is fixed to the supplier1780. The guides1760are placed apart from the rotating body1730, and thus do not rotate regardless of rotation of the rotating body1730. While a configuration in which 12 guides1760are mounted is shown as an example in the first embodiment, the number of the guides1760can be freely selected.

The guides1760are arranged at intervals G along the entire periphery in the circumferential direction about the rotation axis C. That is, a total number of gaps corresponding to the number of the guides1760is formed around the supporter1740. The interval G between two guides1760adjacent to each other is larger than the outer diameter (the diameter) D of the small ball M1. Therefore, the small ball M1can pass through the gap between two guides1760.

As shown inFIGS. 19 and 20, an interval L2between the outer circumferential surface of the rotating body1730(the inner periphery of the supporter1740) and each of the guides1760is smaller than the outside diameter D of the small ball M1(L2<D). For example, the outside diameter D of the small ball M1is about 17 millimeters and the interval L2is about 14 millimeters. It is of note that the interval G between two guides1760adjacent to each other is smaller than two outside diameters D of the small ball M1(G<2D) in the first embodiment. Therefore, one small ball M1can be located in the interval G of two guides1760.

The encircling member1750is a member located on the opposite side across the guides1760relative to the supporter1740. The encircling member1750of the first embodiment encircles the rotating body1730, the supporter1740, and the guides1760. Specifically, a cylindrical member that has the rotation axis C as a central axis is used as the encircling member1750. The guides1760are placed in a space between the outer circumferential surface of the rotating body1730and the inner circumferential surface of the encircling member1750. It is of note that the guides1760may be or may not be in contact with the inner circumferential surface of the encircling member1750. The encircling member1750is placed separately from the rotating body1730. Therefore, the encircling member1750does not rotate even when the rotating body1730rotates.

As shown inFIGS. 19 and 20, an interval L3between the outer periphery of the supporter1740and the inner periphery of the encircling member1750is smaller than the outside diameter D of the small ball M1(L3<D). For example, the outside diameter D of the small ball M1is about 17 millimeters and the interval L3is 9 millimeters. According to the above configuration, even when the small ball M1moves in the radial direction of the rotation axis C on the mount face F, the small ball M1is brought into contact with the inner circumferential surface of the encircling member1750before falling from the mount face F. Therefore, the small ball M1can be prevented from falling from the supporter1740in a region encircled by the encircling member1750.

In a state inFIG. 19where a small ball M1is placed on the mount face F in contact with the outer circumferential surface of the rotating body1730, an interval (hereafter, “circumference interval”) between the small ball M1and the inner circumferential surface of the encircling member1750is about 4 millimeters (L1+L3−D). When an appropriate circumference interval is established, a possibility is reduced of collision of small balls M1against the lower end face of the encircling member1750when taking in small balls M1from the intake ports1710. The circumference interval is desirably within a range not smaller than 1 millimeter and not larger than the radius D/2 of the small ball M1and, in a more preferable mode, is set to an appropriate dimension within a range not smaller than 2 millimeters and not larger than a half (D/4) of the radius D/2 of the small ball M1. In a configuration where the circumference interval is large, more small balls M1are transported while being in contact with the inner circumferential surface of the encircling member1750on the mount face F. Although small balls M1can be transported even if the small balls M1are in contact with the inner circumferential surface of the encircling member1750, a possibility of scratches occurring over time on the inner circumferential surface of the encircling member1750due to contact of the small balls M1is increased. According to the configuration in which an appropriate circumference interval is ensured, contact of the small balls M1with the inner circumferential surface of the encircling member1750is reduced and thus an advantage is obtained in that scratches on the inner circumferential surface caused by the contact can be prevented.

The shape of the encircling member1750is not limited to a cylindrical shape having an inner circumferential surface. For example, the encircling member1750can be constituted by rod-like members placed on the opposite side across the rotation axis C relative to the guides1760. Each of the rod-like members is a member extending along the rotation axis C and is located between two guides1760adjacent to each other when viewed from the rotation axis C. A virtual inner circumferential surface is formed from the rod-like members and small balls M1are brought into contact with the inner circumferential surface, whereby the small balls M1is prevented from falling.

A part or the whole of the encircling member1750in the circumferential direction or the vertical direction is formed, for example, from a light transmissive material. For example, the encircling member1750is formed from a transparent resin material. According to a configuration in which the encircling member1750is formed from a light transmissive material or a configuration in which the encircling member1750is formed from rod-like members as illustrated above, players or persons in the vicinity are able to view how the conveyor device170actransports many small balls M1. Therefore, an effect of dynamic presentation using the small balls M1is also promising. Visual entertainment can also be provided to players. According to the configuration in which an appropriate circumference interval is ensured, scratches on the inner circumferential surface of the encircling member1750can be prevented as described above. Therefore, in the configuration where the encircling member1750is formed from a light transmissive material, it is possible to suppress aging reduction of the effect described above that the manner of transport of many small balls M1can be viewed from outside. However, light transmissivity of the encircling member1750is not essential.

The entire length of the encircling member1750is shorter than the entire length of the guide1760. As shown inFIGS. 16 and 17, a part (hereafter, “first end part”) E1of each of the guides1760on the lower side in the vertical direction is exposed downward in the vertical direction from the lower end face of the encircling member1750. The entire length of the first end part E1is larger than the outside diameter D of the small ball M1. Meanwhile, a part (hereafter, “second end part”) E2of each of the guides1760on the upper side in the vertical direction is exposed upward in the vertical direction from the upper end face of the encircling member1750. The entire length of the second end part E2is larger than the outside diameter D of the small ball M1. A part of each of the guides1760between the first end part E1and the second end part E2faces the inner circumferential surface of the encircling member1750.

A gap between the first end parts E1of two guides1760adjacent in the circumferential direction of the rotation axis C functions as the intake port1710for taking a small ball M1into the conveyor device170ac. The intake port1710of the first embodiment is a space surrounded by the lower end face of the encircling member1750, a supply surface1781being the surface of the supplier1780, and the two first end parts E1adjacent to each other. Small balls M1supplied to the conveyor device170acpass through the intake ports1710and are placed on the mount face F of the supporter1740.

As described above, the guides1760are arranged in the circumferential direction of the rotation axis C with the interval G spaced from each other. Therefore, a number (for example, 12) of the intake ports1710corresponding to the number of the guides1760are formed on the bottom end of the conveyor device170acalong the circumferential direction of the rotation axis C. That is, small balls M1supplied around the bottom end of the conveyor device170acare sequentially taken in from the intake ports1710along with rotation of the supporter1740. As explained above, according to the first embodiment, small balls M1can be taken in the conveyor device170acby use of a relatively simple configuration in which the first end parts E1of the guides1760are not covered by the encircling member1750.

A gap between the second end parts E2of two guides1760adjacent in the circumferential direction of the rotation axis C functions as the discharge port1720for discharging a small ball M1from the conveyor device170ac. The discharge port1720of the first embodiment is a space surrounded by the upper end face of the encircling member1750, a surface (a slope1771described later) of the holder1770, and two second end parts E2adjacent to each other. A small ball M1transported by the conveyor device170acpasses through the discharge ports1720and is discharged from the conveyor device170acto outside.

As described above, the guides1760are arranged in the circumferential direction of the rotation axis C with the interval G spaced from each other. Therefore, a number (for example, 12) of the discharge ports1720corresponding to the number of the guides1760are formed at the top end of the conveyor device170acalong the circumferential direction of the rotation axis C. Accordingly, small balls M1transported by the conveyor device170acare discharged radially from the discharge ports1720. As explained above, according to the first embodiment, small balls M1can be discharged from the conveyor device170acwith a quite simple configuration in which the second end parts E2of the guides1760are not covered by the encircling member1750.

In the above configuration, the helical supporter1740rotates in a state where small balls M that have passed through the intake ports1710are brought into contact with the outer circumferential surface of the rotating body1730and are placed on the mount faces F. Circumferential movement of the small balls M1on the mount faces F is restricted by contact of the small balls M1with the guides1760. That is, a small ball M1housed in a gap between specific two guides1760is not able to pass through another adjacent gap in the circumferential direction of the rotation axis C. Therefore, a small ball M1is transported while being in contact at three positions including the outer circumferential surface of the rotating body1730, the mount face F, and one guide1760, from the lower side to the upper side in the vertical direction along the guide1760. That is, the small ball M is supported at three points including a contact point with the outer circumferential surface of the rotating body1730, a contact point with the mount face F, and a contact point with the guide1760. The small ball M1supported by the supporter1740in the above state is transported to the upper side in the vertical direction while being urged against one guide1760.

Movement of the small balls M1in a direction away from the rotation axis C is restricted by contact of the small balls M1with the inner circumferential surface of the encircling member1750. Therefore, a small ball M1may be transported while being in contact at three positions including the mount face F of the supporter1740, the surface of the guide1760, and the inner circumferential surface of the encircling member1750. That is, according to the first embodiment, the small balls M1can be reliably transported while the possibility of the small balls M1falling from the supporter1740is reduced.

As will be understood from the above explanations, a transport path for moving a small ball M1from the lower side to the upper side in the vertical direction is formed for each of the guides1760in the conveyor device170acof the first embodiment. That is, plural (12) transport paths each for transporting a small ball M1from an intake port1710to a discharge port1720are formed. Each of the transport paths is an elongated space extending in the direction of the rotation axis C at a place among one of the outer circumferential surface of the rotating body1730, the inner circumferential surface of the encircling member1750, and two guides1760adjacent in the circumferential direction. By use of the above configuration, many small balls M supplied to the supplier1780can be efficiently transported in parallel by the transport paths.

FIG. 21is a perspective view illustrating a part of the conveyor device170acnear the intake ports1710in an enlarged manner.FIG. 22is a schematic diagram illustrating a relation among the intake ports1710of the conveyor device170acand the second path340ac.

As shown inFIGS. 21 and 22, small balls M1that have moved on the second path340acare supplied to the supplier1780. The supplier1780is a member constituting the bottom end of the conveyor device170ac. A top surface (hereafter, “supply surface”)1781of the supplier1780is a slope that allows small balls M1supplied from the second path340acto roll toward the intake ports1710. The supply surface1781is a flat surface or a curved surface, and is lower at a position nearer the intake ports1710. As explained above, because the supply surface1781that allows small balls M to roll toward the intake ports1710is formed on the supplier1780of the first embodiment, many small balls M1can be efficiently taken in the transport paths.

FIGS. 23 and 24are explanatory diagrams of a relation between a freely-selected intake port1710and the outer periphery of the supporter1740. As shown inFIGS. 23 and 24, the positional relation of the outer periphery of the supporter1740with respect to the intake port1710changes with time in conjunction with rotation of the supporter1740.

As shown inFIG. 23, in a state where the outer periphery of the supporter1740is near the bottom of the intake port1710, a small ball M1passes through the intake port1710to be taken in the transport path. On the other hand, in a state where the outer periphery of the supporter1740is located at a position higher than the bottom of the intake port1710, a small ball M approaching the intake port1710comes into contact with the outer periphery as shown inFIG. 24. That is, entry of the small ball M1into the intake port1710is blocked by the supporter1740. When the supporter1740further rotates to change the outer periphery of the supporter1740to a position lower than the bottom of the intake port1710(FIG. 23), the small ball M1that have waited outside the intake port1710enters the intake port1710to be taken in the transport path.

As explained above, a small ball M1that has arrived at an intake port1710on the supply surface1781of the supplier1780does not enter the intake port1710immediately upon arrival, but enters the intake port1710at a stage when the outer periphery of the supporter1740moves to a position near the bottom of the intake port1710. That is, the small ball M1temporarily waits outside the intake port1710. As will be understood from the above explanations, the supplier1780of the first embodiment functions as a reserver that temporarily reserves small balls M1that are traveling toward the conveyor device170ac.

Because the supporter1740continuously rotates, there is a possibility that a small ball M1upon entering one of the intake ports1710will be flicked out due to collision with the outer periphery of the supporter1740. That is, a case is assumed in which a small ball M1is not taken into an intake port1710even in a state where the outer periphery of the supporter1740is near the bottom of the intake port1710. As described above, small balls M1moving toward the conveyor device170acare temporarily reserved in the supplier1780of the first embodiment. By the above configuration, a small ball M1that is entering an intake port1710is urged by the small balls M1reserved in the supplier1780toward the intake port1710. Therefore, a possibility is reduced that a small ball M1will be flicked out due to collision with the outer periphery of the supporter1740. That is, according to the first embodiment, there is no need for a complicated mechanism to suppress small balls M1from being flicked out due to collision with the outer periphery of the supporter1740, and thus an advantage is obtained in that the configuration of the intake ports1710can be simplified.

As will be understood fromFIG. 22, small balls M1are sequentially supplied to each of the intake ports1710of the conveyor device170acfrom a direction (a lateral direction) close to the horizontal direction. Therefore, even when many small balls M1are supplied to the supplier1780, the possibility of small balls M1being stacked in a vertical direction is minimized. In a configuration in which many small balls M1are stacked, a phenomenon (hereafter, “bridge phenomenon”) may occur in which mutual forces of small balls M1remain in equilibrium in a state where small balls M1are in contact with each other on a path leading to the intake ports1710, as a consequence of which movement of the small balls M1stops. When the bridge phenomenon occurs, intake of small balls M1into the intake ports1710is hindered. According to the first embodiment, the possibility of small balls M1being stacked in the vertical direction is reduced, and therefore a possible occurrence of the bridge phenomenon is likewise reduced. That is, many small balls M1can be efficiently taken into the transport paths. Particularly in the first embodiment, the intake ports1710are formed in the circumferential direction of the rotation axis C and thus, even if the bridge phenomenon occurs near some of the intake ports1710, small balls M1are taken from other intake ports1710. Therefore, defects caused by the bridge phenomenon in transporting small balls M1can be prevented.

To reduce the possibility of stacking of small balls M1supplied to the supplier1780, a configuration is preferable in which the slope angle of the supply surface1781is shallow. Specifically, as shown inFIG. 22, a maximum angle θ of the supply surface1781with respect to the horizontal plane is set to, for example, 20° or lower (more preferably 10° or lower). According to the above configuration, the possibility of stacking of small balls M1on the supply surface1781is reduced. Therefore, occurrence of the bridge phenomenon near each of the intake ports1710(that is, clogging of small balls M1) can be effectively suppressed.

As shown inFIGS. 21 and 22, the supply surface1781of the first embodiment is a curved surface around the rotation axis C. Specifically, a surface (an arc surface) of a sphere that has the center on the rotation axis C is preferable as the supply surface1781. According to the above configuration, small balls M1are supplied to the intake ports1710from all directions around the rotation axis C. Therefore, a notable significant effect is realized whereby many small balls M1can be efficiently supplied to the transport paths.

FIG. 25is a perspective view illustrating in enlargement a part of the conveyor device170acnear the discharge ports1720. As shown inFIG. 25, the holder1770of the first embodiment is a member in the shape of a truncated cone including the slope1771at an angle to the rotation axis C. Small balls M1transported in the direction of the rotation axis C change the direction of travel to directions intersecting with the rotation axis C due to contact with the slope1771. The small balls M1that have their directions changed due to the contact with the slope1771pass through the discharge ports1720and are discharged from the transport paths. That is, as described with reference toFIG. 13, small balls M1transported by the conveyor device170acare radially discharged from the discharge ports1720. As will be understood from the above explanations, the holder1770(particularly the slope1771) functions as a discharge guide that moves small balls M1transported by the transport paths in directions away from the rotation axis C. Therefore, a possibility of small balls M1remaining on the transport paths for longer than necessary is reduced.

FIG. 26is a plan view of a part near the supplier1780viewed from above in a vertical direction.FIG. 27is a sectional view along a line B-B inFIG. 26. As shown inFIG. 26, an X axis along the second path340acand a Y axis orthogonal to the X axis are assumed. Upstream of the second path340acas viewed from a given point in the X axis is referred to as the “X1direction,” and downstream of the second path340acis referred to as the “X2direction.” The conveyor device170acis located in the X2direction as viewed from the second path340ac. One side in the Y axis is referred to as the “Y1direction,” and the other side is referred to as the “Y2direction.” The station100ais located in the Y direction as viewed from the conveyor device170ac, and the station100cis located in the Y2direction as viewed from the conveyor device170ac.

As shown inFIG. 26, first guides51, a second guide52, and a third guide53are provided near the supplier1780. InFIG. 26, for convenience, the first guides51, the second guide52, and the third guide53are shaded.

First Guides51

As shown inFIG. 26, the first guides51are formed on the supply surface1781of the supplier1780. The first guides51are structures for guiding small balls M1to the intake ports1710. According to the above configuration, small balls M1can be efficiently supplied to the intake ports1710.

Each of the first guides51of the first embodiment is a protrusion extending from the supply surface1781. As shown inFIG. 27, a height H1of each of the first guides51is smaller than the outside diameter D of the small ball M1. Two first guides51adjacent to each other function as a guide path511for guiding small balls M1to the corresponding intake port1710. It is of note that the first guides51as bodies separate from the supplier1780can be fixed to the supply surface1781; or the first guides51can be formed as a single body integral with the supplier1780.

The width of each of the guide paths511formed by the first guides51is larger than the outside diameter D of the small ball M1and is less than twice as large as the outside diameter D. Therefore, small balls M1are arrayed in a line along each guide path511to the corresponding intake port1710. As will be understood from the above explanations, the first guides51of the first embodiment guide small balls M1such that the small balls M1are arrayed toward the intake ports1710. Therefore, the possibility of the bridge phenomenon caused by a concentration of small balls M1can be reduced.

The first guides51of the first embodiment are arranged in the X2direction (that is, downstream of the second path340ac) as viewed from the conveyor device170ac. That is, the first guides51array small balls M1from the second path340acthat have reached an area in the X2direction of the conveyor device170acsuch that the small balls M are arranged toward some intake ports1710that are in the X2direction from among the intake ports1710.

As shown inFIG. 26, the second guide52is mounted on the second path340ac. The second guide52is a structure for guiding small balls M1traveling from the second path340acto the supplier1780toward a lateral side of the conveyor device170ac. The lateral side of the conveyor device170acis in the Y1direction or in the Y2direction as viewed from the conveyor device170ac. According to the above configuration, small balls M1can be preferentially supplied to intake ports1710located between the lateral sides and the back side (that is, the opposite side from the second path340ac) among the intake ports1710of the conveyor device170ac. As will be understood from the above explanations, the second guide52functions as a regulator that regulates movement of small balls M1supplied from the second path340acto the supplier1780.

The second guide52is mounted in the X1direction (that is, in the direction of the second path340ac) as viewed from the conveyor device170ac. That is, the second guide52is mounted on the opposite side from the conveyor device170acrelative to the first guides51. The second guide52is located substantially at the widthwise center line of the second path340ac. It is of note that the second guide52as a body separate from the second path340accan be fixed to the second path340ac; or the second guide52can be formed as a single body integral with the second path340ac. Further, the second guide52may be placed on the supplier1780.

As shown inFIG. 26, the second guide52of the first embodiment includes slopes521and522at an angle to the X direction. The slopes521and522are flat surfaces or curved surfaces. The slope521is a Y1side surface of the second guide52, and the slope522is a Y2side surface of the second guide52. The heights of the slopes521and522are larger than the outside diameter D of the small balls M1. Therefore, the small balls M1cannot pass over the second guide52.

A small ball M1that has moved on the second path340acand brought into contact with the slope521is guided to the Y1direction as viewed from the conveyor device170ac. A small ball M1brought into contact with the slope522is guided to the Y2direction as viewed from the conveyor device170ac. That is, the second guide52distributes small balls M1that have moved on the second path340acto the Y1side and the Y2side of the conveyor device170ac. That is, small balls M1do not directly move to intake ports1710that are on the second path340acside (the X1side) among the intake ports1710of the conveyor device170ac. As will be understood from the above explanations, the second guide52guides small balls M1moving toward the supplier1780to move toward intake ports1710on the opposite side (the X2side) of the second path340acwithout moving toward intake ports1710on the second path340acside (the X1side) among the intake ports1710of the conveyor device170ac.

In a configuration in which the second guide52is not mounted, many small balls M1are likely to be supplied to intake ports1710on the second path340acside among the intake ports1710of the conveyor device170ac. In the first embodiment, the second guide52guides small balls M1to move toward intake ports1710on the X2side without directly moving toward intake ports1710on the X1side among the intake ports1710. Therefore, a possibility of many small balls M1being concentrated at the intake ports1710on the X1side can be reduced.

As shown inFIG. 26, the third guide53is mounted on the second path340ac. The third guide53is a structure that guides small balls M1moving on the second path340acto the opposite side of the conveyor device170acto the second path340ac(that is, the X2side). According to the above configuration, small balls M1can be preferentially supplied to intake ports1710located between the lateral sides and the back side (that is, on the opposite side from the second path340ac) among the intake ports1710of the conveyor device170ac. As will be understood from the above explanations, the third guide53functions as a regulator that regulates movement of small balls M1supplied from the second path340acto the supplier1780.

The third guide53of the first embodiment is a protrusion protruding from the slope of the second path340ac. As shown inFIG. 27, a height H2of the third guide53is lower than the height H1of the first guide51and the height of the second guide52. The height H2of the third guide53is lower than the outside diameter D of the small balls M1. Therefore, the small balls M1can pass over the third guide53. Specifically, in a state where one small ball M1moves alone on the second path340ac, the small ball M1cannot pass over the third guide53. However, in a state where many small balls M1are on the second path340ac, a small ball M1may pass over the third guide53by being pushed by other small balls M1. The third guide53being a separate body from the second path340acmay be fixed to the second path340acor the third guide53may be formed as a single body integral with the second path340ac. Further, the third guide53may be mounted on the supplier1780.

As shown inFIG. 26, the third guide53of the first embodiment is configured to include angled parts531and532and straight parts533and534. Each of the elements constituting the third guide53is a protrusion extending linearly in a planar view. The angled parts531and532are parts extending in a direction at an angle to the X direction and intersect with each other at a point in the X1direction as viewed from the conveyor device170ac. The straight parts533and534are linear parts extending in the X direction. The straight part533is continuous with an end of the angled part531on the opposite side from the angled part532(an X2side end). The straight part534is continuous with an end of the angled part532on the opposite side from the angled part531(an X2side end).

A small ball M1brought into contact with the angled part531on the second path340acis guided toward the Y1side along the angled part531and moves in the X direction along the straight part533located at the subsequent stage. Similarly, a small ball M1brought into contact with the angled part532is guided toward the Y2side along the angled part532and moves in the X direction along the straight part534located at the subsequent stage. That is, the third guide53diverges small balls M1in two lines to bypass the conveyor device170acand the second guide52, to guide the small balls M1to the X2side of the conveyor device170acas indicated by solid arrows inFIG. 26. Small balls M1guided by the third guide53are arrayed by the first guides51and then are supplied to intake ports1710on the X2side of the conveyor device170ac. That is, small balls M1are supplied preferentially to intake ports1710on the X2side among the intake ports1710.

As explained above, the small balls M1are guided by the third guide53usually to the X2side of the conveyor device170ac. However, in a state where there are many small balls M1on the second path340ac, some small balls M1may pass over the third guide53by being pushed by other small balls M1as indicated by broken arrows inFIG. 26. The small balls M1that have moved over the third guide53are supplied to intake ports1710on the X1side (the side of the second path340ac) among the intake ports1710.

In the configuration in which small balls M1are supplied preferentially to intake ports1710on the X2side among the intake ports1710, there is a possibility that many small balls M1may excessively concentrate at the X2side of the conveyor device170ac. If many small balls M1are concentrated at a specific intake port1710, a problem arises in that the bridge phenomenon is likely to occur. In the first embodiment, in a state that many small balls M1are concentrated at the X2side of the conveyor device170ac, small balls M1that have moved over the third guide53by being pushed by other small balls M1are supplied to intake ports1710on the second path340acside (the X1side). Therefore, excessive concentration of many small balls M1can be suppressed.

Game Object Housing Space46

FIG. 28is a sectional view of the game apparatus10focusing on the game object housing space46. A cross section along a line C-C inFIG. 2is shown inFIG. 28. The game object housing space46is a space that houses small balls M1to be discharged from the JP payout portion150to any of the four game fields110(110a,110b,110c, and110d) as described above.

As shown inFIG. 28, the game apparatus10of the first embodiment includes a hollow housing41in the shape of a cuboid. The housing41includes a top surface portion411and a side surface portion412. The top surface portion411constitutes the top surface (that is, the ceiling surface) of the housing41and the side surface portion412constitutes side surfaces of the housing41. The top surface portion411and the side surface portion412are plate-like members formed from a light transmissive material. The side surface portion412is located between a player playing a game of the game apparatus10and each of the game fields110. That is, the side surface portion412includes a part located in front of each player.

A mount portion44is placed in the housing41. The internal space of the housing41is divided by the mount portion44into a game housing space45and the game object housing space46. The game housing space45is a space under the mount portion44. The four game fields110(110a,110b,110c, and110d), the conveyor devices170acand170bd, the third lottery portions140aband140cd, and the JP payout portion150are housed in the game housing space45.

The game object housing space46is a space above the mount portion44. The game object housing space46can be rephrased as a space between the mount portion44and the top surface portion411. The game object housing space46is a space located above the four game fields110. As shown inFIG. 28, a light source413is mounted on an inner surface (a surface facing the mount portion44) of the top surface portion411. The light source413is a planar illuminating device extending over the four game fields110as viewed from above in the vertical direction. That is, the light source413is mounted on the opposite side across the mount portion44relative to the four game fields110. The light source413emits light toward the mount portion44. The light source413has a configuration such that a luminous body is formed in a planar manner; or has a configuration such that, for example, point light sources or line light sources are arrayed in a planar manner.

FIG. 29is a plan view of the inside of the game object housing space46viewed from above. A cross section along a line D-D inFIG. 28is shown inFIG. 29. As shown inFIG. 29, four feeding portions461(461a,461b,461c, and461d) are provided at four corners of the game object housing space46, respectively. The feeding portion461afeeds small balls M11transported in the vertical direction by the conveyor device180aand supplied from the path switcher280ainto the game object housing space46. The feeding portions461b,461c, and461dalso feed small balls M1into the game object housing space46in the same manner.

The small balls M1fed to the game object housing space46are placed on the mount portion44. The mount portion44is a structure extending over the four game fields110as viewed from above in the vertical direction. Because the mount portion44is located above the four game fields110in the first embodiment as explained above, an advantage is obtained in that the inner space of the housing41can be effectively utilized.

As shown inFIGS. 28 and 29, the mount portion44in the first embodiment is configured to include a first plate-like member441and a second plate-like member442. The first plate-like member441and the second plate-like member442are formed from, for example, a light transmissive material.

The first plate-like member441is a flat plate material including a first face Q1on which small balls M1are placed. The first face Q1is a rectangular surface including an edge S11and an edge S12opposing to each other. The first plate-like member441includes a protrusion445. The protrusion445is a linear portion protruding from the first face Q1along the edge S12. As shown inFIG. 29, a discharger446through which the small balls M1on the first face Q1can pass is formed on the protrusion445. Specifically, the protrusion445consists of a linear portion445blocated above the game field110band a linear portion445dlocated above the game field110d. A gap between the portion445band the portion445dis the discharger446. Each of the portion445band the portion445dis arranged at an angle with respect to the Y direction in such a manner that a part closer to the discharger446is located in a more positive X direction (the opposite side to the second plate-like member442).

The second plate-like member442is a flat plate material including a second face Q2on which small balls M1are placed. The second face Q2is a rectangular surface including an edge S21and an edge S22provided in opposing relation to each other. The second plate-like member442is mounted such that the second face Q2is at an angle with respect to the horizontal plane. Specifically, the second plate-like member442is mounted to locate the edge S21at a position lower than the edge S22. An angle θ2of the slope of the second face Q2with respect to the horizontal plane is set to, for example, be equal to or lower than 10°. The angle θ2is more preferably about 5°. The angle θ2of the second face Q2is fixed. As will be understood fromFIG. 29, the feeding portions461aand461cfeed small balls M1from the high-level side of the second plate-like member442(that is, on the edge S22side).

The first plate-like member441is pivoted about a rotation shaft O extending in the horizontal direction. The rotation shaft O is a linear shaft body along the edge S21at a low-level side of the second plate-like member442. A part of the first plate-like member441near the edge S11is supported on the rotation shaft O. That is, the edge S11of the first plate-like member441and the edge S21of the second plate-like member442are close to each other. In the above configuration, the first plate-like member441is allowed to rotate about the rotation shaft O.

Specifically, the first plate-like member441is controlled to be in one of a first state and a second state in which an angle θ1of the first face Q1with respect to the horizontal plane are different from each other. The first plate-like member441of the first embodiment is controlled to be in either the first state or the second state by a drive mechanism449including a motor or the like. The drive mechanism449maintains the first plate-like member441of the first state under normal conditions and changes the first plate-like member441from the first state to the second state when payout of small balls M1by the JP payout portion150is determined by the third lottery. When the payout by the JP payout portion150ends, the drive mechanism449changes the first plate-like member441from the second state to the first state.

The first state is a state in which the first face Q1is sloped with respect to the horizontal plane as indicated by a solid line inFIG. 28. Specifically, the first plate-like member441is sloped in the first state to locate the edge S11at a position lower than the edge S12. The angle θ1of slope of the first face Q1with respect to the horizontal plane in the first state is set to, for example, be equal to or lower than 10°. The angle θ1is more preferably about 5°. The feeding portions461band461dfeed small balls M1from the high-level side (that is, the side of the edge S12) of the first plate-like member441in the first state.

Small balls M1fed from the feeding portion461bor461donto the first face Q1in the first state are arrayed in a single layer along the first face Q1. Specifically, small balls M1fed onto the first face Q1are brought into contact with small balls M1existing on the first face Q1in a direction parallel to the first face Q1. Therefore, small balls M1are arrayed densely along the first face Q1without being stacked in the perpendicular direction to the first face Q1or the vertical direction. That is, small balls M1are arranged in a single layer from the edge S11on the low-level side of the first face Q1toward the edge S12on the high-level side. Similarly, small balls M1fed onto the second face Q2from the feeding portion461aor461care arrayed in a single layer along the second face Q2. That is, small balls M1are arrayed in a single layer from the edge S21on the low-level side of the second face Q2toward the edge S22on the high-level side. That is, small balls M1are gradually arrayed from a place near the rotation shaft O on the low-level side toward the edge S12or the edge S22on the high-level side.

The four feeding portions461(461a,461b,461c, and461d) correspond to the four stations100(100a,100b,100c, and100d), respectively. Each of the feeding portions461feeds small balls M1according to the status of a play of the game in the station100corresponding to the feeding portion461. Specifically, the number of small balls M1corresponding to the number of small balls M1fed onto the game field110a, or the number of small balls M1corresponding to the result of a physical lottery in the game field110aare fed from the feeding portion461aonto the game object housing space46. For example, as the number of small balls M1fed by the player to the game field110ais larger or as the number of small balls M1fed onto the game field110aaccording to the result of a physical lottery is larger, more small balls M1are fed from the feeding portion461ainto the game object housing space46.

Small balls M1placed on the mount portion44are distributed unevenly and concentrated on a region near a feeding portion461that has fed a larger number of small balls M1among the four feeding portions461. For example, when the number of small balls M1fed by the feeding portion461ais larger than the numbers of small balls M1fed by other feeding portions461(461b,461c, and461d), more small balls M1are located on a region near the feeding portion461a(a region above the game field110a) of the first face Q1and the second face Q2as shown inFIG. 30. That is, many small balls M1are unevenly concentrated at a region above a game field110where the game has been played in such a way that many small balls M1are fed to the game object housing space46. In other words, many small balls M are unevenly concentrated at a region above a game field110when a player has vigorously played the game. According to the above configuration, which player contributes to accumulation of small balls M1in the game object housing space46can be visually estimated by a distribution of the small balls M1in the game object housing space46. For example, in a state in which small balls M1in the game object housing space46are distributed as shown inFIG. 30, it is possible to know that a player using the game field110acontributes accumulation of small balls M1in the game object housing space46.

InFIG. 28, the first plate-like member441in the second state is indicated by a broken line. As shown inFIG. 28, the second state is a state in which the angle θ1of the first face Q1is changed from that in the first state. Specifically, the first plate-like member441is sloped to locate the edge S11at a position higher than the edge S12in the second state. That is, the first state and the second state have a relation in which the levels of the edge S11and the edge S12of the first face Q1are inverted.

In the second state, the elevation between the first face Q1and the second face Q2is close to 180°. Specifically, as shown inFIG. 28, the first face Q1and the second face Q2are located in a same plane at an angle with respect to the horizontal plane in the second state. Therefore, small balls M1placed on the first face Q1and the second face Q2roll all together toward the edge S12on the low-level side of the first face Q1. The small balls M1are guided along the protrusion445(the portions445band445d) to the discharger446and fall through the discharger446. That is, many small balls M1housed in the game object housing space46are discharged from the discharger446to the game housing space45. As explained above, according to the first embodiment, a dynamic presentation in which many small balls M1placed on the mount portion44roll at the same time toward the discharger446is realized.

While small balls M1are guided by the protrusion445to the discharger446in the above explanations, the configuration for guiding small balls M1to the discharger446is not limited to the illustrated example. For example, small balls M1may be guided to the discharger446by a configuration in which a part of the first face Q1corresponding to the game field110band a part thereof corresponding to the game field110dare at an angle with respect to the horizontal plane to locate the border therebetween at a lower position (that is, a configuration in which the cross section of the first face Q1along a Y-Z plane is V-shaped). Also as for the second plate-like member442, a part of the second face Q2corresponding to the game field110aand a part thereof corresponding to the game field110cmay be similarly formed to intersect with each other.

As shown inFIGS. 28 and 29, a discharge path47is placed in the inner space of the housing41. The discharge path47is placed at a position corresponding to the discharger446of the first plate-like member441in the game housing space45. Small balls M1that have fallen from the discharger446are supplied to the discharge path47. As shown inFIG. 28, the discharge path47includes a slope descending toward the JP payout portion150. Therefore, small balls M1supplied from the discharger446of the game object housing space46to the discharge path47roll on the slope of the discharge path47to enter the JP payout portion150. The JP payout portion150supplies many small balls M1supplied from the discharge path47to a game field110to which payout is determined to be carried out by the third lottery as described above.

As described above, the first plate-like member441and the second plate-like member442are formed from a light transmissive material. Therefore, each player is able to view many small balls M1placed on the first face Q1and the second face Q2through the mount portion44from the side of the corresponding game field110. Because small balls M1are arrayed in a single layer along the first face Q1and the second face Q2particularly in the first embodiment, it is possible to effectively enable the players to view many small balls M1placed on the mount portion44.

As described above, the small balls M1and the mount portion44are formed from light transmissive materials. Therefore, illumination light from the light source413penetrates through the small balls M1and the mount portion44, and is emitted toward the game fields110. According to the above configuration, light is appropriately scattered by small balls M1on the mount portion44, penetrates through the mount portion44, and can be viewed by the players. As a result, a visual effect can be enhanced.

FIG. 31is a schematic diagram for explaining a positional relation between the game object housing space46and a player. A virtual viewpoint V shown inFIG. 31indicates the position (eye point) of the eyes of a virtual player playing the game provided by the game field110. As shown inFIG. 31, the mount portion44is mounted such that the virtual viewpoint V is positioned in a space below the first face Q1in the first embodiment. According to the above configuration, a player is able to view most of small balls M on the first face Q1through the mount portion44, as indicated by broken arrows inFIG. 31. Therefore, it is possible to enable the player to effectively view many small balls M1placed on the mount portion44. It is of note that the mount portion44may be mounted such that the virtual viewpoint V is positioned in a space below both the first face Q1and the second face Q2.

Focusing on a tangent plane passing through a contact point between the first face Q1and a small ball M1placed on the first face Q1, the space below the first face Q1indicates a space located below in the vertical direction as viewed from the tangent planes of all small balls M1placed on the first face Q. In a configuration where the first face Q1is a flat surface, a space β below a flat surface including the first face Q1corresponds to the space below the first face Q1.

In a configuration where the first face Q1is a curved surface (for example, a spherical surface or an arc surface), the angle of a tangent plane a is different for each small ball M1placed on the first face Q1, as shown inFIG. 32. In the configuration shown inFIG. 32, a space β located below the tangent planes a of all small balls M1on the first face Q1corresponds to the space below the first face Q1.

The mount portion44may be mounted in such a manner that the virtual viewpoints V corresponding to different positions of players are positioned in a space below the first face Q1(a space that is below the second face Q2also). The virtual viewpoints V are virtual viewpoints of players playing the games in different stations100. According to the above configuration, many small balls M placed on the mount portion44can be viewed from positions where players of the game apparatus10can be present.

Second Embodiment

A second embodiment of the present invention is explained. In the following illustrations, elements having functions that are substantially the same as those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same signs as used in the descriptions of the first embodiment, and detailed description of such elements is omitted, as appropriate.

FIG. 33is a plan view of the first discrete path315acin the second embodiment. As shown inFIG. 33, an opening239aadjacent to the supply path231a, and an opening239cadjacent to the supply path231care formed on the first discrete path315acin the second embodiment. The openings239aand239care openings formed above the second discrete path320ac.

Similarly to the first embodiment, small balls M1that have entered the supply path231aare supplied to the first hopper230a. When the first hopper230ais full, small balls M1that are not allowed to reach the first hopper230astay on the supply path231a. A small ball M1discharged from the conveyor device170actoward the supply path231ain the above state changes the direction due to collision against one or more of existing small balls M1staying on the supply path231aand falls from the opening239ato the second discrete path320acas shown inFIG. 33.

If too many small balls M1are supplied to the first hopper230a, there is a possibility that the bridge phenomenon will occur in the reserving container231of the first hopper230a. In the second embodiment, occurrence of the bridge phenomenon in the first hopper230acan be suppressed because small balls M1moving toward the supply path2311afall from the opening239ato the second discrete path320acif small balls M1stay on the supply path231a. Although the first hopper230ais focused on in the above explanations, it is of note that substantially the same effect is also realized for the first hopper230c.

Third Embodiment

FIG. 34is a partially enlarged sectional view illustrating the conveyor device170acaccording to a third embodiment. As shown inFIG. 34, the mount face F of the supporter1740is sloped upward at an angle γ to a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis C (that is, the horizontal direction) in the conveyor device170acof the third embodiment. That is, the mount face F is a slope that a position that is farther from the rotation axis C is higher than a position that is closer to the rotation axis C. According to the above configuration, a possibility of small balls M1falling from the mount face F can be reduced.

Fourth Embodiment

FIG. 35is a partially enlarged sectional view illustrating the conveyor device170acaccording to a fourth embodiment. As shown inFIG. 35, a protrusion1741extending from the mount face F is formed on an outer periphery of the supporter1740in the conveyor device170acof the fourth embodiment. A height h of the protrusion1741is, for example, smaller than the radius D/2 of the small ball M1. According to the above configuration, the possibility of the small balls M1falling from the mount face F can be reduced similarly to the third embodiment.

It is of note that the third embodiment and the fourth embodiment may be combined. That is, the protrusion1741may be formed on an outer periphery of the mount face F at an angle to the direction perpendicular to the rotation axis C.

Modifications

Specific modified modes added to each of the embodiments illustrated above are illustrated below. Two or more aspects freely selected from the following illustrations may be combined with one another as appropriate, in so far as no contradiction arises from any such combination.

(1) In the embodiments described above, a state in which the first hopper230ais full is illustrated as a state (hereafter, “entry restricted state”) in which entry of small balls M1into the first hopper230ais restricted. However, the entry restricted state is not limited to the above example. For example, in a configuration in which an opening/closing mechanism that opens/closes the supply path231ais provided, the entry restricted state may be a state in which the supply path231ais closed by the opening/closing mechanism. Although the first hopper230ais focused on in the above explanations, the same holds true for the entry restricted states of the second hopper240aand the third hopper250a.

(2) In the embodiments described above, the configuration in which there is one small ball M1in the gap between two guides1760in the conveyor device170acis illustrated. However, two or more small balls M1may be housed in the gap between two guides1760.

(3) In the embodiments described above, the configuration in which the conveyor device170acincludes the encircling member1750is illustrated. However, the encircling member1750may be omitted from the conveyor device170ac. For example, in the configuration in the third embodiment in which the mount face F is sloped or the configuration in the fourth embodiment in which the protrusion1741is formed on the outer periphery of the supporter1740, small balls M1can be supported on the mount face F even if the encircling member1750is omitted. The rotating body1730may be rotated at such a speed that small balls M1do not fall from the mount face F. Some small balls M1falling from the mount face F may be acceptable.

(4) In the embodiments described above, multiple sets of the intake port1710and the discharge port1720are arrayed over the entire region around the circumferential direction of the conveyor device170ac. However, the intake ports1710and the discharge ports1720may be arranged only in a specific region in the circumferential direction of the conveyor device170ac. In a configuration in which, for example, k (k is a natural number equal to or larger than 2) guides1760are placed in a specific region in the circumferential direction, an intake port1710and a discharge port1720are formed in the gap between two guides1760adjacent to each other. That is, (k−1) sets of the intake port1710and the discharge port1720, and (k−1) transport paths are formed. That is, transport paths as many as the intake ports1710or the discharge ports1720are formed.

It is of note that the number of guides1760actually involved in transport of small balls M1through contact with the small balls M1among the k guides1760is (k−1). In other words, as many (that is, (k−1)) intake ports1710, discharge ports1720, and transport paths as the guides1760involved in the transport of small balls M1are formed. The same relation in the number described above holds for a configuration in which the guides1760are arrayed at the interval G on the entire region in the circumferential direction of the rotation axis C. In the configuration in which the guides1760are arrayed on the entire region in the circumferential direction, all the guides1760are involved in transport of small balls M1.

(5) As described above, small balls M1transported by the conveyor device170acare supported by the supporter1740. The support force on the small balls M1by the supporter1740may be changed depending on the position on the transport path. For example, a configuration is assumed in which the support force on the small balls M1by the supporter1740is reduced on an upper part (near the discharge ports1720) of the transport path. According to the mode described above, the above configuration reduces the support force on the small balls M1on an upper part of the transport path, so that the small balls M1can be smoothly discharged from the transport path near the upper part.

In the configuration in which the support force on the small balls M1by the supporter1740is reduced, a configuration is preferable in which the angle γ of the slope of the mount face F in a configuration in which the mount face F is sloped upward as in the third embodiment is reduced on the upper part of the transport path. In the configuration in which the protrusion1741is formed on the outer periphery of the supporter1740as in the fourth embodiment, the height h of the protrusion1741may be reduced at the upper part of the transport path. A configuration in which the width L1of the mount face F is reduced at the upper part on the transport path is also preferable.

(6) In the embodiments described above, the holder1770(the slope1771) is illustrated as an example of the discharge guide that separates small balls M1transported by the transport path from the rotation axis C. However, the specific configuration of the discharge guide is not limited to the example illustrated above. For example, as shown inFIG. 36, a protrusion1790protruding from the outer circumferential surface of the rotating body1730may be utilized as the discharge guide. Small balls M1transported by the transport path collide against the protrusion1790to be forcibly discharged from the discharge ports1720.

(7) In the embodiments described above, the supporter1740is placed on the outer circumferential surface of the rotating body1730. However, the location to which the supporter1740is fixed is not limited to the rotating body1730. For example, the bottom end of the supporter1740may be fixed to the supplier1780and the top end of the supporter1740may be fixed to the holder1770. Further, the rotating body1730may be omitted.

(8) In the embodiments described above, the supplier1780having the supply surface1781formed thereon is illustrated as an example. However, the configuration for supplying small balls M1to the conveyor device170acis not limited to the example illustrated above. For example, small balls M1may be supplied to the intake ports1710by using belt conveyors placed radially around the conveyor device170acbeing the center.

(9) In the embodiments described above, the first path310acand the second path340acare separate paths. However, the first path310acand the second path340acmay be a continuous integral path. In the embodiments described above, the first path310acconsists of the first discrete path315acand the second discrete path320ac. However, the first path310acmay consist of a single path. The second path340acmay consist of a plurality of paths. The angles of slopes of the first path310acand the second path340acmay be constant along the entire length of the paths or they may vary in a continuous or stepwise manner. The planar shapes of the first path310acand the second path340acmay be freely selected, and may be linear or curved.

(10) In the embodiments described above, the first hopper230ais installed upstream of the second hopper240aand the third hopper250a. However, the first hopper230amay be installed downstream of the second hopper240aor the third hopper250a.

(11) In the embodiments described above, the circulating mechanism20acis shared by the stations100aand100c. However, a circulating mechanism may be individually installed for each of the stations100. The game object housing space46may be individually installed for each of the stations100.

(12) In the embodiments described above, small balls M1transported by the conveyor device180aare supplied to either the third lottery portion140abor the game object housing space46. However, the small balls M1transported by the conveyor device180amay be supplied only to the game object housing space46. Small balls M1are supplied from another supplier (the first hopper230a, for example) to the third lottery portion140ab.

(13) In the embodiments described above, the second hopper240aor the third hopper250alocated downstream on the first path310acuses small balls M1in a game, and the first hopper230alocated upstream on the first path310acuses small balls M1in a physical lottery. In other words, in the above configuration, a first game object utilizer located upstream uses small balls M1in a physical lottery and a second game object utilizer located downstream uses small balls M1in a game. Focusing on the first hopper230a, the second hopper240a, and the third hopper250a, the first hopper230acorresponds to the first game object utilizer and the second hopper240aor the third hopper250acorresponds to the second game object utilizer. Focusing on the second hopper240aand the third hopper250a, the second hopper240acorresponds to the first game object utilizer and the third hopper250acorresponds to the second game object utilizer.

As shown inFIG. 12, small balls M1supplied to the second game object utilizer (the second hopper240aand the third hopper250a) are fed directly to the game field110a. Meanwhile, small balls M1supplied to the first game object utilizer (the first hopper230a) are supplied to the first lottery portion120avia the path switcher270a, are used by the first lottery portion120a, and are thereafter fed to the game field110a. That is, in the first embodiment, among the game object utilizers, a game object utilizer (for example, the first hopper230a) that requires intervention of more devices (the path switcher270aand the first lottery portion120a) before feeding of small balls M1to the game field110ais placed upstream of other game object utilizers (for example, the second hopper240aand the third hopper250a).

In contrast to the above configuration, a configuration (hereafter, “modified mode”) is assumed in which the first game object utilizer located upstream uses small balls M1in a game, and the second game object utilizer located downstream uses small balls M1in a physical lottery. For example, the first game object utilizer feeds small balls M1to the game field110, and the second game object utilizer uses small balls M1in a physical lottery. In the modified mode, a configuration is preferable in which the number of small balls M1used by the first game object utilizer in a game is more than the number of small balls M1used by the second game object utilizer in a physical lottery. According to the above configuration, small balls M1can be used preferentially for a game in the first game object utilizer over a physical lottery in the second game object utilizer.

(14) In the embodiments described above, small balls M1fed by the feeding portion461ainto the game object housing space46are unevenly concentrated in the region above the game field110a, as shown inFIG. 30. However, the positional relation between the feeding portions461and the regions where more small balls M1are located is not limited to the example illustrated above.

For example, as shown inFIG. 37, the feeding portions461aand461cmay feed small balls M1in such a manner that small balls M1fed by the feeding portion461aare arrayed above the game field110cand small balls M1fed by the feeding portion461care arrayed above the game field110a. That is, a trajectory of small balls M1fed by the feeding portion461aand a trajectory of small balls M1fed by the feeding portion461cintersect with each other. Therefore, for example, when the number of small balls M1fed by the feeding portion461ais more than the number of small balls M1fed by other feeding portions461(461b,461c, and461d), more small balls M1are located in the region above the game field110c, as shown inFIG. 37.

As will be understood from the above example, in the state shown inFIG. 30 or 37, more small balls M1are unevenly located and concentrate in a region corresponding to a feeding portion that has input more small balls M1out of a first feeding portion (461bor461d) and a second feeding portion (461aor461c). Assuming the example shown inFIG. 30 or 37, “a region corresponding to a feeding portion that has fed more small balls M1” is at least a partial region of the first face Q1when the number of small balls M1fed by the first feeding portion (461bor461d) is larger, and is at least a partial region of the second face Q2when the number of small balls M1fed by the second feeding portion (461aor461c) is larger. In other words, “a region corresponding to a feeding portion that has fed more small balls M1” is a slope at an angle from a place near a feeding portion (461a,461b,461c, or461d) that has fed more small balls M1to a low-level side.

Specifically, the state shown inFIG. 30is one in which small balls M1are located unevenly and concentrate in a region near a feeding portion461that has fed more small balls M1on a slope (Q1or Q2) at an angle from the feeding portion461to a low-level side. For example, when the feeding portion461ahas fed more small balls M1, small balls M1are located unevenly and concentrate in a region (a region above the game field110a) near the feeding portion461aon the second face Q2. For example, when the second face Q2is divided into two regions including a region on the feeding portion461aside and a region on the feeding portion461cside, small balls M1are unevenly concentrated in the half region on the feeding portion461aside on the second face Q2in a case in which the feeding portion461afeeds more small balls M1. Meanwhile, the state shown inFIG. 37is one in which small balls M1are unevenly concentrated in a region far from a feeding portion461that has fed more small balls M1on the slope (Q1or Q2) at an angle from the feeding portion461to the low-level side. For example, when the feeding portion461ahas fed more small balls M1, small balls M are unevenly concentrated in a region (the region above the game field110c) far from the feeding portion461aon the second face Q2. For example, when the second face Q2is divided into two regions including a region on the feeding portion461aside and a region on the feeding portion461cside, small balls M1are unevenly concentrated in the half region of the second Q2on the feeding portion461cside in a case in which the feeding portion461afeeds more small balls M1.

APPENDIX

The following preferred aspects of the present invention are understood based on the above descriptions. In the following descriptions, reference signs in the drawings are denoted in parentheses in order to facilitate understanding of each aspect, but the present invention is not limited to these aspects illustrated in the drawings.

A game apparatus (10) according to a preferred aspect of the present invention is a game apparatus for providing a game in which three-dimensional game objects (M1) rollable regardless of an orientation of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) are used, the game apparatus comprising: a circulating mechanism (20ac) configured to circulate the three-dimensional game objects (M1), where the circulating mechanism (20ac) includes a conveyor device (170ac) configured to transport the three-dimensional game objects (M1) from a first position (P1) to a second position (P2) that is higher than the first position (P1), a first path (310ac) configured to move the three-dimensional game objects (M1) from the second position (P2) to a third position (P3) that is lower than the second position (P2), a supply path (231a,241a,251a) for supply of a part of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) to a game object utilizer (230a,240a,250a) that uses the supplied three-dimensional game objects (M1) in the game, the part of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) entering the supply path (231a,241a,251a) at a position between the second position (P2) and the third position (P3), and a second path (340ac) configured to move a part of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) not entering the supply path (231a,241a,251a) to the first position (P1) that is lower than the third position (P3). In this description, “a part of” the three-dimensional game objects (M1) includes “one or more” three-dimensional game objects (M1).

According to the above configuration, by transporting the three-dimensional game objects (M1) with the conveyor device (170ac) from the first position (P1) to the second position (P2), the three-dimensional game objects (M1) can be circulated without the need of power on a path from the second position (P2) to the first position (P1) via the third position (P3). Three-dimensional game objects (M1) having entered the supply path (231a,241a,251a) on the first path (310ac) are used for the game by the game object utilizer (230a,240a,250a) while three-dimensional game objects (M1) not entering the supply path (2311a,241a,251a) can be returned to the first position (P1) via the third position (P3).

“An m-th position that is higher (lower) than an n-th position” means that the height in the vertical direction of the m-th position is higher (lower) than that of the n-th position, and the positional relation (for example, the distance) between the n-th position and the m-th position in the horizontal direction is not limited to any relation.

“Fall” of a three-dimensional game object (M1) means fall to a lower position due to the action of gravity and includes fall along a specific object as well as free fall in a state where no external force other than gravity exists. For example, a state in which a three-dimensional game object (M1) falls on a helical trajectory along a helical member is also included the concept of “fall.”

Each of “the first path (310ac)” and “the second path (340ac)” includes a path that consists of a single member, a path that consists of a plurality of members, or a trajectory along which three-dimensional game objects (M1) fall freely. For example, at least one of “the first path (310ac)” and “the second path (340ac)” may be constituted as a first discrete path upstream and as a second discrete path downstream, to allow three-dimensional game objects (M1) to fall (for example, fall freely) from the first discrete path to the second discrete path.

Each of “the first path (310ac)” and “the second path (340ac)” has, for example, a slope that allows three-dimensional game objects (M1) to roll. While typically being a flat surface, the slope may include a curved surface in which an angle of a slope in the path changes. A flat part (that is, a part parallel to the horizontal plane) or a step may be included in the middle of the path. It is of note that the slope that allows three-dimensional game objects (M1) to roll under their own weight is not essential if the three-dimensional game objects (M1) can move on the path under kinetic energy provided by another mechanism such as the conveyor device (170ac).

“The game object utilizer (230a,240a,250a)” is any mechanism in which game objects are used. For example, a hopper that houses and discharges three-dimensional game objects (M1), a feeding portion for feeding three-dimensional game objects (M1) to a game field, or a lottery portion in which three-dimensional game objects (M1) are used for a physical lottery is a preferred example of the game object utilizer (230a,240a,250a).

In the game apparatus (10) according to a preferred aspect of appendix 1, the conveyor device (170ac) is configured to continue to be in an operation state for transporting the three-dimensional game objects (M1), to thereby supply the part of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) to the game object utilizer (230a,240a,250a).

According to the above configuration, supply of three-dimensional game objects (M1) to the game object utilizer (230a,240a,250a) is continued by continuing the operation state of the conveyor device (170ac). Therefore, the three-dimensional game objects (M1) can be circulated by the circulating mechanism (20ac). It is of note that in a configuration in which the three-dimensional game objects (M1) are supplied to the game object utilizer (230a,240a,250a) only in a case in which the game object utilizer (230a,240a,250a) requires the three-dimensional game objects (M1), does a problem arise in that it is necessary to detect whether there are three-dimensional game objects (M1) in the game object utilizer (230a,240a,250a), and a configuration becomes complicated. The above problem is particularly significant in a configuration in which many game object utilizers (230a,240a,250a) are installed. In the preferred aspect described above, because the operation state of the conveyor device (170ac) is continued, an advantage is obtained in that it is not necessary to provide a configuration to detect whether there are three-dimensional game objects (M1) in the game object utilizer (230a,240a,250a), or to control the conveyor device (170ac) according to a result of detection. Further, if a player views the manner in which the three-dimensional game objects (M1) are circulated by the circulating mechanism (20ac), the player is able to see that the game apparatus (10) is operating, and a visual production effect is also promising.

“Continuing to be in an operation state for transporting the three-dimensional game objects (M1)” means maintaining the state in which the conveyor device (170ac) transports the three-dimensional game objects (M1) regardless of whether the game object utilizer (230a,240a,250a) uses game objects, without transporting the three-dimensional game objects (M1) intermittently for each use of the three-dimensional game object (M1) by the game object utilizer (230a,240a,250a). That is, the conveyor device (170ac) is operated to enable transport of the three-dimensional game object (M1) even in a state where the game object utilizer (230a,240a,250a) does not use the three-dimensional game objects (M1). For example, in a configuration in which the game object utilizer (230a,240a,250a) reserves the three-dimensional game objects (M1), it means that the conveyor device (170ac) is operated regardless of whether the game object utilizer (230a,240a,250a) reserves the three-dimensional game object (M1) (empty or full). However, it is unnecessary to always operate the conveyor device (170ac) during a period in which the game apparatus (10) is operated or a period in which a game is provided.

The “period in which a game is provided” is a period in which the game apparatus (10) is operated to enable a player to play a game, and whether a player is actually playing a game is irrelevant. However, a presence of a player may be determined directly or indirectly, and a period in which it is determined that a player is present can be regarded as the “period in which a game is provided.” A direct determination is, for example, a determination using a human detecting sensor that detects a player. Meanwhile, an indirect determination indicates a presence of a player indirectly, as determined from other elements derived from an action of a player. For example, an indirect determination corresponds to determining a presence of a player according to whether an operation panel is manipulated or whether game values (for example, token coins or credits) required for a play of a game remain. For example, a period from a last time it was directly or indirectly determined that a player was present until a predetermined time (for example, 30 minutes) passes can be regarded as the “period in which a game is provided.”

In a preferred example of appendix 1 or 2, the game object utilizer (230a,240a,250a) is positioned higher than the first position (P1), and the three-dimensional game objects (M1) used in the game are collected by the second path (340ac) by moving downward.

According to the above configuration, three-dimensional game objects (M1) used in a game by the game object utilizer (230a,240a,250a) are supplied to the second path (340ac) to enable the three-dimensional game objects (M1) to return to the circulating mechanism (20ac). Because the three-dimensional game objects (M1) are collected by the second path (340ac) by moving downward, no power is required for collection of the three-dimensional game objects (M1). Therefore, in the entire circulating mechanism (20ac), the three-dimensional game object (M1) can be circulated without any need for power except for the conveyor device (170ac).

“Collect” means supply of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) that have been used in a game to the second path (340ac) and may be rephrased as return of the used three-dimensional game objects (M1) to the circulating mechanism (20ac).

Various configurations can be used for collection of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) used in a game by the second path (340ac). For example, a configuration can be assumed that allows the three-dimensional game objects (M1) to fall to the second path (340ac), or a configuration can be assumed that supplies the three-dimensional game objects (M1) to the second path (340ac) via a predetermined path.

In a preferred example of any of appendices 1 to 3, the game object utilizer (230a,240a,250a) includes a first game object utilizer (230a,240a) and a second game object utilizer (240a,250a), in each of which three-dimensional game objects (M1) are reserved, the supply path (231a,241a,251a) includes a first supply path (231a,241a) for supply of a part of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) to the first game object utilizer (230a,240a), and a second supply path (2411a,251a) positioned in a downstream of the first supply path (231a,241a) for supply of a part of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) to the second game object utilizer (240a,250a), and a part of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) that moves toward the first supply path (231a,241a) from the second position (P2) moves toward the third position (P3) in a case in which the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) is in an entry restricted state, and then is allowed to enter the second supply path (241a,251a).

In the above configuration, a three-dimensional game object (M1) that moves toward the first path (231a,241a) from the second position (P2) moves toward the third position (P3) in a case in which the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) is in an entry restricted state, and is then allowed to enter the second supply path (241a,251a). Therefore, the three-dimensional game objects (M1) can be supplied preferentially to the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) over the second game object utilizer (240a,250a). In a case in which the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) is in the entry restricted state, the three-dimensional game objects (M1) can be effectively used by being supplied to the second supply path (241a,251a) or the third position (P3).

The “entry restricted state” is a state in which supply of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) to the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) is restricted (for example, a state in which the three-dimensional game objects (M1) cannot be supplied thereto or a state in which the supply is difficult). For example, a state in which the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) is full of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) or a state in which the supply path (231a,241a,251a) for supply of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) to the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) is mechanically closed is a typical example of the entry restricted state. The entry restricted state is, in other words, a state in which the supply path is blocked by the three-dimensional game objects (M1) (a state in which the supply path is filled with the three-dimensional game objects (M1)). A state in which the three-dimensional game objects (M1) are full is a state in which the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) is sufficiently filled with three-dimensional game objects (M1) and it is difficult to add another three-dimensional game object (M1). That is, a three-dimensional game object (M1) moving toward the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) collides with existing three-dimensional game objects (M1) supplied to the first game object utilizer (230a,240a), changes direction, and consequently can be supplied to another game object utilizer. It is of note that, while for convenience in the above explanations the focus is on “the first game object utilizer (230a,240a),” the same holds true for other game object utilizers.

There is a possibility that three-dimensional game objects (M1) on the first path (310ac) may move to the second supply path (241a,251a) or the third position (P3) without passing through the first supply path (231a,241a). There is also a possibility that three-dimensional game objects (M1) moving toward the third position (P3) may move to the third position (P3) without passing through the second supply path (241a,251a) due to the entry restricted state of the first game object utilizer (230a,240a).

The movement destination of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) moving toward the third position (P3) can be either the third position (P3) or the second supply path (241a,251a). In a preferred aspect of the present invention, the three-dimensional game objects (M1) moving toward the third position (P3) can enter the second supply path (241a,251a) and then be supplied to the second game object utilizer (240a,250a) in a case in which the second game object utilizer (240a,250a) is not in the entry restricted state. On the other hand, in a case in which the second game object utilizer (240a,250a) is in the entry restricted state, the three-dimensional game objects (M1) move to the third position (P3). That is, three-dimensional game objects (M1) that have not been supplied to any of the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) and the second game object utilizer (240a,250a) are returned to the first position (P1) through the third position (P3).

The game apparatus (10) according to a preferred example of any of appendices 1 to 3 includes a first game field (110a) and a second game field (110c) configured to provide a first game and a second game in parallel to different players, respectively, and the game object utilizer (230a,240a,250a) includes a third game object utilizer (230a,240a,250a) that uses a part of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) in the first game provided in the first game field (110a), and a fourth game object utilizer (230c,240c,250c) that uses a part of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) in the second game provided in the second game field (110c), and the supply path (231a,241a,251a) includes a third supply path (231a,241a,251a) for supply of the part of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) to the third game object utilizer (230a,240a,250a), and a fourth supply path (231a,241a,251a) for supply of the part of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) to the fourth game object utilizer (230c,240c,250c).

In the above configuration, the circulating mechanism (20ac) is shared by the first game field (110a) and the second game field (110c). Therefore, an advantage is obtained in that the configuration of the game apparatus (10) is simplified as compared to a configuration in which a separate circulating mechanism (20ac) is installed for each of the first game field (110a) and the second game field (110c). The circulating mechanism (20ac) is also shared by the third game object utilizer (230a,240a,250a) and the fourth game object utilizer (230c,240c,250c), where the third game object utilizer and the fourth game object utilizer correspond to different players. According to the above configuration, for example, even in a case in which many three-dimensional game objects (M1) are supplied to one of the first game field (110a) and the second game field (110c), uneven distribution of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) between the third game object utilizer (230a,240a,250a) and the fourth game object utilizer (230c,240c,250c) is suppressed. Therefore, an advantage is also obtained in that a mechanism for correcting uneven distribution of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) is not required.

A “game field” is a space for providing a player with a game in which the three-dimensional game objects (M1) are used. For example, a space for providing various games such as a pusher game in which the three-dimensional game objects (M1) are used is a preferred example of the game field.

“To provide games in parallel” means that a game using the first game field (110a) and a game using the second game field (110c) can progress in parallel. While the game using the first game field (110a) and the game using the second game field (110c) basically progress independently of each other, progression of the games may be related to each other.

A game apparatus (10) according to a preferred aspect of the present invention is a game apparatus (10) for providing a game in which three-dimensional game objects (M1) that are rollable regardless of an orientation of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) are used, the game apparatus comprising: a first game field (110a) and a second game field (110b) configured to provide a first game and a second game in parallel to different players, respectively; a first circulating mechanism (20ac) corresponding to the first game field (110a); and a second circulating mechanism (20bd) corresponding to the second game field (110b). The three-dimensional game objects (M1) includes a first subset and a second subset. The first circulating mechanism (20ac) includes: a conveyor device (170ac) configured to transport the first subset of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) from a first position (P1) to a second position (P2) that is higher than the first position (P1); a first path (310ac) configured to move the first subset of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) from the second position (P2) to a third position (P3) that is lower than the second position (P2); a supply path (231a,241a,251a) for supply of a part of the first subset of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) to a game object utilizer (230a,240a,250a) that uses the supplied three-dimensional game objects (M1) in the first game, the part of the first subset of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) entering the supply path (231a,241a,251a) at a position between the second position (P2) and the third position (P3); and a second path (340ac) configured to move a part of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) not entering the supply path (231a,241a,2511a) to the first position (P1) that is lower than the third position (P3). The second circulating mechanism (20bd) includes: a conveyor device (170bd) configured to transport the second subset of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) from a first position (P1) to a second position (P2) that is higher than the first position (P1); a first path (310bd) configured to move the second subset of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) from the second position (P2) to a third position (P3) that is lower than the second position (P2); a supply path (231b,241b,251b) for supply of a part of the second subset of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) to a game object utilizer (230b,240b,250b) that uses the supplied three-dimensional game objects (M1) in the second game, the part of the second subset of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) entering the supply path (231b,241b,251b) at a position between the second position (P2) and the third position (P3); and a second path (340bd) configured to move a part of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) not entering the supply path (231b,241b,251b) to the first position (P1) that is lower than the third position (P3).

A game apparatus (10) according to a preferred aspect of the present invention is a game apparatus (10) for providing a game in which three-dimensional game objects (M1) that are rollable regardless of an orientation of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) are used, the game apparatus comprising: a first game field (110a), a second game field (110b), a third game field (110c), and a fourth game field (110d), configured to provide a first game, a second game, a third game, and a fourth game in parallel to different players, respectively; a first circulating mechanism (20ac) corresponding to the first game field (110a) and the second game field (110c); and a second circulating mechanism (20bd) corresponding to the third game field (110b) and the fourth game field (110d). The three-dimensional game objects (M1) include a first subset and a second subset. The first circulating mechanism (20ac) includes: a conveyor device (170ac) configured to transport the first subset of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) from a first position (P1) to a second position (P2) that is higher than the first position (P1); a first path (310ac) configured to move the first subset of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) from the second position (P2) to a third position (P3) that is lower than the second position (P2); a supply path (231a,241a,251a) for supply of a part of the first subset of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) to a game object utilizer (230a,240a,250a,230c,240c,250c) that uses the supplied three-dimensional game objects (M1) in at least one of the first game or the second game, the part of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) entering the supply path (231a,241a,251a,231c,241c,251c) at a position between the second position (P2) and the third position (P3); and a second path (340ac) configured to move a part of the first subset of the three-dimensional game object (M1) not entering the supply path (231a,241a,251a,231c,241c,251c) to the first position (P1) that is lower than the third position (P3). The second circulating mechanism (20bd) includes: a conveyor device (170bd) configured to transport the second subset of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) from a first position (P1) to a second position (P2) that is higher than the first position (P1); a first path (310bd) configured to move the second subset of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) from the second position (P2) to a third position (P3) that is lower than the second position (P2); a supply path (231b,241b,251b,231d,241d,251d) for supply of a part of the second subset of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) to a game object utilizer (230b,240b,250b,230d,240d,250d) that uses the supplied three-dimensional game objects (M1) in at least one of the third game or the fourth game, the part of the second subset of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) entering the supply path (231b,241b,251b,231d,241d,251d) at a position between the second position (P2) and the third position (P3); and a second path (340bd) configured to move a part of the second subset of the three-dimensional game object (M1) not entering the supply path (2311b,241b,251b,231d,241d,251d) to the first position (P1) that is lower than the third position (P3).

A preferred example of appendix 6 or 7 includes a sorter (260) configured to sort a part of the first subset of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) not entering the supply path (231a,241a,251a) of the first circulating mechanism (20ac), and a part of the second subset of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) not entering the supply path (231a,241a,251a) of the second circulating mechanism (20bd), into the second path (340ac) of the first circulating mechanism (20ac), and the second path (340ac) of the second circulating mechanism (20bd).

According to the above configuration, even in a case in which a number of three-dimensional game objects (M1) circulating in the first circulating mechanism (20ac) and a number of three-dimensional game objects (M1) circulating in the second circulating mechanism (20bd) temporarily differ from each other by a large amount, the respective numbers of game objects can be balanced out with time.

The “sorter (260)” is an element that sorts three-dimensional game objects (M1) into the second path (340ac) of the first circulating mechanism (20ac) and the second path (340ac) of the second circulating mechanism (20bd). Specifically, a member mounted at a point where a path on which three-dimensional game objects (M1) fall from the first path (310ac) of the first circulating mechanism (20ac) and a path on which three-dimensional game objects (M1) fall from the first path (310bd) of the second circulating mechanism (20bd) merge is a preferred example of the sorter (260). The probability of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) moving to the second path (340ac) of the first circulating mechanism (20ac) and the probability of them moving to the second path (340ac) of the second circulating mechanism (20bd) after having been brought into contact with the sorter (260) is substantially equal. That is, three-dimensional game objects (M1) are distributed proportionally to the second path (340ac) of the first circulating mechanism (20ac) and the second path (340ac) of the second circulating mechanism (20bd).

In a preferred example of any of appendices 1 to 8, the conveyor device (170ac) has a plurality of transport paths configured to transport the three-dimensional game objects (M1) in parallel.

In a preferred example of appendix 9, a total number of the game object utilizers (230a,240a,250a) is less than a total number of the plurality of transport paths.

Appendices A to C

Game apparatuses using three-dimensional game objects such as spherical objects have been proposed in the conventional art. For example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 2011-36423 discloses a conveyor device that includes a transport screw member having a helical blade portion formed thereon, and two guide rails that support the spherical objects in coordination with the blade portion.

In the technique described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 2011-36423, two guide rails are provided side by side at an interval smaller than the outer diameter of the spherical objects and the spherical objects are supported at a total of three positions including the blade portion of the transport screw member and the two guide rails. In the above configuration in which the interval of the two guide rails is smaller than the outside diameter of the spherical objects, spherical objects cannot be supplied to a transport rail that transports the spherical objects upward in the vertical direction through the interval of the two guide rails. Therefore, a drawback exists in that a special mechanism (a transport start rail portion) is required to guide the spherical objects to the transport rail, whereby the configuration of the conveyor device becomes complicated. In view of the above circumstances, an object of the aspects illustrated is to simplify a configuration for supplying three-dimensional game objects to a transport path.

A conveyor device (170ac) according to a preferred aspect of the present invention includes: a reserver (1780) configured to reserve a plurality of three-dimensional game objects (M1); a supporter (1740) that extends in a helical manner along a rotation axis (C) and on which the plurality of three-dimensional game objects (M1) are placed; and a plurality of guides (1760) that are located outside the supporter (1740) and are spaced at intervals, each interval being larger than an outside diameter of each three-dimensional game object (M1), and that extend along the rotation axis (C). In this configuration, a transport path is formed for each of the plurality of guides (1760), where the transport path moves the three-dimensional game objects (M1) such that they are in contact with the supporter (1740) and with the guides (1760) from a lower side to an upper side in a vertical direction along the rotation axis (C) under rotation of the supporter (1740), and the plurality of three-dimensional game objects (M1) reserved in the reserver (1780) is supplied to the transport paths corresponding to respective ones of the plurality of guides (1760) and move upward.

In the above configuration, the interval between two guides (1760) adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction of the rotation axis (C) among the plurality of guides (1760) is larger than the outside diameter of the three-dimensional game object (M1). Thus, the three-dimensional game object (M1) is supplied to each of the transport paths through the corresponding two guides (1760), and the configuration for supplying the three-dimensional game objects (M1) to the transport paths can be simplified. Because the interval between two guides (1760) adjacent to each other is larger than the outside diameter of the three-dimensional game object (M1), each of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) moves along a guide (1760) in a state in which it is supported at two positions including the supporter (1740) and the guide (1760). Further, because one transport path is formed for each of the guides (1760), a further advantage is obtained in that many three-dimensional game objects (M1) reserved in the reserver (1780) can be efficiently transported by a plurality of transport paths.

The “three-dimensional game object (M1)” is a game object that has three dimensions. Specifically, an object that is rollable regardless of the orientation of the object is a preferred example of the three-dimensional game object (M1). For example, a spherical game object is a typical example of the three-dimensional game object (M1). However, other three-dimensional shapes such as a polyhedron are also usable for the three-dimensional game object (M1).

The state in which the guides (1760) “extend along the rotation axis (C)” is typically a state in which the guides (1760) extend in a direction parallel to the rotation axis (C). However, a configuration in which the guides (1760) are at an angle to the rotation axis (C) is also included in the scope of the present invention. The “outside diameter of the three-dimensional game object (M1)” is the diameter of a spherical object when the three-dimensional game object (M1) is a spherical object, and is the diameter of a spherical object circumscribing a polyhedron when the three-dimensional game object (M1) is a polyhedron.

As described above, each of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) is supported at two positions including the supporter (1740) and the guide (1760). However, a configuration in which each of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) can be brought into contact with other elements (for example, an encircling member in appendix A6) in addition to the two positions is not excluded from the present invention.

A plurality of guides (1760) need not be installed uniformly along the entire circumference of the supporter (1740), and may instead be installed only within a specific range along the circumferential direction of the supporter (1740). Further, the interval between the two guides (1760) adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction of the rotation axis (C) need not be uniform among all the guides (1760).

The upper limit of the interval between two guides (1760) adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction may be freely selected. For example, a configuration in which one three-dimensional game object (M1) can be housed between two guides (1760) (a configuration in which the interval between two guides (1760) is smaller than the sum of the outside diameters of two three-dimensional game objects (M1)) is included in the scope of the present invention. Also included in the scope of the present invention is a configuration in which two or more three-dimensional game objects (M1) can be housed between two guides (1760). It is of note that the interval between the two guides (1760) adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction of the rotation axis (C) is a distance in straight line therebetween.

In a preferred example of appendix A1, a width of each of mount faces (F) of the supporter (1740) on which one of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) is placed is larger than a radius of the three-dimensional game object (M1).

In the above aspect, the width of each of the mount faces (F) for the three-dimensional game objects (M1) on the supporter (1740) is larger than the radius of the three-dimensional game object (M1). That is, the center of gravity of the three-dimensional game object (M1) is located above the mount face (F). Therefore, a possibility of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) falling from the mount faces (F) can be reduced.

The “width of each of mount faces (F)” is, for example, a difference between the outside diameter and the inside diameter of the helical supporter (1740). The “radius of the three-dimensional game object (M1)” is the radius of a spherical object when the three-dimensional game object (M1) is a spherical object, and is the radius of a spherical object circumscribing a polyhedron when the three-dimensional game object (M1) is a polyhedron.

In a preferred example of appendix A1 or A2, each of the mount faces (F) of the supporter (1740) on which one of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) is placed slopes upward in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis (C).

In the above aspect, because the mount faces (F) for the three-dimensional game objects (M1) on the supporter (1740) slope upward, the possibility of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) falling from the mount faces (F) can be reduced.

In a preferred example of any of appendices A1 to A3, a support force acting on the three-dimensional game objects (M1) applied by the supporter (1740) decreases at an upper part of the transport paths.

In the above aspect, because the support force acting on the three-dimensional game objects (M1) applied by the supporter (1740) decreases at an upper part on the transport paths, the three-dimensional game objects (M1) can be discharged from the transport paths at that part.

Examples of a configuration for decreasing the support force acting on the three-dimensional game objects (M1) at a certain part on the transport paths include:

(1) a configuration in which the angle of the slope decreases at a certain part of the transport paths, where the mount faces (F) for the three-dimensional game objects (M1) on the supporter (1740) slope upward in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis (C);

(2) a configuration in which the height of the protrusion (1741) decreases (or the protrusion (1741) is not formed) at a certain part of the transport paths, where the protrusion (1741) is formed on the outer periphery of each of the mount faces (F) for the three-dimensional game objects (M1) on the supporter (1740); and

(3) a configuration in which the width of the mount faces (F) for the three-dimensional game objects (M1) on the supporter (1740) decreases at a certain part of the transport paths.

That the support force “decreases at an upper part on the transport paths” indicates that, when focusing on a first point on the transport paths and a second point higher than the first point, the support force acting at the second point is lower than that acting at the first point.

A preferred example of any of appendices A1 to A4 includes a discharge guide (1771,1790) configured to move the three-dimensional game objects (M1) transported by the transport path in a direction away from the rotation axis (C).

In the above aspect, the three-dimensional game objects (M1) transported by the transport path are moved in a direction away from the rotation axis (C) by the discharge guide (1771,1790). That is, the three-dimensional game objects (M1) are discharged from the transport paths. Therefore, a possibility that the three-dimensional game objects (M1) remain on the transport paths to a greater extent than necessary can be reduced.

A specific mode of the “discharge guide (1771,1790)” may be freely selected. For example, a slope (for example, a curved surface in the shape of a truncated cone) at an angle with respect to the direction of the rotation axis (C), or a protrusion located above the transport paths and coming into contact with (abutting on) the three-dimensional game objects (M1) is a specific example of the discharge guide (1771,1790).

A preferred example of any of appendices A1 to A5 includes an encircling member (1750) located on an opposite side across the plurality of guides (1760) relative to the supporter (1740), and an interval between an outer periphery of the supporter (1740) and the encircling member (1750) is smaller than the outside diameter of the three-dimensional game object (M1).

In the above aspect, because the encircling member (1750) is mounted on the opposite side across each of the guides (1760) relative to the supporter (1740), a possibility of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) falling from the supporter (1740) can be reduced.

While the encircling member (1750) is basically mounted at a position spaced from the guides (1760), the encircling member (1750) may be in contact with the guides (1760).

While a typical example of the encircling member (1750) is a tubular member encircling the supporter (1740) and the guides (1760), the encircling member (1750) may be of any specific shape. For example, the encircling member (1750) can be constituted by a plurality of elongated members along the rotation axis (C).

In a preferred example of appendix A6, the three-dimensional game objects (M1) move through the transport paths while in contact with the supporter (1740), the guide (1760), and the encircling member (1750).

In the above aspect, because the three-dimensional game objects (M1) move while being in contact with the supporter (1740), the guide (1760), and the encircling member (1750), the three-dimensional game objects (M1) can be reliably transported by reducing a possibility of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) falling from the supporter (1740).

Although the three-dimensional game objects (M1) are in contact with the supporter (1740), the guide (1760), and the encircling member (1750), the three-dimensional game objects (M1) and the encircling member (1750) need not maintain contact with each other throughout the entire transport paths.

In a preferred example of appendix A6 or A7, a gap between first end parts (E1) of two guides (1760) adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction of the rotation axis (C) is an intake port (1710) for supplying the three-dimensional game objects (M1) to each of the transport paths, where the first end parts (E1) is exposed from an end of the encircling member (1750) on a lower side of the transport paths.

In the above aspect, the three-dimensional game objects (M1) are taken into the transport paths through the intake ports (1710), each of which is a gap between the first end parts (E1) of two guides (1760) adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction, where the first end parts (E1) are exposed from an end (for example, a lower end) of the encircled member (1750). Therefore, the three-dimensional game objects (M1) can be supplied to the transport paths by use of a relatively simple configuration in which the first end parts (E1) of the guides (1760) are exposed from the encircling member (1750).

In a preferred example of any of appendices A6 to A8, a gap between second end parts (E2) of two guides (1760) adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction of the rotation axis (C) is a discharge port (1720) for discharging the three-dimensional game objects (M1) from the transport path, where the second end parts (E2) are exposed from an end on an upper side of each of the transport paths in a direction of the rotation axis (C).

In the above aspect, the three-dimensional game objects (M1) are discharged from the transport paths through the discharge ports (1720), each of which is a gap between the second end parts (E2) of two guides (1760) adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction, where the second end parts (E2) are exposed from an end of the encircling member (1750). Therefore, the three-dimensional game objects (M1) can be discharged from the transport paths by use of a relatively simple configuration in which the second end parts (E2) of the guides (1760) are not covered by the encircling member (1750).

A conveyor device (170ac) according to a preferred aspect of the present invention includes a supporter (1740) that extends in a helical manner along a rotation axis (C) and on which three-dimensional game objects (M1) are placed, and a plurality of guides (1760) that are located outside the supporter (1740) and are spaced from each other at intervals, each interval being larger than an outside diameter of each of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) and that extend along the rotation axis (C). By this configuration, there is formed for each of the plurality of guides (1760) a transport path configured to move the three-dimensional game objects (M1) along the rotation axis (C) while being in contact with the supporter (1740) and the guides (1760) with rotation of the supporter (1740), and a plurality of intake ports (1710) are provided for supplying the three-dimensional game objects (M1) to the transport paths, each intake port being constituted by a corresponding interval between two guides (1760) adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction of the rotation axis (C) among the plurality of guides (1760).

In the above configuration, the intake ports (1710) for supply of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) to the transport paths are formed, where each of the intake ports (1710) is a gap between two guides (1760) adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction of the rotation axis (C). That is, the guides (1760) for moving the three-dimensional game objects (M1) along the rotation axis (C) are also used to form the intake ports (1710). Therefore, the configuration of the conveyor device (170ac) can be simplified as compared to a configuration in which the three-dimensional game objects (M1) are supplied to the transport paths by a mechanism different from the guides (1760). Further, because the number of intake ports (1710) corresponding to a total number of intervals each constituted by a combination of two guides (1760) are formed, many three-dimensional game objects (M1) can be taken in parallel from the intake ports (1710) and many three-dimensional game objects (M1) can be transported in parallel by the transport paths.

Typically, the intake ports (1710) are formed at an end (for example, the lower end) of the supporter (1740). However, a configuration in which the intake ports (1710) are formed in the middle of the supporter (1740) in addition to the end (or instead of the end) is also included in the scope of the invention.

In a preferred example of appendix B1, the three-dimensional game objects (M1) are rollable regardless of an orientation of the three-dimensional game objects (M1), and a supplier (1780) having a slope (1781) that allows the three-dimensional game objects (M1) to roll toward each of the plurality of intake ports (1710) formed thereon is included.

In the above configuration, because the slope (1781) that allows the three-dimensional game objects (M1) to roll toward each of the intake ports (1710) is formed on the supplier (1780), many three-dimensional game objects (M1) can be efficiently supplied to the transport paths.

The “slope (1781)” is a flat surface, a curved surface, or a combination thereof. Further, “rollable regardless of the orientation” means that the three-dimensional game objects (M1) have a shape that enables rolling in any orientation under the action of an external force. For example, a spherical object is a typical example of a shape that is “rollable regardless of the orientation.” However, a polyhedron close to a spherical object is also included in the shapes that is “rollable regardless of the orientation.” On the other hand, a disk-shaped object such as a medal does not roll in an orientation with the flat, back side or front side down, but rolls when it is in a vertical orientation with the circular side (i.e., edge) down in contact with a rolling surface. Therefore, the disk-shaped object does not satisfy the condition that an object is “rollable regardless of the orientation.”

In a preferred example of appendix B2, the slope (1781) is a curved surface extending all around the rotation axis (C).

In the above configuration, because the slope (1781) of the supplier (1780) extends all around the rotation axis (C), the three-dimensional game objects (M1) are supplied to the intake ports (1710) in all directions around the rotation axis (C). Therefore, the effect described above that many three-dimensional game objects (M1) can be efficiently supplied to each of the transport paths is of notable significance.

The “slope (1781)” can be either linear or curved in a cross section including the rotation axis (C). For example, a curved surface having the inside diameter continuously decreasing at a position closer to the intake ports (1710) as the side surface of a truncated cone or a concave (for example, basin-like) curved surface is a typical example of the slope (1781).

In a preferred example of appendix B2 or B3, a maximum angle of the slope (1781) with respect to a horizontal plane is 20° or smaller.

In the above configuration, because the angle of the slope (1781) is suppressed to 200 or smaller, three-dimensional game objects (M1) are sequentially supplied to the transport paths without overlapping each other. Therefore, occurrence of a phenomenon (a bridge phenomenon) in which three-dimensional game objects (M1) are clogged near the intake ports (1710) can be suppressed. The angle of the slope (1781) to the horizontal plane may vary along the slope (1781).

In a preferred example of any of appendices B2 to B4, a first guide (51) configured to guide the three-dimensional game objects (M1) to some or all of the plurality of intake ports (1710) is formed on the slope (1781).

In the above configuration, because the three-dimensional game objects (M1) are guided on the slope (1781) by the first guide (51) to the intake ports (1710), the three-dimensional game objects (M1) can be efficiently supplied to the intake ports (1710). A portion that can regulate the direction of rolling of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) suffices as the first guide (51), and the first guide (51) is typically a protrusion or a groove formed on the slope (1781).

In a preferred example of appendix B5, the first guide (51) guides the three-dimensional game objects (M1) in a manner such that a plurality of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) is arrayed toward the intake ports (1710).

In the above configuration, because the three-dimensional game objects (M1) are guided in a manner such that a plurality of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) is arrayed toward the intake ports (1710), occurrence of clogging (the bridge phenomenon) due to concentration of many three-dimensional game objects (M1) on a narrow path can be suppressed. Although the first guide (51) may be of any specific configuration, a path with a width smaller than two outside diameters of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) is a preferred example of the first guide (51) as a configuration for arraying a plurality of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) toward the intake ports (1710).

A conveyor mechanism (170ac,340ac) according to a preferred aspect of the present invention includes: the conveyor device (170ac) of any of appendices B2 to B6; a path (340ac) on which the three-dimensional game objects (M1) supplied to the supplier (1780) move; and a regulator (52,53) configured to regulate movement of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) to be supplied to the supplier (1780) or to the path (340ac).

In the above configuration, because the three-dimensional game objects (M1) to be supplied from the path (340ac) to the supplier (1780) are regulated by the regulator (52,53), the three-dimensional game objects (M1) can be preferentially supplied to specific intake ports (1710) among a plurality of intake ports (1710).

The “regulator (52,53)” can be placed on either the supplier (1780) or the path (340ac). For example, the entire regulator (52,53) can be formed on either the path (340ac) or the supplier (1780). Alternatively, a part of the regulator (52,53) may be formed on the path (340ac) and another part of the regulator (52,53) may be formed on the supplier (1780).

In a preferred example of appendix B7, the regulator (52,53) includes a second guide (52) configured to guide the three-dimensional game objects (M1) traveling toward the supplier (1780) to lateral sides of the supporter (1740).

In the above configuration, because the three-dimensional game objects (M1) are guided by the second guide (52) to the lateral sides of the supporter (1740), the three-dimensional game objects (M1) can be preferentially supplied to intake ports (1710) formed at positions from the lateral sides to the back side of the supporter (1740), as viewed from the path (340ac) (that is, on the opposite side of the path (340ac) relative to the supporter (1740)).

In a preferred example of appendix B8, the second guide (52) guides the three-dimensional game objects (M1) traveling toward the supplier (1780) to intake ports (1710) on an opposite side of the supporter (1740) relative to the path (340ac) without traveling directly to intake ports (1710) on a side of the path (340ac) as viewed from the supporter (1740) among the plurality of intake ports (1710).

In a configuration that does not include any special feature for regulating movement of the three-dimensional game objects (M1), the three-dimensional game objects (M1) are likely to be supplied to intake ports (1710) on the path (340ac) side as viewed from the supporter (1740) among the plurality of intake ports (1710). According to the configuration in which the second guide (52) guides the three-dimensional game objects (M1) not to directly travel to intake ports (1710) on the path (340ac) side but to travel toward intake ports (1710) on the opposite side, the possibility of concentration of many three-dimensional game objects (M1) on intake ports (1710) on the path (340ac) side can be reduced.

In a preferred example of any of appendices B7 to B9, the regulator (52,53) includes a third guide (53) configured to guide the three-dimensional game objects (M1) toward intake ports (1710) on an opposite side of the supporter (1740) relative to the path (340ac).

According to the above configuration, the three-dimensional game objects (M1) can be preferentially supplied to intake ports (1710) on the opposite side to the path (340ac) among the plurality of intake ports (1710).

In a preferred example of appendix B10, the third guide (53) is formed with a height that allows the three-dimensional game objects (M1) to move beyond the third guide (53) due to pushing by other three-dimensional game objects (M1).

As described above, according to the configuration in which the third guide (53) is mounted, three-dimensional game objects (M1) are preferentially supplied to, among the plurality of intake ports (1710), intake ports (1710) that are on the opposite side of the supporter (1740) relative to the path (340ac). However, if too many three-dimensional game objects (M1) are concentrated at the intake ports (1710) on the opposite side to the path (340ac), defects such as clogging of three-dimensional game objects (M1) may occur. According to the configuration in which three-dimensional game objects (M1) are able to move beyond the third guide (53), three-dimensional game objects (M1) from the path (340ac) move beyond the third guide (53) and are supplied to intake ports (1710) on the path (340ac) side when three-dimensional game objects (M1) excessively concentrate at the intake ports (1710) on the opposite side to the path (340ac). Therefore, excessive concentration of three-dimensional game objects (M1) can be suppressed.

In a preferred example of any of appendices B7 to B9, the regulator (52,53) includes a third guide (53) configured to guide the three-dimensional game objects (M1) toward the intake ports (1710), and the third guide (53) is formed with a height that allows the three-dimensional game objects (M1) to move beyond the third guide (53) due to pushing by other three-dimensional game objects (M1).

A conveyor device (170ac) according to a preferred aspect of the present invention includes: a supporter (1740) that extends in a helical manner along the rotation axis (C) and on which three-dimensional game objects (M1) are placed; and a plurality of guides (1760) that are located outside the supporter (1740) and are spaced at intervals, with each interval being larger than an outside diameter of each three-dimensional game object (M1) and that extend along the rotation axis (C). In this configuration, a transport path is formed for each of the plurality of guides (1760), wherein the transport path moves the three-dimensional game objects (M1) in contact with the supporter (1740) and the guides (1760) along the rotation axis (C) due to rotation of the supporter (1740), and a plurality of discharge ports (1720) for discharging the three-dimensional game objects (M1) from the transport paths are formed. Each of the discharge ports (1720) consists of a gap between two guides (1760) adjacent to each other in a circumferential direction of the rotation axis (C) among the plurality of guides (1760).

In the above configuration, the discharge ports (1720) for discharging the three-dimensional game objects (M1) from the transport paths are formed, where each of the discharge ports (1720) consists of a gap between two guides (1760) adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction of the rotation axis (C). That is, the guides (1760) for moving the three-dimensional game objects (M1) along the rotation axis (C) are also used for formation of the discharge ports (1720). Therefore, the configuration of the conveyor device (170ac) can be simplified as compared to a configuration in which the three-dimensional game objects (M1) are discharged from the transport paths by use of a mechanism different from the guides (1760).

Typically, the discharge ports (1720) are formed at an end (for example, the upper end) of the supporter (1740). However, a configuration including the discharge ports (1720) formed in the middle of the supporter (1740) in addition to the end (or in place of the end) is also included in the scope of the invention.

A preferred example of appendix C1 includes a discharge guide (1771,1790) configured to move the three-dimensional game objects (M1) transported by the transport paths in directions away from the rotation axis (C).

In the above aspect, the three-dimensional game objects (M1) transported by the transport paths are moved by the discharge guide (1771,1790) in directions away from the rotation axis (C). That is, the three-dimensional game objects (M1) are discharged from the transport paths. Therefore, a possibility that the three-dimensional game object (M1) will stay on the transport paths for longer than necessary can be reduced.

A specific mode of the “discharge guide (1771,1790)” can be freely selected. For example, a slope (for example, a curved surface in the shape of a truncated cone) at an angle to the direction of the rotation axis (C) or a protrusion mounted in a downstream of the transport paths and abutting on the three-dimensional game objects (M1) is a specific example of the discharge guide (1771,1790).

In a preferred example of appendix C1 or C2, a support force on the three-dimensional game objects (M1) applied by the supporter (1740) decreases near the discharge ports (1720) on the transport paths.

In the above aspect, because the support force on the three-dimensional game objects (M1) applied by the supporter (1740) decreases near the discharge ports (1720), the three-dimensional game objects (M1) can be efficiently discharged from the discharge ports (1720).

Appendix D

For example, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 2013-99632, a pusher game apparatus that moves disk-shaped token coins fed in a game field has been proposed. A lift hopper or the like that moves the token coins along a rail is used to transport the token coins to a feeding portion in the pusher game apparatus.

Elements (hereafter, “game object utilizers”) that use game objects such as token coins are provided in a game apparatus. In a case where a special mechanism that supplies game objects to each of the game object utilizers with a predetermined ratio in the number is provided, a problem arises in that the configuration of the game apparatus becomes complex. In view of the above circumstances, a preferred aspect (appendix D) of the present invention has as an object sorting of the game objects into the game object utilizers without need of a special mechanism.

A conveyor mechanism according to a preferred aspect of the present invention includes: a conveyor device (170ac) configured to transport a plurality of three-dimensional game objects (M1) and discharge the plurality of three-dimensional game objects (M1) from each of a plurality of discharge ports (1720); and a plurality of game object utilizers (230a,240a,250a) configured to use the three-dimensional game objects (M1) discharged from each of the plurality of discharge ports (1720), and first discharge ports (1720A) among the plurality of discharge ports (1720) discharge the three-dimensional game objects (M1) in a direction toward a first game object utilizer (230a,240a) from among the plurality of game object utilizers (230a,240a,250a), second discharge ports (1720B) different from the first discharge ports (1720A) from among the plurality of discharge ports (1720) discharge the three-dimensional game objects (M1) in a direction toward a second game object utilizer (240a,250a) different from the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) from among the plurality of game object utilizers (230a,240a,250a), and the number of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) discharged from the first discharge ports (1720A) to the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) and the number of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) discharged from the second discharge ports (1720B) to the second game object utilizer (240a,250a) are different.

In the above configuration, the three-dimensional game objects (M1) transported by the conveyor device (170ac) are discharged in a direction from the first discharge ports (1720A) to the first game object utilizer (230a,240a), and are discharged in a direction from the second discharge ports (1720B) to the second game object utilizer (240a,250a). Therefore, the three-dimensional game objects (M1) transported by the conveyor device (170ac) can be sorted into the game object utilizers (230a,240a,250a) without need of a special mechanism to change the discharge direction of the transported three-dimensional game objects (M1). Because the number of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) supplied from the first discharge ports (1720A) to the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) and the number of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) supplied from the second discharge ports (1720B) to the second game object utilizer (240a,250a) are different, the ratio between the number of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) supplied to the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) and the number of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) supplied to the second game object utilizer (240a,250a) a predetermined value of the number of objects supplied can be approximated.

“Discharging the three-dimensional game objects (M1) in a direction toward a first game object utilizer (230a,240a)” means discharging the three-dimensional game objects (M1) to be preferentially supplied to the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) among the game object utilizers (230a,240a,250a), and includes, for example, discharging the three-dimensional game objects (M1) in a direction of a supply path (231a,241a,251a) corresponding to the first game object utilizer (230a,240a). The above description does not exclude supply of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) to a game object utilizer (230a,240a,250a), alternatively to supply to the first game object utilizer (230a,240a). For example, even in a case in which the three-dimensional game objects (M1) are discharged from the first discharge ports (1720A) in a direction toward the first game object utilizer (230a,240a), the three-dimensional game objects (M1) can further move without being supplied to the first game object utilizer (230a,240a), and can be supplied to another game object utilizer (230a,240a,250a) in a state in which entry of three-dimensional game objects (M1) to the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) is restricted (an entry restricted state). The conveyor device (170ac) transports, for example, the three-dimensional game objects (M1) through each of a plurality of transport paths corresponding to different discharge ports (1720). However, one transport path may be shared by a plurality of discharge ports (1720). That is, three-dimensional game objects (M1) transported by one transport path are discharged from a plurality of discharge ports (1720).

In a preferred example of appendix D1, a total number of the game object utilizers (230a,240a,250a) is less than a total number of the discharge ports (1720), and the number of the first discharge ports (1720A) differs from the number of the second discharge ports (1720B).

In the above configuration, because the number of the first discharge ports (1720A) and the number of the second discharge ports (1720B) are different, the number of three-dimensional game objects (M1) supplied to the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) and the number of three-dimensional game objects (M1) supplied to the second game object utilizer (240a,250a) can also be made different.

In a preferred example of appendix D1 or D2, a size of an opening of a supply path (231a,241a,251a) for the three-dimensional game objects (M1) to the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) and a size of an opening of a communication path (313) to which the three-dimensional game objects (M1) discharged from the second discharge ports (1720B) travel are different.

In the above configuration, because the size of the opening of the supply path (231a,241a,251a) for the three-dimensional game objects (M1) to the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) and the size of the opening of the communication path (313) to which the three-dimensional game objects (M1) discharged from the second discharge ports (1720B) travel are different, the number of three-dimensional game objects (M1) supplied to the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) and the number of three-dimensional game objects (M1) supplied to the second game object utilizer (240a,250a) can be made different. It is of note that the size of the opening of the supply path (231a,241a,251a) for the three-dimensional game objects (M1) to the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) and the size of the opening of the supply path (231a,241a,2511a) for the three-dimensional game objects (M1) to the second game object utilizer (240a,250a) may be made different.

The number of the supply paths (231a,241a,251a) for the three-dimensional game object (M1) to each of the game object utilizers (230a,240a,250a) is not limited to one. In a configuration in which a plurality of supply paths (231a,241a,251a) are formed for the game object utilizer (230a,240a,250a), the “size of the opening of the supply path (231a,241a,251a)” corresponding to the game object utilizer (230a,240a,250a) may be interpreted as the sum of the sizes of the openings of the plurality of supply paths (231a,241a,251a). The number of the communication paths (313) also is not limited to one. In a configuration in which a plurality of communication paths (313) are formed, the “size of the opening of the communication path (313)” can be interpreted as the sum of the sizes of the openings of the plurality of communication paths (313).

The size of the opening of the supply path (231a,241a,251a) refers to the area of an opening to which the three-dimensional game objects (M1) enter on the supply path (231a,241a,251a). Similarly, the size of the opening of the communication path (313) refers to the area of an opening to which the three-dimensional game objects (M1) enter on the communication path (313).

In a preferred example of appendix D3, the opening of the supply path (231a,241a,251a) for the three-dimensional game objects (M1) to the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) is larger than the opening of the supply path (231a,241a,251a) for the three-dimensional game objects (M1) to the second game object utilizer (240a,250a).

According to the above configuration, the three-dimensional game objects (M1) can be supplied preferentially to the first game object utilizer (230a,240a).

In a preferred example of any of appendices D1 to D4, the three-dimensional game objects (M1) discharged in a direction from the first discharge ports (1720A) to the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) move toward the second game object utilizer (240a,250a) in a case in which the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) is in an entry restricted state.

In the above configuration, the three-dimensional game objects (M1) move toward the second game object utilizer (240a,250a) away from the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) in a case in which the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) is in the entry restricted state. Thus, the three-dimensional game objects (M1) discharged from the conveyor device (170ac) can be effectively used.

The three-dimensional game objects (M1) that have moved from the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) toward the second game object utilizer (240a,250a) do not actually need to be supplied to the second game object utilizer (240a,250a). For example, in a case in which the second game object utilizer (240a,250a) is in the entry restricted state, the three-dimensional game objects (M1) move further away from the second game object utilizer (240a,250a) toward another location (for example, another game object utilizer).

In a preferred example of appendix D4 or D5, the supply path (231a,241a,251a) for the three-dimensional game objects (M1) to the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) is located at a higher position than the supply path (231a,241a,251a) for the three-dimensional game objects (M1) to the second game object utilizer (240a,250a).

According to the above configuration, the three-dimensional game objects (M1) can be easily moved from the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) to the second game object utilizer (240a,250a) in a case in which the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) is in the entry restricted state.

A conveyor mechanism according to a preferred aspect of the present invention includes: a conveyor device (170ac) configured to transport a plurality of three-dimensional game objects (M1) and discharge the plurality of three-dimensional game objects (M1) from each of a plurality of discharge ports (1720); and a plurality of game object utilizers (230a,240a,250a) configured to use the three-dimensional game objects (M1) discharged from each of the plurality of discharge ports (1720), where first discharge ports (1720A) among the plurality of discharge ports (1720) discharge the three-dimensional game objects (M1) in a direction toward a first game object utilizer (230a,240a) among the plurality of game object utilizers (230a,240a,250a), and second discharge ports (1720B) different from the first discharge ports (1720A) among the plurality of discharge ports (1720) discharge the three-dimensional game objects (M1) in a direction toward a second game object utilizer (240a,250a) different from the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) among the plurality of game object utilizers (230a,240a,250a).

Appendix E

For example, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 2013-99632, disclosed in the art is a pusher game apparatus that moves disk-shaped token coins fed in a game field. A lift hopper or the like that moves the token coins along a rail is used to transport the token coins to a feeding portion in the pusher game apparatus.

Also assumed is use of game objects (for example, spherical game objects) that are rollable regardless of an orientation of the game objects, instead of token coins used in conventional pusher game apparatuses. In a configuration using three-dimensional game objects, a mechanism suitable for transporting the three-dimensional game objects is required in place of the lift hopper that transports the token coins. In view of these circumstances, a preferred aspect (appendix E) of the present invention has as an object provision of a technique that enables efficient transport of three-dimensional game objects.

A game apparatus (10) according to a preferred aspect of the present invention includes; a game field (110a) configured to provide a game in which three-dimensional game objects (M1) that are rollable regardless of an orientation of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) are used; a physical lottery portion (120a,130a,140ab) configured to perform a physical lottery; a path (310ac) configured to move the three-dimensional game objects (M1), the path including a first supply path (231a,241a) and a second supply path (241a,251a); a first game object utilizer (230a,240a) configured to use, of the three-dimensional game objects (M1), a part that enters from the first supply path (231a,241a) for a physical lottery performed by the physical lottery portion (120a,130a,140ab); and a second game object utilizer (240a,250a) configured to use, of the three-dimensional game objects (M1), a part that enters from the second supply path (241a,251a) for the game in the game field (110a).

According to the above configuration, three-dimensional game objects (M1) rolling on the path (310ac) are also used in the game in the game field (110a) and a physical lottery. Therefore, there is no need to separately install a mechanism that supplies game objects to the game field (110a) and a mechanism that supplies game objects to the physical lottery portion (120a,130a,140ab). As a result, a configuration of the game apparatus (10) can be simplified.

The “physical lottery” is a physical lottery in which the three-dimensional game objects (M1) are used. Specifically, a preferred example of the physical lottery is processing of determining winning of a prize when a three-dimensional game object (M1) passes through a specific one of the discharge paths, by use of a physical lottery portion (120a,130a,140ab) (distributer or accessory) that includes a rolling surface on which three-dimensional game objects (M1) roll, and a plurality of discharge paths through which the three-dimensional game objects (M1) are able to pass.

The “game field (110a)” is a space that provides a player with a game in which the three-dimensional game objects (M1) are used. For example, a preferred example of the game field (110a) is a space in which various games are provided, such games including a pusher game in which the three-dimensional game objects (M1) are used.

The “path (310ac)” has, for example, a slope that allows three-dimensional game objects (M1) to roll. While being typically a flat surface, the slope can include a curved surface having the slope angle changing on the path (310ac). A step may be included in the middle of the path (310ac). It is of note that a slope that allows three-dimensional game objects (M1) to roll under their own weight is not essential, for example, if the three-dimensional game objects (M1) can move on the path (310ac) using kinetic energy provided by a specific mechanism. There is also assumed a configuration in which the path (310ac) includes a first part on which the first supply path (231a,241a) is located and a second part on which the second supply path (241a,251a) is located, and in which one of the first part and the second part is a slope, and the other is a horizontal surface.

A preferred example of appendix E1 includes a conveyor device (170ac) configured to collect from among the three-dimensional game objects (M1) those used by the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) in the physical lottery, and those used by the second game object utilizer (240a,250a) in the game, and to transport the collected three-dimensional game objects (M1) upstream of the path (310ac).

According to the above configuration, three-dimensional game objects (M1) used in a game and three-dimensional game objects (M11) used in a physical lottery can be transported upstream of the path (310ac) to enable reuse thereof.

A configuration to “collect the three-dimensional game objects (M1) and to transport the collected three-dimensional game objects (M1) upstream of the path (310ac)” includes not only a configuration that transports all three-dimensional game objects (M1) collected after having been used, upstream of the path (310ac), but also a configuration that transports only some of the collected three-dimensional game objects (M1) upstream of the path (310ac). For example, three-dimensional game objects (M1) not transported to the upstream of the path (310ac) among the three-dimensional game objects (M1) collected after having been used may be used in other game object utilizers.

In a preferred example of appendix E1 or E2, the second game object utilizer (240a,250a) uses the three-dimensional game objects (M1) of the number determined according to a progress status of the game, for the physical lottery.

In a preferred example of any of appendices E1 to E3, the second supply path (241a,251a) is positioned downstream of the first supply path (231a,241a) on the path (310ac), and the number of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) used in the game by the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) is greater than the number of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) used in the physical lottery by the second game object utilizer (240a,250a).

According to the above configuration, the second supply path (241a,251a) is positioned downstream of the first supply path (231a,241a) on the path (310ac). Therefore, the three-dimensional game objects (M1) can be used preferentially for the game by the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) over the physical lottery by the second game object utilizer (240a,250a).

Appendix F

For example, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 2013-99632, disclosed in the art is a pusher game apparatus that moves disk-shaped token coins fed in a game field. A lift hopper or the like that moves the token coins along a rail is used to transport the token coins to a feeding portion in the pusher game apparatus.

Also assumed is use of game objects (for example, spherical game objects) that are rollable regardless of an orientation of the game objects, in place of token coins used in conventional pusher game apparatuses. In a configuration in which three-dimensional game objects are used, a mechanism suitable for transporting the three-dimensional game objects is required in place of the lift hopper that transports the token coins. In view of these circumstances, a preferred aspect (appendix F) of the present invention has as its object provision of a technique that enables efficient transport of three-dimensional game objects.

A game apparatus (10) according to a preferred aspect of the present invention is a game apparatus (10) for providing a game in which three-dimensional game objects (M1) that are rollable regardless of an orientation of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) are used, the game apparatus comprising: a path (310ac) configured to roll the three-dimensional game objects (M1), the path (310ac) including a first supply path (231a,241a) and a second supply path (241a,251a) positioned downstream of the first supply path (231a,241a); a first game object utilizer (230a,240a) configured to reserve and use a part of the three-dimensional game objects (M1), the part entering from the first supply path (231a,241a); and a second game object utilizer (240a,250a) configured to use a part of the three-dimensional game objects (M1), the part entering from the second supply path (241a,251a), and three-dimensional game objects (M1) rolling on the path (310ac) enter the first supply path (231a,241a) in a case in which the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) is not in an entry restricted state, and roll toward the second supply path (241a,251a) away from the first supply path (231a,241a) in a case in which the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) is in an entry restricted state.

In the above configuration, three-dimensional game objects (M1) rolling on the path (310ac) can enter the first supply path (231a,241a), and those of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) that enter the first supply path (231a,241a) are reserved for use by the first game object utilizer (230a,240a). In a case in which the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) is in the entry restricted state, the three-dimensional game objects (M1) roll toward the second supply path (241a,251a). Thus, the three-dimensional game objects (M1) can accordingly be preferentially supplied to the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) over the second game object utilizer (240a,250a).

In some cases, the three-dimensional game objects (M1) on the path (310ac) may roll toward the second supply path (241a,251a) without passing through the first supply path (231a,241a).

The term “downstream” refers to a direction in which the three-dimensional game objects (M1) may move. For example, in a configuration in which the path (310ac) includes a slope, a low-level side of the slope is “downstream.” That is, the second supply path (241a,251a) is positioned lower than the first supply path (231a,241a).

In a preferred example of appendix F1, the second game object utilizer (240a,250a) reserves a part of the three-dimensional game objects (M1), the part entering from the second supply path (241a,251a).

In the above configuration, when the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) is full, the three-dimensional game objects (M1) are reserved in the second game object utilizer (240a,250a). That is, the three-dimensional game objects (M1) can be reserved preferentially in the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) over the second game object utilizer (240a,250a).

A preferred example of appendix F1 or F2 includes a guide mounted on the path (310ac) and configured to guide the three-dimensional game objects (M1) to the first supply path (231a,241a).

In the above configuration, the guide is mounted on the path (310ac), and an effect thereby obtained of preferential reservation of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) in the first game object utilizer (230a,240a) is remarkable.

Appendix G

For example, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 2013-99632, a pusher game apparatus that moves disk-shaped token coins fed in a game field has been conventionally proposed.

In the conventional pusher game apparatus, token coins are merely stacked in the game field and there is room for improvement from the viewpoint of sufficiently providing a visual production effect. A preferred aspect (appendix G) of the present invention is a configuration provided in view of the above circumstances.

A game apparatus (10) according to a preferred aspect of the present invention includes: a feeding portion (461a) configured to feed a plurality of three-dimensional game objects (M1) that are rollable regardless of an orientation of the three-dimensional game objects (M1), a mount portion (44) including a first face (Q1) on which the plurality of three-dimensional game objects (M1) fed by the feeding portion (461a) are placed; and a discharger (446) configured to discharge the plurality of three-dimensional game objects (M1) placed on the mount portion (44), and the plurality of three-dimensional game objects (M1) fed by the feeding portion (461a) in a first state where the first face (Q1) is sloped with respect to a horizontal plane are arrayed in a single layer along the first face (Q1), and the three-dimensional game objects (M1) placed on the mount portion (44) in a second state where an angle of the first face (Q1) is changed from that in the first state roll to a low-level side of the first face (Q1), and are supplied to the discharger (446).

In the above configuration, three-dimensional game objects (M1) are arrayed in a single layer along the first face (Q1). Therefore, a state in which many three-dimensional game objects (M1) are placed on the first face (Q1) can be readily viewed by a player. Further, with a change in the angle of the first face (Q1), three-dimensional game objects (M1) roll on the first face (Q1) to a low-level side and are supplied to the discharger (446). As a result, dynamic movement of many three-dimensional game objects (M1) placed on the first face (Q1) at the same time toward the discharger (446) is realized.

Although basically provided as a flat surface, the first face (Q1) may be a curved surface. Further, “arrayed in a single layer” means that three-dimensional game objects (M1) are densely arranged along the first face (Q1) without being stacked in a perpendicular direction of the first face (Q1). It is of note that “(being) arrayed” is not limited to a state in which three-dimensional game objects (M1) are arranged in a linear state in a single line, but rather includes three-dimensional game objects (M1) that are arranged in a planar state. Specifically, the feeding portion (461a) feeds three-dimensional game objects (M1) in a manner such that the three-dimensional game objects (M1) fed from the feeding portion (461a) are caused to abut on existing three-dimensional game objects (M11) on the first face (Q1) in a direction parallel to the first face (Q1). According to the above configuration, three-dimensional game objects (M1) are arrayed in a single layer from a low-level side to a high-level side of the first face (Q1).

In a preferred example of appendix G1, the mount portion (44) includes a second face (Q2) sloped relative to a horizontal plane and intersecting with the first face (Q1), an edge (S11) on the low-level side of the first face (Q1) and an edge (S21) on a low-level side of the second face (Q2) are close to each other in the first state, and the feeding portion (461a) includes a first feeding portion (461b,461d) configured to feed the plurality of three-dimensional game objects (M1) from a high-level side of the first face (Q1), and a second feeding portion (461a,461c) configured to feed the plurality of three-dimensional game objects (M1) from a high-level side of the second face (Q2).

In the configuration described, three-dimensional game objects (M1) are fed from the respective high-level sides of the first face (Q1) and the second face (Q2) and the three-dimensional game objects (M1) accumulate on the low-level side of the first face (Q1) and the low-level side of the second face (Q2). Because the edge (S11) on the low-level side of the first face (Q1) and the edge (S21) on the low-level side of the second face (Q2) are close to each other, the three-dimensional game objects (M1) are arrayed from a part where the first face (Q1) and the second face (Q2) are close to each other, toward the ends at the respective high-level sides. Therefore, the three-dimensional game objects (M1) placed on the mount portion (44) can be easily viewed by players.

In a preferred example of appendix G2, with an angle of the first face (Q1) becoming close to an angle of the second face (Q2) in the second state, the plurality of three-dimensional game objects (M1) placed on the first face (Q1) and the second face (Q2) roll to the low-level side of the first face (Q1) and are supplied to the discharger (446).

In the above configuration, with the angle of the first face (Q1) becoming close to (ideally matching) the angle of the second face (Q2) in the second state, three-dimensional game objects (M1) on both the first face (Q1) and the second face (Q2) can be rolled to the low-level side of the first face (Q1) and supplied to the discharger (446).

A preferred example of any of appendices G1 to G3 includes a game field (110a) configured to provide a player with a game in which the plurality of three-dimensional game objects (M1) are used, wherein the mount portion (44) is located above the game field (110a), and at least a part of the mount portion (44) is configured to enable the plurality of three-dimensional game objects (M1) to be viewed from an opposite side across the mount portion (44) relative to the three-dimensional game objects (M1).

In the above configuration, because the mount portion (44) is located above the game field (110a), a space inside the game apparatus (10) can be effectively used. Further, at least a part of the mount portion (44) enables three-dimensional game objects (M1) to be viewed from the opposite side across the mount portion (44) relative to the three-dimensional game objects (M1). That is, a player can view three-dimensional game objects (M1) from the side of the game field (110a) through the mount portion (44). Therefore, a state in which many three-dimensional game objects (M1) are placed on the mount portion (44) is enabled to be effectively viewed by a player.

“Enable ( . . . ) to be viewed” means that the mount portion (44) transmits light. A typical example of a configuration that “enables ( . . . ) to be viewed” is a configuration in which the mount portion (44) is formed from a light transmissive member. However, for example, a configuration in which the mount portion (44) is formed in a net-like manner is also included in the concept that “enables ( . . . ) to be viewed” because light transmits through the mount portion (44).

A preferred example of any of appendices G1 to G3 includes a plurality of game fields (110a,110b,110c,110d) each configured to provide a game in which the plurality of three-dimensional game objects (M1) are used, and the mount portion (44) is located above the plurality of game fields (110a,110b,110c,110d) across the plurality of game fields (110a,110b,110c,110d), and at least a part of the mount portion (44) is configured to enable the plurality of three-dimensional game objects (M1) to be viewed from the opposite side across the mount portion (44) relative to the three-dimensional game objects (M1).

In a preferred example of appendix G5, a plurality of game fields (110a,110b,110c,110d) include a first game field (110a) and a second game field (110b,110c,110d), the feeding portion (461) includes a first feeding portion (461a) configured to feed the three-dimensional game objects (M1) in accordance with a status of a play of a game in the first game field (110a) and a second feeding portion (461b,461c,461d) configured to feed the three-dimensional game objects (M1) in accordance with a status of play of a game in the second game field (110b,110c,110d), and the plurality of three-dimensional game objects (M1) placed on the mount portion (44) are distributed unevenly on a region corresponding to one of the first feeding portion (461a) and the second feeding portion (461b,461c,461d) that has fed a larger number of the three-dimensional game objects (M1).

In the above configuration, because three-dimensional game objects (M1) are distributed unevenly on a region corresponding to one of the first feeding portion (461a) and the second feeding portion (461b,461c,461d) that has fed a larger number of the three-dimensional game objects (M1), it is possible to infer a game field in which a game that has contributed to accumulation of three-dimensional game objects (M1) on the mount portion (44) among the game fields has been played (further, a player that has contributed to the accumulation), from the distribution of the three-dimensional game objects (M1).

The “region corresponding to one that has fed a larger number of the three-dimensional game objects (M1)” is, for example, a region close to one having fed a larger number of three-dimensional game objects (M1) among the feeding portions (461a,461b,461c,461d). However, such a region is not limited to that described above. For example, assumed is the configuration described above in which the mount portion (44) includes the first face (Q1) and the second face (Q2). The first feeding portion (461b,461d) feeds three-dimensional game objects (M1) onto the first face (Q1) from the high-level side of the first face (Q1). The second feeding portion (461a,461c) feeds three-dimensional game objects (M1) onto the second face (Q2) from the high-level side of the second face (Q2). In the above configuration, the “region corresponding to one that has fed a larger number of the three-dimensional game objects (M1)” is at least a partial region on the first face (Q1) when the number of three-dimensional game objects (M1) fed by the first feeding portion (461b,461d) is larger, and is at least a partial region on the second face (Q2) when the number of three-dimensional game objects (M1) fed by the second feeding portion (461a,461c) is larger. For example, the “region corresponding to one that has fed a larger number of the three-dimensional game objects (M1)” is, for example, a slope at an angle from a position near one of the feeding portions (461a,461b,461c,461d) that has fed a larger number of three-dimensional game objects (M1) to a low-level side.

In a preferred example of any of appendices G4 to G6, the plurality of three-dimensional game objects (M1) are light transmissive, and a planar light source (413) installed on an opposite side across the mount portion (44) relative to the game field (110a) is included.

In the above configuration, illumination light from the planar light source (413) transmits through the three-dimensional game objects (M1) and the mount portion (44) to be output to the side of the game field (110a). That is, light appropriately scattered by three-dimensional game objects (M1) on the mount portion (44) and transmitted through the mount portion (44) is viewed by a player. Therefore, the visual production effect can be increased.

The “planar light source (413)” is an illuminating device that emits light in a planar manner. Specifically, the concept of the “planar light source (413)” includes a light source including a plurality of point light sources or line light sources arrayed in a planner manner, in addition to a light source (413) including a light emitter formed to have a planar shape.

In a preferred example of appendices G1 to G7, the first face (Q1) includes a first edge (S11) and a second edge (S12) opposing each other, the first edge (S11) is located at a lower position than the second edge (S12) in the first state, and the second edge (S12) is located at a lower position than the first edge (S11) in the second state.

In the above configuration, three-dimensional game objects (M1) arrayed near the first edge (S11) in the first state move at the same time to a place near the second edge (S12) due to a change to the second state. Therefore, effective production in which many three-dimensional game objects (M1) greatly move at the same time is realized.

A game apparatus (10) according to a preferred aspect of the present invention includes: a feeding portion (461a) configured to feed a plurality of three-dimensional game objects (M1) that are rollable regardless of the orientation of the three-dimensional game objects (M1); a mount portion (44) including a first face (Q1) on which the plurality of three-dimensional game objects (M1) fed by the feeding portion (461a) are placed; and a game field (110a) configured to provide a game in which the plurality of three-dimensional game objects (M1) are used to a player, and the plurality of three-dimensional game objects (M1) fed by the feeding portion (461a) are arrayed in a single layer along the first face (Q1), a virtual viewpoint (V) of the player is within a space below the first face (Q1), and at least a part of the mount portion (44) is configured to enable the player to view the plurality of three-dimensional game objects (M1) from an opposite side across the mount portion (44) relative to the three-dimensional game objects (M1).

In the above configuration, the three-dimensional game objects (M1) are arrayed in a single layer along the first face (Q1) and the player is positioned in a space below the first face (Q1). Therefore, most of the three-dimensional game objects (M1) on the mount portion (44) can be viewed by the player through the mount portion (44). That is, a state in which many three-dimensional game objects (M1) are placed on the mount portion (44) is effectively enabled to be viewed by the player.

The virtual viewpoint (V) of the player means the position (eye point) of the eyes of a virtual player playing a game provided by the game field (110a). The virtual viewpoint (V) means the position of the eyes of a virtual player of average physical size in a seated state in a case in which, from a point of view of use-status of the game apparatus (10), a player is supposed to play a game in a seated state, and means the position of the eyes of the player of an average physical size in a standing state in a case in which, from a point of view of use-status of the game apparatus (10), a player is supposed to play a game in a standing state.

The virtual viewpoint (V) is not necessarily limited only to one point, and is assumed to be within a specific range having a spatial extent. “A virtual viewpoint (V) of the player is located in a space below a plane including the first face (Q1)” means that a specific space supposed to include the virtual viewpoint (V) is located below a plane including the first face (Q1).

Focusing on tangent planes respectively passing through contact points between three-dimensional game objects (M1) placed on the first face (Q1) of the mount portion (44) and the first face (Q1) (planes being in contact with spherical three-dimensional game objects (M1) on the contact points), the “space below the first face (Q1)” means a space located below in the vertical direction viewed from the tangent planes of all the three-dimensional game objects (M1) placed on the first face (Q1). In a configuration where the first face (Q1) is a flat surface, a space below a flat surface including the first face (Q1) is the “space below the first face (Q1).” However, the first face (Q1) is not limited to a flat surface. For example, if a condition that the virtual viewpoint (V) of a player is located in the “space below the first face (Q1)” in the definition described above is satisfied, the first face (Q1) may be a curved surface (for example, a spherical surface or an arc surface). For example, an arc surface having a small curvature can satisfy this condition. A curved surface constituting the first face (Q1) is ideally a curved surface that is formed in such a manner that in a space above the tangent plane there is no contact point where the virtual viewpoint (V) is located.

In a preferred example of appendix G9, a plurality of virtual viewpoints (V) corresponding to different positions of players are located in a space below the first face (Q1).

According to the above configuration, placement of many three-dimensional game objects (M1) on the mount portion (44) can be viewed from a plurality of positions where players of the game apparatus (10) may be located. Ideally, all of the virtual viewpoints (V) are located in a space below the first face (Q1).

DESCRIPTION OF REFERENCE SIGNS