JP2001009132A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of performing a proper winning ball discharging operation, even if a winning ball signal transmitted from a game control device to a discharge control device is changed into improper contents by noise. SOLUTION: A summed-up value of winning balls to be discharged based on winning detection signals from various kinds of winning sensors 341 to 34N is counted and stored by a game control device 22. Winning ball summed-up value data that the number of winning balls based on the generation of new winning balls is added to the winning ball summed-up value is transmitted to a discharge control device 23. The discharge control device 23 storing winning ball summed-up value data as received summed-up data in a RAM 43 calculates a difference of received summed-up value data as summed-up value data for calculation from summed-up value data, calculates arithmetic data and performs driving controls of first and second discharge solenoids 55a, 55b of a ball discharging device so as to discharge winning balls of the number according to the calculated arithmetic data.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a game control device for controlling a game capable of giving a required game value to a player, a game value giving device for giving a game value to a player, and the game control device. And a game value assignment control device that controls the operation of the game value assignment device so as to assign a required game value based on the transmitted game value assignment information to the player.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine capable of performing a pachinko game using small balls as a game medium is provided with a game ball rented from a game store to a game area of a game board provided with various game machines and the like. By bouncing and winning in a predetermined winning area, a predetermined number of prize balls are given to the player as a prize game value,
In addition, various gaming machines are operated based on a ball winning in a special winning opening or the like, and are converted into different gaming states.

The game balls that have won the prize area on the game board surface are guided to the back side of the game board, are collected in a line by a prize ball collecting gutter, and have a safe sensor for detecting one prize ball. It is guided to the safe unit, the winning ball is temporarily stopped by a stopping mechanism provided in the safe unit, and a winning ball detection signal from this safe sensor is supplied to a game control device that controls the operation of various gaming devices. Then, the appropriate prize ball number information is transmitted from the game control device to the discharge control device, and the discharge control device having received the prize ball number information activates the ball discharge device to supply the prize ball to the player, With the completion of the prize ball discharging operation by the ball discharging device, the discharge control device activates the stop mechanism of the safe unit, and discharges one winning ball for which the prize ball discharging operation has been completed to the outside of the gaming machine. It was.

In the case where the number of prize balls that can be obtained by a player is varied according to each of the prize areas distributed on the game board surface, a prize ball detector is provided at an appropriate prize port. By doing so, the number of winning balls reaching the safe unit through the winning opening provided with a winning ball detector and the number of winning balls reaching the safe unit through the winning opening not including a winning ball detector are determined. It is configured so that the game control device can be identified, and information on the number of prize balls corresponding thereto (for example, 7 prize balls for a prize ball to a prize port having a prize ball detector, 7 prize balls, 13 prize balls for a prize ball with no winning opening)
Is transmitted to the emission control device.

In the gaming machine which executes the above-described prize ball discharging procedure, since a prize ball discharge operation is performed for each prize ball, a large number of prize balls are generated in a relatively short time. In the case of a special gaming state where there is a possibility that a prize ball may be discharged, a large number of winning balls stay in the safe unit without being processed, and there is a demand for a gaming machine that can quickly perform a prize ball discharging operation. Was.

Under such circumstances, in order to perform the prize ball discharging operation at a high speed, a safe unit for stopping and discharging one safe ball is not provided. For example, various prize areas provided on a game board are provided. Each of the safe sensors is provided, and a winning ball detection signal output from the safe sensor based on a game ball winning in each winning area is transmitted to the discharge control device as prize ball number information, and received from each safe sensor. There has been proposed a gaming machine in which the discharge control device sequentially stores the awarded ball number information and the discharge control device drives the ball discharge device to discharge the award ball based on the stored award ball number information. ing.

[0007]

However, in a gaming machine intended to speed up the prize ball discharging operation as described above,
Since the game control device is configured to only communicate one-way prize game value information from the game control device to the discharge control device, it is determined whether the discharge control device is actually performing the appropriate prize ball discharging operation. Can not be confirmed in, for example, if the transmission data is garbled due to noise mixed in from the signal line,
There is a possibility that an abnormally large amount of prize balls may be given to the player, or conversely, the prize balls that the player should originally receive may be less than the prize balls, which is not always reliable.

Further, in a gaming machine in which the safe unit is abolished, in the case where the power is cut off in a state where the prize ball discharging operation based on all the prize balls has not been completed, the prize ball discharging device stores the information. Since all the information on the number of prize balls lost will be lost, the player will not be able to obtain the prize balls originally expected and may cause considerable damage to the player. There is a problem that the operation reliability of the gaming machine is lacking. In addition,
In a conventional gaming machine that had a safe unit to discharge prize balls, even if the power of the gaming machine was suddenly cut off during operation, prize balls that did not complete the prize ball discharge operation stayed in the safe unit Since it is left as it is, as a game store, it is possible for the player to take a response that is satisfactory enough,
This is effective for avoiding trouble with the player.

As a method of avoiding the above-mentioned problem in a gaming machine in which the safe unit is eliminated to speed up the prize ball discharging operation, for example, a prize ball discharging device sequentially stores prize ball number information. It is conceivable to use non-volatile memory means that does not require power supply to hold the memory in order to protect the storage means from sudden power loss.However, if a function to easily hold the memory is provided, malicious A third party removes the discharge control device from the gaming machine, writes an incorrect number of prize balls in the storage unit of the number of prize balls, and attaches the discharge control device with the falsified ball number information falsified to the game machine again. However, since there is a possibility that an illegal act of discharging a prize ball illegally may be performed, this is not necessarily a desirable solution.

In view of the above, the present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and a discharge control device that receives game value assignment information from a game control device as information on award game values to be assigned to a player has a game value converted into data by noise or the like. It is possible to effectively avoid a malfunction such as giving a prize game value to a player based on the added information, and even if the power is suddenly cut off,
It is an object of the present invention to provide a gaming machine capable of minimizing a loss of game value information given to a player and giving a disadvantage to the player as much as possible, and making it impossible to illegally falsify the game value information.

[0011]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a gaming machine, comprising: a game control device for controlling a game capable of providing a required game value to a player;
A game value providing device (for example, an emission control device 23) for providing a game value to a player, and a game such that a required game value based on the game value provision information transmitted from the game control device is provided to the player. A game value providing control device (ball discharge device 20) for controlling the operation of the value providing device, wherein the game control device includes a game value providing target generated by the gaming machine. Game state (for example,
The cumulative value of prize game value data (for example, the number of prize balls), which is information on the game value given to the player as a prize in accordance with the winning of the ball in the winning opening 9a or the like, is used as the game value provision information. Transmitted cumulative prize game value data storage means (for example, transmitted cumulative value data storage area of RAM 30c) stored as transmitted cumulative prize game value data (for example, transmitted cumulative value data) transmitted to the control device.
Award game value data storage means (for example, award ball data storage area of RAM 30c) for storing award game value data (for example, award ball data) specified according to the generated gaming state; The transmission total prize game value data (for example, the transmission total value data) obtained by adding the prize game value data to the transmitted total prize game value data stored in the game value data storage means is the transmission total prize game value. A game value provision information transmission control means (for example, storing the data in the transmission total value data storage area of the RAM 30c) and transmitting the transmission total prize game value data to the game value provision control device as the game value provision information. For example, the CPU 30a of the gaming microcomputer 30
ROM 30b) and the transmission of the stored total prize game value data stored in the transmitted total prize game value data storage means to be updated with the transmission total prize game value data transmitted to the game value provision control device by the game value provision information transmission control means. Means for updating the accumulated total prize game value data (for example, the CPU 30a of the gaming microcomputer 30, the ROM 30b, etc.);
The game value giving control device, the game value giving information transmitted from the game control device, performs a game value emission control process based on the game value giving information, the accumulated value of the game value given to the player, the processed cumulative prize A processed total prize game value data storage means (for example, a processed total value data storage area of the RAM 43) which is stored as game value data (for example, processed total value data), and a game value assignment transmitted from the game control device. Received cumulative prize game value data storage means (for example, received cumulative value data storage area of RAM 43) for storing information as received cumulative prize game value data (for example, received cumulative value data); Of the received total prize game value data stored in the storage device as the total prize game value data for calculation (for example, the total value data for calculation) Calculated prize game value data stored in the total prize game value data storage means (for example, a calculation total value data storage area of the RAM 43) and calculated as a difference between the calculation total prize game value data and the processed total prize game value data. (For example, calculation data) is stored in a calculation prize game value data storage means (for example, a calculation data storage area of the RAM 43), and a game value is assigned to the player such that a prize game value corresponding to the calculation prize game value data is given to the player. A game value calculation / assignment operation control means (eg, CP) for controlling the operation of the assignment device
U41, ROM42, etc.) and the processing of the required game value assigning operation is completed by the operation control of the game value assigning device by the game value calculating / assigning operation control means. Is updated to the cumulative total prize game value data for calculation stored in the cumulative total prize game value data for calculation storage means, and the updated total prize game value data updating means (for example, CPU4)
1, ROM 42, etc.).

Therefore, in the gaming machine according to the first aspect, the prize game value data specified by the occurrence of the gaming state to which the game value is to be given in the gaming machine is added to the transmitted cumulative prize game value data. The game value data for transmission is used as the game value assignment information to be transmitted from the game control device to the game value assignment control device, and the game value assignment control device that has received the game value assignment information uses the received game value assignment information to transmit the game value assignment information. The game value calculation / giving operation control means in which certain received cumulative prize game value data is stored in the cumulative prize ball game value data storage means for calculation as cumulative prize game value data for calculation has been processed from the cumulative prize game value data for calculation. By subtracting the cumulative prize game value data, the calculated award game value data corresponding to the game value not yet given to the player is calculated. By controlling the operation of the game value providing device based on the prize game value data, the game control means substantially gives the player a game value corresponding to the award game value data specified by the game control means. Even if the prize game value is provided to the player based on the game value provision information that is garbled due to noise or the like, the appropriate prize game value provision information is thereafter transmitted from the game control device to the game value information provision control means. If transmitted, the received cumulative prize game value data becomes the proper cumulative value of the prize game value. Therefore, the received cumulative prize game value data is used as the cumulative prize game value data for calculation, and the By giving the player a game value corresponding to the calculated award game value data, which is the difference between the processed award game value data that has been subjected to the awarding process and the cumulative total award game value data for calculation, Equal to the appropriate gaming value skills who are granted originally.

[0013] A gaming machine according to claim 2 is a game machine according to claim 1.
In the case where the game value calculation / giving operation control means of the game value giving control device determines that the calculated calculated prize game value data exceeds a predetermined value, the calculated prize game value data is regarded as abnormal data. It is characterized in that the operation control of the game value providing device is not performed.

Therefore, in the gaming machine according to the second aspect, the noise is mixed in the transmission path for transmitting the game value assignment information from the game control device to the game value assignment control means, so that the game value assignment information is improper. If the calculated prize game value data calculated by the game value calculation / giving operation control means is abnormal data, the operation control of the game value providing device based on the abnormal data is not performed. The prize game value exceeding the value originally given is not given to the player, and the next time the game value giving information transmitted from the game control device to the game value giving control means is appropriate, and the predetermined value is set. If the calculated award game value data that does not exceed is calculated, it is based on the calculated award game value data that is equal to the sum of the previous award game value and the current award game value that have been excluded from being given as abnormal data. Game value is to be given at one time to the player.

[0015] Further, a gaming machine according to claim 3 is provided in claim 1.
Alternatively, in claim 2, when the game value calculation / giving operation control means of the game value giving control device determines that the calculated calculated prize game value data is a negative value, the calculated prize game value data is abnormal. It is characterized in that the operation control of the game value providing device is not performed as data.

Therefore, in the gaming machine according to the third aspect, the noise is mixed in the transmission path for transmitting the game value assignment information from the game control device to the game value assignment control means, so that the game value assignment information is improper. If the calculated prize game value data calculated by the game value calculation / giving operation control means is a negative value, the operation control of the game value giving device is not performed as abnormal data, and the next game control device If the game value assignment information transmitted from the to the game value assignment control means is appropriate, a calculation prize equal to the sum of the previous prize game value and the current prize game value excluded from the assignment target as abnormal data The prize game value based on the game value data is provided to the player at one time.

Further, the gaming machine according to claim 4 is a game machine according to claim 2.
Alternatively, in the case where the game value calculation / giving operation control means of the game value giving control device calculates the calculated award game value data determined as abnormal data continuously for a predetermined number of times, the abnormal state is notified. It is characterized by doing.

Therefore, in the gaming machine according to the fourth aspect, an abnormal state is notified each time the calculation game value data calculated by the game value calculation / assignment control means of the game value assignment control means is determined to be abnormal data. In the case where the determination of abnormal data is repeated a predetermined number of times, an abnormal state is to be notified only in a case where there is a high probability that an act of transmitting illegal game value giving information is intentionally performed. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the abnormality information from being notified each time a data abnormality occurs accidentally.

A gaming machine according to a fifth aspect of the present invention provides a gaming machine according to the first aspect.
The backup power supply means (56) capable of supplying a backup power supply for holding the storage contents of various storage means included in the game value provision control device is provided outside the game value provision control device. It is characterized by.

Therefore, in the gaming machine according to the fifth aspect, the backup power supply means is provided, so that the power supply to the operating gaming machine is cut off due to a power failure during the operation of the gaming shop. Even in the case of occurrence, the storage contents of various storage means included in the game value provision control device are backed up. In addition, backup power is supplied to the various storage units of the game value provision control device from backup power supply means provided outside the game value provision control device, so that the game value provision control device is detached from the gaming machine. In such a case, the storage contents of the storage means are not retained.

A gaming machine according to claim 6 is a game machine according to claim 5.
In, receiving power supplied from outside the gaming machine,
A power supply device (for example, a power supply unit 29) that generates required power and supplies the power to each device is provided with backup power supply means.

Therefore, in the gaming machine according to claim 6, by providing the backup power supply means in the power supply device,
The structure of the backup means can be simplified, and the wiring around the power supply can be simplified.

[0023] Further, the gaming machine according to claim 7 is a game machine according to claim 5.
Alternatively, in claim 6, when the power of the gaming machine is turned off, the unprocessed calculated award game value data remaining in the calculated award game value data storage means of the game value providing control device is held by the backup power supply. When the gaming machine is started normally, the game value calculation / giving operation control means is based on the unprocessed calculated award game value data remaining in the calculated award game value data storage means. Operation control is performed.

Therefore, in the gaming machine according to the seventh aspect, even when a sudden power-off occurs before the gaming value, which is the greatest concern for the player playing the game, is given to the player. When the gaming machine is normally started, if the unprocessed calculated award game value data remains in the calculated award game value data storage means, the game value calculation / giving operation control is performed based on the calculated award game value data. Since the means controls the operation of the game value providing device, it is possible to suppress as much as possible the loss of the game value providing information and the disadvantage to the player.

[0025]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Next, an embodiment of a gaming machine according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

As shown in FIG. 1, a gaming machine 1 capable of playing a game ball for playing a game ball as a game medium is composed of a game unit 2 and a card unit 3. Related functions (to be described in detail later) are added, and the card unit 3 stores a prepaid card (a ball game card which is sold in advance at a predetermined amount and stores valuable data equivalent to currency). ), A card control function, a ball lending control function, and the like that make it possible to use the function.

The gaming unit 2 has a frame-shaped front frame 5 rotatably provided on the front side of a hollow box frame-shaped machine frame 4. Further, the front frame 5 is provided with a glass frame 6 and a front panel 7 so as to be rotatable. A game board 10 having a game section 9 surrounded by guide rails 8 is provided behind the glass frame 6 on which the transparent glass is provided. The game board 10 is a main player of a ball game, and a game ball ejected by an electric drive source such as a rotary solenoid is moved along the guide rail 8 to the game section 9.
When the player reaches the inside, the player hits a game nail or changes the flowing direction by a windmill and flows down. When one of the various winning ports 9a... 9a ... winning sensors provided for each (not shown)
Each winning ball is detected, and based on the detection signal, a prize ball (prize game value) as a game value for a winning (generation of a game value providing state) is given to the player, and the winning opening 9 is provided.
Balls that did not win any of a .... are recovered as balls that missed from the out port 9b.

Note that the prize game value given to the player is not limited to the prize ball. For example, in an enclosed ball-type gaming machine (a gaming machine that allows a player to play a ball game by circulating the enclosed ball without handling the actual ball), virtual ball number data Is performed in such a form as to add the game value. Further, the game value to be provided to the player is not limited to the game medium such as the pachinko ball or the medal, and various premiums and the like may be provided to the player.

The game section 9 also has a special symbol display device 9c having a relatively large display and a normal symbol display device 9d having a relatively small display (such as a 7-segment variable display). , An ordinary electric accessory 9 that converts a pair of movable wing pieces into an easy-to-accept state by opening a game ball.
e, from the first state, which is disadvantageous for a player who does not receive a ball flowing down on the game board, to a second state, which is advantageous for a player who receives a ball flowing down on the game board and invites the ball to the inside; A large winning opening 9f having a ball receiving door is provided.

On the other hand, a front panel 7 located below the glass frame 6 has a prize ball (various winning ports 9a in the game section 9).
A ball supply plate 11 for storing a ball obtained by a player based on winning a prize) and a lending ball (a ball lent to the player from the game store) is provided. The ball is supplied to the standby unit, and the game ball waiting in the shooting ball standby unit is repelled by the repelling mechanism of the repelling unit. In addition, an operation handle 12 for operating the start / stop of the spring unit, adjustment of the spring force, and the like, and a ball overflowing without being stored in the ball supply tray 11 are provided at appropriate places below the front frame 5. A ball receiving tray 13 or the like for receiving the details described later is appropriately provided.

In the above-mentioned gaming unit 2,
The main body frame composed of the machine frame 4, the front frame 5, the glass frame 6, the front panel 7 and the like has a common function for performing a ball game in the gaming machine 1, and the game board is provided for the main body frame. Reference numeral 10 denotes a detachable structure. In other words, the game board 10 can be replaced with a game board 10 having a different board surface configuration so that a ball game having different game contents can be performed.

The flow of a game in the gaming machine 1 having the above-described board surface configuration will be briefly described. When a game ball is inserted from the ball supply tray 11 and the operation handle 12 is rotated as appropriate, the game ball is hit and the game ball is hit. In the process of entering the game section 9 and flowing down the game section 9, if one of the winning openings 9a is won,
The prize ball based on the winning is the ball storage dish 11 or the ball catcher 1
The ball that has been ejected to No. 3 and has not won any of the winning ports 9a is collected from the out port 9b. In addition, a predetermined start gate sensor (not shown) is provided in a predetermined winning opening or a passing chucker among a large number of winning openings 9a. When the general start gate sensor detects a game ball, a normal symbol display is performed. When a normal symbol display game is started by the device 9d, and a predetermined special symbol (for example, a numeral “3” or “7”) is displayed as a stop result of the normal symbol display game,
Normally, the electric accessory 9e is opened about once or twice for a relatively short time. A special figure start sensor (not shown) is provided in the ordinary electric accessory 9e. When the special figure start sensor detects a winning ball, a special symbol display game by the special symbol display device 9c is started, and the special symbol display game is started. The stop result of the displayed game is
Predetermined special mode (for example, the three-digit number is “777”
And the display mode aligned with “333”), a special game with a high possibility of generating a large number of winning balls in a relatively short time by opening the ball receiving door based on the predetermined winning opening 9f based on a predetermined condition. It starts.

On the other hand, the card unit 3 has various functions related to ball lending control.
In addition to reading the valuable data of the prepaid card inserted from 4 and renting out a predetermined number of game balls in response to the player operating a ball lending button provided at an appropriate position on the ball supply plate 11, for example, the lent game balls The valuable data of the prepaid card is rewritten to a value obtained by subtracting the currency corresponding to the value of the prepaid card. When the return button is operated by the player, or when the remaining number of valuable data of the prepaid card becomes "0", the valuable data is taken in. Insert the inserted prepaid card into the card slot 14
It discharges more.

Note that the gaming machine 1 shown as the present embodiment is
As described above, a structure in which a separate card unit 3 is provided to include a function of renting a game ball, and a game ball for a prize ball and a game ball for lending are discharged from a game ball discharging device of the game unit 2. However, a gaming machine having a structure in which a function of lending a game ball and a function of controlling a card provided on the card unit side are included in the game unit side may be adopted.

The back side of the gaming machine 1 is as shown in FIG.
In the gaming unit 2 having a game board 10, a game board storage frame 15 for stably holding and storing the game board 10 is attached to the back side of the front frame 5 so as to be openable and closable, and on the back side of the game board storage frame 15. A back mechanism panel 16 is attached so as to be openable and closable.

A storage tank 17 for storing a ball, which is a game medium, is provided on the upper part of the back mechanism board 16. The ball in the storage tank 17 is provided with an induction gutter 18 and a flow path conversion gutter 19.
Is supplied to a ball discharging device 20 for discharging a ball as a game medium. The storage tank 17 is supplied with balls from a ball supply gutter of an island facility composed of a row of gaming machines. For example, a management device installed in a gaming shop to comprehensively manage each gaming machine 1. , The ball is appropriately replenished. In the present embodiment, the ball discharging device 20 that performs an operation of discharging a prize ball as a game value functions as a game value providing unit that provides a game value to a player.

The guide gutter 18 is provided with a partition wall which rises gradually toward the downstream side so as to form two ball passages, and is provided on the downstream side of the guide gutter 18. A game ball is guided from each of the two generated ball flow paths to each ball entrance of the flow path conversion gutter 19, and the ball discharge device 20 is provided through the two ball flow paths provided in the flow path conversion gutter 19. The game balls are guided to the respective ball entrances, and these balls are discharged as prize balls or rental balls by the operation of the two ball discharge function units provided in the ball discharge device 20. In addition, an odd sensor 19a for detecting a discharge standby ball is provided at an appropriate position of the flow path conversion gutter 19, and the number of discharge game balls is extremely reduced (a sufficient discharge ball for ball lending request). Is not detected, or a state in which a prize ball for a winning ball does not sufficiently remain) is detected.

The ball discharge device 2 passes through the above-described ball flow path.
The ball discharged from 0 is discharged to the ball supply tray 11 through the ball discharge gutter 21. In addition, in the lower part of the ball discharge gutter 21,
The ball supply tray 11 is provided with a flow control gutter (not shown) for guiding the falling ball to the ball supply tray 11 and a distribution gutter (not shown) that branches off immediately before reaching the flow control gutter and connects to the ball receiving tray 13. When the ball is full of game balls, the ball also accumulates in the flow control gutter, and when the stored ball reaches the branch point with the distribution gutter, the game ball overflowing in the flow control gutter 22b passes through the distribution gutter. Ball saucer 1
It is discharged to 3. Further, when the ball tray 13 is also full of balls and overflows into the distribution gutter, the state is detected by an overflow sensor (not shown) provided at an appropriate position in the distribution gutter.

At the end of the business hours of the game store or at the time of repair / maintenance of the gaming machine 1, the game ball is not discharged by the ball discharging device 20 as described above.
Since it is desirable to efficiently discharge the game balls that have been waiting until 9, a game shop clerk or the like is provided with a ball removal operation means (not shown) for instructing a ball removal operation, and the ball removal operation means is operated. This is detected by a ball removal sensor (not shown), and a flow path conversion operation is performed, for example, in which a standby ball flow path at an appropriate position downstream of the flow path conversion gutter 19 is branched to a ball removal flow path, and the standby state is performed. The ball is configured to be efficiently discharged from the ball discharge channel to the external discharge port.

On the back side of the back mechanism panel 16, the game devices such as the ordinary electric accessory 9e and the special winning opening 9f are controlled, and the appropriate control is given to the other control devices so that the game progresses in an integrated manner. Control device 22 for controlling the game, and the game control device 2
2, a discharge control device 23, a launch control device 24, a display control device 25, a decoration control device 26, a sound control device 27, etc., for controlling various game machines and the like in response to commands from the game machine 2, and an AC power supply from outside the gaming machine 1. And an external terminal 28 for relaying the input and output of signals between the management device and the like, and a power supply (24 VAC) supplied through the terminal 28 is appropriately converted to various control devices and game devices. A power supply unit 29 for supplying is provided.

As shown in FIG. 3, the power supply unit 29 receives AC 24 V from the external terminal 28, converts it to a required voltage DC, and supplies power to each control device. For example, DC32V, DC24V, DC12
V to the game control device 22, DC24V and DC12V to the discharge control device 23, DC30V and DC12V to the firing control device 24, DC12V to the display control device 25, DC3V
0V, DC24V, DC12V to the decoration control device 26,
DC12V is supplied to the sound control device 27, respectively.

The game control device 22 is a control device for performing overall control of the game. The game control device 22 controls the operation of electric devices such as the ordinary electric accessory 9e and the large winning opening 9f provided on the game board 10 and various winnings. 9a... Are transmitted to the emission control device 23 as game value giving information based on winnings in the display control device, and display data relating to information such as a design to be displayed on the special design display device and its conversion mode are displayed. To the decoration control device 26 for transmitting various decorations according to the gaming state, and sound control means 27 for outputting sound data for outputting various exchanges according to the gaming state. Send to

The launch control device 24 controls the operation of a launch unit (a mechanism for launching one ball supplied from the ball supply tray 11 to the guide rail 8) for performing a ball launch operation. The control base for realizing the control function is stored in an appropriate storage case.

The display controller 25 is a command signal (a signal containing display data as control information) from the game controller 22.
According to the above, the special symbol display device 9c is controlled to display a predetermined image on the display, and a control base for realizing the control function is stored in an appropriate storage case.

The decoration control device 26 is a command signal (a signal containing decoration data as control information) from the game control device 22.
According to the above, the operation (lighting or extinguishing) of the decorative lamps arranged on the front face of the gaming machine 1 and the like is controlled, and a control base for realizing the control function is stored in an appropriate storage case.

The sound control device 27 provides various effects according to the game state from speakers provided on the front of the gaming machine 1 in accordance with a command signal (a signal including sound data as control information) from the game control device 22. It controls sound output, and stores a control board for realizing a control function in an appropriate storage case.

The discharge control device 23 stores the prize ball total value data (game value giving information) transmitted from the game control device 22,
Based on the detection signal from the discharge sensor of the ball discharge device 20, the power supply to the discharge solenoid of the ball discharge device 20 is controlled, and control is performed to discharge a predetermined number of game balls. Further, the discharge control device 23 performs control associated with lending a ball while exchanging signals with the card unit 3. Hereinafter, a ball lending control procedure performed between the card unit 3 and the discharge control device 23 will be described. For convenience, transmission and reception of signals will be described in positive logic.

If the PRDY signal output from the discharge control device 23 of the game unit 2 is in the Hi state, the card unit 32 determines that the discharge control device 23 can perform the discharge control of the ball. The card unit 3 accepts the operation of a ball lending button (not shown) when the discharge control device 23 is in a state where the ball discharge control can be performed. A BRDY signal notifying that a lending request (BRQ signal) is to be made is set to Hi. When the BRDY signal becomes Hi, the discharge control device 23 prepares to perform discharge control of the ball for lending the ball, and monitors the BRQ signal that is the ball lending request signal.

Subsequently, the card unit 3 sets the BRQ signal to the H level after a predetermined time has elapsed since the BRDY signal was set to the Hi level.
i, and when the discharge control device 23 receives the Hi of the BRQ signal, the discharge control device 23 sets the EXS signal for notifying the card unit 3 of the reception of the BRQ signal to Hi, and sets a predetermined unit (for example, 25 BRQ signals per pulse). ) Is ejected, and when the ejection is completed, the ejection control device 23 changes the EXS signal output to the card unit 3 to Lo,
The card unit 3 is notified that the discharge of the ball based on the RQ signal has been completed, and if the BRDY signal is still Hi, the BRQ signal is monitored again, and the BRDY signal is set to the L level.
When it becomes o, the ball lending discharge control process ends. On the other hand, when the card unit 3 sets the BRQ signal to Hi and then checks the output EXS signal for Hi, the card unit 3 sets the BRQ signal to Lo and monitors the EXS signal. When the Lo of the EXS signal is confirmed, the BRQ signal is set to Hi when the ball lending request is made continuously, and the BRDY signal is set to Lo when the ball lending request is not made.

Next, the game control device 22 and the discharge control device 2
The detailed configuration of No. 3 will be described with reference to FIG.

The game control device 22 is a game arithmetic processing device comprising a one-chip microcomputer for controlling the operation of various electric devices (ordinary electric accessory 9e, large winning opening 9f, etc.) necessary for ball game. Microcomputer 30, a clock generating circuit CLK for generating a clock having a predetermined time width by dividing the oscillation frequency of the crystal, and an input interface 32 for receiving detection signals from various sensors and the like.
And an output interface 33 for outputting a command signal and the like to various electric devices and control devices. The gaming microcomputer 30 has a CPU 30a, a ROM
It is integrated on a single chip as an IC for an amuse chip incorporating the RAM 30b and the RAM 30c.

The input interface 32 includes signals from the first winning sensor 34 ₁ to the N-th winning sensor 34 _N provided in each of the winning ports 9 a..., And a special figure starting sensor 35 provided in the ordinary electric accessory 9 e. , A signal from the general-purpose starting gate sensor 36 provided in a predetermined winning area,
A signal from a continuation sensor 37 provided in a special winning area in the area f, and a signal from a count sensor 38 for detecting all balls in the special winning opening 9f are input.

From the output interface 33, a display control device 25, a decoration control device 26, a sound control device 27,
The firing control device 24, the normal symbol display device 9d, the normal electric accessory solenoid 3 which is an electric drive source of the ordinary electric accessory 9e.
9. Appropriate command signals and the like are respectively output to the special winning opening solenoid 40 which is an electric drive source of the special winning opening 9f, and further, to the discharge control device 23, the prize ball total as the game value giving information is output to the discharge control device 23. It is intended to output value data.

Here, the image structure of the storage unit related to the game value providing information of the RAM 30c in the game microcomputer 30 of the game control device 22 will be described with reference to FIG. In the RAM 30c, at least, based on the occurrence of various winning balls (game state predetermined as a target of giving a game value), data on the number of winning balls according to the type of the winning balls (given to the player) Prize ball data storage area for storing prize game value data (information on game value) (prize game value data storage means for storing prize game value data specified according to the generated game state) "
"The transmitted accumulated value data transmitted to the discharge control device 23 to discharge the prize balls based on the prize balls generated in the game after the gaming machine 1 is normally started (the game value provision control device as the game value provision information). Sent accumulated value data storage area (sent accumulated accumulated prize game value data storage means) for storing the transmitted accumulated prize game value data transmitted to the
And "The prize ball data stored in the prize ball data storage area,
A transmission total value data storage area (transmission total prize game value data) for storing transmission total value data (transmission total prize game value data) added to the transmitted total value data stored in the transmission total value data storage area. Prize game value data storage means).

A specific operation flow of the game microcomputer 30 including the RAM 30c having the above structure will be described.

First, a prize ball as a target of prize ball discharge is generated (a game state as a target for giving a prize value is generated).
When signals from the prize sensors 34 ₁ to the Nth prize sensor 34 _N and the count sensor 38 are input, prize ball data corresponding to each prize ball is temporarily stored in the prize ball data storage area, and this prize ball data is stored. By adding to the accumulated data sent,
Calculates the total value data of the prize balls to which the prize balls are added based on the occurrence of the prize balls, temporarily stores the total value data in the transmission total value data storage area, and adds the total value data of the prize balls. Is cleared, and the contents stored in the transmission total value data storage area are transmitted to the emission control device 23 as prize ball total value data.

That is, the gaming microcomputer 3
By the cooperation of the CPU 30a and the ROM 30b,
"Based on the prize game value data being stored in the prize game value data storage means, adding the prize game value data to the transmitted cumulative prize game value data stored in the transmitted cumulative prize game value data storage means. The transmission total prize game value data for transmission is stored in the transmission total prize game value data storage means, the prize game value data in the prize game value data storage means is cleared, and the transmission total prize game value data storage means is stored in the transmission total prize game value data storage means. It functions as a "game value assignment information transmission control means for transmitting the accumulated total prize game value data for transmission to the game value assignment control device as game value assignment information."

When the transmission of the total prize ball data to the discharge control device 23 is completed as described above, the transmitted cumulative value data stored in the transmitted cumulative value data storage area is stored in the transmission cumulative value data storage area. The data is rewritten and updated with the transmission total value data stored in the area, and the storage contents of the transmission total value data storage area are cleared.

That is, the gaming microcomputer 3
By the cooperation of the CPU 30a and the ROM 30b,
Based on the transmission of the cumulative total prize game value data for transmission by the game value provision information transmission control means to the game value provision control device, the stored content of the transmitted cumulative prize game value data storage means is stored in the transmission total prize game The accumulated prize game value data for transmission which is rewritten and updated with the accumulated prize game value data for transmission stored in the value data storage means, and the accumulated prize game value data for transmission is cleared in the accumulation means for transmission prize game value data for transmission. It functions as "update means".

The process of transmitting the total prize ball value data from the game control device 22 to the discharge control device 23 is performed in a very short time. Usually, a subsequent prize ball is detected and a prize based on the prize is normally detected. The transmission processing of the award ball total value data is completed before the ball data is written into the award ball data storage area. Also, in rare cases, even if there is a case where two or more balls are detected by the winning sensor almost simultaneously, these sensor inputs can be buffered by the buffer of the input interface 32. The disadvantage that one of the winning balls becomes invalid, for example, when two signals are supplied to the microcomputer 30 at the same time, does not reach the player.

On the other hand, the discharge control device 23 includes a CPU 41,
It includes a ROM 42, a RAM 43, a CLK 44, an input interface 45, an output interface 46, a logic circuit 47, a power failure detection circuit 48, and a rectifying element 49, which are connected by an internal address bus, data bus, power supply line, and the like.

The CPU 41 of the discharge control device 23 performs processing required for discharging game balls (discharge of prize balls and discharge of lent balls).
It is stored in the OM42.

The RAM 43, which is a volatile memory, is used as a work area and stores various information (particularly,
It functions as storage means capable of storing the prize ball discharge data including the prize ball total value data transmitted from the game control device 22. Note that the RAM 43 stores the CPU
By using a single memory element or the like provided separately from the RAM 41, it is possible to back up the RAM 43 alone. The RAM 43 has a processed total data storage area, a calculation data storage area, a calculation total data storage area, a reception total data storage area, and other work memory areas.

The input interface 45 includes a detection signal from a ball ejection sensor 50 for detecting a ball ejection request operation and a first ejection sensor 51 for detecting a ball ejection state of the ball ejection device 20.
a, a detection signal from the second discharge sensor 52b, a detection signal from an odd sensor 19a provided at an appropriate position in the flow path conversion gutter 19, and a detection signal from the overflow sensor 52 for detecting that the ball tray 13 is full. , A reset request signal from a reset switch 53 for clearing the contents of the RAM 43 is input.

From the output interface 46, the total value of the prize balls provided to the player based on the game value providing information transmitted from the game control device 22 (processed cumulative prize game value data: Information display section 23a for displaying the total number of prize balls actually ejected after activation)
, A drive signal to the ball discharge solenoid 54, and a drive signal to the first discharge solenoid 55a and the second discharge solenoid 55b of the ball discharge device 20 are output.

The information display section 23a for visually displaying the processed total prize game value data is, for example, a six-segment type variable display arranged side by side on the back side of the discharge control device 23 (see FIG. 2). Although it is configured to be able to display a 6-digit numerical value, the present invention is not limited to the case where the numerical value is provided on the back side of the gaming machine, and may be displayed on the front side of the gaming machine so that a game clerk can easily check it.

The logic power supply circuit 47 converts DC 24 V supplied from the power supply unit 29 to DC 5 V, and converts the components (the CPU 41 and the ROM 4) in the discharge control device 23.
2, RAM 43, etc.).

The power failure detection circuit 48 is connected to the power supply unit 2
9 detects that the power supply to the logic power supply circuit 47 has been cut off, determines that the power supply voltage has dropped below a predetermined threshold value as a power outage, and forcibly interrupts the CPU 41 to execute the operation. Stop it.

The power supply to the RAM 43 is performed via the rectifying element 49, and this power supply line is also supplied to the backup power supply means 56 provided in the power supply unit 29 as a power supply device. The backup power supply means 56 has a power storage function such as a large-capacity capacitor. When the discharge control device 23 is functioning normally, the power supply voltage 5 V to the RAM 43 is also applied to the positive electrode of the backup power supply means 56. However, when the power supply inside the emission control device 23 is cut off due to a power failure or the like, the backup power supply means 56 discharges the
Power is supplied to 43. At this time, RAM
Since the rectifying element 49 is connected to the power supply line to the power supply 43, the power is not discharged to the side from the logic power supply circuit 47, and the backup power is supplied only to the RAM 43.

Further, since the backup power supply means 56 is provided not in the discharge control device 23 but in the power supply unit 29, the connection connector with the power supply unit 29 is required to remove the discharge control device 23 from the game unit 2. Is removed, the RAM 4 in the discharge control device 23 is removed.
The supply of the backup power to the power supply 3 is cut off. That is, it is possible to rewrite the storage contents of the RAM 43 of the discharge control device 23 with game state information and prize ball data that are advantageous to the player, thereby preventing an illegal act of unreasonably trying to obtain a profit when the power is restored.

Next, details of each storage area in the RAM 43 of the discharge control device 23 will be described.

The processed total value data storage area for storing the processed total value data stores the first and second solenoids 55a and 55b of the ball discharging device 20 based on the prize ball total value data transmitted from the game control device 22. The drive value is controlled to store the total value of the prize balls actually discharged, and the processing is performed based on the game value provision information transmitted from the game control device and the processing is performed to provide the game value to the player. It functions as a "processed accumulated prize game value data storage means for storing the accumulated game value as the processed accumulated prize game value data."

The received cumulative value data storage area for storing the cumulative received value data is for temporarily storing the awarded ball cumulative value data transmitted from the game control device 22, and includes the “game value transmitted from the game control device”. It functions as a "received total prize game value data storage means for storing the grant information as the total received prize game value data."

The calculation cumulative data storage area for storing the calculation cumulative data temporarily stores the received cumulative data in order to calculate the number of prize balls actually discharged by the ball discharge device 20. The cumulative total prize game value data storage means stores the received total prize game value data stored in the cumulative total prize game value data storage means as the cumulative total prize game value data for calculation. It is to be noted that the provision of the cumulative total data storage area for calculation and the storage of the cumulative total received data used for the calculation as the cumulative total data for calculation is because the prize ball discharge control processing based on the cumulative total received data data is completed. This is in order to prevent the received accumulated value data from being rewritten by the subsequent awarded ball accumulated value data transmitted from the game control device 22 before performing the game.

The operation data storage area for storing the operation data temporarily stores difference data (the number of prize balls to be paid out to the player in the current prize ball discharge process) obtained by subtracting the processed total value data from the operation total value data. The storage means functions as “calculated prize game value data storage means for storing calculated prize game value data which is a difference between the calculated total prize game value data and the processed total prize game value data”.

The flow of a specific operation related to the prize ball discharge control of the discharge control device 23 having the RAM 43 having the above-described structure will be described.

First, if the prize ball total data transmitted from the game control device 22 is stored in the reception total data storage area, the reception total data is stored as the operation total data. The calculated cumulative difference data memory and the processed cumulative value data are calculated as calculation data and stored in the calculation data storage area. Based on the calculation data, the first and second discharge solenoids 55a, By controlling the drive of the ball 55b, the prize balls corresponding to the calculation data are discharged from the ball discharge device 20.

That is, the CPU 41 of the discharge control device 23
And the ROM 42 cooperate to "store the received cumulative prize game value data stored in the received cumulative prize game value data storage means in the arithmetic cumulative prize game value data storage means as the cumulative prize game value data for computation. Calculating the difference between the cumulative prize game value data for calculation and the processed cumulative prize game value data as calculated prize game value data, storing the calculated prize game value data in the calculation prize game value data storage means, A game value for controlling the operation of the game value providing device so as to provide the player with a prize game value corresponding to the calculated prize game value data based on the fact that the calculated prize game value data is stored in the value data storage means. It functions as "calculation / assignment operation control means".

As described above, when the prize ball discharging process based on the calculation data stored in the calculation data storage area is completed, the storage contents of the processed total value data storage area are replaced with the storage contents of the calculation total value data storage area. Is updated by rewriting the cumulative total data for calculation, and the storage contents of the cumulative total data storage area and the calculation data storage area are cleared.

That is, the CPU 41 of the discharge control device 23
And the ROM 42 cooperate, "based on the completion of the processing of the required game value giving operation in the operation control of the game value giving device by the game value calculating / giving operation control means,
The stored contents of the processed cumulative prize game value data storage means are
The cumulative total prize game value data for calculation is updated by rewriting the cumulative total prize game value data for calculation stored in the cumulative total prize game value data storage means for calculation, and the total prize game value data for calculation and the calculation prize game value of the total cumulative prize game value data for calculation are stored. It functions as a "processed cumulative prize game value data updating means for clearing the calculated prize game value data in the data storage means."

As described above, while the prize ball discharge control processing based on the cumulative reception value data is being performed, the prize ball total data based on the subsequent winning sphere is transmitted from the game control device 22 and the reception cumulative value data is transmitted. If the received cumulative value data has been newly stored in the storage area, the received cumulative value data is similarly calculated as the cumulative value data for calculation, and the prize ball discharge control process is performed.

Further, before the received cumulative value data stored in the received cumulative value data storage area is used for calculating the calculated data as the cumulative data for calculation, the subsequent prize ball cumulative data is further transmitted from the game control device 22. When transmitted, the stored contents of the prize ball total data storage area are overwritten with the latest prize ball total value data. In this case, the number of prize balls based on a plurality of winning balls is determined. Since the total value is calculated as operation data and the total of the prize balls based on the plurality of prize balls is discharged at one time, there is no disadvantage to the player.

Further, the prize ball total value data is transmitted from the game control device 22 to the discharge control device 23 as prize value providing information, and the difference obtained by subtracting the processed total value data from the prize ball total value data is discharged as operation data. If the number of prize balls is specified, incorrect prize ball total data is transmitted due to noise mixing in the transmission path of the total prize ball data, and the received total value data is incorrect data. Even if the prize ball discharging operation that is less than the original prize ball number is performed, the appropriate prize ball number is determined based on the appropriate prize ball total value data received by the discharge control device 23 thereafter. Corrected for emissions.

Conversely, if the received cumulative value data is converted into incorrect data and a prize ball discharging operation exceeding the original number of prize balls is performed, the prize ball is generated based on the subsequently generated prize balls. Unless the prize ball discharging operation is performed until the cumulative value data increases and reaches the processed cumulative value data that has been discharged due to a malfunction, the number of discharged prize balls is naturally corrected. However, if the received accumulated data converted into incorrect data is significantly larger than the processed accumulated data, a case where the prize ball discharging operation is not performed several tens to several hundred times may be considered. This may give the player a sense of distrust and may cause the player to interrupt the game on the way, which is not a realistic process at all.

If the value calculated as the calculation data exceeds a predetermined number, the prize ball total value data is regarded as inappropriate data (abnormal data), and the prize ball discharge based on the calculation data is determined. The discharge control device 23 may have a control function for restricting the operation. That is, when the game value calculation / giving operation control means of the game value giving control device determines that the calculated calculated award game value data exceeds a predetermined value, the calculated award game value data is regarded as abnormal data. It is assumed that the operation control of the game value providing device is not performed.

Note that the predetermined number used for determining abnormal data may be appropriately determined according to the type of gaming machine. For example, in the solenoid type ball discharge device 20 employed in the present embodiment, it takes approximately 0.6 seconds to discharge 15 (maximum number of prize balls) prize balls, and the game is played on a standard gaming machine. Since the number of winning balls that can be generated in 0.6 seconds in this case exceeds 3 statistically, it is extremely rare. Therefore, when 3 winning balls of 15 winning balls are generated, 45 balls are set to a predetermined number. If it is determined that up to 45 pieces of calculation data are normal and more than 45 pieces of calculation data are determined to be abnormal, abnormal data exceeding the original number of prize balls can be specified with a high probability.

If the awarded ball total value data received from the game control device 22 is smaller than the processed total value data, the sign of the operation data becomes negative, which is obviously abnormal. The discharge control device 2 performs a control function for restricting the prize ball discharging operation based on the calculation data as the value.
3 may have. That is, when the game value calculation / giving operation control means of the game value giving control device determines that the calculated calculated prize game value data is a negative value, the calculated prize game value data is regarded as abnormal data, The operation control of the application device is not performed.

As described above, when a state in which it is determined that the data is abnormal data and the prize ball discharging operation must be regulated occurs continuously, abnormal prize ball total value data is intentionally transmitted. Since it is highly probable that such misconduct has been performed, the function of notifying the abnormal state to a game clerk or the like when the abnormal data is determined continuously for a predetermined number of times is provided to the discharge control device 23. You may have it. That is,
When the game value calculation / assignment operation control means of the game value assignment control device calculates the calculated award game value data determined as abnormal data continuously for a predetermined predetermined number of times, the abnormal state is notified.

The number of times of continuous detection of abnormal data used for determining an abnormal state may be appropriately determined according to the type of gaming machine, the game environment, and the like. In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, when the calculated data exceeds 45, the data is determined to be abnormal data. Therefore, if the number of times of continuous detection of abnormal data is suppressed to about two times, the prize ball total value data becomes abnormal. Even if the appropriate prize ball accumulated value data is received after the prize ball is not discharged in the above, the number of discharge prize balls based on two winning balls (calculated data) does not exceed the abnormality determination value, and in the first place it is normal In the gaming machine installation environment of, the prize ball accumulated data can be continuously converted, as it is only an impossibly low possibility,
It is enough to judge an abnormal state.

RAM 43 having storage area as described above
The backup power supply means 5 of the power supply unit 29
6, the storage area of the RAM 43 is backed up even if the power of the gaming machine 1 is suddenly cut off, so that the prize balls based on the total prize ball data received from the game control device 22. If the discharge control process has not been completed, the operation data remains in the operation data storage area. Therefore, when the gaming machine 1 is normally started by the return of the power, the award based on the operation data remaining in the operation data storage area is obtained. If the ball discharge control process is performed, it is possible to avoid as much as possible the prize balls that the player should originally receive become invalid and the player is disadvantaged.

That is, when the power of the game machine main body is cut off, the game value calculating / giving operation control means calculates the unprocessed calculation prize remaining in the calculation prize game value data storage means of the game value providing control device. When the gaming value data is held by the backup power supply, when the gaming machine is normally started, the processing of the game value providing device is performed based on the unprocessed calculated award game value data remaining in the calculated award game value data storage means. It is configured to perform operation control.

In the case where the received cumulative value data remains in the received cumulative value data storage area, calculation data is calculated using the received cumulative value data as the cumulative value data for calculation.
If the award ball discharge control process is performed based on the newly calculated calculation data, the award ball discharge based on the award ball total value data transmitted from the game control device 22 after the calculation of the backup target calculation data is performed. Since it is possible to perform the prize ball discharge control processing, the prize ball discharge control processing can be performed more reliably.

The processed accumulated value data of the RAM 43 protected from the power interruption by the backup power supply means 56 is the accumulated value before the power of the gaming machine 1 is cut off.
After the restart, the transmitted accumulated value data in the RAM 30c in the game control device 22 returns to zero, and it is meaningless to use the processed accumulated value data as it is. Therefore, the processed accumulated value data storage area is cleared. I do.

Further, in the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, the backup power supply means 56 capable of supplying a backup power holding the contents of the RAM 43 provided in the discharge control device 23 is provided outside the discharge control device 23. Therefore, if the ejection control device 23 is removed from the gaming machine 1 while the power is turned off, the contents stored in the RAM 43 will not be retained. Therefore, the ejection control device 23 will be removed from the gaming machine 1 and the operation data storage area and the received cumulative data It is not possible to perform an illegal act such as rewriting the storage content of the storage area, which is suitable for preventing fraud. Note that the backup power supply 56 is not limited to the case where the backup power supply is provided in the power supply unit 29. However, according to the present embodiment, the power supply unit 29 has a structure in which power supply is unitarily handled, and maintenance and management are easy. . Also, there is an effect that the wiring around the power supply can be simplified.

FIG. 6 shows a timing chart when transmitting the total prize ball value data from the game control device 22 to the discharge control device 23. The timing chart has a constant period in accordance with the transmission timing of the receivable signal (reset signal). By reading the level of the data signal with reference to the falling point of the strobe signal transmitted as a clock, 20 bits (D0, D1, D2, D3,..., D16, D17,
D18, D19) award ball cumulative value data (0 to 1048)
575).

Next, the prize ball data transmission processing performed by the game control device 22 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

This prize ball data transmission processing is performed by the first prize sensor 34 ₁ to the N-th prize sensor 34 _N and the count sensor 38.
It is determined whether or not the prize game value based on the input of the prize ball detection signal from the player is 5 prize balls (step S).
1) If five prize balls are found, 5 is added to the transmitted total value data, and the calculation result is stored in the transmission total data storage area (step S2). In this case, it is determined whether or not there are 15 prize balls (step S
3) In the case of 15 prize balls, 15 is added to the transmitted total value data, and the calculation result is stored in the transmission total value data storage area (step S4). If the prize game value is neither 5 prize balls nor 15 prize balls, it is determined that the prize balls to be awarded with prize balls have not been detected, and the prize ball data transmission processing is terminated as it is.

When the transmission total data is stored in the transmission total data storage area in step S2 or S4, the transmission total data is transmitted to the discharge control device 23 as the prize ball total data ( Step S
5) Then, the transmission cumulative value data stored in the transmission cumulative value data storage area is moved to the processed cumulative value data storage area (step S6). Thus, the storage contents of the processed accumulated value data storage area are updated.

Next, the prize ball discharge control processing performed by the discharge control device 23 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

First, it is determined whether or not the received cumulative value data is stored in the received cumulative value data storage area in accordance with the reception of the award ball cumulative value data from the game control device 22 (step S11). If there is no value data, the prize ball discharge control process is temporarily terminated.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S11 that there is received cumulative value data, the received cumulative value data in the received cumulative value data storage area is moved to the operation cumulative value data storage area, and the received cumulative value data is transferred. The accumulated data for calculation is used (step S12), and the operation data obtained by subtracting the processed accumulated data stored in the processed accumulated data storage area from the accumulated data for operation is stored in the operation data storage area (step S13). ).

It is determined whether the calculated data obtained as described above is positive (whether it is not a negative value) (step S14). If the calculated data is a positive value,
It is determined whether the calculated data is equal to or more than a predetermined number (for example, 46 or more as a numerical value exceeding 45) (step S15), and if less than the predetermined number, the count value of the abnormality counter is cleared (step S16). ), A prize ball discharging process for driving the first and second solenoids 55a and 55b of the ball discharging device 20 to perform a prize ball discharging operation corresponding to the calculation data is performed (step S17).

After the prize ball discharging process in step S17 is completed and the prize ball based on the total prize ball data received from the game control device is given to the player, the calculation data in the calculation data storage area is deleted. Clear (Step S1
8), the storage contents of the processed accumulated value data storage area are updated to the operation accumulated value data stored in the operation accumulated value data storage area, and the storage contents of the operation accumulated value data storage area are cleared (step S19). ).

On the other hand, if the operation data is determined to be positive in step S14, or if the operation data is determined to be a predetermined number or more in step S15, the operation data in the operation data storage area and the cumulative value for operation are stored. The calculation total value data in the data storage area and the reception total value data in the reception total value data storage area are cleared (step S20), and "1" is added to the count value of the abnormality counter (step S21).

Then, it is determined whether or not the count value of the abnormal counter is equal to or greater than "2" (step S22). If the count value of the abnormal counter is not yet smaller than "2", the prize ball discharge control processing is temporarily terminated. However, when the count value of the abnormality counter is equal to or more than “2”, the fact that an abnormal state has occurred is notified, and abnormal processing for interrupting the prize ball discharging operation is performed (step S23).

Next, the power-on process performed by the discharge control device 23 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

First, it is determined whether or not the power is turned on (step S31). If the power is not turned on, the power-on processing is terminated without any processing. Performs an initial setting process for clearing a storage area other than the calculation data storage area in the RAM 43 (a processed total value data storage area, a calculation total value data storage area, a reception total value data storage area, etc.) (step S32).

After performing the initial setting process in step S32, it is determined whether or not the operation data is stored in the operation data storage area (step S33), and the operation data is stored in the operation data storage area. If not, the power-on process is terminated as it is, but if the operation data is stored, it is determined that the power-off etc. has occurred in a state where the prize ball discharge control operation to be performed is incomplete, and is stored in the operation data storage area. A process of discharging a prize ball corresponding to the stored calculation data is performed (step S34). Note that, with the end of the prize ball discharging operation, the calculation data storage area is also cleared.

[0109]

As described above, according to the gaming machine of the first aspect, the award gaming value data specified by the occurrence of the gaming state to which the gaming value is to be assigned in the gaming machine and the transmitted total award gaming The transmission game value data obtained by adding the value data to the game value provision information to be transmitted from the game control device to the game value provision control device, and the game value provision control device receiving the game value provision information, The game value calculation / giving operation control means which stores the received cumulative prize game value data, which is the received game value providing information, as the cumulative prize game value data for calculation in the cumulative prize ball game value data storage means for calculation, By subtracting the processed accumulated prize game value data from the prize game value data, calculated prize game value data corresponding to the game value not yet given to the player is calculated. By controlling the operation of the game value providing device based on the calculated calculated prize game value data, it is assumed that the game value substantially equivalent to the prize game value data specified by the game control means is provided to the player. Therefore, even if a player is provided with a prize game value based on game value provision information temporarily converted into data due to noise or the like,
Thereafter, if the appropriate prize game value assignment information is transmitted from the game control device to the game value information assignment control means, the received accumulated prize game value data becomes the accumulated value of the appropriate prize game value. The game value data is used as the cumulative prize game value data for calculation, and the calculation prize game value which is the difference between the processed prize game value data obtained by the game value provision control means performing the process of providing the game value and the cumulative prize game value data for calculation. By giving the game value corresponding to the data to the player, the player becomes equal to the proper game value originally given, and inappropriate game value assignment information is transmitted due to temporary noise mixing or the like. Even if the wrong prize game value is assigned, the game value assignment control device thereafter corrects the prize game value assignment to the appropriate prize game value assignment based on the appropriate game value assignment information received. From Rukoto, it is possible to effectively avoid a malfunction related to the grant of the award game value.

In the gaming machine according to the second aspect,
The game value assignment information is converted into improper information due to noise mixed in a transmission path or the like for transmitting the game value assignment information from the game control device to the game value assignment control means, and the game value calculation / assignment operation control means has calculated. If the calculated prize game value data is abnormal data, the operation control of the game value providing device based on the abnormal data is not performed, so that the prize game value exceeding the value originally given by the player is given to the player. It will not be given, if the game value giving information transmitted from the game control device to the game value giving control means next time is correct and the calculated award game value data not exceeding a predetermined value is calculated,
Since the prize game value based on the calculated prize game value data equal to the total value of the previous prize game value and the current prize game value which has been excluded from the provision target as abnormal data will be provided to the player at one time, It is possible to prevent the player from being provided with a prize game value that is extremely large.

Further, in the gaming machine according to claim 3,
The game value assignment information is converted into improper information due to noise mixed in a transmission path or the like for transmitting the game value assignment information from the game control device to the game value assignment control means, and the game value calculation / assignment operation control means has calculated. If the calculated award game value data is a negative value, the operation control of the game value providing device is not performed as abnormal data, and the game value providing information transmitted from the game control device to the game value providing control means next time is not used. If it is appropriate, the award game value based on the calculated award game value data, which is equal to the sum of the previous award game value and the current award game value excluded from the awarding value as abnormal data, is provided to the player at once. Will be done.

Further, in the gaming machine according to claim 4,
Each time the calculation game value data calculated by the game value calculation / assignment control unit of the game value assignment control unit is determined to be abnormal data, the abnormal state is not notified, and the abnormal data determination is continued for a predetermined number of times. An abnormal state is notified only when there is a high probability that an act of intentionally transmitting game value-giving information is transmitted. It can be prevented from being notified, and can eliminate the complexity of having the game clerk frequently go to check the gaming machine, and interrupt the game with the gaming machine every time an abnormality occurs, causing trouble for the player Not even.

In the game machine according to claim 5,
The backup power supply means is provided, so that even if a power failure occurs during the operation of the game store and the power of the operating game machine is cut off, various storage means included in the game value assignment control device are provided. Will be backed up. In addition, backup power is supplied to the various storage units of the game value provision control device from backup power supply means provided outside the game value provision control device, so that the game value provision control device is detached from the gaming machine. In such a case, the stored contents of the storage means are not retained, so that it is impossible to perform an illegal act of removing the game value giving control device from the game machine and rewriting the game value giving information, which is suitable for fraud prevention.

In the game machine according to claim 6,
By providing the backup power supply means in the power supply device, the structure of the backup means can be simplified. In addition, there is an effect that the wiring around the power supply can be simplified.

In the game machine according to claim 7,
Even if a sudden power-off occurs before the gaming value is given to the player, which is the greatest concern for the player playing the game, when the gaming machine starts normally, the unprocessed calculation is performed. If the prize game value data remains in the calculated prize game value data storage means, the game value calculation / giving operation control means controls the operation of the game value providing apparatus based on the calculated prize game value data, so that the game value Since it is possible to suppress as much as possible the loss of the additional information and giving a disadvantage to the player, it is possible to effectively prevent the reliability of the player from being impaired.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a front view of a gaming machine.

FIG. 2 is a rear view of the gaming machine.

FIG. 3 is a schematic functional block diagram showing the relationship between various control devices in the gaming machine.

FIG. 4 is a schematic functional block diagram of input / output between a game control device and a discharge control device.

FIG. 5 is an image configuration diagram of a RAM included in the game control device.

FIG. 6 is a timing chart when the prize ball accumulated value data serially transmitted from the game control device to the discharge control device is read by the discharge control device.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing prize ball data transmission processing in the game control device.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a prize ball discharge control process in the discharge control device.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating power-on processing in the discharge control device.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Gaming machine 20 Ball discharge device 22 Game control device 23 Discharge control device 29 Power supply unit 30 Gaming microcomputer 30a CPU 30b ROM 30c RAM 41 CPU 42 ROM 43 RAM 56 Backup power supply means

Claims (7)

[Claims] 1. A game control device for controlling a game capable of giving a required game value to a player, a game value giving device for giving a game value to a player, and a game value giving transmitted from the game control device A game value providing control device that controls the operation of the game value providing device so as to provide a required game value based on the information to the player. A gaming machine comprising: Transmission of the cumulative value of the prize game value data, which is information on the game value provided as a prize to the player according to the game state of the game value provision target generated in the above, as the game value provision information to the game value provision control device. A transmitted cumulative prize game value data storage means for storing as the accumulated total prize game value data; and a prize game value data storage for storing the prize game value data specified according to the generated game state. Storage means, and transmitting the cumulative total prize game value data for transmission obtained by adding the prize game value data to the transmitted cumulative total prize game value data stored in the transmitted total cumulative prize game value data storage means. A game value assigning information transmission control means for storing the accumulated total prize game value data for transmission to the game value assigning control device as game value assigning information; The transmitted cumulative prize game value data transmitted to the control device, the transmitted cumulative prize game value data updating means for rewriting and updating the stored content of the transmitted cumulative prize game value data storage means, The control device performs a game value emission control process based on the game value assignment information transmitted from the game control device and assigns the game value to the player. Processed cumulative prize game value data storage means for storing the cumulative value of the value as processed cumulative prize game value data; and reception for storing the game value grant information transmitted from the game control device as the cumulative prize game value data. The cumulative total prize game value data storage means, and the cumulative total prize game value data stored in the received total prize game value data storage means are stored as the total prize game value data for calculation in the total prize game value data for calculation. The calculated award game value data calculated as the difference between the calculated cumulative award game value data and the processed total award game value data is stored in the calculated award game value data storage means, and the award game corresponding to the calculated award game value data is stored. A game value calculation / assignment operation control means for controlling the operation of the game value assignment device so as to assign a value to the player; Based on the completion of the processing of the required game value giving operation in the operation control of the game value giving device by the giving operation control means, the stored contents of the processed cumulative prize game value data storage means are stored in the accumulated prize game value data for calculation. A processing device for updating the accumulated total prize game value data by rewriting the accumulated total prize game value data for calculation stored in the storage means. 2. The game value calculation / assignment operation control means of the game value assignment control device, if the calculated award game value data is determined to exceed a predetermined value, the calculated award game value data. The game machine according to claim 1, wherein the operation control of the game value providing apparatus is not performed as abnormal data. 3. The game value calculating / giving operation control means of the game value giving control device, if the calculated calculated prize game value data is determined to be a negative value, the calculated prize game value data is abnormal. 3. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein operation control of the gaming value providing device is not performed as data. 4. The game value calculation / assignment operation control means of the game value assignment control device notifies the abnormal state when the calculated award game value data determined as abnormal data is continuously calculated a predetermined number of times. The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein the game is performed. 5. A backup power supply means capable of supplying a backup power supply for holding the storage contents of various storage means provided in the game value provision control device is provided outside the game value provision control device. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4. 6. A power supply device which receives power supplied from outside the gaming machine, generates required power, and supplies the power to each device, is provided with backup power supply means. A gaming machine according to claim 1. 7. The unprocessed calculated award game value data remaining in the calculated award game value data storage means of the game value providing control device when the power of the gaming machine body is cut off is held by the backup power supply. In this case, when the gaming machine is normally started, the game value calculating / giving operation control means controls the game value providing apparatus based on the unprocessed calculated award game value data remaining in the calculated award game value data storage means. The gaming machine according to claim 5, wherein operation control is performed.