JP2003290445A - Game machine, program and transaction medium - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a pachinko machine capable of exactly detecting a game ball which has passed a ball path resulting in a winning ball unit. <P>SOLUTION: Three respective winning ball payout sensors 208a-208c, 209a-209c for each of ball paths 204a, 204b are arranged within a winning ball unit 62. When the respective winning ball payout sensors detect game balls for each of the ball paths by the majority of those sensors, one game ball is determined to have passed one of the ball paths. Accordingly, when one winning ball payout sensor malfunctions in its normal detection operation, the passage of the game ball through the ball paths can exactly be detected based on the normal detection operation by the remaining two winning ball payout sensors. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a game machine, a program and a recording medium, for example, a pachinko machine, a program for causing a computer system to function so as to realize the pachinko machine, and a computer in which the program is recorded. The present invention relates to a readable recording medium.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art A conventional pachinko machine has a winning ball detection switch (hereinafter referred to as a winning ball detection switch for detecting a game ball (game medium) that has won in a winning area (for example, a winning opening or a winning device) set on a game board surface. , "Winning ball SW") is provided for each winning area. These prize balls SW are
It is electrically connected to the main board via the board relay board, and the detection signal output from the SW can be input to the main board. The main board receives the detection signal from each winning ball SW, and the number of game balls corresponding to the winning ball SW from which the detection signal is output (that is, the number corresponding to the winning area) is a winning ball (prize medium). As a result, the payout control system including the payout control board and the prize ball unit is controlled so that the payout is paid out to the player.

In this payout control system, the number of prize balls corresponding to each winning area is stored in advance in the ROM mounted on the main board. Then, the main board regularly monitors whether or not the detection signal of the winning ball SW is input, and when the detection signal of the winning ball SW is input, it is based on the signal line (connection pin) from which the detection signal is output. And the winning ball S that has output the detection signal
The number of prize balls corresponding to W (winning area) is read from the stored contents of the ROM, and a prize ball payout command corresponding to the read number of prize balls is output to the payout control board. On the other hand, the payout control board periodically monitors whether or not a prize ball payout command is input, and when the prize ball payout command is input, the prize ball payout command is analyzed by referring to the stored contents of the ROM. , The number of prize balls corresponding to the prize ball payout command is obtained.

By the way, a prize ball unit is electrically connected to the payout control board through a sensor relay board.
The prize ball unit includes a prize ball payout motor that rotationally drives a drive shaft according to a drive signal output from the payout control board, a spiral delivery member that is rotationally controlled by the prize ball payout motor, and a delivery member thereof. It is composed of two sphere passages rotatably arranged on the way, and a housing in which the motor, the sending member, and the sphere passage are provided inside, and a sphere inlet and a sphere outlet of each sphere passage are formed. Has been done. Two ball passing paths are provided for the purpose of efficiently paying out prize balls.

The payout control board generates a drive signal based on the prize ball payout command, and outputs the drive signal to the prize ball payout motor of the prize ball unit. Then, the prize ball payout motor rotates the sending member to discharge the game balls corresponding to the prize ball payout command from the respective ball outlets, thereby paying out from the prize ball unit. By the way, in the prize ball unit, a prize ball payout sensor for detecting a game ball discharged from the ball exit of the ball passage path is provided for each two ball passage paths.
They are provided individually. Here, the prize ball payout sensor is electrically connected to the payout control board via the sensor relay board and to the main board via the sensor relay board and the game frame relay board. Then, the prize ball payout sensor outputs a detection signal of the game ball to the payout control board and the main board every time one game ball passes through the ball passing path.

The main board detects the total number of game balls paid out from the prize ball unit (hereinafter referred to as "paid prize ball number") based on the detection signal output from each prize ball payout sensor. . Next, the main board compares the number of paid award balls with the number of award balls to be paid out from the award ball unit as an award ball based on the award ball payout command (hereinafter referred to as “award-determined award ball number”). Based on the comparison result, it is determined whether the number of prize balls paid out is too large or too small. When the number of prize balls is too large or too small, the main board informs that fact (for example, the prize ball abnormality notification LED provided on the game board is turned on).

[0007]

By the way, in the conventional pachinko machine, as described above, one prize-ball payout sensor is provided for each of the two ball passage paths. This award ball payout sensor is, for example, an optical sensor that detects a game ball based on the fact that the projection light projected from the light emitting element to the light receiving element is blocked by the game ball, or that a game ball that is a steel ball has passed. It is composed of a galvanic device or the like that detects electromagnetic waves using electromagnetic induction. However, noise from the outside is applied to the detection signal of the prize ball payout sensor, or abnormality occurs in the prize ball payout sensor due to heat or vibration of the prize ball payout motor or the sending member, and thus normal detection of the prize ball payout sensor There was a risk that the operation would be hindered. When the normal detection operation of the prize ball payout sensor is hindered, the player is disadvantaged or should be paid out because the number of prize balls less than the number of prize balls to be originally paid out is paid out. There is a problem in that the number of prize balls that are larger than the number of prize balls is paid out, and the pachinko hall (game shop) suffers a disadvantage.

The winning ball detection switch is also composed of an optical sensor, a galvanic device, etc., like the winning ball payout sensor. If external noise is applied to the detection signal of the winning ball detecting sensor, the normal detecting operation of the winning ball detecting sensor may be hindered. And even if the normal detection operation of the winning ball detection switch is disturbed,
The player suffers a disadvantage that only a smaller number of prize balls than the originally expected prize balls are paid out,
There is a problem that a number of prize balls that are larger than the number of prize balls that should be originally paid out are paid out and the pachinko hall suffers a disadvantage.

Further, the conventional pachinko machine is provided with a ball rental unit for lending a game ball as a ball rental ball, and a ball rental dispensing sensor for detecting a game ball loaned from the ball rental unit. One unit is provided on the ball passage path of the unit. Like the prize ball payout sensor, this ball payout sensor is also composed of an optical sensor, a galvanometer, etc. When external noise is applied to the detection signal of the ball payout sensor, the ball payout sensor is paid out. The normal detection operation of the sensor may be hindered. Then, if the normal detection operation of the ball lending sensor is hindered, the number of game balls that is less than the number that should be originally lent is lent and the player suffers a disadvantage, or the number that is originally lent is less than the number that should be lent. There is a problem that a large number of game balls are lent out and the pachinko hall suffers a disadvantage.

Therefore, in order to avoid such a problem,
Number of game balls (number of game balls paid out from the prize ball unit) that have passed through the game ball passage path (ball passage path of the prize ball unit, ball passage path of the ball rental unit, winning area, etc.) provided in the gaming machine , The number of game balls won in the winning area, the number of game balls lent from the ball rental unit, etc.)
There is a demand for a gaming machine capable of accurately detecting the.

The present invention has been made to satisfy the above requirements, and has the following objects. (1) To provide a game machine capable of accurately detecting a game medium that has passed through a passage route. (2) A program for causing a computer system to function so as to realize the gaming machine of (1) is provided. (3) To provide a computer-readable recording medium in which a program for causing a computer system to function to realize the gaming machine of (1) is recorded.

[0012]

[Means / Actions for Solving the Problems and Effects of the Invention]
(Claim 1) The invention according to claim 1 made in order to achieve the object, a detecting means for detecting a game medium, and a plurality of the detecting means are provided at the same position in the path through which the game medium passes. And the determination means for determining that the game medium has passed through the route based on the detection results of the plurality of detection means. Therefore, according to the invention described in claim 1, even when some normal detection operations of the plurality of detection means are disturbed, based on the normal detection operations of the remaining detection means,
It is possible to accurately detect that the game medium has passed through the path. It should be noted that as the number of detecting means is increased, the accuracy of detecting the game medium passing through the route can be increased.
Further, since the plurality of detecting means are provided at the same position on the path through which the game medium passes, the game media passing through the path are simultaneously detected by the respective detecting means. Therefore, the time required for the determination by the determination means is shortened, and it is possible to quickly detect that the game medium has passed through the route. Further, since the respective detecting means are provided at the same position on the path, the entire detecting means can be downsized.

(Claim 2) By the way, as in the invention according to claim 2, in the gaming machine according to claim 1, the determination means is a detection means of more than a majority of the plurality of detection means. When the game medium is detected, it may be determined that the game medium has passed through the route. (Claim 3) Further, as in the invention according to claim 3, in the gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2, the detection means may be provided in an odd number. With this configuration, it is possible to facilitate the determination of the majority, particularly in the invention according to claim 2.

(Claim 4) Further, as in the invention according to claim 4, in the gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, the detection means includes a light emitting element and a light receiving element. The game medium is detected based on the fact that the projection light projected from the light emitting element to the light receiving element is blocked by the game medium,
The projection light projected from the light emitting elements of the plurality of detection means may intersect at one point in the path.

(Claim 5) Next, the invention according to claim 5 is, in the gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, provided with a payout means for paying out a game medium as a prize medium.
The gist of the detecting means is that it is provided in a passage path of the game medium paid out from the payout means.
Therefore, according to the invention described in claim 5, it is possible to accurately detect the game medium paid out from the payout means.

(Claim 6) Next, the invention according to claim 6 is the gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising: lending means for lending a game medium, wherein the detecting means is provided. The gist is that it is provided in the passage route of the game medium lent from the lending means. Therefore, according to the invention described in claim 6, it is possible to accurately detect the game medium rented out from the renting means.

(Claim 7) Next, the invention according to claim 7 is the gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the detection means is in a winning area in which a game medium wins. The gist is to detect a game medium that is provided and passes through the winning area. Therefore, according to the invention described in claim 7, it is possible to accurately detect the game medium that has won the winning area.

(Claim 8) Next, the invention according to claim 8 provides a program for causing a computer system to function as each of the means in the gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 7. To do. That is, the function for realizing each of the means in the gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 7 can be provided as a program executed by a computer system.

(Claim 9) Next, the invention according to claim 9 records a program for causing a computer system to function as each of the means in the gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 7. Computer-readable recording medium. In the case of such a program, for example, the ROM or the backup RAM may be recorded as a computer-readable recording medium, and the ROM or the backup RAM may be incorporated into a computer system for use. In addition, semiconductor memory (smart media, memory stick, etc.), hard disk, flexible disk, data card (IC card, magnetic card, etc.), optical disk (CD-ROM, CD-R, CD)
-RW, DVD, etc., magneto-optical disk (MO, etc.),
The program is recorded in a computer-readable recording medium such as a phase change disk or a magnetic tape,
The program may be used by loading it into a computer system and activating it as necessary.

The constituent elements described in [Claims] and [Means for Solving the Problems and Effects of the Invention] and the constituent members described in [Embodiment of the Invention] described later The correspondence is as follows.
The “gaming machine” corresponds to the first type pachinko machine 10. The “game medium” corresponds to a game ball. The “prize medium” corresponds to a prize ball. The "detection means" is the prize-ball payout sensor 208a-.
208c, 209a to 209c, 220a to 220c,
221a to 221c, or each switch 24c, 27
a, 29c, 31a, 41b, 43a. The “path” corresponds to the ball passing paths 204a and 204b.
The “determination means” corresponds to the prize ball payout confirmation processing (S200) executed by the main CPU 112 of the main board 100.

The "payout means" corresponds to the prize ball unit 62 and the prize ball payout process (S920) executed by the sub CPU 212 of the payout control board 200. The “lending means” is the ball lending unit 63 and the sub CPU 2 of the payout control board 200.
12 corresponds to the ball rental processing (S930). The “winning area” is each winning opening 24a, 24b, 27,
It corresponds to 29a, 29b, 31, 41 and the specific area 43. The "program" is the main CPU of the main board 100.
This corresponds to the process of the flowchart shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 executed by 112 and the process of the flowchart shown in FIG. 15 executed by the sub CPU 212 of the payout control board 200. The “recording medium” corresponds to the ROMs 114 and 214.

[0022]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION An embodiment in which the gaming machine of the present invention is embodied as a first type pachinko machine will be described below with reference to the drawings. [Overall Main Configuration] FIG. 1 is a front view of a type 1 pachinko machine 10 according to this embodiment. A substantially rectangular front frame 11 is attached to the first type pachinko machine (gaming machine) 10 so as to be openable and closable. A glass frame 12 is attached to the front frame 11 so as to be openable and closable. Two glass plates 13a and 13b are fitted into the glass frame 12 with a predetermined distance (for example, about 5 to 10 mm) apart in the front-rear direction.
A game board 14 is disposed on the rear surface side (opposite to the player) of the glass frame 12 and each of the glass plates 13a and 13b, and the glass boards 13a and 13b and the game board 14 are arranged in parallel. ing.

At the lower right of the front frame 11, a firing handle 15 is provided.
a is rotatably attached. The firing motor 15e (see FIG. 8) is driven based on the player gripping the firing handle 15a and rotating the firing handle 15a.
A game ball (game medium) at a launch speed according to the turning angle of 5a
Are fired to the game board 14. Further, based on the player operating the firing stop switch 15b provided on the firing handle 15a, the firing motor 15e is stopped and the firing of the game ball is also stopped.

A frame lamp 18a is provided on the front frame 11 above the glass frame 12. An upper tray panel 16 is attached to the front side of the front frame 11 below the glass frame 12 so as to be openable and closable. On the upper left side of the upper saucer panel 16,
In addition to supplying game balls as prize balls (prize media) and rental balls,
A prize ball / ball rental supply port 17 is formed for discharging game balls in excess of the capacity of the upper tray 19. An upper tray 19 for accommodating the game balls (prize balls, ball rental) supplied from the prize ball / ball rental supply port 17 is disposed on the supply side of the prize ball / ball rental supply port 17 in the upper tray panel 16. It is set up.

Below the upper tray 19, a lower tray outlet 19a for discharging game balls in excess of the number of upper trays 19 that can be accommodated is formed. A lower tray 20 for accommodating the game balls discharged from the lower tray outlet 19a is provided on the discharge side of the lower tray outlet 19a. On the upper right side of the upper tray 19, an upper tray ball removing lever 19b for discharging the game balls stored in the upper tray 19 from the lower tray outlet 19a to the lower tray 20 is slidably arranged. Below the lower tray 20, a lower tray ball removing lever 20b for sliding the game balls stored in the lower tray 20 into a ball box (not shown) from the lower tray ball removing hole 20a is slidably arranged. .

On the left side of the front frame 11, a device outside the gaming machine (CR card sand) 22 is attached. A slit 22a for inserting a prepaid card and the like are provided in the device outside the gaming machine portion 22. That is, the first-class pachinko machine 10 is a type in which a game is played using a prepaid card instead of cash, and this type is generally called a "CR machine".

[Main Structure of Game Board 14] FIG. 2 is a front view of the game board 14 removed from the first type pachinko machine 10 as viewed from the front side. On the left side of the game board 14, a guide rail 21 for guiding the game balls shot on the game board 14 to the game area is provided. On the left and right of the center of the game board 14, a decorative windmill 25a decorated with LEDs,
25b is provided. Corner decoration lamps 18b and 18c are arranged at the upper left and right ends of the game board 14, respectively. Side decoration lamps 18d and 18e are arranged at the left and right ends of the center of the game board 14. At the upper left corner of the game board 14, an award ball number excessive display LED 18f and an award ball number excessive display LED 18g are arranged.

A center case 30 is arranged in the approximate center of the game board 14. Around the center of the center case 30, a plurality of special symbols (for example,
A special symbol display 32 that variably displays combinations of "0" to "9" and the like) is provided. The special symbol display 32 is a display device (eg, LCD,
CRT, plasma display, etc.). On the upper part of the special symbol display 32 in the center case 30, four which the number of times the special symbol display 32 can start the variable display of the special symbol based on the winning of the game ball to the first type starting opening 27 is displayed. The special symbol memory display LED 36, which is composed of the above LED, is provided.

Below the center case 30, there is provided a first type starting opening 27 having a function of activating the variable display of the special symbol by the special symbol display 32. A normal electric accessory 28 is disposed in the first-type starting opening 27. The ordinary electric accessory 28 includes symmetrical wing pieces (generally referred to as “tulips”) so that both movable wing pieces that are normally in the upright state rotate left and right about their respective spindles to open. Has become. And the ordinary electric accessory 28 is
Normally, when the symbol display device 34 hits and displays a stop symbol, both movable wing pieces are opened. Ordinary electric accessory 28
When both movable wing pieces of are opened, the entrance of the first type starting opening 27 is opened or enlarged, and the game ball is easy to win.

Below the first type starting port 27, a variable winning device 40 is provided which operates when the special symbol display device 32 displays a jackpot stop symbol (predetermined symbol). An opening / closing member 42 that opens a special winning opening 41 when a jackpot gaming state occurs is openably and closably attached to the variable winning device 40. Inside the special winning opening 41, a specific area 43 having a function of continuously opening the special winning opening 41, and a specific area switch 43a for detecting (detecting) a game ball passing through the specific area 43 (see FIG. 8) ), And a special winning opening switch 41b for counting the number of game balls that have won the special winning opening 41
(See FIG. 8) are provided.

On the left side of the variable winning device 40, the lower left winning opening 2
9a is provided, and a lower right winning opening 29b is provided on the right side of the variable winning device 40. The left sleeve winning opening 24a is disposed above the lower left winning opening 29a on the left side. The right sleeve winning opening 24b is disposed above the lower right winning opening 29b on the right side. On the upper left side of the left sleeve winning opening 24a, a normal symbol display device 34 including three LEDs vertically arranged is arranged. On the upper right side of the right sleeve winning opening 24b, a normal symbol memory display LED 35 including four LEDs arranged in the vertical direction is arranged. This normal symbol storage display LED35 displays the number of times the normal symbol display device 34 can start the variable display of the normal symbol based on the fact that the game ball has passed through the normal symbol operation gates 26a and 26b.

At the upper left and right center of the center case 30,
The sky winning port 31 is provided (opened). A left inlet 45a is arranged (opened) on the upper left side of the center case 30, and a right inlet 45b is arranged (opened) on the upper right side of the center case 30. The part extending to the left end of the center case 30 forms a left cover material 30a, and the part extending to the right end of the center case 30 is a right cover material 30b.
Is formed. Then, the left and right cover materials 30a, 30b
Respectively extend to the vicinity of the side decoration lamps 18d and 18e.

In the portion along the left side of the special symbol display 32 in the left cover material 30a, a passage (not shown) having two upper and lower ends through which one gaming ball can pass is provided,
The upper end of the passage is at the left entrance 45a of the center case 30.
, And the lower end of the passage communicates with the front side of the special symbol display device 32. A passage (not shown) having two upper and lower ends through which one gaming ball can pass is also arranged in a portion along the right side of the special symbol display in the right cover material 30b, and the upper end of the passage is It communicates with the right entrance 45b of the center case 30, and the lower end of the passage communicates with the front side of the special symbol display 32.

On the game board 14 covered with the left and right cover members 30a, 30b, there are provided normal symbol operation gates 26a, 26b each having a function of starting the variable display of the ordinary symbol by the ordinary symbol display device 34. . Below the left and right cover materials 30a, 30b (ordinary pattern operation gate 26
Below the a and 26b), the ordinary wind turbines 23a,
23b is provided. A large number of nails (not shown) are driven into the game board 14, and the game balls shot on the game board 14 flow down (fall) on the surface of the game board 14 while dancing between the nails. At the center of the lowermost part of the game board 14, an out port 44 is provided for collecting, as an out ball, a game ball that has not won a prize among the game balls flowing down the surface of the game board 14.

[Main Structure of Back Set of First-Class Pachinko Machine] FIG. 3 is a front view of the back setting mechanism plate 320.
On the back side of the first type pachinko machine 10, a back setting mechanism plate 32
0 is attached so that it can be opened and closed. Back setting mechanism plate 3
A tank 321 is disposed above the 20. The tank 321 stores the game balls supplied from the game ball supply mechanism of the island facility (not shown) in which the plurality of first type pachinko machines 10 are installed. Incidentally, the island facility is provided with a game ball collection mechanism for collecting the game balls returned from the respective game machines in the island facility, and the collected game balls are supplied from the game ball supply mechanism to the respective pachinko machines 10 in the island facility. A circulation system is provided for distribution to and from.

At the bottom of the tank 321, the tank rail 3
22 are provided. The tank rail 322 is inclined downward to the right, and a game ball guide rail 323 is connected to the right end of the tank rail 322. That is, tank 3
The game ball stored in 21 rolls on the tank rail 322 and is guided to the game ball guide rail 323. The prize ball unit 62 is disposed below the game ball guide rail 323. Below the prize ball unit 62, a ball rental unit 63 is arranged. Inside the game ball guide rail 323, three rails (not shown) are formed, two of the three rails are connected to the prize ball unit 62, and the remaining one is the ball rental unit 63. Are linked to.

Each of the two rails connected to the prize ball unit 62 in the game ball guide rail 323 has a prize ball break switch 6 for detecting that the prize ball has run out.
4a and 64b are provided. In addition, a ball rental out switch 61 for detecting that there are no more balls to be rented is provided on the one rail of the game ball guiding rail 323 connected to the ball renting unit 63. Each of the ball break switches 61, 64a, 64b also detects a ball clogging of the game ball in the rail, an abnormality in the flow of the game ball due to dust in the rail, and the like.

The prize balls paid out from the prize ball unit 62 and the loan balls lent out from the ball rental unit 63 pass through the payout ball guiding path 324, which is a tubular member arranged on the back setting mechanism plate 320, to win the prize. It is supplied from the ball / ball rental supply port 17 to the upper tray 19. By the way, the state where more prize balls than the game balls launched to the game board 14 continues to be paid out,
If a large number of prize balls are paid out in a short time in a jackpot game state, the upper tray 19 is filled with game balls. When the prize balls are paid out in a state where the upper tray 19 is full, the paid game balls overflow the number of the upper tray 19 that can be accommodated and are discharged from the prize ball / ball rental supply port 17.

Moreover, the game balls that overflow from the tray 19 and are discharged from the prize ball / ball rental supply port 17 are the payout ball guide path 324.
It is discharged to the lower tray 20 from the lower tray discharge port 19a through the overflow ball guiding path 325 made of a tubular member communicating with the lower tray 20. Further, in the vicinity of the lower tray discharge port 19a on the exit side of the overflow ball guide path 325, the lower tray full detection switch 2 for detecting that the lower tray 20 is full of game balls
0d is provided.

[Main Structure of Prize Ball Unit 62] FIG. 4
(A) is a partially transparent side view of the prize ball unit 62.
4B is a cross-sectional view taken along line XX in FIG. FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the prize ball unit 62. FIG. 6A is an exploded perspective view of the sensor mounting holders 207 a and 207 b removed from the prize ball unit 62. Figure 6
(B) is a prize ball payout sensor 208a-208c, 209
It is a principal part perspective view of a-209c.

The prize ball unit 62 includes a housing 201,
Ball entrances 202a and 202b, ball exits 203a and 203
b, ball passing paths 204a and 204b, delivery member 205,
Prize ball payout motor 206, sensor mounting holders 207a, 2
07b, prize ball payout sensors 208a to 208c, 209a
.About.209c. The substantially rectangular parallelepiped housing 201 includes three divided bodies 201a made of synthetic resin.
It is divided into 201c. On the upper surface side of the divided body 201a,
Ball entrances 202a and 202b, which are respectively connected to the two rails of the game ball guide rail 323 (see FIG. 3), are opened. In addition, on the lower surface side of the divided body 201b attached to the lower side of the divided body 201a, the payout ball guiding path 324
Ball outlets 203a and 203b communicating with (see FIG. 3) are opened.

Inside each of the divided bodies 201a and 201b,
A sphere passage path 204a which connects the sphere entrance 202a and the sphere exit 203a and a sphere passage path 204b which connects the sphere entrance 202b and the sphere exit 203b are provided. Incidentally, each of the openings 202a, 202b, 203a, 203b and each of the ball passage paths 204a, 204b are formed in a size that allows only one game ball P to pass. Therefore, the game balls P passing through the ball passing paths 204a and 204b are aligned in a line. In addition, the ball entrance 202a and the ball passing path 204
a, the structure of the sphere outlet 203a is the same as the structure of the sphere inlet 202b, the sphere passage path 204b, and the sphere outlet 203b.
A spiral delivery member 205 is disposed on each of the ball passage paths 204a and 204b in the divided body 201b.

A prize ball payout motor 206, which is a stepping motor, is arranged in each of the divided bodies 201a and 201c. The motor shaft of the prize ball payout motor 206 is attached and fixed to the central shaft 205a of the delivery member 205. Then, the sending member 205 is half-turned by one ON operation of the prize ball payout motor 206, and by the half-turning of the sending member 205, one gaming ball supplied from the respective ball inlets 202a, 202b into the housing 201. P is sent out into each ball passing path 204a, 204b, and each ball outlet 203
a, 203b.

That is, the delivery member 205 is rotated once by the turning-on operation of the prize ball payout motor 206, and each rotation of the delivery member 205 causes the ball entrances 202a and 202a.
The game balls P supplied from b to the inside of the housing 201 are sent out one by one into the ball passage paths 204a and 204b, respectively, and discharged from the ball outlets 203a and 203b. In addition, the ball inlets 202a and 202b, the ball outlet 203a,
203b and 2 ball passing paths 204a and 204b respectively
They are arranged one by one in order to efficiently pay out the prize balls.

Sphere passage path 20 in the divided body 201b
The sensor mounting holder 20 is provided near the ball outlet 203a of 4a.
7a is provided. Further, a sensor mounting holder 207b is arranged in the divided body 201b near the ball outlet 203b of the ball passage path 204b. Each of the sensor mounting holders 207a and 207b having the same configuration is divided into two housings 251a and 251b made of synthetic resin.
A printed board 252 is arranged in the la and 251b.

The housings 251a and 251b and the printed circuit board 252 have through holes 251 of the same size and shape.
c, 251d, 252a are formed. Then, in a state where the sensor mounting holders 207a and 207b are assembled, the through holes 2 in the sensor mounting holder 207a are formed.
51c, 251d, 252a are connected to the sphere passage path 204a to form a part of the sphere passage path 204a, and the through holes 251c, 251d, 25 in the sensor mounting holder 207b.
2a is connected to the sphere passage path 204b and is connected to the sphere passage path 20.
It constitutes a part of 4b.

Through holes 252 on the printed circuit board 252
In the peripheral portion of a, three light emitting elements 261a having the same configuration,
262a and 263a and three light receiving elements 26 having the same configuration
1b, 262b, 263b are arranged. Then, each element 261a, 2 in the sensor mounting holder 207a
62a, 263a, 261b, 262b and 263b constitute prize ball payout sensors 208a to 208c,
Each element 261a, 262 in the sensor mounting holder 207b
The a, 263a, 261b, 262b, and 263b constitute prize ball payout sensors 209a to 209c. That is, each prize ball payout sensor 208a-2 having the same configuration
Reference numerals 08c and 209a to 209c denote optical sensors, and the prize ball payout sensors 208a and 209a include a light emitting element 261a and a light receiving element 261b, and prize ball payout sensors 208b and 2c.
09b includes a light emitting element 262a and a light receiving element 262b,
The prize ball payout sensors 208c and 209c are light emitting elements 263a.
And a light receiving element 263b.

Here, the light emitting element 261a and the light receiving element 26
1b, the light emitting element 262a and the light receiving element 262b, the light emitting element 263a and the light receiving element 263b, respectively, the passing direction of the game ball P (path direction of each ball passing path 204a, 204b).
Are arranged in a direction orthogonal to the. And each prize ball payout sensor 208a-208c, 209a-209c.
From the light emitting elements 261a, 262a, 263a to the light receiving elements 261b, 262 as shown by arrows α1 to α3.
b, 263b, based on the game ball P blocking the projection light, the game ball P is a ball passing path 204a, 2
The passage of 04b is detected.

By the way, the projected light shown by the respective arrows α1 to α3 is transmitted through the hole 252a (the respective ball passage paths 204a, 204b).
Intersect at the center point O. That is, each prize ball payout sensor 208
a to 208c are provided at the same position on the ball passing path 204a, and each prize ball payout sensor 209a to 209c is provided at the same position on the ball passing path 204b. Therefore, the game ball P passing while falling (flowing down) in the ball passing path 204a is the prize ball payout sensor 2
08a to 208c are detected simultaneously. Also, a game ball P passing through the ball passing path 204b while falling.
Are simultaneously detected by each of the prize ball payout sensors 209a to 209c. The light emitting elements 261a, 262a, 26
3a is composed of, for example, a light emitting diode or a neon tube. In addition, the light receiving elements 261b, 262b, 2
63b is composed of, for example, a photodiode or a phototransistor.

[Electrical Configuration of Type 1 Pachinko Machine] FIG. 7 is a block circuit diagram showing the electrical configuration of the type 1 pachinko machine 10. The first-type pachinko machine 10 is provided with a main board (electronic control device) 100, and a microcomputer (microprocessor) 110 is mounted on the main board 100. Microcomputer 1
10, a main CPU 112 for executing game control
And a ROM 114 in which various control programs for the main CPU 112 to execute various controls are stored, and a control program read from the ROM 114 when the main CPU 112 executes various control programs and hits that occur during a game A RAM 116 for temporarily storing various data such as data is installed. In addition, the RAM 116 backs up data processed by the main CPU 112 at the time of power shutdown, commands sent to each device and each board, and the like in order to reproduce the game state at the time of power shutdown such as power failure after the power is restored.

The following components are electrically connected to the main substrate 100. Power board 80, prize ball (prize medium)
A payout control board 200 for controlling the payout of a ball or a rental of a ball, a special symbol control device 33 for controlling the special symbol display 32, a lamp control device 75 for controlling lamps provided on the game board 14, a game in progress. A voice control device 7 for controlling a voice reproduction device 79a for reproducing (pronuncing) sound effects and the like
Detecting (detecting) the winning of a game ball into the first type starting opening 27
First-type start opening switch 27a (in FIG. 7, the switch is referred to as "SW"), game board information (prize,
The game frame information terminal board 52, the board surface relay board 51, the game frame relay board for sending out a game stop, etc.) to a computer (hereinafter, referred to as “hall computer” (not shown)) provided in a pachinko hall management room 53.

The payout control board 200 is provided with a microcomputer (microprocessor) 210 which operates by inputting control commands sent from the main board 100. The microcomputer 210 pays out prize balls and rents balls. Sub CPU 21 for controlling the rental of items
2, a ROM 214 in which various control programs for the sub CPU 212 to execute control such as payout of prize balls and rental of balls for rent, and a sub-CPU 212 read from the ROM 214 when executing various control programs The RAM 216 for temporarily storing various data such as the control program and the number of prize balls generated during the game is mounted. The payout control board 200 includes a power supply board 80, a CR connection board 56, and a firing motor drive board 15.
c, the game frame information terminal board 52, the sensor relay board 54, the ball rental switch 61, the ball rental unit 63, and the prize ball payout motor 206 provided in the prize ball unit 62 are electrically connected. The ball rental unit 63 includes a ball rental solenoid 63a for lending a game ball as a ball, and a ball payout sensor 63b for detecting the loaned ball. The sub CPU 212 of the payout control board 200 counts the number of lent balls that have been lent out based on the detection signal from the lent ball payout sensor 63b.

The firing motor drive board 15c includes a firing motor 15e, a firing switch 15d, and a firing stop switch 15.
b is electrically connected. When the firing handle 15a is operated, the firing switch 15d changes the firing handle 15a.
The detection signal corresponding to the rotation angle is generated, and the detection signal of the firing switch 15d is sent to the sub CPU 212 via the firing motor drive board 15c. Then the sub-CP
A drive signal is output from U212 to the launch motor 15e via the launch motor drive board 15c, and the launch motor 15e launches the game ball at a launch speed according to the rotation angle of the launch handle 15a in accordance with the drive signal.

When the firing handle 15a is operated to turn off the firing switch 15d, the firing switch 1
The detection signal of 5d is sent to the sub CPU 212 via the firing motor drive board 15c. Then, the sub CPU2
A drive stop signal is output from 12 to the launch motor 15e via the launch motor drive board 15c, and the launch motor 15e stops the launch of the game ball according to the drive stop signal. When the firing stop switch 15b is operated, the detection signal of the firing stop switch 15b is the firing motor drive substrate 1
Is sent to the sub CPU 212 via the 5c, and the sub CP
A drive stop signal is output from U212 to the firing motor 15e via the firing motor drive board 15c.
e stops the firing of the game ball according to the drive stop signal.

To the game frame relay board 53, the lower tray full detection switch 20d, the prize ball break switches 64a and 64b, and the sensor relay board 54 are electrically connected. The prize ball payout sensors 208a to 208c and 209a to 209c provided in the prize ball unit 62 are electrically connected to the sensor relay board 54. Each prize ball payout sensor 208a-2
The detection signals of 08c and 209a to 209c are sent from the sensor relay board 54 through the game frame relay board 53 to the main board 100.
Is sent to the main CPU 112 based on the signal.
Counts the number of prize balls paid out.

The following materials are electrically connected to the board relay board 51. Ordinary electric accessory solenoid 28a for opening and closing both movable wings of the ordinary electric accessory 28 (note that
In FIG. 7, the solenoid is referred to as “SL”), a normal symbol display device 34, a gate switch 26c for detecting (detecting) that the game ball has passed one of the normal symbol operation gates 26a, 26b, a large size. Big winning opening switch 41 for detecting (detecting) winning of a game ball into the winning opening 41
b, a sleeve winning opening switch 24 for detecting (detecting) winning of a game ball into either of the sleeve winning openings 24a and 24b
c, the lower winning opening switch 29 for detecting (detecting) the winning of the game ball into one of the lower winning openings 29a and 29b
c, a winning entrance switch 31a for detecting (detecting) winning of a game ball into the winning entrance 31, a big winning relay board 50
Is.

On the special winning opening relay board 50, a specific area 43
A specific area switch 43a for detecting a game ball that has passed (winning) and a special winning opening solenoid 41a for opening and closing the special winning opening 41 by opening and closing the opening / closing member 42 are electrically connected. The CR connection board 56 is electrically connected to the out-of-game device portion 22 including a device for reading a prepaid card.

The power supply board 80 receives an alternating current (A) from the main power supply 70.
C) 24V (50Hz / 60Hz) power supply,
A DC power supply of various voltages is generated from the AC power supply, and the DC power supply is used for each substrate 56, 100, 200 and each device 3.
Supply to 3,75,79. Then, the detection signal of the first-type starting port switch 27a is input to the main CPU 112 of the main board 100, and the detection signals of the switches 24c, 26c, 29c, 31a, 41b are input via the board relay board 51. The detection signal of the specific area switch 43a is input from the special winning opening relay board 50 via the board relay board 51, and each switch 20d via the game frame relay board 53.
The detection signals of 64a and 64b are input, and the detection signals of the respective prize ball payout sensors 208a to 208c and 209a to 209c are input from the sensor relay board 54 via the game frame relay board 53.

[Prizes Playing Out Control Process Performed by Main CPU 112] FIG. 8 is a flow chart showing the flow of prize winning out control process executed by the main CPU 112 of the main board 100 in the present embodiment. The main CPU 112
According to the program recorded (stored) in the ROM 114, the processes of the following steps (hereinafter referred to as “S”) are executed by various arithmetic processes by the computer. A computer-readable recording medium (semiconductor memory (smart media, memory stick, etc.), hard disk, flexible disk, data card (IC card, magnetic card, etc.),
Optical disc (CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, D
(VD, etc.), magneto-optical disk (MO, etc.), phase change disk, magnetic tape, etc. are recorded (stored) in an external recording device (external storage device), and the program is stored in the external recording device as necessary. Alternatively, the main CPU 112 may be loaded into the main CPU 112 and started up. The main CPU 112 has a winning process (S100), a prize ball payout confirmation process (S200), and a prize ball payout abnormality process (S300).
After sequentially executing, the process returns to S100 again, and S1
The processing of 00 to S300 is repeatedly executed.

<Winning process> In the winning process (S100), the main CPU 112 causes the switches 24c and 27 to operate.
Based on the detection signals of a, 29c, 31a, 41b, 43a, the number of game balls to be paid out from the prize ball unit 62 as a prize ball (hereinafter, referred to as "payout determination prize ball number") is determined, and the payout is determined. A prize ball payout command corresponding to the number of prize balls is generated, and the prize ball payout command is issued to the payout control board 20.
0 to the sub CPU 212. Here, the switches 24c, 41b, 43a are connected to the respective winning openings 24a, 24b, 4
The number of payout determination prize balls when the winning of the game ball to 1 and the specific area 43 is detected is set to, for example, 15 with respect to the winning of one game ball to the winning port. In addition, each switch 27a, 29c, 31a is a prize hole 2
The number of payout determination prize balls when the winning of the game balls to 7, 29a, 29b, 31 is detected is set to, for example, 5 for the winning of one game ball to each of the prize holes. There is.

<Prize ball payout confirmation processing> FIG. 9 shows the main CP
It is a flow chart which shows the flow of prize ball payout confirmation processing (S200) which U112 performs. Prize ball payout confirmation process (S
In 200), the main CPU 112 sequentially executes the first prize ball payout sensor process (S210), the second prize ball payout sensor process (S220), and the paid-out prize ball number detection process (S230), and then the prize ball payout abnormality. The process shifts to (S300).

(First Prize Ball Payout Sensor Process) In the first prize ball payout sensor process (S210), the main CPU 112
First, based on the on / off (ON / OFF) states of the detection signals of the respective prize ball payout sensors 208a to 208c, the edge data E1a to data indicating that the detection signals are surely turned on. E1c is detected. That is, at the time when the edge data E1a to E1c are detected, the prize ball payout sensors 208a to 208c have detected the game balls. Here, the edge data E1a corresponds to the detection signal of the prize ball payout sensor 208a, the edge data E1b corresponds to the detection signal of the prize ball payout sensor 208b, and the edge data E1c corresponds to the detection signal of the prize ball payout sensor 208c. ing.

10 to 14 show each prize ball payout sensor 20.
8a to 208c detection signals and edge data E1a to
It is a timing chart which shows each example of E1c. Figure 10
Then, all the detection signals of the respective prize ball payout sensors 208a to 208c are surely turned on, and the three edge data E1a to E1c are detected. In FIG. 11, the detection signals of the prize ball payout sensors 208a and 208c are surely turned on, whereas the prize ball payout sensor 208 is detected.
The detection signal of b is not surely turned on, and only the two edge data E1a and E1c are detected. In FIG. 12, the detection signals of the prize ball payout sensors 208a and 208b are surely in the ON state, whereas the detection signals of the prize ball payout sensor 208c are not in the sure ON state. Only the edge data E1a and E1b are detected.

In FIG. 13, the detection signal of the prize ball payout sensor 208a is surely turned on, whereas the detection signals of the prize ball payout sensors 208b and 208c are not reliably turned on. Only one edge data E1a is detected. In FIG. 14, the prize ball payout sensor 208
While the detection signal of c is surely in the ON state, the detection signals of the respective prize ball payout sensors 208a and 208b are not in the reliable ON state, and one edge data E
Only 1c is detected.

Then, the main CPU 112, when the number of the detected edge data E1a to E1c is 2 or more (when it is a majority or more), each of the prize ball payout sensors 208a to 208a.
It is determined that one game ball has passed the ball passage route 204a in which 08c is arranged. For example, in the example shown in FIGS. 11 to 13, since the number of detected edge data E1a to E1c is two, it is determined that one game ball has passed the ball passing path 204a. In addition, the main CPU 11
2 is the ball passing path 20 when the number of detected edge data E1a to E1c is less than 2 (less than a majority).
It is determined that the game ball has not passed 4a. For example, in the example shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, since the number of the detected edge data E1a to E1c is one, it is determined that the game ball has not passed the ball passing path 204a.

(Second prize ball payout sensor process) In the second prize ball payout sensor process (S220), the main CPU 112 is operated.
Is the same as the first prize ball payout sensor process (S210), it is determined whether or not one game ball has passed the ball passing path 204b in which the prize ball payout sensors 209a to 209c are arranged. That is, the main CPU 112 firstly, based on the ON / OFF state of the detection signals of the respective prize ball payout sensors 209a to 209c, the edge data E2 which is data indicating that the detection signals are surely turned on.
a to E2c are detected.

Then, when the number of the detected edge data E2a to E2c is two or more, the main CPU 112 uses one ball as the ball passing path 204b in which the respective prize ball payout sensors 209a to 209c are arranged. Is determined to have passed. Further, when the number of the detected edge data E2a to E2c is less than 2, the main CPU 112 determines that the game ball has not passed through the ball passing path 204b.

(Processing for detecting the number of paid-out prize balls) In the processing for detecting the number of paid-out prize balls (S230), the main CPU 112 is operated.
Is based on the processing results of the first prize ball payout sensor process (S210) and the second prize ball payout sensor process (S210).
The total number of game balls paid out from the prize ball unit 62 (hereinafter, referred to as "paid prize ball number") is detected by adding the number of game balls that have passed through the ball passage paths 204a and 204b.

<Award Winning Ball Abnormality Processing> In the winning ball paying abnormality processing (S300), the main CPU 112 detects the number of paid award balls (S200) in the winning ball paying confirmation processing (S200).
230) and the number of paid-out prize balls detected and the winning process (S1
00) and the number of payout determination prize balls determined in step 00). Then, when the number of paid-out prize balls is smaller than the number of pay-out determination prize balls, the main CPU 112 reduces the number of prize balls (= paid-out prize balls) smaller than the number of prize balls to be originally paid (= payout-decision prize ball number). It is determined that only the (number) has been paid out, a lamp control command for notifying that is generated, and the lamp control command is sent to the lamp control device 75. Then, the lamp control device 75, based on the lamp control command, displays the number of prize balls insufficient display LED 18f.
(See FIG. 2) is lit.

Further, when the number of paid-out prize balls is larger than the number of payout determination prize balls, the main CPU 112 determines that the number of prize balls (= payout amount) is larger than the number of prize balls to be originally paid (= payout determination prize ball number). It is determined that the number of paid prize balls) has been paid out, a lamp control command for notifying that is generated, and the lamp control command is sent to the lamp control device 75. Then, the lamp control device 75, based on the lamp control command, displays the prize ball excess number display LED 18g.
(See FIG. 2) is lit. In addition, when the number of paid-out prize balls is equal to the number of payout determination prize balls, the number of prize balls equal to the number of prize balls to be originally paid out (= number of payout determination prize balls) (=
Since the number of paid prize balls has been paid out, each LED1
Both 8f and 18g remain turned off.

[Main Processing Performed by Sub CPU 212]
FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a flow of main processing executed by the sub CPU 212 of the payout control board 200 in the present embodiment. The sub CPU 212 executes the processes of the following steps by various calculation processes by the computer according to the program recorded (stored) in the ROM 214. Note that the program is recorded (stored) in a computer-readable recording medium, and the program is transferred from an external recording device to the sub CPU 2 if necessary.
It may be used by loading it in 12 and starting it.

The sub CPU 212 executes the game ball launching process (S
910), the prize ball payout process (S920), and the ball rental process (S930) are sequentially executed, and then the process returns to S910 and the processes of S910 to S930 are repeatedly executed.

In the game ball firing process (S910), the sub CPU 212 drives the firing motor 15e based on the detection signals of the firing switch 15d and the firing stop switch 15b transferred through the firing motor drive board 15c. A drive stop signal is generated, and the drive signal or drive stop signal is sent to the firing motor 15e via the firing motor drive board 15c. Then, as mentioned above,
The firing motor 15e fires a game ball or stops firing based on the drive signal or the drive stop signal.

In the prize ball payout process (S920), the sub CPU 212 generates a drive signal based on the prize ball payout command transferred from the main CPU 112 of the main board 100, and outputs the drive signal to the prize ball unit 62. It outputs to the ball payout motor 206. Then, the prize ball payout motor 20
6 operates according to the drive signal, rotates the delivery member 205, sends out the game balls as many as the payout determination prize balls corresponding to the prize ball payout command into the ball passing paths 204a and 204b, and the game balls are balls. It is paid out from the prize ball unit 62 by discharging from the outlets 203a and 203b.

In the ball lending process (S930), the sub CPU 212 generates a drive signal based on the ball lending command transmitted from the main CPU 112 of the main board 100, and outputs the drive signal to the ball lending unit 63. Output to the ball solenoid 63a. Then, the ball rental solenoid 63
a operates according to the drive signal, and the ball rental unit 63 uses the number of game balls corresponding to the ball rental command as the ball rental.
Lend from.

[Operation / Effect of Embodiment] According to this embodiment described in detail above, the following operation / effect can be obtained. (1) In the ball passing path 204a in the prize ball unit 62,
Three prize ball payout sensors 208a to 208c are arranged at the same location. Further, in the ball passing path 204b in the prize ball unit 62, three prize ball payout sensors 2 are provided at the same location.
09a to 209c are arranged. Then, in the first prize ball payout sensor process (S210), the main CPU1
Reference numeral 12 detects the respective edge data E1a to E1c indicating that the detection signals of the respective prize ball payout sensors 208a to 208c are surely turned on, and the detected edge data E1 is detected.
When the number of a to E1c is 2 or more (when it is a majority or more), it is determined that one game ball has passed the ball passage route 204a.

The second prize ball payout sensor process (S22)
In 0), the main CPU 112 detects the respective edge data E2a to E2c indicating that the detection signals of the respective prize ball payout sensors 209a to 209c are surely turned on, and the number of the detected edge data E2a to E2c. Is 2
If there are more than one (if less than the majority), the ball passage route 204
It is determined that one gaming ball has passed b. Here, when the edge data E1a to E1c and E2a to E2c are detected, the prize ball payout sensors 208a to 208 are detected.
c, 209a to 209c have detected the game ball.

By the way, the prize-ball payout sensors 208a-20
Noise from the outside is applied to the detection signals of 8c and 209a to 209c, the prize ball payout motor 206 and the delivery member 2
If the prize ball payout sensor becomes abnormal due to heat or vibration of 05, the normal detection operation of the prize ball payout sensor may be hindered. However, in this embodiment,
In the case where three prize ball payout sensors 208a to 208c, 209a to 209c are provided for each ball passing path 204a, 204b, and a majority of prize ball paying sensors detect a game ball for each ball passing path. , It is determined that one game ball has passed through the ball passage route.

Therefore, according to the present embodiment, even if the normal detection operation of one prize ball payout sensor is disturbed, the ball passing path is determined based on the normal detection operation of the remaining two prize ball payout sensors. It is possible to accurately detect that the game ball has passed. That is, according to the present embodiment, in the case where the normal detection operation of the prize ball payout sensor is hindered, as compared with the conventional technique in which only one prize ball payout sensor is provided for each ball passing path. However, each ball passing path 204a,
It is possible to accurately detect the number of game balls that have passed through 204b.

(2) Each prize ball payout sensor 208a-208
c, 209a to 209c are light emitting elements 261a, 26c.
Based on the fact that the game ball P blocks the projection light projected from 2a, 263a to the respective light receiving elements 261b, 262b, 263b as shown by the arrows α1 to α3, the game ball P follows the ball passing paths 204a, 204b. It detects that it has passed. Then, the projected light shown by each arrow α1 to α3 is transmitted through the through hole 2
52a (center passage O of each ball passing path 204a, 204b)
Meet at. That is, each prize ball payout sensor 208a-208
c is provided at the same position on the ball passage path 204a,
Each prize ball payout sensor 209a to 209c is a ball passage route 20.
It is provided at the same position in 4b.

Therefore, the game ball P passing through the ball passing path 204a while falling (falling down) is simultaneously detected by each of the prize ball payout sensors 208a to 208c. The game ball P passing through the ball passage path 204b while falling is simultaneously detected by each of the prize ball payout sensors 209a to 209c. Therefore, the first prize ball payout sensor process (S210) and the second prize ball payout sensor process (S22).
0), each edge data E1a to E1c, E2a to E
When 2c are simultaneously detected, each ball passing path 204
It is possible to determine whether or not the game ball has passed a, 204b, and the time required for this determination is short,
It is possible to quickly detect the passage of the game ball.

Further, each prize ball payout sensor 208a-208.
c is arranged in one sensor mounting holder 207a, and each prize ball payout sensor 209a to 209c is arranged in one sensor mounting holder 207b. Therefore, the prize ball payout sensors 208a to 208c and 209a to 209c can be downsized, and the prize ball unit 62 can also be downsized, so that the space of the back setting mechanism plate 320 can be saved.

By the way, each prize ball payout sensor 208a-2.
It is also conceivable that the 08c is provided at a different position on the ball passing path 204a and the prize ball payout sensors 209a to 209c are provided at different positions on the ball passing path 204b. In this method, the game balls P passing through the ball passing paths 204a and 204a while falling are not simultaneously detected by the prize ball payout sensors 208a to 208c and 209a to 209c. Therefore, the three edge data E1
Only after a to E1c and E2a to E2c are detected,
It is not possible to determine whether or not the game ball has passed through each ball passage route 204a, 204b. Therefore, this method has a disadvantage that the time required for the determination becomes longer than that of the present embodiment, and thus the passage of the game ball cannot be detected promptly. Further, this method is different from the present embodiment in that each of the prize ball payout sensors 208a to 208c,
Since the outer dimensions of 209a to 209c are large, the award ball unit 62 also has a drawback that the outer dimension is also large.

[Another Embodiment] By the way, the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiment, but may be embodied as follows. Even in that case, an operation equivalent to or more than that of the above-mentioned embodiment The effect can be obtained. [1] In the above-described embodiment, each ball passing path 204a, 20
Three prize ball payout sensors 208a to 208 for every 4b
c, 209a to 209c are provided. However, two or four or more prize ball payout sensors may be provided for each of the ball passage paths 204a and 204b. For example, when two prize ball payout sensors are provided for each of the ball passing paths 204a and 204b, the ball passing path is played on the ball passing path only when both of the two prize ball paying sensors detect the game ball. It may be determined that the vehicle has passed.

When four or more prize ball payout sensors are provided for each ball passing path 204a, 204b, when a majority of prize ball paying sensors detect a game ball for each ball passing path. It is only necessary to determine that the game ball has passed the ball passage route. In this way, as the number of prize ball payout sensors is increased, the detection accuracy of the game balls that have passed through the ball passage paths 204a and 204b can be increased. In addition, in order to facilitate the determination of the majority, each ball passing path 204a, 2
It is desirable that the number of prize ball payout sensors provided for each 04b be an odd number.

[2] Although the above embodiment is embodied as the prize ball payout sensor of the prize ball unit 62, the present invention may be applied to the ball payout sensor 63b of the ball payout unit 63. The ball rental unit 62 of the above-described embodiment includes a housing having the same structure as the housing 201 of the prize ball payout unit 62, one ball passage path is provided in the housing, and the game ball is in the ball passage path. A stopper for locking is arranged so as to be able to move forward and backward, and the movement of the stopper is controlled by the ball rental solenoid 63a. In addition, one ball rental payout sensor 63b is arranged in the ball passage path of the ball rental unit 62.
The ball-rental payout sensor 63b is the prize-ball payout sensor 208a to 208c, 209a to 209c, 22 of the above embodiment.
0a to 220c and 221a to 221c have the same configuration. It is possible to more accurately detect the number of lent balls lent out from the lent ball unit 63 by providing a plurality of lent ball payout sensors 63b of the above-described embodiment as in the award ball payout sensor of the above-described embodiment. Become.

[3] The above embodiment is embodied in the prize ball payout sensor of the prize ball unit 62, but the present invention is concerned with each prize hole 24a, 24b, 27, 29a, 29b, 31 ,.
41 and the respective switches 24c, 27a of the specific area 43,
You may apply to 29c, 31a, 41b, 43a. Each switch 24c, 27a, 29c, 31 of the above embodiment
By providing a plurality of a, 41b, 43a like the prize ball payout sensor of the above-mentioned embodiment, each winning hole 24a, 2a.
4b, 27, 29a, 29b, 31, 41 and the number of gaming balls that have won the specific area 43 can be detected more accurately.

[4] In the above embodiment, the first-type pachinko machine was described as an example of the gaming machine according to the present invention.
It is needless to say that the present invention can be applied to a pachinko machine of a type other than the first type, or other gaming machines such as a slot machine.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a front view of a type 1 pachinko machine 10 according to an embodiment embodying the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a game board 1 removed from a first-class pachinko machine 10.
4 is a front view of FIG.

FIG. 3 is a front view of a back setting mechanism plate 320.

FIG. 4 (A) is a partially transparent side view of the prize ball unit 62 removed from the first type pachinko machine 10. Figure 4 (B)
Is a cross-sectional view taken along line XX in FIG.

FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the prize ball unit 62.

6A is an exploded perspective view of sensor mounting holders 207a and 207b removed from the prize ball unit 62. FIG.
FIG. 6B shows prize ball payout sensors 208a to 208c, 2
The principal part perspective view of 09a-209c.

FIG. 7 is a block circuit diagram showing an electrical configuration of the first type pachinko machine 10.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a flow of prize ball payout control processing executed by the main CPU 112 of the main board 100.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the flow of prize ball payout confirmation processing (S200) executed by the main CPU 112.

FIG. 10 is a timing chart showing an example of detection signals of the prize ball payout sensors 208a to 208c and edge data E1a to E1c.

FIG. 11 is a timing chart showing an example of detection signals of the prize ball payout sensors 208a to 208c and edge data E1a to E1c.

FIG. 12 is a timing chart showing an example of detection signals of the prize ball payout sensors 208a to 208c and edge data E1a to E1c.

FIG. 13 is a timing chart showing each example of detection signals and edge data E1a to E1c of each prize ball payout sensor 208a to 208c.

FIG. 14 is a timing chart showing an example of detection signals of the prize ball payout sensors 208a to 208c and edge data E1a to E1c.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a flow of main processing executed by a sub CPU 212 of the payout control board 200.

[Description of Codes] 10 ... First-class pachinko machine 24c, 27a, 29c, 31a, 41b, 43a ... Switch 24a, 24b, 27, 29a, 29b, 31, 41 ...
Winning hole 43 ... Specific area 62 ... Award ball unit 63 ... Ball rental units 204a, 204b ... Ball passage paths 208a-208c, 209a-209c, 220a-
220c, 221a to 221c ... Award ball payout sensor 100 ... Main board 112 ... Main CPU 114 ... ROM 116 ... RAM 200 ... Payout control board 212 ... Sub CPU 214 ... ROM 216 ... RAM

Claims (9)

[Claims] 1. A detection means for detecting a game medium, and a plurality of the detection means are provided at the same position on a path along which the game medium passes, and based on the detection results of the plurality of detection means, a game is played. A gaming machine comprising: a determination unit that determines that the medium has passed through the path. 2. The game machine according to claim 1, wherein the determining means has passed the path when the plurality of detecting means detect a game medium by a majority of the detecting means. A gaming machine characterized by determining that. 3. The gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the detection means is provided in an odd number. 4. The game machine according to claim 1, wherein the detection unit includes a light emitting element and a light receiving element, and the projection light projected from the light emitting element to the light receiving element is used. A game machine which detects a game medium based on interruption of the game medium, and the projection light projected from the light emitting elements of the plurality of detecting means intersects at one point in the path. 5. The game machine according to claim 1, further comprising a payout means for paying out the game medium as a prize medium, wherein the detection means passes through the game medium paid out from the payout means. A game machine characterized by being provided on a route. 6. The gaming machine according to claim 1, further comprising: a lending unit that lends out a game medium, wherein the detection unit is provided in a passage path of the game medium that is lent out from the lending unit. A gaming machine characterized by being. 7. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the detection means is provided in a winning area where the game medium wins, and detects the gaming medium passing through the winning area. A gaming machine characterized by. 8. A program for causing a computer system to function as each of the means in the gaming machine according to claim 1. 9. A computer-readable recording medium in which a program for causing a computer system to function as each of the means in the gaming machine according to claim 1 is recorded.