JP2000202123A - Pachinko machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a pachinko machine capable of instantly detecting malfunction in a path switching means at the time of occurrence of it by detecting the switching position of the path switching means in the pachinko machine switching the ball dispensing destination of a ball dispensing device with the path switching means. SOLUTION: The machine is provided with a channel switching member 254 disposed at the branching point of the channel 201a guiding the balls dispensed from the ball paying out device 97 as prize balls and the channel 201b guiding the dispensed balls as rental balls to switch a ball dispensing path between a channel 201a and a channel 201b, a switching solenoid 255 for electrically driving a member 254, and a switch detector 300 detecting the switching operation of the member 254. Thus, the switching position of the member 254 is surely detected to instantly detect malfunction in the member 254 when it occurs.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a ball game machine represented by, for example, a pachinko game machine, a coin game machine and the like. The present invention relates to a ball game machine in which a prize ball is paid out in accordance with a prize in a prize area provided in the game machine.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in general, a ball game machine such as a pachinko game machine or a coin game machine controls a game control board for controlling a game operation and a payout of a prize ball (also referred to as a prize ball). A payout control circuit board was provided. The payout control circuit board transmits a winning ball detection signal indicating that a winning ball has been detected to the game control board by inputting a winning ball detection signal from the winning ball detector. The game control board that has received the winning ball detection signal returns payout number information for specifying the number of premium balls to be paid out for the winning ball to the payout control circuit board. The payout control circuit board controls the payout operation of the ball payout device so as to pay out the number of prize balls according to the payout number information.
However, in the case where the game control board is configured to input the winning ball detection signal from the payout control circuit board in this way, the game control board is caused to input incorrect data from the input port of the signal and the normal normal operation is performed on the game control board. There is a possibility that an illegal act for performing a different operation may be performed.

[0003] Therefore, the present applicant first inputs a detection signal from a winning ball detector to a game control board, so that the one-way communication of a signal from the game control board to the payout control circuit board allows the prize ball to be obtained. We proposed a configuration to perform payout control (hereafter,
This configuration is referred to as a prior art). Further, in the prior art, a passage switching means is provided in the ball payout passage of the ball payout device so that the game control board can monitor the payout number of the prize ball, and the payout destination of the ball is a ball lending and a prize ball (prize ball). Was to switch.

[0004]

However, in the above-mentioned prior art, although the payout destination of the ball is switched between the ball lending and the prize ball (prize ball) by the passage switching means, the passage switching means is not used. It is not configured to detect the switching position. For this reason, when a malfunction occurs in the passage switching means, the malfunction cannot be detected,
There is a possibility that the ball lending operation or the prize ball operation may be hindered. The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a ball game machine that switches a ball payout destination of a ball payout device between a ball lending passage and a premium ball passage by passage switching means. An object of the present invention is to provide a ball game machine capable of detecting a malfunction in a passage switching means immediately by detecting a switching position of the switching means.

[0005]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a game system in which a prize ball is paid out according to a prize in a prize area provided in a game area. A ball game machine, wherein a ball payout means capable of paying out the prize ball and paying out a lending ball, a ball payout control means for controlling the payout of the prize ball and the lending ball by controlling the ball payout means, A ball payout passage branched into a prize ball passage for guiding the ball paid out from the ball payout means as a prize ball and a lending ball passage for guiding as a lending ball, and a prize provided by the ball payout means provided in the prize ball passage. A prize ball detecting means capable of detecting payout of a ball, a prize ball detecting means for detecting a prize ball having won the prize area, and a detection signal of a prize ball received directly from the prize ball detecting means, and the ball payout control means Send a signal to pay out the prize ball to the front Game control means for judging whether or not the payout of the prize ball is normally performed by detecting the prize ball by the prize ball detection means, and controlling a game state; and setting the ball payout passage to a prize ball passage or a ball lending passage. Path switching means for switching to any one of the above, path switching driving means for electrically driving the path switching means, and path switching detecting means for detecting a switching operation of the path switching means. I do. With this configuration, the switching position of the passage switching unit can be reliably detected, and when a malfunction occurs in the passage switching unit, it can be immediately detected. Can be eliminated immediately.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, the apparatus further comprises abnormality notification means capable of performing abnormality notification.
The ball dispensing control means controls a switching operation of the passage switching means by outputting a passage switching signal to the passage switching driving means, and outputs the passage switching signal to the passage switching driving means. When the switching detecting means does not detect the switching operation, the abnormality notifying means controls the abnormality notification. With such a configuration, the switching abnormality of the passage switching means is notified, so that it is easy to cope with repair.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, the ball payout control means does not detect the switching operation even though the path switching detection means outputs a path switching signal to the path switching drive means. In this case, the ball payout operation by the ball payout means is stopped. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the payout of the ball in the state of the switching abnormality of the passage switching means.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the game control means can determine a switching state of the passage switching means based on a detection signal of the passage switching detection means. With this configuration, the game control unit can determine whether the payout by the ball payout unit is a payout of a premium ball or a payout of a lending ball.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the apparatus further comprises abnormality notification means capable of performing abnormality notification.
The prize ball is detected by the prize ball detection means, although the game control means determines that the ball payout path has been switched to the ball lending path based on a detection signal from the passage switching detection means. In this case, control is performed to cause the abnormality notification means to perform abnormality notification.
With such a configuration, it is possible to notify a more detailed abnormality relating to the passage switching, such as an abnormality of the switches and a breakage of the passage switching means.

Further, according to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the game control means may determine that the ball payout passage has been switched to the ball lending passage based on a detection signal from the passage switching detection means. Regardless, when a prize ball is detected by the prize ball detection means, the game in the ball game machine is controlled to be deactivated. With such a configuration, the game cannot be continued when the path switching is abnormal, and further problems due to the continuation of the game can be prevented.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the apparatus further comprises abnormality notification means capable of performing abnormality notification.
The game control means, when it is determined that the state in which the ball payout passage is switched to the ball lending passage has continued for a predetermined period by a detection signal from the passage switching detection means,
It is characterized in that control for causing an abnormality notification by the abnormality notification means is performed. With this configuration, it is possible to report an abnormality in which the passage is not switched even though the ball lending operation has been completed.

Further, in the present invention, the game control means may continue the state in which the ball payout path is switched to the ball lending path by a detection signal from the path switching detection means for a predetermined period. When the determination is made, the game in the ball game machine is controlled to be deactivated. With such a configuration, the game cannot be continued when the path switching is abnormal, and further problems due to the continuation of the game can be prevented.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, the apparatus further comprises abnormality notification means capable of performing abnormality notification.
The game control means can store the number of prize balls paid out based on the winning, and subtracts the stored number of prize ball payouts with the detection of prize balls by the prize ball detection means,
When a prize ball is detected by the prize ball detection means despite the lack of the stored number, control for causing the abnormality notification means to notify an abnormality is performed. With this configuration, it is possible to provide an abnormality notification that an abnormal payout of a prize ball due to fraudulent activity or the like.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, the game control means can store the number of prize balls to be paid out based on a prize, and the prize ball is detected in accordance with the detection of the prize ball by the prize ball detection means. The number of stored payouts is subtracted, and when a prize ball is detected by the prize ball detection means despite the absence of the number of stored payouts, the game in the ball game machine is controlled to be deactivated. With such a configuration, the game cannot be continued when the path switching is abnormal, and further problems due to the continuation of the game can be prevented.

Further, according to claim 11 of the present invention, the game control means can transmit a signal indicating a switching state of the passage switching means based on a detection signal from the passage switching detection means to the ball payout control means. It is characterized by being.
With this configuration, the ball payout control unit can recognize the switching state of the passage switching unit even when the detection signal from the passage switching detection unit is input only to the game control unit.

Note that, with the pachinko gaming machine 1 shown in FIG. 1, a winning area (a winning opening 42a) provided in the gaming area 32 is provided.
・ 42b ・ 48 ・ 49a ・ 49b, variable winning ball device 3
This constitutes an example of the ball game machine of the present invention in which a prize ball is paid out according to the winning of 5).

Further, the ball payout device 97 shown in FIG.
This constitutes an example of a ball payout unit of the present invention capable of paying out the premium balls and paying out lending balls.

Further, the payout control circuit board 152 shown in FIG.
This constitutes an example of the ball payout control means of the present invention which controls the payout of the prize ball and the lending ball by controlling the ball payout means.

The flow path 201a shown in FIG. 4 constitutes an example of a prize ball passage of the present invention for guiding the ball paid out from the ball payout means as a prize ball.

The flow path 201b shown in FIG. 4 constitutes an example of the ball lending passage according to the present invention for guiding the ball paid out from the ball payout means as a ball lending.

The passage switching member 254 shown in FIG. 4 constitutes an example of a passage switching means of the present invention for switching the ball payout passage to either a prize ball passage or a ball lending passage.

The switching solenoid 255 shown in FIG. 6 constitutes an example of the passage switching driving means of the present invention for electrically driving the passage switching means.

The switching detector 300 shown in FIG. 4 constitutes an example of the passage switching detecting means of the present invention for detecting the switching operation of the passage switching means.

The award ball number switch 256 shown in FIG.
Thus, an example of the prize ball detecting means of the present invention provided in the prize ball passage and capable of detecting the payout of the prize ball by the ball payout means.

The winning ball detector 122 shown in FIG. 2 constitutes an example of a winning ball detecting means of the present invention for detecting a winning ball winning in the winning area.

Further, the error indicator 155 shown in FIG. 6 or the round number indicator 33a shown in FIG. 1 constitutes an example of an abnormality notifying means of the present invention capable of notifying an abnormality.

The game control board 199 shown in FIG. 5 directly receives a detection signal of a winning ball from the winning ball detecting means, and transmits a signal for paying out a prize ball to the ball payout controlling means. The detection of the prize ball by the ball detection means determines whether or not the payout of the prize ball is normally performed, and constitutes an example of a game control means of the present invention for controlling a game state.

Further, SU5 of the flow path switching process shown in FIG.
By outputting a path switching signal to the path switching driving means by the flow from the controller to the SU6 and the flow from SU12 to SU6, the switching operation of the path switching means is controlled and a path switching signal is output to the path switching driving means. The configuration of the ball payout control unit that controls the abnormality notification unit to notify an abnormality when the passage switching detection unit does not detect the switching operation in spite of that is illustrated.

The flow from SU5 to SU6 shown in FIG. 24, the flow from SU12 to SU6 shown in FIG.
S2, in ST2 of FIG. 23, when the passage switching detecting unit does not detect the switching operation despite outputting the passage switching signal to the passage switching driving unit, the ball discharging operation by the ball discharging unit is performed. 2 illustrates a configuration of the ball payout control unit that stops.

The connection between the game control board 199 and the switching detector 300 shown in FIG. 25 and the input processing of the switching detector shown in FIG. The configuration of the game control means capable of determining the switching state is illustrated.

Also, according to the flow from SW1 to SW3 of the prize ball number switch input shown in FIG. 27, it is determined that the ball payout passage is switched to the ball lending passage by a detection signal from the passage switching detecting means. Despite this, the configuration of the game control means for controlling the abnormality notification means to notify an abnormality when the premium ball is detected by the premium ball detection means is illustrated.

Also, according to the flow from SW1 to SW3 of the prize ball number switch input shown in FIG. 27, it is determined that the ball payout passage is switched to the ball lending passage by a detection signal from the passage switching detecting means. Despite this, the configuration of the game control means for controlling the deactivation of the game in the ball game machine when a premium ball is detected by the premium ball detection means is illustrated.

Also, according to the flow from SV11 to SV12 of the switching detector input processing shown in FIG. The example of the configuration of the game control unit that performs control to cause the abnormality notification unit to perform abnormality notification when it is determined that the period has been continued.

In accordance with the flow from SV11 to SV12 of the switching detector input processing shown in FIG. The example of the configuration of the game control means that controls the deactivation of the game in the ball game machine when it is determined that the period has continued.

Also, by the flow from SW4 to SW3 of the prize ball number switch input shown in FIG. 27, the number of prize balls to be paid out based on the winning can be stored, and the prize ball detection means detects the prize ball. The game control means for subtracting the stored number of prize ball payouts, and controlling the abnormality notifying means to notify the abnormality when the prize ball is detected by the prize ball detecting means despite the lack of the stored number. Is exemplified.

The flow from SW4 to SW3 of the prize ball number switch input shown in FIG. 27 makes it possible to store the number of prize balls to be paid out based on the prize and to detect the prize balls by the prize ball detection means. The game control for deactivating the game in the ball game machine when the prize ball is detected by the prize ball detection means in spite of the lack of the stored number of prize ball payouts. It illustrates the configuration of the means.

Also, by the flow path switching signal output processing shown in FIG. 28, a signal indicating the switching state of the path switching means based on the detection signal from the path switching detecting means can be transmitted to the ball payout control means. The configuration of the game control means is illustrated.

[0038]

Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the present embodiment,
A pachinko game machine is illustrated as an example of a ball game machine,
The present invention is not limited to this, and may be a coin gaming machine or the like, in which a game is performed by hitting a ball into a game area, and a prize ball is paid out according to a prize in a prize area provided in the game area. Any ball-and-game machines that can be used are eligible.

First Embodiment First, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4, an overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine 1 as an example of a ball game machine according to an embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine 1. FIG.
1 is an overall rear view showing a partial internal structure of the pachinko gaming machine 1. FIG. FIG. 3 is a sectional view showing the internal configuration of the ball payout device 97. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a configuration of a switching unit of the ball discharging channel.

In FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a front frame 2 formed in a frame shape as is well known, and a door holding frame 3 is provided around the frame-shaped opening of the front frame 2. A glass door frame 4 having a glass plate is provided above the door holding frame 3, and a front door plate 5 having a hit ball supply plate (upper plate) 6 is provided below the door holding frame 3 so as to be freely opened and closed. One door switch 257 for detecting the open / closed state of the glass door frame 4 is provided on the back side of the boundary between the glass door frame 4 and the door holding frame 3. Further, on the lower surface of the front frame 2, there is provided a surplus ball tray (lower plate) 20 for storing surplus prize balls overflowing from the hit ball supply tray 6, and an operation handle 21 for firing a hit ball is also provided. Is provided. Further, the front frame 2 has a game effect lamp 22 on the upper side thereof, which lights or blinks when the game state becomes a predetermined specific game state.
Is provided on the open side of the pachinko game machine 1 with a lock decoration for decorating the periphery of the lock of the locking device (not shown), and a ball is fired inside the lock decoration. An operation lamp 23 for displaying that the is operating is built-in.

The hitting ball supply tray 6 will be described in more detail. The hitting ball supply tray 6 connects a prize ball payout port 7a formed on the upstream side with a supply port 7b formed on the downstream side. The storage alignment path 8 is formed as described above, and the ball detector 9 is provided on the bottom rear surface in the middle of the storage alignment path 8. This ball detector 9 detects a hit ball remaining in the hit ball supply tray 6. In addition, the hit ball supply tray 6
In the lower space on the upstream side of the
Is built-in. Further, another ball detector 9a having the same structure is provided slightly upstream of the ball detector 9, and even if the ball detector 9 does not detect the presence of a hit ball, the upstream ball detector 9a is When the presence of a hit ball is detected, it is determined that a trouble such as jamming of the ball has occurred, and the detection output of the absence of the hit ball of the ball detector 9 is invalidated. Is also good.

Further, the hitting ball supply tray 6 is provided with an operation unit which is operated when borrowing a game ball via a card unit (card processing machine) 50 provided adjacent to the pachinko game machine 1. A ball lending switch 15, a return switch 17, and a mode changeover switch 18 are provided as operation units, and a frequency display LED 16 is provided between the ball lending switch 15 and the return switch 17. The ball lending switch 15 is operated when borrowing a game ball by the card unit 50, and the return switch 17 is used for returning a card inserted into the card insertion slot 55 of the card unit 50 at the end of the game. Things. The fact that the card is inserted into the card insertion slot 55 can be recognized by the fact that the card insertion indicator lamp 54 provided in the card unit 50 is lit. The frequency display LED 16 displays the remaining amount of the card inserted into the card insertion slot 55 of the card unit 50. In addition, the mode changeover switch 18 is operated in the manual mode in which the ball to be borrowed is operated by operating the ball lending switch 15 and when the remaining amount of the hitting ball in the hitting ball supply tray 6 is no longer detected by the ball detector 9. An automatic mode in which game balls are automatically paid out is set. Reference numeral 11 denotes an automatic ball lending display for displaying an automatic mode, and reference numeral 12 denotes a ball lending display for displaying that ball lending is possible.

A game board 30 is detachably attached to the rear of the glass door frame 5 and to the back of the front frame 2. The game board 30 is provided with a guide rail 31 for guiding a hit ball in a substantially circular shape.
A middle area surrounded by a circle constitutes a game area 32, in which a game device such as a variable display device, a variable winning ball device, and a winning opening is arranged. More specifically, a variable display device 33 including a plurality of rotating drum mechanisms is disposed substantially at the center of the game area 32, and a starting winning opening 34, a variable winning ball device 35 and a variable winning device 34 are provided below the variable display device 33. Is arranged. The starting winning opening 34 is for rotating the rotating drum mechanism of the variable display device 33. Therefore, the winning prize winning in the starting winning opening 34 is
It is guided to the back of the game board 30 and is detected by a starting winning ball detector (not shown) provided on a winning ball collecting cover body (not shown). The variable prize ball device 35 has an opening / closing plate 36 driven to be opened and closed by a solenoid 37. The inside of the opening / closing plate 36 is divided into three, the center of which is set as a specific prize area. A specific winning ball detector (not shown) faces the area, and a winning ball detector (not shown) faces left and right. A winning opening that is opened when the open / close plate 36 is opened in the variable winning ball device 35 is called a large winning opening. The game board 30 has an out port 40 other than the above-described configuration.
Are provided at the lowermost part of the game area 32, winning holes 42 a and 42 b are provided at the center left and right of the game area 32, and a prize ball lamp 43 and a ball cut lamp 44 are provided outside the upper part of the game area 32. .

The game area 32 is further provided with normal winning ports 48, 49a, 49b. When a hit ball wins inside the opening / closing plate 36 of the variable winning ball device 35, 1
When five prize balls are paid out and a ball is hit in the starting winning opening 34, six prize balls are paid out and the other normal winning holes 42a, 42b, 48, 49a, 49b are hit. Is also paid out, six prize balls are paid out. As described above, the gaming area 32 is provided with a plurality of winning areas in which prize balls to be paid out by hitting a ball are classified into a plurality of different types.

The game content of the game board 30 configured as described above is such that when a hit ball wins the start winning port 34 and the start winning ball detector 46 is turned on, the rotating drum mechanism of the variable display device 33 rotates. Is started, and the rotation is stopped when a predetermined time (for example, 5 seconds) elapses. Then, when the combination of symbols displayed on the variable display device 33 at the time of stop is a predetermined combination of big hit symbols, a specific game state (also referred to as a big hit game state) is established and the opening and closing plate of the variable winning ball device 35 is set. 36 is released until a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) elapses or a predetermined number (for example, 10) of winning balls is generated. When the hit ball wins in the specific winning area while the opening / closing plate 36 is being opened and the specific winning ball detector is turned on, a continuation right is generated, and the above-described opening operation of the opening / closing plate 36 is repeated again. This continuation right is allowed a predetermined number of times (for example, 16 times). Thus, the variable winning ball device 35
The state in which the open / close plate 36 is opened can be continued for a predetermined number of times, and each time the open / close plate 36 is opened is called a round. The current round number in the case where the state in which the opening and closing plate 36 is opened is continuously repeated is the variable display device 33.
Is displayed on the round number display 33a composed of a 7-segment display provided above the. Round number indicator 33
a includes two 7-segment displays arranged side by side, by which two numbers and letters can be displayed side by side. The round number display 33a, as described later, is provided when a predetermined error state occurs.
It is used to display an error code indicating the content of the error.

The generation of the continuation right is permitted a predetermined number of times (for example, 16 times).
You have a chance to win a lot of winning balls in a short time. As described above, since a great chance for the player in the big hit game state is generated based on the variable display device 33 and the result of one variable display, it may occur when the remaining balls in the hit ball supply tray 6 are almost exhausted. In such a case, the hit ball is continuously fired to change the hit ball to the variable winning ball device 3.
Despite the necessity of winning the specific winning area of No. 5, the hit ball does not remain in the hit ball supply tray 6, so that the ball lending switch 15 must be rushed to borrow the game ball. However, since the game ball is paid out after the ball lending switch 15 is operated, and it takes some time until the ball is fired and reaches the specific winning area of the variable winning ball device 35, during that time, Although there is an inconvenience of missing an advantageous chance (establishment of continuation right), in this embodiment, if the mode changeover switch 18 is set to the automatic mode, the ball detector 9 detects the absence of a hit ball. Since the game ball is automatically paid out to the hitting ball supply tray 6 at the time of detection, the above-described inconvenience does not occur. On the other hand, when the prize ball payout frequency per unit time is high even when the automatic mode is set as described above, for example, when the big hit game state is reached, the prize ball is paid out immediately thereafter. It is not necessary to automatically pay out game balls,
The remaining ball lending information in the magnetic card is not wasted.

By the way, on the back of the game board 30, a prize-ball collecting cover body (not shown) for guiding and collecting the prize-winning prize-winning prize-winning balls provided on the front surface of the game-panel 30. ) Is provided. A plurality of guide paths (not shown) for guiding a winning ball are provided in the winning ball collection cover body. Then, after the winning balls that have won the normal winning ports 48, 42a, 42b, 49a, 49b are gathered and guided by one guide path, they are detected by a normal winning ball detector (not shown).
The winning ball that has won the starting winning port 34 is detected by a starting winning ball detector (not shown). Of the prize balls that have won inside the opening and closing plate 36 of the variable prize ball device 35, a prize ball that has won a specific prize area is detected by a specific prize ball detector (not shown), and other prize balls are large prize port prizes. It is detected by a detector (not shown).

In the pachinko gaming machine 1, as described above, the number of prize balls to be paid out is divided into two types according to the type of the prize area. In order to distinguish such prize balls, A detection signal from the detector is sent to the game control board 199 (see FIG. 2), and is sent from the game control board 199 to the payout control circuit board 152 to receive a prize ball number signal (a signal representing prize ball number data. Ball number data). A game relay board 47 for relaying wires extending from switches, lamps, driving sources, and the like provided on the game board 30 is attached to the back of the winning ball set cover (not shown).

The pachinko gaming machine 1 configured as described above
As shown in FIG. 1, the card unit 50 provided on the side of the card has an enable indicator lamp 51 for displaying whether or not the card is in a usable state, and a fraction (100 yen) in the balance information recorded in the card. If the number is less than one, the fraction display switch 52 for displaying the fraction on the frequency display LED 16 and whether or not the card unit 50 is compatible with the pachinko gaming machine 1 is displayed. A connection stand direction indicator 53 and a card insertion indicator 54 for indicating that a card is being inserted into the card unit 50.
And a card insertion slot 55 for inserting a magnetic card as a recording medium, and a card unit lock 56 for opening when checking a mechanism of a card reader / writer provided on the back of the card insertion slot 55. ing. And
The card unit 50 configured as described above is controlled by a unique control circuit. However, the switches 15, 17, and 18, the display LED 16, the payout control circuit board 152, and the The interface board 138 is provided on a mechanism plate 60 described below provided on the back surface of the pachinko gaming machine 1 because the Note that the card unit 50 may be incorporated in the pachinko gaming machine 1.

Next, the structure of the back surface of the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. A ball tank 65 is provided at the upper part of the mechanism plate 60 of the pachinko gaming machine, and pachinko balls are supplied into the ball tank 65 from above the pachinko gaming machine 1 with the pachinko gaming machine 1 installed on the gaming machine installation island. .
The pachinko balls stored in the ball tank 65 are supplied to the ball payout device 97, and the balls are paid out into the hit ball supply tray 6 by operating the ball payout device 97.

The mechanism board 60 further includes a board box 149 for a payout control circuit board and a game control board box 1 for accommodating a game control board 199 for performing game control.
98 are provided. In the figure, reference numeral 33 denotes a variable display device, and reference numeral 47 denotes a game relay board. The prize ball hit into the prize area or the variable prize ball device by being hit into the game area is processed by the prize ball processing device 115, and a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out from the ball payout device 97 for each prize ball. You.

Reference numeral 196 denotes a hit ball firing device, which uses a rotating force of a firing motor 197 to fire hit balls one by one into a game area. In FIG. 2, a terminal board 78 is provided at an upper corner portion of the pachinko gaming machine 1. The terminal board 78 is provided with a power connector 80 and a power switch 81 for connecting to an external power supply. Further, the terminal board 78 is provided with a burnout information output terminal 79.
a, launch control signal input terminal 79b, ball lending information output terminal 7
9c, a supply information output terminal 79d is provided.

The game control board box 198 is provided with a key switch (not shown) for inputting and setting the probability that the variable display device 33 will be in a predetermined specific display mode and the specific game state will occur. The probability can be set to, for example, three levels of a high probability, a medium probability, and a low probability by operating the game room staff with a predetermined key inserted into the key switch.
The setting state of the probability is displayed by a setting probability display LED (not shown).

The card unit 50 provided on the side of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is provided with a ball lending setting switch 213, which is operated by a staff member of the game hall by operating the ball lending setting switch 213. A ball lending amount to be lent out in one ball lending operation is set.

In the figure, the mechanism plate 60 is provided with a ball tank 65 for mainly storing prize balls and a ball alignment rail 69 for guiding the prize balls stored in the ball tank 65 while aligning them on the downstream side. Upper base unit 61
And a ball payout device 9 for paying out a premium ball mainly based on a prize.
7 and a lower base unit 63, which is mainly provided with a processing mechanism for processing a hit ball including a winning ball hit into the game board 30. You. As described above, the mechanism plate 60 of the present embodiment configured by assembling the three base units 61 to 63 has a U-shape as a whole when viewed from the rear, and the mechanism plate 60 is closed. In this state, one side of the game board 30 is opened. For this reason, even if the back surface structure of the game board 30 is complicated (in some game boards, the rear projecting area and the projecting amount of the winning device are large, and the wiring is complicated), The opening and closing operation of the mechanism plate 60 can be performed smoothly.

As shown in FIG. 2, in the upper base unit 61, a ball tank 65 for storing a large number of prize balls, and a plurality of rows of prize balls supplied from the ball tank 65 (in the case of the present embodiment, 2 Ball alignment rail 69 to be aligned and flow down
And a curve gutter 7 for turning a prize ball guided by the ball alignment rail 69 toward a ball payout device 97 described later.
4 and a terminal board 78 provided above the curve gutter 74 are provided at predetermined positions.

The ball tank 65 is positioned at a predetermined position of the upper base unit 61 (at this position, a concave portion is formed along the side surface shape of the ball tank 65) by mounting pieces protruding on both left and right sides thereof. It can be attached with screws. The ball tank 65 is formed in a box shape having an open top surface, and a drop port 68 communicating with a ball alignment rail 69 is opened downstream of the bottom face.
A bottom surface is formed by a plurality of inclined bottom surfaces inclined toward 8. A ball shortage detection lever (not shown) is provided on the inclined bottom surface above the falling port 68 so as to be swingably supported, and a ball shortage detector (not shown) is provided below the ball shortage detection lever. Has been fixed. The ball deficiency detector derives a prize ball replenishment request signal to a management computer (not shown) provided in the game arcade when the prize balls are insufficient in the ball tank 65. The ball deficiency detection lever is
When the prize ball in the ball tank 65 is placed, the ball deficiency detector is turned off. It is designed to output a signal. The wiring extending from the ball deficiency detector is connected to the terminal board 78 once, and then the output line is connected from the terminal board 78 to the hall management computer.

The ball alignment rail 69 disposed on the downstream side of the ball tank 65 is attached to the upper base unit 61 in an inclined manner from one end to the other end, and a partition wall is provided upright at the center of the inside. I have. The partition walls ensure that the prize balls flowing out of the dropping ports 68 of the ball tank 65 are aligned in two rows on the left and right as they go downstream. The balls aligned and guided by the ball alignment rail 69 are connected to the curved gutter 74.
The downflow direction is changed to left and right.

The upper base unit 61 is provided with a terminal board 78 other than the above-described structure. Print wiring provided with a ball-break information output terminal 79a, a firing control signal input terminal 79b, a ball lending information output terminal 79c, a replenishment information output terminal 79d, and the like for connecting a signal line between the management computer) and the pachinko gaming machine 1. It is constituted by a substrate.

A passage body 84 is fixed to the upper part of the intermediate base unit 62, and a ball discharging device 97 is fixed below the passage body 84. More specifically, the passage body 8
Reference numeral 4 has prize ball passages 86a and 86b for causing two rows of prize balls, whose flow direction has been changed left and right by the curve gutter 74, to flow downward. The prize ball passage 86
On the upstream side of the switches 86a and 87b, the burnout switches 87a and 87
b. This switch 8
Reference numerals 7a and 87b detect the presence or absence of a prize ball in the prize ball passages 86a and 86b. When one of the prize switches 87a and 87b no longer detects the prize ball, the ball break lamp 44 is turned on. The rotation of the stepping motor 189 (see FIG. 3) of the prize ball payout device 97 is stopped to inactivate the prize ball payout.

The prize balls flowing down the prize ball passages 86a and 86b are supplied to a ball discharging device 97 on the downstream side. The ball payout device 97 is configured to be housed inside a rectangular parallelepiped case (a case 98 described later) mounted below the intermediate base unit 62. The specific configuration of the ball dispensing device 97 stored in the case 98 will be described in detail below. The ball dispensing device 97 rotates a screw 188 (described later) by a stepping motor 189 (described later),
This is a type in which balls are paid out while counting them one by one. The balls to be paid out by the ball payout device 97 are not only prize balls based on winnings, but also lending balls (game balls) to be lent to the player.

The configuration of the ball payout device 97 will now be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view of the ball payout device 97 as viewed from the side, and FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of the ball payout device 97 viewed from the front.

As shown in FIG. 3, the case 98 of the ball dispensing device 97 is divided into two parts, left and right. Each of the ball supply paths 181a and 181b has a curved surface (only the curved surface 182a of the ball supply path 181a is shown in FIG. 3) inside thereof and is curved rearward. Ball feed horizontal paths 184a and 184b are formed below each of the curved surface ends, and further, a ball discharge path (a ball discharge path 183a connected to the horizontal path 184a in FIG. 3) is provided at each end of the ball feed horizontal paths 184a and 184b.
(Only shown). These ball supply path, ball feed horizontal path, and ball discharge path are divided into divided cases 98a and 98.
b (see FIG. 3, one partition wall 19).
5a is shown in the figure).

A ball pressure buffer (not shown) is held in front of the divided cases 98a and 98b. The ball pressure buffering member distributes prize balls supplied from the prize ball passages 86a and 86b of the passage body 84 to the left and right sides and guides them to the ball supply passages 181a and 181b. (LED) and a light receiving element 187 are provided. The light emitting element 186 and the light receiving element 187 are provided at a predetermined interval, and the tip of a screw 188 as an example of a rotating body described below is inserted into this interval. The ball pressure buffering member is completely housed and fixed when the divided cases 98a and 98b are attached to each other. The ball payout device (ball payout means) is not limited to the ball payout device 97 that is housed and fixed in the case. For example, it may be one that is assembled to one fixing plate to expose a motor or the like, or one that is not assembled as one device.

Further, the ball feed horizontal paths 184a, 184
A screw 188 that is rotated by a stepping motor 189 is disposed between b. That is, a motor fixing plate 190 for fixing the stepping motor 189 is fitted and fixed to two fixing grooves (only one fixing groove 191a is shown in FIG. 3) formed behind the partition wall, and the motor shaft of the stepping motor 189 is fixed. The screw 188 is fixed to the front of the partition wall 195a. On the outer circumference of the screw 188,
Ball feed horizontal path 1 by rotation of stepping motor 189
A helical projection 188a is provided to move the prize balls placed on 84a and 184b forward, and a recess for covering the light emitting element 186 is formed at the tip of the screw 188. Two notches 192 are formed. Since the notch 192 is formed at a symmetrical position of 180 degrees, the light from the light emitting element 186 is detected twice by the light receiving element 187 via the notch 192 during one rotation of the screw 188. It has become. The light emitting element 186 and the light receiving element 187 constitute a position detector for detecting the rotational position of the screw 188. In the following description, the light detector 187 that outputs a detection signal may be referred to as a position detector 187 as a representative of the position detector. Note that the light emitting element 186, the light receiving element 187, and the wiring 193 from the stepping motor 189 are collectively assembled in the case 9
8 is pulled out to the outside from a draw-out hole formed below the rear part of the rear part 8 and connected to a connector (not shown).

In the ball dispensing device 97 configured as described above, the prize balls supplied from the ball supply paths 181a and 181b are stopped at the positions where the prize balls are supplied to the rear ends of the ball feed horizontal paths 184a and 184b. In this state, when the rotation of the stepping motor 189 is started, the prize ball is fed by the spiral projection 188 a of the screw 188 to the ball feeding horizontal path 184.
a, 184b, moves forward, and finally falls from the end of the ball feed horizontal path 184a, 184b toward the ball discharge path. At this time, the left and right ball feed horizontal paths 184a,
The drop of prize balls from 184b is performed alternately,
Since one prize ball drops from one side every time the screw 188 rotates half a turn, the light from the light emitting element 186 is eventually received by the light receiving element 187 every time one prize ball drops. As a result, the rotational position of the screw 188 is detected. When the number of signals detected by the light receiving element 187 reaches a predetermined number of prize balls (corresponding to one winning), the stepping motor 1
Control is performed to stop the drive of the motor 89. The rotating body may be a sprocket or the like that causes the ball to flow downward by rotating, in addition to the screw 188.

The flow path of the balls on the ball payout side of the ball payout device 97 is branched into a flow path 201a for paying out prize balls and a flow path 201b for paying out lending balls. In the flow path 201a, a prize ball number switch 256 for detecting a prize ball which is a ball guided to the flow path 201a is provided. When a ball flowing down from the ball dispensing device 97 is paid out as a prize ball, the ball is guided to the flow path 201a.
b. That is, the flow path 201a and the flow path 201b
Is selectively allowed to flow. At the branch points of these flow paths, the flow paths of the balls falling from the ball discharging device 97 are
A flow path switching member 254 for switching between the flow path 201a and the flow path 201b for paying out balls is provided. A switching solenoid 255 for driving the channel switching member 254 and a switching detector 300 for detecting a switching position of the channel switching member 254 are provided near the channel switching member 254.

Next, referring to FIG.
The switching mode of the flow path according to No. 4 will be described. In FIG. 4, an aspect in which the ball flow path is switched to the prize ball payout flow path 201a side is shown in (A), and the ball flow path is the lending ball payout flow path 201b side. (B) shows a mode in the case of switching to (b).

The flow path switching member 254 is configured such that the main body 254b is rotated about the support shaft 254a. The main body 254b is formed in a shape that, when tilted to one side of the flow path 201a and the flow path 201b, closes the flow path on that side in a state where the ball cannot flow.

In a normal state where the switching solenoid 255 is not driven (excited) (standby state in which the discharge is not performed), the flow path switching member 254 is, as shown in FIG.
It is positioned so as to tilt toward the flow path 201b. In this case, the flow path 201a side is open, and the ball is guided to the flow path 201a side as a prize ball. That is, in the normal state, the flow path switching member 254 serves as the flow path 201a for prize balls.
It is set to guide the ball to the side. The prize ball guided in this case is detected by the prize ball number switch 256. In this state, the switching detector 300 is turned off without detecting the tip of the flow path switching member 254, and the OFF signal causes the flow path switching member 254 to turn off the flow path 20.
It is detected that the ball has been tilted to the side 1b, in other words, that the ball payout path of the ball payout device 97 is in the winning ball state by the flow path switching of the flow path switching member 254.

On the other hand, when a ball is paid out, a drive (excitation) signal is given to the switching solenoid 255, and (B)
As shown in (2), the switching solenoid 255 drives the flow path switching member 254 to tilt toward the flow path 201a. Thereby, the flow path 201b side is opened, and the ball is guided to the flow path 201b side as a lending ball. In this state, the switching detector 300 is turned on by detecting the tip of the flow path switching member 254, and the flow path switching member 254 is tilted toward the flow path 201a by the ON signal. For example, it is detected that the ball dispensing channel of the ball dispensing device 97 is in the ball lending state by switching the channel of the channel switching member 254.

In FIG. 2, on the front side of the lower base unit 63 (the side in contact with the game board 5), the above-mentioned prize ball collecting gutter (not shown) is provided approximately in the middle thereof in an inclined manner. The winning ball collecting trough receives a winning ball that has won the variable winning ball device 35 or the like of the game board 30 and guides the winning ball to a winning ball processing device 115, which will be described later. The winning ball guide passage 105 is provided.

On the other hand, on the rear surface side of the lower base unit 63, a prize ball payout passage 108 is formed at one upper side thereof.
An upper plate communication port 110 is formed at the lower end of the prize ball dispensing passage 108. The upper plate communication port 110 guides a prize ball to the hit ball supply plate 6 provided on the front surface of the pachinko gaming machine 1.

A communication passage (not shown) is connected to the other side of the upper plate communication port 110, and a surplus ball passage (not shown) is connected to an end of the communication passage. Then
When a large number of prize balls based on the prize are paid out and the hitting ball supply tray 6 is full of prize balls, and finally reaches the upper plate communication port 110 and continues to pay out the prize balls, the prize balls are passed through the communication passage. The excess ball is guided to an excess ball passage, and then discharged to the excess ball tray 20 through a connection gutter (not shown).
When the prize balls are further paid out, the surplus ball tray 20 is also full, but when the surplus ball tray 20 reaches a full tank detection plate (not shown) provided on one side wall of the surplus ball passage,
The full tank detection plate is pressed by the prize ball and swings outward around the upper end support shaft, thereby turning on the full tank switch 114 and stopping the driving of the stepping motor 189 of the ball discharging device 97. As a result, the prize ball payout operation is deactivated, and the driving of the hit ball firing device 196 is stopped as necessary.

On one side of the lower part of the lower base unit 63,
A storage section (not shown) for storing a board box 149 for storing a payout control circuit board 152 for controlling the operation of the winning ball processing device 115 and the ball payout device 97 is formed.

In the prize ball processing device 115, prize balls collected by a prize ball collecting gutter flow down a prize ball flow (not shown).
It is guided through. Winning ball processing device 1
The winning balls after the processing at 15 are discharged to the lower side.

Incidentally, a winning ball detector 122 is fixed in the winning ball guiding passage 105. The winning prize detector 122 is a proximity switch, and has a through hole formed in a front portion thereof for passing a prize ball.

The winning ball processing device 115 is driven by a winning ball discharging solenoid 127 and receives one winning ball.
This is an apparatus having a structure for performing individual address processing. Specifically, one guided prize ball is held and held, and according to the payout of the prize ball corresponding to the retained prize ball, the held prize ball is released and flowed down sequentially. This is done for the winning ball.

As described above, the prize ball processing device 115 in this embodiment temporarily stops the generated prize balls and processes the prize balls one by one every time a predetermined prize ball is paid out. At the time of a power outage or the like, the generated prize balls remain as proof balls, so that no trouble occurs with the player. In addition, such a winning ball processing device 115
May be stored (for example, stored in the gaming machine control board), and the stored winning prize balls may be discharged to the outside of the ball game machine 1. However, in this case, it is desirable to have a backup function. In addition, as a method of storing, specifically, there are the following three methods (1) to (3).

Method of Providing Only Detection Switch Without Stopping the Ball Method of Providing the Detection Switch on the Winning Ball Set Cover (Gaming Board) Instead of Providing the Detection Switch on the Mechanism Board without Stopping the Ball No detection switch for detecting all winning balls), the winning balls are merged for each winning opening or the number of winning balls, and a detecting switch is provided for each passage thereof,
A method of winning a prize ball by detecting a winning ball by the switch (winning ball detecting means) A board box 149 accommodating a payout control circuit board 152 is provided at a lower portion of one side of the lower base unit 63. The board box 149 is provided with a reset switch 156 for resetting the control processing when the program of the control operation runs out of control so as to face the outside. When the reset switch 156 is operated, the entire payout control circuit board 152 is initialized (the state when the power is turned on). That is, the reset switch 156 is a switch for performing a hard reset for resetting the payout control circuit board 152 by hardware.

The payout control circuit board 152 accommodated in the board box 149 receives the prize ball number signal given from the game control board 199 and outputs a drive start signal to the stepping motor 189 of the ball payout device 97 to pay out the balls. Device 9
The signal from the count detecting means provided in the counter 7 is counted, and when the counted value reaches a predetermined number of prize payout balls, a drive stop signal is derived to the stepping motor 189 to stop the prize payout operation. Let it. Further, when there is a signal from the out-of-ball switches 87a, 87b or the full detector 114, a stop signal is derived to the stepping motor 189 when the payout operation for the winning is completed. When there are two types of payout prize balls as in the present embodiment, the number of winning prize balls with the larger payout prize ball number is stored, and the payout operation corresponding to the stored value is given priority. Should be executed. Also, if the smaller number of winning balls is stored, even if the stored value is erased due to a power failure or the like, the player can pay out a relatively large number of payout prize balls. If this is not taken into consideration, any of them may be designed to be stored. Similarly, when a ball lending request signal for a game ball is received from the card unit 50, a predetermined number (25 pieces / 100 yen) of game balls are paid out by the ball payout device 97 by the same operation as described above.

The game control board 1 described above is provided on the mechanism plate 60.
A game control board box 198 containing 99 is provided. The game control board box 198 is provided so as to extend beyond the board box 149.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing control circuits provided on the payout control circuit board 152, the card unit control board 210a provided on the card unit 50, and the game control board 199.

The card unit control board 210a has R
A card unit control microcomputer 210 including an AM, a ROM, a CPU, an I / O port, etc., a switch circuit 211 for inputting a detection signal from a switch to the card unit control microcomputer 210,
A display circuit 212 for outputting a display control signal from the microcomputer 210 for controlling the card unit to various displays, and the microcomputer 210 for controlling the card unit and the dispensing control microcomputer 220 of the dispensing control circuit board 152 A signal circuit 214 including a photocoupler for exchanging signals and a power supply circuit 215 are provided. Since the signal exchange between the microcomputers 210 and 220 is once performed by converting the signal into an optical signal via a photocoupler, the microcomputer 210 and 220 are electrically disconnected. Since an abnormally high voltage or the like due to one failure or the like is not transmitted to the other microcomputer, it is possible to prevent one failure from adversely affecting the other microcomputer. Further, the card unit control board 210a is provided with a fraction display switch 52 and a ball lending setting switch 213 connected to the switch circuit 211, and further, a unit availability display connected to the display circuit 212. Device 51 and card insertion display device 54
And a connection direction indicator 53 are provided. The card unit control board 210a includes a card unit 50.
Is connected, the interface board 138 may be integrated with the payout control circuit board 152.

Further, a ball lending switch 15 and a return switch 17 are connected to the switch circuit 211, and a card balance display 16 is connected to the display circuit 212.

The dispensing control circuit board 152 is provided with a signal circuit 216 composed of a photocoupler. The signal circuit 214, The unit connection signal (V
L), a unit operation signal (BRDY), a ball lending request signal (BRQ), a ball lending completion signal (EXS), and a P machine operation signal (PRDY) are transmitted and received. That is, when the card unit control microcomputer 210 and the payout control microcomputer 220 are connected, the unit connection signal (VL) is transmitted from the card unit control microcomputer 210 to the payout control microcomputer 220. Is done. Under the condition that the unit connection signal (VL) is input, the pachinko gaming machine is in a state in which it is possible to fire a hit ball, and in a state in which payout control of a premium ball based on a winning ball is possible.

When the power of the pachinko gaming machine is turned on, the payout control microcomputer 220 outputs a P machine operation signal (PRDY) to the card unit control microcomputer 210. Next, the card is accepted on the card unit 50 side and the ball lending switch 1 is received.
5 is operated and the detection signal is input, and the unit operation signal (BRDY) is output to the payout control microcomputer 220. When a predetermined delay time has elapsed from this point, a ball lending request signal (BRQ) is output from the card unit control microcomputer 210 to the payout control microcomputer 220. The reason for providing the predetermined delay time is to provide a sufficient time for the pachinko gaming machine to determine that the unit operation signal (BRDY) has been input, thereby preventing a malfunction due to noise.

When the predetermined time has elapsed after the delay time has elapsed, a ball lending preparation signal is output from the payout control microcomputer 220 to the card unit control microcomputer 210. At a stage where a predetermined time has elapsed from this point, the ball lending request signal (BR
Q) is turned off, and it is assumed that the ball lending command signal has been output from the card unit control microcomputer 210 to the payout control microcomputer 220. At a stage where a predetermined time has elapsed from this point, the ball lending completion signal (EXS) is changed to a payout control microcomputer based on the completion of the ball lending control operation performed by the payout control microcomputer 220 in accordance with the ball lending command signal. The data is output from 220 to the card unit control microcomputer 210.

The game control board 199 is provided with a one-chip game control microcomputer 202. The game control microcomputer 202 includes a CPU 203, a RAM 205, and an I / O port 20.
6, a security circuit 204 and the like are provided. The ROM 207, the address decode circuit 208, the signal circuit 209, and the switch circuit 229 are provided outside the game control microcomputer 202 formed as one chip.
And a lamp solenoid circuit 230. The address decode circuit 208 decodes address data from the game control microcomputer 202 and stores the RAM in the game control microcomputer 202
205, the I / O port 206, or the ROM 20
7 is supplied with a chip select signal.

The switch circuit 229 includes the winning ball detector 12
2, a detection signal from the burnout switch 87a, 87b, a detection signal from the full tank switch 114, a detection signal from the door switch 257, a detection signal from the prize ball number switch (prize ball number detector) 256. And a reset switch 15 for a payout control circuit board 152 described later
6 receives the reset operation signals from them, and converts those signals to I / O
Give to O port 206. These signals are provided from the I / O port 206 to the CPU 203.

The lamp solenoid circuit 230 has a CPU
A drive signal for the winning ball discharge solenoid 127, a drive signal for the prize ball lamp 43, a drive signal for the ball cutout lamp 44, and a drive signal for the winning ball lamp 43, which are given from the 203 through the I / O port 206.
A drive signal to the game effect lamp 22 is given to each target device. In this case, a reset switch may be separately provided. Also, the reset switch 15
6 may not be input to the main board.
Also, connect the winning ball payout solenoid to the payout control board,
It may be controlled by a payout control board.

The security circuit 204 is provided in the ROM 2
07 has a function of monitoring unauthorized alteration of the program stored in the storage unit 07. The security circuit 204 stores security data corresponding to the storage program in the ROM 207.
The program stored in the OM 207 is read out, the program is compared with the stored security data to determine whether or not both have consistency. Make it operable. During the operation of the pachinko gaming machine, the CPU 203 operates according to the program data stored in the ROM 207.
When the security circuit 204 determines whether or not the address of the program data stored in the address 207 exceeds the normal address range, and the security circuit 204 determines that the address exceeds the normal address range. In this case, the CPU 203 is set to a state in which the control operation cannot be performed normally.

The ROM 207 stores prize ball number data which is the number of prize balls to be paid out in accordance with which prize area the hit ball has won. Then, when the winning ball detector 122 (see FIG. 2) detects a winning ball and a detection signal thereof is input to the game control microcomputer 202 via the switch circuit 229, the game control microcomputer 202 The prize ball number data corresponding to the winning area in which the hit ball has won is read out from the ROM 207 and transmitted to the payout control microcomputer 220 via the signal circuit 209 (both are constituted by photocouplers). In the present embodiment, the prize ball number signal is 4 as shown in FIG.
It is transmitted to the payout control microcomputer 220 in the form of 4-bit data (D0 to D3) composed of the signal lines.

The game control microcomputer 2
02 is a burnout switch 87a, 87 as described later.
payout control via the signal circuit 209, when receiving the detection signal from the control signal b or the detection signal from the full tank switch 114, the prize ball lending impossible signal for making the prize ball and the ball lending impossible. To the use microcomputer 220. In that case, the payout control microcomputer 220
In this case, the process of prize balls and ball lending is prohibited.

In the payout control circuit board 152, the payout control microcomputer 220 receives the prize ball number data and the prize ball lending prohibition signal via the signal circuit 217.

The dispensing control circuit board 152 is further provided with a switch circuit 218 for detecting a signal from the upper ball detector 9, a detection signal from the automatic ball lending switch 118,
Detection signal from switching detector 300 and position detector 1
The detection signals from 87 are input to the payout control microcomputer 220 via the switch circuits 218, respectively. The payout control circuit board 152 is provided with a stop mode switch 154. This hitting mode switch 1
54 is connected to the switch circuit 218. If the above-described hitting mode input operation is performed by the hitting mode switch 154, the hitting mode data is stored in the switch circuit 2.
18 to the payout control microcomputer 220. The payout control circuit board 152 is further provided with a reset switch 156 (see FIG. 2). The reset switch 156 is connected to a reset terminal of the payout control microcomputer 220 via a reset circuit 221. Then, when a staff at the game arcade operates the reset switch 156 to perform a reset operation, the reset operation signal is input to the payout control microcomputer 220 via the reset circuit 221 to be in a power-on state. Note that this reset switch 156
Is also connected to the switch circuit of the game control board 199, as described above, and a reset operation signal output when a reset operation is performed is also given to the game control board 199.

A power supply circuit 219 is further provided on the dispensing control circuit board 152. Electric power from an external power supply 24V AC is supplied to the power supply circuit 219 and converted into a predetermined DC current. The direct current is supplied to the electronic device. In addition, the power of 24 V AC is supplied to the card unit control board 21 via the payout control circuit board 152.
The power is also supplied to a power supply circuit 215 provided in Oa, and power is supplied from the power supply circuit 215 to various control circuits and electronic devices provided in the card unit 50.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a control circuit including various control devices controlled by the payout control microcomputer 220. The dispensing control circuit board 152 includes an LED circuit 222, a motor circuit 223, a relay circuit 224, a solenoid circuit 225,
An information output circuit 226 and a buzzer / LED circuit 227 are provided.

The dispensing control circuit board 152 is further provided with an error indicator 155.
55 is connected to the LED circuit 222. Then, an error code display control signal from the payout control microcomputer 220 is given to the error display 155 via the LED circuit 222. The motor control signal is output from the dispensing control microcomputer 220 to the motor circuit 22.
3 and to the discharge motor 189 via the relay circuit 224. Further, a solenoid drive signal (excitation control signal) is given to the switching solenoid 255 via the solenoid circuit 225. Dispensing control microcomputer 220
Outputs supply information, ball lending information, and ball lending condition establishment information via the information output circuit 226. The replenishment information is an output pulse indicating that every time a predetermined number (for example, ten) of prize balls are paid out, the replenishment information output terminal 79d
(See FIG. 2) is output to the hall management computer. The ball lending information is information indicating that the ball lending operation has been performed, and the ball lending information output terminal 79c (see FIG. 2).
Is output to the management computer for halls. The ball lending condition establishment information is information indicating that a ball lending condition for paying out a ball lending to the hit ball supply tray 6 is established, and is output to the card unit 50. Note that the supply information may be output via an information output circuit (not shown) of the game control board 199. Further, the game control board 199 alone may be used.

Discharge control microcomputer 220
Further supplies a buzzer control signal to the buzzer 10 via the buzzer / LED circuit 227 and an automatic ball lending display signal to the automatic ball lending display 11.

Next, the operation of lending a ball will be described. Each time a pachinko game machine rents out pachinko balls (for example, 25 pieces) corresponding to a unit amount (for example, 100 yen), a payout control microcomputer outputs a ball lending completion signal to the card processing machine control microcomputer. Each time the output signal is input, the card processing machine control microcomputer determines whether or not all pachinko balls have been lent out, and if there is an unloaned portion that has not been lent out yet, it is not lent out. The lending of the pachinko balls in the unit amount (for example, 100 yen) is repeated until all the minutes are lent.

Next, the game control microcomputer 2
02 will be described. 7 to 20 are flowcharts for explaining the operation of the game control microcomputer 202.

FIG. 7 shows a main routine, which is executed, for example, once every 2 msec. First, the stack set processing is performed in S1, and the RA is set in S2.
A determination is made as to whether there has been an M error. This determination is made by reading the contents of a predetermined address in the RAM 205 and checking whether the value is equal to a predetermined value. Immediately after program runaway or power on, RAM
Since the data stored in 205 is undefined, the answer to the determination is N
It becomes O and it progresses to control S3. In S3, initial data is written to the RAM. At this time, control is performed so that the identification information of the variable display device 33 is displayed at a probability determined according to the read value after the set value which is the probability data of the occurrence of the big hit is read and loaded into the RAM. Thereafter, the control proceeds to S10. Since the initial data is written in S3, when this main routine is executed thereafter, S2
Is YES, and the control proceeds to S4.

In S4, data is output from the I / O port, and a control signal is output to various circuits and devices. Next, in S5, it is determined whether or not there is a 10 count error, whether or not there is a drum error, and whether or not the game stop flag is set.
This 10 count error is a case where the specific winning ball detector (not shown) or the winning ball detector (not shown) is short-circuited or disconnected, and specifically, the specific winning ball detector or the winning ball detector. Is output for a predetermined time (for example, 2.
It is determined that there is a 10-count error if it is derived for more than 9 seconds) or if no winning ball is detected during one opening of the variable winning ball device 3. The drum error refers to a case where a rotating drum (not shown) of the variable display device 33 stops in the middle of rotation or is in a state where rotation control cannot be performed. The game stop flag is a flag that is set when the game is forcibly stopped due to, for example, an out-of-ball condition of a prize ball and a ball to be paid out as a lending ball. Details of the conditions under which the game stop flag is set will be described later.

If there is no 10 count error, no drum error, and the game stop flag is not set, the process proceeds to S6, and after the process is performed, the process proceeds to S7.
If there is a 10 count error, a drum error, or a game stop flag set, the process directly proceeds to S7, where a prize ball payout process is performed. By this prize ball payout process, a process for paying out a prize ball, that is, a prize ball is performed. Next, the process proceeds to S7A, in which a prize ball lending impossible signal output process is performed. In this prize ball lending non-permissible signal output processing, processing for outputting a prize ball lending non-permissible signal is performed. If there is a 10 count error, if there is a drum error, or if the game stop flag is set, the process related to the game operation (control during big hit,
Since no symbol variation control is performed, the game cannot be executed. In other words, the game cannot be played, but the shooting may be stopped at the same time.

Next, the flow proceeds to S7B, where error processing for dealing with various error states is performed, and then the flow proceeds to S8.
In S8, a switch input process is performed. In this switch input process, a predetermined process is executed based on detection signals from various types of detection. Next, the process proceeds to S9, where a probability setting switch input process is performed. This probability setting switch input is a process of inputting a setting state of a probability of occurrence of a big hit based on operation of a key switch (not shown). After S9, the control proceeds to S10. In S10, random 1
The updating process of the counter, the random 2 counter, and the random 4 counter is performed. This random 1 counter is
This is a primary lottery counter regarding whether or not to generate a big hit. The random 2 counter is a counter for a secondary lottery and a winning symbol determination regarding whether or not to generate a big hit. Whether or not to generate a big hit is first determined to be a result of a primary lottery based on a random 1 counter, and it is necessary to determine a result of a secondary lottery based on a random 2 counter. What is a random 4 counter?
This is a hit line selection counter for determining which of the three hit lines is to be used to establish a winning symbol combination when it is determined to generate a big hit. The winning symbol is determined based on the count value of the random 2 counter. Then, after operating the key switch, the upper limit of the count value of the random 1 counter changes. That is, in the case of the setting 1, the random 1 counter counts within the range of 0 to 41. In the case of setting 2, counting is performed within the range of 0 to 44. Setting 3
Is counted in the range of 0 to 49. On the other hand, the random 2 counter counts within the range of 0 to 49. The random 4 counter counts in the range of 0 to 2. When the picked-up count value is 0, the hit line in the middle stage is selected and determined. When the count value is 1, the hit line obliquely rising to the right is selected and determined. At times, the right-to-lower slanting hit line is selected and determined.

Next, the process proceeds to S11, where it is determined whether the number of resets is 0 or 4, or 1 or 2, 3, 5, 6, or 7. The number of resets means the number of times the CPU 203 has been reset by a reset signal input from the periodic reset circuit to the CPU 203, and each time it is reset, it is incremented from “0” by “1” and reaches “7”. In this state, “1” is further added to “0”, and the counter is counted up again from “0”. If the number of resets is 0, the process proceeds to S12, where sound data is output and a predetermined sound is emitted from the speaker 19. On the other hand, if the number of resets is 4, S13
Then, the output data table is selected and the processing of the drum lamp data set is performed, and the processing advances to S15, where the set data is output and the lighting of the drum lamp is controlled. On the other hand, if the number of resets is 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, or 7, the process proceeds to S14, where the decoration LED and lamp data are set, and the set data is output in S15, and the decoration LED and various lamps are turned on. Or flashing is controlled. Next, the process proceeds to S16, where a prize storage area storing process is performed, and the process proceeds to S17, in which the random 1 counter, random 2 counter, random 3 counter, and random 5 counter are updated. The processing in S17 is performed by the CPU 20 based on the reset signal from the periodic reset circuit.
The update process of the count value is repeatedly performed using the periodical reset wait time until the reset of No. 3 is performed. The random 3 counter is a counter for determining which symbol is to be used for stop control when it is determined not to generate a big hit, and is counted up within a range of 0 to 5831. The random 5 counter is a counter for determining at which symbol a stop control is to be performed when it is determined not to generate a big hit.
It is counted up within the range of 5831. Random 5
The counter is a counter for determining a lucky number symbol, and is counted up within a range of 0 to 99. The lucky number is a number determined in advance to provide a predetermined service to the player at the game arcade. For example, when a big hit occurs, the number displayed on the pachinko gaming machine where the big hit occurs is determined in advance. If the lucky number matches the given lucky number, a prize, such as a prize ball acquired based on the occurrence of the big hit, can be used again for a game without exchanging prizes, is given.

FIG. 8A is a flowchart showing a subroutine program for the switch input shown in S8 of FIG. At SB1, input processing of the starting port switch is performed. Next, the input processing of the V switch / count switch is performed by SB2. Next, an input process of a winning ball number switch is performed by SB3. Next, by SB4,
The input processing of the ball breaking switch is performed. Next, an input process of the full switch is performed by SB5. Next, SB6
Performs the input process of the door switch.

FIG. 8B is a flowchart showing a subroutine program for starting port switch input shown in SB1. At SD1, it is determined whether or not there is a winning start. If there is no winning, the program ends. If the pachinko ball wins the starting winning opening 34 and is detected by the starting opening switch (starting winning ball detector 46), it is SD.
Go to 2 and update the start winning counter by "1"
The process proceeds to 3, and a start winning process is performed.

FIG. 8C is a flowchart showing a subroutine program for the V switch / count switch input processing shown in SB2. At SC1, a determination is made as to whether or not there is a V prize. If there is no V prize, the process proceeds to SC5, where it is determined whether or not a count prize has been awarded.

If the pachinko ball enters the variable winning ball device 35 and the pachinko ball wins the specific winning area and is detected by the V switch (specific winning ball detector), the process proceeds to SC2, and the special winning opening ( (Variable winning ball device) A process of adding and updating the winning counter by "1" is performed. Next, the process proceeds to SC3, where it is determined whether or not a big hit is in progress. If the big hit is not in progress, the process proceeds to SC5. On the other hand, if a big hit is in progress, the process proceeds to SC4, and after performing the V winning process, the process proceeds to SC5.

If the pachinko ball enters the variable winning ball device 35 and the pachinko ball is detected by the winning ball detector, a determination of YES is made by SC5 and the process proceeds to SC6, and the special winning opening winning counter is set to "1". A process of adding and updating is performed. Then, the process proceeds to SC7, where it is determined whether or not a big hit is in progress. If the big hit is not in progress, the program is terminated as it is. finish.

FIG. 8D is a flowchart showing a subroutine program for inputting the winning ball number switch shown in SB3. In SE1, it is determined whether or not a prize ball has been detected by the prize ball number switch 256, and if not, the program ends as it is. On the other hand, if a prize ball is detected by the prize ball number switch 256, SE
Proceeding to 2, the prize ball counter is incremented by "1", and the program ends.

The start winning counter, the special winning opening winning counter, and the prize ball counter described above are realized by the operation of the RAM 205, and the value corresponding to each counter is stored in the RAM 205.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a subroutine program for the ball breaking switch input shown in SB4. Switch out of ball switch 87 by SF1
It is determined whether or not a and 87b are in the ON state (the broken ball state). In the case of a broken-out state, the process proceeds to SF2, a processing for setting a broken-out information output flag is performed, and the program ends. Here, the ball-out information output flag is a flag indicating that the payout ball is in a ball-out state. On the other hand, if it is determined in SF1 that the ball is not broken, the process proceeds to SF3.

In SF3, it is determined whether or not the ball out information output flag is currently set. Then, if it is determined that it has not been set, the program ends. On the other hand, if it is determined that the flag has been set, the process proceeds to SF4, where a process of clearing the out-of-ball information output flag is performed, and the program ends.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a subroutine program for the full tank switch input shown in SB5. SG1 determines whether the full switch 114 is in the ON state (full state).
If the tank is full, the process proceeds to SG2, in which processing for setting a full tank information output flag is performed, and the program ends. Here, the full tank information output flag is a flag indicating that the surplus ball tray (lower tray) 20 is full. On the other hand, if it is determined in SG1 that the tank is not full, the process proceeds to SG3.

At SG3, it is determined whether or not the full information output flag is currently set. Then, if it is determined that it has not been set, the program ends. On the other hand, if it is determined that the flag is set, the process proceeds to SG4, where a process of clearing the full tank information output flag is performed, and the program ends.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a subroutine program of the door switch input shown in SB6. SH1 determines whether or not the door switch 257 is in the ON state (door open state). If the door is in the open state, the process proceeds to SH2, where processing for setting an open information output flag is performed, and the program ends. Here, the opening information output flag is a flag indicating that the glass door frame 4 has been opened. On the other hand, SH1
If it is determined that the state is not open, the process proceeds to SH3.

At SH3, it is determined whether or not the release information output flag is currently set. And
If it is determined that it has not been set, the program ends. On the other hand, if it is determined that it has been set, the process proceeds to SH4, where a process of clearing the release information output flag is performed, and the program ends.

Next, the award ball payout process in S7 will be described. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the winning ball payout processing. First, in step SI (hereinafter simply referred to as SI) 1, it is determined whether or not the award ball data output flag is set. Here, the prize ball data output flag is a flag that is set when transmitting the prize ball number data to the payout control circuit board 152,
Details will be described later. If it is determined that the value is set by SI1, the process proceeds to SI5 described later. On the other hand, SI1
If it is determined that is not set by
Then, it is determined whether or not the winning ball is detected by the winning ball detector 122.

If it is determined by SI2 that a winning ball has not been detected, the prize ball payout process ends.
On the other hand, if it is determined by SI2 that a winning ball has been detected, the process proceeds to SI3, and a ball out information output flag, a full tank information output flag, a winning ball ejection error flag 1, or a winning ball ejection error flag 2 is set. A determination is made as to whether or not they have been performed. Here, the prize ball discharge error flag 1 and the prize ball discharge error flag 2 are flags that are set when a prize ball is not discharged normally, and will be described in detail later.

If it is determined by SI3 that any of the flags has been set, the award ball payout process ends. On the other hand, when it is determined by SI3 that none of the flags are set, the process proceeds to SI4, and a prize ball information output process for outputting prize ball number data is executed. The processing content of this information output processing will be described later with reference to FIG. Next, the process proceeds to SI5.

When the process proceeds to SI5, a prize ball number check process for checking the number of prize balls to be paid out is executed. Regarding the processing contents of this prize ball number check processing,
This will be described later with reference to FIG. Next, the process proceeds to SI6, in which a winning ball discharge check process for checking the discharging state of the winning ball is executed. The details of the winning ball discharge check processing will be described later with reference to FIG. After SI6,
This award ball payout process ends.

[0125] As described above, the number of
When the lower plate is full and a winning ball is discharged abnormally, it is difficult to normally pay out the prize ball, and the above-described processes of SI4 to SI6 for paying out the prize ball are not performed. Therefore, execution of the payout control in an abnormal state is prevented.

Next, the award ball information output processing of SI4 described above will be described in detail. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the processing contents of the prize ball information output processing. First, in step SJ (hereinafter simply referred to as SJ) 1, it is determined whether or not the special winning opening winning counter is 1 or more. Here, the special winning opening winning counter is a variable winning ball device 35.
This is a counter for detecting the number of winning balls that have won the large winning opening described above.

If it is determined by SJ1 that the value is 1 or more, the process proceeds to SJ4 described later. On the other hand, if it is determined by SJ1 that it is not one or more, the process proceeds to SJ2, and a process of setting the number of award ball data outputs to “6” is performed.
That is, in the case of a prize in a prize area other than the special winning opening, six prize balls are paid out for one prize ball. Next, the process proceeds to SJ3, in which a process of setting the prize ball data output = 6 flag is performed. Here, the prize ball data output = 6 flag is a prize ball data output flag set when instructing the payout of six prize balls. SJ3
Thereafter, the process proceeds to SJ7 described later.

It is determined by SJ1 that it is 1 or more,
When the process proceeds to J4, a process of subtracting and updating the value of the special winning opening winning counter by 1 is performed. Next, proceed to SJ5,
A process of setting the number of prize ball data outputs to “15” is performed. That is, in the case of a winning in the special winning opening, 15 prize balls are paid out for one winning ball. Next, the process proceeds to SJ6, in which a process of setting the award ball data output = 15 flag is performed. Here, the prize ball data output = 15 flag is a prize ball data output flag that is set when a command to pay out 15 prize balls is issued. SJ
After 6, the process proceeds to SJ7 described below.

In SJ7, a process of outputting the winning ball number data of the number set by SJ2 or SJ5 according to the type of the winning area (transmitting the winning ball number data to the payout control circuit board 152) is performed. Next, the process proceeds to SJ8, in which the data of the number of winning balls output by SJ8 is stored in RAM2.
05 is performed. Next, proceed to SJ9,
A winning ball discharging process for discharging a winning ball is executed.
Details of the winning ball discharging process will be described later with reference to FIG.

As described above, payout control of 15 prize balls is performed for a winning ball to the special winning opening, and 6 prize balls to a winning area other than the special winning opening are controlled. Payout control is performed. The number of prize balls indicated by the output prize ball number data is determined based on whether or not the payout of the prize balls is normally performed and when the payout control circuit board 152 is reset during the payout of the balls. It is stored for paying out the remaining number of prize balls.

Next, the details of the winning ball discharging process will be described. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the content of the winning ball discharging process. First, step SK (hereinafter simply referred to as SK
), It is determined whether or not a winning ball is detected by the winning ball detector 122.

If it is determined by SK1 that a winning ball has not been detected, the process proceeds to SK5, and a process of setting a winning ball discharge error flag 1 is performed. In other words, the prize ball discharge error flag 1 indicates the abnormal discharge state of the prize ball (prize ball discharge) in which the existence of the prize ball to be discharged is not detected even though there is a prize ball for which the prize ball is paid out. This flag is set when an error 1) occurs. After SK5, the winning ball discharging process ends. By setting the winning ball discharge error flag 1,
It becomes possible to recognize that an abnormal discharge state of the winning ball has occurred.

On the other hand, if it is determined by SK2 that a winning ball has been detected, the process proceeds to SK2, and processing for setting a discharge processing flag is performed. Here, the discharge processing flag is a flag indicating that the discharging of the winning balls is being executed. Next, the process proceeds to SK3, in which a process of driving the winning ball discharge solenoid 127 to the ON (excited) state is performed. Thereby, the winning balls held in the winning ball processing device 115 are released and discharged.

Then, the flow advances to SK4, for performing processing for setting a winning ball discharge timer. As a result, time counting by the winning ball discharge timer is started. Here, the winning ball discharging timer is a timer for measuring the time required to discharge the winning ball. After SK4, the winning ball discharging process ends.

Next, a description will be given of the awarded ball number check processing of SI5 described above. FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure of the winning ball number check processing. First, in step SM (hereinafter simply referred to as SM) 1, it is determined whether or not a winning ball discharge error flag is set. Here, the prize ball discharge error flag is an abnormal state of a prize ball in which a predetermined number of prize balls have not been discharged for payout within a predetermined time when the prize ball payout processing is executed ( This flag indicates that a prize ball ejection error has occurred, and is set by SM7 described later.

If SM1 determines that the prize ball ejection error flag is set, the process proceeds to SM9 described later. On the other hand, if it is determined by SM1 that the prize ball ejection error flag is not set, the process proceeds to SM1a, and it is determined whether the prize ball check flag is set. Here, the prize ball checking flag is a flag indicating that a prize ball check timer described later is set and the prize ball number is being checked.

If it is determined by SM1a that the prize-ball checking flag is set, it means that the number of prize balls is being checked, and the process proceeds to SM3 described later. On the other hand, SM1
If it is determined that the award ball checking flag is not set according to a, the process proceeds to SM2 because the number of award balls is not checked. In SM2, a process of setting a prize ball check timer is performed to check the number of prize balls. As a result, time counting by the award ball check timer is started. Here, the prize ball check timer is a timer for measuring the execution time of the prize ball payout processing operation, and is used to check whether or not the prize ball payout is normally performed.

Next, the flow advances to SM2a to perform processing for setting a prize ball checking flag. Next, the process proceeds to SM3, and the stored value of the number of winning balls stored in SJ8 is:
It is determined whether or not the value matches the counter value of the award ball number counter counted by the award ball number switch input process described above. If it is determined by SM3 that they do not match, the process proceeds to SM4 described later. On the other hand, if it is determined by SM3 that they match, the process proceeds to SM12, where a process of clearing the award ball data output flag is performed, and then the process proceeds to SM13, where a process of clearing the award ball check timer is performed. Next, the process proceeds to SM13a, and processing for clearing the award ball check flag is performed. At the same time, the counter value of the prize ball number counter is cleared and returned to the initial value. afterwards,
This prize ball number check processing ends. The lighting of the prize ball lamp 43 is controlled based on the prize ball data output flag to indicate that a prize ball is to be won.

When it is determined by SM3 that they do not match, SM
When the process proceeds to 4, it is determined whether the first predetermined time has elapsed. Here, the first predetermined time is a first prize ball payout state determination time defined based on a time required for a normal payout of the number of prize balls to be paid out. Therefore, if the number of prize balls to be paid out is not paid out within the first predetermined time, it is considered that the payout state of the prize balls is abnormal.

When SM4 determines that the first predetermined time has not elapsed, the process returns to SM3. And SM
If SM4 determines that the first predetermined time has elapsed without determining that they do not match, the process proceeds to SM5. In SM5, it is determined whether or not the value of the prize ball counter is "0". When it is determined by SM5 that the value of the prize ball counter is not “0”, the process proceeds to SM7 described later. On the other hand, if SM5 determines that the value of the prize ball counter is "0", the process proceeds to SM6, and it is determined whether the second predetermined time has elapsed. Here, when the payout operation for lending a ball is performed when the prize ball number data is transmitted, the second predetermined time is a time for paying out the prize ball after the ball lending operation is completed. In consideration of the fact that there is a case where the prize ball is paid out, the prize ball payout state determination time is based on the time obtained by adding the time normally required for a series of ball lending operations to the first predetermined time.

Therefore, even if the payout operation for ball lending is performed when the prize ball number data is transmitted, the prize balls of the expected number to be paid out are paid out within the second predetermined time. If there is no such item, it is considered that an abnormality has occurred in the payout state of the prize ball. If SM6 determines that the second predetermined time has not elapsed, the process returns to SM3.
On the other hand, if SM6 determines that the second predetermined time has elapsed, the process proceeds to SM7. In SM7, a process of setting a winning ball discharge error flag is performed. Here, the prize ball discharge error flag is a flag indicating that an abnormality has occurred in the payout state in which the prize ball cannot be paid out within a predetermined time. After SM7, the process proceeds to SM8, and processing for clearing the award ball check timer is performed. Next, proceed to SM8a,
A process of clearing the prize ball check flag is performed. After that, it proceeds to SM9. In SM9, reset switch 1
It is determined whether or not the payout control circuit board 152 has been reset based on the reset operation signal given from 56.

If the SM9 determines that the prize balls have not been reset, the prize ball number check processing ends.
On the other hand, if it is determined by SM9 that the reset has been performed, the process proceeds to SM10, and processing for clearing the winning ball discharge error flag is performed. Next, proceeding to SM11, in order to pay out the number of remaining prize balls, which are prize balls remaining during the payout due to the reset of the payout control circuit board 152,
A number-of-remaining-prize-balls setting process is performed in which the number of remaining prize balls is stored as a prize-ball number storage value. The content of the remaining prize ball number setting process will be described later with reference to FIG. After SM11, the prize ball number check processing ends.

As described above, if the predetermined number of prize balls have not been paid out even after the lapse of a predetermined time from the start of the prize ball control, the prize ball discharge error flag is set. It is possible to recognize that a condition has occurred. Further, when the control of the prize ball is performed, it is determined that the abnormal state of the prize ball has occurred by using two determination times in consideration of the case where the ball lending control is being performed. In a case where both payout and payout of a lending ball can be performed, it is possible to prevent erroneous abnormality determination from being performed. If the number of awarded ball payouts (the number of awarded ball counters) exceeds the stored number, or if an abnormality such as a case where an awarded ball is detected even though the awarded ball data output flag is not set, occurs. Alternatively, the prize ball discharge error flag may be set to notify an error and stop the game, or the error notification may be distinguished and notified.

Next, a description will be given of the contents of the above-described remaining ball number setting processing of the SM 11. FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the content of the remaining prize ball number setting process. First, in step SN (hereinafter simply referred to as SN) 1,
A process of calculating the number n of remaining prize balls by calculation is performed. Specifically, the number n of remaining prize balls is calculated by subtracting the prize ball number counter value from the above-mentioned prize ball number storage value. Next, the process proceeds to SN2, in which a process of setting the number of prize ball data outputs to “the number n of remaining prize balls” is performed. That is, in the case of a prize in a prize area other than the special winning opening, n prize balls of the number of remaining prize balls are paid out for one prize ball.

Next, the process proceeds to SN3, and award ball data output = n
A process for setting a flag is performed. Here, the prize ball data output = n flag is a prize ball data output flag that is set when an instruction is given to pay out n prize balls. In this case, n corresponds to the number of remaining prize balls. Next, the process proceeds to SN4, in which a process of outputting the winning ball number data of the remaining winning ball number n set by SN2 (transmission of the winning ball number data to the payout control circuit board 152) is performed. Next, the process proceeds to SN5, where the data of the number n of the remaining prize balls output from SN4 is RA
Processing for storing the result in M205 is performed. In line with this,
Clears the counter value of the prize ball counter and returns to the initial value.
After SN5, the remaining prize balls number setting process ends.

As described above, when the payout control circuit board 152 is reset during the payout of the prize ball, the remaining number of the payout number is calculated, and the remaining number of the prize ball is paid out. Since the processing is performed, the unpaid number in such a case can be reliably paid out.

Next, the contents of the above-described SI6 winning ball discharge check processing will be described. FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the processing contents of the winning ball discharge check processing. First, in step SQ (hereinafter simply referred to as SQ) 1,
It is determined whether or not the above-described discharge processing flag is set. If it is determined by SQ1 that the prize ball has not been set, the prize ball discharge check processing ends. On the other hand, if it is determined by SQ1 that the winning ball has been set, the winning ball is being discharged, and the process proceeds to SQ2.
It is determined whether or not the detection state of the winning ball by the winning ball detector 122 is an off state (a state in which the winning ball is not detected).

If it is determined in SQ2 that the prize ball is in the off state, it means that the prize ball during the discharging process is actually discharged, and the prize ball is no longer detected by the prize ball detector 122. Proceed to SQ5. on the other hand,
If it is determined by SQ2 that it is not in the off state (that is, if it is in the on state), the process proceeds to SQ3, and it is determined whether or not the current time value of the above-described winning ball discharge timer is within a predetermined time. In this case, the predetermined time is a prize-ball discharge abnormality determination time set based on a prize-ball discharge time normally required when the prize-ball processing device 115 operates normally. In this case, if the time during which the winning ball is not ejected (the current time measured by the winning ball ejection timer) exceeds the predetermined time, it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in the ejection state of the winning ball.

If it is determined in SQ3 that the time is within the predetermined time, the prize-ball discharging check processing ends. On the other hand, if it is determined in SQ3 that the predetermined time has elapsed, the process proceeds to SQ4, and a process of setting the winning ball discharge error flag 2 is performed. Here, the winning ball discharge error flag 2 refers to an abnormal discharge state of the winning ball (prize ball) in which the time required for discharging the winning ball is longer than a predetermined time and the winning ball is not normally discharged. Ejection error 2)
This flag is set when an error occurs. After SQ4, the process proceeds to SQ5.

At SQ5, a process for clearing the discharge process flag is performed. Next, the process proceeds to SQ6, and a process of clearing the winning ball discharge timer is performed. Thereafter, the winning ball discharge check processing ends.

As described above, if the winning ball is not ejected within the predetermined time even though the winning ball is ejected, the winning ball ejection error flag 2 is set. Thereby, it is possible to recognize that an abnormal discharge state of the winning ball has occurred. When it is determined in SQ2 that the detection state of the winning ball by the winning ball detector 122 is in the OFF state, it is checked whether or not the turning-off timing is too early by the winning ball discharge timer, and when it is too early (winning). (The ball is not temporarily stored), the winning ball discharge error flag 1 may be set.

Next, the contents of the awarded ball lending impossible information output processing of S7A will be described. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the processing contents of the prize ball lending impossible information output processing. First, in step SO (hereinafter simply referred to as SO) 1, it is determined whether or not the ball-out information output flag is set. If it is determined by SO1 that it is set, the process proceeds to SO3, in which a process of outputting a prize ball lending non-permission signal to the payout control circuit board 152 is performed, and then this prize ball lending non-permission information output process Ends. On the other hand, if it is determined by SO1 that it has not been set, the process proceeds to SO2.

In SO2, it is determined whether or not the full information output flag is set. By SO2,
If it is determined that it is set, proceed to SO3,
After the process of outputting the prize ball lending non-permission signal to the payout control circuit board 152 is performed, the prize ball lending non-permission information output process ends. On the other hand, if it is determined by SO2 that the prize ball has not been set, the prize ball lending unacceptable information output processing is terminated.

As described above, it becomes impossible to pay out prize balls and lending, as in the case where the out-of-ball information output flag is set and in the case where the full tank information output flag is set. In this case, since the prize ball lending impossible signal is output to the payout control circuit board 152, it is possible to prevent the prize ball payout operation from being performed while the ball cannot be paid out.

Next, the contents of the error processing of S7B will be described. FIG. 19 and FIG. 20 are flowcharts showing the processing contents of the error processing. First, in step SP (hereinafter, simply referred to as SP) 1, it is determined whether or not the out-of-ball information output flag is set.
If SP1 determines that it has not been set,
The process proceeds to SP5 described later.

On the other hand, if it is determined by SP1 that it has been set, the process proceeds to SP2, and a process of turning on the out-of-ball lamp 44 is performed. The lighting of the cutout lamp 44 notifies that a cutout state has occurred. Then, the process proceeds to SP3, in which the above-described processing for setting the game stop flag is performed. When the game stop flag is set,
The game is controlled to a state in which it is impossible to play the game (game stop state). When the game stop flag is set, the variable display device 33 does not perform variable display, the variable winning ball device 35 does not open, and the like (other than preventing the hit ball from being fired, The game may be controlled to a game stop state (such as invalidating a winning prize ball or a start winning prize ball) or may be controlled together. The same can be said for the setting of the game stop flag described below. Then, the process proceeds to SP4, and in the round number display 33a,
A process is performed to display an error code "E1" indicating that a broken ball has occurred. Thereafter, this error processing ends.

As described above, when the process proceeds to SP5, it is determined whether or not the full tank information output flag is set. If it is determined by SP5 that it has not been set, the process proceeds to SP9 described later. On the other hand, if it is determined by SP5 that it has been set, the process proceeds to SP6,
A process of turning on both the ball-out lamp 44 and the prize-ball lamp 43 is performed. By the lighting of the ball-out lamp 44 and the prize-ball lamp 43, it is notified that the full state has occurred. Then, the process proceeds to SP7, in which a process of setting a game stop flag is performed. By setting the game stop flag, the game is stopped. And
Proceeding to SP8, a process is performed to cause the round number display 33a to display an error code "E2" indicating that the ball has broken. Thereafter, this error processing ends.

When the process proceeds to SP9 as described above, it is determined whether or not the door open information output flag is set. If it is determined by SP9 that it has not been set, the process proceeds to SP13 described later. On the other hand, if it is determined by SP9 that it has been set, the process proceeds to SP10, and processing for turning on the game effect lamp 22 is performed. The lighting of the game effect lamp 22 informs that the door has been opened. Then, the process proceeds to SP11, where a process of setting a game stop flag is performed. By setting the game stop flag, the game is stopped. Then, the process proceeds to SP12, and the round number display 33a indicates "E" indicating that the ball has been broken.
A process for displaying an error code "3" is performed. Thereafter, this error processing ends.

As described above, when the process proceeds to SP13,
It is determined whether or not the prize ball discharge error flag is set. If it is determined by SP13 that it has not been set, the process proceeds to SP17 described later. On the other hand, SP1
If it is determined that the flag is set by SP3, SP1
The process proceeds to step 4, in which a predetermined error sound is output, and a process of alternately blinking the ball cutout lamp 44 and the prize ball lamp 43 is performed. The output of such an error sound and the blinking state of the ball-out lamp 44 and the prize-ball lamp 43 indicate that a prize-ball discharge error has occurred. And SP
The process proceeds to 15 for setting a game stop flag. By setting the game stop flag, the game is stopped. Then, the process proceeds to SP16, where the round number display 33a performs a process of displaying an error code "E4" indicating that a broken ball has occurred. Thereafter, this error processing ends.

When the process proceeds to SP17 as described above,
It is determined whether or not the winning ball discharge error flag 1 is set. If it is determined by SP17 that it has not been set, the process proceeds to SP21 described later. On the other hand, S
If it is determined by P17 that it has been set, S
Proceeding to P18, the ball cutout lamp 44 and the prize ball lamp 43
Are blinked simultaneously, and the process of blinking the game effect lamp 22 is performed. Such a broken ball lamp 4
4. The state of the prize ball lamp 43 and the game effect lamp 22 informs that the above-described prize ball discharge error 1 has occurred. Then, the process proceeds to SP19, where a process of setting a game stop flag is performed. By setting the game stop flag, the game is stopped. And
Proceeding to SP20, a process is performed to cause the round number display 33a to display an error code "E5" indicating that the winning ball discharge error 1 has occurred. afterwards,
This error processing ends.

When the process proceeds to SP21 as described above,
It is determined whether or not the winning ball discharge error flag 2 is set. If it is determined by SP21 that it has not been set, the process proceeds to SP25 described later. On the other hand, S
If it is determined by P21 that it has been set, S
Proceeding to P22, the broken ball lamp 44 and the prize ball lamp 43
Are blinked simultaneously. The state of the ball-out lamp 44 and the prize-ball lamp 43 informs that the above-mentioned prize-ball discharge error 2 has occurred. Then, the process proceeds to SP23, where a process of setting a game stop flag is performed. By setting the game stop flag, the game is stopped. Then, the process proceeds to SP24, where the round number display 33a performs a process of displaying an error code “E6” indicating that the winning ball discharge error 1 has occurred. Thereafter, this error processing ends.

When the process proceeds to SP25 as described above,
It is determined whether or not the game stop flag is set. If the SP 25 determines that it has not been set, the error processing ends. On the other hand, S
If it is determined by P25 that it has been set, S
Proceeding to P26, the process for clearing the set game stop flag is performed, and this error process ends.
That is, in SP25 and SP26, when the game stop conditions of SP1, SP5, SP9, SP13, SP17, and SP21 in the error processing are not satisfied, it is cleared that the game stop flag is set in the previous processing, and the game is stopped. I try not to be in a state.

As described above, when the out-of-ball information output flag is set, when the full tank information output flag is set, when the door opening information output flag is set, the prize ball payout error flag is set. In the case where a prize ball payout error flag 1 is set, or when a prize ball payout error flag 2 is set, there is a notice that the game is interrupted. Therefore, occurrence of such a state can be easily known. Further, in such a case, the game stop flag is set, and the game cannot be performed.
It is possible to prevent the game from being played while the game is being hindered. Further, in such a case, by displaying the error code, the contents of the abnormal state can be easily grasped, and the recovery work is facilitated.

Next, main control performed in the payout control microcomputer 220 of the payout control circuit board 152 will be described.

First, a description will be given of the prize ball discharging process executed to receive the prize ball number data and pay out prize balls.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the contents of the prize ball discharging process. First, in step SR (hereinafter simply referred to as SR) 1, it is determined whether or not prize ball number data has been received. If it is determined by SR1 that the prize ball has not been received, the prize ball discharging process ends. On the other hand, when it is determined by SR1 that the
To determine whether the current state is the ball lending operation.

If it is determined by SR2 that a ball lending operation is being performed, the prize ball discharging process ends. That is, when the prize ball number data, which is the prize ball payout command, is received during the ball lending operation, the prize ball payout control is performed after the ball lending operation is completed. On the other hand, if it is determined that the ball lending operation is not being performed by SR2, SR3
Then, a prize ball discharging operation process for paying out prize balls according to the prize ball number data is executed. Thereafter, the award ball discharging process ends. The details of the prize ball discharging operation processing will be described later with reference to FIG.

Next, the processing contents of the above-described SR3 prize ball discharging operation processing will be described. FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the processing contents of the award ball discharging operation processing.

First, in step SS (hereinafter simply referred to as SS) 1, it is determined whether or not a prize ball lending unacceptable signal has been received. When it is determined by SS1 that the prize ball has been received, the prize ball discharging operation process ends. As a result, when the prize ball lending disapproval signal is received, the payout of the ball is not performed. On the other hand, if it is determined by SS1 that no reception is made, the process proceeds to SS2, and it is determined whether the prize ball discharge error flag or the switching error flag is set. The prize ball discharge error flag is set in SS4 described later, and the switching error flag is set in SV12 described later.
Is set by If it is determined in SS2 that the prize ball discharge error flag or the switching error flag is set, the prize ball discharge operation process is terminated.
(Stopping the prize ball operation, not even if requested) On the other hand, S
If it is determined in S2 that neither the prize ball ejection error flag nor the switching error flag has been set, the process proceeds to S2.
Proceeding to S3, it is determined whether or not the award ball OK flag is set. Although the prize ball discharge error flag and the switching error flag are illustrated as the error flags, the same determination may be made even when another error flag is set. The prize ball OK flag is set in a flow path switching process of the flow path switching member 254 described later in detail. If it is determined by SS3 that the prize ball OK flag is not set, the prize ball discharge operation processing ends. On the other hand, if it is determined by SS3 that the prize ball OK flag is set, the process proceeds to SS4, and the process of setting the prize ball number indicated by the received prize ball number data as unpaid number data is performed. The unpaid number is used as a scheduled payout number for paying out prize balls in the prize ball discharging operation processing.

Next, the process proceeds to SS5, in which a process of setting a winning ball flag is performed, and then the process proceeds to SS6, in which a payout timer is set. As a result, time counting by the payout timer is started. Here, the payout timer is a timer used for managing whether or not the normal payout of the prize ball is performed. Next, the process proceeds to SS7, and a process of rotating and driving the stepping motor 189 of the ball payout device 97 is performed. Thereby, the payout of the prize ball is started. In this case, the stepping motor 189 is driven to rotate continuously for the scheduled number of payouts.

Next, the process proceeds to SS8, where it is determined whether or not the stepping motor 189 has been rotated and driven by one prize ball. The prize ball in the rotating state is determined based on the detection signal of the position detector 187 described above. S
If it is determined in S8 that one piece has not been rotationally driven yet, the process proceeds to SS9, and it is determined whether or not the count value of the payout timer has reached a predetermined value. The predetermined value in this case is an abnormality determination time set based on a time normally required for the stepping motor 189 to rotate by one dispensing amount, and is set to a time slightly longer than such a reference time. . If it is determined in SS9 that the predetermined value has not yet been reached, the process returns to SS8 described above.
On the other hand, if it is determined by SS9 that the predetermined value has been reached, it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in the operation of the stepping motor 189. I do.

If it is determined in SS8 that one piece has been driven for rotation, the process proceeds to SS11, where it is determined that the operation of the stepping motor 189 is normal, and processing for clearing the payout timer is performed. In SS12, “1” is subtracted from the unpaid number. Then, the process proceeds to SS13, and it is determined whether or not the number of unpaid items is “0”.
If it is determined in SS13 that the unpaid number is other than "0", in other words, that the unpaid number remains, the payout timer is set in SS14 and the process proceeds to SS8. On the other hand, when it is determined by SS13 that the number of unpaid items is “0”, in other words, that the number of unpaid items is not left, the process proceeds to SS15, and the rotation drive of the stepping motor 189 is stopped.
Next, the process proceeds to SS16, where a switching wait timer process is performed. The switching wait timer process will be briefly described. This timer is set to a time sufficient for the ball paid out as a prize ball to flow into the flow path 201a (prize ball passage). , Time up ("0")
This is the process of subtracting the timer until it becomes After that,
In SS17, it is determined whether or not the switching timer has become “0”, and if it is determined that the switching timer has become “0”,
The process proceeds to SS18, where a process of resetting (clearing) the prize-ball in-progress flag is performed, and the prize-ball discharging operation process ends.

When the prize ball ejection error flag is set, the error indicator 155 informs the user of the fact and the payout operation of the prize ball is stopped at that time. The prize ball discharge error flag is reset by turning on the power again or by operating the reset switch 156 (hard reset) to be reset to an initial state. However, only the error flag is cleared by operating the reset switch. (Reset). However, in the case of an abnormality during such a prize ball operation, the motor stop processing is also performed.

In the error processing, the error processing is not performed immediately, but a retry control (control for performing the normal rotation / reverse rotation of the motor and performing the payout once again) is performed. (When the normal rotation is not detected by the device 187). The interval time after the end of the prize ball is for switching the passage. However, the interval time in the case of the continuous prize ball (control when the next prize ball is generated during the prize ball payout) is also used for the interval time. However, in the case of continuous prize balls, the interval time may not be set (short), and the prize balls can be performed more quickly.

As described above, according to the prize ball discharging operation process, the number of prize balls based on the received prize ball number data can be paid out. The prize ball discharging operation process described above is a process executed when paying out prize balls, and when paying out a lending ball, a ball lending operation process shown in FIG. 23 is performed. That is, in FIG. 23, first, in step ST (hereinafter simply referred to as ST) 1, it is determined whether or not a prize ball lending non-permission signal has been received. If it is determined in ST1 that it has been received, the ball lending operation process ends. Thereby, when the award ball lending impossible signal is received, lending is not performed. On the other hand, if it is determined in ST1 that no reception is made, the process proceeds to ST2, and it is determined whether or not a winning ball discharge error flag or a switching error flag is set. If it is determined in ST2 that the prize ball discharge flag or the switching error flag has been set, the ball lending operation process ends. On the other hand, if it is determined in ST2 that neither the prize ball discharge error flag nor the switching error flag is set in ST2, the process proceeds to ST3, in which the ball lending OK flag is set. Is determined whether or not is set. The ball lending OK flag is set in a flow path switching process of the flow path switching member 254 described later in detail. If it is determined in ST3 that the ball lending OK flag is not set,
The ball lending operation process ends as it is. On the other hand, if it is determined in ST3 that the ball lending OK flag is set, the process proceeds to ST4, and processing for setting the ball lending flag is performed. Next, the process proceeds to ST5, in which control for executing the ball lending operation is performed, and then, in ST6, it is determined whether or not the ball lending operation is completed. When the end of the ball lending operation is determined in ST6, the process proceeds to ST7, and a switching waiting timer process is performed. This switching waiting timer process is similar to the switching waiting timer process of the award ball discharging operation process described above, and is a process of setting a timer and subtracting the timer until the time is up. After that, the switching timer is set to "0" in ST8.
Is determined, and if it is determined that the switching timer has become "0", the process proceeds to ST9, where a process of resetting the ball lending flag is performed, and the ball lending operation process ends.
If a position detection error occurs during the ball lending operation execution process in ST5, the prize ball discharge error flag is set as in the prize ball payout operation process, and the process ends.

In the prize ball discharging operation process described above, the flow path of the ball is changed by the flow path switching member 254 to the flow path 201a for prize ball payout.
When the payout of ball lending is performed, the flow path of the ball is switched to the flow path 201b for paying out the ball by the flow path switching member 254. It is done in.

Next, the payout control microcomputer 2
A flow path switching process performed for switching the flow path by the flow path switching member 254 in 20 will be described. FIG.
FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating the flow switching process.

First, in step SU (hereinafter simply referred to as SU) 1, it is determined whether or not a winning ball discharge error flag or a switching error flag is set. SU1
When it is determined that the prize ball discharge error flag or the switching error flag is set, the flow path switching processing is terminated as it is. On the other hand, if SU1 determines that neither the prize ball discharge error flag nor the switching error flag has been set, the process proceeds to SU2, and determines whether a ball lending signal has been received, in other words, whether a ball lending request has been issued. Is determined. If it is determined that the signal has been received by SU2, the process proceeds to SU3, and it is determined whether or not the winning ball flag is set. If SU3 determines that the in-prize-ball flag is set, the flow path switching process ends. On the other hand, if it is determined by SU3 that the prize ball in progress flag has not been set, the process proceeds to SU4,
An excitation signal is supplied to the above-mentioned switching solenoid 255 to control the flow path switching member 254 to the state shown in FIG. That is, a passage switching signal is output to the switching solenoid 255, and the ball passage is controlled by the passage switching member 254 to the ball lending state in which the ball passage has been switched to the ball lending payout passage 201b side. It should be noted that, according to the determination made in SU3, the passage is not switched if the ball is awarded. However, the fact that the award-winning flag is not set in this SU3 means that if the awarded ball has been played before that, the award is not obtained. This means that the ball motion has ended and a predetermined time has elapsed from the end of the prize ball motion by the switching wait timer process. Also, even if the next prize ball number signal is input at the stage of the prize ball operation end,
If there is a ball lending request, YES is determined in SU2 and SU3
Is determined to be NO and the flow path is switched in SU4, so that the ball lending operation has priority. (Transfer to ball lending after the prize ball for one winning ball ends) Next, the process proceeds to SU5, where it is determined whether or not the switching detector 300 is ON. In other words, in SU5, the control of SU4 determines whether or not the switching detector 300 has detected the front end of the flow path switching member 254 and turned ON. This determination is made after a sufficient time has elapsed since the excitation signal was supplied to the switching solenoid 255 and switching was performed. SU
When it is determined that the switching detector 300 is OFF according to 5, that is, when it is determined that the flow path switching is not in the ball lending state, the process proceeds to SU6, and the switching error flag of the flow path switching member 254 is set. Then, the flow path switching processing ends. On the other hand, when the switching detector 300 is determined to be ON by SU5, that is, when it is determined that the flow path switching is in the ball lending state, the process proceeds to SU7, and the prize ball OK flag is reset (cleared). Is made and proceed to SU8.
The process of setting the ball lending OK flag is performed, and the flow path switching process ends.

If it is determined that no reception is made by the above SU2, the process proceeds to SU9, and it is determined whether or not the ball lending flag set in the ball lending operation processing of FIG. 23 is set. . If the SU9 determines that the ball lending flag has been set, the flow path switching process ends. On the other hand, if the SU9 determines that the ball lending flag is not set, the process proceeds to SU10, in which the switching detector 300 detects the leading end of the flow path switching member 254 and determines whether or not it is ON. You. Note that SU9
The fact that the ball lending flag is not set means that if a ball is lent before then, the ball lending operation is completed, and furthermore, a predetermined time has elapsed from the ball lending operation end by the switching waiting timer process. That is. If the SU 10 determines that the switching detector 300 is OFF, the process proceeds to SU 13 described later. On the other hand, if the SU 10 determines that the switching detector 300 is ON,
In step 11, the excitation signal supplied to the switching solenoid 255 is stopped, and the flow path switching member 254 is controlled to the state as shown in FIG. That is, a passage switching signal is output to the switching solenoid 255 to control the ball path to the prize ball state in which the ball path is switched to the prize ball payout path 201a by the flow path switching member 254. next,
Proceeding to SU12, it is determined whether or not the switching detector 300 is OFF. In other words, in SU12, SU11
Is performed, it is determined whether or not the switching detector 300 has been turned off without detecting the tip of the flow path switching member 254. This determination is made after a sufficient time has elapsed since the excitation signal was supplied to the switching solenoid 255 and switching was performed. If it is determined by the SU 12 that the switching detector 300 is ON, that is, if it is determined that the flow path switching is not in the winning ball state, the process proceeds to SU6, where the switching error flag of the flow path switching member 254 is set. Thus, the flow path switching processing ends. On the other hand, when the SU 12 determines that the switching detector 300 is OFF, that is, when it is determined that the channel switching is in the winning ball state, the SU 13
Then, the process proceeds to SU14 where the process of resetting the ball lending OK flag is performed, the process of setting the prize ball OK flag is performed, and the channel switching process ends.

When the switching error flag is set, the error is indicated by the display of the error display 155, and the payout operation of the prize ball is stopped at that time (before performing the prize ball payout operation). (The next prize ball is not paid out). The switching error flag is reset by turning on the power again or by operating the reset switch 156 (hard reset) to be in an initial state. However, only the error flag is cleared (reset) by operating the reset switch. )
May be performed. However, in the case of an abnormality during such a prize ball operation, the motor stop processing is also performed.

In FIG. 24, the switching error flag is collectively set in SU6 in both cases when the determination is NO in SU5 and when the determination is NO in SU12. However, the switching error flag may be divided according to the cause of the abnormality. By doing so, the content of the error notification can be made different in accordance with the error flag, and it is possible to understand in detail what kind of abnormality is. In addition, the notification of the prize ball ejection error and the switching error is indicated by a different code such as "1" on the error display when a prize ball ejection error occurs and "2" on a switching error. Although it is desirable to know the cause, the notification mode may be the same. In addition, by the switching waiting timer process described above, it is possible to ensure a time for the paid-out ball to flow into the prize ball (ball lending) passage without fail. In other words, the prize ball (ball lending) flag is not reset and the flow path switching operation is not performed until this time elapses.

As described above, the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment has a ball payout device 97 capable of paying out prize balls and paying out lending balls, and controlling the ball payout device 97 to provide prize balls and lending. A payout control circuit board 152 for controlling the payout of balls,
A flow path 201a that guides the ball paid out from the ball payout device 97 as a prize ball and a flow path 201b that guides the ball as a lending ball
And a prize ball number switch 256 provided in the flow path 201a and capable of detecting the payout of a prize ball by the ball payout device 97, and a prize ball for detecting a prize ball winning a prize area. Detector 122 and the winning ball detector 1
22, a signal for paying out a prize ball is directly transmitted to the payout control circuit board 152,
A game control board 199 that determines whether or not the payout of the prize ball is normally performed by detecting the prize ball by the prize ball number switch 256 and controls the game state.
A flow path switching member 254 provided at a branch point between the flow path 201a and the flow path 201b and switching a ball discharging path between the flow path 201a and the flow path 201b;
And a switching detector 300 for detecting the switching operation of the flow path switching member 254.
And characterized in that: With such a configuration, the switching position of the flow path switching member 254 can be reliably detected, and when a malfunction occurs in the flow path switching member 254, this can be immediately detected. The operation failure of the switching member 254 can be immediately eliminated.

Further, according to the configuration of this embodiment, the switching operation of the flow path switching member 254 is not normally performed by the switching detector 300 despite the output of the path switching signal to the switching solenoid 255. If detected, the error indicator 155 notifies the abnormality and the ball dispensing device 9
The ball is not paid out from 7.
For this reason, since the switching abnormality of the flow path switching member 254 is notified, it is easy to deal with repair.
In the state of the switching abnormality, it is possible to prevent payout of balls.

Further, as another effect obtained by the present embodiment, the game control microcomputer 20 according to the detection output of the prize ball given directly from the prize ball detector 122 to the game control microcomputer 202.
2, the payout control microcomputer 220 is provided with the winning ball number data, and based on the winning ball number data,
Under the control of the game control microcomputer 202, a prize ball is paid out. That is, such a prize ball is paid out based on one-way communication of command information from the game control microcomputer 202 to the payout control microcomputer 220. By controlling the payout of the prize balls based on such one-way communication, illegal modification (illegal control operation) of the game control microcomputer 202 due to input of illegal data from the payout control circuit board 152 to the game control board 199 is prevented as much as possible. can do.
Furthermore, it is determined whether or not a predetermined number of prize balls are normally paid out based on the detection output of the prize balls provided to the game control microcomputer 202 directly from the prize ball number switch 256. In the game control microcomputer 202, the payout state of the prize ball can be checked.

The above-described embodiment (first embodiment)
The ball payout device 9 including the payout motor 189 and the like.
7, the example in which the channel switching member 254, the switching solenoid 255, the channel 201a, and the channel 201b are not unitized has been described. Is also good. By doing so, assembly work and maintenance work become easy.

In the first embodiment, the balls that have won the various winning ports are collectively detected by the winning ball detector 122, and the balls that have won the large winning port (variable winning ball device 35) are specially stored. By doing so, six prize balls are won for winning balls other than the special winning opening, and 15 prize balls are given for winning balls of the special winning opening.
Each prize ball is paid out, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration. For example, a winning ball detector may be provided for each of various winning ports, and the number of prize balls may be set for each detector. Further, a ball guide path of a winning opening may be grouped for each number of prize balls, and a prize ball detector having a different prize ball setting may be provided for each downstream portion of each ball guide path. In the embodiment, the prize ball type is 6
Although there are two systems of 15 and 15 systems, for example, 3 systems of 5, 10 and 13 may be used, and the number of systems and the number of award balls are not particularly limited. Also, the signal of the prize ball number switch may be input to the payout control, or the signal of the switching detector may be input to the game control.

Second Embodiment Next, a second embodiment will be described. In the second embodiment, a modified example of the first embodiment will be described. In the above-described first embodiment, an example was shown in which the switching detector 300 was connected to the switch circuit 218 of the payout control circuit board 152. In the second embodiment, however, the switching detector 300 was connected to the game control board 199. An example of connection to the switch circuit 229 will be described. In the following second embodiment,
Only differences from the first embodiment will be described.

FIG. 25 is a block diagram showing a control circuit according to the second embodiment. Referring to FIG. 25, a switching detector 300 is connected to a switch circuit 229 forming a game control board 199, and a switching detector 300 is connected to a switch circuit 218 forming a payout control circuit board 152. Absent. Thereby, the above-described flow path switching member 2
The switching detector 300 for detecting the switching position of 54 outputs the detection signal to the game control board 199, and the game control board 199 performs the switching detector input processing shown in FIG. 26 accordingly. ing.

Referring to FIG. 26, first, in step SV (hereinafter simply referred to as SV) 1, it is determined whether or not the switching timer flag is set. If it is determined by SV1 that the switching timer flag has not been set, the process proceeds to SV2, and it is determined whether or not the switching detector 300 is ON. Switching detector 300 is turned off by SV2.
F, that is, the flow path switching member 254
When the ball flow is switched to the prize ball discharging flow channel 201a side, the process proceeds to SV3 and the prize ball is OK.
The flag is set, and the switching detector input processing ends. On the other hand, when the switching detector 300 is determined to be ON by the SV2, that is, in a ball lending state in which the ball flow path is switched to the ball lending payout flow path 201b by the flow path switching member 254. In SV, the award ball OK flag is reset (cleared) by SV4, the switching timer is set by SV5 (this timer is set longer than the time required for the ball lending operation), and then switching is performed by SV6. The processing for setting the timer is performed, and the switching detector input processing is terminated.

If it is determined in step SV1 that the switching timer flag has been set, the flow advances to step SV7 to determine whether or not the switching detector 300 is OFF. If SV7 determines that the switching detector 300 is OFF, the process proceeds to SV8, where the switching timer is cleared, the switching timer flag is reset by SV9, and the switching detector input processing ends. On the other hand, SV7
When it is determined that the switching detector 300 is ON, that is, when it is determined that the flow path switching member 254 is in the ball lending state, the process proceeds to SV10, and the switching timer determines “1”.
Then, it is determined whether or not the switching timer is “0” in SV11. When it is determined by the SV 11 that the switching timer is other than “0”, in other words, that the switching timer has not timed out, the switching detector input processing is terminated as it is. On the other hand, if the SV12 determines that the switching timer is "0", in other words, that the switching timer has timed out, the process proceeds to SV12, sets a switching error flag, and ends the switching detector input processing. In other words, the flow path switching member 254 does not return from the ball lending state to the prize ball state even though a sufficient time has elapsed to end the ball lending operation. , Error processing is performed.

FIG. 27 shows the process of inputting the number of prize balls switch of the game control board 199 in the second embodiment. That is, in FIG.
A determination is made as to whether or not a prize ball has been detected by the award ball number switch 256 (hereinafter simply referred to as SW), and if not, the program ends. On the other hand, if a prize ball is detected by the prize ball number switch 256, the process proceeds to SW2, and it is determined whether or not the prize ball OK flag set by the switching detector input processing of FIG. 26 is set. If it is determined by SW2 that the prize ball OK flag is not set, that is, if the prize ball number switch 256 detects a prize ball even though the flow path switching member 254 is not in the prize ball state, the switch to SW3 is performed. Then, the process for setting the switching error flag is performed, and the program ends.

When the switching error flag is set, as in the first embodiment, error notification and game stop are performed, and control is performed so as not to perform the subsequent prize ball payout operation. (Stop of award ball operation) Further, such error processing by the game control board 199 is performed in the processing of FIG. 19 and FIG. 12 shown in the first embodiment. Specifically, like SP13 to SP16 in FIG.
If the switching error flag is set, an error sound, a lamp notification, a game stop flag is set, and an error is displayed (by the round number display 33a).
It is also determined at I3 whether or not the switching error flag has been set. If it has been set, no award ball will be output because no award ball information will be output at SI4. It should be noted that the stop of the award ball operation may be performed immediately by transmitting a stop signal to the payout control board even during the award ball operation.

On the other hand, if it is determined by SW2 that the prize ball OK flag is set, that is,
If it is determined that 54 is in the prize ball state, the process proceeds to SW4, and whether or not the number n of remaining prize balls takes a value larger than "0", in other words, whether or not there is a memory of unpaid premium balls. Is determined. Number of remaining prize balls n is “0” by SW4
If it is determined that the prize ball has a larger value, that is, if it is determined that there is an unpaid prize ball, the process proceeds to SW5, the prize ball counter is incremented by "1", and the process proceeds to SW6. The program ends after subtracting "1" from the ball number counter. On the other hand, if it is determined by SW4 that the number n of remaining prize balls is "0", that is, if it is determined that there is no unpaid prize ball, the process proceeds to SW3 to perform a process of setting a switching error flag. To end the program.

The number of remaining prize balls (counter) is a counter that is added in SJ8 and subtracted in SW6. Further, the stored value for determining whether or not there is such unpaid may be a value that is added to all the unpaid ones. In the present embodiment, the next prize ball number signal is not transmitted until one prize ball is over. Be in control. Alternatively, “1” may be counted for one prize ball (for one winning), and “1” may be subtracted when one prize ball is counted. The switching error flag is
The switching may be divided for each cause, and the switching notification may be changed for each cause. For example, the round number display 33a
In response to the switching error flag of SV12, the switching error flag of SW3 by SW2, and the switching error flag of SW3 by SW4, the display is changed to "E7", "E8", "E9", and the like.

The game control board 199 according to the second embodiment performs a flow path switching signal process shown in FIG. That is, in FIG. 28, in step SX (hereinafter simply referred to as SX) 1, the switching detector 300
It is determined whether it is N or not, in other words, whether the flow path switching member 254 is in the ball lending state or the prize ball state. If it is determined in SX1 that the switching detector 300 is ON and the flow path switching member 254 is in the ball lending state,
Proceeding to X2, by outputting a ball lending switching signal from the game control board 199 to the payout control circuit board 152, the ball payout device 9
It informs that the ball payout passage 7 is in the ball lending state. on the other hand,
If it is determined in SX1 that the switching detector 300 is OFF and the flow path switching member 254 is in the winning ball state, SX3
To the payout control circuit board 15 from the game control board 199.
By outputting the prize ball switching signal to 2, the ball payout passage of the ball payout device 97 is informed that the ball is in the prize ball state. The error processing for setting the winning ball discharge error flag or the switching error flag set in the second embodiment and the first embodiment is not limited to the processing described in the embodiment. In other words, any combination of the processing of notifying the error content, the processing of stopping the payout operation of the ball by stopping the transmission of the prize ball command data, or the processing of inactivating the game such as prohibiting the ball hitting is combined. There may be.

As described above, the game control board 199 of the second embodiment can determine the switching state of the flow path switching member 254 by inputting the detection signal of the switching detector 300,
It is possible to determine whether or not ball lending is performed on the game control board 199. This makes it possible to determine whether or not the waiting for the prize ball is due to lending of a ball, so that the processing in FIG. 15 can be simplified. Also, the game control board 199 determines that the prize ball is detected by the prize ball number switch 256 in spite of determining that the flow path switching member 254 is in the ball lending state based on the detection signal from the switching detector 300, When it is determined from the detection signal from the switching detector 300 that the ball lending state of the flow path switching member has continued for a predetermined period, and the number of prize balls regardless of the stored number of prize balls paid out (the number n of remaining prize balls). When a prize ball is detected by the switch 256, an abnormality notification is performed for each, and the gaming machine 1 is set in a state in which it is impossible to play the game. It is possible to prevent the occurrence of a new abnormality due to the playing of the game as it is occurring.

Also, the game control board 199 of the second embodiment
When the switching state of the flow path switching member 254 is determined based on a detection signal from the switching detector 300, a signal (ball lending switching signal or prize ball switching signal) indicating this can be transmitted to the ball payout control circuit board 152. Therefore, even if the detection signal from the switching detector 300 is input only to the game control board 199, the ball payout control circuit board 152 may
The switching state of 54 can be recognized. Therefore, the signal from the game control board 199 causes the ball payout control circuit board 152 itself to turn the switching detector 300 on and off.
Since the F determination can be made, even in the configuration of the second embodiment,
The flow path switching process of FIG. 24 shown in the first embodiment (steps SU5 and SU1 for determining ON / OFF of the switching detector 300)
0) can be performed. Note that the game control board 199 may not output a signal indicating the switching state to the ball payout control circuit board 152. However, since the ball payout control circuit board 152 cannot determine whether or not the switching has been performed, the ball discharging control circuit board 152 is only controlled to be switched.

Third Embodiment Next, a third embodiment will be described. In the third embodiment, a modified example of the first embodiment will be described. In the first embodiment described above, the flow path 20 for paying out prize balls is used.
1a and the flow path 20 of the flow path 201b for paying out balls.
Although an example is shown in which a detector (prize ball number switch 256) for detecting a ball (prize ball) is provided only in 1a, in the third embodiment, a ball (ball lending) is also detected in the flow path 201b. An example in which a detector is provided will be described. In the following second embodiment, only differences from the first embodiment will be described.

FIG. 29 is an overall rear view showing a partial internal structure of the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the third embodiment. FIG.
With reference to FIG. 7, the prize ball payout channel 201a is provided with the above-described prize ball detection switch 256 for prize ball detection, and the lending ball payout channel 201b is provided with the above-described flow channel 2a.
A ball lending number switch 250 for detecting the ball lending led to 01b is provided.

[0200] The ball-number-to-play switch 250 is connected to the payout control circuit board 152 described above. In that case,
The detection output of the number-of-lents switch 250 is input to the payout control microcomputer 220 via the switch circuit 218 described above. Then, in the payout control microcomputer 220, various controls for managing the number of lending balls, such as monitoring the number of lending balls, are performed based on the detection output of the number-of-lending balls switch 250. In other words, even if it is paid out by position detection by controlling the payout by detecting the paid out ball, even if it is not actually paid out, an error occurs or even if such a defect occurs by retrying, It is possible to cope with it and realize accurate payment. In the case of a prize ball, the same control can be performed if the detection signal of the prize ball number switch can be input to the payout control circuit board 152. In addition, the ball lending number switch 25
The detection output of 0 may also be input to the game control microcomputer 202 of the game control board 199 described above.

As described above, in the third embodiment,
By separately providing the ball lending number switch 250, the ball lending number can be clearly grasped. Further, in this embodiment, the payout operation is controlled by the position detector, but the control of the payout operation (payout drive source) is controlled by the prize ball number switch and the ball number switch. (Control without providing a position detector). In the third embodiment, the switching detector 3
00 is the payout control circuit board 152 as in the first embodiment.
May be connected to the switch circuit 218 of the game control board 199 as in the second embodiment. Furthermore, both may be connected. Further, in the third embodiment, a switch is also attached to the ball lending passage, so that if the ball lending number switch is turned on in spite of the prize ball control, a switching error is recognized. A switching failure can be detected without the need.

Fourth Embodiment Next, a fourth embodiment will be described. In the fourth embodiment, a modified example of the first embodiment will be described. In the above-described first embodiment, an example is described in which the ball discharge by the ball discharging device 97 is counted by detecting the rotation drive of the stepping motor 189 that rotates the screw 188. However, in the fourth embodiment, , A ball payout detector 240a that detects a discharged ball from the ball payout device 97,
An example in which 240b is provided will be described.

FIG. 30 is a sectional view showing a ball payout device 97 according to the fourth embodiment. Referring to FIG. 30, the case 98 of the ball dispensing device 97 is formed so as to be divided into left and right portions, and a ball supply path 181 is provided in each of the divided cases 98a and 98b.
a, 181b are formed. Ball supply path 181a, 1
Each of 81b has a curved surface inside and is curved rearward. Ball feed horizontal paths 184a, 184b are formed below each of the curved surface ends,
Further, a ball discharge path is formed at the end of each of the ball feed horizontal paths 184a and 184b. These ball discharge paths are provided with ball discharge detectors 240a and 240b for detecting the balls discharged to the respective ball discharge paths for discharging the balls.

As described above, in the fourth embodiment,
On the discharge side of the ball in the ball payout device 97, ball payout detectors 240a and 240b for individually detecting award balls (prize balls) and lending balls to be paid out from the ball payout device 97 are provided, and the paid out balls are paid out. By detecting the signals with the detectors 240a and 240b and inputting the detection signals to the payout control circuit board 152, it is possible to accurately pay out prize balls and lending coins corresponding to winning.

The structure of the fourth embodiment may be combined with any of the first to third embodiments. When combined with the first and second embodiments, a prize ball and ball lending are paid out. Since the control is performed by the detector, for example, when the prize ball is counted and the prize ball number switch is not counted, it can be determined that the prize ball number switch is broken, moved, or that the ball is between the ball payout device and the prize ball number switch. , Can be distinguished from the error of the ball dispensing device.

The above embodiments do not limit the present invention, and various changes can be made within the scope of the present invention. For example, the prize-ball detecting means, the prize-ball detecting means, and the switching detecting means of the present invention are not particularly limited as long as they can detect according to each function, such as a photo switch, a micro switch, and a proximity switch. However, it is preferable that each of these detecting means is detachable and can be easily replaced. The configuration of the ball payout means is not particularly limited, and may include a method of paying out a ball using a solenoid, a method of paying out a ball in an article, and a method of paying out a ball.
Any configuration may be used, such as a configuration in which a plurality of balls are paid out instead of being paid out individually. Further, the abnormality notification is not particularly limited. For example, a command may be transmitted from the ball payout control board (game control board) to, for example, an illumination control board to an abnormality notification, and the illumination control board may drive a lamp or an LED. A configuration via control means may be adopted. The alarm device that notifies the abnormality is 1
One or more may be used, and a sound (speaker) may be used in addition to the light notification of a lamp or the like. Further, when there are a plurality of causes of the abnormality, the information may be displayed in a different pattern so that the cause can be recognized by one notification device (code is displayed in 7 segments), or the notification is performed by different notification devices depending on the cause of the abnormality. (There are a plurality of notification devices).

Also, the game control board is not limited to the game control means, and the ball payout control board is not limited to the ball payout control means.
For example, the game control means may be a microcomputer for game control, and the ball payout control means may be a microcomputer for payout control, may be formed on one substrate or a plurality of substrates, or may be a one-chip microcomputer. It may be a single chip like a computer. Also, the ball payout passage of the present invention is not limited to the configuration described in the embodiment. For example, a passage leading directly from the ball payout means may be set as a prize ball passage, and a branch lending passage may be provided by branching in any one of the upstream and downstream passages of the prize ball passage. Further, when waiting for the payout of a ball, or when the ball is not a prize ball, the ball payout passage may be switched so as to guide the ball to the ball lender. Further, the passage switching drive means is not limited to the solenoid, and may be, for example, a motor or the like, as long as it is electrically driven.

Further, the following can be grasped from the embodiments described above. (1) A ball game machine in which a prize ball is paid out in accordance with a prize in a prize area provided in a game area, wherein a ball payout means capable of paying out the prize ball and paying out a lending ball; Ball dispensing control means for controlling the dispensing of prize balls and lending balls by controlling the ball dispensing means; A ball-discharging passage branched into: a ball-discharging passage; and a passage-switching unit for switching the ball-discharging passage to one of a premium ball passage and a ball-lending passage; a passage-switching driving unit for electrically driving the passage-switching unit; A prize ball detecting means provided in the prize ball passage and capable of detecting the payout of the prize ball by the ball payout means; a prize ball detecting means for detecting a prize ball winning the prize area; Directly receives the ball detection signal and controls the ball payout A game control for transmitting a signal for paying out a prize ball to the stage, determining whether or not the prize ball is normally paid out by detecting the prize ball by the prize ball detecting means, and controlling a game state. Means, the path switching means is held in a state where the ball payout path is switched to the prize ball path, except when paying out a lending ball, while the ball payout control means, When paying out the ball lending, a path switching signal is output to operate the path switching drive means, and control is performed to switch the ball payout path to the ball lending path. With this configuration, the state in which the prize ball is paid out more frequently than the payout of the lending ball is set to a normal standby state without a payout request, and the passage switching drive unit is operated only at the time of ball lending to activate the passage switching unit. Because it can be in a ball rental state,
The switching operation of the passage switching means and the driving of the passage switching drive means can be reduced as much as possible. For this reason, the durability of the passage switching means and the passage switching drive means can be improved. (2) The game control means is capable of storing the number of prize balls paid out based on the winning, and subtracting the stored number of prize ball payouts as the prize ball is detected by the prize ball detection means. When a prize ball is detected by the prize ball detection means despite the absence of the prize ball, a signal for paying out the prize ball is not transmitted to the ball payout control means. With such a configuration, a prize due to an abnormal flow path switching such that the passage cannot be switched from the state of paying out the prize ball to the state of paying out the lending ball despite lending the ball. It is possible to prevent payout in a state where the number of balls is incorrectly counted. (3) The ball payout control means performs control to switch the ball payout path to the premium ball path after a predetermined period has elapsed since the operation of paying out balls by the ball payout means has ended. . With this configuration, it is possible to reliably pay out balls. (4) It is further provided with a passage switching detecting means for detecting a switching operation of the passage switching means, wherein the ball payout control means is in a state where the ball payout passage is switched to the ball lending passage by the passage switching detecting means. Is detected and then the payout operation of the lending ball by the ball payout means is performed. With this configuration, the payout as a lending ball can be performed more reliably, and if an abnormality occurs in the passage switching by the passage switching means, it can be detected immediately. (5) The ball payout control means causes the ball payout means to perform a prize ball payout operation after detecting that the ball payout passage has been switched to the prize ball passage by the passage switching detection means. It is characterized by the following. With this configuration, the payout as a prize ball can be performed more reliably, and if an abnormality occurs in the flow path switching by the path switching means, it can be immediately detected.

Further, by the flow path switching processing shown in FIG.
The passage switching means keeps the ball payout passage switched to the prize ball passage at times other than when paying out ball lending, while the ball payout control means pays out ball lending. At times, the configuration of the present invention is exemplified in which a passage switching signal is output to operate the passage switching drive unit, and control is performed to switch the ball payout passage to the ball lending passage.

Also, the number of prize balls to be paid out based on the prize can be stored by the flow from SW4 to SW3 of the prize ball number switch input shown in FIG. When the prize ball is detected by the prize ball detecting means despite the lack of the stored number of prize balls, a signal for paying out the prize ball is transmitted to the ball payout control means. An example of the configuration of the game control means for preventing the game control is described.

Further, ST3 of the ball lending operation process shown in FIG.
After the predetermined period has passed since the operation of paying out the ball by the ball payout means has been completed, the ball payout passage is switched to the prize ball passage by the flow from ST9 to ST9 and the SU9 of the flow path switching process shown in FIG. The configuration of the ball payout control means for performing control is illustrated.

In addition, SU5 of the flow path switching processing shown in FIG.
23 to the SU8 and the flow from ST3 to ST5 of the ball lending operation process shown in FIG. 23, after the passage switching detecting means detects that the ball payout passage is switched to the ball lending passage. The configuration of the ball payout control means for causing the ball payout means to perform a payout operation of a lending ball is illustrated.

Further, SU1 of the flow path switching process shown in FIG.
From the flow from SU2 to SU14 and the flow from SS3 to SS8 in the prize ball discharging operation processing shown in FIG. An example of the configuration of the ball payout control unit that causes the ball payout unit to perform a prize ball payout operation afterwards.

[0214]

As is apparent from the above description, according to the first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a ball game machine in which a prize ball is paid out according to a prize in a prize area provided in a game area. A payout means capable of paying out the prize ball and paying out the lending ball, a ball payout control means for controlling the payout of the prize ball and the lending ball by controlling the ball payout means, and a payout from the ball payout means. A ball payout passage branched into a prize ball passage for guiding the selected ball as a prize ball and a ball leasing passage for guiding as a lending ball, and the payout of the prize ball by the ball payout means provided in the prize ball passage are detected. Possible prize ball detection means, and a prize ball detection means for detecting a prize ball that has won the prize area,
The prize ball is directly received from the prize ball detection means, a signal for paying out a prize ball is transmitted to the ball payout control means, and the prize ball is normally paid out by the detection of the prize ball by the prize ball detection means. Game control means for determining whether or not the game is being performed, and controlling the game state; path switching means for switching the ball payout path to either a prize ball path or a lending ball path; and the path switching means. It is characterized by comprising a passage switching drive unit that is electrically driven, and a passage switching detection unit that detects a switching operation of the passage switching unit. With this configuration, the switching position of the passage switching unit can be reliably detected, and when a malfunction occurs in the passage switching unit, it can be immediately detected. Can be eliminated immediately.

[0215] Further, in claim 2 of the present invention, the apparatus further comprises abnormality notification means capable of performing abnormality notification,
The ball dispensing control means controls a switching operation of the passage switching means by outputting a passage switching signal to the passage switching driving means, and outputs the passage switching signal to the passage switching driving means. When the switching detecting means does not detect the switching operation, the abnormality notifying means controls the abnormality notification. With such a configuration, the switching abnormality of the passage switching means is notified, so that it is easy to cope with repair.

[0216] In claim 3 of the present invention, the ball payout control means does not detect the switching operation by the passage change-over detecting means in spite of outputting the passage change-over signal to the passage change-over driving means. In this case, the ball payout operation by the ball payout means is stopped. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the payout of the ball in the state of the switching abnormality of the passage switching means.

[0217] Further, in claim 4 of the present invention, the game control means can determine the switching state of the passage switching means based on a detection signal of the passage switching detection means. With this configuration, the game control unit can determine whether the payout by the ball payout unit is a payout of a premium ball or a payout of a lending ball.

Further, in claim 5 of the present invention, there is further provided abnormality notification means capable of performing abnormality notification,
The prize ball is detected by the prize ball detection means, although the game control means determines that the ball payout path has been switched to the ball lending path based on a detection signal from the passage switching detection means. In this case, control is performed to cause the abnormality notification means to perform abnormality notification.
With such a configuration, it is possible to notify a more detailed abnormality relating to the passage switching, such as an abnormality of the switches and a breakage of the passage switching means.

[0219] Further, in claim 6 of the present invention, the game control means may determine that the ball payout passage has been switched to the ball lending passage based on a detection signal from the passage switching detection means. Regardless, when a prize ball is detected by the prize ball detecting means, the game in the ball game machine is deactivated and controlled. With such a configuration, the game cannot be continued when the path switching is abnormal, and further problems due to the continuation of the game can be prevented.

[0220] Further, in claim 7 of the present invention, there is further provided abnormality notification means capable of performing abnormality notification,
The game control means, when it is determined that the state in which the ball payout passage is switched to the ball lending passage has continued for a predetermined period by a detection signal from the passage switching detection means,
It is characterized in that control for causing an abnormality notification by the abnormality notification means is performed. With this configuration, it is possible to report an abnormality in which the passage is not switched even though the ball lending operation has been completed.

In the eighth aspect of the present invention, the game control means continues the state in which the ball payout passage is switched to the ball lending passage by a detection signal from the passage switching detection means for a predetermined period. When the determination is made, the game in the ball game machine is controlled to be deactivated. With such a configuration, the game cannot be continued when the path switching is abnormal, and further problems due to the continuation of the game can be prevented.

[0222] Further, in claim 9 of the present invention, there is further provided abnormality notification means capable of performing abnormality notification,
The game control means can store the number of prize balls paid out based on the winning, and subtracts the stored number of prize ball payouts with the detection of prize balls by the prize ball detection means,
When a prize ball is detected by the prize ball detection means despite the lack of the stored number, control for causing the abnormality notification means to notify an abnormality is performed. With this configuration, it is possible to provide an abnormality notification that an abnormal payout of a prize ball due to fraudulent activity or the like.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, the game control means can store the number of prize balls to be paid out based on a prize, and the prize ball is detected by the prize ball detection by the prize ball detection means. The number of stored payouts is subtracted, and when a prize ball is detected by the prize ball detection means despite the absence of the number of stored payouts, the game in the ball game machine is controlled to be deactivated. With such a configuration, the game cannot be continued when the path switching is abnormal, and further problems due to the continuation of the game can be prevented.

In the eleventh aspect of the present invention, the game control means can transmit a signal indicating a switching state of the passage switching means based on a detection signal from the passage switching detection means to the ball payout control means. It is characterized by being.
With this configuration, the ball payout control unit can recognize the switching state of the passage switching unit even when the detection signal from the passage switching detection unit is input only to the game control unit.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is an overall front view showing a pachinko gaming machine as an example of a ball game machine.

FIG. 2 is an overall rear view showing a partial internal structure of the pachinko gaming machine.

FIG. 3 is a sectional view showing a configuration of a ball payout device.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a configuration of a switching section of a ball discharging flow path.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a control circuit used in the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a control circuit used in the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the contents of processing executed by the game control microcomputer.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the contents of processing executed by the game control microcomputer.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the contents of processing executed by the game control microcomputer.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the contents of processing executed by the game control microcomputer.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the contents of processing executed by the game control microcomputer.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the contents of processing executed by the game control microcomputer.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the contents of processing executed by the game control microcomputer.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the contents of processing executed by the game control microcomputer.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the contents of processing executed by the game control microcomputer.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the contents of processing executed by the game control microcomputer.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the contents of processing executed by the game control microcomputer.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the contents of processing executed by the game control microcomputer.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the contents of processing executed by the game control microcomputer.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the contents of processing executed by the game control microcomputer.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the contents of processing executed in the payout control microcomputer.

FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the contents of processing executed in the payout control microcomputer.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the contents of processing executed in the payout control microcomputer.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing the contents of processing executed in the payout control microcomputer.

FIG. 25 is a block diagram showing a control circuit used in the second embodiment.

FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing the contents of processing executed by the game control microcomputer of the second embodiment.

FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing the contents of processing executed by the game control microcomputer of the second embodiment.

FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing the contents of processing executed by the game control microcomputer of the second embodiment.

FIG. 29 is an overall rear view showing a partial internal structure of a pachinko gaming machine according to a third embodiment.

FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a configuration of a ball payout device according to a fourth embodiment.

[Explanation of symbols]

 1 Pachinko gaming machine 32 Gaming area 33a Round number display (abnormality notification means) 34 Starting winning port 35 Variable winning ball device 36 Opening and closing plate 42a, 42b, 48, 49a, 49b Winning port 43 Prize ball lamp 44 Ball cutout lamp 97 ball Payout device (ball payout means) 122 Winning ball detector (winning ball detection means) 152 Payout control circuit board (ball payout control means) 155 Error indicator (abnormality notification means) 199 Game control board 201a Flow path (prize ball passage) 201b Flow path (ball passage) 202 Game control microcomputer 203 CPU 205 RAM 220 Payout control microcomputer 254 Flow path switching member (path switching means) 255 Switching solenoid (path switching driving means) 256 Prize ball number switch (prize) Ball detection means) 300 switching detector (passage switching detection means)

Claims (11)

[Claims] 1. A ball game machine in which a prize ball is paid out in accordance with a prize in a prize area provided in a game area, wherein: A ball payout control means for controlling the payout means to control the payout of a prize ball and a lending ball; a prize ball passage for guiding the ball paid out from the ball payout means as a prize ball; A ball payout passage branched into a ball passage, a prize ball detection unit provided in the prize ball passage and capable of detecting the payout of the prize ball by the ball payout unit, and detecting a prize ball winning the prize area. A prize ball detection unit, which receives a detection signal of a prize ball directly from the prize ball detection unit, transmits a signal for paying out a prize ball to the ball payout control unit, and detects a prize ball by the prize ball detection unit. The payout of the prize ball has been performed normally Game control means for determining whether or not there is a game and controlling a game state; passage switching means for switching the ball payout passage to one of a prize ball passage and a ball lending passage; and electrically driving the passage switching means. A ball-switching game machine comprising: a passage-switching drive unit that performs switching; and a passage-switch detection unit that detects a switching operation of the passage-switching unit. 2. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising abnormality notification means capable of performing abnormality notification, wherein said ball payout control means controls a switching operation of said passage switching means by outputting a passage switching signal to said passage switching drive means. And when the passage switching detecting unit does not detect the switching operation despite outputting the passage switching signal to the passage switching driving unit, the abnormality notifying unit performs control to notify the abnormality. The ball game machine according to claim 1. 3. The ball dispensing control means, if the path switching detecting means does not detect a switching operation despite outputting a path switching signal to the path switching driving means, the ball discharging means. The ball game machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the payout operation is stopped. 4. The ball game machine according to claim 1, wherein said game control means can determine a switching state of said passage switching means based on a detection signal of said passage switching detection means. 5. A game machine further comprising abnormality notification means capable of performing abnormality notification, wherein said game control means switches said ball payout passage to said ball lending passage by a detection signal from said passage switching detection means. 5. The ball game machine according to claim 4, wherein when a prize ball is detected by the prize ball detection means despite the determination, the abnormality notification means performs control to notify an abnormality. 6. The prize ball detecting means determines that the ball payout path has been switched to the ball lending path based on a detection signal from the path switching detecting means. The ball game machine according to claim 4, wherein when a ball is detected, a game in the ball game machine is deactivated and controlled. 7. A game machine further comprising abnormality notification means capable of performing abnormality notification, wherein said game control means switches said ball payout passage to said ball lending passage by a detection signal from said passage switching detection means. The ball game machine according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein when it is determined that the state has continued for a predetermined period, control for causing the abnormality notification means to perform abnormality notification is performed. 8. When the game control means determines that the state in which the ball payout passage has been switched to the ball lending passage has continued for a predetermined period based on a detection signal from the passage switch detection means, the game ball The ball game machine according to any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein the game in the game machine is deactivated. 9. A game machine further comprising abnormality notification means capable of performing abnormality notification, wherein said game control means is capable of storing the number of prize balls to be paid out based on a prize, and detecting the number of prize balls by said prize ball detection means. When the prize ball is detected by the prize ball detecting means in spite of the lack of the stored number of prize balls, the control is performed so that the abnormality is notified by the abnormality notifying means. The ball game machine according to any one of claims 4 to 8, characterized in that: 10. The game control means can store the number of prize balls to be paid out based on a prize, and subtracts the stored number of prize ball payouts with the detection of the prize ball by the prize ball detection means. 10. When a prize ball is detected by the prize ball detection means in spite of no storage number, a game in the ball game machine is deactivated and controlled. The ball-and-ball game machine described in 1. 11. The game control means can transmit a signal indicating a switching state of the passage switching means based on a detection signal from the passage switching detection means to the ball payout control means. A ball-and-ball game machine according to any one of claims 1 to 9.