U.S. patent application number 12/440410 was filed with the patent office on 2010-07-15 for amusement device.
Invention is credited to Yasushi Ochi.
Application Number | 20100179029 12/440410 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39157252 |
Filed Date | 2010-07-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100179029 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Ochi; Yasushi |
July 15, 2010 |
AMUSEMENT DEVICE
Abstract
The present invention relates to an amusement device with which
a player can enjoy more varied of plays, and which can let the
player play more happily and attract interests of children more
strongly. An amusement device 1 has a first play portion 10 and a
second play portion 30 respectively comprising poles 11 and 31
arranged in a standing state which a player such as a child climbs
up and down. The first play portion 10 comprises the pole 11 having
a curved portion 11a; a support mechanism for supporting both end
portions of the pole 11 so that the pole 11 can rotates freely; and
a rotation drive mechanism for rotating the pole 11. The second
play portion 30 comprises the pole 31 formed in tube-shaped and
transparent; a decorative body 32 which is formed in tube-shaped
and transparent and arranged co-axially with and inside the pole
31, and the outer circumferential surface of which is adorned with
a decoration 32a; a light source 33 provided inside the decorative
body 32; a support mechanism for supporting the both end portions
of the pole 31 and the decorative body 32 so that the decorative
body 32 can rotates freely; and a rotation drive mechanism for
rotating the decorative body 32.
Inventors: |
Ochi; Yasushi;
(Izumisano-shi, JP) |
Correspondence
Address: |
SMITH PATENT OFFICE
1901 PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE N W, SUITE 901
WASHINGTON
DC
20006
US
|
Family ID: |
39157252 |
Appl. No.: |
12/440410 |
Filed: |
September 5, 2007 |
PCT Filed: |
September 5, 2007 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/JP2007/067263 |
371 Date: |
March 6, 2009 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
482/35 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63G 31/02 20130101;
A63B 2208/12 20130101; A63B 9/00 20130101; A63G 1/08 20130101; A63B
2225/74 20200801 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/35 |
International
Class: |
A63B 9/00 20060101
A63B009/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Sep 8, 2006 |
JP |
2006 243983 |
Claims
1. An amusement device, comprising: a pole which is formed along a
predetermined direction and arranged in a standing state, and which
a player climbs up and down; support means having at least one
bearing for supporting one end portion of the pole, the supporting
means which supports an upper or lower end portion or both end
portions of the pole so that the bearing enables the pole to rotate
freely about the axis of the bearing; and rotation drive means for
rotating the pole about the axis of the bearing.
2. The amusement device according to claim 1, wherein the pole has
a curved portion or a bent portion between both end portions.
3. The amusement device according to claim 1, wherein the outer
circumferential surface of the pole is decorated.
4. The amusement device according to claim 3, wherein: the pole is
made of a tube-shaped and light-transmittable member; and a light
source for illuminating the inside of the pole so that light
transmits from the inside to the outside of the pole is provided
inside the pole.
5. The amusement device according to claim 1, wherein: the pole is
made of a tube-shaped and light-transmittable member, the lower end
portion of which is sealed; the pole is filled with liquid; and gas
supply means for supplying gas into the pole is connected to the
lower end portion of the pole.
6. The amusement device according to claim 5, further comprising a
light source for illuminating the inside of the pole so that light
transmits from the inside to the outside of the pole.
7. An amusement device, comprising: a pole which is made of a
tube-shaped and light-transmittable member, the axis of which is
directed in the up- and down direction, and which a player climbs
up and down; a decorative body which is made of a tube-shaped and
light-transmittable member and arranged within the pole, and the
outer circumferential surface of which is decorated; a light source
for illuminating the inside of the decorative body so that light
transmits from the inside to the outside of the decorative body;
support means for supporting upper or lower end portions or both
end portions of the pole and the decorative body so that one or
both of the pole and the decorative body rotate freely about the
axis thereof; and rotation drive means for rotating one or both of
the pole and the decorative body about the axis thereof.
8. The amusement device according to claim 7, wherein the outer
circumferential surface of the pole is decorated.
9. The amusement device according to claim 1, further comprising a
cushion provided in periphery of the lower end side of the
pole.
10. The amusement device according to claim 7, further comprising a
cushion provided in periphery of the lower end side of the pole.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to an amusement device which
comprises a pole formed along a predetermined direction and
arranged in a standing state, and which is configured so that a
player plays by climbing up and down the pole.
BACKGROUND ART
[0002] Conventionally, an amusement device disclosed in the
Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 11-33136 is
known, for example. This amusement device is configured with: a
pole which is formed in a circular tube shape and the axis of which
is directed in the up-and-down direction; and support members for
supporting and fixing an upper and an lower end portions of the
pole, respectively, and protrusions and recessions are alternately
spirally formed on an outer circumferential surface of the
pole.
[0003] In the amusement device, a player such as a child can play
by climbing up and down the pole with his/her arms and legs. When
climbing up and down, the spiral protrusions and recessions prevent
his/her hands gripping the pole and his/her legs gripping the pole
from slipping. Thereby, the player can climb up and down
safely.
[0004] Patent document 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application
Publication No. 11-33136.
DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION
Problem Invention is to Solve
[0005] However, in the above conventional amusement device, there
is a problem that the play in the amusement device is apt to be
monotonous and make the player bored. Further, this amusement
device is no different from a very common amusement device,
so-called, a fireman's pole, and there is also a problem that it is
difficult to attract children who are accustomed to the play with a
fireman's pole.
[0006] The present invention has been achieved in view of the
above-described circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide
an amusement device with which a player can enjoy more varied
plays, and with which it is possible to let the player play more
happily and to attract interests of children more strongly.
Means for Resolving the Problem
[0007] To achieve the above-described object, the present invention
relates to an amusement device, comprising:
[0008] a pole which is formed along a predetermined direction and
arranged in a standing state, and which a player climbs up and
down;
[0009] support means having at least one bearing for supporting one
end portion of the pole, the supporting means which supports an
upper or lower end portion or both end portions of the pole so that
the bearing enables the pole to rotate freely about the axis of the
bearing; and
[0010] rotation drive means for rotating the pole about the axis of
the bearing.
[0011] According to this amusement device, a player such as a child
can play by climbing up and down, with his/her arms and legs, the
pole which is rotated about the axis of the bearing of the support
means by the rotation drive means. Because the pole rotates about
the axis of the bearing, the player can enjoy the play while
enjoying the sensation felt when rotating with the pole.
[0012] Thus, according to the amusement device of the present
invention, the movement of the player himself/herself climbing up
and down the pole and the rotating movement of the pole are
combined together. Thereby, the player can enjoy varied plays and
sensations which have not been provided by the conventional one.
Further, it is possible to interest children around the amusement
device who watch the rotating movements of the pole and the player
in playing with this amusement device and to lead them to play with
this amusement device.
[0013] The pole may be provided with a curved portion or a bent
portion between both end portions. When thus configured, the pole
itself is diversified, thereby, it is possible to diversify the
pole climbing more and to make the pole climbing more difficult
than when the pole is formed straight. As a result, the play in the
amusement device can be made more amusing.
[0014] Further, the outer circumferential surface of the pole may
be decorated. When thus configured, it is possible not only to
entertain the player himself/herself, but also to attract interests
of children around the amusement device who watch the decoration,
and to lead them to play with the amusement device. The decoration
is not particularly limited. For example, various patterns may be
painted on the surface of the pole. Additionally, because the pole
rotates about the axis, it is also possible to enjoying the
patterns on the surface of the pole changing.
[0015] Further, the pole may be made of a tube-shaped and
light-transmittable member, and a light source for illuminating the
inside of the pole may be provided therein so that light transmits
from the inside to the outside of the pole. When thus configured,
the decoration on the outer surface of the pole can be made
prominent by lights from the light source, thereby, it is possible
to enhance the decorative effect more.
[0016] Further, the pole may be made of a tube-shaped and
light-transmittable member having a sealed lower end portion and be
filled with liquid, and gas supplying means for supplying gas into
the pole may be connected to the lower end portion of the pole.
When thus configured, when gas is supplied into the pole from the
lower end portion thereof by the gas supplying means, the supplied
gas changes into bubbles, which rise up through the liquid in the
pole. Therefore, the player can climb up and down the pole while
watching the bubbles flowing, and it is possible to let the player
play more happily. Further, by showing children around the
amusement device that the bubbles flow, it is possible to attract
the children and to lead them to play with the amusement
device.
[0017] Also in this case, if a light source for illuminating the
inside of the pole is provided, an illumination effect or a
light-up effect can be obtained, thereby, it is possible to
entertain the player and people around the amusement device.
Further, it is possible to interest children around the amusement
device who watch the illuminated pole or the light-up pole.
[0018] Further, the present invention relates to an amusement
device, comprising:
[0019] a pole which is made of a tube-shaped and
light-transmittable member and, the axis of which is directed in
the up- and down direction, and which a player climbs up and
down;
[0020] a decorative body which is made of a tube-shaped and
light-transmittable member and arranged within the pole, and the
outer circumferential surface of which is decorated;
[0021] a light source for illuminating the inside of the decorative
body so that light transmits from the inside to the outside of the
decorative body;
[0022] support means for supporting upper or lower end portions of
the pole and the decorative body, or both end portions thereof so
that one or both of the pole and the decorative body rotate freely
about the axis thereof; and
[0023] rotation drive means for rotating one or both of the pole
and the decorative body about the axis thereof.
[0024] Also according to this amusement device, the player such as
a child can play by climbing up and down the pole with his/her arms
and legs. Further, the decoration on the outer circumferential
surface of the decorative body is made prominent by light from the
light source, thereby, it is possible to enhance the decorative
effect. In addition, by rotating the decorative body and/or the
pole about the axis thereof by means of the rotation drive means,
children around the amusement device and the player gripping the
pole can enjoy the patterns or the like on the outer
circumferential surface of the decorative body changing. Therefore,
it is possible to attract interests of the children around the
amusement device who watch such a decoration and to lead them to
play with the amusement device, and also to let the player who
watches such a decoration enjoy the play more.
[0025] The outer circumferential surface of the pole may be
decorated. When thus configured, by the decorations on the outer
circumferential surfaces of both the decorative body and the pole,
the decorative effect can be more enhanced.
[0026] Each of the above amusement devices may further comprise a
cushion provided in the periphery of the lower end side of the
pole. When thus configured, even if the player accidentally falls
off the pole, the shock can be reduced by the cushion and it is
possible to efficiently prevent the player from being injured.
[0027] Further, in each of the above amusement devices, the color
of the pole, the color of the liquid and the color of the light
from the light source are each not particularly limited. However,
it is preferable to use colors which can visually entertain the
player and people around the amusement device.
EFFECTS OF THE INVENTION
[0028] As described above, according to the amusement device of the
present invention, because the pole and/or the decorative body
which is provided within the pole are adapted to be rotated, the
player can enjoy more varied plays and it is possible to let the
player play more happily, and to attract interests of children more
strongly.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0029] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a schematic
configuration of an amusement device according to one embodiment of
the present invention;
[0030] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A-A in
FIG. 1;
[0031] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line B-B in
FIG. 1;
[0032] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line C-C in
FIG. 3;
[0033] FIG. 5 is a front view showing a part of a decorative body
according to the embodiment;
[0034] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a schematic
configuration of an amusement device according to another
embodiment of the present invention;
[0035] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line D-D in
FIG. 6;
[0036] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line E-E in
FIG. 6;
[0037] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic
configuration of an upper end portion of a pole and other
components according to another embodiment of the present
invention;
[0038] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic
configuration of a lower end portion of the pole and other
components according to another embodiment of the present
invention; and
[0039] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a schematic
configuration of a first play portion according to another
embodiment of the present invention
LEGEND
[0040] 1 Amusement device [0041] 5 Base [0042] 6 Upper member
[0043] 7 Strut [0044] 10 First play portion [0045] 11 Pole [0046]
12 Support mechanism [0047] 13 Upper support member [0048] 14 Lower
support member [0049] 15 Rotation drive mechanism [0050] 16 Drive
motor [0051] 17, 18 Gear [0052] 20 Cover body [0053] 30 Second play
portion [0054] 31 Pole [0055] 32 Decorative body [0056] 33 Light
source [0057] 34 Support mechanism [0058] 35 First upper support
member [0059] 36 First lower support member [0060] 37 Second upper
support member [0061] 38 Second lower support member [0062] 39
Rotation drive mechanism [0063] 40 Drive motor [0064] 41, 42 Gear
[0065] 44 Upper cover body [0066] 45 Lower cover body
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
[0067] Hereinafter, a specific embodiment of the present invention
will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. FIG.
1 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of an
amusement device according to one embodiment of the present
invention, FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line
A-A in FIG. 1, and FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along the
line B-B in FIG. 1. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along
the line C-C in FIG. 3 and FIG. 5 is a front view showing a part of
a decorative body according to the embodiment.
[0068] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 5, an amusement device 1 of the
present embodiment is configured with: a first play portion 10 and
a second play portion 30 respectively having poles 11 and 31 which
are arranged in a standing state, and which a player Y such as a
child climbs up and down; a base 5 on which the first play portion
10 and the second play portion 30 are mounted and fixed; an
flat-plate-shaped upper member 6 which is disposed over the base 5,
and by which the upper portions of the first play portion 10 and
the second play portion 30 are each supported and fixed; and a
strut 7 vertically provided on the base 5 for supporting the upper
member 6.
[0069] The first play portion 10 comprises: the pole 11 having a
circular cross-sectional shape; a support mechanism 12 by which the
upper end portion and the lower end portion of the pole 11 are
supported rotatably about its axis; a rotation drive mechanism 15
for rotating the pole 11 about its axis; a push button 19 which is
provided in the vicinity of the upper end portion of the pole 11,
and which is pushed by the player Y who have climbed up to the
upper end portion of the pole 11; and a cover body 20 for covering
the lower end portion of the pole 11, a part of the support
mechanism 12 and the rotation drive mechanism 15.
[0070] The pole 11 has a curved portion 11a formed so as to wind
from side to side between both end portions, and is formed so that
the axis of the parts other than the curved portion 11a is directed
along the up-and-down direction, And the outer circumferential
surface of the pole 11 is adorned with a decoration 11b. The
decoration 11b is configured with, for example, a stripe pattern
which is colored appropriately and painted on the outer
circumferential surface of the pole 11. The decoration 11b is not
limited to a stripe pattern, and may be designs of animals, fishes,
insects, humans or the like painted on the outer circumferential
surface of the pole 11. Further, it is also not limited to these
painted patterns and designs.
[0071] The support mechanism 12 is configured with: an upper
support member 13 disposed on the lower surface of the upper member
6 for supporting the upper end portion of the pole 11; and a lower
support member 14 disposed on the upper surface of the base 5 for
supporting the lower end portion of the pole 11. Each of the
support members 13 and 14 includes therein a bearing (not shown)
provided with its axis directed along the up-and-down direction,
and supports the pole 11 by means of the bearing (not shown) so
that the pole 11 rotates freely about the axis of the bearing (not
shown).
[0072] The rotation drive mechanism 15 is configured with: a drive
motor 16 disposed in the vicinity of the lower support member 14 on
the upper surface of the base 5 with an axis of an output shaft
thereof directed along the up-and-down direction; a first gear 17
fixedly provided on the output shaft of the drive motor 16; and a
second gear 18 which are provided on the outer circumferential
surface of the lower end portion side of the pole 11, and which
engages with the first gear 17. Rotational power of the drive motor
16 is transmitted to the pole 11 via the first gear 17 and the
second gear 18, thereby, the pole 11 is rotated.
[0073] The push button 19 is mounted on the lower surface of the
upper support member 13. When the push button 19 is pressed by the
player Y, for example, a circuit for outputting a sound (music,
human voice or the like) is switched on and the sound is outputted,
or a circuit for turning on a lamp is switched on and the lamp is
turned on.
[0074] The cover body 20 covers the lower end portion of the pole
11, the lower support member 14 and the rotation drive mechanism 15
from above, thereby, preventing the player Y from being injured.
Further, a through hole 20a into which the lower end portion of the
pole 11 is inserted is formed in the cover body 20.
[0075] The second play portion 30 comprises: the pole 31 which is
made of a tube-shaped and transparent member and the axis of which
is disposed in the up- and down direction; a decorative body 32
which is similarly made of a tube-shaped and transparent member and
disposed co-axially with and within the pole 11, and the outer
circumferential surface of which is adorned with a decoration 32a;
a light source 33 provided within the decorative body 32; a support
mechanism 34 which supports both end portions of the pole 31 and
the decorative body 32, and by which the decorative body 32 is
supported rotatably about its axis; a rotation drive mechanism 39
for rotating the decorative body 32 about its axis; a push button
43 which is provided in vicinity of the upper end portion of the
pole 31, and which is pressed by the player Y who have climbed up
to the upper end portion of the pole 31; an upper cover body 44 for
covering the upper end portion of the pole 31, the upper end
portion of the decorative body 32 and a part of the support
mechanism 34; and a lower cover body 45 for covering the lower end
portion of the pole 31, the lower end portion of the decorative
body 32, a part of the support mechanism 34 and the rotation drive
mechanism 39.
[0076] The decorative body 32 is formed longer than the pole 31,
and both end portions of it protrude from both end portions of the
pole 31. The decoration 32a is configured with alternate stripes
colored appropriately (a similar one to a barber pole having white,
blue and red stripes, for example) which are placed on the outer
circumferential surface of the decorative body 32. However, it is
not limited to such patterns, and may be figures representing
animals, fishes, insects or humans. Further, it is also not limited
to figures.
[0077] The light source 33 illuminates the inside of the decorative
body 32 and is configured with a fluorescent light and the others,
for example. Both end portions thereof are supported by a support
portion 33a provided on the lower surface of the upper member 6 and
a support portion 33b provided on the upper surface of the base 5,
respectively. An incandescent lamp or a light emitting diode may be
employed for the light source 33 instead of a fluorescent light.
Further, the color of light from the light source 33 is not
particularly limited.
[0078] The support mechanism 34 is configured with: a first upper
support member 35 arranged on the lower surface of the upper member
6 for supporting the upper end portion of the decorative portion
32; a first lower support member 36 arranged on the upper surface
of the base 5 for supporting the lower end portion of the
decorative body 32; a second upper support member 37 arranged on
the lower surface of the upper member 6 for supporting the upper
end portion of the pole 31; a second lower support member 38
arranged on the upper surface of the base 5 for supporting the
lower end portion of the pole 31.
[0079] The first upper support member 35 and the first lower
support member 36 each have therein a bearing (not shown), the axis
of which is directed along the up-and-down direction, and the
decorative body 32 is supported rotatably about its axis by these
bearings (not shown). On the other hand, the second upper support
member 37 and the second lower support member 38 respectively have
fitting holes 37a and 38a into which the upper end portion and the
lower end portion of the pole 31 are fitted, respectively. The pole
31 is supported non-rotatably by these fitting holes 37a and
38a.
[0080] The rotation drive mechanism 39 is configured with: a drive
motor 40 arranged in the vicinity of the first lower support member
36 on the upper surface of the base 5 with an axis of an output
shaft thereof directed along the up-and-down direction; a first
gear 41 fixedly disposed on the output shaft of the drive motor 40;
and a second gear 42 which are provided on the outer
circumferential surface of the lower end portion side of the
decorative body 32, and which engages with the first gear 41.
Rotational power of the drive motor 40 is transmitted to the
decorative body 32 via the first gear 41 and the second gear 42,
thereby, the decorative body 32 is rotated.
[0081] The push button 43 is mounted on the lower surface of the
upper cover body 44. When the push button 43 is pressed by the
player Y, for example, a circuit for outputting a sound (music,
human voice or the like) is switched on and the sound is outputted,
or a circuit for turning on a lamp is switched on and the lamp is
turned on.
[0082] The upper cover body 44 covers the upper end portion of the
pole 31, the upper end portion of the decorative body 32 and the
upper support members 35 and 37 from below, thereby, preventing the
player Y from being injured. The lower cover body 45 covers the
lower end portion of the pole 31, the lower end portion of the
decorative body 32, the lower support members 36 and 38 and the
rotation drive mechanism 39 from above, thereby, preventing the
player Y from being injured. Further, a through hole 44a into which
the upper end portion of the pole 31 is inserted is formed in the
upper cover body 44, and a through hole 45a into which the lower
end portion of the pole 31 is inserted is formed in the lower cover
body 45.
[0083] The upper surface of the base 5, the outer surface of the
cover body 20 and the outer surface of the lower cover body 45 are
covered with a not shown shock absorbing member, thereby also,
preventing the player Y who falls off the pole 11 or 31 from being
injured.
[0084] According to the amusement device 1 configured as described
above, in the first play portion 10, the player Y can play by
climbing up and down by his/her arms and legs the pole 11 which is
rotated about its axis by the rotation drive mechanism 15. Because
the pole 11 is rotated about its axis, the player Y can enjoy the
play while enjoying the sensation felt when rotating with the pole
11.
[0085] On the other hand, in the second play portion 20, the player
Y can play by climbing up and down by his/her arms and legs the
pole 31 including therein the decorative body 32 which is rotated
about its axis by the rotation drive mechanism 39, while enjoying
the change of the alternate stripes on the outer circumferential
surface of the decorative body 32.
[0086] When the push button 19 or 43 is pressed by the player Y who
has climbed up to the upper end portion of the pole 11 or 13, music
is played, a sound saying "You did great." is outputted in a human
voice, or a lamp is turned on, for example. Thereby, the play is
made more amusing.
[0087] Thus, according to the amusement device 1 of the present
embodiment, the movement of the player Y himself/herself climbing
up and down the pole 11 and the rotating movement of the pole 11
are combined together. Thereby, the player can enjoy varied plays
and sensations which have not been provided by the conventional
one. And, the player Y can also play while enjoying the decoration
32a on the rotated decorative body 32
[0088] In addition, it is possible to interest children around the
amusement device 1 who watch the rotating motions of the pole 11,
the player Y and the decorative body 32 in playing with the
amusement device 1 and to lead them to play with the amusement
device 1.
[0089] Further, because the pole 11 itself is diversified by
forming the curved portion 11a, it is possible to diversify the
climbing of the pole 11 more than when the pole 11 is formed
straight, and to make the climbing of the pole 11 difficult, and
thereby, the play in the amusement device 1 can be made more
amusing.
[0090] Further, the light source 33 is provided within the
decorative body 32, and the decoration 32a on the outer
circumferential surface of the decorative body 32 is made prominent
by the light from the light source 33. Thereby, it is possible to
enhance the decorative effect. Additionally, the pole 11 and the
decorative body 32 are rotated about their respective axes,
thereby, it is possible to enjoying the patterns placed on the
surface of the decorative body 32 and the pole 11 changing, and to
attract interests of children strongly.
[0091] Because the upper surface of the base 5, the outer surface
of the cover body 20 and the outer surface of the lower cover body
45 are covered with the shock absorbing member (not shown), the
shock absorbing member (not shown) functions as a cushion even if
the player Y accidentally falls off the pole 11 or 31. Thereby, it
is possible to effectively prevent the player Y from being
injured.
[0092] Thus, one embodiment of the present invention has been
described above. However, specific modes in which the present
invention can be realized are not limited thereto.
[0093] For example, in the first play portion 10, the pole 11 may
be made of a tube-shaped and transparent member, and a light source
may be provided within the pole 11. In this way, similarly to the
decorative body 32 of the second play portion 30, the decoration
11b on the outer circumferential surface of the pole 11 is made
prominent by light from the light source, thereby, it is possible
to enhance the decorative effect more.
[0094] Further, in the second play portion 30 of the above
embodiment, the decorative body 32 is rotated about its axis by the
rotation drive mechanism 39. However, it is not limited thereto.
The decorative body 32 may be adapted to be non-rotatable, and the
pole 31 may be rotated about its axis instead. In this way, the
player Y gripping the pole 31 is rotated together with the pole 31,
thereby, the player Y can enjoy the patterns on the surface of the
decorative body 32 changing. Further, both the pole 31 and the
decorative body 32 may be rotated. In this case, they may be
rotated in the same direction, and they may be rotated in the
opposite direction. Their rotational speeds may be the same or
different.
[0095] The outer circumferential surface of the pole 31 also may be
decorated. In this way, the decorative effect can be further
enhanced by the decorations on the outer circumferential surfaces
of both the decorative body 32 and the pole 31. The pole 31 and the
decorative 32 can be each made of a translucent member besides a
transparent member. As long as it is a light-transmittable member,
any member may be employed.
[0096] Further, the amusement device 1 may be configured as an
amusement device 2 comprising a first play portion 50 and a second
play portion 80 as shown in FIG. 6 to FIG. 10 instead of the first
play portion 10 and the second play portion 30. In the explanation
described below, the same reference numerals are assigned to the
same components as the amusement device 1, and detailed
explanations thereof are omitted. FIG. 6 is a perspective view
showing a schematic configuration of an amusement device according
to another embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 7 is a
cross-sectional view taken along the line D-D in FIG. 6, and FIG. 8
is a cross-sectional view taken along the line E-E in FIG. 6.
Further, FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic
configuration of an upper end portion of a pole and the others
according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG.
10 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of a
lower end portion of the pole and the others according to another
embodiment of the present invention.
[0097] The first play portion 50 comprises: a pole 51 made of a
circular tube-shaped and transparent member; a support mechanism 55
for supporting an upper end portion and a lower end portion of the
pole 51 so that the pole 51 rotates freely about its axis; an air
supply mechanism 65 for supplying air into the pole 51; an
illumination mechanism 70 for illuminating the inside of the pole
51; the rotation drive mechanism 15; the push button 19; an upper
cover body 76 for covering the upper end portion of the pole 51 and
a part of the support mechanism 55; and a lower cover body 77 for
covering the lower end portion of the pole 51, a part of the
support mechanism 55 and the rotation drive mechanism 15.
[0098] The pole 51 has a curved portion 51a formed so as to wind
from side to side between both end portions, and the axis of the
parts other than the curved portion 51a is disposed along the
up-and-down direction. And the pole 51 is disposed at a certain
distance from the upper surface of the base 5 and the lower surface
of the upper member 6. A hollow seal member 52 is provided at the
lower end portion of the pole 51. The seal member 52 is connected
to the outer circumferential surface of the lower end portion of
the pole 51 and to the upper surface of the base 5, and a closed
space is formed between the lower end portion of the pole 51 and
the base 5. Thereby, the lower end portion of the pole 51 is
sealed. Additionally, liquid L fills the pole 51 and the closed
space.
[0099] As for the colors of the pole 51 and the liquid L, any color
is acceptable as long as it can visually entertain the player Y and
people around the amusement device 2. Further, as long as it is
possible to see from the outside bubbles K flowing, any member may
be employed for the pole 51. For example, the pole 51 may be made
of a translucent member instead of a transparent member. Further,
the outer circumferential surface of the pole 51 may be adorned
with the decoration described above. Additionally, a member having
good ventilation may be provided at an upper end opening portion of
the pole 51.
[0100] The support mechanism 55 is configured with: an upper
support body 56 arranged on the lower surface of the upper member 6
for supporting the upper end portion of the pole 51; and a lower
support body 59 arranged on the upper surface of the base 5 for
supporting the lower end portion of the pole 51.
[0101] The upper support body 56 is configured with: a bearing 57,
the axis of which is disposed along the up-and-down direction; and
a hollow retaining member 58 arranged on the lower surface of the
upper member 6 for retaining the bearing 57, and supports the upper
end portion of the pole 51 so that the bearing 57 enables the pole
51 to rotate freely about the axis of the bearing 57. In the
retaining member 58, a plurality of through holes 58a which
penetrate from the outer circumferential surface to the inner
circumferential surface thereof are formed.
[0102] The lower support body 59 is configured with a bearing 60,
the axis of which is disposed along the up-and-down direction; and
a hollow retaining member 61 arranged outside the seal member 52 on
the upper surface of the base 5 for retaining the bearing 60, and
supports the lower end portion of the pole 51 so that the bearing
60 enables the pole 51 to rotate freely about the axis of the
bearing 60.
[0103] In the rotation drive mechanism 15, the second gear 18 is
provided on the outer circumferential surface of the lower end
portion side of the pole 51, and the pole 51 is rotated about the
axis of the bearings 57 and 60.
[0104] The air supply mechanism 65 is configured with: an air pump
66 arranged on the base 5; and a supply pipe 67, one end of which
is connected to the air pump 66 and the other end of which is
connected to the inside of the closed space, and which is arranged
below the lower end portion of the pole 51. In the air supply
mechanism 65, when air is supplied into the closed space by the air
pump 66 through the supply pipe 67, the supplied air changes into
bubbles K, which rise up through the liquid L in the closed space
and the pole 51.
[0105] The air supplied into the pole 51 is exhausted outside
through the through holes 58a of the retaining member 58 and a
through hole 76a of the upper cover body 76 after rising up inside
the pole 51. Air may be supplied into the closed space by the air
pump 66 continuously or intermittently.
[0106] The illumination mechanism 70 is configured with: a first
light source 71 for illuminating the pole 51 from below it; and a
second light source 72 for illuminating the pole 51 from above it.
The first light source 71 is arranged on the base 5 in the closed
space, and the second light source 72 is arranged on the lower
surface of the upper member 6 so as to be located just above the
pole 51. In the illumination mechanism 70, the inside of the pole
51 is illuminated by lights from the first light source 71 and the
second light source 72.
[0107] For the light sources 71 and 72, a light emitting diode, an
incandescent lamp or a fluorescent light may be used, for example.
However, they are not limited thereto. Further, as for the colors
of lights from the light sources 71 and 72, any color is acceptable
as long as it can visually entertain the player Y and people around
the amusement device 2.
[0108] The upper cover body 76 covers the lower support body 56
from below, thereby, preventing the player Y from being injured.
Further, in the upper cover body 76, the through hole 76a into
which the upper end portion of the pole 51 is inserted is formed.
On the other hand, the lower cover body 77 covers the lower support
body 59, the rotation drive mechanism 15 and the air supply
mechanism 65 from above, thereby, preventing the player Y from
being injured. Further, in the lower cover body 77, a through hole
77a into which the lower end portion of the pole 51 is inserted is
formed.
[0109] The upper surface of the base 5 and the outer surface of the
lower cover body 77 are covered with a not shown shock absorbing
member, thereby also, preventing the player Y from being
injured.
[0110] The second play portion 80 differs from the first play
portion 50 in that a pole 81 having a shape which is different from
the pole 51 is provided and in that the rotation drive mechanism 39
and the push button 43 are provided. The pole 81 is made of a
circular tube-shaped and transparent member, and its axis is
disposed in the up- and down direction. The same reference numerals
are assigned to the same components as the first play portion 50,
and detailed explanations thereof are omitted.
[0111] According to the second amusement device 2 configured in
this way, the poles 51 and 81 are rotated about their respective
axes by the rotation drive mechanisms 15 and 39, respectively, and
the air supplied into the closed spaces by the air supply
mechanisms 65 changes into bubbles K, which rise up through the
liquid L in the poles 51 and 81. Further, the insides of the poles
51 and 81 are illuminated by lights from the illumination
mechanisms 70. The player Y can play by climbing up and down these
poles 51 and 81 with his/her arms and legs.
[0112] Therefore, according to the amusement device 2, because the
player Y can climbs up and down the poles 51 and 81 while watching
the bubbles K flowing through the liquid L from the lower end
portion side to the upper end portion side thereof, it is possible
to let the player Y play more happily. Further, by showing children
around the amusement device 2 that the bubbles K flow, it is
possible to attract the children and to lead them to play with the
amusement device 2.
[0113] Further, by illuminating the insides of the poles 51 and 81
with lights from the illumination mechanisms 70, an illumination
effect or a light-up effect can be obtained and it is possible to
entertain the player Y and people around the amusement device 2.
Further, it is possible to interest children around the amusement
device 2 who watch the illuminated poles 51 and 81 or the light-up
poles 51 and 81.
[0114] Additionally, besides such effects, effects similar to the
above-described effects can be obtained.
[0115] The shapes of the poles 11. 31, 51 and 81 are not limited to
the above-described shapes, and it is possible to employ various
shapes. A bent portion may be provided on each of the poles 11 and
51 instead of the curved portions 11a and 51a. As shown in FIG. 11,
the pole 11 may be formed so that the upper end side thereof is
warped, and the pole 51 can have the same shape. In this way, also
when the bent portion is provided or the upper end portion thereof
is warped, effects similar to the above can be obtained by
diversifying the poles 11 and 51 themselves. In the case of the
pole 11 shown in FIG. 11, the upper support member 13 for
supporting the upper end portion of the pole 11 is omitted.
[0116] Embodiments for supporting the poles 11, 31, 51 and 81 are
not particularly limited. Only the upper end portion or only the
lower end portion may be supported. Or both of the upper and lower
end portions may be supported.
[0117] The shock absorbing members covering the upper surface of
the base 5, the outer surface of the cover body 20, the outer
surface of the lower cover body 45 and the outer surface of the
lower cover body 77 are not particularly limited. For example, a
cushion using air, springs, rubber or sponge can be used.
[0118] Further, the arrangement position of each of the light
sources 33, 71 and 77 is not limited as long as it is possible to
illuminate the inside of the decorative body 32 or the inside of
the pole 51 or 81.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
[0119] As described above, the present invention can be preferably
applicable to an amusement device with which a player can enjoy
more varied plays, and which can let the player play more happily
and attract interests of children more strongly.
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