JP6842974B2 - Light emission mode setting device - Google Patents

Description

The invention, for example, relates to a lighting mode setting equipment to edit the light emission mode according to the optical element of the gaming machine such as the pachi-slot machine and pachinko machines.

Conventionally, gaming machines called pachislot machines and pachinko machines are known. In such a game machine, generally, when a predetermined condition is satisfied in the game, the variable display control means controls the symbol display device to fluctuate and display the identification information on the display area of the symbol display device, and the symbol display device is used. When the identification information finally derived and displayed on the display area has a predetermined combination (specific display mode), the gaming state shifts to a jackpot gaming state (so-called “big hit”) that is advantageous to the player.

The above-mentioned gaming machine is controlled to perform an effect by using various effect devices including an optical element (for example, LED) such as a lamp according to the above-mentioned gaming state (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Patent Document 1 proposes a game machine that produces an effect using LEDs. Then, in Patent Document 1, various lighting patterns that define the lighting modes of the plurality of LEDs are stored, a lighting pattern selected from the lighting patterns is selected according to the effect content, and a plurality of lighting patterns are selected based on the selected effect content. A technique for controlling lighting of LEDs has been proposed.

Further, in recent years, more complicated and sophisticated expressions have been required for the production in the game machine according to the game state, the production story, and the like. In order to realize such an effect, the number of optical elements (for example, LEDs) provided in the game machine has been dramatically increased, and a full-color LED having a high degree of freedom in emission color has been adopted as the optical element. There are more things to do.

Regarding the LED light emission control as described above, it is necessary to individually specify the light emission color and the lighting (extinguishing) timing for each frame for each LED port according to the effect content of the game machine. Therefore, the person in charge has performed such a designated work by trial and error based on experience and intuition while considering the position where each LED is arranged on the game machine.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2005-152152

However, due to the increase in the number of LEDs, the full color, and the complexity of the production contents as described above, the person in charge sets each LED port to perform light emission control linked to the production contents. The amount of work has increased dramatically and is approaching its limits.

The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and is capable of easily generating data for fine light emission control linked to the content of the effect for a large number of optical elements in a game machine. and to provide a mode setting equipment.

To achieve the above object, the present invention provides the following light emission mode setting equipment.

The invention according to the first embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration.
An audio file identification means (for example, CPU231) for identifying an audio file of a musical piece, and
With respect to the audio file, a frequency analysis means (for example, CPU 231) for obtaining the amplitude at a selected frequency and
Position information management means (for example, an area identified by a sprite name shown in FIG. 14) corresponding to an optical element (for example, LED25) of a game machine (for example, game machines 1, 300). For example, CPU231) and
For at least one of the light emitting regions, a timeline capable of displaying a symbol representing a light emitting mode of the corresponding optical element with the passage of time is displayed (for example, a sound graph of the sound window 450 shown in FIG. 39). (Graph display shown on the display unit 455), and further, the value related to the amplitude at the selected frequency is made to correspond to the time passage of the timeline, and the symbol of the light emitting mode corresponding to the value is displayed on the timeline. A light emitting mode setting device (for example, a light emitting mode setting device) including a timeline display control means (for example, CPU 231) for controlling (for example, displaying a symbol representing a gradation pattern shown on the timeline display unit 453 of the sound window 450 shown in FIG. 39). For example, development PC200).

With such a configuration of the present invention, the light emitting mode of the optical element at the corresponding timing is automatically set based on the change of a specific frequency band such as the main melody of the music or the deep bass. It is possible to easily generate data for finely linked light emission control.

According to the present invention, it is possible to easily generate data for fine light emission control linked to the content of the effect for a large number of optical elements in a game machine.

It is a figure which shows the functional flow of the game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is an overall perspective view which shows the external structure of the game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the electric structure of the game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the main control circuit which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the auxiliary control circuit which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the sub-control circuit and the LED board which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a figure for demonstrating the outline of LED data generation in the development PC which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the development PC which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a perspective view which shows a part of the external structure in another game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a front view which shows the external structure in another game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the image data which is input to the development PC which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is the figure which extracted and showed only the light emitting region of the image data input to the development PC which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the outline of the sprite extraction process in the port creation mode of the development PC which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the GUI in the port creation mode of the development PC which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the outline of the data generated in the development PC which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the sprite extraction process in the development PC which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the GUI in the LED data creation mode of the development PC which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the timeline window displayed in the LED data creation mode of the development PC which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the group window which is displayed in the LED data creation mode of the development PC which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the light emission pattern about 9 reel backlights. It is a figure which shows the group window which is displayed in the LED data creation mode of the development PC which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the group window and the timeline window which are displayed in the LED data creation mode of the development PC which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows typically the light emitting region in a game machine. It is a figure which shows the group window which is displayed in the LED data creation mode with respect to the light emitting area which is shown schematically. It is a figure which shows the group window which is displayed in the LED data creation mode with respect to the light emitting area which is shown schematically. It is a figure which shows the light-emitting mode with respect to the light-emitting region shown schematically. It is a figure which shows the light-emitting mode with respect to the light-emitting region shown schematically. It is a figure which shows the light-emitting mode with respect to the light-emitting region shown schematically. It is a figure which shows the light-emitting mode with respect to the light-emitting region shown schematically. It is a figure which shows the light-emitting mode with respect to the light-emitting region shown schematically. It is a figure which shows the timeline window which is displayed in the LED data creation mode with respect to the light emitting area which is shown schematically. It is a figure which shows the group window which is displayed in the LED data creation mode with respect to the light emitting area which is shown schematically. It is a figure which shows the light-emitting mode with respect to the light-emitting region shown schematically. It is a figure which shows the group window which is displayed in the LED data creation mode with respect to the light emitting area which is shown schematically. It is a figure which shows the light-emitting mode with respect to the light-emitting region shown schematically. It is a figure which shows the sound window displayed in the LED data creation mode of the development PC which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the sound window displayed in the LED data creation mode of the development PC which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the sound window displayed in the LED data creation mode of the development PC which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the sound window displayed in the LED data creation mode of the development PC which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the sound window displayed in the LED data creation mode of the development PC which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows typically the light emitting region in a game machine. It is a figure which shows the concept which applies the light-emitting mode corresponding to a movie with respect to the light-emitting region shown schematically. It is a figure which shows the concept which applies the light-emitting mode corresponding to a movie with respect to the light-emitting region shown schematically. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure which applies the light emitting mode corresponding to a movie. It is a figure which shows the example which attached the colored cover with respect to the light emitting region which is shown schematically. It is a figure which shows the light emitting mode with respect to the light emitting region shown schematically, and the display of a port creation mode.

<Functional flow of game machines>
A gaming machine (for example, a pachislot machine) according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described. First, the functional flow according to the embodiment of the gaming machine will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a functional flow of a game machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, a medal is used as a gaming medium for playing a game. In addition to medals, coins, game balls, point data for games, tokens, and the like can also be applied as the game medium.

As a predetermined start condition, when a medal is inserted by a player and the start lever is operated, one value (hereinafter, random number value) is extracted from a random number in a predetermined numerical value range (for example, 0 to 65535). Will be done.

The internal lottery means draws a lot based on the extracted random number value, and determines the internal winning combination. The main control circuit, which will be described later, is responsible for this internal lottery means. By determining the internal winning combination, the combination of symbols that are allowed to be displayed along the winning determination line described later is determined. The types of symbol combinations include those related to "winning" in which benefits such as medal payout, re-game operation, and bonus operation are given to the player, and those related to other so-called "loss". Is provided.

Further, when the start lever is operated, a plurality of reels are rotated. After that, when the stop button corresponding to the predetermined reel is pressed by the player, the reel stop control means controls to stop the rotation of the corresponding reel based on the internal winning combination and the timing when the stop button is pressed. Do.

In the game machine, basically, control is performed to stop the rotation of the corresponding reel within a specified time (190 msec or 75 msec) from the time when the stop button is pressed. In the present embodiment, the number of symbols that move with the rotation of the reel within this specified time is referred to as the "number of sliding pieces". When the specified time is 190 msec, the maximum number of sliding pieces is set for 4 symbols, and when the specified time is 75 msec, the maximum number of sliding pieces is set for 1 symbol.

When the internal winning combination that allows the combination display of the symbols related to the winning is determined, the reel stop control means usually sets the combination of the symbols within the specified time of 190 msec (4 frames of the symbols) on the winning determination line. Stop the rotation of the reel so that it is displayed as much as possible along. Further, the reel stop control means is specified for one or more reels, for example, when the challenge bonus (CB) which is a second type special accessory and the middle bonus (MB) which continuously operates the CB are operated. Within the time of 75 msec (for one symbol), the rotation of the reel is stopped so that the combination of the symbols is displayed as much as possible along the winning determination line. Further, the reel stop control means uses various specified times corresponding to the gaming state to rotate the reel so that the combination of symbols whose display is not permitted by the internal winning combination is not displayed along the winning determination line. Stop it.

In this way, when all the rotations of the plurality of reels are stopped, the winning determination means determines whether or not the combination of symbols displayed along the winning determination line is related to winning. The winning determination means is carried by the main control circuit described later. When it is determined by the winning determination means that the prize is related to the prize, the player is given a privilege such as paying out a medal. In the game machine, the above-mentioned series of flows is performed as one game. Such an internal lottery means, a reel stop control means, and a winning determination means are carried by a main control circuit as a control means described later.

Further, in the game machine, in the above-mentioned series of flows, image display performed by an image display device such as a liquid crystal display device, light output performed by various lamps, sound output performed by a speaker, or a combination thereof is used. And various productions are performed.

When the start lever is operated, a random value for effect (hereinafter referred to as a random value for effect) is extracted in addition to the random value used for determining the internal winning combination described above. When the effect random value is extracted, the effect content determining means determines by lottery what to execute this time from a plurality of types of effect contents associated with the internal winning combination.

When the content of the effect is determined, the effect executing means executes the corresponding effect in conjunction with each opportunity such as when the rotation of the reels starts, when the rotation of each reel stops, and when it is determined whether or not there is a prize. In this way, in the game machine, the player has an opportunity to know or anticipate the determined internal winning combination (in other words, a combination of symbols to be aimed at) by executing the effect content associated with the internal winning combination. It is provided to the player and can improve the interest of the player. A sub-control circuit as an effect control means, which will be described later, bears such an effect content determining means and an effect execution means.

<Structure of game machine>
Next, the appearance structure of the game machine according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[Appearance structure]
FIG. 2 is an overall perspective view showing the external structure of the gaming machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 2, the game machine 1 includes an exterior body 2. The exterior body 2 has a cabinet 2a as a housing for accommodating a reel, a circuit board, and the like, and a front door 2b that is openably and closably attached to the cabinet 2a. Handles 2c are provided on both side surfaces of the cabinet 2a (only one side handle 2c is shown in FIG. 2). The handle 2c is a recess for carrying the game machine 1.

Inside the cabinet 2a, a plurality of reels 3L, 3C, 3R (three in the present embodiment) in which a plurality of (for example, 21) symbols are displayed at predetermined intervals along the circumferential direction are housed. ing.

Hereinafter, each reel 3L, 3C, 3R will be referred to as a left reel 3L, a middle reel 3C, and a right reel 3R, respectively. Each reel 3L, 3C, 3R has a reel body formed in a cylindrical shape and a translucent sheet material mounted on the peripheral surface of the reel body. The plurality of (for example, 21) symbols described above are drawn on the surface of the sheet material described above.

The front door 2b includes a door body 9 and a liquid crystal display device 11 as an image display means for displaying an image. The door body 9 is attached to the cabinet 2a so as to be openable and closable by using a hinge (not shown). The hinge is provided at the left end of the door body 9 when the door body 9 is viewed from the front of the game machine 1. Speakers 23TL and 23TR are arranged on the upper part of the door body 9 on the back side of the speaker cover.

The liquid crystal display device 11 is, for example, a door body 9 of the front door 2b so as to display an image related to a game effect or information related to the game on the front side (the front side of the game machine 1 and the side facing the player). It is attached to the top. The liquid crystal display device 11 can perform an effect by displaying an image, and can display game table information such as customization of a game machine and game history. Further, the liquid crystal display device 11 displays a hall menu according to the operation of the manager of the amusement park. In this case, the liquid crystal display device 11 is composed of a touch panel, and buttons and the like that can be operated by the administrator can be displayed in the hall menu.

Further, the front door 2b has a display window 4 capable of visually recognizing a part of the three reels 3L, 3C, 3R. The display window 4 is composed of three left display windows 4L, a middle display window 4C, and a right display window 4R corresponding to the three reels 3L, 3C, and 3R.

These display windows 4L, 4C, 4R are provided at positions that overlap with the arrangement areas of the three reels 3L, 3C, 3R when viewed from the front (player side), and are in front of the three reels (player side). ) Is provided. Therefore, the player can visually recognize the three reels 3L, 3C, 3R provided behind the display window 4 through the display windows 4L, 4C, 4R.

In the present embodiment, the display windows 4L, 4C, and 4R are continuously arranged among a plurality of types of symbols drawn on each reel when the rotation of the corresponding reel provided behind the display windows 4L, 4C, and 4R is stopped. It is set to a size that can display one pattern. That is, in the frame of the display windows 4L, 4C, 4R, upper, middle, and lower regions are provided for each reel, and one symbol is displayed in each region. Then, in the present embodiment, the line connecting the middle stage region of the left reel 3L, the middle stage region of the middle reel 3C, and the middle stage region of the right reel 3R is defined as a winning determination line for determining whether or not to win.

Further, a protective glass 6 is arranged on the front side of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R and the liquid crystal display device 11 described above. As a result, the player cannot directly touch the liquid crystal display device 11.

A pedestal portion 12 is formed in the center of the door body 9. The pedestal portion 12 has various devices (medal insertion slot 13, MAX bet button 14, 1 bet button 15, start lever 16, stop buttons 17L, 17C, 17R, selection button, decision button, etc.) to be operated by the player. ) Is provided.

The medal slot 13 is provided to receive medals dropped from the outside into the game machine 1 by the player. That is, the medal insertion slot 13 is for inserting medals by the player. The medals inserted from the medal slot 13 are used for one game up to a preset number of medals (for example, 3), and the amount exceeding the preset number of medals is deposited inside the game machine 1. Can be (so-called credit function).

The MAX bet button 14 and the 1-bet button 15 are provided to determine the number of medals to be used for one game from the medals deposited inside the game machine 1. Although not shown in FIG. 2, the pedestal portion 12 is provided with a settlement button. This checkout button is provided to pull out (discharge) the medals deposited inside the game machine 1 to the outside.

The start lever 16 is for starting the rotation of all the reels (3L, 3C, 3R) according to the operation of the player, and constitutes the start operation means.

The stop buttons 17L, 17C, and 17R are provided in association with the left reel 3L, the middle reel 3C, and the right reel 3R, respectively, and are for stopping the rotation of each corresponding reel according to the operation of the player. .. These stop buttons 17L, 17C, 17R constitute a stop operation means.

Further, these stop buttons 17L, 17C, 17R are used when performing an operation related to information displayed on the liquid crystal display device 11, for example, when performing a selection operation on the display screen of the liquid crystal display device 11. Used for. Hereinafter, the stop buttons 17L, 17C, and 17R will be referred to as a left stop button 17L, a middle stop button 17C, and a right stop button 17R, respectively.

The selection button and the decision button are used when performing various operations on the display screen of the liquid crystal display device 11.

Further, the pedestal portion 12 is provided with a 7-segment display 28 composed of a 7-segment LED (LightEmittingDiode). The 7-segment display 28 provides information such as the number of medals to be paid out to the player as a privilege (hereinafter, the number of medals to be paid out), the number of medals deposited inside the game machine 1 (hereinafter, the number of credits), and the like. Display digitally.

A medal payout outlet 21, a medal tray 22, speakers 23UL, 23UR, and the like are provided at the lower part of the door body 9. The medal payout outlet 21 guides the medals discharged by driving the hopper device 43, which will be described later, to the outside. The medal tray 22 stores medals discharged from the medal payout outlet 21.

The speakers 23UL and 23UR output sound effects, music, and the like corresponding to the content of the production.

In the game machine 1 according to the present embodiment, a plurality of light emitting regions (sprites) that emit light by an optical element such as an LED are arranged. The light emitting region corresponds to a region of a member that emits light with substantially uniform color and brightness by, for example, diffusely reflecting light received from an optical element on the back surface side. Of course, it is not necessary to emit light with uniform color and brightness in one light emitting region, and the color and brightness are configured to change depending on the position of the member depending on the structure and design of the member arranged in front of the optical element. Can be done.

For example, in the game machine 1, sprites 31R, 31L, 32R, 32L, 33R, 33L, 34R, 34L, 35R, 35L, 36R, 36L, 37R, 37L shown as hatched regions of diagonal lines are arranged. Further, in the present embodiment, optical elements such as LEDs are also arranged on the back side of the MAX bet button 14 and the stop buttons 17L, 17C, 17R described above, and the entire button is irradiated with light from the back side. It is configured to emit light.

<Electrical configuration of game machines>
Next, the electrical configuration of the game machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the game machine 1.

As shown in FIG. 3, the game machine 1 has a main control board 41 arranged in the cabinet 2a and a sub control board 42 arranged in the front door 2b. The reel relay terminal board 51, the setting key type switch 52, the cabinet side relay board 53, the door relay terminal board 54, and the power supply board 44b of the power supply device 44 are electrically connected to the main control board 41. ing.

The reel relay terminal plate 51 is arranged inside the reel main body of each reel 3L, 3C, 3R. The reel relay terminal plate 51 is electrically connected to a stepping motor (not shown) of each reel 3L, 3C, 3R, and relays a signal output from the main control board 41 to the stepping motor. The setting key type switch 52 is used when changing the setting of the game machine 1 or when confirming the setting of the game machine 1.

The external centralized terminal plate 56, the hopper device 43, and the medal auxiliary storage switch 57 are electrically connected to the cabinet-side relay board 53. The cabinet-side relay board 53 relays signals output from the main control board 41 to the external centralized terminal board 56, the hopper device 43, and the medal auxiliary storage switch 57. That is, the external centralized terminal plate 56, the hopper device 43, and the medal auxiliary storage switch 57 are connected to the main control board 41 via the cabinet-side relay board 53.

The external centralized terminal plate 56 is attached to the cabinet 2a and is provided to output signals such as a medal insertion signal, a medal payout signal, and a security signal to the outside of the game machine 1.

The medal auxiliary storage switch 57 penetrates the medal auxiliary storage (not shown). The medal auxiliary storage switch 57 detects whether or not the medal auxiliary storage is full of medals.

A power switch 44a is connected to the power supply board 44b of the power supply device 44. The power switch 44a is turned on when supplying the necessary power to the game machine 1.

The door relay terminal board 54 includes a medal sensor 46, a door open / close monitoring switch 61, a BET switch 62, a settlement switch 63, a start switch 64, a stop switch board 65, a game operation display board 66, a selection switch 67, a decision switch 68, and a sub. The relay board 69 is connected. That is, the medal sensor 46, the door open / close monitoring switch 61, the BET switch 62, the settlement switch 63, the start switch 64, the stop switch board 65, the game operation display board 66, the selection switch 67, the decision switch 68, and the sub-relay board 69 are It is connected to the main control board 41 via the door relay terminal plate 54.

The medal sensor 46 detects that the medal has passed through a selector (not shown), and outputs the detection result to the main control board 41. The door open / close monitoring switch 61 outputs a security signal for notifying the open / close of the front door 2b to the outside of the game machine 1. The BET switch 62 detects that the MAX bet button 14 and the 1-bet button 15 (see FIG. 2) are pressed by the player, and outputs the detection result to the main control board 41.

The settlement switch 63 detects that the settlement button (not shown) has been pressed by the player, and outputs the detection result to the main control board 41. The start switch 64 detects that the start lever 16 has been operated by the player (start operation), and outputs the detection result to the main control board 41.

The stop switch board 65 is a board that constitutes a circuit for stopping a rotating reel and a circuit for displaying a stoptable reel by an LED or the like. A stop switch is provided on the stop switch board 65. The stop switch detects that each of the stop buttons 17L, 17C, 17R is pressed by the player (stop operation).

The game operation display board 66 displays the number of inserted medals on the 7-segment display 28 when accepting the insertion of medals, when the three reels 3L, 3C, and 3R are rotatable and when the replay is performed. It is a substrate for making it. A 7-segment display 28 and an LED 70 are connected to the game operation display board 66. The LED 70 lights, for example, a mark indicating the start of the game, a mark for replaying the game, and the like.

The selection switch 67 detects that the selection button has been pressed by the player, and outputs the detection result to the main control board 41 and the sub-relay board 69. The determination switch 68 detects that the determination button has been pressed by the player, and outputs the detection result to the main control board 41 and the sub-relay board 69.

The sub-relay board 69 relays the wiring connecting the sub-control board 42 and the main control board 41. Further, the sub-relay board 69 relays the wiring connecting the sub-control board 42 and a plurality of boards arranged around the sub-control board 42. That is, the sub-relay board 69 is electrically connected to the sub-control board 42, the sound I / O board 71, the LED board 72, the 24h door open / close monitoring unit 74, and the development PC interface 78. ..

The LED substrate 72 is connected to the LED 25, controls the lighting / extinguishing of the LED 25, the emission color, etc., and causes the sprites 32R, 32L, etc. as shown in FIG. 2 to emit light at a predetermined timing and color.

Further, the development PC interface 78 is connected to the development PC 200, which is the light emitting mode setting device of the present invention, and plays LED data (so-called lamp pattern data) for controlling the lighting / extinguishing of the LED 25, the light emitting color, and the like. Provided to machine 1.

The sub-control board 42 is connected to the main control board 41 via the door relay terminal board 54 and the sub-relay board 69. Further, the sub-control board 42 is electrically connected to the sound I / O board 71, the LED board 72, the 24h door open / close monitoring unit 74, and the development PC interface 78 via the sub-relay board 69. There is.

The sound I / O board 71 outputs audio to the speakers 23TL, 23TR, 23UL, and 23UR. The LED board 72 causes the LED 25, which shows a specific example of the light source, to emit light according to the effect executed by the control of the sub-control circuit 101, and displays the blinking pattern.

The 24h door open / close monitoring unit 74 stores the open / close history of the front door 2b. Further, when the front door 2b is opened, the 24h door open / close monitoring unit 74 outputs a signal for displaying an error to the liquid crystal display device 11 to the sub control board 42 (sub control circuit 101).

The ROM cartridge board 76 and the liquid crystal relay board 77 are connected to the sub-control board 42. The ROM cartridge substrate 76 is a substrate for managing image (video), audio, light (LED25), and communication data for production. For example, the LED data generated by the development PC 200 is fixedly stored in the ROM cartridge substrate 76, and the light emission control of the LED 25 is performed based on the LED data stored in this way. The liquid crystal relay board 77 is a board that relays the wiring connecting the sub-control board 42 and the liquid crystal display device 11.

<Main control circuit>
Next, the main control circuit 91 composed of the main control board 41 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the main control circuit 91 of the game machine 1.

As shown in FIG. 4, the main control circuit 91 as a control means controls the progress of the game by using the microcomputer 92 installed on the main control board 41 as a main component. The microcomputer 92 is composed of a main CPU 93, a main ROM 94, and a main RAM 95.

The main ROM 94 stores a control program executed by the main CPU 93, a data table, data for transmitting various control commands (command signals) to the sub-control circuit 101 described later, and the like. The main RAM 95 is provided with a storage area for storing various data such as an internal winning combination determined by executing a control program.

A clock pulse generation circuit 96, a frequency divider 97, a random number generator 98, and a sampling circuit 99 are connected to the main CPU 93. The clock pulse generation circuit 96 and the frequency divider 97 generate a clock pulse. The main CPU 93 executes a control program based on the generated clock pulse. The random number generator 98 generates random numbers in a predetermined range (for example, 0 to 65535). The sampling circuit 99 extracts one value from the generated random numbers.

The main CPU 93 counts the number of times a pulse is output to the stepping motors of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R after detecting the reel index. As a result, the main CPU 93 manages the rotation angles of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R (mainly, how many symbols the reels have rotated).

The reel index is information indicating that the reel has made one revolution. This reel index is provided, for example, with an optical sensor having a light emitting part and a light receiving part, and is provided at a predetermined position on each reel 3L, 3C, 3R, and the light emitting part and the light receiving part are connected by rotation of each reel 3L, 3C, 3R. It is detected by a reel position detection unit (not shown) provided with a detection piece interposed between them.

Here, the management of the rotation angles of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R will be specifically described. The number of pulses output to the stepping motor is counted by a pulse counter provided in the main RAM 95. Then, each time the output of a predetermined number of pulses (for example, 16 times) required for rotation of one symbol is counted by the pulse counter, the symbol counter provided in the main RAM 95 is added one by one. The symbol counter is provided according to each reel 3L, 3C, 3R. The value of the symbol counter is cleared when the reel index is detected by the reel position detection unit (not shown).

That is, in the present embodiment, by managing the symbol counter, it is possible to manage how many symbols have been rotated since the reel index was detected. Therefore, the position of each symbol of each reel 3L, 3C, 3R is detected with reference to the position where the reel index is detected.

In this embodiment, the maximum number of sliding pieces is basically set for four symbols. Therefore, when the left stop button 17L is pressed, the symbol of the left reel 3L in the middle of the display window 4 and each symbol within the range up to the symbol four ahead of the symbol can be stopped in the middle of the display window 4. It becomes a design.

<Secondary control circuit>
Next, the sub-control circuit 101 composed of the sub-control board 42 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the sub-control circuit 101 of the game machine 1.

As shown in FIG. 5, the sub-control circuit 101 as a sub-control unit is electrically connected to the main control circuit 91, and the effect content is determined and executed based on the command signal transmitted from the main control circuit 91. In addition to performing such processes, peripheral devices such as the liquid crystal display device 11, LED25, and speakers 23TL, 23TR, 23UL, and 23UR shown in FIG. 3 are controlled. The sub-control circuit 101 basically includes a sub CPU 102, a sub RAM 103, a rendering processor 104, a drawing RAM 105, and a driver 106. The sub-control circuit 101 also includes the LED control circuit 121, the configuration of which will be described later with reference to FIG.

The sub CPU 102 controls sound, light output, and display of the liquid crystal display device 11 according to a control program stored in the ROM cartridge board 76 in response to a command signal transmitted from the main control circuit 91 (see FIG. 4). I do. The ROM cartridge board 76 is basically composed of a program storage area and a data storage area.

A control program executed by the sub CPU 102 is stored in the program storage area. For example, in the control program, the main board communication task for controlling the communication with the main control circuit 91 (see FIG. 4) and the random value for the effect are extracted, and the content of the effect (effect data) is determined and registered. Includes a production registration task for. Further, a drawing control task for controlling the display of an image by the liquid crystal display device 11 based on the determined effect content, a lamp control task for controlling the output of light by a light source such as an LED 25 (see FIG. 3), speakers 23TL, 23TR, 23UL. , 23 UR includes voice control tasks to control the output of sound.

The data storage area includes a storage area for storing various data tables, a storage area for storing effect data constituting each effect content, and a storage area for storing animation data related to video creation. Further, a storage area for storing sound data related to BGM and sound effects, a storage area for storing lamp data (LED data) related to a pattern of turning on and off light, and the like are included.

The sub-RAM 103 is provided with a storage area for registering the determined effect content and effect data, and a storage area for storing various data such as an internal winning combination transmitted from the main control circuit 91.

The sub CPU 102, the rendering processor 104, the drawing RAM (including the frame buffer) 105, and the driver 106 create an image according to the animation data specified by the effect content, and display the created image on the liquid crystal display device 11.

Further, the sub CPU 102 causes the speakers 23TL, 23TR, 23UL, and 23UR to output sounds such as BGM according to the sound data specified by the effect content. Further, the sub CPU 102 controls the lighting / extinguishing of the LED 25, the emission color, and the like according to the (LED data) specified by the effect content.

Next, the configurations of the sub-control circuit 101 and the LED substrate 72 will be described with reference to FIG. 6 in relation to the control of lighting / extinguishing of the LED 25, the emission color, and the like. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the sub-control circuit 101 and the LED board 72 of the game machine 1.

The LED control circuit 121 in the sub-control circuit 101 includes a lamp control module 111, and the lamp control module 111 is connected to the LED 25 via the LED substrate 72. The LED substrate 72 includes an LED driver 122, and the lamp control module 111 provides the LED driver 122 with a lamp signal or the like (LED data 207 or the like described later).

As shown in FIG. 6, the lamp control module 111 includes an access control unit 111a, a sequencer unit 111b, a lamp control unit 111c, and an interface unit 111d.

The access control unit 111a is a circuit unit that collectively processes command signals transmitted from the sub CPU 102. The sequencer unit 111b has various sequencers for controlling lighting / extinguishing of the LED 25 and the like. Then, each sequencer controls various operations according to a timer and step conditions (for example, conditions set for each step process during sequence reproduction such as LED animation).

The lamp control unit 111c calculates the set luminance value in all channels in which the LED data 207 can be set, and transmits the calculation result to the outside (LED driver 122). Further, the interface unit 111d performs physical transmission control when transmitting the calculation result data output from the lamp control unit 111c to the LED driver 122.

When the LED 25 is driven (turned on / off), first, a lamp request (LED control request) is output from the sub CPU 102 to the LED control circuit 121. In the present embodiment, since the effect control process of the sub CPU 102 is performed in a predetermined FPS cycle, the lamp request transmission process to the LED control circuit 121 is also performed in a predetermined FPS cycle.

Next, when a lamp request is input to the LED control circuit 121, the sequencer unit 111b, the lamp control unit 111c, and the interface unit 111d of the LED control circuit 121 generate an LED lighting pattern (LED animation) based on the lamp request. The LED data 207 for setting is transmitted to the LED driver 122. At this time, the process of transmitting the LED data 207 from the LED control circuit 121 to the LED driver 122 is performed, for example, in a cycle of about 4 msec.

Then, the LED driver 122 turns on / off the connected LEDs 25 in a predetermined pattern based on the received LED data 207. As a result, the effect operation by the LED animation is executed.

The light emitting mode based on the LED data 207 is controlled by a signal (control signal) transmitted from the LED driver 122 to the LED 25 and generated based on the LED data 207 capable of controlling the light emitting mode. Specifically, depending on the electrical waveform parameters (voltage value, current value, duty ratio of pulse width, etc.) of the signal transmitted from the LED driver 122 to the LED 25, the light emitting mode such as lighting, extinguishing, blinking, and brightness of the LED 25 Is controlled.

<Outline of LED data generation>
Next, an outline of generating LED data will be described with reference to FIG. 7. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an outline of LED data generation using a development PC, which is a light emitting mode setting device of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 7, first, the image data 203 is read into the development PC 200. The image data 203 is, for example, a captured image of the front portion of the game machine, and includes a plurality of light emitting regions as shown in FIG.

The user reads the image data 203 by using the "port creation mode" of the development PC 200, and automatically generates the housing data 204 from the image data 203. The housing data 204 includes data for managing each light emitting region as a sprite and managing information about the LED corresponding to the sprite. For example, the center coordinates and size of the sprite and the LED type of the corresponding LED are automatically acquired from the above image data 203 and stored in the housing data 204.

Next, the user uses the "LED data creation mode" of the development PC 200 to specify the light emitting mode for each of the LEDs managed by the housing data 204, and generates the preview LED data 205. The preview LED data 205 includes, in addition to the data included in the housing data 204, light emission mode definition information that defines a light emission mode for each LED. Here, the light emission mode definition information includes, for example, information that defines the light emission color of the LED and the timing of turning on and off. Further, the light emission mode definition information can be configured to include a plurality of light emission modes (light emission patterns) for one LED.

After the preview LED data 205 is generated by designating the light emitting mode for each LED, the user gives a predetermined instruction to the development PC 200 to generate the LED data 206. This LED data 206 is generated by converting the preview LED data 205, and is based on the port number of the game machine 1 corresponding to each LED included in the preview LED data 205 and the light emission mode definition information. These data are converted into the format of the LED data that can be used by the game machine 1, including the light emission mode definition data.

After that, the LED data 206 is fixedly stored in the ROM cartridge substrate 76 shown in FIG. 3 and incorporated into the game machine 1. In this way, the game machine 1 reads out the LED data 207 from the ROM cartridge substrate 76, and sets the emission color, lighting / extinguishing timing, etc. of the LED according to the emission mode of each LED defined according to the effect content. Control. Here, the LED data stored in the Rom cartridge substrate 76 is shown as the LED data 207, but the data format is different from that of the LED data 206.

Although the development PC 200a is also shown in FIG. 7, the development PC 200a generates the preview LED data 205 by the user's operation in the same manner as the development PC 200 described above. Here, the development PC 200a converts the preview LED data 205 to generate the LED data 206a in a format that can be read by the game machine 1. The LED data 206a has the same data format and contents as the above-mentioned LED data 206, but is used in the game machine 1 in a state of being stored in the storage device of the development PC 200a. Different from.

The game machine 1 reads the LED data 206a from the development PC 200a connected by the network, and follows the light emission mode definition data (light emission mode of each LED defined according to the effect content) stored in the LED data 206a. , Controls the emission color of the LED, the timing of turning on / off, and the like.

In this example, the game machine 1 is normally controlled to read the LED data 206a from the development PC 200a instead of reading the LED data 207 from the ROM cartridge board 76 by a predetermined setting operation. In this way, since the game machine 1 can read the LED data 206a from the development PC 200a, the user confirms the operation of the LED with the contents of the preview LED data 205 by the preview function in the development PC 200a. Later, the actual game machine 1 can confirm the operation of the LED with the contents of the LED data 206a, and as a result, the useless mounting of the LED data 206a on the rom cartridge substrate 76 can be effectively avoided. can do.

Further, a confirmation game machine configured to read the LED data 206a from the development PC 200a and operate may be separately prepared.

<Development PC configuration>
Next, the configuration of the development PC 200 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the development PC 200. However, the configuration shown in FIG. 8 merely illustrates a typical configuration of the development PC 200. Functions equivalent to those of the development PC 200 can be realized by computers having various other configurations.

The development PC 200 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 231 and a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) 232, a ROM 233, a RAM 234, a display controller 235, a display 236, an input device interface 237, a keyboard 238, a mouse 239, an external storage device 240, and an external recording. It includes a medium drive device 241 and a game machine interface 242, and a bus 243 that connects these components to each other.

The CPU 231 controls the operation of each component of the development PC 200, and under the control of the OS, performs the port creation mode processing and the LED data creation mode processing according to the user's operation, and obtains the preview LED data 205. Based on the generated LED data 205 for preview, the LED control executed by the game machine 1 is previewed.

The GPU 232 performs a calculation process for displaying a preview image or the like. The GPU 232 may be provided with VRAM (Video RAM) in order to temporarily hold necessary information.

The ROM (Read Only Memory) 233 stores a program or the like that is executed when the development PC 200 is started. The RAM (Random Access Memory) 234 temporarily stores programs executed by the CPU 231 and data used by those programs during execution.

The display controller 235 is a dedicated controller for actually processing the drawing command issued by the CPU 231. The drawing data processed by the display controller 235 is once written in the graphic memory and then output to the display 236. The display 236 is, for example, a display device composed of an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube).

The input device interface 237 receives the signal input from the keyboard 238 or the mouse 239, and transmits a predetermined command to the CPU 231 according to the signal pattern. The keyboard 238 and the mouse 239 are used, for example, when the housing data 204 is replenished in connection with the generation of the preview LED data 205, or when the light emission mode definition information of the LED is added.

The external storage device 240 is, for example, a storage device such as a hard disk drive (HDD), in which the above-mentioned programs and data are recorded, and the programs and the like are stored in the RAM 234 from there as needed at the time of execution. Loaded.

The external recording medium drive device 241 accesses the recording surface of a portable external recording medium 250 such as a CD (Compact Disc), MO (Magneto-Optical Disc), or DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), and records the data on the recording surface. It is a device that reads the existing data. On the external recording medium 250, it is possible to record a program that performs processing of the port creation mode and processing of the LED data creation mode, and a program that performs a preview related to LED light emission control. The data recorded on the external recording medium 250 is stored in the external storage device 240 via the external recording medium driving device 241 and, if it is a program, is loaded into the RAM 234 at the time of execution.

Further, as another distribution form of the above program according to the present invention, there is also a route in which a predetermined server on the network is stored in the external storage device 240 via the network and network interface (not shown) of the development PC 200. Conceivable. The program stored in this way is loaded into the RAM 234 at the time of execution and executed in the same manner as described above.

The game machine interface 242 electrically connects the development PC interface 78 of the game machine 1 and provides the game machine 1 with LED data 206a stored in the RAM 234 or the like. In the game machine 1, the LED 25 based on the LED data 206a is provided. It enables control of lighting / extinguishing, light emission color, etc. If the development PC 200 does not need the function, it is not necessary to provide the game machine interface 242.

<Explanation of port creation mode>
Next, with reference to FIGS. 9 to 16, the function of the port creation mode realized by the development PC 200 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described.

FIG. 9 shows a part (front door 302b) of the external configuration of the game machine 300 referred to for explaining the port creation mode of the development PC 200. As shown in FIG. 9, such a game machine 300 has a different design from the front door 2b of the game machine 1 described above, but has the same functions as the game machine 1, and various effects can be produced according to the game result. The effect image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device, and the LED is turned on / off and the sound is output from the speaker according to the effect.

A liquid crystal display device 311 is arranged on the front surface of the front door 302b of FIG. 9, and a decorative portion 331 including a plurality of light emitting regions is arranged around the liquid crystal display device 311. LEDs are arranged on the back surface of these light emitting regions, and are configured to emit light according to the lighting of the LEDs.

In addition, similarly to the game machine 1 shown in FIG. 2, a MAX bet button 314, a start lever 316, a stop button 317L, 317C, 317R, a medal payout outlet 321, a medal tray 322, a speaker 323UL, 323UR, and the like are provided. ..

FIG. 10 is a front view of the game machine 300. A liquid crystal display device 311 is arranged on the upper part of the game machine 300, and a decorative portion 331 including a plurality of light emitting regions is arranged around the liquid crystal display device 311. The front area 332 of the game machine including the liquid crystal display device 311 and the decorative unit 331 is an area subject to the port creation mode including the light emitting area, and is a capture target of the captured image (image data 203). , Details will be described later.

A MAX bet button 314, a start lever 316, a stop button 317L, 317C, and 317R are arranged in the middle stage of the game machine 300, and a medal payout outlet 321 and a medal tray 322, a speaker 323UL, 323UR, and the like are provided in the lower part. There is.

FIG. 11 shows an image 350 represented by the image data 203 input to the development PC 200. The image data 203 is data obtained by capturing the front area 332 shown in FIG. 10, and corresponds to the front area 332 of the game machine 300 described above. Such image data 203 is a BMP file created by a tool such as CAD when, for example, a game machine is newly developed.

Here, the light emitting region is represented by hatching by horizontal lines and hatching by diagonal lines, and indicates that the corresponding LED is arranged on the back side thereof.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a light emitting region portion 352 obtained by extracting only a light emitting region from the image 350. In the present specification, the region represented by the hatching by the horizontal line is the region emitted by the full-color LED, and is colored in yellow in the image 350. On the other hand, the region represented by the hatching by the diagonal line is the region emitted by the white LED, and is colored in light blue in the image 350.

In addition, in the image 350, in order to show which type of LED each light emitting region is a region emitted by which type of LED, coloring is performed according to the type of LED. For example, if the LED is a black and white type, it is colored pink, if the LED is a red type, it is colored red, if the LED is a green type, it is colored green, and if the LED is a blue type, it is colored blue.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating how a light emitting region is extracted as a sprite by a sprite extraction process in the selection region 351 shown in the image 350 shown in FIG.

The light emitting region arranged on the upper left side of the selection region 351 is a rectangular region represented by hatching by horizontal lines (that is, an region actually colored in yellow), and here, the rectangular image 351a is extracted. At the same time, the sprite name is set to 001, the center coordinates are determined to be X = 269, Y = 438, the size is determined to be width = 60, height = 16, and the LED type is determined to be full color (F).

The light emitting region arranged in the middle of the right end of the selection region 351 is a region having a shape represented by hatching by a horizontal line (that is, a region actually colored in yellow), and here, the extracted region of the shape. The image 351b including the area is generated, the sprite name is set to 002, the center coordinates are determined to be X = 413, Y = 453, the size is width = 55, height = 61, and the LED type is full color (F). Will be done. Here, the image 351b including the extracted shape is rectangular, the extracted shape is represented by a white foreground, and the other parts (regardless of the other parts represented by the image 350) have a black background. It is represented by. In the image 351a described above, since the extracted shape is rectangular, there is no portion represented by a black background.

The light emitting region arranged in the middle right side of the selection region 351 is a region having a shape represented by hatching by a horizontal line (that is, a region actually colored in yellow), and here, an extracted region having the shape. The image 351c including the above is generated, the sprite name is set to 003, the center coordinates are determined to be X = 343, Y = 446, the size is determined to be width = 114, height = 51, and the LED type is determined to be full color (F). To. Here, the image 351c including the extracted shape is rectangular, the extracted shape is represented by a white foreground, and the other parts (regardless of the other parts represented by the image 350) have a black background. It is represented by.

Here, the coordinates used to represent the center coordinates are the coordinates with the upper left of the image 350 as the origin (X = 0, Y = 0), and the unit of the coordinates and the size is, for example, the pixels of the image 350. Is the unit.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a main window 400 in the port creation mode displayed on the display 236 of the development PC 200. The user can start the processing of the port creation mode and display the main window 400 by performing a predetermined operation on the development PC 200.

As shown in FIG. 14, the main window 400 displays the image data display unit 401 at the upper part. The image data display unit 401 shows the display of the housing data extracted based on the image data 203 read (by the user's operation) in the area indicated by the tab of the "canvas". This is a display of the light emitting region (sprite) extracted by the sprite extraction process shown in FIG.

Further, the main window 400 displays the housing data display unit 402 at the lower part. On the housing data display unit 402, the light emitting regions (sprites) extracted by the sprite extraction process shown in FIG. 13 are listed as housing data in the area indicated by the tab of "housing data". That is, the sprite name, LED type, center coordinates (X, Y), size (width, height), and thumbnail images obtained by appropriately scaling the images (for example, images 351a to 351c shown in FIG. 13) are displayed in a list. To.

In the housing data display unit 402, a background (sprite name = "000 background") corresponding to the image 350 is added in addition to the sprites extracted by the sprite extraction process shown in FIG. Is for displaying a background image in the preview display of the LED data creation mode described later, and is managed as a sprite here for convenience.

Further, at the left end of the housing data display unit 402, a check button for selecting whether or not to display each sprite on the image data display unit 401 is provided. By removing this check, the corresponding sprite is not displayed on the image data display unit 401, and it is easy to grasp the position of the sprite.

Further, in the housing data display unit 402, the sprite name set to 001 and 002 can be automatically changed by the sprite extraction process shown in FIG. Further, in the sprite extraction process shown in FIG. 13, the LED type automatically determined according to the color attached to the light emitting region can be changed by the pull-down menu.

FIG. 15 is a diagram summarizing the outline of various data generated in the development PC 200.

As described above, the development PC 200 can read the image data 203, automatically acquire information about each sprite from the contents, and then change some information by the user. These data are stored in the external storage device 240 of the development PC 200 or the like as housing data 204 including the sprite name, LED type, center coordinates (X, Y), size (width, height), and image data. .. Although the image file name is shown as the image data in FIG. 15, the image data (bmp file in this example) corresponding to the image file name is also stored in the external storage device 240 or the like, and the housing. Data 204 includes these image data.

In the LED data creation mode, the development PC 200 defines a light emitting mode including a light emitting color and a lighting / extinguishing timing for each LED based on the housing data 204 according to a user's instruction. Then, such a light emitting mode is stored as the light emitting mode definition data in association with the corresponding LED. In addition, a port number indicating which port LED each LED corresponds to in the actual game machine 300 is added. The data obtained by adding the light emission mode definition data and the port number to the housing data 204 is stored in the external storage device 240 or the like of the development PC 200 as the preview LED data 205.

Here, the port number can be set by various methods. For example, the user may input in the main window 400 shown in FIG. 14 so as to associate with the LED, or describe the image data 203 in each light emitting area and read it by the OCR function. It can also be automatically associated with the LED.

Further, in the example of FIG. 15, the port number is composed of a printed circuit board on which the LED is mounted and a sequence number in the printed circuit board. One LED is basically associated with one port number, but a plurality of LEDs may be managed so as to be associated with one port number. Further, although one sprite (light emitting area) is associated with one LED here, it can also be associated with a plurality of LEDs, and in this case, these a plurality of LEDs are associated with (for example, one print). It may be managed by one port number (corresponding to the board).

The development PC 200 simulates the LED light emission control in the game machine 300 with reference to the preview LED data 205, and provides the user with a preview screen. The port number is not used when previewing the LED light emission control, but here, for convenience, it is included in the preview LED data 205.

Further, in FIG. 15, the file name is shown as the light emission mode definition data, but the actual data corresponding to this file name is also stored in the external storage device 240 or the like, and the preview LED data 205 includes these. It contains the data of.

When the data defining the light emitting mode of the LED is used in the actual game machine 300, the data for preview is unnecessary. Therefore, in this example, only the port number and the light emission mode definition data are required. Therefore, the port number and the light emission mode definition data can be extracted from the preview LED data 205 (these data are referred to as "pre-conversion LED data"), and the pre-conversion LED data can be read and executed by the game machine 300. Converts (compresses / converts) to binary data in a format that can be used, and generates LED data 206.

As described above, the LED data 206 generated in this way is fixedly stored in the ROM cartridge substrate of the game machine 300 together with the image data and the audio data for the effect, and the game machine 300 controls the light emitting mode of the LED. It will be used when. Here, for convenience, it is shown that the pre-conversion LED data is converted and the LED data 206 is generated, but in general, the pre-conversion LED data is other data (for example, image data or sound for production). It is converted together with (data etc.) and stored in the Rom cartridge board.

In addition, since the emission color of the emission mode definition data is defined for each LED in frame units, the amount of data is large. For example, the posterization value is specified within a predetermined time window (number of frames) to emit light. The amount of data can be suppressed by setting the number of gradations in the color to be small.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a procedure of sprite extraction processing in the port creation mode of the development PC 200. This sprite extraction process is started when the user starts the process of the port creation mode in the development PC 200 and further gives a predetermined instruction in the mode.

First, in step S10, the pixels of the image data 203 are sequentially read one by one. The image data 203 is, for example, data representing the image 350 shown in FIG.

Next, the color of the pixel read in step S11 is determined, and if it is not a predetermined color (NO in step S12), the sprite extraction process is not performed on that pixel, so the process proceeds to step S19. If the color is a predetermined color (YES in step S12), the process proceeds to step S13 in order to perform sprite extraction processing on the pixel.

In the image data 203, since the light emitting region associated with the LED is colored in a predetermined color set in advance, a sprite extraction process is performed when a pixel of the predetermined color is detected. The predetermined color is a plurality of colors such as yellow, light blue, pink, red, green, and blue.

In step S13, when there are pixels of the same color among adjacent pixels, those pixels are grouped together. By this process, the light emitting region colored with the same color is extracted.

Next, in step S14, the sprite NO is numbered. Sprite NOs are numbered 002,003 in order from 001, for example. Then, in step S15, an image (including a background) is generated by the pixels grouped in step S13. This image is, for example, an image such as images 351a, 351b, and 351c as shown in FIG. 13, and is used in a thumbnail image in the housing data display unit 402 shown in FIG. 14 and a preview display in a preview window described later. ..

Next, in step S16, the center coordinates and size of the image image are obtained. Here, the center coordinates are the coordinates with the upper left of the read image data 203 as the origin (X = 0, Y = 0), and the unit of the coordinates and the size is the unit of the pixels of the read image data 203. is there.

Then, in step S17, the LED type is determined according to the color of the pixels. In step S12, it is determined whether or not the color of the pixel is a predetermined color, but here, the LED type is determined according to the LED type previously associated with the predetermined color. For example, yellow is a full-color LED, light blue is a white LED, pink is a black-and-white LED, red is a red LED, green is a green LED, and blue is a blue LED.

Next, in step S18, the sprite name, the image image, and the like are stored as the housing data 204 in the external storage device 240 or the like of the development PC 200.

Next, in step S19, it is determined whether or not there are unprocessed pixels, and if there are no unprocessed pixels (NO in step S19), the processing is completed and if there are unprocessed pixels (step S19). YES), the process returns to step S10, and a new pixel of the image data 203 is read.

<Explanation of LED data creation mode>
Next, with reference to FIGS. 17 to 46, the function of the LED data creation mode realized by the development PC 200 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described.

FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a main window 410 of the LED data creation mode displayed on the display 236 of the development PC 200. The user can start the processing of the LED data creation mode and display the main window 410 by performing a predetermined operation on the development PC 200.

As shown in FIG. 17, the main window 410 displays the preview window 411 on the upper left side. In the preview window 411, when the light emitting mode is set for each sprite by the mechanism described later by the user, the display of each sprite is changed according to the fermentation mode. In the preview image, for example, the image of each sprite listed in the housing data display unit 402 shown in FIG. 14 is arranged in the preview image based on the center coordinates and the size (an image scaled appropriately is arranged). ), Based on the light emission mode definition data (see FIG. 15) corresponding to the sprite, the light emission color and the lighting / extinguishing mode in the light emitting region of the arranged image are simulated (reproduced and displayed).

The main window 410 further displays a control window 412 on the upper right side. The user can control the playback of the preview window 411 by operating the buttons such as "cue", "play", and "stop" in the control window 412. Further, in the control window 412, a time bar indicating at which time of the current playback is in frame units is displayed, and a current time point display marker 412a is displayed in the time bar. In this example, the LED light emission mode is controlled at the timing of the effect control process of the sub CPU 102 of the sub control circuit (that is, the LED light emission is performed in frame units at the predetermined FPS cycle described above). The mode switching control is also managed in frame units, and the LED display in the preview window 411 is also performed at the frame unit timing.

The main window 410 further displays a timeline window 413 at the bottom of the control window 412. In the timeline window 413, what kind of light emission mode is set according to the passage of the frame is displayed for each sprite. In the timeline window 413, the sprite display unit 413a that displays the sprites together with the LED type is arranged on the left side, and the timeline corresponding to each sprite is displayed on the right side, and intersects all the timelines. A reproduction time point display marker 413b indicating a reproduction time point is displayed.

The main window 410 further displays a group window 414 at the bottom. When the user selects a plurality of sprites and registers the group, the group window 414 displays a list of such groups in the group display unit 414a on the left side, and displays the group selected in the group display unit 414a. A list of sprites to which they belong is displayed on the sprite display unit 414b on the right side.

FIG. 18 is a diagram showing in detail a display example of the timeline window. In the timeline window 420 shown in FIG. 18, a sprite display unit 421 (corresponding to the sprite display unit 413a in FIG. 17) for displaying a list of sprites is displayed on the upper left side, and each of the sprites extracted in the port creation mode is displayed there. The LED types of sprites and corresponding LEDs are shown. The timeline display unit 422 is displayed on the upper right side, and the display mode of the LED corresponding to each sprite displayed on the sprite display unit 421 is shown there.

In the timeline display unit 422, the frame display unit 422a is displayed at the upper part, and a plurality of timelines 422b corresponding to sprites are displayed. In addition, a reproduction time point display marker 422c (corresponding to the reproduction time point display marker 413b in FIG. 17) indicating the reproduction time point is displayed.

At the bottom of the timeline window 420, the emission color setting palette 423, which is the emission color of the LED, is displayed. In the emission color setting palette 423, a plurality of color specification buttons 423a for designating a preset color are displayed on the left side, and a gradation pattern specification button 423b for designating a preset gradation pattern is displayed on the right side. Are displayed more than once.

Here, a color designation button 423a capable of designating a preset color is arranged, but the user can also set the color by designating RGB or the like. Similarly, for the gradation pattern, the user can set the color change.

The gradation pattern is set based on the color data of the start point (start color) and the color data of the end point (end color), and one or more intermediate key color data is set between the start color and the end color. You can also. Each color data is selected from, for example, the colors registered in the color palette.

When the gradation pattern is set by the color data of the start point and the color data of the end point, and the start color RGB = (0,0,100) and the end color RGB (0,100,0), RGB Is (0,0,100), (0,10,90), (0,20,80), ... (0,80,20), (0,90,10), (0,100, The transition is made in the manner of 0).

For example, when a simple gradation pattern of start color and end color is applied to the timeline of the timeline window 420, the emission color in each frame is, for example, the start color + ((end color-start color)) for RGB. / Total number of frames to be applied) x current frame.

A group registration button 424 is arranged at the bottom of the timeline window 420. Here, when a plurality of sprites are selected on the sprite display unit 421 and the group registration button 424 is selected (clicked or the like), the selected sprites are registered as one group.

In addition, the user simultaneously selects two sprites (sprite names = "003 reel backlight (3)" and "004 reel backlight (4)") displayed on the sprite display unit 421, and emits a color setting palette. At 423, drag one of the gradation pattern specification buttons 423b, and further, a desired frame (for example, the 50th) on the timeline (timeline corresponding to the two selected sprites) displayed on the timeline display unit 422. When the gradation pattern specification button 423b is dropped (from frame to the 500th frame) (see arrow 422d), the gradation pattern specification button 423b is displayed on the timeline corresponding to the two selected sprites, as shown in FIG. The corresponding gradation pattern is displayed as a symbol representing the light emission mode.

Thereby, the two selected sprites are defined to emit light in the specified gradation pattern in the 50th to 500th frames. That is, the light emission mode (emission color and lighting / extinguishing timing) of the LED corresponding to the two selected sprites is defined.

Here, when the user performs a save operation on the development PC 200, the above-mentioned definition contents are stored in the preview LED data 205 as the light emission mode definition data relating to the LED. After that, when the user gives a conversion instruction on the development PC 200, the LED data 206 including the light emission mode definition data and the port number is generated (see FIGS. 7 and 15).

[Group emission control]
Next, with reference to FIGS. 19 to 22, a plurality of sprites extracted in the port creation mode are registered as a group, the group is further grouped into subgroups, and the light emission of the LED is controlled in a predetermined pattern. The method will be described.

As described with reference to FIG. 18, the method of registering a plurality of sprites as a group is to select a plurality of sprites on the sprite display unit 421 and select the group registration button 424. The group-registered sprites are displayed in a group window as shown in FIG.

In the group window 430 shown in FIG. 19, a group display unit 431 (corresponding to the group display unit 414a in FIG. 17) and a sprite display unit 432 (corresponding to the sprite display unit 414b in FIG. 17) are shown, and nine are shown. It is shown that the sprite is registered as a group under the group name "Reel".

It is assumed that the nine sprites form an array of light emitting regions as shown in FIG. These nine sprites correspond to, for example, the backlight of the reel display unit configured in 3 rows × 3 columns. Here, the nine sprites are changed from a state in which only the upper three sprites as shown in FIG. 20A emit light (upper stage emission) to a state in which only the middle three sprites as shown in FIG. 20B emit light (middle stage emission). Then, it is assumed that an attempt is made to define a light emitting mode in which only the lower three sprites shown in FIG. 20C emit light (lower stage light emission).

Referencing FIG. 19 again, at the bottom of the group window 430 of FIG. 19, enter the order set button 434 displayed as "set in order" and the number of sprites of the subgroup (referred to here as "team"). A sprite number input unit 435 and an update button 436 are arranged.

Here, when the user selects the title display of "Y" on the sprite display unit 432 (see arrow 433), the sprites are arranged in the order of the values of the center coordinates (Y) (that is, the order in which the sprites are arranged in ascending order). Sorted. Next, when the user inputs "3" to the sprite number input unit 435, selects the order set button 434, and then selects the update button 436 in order to set the number of sprites belonging to one team to "3" ( (See arrow 437), the group window 430 transitions to the state shown in FIG. 21A.

In the sprite display unit 432 in the group window 430 of FIG. 21B, each sprite is sorted in ascending order of the center coordinates (Y), and the "order" is 3 according to "3" set as the number of sprites belonging to one team. The same order is assigned to the two sprites.

By such a user operation, the nine sprites shown in FIG. 20 are the reel backlight (1), the reel backlight (4), and the reel backlight, which are sprites composed of the upper row, as shown in FIG. 21B. (7) is associated with team 1 in the order "1", and the reel backlight (2), the reel backlight (5), and the reel backlight (8), which are sprites composed of the middle row, are in the order "2". It is associated with the team 2, and the reel backlight (3), the reel backlight (6), and the reel backlight (9), which are the sprites in the lower row, are associated with the team 3 in the order "3". ..

After that, the user can use the offset value input unit 438a, the frame number input unit 438b, and the repeat designation unit 438c arranged at the bottom of the group window 430 shown in FIG. 22A, for example, "50" and "50", respectively. , "1" and click the selection button 438d.

Then, the display of the timeline window 420 is automatically updated to the timeline window 420 as shown in FIG. 22B in response to the operation. In the rectangle (for example, rectangle 439a) arranged on the timeline in the timeline window 420 of FIG. 22B, the LED (white LED) of the corresponding sprite emits light during the period (timing) of the frame indicated by the rectangle. Is shown.

In such a timeline window 420, in the first 50 frames (first frame to 50th frame), the reel backlight (1), the reel backlight (4), and the reel backlight (7), which are sprites composed of the upper row, are used. Is specified to emit light, and in the next 50 frames (51st to 100th frames), the reel backlight (2), the reel backlight (5), and the reel backlight (8), which are sprites consisting of the middle row, are used. Is specified to emit light, and in the next 50 frames (101st to 150th frames), the reel backlight (3), the reel backlight (6), and the reel backlight (9), which are sprites consisting of the lower rows, are used. Is specified to emit light, and then the light emission is stopped (because the repeated designation = "1").

In this way, by registering a plurality of sprites as one group, it is possible to define the light emitting mode for the group (that is, the light emitting mode for the LED corresponding to the sprite registered in the group can be defined. it can). Further, by setting a plurality of teams in the group and setting an offset value, the number of frames, etc., the sprites in the group, as shown in FIG. 20, change the light emitting mode for each team, and the group light emitting control is performed. Can be set.

Here, when the user performs a save operation on the development PC 200, the above-mentioned definition contents are stored in the preview LED data 205 as the light emission mode definition data relating to the LED. After that, when the user gives a conversion instruction on the development PC 200, the LED data 206 including the light emission mode definition data and the port number is generated (see FIGS. 7 and 15).

Further, in the examples shown in FIGS. 19 to 22, nine sprites are defined as a light emitting mode in which the nine sprites change from the upper light emitting state to the lower light emitting state via the middle light emitting state. It is also possible to define different light emission modes in or at different frame periods.

For example, in the first 50 frames (1st to 50th frames), it is specified that the reel backlight (1), the reel backlight (2), and the reel backlight (3), which are sprites composed of the left column, emit light. Then, in the next 50 frames (51st to 100th frames), it is specified that the reel backlight (4), the reel backlight (5), and the reel backlight (6), which are sprites composed of the central row, emit light. Then, in the next 50 frames (101st to 150th frames), it is specified that the reel backlight (7), reel backlight (8), and reel backlight (9), which are sprites composed of the right column, emit light. can do.

In this case, in the group window 430 shown in FIG. 19, the title display of "X" is selected on the sprite display unit 432, and the sprites are arranged in the order of the values of the center coordinates (X) (that is, the sprite arrangement position is on the left side). Sort in a certain order), then enter "3" in the sprite number input unit 435 to set the number of sprites belonging to one team to "3", select the order set button 434, and then update button 436. If you select, the nine sprites will be grouped into three new subgroups (teams), the left column, the center column, and the right column, as described above.

In this way, a plurality of different sprites belonging to the same group can be divided into different teams (grouping), and different light emission modes can be defined on the premise of each team division.

[Light emission control by animation pattern]
Next, with reference to FIGS. 23 to 35, a method of registering a plurality of sprites extracted in the port creation mode as a group and performing light emission control by an animation pattern (animation pattern) in the group will be described.

FIG. 23 shows an image 360, which is a schematic representation of the image 350 represented by the image data 203 as shown in FIG. 11 for the sake of explanation. As the light emitting region (sprite), the left side lamp a, the left side lamp b, the right side lamp c, the right side lamp d, the upper lamp e, the upper lamp f, the lower lamp g, and the lower lamp h are extracted. Further, nine sprites from the reel backlight (1) to the reel backlight (9) are extracted from the reel display unit.

Further, in the image 360, the scales up to 18 are arranged in the X-axis direction (horizontal direction) from the origin (0,0) on the upper left, and the scales up to 18 are arranged in the Y-axis direction (vertical direction). The coordinates grasp the center coordinates and size of the sprite. Generally, these coordinates are grasped in pixel units, so that they are larger values, but here, for convenience of explanation, they are in the range of 18 × 18.

Next, referring to FIG. 24, the display of the group tab of the group window 430 in the above-described form is shown, and the above-mentioned 17 sprites are registered as the group name = "circle enlargement animation". Further, as described above, the center coordinates (X, Y) and size (width, height) of each sprite are grasped according to the scale shown in FIG. 23.

FIG. 25 shows a selection tab of the group window 430, in which the animation type designation unit 441 and the detailed setting unit 442 are arranged. Here, in the animation type designation unit 441, "circle" is selected as the animation type (see arrow 443), the name is changed to "single circle pattern", and the detailed setting unit 442 dynamically changes the light emission mode of the LED. Set the information to make it.

The detailed setting unit 442 specifies, for example, how to change the center coordinates (X, Y) and diameter (min, max) of the circle according to the transition of the frame. The units of such center coordinates and diameter are the same as the units representing the center coordinates and size of the sprite.

In the setting of the detailed setting unit 442 shown in FIG. 25, the circle changes from the first frame to the 500th frame so as to expand from 0 to 18 in diameter at the same center coordinates. Here, from the first frame to the 500th frame, the center coordinates and diameter of the circle are set stepwise every time the number of frames increases by 100, but the expansion of the circle is performed every time the frame increases by 1. It is done gradually (proportionally). For example, in the case of such a setting, the diameter of the circle is 2 in the 50th frame.

By making such a setting, the circle expands as the number of frames increases, and the sprite whose center coordinates are included in the circle is automatically controlled accordingly.

The image 370 shown in FIG. 26 is a schematic image similar to the image 360 shown in FIG. 23, but is displayed in the preview window 411 shown in FIG. 17, and is a sprite with hatched diagonal lines. However, it is a sprite that emits light. In this example, a circle 371a is also shown in order to explain the conditions of light emission control in an easy-to-understand manner, but this is a virtual one, and normally, the circle is not displayed in the preview window 411 (hereinafter, the figure). The same applies to the circles shown in 27 to 30). Further, as a matter of course, the information of this circle is not stored in the light emission mode definition data finally generated as defining these light emission modes.

Image 370 of FIG. 26 shows the state when the 25th frame has passed, the diameter of the circle 371a is 1, and only the center coordinates of the sprite of the reel backlight (5) are inside the circle 371a. Since it will be located, only the sprite of the reel backlight (5) lights up.

The image 370 shown in FIG. 27 shows the state when the 100th frame has passed, the diameter of the circle 371b is 4, the reel backlight (2), the reel backlight (4), and the reel backlight (5). ), The center coordinates of the reel backlights (6) and the reel backlights (8) are located inside the circle 371b, so that the sprites of the corresponding five reel backlights are lit.

Next, the image 370 shown in FIG. 28 shows the state at the time when the 200th frame has passed, the diameter of the circle 371c is 5.7, and the reel backlight (1) to the reel backlight (9). Since the center coordinates of each sprite are located inside the circle 371c, the sprites of the corresponding nine reel backlights are lit.

Next, the image 370 shown in FIG. 29 shows the state at the time when the 300th frame has passed, the diameter of the circle 371d is 10, the reel backlight (1) to the reel backlight (9), and the left side. Since the center coordinates of each sprite of the lamp b, the right side lamp c, the upper lamp f, and the lower lamp g are located inside this circle 371d, the corresponding nine reel backlights, two side lamps, One upper lamp and one lower lamp sprite are lit.

Next, the image 370 shown in FIG. 30 shows the state at the time when the 400th frame has passed, the diameter of the circle 371e is 16, and the reel backlight (1) to the reel backlight (9), the left side. Since the center coordinates of the lamps a, b, the right side lamps c, d, the upper lamps e, f, and the lower lamps g, h are located inside the circle 371e, the corresponding nine reels. The back lights, two side lamps, two upper lamps, and two lower lamp sprites (ie, all sprites) are lit.

As described above, in the preview window 411, the image 370 is controlled so that each sprite is gradually turned on from the center position of the image 370 and spreads in a circular shape as shown in FIGS. 26 to 30.

As a result of the above settings, the display of the timeline window 420 is automatically updated to the timeline window 420 as shown in FIG. 31. A rectangle (eg, rectangle 439b) arranged on the timeline in the timeline window 420 indicates that the LED of the corresponding sprite emits light during the frame period (timing) indicated by the rectangle, as described above. They are arranged according to the timing of lighting in a rectangular shape.

Further, on the timeline corresponding to the left side lamp a, the left side lamp b, the right side lamp c, the right side lamp d, the upper lamp e, the upper lamp f, the lower lamp g, and the lower lamp h, which are full-color LED sprites. The arranged rectangle (the rectangle indicated by the reference numeral 439c) is initially arranged in a predetermined color such as white, but (for example, the color specification button 423a and the gradation pattern specification button 423b of the light emission color setting palette 423 are used. By setting the light emission color (such as dragging and dropping it on the target rectangle), it is possible to specify that the light is turned on in various light emission colors while maintaining the light emission timing.

In the example of FIG. 31, the left side lamp a, the left side lamp b, the right side lamp c, the right side lamp d, the upper lamp e, and the lower lamp h are each designated to be lit in a single emission color, and the upper lamp is lit. f and the lower lamp g are specified to be lit in a gradation pattern.

As described above, in the LED data creation mode of the development PC 200 according to the present embodiment, the related sprites are automatically determined based on the specified animation pattern, and the emission color and the emission timing are set, so that each user can set the emission color and the emission timing. It is possible to avoid complicated work such as setting the emission color and emission timing of each sprite. Further, even if it is necessary to change the emission color, it can be easily performed by operating a mouse or the like from this automatically set state.

Here, when the user performs a save operation on the development PC 200, the above-mentioned definition contents are stored in the preview LED data 205 as the light emission mode definition data relating to the LED. After that, when the user gives a conversion instruction on the development PC 200, the LED data 206 including the light emission mode definition data and the port number is generated (see FIGS. 7 and 15).

In the example shown in FIGS. 23 to 31, the circle set as the single circle pattern expands as the number of frames increases, and the sprite whose center coordinates are included in the circle is lit accordingly. However, it is not based on such center coordinates, and if a part of the sprite is included in the circle, the sprite is turned on, or the entire sprite is turned on. Various settings can be made in relation to the circle that expands the conditions for turning on the sprite, such as turning on the sprite when it is included in the circle.

Further, in this example, when setting the circle expansion pattern, the center coordinates and diameter of the circle are set stepwise every time the number of frames increases by 100, and in the frames in between, the diameter gradually expands by proportional calculation. However, the diameter of the circle may be changed stepwise as specified.

32 and 33 show other examples of animation patterns.

FIG. 32 shows a selection tab of the group window 430 similar to that shown in FIG. 25. Here, in the animation type designation unit 441, “circle” is selected as the animation type (see arrow 444). ), The name is "doughnut pattern", and the detailed setting unit 442 sets information for dynamically changing the light emitting mode of the LED.

In the setting of the detailed setting unit 442 shown in FIG. 32, from the first frame to the 500th frame, the circle expands from 0 to 18 in diameter at the same center coordinates (diameter (max) is specified), and the center of the circle. The cavity expands from 0 to 14 in diameter (designated in diameter (min)), just as a donut-shaped circle expands.

With these settings, the donut-shaped circle expands as the number of frames increases, and the sprite whose center coordinates are included in the circle is automatically controlled accordingly. Will be done. In addition, the center of the expanding circle is hollow, and the sprite whose center coordinates are included in the hollow is automatically controlled to be turned off.

FIG. 33 is a diagram schematically showing the state of such control as a state displayed in the preview window 411 shown in FIG. Note that FIG. 33 shows a schematic image 380 similar to the image 360 shown in FIG. 23, and the arrangement of the light emitting region (sprite) is also the same as that of the image 360. In addition, the sprite in the light emitting state is indicated by hatching with diagonal lines, and the outer circle and the inner circle are virtually shown for the donut-shaped circle that is a determination element of lighting.

The image 380 shown in FIG. 33A shows the state when the 100th frame has passed, the inner circle 381a has a diameter of 2, the outer circle 381b has a diameter of 4, and the reel backlight (1). Since the center coordinates of the reel backlight (4) and the reel backlight (6) to the reel backlight (9) are located outside the inner circle 381a and inside the outer circle 381b. The corresponding eight reel backlights are lit.

The image 380 shown in FIG. 33B shows the state when the 300th frame has passed, the inner circle 381c has a diameter of 5, the outer circle 381d has a diameter of 10, and the reel backlight (1). , Reel backlight (3), reel backlight (7), reel backlight (9), left side lamp b, right side lamp c, upper lamp f, and lower lamp g have center coordinates of the inner circle 381c. Since it is located on the outside and inside the outer circle 381d, the corresponding four reel backlights, two side lamps, one upper lamp, and one lower lamp sprite are lit.

The image 380 shown in FIG. 33C shows the state when the 400th frame has passed, the diameter of the inner circle 381e is 12, the diameter of the outer circle 381f is 16, the left side lamp a, and the right. Since the center coordinates of the side lamp d, the upper lamp e, and the lower lamp h are located outside the inner circle 381e and inside the outer circle 381f, the corresponding two side lamps and one upper portion are located. The lamp and the sprite of one lower lamp are lit.

By controlling the light emission according to the animation pattern in which the donut-shaped circle expands, the sprites that are lit spread outward from the center of the circle, and after that, the sprites that are lit are the circles. The light emission mode of each sprite is automatically controlled so that the light is turned off from the center to the outside.

A timeline corresponding to such a light emitting mode is displayed in the same manner as in the example of the timeline window 420 shown in FIG. 31, but the display is omitted here. Here, the user can specify the emission color and the gradation pattern as needed.

34 and 35 show yet another example of the animation pattern.

FIG. 34 shows a selection tab of the group window 430 similar to that shown in FIG. 25. Here, in the animation type designation unit 441, "rectangle" is selected as the animation type (see arrow 446). ), The name is "rectangular pattern", and information for dynamically changing the light emitting mode of the LED is set in the detailed setting unit 445.

In the setting of the detailed setting unit 445 shown in FIG. 34, from the first frame to the 520th frame, the rectangle transitions with a constant size while changing the center coordinates, then the size is expanded at the same center coordinates, and finally the rectangle is expanded. It changes so that the size becomes 0 at the center coordinates.

By making such a setting, the sprite whose center coordinate is included in the rectangle is automatically controlled to be turned on according to the transition of the rectangle whose center coordinate and size change. ..

FIG. 35 is a diagram schematically showing the state of such control as a state displayed in the preview window 411 shown in FIG. Note that FIG. 35 shows a schematic image 390 similar to the image 360 shown in FIG. 23, and the arrangement of the light emitting region (sprite) is also the same as that of the image 360. In addition, the sprite in the light emitting state is indicated by hatching with diagonal lines, and a rectangle that is a determination element for lighting is virtually shown.

The image 390 shown in FIG. 35A shows the state at the time when the first frame has passed. The center coordinates of the rectangle 391a are (0,0), the size is width 5, height 5, and the center coordinates are. Since there are no sprites inside this rectangle, none of the sprites will light up.

The image 390 shown in FIG. 35B shows the state when the 100th frame has passed, the center coordinates of the rectangle 391b are (7,7), the size is 5 in width and 5 in height, and the reel backlight ( Since the center coordinates of 1) are located inside the rectangle 391b, one corresponding reel backlight is turned on.

The image 390 shown in FIG. 35C shows the state when the 500th frame has passed, the center coordinates of the rectangle 391c are (9, 9), the size is 17 in width and 11 in height, and the reel backlight ( 1) -The center coordinates of each sprite of the reel backlight (9), the left side lamps a and b, the right side lamps c and d, the upper lamp f, and the lower lamp g are located inside the rectangle 391c. So the corresponding nine reel backlights, four side lamps, one upper lamp, and one lower lamp sprite are lit.

By controlling the light emission according to the animation pattern in which the rectangle moves and changes its size, the sprites that are turned on gradually expand toward the center, and then the sprites are turned off all at once. The aspect is automatically controlled.

A timeline corresponding to such a light emitting mode is displayed in the same manner as in the example of the timeline window 420 shown in FIG. 31, but the display is omitted here. The user can specify the emission color and the gradation pattern as needed.

Although the light emission control by the animation pattern has been described above with reference to FIGS. 23 to 35, the light emission control of each sprite can be performed according to various other animation patterns.

That is, as shown in FIGS. 25, 32, and 34, in the present embodiment, a figure virtually set in the front area of the game machine, such as a circle or a rectangle, is used as the frame elapses (time elapses). Along with this, the position and size are changed, and the light emitting mode of each sprite is determined based on this virtual figure. However, a figure having a shape other than a circle or a rectangle may be used, or the figure itself may be. It may be set to change with the passage of time. Further, in this example, the mode of such a change of the virtual figure is set by the user, but may be prepared in advance.

[Sound interlocking]
Next, with reference to FIGS. 36 to 40, a method of controlling the light emission of the sprites extracted in the port creation mode according to a predetermined music (music) will be described.

The sound window 450 of FIG. 36 can be displayed by the user performing a predetermined operation after displaying the main window 410 shown in FIG. In the sound window 450, the sound waveform graph display unit 451 is arranged on the upper right side, the sprite display unit 452 is arranged on the lower left side, and the timeline display unit 453 is arranged on the lower right side.

The sound waveform graph display unit 451 of the sound window 450 displays a waveform graph for the audio file of the music specified by the user. The audio file is, for example, 16-bit, 44.1 kHz wav format stereo audio data, and the sound waveform graph display unit 451 displays a waveform graph of the sound based on this audio file (volume up and down arranged along the time axis). A group of bar graphs with a length corresponding to the above is displayed.

Further, in the sound waveform graph display unit 451, the volume of the left channel is shown above the center line 451a, and the volume of the right channel is shown below the center line 451a. In the actual waveform graph, for example, the volume of each frame is expressed by 1 second = 83 frames (frame rate according to the LED switching speed), but in the example of FIG. 36, for convenience of explanation. It is expressed as 1 second = 10 frames. In the sound waveform graph display unit 451 "00: 00" represents the number of seconds that the audio file is started, and "00:01" represents one second later, for example, from 00:01 seconds. It can be seen that the volume for 10 frames is shown in the period up to 00:02 seconds.

Sound, which is the vibration of air, is composed of three elements: "magnitude," "height," and "timbre." The "loudness" of the sound is the fluctuation width of the vibration, and the longer the bar graph on the sound waveform graph display unit 451 is, the louder the sound is. The "pitch" of a sound is indicated by a frequency (the number of vibrations per second), and the higher the number of vibrations, the higher the sound. Generally, 20 to 100 vibrations per second (20 to 100 Hz) is in the low range, 100 to 1000 vibrations (100 to 1 kHz) is in the mid range, and 1000 to 20000 vibrations. If it is (1k to 20kHz), it will be in the high frequency range. "Tone" is a sound atmosphere created by combining sounds of many frequencies.

On the sprite display unit 452, the sprite selected by the user is displayed together with the LED type of the corresponding LED. The timeline display unit 453 displays a timeline corresponding to each sprite displayed on the sprite display unit 452, and further, this timeline is displayed on the same time axis as the time axis of the sound window 450. There is. The timeline of the sprite display unit 452 and the time axis of the sound window 450 are linked, and when the slider bar located at the bottom of the sprite display unit 452 is operated to shift the time of the timeline, the timeline is linked to it. The time axis of the sound window 450 fluctuates.

The audio file of the music is specified by the user, and after the waveform graph is displayed on the sound waveform graph display unit 451 correspondingly, when a predetermined conversion button (not shown) is clicked or the like, the data of the read audio file is FFT. Transform (Fast Fourier Transform) and perform frequency analysis of the audio file.

After that, as shown in the sound window 450 of FIG. 37, when the user selects a specific time on the sound waveform graph display unit 451 (see arrow 451b), the time value selection bar 451c is displayed, and the amplitude at that time value (see arrow 451b). The loudness) is displayed as a bar graph on the frequency display unit 454 based on the result of the frequency analysis described above.

In the bar graph displayed on the frequency display unit 454, the frequency is lower toward the left side (bass) and higher toward the right side (treble), and the width of each bar corresponds to a predetermined frequency range. .. The height (length) of the rod is a relative numerical value representing the amplitude of the frequency. In the example of FIG. 37, the frequency bands 1 to 15 are shown by the respective bars for convenience of explanation. For example, the range of 32 Hz to 16744 Hz can be divided into 55, and the bar graph can be formed by the 55 bars. Further, when selecting a frequency, one frequency may be selected instead of a frequency band consisting of a frequency range.

Here, as shown in the sound window 450 of FIG. 38, when the user selects the bar indicated by “8” on the frequency display unit 454 (see arrow 454a), the bar turns red, for example. In the bar graph displayed on the frequency display unit 454, the bar indicated by "8" corresponds to, for example, the frequency band of 392 to 440 Hz. After that, when the user performs a predetermined operation, the frequency band corresponding to the selected bar is displayed on the sound graph display unit 455 displayed in place of the sound waveform graph display unit 451 on the upper right side of the sound window 450 (this example). Then, the graph 455a of the amplitude at 392-440 Hz) is displayed.

In the bar graph displayed on the frequency display unit 454, when the bar indicated by "8" is selected, information about the bar may be displayed. For example, the selected frequency minimum value: 392 Hz, the selected frequency maximum value: 440 Hz, the selected frequency amplitude value: 0.2296, and the like. Here, the selected frequency amplitude value is, for example, the average value of the absolute values collected in the sampling of the corresponding frequency band in the FFT conversion.

Next, the user defines the light emission mode of the sprite based on the amplitude graph 455a in the selected frequency band displayed on the sound graph display unit 455. This method will be described with reference to the sound window 450 of FIG.

The user selects a sprite to be defined as a light emitting mode in the sprite display unit 452 displayed in the sound window 450 of FIG. 39. Here, it is assumed that the sprite with the sprite name = "upper lamp e" is selected.

Next, the user selects one gradation pattern from the gradation pattern designations displayed on the color designation unit 456, but here, it is assumed that the gradation pattern 456b is selected. As shown in the lower part of FIG. 39, the gradation pattern 456b is a pattern defined to determine the emission color of the LED according to the amplitude value (so-called power spectrum). For example, when the amplitude value is 0, it is red. Orange when the amplitude value is greater than 0 and less than 0.10, yellow when the amplitude value is 0.10 or more and less than 0.20, and yellow when the amplitude value is 0.20 or more and less than 0.30. It is set to be green, green when the amplitude value is 0.30 or more (note that in FIG. 39, each color is shown by a different hatching pattern).

In this example, the gradation pattern is set so that five colors correspond to each of the five amplitude value ranges, but the amplitude value range may be reduced to correspond to more colors. it can. Further, the correspondence between the amplitude value and the emission color in such a gradation pattern may be a preset one, or may be individually set by the user.

Here, when the user selects the gradation pattern 456b and instructs the sound interlocking process (graph-compatible fill process) by a predetermined operation, the selected sprite (sprite name = "upper lamp e") is set to the amplitude value of the graph. The emission color is set accordingly. In the example shown in FIG. 39, one sprite is selected, but a plurality of sprites are selected at the same time, and the emission color is set by the gradation pattern in the same manner for the plurality of sprites. You can also do it.

As a result of the sound interlocking process, as shown in the timeline display unit 453, the emission color of each timing is automatically defined. In the example of FIG. 39, the amplitude value is 0 in the 0th to 5th frames, and red is set as the emission color. In the 5th to 10th frames, since the amplitude value is larger than 0 and less than 0.10, orange is set as the emission color. In the 10th to 15th frames, since the amplitude value is 0.10 or more and less than 0.20, yellow is set as the emission color. In the 15th to 21st frames, since the amplitude value is 0.20 or more and less than 0.30, yellowish green is set as the emission color. In the 22nd frame, since the amplitude value is 0.10 or more and less than 0.20, yellow is set as the emission color. In the 23rd to 25th frames, since the amplitude value is larger than 0 and less than 0.10, orange is set as the emission color.

Here, when the user performs a save operation on the development PC 200, the above-mentioned definition contents are stored in the preview LED data 205 as the light emission mode definition data relating to the LED. After that, when the user gives a conversion instruction on the development PC 200, the LED data 206 including the light emission mode definition data and the port number is generated (see FIGS. 7 and 15).

In this example, since the amplitude value may not be 0.30 or more, green is not set as the emission color. In addition, there is no sound in the 0th to 5th frames and the 25th and subsequent frames, and red is set as the emission color in the gradation pattern 456b, but if you want to emit light only during the period when the sound is emitted, delete the setting of the corresponding part. It is also possible to prevent the light from emitting light. Further, as described above, after the emission color is automatically set according to the graph of the amplitude value, some emission modes can be changed (for example, the period set as yellow as the emission color is changed to blue. You can also do it.

With such sound interlocking processing, it is possible to automate the time-consuming work of finely chopping each sprite and setting the emission color according to the change in sound, greatly improving work efficiency when developing a game machine. can do.

Further, in the sound interlocking process, for example, 440 to 493 Hz (in the bar graph displayed on the frequency display unit 454, the frequency range corresponding to the bar indicated by "9") represents the midrange, and is mainly used as the main melody of music. Assuming that it is the range to be used and the melody line of the main melody is in this range, select the "9" bar in the bar graph for the light emission mode of the LED corresponding to each sprite, and display the amplitude value graph. By setting based on this, it is possible to automatically set the light emission mode according to such a change in the main melody.

Further, if a bar corresponding to deep bass (for example, 32 to 65 Hz) is selected in the bar graph, the LED light emission mode can be automatically set according to the rhythm of deep bass (timing when the amplitude increases). it can.

Further, in the LED data creation mode, a bar corresponding to the main melody or a bar corresponding to the deep bass is selected from the bar graph displayed on the frequency display unit 454, and the corresponding amplitude value graph is displayed on the sound graph display unit 455. It is also possible for the user to manually specify the emission color at each timing on the timeline display unit 453 while viewing the graph of the amplitude value (for example, the color is selected from the color specifications of the color specification unit 456). select).

FIG. 40 is a sound window 450 similar to the sound window 450 shown in FIG. 39, but in the sound window 450 of FIG. 39, one frequency band (that is, one bar) is selected in the bar graph of the frequency display unit 454. In the frequency display unit 454 of FIG. 40, a plurality of frequency bands (that is, a plurality of bars) are selected in the bar graph of the frequency display unit 454 (see arrow 454b).

As described above, in the LED data creation mode in the development PC 200 of the present embodiment, a plurality of frequency bands are selected, and a graph of amplitudes related to the selected plurality of frequency bands (on the sound graph display unit 455 of FIG. 40). The light emitting mode of the sprite is automatically set according to the displayed amplitude graph 455b). The user's selection of the gradation pattern and the instruction of the sound interlocking process are the same as those described with reference to FIG. 39. In the example of FIG. 40, the gradation pattern 456b is applied to the sprite of the sprite name = "upper lamp e" as in the example of FIG. 39.

The bars of the bar graph selected by the frequency display unit 454 shown in FIG. 40 are "8" to "11", and for example, the frequency band of 392 to 587 Hz is selected. Here, the maximum average frequency amplitude is 0.5466, which reflects the value of the frequency band "11" having the largest amplitude. Further, the minimum average frequency amplitude is 0.1903, which reflects the value of the frequency band "9" having the smallest amplitude.

By selecting a plurality of frequency bands in this way, the light emission mode is based on data generated from a wide range of sounds, for example, from the entire midrange or the entire treble range, instead of data generated from sounds in a narrow range. It can also be set. Further, in this example, a plurality of continuous frequency bands are selected, but a plurality of non-consecutive frequency bands can also be selected. It is also possible to control so as to prohibit the selection of non-continuous frequency bands.

In the sound window 450 of FIGS. 38 to 40, the sound graph display unit 455 is displayed instead of the sound waveform graph display unit 451. However, these graphs may be displayed at the same time.

Conventionally, while listening to songs and sound effects, you can sense the excitement of the music, set the light emission mode for each LED, create LED data, and synchronize with the songs and sounds on the actual machine (actual game machine). It was necessary to make it shine with the LED and check if the sound and the light match. Then, by repeating such trial and error, LED data that gives an impression that matches the song was created, so that it took a lot of time and required so-called craftsmanship.

However, the sound interlocking process of the port creation mode provided in the development PC 200 according to the present embodiment analyzes the frequency of the sound and automatically generates the LED data according to the analysis data, which imposes a burden on the person in charge of development. It is possible to create small, highly accurate LED data with a pleasant glow that is synchronized with the sound.

In the present embodiment, the frequency and frequency band are selected according to the user's instruction, but a fixed frequency band held by the development PC 200 can also be used, and the frequency and frequency band can be provided together with the image data 203 and the like. It may be configured. Further, in this example, the audio file of the music is also specified by the instruction of the user, but the audio file held by the development PC 200 can also be used, or can be configured to be provided together with the image data 203 or the like. Often, it may be set automatically according to a predetermined condition, including a selected sprite, a light emitting mode set for another sprite, and the like.

[Movie interlocking]
Next, with reference to FIGS. 41 to 44, a process of automatically setting the light emitting mode of the LED according to a predetermined movie (moving motion) for the sprite extracted in the port creation mode will be described.

FIG. 41 shows an image 460, which is a schematic representation of the image 350 represented by the image data 203 as shown in FIG. 11 for the sake of explanation. As the light emitting region (sprite), the upper right side lamp 461, the upper left side lamp 462, the lower right side lamp 463, the lower left side lamp 464, the lower right lower lamp 465, and the lower left lower lamp 466 are extracted.

FIG. 42 is a diagram showing a process (movie interlocking process) of automatically setting the light emitting mode of the LED according to a predetermined movie. The image 470 shown on the upper left side of FIG. 42 is an image of a movie that changes on a frame-by-frame basis. Here, it is assumed that a single color is arranged over the entire area of the image 470.

The image 470 is enlarged (or reduced) to fit the size of the image 480 shown on the upper right side (with different aspect ratios). As a result, the image 470 of the movie is enlarged (or reduced) according to the size of the image 480, and if the aspect ratio such as enlargement is different, the image of the original movie is made horizontally long (or vertically long). Become.

Image 480 is an image associated with image 460 displayed below it. As described above, the image 460 is an image represented by the image data 203 read by the development PC 200, and is an image that captures the front portion of the game machine.

Here, it is determined which position in the image 480 the center coordinates of each sprite in the image 460 correspond to. For example, the center coordinates of the upper right side lamp 461 correspond to the point 481 of the image 480, the center coordinates of the upper left side lamp 462 correspond to the point 482 of the image 480, and the center coordinates of the lower right side lamp 463 correspond to the image 480. The center coordinates of the lower left side lamp 464 correspond to the point 484 of the image 480, the center coordinates of the lower right lamp 465 correspond to the point 485 of the image 480, and the center coordinates of the lower left lamp 466 correspond to the point 483. Corresponds to point 486 in image 480.

After that, the emission color of each sprite is set to the color of the point of the image 480 corresponding to its center coordinates. That is, the emission color of the upper right side lamp 461 is set to the color of the point 481 of the image 480, the emission color of the upper left side lamp 462 is set to the color of the point 482 of the image 480, and the emission color of the lower right side lamp 463. Is set to the color of point 483 of image 480, the emission color of the lower left side lamp 464 is set to the color of point 484 of image 480, and the emission color of the lower right lamp 465 is the color of point 485 of image 480. The emission color of the left lower lamp 466 is set to the color of the point 486 of the image 480.

In the example of FIG. 42, since the image 470 has a single color, as a result, all the above six sprites are set to emit the same color, but since the image 470 is a movie image, it is set. The color changes in frame units with the passage of time, and the above six sprites are also set to emit various colors for each frame according to such a color change.

FIG. 43 is also a diagram showing a process (movie interlocking process) of controlling the light emission of the LED according to a predetermined movie. The image 490 shown on the upper left side of FIG. 43 is an image of a movie that changes on a frame-by-frame basis. Here, it is assumed that the upper half of the image 490 is the first color, the lower right side is the second color, and the lower left side is the third color.

The image 490 is enlarged (or reduced) to fit the size of the image 500 shown on the upper right side (by individually varying the aspect ratio). As a result, the image 490 of the movie is enlarged (or reduced) according to the size of the image 500, and if the aspect ratio such as enlargement is different, the image of the original movie is made horizontally long (or vertically long). Become.

The image 500 is an image associated with the image 460 displayed below the image 500. As described above, the image 460 is an image represented by the image data 203 read by the development PC 200, and is an image that captures the front portion of the game machine.

Here, it is determined which position in the image 500 the center coordinates of each sprite in the image 460 correspond to. For example, the center coordinates of the upper right side lamp 461 correspond to the point 501 of the image 500, the center coordinates of the upper left side lamp 462 correspond to the point 502 of the image 500, and the center coordinates of the lower right side lamp 463 correspond to the image 500. The center coordinates of the lower left side lamp 464 correspond to the point 504 of the image 500, the center coordinates of the lower right lamp 465 correspond to the point 505 of the image 500, and the center coordinates of the lower left lamp 466 correspond to the point 503. Corresponds to point 506 in image 500.

After that, the emission color of each sprite is set to the color of the point of the image 500 corresponding to its center coordinates. That is, the emission color of the upper right side lamp 461 is set to the color of the point 501 of the image 500 (first color), and the emission color of the upper left side lamp 462 is the color of the point 502 of the image 500 (first color). The emission color of the lower right side lamp 463 is set to the color of the point 503 of the image 500 (second color), and the emission color of the lower left side lamp 464 is the color of the point 504 of the image 500 (third color). The emission color of the lower right lamp 465 is set to the color of the point 505 of the image 500 (second color), and the emission color of the lower left lamp 466 is the color of the point 506 of the image 500 (the second color). It is set to the third color).

In the example of FIG. 43, since the image 490 is composed of three colors, as a result, the above six sprites are set to emit light in any of the three colors, but the image 490 is a movie. Since it is an image, the color changes in frame units with the passage of time, and the above six sprites can also be set to emit light in the above three or more colors for each frame according to such a color change. ..

FIG. 44 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the movie interlocking process. In this movie interlocking process, a target movie is specified in the LED data creation mode of the development PC 200 of the present embodiment (for example, when the main window 410 of the LED data creation mode shown in FIG. 17 is displayed). After that, it is started when the movie interlocking process, that is, the process of automatically setting the light emitting mode of the LED according to the movie is instructed.

First, in step S30, the data of the movie specified by the user is read and the first frame is selected. Next, in step S31, an image of the selected frame is generated. The image of such a frame is, for example, a BMP file.

Next, in step S32, the image of the generated frame is enlarged (or reduced) so as to match the size of the image captured the front portion of the game machine (that is, the image represented by the image data 203), and the size is increased. Generate an adjusted image.

Here, the first sprite (emission region) is selected (step S33), the pixel of the size-adjusted image corresponding to the center coordinates of the selected sprite is specified, and the color information of the pixel is acquired (step S34). ). The pixel color information is, for example, color information defined by each value of RGB.

Next, the color information acquired in step S34 is stored as LED data that defines the light emission mode of the LED corresponding to the sprite (step S35). Then, when this process is completed, the next sprite is selected in step S36.

If the processing is not completed for all sprites (NO in step S37), the processing returns to step S34, and the processing of steps S34 to S36 is repeated for the selected new sprite.

When the processing for all sprites is completed (YES in step S37), the processing proceeds to step S38, where the next frame is selected for the movie.

Here, if the processing is not completed for all the frames (NO in step S39), the processing returns to step S31, and the processing of steps S31 to S38 is repeated for the selected new frame.

When the processing for all frames is completed (YES in step S39), the movie interlocking processing is completed.

In the example of FIG. 44, the emission color corresponding to the color of the movie is set for all the sprites extracted from the image represented by the image data 203. For example, the user specifies the target sprite. You may try to do it.

Further, in this example, since the light emission mode is set for all frames of the movie, the light emission color of the LED corresponding to each sprite is set for each frame. The processing for the frame may be omitted. Frames can be selected at predetermined intervals, or frames can be omitted depending on the content of the movie (for example, in the case of a scene with a large color change or in the case of a scene with a small color change).

Further, in this example, the pixel of the size-adjusted image corresponding to the center coordinate of the sprite is specified, and the color of the pixel is set as the emission color of the LED corresponding to the sprite. The emission color can be determined according to the above. For example, the pixel group of the size-adjusted image corresponding to the entire sprite area or multiple positions in the sprite is specified, and the average color in the pixel group or the color that frequently appears is set as the emission color. be able to.

In the present embodiment, a movie (movie) movie file is selected according to the user's instruction, but a fixed movie file held by the development PC 200 can also be used, and is provided together with the image data 203 and the like. It may be configured as follows. Further, it may be automatically set according to a predetermined condition including the selected sprite, the light emitting mode set for the other sprite, and the like.

[Transparent layer]
Next, with reference to FIGS. 45 and 46, a function of setting a transmission layer for the sprites extracted in the port creation mode in consideration of the colored cover and setting the light emission mode of the LED will be described.

FIG. 45 shows an image 510 which is a schematic representation of the image 350 represented by the image data 203 as shown in FIG. 11 for the sake of explanation. As the light emitting region (sprite), the upper right side lamp 511, the upper left side lamp 512, the lower right side lamp 513, the lower left side lamp 514, the lower right lower lamp 515, and the lower left lower lamp 516 are extracted. Further, it is shown that the upper right side lamp 511 and the upper left side lamp 512 are provided with colored covers. Here, the color of the colored cover of the upper right side lamp 511 and the color of the colored cover of the upper left side lamp 512 are different from each other.

In FIG. 46A, the light emitting mode is defined for each sprite arranged in the image 510, and the light emitting state related to the image 510 is previewed in the preview window 411 of the main window 410 of the LED data creation mode as shown in FIG. Is shown.

As shown in FIG. 46A, the six sprites in image 510 emit the same color by the corresponding LEDs, but the upper right side lamp 511 and the upper left side lamp 512 are provided with colored covers. Therefore, it can be seen that the color is different from other sprites.

In the LED data creation mode of the development PC 200 according to the present embodiment, such a color change due to the colored cover can be grasped in the preview window 411. Therefore, the information of the sprite and the colored cover can be associated and registered.

FIG. 46B shows the housing data display unit 402 of the main window 400 displayed in the port creation mode of the development PC 200 according to the present embodiment, and the example shown in FIG. 14 is a transparent layer for each sprite. It differs in that it can be set.

As shown in FIG. 45, when the sprite has a transparent member such as a colored cover in which the emission color of the LED corresponding to the sprite is not displayed as it is, the user can provide information on the transparent member for each corresponding sprite. , Can be registered as transparent layer information. In the example of FIG. 46B, the color (RGB) and transparency of the colored cover or the like are registered in association with the corresponding sprite, but other information may be used to reproduce the final display color related to the sprite. ..

Based on such information on the transparent layer, in the LED data creation mode of the development PC 200 according to the present embodiment, when the preview window 411 is displayed, the housing data including the information on the transparent layer and the light emission mode definition data are used. , The state of the front part of the game machine is displayed for each frame. Here, with respect to the sprite having the information of the transmission layer, based on the LED color (RGB) defined in the light emission mode definition data of the LED corresponding to the sprite, the color (RGB) of the transmission layer, and the transparency. The final display color is determined and displayed in the preview window 411.

In recent years, a colored cover is often applied in the light emitting region of a game machine, so it is extremely useful to register information on such a transparent layer so that the final display color can be confirmed. In addition, when setting the emission color of a sprite in a timeline window or the like, the emission color of the LED is adjusted so that the color finally expressed is the set emission color by adding the information of the transparent layer of the sprite in advance. Can be automatically adjusted to a color different from the set emission color.

The functions of the port creation mode and the LED data creation mode in the development PC 200 according to the present embodiment have been described above with reference to the drawings, but these are merely examples, and the present invention is limited to the above-described embodiment. It is not something that is done.

Further, in the development PC 200 of the present embodiment, the captured image of the front portion of the game machine is captured as the image data 203, the sprite is extracted based on the image, and the defined light emitting mode is previewed. However, the image data 203 may be configured to include not only the front portion of the game machine but also the side portion. With this configuration, it is possible to define and preview the light emitting mode of the sprites arranged on the side surface portion of the game machine, and when the light emitting state changes from the front portion to the side surface portion due to the animation pattern, The situation can be easily confirmed.

Further, the development PC 200 of the present embodiment stores shape data defining the shape of the accessory of the game machine and variation mode data defining the variation mode, and based on the shape data and the variation mode data, the accessory Can be controlled to be displayed in the preview window 411 as it fluctuates with the passage of time. Further, when the LED is arranged in the accessory, the light emitting area (sprite) by the LED is managed, and when the user sets the light emitting mode for the sprite, the function is displayed in the preview window 411 according to the setting contents and the like. It is possible to reproduce the fluctuation of objects and the light emission of LEDs.

Although the above description has been made for the gaming machine, the present invention can be applied to devices other than the gaming machine when setting an effect pattern composed of a plurality of light emitting elements. For example, slot machines for casinos, amusement machines for casinos, game machines for arcades, and the like can be mentioned. In addition, even in the data device attached to the game machine in the game hall, when a hit or the like occurs in the game machine or when the player performs a predetermined operation for the purpose of viewing the data, the light emitting element of the data device is used for directing. And can be applied to such devices as well.

It should be noted that the light emitting mode setting device, the light emitting mode setting method, the program, the manufacturing method of the game machine, and the game machine basically according to the embodiment of the present invention basically have the following features and effects. ..

[Appendix A]
[Background technology]

Conventionally, gaming machines called pachislot machines and pachinko machines are known. In such a game machine, generally, when a predetermined condition is satisfied in the game, the variable display control means controls the symbol display device to fluctuate and display the identification information on the display area of the symbol display device, and the symbol display device is used. When the identification information finally derived and displayed on the display area has a predetermined combination (specific display mode), the gaming state shifts to a jackpot gaming state (so-called “big hit”) that is advantageous to the player.

The above-mentioned gaming machine is controlled to perform an effect by using various effect devices including an optical element (for example, LED) such as a lamp according to the above-mentioned gaming state (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Patent Document 1 proposes a game machine that produces an effect using LEDs. Then, in Patent Document 1, various lighting patterns that define the lighting modes of the plurality of LEDs are stored, a lighting pattern selected from the lighting patterns is selected according to the effect content, and a plurality of lighting patterns are selected based on the selected effect content. A technique for controlling lighting of LEDs has been proposed.

Further, in recent years, more complicated and sophisticated expressions have been required for the production in the game machine according to the game state, the production story, and the like. In order to realize such an effect, the number of optical elements (for example, LEDs) provided in the game machine has been dramatically increased, and a full-color LED having a high degree of freedom in emission color has been adopted as the optical element. There are more things to do.

Regarding the LED light emission control as described above, it is necessary to individually specify the light emission color and the lighting (extinguishing) timing for each frame for each LED port according to the effect content of the game machine. Therefore, the person in charge has performed such a designated work by trial and error based on experience and intuition while considering the position where each LED is arranged on the game machine.
[Prior art literature]
[Patent Document]
[Patent Document 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2005-152152

[Outline of Invention]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]

However, due to the increase in the number of LEDs, the full color, and the complexity of the production contents as described above, the person in charge sets each LED port to perform light emission control linked to the production contents. The amount of work has increased dramatically and is approaching its limits.

The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and is capable of easily generating data for fine light emission control linked to the content of the effect for a large number of optical elements in a game machine. It is an object of the present invention to provide a mode setting device, a light emitting mode setting method, a program, a method for manufacturing a game machine, and a game machine.
[Means to solve problems]

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides the following light emitting mode setting device, light emitting mode setting method, program, manufacturing method of game machine, and game machine.

The invention according to the first embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration.
Each of the light emitting regions (for example, the region identified by the sprite name shown in FIG. 14) corresponding to the optical element (for example, LED25) represents the position arranged in the gaming machine (for example, the gaming machines 1, 300). A position information management means (for example, CPU231) that manages position information (for example, center coordinates and size), and
Grouping means (eg, CPU 231) that group at least a part of the light emitting region according to the user's instruction (for example, grouping performed in the group window 414 shown in FIG. 14).
The light emitting mode of the optical element corresponding to the grouped light emitting region (for example, the light emitting color of the optical element and the lighting / extinguishing timing) is set according to the position information of the light emitting region (that is, specified by the position information). A gradation pattern as shown in the timeline of the timeline window 420 of FIG. 18 is set for the sprite), and control data for controlling the optical element in the set light emission mode (for example, LED data 206). A light emitting mode setting device (for example, a development PC 200) including a light emitting mode setting means (for example, CPU 231) for generating the above.

With such a configuration of the present invention, the light emitting mode of the optical elements in the grouped light emitting region is set according to the position of the light emitting region in the game machine. Therefore, it is necessary to set the light emitting mode for each of the optical elements. It is possible to easily generate data for fine-grained light emission control linked to the content of the production.

The invention according to the second embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration in the first embodiment.
The position information is acquired by extracting the light emitting region from the image data (for example, image data 203) including the front portion of the game machine (for example, the sprite extraction process shown in FIG. 16).
The light emitting region is configured to be colored differently from the other regions in the image data (for example, the light emitting region related to the full-color LED is colored yellow, and the light emitting region related to the white LED is colored light blue). Will be done.

With such a configuration of the present invention, image data obtained by capturing the front portion of the game machine or the like is prepared, and further, in the image data, the light emitting region is colored with a color that can be distinguished from other regions. The position of the light emitting region on the front portion is automatically grasped by the light emitting mode setting device, and it is not necessary to input the position information of each light emitting region. Data can be easily generated.

The invention according to the third embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration.
A light emitting mode setting method executed in a light emitting mode setting device.
For each of the light emitting regions corresponding to the optical elements, a position information management step for managing position information indicating a position arranged in the game machine, and a position information management step.
A grouping step that groups at least a part of the light emitting region according to the user's instruction.
The light emitting mode of the optical element corresponding to the grouped light emitting region is set according to the position information of the light emitting region, and the light emitting mode for generating control data for controlling the optical element in the set light emitting mode is generated. A light emitting mode setting method including a setting step.

With such a configuration of the present invention, the light emitting mode of the optical elements in the grouped light emitting region is set according to the position of the light emitting region in the game machine. Therefore, it is necessary to set the light emitting mode for each of the optical elements. It is possible to easily generate data for fine-grained light emission control linked to the content of the production.

The invention according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration.
On the computer
A position information management means for managing position information indicating a position arranged in a game machine for each of the light emitting regions corresponding to the optical elements.
A grouping means for grouping at least a part of the light emitting region according to a user's instruction, and
The light emitting mode of the optical element corresponding to the grouped light emitting region is set according to the position information of the light emitting region, and the light emitting mode for generating control data for controlling the optical element in the set light emitting mode is generated. A program that functions as a setting means.

With such a configuration of the present invention, the light emitting mode of the optical elements in the grouped light emitting region is set according to the position of the light emitting region in the game machine. Therefore, it is necessary to set the light emitting mode for each of the optical elements. It is possible to easily generate data for fine-grained light emission control linked to the content of the production.

The invention according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration.
A charging operation detecting means (for example, a main control circuit 91) for detecting a charging operation of a game medium, and
A start operation detecting means (for example, a main control circuit 91) that detects a start operation by a player based on the detection of a throwing operation by the throwing operation detecting means, and
An internal winning combination determining means (for example, a main control circuit 91) that determines an internal winning combination with a predetermined probability based on the detection of the starting operation by the starting operation detecting means.
The effect determining means (for example, the sub-control circuit 101) that determines the effect when the start operation is detected by the start operation detecting means, and
A control data storage means (for example, a ROM cartridge substrate 76) for storing control data for controlling the light emitting mode of the optical element, and
A gaming machine (for example, a gaming machine) having an effect executing means (for example, a sub-control circuit 101) that executes the effect determined by the effect determining means by controlling the light emitting mode of the optical element based on the control data. It is a manufacturing method of the game machine 1,300).
For each of the light emitting regions corresponding to the optical elements, a position information management step for managing position information representing a position arranged in the game machine, and a position information management step.
A grouping step that groups at least a part of the light emitting region according to the user's instruction.
The light emitting mode setting step of setting the light emitting mode of the optical element corresponding to the grouped light emitting region according to the position information of the light emitting region and generating the control data in the set light emitting mode,
A method for manufacturing a game machine, which comprises a step of fixedly storing the control data in the control data storage means and incorporating the control data into the game machine.

With such a configuration of the present invention, the light emitting mode of the optical elements in the grouped light emitting region is set according to the position of the light emitting region in the game machine. Therefore, it is necessary to set the light emitting mode for each of the optical elements. It is possible to easily generate data for fine-grained light emission control linked to the content of the production.

The invention according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration.
Insertion operation detection means for detecting the insertion operation of the game medium, and
A start operation detecting means for detecting a start operation by a player based on the detection of a throwing operation by the throwing operation detecting means, and a start operation detecting means.
An internal winning combination determining means that determines an internal winning combination with a predetermined probability based on the detection of the starting operation by the starting operation detecting means, and
An effect determining means for determining an effect when a start operation is detected by the start operation detecting means,
A control data storage means for storing control data for controlling the light emitting mode of the optical element, and
A gaming machine (for example, gaming machines 1, 300) having an effect executing means for executing the effect determined by the effect determining means by controlling the light emitting mode of the optical element based on the control data. hand,
The control data is
For each of the light emitting regions corresponding to the optical elements, position information representing a position arranged in the game machine is managed.
According to the user's instruction, at least a part of the light emitting region is grouped.
It is generated by setting the light emitting mode of the optical element corresponding to the grouped light emitting region according to the position information of the light emitting region.
A game machine in which the control data is fixedly stored in the control data storage means and incorporated into the game machine.

With such a configuration of the present invention, the light emitting mode of the optical elements in the grouped light emitting region is set according to the position of the light emitting region in the game machine. Therefore, it is necessary to set the light emitting mode for each of the optical elements. It is possible to easily generate data for fine-grained light emission control linked to the content of the production.
[Effect of the invention]

According to the present invention, it is possible to easily generate data for fine light emission control linked to the content of the effect for a large number of optical elements in a game machine.

[Appendix B]
[Background technology]

Conventionally, gaming machines called pachislot machines and pachinko machines are known. In such a game machine, generally, when a predetermined condition is satisfied in the game, the variable display control means controls the symbol display device to fluctuate and display the identification information on the display area of the symbol display device, and the symbol display device is used. When the identification information finally derived and displayed on the display area has a predetermined combination (specific display mode), the gaming state shifts to a jackpot gaming state (so-called “big hit”) that is advantageous to the player.

The above-mentioned gaming machine is controlled to perform an effect by using various effect devices including an optical element (for example, LED) such as a lamp according to the above-mentioned gaming state (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Patent Document 1 proposes a game machine that produces an effect using LEDs. Then, in Patent Document 1, various lighting patterns that define the lighting modes of the plurality of LEDs are stored, a lighting pattern selected from the lighting patterns is selected according to the effect content, and a plurality of lighting patterns are selected based on the selected effect content. A technique for controlling lighting of LEDs has been proposed.

Further, in recent years, more complicated and sophisticated expressions have been required for the production in the game machine according to the game state, the production story, and the like. In order to realize such an effect, the number of optical elements (for example, LEDs) provided in the game machine has been dramatically increased, and a full-color LED having a high degree of freedom in emission color has been adopted as the optical element. There are more things to do.

Regarding the LED light emission control as described above, it is necessary to individually specify the light emission color and the lighting (extinguishing) timing for each frame for each LED port according to the effect content of the game machine. Therefore, the person in charge has performed such a designated work by trial and error based on experience and intuition while considering the position where each LED is arranged on the game machine.
[Prior art literature]
[Patent Document]

[Patent Document 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2005-152152 [Summary of Invention]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]

However, due to the increase in the number of LEDs, the full color, and the complexity of the production contents as described above, the person in charge sets each LED port to perform light emission control linked to the production contents. The amount of work has increased dramatically and is approaching its limits.

The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and is capable of easily generating data for fine light emission control linked to the content of the effect for a large number of optical elements in a game machine. It is an object of the present invention to provide a mode setting device, a light emitting mode setting method, a program, a method for manufacturing a game machine, and a game machine.
[Means to solve problems]

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides the following light emitting mode setting device, light emitting mode setting method, program, manufacturing method of game machine, and game machine.

The invention according to the first embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration.
Each of the light emitting regions (for example, the region identified by the sprite name shown in FIG. 14) corresponding to the optical element (for example, LED25) is arranged in a predetermined region of the gaming machine (for example, gaming machines 1, 300). A position information management means (for example, CPU 231) that manages position information (for example, center coordinates and size) representing a position, and
Grouping means (eg, CPU 231) that group at least a part of the light emitting region according to the user's operation (for example, grouping performed in the group window 414 shown in FIG. 14).
Based on the position information of the grouped light emitting regions, each of the light emitting regions and a figure that virtually changes in the predetermined region with the passage of time (for example, a circle shown in FIGS. 26 to 30, FIG. 33). A positional relationship determining means (for example, CPU 231) for determining the positional relationship with the donut-shaped figure shown and the rectangle shown in FIG. 35, and
According to the positional relationship, the light emitting mode of the optical element corresponding to the grouped light emitting region (for example, the light emitting color of the optical element and the lighting / extinguishing timing) is set, and the optical element is set in the set light emitting mode. A light emitting mode setting device (for example, a development PC 200) including a light emitting mode setting means (for example, CPU 231) that generates control data (for example, LED data 206) for control.

With such a configuration of the present invention, since the light emitting mode of the optical elements in the grouped light emitting regions is set based on the positional relationship with the figure that virtually changes with the passage of time, a plurality of optical elements It is possible to easily generate data for emitting light by an animation pattern.

The invention according to the second embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration in the first embodiment.
The figure is controlled so that at least one of the position, size, and shape of the figure changes in the predetermined area (for example, the figure can be defined as shown in the group window 430 shown in FIG. 25).
The control data is configured to include data that controls the light emitting mode of the optical element to be changed with the passage of time (for example, every time as shown in the timeline window 420 shown in FIG. 31). Control data is generated based on the symbol representing the light emission mode of.).

With such a configuration of the present invention, it is possible to easily generate data for causing a plurality of optical elements to emit light by animation patterns of various variations.

The invention according to the third embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration.
A light emitting mode setting method executed in a light emitting mode setting device.
For each of the light emitting regions corresponding to the optical elements, a position information management step for managing position information representing a position arranged in a predetermined area of the game machine, and a position information management step.
A grouping step that groups at least a part of the light emitting region according to the user's operation.
A positional relationship determination step for determining the positional relationship between each of the light emitting regions and a figure that virtually changes in the predetermined region with the passage of time based on the positional information of the grouped light emitting regions.
With the light emitting mode setting step of setting the light emitting mode of the optical element corresponding to the grouped light emitting region according to the positional relationship and generating control data for controlling the optical element in the set light emitting mode. A method for setting a light emitting mode.

With such a configuration of the present invention, since the light emitting mode of the optical elements in the grouped light emitting regions is set based on the positional relationship with the figure that virtually changes with the passage of time, a plurality of optical elements It is possible to easily generate data for emitting light by an animation pattern.

The invention according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration.
On the computer
A position information management means for managing position information representing a position arranged in a predetermined area of a game machine for each of the light emitting regions corresponding to the optical elements.
A grouping means for grouping at least a part of the light emitting region according to a user's operation.
Based on the position information of the grouped light emitting regions, a positional relationship determining means for determining the positional relationship between each of the light emitting regions and a figure that virtually changes in the predetermined region with the passage of time, and
As a light emitting mode setting means for setting the light emitting mode of the optical element corresponding to the grouped light emitting region according to the positional relationship and generating control data for controlling the optical element in the set light emitting mode. A program to make it work.

With such a configuration of the present invention, since the light emitting mode of the optical elements in the grouped light emitting regions is set based on the positional relationship with the figure that virtually changes with the passage of time, a plurality of optical elements It is possible to easily generate data for emitting light by an animation pattern.

The invention according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration.
A charging operation detecting means (for example, a main control circuit 91) for detecting a charging operation of a game medium, and
A start operation detecting means (for example, a main control circuit 91) that detects a start operation by a player based on the detection of a throwing operation by the throwing operation detecting means, and
An internal winning combination determining means (for example, a main control circuit 91) that determines an internal winning combination with a predetermined probability based on the detection of the starting operation by the starting operation detecting means.
The effect determining means (for example, the sub-control circuit 101) that determines the effect when the start operation is detected by the start operation detecting means, and
A control data storage means (for example, a ROM cartridge substrate 76) for storing control data for controlling the light emitting mode of the optical element, and
A gaming machine (for example, a gaming machine) having an effect executing means (for example, a sub-control circuit 101) that executes the effect determined by the effect determining means by controlling the light emitting mode of the optical element based on the control data. It is a manufacturing method of the game machine 1,300).
For each of the light emitting regions corresponding to the optical elements, a position information management step for managing position information representing a position arranged in a predetermined area of the game machine, and a position information management step.
A grouping step that groups at least a part of the light emitting region according to the user's operation.
A positional relationship determination step for determining the positional relationship between each of the light emitting regions and a figure that virtually changes in the predetermined region with the passage of time based on the positional information of the grouped light emitting regions.
With the light emitting mode setting step of setting the light emitting mode of the optical element corresponding to the grouped light emitting region according to the positional relationship and generating control data for controlling the optical element in the set light emitting mode. ,
A method for manufacturing a game machine, which comprises a step of fixedly storing the control data in the control data storage means and incorporating the control data into the game machine.

With such a configuration of the present invention, since the light emitting mode of the optical elements in the grouped light emitting regions is set based on the positional relationship with the figure that virtually changes with the passage of time, a plurality of optical elements It is possible to easily generate data for emitting light by an animation pattern.

The invention according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration.
Insertion operation detection means for detecting the insertion operation of the game medium, and
A start operation detecting means for detecting a start operation by a player based on the detection of a throwing operation by the throwing operation detecting means, and a start operation detecting means.
An internal winning combination determining means that determines an internal winning combination with a predetermined probability based on the detection of the starting operation by the starting operation detecting means, and
An effect determining means for determining an effect when a start operation is detected by the start operation detecting means,
A control data storage means for storing control data for controlling the light emitting mode of the optical element, and
A gaming machine (for example, gaming machines 1, 300) having an effect executing means for executing the effect determined by the effect determining means by controlling the light emitting mode of the optical element based on the control data. hand,
The control data is
For each of the light emitting regions corresponding to the optical elements, the position information indicating the position arranged in the predetermined region of the game machine is managed, and the position information is managed.
At least a part of the light emitting region is grouped according to the user's operation.
Based on the position information of the grouped light emitting regions, the positional relationship between each of the light emitting regions and the figure that virtually changes in the predetermined region with the passage of time is determined.
It is generated by setting the light emitting mode of the optical element corresponding to the grouped light emitting region according to the positional relationship.
A game machine in which the control data is fixedly stored in the control data storage means and incorporated into the game machine.

With such a configuration of the present invention, since the light emitting mode of the optical elements in the grouped light emitting regions is set based on the positional relationship with the figure that virtually changes with the passage of time, a plurality of optical elements It is possible to easily generate data for emitting light by an animation pattern.
[Effect of the invention]

According to the present invention, it is possible to easily generate data for fine light emission control linked to the content of the effect for a large number of optical elements in a game machine.

[Appendix C]
[Background technology]

Conventionally, gaming machines called pachislot machines and pachinko machines are known. In such a game machine, generally, when a predetermined condition is satisfied in the game, the variable display control means controls the symbol display device to fluctuate and display the identification information on the display area of the symbol display device, and the symbol display device is used. When the identification information finally derived and displayed on the display area has a predetermined combination (specific display mode), the gaming state shifts to a jackpot gaming state (so-called “big hit”) that is advantageous to the player.

The above-mentioned gaming machine is controlled to perform an effect by using various effect devices including an optical element (for example, LED) such as a lamp according to the above-mentioned gaming state (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Patent Document 1 proposes a game machine that produces an effect using LEDs. Then, in Patent Document 1, various lighting patterns that define the lighting modes of the plurality of LEDs are stored, a lighting pattern selected from the lighting patterns is selected according to the effect content, and a plurality of lighting patterns are selected based on the selected effect content. A technique for controlling lighting of LEDs has been proposed.

Further, in recent years, more complicated and sophisticated expressions have been required for the production in the game machine according to the game state, the production story, and the like. In order to realize such an effect, the number of optical elements (for example, LEDs) provided in the game machine has been dramatically increased, and a full-color LED having a high degree of freedom in emission color has been adopted as the optical element. There are more things to do.

Regarding the LED light emission control as described above, it is necessary to individually specify the light emission color and the lighting (extinguishing) timing for each frame for each LED port according to the effect content of the game machine. Therefore, the person in charge has performed such a designated work by trial and error based on experience and intuition while considering the position where each LED is arranged on the game machine.
[Prior art literature]
[Patent Document]

[Patent Document 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2005-152152 [Summary of Invention]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]

However, due to the increase in the number of LEDs, the full color, and the complexity of the production contents as described above, the person in charge sets each LED port to perform light emission control linked to the production contents. The amount of work has increased dramatically and is approaching its limits.

The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and is capable of easily generating data for fine light emission control linked to the content of the effect for a large number of optical elements in a game machine. It is an object of the present invention to provide a mode setting device, a light emitting mode setting method, a program, a method for manufacturing a game machine, and a game machine.
[Means to solve problems]

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides the following light emitting mode setting device, light emitting mode setting method, program, manufacturing method of game machine, and game machine.

The invention according to the first embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration.
Each of the light emitting regions (for example, the region identified by the sprite name shown in FIG. 14) corresponding to the optical element (for example, LED25) is arranged in a predetermined region of the gaming machine (for example, gaming machines 1, 300). A position information management means (for example, CPU 231) that manages position information (for example, center coordinates and size) representing a position, and
Grouping means (eg, CPU 231) that group at least a part of the light emitting region according to the user's operation (for example, grouping performed in the group window 414 shown in FIG. 14).
Subgrouping means (for example, grouping into subgroups as shown in FIGS. 20 and 21) based on the position information of the grouped light emitting regions. , CPU231) and
For the optical elements corresponding to the grouped light emitting regions, the light emitting mode (for example, the light emitting color of the optical element and the lighting / extinguishing timing) is set for each subgroup, and the optical element is controlled by the set light emitting mode. A light emitting mode setting device (for example, a development PC 200) including a light emitting mode setting means (for example, CPU 231) for generating control data (for example, LED data 206).

With such a configuration of the present invention, the light emitting mode is set in units of the subgroups further subgrouped in the optical elements in the grouped light emitting region. Therefore, the light emitting mode is set for each of the optical elements. There is no need to do so, and it is possible to easily generate data for fine-grained light emission control linked to the content of the production.

The invention according to the second embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration in the first embodiment.
According to the control data, the light emitting region is sequentially emitted for each subgroup (for example, according to the designation shown in FIG. 22A, the optical elements subgrouped at the timing shown in FIG. 22B are sequentially emitted). The light emitting mode setting device according to claim 1, wherein the light emitting mode setting device is controlled.

With such a configuration of the present invention, data for controlling the optical elements corresponding to the light emitting region to sequentially emit light for each subgroup can be easily generated.

The invention according to the third embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration.
A light emitting mode setting method executed in a light emitting mode setting device.
For each of the light emitting regions corresponding to the optical elements, a position information management step for managing position information representing a position arranged in a predetermined area of the game machine, and a position information management step.
A grouping step that groups at least a part of the light emitting region according to the user's operation.
A subgrouping step for grouping each of the light emitting regions into subgroups based on the position information of the grouped light emitting regions.
For the optical elements corresponding to the grouped light emitting regions, a light emitting mode setting step of setting a light emitting mode for each of the subgroups and generating control data for controlling the optical element in the set light emitting mode is provided. A method for setting a light emitting mode.

With such a configuration of the present invention, the light emitting mode is set in units of the subgroups further subgrouped in the optical elements in the grouped light emitting region. Therefore, the light emitting mode is set for each of the optical elements. There is no need to do so, and it is possible to easily generate data for fine-grained light emission control linked to the content of the production.

The invention according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration.
On the computer
A position information management means for managing position information representing a position arranged in a predetermined area of a game machine for each of the light emitting regions corresponding to the optical elements.
A grouping means for grouping at least a part of the light emitting region according to a user's operation.
Subgrouping means for grouping each of the light emitting regions into subgroups based on the position information of the grouped light emitting regions, and
For the optical elements corresponding to the grouped light emitting regions, the light emitting mode is set for each of the subgroups, and the function functions as a light emitting mode setting means for generating control data for controlling the optical elements in the set light emitting modes. Program to let you.

With such a configuration of the present invention, the light emitting mode is set in units of the subgroups further subgrouped in the optical elements in the grouped light emitting region. Therefore, the light emitting mode is set for each of the optical elements. There is no need to do so, and it is possible to easily generate data for fine-grained light emission control linked to the content of the production.

The invention according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration.
A charging operation detecting means (for example, a main control circuit 91) for detecting a charging operation of a game medium, and
A start operation detecting means (for example, a main control circuit 91) that detects a start operation by a player based on the detection of a throwing operation by the throwing operation detecting means, and
An internal winning combination determining means (for example, a main control circuit 91) that determines an internal winning combination with a predetermined probability based on the detection of the starting operation by the starting operation detecting means.
The effect determining means (for example, the main control circuit 91) that determines the effect when the start operation is detected by the start operation detecting means, and
A control data storage means (for example, a ROM cartridge substrate 76) for storing control data for controlling the light emitting mode of the optical element, and
A gaming machine (for example, a gaming machine) having an effect executing means (for example, a main control circuit 91) that executes the effect determined by the effect determining means by controlling the light emitting mode of the optical element based on the control data. It is a manufacturing method of the game machine 1,300).
For each of the light emitting regions corresponding to the optical elements, a position information management step for managing position information representing a position arranged in a predetermined area of the game machine, and a position information management step.
A grouping step that groups at least a part of the light emitting region according to the user's operation.
A subgrouping step for grouping each of the light emitting regions into subgroups based on the position information of the grouped light emitting regions.
With respect to the optical elements corresponding to the grouped light emitting regions, a light emitting mode setting step of setting a light emitting mode for each subgroup and generating control data for controlling the optical element in the set light emitting mode, and a light emitting mode setting step.
A method for manufacturing a game machine, which comprises a step of fixedly storing the control data in the control data storage means and incorporating the control data into the game machine.

With such a configuration of the present invention, the light emitting mode is set in units of the subgroups further subgrouped in the optical elements in the grouped light emitting region. Therefore, the light emitting mode is set for each of the optical elements. There is no need to do so, and it is possible to easily generate data for fine-grained light emission control linked to the content of the production.

The invention according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration.
Insertion operation detection means for detecting the insertion operation of the game medium, and
A start operation detecting means for detecting a start operation by a player based on the detection of a throwing operation by the throwing operation detecting means, and a start operation detecting means.
An internal winning combination determining means that determines an internal winning combination with a predetermined probability based on the detection of the starting operation by the starting operation detecting means, and
An effect determining means for determining an effect when a start operation is detected by the start operation detecting means,
A control data storage means for storing control data for controlling the light emitting mode of the optical element, and
A gaming machine (for example, gaming machines 1, 300) having an effect executing means for executing the effect determined by the effect determining means by controlling the light emitting mode of the optical element based on the control data. hand,
The control data is
For each of the light emitting regions corresponding to the optical elements, the position information indicating the position arranged in the predetermined region of the game machine is managed, and the position information is managed.
At least a part of the light emitting region is grouped according to the user's operation.
Based on the position information of the grouped light emitting regions, each of the light emitting regions is grouped into subgroups.
The optical elements corresponding to the grouped light emitting regions are generated by setting the light emitting mode for each of the subgroups.
A game machine in which the control data is fixedly stored in the control data storage means and incorporated into the game machine.

With such a configuration of the present invention, the light emitting mode is set in units of the subgroups further subgrouped in the optical elements in the grouped light emitting region. Therefore, the light emitting mode is set for each of the optical elements. There is no need to do so, and it is possible to easily generate data for fine-grained light emission control linked to the content of the production.
[Effect of the invention]

According to the present invention, it is possible to easily generate data for fine light emission control linked to the content of the effect for a large number of optical elements in a game machine.

[Appendix D]
[Background technology]

Conventionally, gaming machines called pachislot machines and pachinko machines are known. In such a game machine, generally, when a predetermined condition is satisfied in the game, the variable display control means controls the symbol display device to fluctuate and display the identification information on the display area of the symbol display device, and the symbol display device is used. When the identification information finally derived and displayed on the display area has a predetermined combination (specific display mode), the gaming state shifts to a jackpot gaming state (so-called “big hit”) that is advantageous to the player.

The above-mentioned gaming machine is controlled to perform an effect by using various effect devices including an optical element (for example, LED) such as a lamp according to the above-mentioned gaming state (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Patent Document 1 proposes a game machine that produces an effect using LEDs. Then, in Patent Document 1, various lighting patterns that define the lighting modes of the plurality of LEDs are stored, a lighting pattern selected from the lighting patterns is selected according to the effect content, and a plurality of lighting patterns are selected based on the selected effect content. A technique for controlling lighting of LEDs has been proposed.

Further, in recent years, more complicated and sophisticated expressions have been required for the production in the game machine according to the game state, the production story, and the like. In order to realize such an effect, the number of optical elements (for example, LEDs) provided in the game machine has been dramatically increased, and a full-color LED having a high degree of freedom in emission color has been adopted as the optical element. There are more things to do.

Regarding the LED light emission control as described above, it is necessary to individually specify the light emission color and the lighting (extinguishing) timing for each frame for each LED port according to the effect content of the game machine. Therefore, the person in charge has performed such a designated work by trial and error based on experience and intuition while considering the position where each LED is arranged on the game machine.
[Prior art literature]
[Patent Document]

[Patent Document 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2005-152152 [Summary of Invention]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]

However, due to the increase in the number of LEDs, the full color, and the complexity of the production contents as described above, the person in charge sets each LED port to perform light emission control linked to the production contents. The amount of work has increased dramatically and is approaching its limits.

The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and is capable of easily generating data for fine light emission control linked to the content of the effect for a large number of optical elements in a game machine. It is an object of the present invention to provide a mode setting device, a light emitting mode setting method, a program, a method for manufacturing a game machine, and a game machine.
[Means to solve problems]

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides the following light emitting mode setting device, light emitting mode setting method, program, manufacturing method of game machine, and game machine.

The invention according to the first embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration.
An audio file identification means (for example, CPU231) for identifying an audio file of a musical piece, and
With respect to the audio file, a frequency analysis means (for example, CPU 231) for obtaining the amplitude at a selected frequency and
Position information management means (for example, an area identified by a sprite name shown in FIG. 14) corresponding to an optical element (for example, LED25) of a game machine (for example, game machines 1, 300). For example, CPU231) and
A timeline display control means (for example, CPU 231) for controlling at least one of the light emitting regions to display a timeline capable of displaying a symbol representing a light emitting mode of the corresponding light emitting element according to the passage of time. When,
The value related to the amplitude at the selected frequency is controlled to be displayed in a graph in synchronization with the passage of time in the timeline (for example, the graph display shown in the sound graph display unit 455 of the sound window 450 shown in FIG. 39). A light emitting mode setting device (for example, a development PC 200) including an amplitude display control means (for example, CPU 231).

With such a configuration of the present invention, it is possible to set the light emitting mode of the optical element at the corresponding timing while observing the change of a specific frequency band such as the main melody of the music or the deep bass, and it is finely linked to the production content and the like. It is possible to easily generate data for controlling light emission.

The invention according to the second embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration in the first embodiment.
The light emitting mode setting device according to claim 1, wherein the selected frequency is a frequency band including a frequency range.

With such a configuration of the present invention, the change in amplitude with respect to the frequency in a predetermined range can be expressed in time series, and the degree of freedom in setting the light emitting mode of the optical element according to the music is increased.

The invention according to the third embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration.
A light emitting mode setting method executed in a light emitting mode setting device.
The audio file identification step to identify the audio file of the music, and
A frequency analysis step for determining the amplitude of the audio file at a selected frequency, and
A position information management step that manages each of the light emitting regions corresponding to the optical elements of the game machine,
A timeline display system step for controlling at least one of the light emitting regions to display a timeline capable of displaying a symbol representing a light emitting mode of the corresponding light emitting element according to the passage of time.
A light emitting mode setting method including an amplitude display step for controlling a value related to an amplitude at a selected frequency to be displayed as a graph in synchronization with the passage of time in the timeline.

With such a configuration of the present invention, it is possible to set the light emitting mode of the optical element at the corresponding timing while observing the change of a specific frequency band such as the main melody of the music or the deep bass, and it is finely linked to the production content and the like. It is possible to easily generate data for controlling light emission.

The invention according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration.
On the computer
Audio file identification means for identifying the audio file of a song,
A frequency analysis means for obtaining the amplitude of the audio file at a selected frequency.
Position information management means that manages each of the light emitting regions corresponding to the optical elements of the game machine,
A timeline display control means for controlling at least one of the light emitting regions to display a timeline capable of displaying a symbol representing a light emitting mode of the corresponding light emitting element according to the passage of time, and
A program that functions as an amplitude display control means for controlling a value related to an amplitude at a selected frequency to be displayed as a graph in synchronization with the passage of time in the timeline.

With such a configuration of the present invention, it is possible to set the light emitting mode of the optical element at the corresponding timing while observing the change of a specific frequency band such as the main melody of the music or the deep bass, and it is finely linked to the production content and the like. It is possible to easily generate data for controlling light emission.

The invention according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration.
A charging operation detecting means (for example, a main control circuit 91) for detecting a charging operation of a game medium, and
A start operation detecting means (for example, a main control circuit 91) that detects a start operation by a player based on the detection of a throwing operation by the throwing operation detecting means, and
An internal winning combination determining means (for example, a main control circuit 91) that determines an internal winning combination with a predetermined probability based on the detection of the starting operation by the starting operation detecting means.
The effect determining means (for example, the sub-control circuit 101) that determines the effect when the start operation is detected by the start operation detecting means, and
A control data storage means (for example, a ROM cartridge substrate 76) for storing control data for controlling the light emitting mode of the optical element, and
A gaming machine (for example, a gaming machine) having an effect executing means (for example, a sub-control circuit 101) that executes the effect determined by the effect determining means by controlling the light emitting mode of the optical element based on the control data. It is a manufacturing method of the game machine 1,300).
The audio file identification step to identify the audio file of the music, and
A frequency analysis step for determining the amplitude of the audio file at a selected frequency, and
A position information management step that manages each of the light emitting regions corresponding to the optical elements of the game machine,
A timeline display system step for controlling at least one of the light emitting regions to display a timeline capable of displaying a symbol representing a light emitting mode of the corresponding light emitting element according to the passage of time.
An amplitude display step that controls the graph display of values related to the amplitude at the selected frequency in synchronization with the passage of time in the timeline.
A light emitting mode setting step for generating the control data based on the light emitting mode set in the timeline according to the user's instruction, and a light emitting mode setting step.
A method for manufacturing a game machine, which comprises a step of fixedly storing the control data in the control data storage means and incorporating the control data into the game machine.

With such a configuration of the present invention, it is possible to set the light emitting mode of the optical element at the corresponding timing while observing the change of a specific frequency band such as the main melody of the music or the deep bass, and it is finely linked to the production content and the like. It is possible to easily generate data for controlling light emission.

The invention according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration.
Insertion operation detection means for detecting the insertion operation of the game medium, and
A start operation detecting means for detecting a start operation by a player based on the detection of a throwing operation by the throwing operation detecting means, and a start operation detecting means.
An internal winning combination determining means that determines an internal winning combination with a predetermined probability based on the detection of the starting operation by the starting operation detecting means, and
An effect determining means for determining an effect when a start operation is detected by the start operation detecting means,
A control data storage means for storing control data for controlling the light emitting mode of the optical element, and
A gaming machine (for example, gaming machines 1, 300) having an effect executing means for executing the effect determined by the effect determining means by controlling the light emitting mode of the optical element based on the control data. hand,
The control data is
Identify the audio file of the song Identify the audio file and
For the audio file, determine the amplitude at the selected frequency.
Manages each of the light emitting regions corresponding to the optical elements of the game machine,
For at least one of the light emitting regions, a symbol representing a light emitting mode of the corresponding light emitting element is controlled to display a timeline capable of displaying with the passage of time.
The values related to the amplitude at the selected frequency are graphed in synchronization with the passage of time on the timeline.
It is generated by generating the control data based on the light emission mode set in the timeline according to the user's instruction.
A game machine in which the control data is fixedly stored in the control data storage means and incorporated into the game machine.

With such a configuration of the present invention, it is possible to set the light emitting mode of the optical element at the corresponding timing while observing the change of a specific frequency band such as the main melody of the music or the deep bass, and it is finely linked to the production content and the like. It is possible to easily generate data for controlling light emission.
[Effect of the invention]

According to the present invention, it is possible to easily generate data for fine light emission control linked to the content of the effect for a large number of optical elements in a game machine.

[Appendix E]
[Background technology]

Conventionally, gaming machines called pachislot machines and pachinko machines are known. In such a game machine, generally, when a predetermined condition is satisfied in the game, the variable display control means controls the symbol display device to fluctuate and display the identification information on the display area of the symbol display device, and the symbol display device is used. When the identification information finally derived and displayed on the display area has a predetermined combination (specific display mode), the gaming state shifts to a jackpot gaming state (so-called “big hit”) that is advantageous to the player.

The above-mentioned gaming machine is controlled to perform an effect by using various effect devices including an optical element (for example, LED) such as a lamp according to the above-mentioned gaming state (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Patent Document 1 proposes a game machine that produces an effect using LEDs. Then, in Patent Document 1, various lighting patterns that define the lighting modes of the plurality of LEDs are stored, a lighting pattern selected from the lighting patterns is selected according to the effect content, and a plurality of lighting patterns are selected based on the selected effect content. A technique for controlling lighting of LEDs has been proposed.

Further, in recent years, more complicated and sophisticated expressions have been required for the production in the game machine according to the game state, the production story, and the like. In order to realize such an effect, the number of optical elements (for example, LEDs) provided in the game machine has been dramatically increased, and a full-color LED having a high degree of freedom in emission color has been adopted as the optical element. There are more things to do.

Regarding the LED light emission control as described above, it is necessary to individually specify the light emission color and the lighting (extinguishing) timing for each frame for each LED port according to the effect content of the game machine. Therefore, the person in charge has performed such a designated work by trial and error based on experience and intuition while considering the position where each LED is arranged on the game machine.
[Prior art literature]
[Patent Document]

[Patent Document 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2005-152152 [Summary of Invention]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]

However, due to the increase in the number of LEDs, the full color, and the complexity of the production contents as described above, the person in charge sets each LED port to perform light emission control linked to the production contents. The amount of work has increased dramatically and is approaching its limits.

The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and is capable of easily generating data for fine light emission control linked to the content of the effect for a large number of optical elements in a game machine. It is an object of the present invention to provide a mode setting device, a light emitting mode setting method, a program, a method for manufacturing a game machine, and a game machine.
[Means to solve problems]

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides the following light emitting mode setting device, light emitting mode setting method, program, manufacturing method of game machine, and game machine.

The invention according to the first embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration.
An audio file identification means (for example, CPU231) for identifying an audio file of a musical piece, and
With respect to the audio file, a frequency analysis means (for example, CPU 231) for obtaining the amplitude at a selected frequency and
Position information management means (for example, an area identified by a sprite name shown in FIG. 14) corresponding to an optical element (for example, LED25) of a game machine (for example, game machines 1, 300). For example, CPU231) and
For at least one of the light emitting regions, a timeline capable of displaying a symbol representing a light emitting mode of the corresponding light emitting element with the passage of time is displayed (for example, a sound graph of the sound window 450 shown in FIG. 39). (Graph display shown on the display unit 455), and further, the value related to the amplitude at the selected frequency is made to correspond to the time passage of the timeline, and the symbol of the light emitting mode corresponding to the value is displayed on the timeline. A light emitting mode setting device (for example, a light emitting mode setting device) including a timeline display control means (for example, CPU 231) for controlling (for example, displaying a symbol representing a gradation pattern shown on the timeline display unit 453 of the sound window 450 shown in FIG. 39). For example, development PC200).

With such a configuration of the present invention, the light emitting mode of the optical element at the corresponding timing is automatically set based on the change of a specific frequency band such as the main melody of the music or the deep bass. It is possible to easily generate data for finely linked light emission control.

The invention according to the second embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration in the first embodiment.
The timeline display control means
It is configured to determine the symbol of the light emitting mode based on the gradation pattern set so that the light emitting color of the light emitting element changes according to the value.

With such a configuration of the present invention, the light emitting mode of the optical element at the corresponding timing is based on the change of a specific frequency band such as the main melody of the music or the deep bass, by the gradation pattern that defines the mode of the predetermined color change. It will be set automatically, and the color scheme of light emission according to the change of the music can be easily performed in a more sophisticated manner.

The invention according to the third embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration.
A light emitting mode setting method executed in a light emitting mode setting device.
The audio file identification step to identify the audio file of the music, and
A frequency analysis step for determining the amplitude of the audio file at a selected frequency, and
A position information management step that manages each of the light emitting regions corresponding to the optical elements of the game machine,
For at least one of the light emitting regions, a timeline capable of displaying a symbol representing a light emitting mode of the corresponding light emitting element with the passage of time is displayed, and a value relating to the amplitude at the selected frequency is displayed. A light emitting mode setting method including a timeline display control step for controlling the symbol of the light emitting mode corresponding to the value to be displayed on the timeline in correspondence with the time passage of the timeline.

With such a configuration of the present invention, the light emitting mode of the optical element at the corresponding timing is automatically set based on the change of a specific frequency band such as the main melody of the music or the deep bass. It is possible to easily generate data for finely linked light emission control.

The invention according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration.
On the computer
Audio file identification means for identifying the audio file of a song,
A frequency analysis means for obtaining the amplitude of the audio file at a selected frequency.
Position information management means for managing each of the light emitting regions corresponding to the optical elements of the game machine, and
For at least one of the light emitting regions, a timeline capable of displaying a symbol representing a light emitting mode of the corresponding light emitting element with the passage of time is displayed, and a value relating to the amplitude at the selected frequency is displayed. A program that functions as a timeline display control means for controlling the symbol of a light emitting mode corresponding to the value to be displayed on the timeline in correspondence with the passage of time on the timeline.

With such a configuration of the present invention, the light emitting mode of the optical element at the corresponding timing is automatically set based on the change of a specific frequency band such as the main melody of the music or the deep bass. It is possible to easily generate data for finely linked light emission control.

The invention according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration.
A charging operation detecting means (for example, a main control circuit 91) for detecting a charging operation of a game medium, and
A start operation detecting means (for example, a main control circuit 91) that detects a start operation by a player based on the detection of a throwing operation by the throwing operation detecting means, and
An internal winning combination determining means (for example, a main control circuit 91) that determines an internal winning combination with a predetermined probability based on the detection of the starting operation by the starting operation detecting means.
The effect determining means (for example, the sub-control circuit 101) that determines the effect when the start operation is detected by the start operation detecting means, and
A control data storage means (for example, a ROM cartridge substrate 76) for storing control data for controlling the light emitting mode of the optical element, and
A gaming machine (for example, a gaming machine) having an effect executing means (for example, a sub-control circuit 101) that executes the effect determined by the effect determining means by controlling the light emitting mode of the optical element based on the control data. It is a manufacturing method of the game machine 1,300).
The audio file identification step to identify the audio file of the music, and
A frequency analysis step for determining the amplitude of the audio file at a selected frequency, and
A position information management step that manages each of the light emitting regions corresponding to the optical elements of the game machine,
For at least one of the light emitting regions, a timeline capable of displaying a symbol representing a light emitting mode of the corresponding light emitting element with the passage of time is displayed, and a value relating to the amplitude at the selected frequency is displayed. A timeline display control step that controls the symbol of the light emitting mode corresponding to the value to be displayed on the timeline in correspondence with the time passage of the timeline.
A method of manufacturing a gaming machine, which includes a light emitting mode setting step of generating the control data based on a symbol representing the light emitting mode displayed on the timeline according to a user's instruction.

With such a configuration of the present invention, the light emitting mode of the optical element at the corresponding timing is automatically set based on the change of a specific frequency band such as the main melody of the music or the deep bass. It is possible to easily generate data for finely linked light emission control.

The invention according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration.
Insertion operation detection means for detecting the insertion operation of the game medium, and
A start operation detecting means for detecting a start operation by a player based on the detection of a throwing operation by the throwing operation detecting means, and a start operation detecting means.
An internal winning combination determining means that determines an internal winning combination with a predetermined probability based on the detection of the starting operation by the starting operation detecting means, and
An effect determining means for determining an effect when a start operation is detected by the start operation detecting means,
A control data storage means for storing control data for controlling the light emitting mode of the optical element, and
A gaming machine (for example, gaming machines 1, 300) having an effect executing means for executing the effect determined by the effect determining means by controlling the light emitting mode of the optical element based on the control data. hand,
The control data is
Identify the audio file of the song Identify the audio file and
For the audio file, determine the amplitude at the selected frequency.
Manages each of the light emitting regions corresponding to the optical elements of the game machine,
For at least one of the light emitting regions, a timeline capable of displaying a symbol representing a light emitting mode of the corresponding light emitting element with the passage of time is displayed, and a value relating to the amplitude at the selected frequency is displayed. It is controlled so that the symbol of the light emitting mode corresponding to the value is displayed on the timeline in correspondence with the time passage of the timeline.
Generated by generating the control data based on the symbol representing the light emission mode displayed on the timeline according to the user's instruction.
A game machine in which the control data is fixedly stored in the control data storage means and incorporated into the game machine.

With such a configuration of the present invention, the light emitting mode of the optical element at the corresponding timing is automatically set based on the change of a specific frequency band such as the main melody of the music or the deep bass. It is possible to easily generate data for finely linked light emission control.
[Effect of the invention]

According to the present invention, it is possible to easily generate data for fine light emission control linked to the content of the effect for a large number of optical elements in a game machine.

[Appendix F]
[Background technology]

Conventionally, gaming machines called pachislot machines and pachinko machines are known. In such a game machine, generally, when a predetermined condition is satisfied in the game, the variable display control means controls the symbol display device to fluctuate and display the identification information on the display area of the symbol display device, and the symbol display device is used. When the identification information finally derived and displayed on the display area has a predetermined combination (specific display mode), the gaming state shifts to a jackpot gaming state (so-called “big hit”) that is advantageous to the player.

The above-mentioned gaming machine is controlled to perform an effect by using various effect devices including an optical element (for example, LED) such as a lamp according to the above-mentioned gaming state (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Patent Document 1 proposes a game machine that produces an effect using LEDs. Then, in Patent Document 1, various lighting patterns that define the lighting modes of the plurality of LEDs are stored, a lighting pattern selected from the lighting patterns is selected according to the effect content, and a plurality of lighting patterns are selected based on the selected effect content. A technique for controlling lighting of LEDs has been proposed.

Further, in recent years, more complicated and sophisticated expressions have been required for the production in the game machine according to the game state, the production story, and the like. In order to realize such an effect, the number of optical elements (for example, LEDs) provided in the game machine has been dramatically increased, and a full-color LED having a high degree of freedom in emission color has been adopted as the optical element. There are more things to do.

Regarding the LED light emission control as described above, it is necessary to individually specify the light emission color and the lighting (extinguishing) timing for each frame for each LED port according to the effect content of the game machine. Therefore, the person in charge has performed such a designated work by trial and error based on experience and intuition while considering the position where each LED is arranged on the game machine.
[Prior art literature]
[Patent Document]

[Patent Document 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2005-152152 [Summary of Invention]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]

However, due to the increase in the number of LEDs, the full color, and the complexity of the production contents as described above, the person in charge sets each LED port to perform light emission control linked to the production contents. The amount of work has increased dramatically and is approaching its limits.

The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and is capable of easily generating data for fine light emission control linked to the content of the effect for a large number of optical elements in a game machine. It is an object of the present invention to provide a mode setting device, a light emitting mode setting method, a program, a method for manufacturing a game machine, and a game machine.
[Means to solve problems]

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides the following light emitting mode setting device, light emitting mode setting method, program, manufacturing method of game machine, and game machine.

The invention according to the first embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration.
Each of the light emitting regions (for example, the region identified by the sprite name shown in FIG. 14) corresponding to the optical element (for example, LED25) is arranged in a predetermined region of the gaming machine (for example, gaming machines 1, 300). A position information management means (for example, CPU 231) that manages position information representing a position, and
A video file identification means (for example, CPU231) for specifying a video file, and
An image position information acquisition means (for example, CPU 231) for acquiring the corresponding image position information in the image of the moving image file based on the position information of the light emitting region, and
The color information of the image corresponding to the image position information is acquired at predetermined timings (for example, as shown in FIGS. 42 and 43, the color information of the position of the movie corresponding to the position of the light emitting region is acquired). Color information acquisition means (for example, CPU231) and
A light emitting mode setting device (for example, a development PC 200) including a light emitting mode setting means (for example, CPU 231) that determines a light emitting color at each timing of the light emitting region based on the color information of the corresponding timing.

With such a configuration of the present invention, each light emitting region is associated with the position of an image whose color changes for each frame such as a movie, and the color at that position is determined as the light emitting color of the light emitting region. The emission color in the emission region of the game machine changes according to the change, and it becomes possible to easily generate data for fine emission control linked to the effect content and the like.

The invention according to the second embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration.
For each of the light emitting regions corresponding to the optical elements, a position information management step for managing position information representing a position arranged in a predetermined area of the game machine, and a position information management step.
Video file identification step to identify the video file and
An image position information acquisition step for acquiring the corresponding image position information in the image of the moving image file based on the position information of the light emitting region, and
A color information acquisition step of acquiring the color information of the image corresponding to the image position information at predetermined timings, and
A light emitting mode setting method including a light emitting mode setting step of determining a light emitting color at each timing of the light emitting region based on the color information of the corresponding timing.

With such a configuration of the present invention, each light emitting region is associated with the position of an image whose color changes for each frame such as a movie, and the color at that position is determined as the light emitting color of the light emitting region. The emission color in the emission region of the game machine changes according to the change, and it becomes possible to easily generate data for fine emission control linked to the effect content and the like.

The invention according to the third embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration.
On the computer
A position information management means for managing position information representing a position arranged in a predetermined area of a game machine for each of the light emitting regions corresponding to the optical elements.
Video file identification method,
An image position information acquisition means for acquiring the corresponding image position information in the image of the moving image file based on the position information of the light emitting region.
A color information acquisition means for acquiring color information of the image corresponding to the image position information at predetermined timings, and
A program that functions as a light emitting mode setting means for determining a light emitting color at each timing of the light emitting region based on the color information of the corresponding timing.

With such a configuration of the present invention, each light emitting region is associated with the position of an image whose color changes for each frame such as a movie, and the color at that position is determined as the light emitting color of the light emitting region. The emission color in the emission region of the game machine changes according to the change, and it becomes possible to easily generate data for fine emission control linked to the effect content and the like.

The invention according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration.
A charging operation detecting means (for example, a main control circuit 91) for detecting a charging operation of a game medium, and
A start operation detecting means (for example, a main control circuit 91) that detects a start operation by a player based on the detection of a throwing operation by the throwing operation detecting means, and
An internal winning combination determining means (for example, a main control circuit 91) that determines an internal winning combination with a predetermined probability based on the detection of the starting operation by the starting operation detecting means.
The effect determining means (for example, the sub-control circuit 101) that determines the effect when the start operation is detected by the start operation detecting means, and
A control data storage means (for example, a ROM cartridge substrate 76) for storing control data for controlling the light emitting mode of the optical element, and
A gaming machine (for example, a gaming machine) having an effect executing means (for example, a sub-control circuit 101) that executes the effect determined by the effect determining means by controlling the light emitting mode of the optical element based on the control data. It is a manufacturing method of the game machine 1,300).
For each of the light emitting regions corresponding to the optical elements, a position information management step for managing position information representing a position arranged in a predetermined area of the game machine, and a position information management step.
Video file identification step to identify the video file and
An image position information acquisition step for acquiring the corresponding image position information in the image of the moving image file based on the position information of the light emitting region, and
A color information acquisition step of acquiring the color information of the image corresponding to the image position information at predetermined timings, and
A light emitting mode setting step of generating the control data by determining the light emitting color at each timing of the light emitting region based on the color information of the corresponding timing and setting the light emitting region to emit light in the light emitting color. When,
A method for manufacturing a game machine, which comprises a step of fixedly storing the control data in the control data storage means and incorporating the control data into the game machine.

With such a configuration of the present invention, each light emitting region is associated with the position of an image whose color changes for each frame such as a movie, and the color at that position is determined as the light emitting color of the light emitting region. The emission color in the emission region of the game machine changes according to the change, and it becomes possible to easily generate data for fine emission control linked to the effect content and the like.

The invention according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration.
Insertion operation detection means for detecting the insertion operation of the game medium, and
A start operation detecting means for detecting a start operation by a player based on the detection of a throwing operation by the throwing operation detecting means, and a start operation detecting means.
An internal winning combination determining means that determines an internal winning combination with a predetermined probability based on the detection of the starting operation by the starting operation detecting means, and
An effect determining means for determining an effect when a start operation is detected by the start operation detecting means,
A control data storage means for storing control data for controlling the light emitting mode of the optical element, and
A gaming machine (for example, gaming machines 1, 300) having an effect executing means for executing the effect determined by the effect determining means by controlling the light emitting mode of the optical element based on the control data. hand,
The control data is
For each of the light emitting regions corresponding to the optical elements, the position information indicating the position arranged in the predetermined region of the game machine is managed, and the position information is managed.
Identify the video file and
Based on the position information of the light emitting region, the corresponding image position information in the image of the moving image file is acquired, and the corresponding image position information is acquired.
The color information of the image corresponding to the image position information is acquired at predetermined timings, and the color information is acquired.
It is generated by determining the emission color at each timing of the light emission region based on the color information of the corresponding timing and setting the light emission region to emit light in the emission color.
A game machine in which the control data is fixedly stored in the control data storage means and incorporated into the game machine.

With such a configuration of the present invention, each light emitting region is associated with the position of an image whose color changes for each frame such as a movie, and the color at that position is determined as the light emitting color of the light emitting region. The emission color in the emission region of the game machine changes according to the change, and it becomes possible to easily generate data for fine emission control linked to the effect content and the like.
[Effect of the invention]

According to the present invention, it is possible to easily generate data for fine light emission control linked to the content of the effect for a large number of optical elements in a game machine.

1,300 Game machine 25 LED
31R, 31L, 32R, 32L, 33R, 33L, 34R, 34L, 35R, 35L, 36R, 36L, 37R, 37L Sprite 72 LED board 76 ROM cartridge board 101 Secondary control circuit 122 LED driver 200 Development PC
203 Image data 204 Housing data 205 Preview LED data 206, 206a LED data 207 LED data

Claims (1)

Audio file identification means to identify the audio file of the music,
A frequency analysis means for obtaining the amplitude of the audio file at a selected frequency, and
Position information management means that manages each of the light emitting regions corresponding to the optical elements of the game machine,
For at least one of the light emitting regions, a timeline capable of displaying a symbol representing a light emitting mode of the corresponding optical element with the passage of time is displayed, and a value relating to the amplitude at the selected frequency is displayed. A light emitting mode setting device including a timeline display control means for controlling the symbol of the light emitting mode corresponding to the value to be displayed on the timeline in correspondence with the time passage of the timeline.

Images