JP2006000312A

JP2006000312A - Game ball circulating device

Info

Publication number: JP2006000312A
Application number: JP2004178787A
Authority: JP
Inventors: Giichi Adachi; 義一足立; Atsushi Ichikawa; 篤市川
Original assignee: Nippon Pachinko Parts Co Ltd
Current assignee: Nippon Pachinko Parts Co Ltd
Priority date: 2004-06-16
Filing date: 2004-06-16
Publication date: 2006-01-05
Anticipated expiration: 2024-06-16
Also published as: JP4593178B2

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game ball circulating device that arouses a new interest by adding unexpectedness to the movement of a game ball and flowing down in circulating a ball receiving area and is useful for preventing a fraudulent act. SOLUTION: When an electric motor 41 is turned clockwise, a driving gear 43 rotates counterclockwise by a prescribed angle to keep the tip sides of fins 21 to 23 and 31 to 33 moving diametrically inward. Consequently, the ball receiving area 5 is formed into a relatively small diameter circle, an inclined wall portion 4 and a bottom wall portion 3 forming the ball receiving area 5 become partially capable of receiving balls and an effective ball receiving area becomes smallest. At that time, a game ball B1 dropping from the opening 2a side falls again, guided above the ball receiving area 5 by a guide passages 24 to 26 while getting received by the upper fins 21 to 23 and raised walls 31a to 33a. A game ball B2 circulating and flowing down in the ball receiving area 5 is guided out from the ball discharge opening 5a. COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

本発明は、パチンコ機等の遊技機の遊技盤に配置され、クルーンと通称されることもある遊技球周回装置に関する。 The present invention relates to a game ball circuit device that is arranged on a game board of a game machine such as a pachinko machine and is sometimes commonly referred to as a croon.

従来、遊技盤に配置されたクルーン（遊技球周回装置）上での遊技球の動きから遊技の結末（遊技球の行き着く先や当否）が予測可能な場合があり、遊技者の興趣がそがれてしまうおそれがあった。そこで、遊技機の役物としてのクルーンと、ゲームセンター等で見られるクレーンゲーム装置とを並設し、クルーンの球受け領域を周回しながら流下する遊技球をクレーンの磁力によって吸着し、吊り上げて他の場所へ移送するようにしたものがある（特許文献１参照）。また、遊技機に加えられた振動によって揺動する弾性支持部材、吊り部材等によって、クルーンを遊技盤に揺動可能に支持するようにしたものがある（特許文献２参照）。 Conventionally, the end of a game (where the game ball will end or whether or not) can be predicted from the movement of the game ball on the Kroon (game ball circuit) placed on the game board. There was a risk of it. Therefore, a Kroon as an accessory of a gaming machine and a crane game device found in a game center or the like are juxtaposed, and the game balls flowing down while circulating around the Kroon ball receiving area are adsorbed and lifted by the magnetic force of the crane. Some have been transferred to another location (see Patent Document 1). In addition, there is an apparatus in which a clune is supported on a game board so as to be swingable by an elastic support member, a suspension member, or the like that swings due to vibration applied to the game machine (see Patent Document 2).

特開２００４−１１３６６６号公報JP 2004-113666 A 特開２００３−１９２７２号公報JP 2003-19272 A

特許文献１に示すものでは、クルーン上での遊技の結末（遊技球の行き着く先や当否）をクレーン遊技によって覆すことができるので、遊技に対する新たな期待感を持たせて興趣を高めることができる。しかし、クルーン内の遊技とは全く異なるゲームであるクレーン遊技を短時間で行わなければならないため、球受け領域を周回しながら流下する遊技球を吊り上げるクレーン操作に習熟しなければ、折角の付加されたクレーン遊技に参加できない。したがって、限られた遊技者しか楽しめないおそれがある。また、入賞装置に用いた場合には、磁力を利用した不正行為が行われるおそれがある。他方、特許文献２に示すものでは、遊技者が叩くことにより遊技機に加えられた振動によってクルーンを揺動させ、遊技球の進路を変えることができるので、興趣を高めることができる。しかし、遊技者自身が加振行為に直接関与しなければ遊技球の進路変更はできないため、やはり遊技者の慣れや習熟度に左右されるおそれがある。また、遊技機のガラス枠等を叩く行為は不正行為と区別できなくなるおそれがある。 In the thing shown in patent document 1, since the ending of the game on the Kroon (the destination where the game sphere arrives or not) can be overturned by the crane game, it is possible to enhance the interest by giving a new sense of expectation to the game. . However, since a crane game, which is a game completely different from the game in the Kroon, must be performed in a short time, if you are not familiar with the crane operation to lift the game ball flowing down while circulating around the ball receiving area, a break is added. Cannot participate in the crane game. Therefore, there is a possibility that only a limited number of players can enjoy it. In addition, when used in a winning device, there is a risk that fraudulent acts utilizing magnetic force may be performed. On the other hand, in the one shown in Patent Document 2, the crone can be swung by the vibration applied to the gaming machine when the player strikes it, and the course of the game ball can be changed. However, since the course of the game ball cannot be changed unless the player himself / herself is directly involved in the excitation action, there is a possibility that the player's habituation and proficiency may also be affected. Also, there is a risk that an act of hitting a glass frame of a gaming machine cannot be distinguished from an illegal act.

本発明の課題は、球受け領域を周回・流下する遊技球の動きに意外性を付与して新たな興趣を喚起することができ、不正行為の防止にも有用な遊技球周回装置を提供することにある。 It is an object of the present invention to provide a game ball circuit device that can add unexpectedness to the movement of a game ball that circulates and flows down a ball receiving area and can arouse new interest, and is also useful for preventing fraud. There is.

課題を解決するための手段及び発明の効果Means for Solving the Problems and Effects of the Invention

上記課題を解決するために、本発明の遊技球周回装置は、
環状の周壁部の下方に位置し全体として皿状又はすり鉢状を呈する球受け領域が、その球受け領域全体の軸線とオフセットした軸線及び／又は共有する軸線を有する形態で貫通形成された球排出孔と、上方の開口側ほど拡径する形態で傾斜した傾斜部とを含み、前記周壁部を経て前記開口から導入され前記傾斜部の内表面で転動する遊技球を周回させながら流下させ前記球排出孔から導出させる遊技球周回装置において、
前記周壁部の少なくとも一部は、径方向及び／又は周方向に移動することによって、前記球受け領域の有効球受け面積を変更可能であることを特徴とする。 In order to solve the above-mentioned problem,
A ball discharge formed by penetrating the ball receiving region located under the annular peripheral wall portion and having a dish-like or mortar-like shape as a whole and having an axis offset from the axis of the entire ball receiving region and / or a shared axis. Including a hole and an inclined portion inclined in such a manner that the diameter of the upper opening is increased, and the game ball introduced from the opening through the peripheral wall portion and rolling on the inner surface of the inclined portion is caused to flow down while circulating. In the game ball turning device to be led out from the ball discharge hole,
An effective ball receiving area of the ball receiving region can be changed by moving at least a part of the peripheral wall portion in the radial direction and / or the circumferential direction.

また、上記課題を解決するために、本発明の遊技球周回装置は、
環状の周壁部の下方に位置し全体として皿状又はすり鉢状を呈する球受け領域が、その球受け領域全体の軸線とオフセットした軸線を有する形態でそれぞれ貫通形成された複数の球排出孔と、それらの球排出孔に挟まれた底部と、その底部に連なり上方の開口側ほど拡径する形態で傾斜した環状の傾斜部とを含み、前記周壁部を経て前記開口から導入され前記傾斜部の内表面で転動する遊技球を周回させながら流下させ前記複数の球排出孔のいずれかから導出させる遊技球周回装置において、
前記周壁部の少なくとも一部は、径方向及び／又は周方向に移動することによって、前記球受け領域の有効球受け面積を変更可能であることを特徴とする。 In addition, in order to solve the above problems, the game ball circuit device of the present invention,
A plurality of ball discharge holes that are respectively formed through the ball receiving region that is located below the annular peripheral wall portion and that has a dish-like or mortar-like shape and has an axis that is offset from the axis of the entire ball receiving region; Including a bottom portion sandwiched between the ball discharge holes, and an annular inclined portion that is inclined in such a manner that the diameter of the upper opening side is increased toward the upper opening side, and is introduced from the opening through the peripheral wall portion. In a game ball circulating device for causing a game ball rolling on the inner surface to flow down while circulating, and to be led out from any of the plurality of ball discharge holes,
An effective ball receiving area of the ball receiving region can be changed by moving at least a part of the peripheral wall portion in the radial direction and / or the circumferential direction.

これらの遊技球周回装置によれば、周壁部の径方向及び／又は周方向への移動による有効球受け面積の変更によって、球受け領域を周回・流下する遊技球の動き（方向及び／又は速度の変化）に予測できない意外性を付与でき、遊技者の習熟度等にかかわらず遊技に対する興味を高めることができる。しかも、オフセットした（齟齬した；偏位した）軸線を有する形態で複数の球排出孔が貫通形成された入賞装置（振分装置）として用いる場合等には、磁力等を利用せず有効球受け面積を変更するだけの簡素な構成によって、不正行為の防止を図ることもできる。なお、周壁部の移動は、径方向のみ、周方向のみ、径方向及び周方向のいずれの態様（形態）で実施してもよい。 According to these game ball revolving devices, the movement (direction and / or speed) of the game ball that circulates and flows down the ball receiving area by changing the effective ball receiving area by the radial movement of the peripheral wall portion and / or the circumferential movement. Unpredictable unexpectedness can be given to the change of the player's), and the interest in the game can be increased regardless of the proficiency level of the player. In addition, when used as a winning device (distribution device) in which a plurality of ball discharge holes are formed in a form having an offset (frozen) axis, an effective ball receiver is used without using magnetic force. It is also possible to prevent fraud with a simple configuration that only changes the area. In addition, you may implement the movement of a surrounding wall part in any aspect (form) of only a radial direction, only a circumferential direction, a radial direction, and a circumferential direction.

そしてこのとき、周壁部の少なくとも一部は、球受け領域がほぼ全面的に球受け可能となる外側退避位置と、球受け領域が部分的に球受け可能となる内側突入位置との間で、径方向及び／又は周方向に移動することによって、遊技球の周回・流下中に球受け領域の有効球受け面積を変更可能とすることができる。このように、球受け領域の上方に位置する周壁部を外側退避位置と内側突入位置との間で移動させればよいので、遊技球の周回・流下中に有効球受け面積を変更しても球受け領域に遊技球の詰まり等を生じにくい。また、球受け領域自体（例えば傾斜部）を変形させないため、有効球受け面積の変更機構（駆動機構）が簡素化されて、球受け面積を広くすることができる。 And at this time, at least a part of the peripheral wall portion is between the outer retreat position where the ball receiving area can receive the ball almost entirely, and the inner entry position where the ball receiving area can partially receive the ball, By moving in the radial direction and / or the circumferential direction, it is possible to change the effective ball receiving area of the ball receiving area during the circulation / flow of the game ball. In this way, since the peripheral wall portion located above the ball receiving area only needs to be moved between the outer retracted position and the inner entry position, even if the effective ball receiving area is changed during the circulation or flow of the game ball It is difficult for game balls to be clogged in the ball receiving area. Further, since the ball receiving area itself (for example, the inclined portion) is not deformed, the effective ball receiving area changing mechanism (driving mechanism) is simplified, and the ball receiving area can be widened.

具体的には、周壁部は、各々が独立してかつ同期して径方向に移動可能な複数の案内壁に分割され、周壁部が外側退避位置に移動したとき球受け領域を大径の円形状に形成する一方、周壁部が内側突入位置に移動したとき球受け領域を小径の円形状に形成することが望ましい。 Specifically, the peripheral wall portion is divided into a plurality of guide walls that are movable independently and synchronously in the radial direction, and when the peripheral wall portion moves to the outer retracted position, the ball receiving region is moved to a large-diameter circle. On the other hand, it is desirable to form the ball receiving area into a small-diameter circular shape when the peripheral wall portion moves to the inner entry position.

このように、あたかもカメラの絞りの羽根のように、分割された複数の案内壁を同期して径方向に移動させることによって、球受け領域を円形状に保ちつつ有効球受け面積を拡大縮小することが容易にできる。しかも、周壁部（案内壁）は外側退避位置でも内側突入位置でも球受け領域をほぼ円形状に囲うことになるので、開口側から導入された遊技球は、球受け領域で詰まったり滞留したりすることなく周回・流下し、球排出孔から円滑に導出される。なお、「円形状」とは「円形のように滑らかに連続して遊技球の引掛かりを生じないこと」を意味しているから、真円に限らず擬似円形、楕円形等であっても構わない。また、内側突入位置を複数設定し、球受け領域の有効球受け面積を多段に変化させてもよい。 In this way, the effective ball receiving area is enlarged and reduced while keeping the ball receiving area in a circular shape by moving the plurality of divided guide walls in the radial direction in synchronization with each other like a diaphragm blade of a camera. Can be easily done. In addition, since the peripheral wall portion (guide wall) surrounds the ball receiving area in a substantially circular shape at both the outer retracted position and the inner entry position, the game balls introduced from the opening side are clogged or stayed in the ball receiving area. It goes around and flows down without being smoothly led out from the ball discharge hole. Note that “circular shape” means “does not cause a game ball to be caught smoothly and continuously like a circle”. I do not care. Further, a plurality of inner entry positions may be set, and the effective ball receiving area of the ball receiving area may be changed in multiple stages.

ところで、遊技球周回装置を構成するにあたり、
環状の周壁部の下方に位置し全体として皿状又はすり鉢状を呈する球受け領域が、その球受け領域全体の軸線とオフセットした軸線及び／又は共有する軸線を有する形態で貫通形成された球排出孔と、上方の開口側ほど拡径する形態で傾斜した傾斜部とを含み、前記周壁部を経て前記開口から導入され前記傾斜部の内表面で転動する遊技球を周回させながら流下させ前記球排出孔から導出させる遊技球周回装置において、
前記周壁部の少なくとも一部は、径方向及び／又は周方向に移動することによって、前記球受け領域の有効球受け面積を変更可能であり、
前記球受け領域の傾斜部には、前記球排出孔の上方に位置して、内表面の傾きを径方向及び／又は周方向に沿って部分的に変えることによって遊技球が周回・流下する方向及び／又は速度を変更し前記球排出孔と遊技球との相対位置関係に変化をもたらすための傾斜変更部が形成される場合がある。 By the way, in configuring the game ball circuit,
A ball discharge formed by penetrating the ball receiving region located under the annular peripheral wall portion and having a dish-like or mortar-like shape as a whole and having an axis offset from the axis of the entire ball receiving region and / or a shared axis. Including a hole and an inclined portion inclined in such a manner that the diameter of the upper opening is increased, and the game ball introduced from the opening through the peripheral wall portion and rolling on the inner surface of the inclined portion is caused to flow down while circulating. In the game ball turning device to be led out from the ball discharge hole,
At least a part of the peripheral wall portion can change the effective ball receiving area of the ball receiving region by moving in the radial direction and / or the circumferential direction,
In the inclined portion of the ball receiving area, a direction in which the game ball circulates and flows down is located above the ball discharge hole and by partially changing the inclination of the inner surface along the radial direction and / or the circumferential direction. In some cases, an inclination changing portion for changing the speed and causing a change in the relative positional relationship between the ball discharge hole and the game ball may be formed.

また、遊技球周回装置を構成するにあたり、
環状の周壁部の下方に位置し全体として皿状又はすり鉢状を呈する球受け領域が、その球受け領域全体の軸線とオフセットした軸線を有する形態でそれぞれ貫通形成された複数の球排出孔と、それらの球排出孔に挟まれた底部と、その底部に連なり上方の開口側ほど拡径する形態で傾斜した環状の傾斜部とを含み、前記周壁部を経て前記開口から導入され前記傾斜部の内表面で転動する遊技球を周回させながら流下させ前記複数の球排出孔のいずれかから導出させる遊技球周回装置において、
前記周壁部の少なくとも一部は、径方向及び／又は周方向に移動することによって、前記球受け領域の有効球受け面積を変更可能であり、
前記球受け領域の傾斜部には、前記複数の球排出孔の上方に位置して、内表面の傾きを径方向及び／又は周方向に沿って部分的に変えることによって遊技球が周回・流下する方向及び／又は速度を変更し前記球排出孔と遊技球との相対位置関係に変化をもたらすための傾斜変更部が形成される場合もある。 Also, in configuring the game ball circuit device,
A plurality of ball discharge holes that are respectively formed through the ball receiving region that is located below the annular peripheral wall portion and that has a dish-like or mortar-like shape and has an axis that is offset from the axis of the entire ball receiving region; Including a bottom portion sandwiched between the ball discharge holes, and an annular inclined portion that is inclined in such a manner that the diameter of the upper opening side is increased toward the upper opening side, and is introduced from the opening through the peripheral wall portion. In a game ball circulating device for causing a game ball rolling on the inner surface to flow down while circulating, and to be led out from any of the plurality of ball discharge holes,
At least a part of the peripheral wall portion can change the effective ball receiving area of the ball receiving region by moving in the radial direction and / or the circumferential direction,
The inclined portion of the ball receiving area is positioned above the plurality of ball discharge holes, and the game balls are circulated and flowed down by partially changing the inclination of the inner surface along the radial direction and / or the circumferential direction. There is a case where an inclination changing portion is formed for changing the direction and / or speed of movement and causing a change in the relative positional relationship between the ball discharge hole and the game ball.

これらの遊技球周回装置によれば、有効球受け面積の変更と球受け領域の傾斜変更部とによって、球受け領域を周回・流下する遊技球の動き（方向及び／又は速度の変化）に遊技者には全く予測できない意外性を付与でき、遊技者の習熟度等にかかわらず遊技に対する興味を高めることができる。しかも、オフセットした（齟齬した；偏位した）軸線を有する形態で複数の球排出孔が貫通形成された入賞装置（振分装置）として用いる場合等には、磁力等を利用せず、有効球受け面積を変更し球受け領域に傾斜変更部を設けるだけの簡素な構成によって、不正行為の防止を図ることもできる。なお、周壁部の移動は、径方向のみ、周方向のみ、径方向及び周方向のいずれの態様（形態）で実施してもよい。また、傾斜変更部は、球受け領域の径方向のみ、周方向のみ、径方向及び周方向のいずれの態様（形態）で設けてもよい。 According to these game ball revolving devices, the change of the effective ball receiving area and the inclination changing part of the ball receiving area cause the game ball to move around the ball receiving area and flow down (change in direction and / or speed). The player can be given unexpected surprises, and the interest in the game can be increased regardless of the proficiency level of the player. In addition, when using as a winning device (distribution device) having a plurality of ball discharge holes penetrating in a form having an offset (deviated) axis, an effective ball is used without using magnetic force or the like. It is also possible to prevent fraud by a simple configuration in which the receiving area is changed and the inclination changing portion is provided in the ball receiving area. In addition, you may implement the movement of a surrounding wall part in any aspect (form) of only a radial direction, only a circumferential direction, a radial direction, and a circumferential direction. Moreover, you may provide an inclination change part in any aspect (form) of only the radial direction of a ball | bowl receiving area | region, only the circumferential direction, radial direction, and the circumferential direction.

具体的には、周壁部は、各々が独立してかつ同期して径方向に移動可能な複数の案内壁に分割され、周壁部が外側退避位置に移動したとき球受け領域を大径の円形状に形成し、その有効球受け面積に傾斜変更部の全体が包含される形態となる一方、周壁部が内側突入位置に移動したとき球受け領域を小径の円形状に形成し、その有効球受け面積に傾斜変更部の一部が包含される形態となることが望ましい。 Specifically, the peripheral wall portion is divided into a plurality of guide walls that are movable independently and synchronously in the radial direction, and when the peripheral wall portion moves to the outer retracted position, the ball receiving region is moved to a large-diameter circle. The shape and the effective sphere receiving area includes the entire inclination changing portion, while the peripheral wall portion moves to the inner entry position, the ball receiving region is formed into a small-diameter circular shape, and the effective sphere It is desirable that the receiving area includes a part of the inclination changing portion.

このように、あたかもカメラの絞りの羽根のように、分割された複数の案内壁を同期して径方向に移動させることによって、球受け領域を円形状に保ちつつ有効球受け面積を拡大縮小することが容易にできる。その際、有効球受け面積は、外側退避位置では傾斜変更部の全体を包含し、内側突入位置では傾斜変更部の一部を包含するので、球受け領域を周回・流下する遊技球には、有効球受け面積の大小と傾斜変更部の傾き量との両面から、急激な方向及び／又は速度の変化を見た目にもはっきりと与えることができる。しかも、周壁部（案内壁）は外側退避位置でも内側突入位置でも球受け領域をほぼ円形状に囲うことになるので、開口側から導入された遊技球は、球受け領域で詰まったり滞留したりすることなく周回・流下し、球排出孔から円滑に導出される。なお、「円形状」とは「円形のように滑らかに連続して遊技球の引掛かりを生じないこと」を意味しているから、真円に限らず擬似円形、楕円形等であっても構わない。また、内側突入位置を複数設定し、球受け領域の有効球受け面積を多段に変化させてもよい。 In this way, the effective ball receiving area is enlarged and reduced while keeping the ball receiving area in a circular shape by moving the plurality of divided guide walls in the radial direction in synchronization with each other like a diaphragm blade of a camera. Can be easily done. At that time, the effective ball receiving area includes the entire inclination changing portion at the outer retreat position, and includes a part of the inclination changing portion at the inner entry position. From both sides of the effective ball receiving area and the amount of inclination of the inclination changing portion, it is possible to clearly give an abrupt change in direction and / or speed. In addition, since the peripheral wall portion (guide wall) surrounds the ball receiving area in a substantially circular shape at both the outer retracted position and the inner entry position, the game balls introduced from the opening side are clogged or stayed in the ball receiving area. It goes around and flows down without being smoothly led out from the ball discharge hole. Note that “circular shape” means “does not cause a game ball to be caught smoothly and continuously like a circle”. I do not care. Further, a plurality of inner entry positions may be set, and the effective ball receiving area of the ball receiving area may be changed in multiple stages.

そして、以上で述べたような遊技球周回装置において、案内壁の上面には、少なくとも内側突入位置にて、開口側から落下する遊技球を一旦受け止めた後球受け領域上方にガイドして再落下させるための案内面を形成するとよい。案内壁の上面に案内面を形成することによって、周壁部が内側突入位置に移動した場合でも、開口側から落下する遊技球を球受け領域に確実に導入することができる。 Then, in the gaming ball revolving device as described above, the upper surface of the guide wall is once received at the inner entry position and once received the gaming ball falling from the opening side, then guided to the upper part of the ball receiving area and dropped again. It is good to form the guide surface for making it. By forming the guide surface on the upper surface of the guide wall, the game ball falling from the opening side can be reliably introduced into the ball receiving area even when the peripheral wall portion moves to the inner entry position.

また、複数の案内壁を、互いに同数で構成される上下二段の案内壁群として配置し、そのうち上段の案内壁群において隣り合う案内壁の間には、少なくとも内側突入位置にて、開口側から落下する遊技球を球受け領域上方にガイドして再落下させるための案内通路をそれぞれ形成するとよい。上段案内壁群の隣接案内壁間に案内通路を形成することによって、周壁部が内側突入位置に移動した場合でも、開口側から落下する遊技球を球受け領域に一層確実に導入することができる。なお、上下二段の案内壁群に分配することによって、外側退避位置での有効球受け面積を大きく、かつ内側突入位置での有効球受け面積を小さくできるので、両位置間の面積差を広げて球受け領域を遊技エリアとして広範囲に活用できる。 Further, a plurality of guide walls are arranged as two upper and lower guide wall groups configured in the same number, and between the adjacent guide walls in the upper guide wall group, at least at the inner entry position, the opening side It is preferable to form guide passages for guiding the game balls falling from the top of the ball receiving area and dropping them again. By forming a guide passage between the adjacent guide walls of the upper guide wall group, even when the peripheral wall portion moves to the inner entry position, it is possible to more reliably introduce the game ball falling from the opening side into the ball receiving area. . By distributing the guide wall group to the upper and lower guide wall groups, the effective ball receiving area at the outer retracted position can be increased and the effective ball receiving area at the inner entry position can be reduced, thereby widening the area difference between the two positions. The ball receiving area can be used extensively as a gaming area.

さらに、案内通路の下側に、下段の案内壁群のうちのいずれかの案内壁を通路形成部材として配置し、その通路形成部材で、案内通路により球受け領域上方にガイドされる遊技球を下方から支持することができる。案内通路と通路形成部材とによって、周壁部が内側突入位置に移動した場合でも、開口側から落下する遊技球を球受け領域に詰まりや滞留を生じることなく確実に導入することができる。 Further, any one of the lower guide wall groups is arranged as a passage forming member on the lower side of the guide passage, and a game ball guided above the ball receiving area by the guide passage by the passage forming member. It can be supported from below. By the guide passage and the passage forming member, even when the peripheral wall portion moves to the inner entry position, the game ball falling from the opening side can be reliably introduced without clogging or staying in the ball receiving area.

（実施例１）
以下、本発明の実施の形態を図面を参照しつつ説明する。図１は本発明に係る遊技球周回装置の一例を示す斜視図、図２は図１に用いるクルーン本体の斜視図、図３は図１の分解斜視図である。図１に示すように、遊技球周回装置としてのクルーン１００は、円筒状の上部カバー９１（仮想線）と円環状の台板９２とを含むケース体９０に、クルーン本体１（遊技球誘導部材）とその上方で周壁部１０を構成する上部フィン群２０（上部案内壁群）及び下部フィン群３０（下部案内壁群）とが収容され、両フィン群２０，３０を駆動（移動）するための駆動機構４０が組み込まれている。 Example 1
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of a game ball circuit device according to the present invention, FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a croon body used in FIG. 1, and FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of FIG. As shown in FIG. 1, a croon 100 as a game ball circulating device is provided on a case body 90 including a cylindrical upper cover 91 (virtual line) and an annular base plate 92. ) And an upper fin group 20 (upper guide wall group) and a lower fin group 30 (lower guide wall group) constituting the peripheral wall portion 10 thereabove and driving (moving) the fin groups 20 and 30. The drive mechanism 40 is incorporated.

図２に示すように、クルーン本体１は、円環状の上壁部２（周壁部１０の一部を構成する）の下方に位置し全体として皿状又はすり鉢状を呈する球受け領域５が、その球受け領域５全体の軸線Ｏ１（図４（ｂ）参照）とオフセットした（齟齬した；偏位した）軸線Ｏ２（図４（ｂ）参照）を有する形態でそれぞれ貫通形成された複数（例えば３個）の球排出孔５ａと、それらの球排出孔５ａに挟まれた（すなわち、複数の球排出孔５ａを包含又は包括する）底壁部３（底部）と、底壁部３に連なり上方の開口２ａ側ほど拡径する形態で傾斜した円環状の傾斜壁部４（傾斜部）とを含んで構成されている。 As shown in FIG. 2, the cron body 1 is located below the annular upper wall 2 (which constitutes a part of the peripheral wall 10) and has a ball receiving region 5 that has a dish shape or a mortar shape as a whole. A plurality of (for example, a plurality of) penetrating holes formed in a form having an axis O2 (see FIG. 4 (b)) offset (frozen and deviated) with an axis O1 (see FIG. 4 (b)) of the entire ball receiving region 5 (see FIG. 4 (b)). (Three) ball discharge holes 5a, a bottom wall portion 3 (bottom portion) sandwiched between the ball discharge holes 5a (that is, including or including a plurality of ball discharge holes 5a), and the bottom wall portion 3 It is configured to include an annular inclined wall portion 4 (inclined portion) that is inclined so as to increase in diameter toward the upper opening 2a side.

具体的には、クルーン１は、上方に開口し高位置において縦方向に延びる円環状の上壁部２と、複数（例えば３個）の球排出孔５ａが貫通形成され低位置において横方向に延びる底壁部３と、上壁部２と底壁部３との間に位置し低位置側ほど縮径する形態で傾斜した円環状の傾斜壁部４とを有する。そして、上壁部２を経て開口２ａから導入され傾斜壁部４の内表面で転動する遊技球Ｂは、球受け領域５を周回しながら流下し、３個の球排出孔５ａのいずれかから導出される。このように、転動する遊技球Ｂを周回させながら流下させる球受け領域５は、主として傾斜壁部４と底壁部３とによって形成されている。なお、７は底壁部３の中央に立設され各球排出孔５ａに対向する面を有するガイド突起であり、底壁部３上の遊技球Ｂをいずれかの球排出孔５ａに案内・排出する。また、８は台板、土台枠等の載置面上に載置・固定するために球受け領域５の外面に形成された環状の着座部である。 Specifically, the croon 1 has an annular upper wall portion 2 that opens upward and extends in the vertical direction at a high position, and a plurality (for example, three) of ball discharge holes 5a are formed so as to penetrate in the horizontal direction at a low position. It has a bottom wall portion 3 that extends, and an annular inclined wall portion 4 that is positioned between the upper wall portion 2 and the bottom wall portion 3 and is inclined in such a manner that the diameter is reduced toward the lower position side. Then, the game ball B introduced from the opening 2a through the upper wall portion 2 and rolling on the inner surface of the inclined wall portion 4 flows down while circulating around the ball receiving area 5, and any one of the three ball discharge holes 5a. Is derived from As described above, the ball receiving region 5 that allows the rolling game ball B to flow down while circulating is mainly formed by the inclined wall portion 4 and the bottom wall portion 3. Reference numeral 7 denotes a guide projection which is provided at the center of the bottom wall portion 3 and has a surface facing each ball discharge hole 5a, and guides the game ball B on the bottom wall portion 3 to any one of the ball discharge holes 5a. Discharge. Reference numeral 8 denotes an annular seating portion formed on the outer surface of the ball receiving area 5 for mounting and fixing on a mounting surface such as a base plate or a base frame.

したがって、図１に示すクルーン１００は、上方に開口した円環状の周壁部１０（すなわち上壁部２、上部フィン群２０及び下部フィン群３０）と、３個の球排出孔５ａが貫通形成された底壁部３と、周壁部１０と底壁部３との間に位置し開口２ａ側ほど拡径する形態で傾斜した円環状の傾斜壁部４とを有し、全体として皿状又はすり鉢状を呈するとともに転動する遊技球Ｂを周回させながら流下させる球受け領域５が、主として傾斜壁部４と底壁部３とによって形成されていることになる。 Therefore, in the cleon 100 shown in FIG. 1, an annular peripheral wall portion 10 (that is, the upper wall portion 2, the upper fin group 20, and the lower fin group 30) opened upward and three ball discharge holes 5a are formed to penetrate therethrough. A bottom wall portion 3 and an annular inclined wall portion 4 which is located between the peripheral wall portion 10 and the bottom wall portion 3 and is inclined so as to increase in diameter toward the opening 2a. The ball receiving region 5 that is shaped and flows down while rotating the rolling game ball B is mainly formed by the inclined wall portion 4 and the bottom wall portion 3.

図３に示すように、環状の周壁部１０は、周方向に複数（例えば３枚）配置されたブーメラン形状の上部フィン２１〜２３（上部案内壁）から構成される上部フィン群２０と、同数のブーメラン形状の下部フィン３１〜３３（下部案内壁）から構成される下部フィン群３０とを備えている。これらの上部フィン２１〜２３と下部フィン３１〜３３とは、上方から見ると、下部フィン３１，３２間に上部フィン２２、下部フィン３２，３３間に上部フィン２３、下部フィン３３，３１間に上部フィン２１がそれぞれ位置するように、上下方向及び径方向に部分的に重ね合わせて配置され、各フィン２１〜２３，３１〜３３の内周面（内側の面）を繋ぎ合わせるとほぼ円形状の球受け領域５が形成される（図４（ａ）及び図５（ａ）参照）。 As shown in FIG. 3, the annular peripheral wall portion 10 has the same number as the upper fin group 20 composed of boomerang-shaped upper fins 21 to 23 (upper guide walls) arranged in a plurality (for example, three) in the circumferential direction. And a lower fin group 30 composed of lower boomerang-shaped lower fins 31 to 33 (lower guide walls). The upper fins 21 to 23 and the lower fins 31 to 33 are, when viewed from above, the upper fin 22 between the lower fins 31 and 32, the upper fin 23 between the lower fins 32 and 33, and the lower fins 33 and 31. When the upper fins 21 are positioned, they are arranged so as to be partially overlapped in the vertical direction and the radial direction, and when the inner peripheral surfaces (inner surfaces) of the fins 21 to 23 and 31 to 33 are connected, they are substantially circular. The ball receiving area 5 is formed (see FIGS. 4A and 5A).

図５を参照すると、上部フィン群２０において隣り合うフィン２１，２２の間（すなわち、下方に配置された下部フィン群３０のフィン３１の上方空間）には案内通路２４が形成されている。そして、案内通路２４の下方に位置するフィン３１の上面には起立壁３１ａ（通路形成部材）が形成されている。したがって、開口２ａ（図２参照）側から落下する遊技球Ｂ１は、上部フィン２１と起立壁３１ａとで受け止められ（支持され）つつ案内通路２４により球受け領域５の上方にガイドされて再落下する場合がある。同様に、フィン２２，２３の間には案内通路２５及び起立壁３２ａ（通路形成部材）、フィン２３，２１の間には案内通路２６及び起立壁３３ａ（通路形成部材）がそれぞれ形成されている。 Referring to FIG. 5, a guide passage 24 is formed between the adjacent fins 21 and 22 in the upper fin group 20 (that is, the space above the fins 31 of the lower fin group 30 disposed below). A standing wall 31 a (passage forming member) is formed on the upper surface of the fin 31 positioned below the guide passage 24. Therefore, the game ball B1 falling from the opening 2a (see FIG. 2) side is received (supported) by the upper fin 21 and the standing wall 31a, and is guided to the upper side of the ball receiving area 5 by the guide passage 24 and dropped again. There is a case. Similarly, a guide passage 25 and a standing wall 32a (passage forming member) are formed between the fins 22 and 23, and a guide passage 26 and a standing wall 33a (passage forming member) are formed between the fins 23 and 21, respectively. .

図４を参照すると、上部フィン群２０の各フィン２１〜２３の上面には案内面２１ａ〜２３ａがそれぞれ形成されている。したがって、開口２ａ（図２参照）側から落下する遊技球Ｂ１は、一旦案内面２１ａで受け止められた後球受け領域５の上方にガイドされて再落下する場合がある。 Referring to FIG. 4, guide surfaces 21 a to 23 a are respectively formed on the upper surfaces of the fins 21 to 23 of the upper fin group 20. Therefore, the game ball B1 falling from the opening 2a (see FIG. 2) side may be guided again above the rear ball receiving area 5 once received by the guide surface 21a and fall again.

このように、周壁部１０は周方向に複数分割（ここでは６分割）したフィン２１〜２３，３１〜３３を上下二段（上部フィン群２０と下部フィン群３０）に振分配置して構成されている。さらに、フィン２１〜２３，３１〜３３は、各々が独立してかつ同期して径方向に移動可能であり、その具体的構成を図３に戻って説明する。 As described above, the peripheral wall portion 10 is configured by arranging the fins 21 to 23 and 31 to 33 divided into a plurality of parts (here, six parts) in the circumferential direction in the upper and lower stages (the upper fin group 20 and the lower fin group 30). Has been. Further, the fins 21 to 23 and 31 to 33 can be moved in the radial direction independently and synchronously, and a specific configuration thereof will be described with reference to FIG.

図３において、上部フィン２１，２２，２３には、その基端部に軸孔２１１，２２１，２３１、その長手方向に沿って中間部に長孔２１２，２２２，２３２がそれぞれ形成されている。同様に、下部フィン３１，３２，３３にも、軸孔３１１，３２１，３３１と、長孔３１２，３２２，３３２とがそれぞれ形成されている。また、クルーン本体１には上壁部２の外周に沿って円環状のフランジ部９が一体形成されている。そのフランジ部９の上面には、フィンと同数（ここでは６本）の回動支軸９ａ〜９ｆが、所定径の円周を等分する形態でそれぞれ立設固定されている。さらに、フランジ部９には、フィンと同数（ここでは６個）の長孔９Ａ〜９Ｆが、回動支軸９ａ〜９ｆよりやや内側（小径）の円周を等分する形態で回動支軸９ａ〜９ｆに隣接してそれぞれ貫通形成されている。 In FIG. 3, upper fins 21, 22, 23 have shaft holes 211, 221, 231 formed at the base ends thereof, and long holes 212, 222, 232 formed at intermediate portions along the longitudinal direction thereof. Similarly, shaft holes 311, 321, 331 and long holes 312, 322, 332 are also formed in the lower fins 31, 32, 33. Further, an annular flange portion 9 is integrally formed along the outer periphery of the upper wall portion 2 in the croon body 1. On the upper surface of the flange portion 9, the same number (six in this case) of rotational support shafts 9 a to 9 f as the fins are fixed upright in a form equally dividing a circumference of a predetermined diameter. Further, the flange portion 9 has the same number (6 in this case) of long holes 9A to 9F as the fins so as to divide the circumference slightly inside (small diameter) from the rotation support shafts 9a to 9f. The through holes are formed adjacent to the shafts 9a to 9f.

一方、駆動機構４０は、電動モータ４１（駆動源）と、その駆動軸に固定されたピニオンギア４２と、ピニオンギア４２と噛み合って回転する平板円環状の駆動ギア４３とを備えている。そして、駆動ギア４３の上面には、フランジ部９の長孔９Ａ，９Ｃ，９Ｅ及び下部フィン３１，３２，３３の長孔３１２，３２２，３３２に挿通されるスライドピン４３ａ，４３ｃ，４３ｅが、長孔９Ａ〜９Ｆと同径の円周を３等分する形態でそれぞれ立設固定されている。同様に、駆動ギア４３の上面には、フランジ部９の長孔９Ｂ，９Ｄ，９Ｆ及び上部フィン２１，２２，２３の長孔２１２，２２２，２３２に挿通されるスライドピン４３ｂ，４３ｄ，４３ｆが、スライドピン４３ａ，４３ｃ，４３ｅの円周上中間位置にそれぞれ立設固定されている。 On the other hand, the drive mechanism 40 includes an electric motor 41 (drive source), a pinion gear 42 fixed to the drive shaft, and a flat plate-shaped annular drive gear 43 that meshes with the pinion gear 42 and rotates. On the upper surface of the drive gear 43, slide pins 43a, 43c, 43e inserted into the long holes 9A, 9C, 9E of the flange portion 9 and the long holes 312, 322, 332 of the lower fins 31, 32, 33, Each of the long holes 9A to 9F is erected and fixed in such a manner that the circumference of the same diameter is divided into three equal parts. Similarly, on the upper surface of the drive gear 43, slide pins 43b, 43d, and 43f inserted into the long holes 9B, 9D, and 9F of the flange portion 9 and the long holes 212, 222, and 232 of the upper fins 21, 22, and 23 are provided. The slide pins 43a, 43c, and 43e are respectively fixed upright at intermediate positions on the circumference.

以上のように構成された駆動ギア４３、クルーン本体１のフランジ部９、下部フィン群３０及び上部フィン群２０は、次のようにして組み立てられている。
（１）まず、駆動ギア４３のスライドピン４３ａ〜４３ｆをフランジ部９の長孔９Ａ〜９Ｆにそれぞれ挿通する。
（２）フランジ部９の回動支軸９ａを下部フィン３１の軸孔３１１に挿通するとともに、駆動ギア４３のスライドピン４３ａを下部フィン３１の長孔３１２に挿通する。
（３）フランジ部９の回動支軸９ｂを上部フィン２２の軸孔２２１に挿通するとともに、駆動ギア４３のスライドピン４３ｂを上部フィン２２の長孔２２２に挿通する。 The drive gear 43, the flange portion 9, the lower fin group 30, and the upper fin group 20 configured as described above are assembled as follows.
(1) First, the slide pins 43a to 43f of the drive gear 43 are inserted into the long holes 9A to 9F of the flange portion 9, respectively.
(2) The rotation support shaft 9 a of the flange portion 9 is inserted into the shaft hole 311 of the lower fin 31, and the slide pin 43 a of the drive gear 43 is inserted into the elongated hole 312 of the lower fin 31.
(3) The rotation support shaft 9 b of the flange portion 9 is inserted into the shaft hole 221 of the upper fin 22, and the slide pin 43 b of the drive gear 43 is inserted into the long hole 222 of the upper fin 22.

（４）フランジ部９の回動支軸９ｃを下部フィン３２の軸孔３２１に挿通するとともに、駆動ギア４３のスライドピン４３ｃを下部フィン３２の長孔３２２に挿通する。
（５）フランジ部９の回動支軸９ｄを上部フィン２３の軸孔２３１に挿通するとともに、駆動ギア４３のスライドピン４３ｄを上部フィン２３の長孔２３２に挿通する。
（６）フランジ部９の回動支軸９ｅを下部フィン３３の軸孔３３１に挿通するとともに、駆動ギア４３のスライドピン４３ｅを下部フィン３３の長孔３３２に挿通する。
（７）フランジ部９の回動支軸９ｆを上部フィン２１の軸孔２１１に挿通するとともに、駆動ギア４３のスライドピン４３ｆを上部フィン２１の長孔２１２に挿通する。 (4) The rotation support shaft 9 c of the flange portion 9 is inserted into the shaft hole 321 of the lower fin 32, and the slide pin 43 c of the drive gear 43 is inserted into the elongated hole 322 of the lower fin 32.
(5) The rotational support shaft 9 d of the flange portion 9 is inserted into the shaft hole 231 of the upper fin 23, and the slide pin 43 d of the drive gear 43 is inserted into the long hole 232 of the upper fin 23.
(6) The rotation support shaft 9 e of the flange portion 9 is inserted into the shaft hole 331 of the lower fin 33, and the slide pin 43 e of the drive gear 43 is inserted into the long hole 332 of the lower fin 33.
(7) The rotation support shaft 9 f of the flange portion 9 is inserted into the shaft hole 211 of the upper fin 21, and the slide pin 43 f of the drive gear 43 is inserted into the long hole 212 of the upper fin 21.

このように、下部フィン３１〜３３と上部フィン２１〜２３とは、駆動ギア４３及びクルーン本体１に対して交互に組み付けられ、次のように各々の先端部側が独立してかつ同期して径方向に移動する。 As described above, the lower fins 31 to 33 and the upper fins 21 to 23 are alternately assembled to the drive gear 43 and the croon main body 1, and the respective tip end sides are independent and synchronized as follows. Move in the direction.

［１］外側退避位置（図４）
まず、初期状態（通常状態）では、周壁部１０は外側退避位置にあり、球受け領域５は相対的に大径の円形状に形成され、球受け領域５を構成する傾斜壁部４と底壁部３とがほぼ全面的に球受け可能となって有効球受け面積は最大となる。このとき開口２ａ（図２参照）側から落下する遊技球Ｂ１は、一旦上部フィン２１〜２３の案内面２１ａ〜２３ａで受け止められた後、球受け領域５の上方にガイドされて再落下できる。その後球受け領域５を周回・流下した遊技球Ｂ２はいずれかの球排出孔５ａから導出される。 [1] Outside retracted position (FIG. 4)
First, in the initial state (normal state), the peripheral wall portion 10 is in the outer retracted position, the ball receiving region 5 is formed in a relatively large-diameter circular shape, and the inclined wall portion 4 constituting the ball receiving region 5 and the bottom The wall 3 can receive the ball almost entirely, and the effective ball receiving area is maximized. At this time, the game ball B1 falling from the opening 2a (see FIG. 2) side is once received by the guide surfaces 21a to 23a of the upper fins 21 to 23, and then guided to the upper side of the ball receiving area 5 and can be dropped again. After that, the game ball B2 that circulates and flows down the ball receiving area 5 is led out from one of the ball discharge holes 5a.

［２］内側突入位置（図５）
次に、電動モータ４１（ピニオンギア４２）を時計回りに回動させると、駆動ギア４３（図３参照）が反時計回りに所定角度回動し、各フィン２１〜２３，３１〜３３の先端部側が径方向内側に移動（変位）する。したがって、球受け領域５は相対的に小径の円形状に形成され、球受け領域５を構成する傾斜壁部４と底壁部３とが部分的に球受け可能となって有効球受け面積は最小となる。このとき開口２ａ（図２参照）側から落下する遊技球Ｂ１は、上部フィン２１〜２３と起立壁３１ａ〜３３ａとで受け止められ（支持され）つつ、案内通路２４〜２６により球受け領域５の上方にガイドされて再落下できる。その後球受け領域５を周回・流下した遊技球Ｂ２はいずれかの球排出孔５ａから導出される。なお、外側退避位置（図４）のときと同様に、開口２ａ（図２参照）側から落下する遊技球Ｂ１は、一旦上部フィン２１〜２３の案内面２１ａ〜２３ａで受け止められた後、球受け領域５の上方にガイドされて再落下する場合がある。 [2] Inside entry position (Fig. 5)
Next, when the electric motor 41 (pinion gear 42) is rotated clockwise, the drive gear 43 (see FIG. 3) rotates counterclockwise by a predetermined angle, and the tips of the fins 21 to 23 and 31 to 33 are rotated. The part side moves (displaces) radially inward. Therefore, the ball receiving area 5 is formed in a circular shape having a relatively small diameter, and the inclined wall portion 4 and the bottom wall portion 3 constituting the ball receiving area 5 can partially receive the ball, so that the effective ball receiving area is Minimal. At this time, the game ball B1 falling from the side of the opening 2a (see FIG. 2) is received (supported) by the upper fins 21 to 23 and the standing walls 31a to 33a, while the guide passages 24-26 Guided upwards and can fall again. After that, the game ball B2 that circulates and flows down the ball receiving area 5 is led out from one of the ball discharge holes 5a. As in the outer retracted position (FIG. 4), the game ball B1 falling from the opening 2a (see FIG. 2) side is temporarily received by the guide surfaces 21a to 23a of the upper fins 21 to 23, and then the ball There is a case where it is guided above the receiving area 5 and falls again.

このように、有効球受け面積の変更によって、球受け領域５を周回・流下する遊技球Ｂ１，Ｂ２の動き（方向及び／又は速度の変化）に予測できない意外性を付与できる。また、磁力等を利用せず有効球受け面積を変更するだけの簡素な構成なので不正行為を防止できる。しかも、あたかもカメラの絞りの羽根のように、６分割されたフィン２１〜２３，３１〜３３の先端部側を同期して径方向に移動させることによって、球受け領域５を円形状に保ちつつ有効球受け面積を拡大縮小することが容易にできる。しかも、周壁部１０（フィン２１〜２３，３１〜３３）は外側退避位置（図４）でも内側突入位置（図５）でも球受け領域５をほぼ円形状に囲うことになるので、開口２ａ側から導入された遊技球Ｂ１は、球受け領域５で詰まったり滞留したりすることなく周回・流下し、球排出孔５ａから円滑に導出される。以上の説明から明らかなように、周壁部１０の外側退避位置から内側突入位置への移動及び内側突入位置から外側退避位置への移動は、いずれも遊技球Ｂ１，Ｂ２が球受け領域５を周回・流下中か否かに関係なく行える。 In this way, by changing the effective ball receiving area, it is possible to give unpredictable unexpectedness to the movements (changes in direction and / or speed) of the game balls B1 and B2 that circulate and flow down the ball receiving area 5. Moreover, since it is a simple structure which only changes the effective ball receiving area without using magnetic force or the like, fraudulent acts can be prevented. In addition, the ball receiving region 5 is maintained in a circular shape by moving the tip end sides of the six divided fins 21 to 23 and 31 to 33 synchronously in the radial direction as if they were blades of a diaphragm of a camera. The effective ball receiving area can be easily enlarged or reduced. In addition, the peripheral wall portion 10 (fins 21 to 23, 31 to 33) surrounds the ball receiving region 5 in a substantially circular shape at both the outer retracted position (FIG. 4) and the inner entry position (FIG. 5). The game ball B1 introduced from the circulates and flows down without clogging or staying in the ball receiving area 5, and is smoothly led out from the ball discharge hole 5a. As is clear from the above description, both the movement of the peripheral wall 10 from the outer retracted position to the inner entry position and the movement from the inner entry position to the outer withdrawal position cause the game balls B1 and B2 to go around the ball receiving area 5.・ It can be done regardless of whether it is flowing down or not.

例えば、移動中の周壁部１０（フィン２１〜２３，３１〜３３）の内周面が、球受け領域５の遊技球Ｂ１，Ｂ２に衝突して予想外の動きをさせる場合がある。また、遊技球Ｂ１，Ｂ２のこのような動きは不正防止にもなる。 For example, the inner peripheral surface of the moving peripheral wall 10 (fins 21 to 23, 31 to 33) may collide with the game balls B1 and B2 in the ball receiving area 5 to cause unexpected movement. Further, such movement of the game balls B1 and B2 also prevents fraud.

なお、図１に示すように、ピニオンギア４２の上面に立設固定された環状板４２ａにノッチ（切れ目；図示せず）が形成されている。また、環状板４２ａの回転軌跡に対応させて、ノッチセンサ４５（原点検出手段）が下向きに配置されている。なお、４１ａはモータ電源用接続コネクタ、４４はセンサ基板、４４ａはその信号用接続コネクタを表わし、センサ基板４４は図示しない取付手段によってケース体９０等に固定されている。ここで、ノッチセンサ４５は、ピニオンギア４２（環状板４２ａ）の回転に伴って、電動モータ４１の回転角度位置データ等に誤差が経時的に蓄積され、制御（遊技）の暴走等を防止するために設けられる。すなわち、ピニオンギア４２（環状板４２ａ）の回転により周壁部１０が外側退避位置（図１）に移動してノッチがノッチセンサ４５を通過するたびに、周方向原点としてのノッチが検出され、零点補正が行われる。ノッチセンサ４５には、光電式センサ、赤外線センサ、超音波センサ、レーザセンサ等の非接触式センサを用いることができる。また、ノッチは周壁部１０の内側突入位置（図５参照）に対応させて設けてもよい。 As shown in FIG. 1, a notch (cut; not shown) is formed in the annular plate 42 a that is erected and fixed on the upper surface of the pinion gear 42. Further, a notch sensor 45 (origin detection means) is disposed downward corresponding to the rotation trajectory of the annular plate 42a. Reference numeral 41a denotes a motor power connector, 44 denotes a sensor board, 44a denotes a signal connector, and the sensor board 44 is fixed to the case body 90 or the like by attachment means (not shown). Here, the notch sensor 45 accumulates errors over time in the rotational angle position data of the electric motor 41 as the pinion gear 42 (annular plate 42a) rotates, and prevents control (game) runaway and the like. Provided for. That is, each time the notch passes through the notch sensor 45 due to the rotation of the pinion gear 42 (annular plate 42a) and the peripheral wall portion 10 moves to the outer retracted position (FIG. 1), the notch as the circumferential origin is detected, and the zero point Correction is performed. The notch sensor 45 can be a non-contact sensor such as a photoelectric sensor, an infrared sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, or a laser sensor. Moreover, you may provide a notch corresponding to the inner side penetration position (refer FIG. 5) of the surrounding wall part 10. FIG.

（実施例２）
図６は本発明に係る遊技球周回装置の他の例を示す斜視図、図７は図６に用いるクルーン本体の正面中央断面図である。図６に示すように、遊技球周回装置としてのクルーン２００は、円筒状の上部カバー９１（仮想線）と円環状の台板９２とを含むケース体９０に、クルーン本体１０１（遊技球誘導部材）とその上方で周壁部１０を構成する上部フィン群２０（上部案内壁群）及び下部フィン群３０（下部案内壁群）とが収容され、両フィン群２０，３０を駆動（移動）するための駆動機構４０が組み込まれている。 (Example 2)
FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing another example of the game ball circuit device according to the present invention, and FIG. 7 is a front central sectional view of the croon body used in FIG. As shown in FIG. 6, a croon 200 as a game ball circuit device includes a croon body 101 (game ball guiding member) on a case body 90 including a cylindrical upper cover 91 (virtual line) and an annular base plate 92. ) And an upper fin group 20 (upper guide wall group) and a lower fin group 30 (lower guide wall group) constituting the peripheral wall portion 10 thereabove and driving (moving) the fin groups 20 and 30. The drive mechanism 40 is incorporated.

図７に示すクルーン本体１０１では、球受け領域５の傾斜壁部４は、内表面の傾きを径方向に沿って部分的に変えることによって遊技球Ｂが周回・流下する方向及び速度を変更して、球排出孔５ａと遊技球Ｂとの相対位置関係に変化をもたらすための傾斜変更部６を構成している。つまり、傾斜変更部６は、球排出孔５ａの上方に位置して、傾斜壁部４（球受け領域５全体）の軸線Ｏ１を中心として傾斜壁部４内に所定の幅（例えば傾斜壁部４と同等の幅）Ｗを有する環ベルト状に形成されている。 In the croon main body 101 shown in FIG. 7, the inclined wall portion 4 of the ball receiving area 5 changes the direction and speed in which the game ball B circulates and flows down by partially changing the inclination of the inner surface along the radial direction. Thus, an inclination changing portion 6 for changing the relative positional relationship between the ball discharge hole 5a and the game ball B is configured. That is, the inclination changing portion 6 is located above the ball discharge hole 5a and has a predetermined width (for example, an inclined wall portion) within the inclined wall portion 4 with the axis O1 of the inclined wall portion 4 (the entire ball receiving region 5) as the center. 4 is formed in a ring belt shape having a width W equal to 4.

傾斜壁部４（球受け領域５全体）の軸線Ｏ１を含む断面において、傾斜変更部６の内表面輪郭線には、開口２ａ側において径方向外側に凸の形態から球排出孔５ａ側において径方向内側に凸の形態に変化する第一の変曲点Ｐ１が含まれている。また、第一の変曲点Ｐ１よりも下方に位置して、開口２ａ側において径方向内側に凸の形態から球排出孔５ａ側において径方向外側に凸の形態に変化する第二の変曲点Ｐ２が含まれている。なお、第二の変曲点Ｐ２より下方の底壁部３ではテーパ状形態（直線状；曲率半径が無限大）に形成されている。 In the cross section including the axis O1 of the inclined wall portion 4 (the entire ball receiving region 5), the inner surface contour line of the inclined changing portion 6 has a diameter on the side of the spherical discharge hole 5a from a shape protruding radially outward on the opening 2a side. A first inflection point P1 that changes to a convex shape on the inner side in the direction is included. Further, a second inflection located below the first inflection point P1 and changing from a radially convex shape on the opening 2a side to a radially convex shape on the spherical discharge hole 5a side. Point P2 is included. The bottom wall portion 3 below the second inflection point P2 is formed in a tapered shape (linear shape; the radius of curvature is infinite).

さらに、傾斜変更部６の内表面輪郭線には、第一及び第二の変曲点Ｐ１，Ｐ２の間に位置して、凸形態が変化せずに曲率が変化する曲率変化点Ｑが含まれている。例えば、第一の変曲点Ｐ１と曲率変化点Ｑとの間の曲率半径ｒ１の方が、曲率変化点Ｑと第二の変曲点Ｐ２との間の曲率半径ｒ２よりも大に設定することができる。このとき、曲率半径ｒ１を無限大にするとＰ１―Ｑ間はテーパ状形態（直線状）となる。 Further, the inner surface contour line of the inclination changing portion 6 includes a curvature change point Q that is located between the first and second inflection points P1 and P2 and the curvature changes without changing the convex shape. It is. For example, the radius of curvature r1 between the first inflection point P1 and the curvature change point Q is set larger than the curvature radius r2 between the curvature change point Q and the second inflection point P2. be able to. At this time, when the radius of curvature r1 is infinite, the portion between P1 and Q is tapered (straight).

このように、傾斜変更部６の内表面輪郭線に第一及び第二の変曲点Ｐ１，Ｐ２を含む場合には、クルーン１０１の上下方向高さに比して、傾斜変更部６での径方向の寸法変化割合を大きくとれる。また、曲率半径ｒ１の方が曲率半径ｒ２よりも大に設定されている場合には、第一の変曲点Ｐ１と曲率変化点Ｑとの間では、クルーン１０１の上下方向高さに比して傾斜変更部６での径方向の寸法変化割合が大きくなり、他方、曲率変化点Ｑと第二の変曲点Ｐ２との間では、クルーン１０１の直径に比して傾斜変更部６での軸線方向（上下方向）の寸法変化割合が大きくなる。傾斜変更部６によって、球受け領域５で周回・流下途中の遊技球Ｂは、それまでの周回・流下する方向及び速度が変更され、意外な動き（急激な方向及び速度の変化）が付与されてから、いずれかの球排出孔５ａに導出（排出）される。 As described above, when the first and second inflection points P 1 and P 2 are included in the inner surface contour line of the inclination changing portion 6, the inclination changing portion 6 The ratio of dimensional change in the radial direction can be increased. Further, when the curvature radius r1 is set to be larger than the curvature radius r2, the height between the first inflection point P1 and the curvature change point Q is higher than the height in the vertical direction of the croon 101. Thus, the dimensional change ratio in the radial direction at the inclination changing portion 6 is increased, and between the curvature changing point Q and the second inflection point P2, the inclination changing portion 6 is compared with the diameter of the croon 101. The dimensional change rate in the axial direction (vertical direction) increases. By the inclination changing unit 6, the direction and speed of the game ball B that has been orbiting / flowing down in the ball receiving area 5 are changed in the direction and speed of the game ball B until then, and an unexpected movement (abrupt change in direction and speed) is given. Then, it is led out (discharged) to one of the ball discharge holes 5a.

なお、図８（ａ）において、ＣＰ１は第一の変曲点Ｐ１を周方向に連ねた連結円、ＣＰ２は第二の変曲点Ｐ２を周方向に連ねた連結円、ＣＱは曲率変化点Ｑを周方向に連ねた連結円をそれぞれ表わしている。 In FIG. 8A, CP1 is a connecting circle in which the first inflection points P1 are connected in the circumferential direction, CP2 is a connecting circle in which the second inflection points P2 are connected in the circumferential direction, and CQ is a curvature changing point. Each of the circles connecting Q in the circumferential direction is shown.

図７に戻り、球受け領域５の傾斜壁部４内に形成された環ベルト状の傾斜変更部６の幅Ｗは、遊技球の直径をＤとしたとき、１．０Ｄ≦Ｗ≦１．５Ｄ（例えばＷ＝１．２Ｄ）に設定されている。これによって、遊技球Ｂには周回・流下途中で急激な方向及び速度の変化が付与されるので、遊技球Ｂの意外な動きが遊技者にもはっきりと視認できるようになる。 Returning to FIG. 7, the width W of the ring belt-like inclination changing portion 6 formed in the inclined wall portion 4 of the ball receiving area 5 is 1.0D ≦ W ≦ 1. It is set to 5D (for example, W = 1.2D). As a result, a sudden change in direction and speed is imparted to the game ball B during its circulation or flow, so that the unexpected movement of the game ball B can be clearly seen by the player.

実施例１（図１〜図５）と同様に、図８及び図９に示す下部フィン３１〜３３と上部フィン２１〜２３とは、駆動ギア４３及びクルーン本体１０１に対して交互に組み付けられ、次のように各々の先端部側が独立してかつ同期して径方向に移動する。 Similarly to the first embodiment (FIGS. 1 to 5), the lower fins 31 to 33 and the upper fins 21 to 23 shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 are alternately assembled to the drive gear 43 and the croon body 101, Each tip end side moves in the radial direction independently and synchronously as follows.

［１］外側退避位置（図８）
まず、初期状態（通常状態）では、周壁部１０は外側退避位置にあり、球受け領域５は相対的に大径の円形状に形成され、球受け領域５を構成する傾斜壁部４と底壁部３とがほぼ全面的に球受け可能となる。これにより、有効球受け面積は、傾斜変更部６の全体が包含されるので最大となる。このとき開口２ａ（図７参照）側から落下する遊技球Ｂ１は、一旦上部フィン２１〜２３の案内面２１ａ〜２３ａで受け止められた後、球受け領域５の上方にガイドされて再落下できる。その後球受け領域５を周回・流下した遊技球Ｂ２はいずれかの球排出孔５ａから導出される。 [1] Outside retracted position (FIG. 8)
First, in the initial state (normal state), the peripheral wall portion 10 is in the outer retracted position, the ball receiving region 5 is formed in a relatively large-diameter circular shape, and the inclined wall portion 4 constituting the ball receiving region 5 and the bottom The wall 3 can receive the ball almost entirely. As a result, the effective ball receiving area is maximized because the entire inclination changing unit 6 is included. At this time, the game ball B1 falling from the opening 2a (see FIG. 7) side is once received by the guide surfaces 21a to 23a of the upper fins 21 to 23, and then guided to the upper side of the ball receiving area 5 and can be dropped again. After that, the game ball B2 that circulates and flows down the ball receiving area 5 is led out from one of the ball discharge holes 5a.

［２］内側突入位置（図９）
次に、電動モータ４１（ピニオンギア４２）を時計回りに回動させると、駆動ギア４３（図３参照）が反時計回りに所定角度回動し、各フィン２１〜２３，３１〜３３の先端部側が径方向内側に移動（変位）する。したがって、球受け領域５は相対的に小径の円形状に形成され、球受け領域５を構成する傾斜壁部４と底壁部３とが部分的に球受け可能となる。これによって、有効球受け面積は、傾斜変更部６の一部のみが包含されるので最小となる。このとき開口２ａ（図７参照）側から落下する遊技球Ｂ１は、上部フィン２１〜２３と起立壁３１ａ〜３３ａとで受け止められ（支持され）つつ、案内通路２４〜２６により球受け領域５の上方にガイドされて再落下できる。その後球受け領域５を周回・流下した遊技球Ｂ２はいずれかの球排出孔５ａから導出される。なお、外側退避位置（図８）のときと同様に、開口２ａ（図７参照）側から落下する遊技球Ｂ１は、一旦上部フィン２１〜２３の案内面２１ａ〜２３ａで受け止められた後、球受け領域５の上方にガイドされて再落下する場合がある。 [2] Inside entry position (Fig. 9)
Next, when the electric motor 41 (pinion gear 42) is rotated clockwise, the drive gear 43 (see FIG. 3) rotates counterclockwise by a predetermined angle, and the tips of the fins 21 to 23 and 31 to 33 are rotated. The part side moves (displaces) radially inward. Accordingly, the ball receiving region 5 is formed in a circular shape having a relatively small diameter, and the inclined wall portion 4 and the bottom wall portion 3 constituting the ball receiving region 5 can partially receive the ball. As a result, the effective ball receiving area is minimized since only a part of the inclination changing unit 6 is included. At this time, the game ball B1 falling from the side of the opening 2a (see FIG. 7) is received (supported) by the upper fins 21 to 23 and the standing walls 31a to 33a, and the guide passages 24 to 26 guide the ball receiving area 5 Guided upwards and can fall again. After that, the game ball B2 that circulates and flows down the ball receiving area 5 is led out from one of the ball discharge holes 5a. As in the case of the outer retracted position (FIG. 8), the game ball B1 falling from the opening 2a (see FIG. 7) side is temporarily received by the guide surfaces 21a-23a of the upper fins 21-23, There is a case where it is guided above the receiving area 5 and falls again.

このように、有効球受け面積の変更と球受け領域５の傾斜変更部６とによって、球受け領域５を周回・流下する遊技球Ｂ１，Ｂ２の動き（方向及び／又は速度の変化）に予測できない意外性を付与できる。また、磁力等を利用せず有効球受け面積を変更するだけの簡素な構成なので不正行為を防止できる。しかも、あたかもカメラの絞りの羽根のように、６分割されたフィン２１〜２３，３１〜３３の先端部側を同期して径方向に移動させることによって、球受け領域５を円形状に保ちつつ有効球受け面積を拡大縮小することが容易にできる。その際、有効球受け面積は、外側退避位置（図８）では傾斜変更部６の全体を包含し、内側突入位置（図９）では傾斜変更部６の一部のみを包含するので、球受け領域５を周回・流下する遊技球Ｂ１，Ｂ２には、有効球受け面積の大小と傾斜変更部６の傾き量との両面から、急激な方向及び／又は速度の変化を見た目にもはっきりと与えることができる。 As described above, the movement (change in direction and / or speed) of the game balls B1 and B2 that circulate and flow down the ball receiving area 5 is predicted by the change of the effective ball receiving area and the inclination changing section 6 of the ball receiving area 5. Unexpected unexpectedness can be given. Moreover, since it is a simple structure which only changes the effective ball receiving area without using magnetic force or the like, fraudulent acts can be prevented. In addition, the ball receiving region 5 is maintained in a circular shape by moving the tip end sides of the six divided fins 21 to 23 and 31 to 33 synchronously in the radial direction as if they were blades of a diaphragm of a camera. The effective ball receiving area can be easily enlarged or reduced. At that time, the effective ball receiving area includes the entire inclination changing unit 6 at the outer retracted position (FIG. 8), and includes only a part of the inclination changing unit 6 at the inner entry position (FIG. 9). The game balls B1 and B2 that circulate and flow down the region 5 are clearly given a sudden change in direction and / or speed in terms of both the size of the effective ball receiving area and the amount of inclination of the inclination changing unit 6. be able to.

しかも、周壁部１０（フィン２１〜２３，３１〜３３）は外側退避位置でも内側突入位置でも球受け領域５をほぼ円形状に囲うことになるので、開口２ａ側から導入された遊技球Ｂ１は、球受け領域５で詰まったり滞留したりすることなく周回・流下し、球排出孔５ａから円滑に導出される。以上の説明から明らかなように、周壁部１０の外側退避位置から内側突入位置への移動及び内側突入位置から外側退避位置への移動は、いずれも遊技球Ｂ１，Ｂ２が球受け領域５を周回・流下中か否かに関係なく行える。 Moreover, since the peripheral wall portion 10 (fins 21 to 23, 31 to 33) surrounds the ball receiving area 5 in a substantially circular shape at both the outside retracted position and the inside entry position, the game ball B1 introduced from the opening 2a side is Then, the ball circulates and flows down without clogging or staying in the ball receiving area 5, and is smoothly led out from the ball discharge hole 5a. As is clear from the above description, both the movement of the peripheral wall 10 from the outer retracted position to the inner entry position and the movement from the inner entry position to the outer withdrawal position cause the game balls B1 and B2 to go around the ball receiving area 5.・ It can be done regardless of whether it is flowing down or not.

この実施例では、傾斜変更部６が球受け領域５の径方向のみに形成される場合について述べたが、周方向のみあるいは径方向及び周方向に形成する態様（形態）でもよい。また、傾斜壁部４のほぼ全面を傾斜変更部６としたが、傾斜壁部４の一部を傾斜変更部６としてもよい。なお、実施例２（図６〜図９）において実施例１（図１〜図５）と共通する機能を有する部分には同一符号を付して説明を省略する。 In this embodiment, the case where the inclination changing portion 6 is formed only in the radial direction of the ball receiving region 5 has been described, but an aspect (form) formed only in the circumferential direction or in the radial direction and the circumferential direction may be employed. Moreover, although the almost entire surface of the inclined wall portion 4 is the inclination changing portion 6, a part of the inclined wall portion 4 may be the inclination changing portion 6. In addition, in Example 2 (FIGS. 6-9), the part which has the same function as Example 1 (FIGS. 1-5) is attached | subjected, and description is abbreviate | omitted.

以上の説明では、内側突入位置を一態様のみ（図５又は図９）としたが、球受け領域５の有効球受け面積が多段階に変化するように、複数態様に設定することができる。また、球受け領域５（傾斜壁部４）や球排出孔５ａの平面形状は、真円に限らず擬似円形、楕円形等であっても構わない。さらに、周壁部１０を移動させる駆動源として、電動モータ４１等の回転式駆動源以外に、ソレノイド等のスライド式駆動源を用いてもよい。 In the above description, the inner entry position is only one mode (FIG. 5 or 9), but it can be set to a plurality of modes so that the effective ball receiving area of the ball receiving region 5 changes in multiple stages. Further, the planar shapes of the ball receiving region 5 (the inclined wall portion 4) and the ball discharge hole 5a are not limited to a perfect circle and may be a pseudo circle, an ellipse, or the like. Furthermore, as a drive source for moving the peripheral wall portion 10, a slide drive source such as a solenoid may be used in addition to the rotary drive source such as the electric motor 41.

さらに、実施例１（図１〜図５）及び実施例２（図６〜図９）ではともに、球受け領域５全体の軸線Ｏ１とオフセットした軸線Ｏ２を有する形態で複数の球排出孔をそれぞれ貫通形成したが、
（１）球受け領域５全体の軸線Ｏ１とオフセットした軸線Ｏ２を有する形態で単一の球排出孔を貫通形成すること；
（２）球受け領域５全体の軸線Ｏ１と共有する軸線Ｏ２を有する形態で単一の球排出孔を貫通形成すること；
（３）球受け領域５全体の軸線Ｏ１と共有する軸線Ｏ２を有する形態で単一の球排出孔を貫通形成するとともに、オフセットした軸線Ｏ２を有する形態で１又は複数の球排出孔を貫通形成すること；
もできる。 Furthermore, in Example 1 (FIGS. 1 to 5) and Example 2 (FIGS. 6 to 9), a plurality of ball discharge holes are respectively formed in a form having an axis O2 and an offset axis O2 of the entire ball receiving region 5. Although formed through,
(1) forming a single ball discharge hole in a form having an axis O1 of the entire ball receiving area 5 and an offset axis O2;
(2) forming a single ball discharge hole in a form having an axis O2 shared with the axis O1 of the entire ball receiving region 5;
(3) A single ball discharge hole is formed in a form having an axis O2 shared with the axis O1 of the entire ball receiving area 5, and one or a plurality of ball discharge holes are formed in a form having an offset axis O2. To do;
You can also.

本発明に係る遊技球周回装置の一例を示す斜視図。The perspective view which shows an example of the game ball circuit apparatus which concerns on this invention. 図１に用いるクルーン本体の斜視図。FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a croon body used in FIG. 1. 図１の分解斜視図。The exploded perspective view of FIG. フィンが外側退避位置にあるときの平面図及び正面中央断面図。The top view and front center sectional drawing when a fin exists in an outer side retracted position. フィンが内側突入位置にあるときの平面図及び正面中央断面図。The top view when a fin exists in an inner side penetration position, and front center sectional drawing. 本発明に係る遊技球周回装置の他の例を示す斜視図。The perspective view which shows the other example of the game ball circuit apparatus which concerns on this invention. 図６に用いるクルーン本体の正面中央断面図。FIG. 7 is a front central cross-sectional view of the croon body used in FIG. 6. フィンが外側退避位置にあるときの平面図及び正面中央断面図。The top view and front center sectional drawing when a fin exists in an outer side retracted position. フィンが内側突入位置にあるときの平面図及び正面中央断面図。The top view when a fin exists in an inner side penetration position, and front center sectional drawing.

符号の説明Explanation of symbols

１，１０１クルーン本体（遊技球誘導部材）
２上壁部（周壁部）
２ａ開口
３底壁部（底部）
４傾斜壁部（傾斜部）
５球受け領域
５ａ球排出孔
６傾斜変更部
１０周壁部
２０上部フィン群（上部案内壁群；周壁部）
２１〜２３上部フィン（上部案内壁）
２１ａ〜２３ａ案内面
２４〜２６案内通路
３０下部フィン群（下部案内壁群；周壁部）
３１〜３３下部フィン（下部案内壁）
３１ａ〜３３ａ起立壁（通路形成部材）
１００，２００クルーン（遊技球周回装置）
Ｏ１球受け領域全体の軸線
Ｏ２球排出孔の軸線 1,101 Kroon body (game ball guide member)
2 Upper wall (peripheral wall)
2a Opening 3 Bottom wall (bottom)
4 Inclined wall (inclined part)
5 Ball receiving area 5a Ball discharge hole 6 Inclination changing part 10 Peripheral wall part 20 Upper fin group (upper guide wall group; peripheral wall part)
21-23 Upper fin (upper guide wall)
21a-23a Guide surface 24-26 Guide passage 30 Lower fin group (lower guide wall group; peripheral wall)
31-33 Lower fin (lower guide wall)
31a-33a Standing wall (passage forming member)
100,200 Kroon (game ball circuit)
O1 Axis of the entire ball receiving area O2 Axis of the ball discharge hole

Claims

環状の周壁部の下方に位置し全体として皿状又はすり鉢状を呈する球受け領域が、その球受け領域全体の軸線とオフセットした軸線及び／又は共有する軸線を有する形態で貫通形成された球排出孔と、上方の開口側ほど拡径する形態で傾斜した傾斜部とを含み、前記周壁部を経て前記開口から導入され前記傾斜部の内表面で転動する遊技球を周回させながら流下させ前記球排出孔から導出させる遊技球周回装置において、
前記周壁部の少なくとも一部は、径方向及び／又は周方向に移動することによって、前記球受け領域の有効球受け面積を変更可能であることを特徴とする遊技球周回装置。 A ball discharge formed by penetrating the ball receiving region located under the annular peripheral wall portion and having a dish-like or mortar-like shape as a whole and having an axis offset from the axis of the entire ball receiving region and / or a shared axis. Including a hole and an inclined portion inclined in such a manner that the diameter of the upper opening is increased, and the game ball introduced from the opening through the peripheral wall portion and rolling on the inner surface of the inclined portion is caused to flow down while circulating. In the game ball turning device to be led out from the ball discharge hole,
The game ball circulating device according to claim 1, wherein an effective ball receiving area of the ball receiving region can be changed by moving at least a part of the peripheral wall portion in a radial direction and / or a circumferential direction.

環状の周壁部の下方に位置し全体として皿状又はすり鉢状を呈する球受け領域が、その球受け領域全体の軸線とオフセットした軸線を有する形態でそれぞれ貫通形成された複数の球排出孔と、それらの球排出孔に挟まれた底部と、その底部に連なり上方の開口側ほど拡径する形態で傾斜した環状の傾斜部とを含み、前記周壁部を経て前記開口から導入され前記傾斜部の内表面で転動する遊技球を周回させながら流下させ前記複数の球排出孔のいずれかから導出させる遊技球周回装置において、
前記周壁部の少なくとも一部は、径方向及び／又は周方向に移動することによって、前記球受け領域の有効球受け面積を変更可能であることを特徴とする遊技球周回装置。 A plurality of ball discharge holes that are respectively formed through the ball receiving region that is located below the annular peripheral wall portion and that has a dish-like or mortar-like shape and has an axis that is offset from the axis of the entire ball receiving region; Including a bottom portion sandwiched between the ball discharge holes, and an annular inclined portion that is inclined in such a manner that the diameter of the upper opening side is increased toward the upper opening side, and is introduced from the opening through the peripheral wall portion. In a game ball circulating device for causing a game ball rolling on the inner surface to flow down while circulating, and to be led out from any of the plurality of ball discharge holes,
The game ball circulating device according to claim 1, wherein an effective ball receiving area of the ball receiving region can be changed by moving at least a part of the peripheral wall portion in a radial direction and / or a circumferential direction.

前記周壁部の少なくとも一部は、前記球受け領域がほぼ全面的に球受け可能となる外側退避位置と、前記球受け領域が部分的に球受け可能となる内側突入位置との間で、径方向及び／又は周方向に移動することによって、遊技球の周回・流下中に前記球受け領域の有効球受け面積を変更可能である請求項１又は２に記載の遊技球周回装置。 At least a part of the peripheral wall portion has a diameter between an outer retreat position where the ball receiving area can receive the ball almost entirely and an inner entry position where the ball receiving area can partially receive the ball. The game ball circuiting device according to claim 1, wherein the effective ball receiving area of the ball receiving region can be changed during the circulation or flow of the game ball by moving in the direction and / or the circumferential direction.

前記周壁部は、各々が独立してかつ同期して径方向に移動可能な複数の案内壁に分割され、
前記周壁部が前記外側退避位置に移動したとき前記球受け領域を大径の円形状に形成する一方、前記周壁部が前記内側突入位置に移動したとき前記球受け領域を小径の円形状に形成する請求項３に記載の遊技球周回装置。 The peripheral wall portion is divided into a plurality of guide walls that are movable independently and synchronously in the radial direction,
When the peripheral wall portion moves to the outer retracted position, the ball receiving region is formed into a large-diameter circular shape, and when the peripheral wall portion moves to the inner entry position, the ball receiving region is formed into a small-diameter circular shape. The game ball circuit device according to claim 3.

前記案内壁の上面には、少なくとも前記内側突入位置にて、前記開口側から落下する遊技球を一旦受け止めた後前記球受け領域上方にガイドして再落下させるための案内面が形成されている請求項４に記載の遊技球周回装置。 A guide surface is formed on the upper surface of the guide wall so as to guide and re-drop the game ball falling from the opening side once at the inner entry position and then to the ball receiving area. The game ball circuit device according to claim 4.

前記複数の案内壁は、互いに同数で構成される上下二段の案内壁群として配置され、
そのうち上段の案内壁群において隣り合う案内壁の間には、少なくとも前記内側突入位置にて、前記開口側から落下する遊技球を前記球受け領域上方にガイドして再落下させるための案内通路がそれぞれ形成されている請求項４又は５に記載の遊技球周回装置。 The plurality of guide walls are arranged as two upper and lower guide wall groups configured in the same number,
Among them, between the adjacent guide walls in the upper guide wall group, there is a guide passage for guiding a game ball falling from the opening side to fall above the ball receiving area at least at the inner entry position. The game ball circuit device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the game ball circuit device is formed respectively.

前記案内通路の下側には、下段の案内壁群のうちのいずれかの案内壁が通路形成部材として配置され、
その通路形成部材は、前記案内通路により前記球受け領域上方にガイドされる遊技球を下方から支持する請求項６に記載の遊技球周回装置。
On the lower side of the guide passage, any one of the lower guide wall groups is arranged as a passage forming member,
The game ball circulating device according to claim 6, wherein the passage forming member supports a game ball guided from above below the ball receiving area by the guide passage.