Displaying device for game machines

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is based on Japanese Patent Applications 2005-146976 filed May 19, 2005 and 2005-226783 filed Aug. 4, 2005, upon which priority is claimed.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to a displaying device for game machines, which installed into the game machines including pachinko machines and slot machines.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The game machines disclosed in the reference documents 1 and 2 (FIG. 5 to FIG. 7) have a plurality of displaying devices which are fitted as an unit as the same as the present invention. In this case, as a matter of convenience, electronic display with flat or curved surface, slot machine with mechanical rotating drum, electronic or mechanical displaying device with rotating plate, electronic or mechanical displaying device with belt shape or the like are called “displaying means”.

The movable display body of the reference document is attached the first displaying means having a rotating drum, which is formed in the shape of a matrix, to the front side thereof, provided the second displaying means which differs from the first displaying means at the plan side thereof and provided the third displaying means which differs from the first and second displaying means at the back side thereof.

Therefore, since the plurality of displaying means to appeal to the sight of the players for playing the game connect integrally around the movable display body, it makes the movable display body to rotate at the predetermined degrees (90 degrees, for example) by drive force of the drive motor so that it makes to change from the first displaying means to the second displaying means or from the second displaying means to the third displaying means as a merit.

Accordingly, the movable display body disclosed in the reference documents is arranged rotatably the displaying surface of each displaying means at the back of the base plate so as to appear selectively through the opening of the base plate of the front member (it means a game frame) of the pachinko machine, for example.

And now, FIG. 32 is a schematic explanation view pointing out the controversial points (the possibility for rotating the movable display body 1) of the prior art. The movable display body 1 of the prior art needs to attach each displaying surface 2a, 3a, 4a of the first displaying means 2, second displaying means 3, third displaying means 4 through a required space 6 against a glass plate 5a of the front member 5 of the game machines.

When there is no enough required space 6 between the fixed shaft 7 (center shaft which does not change its position) and glass plate 5a which are provided at the center portion of the movable display body; and the movable display body 1 is arranged at the back portion of the front member 5 as shown in FIG. 32, the movable display body 1 rotates clockwise at the supporting point of the fixed shaft 7 as shown in the phantom arrow 8 so that the edge of the first displaying means 2 hits or contact the glass plate 5a.

Therefore, in order to solve the problem, when the fixed shaft 7 of the movable display body 1 is held off the glass plate 5a, each displaying surface 2a, 3a, 4a of the movable display body 1 gets away from the glass plate 5a remarkably.

For this problem, it appears prominently in the case that one of the displaying means 2, 3, 4 dose not have the measure (width or thickness) corresponding to the radius of the movable display body 1. It means that the movable display body 1 rotates centering on the fixed shaft 7.

So at present it has high hopes of appearance of the displaying device for game machines that the edge of the chassis does not hit or contact the glass plate although the movable display body with single or plural square-shaped displaying surfaces of the displaying means (LC screen, rectangle or belt-shaped wide display or the like, for example) rotates, and the displaying surface of the displaying means does not get away from the glass plate remarkably before and after it changes.

Reference document 1: Japanese published unexamined application No. 2004-188159; and

Reference document 2: Japanese published unexamined application No. 2004-290221.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

(1) Although the movable display body with single or plural square-shaped displaying surfaces of the displaying means rotates (switches the displaying surface alternatively) around the chassis (right and left displaying surfaces are changed alternatively), each displaying surface of the displaying means does not get away from the transparent plate of the front member of the game machines. In particular, during the movable display body rotates, the edge of the chassis does not project from the tip portion of the fixed member of the displaying device as much as possible.

(2) It can achieve the purpose of above-mentioned (1) by easy and rational mechanism.

(3) For example, when the displaying device of the game machines is exchanged to other device (it changes for a new device), it can achieve the exchanging effect of a new device easily only by switching one displaying means of the movable display body to other displaying means by drive force of the drive motor or manual operation.

(4) For example, when the game is played, the displaying means can be changed automatically by drive force of the drive motor. In particular, the changed displaying surface of the displaying means can be directed to the player.

(5) Depending on example of the present invention, the belt-shaped displaying means can be attached to the chassis of the movable display body easily, and two or more continuous displaying surfaces can be used effectively.

(6) Depending on the embodiments, movable displaying surface can rotate vertically or horizontally in a balanced manner.

The displaying device for game machines, installing in a back side of a front member of the game machines, having the movable display body with means for indicating, capable of appearing selectively at the rear of a transparent plate of said front member, includes the movable display body which is supported switchably by a fixed member having a guided part or a guide piece; and the displaying means which is switched by a working piece provided at the side of the movable display body, capable of reciprocating, and one of the guide piece and the guided part, which are provided at the side of the movable display body, which engage with the guide piece or the guided part and move the working piece in concert.

In addition, the displaying device for game machines, installing in a back side of a front member of the game machines, having the movable display body with means for indicating, capable of appearing selectively at the rear of a transparent plate of the front member, includes the movable display body which is supported switchably by a fixed member having a guided part or a guide piece; and the displaying means which is switched by a working piece provided at the side of the movable display body, capable of reciprocating by drive force of a drive motor and one of the guide piece and the guided part, which are provided at the side of the movable display body, which engage with the guide piece or guided part and move the working piece in concert.

Moreover, the displaying device for game machines, installing in a back side of a front member of the game machines, having the movable display body with means for indicating, capable of appearing selectively at the rear of a transparent plate of the front member, includes the movable display body which is supported switchably by a fixed member having a guided part or a guide piece; and the displaying means is an electronic displaying means which is formed in the shape of a belt and installed into a chassis of the movable display body, having a switchable display surface, which is switched by a working piece provided at a side of the movable display body, capable of reciprocating by drive force of a drive motor and one of the guide piece and the guided part, which are provided at the side of the movable display body, which engage with the guide piece or the guided part and move the working piece in concert.

The word of movable display body” is a displaying device that the displaying device which appeals to the vision of the player changes repeatedly when one chassis for single or plural displaying devices rotates without any connection of the same kind or different kind of displaying device for an appearance and function.

In addition, the chassis rotates within the predetermined degrees (60 degrees, for example) through the movable guide means (guide piece or guided part, for example) engaged with the fixed member. Accordingly, the chassis (prior art) which can rotate at 360 degrees through the fixed shaft is excluded.

In addition, the word of “displaying means” includes electronic display with flat or curved surface, sot machine with mechanical rotating drum, electronic or mechanical displaying device with rotating plate, electronic or mechanical displaying device with belt shape or the like.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1 to 12 show the explanation views of the first embodiment of the present invention respectively; FIGS. 13 to 17 show the explanation views of the second embodiment of the present invention respectively; FIGS. 18 and 19 show the explanation views of the third embodiment of the present invention; FIGS. 20 to 28 show the explanation views of the fourth embodiment of the present invention; and FIGS. 29 and 30 show the explanation views of the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a suitable example of the present invention (example which is suitable for a pachinko machine);

FIG. 2(a) is an explanation view from an anterior view and FIG. 2(b) is an explanation view from a plane view;

FIG. 3(a) is a perspective view and FIG. 3(b) is a perspective view showing a condition of a movable display body;

FIG. 4(a) is an explanation view from the right side and

FIG. 4(b) is an explanation view of a shape of a sidewall part;

FIG. 5(a) is a perspective view in mid-course and FIG. 5(b) is a perspective view showing a condition of a movable display body;

FIG. 6(a) is a perspective view when in switching and

FIG. 6(b) is a perspective view showing a condition of a movable display body;

FIG. 7 is an explanation view from the right side;

FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of a main part;

FIGS. 9(a), (b) and (c) are explanation views at an initial condition;

FIGS. 10(a), (b) and (c) are explanation views in mid-course;

FIGS. 11(a), (b) and (c) are explanation views showing the way in which displaying means is switched;

FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of a power supply circuit;

FIG. 13(a) is an explanation view from an anterior view and FIG. 13(b) is an explanation view from a plane view showing a second embodiment;

FIG. 14(a) is a perspective view and FIG. 14(b) is a perspective view showing a condition of a movable display body;

FIG. 15 is an explanation view from the right side;

FIG. 16(a) is a perspective view in mid-course and FIG. 16(b) is a perspective view showing a condition of a movable display body;

FIG. 17(a) is a perspective view showing a way in switching and FIG. 17(b) is a perspective view showing a condition of a movable display body;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a movable display body showing a third embodiment;

FIG. 19 is an exploded perspective view of a movable display body;

FIG. 20 is a front view showing the way in which a first displaying means of a movable display body is directed to a player showing a fourth embodiment;

FIG. 21 is a plan view based on FIG. 20;

FIG. 22 is a schematic perspective view;

FIG. 23 is an exploded perspective view of a main part;

FIG. 24 is a further exploded perspective view of a main part;

FIG. 25(a) and (b) are front and plan view at an initial condition;

FIG. 26(a) and (b) are front and plan view in mid-course;

FIG. 27(a) and (b) are front and plan view showing the way in which displaying means changes;

FIG. 28 is a schematic explanation view of a trajectory of a guide piece;

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of a movable display body showing a fifth embodiment;

FIG. 30 is an exploded perspective view of a movable display body;

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of another example (slot machine, for example) of the present invention; and

FIG. 32 is a schematic explanation view pointing out the controversial points of the prior art.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Preferred embodiment (first embodiment) of the present invention is described in more detail below referring to the accompanying drawings. An understanding of the present invention may be best gained by reference of FIGS. 1 to 12.

(1) Environment of Practice of this Invention

FIG. 1 is a schematic explanation view of an example of the embodiment of the present invention. Reference numeral 11 is a pachinko machine having a front member, a displaying device and he like in FIG. 1. Reference numeral 12 is the front member which is called “game frame”, having an openable frame 13 which can lock, a transparent plate 14 (glass plate, for example) which is provided to the openable frame 13 and a base plate 15, which is formed in the shape of a rectangle, which is provided at the rear part of the transparent plate 14 through a predetermined space.

The displaying device for game machines X of the present invention is arranged (including the attachment device) at the backside of the base plate 15 so as to watch each displaying surface 2a and 3a of the displaying means 2, 3 of the movable display body 1 (as a matter of convenience, the same reference numerals in FIG. 21 are used here) from an opening 16 of the base plate 15. The detailed explanation of the pachinko machine X which is unrelated to this invention is omitted.

(2) Displaying Means, Displaying Surface, Movable Display Body

The words for the main parts of the present invention are explained here. The words of “displaying means 2, 3 and movable display body 1” mean the same as the meaning in the explanation of the paragraph of the background of the invention. Accordingly, “displaying means” of the present invention includes electronic or mechanical displaying devices relevant to the games.

In addition, the displaying surface of the present invention includes the same or different kind of the displaying surface without the appearance or function. In other word, when the displaying surface 2a of the first displaying means 2 changes to the displaying surface 3a of the second displaying means 3, the content of the displaying surface 3a is the same as the content of the displaying surface 2a (both displays are the initial screen, rotating drum screen, for example) as well as the different content of the displaying surface 2a (for example, the displaying surface 2a indicates the rotating drum screen, on the other hand, the displaying surface 3a indicates another screen).

In addition, at least one of the displaying means 2 and 3 is used to play the game, and another may be used to indicate information for the game. It is not necessary to use all displaying surfaces as “game stage”. In this embodiment, all displaying surfaces are used as the game stage, and the plurality of the displaying means (independence or separation) are installed into the chassis as one unit (one example). However, the movable display body is provided the plurality of the displaying surfaces continuously by one displaying means depending on the embodiment of the present invention.

Furthermore, the movable display body switches from the first displaying means to the second displaying means or from the second displaying means to the first displaying means by the working piece which reciprocates vertically and the guide means (guide piece or guided part) which moves forward and backward in a horizontal direction (the direction which crosses the excursion of the working piece) with the working piece by manual operation or drive force of the drive motor. Thereby, the displaying surface 2a, 3a of the displaying means 2, 3 appear selectively as to direct to the player through the opening 16 of the base plate 15 which is positioned at the rear portion of the transparent plate 14.

(3) First Embodiment

The first embodiment of the present invention is described in more detail above referring to the description. In addition, therein no new matter for the displaying means itself and displaying surface itself in this embodiment so that the detailed explanation for function is omitted.

Here, FIG. 2(a) is a front view showing the way in which a first displaying means of a movable display body is directed to a player. FIG. 2(b) is a plan view based on FIG. 2(a). As is clear from the figures, the first displaying surface 2a first displaying means 2 is an outer circumferential surface of a plurality of rotating drums 21 which are arranged in a matrix shape. In this embodiment, the chassis 20 of the movable display body 1 is supported vertically into a case-shaped fixed member 31 switchably. Additionally, the first displaying surface 2a (circumferential surface of the rotating drum) does not project from a tip surface 31a. In addition, when the displaying surfaces 2a and 3a projects from the tip surface 31a of the fixed member 31 in some measure, it projects so that the first displaying surfaces come close the transparent plate 14 through the opening 16 of the base plate 15 (it is easy to see the symbol which is not shown in the figure).

The structure of the main parts is explained here. The fixed member 31 is defined as the supporting part member to the movable display body 1. As shown in FIG. 3, the fixed member 31 of this embodiment is assembled a plurality of supporting plates, bending edges thereof suitably. The front surface of the fixed member 31 which is formed in the shape of a case is opened.

According to FIGS. 2 and 3, reference numeral 32 are left and right supporting plates (facing supporting walls), and reference numeral 33 are upper and lower supporting plates (facing supporting walls).

The fitted parts 34, which are formed in the shape of a straight (not only straight shape but also curved line in some measure), are formed along the tip surface 31 a of the fixed member 31 at near side of the supporting plates 32.

The working piece 22 provided at the side of the movable display body 1, which is formed in the shape of a rod, engages with the fitted part 34. The working piece 22 can move from the one edge (upper side) to other edge (lower side) when the displaying means 2, 3 are switched.

In this embodiment, the fitted part 34 (vertical elongated guide hole) is formed vertically so that the working piece 22 reciprocates into the fitted part 34 vertically by drive force of the pair of the drive parts 40 which is arranged through an attachment plate 39 fixed on the supporting plate 33 of the fixed member 31, for example as shown in FIG. 4.

The fitted part 34 is formed as the vertical elongated guide hole, and it may be formed any vertical guide grooves which is not shown in the figures. In addition, depending on the design, it is not engaged with the fitted part 34, and the working piece 22 can reciprocate straightly through the interlocking piece (not shown in the figure) which moves horizontally along the inner wall surface of the supporting part 32a, 33a by force of the drive part 40, for example.

Furthermore, the pair of the left and right guided parts 35 or guide pieces 23, which is cut horizontally, is formed at the center portion approximately of the supporting plate 32. The guided parts 35 or guide pieces 23 has a function to control the rotation range of the movable display body.

In this embodiment, the guided parts 35 (horizontal elongated guide hole, horizontal window and the like) are formed at the supporting plate 32. These guided parts 35 are formed at the suitable parts of the rear of the fitted part 34 so as to cross the horizontal fitted part 34.

Additionally, the working pieces 22 move forward and backward vertically in the vertical elongated guide holes 34 of the supporting plates 32 when the displaying surfaces 2a, 3a are switched. In addition, the guide pieces 23 move forward and backward horizontally in concert with the working piece in the horizontal elongated guide holes of the supporting plates 32.

In this embodiment, the pin-shaped working pieces 22 and projected guide pieces 23 of the side of the movable display body 1 engage slidably with the vertical and horizontal elongated holes 34, 35 at the side of the fixed member 31.

And now, the guide pieces 23 of this embodiment have guide rollers provided at the tip portions thereof so that alternative guide plates 38 are attached along with upper edges of the guided part 35 as shown in FIG. 8. In addition, lower edges of the guided part 35 are bent at the outer side to increase thickness.

As mentioned above, the right and left guide pieces 23 move forward and backward in the guided parts 35 when the displaying means 2, 3 are changed and move forward and backward in the crossing direction to the excursion of the working piece.

Now the function of the working piece 22 and guide piece 23 are explained. The working piece 22 has a function to pull the movable display body 1 from the one edge of the fixed member 31 to another edge thereof, and the plurality of the guide pieces 23 have a function to control the rotation range of the movable display body so as to direct each displaying surface 2a, 3a of the movable display body 1 to the transparent plate 14.

Secondary, one example of the chassis 20 of the movable display body 1 is explained with reference to FIGS. 3(b), 4(b), 5(b) or the like. The chassis 20 of the movable display body 1 has the displaying surfaces 2a, 3a formed at a plurality of sidewall parts 24, 24, 24 which are positioned in the rotating direction respectively, and right and left sidewall parts 25, 25, which are faced each other, are the same shape, having six edges.

The shape of the sidewall part 25 of the chassis 20 is explained with reference to FIG. 4(b). In FIG. 4, Li is a virtual horizontal line which passes trough the shortest edge. L2 is a virtual line drawn at a slant, passing through the working piece 22 and guided piece 23. The acute angle that L1 and L2 intersect is 60 degrees. L2 intersects with the second shorter edge and the edge which faces to the second shorter edge. Accordingly, the displaying surface 2a and another displaying surface 3a is line symmetry based on L2. In addition, the edges at the side of the displaying surfaces 2a, 3a are the same length approximately. As a matter of course, the shape of the sidewall parts 25 may be formed any kind of six-edge shape. Additionally, the corner of the six-edge shape may be formed in the shape of arc (fan shape, for example).

In this embodiment, the shape of the sidewall part 25 corresponds to the shape showing the way in which the curette part of diamond is cut flatly when diamond is saw from one side, for example.

Since the working piece 22 and guided piece 23 are formed at the sidewall part 25 of the chassis 20, the sidewall part 25 faces to the inner wall surface of the supporting part 32 of the fixed member.

In addition, in this embodiment, the chassis 20 has an opening part to attach the plurality of the displaying means. A first opening part 27 is attached the first displaying means, and a second opening part 28 is attached the second displaying means having the different displaying surface from the displaying surface of the first displaying means.

Moreover, the size of one opening part 27 formed in the side and other opening part 28 which intersects the opening part 27 is desirably the same approximately.

In this embodiment, the rotating-drum-shaped first displaying means 2 with displaying surface 2a in the curved surface shape is installed into one of the opening parts 27, and the LC second displaying means 3 with displaying surface 3a in the vertical surface shape is installed into another opening part 28.

In addition, it is not limited element in the present invention, however, the oblong displaying means (third stage) having an arced or flat displaying surface may be installed into a sidewall 20a positioned between the first displaying means 2 (first stage) and second displaying means 3 (second stage).

The movable display body 1 in this embodiment is switched repeatedly by drive force of the drive motor of the single or plural drive parts 40 which are arranged at the fixed member 31.

(4) Drive Part 40

The drive part 40 has a relation with the purpose of invention that it switches the displaying means automatically into the game so that it is the limited element in the present invention. Therefore, one example of the drive part 40 is explained with reference to FIG. 8. Additionally, since its composition on either side is the same, the composition of one side is explained.

Reference numeral 41 is a drive motor which is arranged at the upper part of the fixed member 31 through the horizontal attachment plate; reference numeral 42 is a drive shaft, which is formed in the shape of a screwed rod, connecting to the output shaft of the drive motor; and reference numeral 43 is a screwing body, which is formed in the shape of a sleeve, screwing the drive shaft. A bearing 44 is attached to the front surface of the screwing body 43. The working piece 22 as mentioned above is supported by the bearing 44 through the fitted part 34 of the fixed member 31. The explanation of other details-matters (guide rail 48a fixed to the supporting plate 32 in the length direction, bearing 48b for drive shaft, joint 48c and the like) is omitted.

(5) Detecting Means

The first and second detecting means 45 and 46 to detect the rotation position of the movable display body 1 are arranged at the predetermined position at the side of the drive part 40. With reference to FIG. 7, reference numeral 45 is defined one (upper) first detecting means (sensor) to the index 47 which is provided at the rear wall of the screwing body 43, and reference numeral 46 is defined another (lower) second detecting means (sensor).

These detecting means 45, 46 are attached to the supporting plate 32 of the fixed member 31 through the attachment plate. The detecting means 45, 46 using a principal of a hall IC, a combination of light emitting element and light-sensitive element or the like is applied selectively.

(6) Power Supply Circuit For Drive Part

The power supply circuit 50 is explained with reference to FIG. 12. The power supply circuit 50 includes an electric power supply, a control part 51 which controls the drive motor 41 by electric current from the electric power supply, the detecting means 45, 46 which detect the rotation-position angle of the drive motor 41.

Since the control part 51 is enough to control order and operation (activation, stop) to the drive motor 41, it does not include the control part, drive motor or the like and means commercial power supply, chargeable battery, pressor circuit and the like which are not illustrated when the power supply circuit 50 is defined narrowly. In the present invention, the composition of the power supply circuit is not limited.

In FIG. 12, reference numeral 51 is a control part (micro computer) installed into the game machine 11 or displaying device X; reference numeral 49 is an AC power supply; reference numeral 52 is a file device; reference numeral 53 is a switching circuit, reference numeral is a drive motor; numeral 45 is a first detecting means; numeral 46 is a second detecting means; and reference letter a is a detected signal that the detecting means 45, 46 are detected the position (rotating position of the movable display body 1) of the index or magnet 47 of the screwing body 43.

(7) Changing Displaying Surface

The automatic switching of the displaying means 2, 3 is explained with reference to FIGS. 9 toll. FIG. 9(a) is a view showing the way in which the displaying surface 2a of the first displaying means 2 is directed to the player. FIG. 9(b) is a view showing the way in which the working piece 22 is positioned above the fitted part 34. When the working piece 22 is positioned at an initial state, as shown in FIG. 9(b), the guide piece 23 inside the guided part 35 is positioned with engaging with the front part in the guided parts 35. FIG. 9(c) shows the way in which the displaying surface 2a of the movable display body 1 is in a vertical state and another displaying surface 3a is an incline state (the player cannot see it).

Now slot machine using the symbols in the first displaying means 2 is operated, and the drive motor 41 starts when the predetermined condition is clear in FIG. 9.

The horizontal drive shaft 42 rotates when the drive motor 41 starts so that the screwing body 43 starts to move from the first detecting means 45 to the second detecting means 46 as shown by the arrow. Then the working piece 22 moves linearly on the fitted part 34 with moving of the screwing body 43.

FIGS. 10(a), (b) and (c) show the explanation views showing the way in which the displaying means 2 rotates and is switched to the displaying means 3 in mid-course. In this condition, when the third displaying means 4, which is formed in the shape of a sheet, is. provided to the side surface 20a, for example, the third oblong displaying means 4 is directed to the player, and the first displaying means 2 and second displaying means 3 can be watched at the same time. As above-mentioned description, in this embodiment, when the working piece 22 moves from the one edge 34a of the fitted part 34 to other edge 34b thereof, the single or plural guide pieces 23 move forward and backward into the guided part 35 in the cross direction of the excursion of the working piece 22.

When the third displaying means 4 is directed to the player, as shown in FIG. 10(b), the guide piece 23 moves backward and the working piece 22 is positioned at the center part, and the displaying surfaces 2a, 3a are an incline state. In this way, the working piece 22 and guide piece 23 move to concert. When the movable display body 1 rotates in the predetermined direction by moving the working piece 22 and guide piece 23 in concert, it changes from the first displaying means 2 to the second displaying means 3 (the opposite case is the same condition).

As shown in FIGS. 11(a), (b) and (c), when the second detecting means 46 detects the position of the index or magnet 47 due to move the screwing body 43 to the second detecting means 46, the control part 51 gets the signal a and turns off a switching circuit 53 timely when the player watches the displaying surface 3a (LC screen) of the second displaying means 3 at the front. Then, the working piece 22 moves in a lower direction, and the guide piece 23 moves forward at the same time. So the game of the second displaying means 3 can be started.

In addition, when the game in the second displaying means 3 finished, the displaying means is switched from the condition shown in FIG. 11 to the condition shown in FIG. 9 since the drive shaft 42 rotates in the opposite direction. The description of the opposite action is omitted.

The other embodiments are explained here. In addition, the components are denoted by like numerals as of the first embodiment and will not be further explained in great detail. Also the new matter which is not related with the detailed matters (pulley, attachment piece, fixtures and the like) and specified elements is not explained.

Second Embodiment

The second embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIGS. 13 to 17 and is distinguished from the first embodiment by the fact as follows:

(A) One drive part 40 is used. A drive motor 41 of the drive part 40 is installed horizontally on an attachment plate 39 for example, which is formed in the shape of a plain plate, defining the fixed member 31.

(B) Drive force of the drive part 40 transmits the pair of the working pieces 22 through means 42 for synchronizing, provided at the supporting plate 33 (upper wall part) and right and left supporting plates 32, 32 (side wall parts) of the fixed member 31.

(C) The synchronizing means 42 includes a drive belt 42a which rotates through the output shaft of the drive motor; a horizontal synchronizing shaft 42b which is installed horizontally and supported rotatably on the attachment plate 39 through means for bearing; and a pair of driving belts 42c which are provided in a tensioned state at the outer side of the right and left supporting plates 32, 32 and rotate by the synchronizing shaft 42b.

(D) Right and left moving bodies 43 (correspond to the screwed body) which moves the driving belt 42c in concert are fixed at a suitable position of the driving belt 42c.

(E) Additionally, as shown in FIG. 14, the working piece 22 has a guide sleeve 22a which slides in the fitted part 34 in a slightly wide width.

(F) The right and left side wall parts 25 of the movable display body are formed in any shapes, having a arc-shaped portions based on polygon.

In the above-mentioned structure, FIG. 13(a) is an explanation view from an anterior view and FIG. 13(b) is an explanation view from a plane view. FIG. 14(a) is a perspective view and FIG. 14(b) is a perspective view showing a condition of the movable display body. FIG. 15 is an explanation view from the right side.

As seen in the example of these drawings, the initial position of the moving body 43 which supports the working piece 22 through a bearing is under the fitted part 34.

Accordingly, FIG. 16(a) is a perspective view in mid-course and FIG. 16(b) is a perspective view showing a condition of the movable display body in mid-course. In addition, FIG. 17(a) is a perspective view showing a way in switching and FIG. 17(b) is a perspective view showing a condition of the movable display body when in switching.

When the displaying surface 2a of the movable display body is switched to the displaying surface 3a having the different displaying surface, the working piece 22 goes up to above the fitted part 34 while it is guided by the guide sleeve 22a.

It has similar advantages to that according to the first embodiment.

Third Embodiment

The third embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIGS. 18 and 19 and is distinguished from the first embodiment by the fact that the displaying means of the displaying device X1 is replaced from another electronic displaying means 55 which is installed in the chassis of the movable display body, providing the plurality of the displaying surfaces successively, forming in the shape of a belt. That is, the electronic displaying means 55 is defined by an EL element sheet member.

The electronic displaying means 55 in this embodiment is composed of a flexible EL element sheet 56 with predetermined width and length; and morphological stability plates 57, 58, which are formed in the shape of a sheet, providing at the inner wall surface and outer wall surface of the EL element sheet 56.

In addition, the first displaying surface 2b is provided to one side (right side in the figure) of the electronic displaying means 55 in the long direction continuously; the second displaying surface 3b is provided at other side (left side in the figure) thereof in the long direction continuously; and the third displaying surface 4b is provided at the center part between the first displaying surface 2b and second displaying surface 3b in the long direction continuously.

Moreover, a chassis 20A is formed suitably in the shape of a triangle depending on the shape of the electronic displaying means 55, having a curved part from the plan view. Furthermore, the EL element sheet 56 is made of transparent resin material (resin material of a high polymer), being wrapped in the sticking-by-pressure state as a whole.

In this way, it is easy to install the electronic displaying means 55 into the chassis 20A, and it has similar advantages to that according to the first embodiment.

In addition, although the figure is not illustrated particularly, when the belt-shaped electronic displaying means 55 (EL element sheet member) is divided by the plural parts and is attached to the chassis 20A, it is the same structure as the first embodiment. As the above mentioned, it does not matter whether the displaying surfaces of the movable display body has the same design and function or not.

Fourth Embodiment

The fourth embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIGS. 20 to 28 and is distinguished from the first embodiment by the fact that (A) the movable display body 1 can be switched horizontally and (B) one drive part 40 is used.

With reference to FIG. 23 for example, the working piece 22 and guide piece 23 at the side of the movable display body 1 are provided at the upper and lower sidewall parts 25 of the chassis 20 concerning the difference of the above mentioned (A), and the fitted part 34 which is engaged with the working piece 22 and is formed in the horizontal direction and guided part 35 which is engaged with the guide piece and is formed in a cross direction are provided at the upper and lower supporting plates 32, 33 at the side of the fixed member 31.

Additionally, the drive part 40 is arranged at the front side under the lower supporting plate 33 at the side of the fixed member 31 concerning the difference of the above mentioned (B). In addition, the drive motor 41, drive shaft 42 and screwed body 43 which compose the drive part 40 are provided horizontally so that the first and second detecting means 45, 46 are provided at the right and left edges respectively.

Additionally, the detailed structure in the fourth embodiment is explained below. FIG. 20 is a front view showing the way in which a first displaying means of the movable display body is directed to a player. FIG. 21 is a plan view based on FIG. 20. The chassis 20 of the movable display body 1 is supported into a case-shaped fixed member 31 switchably in a horizontal direction, and the first display surface 2a (circumferential surface of the rotating drum) projects from a tip surface 31a of the fixed member 31 in some measure. Therefore, it projects so that the first display surface 2a of the rotating drum 21 come close the transparent plate 14 through the opening 16 of the base plate 15.

Based on FIG. 21, the fitted part 34 is formed straightly taken along the tip end surface 32a at the upper side of the supporting plate 32. The working piece 22 which engages the fitted part 34 can move from one part (left side) to another side (right side) of the fitted part 34 horizontally, for example. On the other hand, the guided part 35 (or guide piece 23), which is cut with V-shape, is provided at the center portion of the upper supporting plate 32. The plurality of the guide pieces 23 which engage with the guided part 35 can move forward and backward in the crossing direction to the excursion of the working piece when the displaying means are changed.

The structure of the fixed member 31 is explained with reference to FIG. 23 (compared with FIG. 8). The fixed member 31 is composed of a supporting plate 32, which is formed in the shape of a frame, positioning at an upper side thereof and a supporting plate 33, which is shape of a frame, positioning at a lower side thereof and connecting to the supporting plate 32. The fitted parts 34, which is formed in the shape of a straight, are formed along the tip surface 31 a of the fixed member 31 at near side of facing supporting part 32a, 33a (upper and lower wall part in this embodiment) of the supporting plates 32, 33.

As the first embodiment, the fittedpart 34 is a straight shape so that the working piece 22 reciprocates into the fitted part 34 by drive force of the drive part 40 in a right-and-left (horizontal) direction.

And now, the guided part 35 which is cut and formed in the shape of a V-letter is formed at the suitable parts of the rear of the fitted part 34. The front edge 35a of the guided part 35 may be formed in the shape of an arced groove, a curved fitting groove and the like. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 21, a small projecting piece 36, which is formed in he shape of a V-letter, is provided in the guided part 35, defining by a part of the supporting part 32a, 33a. The small project piece 36 is formed the right and left guided part 35b, 35c at near side, and the movable guide piece 23a, 23b engage with the guided part 35b, 35c. In addition, the right and left guide pieces 23 can change the stop position to the front edge 35a of the guided part 35 as described below.

Additionally, the structure of the chassis 20 of the movable display body 1 is explained with reference to FIGS. 23 and 24. The chassis 20 of the movable display body 1 faces to the inner wall surface of the supporting part 32a, 33a of the fixed member 31. In addition, edge parts of an upper wall part 25 and lower wall part 26 of the chassis 20 are formed in the shape of a break or an arc. In this embodiment, each edge is cut to the vertical direction as shown in FIG. 24.

In consideration of the design and function top, the appearance of the plan view of the chassis 20 is formed as “axis of composition of a triangle”. As the first embodiment, the rotating-drum-shaped first displaying means 2 with display surface 2a in the curved surface shape is installed into one of opening parts 27, and the LC second displaying means 3 with display surface 3a in the vertical surface shape is installed into another opening part 28.

And now, when the case-shaped chassis 24 is formed as a shaft structures the triangle, the above-mentioned upper wall 25 and lower wall part 26 is not always have to form broad plate in whole. For example, although the third frame body is assembled so as to project an image of plan triangle with the first frame body of the first displaying means 2 and second frame body of the second displaying means 3 and constructs the case-shaped chassis 24 without regard to the device for the displaying means, the shaft on the design is the same.

In addition, although the edge of the opening part 27 is formed in the shape of a curve in some measure, not straight line (his embodiment), the basic structure is the same when the display surface 2a, 3a of the first displaying means 2 and second displaying means 3 can be formed.

Furthermore, it is not limited element in the present invention, however, a plurality of sliding member 29 (ball wheels, for example) are provided at the suitable parts of the movable display body 1 so a to rotate the movable display body 1 smoothly.

Effect In Fourth Embodiment-Changing Display Surface

The automatic switching of the displaying means 2, 3 is explained with reference to FIGS. 25 to 28. FIG. 25(a) is a view showing the way in which the display surface 2a of the first displaying means 2 is directed to the player. FIG. 25(b) is a view showing the way in which the working piece 22 is positioned at a left side of the fitted part 34. When the working piece 22 is positioned at an initial state, as shown in FIG. 28, the first guide piece 23a inside the guided part 35 is positioned with engaging with the front edge part 35a, on the other hand, the second guide piece 23b is positioned at the rear side of the first guide piece 23a.

Now slot machine using the symbols in the first displaying means 2 is operated, and the drive motor 41 starts when the predetermined condition is clear in FIG. 25.

The horizontal drive shaft 42 rotates when the drive motor 41 starts so that the horizontal screwing body 43 starts to move from the first detecting means 45 to the second detecting means 46 as shown by the arrow. Therefore, the index or magnet 47 of the screwing body 43 moves from the first detecting means 45 to the direction of the second detecting means 46. Then the screwing body 43 moves, and the working piece 22 moves straightly on the fitted part 34.

FIG. 26 is an explanation view showing the way in which the displaying means 2 rotates and is switched to the displaying means 3 in mid-course. In this condition, the third oblong displaying means 4 is directed to the player, and the first displaying means 2 and second displaying means 3 are watched at the same time. As above-mentioned description, in this embodiment, when the working piece 22 moves from the one edge 34a of the fitted part 34 to other edge 34b thereof, the guide piece 23 moves forward and backward into the guided part 35 in the cross direction of the excursion of the working piece 22.

When the third displaying means 4 is directed to the player, as shown in FIG. 28, the first guide piece 23a and second guide piece 23b are guides to the rear side at the same time and stand in line in the right and left directions (backward movement of the guide piece). When the guide piece 23a, 23b move backward and stand in line in the right-left direction, the working piece 22 is positioned at the center part of the fitted part 34. When the movable display body 1 rotates in the predetermined direction by moving the working piece 22 and guide piece 23 in concert, it changes from the first displaying means 2 to the second displaying means 3.

As shown in FIG. 27, when the second detecting means 46 detects the position of the index or magnet 47 due to move the screwing body 43 to the second detecting means 46, the control part 51 gets the signal a and turns off a switching circuit 53 timely when the player watches the display surface 3a (LC screen) of the second displaying means 3 at the front. Then, the working piece 22 moves to the right side of the chassis 20, and the first guide piece 23a and second guide piece 23b move forward at the same time. After that, the second guide piece 23b is engaged with the front edge part 35a. So the game of the second displaying means 3 can be started.

In addition, the description of the opposite action is omitted.

Fifth Embodiment

The displaying means of the display device X1 in the fifth embodiment is an electronic displaying means 55 formed in the shape of a belt, installing in the chassis 20A of the movable display body and providing the plurality of the display surfaces2b, 3b, 4b successively. Accordingly, the displaying means of the display device X1 in the fifth embodiment is the same as the displaying means described in the third embodiment. As a matter of convenience, the components are denoted by like numerals as of the third embodiment and will not be further explained in great detail in this embodiment.

Accordingly, reference numeral 55 is the electronic displaying means; reference numeral 56 is the EL element sheet; and reference numerals 57 and 58 are the shape-keeping plates which are formed in the shape of a sheet.

In this way, it is easy to install the electronic displaying means 55 into the chassis 20A as the third embodiment, and it has similar advantages to that according to the first embodiment.

EXAMPLE

The following matters are added to the example which is shown in the embodiment of the present invention.

(a) The displaying means (displaying device) is combined with the mechanical rotating drum (first displaying means) and electronic screen (second displaying means) having the LC screen. However, the displaying means in the present invention includes a multiple of mechanical and electronic displaying devices as mentioned above.

(b) In the first embodiment, all displaying surfaces are used for playing the game. However, one of the displaying surfaces may be used for indicating information about the game.

(c) The displaying surface may be formed in the shape of the vertical surface, curved surface, circumferential surface of the revolving drum and the like. In addition, the displaying surface may be formed in the shape of the circle, polygon, belt, rotating drum and sphere.

(d) The symbol which appears in the displaying surface or is given in the displaying surface includes, numbers, signs, figures, patterns, colors about dividend and rate magnification and the like, and the symbol in the displaying surface is provided suitably depending on the content of the game. In addition, the feature of the game of the file device which is not the limited element for this invention can also be set up arbitrarily and can be adopted.

(e) In the first embodiment, the drive shaft formed in the shape of a screwed rod and the screwing body which screws to the drive shaft and moves straightly are used in order to simplify the structure of the drive part. Additionally, the belt system (second embodiment), gear system, crank system and the other methods may be used for transmitting drive force of the drive part, and it is not limited especially. Moreover, although the single or at least two drive parts are installed on the upper side of the fixed member, and it may be installed on the lower or side of the fixed member, and the installing part is not limited.

(f) In addition, the index or magnet for the detecting means provided to the screwing body is not limited the description in the embodiment especially. Additionally, the hall elements 45, 46 are attached to the attachment pieces for the sensor which are attached to the upper and lower portions of the fixed member 31 when the magnet 47 is fixed directly or indirectly to the suitable portion of the outer circumferential part of the screwing body 43. If this is the case, the detecting means detects the magnetic flux of an N pole of the magnet 47 and outputs the positioning signal of the screwing body 43 to the control part 51 when the screwing body 43 moves vertically and faces the hall elements 45, 46.

(g) The guidance (engaging) relationship between the guide piece 23 of the side of the movable display body and guided part 35 provided at the fixed member 31 may be set the opposite mode. In other words, however it is not illustrated, the guided part 35 is provided at the side of the movable display body 1, on the other hand, the guide piece 23 may be attached to the fixed member 31. This is also the embodiment of the present invention.

In addition, the plurality of the guide piece 23 may be used. Of course, the guide piece 23 may be formed in the shape of a rod, plate, ball and the like selectively.

(h) In the embodiment, it is arranged to the front member of the pachinko machine 11. Also it may be used in the displaying device X1 for slot machines, other game machines. FIG. 31 shows the example showing the way in which the displaying device X1 of the present invention is provided at the back (inside the chassis) of the front member 12 in the slot machine 11A. For this example, the displaying device X1 is used as a sub-game, and the displaying device X1 is used as the displaying device for the main game by itself. Therefore, it is possible to use in many ways.

As set forth above, the advantages of the invention are as follows:

(1) Since the fixed shaft is not used, each displaying surface of the displaying means does not back away from the transparent plate of the front member of the game machines even though the movable display body rotates. Specifically, the edge of the chassis does not project from the tip surface of the fixed member of the displaying device as much as possible during the movable display body rotates.

(2) Since the working piece which can reciprocate and guide means which moves with the working piece in concert (male guide piece and female guided part) are used, it can achieve the purpose of the above-mentioned (1) by easy and rational mechanism.

(4) For example, when the game is played, the displaying means can be changed automatically by drive force of the one or at least two drive motors. In particular, the guided part of the fixed member (or the movable display body) and guide piece of the movable display body (or the fixed member) can control the range of rotation of the movable display body so a to direct each displaying surface of the movable display body to the transparent plate.

(6) Depending on example of the present invention, the synchronizing means 42 (drive shaft formed in the shape of a screwed rod or synchronizing shaft synchronizing belt) is installed so that the movable display body rotates smoothly vertically or horizontally in a balanced manner.

Industrial Applicability

The present invention is utilized in the game business mainly.

Number	Date	Country	Kind
2005-146976	May 2005	JP	national
2005-226783	Aug 2005	JP	national

Displaying device for game machines

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CPC

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Abstract

Description

Claims

Priority Claims (2)