JP2001046716A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine such as a pachinko machine capable of avoiding the occurrence of such a trouble as the deletion of delivery data caused by a power failure. SOLUTION: This pachinko machine is provided with a prize ball delivery device 41 delivering game balls to a player based on the prescribed command, a memory means capable of storing at least the data about the prescribed delivery command, and an error reporting means reporting the occurrence of a prescribed error. The data stored in the memory means can be erased based on the prescribed action of a reset switch 64, and the error report by the error reporting means can be released based on the prescribed action.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a game machine such as a pachinko machine.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, game machines (for example, pachinko machines)
Has a game board, and the game board is configured by attaching a cell board with various patterns and patterns to a wooden board. In such a game board, in addition to a large number of nails being planted, various attachment members called accessories are provided.

[0003] Among them, a character with a winning opening such as a symbol operating opening, a general winning opening, or a large winning opening of a variable winning device,
Since a predetermined prize ball is paid out by winning a prize in the winning opening of the game ball, it is also a role that the player pays most attention to.

In general, in a pachinko machine, game balls (winning balls) passing through each winning opening are derived from the gathering path on the back side of the pachinko machine so as to be arranged in one line, and finally, in a winning ball processing device. The balls are detected one by one in the leading order, and are discharged to the discharge unit.

More specifically, as shown in FIG. 8, a winning ball that has won a symbol operation port passes through a symbol operation port passage 72 provided on the back side of the game board 71, and the collective path 70, as shown in FIG.
It is derived toward. In addition, the winning ball that has won the general winning opening is led out toward the collective path 70 through the general winning opening passages 73 and 74. Further, the winning ball that has won the special winning opening of the variable winning device passes through the special winning opening passage 75 to the collecting path 7.
Derived toward zero.

A symbol operating port switch 76 is provided in the middle of the symbol operating port passage 72. When a winning ball passes through the switch 76, it is detected that the game ball has won the symbol operating port. Then, based on this detection, the control device performs a symbol change in a variable display device (not shown), and determines the occurrence of a big hit state. In addition, general winning opening switches 77 and 78 are provided in the general winning opening passages 73 and 74, and when a winning ball passes through the switches 77 and 78, the game ball wins the general winning opening. Is detected. Further, a special winning opening switch 79 and a V zone switch 80 are provided in the middle of the special winning opening passage, and when a winning ball passes through the switches 79 and 80, the game ball is moved to the special winning opening and the V zone. Is detected. Based on these detections, the number of winnings in the special winning opening is counted, or the winning in the V zone, which is the round continuation condition, is confirmed. The game board 71 may be provided with a passage gate. In this case, the passage gate switches 81 and 82 are provided corresponding to the passage gate. When the game balls pass through the switches 81 and 82, it is detected that the game balls have passed through the passage gate, and in response to this, the variable display on the ordinary symbol display device (not shown) is started.

[0007] The winning ball led out toward the collecting path 70 is guided to a winning ball processing device 90. A winning ball passage is provided inside the winning ball processing device 90, and a ball detection switch 91 is provided in the middle of the passage. Then, in the ball detection switch 91 in the winning ball processing device 90, the winning balls are detected one by one in the order of leading and are discharged to the discharging unit. Here, based on the signal from the ball detection switch 91, the control device outputs a control signal directly or indirectly to a premium ball dispensing device separately provided on the back side of the pachinko machine. Based on this control signal, the prize ball dispensing device is provided with a predetermined number (for example, 5 or 10 or 15).
Prize balls).

[0008] In this example, for all winning openings,
The case where the switches 76 to 80 are individually provided is introduced (this arrangement makes it possible to determine which gaming ball has won which winning opening, and this is effective, for example, for collecting data at the game arcade side). ). On the other hand, it is natural that a plurality of passages (for example, left and right general winning opening passages) are merged into one and the detection switch is shared.

[0009] By omitting the winning ball processing device described above, it is conceivable to reduce the cost of manufacturing a pachinko machine. That is, each of the switches 76 to
A predetermined number of payout data is created based on the detection of the winning of the game ball by 80, and the premium ball is paid out based on the data. With such a configuration, that is, by omitting the winning ball processing device, not only the cost can be reduced, but also the payout of the prize ball can be performed more quickly.

[0010]

However, in such a configuration, various inconveniences may occur due to a non-energized state (including a power failure state) from the main power supply. For example, if a power failure or the like occurs at the point in time when the payout of the prize balls has not been completed yet, since there is no prize ball processing device capable of mechanically storing the number of prize balls in the above configuration, the data relating to the payout is also erased. I will. Therefore, after the power outage is released (after re-energization),
Even if a player tries to compensate for a prize ball, a situation may occur in which the number of prize balls to be compensated is unknown. As a result, there is a possibility that a disadvantage may occur such that the player or, in some cases, the game arcade is disadvantaged.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and has as its object to provide a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine capable of avoiding various problems. .

[0012]

Means effective to achieve the above object will be described below. The operation and the like will be described as necessary.

Means 1. A game medium payout means for paying out a game medium to a player based on a predetermined instruction, a storage means capable of storing at least data relating to the predetermined instruction,
Error notifying means for notifying that a predetermined error has occurred, enabling data stored in the storage means to be erased based on a predetermined operation, and notifying the error by the error notifying means based on a predetermined operation A gaming machine characterized in that it can be released.

According to the above means, the game medium is paid out to the player by the game medium paying means based on a predetermined command. Further, at least data relating to the predetermined command may be stored by a storage unit. Further, the notifying unit notifies that a predetermined error has occurred. Now, in the above means, the data stored in the storage means can be deleted based on a predetermined operation. Further, the error notification by the notification means may be canceled based on a predetermined operation. For this reason, even if there is a case where power is not supplied, since at least the data relating to the predetermined command is stored, it is possible to pay out the game medium based on the data. Further, when the data is unnecessary, the data stored in the storage means can be appropriately deleted based on a predetermined operation being performed. Further, when the notification of the error becomes unnecessary, the error notification by the notification unit can be appropriately released based on a predetermined operation being performed.

Means 2. Game medium payout means for paying out game media to a player based on a predetermined command, and storage means capable of storing at least data relating to the predetermined command at least for a predetermined time even when the main power supply is not supplied,
A game machine having error notification means for notifying that a predetermined error has occurred, wherein the switching means for erasing data stored in the storage means based on a predetermined operation; and And a switching device for canceling the error notification by the error notification device based on the error notification device.

Means 3. In the means 2, the switching means for erasing the data stored in the storage means and the switching means for canceling the error notification by the error notification means are constituted by a common (and single) switch. A gaming machine characterized by that: According to the above means, by performing a predetermined operation on the common (and single) switch, the data stored in the storage means is deleted, or the error notification by the error notification means is canceled. Therefore, as compared with the case where a plurality of switches are provided, the space can be more effectively used, and the increase in cost can be suppressed. Further, when a plurality of switching means are provided, erroneous operation that can be caused by inadvertent operation of the switching means is easily prevented.

Means 4. In the means 2 or 3, an operation method of the switching means for erasing data stored in the storage means is different from an operation method of the switching means for canceling the error notification by the error notification means. A gaming machine characterized by the following.

Means 5. In any one of the means 2 to 4,
One of the operation of the switching unit for erasing the data stored in the storage unit and the operation of the switching unit for canceling the error notification by the error notification unit is based on the other operation. A gaming machine characterized by that:

Means 6 In the means 5, one of the operation of the switching means for erasing the data stored in the storage means and the operation of the switching means for canceling the error notification by the error notification means is continued with the other operation. A gaming machine characterized by being performed. According to the above means, the operation can be easily performed.

Means 7. Game medium payout means for paying out game media to a player based on a predetermined command, and storage means capable of storing at least data relating to the predetermined command at least for a predetermined time even when the main power supply is not supplied,
A game machine having error notification means for notifying that a predetermined error has occurred, wherein the data stored in the storage means is deleted based on a first operation, and the error is generated based on a second operation. A gaming machine provided with switching means capable of canceling error notification by the notification means.

Means 8. In the means 7, in the gaming machine, the first operation method and the second operation method are different.

Means 9 In the means 7 or 8, the first
A game machine characterized in that one of the second operation and the second operation is based on the other operation.

Means 10. In the means 9, the gaming machine is characterized in that one of the first operation and the second operation is performed continuously with the other operation.

Means 11. In any one of the means 1 to 10, based on a predetermined input signal, a control means for outputting a payout signal as the predetermined command to control the game medium payout means, and the control means A gaming machine comprising storage means.

Means 12. A gaming machine according to any one of the means 1 to 11, further comprising an operation information notifying unit (for example, a display unit) capable of notifying information regarding the operation.

Means 13. A game machine according to any one of the means 1 to 12, further comprising a spare power supply board capable of supplying power to the storage means when at least main power is not supplied.

Means 14. In the means 13, in the gaming machine, the spare power supply board is provided at a different portion from a main power supply board.

Means 15. In the means 13 or 14, the gaming machine is characterized in that the spare power supply board has a configuration capable of storing a main power supply voltage.

Means 16. The gaming machine according to any one of the means 1 to 15, wherein the error notifying means is configured to notify the error in a manner corresponding to the type of the error. According to the above means, the type of the error can be easily recognized, and the error can be promptly and reliably eliminated. Note that a plurality of types of the error notification means may be provided for each type of error, or a single notification means may be used to change the notification mode for each type.

Means 17. In the means (16), the error notification means is configured to, even if the error notification of one type is canceled, notify an error in a mode corresponding to the type of the other error when there is an error of another type. A gaming machine characterized by being. According to the above-described means, it is possible to appropriately cope with a case where a plurality of types of errors occur almost simultaneously.

Means 18. A gaming machine, wherein at least one of the units 1 to 17 is provided with an erasure state notifying unit capable of notifying that at least data stored in the storage unit is in an erased state or a state equivalent to the erased state. .
According to the above means, the presence of the erasure state notifying means makes it possible to grasp whether at least the data stored in the storage means is in the erasure state or a state equivalent to the erasure state. Appropriate measures can be taken.

Means 19. A game machine according to claim 18, wherein the erasure state notification means includes a single medium common to the error notification means. According to the above-mentioned means, it is possible to determine whether at least the data stored in the storage means is in an erased state or a state equivalent to the erased state and whether or not the error notification has been canceled by the error notification means. Becomes possible.

Means 20. In the means 19, the game machine is characterized in that the medium is a display medium that can be visually recognized.

Means 21. In the means 20, in the gaming machine, the display medium is provided near a portion where the predetermined operation is performed. According to the above means, the operation can be easily performed while watching the display medium.

Means 22. In any one of the means 19 to 22, the medium can be notified in a special mode when at least the data stored in the storage means is not in the erased state and the error notification is released. A gaming machine characterized by the following.

Means 23. A gaming machine according to any one of the means 1 to 22, further comprising an explanation display unit for explaining the content of the error notification by the error notification unit. According to the above means, it is possible to easily understand the content of the error notification and take an appropriate countermeasure for the error.

[0037]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Hereinafter, a pachinko game machine (hereinafter, referred to as a pachinko machine)
An embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

As shown in FIG. 1, a front frame 2 is mounted on the outer frame 1 so as to be rotatable about a rotation axis. In the figure, the front frame 2 is in a closed state. A game board 3 (see FIG. 2), a glass door frame 4 provided in front of the game board 3 and having a glass plate 4a, an upper plate 5, a lower plate 6, a handle 7, and the like are mounted on the front frame 2. ing. A speaker 8 is embedded on the side of the upper plate 5 and inside the front frame 2. The speaker 8 sounds various effect sounds as the game progresses, and notifies the player of the game state by voice. Various mechanisms are disposed inside the front frame 2.

Next, the configuration of the game board 3 on the game surface will be described. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the game board 3 is provided with an operation port unit 11 and a special winning opening unit 12. The operation port unit 11 includes an operation port 11a of a game ball B as a game medium and an operation gate 11b,
A blade 13 is supported at the entrance of the working port 11a so as to be openable and closable.

The special winning opening unit 12 includes a special winning opening 12a and a shutter 14. Shutter 14
Is operated by a special winning opening solenoid (not shown) provided on the side of the special winning opening 12a.
Open and close. More specifically, when the solenoid is excited, the shutter 14 is tilted substantially horizontally, thereby opening the special winning opening 12a. Further, when the solenoid is in the non-excited state, the shutter 14 is in a substantially vertical state, whereby the special winning opening 12a is closed.

Further, on the side of the gaming board 3, general winning opening units 15, 16, 17, 18 are provided. The general winning opening units 15 to 18 include the general winning opening 15a, 1
6a, 17a and 18a.

The central portion of the game board 3 (large winning opening unit 1)
2), a special symbol display device (hereinafter, simply referred to as “display device”) 19 constituting the variable display device is incorporated. The display device 19 is a liquid crystal display (LCD)
The display unit 19a includes a plurality of (for example, three) symbol columns. The symbol row is basically composed of a plurality of types of symbols. These symbols can be any of a jackpot symbol, a miss reach symbol, and a miss symbol as a special game symbol.

In the display section 19a of the display device 19, the symbol fluctuation (rotation fluctuation) of each symbol row is changed by the operation port 11a of the game ball B.
Will be started based on winning a prize. In addition, one of a big hit symbol, a missing reach symbol, and a missing symbol is selected, and this is set as a stop symbol. What is a stop symbol?
This is a symbol that is displayed when each symbol row stops symbol change.

The jackpot symbol is a symbol for generating a jackpot state advantageous to a player after passing through a so-called reach state. Specifically, when the fluctuation of all the symbol columns is stopped, the combination of the displayed symbols is a predetermined jackpot combination, that is, when the same type of symbols are arranged along the jackpot line. There may be a combination of the symbols (for example, the symbol of “7”, “7”, “7”). The symbol constituting this combination is a "big hit symbol". When the jackpot combination is established, the special electric accessory is activated (the big winning opening 12a is opened), and it becomes possible to obtain a jackpot state advantageous to the player, that is, to acquire more prize balls.

In the display device 19, the holding lamps 21a, 21b, 21c, 21d made of light emitting diodes (LEDs) are incorporated above the display section 19a.
The holding lamps 21a to 21d are basically provided with the operation port 11a.
The display is turned on each time a variable display based on winning is held, and is turned off with the execution of the variable display corresponding to the hold.

On the upper part of the display device 19, there is provided a 7-segment display section 22 composed of LEDs, which is an ordinary symbol display section. Further, pass gate units 23 and 24 having a pair of pass gates 23a and 24a are disposed on both left and right sides of the display device 22, respectively. Passage gate 23
The 7-segment display unit 22 operates based on the game ball B passing through the a and 24a. In the present embodiment, the 7-segment display unit 22 variably displays numbers from “0” to “9”. Then, based on the fact that the number stops at a predetermined value (“7” in the present embodiment), the operating port unit 1
One blade 13 is opened for a predetermined number of seconds. Due to this opening, it is relatively easy to win a prize in the operation port 11a. In the normal symbol display section, the number of times the game ball B has passed through the pass gates 23a and 24a can be stored up to four times, and the number of holds is displayed by four hold lamps (not shown).

Further, at the plurality of places of the game board 3, other objects such as various lamps for enhancing a game effect are attached (lamp windmills, corner decorations, etc.).

In the present embodiment, various detection switches are mounted on the game board 3 as prize ball detecting means in order to detect the game state of the pachinko machine which changes according to the operation of the player. More specifically, the operation gate 11b is provided with an operation gate switch 31. An operation port switch 32 is provided near the operation port 11a. In the present embodiment, the operating port switch 32
When the winning of the game ball B is detected at,
Five prize balls are paid out per winning.

In the vicinity of the special winning opening 12a, two special winning opening switches 33 and 34 are provided. A guide rail (not shown) having an inverted U shape is integrally formed on the inner surface of the shutter 14, and the winning rail that has won the large winning opening 12a is smoothly and promptly formed by the guide rail. Through the special winning opening switches 33 and 34. In the present embodiment, the special winning opening switches 33, 34
When the winning of the game ball B is detected at,
15 prize balls are paid out per winning.

Further, in the vicinity of the general winning openings 15a to 18a, general winning opening switches 35, 36, 37 and 38 are provided. In the present embodiment, when the winning of the game ball B is detected by the general winning opening switches 35 to 38, ten prize balls are paid out to the player per winning.

In addition, the passage gates 23 and 24 are provided with passage gate switches 39 and 40, respectively.

In this embodiment, these switches 31
By passing through 40, the game ball B passes through the operating gate 11b, wins the operating port 11a, wins the big winning opening 12a, or wins the general winning openings 15a to 18a, or passes through the passing gate 23.
a and 24a are detected. In the present embodiment, the drive control of the prize ball payout device 41 and the like is derived based on the detection results of the switches 32 to 38. The prize ball payout device 41 and the like include a pulse motor, and when the motor is driven, the prize balls (game balls B) stored in a tank or the like (not shown) pass through the payout passage and pass through the upper plate. 5 (or lower plate 6).

In this embodiment, the switches 31 to 31
A control device 50 is provided to drive and control various solenoids, the display device 19, each of the holding lamps 21a to 21d, various lamps, the speaker 8, and the like based on the detection results of the forty. The control device 50 directly outputs a payout signal to the motor of the prize ball payout device 41 and the like based on the detection signals of the switches 32 to 38 in addition to these drive controls. The motor of the prize ball payout device 41 and the like is drive-controlled at high speed or low speed based on the output signal.

As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the control device 50 in the present embodiment comprises a main board 51, a payout control board 52,
A special symbol display device board 53, a voice control board 54, a lamp control board 55, and a firing control board 56 are provided. A power switch board 5 to which a main power supply (power supply voltage) can be supplied is provided on an upper part of a mechanism board provided on the back side of the game board 3.
1, and a power distribution board 62 for appropriately distributing power from the power switch board 61 is provided below the mechanism panel. The main board 51
Is provided below the display device 19 on the rear side of the mechanism panel. The payout control board 52 is provided on the side of the main board 61. In addition, above the payout control board 52, the prize ball payout device 41 described above is provided.
And a ball-for-payout device (device for lending the game ball B to the player based on coin insertion or purchase operation) 42 are provided in parallel. The power supply voltage distributed from the power distribution board 62 is applied (supplied) to the main board 51 and the payout control board 52, respectively. Along with this, the special symbol display device board 53, the voice control board 5
The power supply voltage from the main board 51 is supplied to the lamp control board 4 and the lamp control board 55, respectively. Further, the launch control board 56
Is supplied with a power supply voltage from the payout control board 52. The premium ball payout device 41 (and the ball rental device 42) is driven and controlled based on an output signal from the payout control board 52. The various substrates including the main substrate 51 and the payout control substrate 52 each include a read-only memory (ROM), a central processing unit (CPU), a random access memory (RAM), a backup RAM, and the like. The ROM previously stores a predetermined control program and initial data.
Various arithmetic processes are executed in accordance with an OM control program or the like. Further, the RAM temporarily stores various data such as a calculation result by the CPU, and the backup RAM stores various data in a preliminary manner in case of power failure or the like.

The power distribution board 62 is provided with a backup power supply means composed of a capacitor, and the backup power supply means includes a backup RA of the payout control board 52.
A predetermined power supply voltage can be supplied to M for a predetermined time. That is, the power switch board 6
While the power is supplied from the power supply 1, the power distribution board 62 can store power. When the power is turned off due to a power failure or the like, the payout data is written (stored) in the backup RAM, and the power is supplied from the power distribution board 62 to the backup RAM.
Is stored.

The payout control board 52 is provided with a state display section 63 for displaying a state. The status display section 63 can display that various errors have occurred, that the pachinko machine is in an initial state, and the like. More specifically, the status display unit 63 can display various numerical values, characters, and the like in segments. When the pachinko machine is in the initial state, that is, when no error is displayed and there is no payout data in the backup RAM, the state display section 63 displays "0" ( FIG. 5 (a)). If the prize ball dispensing device 41 or the like is provided with some kind of error (for example, a clogged ball near the motor, a failure of the motor, or a dispensing count switch (for counting the actual number of dispensed)), the failure of the count switch Or clogging of the ball near the count switch),
The status display unit 63 is configured to display various types of errors,
For example, characters such as “A”, “C”, “H”, “2”, and “6”, numbers, and the like are displayed (see FIG. 5C). Further, when the error display is canceled and there is payout data in the backup RAM, the status display unit 6
No. 3 sequentially displays the rotation fluctuation so that the segments draw a ring one by one (see FIG. 5B).

Further, a reset switch 64 and a ball removal switch 65 are provided near the status display section 63. Here, the reset switch 64 is used to release the above-described error display, release the payout data stored in the backup RAM, and perform various types of release and the like by an operator's pressing operation. It has become. That is, when the reset switch 64 is continuously pressed for the first predetermined time T1 (for example, 2 seconds), the above-described error display is canceled. Further, when the reset switch 64 is continuously pressed for a second predetermined time T2 (for a further 3 seconds, for a total of 5 seconds, for example), the release of the payout data stored in the backup RAM is performed. The initialization display of the status display unit 63 is performed. The ball removal switch 65 is a switch for removing the game ball B in the payout passage for inspection or the like.

Next, the operation and effect of the present embodiment will be described based on the contents of processing related to payout control executed by the control device 50.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a “state display section display routine” executed by the CPU of the control device 50, particularly, the CPU of the payout control board 52. This routine is a routine for appropriately switching and displaying the status display section 63 when an error occurs, when backup data is stored in the backup RAM, and the like, and is executed at predetermined time intervals. When the process proceeds to this routine, the CPU first executes a reset display routine in step S101. In the reset display routine, when the backup flag described later is set to “0” and the error display flag described later is set to “0”, the status display unit 63
Is set to “0”.

Next, the CPU proceeds to the next step S10.
At 2, the backup display routine is executed. In the backup display routine, when the backup flag is set to “1” and the error display flag is set to “0”, the above-described rotation fluctuation display (see FIG. (See 5 (b))
I do.

Subsequently, the CPU proceeds to step S103.
, An error display routine is executed. In the error display routine, when the error display flag is set to “1” regardless of the backup flag, a display corresponding to the type of the error display flag is made (see FIG. 5C). I do. In the present embodiment, a plurality of types of error display flags are prepared, and when any error occurs in the prize ball payout device 41 or the like (including the payout path), an error display corresponding to the type of the error is made. The flag is set to "1" (if there is no error, the error display flag is set to "0").

As described above, in the state display section 63,
Depending on the state at that time (backup flag or error display flag), segment display corresponding to the state is appropriately performed.

Next, a description will be given of the processing contents when the reset switch 64 is pressed by the operator. FIG. 7 shows a “reset routine” executed by the CPU of the control device 50, in particular, the CPU of the payout control board 52.
It is a flowchart which shows. This routine is executed at predetermined time intervals mainly in consideration of a case where an error has occurred or a case where backup data remains in the backup RAM. When the process proceeds to this routine, the CPU first determines in step S201 whether or not the reset switch 64 has been pressed (turned on). Then, when a negative determination is made, the subsequent processing is temporarily terminated without executing any processing. Therefore, for example, when an error display is displayed on the status display unit 63, the error display is not canceled unless the reset switch 64 is turned on.

If, on the other hand, an affirmative decision is made in step S201, the operation proceeds to step S202. In step S202, the CPU determines whether or not a reset display, that is, “0” is displayed on the current state display unit 63. Then, when the reset display is displayed on the status display unit 63, it is determined that the above-described ON operation is insignificant, and the subsequent processing is temporarily terminated.

If a negative determination is made in step S202, that is, if a display other than the reset display is currently being displayed on the status display unit 63 (if an error display or backup display is being performed), the process proceeds to step S202. S2
Shift to 03, and start the timer count. Further, in the next step S204, it is determined whether or not the reset switch 64 is in the off state (the pressing operation has been released) at the present time. If the reset switch 64 is in the off state at this time, the subsequent operation is temporarily terminated on the assumption that the operator has not turned on the operation.

On the other hand, if the reset switch 64 is still in the ON state, it is determined in step S205 whether the ON state has been continued for a first predetermined time T1 or more from the start of the timer count. And still the first
If the predetermined time T1 has not elapsed, the process returns to step S204. Also, from the start of timer counting,
If the ON state has been continued for the predetermined time T1 or more, the process proceeds to step S206. Step S206
In, the CPU sets the error flag to be displayed on the status display unit 63 to “0”. For example, if the predetermined error flag has been set to “1” until then, it is set to “0” at least temporarily in the process.

However, at this time, if the error state has not been actually cleared (for example, if the ball clogging has occurred in a predetermined portion and the ball clogging has not been resolved), the error state is re-started. The predetermined error flag is set to “1”, and the error is displayed again in a mode corresponding to the error flag (see step S103).

If the error state has actually been canceled at this point, the error flag is set to "0", so that the state display section 63 displays another message. . That is, when the backup flag is set to “1” due to the existence of the backup data, the rotation display of the segment is performed on the status display unit 63, and the backup flag is set to “No” without the backup data. If it is set to "0", "0" will be displayed on the status display section 63.

After executing the processing in step S206, the CPU determines in next step S207 whether or not the reset switch 64 is off (the pressing operation has been released) at the present time. . And
If the reset switch 64 is turned off at this time, the operator does not request that the data stored in the backup RAM be erased, and temporarily terminates the subsequent processing.

On the other hand, if the reset switch 64 is still in the ON state, it is determined in step S208 whether the ON state has been continued for a second predetermined time T2 or more from the start of the timer count. And still the second
If the predetermined time T2 has not elapsed, the process returns to step S207. Also, the second from the start of the timer count
If the ON state has been continued for the predetermined time T2 or more, the process proceeds to step S209. Step S209
In, the CPU sets the backup flag to “0”. So, for example, until then backup RAM
If the backup data remains and the backup flag is set to “1”, it is set to “0” in the process. Then, by setting the backup flag to “0”, “0” is displayed on the status display unit 63 unless the error flag is set to “1” separately ( Steps S101 to S103).

Then, in a succeeding step S210, the CPU actually deletes the data stored in the backup RAM, and temporarily ends the subsequent processing. As described above, in the “reset routine”, the backup flag and the error flag are appropriately reset to “0” or the backup data is deleted based on the operation of the reset switch 64 by the operator. Then, based on the reset flag, the display mode of the status display unit 63 is appropriately switched. Note that the order of the processing in step S209 and the processing in step S210 may be reversed.

As described in detail above, according to the present embodiment, the various switches 32 to 38 issue the command to execute the payout of the premium ball based on the detection that the game ball B has won each winning opening. Derive. More specifically, various switches 32 to 38 can be used without passing through a conventionally provided prize ball processing device.
As soon as it is detected that the game ball B has been won, a command to execute payout of the prize ball is output, and the payout of the prize ball is performed immediately. As a result, the delay of paying out the premium ball can be eliminated, and various problems due to the delay can be prevented.

Further, according to the present embodiment, the backup data on the payout command is stored in the backup RAM of the payout control board 52. For this reason, even if power is not supplied to the power switch board 61 due to, for example, a power failure, the backup data is stored. Therefore, at least after the power is supplied again, the payout of the game balls B based on the data is performed. It can be performed. As a result, it is possible to prevent disadvantages for the player or the game arcade.

Further, in this embodiment, the status display section 6
At 3, it is displayed that a predetermined error has occurred. Therefore, the operator who has grasped the error display,
The error state can be eliminated based on the display. Further, this error display can be released by turning on the reset switch 64 for 2 seconds or more after the error is eliminated. At the same time, in the present embodiment, when the backup data is useless,
The data stored in the backup RAM is appropriately erased based on the ON operation for more than one second. From these facts, when any error occurs, even if the operator presses the reset switch unnecessarily, the error display is not canceled by only that. Therefore, it is possible to suppress a problem that required data is erased by a random pressing operation.

Also, for example, a shipment test (game ball B
Prize, and a test to see if the prize ball is properly paid out) is performed, then the power is turned off, shipped to the amusement arcade, and if the power is turned on again, the backup data will be If it remains, a prize ball may be suddenly paid out based on the backup data. In contrast, in the present embodiment,
Since the backup data can be erased by turning on the reset switch 64 for 5 seconds or more, performing the above operation after the shipping test surely suppresses the above-described problem.

Further, in the present embodiment, the backup data is not erased unless the reset switch 64 is turned on for more than 5 seconds, so that a person related to the game arcade presses the reset switch 64 indiscriminately. Necessary backup data is not erased. As a result, it is possible to suppress problems caused by erasing necessary data.

In addition, in the present embodiment, canceling the error display, canceling the backup display,
Erasing the backup data is covered by one reset switch 64. For this reason, an increase in cost due to the provision of a plurality of switches can be suppressed, and the space can be effectively used.

In the present embodiment, the operation of the reset switch 64 is different between the case where the error display is canceled and the case where the backup display is canceled and the backup data is erased. For this reason, it is not possible to eliminate both at once, and as a result, it is possible to avoid the occurrence of a problem due to simultaneous erasure or the like.

Further, in this embodiment, the operation of canceling the backup display and erasing the backup data is as follows.
It is assumed that an operation for canceling the error display is performed. Therefore, the operation order can be easily remembered, and the operability can be improved. Moreover, since the operation of canceling the backup display and erasing the backup data is performed continuously to the operation of canceling the error display, the operability can be further improved, and
Operation time can be reduced.

In addition, in the present embodiment, the status display section 63 for displaying information related to an error (error information and error release information) and backup information (information indicating that backup is present and release information) is provided. For this reason, by visually recognizing the display unit 63, the operator can instantly grasp the status of the backup data and whether or not the error display is canceled. As a result, an erroneous operation is less likely to be performed, and a malfunction based on the erroneous operation can be prevented. In particular, in the present embodiment, since the state display unit 63 is provided near the reset switch 64, it is possible to more reliably grasp and operate. Further, since the information can be grasped by one state display unit 63, it is possible to further effectively utilize the space and suppress an increase in cost.

In this embodiment, the status display unit 6
3 is configured to be displayed in a manner corresponding to the type of error, so that the type of error can be easily recognized, and the error can be promptly and reliably eliminated. Further, even if the error display of one type is canceled, if there is an error of the same one or another type again, the error is displayed in a mode corresponding to the type of the error. Therefore, it is possible to take appropriate measures even when a plurality of or the same type of errors occur almost at the same time.

Further, in the present embodiment, the status display section 63 can display in a special manner (rotational fluctuation) when the backup data is not in the erased state and the error display is canceled. Has become. Therefore, it can be easily distinguished from the case where another display mode is performed, and more appropriate measures can be taken.

In this embodiment, the various switches 31 to 40 provided on the game board 3 allow the game ball B to pass through the operation gate 11b, win the operation port 11a, win the large winning opening 12a, Alternatively, a prize in the general prize openings 15a to 18a, a passage through the passage gates 23a, 24a, and the like are detected. Therefore, the fact of winning or passing can be confirmed.
In particular, in the present embodiment, each of the switches 31 to 40 is provided for every winning port (including a passing gate and the like). For this reason, it is possible to determine at which timing the gaming ball B has won the winning opening and at which timing, and this is very effective, for example, for collecting data at the game hall side.

Incidentally, the present invention is not limited to the contents described in the above embodiment, but may be implemented as follows, for example.

(A) In the above embodiment, the pachinko machine of the type having the prize ball payout device 41 and the ball rental payout device 42 has been embodied. Pachinko machine.

(B) In the above embodiment, the various switches 31 to 40 allow the game ball B to pass through the operation gate 11b, win the operation opening 11a, win the large winning opening 12a, or win the general winning opening 12a or the general winning opening 15a. A prize in 18a, passage through the passage gates 23a, 24a, and the like are detected. On the other hand, a plurality of paths (for example, left and right general winning opening paths) may be merged into one, and the detection switch may be shared.

(C) In the above embodiment, the status display unit 6
In 3, the presence / absence of backup data is displayed, but not only the presence / absence of data but also the content of the data (for example, the number of prize balls to be paid out, the number of winnings, etc.) can be displayed. Is also good.

(D) Although not specifically mentioned in the above-described embodiment, a storage means (for example, a conventional prize ball processing device or a device similar thereto) which can separately memorize data relating to payout may be provided. No problem.

(E) In the above embodiment, the status display section 6
In 3, various error types can also be notified, but the configuration may be such that the types are not displayed.
That is, a configuration may be adopted in which “comprehensive error display” is uniquely performed for any error.

(F) In the above embodiment, the error information and the like are displayed in segments on the status display unit 63. However, a device that displays the error information by a separate display method (for example, a lamp or a liquid crystal display) is used. May be used. Further, the state display unit may be provided on a side (a front side or the like) that can be visually recognized by a player.

(G) As a notification method, notification using sound or the like may be performed in addition to display.

(H) In the above embodiment, the reset switch 64 is provided on the payout control board 52. However, other parts (for example, another board, the front side of a pachinko machine, or an illegally difficult machine) Hidden parts).

(I) In the above embodiment, the power distribution board 62 is provided, but the board may be omitted.

(J) In the working port unit 11, a working port having no blade 13 may be employed.

(K) A pachinko machine having another accessory (for example, a special electric accessory with open wings, a rotating body, a crow, etc.) other than the accessory described in the above embodiment can also be embodied. In addition, some of the above-mentioned accessories may be omitted.

(L) The present invention can be applied to a pachinko machine or the like of a type different from the above-described embodiment. For example, the pachinko machine may be implemented as a pachinko machine that enters a special game state on condition that a game ball is won in a predetermined area after a big hit symbol is displayed. Further, the present invention can also be applied to a pachinko machine without the display device 19 (for example, a machine called a Hikoki type). In addition to pachinko machines,
It can also be implemented as various game machines such as sparrow balls and slot machines. In the slot machine, for example, a symbol is changed by operating an operation lever in a state where a symbol is inserted and a symbol valid line is determined, and the symbol is stopped and determined by operating a stop button or the like. belongs to. Therefore, as a basic concept of the slot machine, a symbol display means for displaying a fixed symbol after variably displaying a symbol row composed of a plurality of symbols is provided. The fluctuation is started, and the fluctuation of the symbol is stopped due to the operation of the stop operation means (for example, the stop button) or by the lapse of a predetermined time. A slot machine provided with a special game state generating means for generating a special game state advantageous to the player.

(M) In the above-described embodiment, the backup display is released and the backup data is erased by first continuing the on operation after the error display is released first. Alternatively, the relationship between the two may be reversed. That is, the error display may be canceled by continuing the ON operation after the backup display is first canceled and the backup data is erased.

(N) The numerical values relating to the payout number (“5”, “10”, or “15”) of prize balls in the above embodiment are merely examples, and are not limited to the above numerical values. Absent. Therefore, for example, “6”, “7”
"11""12""13""14""16"
A numerical value such as "pieces" or more (for example, "25 pieces") can be adopted.

(O) In the above embodiment, the error display is canceled by turning on the reset switch 64 for 2 seconds or more, and at the same time, the reset switch 64 is turned on for 5 seconds or more. And the display is reset. That is, by using one reset switch 64 and making the operation time different, various types of release and the like are performed. On the other hand, the pressing operation method may be changed. For example, one is released by one pressing operation,
The other may be configured to be released by two (multiple) pressing operations.

(P) Further, a switch of another type different from the above embodiment may be used. For example, a single switch may be a switch provided with a plurality of operated parts (pressing parts). When such a switch is used, a configuration may be such that one end is released by pressing one end, and the other is released by pressing the other end. Alternatively, the object to be released or the like may be changed by changing the switch direction using a switch such as a lever switch. Furthermore, a configuration may be used in which a button switch is used, and an object to be released or the like is switched according to the immersive state of the button switch at that time. For example, the error display is released by the first pressing operation, the degree of immersion of the button becomes medium, and then the data is released and erased by the second pressing operation. May be configured to cancel the immersion of the information. In addition, a configuration may be employed in which operation can be performed by using a channel type switch depending on the degree of rotation. Further, the configuration may be such that an error or a backup can be released only by performing a key operation or an ID input. That is, a switching mechanism (switch) lock mechanism may be provided.

(Q) In the above embodiment, one switch is used, but two or more switches may be provided. In such a case, each switch is operated in response to each release or the like. In this case, the operation method of each switch may be the same or different. Further, the operation may be enabled by involving a plurality of switch operations.
Further, a plurality of switches corresponding to backup data erasing and backup display canceling may be provided.
Further, even in the case of one switch, there may be a plurality of operation modes for backup data erasing and backup display canceling.

(R) A display unit for explaining the operation method may be provided.

(S) A display unit for explaining the type of error and the method of canceling the error may be provided.

(T) The backup RAM may be volatile or non-volatile.

(U) The payout data stored in the backup RAM may be the number of prize balls to be paid out, or the number of prize balls (appropriate if the number of prize balls is multiplied by the number of prize balls per prize). May be paid out).

(V) Two (plural) backup RAMs (storage means) may be provided (for normal use, for power outage, etc.).

[0107]

As described in detail above, according to the present invention,
In a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine, there is an excellent effect that various troubles can be avoided.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a pachinko machine according to one embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a front view showing a game board and the like of the pachinko machine.

FIG. 3 is a kind of block diagram showing a flow of power supply to a control device and the like;

FIG. 4 is a rear view of the pachinko machine for explaining various substrates.

5A is a diagram showing a status display unit in a reset state, FIG. 5B is a diagram showing a status display unit in an error display release state and a backup data remaining state, and FIG. It is a figure showing a state display part in a corresponding error display state.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a “status display section display routine” executed by the CPU.

FIG. 7 shows a “reset routine” executed by the CPU.
It is a flowchart which shows.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the back side of a game board in the prior art.

[Explanation of symbols]

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 3 ... Game board, 41 ... Premium ball payout apparatus, 42 ... Ball payout apparatus, 50 ... Control device, 51 ... Main board, 52 ... Payout control board, 61 ... Power switch board, 62 ... Power supply board, 6
3 ... Status display section, 64 ... Reset switch.

 ────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continuing on the front page (72) Inventor Tetsuya Kato 7-49 Haruoka-dori, Chigusa-ku, Nagoya-shi, Aichi F-term (reference) 2C088 BA32 BC06 BC21 BC58 DA09

Claims (1)

[Claims] 1. A game medium payout unit for paying out a game medium to a player based on a predetermined command, a storage unit capable of storing at least data relating to the predetermined command, and notifying that a predetermined error has occurred. Error notification means, wherein the data stored in the storage means can be deleted based on a predetermined operation, and the error notification by the error notification means can be canceled based on a predetermined operation. Gaming machine.