JP2004337451A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To raise amusement in a rendition by using the lighting state of a lighting preparation state in addition to a light-out state and a lighting state concerning the rendition obtained by controlling the lighting of discharge lamps such as a fluorescent lamp. <P>SOLUTION: The fluorescent lamp has the light-out state where a voltage is not applied to a part between electrodes, a transfer state for precluding the internal generation of discharge, while energizing an externally formed current path by the voltage applied to the part between the electrodes, the lighting preparation state for enabling the internal generation of discharge, while energizing the current path by the voltage applied to the part between the electrodes, and the lighting state for performing internal discharge by the voltage applied to the part between the electrodes. When the start of rotation of reels constituting a variable display device is instructed, a delay time is inserted till the actual starting of the rotation in response to the setting situation of a winning flag. When the start of the rotation is instructed and also the delay time is inserted, the fluorescent lamp is controlled to be the lighting preparation state, and then, the lighting preparation state is kept after the delay time elapses. When the delay time elapses, the fluorescent lamp is returned into the lighting state again. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a gaming machine, and more particularly to a gaming machine such as a slot machine including an effect by a discharge lamp such as a fluorescent lamp.
[0002]
[Prior art]
A slot machine generally includes a variable display device having a plurality of reels on which a plurality of types of symbols are drawn on an outer peripheral portion, and a prize is generated according to a display mode when rotation of each reel is stopped. Depending on the type of winning that has occurred, not only medals are paid out as valuable value, but also a special game state called a big bonus or a regular bonus (hereinafter collectively referred to simply as a bonus) is entered, The game proceeds in an advantageous state for the player.
[0003]
In order for a winning combination including a bonus to occur, it is necessary to win the winning combination and set a corresponding winning flag in an internal lottery performed in advance (usually, when the start lever is operated). In general, various effects are performed in a slot machine in order to notify or announce the setting status of the winning flag or to enliven the progress of the game.
[0004]
As one mode of this effect, there is known a freeze effect in which a player gives an impression of a failure of the slot machine for a moment. Many of the current slot machines include a fluorescent lamp as an inexpensive lighting device. This fluorescent lamp emits visible light by exciting a phosphor by ultraviolet rays generated by mercury in a fluorescent tube due to discharge between filaments. When performing a freeze effect, some fluorescent lamps are turned off for a certain period of time in order to give the player an impression that the slot machine has failed.
[0005]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, in a conventional slot machine, when performing an effect by lighting control of a fluorescent lamp such as a freeze effect, only two lighting modes of a lighting state and a light-off state are used as the lighting mode of the fluorescent lamp. Since an intermediate mode, which is possible with other lighting devices, was not used as the lighting mode, the mode of the production was limited, and was not very useful for improving the entertainment of the production.
[0006]
Also, a fluorescent lamp cannot discharge between filaments unless it has reached a certain temperature. Sometimes you can't. If the fluorescent lamp is completely turned off once in the freeze effect, it may not be possible to turn on the lamp immediately depending on the operating environment at that time even if the fluorescent lamp is turned on again. For this reason, a freeze effect by controlling the lighting of the fluorescent lamp cannot always be performed at a desired timing.
[0007]
The present invention provides a game in which the lighting of the lighting preparation state can be used in addition to the light-off state and the lighting state as an effect by lighting control of a discharge lamp such as a fluorescent lamp, thereby enhancing the interest of the effect. The purpose is to provide a machine.
[0008]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to achieve the above object, a gaming machine according to the present invention comprises:
In a gaming machine (slot machine 1) capable of performing a predetermined game,
A light-off state in which no voltage is applied between the electrodes (FIG. 7A), and a discharge can be generated inside while applying a current to an externally formed current path by the voltage applied between the electrodes. In the transition state (FIG. 7 (b)) in which the discharge cannot be generated until the current becomes, it is possible to generate the discharge inside while energizing the current path by the voltage applied between the electrodes. Decoration including a lighting preparation state (FIG. 7 (c)) in a possible state and a lighting state (FIG. 7 (d)) in which discharge is internally caused by a voltage applied between the electrodes. Discharge lamp (fluorescent lamp 6) for
A state switching unit that can switch the state of the discharge lamp from a lighting preparation state in which the current path is energized to a lighting state by interrupting the current path and stopping energization to generate a discharge and switch to a lighting state. An inverter 134 (particularly, the transistor Q3 of the preheating circuit 134b);
Lighting control means (CPU 111) for controlling at least the state of the discharge lamp by controlling interruption of the current path;
As a state of the discharge lamp, at least the light-off state, the lighting preparation state, and the lighting state, the player can identify a difference in each lighting mode (light-off, semi-lighting, lighting),
The lighting control means instructs the switching means to cut off the current path at any timing in the lighting preparation state, and shifts the state of the discharge lamp from the lighting preparation state to the lighting state. And a lighting transition instructing means (step S207).
It is characterized by the following.
[0009]
In the above gaming machine, not only can it be maintained in a light-off state and a lighting state, but also can be switched to a lighting state at an arbitrary timing while maintaining a state of a discharge lamp in a lighting preparation state. In addition to the lighting modes in the unlit state and the lighting state, the lighting mode in the lighting preparation state, which cannot be maintained by the conventional lighting control of the discharge lamp, can also be used for the effect. Thereby, the entertainment of the performance can be improved. Further, unlike the transition from the unlit state to the lit state, the transition from the lighting preparation state to the lit state can be immediately performed at an arbitrary timing.
[0010]
In the above gaming machine,
The state switching unit switches the state of the discharge lamp from a lighting state in which the current path is interrupted and discharging to a lighting preparation state by forming the current path and energizing to stop discharging. May be possible. in this case,
The lighting control unit instructs the switching unit to form the current path at an arbitrary timing in the lighting state, and shifts the state of the discharge lamp from the lighting state to the lighting preparation state. A lighting preparation shift instruction means (Step S204) may be further provided.
[0011]
In this case, the state of the discharge lamp can be shifted from the lighting state to the lighting preparation state at an arbitrary timing by an instruction from the lighting preparation shift instruction means. In this way, by making the transition from the lighting preparation state to the lighting preparation state at an arbitrary timing, it is possible to enrich the effects using the lighting mode in the lighting preparation state, and to enhance the attraction of the effects. Can be further improved.
[0012]
In the above gaming machine,
In the predetermined game, a game can be started by setting a bet amount for one game, and a variable display device (variable display device 2) capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information each of which can be identified. The game may be a game in which one game is completed by the derived display result of ()) and a predetermined prize can be generated according to the display result of the variable display device. In this case, the gaming machine
Variable display control means (CPU 111, steps S4, S5) for controlling variable display on the variable display device;
When a predetermined condition is satisfied, a variable display delay for controlling the variable display to be in a delayed state in which start of the variable display by the variable display control unit is delayed until a predetermined delay time elapses after the variable display start condition is satisfied. Control means (steps S103 to S105) may be further provided. In this case,
The lighting preparation shift instructing means instructs the switching means to change from a state in which the current path is cut off to a state formed from a state in which the current path is interrupted when the variable display delay means performs control to the delay state. The state of the discharge lamp may be shifted from the lighting state to the lighting preparation state.
[0013]
Also, in this case,
The lighting transition instructing means may be configured such that when the variable display is started by the variable display control means after the delay time, the switching means is in a state of being cut off from a state in which the current path is formed. An instruction may be given to shift the state of the discharge lamp from the lighting preparation state to the lighting state.
[0014]
In this case, the effect using the discharge lamp can be easily performed in synchronization with the delay of the start of the variable display, and the interest of the effect can be improved.
[0015]
Note that, except when the start of the variable display is delayed by the variable display control unit, the lighting control unit may control the discharge lamp to be always lit.
[0016]
The above gaming machines are
A change start instructing means (start lever 11, step S2) for instructing the change display control means to start the change display on the variable display device by a player's operation, thereby satisfying the start condition of the change display. )When,
A game control means (game control board 101) that includes the change start instruction means, the change display control means, and the change display delay control means, controls the progress of the game, and transmits control information according to the progress state of the game. When,
An effect control unit that includes the lighting control unit and the state instruction unit, receives control information from the game control unit, and controls an effect by an effect device including the discharge lamp; and (effect control board 102). Can be provided. In this case,
The game control means includes a determination means (step S101) for determining whether or not to satisfy the predetermined condition for controlling to the delay state when there is an instruction from the fluctuation start instruction means, When it is determined that the delay state is to be controlled by the determining means, delay control information (start command) indicating that the delay control is to be performed is transmitted to the effect control means (step S102).
The lighting preparation shifting means, when the effect control means receives the delay control information, instructs the switching means to change the state from the state in which the current path is cut off, and The state may be shifted from the lighting state to the lighting preparation state.
[0017]
In this case, since the lighting control of the discharge lamp as the effect can be performed by the effect control means, the processing load of the game control means relating to the original game can be reduced.
[0018]
Here, in the case where the effect control means further includes a time keeping means (step S205) for keeping a time elapsed after receiving the delay control information,
The lighting transition instructing means instructs the switching means to change from a state in which the current path is formed to a state in which the current path is cut off, when the timing means measures the predetermined delay time (step S206). The state of the discharge lamp may be shifted from the lighting preparation state to the lighting state.
[0019]
This makes it possible to easily perform a so-called freeze effect in which the operation of the gaming machine (for example, a slot machine) is stopped in accordance with the delay time of the start of the variable display, and to enhance the attraction of the effect. Further, the game control means only has to transmit the delay control information, and no extra processing load is generated in the game control means.
[0020]
In the case where there are a plurality of types of time as the predetermined delay time for setting the delay state by the variable display delay control means,
The delay control information may include information that can specify the predetermined delay time,
The state instructing means may instruct the lighting state when the time measuring means measures a predetermined delay time specified by the delay control information.
[0021]
In this way, a plurality of types of time are provided as delay times for causing the variable display to be in the delay state, and information for specifying the delay time is included in the delay control information, so that the time during which a so-called freeze effect is performed is also set to a plurality of types. be able to. Thereby, the mode of the effect becomes rich and the interest of the effect can be improved. Further, the longer the delay time, that is, the time of the freeze effect in which the state of the discharge lamp is set to the lighting preparation state, the greater the impact as the effect. For example, if it is assumed that the longer this time is, the higher the probability of winning a bonus is, the stronger the effect of the effect is, the higher the expectation of the player is. it can.
[0022]
Further, the game control means, when at least the start of the variable display is delayed by the variable display delay control means, when the delay time has elapsed and the variable display control means to start the variable display, When transmitting the fluctuation start control information indicating that to the effect control means,
The lighting transition instructing means, when the effect control means receives the fluctuation start control information, instructs the switching means to change from a state in which the current path is formed to a state in which the current path is formed, and The state may be changed from the lighting preparation state to the lighting state.
[0023]
Thus, a so-called freeze effect in which the operation of the slot machine is stopped can be easily performed in accordance with the delay time of the start of the variable display, and the effect of the effect can be improved. In this case, even if there are a plurality of types of delay time, the state of the discharge lamp is shifted to the lighting state as the delay time elapses without including the delay time in the fluctuation start control information. Can be. Further, the discharge lamp can be surely returned to the lighting state based on the instruction of the game control means by the fluctuation start control information. Further, when the discharge lamp is turned on according to the elapsed time from the reception of the delay control information, the discharge lamp can be more reliably returned to the lighted state.
[0024]
In addition, if it becomes possible to start the variable display on condition that a preset shortest period of one game (for example, 4.1 seconds) has elapsed from the start of the variable display in the immediately preceding game, The above gaming machines are
If the shortest period of the one game has not elapsed when the start condition of the variable display is satisfied, a variable display standby unit (Step S4) is further provided to wait for the start of the variable display until the shortest period of the one game has elapsed. It can be. In this case,
The predetermined delay time is a time during which the start of the fluctuation display is waited by the fluctuation display standby means (a time obtained by subtracting the time from the start of the fluctuation display of the immediately preceding game to the operation of the start lever 11 from 4.1 seconds). A longer time can be used.
[0025]
In this case, when the start of the fluctuation display is awaited before the shortest period of one game has elapsed, the time spent for the fluctuation display is absorbed by a predetermined delay time, and the fluctuation display is performed simultaneously with the elapse of the delay time. Can be started, and it can be clarified that the control to the lighting preparation state has been performed in response to the delay of the start of the variable display.
[0026]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0027]
FIG. 1 is a front view showing the entire structure of the slot machine according to the embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an internal structure visually recognized when the front door of the slot machine in FIG. 1 is opened. FIG. 3 is a view showing the structure of the back side of the front door of the slot machine of FIG. The front door of the slot machine 1 can be opened by inserting a key into the locking device 19 (FIG. 1) and rotating it clockwise.
[0028]
Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a variable display device 2 is provided on the upper front side of the slot machine 1. Inside the variable display device 2, a reel unit 3 including three reels 3L, 3C, and 3R is provided. The reels 3L, 3C, 3R are rotated / stopped by driving the reel motors 3ML, 3MC, 3MR, respectively.
[0029]
On the outer peripheral portions of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R, symbols such as "no color 7", "colored 7", "BAR", "JAC", "watermelon", "cherry", and "bell" are arranged in a predetermined order. It is drawn in. The symbols drawn on the outer peripheral portions of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R are displayed on the variable display device 2 in three stages of upper, middle, and lower. Further, in the reel unit 3, a reel sensor 3SL, 3SC, 3SR for detecting a reference position of each of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R and a reel lamp 3LP for irradiating light from the back are provided. I have.
[0030]
Various display units are provided around the variable display device 2. Below the variable display device 2, a game number display section 21, a credit display section 22, and a payout display section 23 are provided. The number-of-games display section 21 is constituted by a number-of-games display 51 using a seven-segment display, and displays a value of a counter for counting the number of games and the number of winnings at the time of a big bonus or a regular bonus described later.
[0031]
The credit display unit 22 is configured by a credit display unit 52 of a seven-segment display, and displays the number of credits stored as data according to the number of inserted medals and the number of paid out medals as described later. The payout display unit 23 is configured by a payout display 53 using a seven-segment display, and displays the number of medals to be paid out when a winning is achieved.
[0032]
On the left side of the variable display device 2, a single bet display unit 24, a two bet display unit 25, 26, and a three bet display unit 27, 28 are provided. The one, two, and three bet display units 24-28 respectively display one, two, and three bet lamps 54 through corresponding to lines activated according to the number of bets (hereinafter, referred to as valid lines). When 58 is turned on, the player is shown an active line in each game. The one-, two-, and three-betting bet display units 24-28 display that the one-, two-, and three-betting lamps 54-58 blink when a prize is won for a role described later. The activated lines that have won the combination described later are shown to the player.
[0033]
On the right side of the variable display device 2, an insertion instruction display unit 29, a start display unit 30, a weight display unit 31, a replay display unit 32, and a game over display unit 33 are provided. The insertion instruction display section 29 indicates that medals can be inserted when the insertion instruction lamp 59 is turned on. The start display unit 30 indicates that the start is possible, that is, the operation of the start lever 11 can be accepted when the start lamp 60 is turned on. The weight display section 31 indicates that a weight described later is being applied by turning on the weight lamp 61. When the replay lamp 62 is turned on, the replay display section 32 indicates that a replay prize, described later, has been won. The game over display section 33 indicates that the slot machine 1 has been stopped by turning on the game over lamp 63.
[0034]
On the upper side of the variable display device 2, a liquid crystal display 4 is provided as presentation means. The liquid crystal display 4 displays various effects images according to the game state. The effect image is composed of, for example, a series of moving images, and is notified by the process of the effect or the final screen that an internal lottery, which will be described later, has been won or that there is a possibility of the internal lottery (the internal lottery A notification that the winning probability is 100%) or a notice (a notification that there is a possibility that the internal lottery has been won) is given.
[0035]
A medal slot 13, a single BET button 14, a MAXBET button 15, and a settlement button 16 are provided on a horizontal surface of a trapezoidal portion provided below the variable display device 2. BET button lamps 70a and 70b (see FIG. 4) that light up when the bet amount can be set from the credits (maximum 50) stored as data are arranged inside the single BET button 14 and the MAXBET button 15. Have been.
[0036]
The medal insertion slot 13 is for the player to insert a medal from here, and when the insertion of the medal is detected by the inserted medal sensor 44 while the insertion instruction section 29 is turned on, the number of bets is set, Alternatively, credits are stored as data. The single BET button 14 and the MAX BET button 15 are buttons operated by the player when setting the number of bets (1, 3 respectively) from the credits accumulated as data. When the bet amount is detected by the single BET switch 45 (see FIG. 4) or the MAX BET switch 46 (see FIG. 4), the bet amount from credit is set. The payment button 16 is a button for instructing payment of credits. When an operation is detected by the payment switch 47 (see FIG. 4), medals corresponding to the credits accumulated as data are paid out.
[0037]
A start lever 11 and stop buttons 12L, 12C, 12R are provided on a vertical surface of the trapezoidal portion. Further, a panel covering the stop buttons 12L, 12C, 12R is applied as the bonus notification unit 36.
[0038]
The start lever 11 is operated by the player when starting the game. When the operation is detected by the start switch 41 (see FIG. 4), the drive of the reel drive motors 3ML, 3MC, 3MR is started, and the reel is started. 3L, 3C and 3R start rotating. The stop buttons 12L, 12C, and 12R are buttons operated by the player to stop the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R at desired timing, and the operation is performed by the stop switches 42L, 42C, and 42R (see FIG. 4). , The rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is stopped.
[0039]
The fact that the stop buttons 12L, 12C, 12R can be operated is indicated to the player by turning on the operation valid lamps 63L, 63C, 63R (see FIG. 4) provided therein. When the bonus notification lamp 66 (see FIG. 4) is turned on, the bonus notification unit 36 notifies the player that a big bonus winning flag or a regular bonus winning flag described later is set with a probability of 100%. I do. On the right side of the stop button 12R, there is provided a medal jam clearing button 18 that mechanically vibrates the slot machine 1 when a medal is jammed.
[0040]
On the lower front side of the slot machine 1, a medal payout opening 71 and a medal storage plate 72 are provided. The medal payout opening 71 discharges medals paid out by the hopper 80 to the outside. The hopper 80 includes a hopper motor 82 that performs a medal payout operation, and a payout sensor 81 that detects the payout of medals. The medal storage tray 72 is for storing paid-out medals. Inside the overflow tank 95 for storing medals overflowing from the hopper 80, a full tank sensor 90 for detecting that the stored medals are full is provided.
[0041]
The front panel on the medal storage tray 72 is irradiated with light emitted from the fluorescent lamp 6 (see FIG. 4) installed inside. In the fluorescent lamp 6, when a discharge occurs between the filaments at both ends, electrons collide with the mercury sealed in the fluorescent tube, whereby the phosphor applied to the inside of the fluorescent tube by the ultraviolet rays radiated from the mercury is emitted. It is a discharge lamp that is lit by being excited to emit visible light. The filament at each end of the fluorescent lamp 6 has a high voltage terminal and a preheating terminal.
[0042]
The state of the fluorescent lamp 6 includes a light-off state, a transition state, a lighting preparation state, and a lighting state. The light-off state is a state in which no voltage is applied between the filaments at both ends and no visible light is emitted. In the transition state, a current is caused to flow through a current path formed outside the fluorescent lamp 6 by a voltage applied to the filament, and discharge is generated even if the current path is interrupted until the temperature of the filament sufficiently rises. Is not ready.
[0043]
The lighting preparation state is a state in which the temperature of the filament is sufficiently increased while the current is flowing through the current path so that the current path can be cut off to generate a discharge. The lighting preparation state is a state in which a small amount of visible light is emitted by thermionic electrons emitted due to the temperature rise of the filament, especially near the filaments at both ends. In the lighting state, a discharge occurs in the fluorescent tube due to a voltage applied between the electrodes, and a predetermined amount of visible light is emitted by the discharge.
[0044]
Switching between the lighting state and the lighting preparation state can be controlled by switching at an arbitrary timing in both directions. In the light-off state or the transition state, the energy barrier for generating the discharge is high, so that the fluorescent lamp 6 cannot be changed from the light-off state or the transition state to the light-on state without going through the lighting preparation state. The period during which the fluorescent lamp 6 is in the transition state is a period during which the filament of the fluorescent lamp 6 is heated until it is sufficient to lower the energy barrier for generating discharge.
[0045]
Since the fluorescent lamp 6 is in the transition state only for a short period after the power is turned on, there is almost no period in which the player can see. Since the amount of visible light emitted from each of the light-off state, the light-on preparation state, and the light-on state, which can be continuously maintained, is significantly different, the player recognizes the difference in the light-up state. It is possible. The state of the fluorescent lamp 6 and its control will be described later in detail.
[0046]
Loudspeakers 7U, 7L, and 7R as effect means are provided on the lower front side of the slot machine 1 and on the left and right sides of the upper front side, respectively. The speakers 7U, 7L, and 7R output sound effects at the time of a prize, a big bonus, and a regular bonus, and output an alarm sound at the time of an abnormality, and output various sound for an effect according to a game state. Do.
[0047]
Further, on the front side of the slot machine 1, a game effect display section 5A that performs a light effect by emitting light from the game effect lamps 75A to 75M as effect means so as to surround the variable display device 2 and the liquid crystal display 4. Ｍ5M are provided. The game effect display units 5A to 5M perform effects with light in various patterns according to the progress of the game. The emission colors of the game effect display sections 5A to 5M may be a single color or a plurality of colors.
[0048]
Further, inside the slot machine 1, a setting switch 91 for setting a winning probability of an internal lottery described later, a setting key switch 92 for enabling the setting switch 91 to be operated by an unlocking operation, an internal state (RAM 112 (see FIG. )), And a power supply unit 9 including a main switch 94 for turning ON / OFF the power. Since the operation of the setting switch 91 requires the unlocking operation of the setting key switch 92, only a person having a specific authority, such as a clerk at a game store, can perform the operation. Further, a first reset switch 48 having the same function as the second reset switch 93 is provided at a position corresponding to the locking device 19 on the rear side of the front door.
[0049]
As a control board for controlling each of the above components, a power supply board 100 disposed on the lower side inside, a game control board 101 disposed on the upper side inside, a reel relay board 103, a reel lamp relay board 104, and an external output board 105, and An effect control board 102 arranged behind the front door is provided. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a configuration of a control circuit of the slot machine 1 including the control boards 100 to 105. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing circuit components and signal wiring mounted on the game control board 101 and the effect control board 102.
[0050]
The power supply board 100 transforms an external power supply voltage of AC100V and supplies operating power to the game control board 101 and other parts of the slot machine 1. In FIG. 4, only the game control board 101 and the hopper 80 are connected, but power is also supplied to other units. A setting switch 91, a setting key switch 92, a second reset switch 93, and a main switch 94 are connected to the power supply board 100, and the detection signals of these switches are sent to the game control board 101.
[0051]
The game control board 101 is a main-side control board that controls the overall flow of the game in the slot machine 1. The game control board 101 includes a control unit 110 including a one-chip microcomputer including a CPU 111, a RAM 112, a ROM 113, and an I / O port 114. Yes. Further, a random number generation circuit 115, a sampling circuit 116, a buffer circuit 117, a switch circuit 118, a motor circuit 119, and other circuits are mounted.
[0052]
The CPU 111 has a timekeeping function and a timer interrupt function, executes a program (described later) stored in the ROM 113, performs processing relating to the progress of the game, and controls each part of the control circuit in the slot machine 1 directly or indirectly. To control. The RAM 112 is used as a work area when the CPU 111 executes a program. The ROM 113 stores programs executed by the CPU 111 and fixed data. The I / O port 114 inputs and outputs control signals to and from each circuit connected to the game control board 101.
[0053]
The random number generation circuit 115 is configured by, for example, a counter that counts up and updates the value every time the system clock generates a predetermined number of pulses, and the sampling circuit 116 acquires the numerical value counted by the random number generation circuit 115. . The random number generation circuit 115 is provided for each type of random number used in the progress of the game, and a range of numerical values to be counted for each type of random number is defined.
[0054]
The CPU 111 obtains the numerical value indicated by the random number generation circuit 115 as a random number by sending an instruction to the sampling circuit 116 in accordance with the processing (hereinafter, this function is referred to as a hardware random number function). The CPU 111 also has a function of updating the numerical value of a specific address in the RAM 112 by a timer interrupt process and acquiring the updated numerical value as a random number (hereinafter, this function is referred to as a software random number function).
[0055]
The CPU 111 transmits various commands including a winning status notification command described later to the effect control board 102 via the I / O port 114 and the buffer circuit 117. Information is sent from the game control board 101 to the effect control board 102 in only one direction, and information is not sent from the effect control board 102 to the game control board 101.
[0056]
The game control board 101 is connected to a single BET switch 45, a MAX BET switch 46, a start switch 41, stop switches 42L, 42C, 42R, a settlement switch 47, a first reset switch 48, and a inserted medal sensor 44. Of the switches / sensors are input. Further, detection signals of the reel sensors 3SL, 3SC, 3SR are input via the reel relay board 103. In accordance with the detection signals of these switches / sensors input via the I / O port 114 or the detection signals of the various switches input via the power supply board 100 as described above, the CPU 111 on the game control board 101 Processing is in progress.
[0057]
The game control board 101 also includes a flow path switching solenoid 49, a game count indicator 51, a credit indicator 52, a payout indicator 53, an insertion instruction lamp 59, a one bet lamp 54, a two bet lamp 55, 56, The three betting lamps 57 and 58, the game over lamp 63, the start lamp 60, the replay lamp 62, the BET button lamps 70a and 70b, and the operation valid lamps 63L, 63C and 63R are connected, and the CPU 111 determines according to the progress of the game. These operations are controlled.
[0058]
In addition, reel motors 3ML, 3MC, 3MR are connected to the game control board 101 via a reel relay board 103. The CPU 111 controls the reel motors 3ML, 3MC, 3ML via the motor circuit 119 and the reel relay board 103 with reference to the reel control table corresponding to the game state in the ROM 113 to stop the reels 3L, 3C, 3R. Let it. A delay time described later may be inserted before the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is started. The delay of the rotation start of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R will be described later in detail.
[0059]
The effect control board 102 is a sub-side control board that controls the execution of the effect in the slot machine 1, and has a control unit 120 including a one-chip microcomputer including a CPU 121, a RAM 122, a ROM 123, and an I / O port 124 mounted thereon. I have. The CPU 121 is provided with a random number generation circuit 125 and a sampling circuit 126. The CPU 121 obtains the value counted by the random number generation circuit 125 by the sampling circuit 126, so that the CPU 121 has the same hardware random number function as the game control board 101. Is formed. It also has a software random number function by interrupt processing.
[0060]
The CPU 121 executes a program (described later) stored in the ROM 123 to perform a process relating to the execution of the effect, and controls each circuit in the effect control board 102 and each circuit connected thereto. The effect is performed based on a command (especially a winning status notification command) received from the game control board 101 via the buffer circuit 127 and the I / O port 124. The RAM 122 is used as a work area when the CPU 121 executes a program. The ROM 123 stores programs executed by the CPU 121 and fixed data. The I / O port 124 inputs and outputs a control signal to and from each circuit connected to the effect control board 102.
[0061]
The effect control board 102 is connected with the game effect lamps 75A to 75M, the liquid crystal display 4, the speakers 7L, 7R, 7U, the fluorescent lamp 6, the weight lamp 61, and the bonus notification lamp 66. A speaker drive circuit 131, a display drive circuit 132, a lamp drive circuit 133, an inverter circuit 134, and the like are provided. Details of the inverter circuit 134 will be described later. The reel lamp 3LP is connected via the reel lamp relay board 104. The control unit of the effect control board 102 controls each of these units to perform the effect.
[0062]
The reel relay board 103 relays between the game control board 101, the external output board 105, and the reel unit 3. A full tank sensor 90 is also connected to the reel relay board 103, and a detection signal thereof is input. The reel lamp relay board 104 relays between the effect control board 102 and the reel unit 3. The external output board 105 is connected to an external device such as a hall management computer, and receives a signal during the big bonus, a signal during the regular bonus, a reel control signal, and a stop signal input from the game control board 101 via the reel relay board 103. A switch signal, a medal IN signal, and a medal OUT signal are output to the external device.
[0063]
In the slot machine 1, when the winning symbols are arranged on the activated line set according to the bet number of the variable display device 2, a winning is achieved. When a prize is generated, the gaming state is shifted according to the type of the winning combination, and medals are paid out. In order for a prize to be generated, the internal winning flag of the combination must be set, and details thereof will be described later.
[0064]
In the normal gaming state, when, for example, three “BARs” are arranged on the activated line according to the number of bets, a regular bonus win is achieved, and the gaming state shifts to the regular bonus until a predetermined end condition is satisfied. If, for example, three “colored 7” or three “colorless 7” are aligned on the activated line according to the number of bets, a big bonus prize is won, and the game state until the predetermined end condition is satisfied. Shifts to a big bonus. Note that the states shifted to the regular bonus and the big bonus are called first and second special game states, respectively, and the regular bonus flag and the big bonus flag are set in the RAM 112 in the game control board 101.
[0065]
In addition, when "watermelon" or "bell" is aligned on the activated line, or when "cherry" appears on the left reel 3L, a small win is made. In the normal game state, if "JAC" is aligned on the activated line, a replay winning is achieved. The replay is not a small role in a strict sense, but is common in that it does not involve a transition of the gaming state. Therefore, the term “small role” includes a replay winning. In addition, a simple “bonus” includes both a big bonus and a regular bonus.
[0066]
Next, the internal lottery will be described. The internal lottery is for determining in advance whether or not to allow winning of each of the above-mentioned roles, and a random number for the internal lottery obtained by using the hardware random number function, setting by the setting switch 91, setting by the player The CPU 111 refers to the winning determination table prepared in the ROM 113 based on the bet amount and the current game state, and the CPU 111 performs such a means for the advance determination. When the internal lottery is won, a winning flag corresponding to the winning combination is set in the RAM 112 of the game control board 101.
[0067]
According to the result of the above internal lottery, a big bonus winning flag, a regular bonus winning flag, and a small winning combination flag (a plurality of small winning combinations are provided depending on the type of small winning) are set in the RAM 112 in the game control board 101. Only one new winning flag is set in one game. The small role winning flag is not carried over to the next game transition, but only the big bonus winning flag and the regular bonus winning flag are carried over after the next game until an actual prize is won.
[0068]
Next, the delay of the rotation start of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R will be described in detail. The rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is started by the player operating the start lever 11, but the rotation is not always started simultaneously with the operation of the start lever 11. If a predetermined time (for example, 4.1 seconds) has not elapsed from the start of rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R in the previous game, the reels 3L, The rotation of 3C and 3R is started (in this case, it is a wait for the start of rotation, not a delay of the start of rotation).
[0069]
When the start lever 11 is operated, an internal lottery is performed, and various winning flags are set in the RAM 112 based on the result, but the rotation start of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R is delayed according to the state. This is the case (the delay in this case is the delay of the rotation start of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R according to the present invention). The delay time of the start of rotation includes eight stages from 0 second (no delay) to 7 seconds at intervals of 1 second. The longer the delay time is determined, the higher the probability of winning a bonus. For example, the probability of winning a bonus without delay is substantially the same as the probability of winning a bonus (about 0.5%). However, when the delay time is 7 seconds, the bonus is won with a probability of about 80%.
[0070]
When the start lever 11 is operated, a start command including the determined delay time is transmitted from the game control board 101 to the effect control board 102 after the internal lottery and the delay time are determined. The internal lottery and the determination of the delay time are internal processes in the basic circuit 110 of the game control board 101, and can be regarded as those that do not require a processing time in the sense of a human (player). For this reason, transmission of the start command can be identified as being performed simultaneously with operation of the start lever 11.
[0071]
In the effect control board 102, when the rotation start of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is delayed, a freeze effect in which the amount of light emitted from the fluorescent lamp 6 is sufficiently reduced during the delay time is performed in synchronization. The freeze effect in the slot machine 1 is performed by controlling the inverter circuit 134 to bring the fluorescent lamp 6 into a lighting preparation state. Next, the inverter circuit 134 for performing the freeze effect and the lighting control of the fluorescent lamp 6 by the inverter circuit 134 will be described in detail.
[0072]
FIG. 6 is a circuit diagram showing the configuration of the inverter circuit 134 in detail. As illustrated, the inverter circuit 134 includes a main circuit 134a and a preheating circuit 134b. A voltage of +24 (V) is applied to the input terminal IN1 of the inverter circuit 134. The input terminal IN3 is grounded. Under the control of the CPU 111, the fluorescent lamp signal SIG of +24 (V) is applied to the input terminal IN2 (ON state) or grounded (OFF state).
[0073]
The output terminals OUT1, OUT2, OUT3, and OUT4 of the inverter circuit 134 are connected to the high-voltage terminal and preheating terminal of the filament on one end of the fluorescent lamp 6, and the preheating terminal and high-voltage terminal of the filament on the other end, respectively. Output voltages output from the main circuit 134a as described below are applied to the output terminals OUT1 and OUT4. The output terminals OUT2 and OUT3 are connected to the preheating circuit 134b, respectively. When the preheating circuit 134b is turned on as described later, a current path is formed between the preheating terminals at both ends of the fluorescent lamp 6, and a preheating current is generated. Is flowing.
[0074]
In the main circuit 134a, when a voltage of +24 (V) is applied between the input terminals IN1 and IN3 by the power supplied from the power supply substrate 100, the transistor Q1 is connected via the starting resistors R1 and R2, R3 and R4, respectively. , Q2 are biased. At this time, the common emitter current amplification factor h of the transistors Q1 and Q2 _fe , One of them is turned on first.
[0075]
For example, when the transistor Q1 is biased first and turned on, a voltage is applied in the direction of the pins (3) to (4) and (4) to (5) of the primary winding of the transformer T1, and the voltage is proportional to this. A positive feedback voltage is generated in the direction of pins (7) to (6) of the bias winding L2 of the transistors Q1 and Q2. After the bias of the transistor Q1 reaches the peak, the bias is reduced by the positive feedback voltage. When the bias becomes smaller than a certain amount, the transistor Q1 is turned off.
[0076]
When the transistor Q1 is turned off, the transistor Q2 is biased and turned on, and a voltage is applied in the direction of pins (5) to (4) and (4) to (3) of the primary winding of the transformer T1, and Is generated in the direction of pins {circle around (6)} and {circle around (7)} of the bias winding L2. The bias of the transistor Q2 is reduced by the positive feedback voltage after reaching the peak, and when it becomes smaller than a certain amount, the transistor Q2 is turned off. When the transistor Q2 is turned off, the transistor Q1 is now biased and turned on, and this is repeated at a frequency of about 20 kHz.
[0077]
When a voltage is applied to the primary winding of the transformer T1 during the repetition of this operation, a voltage proportional to the voltage is also generated in the secondary winding. This voltage is output from the output terminals OUT1 and OUT4 as an AC output voltage via the capacitor C3, and is applied to the fluorescent lamp 6. The capacitor C3 limits the current of the fluorescent lamp 6 by its impedance.
[0078]
In a state where the filament of the fluorescent lamp 6 is sufficiently heated to emit thermoelectrons and the energy barrier for discharge is lowered, the preheating circuit 134b described below is turned off to cut off the current path, and the preheating current is reduced. Does not flow, a potential difference is generated between the filaments at both ends, and a discharge occurs in the fluorescent tube. This discharge causes the fluorescent lamp 6 to emit visible light and turn on. FIG. 7D schematically shows this state.
[0079]
On the other hand, if the voltage of +24 (V) is not supplied from the power supply substrate 100, no voltage is applied from the output terminals OUT1 and OUT4 to the high-voltage terminal of the fluorescent lamp 6, and no potential difference occurs between the filaments. If no potential difference occurs between the filaments, no discharge can be generated in the fluorescent tube, and no visible light is emitted from the fluorescent lamp 6. This state is a light-off state, and FIG. 7A schematically shows this state.
[0080]
In the preheating circuit 134b, when a fluorescent lamp signal SIG of +24 (V) is applied to the input terminal IN2, a bias is applied to the transistor Q1 via the resistor R5, the diode D5, and the resistor R6, and the transistor Q3 is turned on. Become. As a result, a current path is formed between the preheating terminals at both ends of the fluorescent lamp 6 on the path passing through the diode D1, the transistor Q3, and the diode D3, or the path passing through the diode D2, the transistor Q3, and the diode D4.
[0081]
At this time, if a voltage is applied from the output terminals OUT1 and OUT4 to the high voltage terminals at both ends of the fluorescent lamp 6, a preheating current flows through a current path formed in the preheating circuit 134b. Since the preheating current also flows through the filaments at both ends (which have some resistance), the filaments at both ends generate heat. When the temperature is sufficiently high, thermoelectrons are emitted, and an energy barrier for discharge is formed. It will decrease. Here, if the current path formed in the preheating circuit 134b is cut off, discharge can be generated in the fluorescent tube at any time. This state is a lighting preparation state, and FIG. 7C schematically shows this state.
[0082]
In order to raise the temperature of the filament of the fluorescent lamp 6 from a sufficiently low state (about room temperature) to a temperature required for discharge, it is necessary to keep the preheating current flowing for at least about 1.5 seconds. The state in the period in which the temperature of the filament is raised to the temperature required for the discharge is the transition state, and is distinguished from the lighting preparation state in which the temperature has already been sufficiently raised. The control state of the inverter circuit 134 does not change between the transition state and the lighting preparation state. However, even when the current path formed in the preheating circuit 134b is cut off when the temperature rise is not sufficient, the discharge in the fluorescent tube is stopped. Cannot be generated. FIG. 7B schematically shows this state.
[0083]
Next, a change in the state of the fluorescent lamp 6 corresponding to the operation of the slot machine 1 will be described in more detail with reference to the schematic diagram of FIG. When the power of the slot machine 1 is off, the light is turned off as shown in FIG. When the power of the slot machine 1 is turned on, a voltage is applied from the inverter circuit 134a to the high-voltage terminal of the fluorescent lamp 6, and the preheating circuit 134b is turned on to form a current path and a preheating current flows. At this time, the temperature of the filament of the fluorescent lamp 6 is low and it is difficult to emit thermoelectrons. Therefore, even if the preheating circuit 134b is turned off and the current path is cut off, discharge cannot be generated in the fluorescent tube. The transition state shown in FIG.
[0084]
When this preheating current flows for a certain period of time (about 1.5 seconds), the temperature of the filament of the fluorescent lamp 6 becomes sufficiently high, so that thermoelectrons are emitted, as shown in FIG. 7C. It is in the lighting preparation state. In the lighting preparation state, if the current path is cut off by turning off the preheating circuit 134b, discharge can be generated in the fluorescent tube at any time. In this state, when the input terminal IN2 is grounded and the preheating circuit 134b is turned off to cut off the current path, a potential difference is generated between the filaments and discharge occurs, and the lighting state shown in FIG.
[0085]
When the fluorescent lamp 6 is once turned on to cause discharge, the temperature of the entire fluorescent lamp 6 including the filaments at both ends is kept high. Here, even if the fluorescent lamp signal SIG is grounded and the preheating circuit 134b is turned on to form a current path and a preheating current is supplied, it only returns to the lighting preparation state but does not return to the transition state. That is, the state of the fluorescent lamp 6 is controlled to be switched between the lighting state of FIG. 7D and the lighting preparation state of FIG. 7C. After the period of the transition state at the time of turning on the power, the fluorescent lamp 6 is always in the lighting preparation state when the lighting state is going to be changed to the lighting state.
[0086]
7A, the voltage is applied between the filaments of the fluorescent lamp 6 in a state where the preheating circuit 134b is turned off and the current path is cut off to generate a potential difference. Since no energy is emitted, the energy barrier is high, so that no discharge occurs between the filaments. Further, even if a voltage is applied to the filaments at both ends of the fluorescent lamp 6 by the main circuit 134a and once a discharge occurs in the fluorescent lamp 6, the fluorescent lamp signal SIG is turned on again and the filament of the fluorescent lamp 6 is turned on by the preheating circuit 134b. When the preheating current flows through the lamp, the potential difference between the filaments disappears, so that no discharge occurs irrespective of the temperature, and the fluorescent lamp 6 is ready for lighting.
[0087]
When the fluorescent lamp 6 is controlled from the lighting state to the lighting preparation state again in this way, the amount of emitted light is sufficiently smaller than that in the lighting state. In this case, depending on the surrounding brightness, for a player who is accustomed to the brightness of the fluorescent lamp 6 in the lighting state, the brightness of the fluorescent lamp 6 suddenly becomes dark. It can give a broken impression. In this embodiment, a description will be given assuming that the fluorescent lamp 6 is quasi-lit in the lighting preparation state from the viewpoint of its brightness.
[0088]
By the way, when the power of the slot machine 1 is turned on, a voltage is applied to the filaments at both ends of the fluorescent lamp 6 by the main circuit 134a, and the fluorescent lamp signal SIG is turned on to turn on the preheating circuit 134b to form a current path. As a result, a preheating current flows. When a certain period (about 1.5 seconds) elapses with the preheating current flowing, the transition from the transition state to the lighting preparation state occurs due to a rise in temperature, where the fluorescent lamp signal SIG is turned off and the fluorescent lamp 6 is turned on. Is performed.
[0089]
If the power of the slot machine 1 is kept on, the voltage is always applied to the filaments at both ends of the fluorescent lamp 6 by the main circuit 134a, and the temperature is kept sufficiently high. Is shifted only from the lighting state to the lighting preparation state, and does not shift to the transition state. When the power of the slot machine 1 is turned off, no voltage is applied by the main circuit 134a and the potential difference between the filaments disappears, so that no discharge can occur in the fluorescent tube and the fluorescent lamp 6 is turned off.
[0090]
Hereinafter, a gaming operation in the slot machine 1 according to the embodiment will be described. In the following description, the term "game" includes a series of steps from setting the number of bets to rotating / stopping the reels 3L, 3C and 3R. Furthermore, if some processing (for example, payout of medals or transition of the game state) is performed after the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is stopped, this processing is also included as processing in one game. I do. The description will be made on the assumption that the power of the slot machine 1 has already been turned on and the period of the transition state has already passed as the state of the fluorescent lamp 6.
[0091]
FIG. 8A is a flowchart showing processing for one game executed by the CPU 111 of the game control board 101. This process is also performed after the power is turned on and a predetermined boot process is performed, or immediately after the setting is changed by operating the setting switch 91. When the process of one game is started, first, an initial process including a process of clearing a predetermined area of the RAM 112 is performed (step S1).
[0092]
Next, the number of bets is set by operating the single BET button 14 or the MAXBET button 15 or by inserting medals through the medal insertion slot 13 and operating the start lever 11 to substantially execute the game. A BET process for instructing start is performed (step S2). However, if a replay has been won in the previous game, the same bet amount as in the previous game is automatically set by the replay flag (the replay flag is deleted at this stage), so the start lever 11 is operated as it is. To start the game.
[0093]
When the number of bets is set by the BET process and the start lever 11 is operated, a lottery process is performed to determine whether or not the winning of each combination is permitted (step S3). In this lottery process, a random number for internal lottery is extracted by the hardware random number function, the internal lottery result is determined based on the value of the extracted random number, and a winning flag is set in the RAM 112 based on the result.
[0094]
When the lottery process ends, a reel change start process is performed next (step S4). In the reel fluctuation start process, the reel motors 3ML, 3MC, and 3MR are driven, and all the left, middle, and right reels 3L, 3C, and 3R start rotating. Thereby, the symbol is variably displayed on the variable display device 2. However, when the delay time is inserted according to the setting status of the winning flag, the predetermined time has not elapsed from the start of rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R in the previous game after the delay time has elapsed. , The rotation of the reels 3L, 3C and 3R is started after a predetermined time has elapsed.
[0095]
Thereafter, reel fluctuation stop processing is performed (step S5). In the reel fluctuation stop process, after a predetermined condition (detecting the reference position by the reel sensors 3SL, 3SC, and 3SR after the rotation speed reaches a certain speed) from the start of rotation of the reel is satisfied, the stop buttons 12L and 12C are set. , 12R, and the reel motors 3ML, 3MC, 3MR are stopped and the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is stopped by being operated by the player. Further, when the time measured by the reel stop timer elapses a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds), the driving of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is forcibly stopped.
[0096]
When the driving of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R is stopped, it is determined whether any of the above-mentioned winning symbols is aligned on the activated line corresponding to the bet number set in the BET processing in step S2 in the display mode at the time of the stop. A winning determination process is performed (step S6). If it is determined in this winning determination process that any one of the winning combinations has been won, various processes (including setting the number of payouts) according to the winning generated on the game control board 101 are performed.
[0097]
When the winning determination processing ends, a payout processing is performed (step S7). In the payout process, the credit is increased by the number of expected payout medals set in the winning determination process. However, when the number of credits accumulated as data reaches 50, the excess number of medals is paid out from the medal payout opening 71 by driving the hopper motor 82. In addition, various settings that are not related to winning are also performed, such as erasing a small role winning flag and counting the number of games at the time of a bonus.
[0098]
Next, the reel fluctuation start processing in step S4 will be described in detail. FIG. 8B is a flowchart showing in detail a reel fluctuation start process executed by the CPU 111 of the game control board 101 in step S4.
[0099]
In the reel variation start process, first, a random number for determining a delay time is extracted by a software random number function, and the delay time until the reels 3L, 3C, 3R start rotating is set to 0 in accordance with the setting status of the winning flag in the RAM 112. It is determined to be one of seconds (no delay) to 7 seconds (step S101). Next, a start command including the determined delay time is generated and transmitted to the effect control board 102 (step S102).
[0100]
Next, it is determined whether or not it is determined in step S101 to insert a delay time at the start of rotation of the reels 3L, 3C and 3R, that is, whether or not a delay time other than 0 seconds is determined (step S103). If it is determined that no delay time is to be inserted (that is, the delay time is 0 second), the process proceeds to step S106.
[0101]
If it is determined that the delay time is to be inserted, the timer for measuring the delay time is started using a timer for measuring the delay time (step S104). Here, it is determined whether or not the time counted by the timer that has started counting has reached the delay time determined in step S101 (step S105). If the time measured by the timer has not reached the determined delay time, the process of step S105 is repeated to wait for the delay time to elapse. When the time measured by the timer reaches the determined delay time, the process proceeds to step S106.
[0102]
In step S106, it is determined whether or not the one game timer has counted a predetermined time (for example, 4.1 seconds) from the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R in the previous game. If the one game timer has not counted the elapse of the predetermined time, the process enters a standby state for starting rotation in which the process of step S106 is repeated. By turning on the weight lamp 61 during the standby state of the rotation start, the weight display unit 31 can notify that effect by turning on the weight lamp 61.
[0103]
When one game timer has counted the predetermined time (or has already counted the time), the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C and 3R is started. Here, the order in which the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R start rotating may be changed according to the state of various flags set in the RAM 112. (Step S107). In addition, the counting of the reel stop timer is started, and the counting of one game timer is started for the next game (step S108). Then, the reel fluctuation start process is completed, and the process returns to the main routine (FIG. 8A).
[0104]
In the repetition of the game as described above, the CPU 111 of the game control board 101 performs the transition of the game state between the normal game state, the regular bonus, and the big bonus, and controls the production of the command according to the progress of the game. The signal is transmitted to the substrate 102. On the other hand, the CPU 121 of the effect control board 102 performs a unique effect including lighting control of the fluorescent lamp 6 based on the command received from the game control board 101. Hereinafter, a process executed by the CPU 121 of the effect control board 102 to perform various effects (particularly, lighting control of the fluorescent lamp 6) will be described.
[0105]
FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a command reception standby process executed by the CPU 121 of the effect control board 102. The effect control board 102 determines whether or not a command sent from the game control board 101 has been received (step S201). Until the command is received, the process of step S201 is repeated, and the process is in a state of waiting for the reception of the command. When any command is received from the game control board 101, the type of the received command is determined (step S202).
[0106]
When the type of the received command is the start command transmitted in step S102, whether the delay time included in the start command is not 0 and whether the delay time is inserted at the start of rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R. It is determined whether or not it is (step S203). If the delay time has not been inserted, the process returns to step S201.
[0107]
If the delay time has been inserted, the fluorescent lamp signal SIG of the inverter circuit 134 is turned on, a current path is formed by the preheating circuit 134b, and a preheating current flows through the filament of the fluorescent lamp 6 so that discharge does not occur. To As a result, the fluorescent lamp 6 enters a lighting preparation state, and the fluorescent lamp 6 is quasi-lit (step S204). In addition, timing of the delay time is started from this timing (step S205). The timing for starting the timing is substantially equal to the timing for starting the timing on the game control board 101 in step S104.
[0108]
Next, it is determined whether or not the time being counted (that is, the elapsed time since the fluorescent lamp 6 is in the lighting preparation state) has reached the delay time included in the start command (step S206). Here, the timing at which it is determined that the delay time has been reached is substantially equal to the timing at which the game control board 101 determines that the delay time has been reached at step S105 and the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is started. Will be something. If the delay time has not been reached, the process of step S206 is repeated.
[0109]
When it is timed that the delay time has been reached, the fluorescent lamp signal SIG of the inverter circuit 134 is turned off, the current path formed in the preheating circuit 134b is cut off, and the preheating current flows through the filament of the fluorescent lamp 6. Is stopped, and discharge is caused between the filaments of the fluorescent lamp 6 by the voltage applied by the main circuit 134a. Thereby, the fluorescent lamp 6 is turned on again (step S207). Then, the process returns to step S201.
[0110]
If the type of the received command is another command, a process corresponding to the type of each command (details are omitted because it is not related to the present invention) is executed (step S208). After that, the process returns to step S201.
[0111]
As described above, in the slot machine 1 according to the present embodiment, when the power of the slot machine 1 is turned on, the fluorescent lamp 6 is turned on if the transition state immediately after being turned on has passed. The state is shifted only in one of the state and the lighting preparation state, and does not return to the transition state again. In the freeze effect in accordance with the delay of the rotation start of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R, the fluorescent lamp 6 is not turned off, but is controlled to the lighting preparation state to be quasi-lighted. By turning off the preheating circuit 134b to cut off the current path, it is possible to immediately generate a discharge and return to a lighting state.
[0112]
The delay of the rotation start of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is performed by inserting a delay time from when the start lever 11 is operated to when the reel 3L, 3C, 3R is actually started to rotate, but the CPU 121 of the effect control board 102 The timing at which the start lever 11 is operated can be recognized by a start command, and the timing at which the delay time has elapsed can be recognized by timing. By setting the fluorescent lamp 6 to the lighting preparation state at the timing recognized as described above and returning to the lighting state again, it is possible to easily perform a freeze effect of quasi-lighting the fluorescent lamp 6. On the other hand, since the CPU 111 of the game control board 101 only needs to transmit the start command to the effect control board 102, no extra processing load is applied.
[0113]
When the freeze effect is performed, the player feels that the fluorescent lamp 6 or the control circuit including the inverter circuit 134 has failed due to the quasi-lighting of the fluorescent lamp 6. At this time, since the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R do not start rotating, the player is given an impression that the entire slot machine 1 has failed. By making it possible to produce such a highly impactful effect, it is possible to enhance the interest of the effect.
[0114]
The freeze production time in which the fluorescent lamp 6 is quasi-lit is the same as the delay time of the rotation start of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R, but this delay time is from 0 seconds (no delay) to 7 seconds. There are eight stages. By finely setting the time of the freeze effect in this way, the mode of the effect becomes rich and the interest of the effect can be improved.
[0115]
Here, the longer the delay time, that is, the duration of the freeze effect, the stronger the player's impression that the slot machine 1 has failed, but the higher the probability of winning the bonus. In other words, the stronger the impact given by the freeze effect, the higher the expectation of the player, and the more the effect of the effect and the interest of the game can be improved.
[0116]
By the way, the lighting control of the fluorescent lamp 6 is performed by the inverter circuit 134, but the operation of the inverter circuit 134 is controlled by the CPU 121 of the effect control board 102 based on a command from the game control board 101. It has become. Since the CPU 111 of the game control board 101 does not have to directly control the lighting of the fluorescent lamp 6, the processing load is not increased. Further, when the power of the slot machine 1 is turned on, the control performed by the CPU 121 of the effect control board 102 on the inverter circuit 134 only needs to control the fluorescent lamp signal SIG. There is no such thing.
[0117]
When the fluorescent lamp 6 is in the lighting preparation state, the player may recognize the lighting mode as a lighting mode different from the lighting state. In the lighting control of the fluorescent lamp 6, since the control for continuously maintaining the lighting preparation state has not been performed, the unique lighting mode in the lighting preparation state is a lighting mode that has not been used in the effects in the conventional slot machine. Recognized by the player. For this reason, depending on the concept of the slot machine 1 and the type of the effect to be executed, a novel and effective effect of the effect can be exhibited, and the effect of the effect can be greatly improved.
[0118]
The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and various modifications and applications are possible. Hereinafter, modifications of the above-described embodiment applicable to the present invention will be described.
[0119]
In the above-described embodiment, the delay time of the rotation start of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R, and the time of the freeze effect corresponding thereto are set in eight steps from 0 second (no delay) to 7 seconds in 1 second steps. I was In other words, even when there is a delay, seven times are set as the time. On the other hand, when the rotation start of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R is delayed and a freeze effect is performed in accordance therewith, the time may be fixed (for example, to 5 seconds).
[0120]
In the above-described embodiment, even if the start lever 11 is operated, if a predetermined time (for example, 4.1 seconds) has not elapsed from the start of rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R in the previous game, the time is not changed. Until the elapse, the rotation start of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R is made to wait. Here, if the rotation start of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is delayed, the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is started only after the delay time and the standby time have elapsed. Even if the fluorescent lamp 6 changes from the lighting preparation state to the lighting state due to the elapse of the delay time, the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R may not immediately start at that time.
[0121]
Therefore, when determining the delay time, the CPU 11 subtracts the remaining time of one game timer (the time from the start of rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R in the previous game to the operation of the start lever 11 from 4.1 seconds). ), And a time longer than this is always determined as the delay time. Alternatively, when a delay time shorter than the remaining time of one game timer is determined, the process of delaying the rotation start of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R may not be performed. Alternatively, only a time longer than the remaining time of one game timer that can be theoretically considered at the timing when the start lever 11 starts to operate may be determined as the delay time.
[0122]
By performing such control, even when the rotation start of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R is delayed, even if the one game timer does not count the predetermined time and the rotation start is made to wait, The waiting time is completely absorbed by the delay time. Thereby, the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R can be started at the same time as the end of the delay time, that is, at the same time when the fluorescent lamp 6 is turned on again from the lighting preparation state.
[0123]
In the above-described embodiment, the freeze effect is performed by simply setting the fluorescent lamp 6 to the lighting preparation state and then setting the fluorescent lamp 6 to the lighting state again when the delay time has elapsed. On the other hand, after controlling the fluorescent lamp 6 so that it alternates between the lighting preparation state and the lighting state for a short period of time (time shorter than the delay time) from the start of the freeze effect, the delay The fluorescent lamp 6 may be in a lighting preparation state until the time elapses. Even when the freeze effect is ended, the fluorescent lamp 6 may be controlled so as to be alternately switched between the lighting preparation state and the lighting state in a short period of time for a fixed time until the end.
[0124]
In the above-described embodiment, the fluorescent lamp 6 is set to the lighting preparation state by receiving the start command, and time measurement is started. When the measured time reaches the delay time indicated by the start command, the fluorescent lamp 6 is turned on again. It was to be turned on. Thus, the freeze effect can be performed in synchronization with the delay of the rotation start of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R. However, the method of synchronizing the freeze effect with the delay of the rotation start of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is not limited to this.
[0125]
For example, when starting the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R by measuring the elapse of the delay time in the game control board 101, a rotation start command is transmitted to the effect control board 101, and the start command is sent to the effect control board 102. The fluorescent lamp 6 may be turned on again after the rotation start command is received after the fluorescent lamp 6 is turned on by the reception of the command. In this method, even if there are a plurality of types of delay time, it is not necessary to include the delay time in the start command, and the timing on the effect control board 102 is not required.
[0126]
In this case, even when the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R is started after a lapse of the delay time by one game timer, the timing for turning on the fluorescent lamp 6 again in the freeze effect is It is possible to match the timing of starting rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R. For this reason, it is possible to easily perform the freeze effect until the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R actually start rotating, and it is possible to improve the attraction of the effect. Moreover, since the freeze effect is performed based on the command from the game control board 101, the timing control in the freeze effect can be reliably performed.
[0127]
It should be noted that a configuration in which the fluorescent lamp 6 is turned on by receiving the rotation start command and a configuration in which the fluorescent lamp 6 is turned on by measuring time from the reception of the start command may be used in combination. In this case, if either the reception of the rotation start command or the time counting from the reception of the start command is satisfied, the fluorescent lamp 6 is turned on, so that the reliability is increased.
[0128]
In the above-described embodiment, the delay time of the rotation start of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is determined in the reel fluctuation start processing in step S4, and is transmitted to the effect control board 102 by a start command. On the other hand, since the winning status notification command is also transmitted substantially when the start lever 11 is operated, the delay time of the rotation start of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is determined in the lottery process of step S3. The determined delay time (or no delay) may be included in the winning status notification command and transmitted to the effect control board 102.
[0129]
In this case, the CPU 111 of the game control board 101 does not need to transmit a start command to the effect control board 102 following the winning status notification command. When receiving the winning status notification command from the game control board 101, the CPU 121 of the effect control board 102 executes the processing of steps S203 to S207 to perform a freeze effect.
[0130]
In the above-described embodiment, the freeze effect in accordance with the delay of the rotation start of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is performed by setting the fluorescent lamp 6 to be in the lighting preparation state and quasi-lit. On the other hand, when delaying the rotation start of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R, the lamps respectively controlled in the game control board 101 and the effect control board 102 may be turned off until the delay time elapses. Good. The display of the image on the liquid crystal display 4 may be erased, and the output of the sound from the speakers 7L, 7R, and 7U may be stopped. As a result, it is possible to perform an effect as if the slot machine 1 was completely broken as a freeze effect, and the effect of the effect can be further improved.
[0131]
In the above-described embodiment, the freeze effect in which the fluorescent lamp 6 is quasi-lit in the lighting preparation state is performed in synchronization with the start of rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R when the rotation is delayed. . Since the delay of the rotation start of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is an effect for giving a bonus notice, the freeze effect is also an effect for the bonus notice.
[0132]
However, it is assumed that the rotation start of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R is delayed as an effect having another meaning (for example, an effect of notifying the stock release in a stock machine or the winning of an AT lottery in an AT (Assist Time) machine). In this case, the freeze effect is performed as an effect having the same meaning. Further, the freeze effect does not necessarily have to be performed in synchronization with the delay of the rotation start of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R, and has a unique meaning at a timing independent of the delay of the rotation start of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R. It may be performed as an effect.
[0133]
In the above embodiment, the effect performed by switching the state of the fluorescent lamp 6 between the lighting state and the lighting preparation state is the freeze effect performed simultaneously with the delay of the rotation start of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R. However, the effect that can be performed by switching between the lighting state and the lighting preparation state is not limited to this. The fluorescent lamp 6 in the lighting preparation state is in a state of emitting light, although it is sufficiently smaller than the lighting state.
[0134]
Therefore, for example, when performing an effect that expresses a daytime city scene and a nighttime city scene based on the concept of a slot machine, etc., the lighting state is used to express the daytime city scenery, and the nighttime city scene is displayed. It is also possible to use the lighting preparation state to express the scene. The lighting mode of the fluorescent lamp 6 in the lighting preparation state is a lighting mode that has not been used in the conventional slot machine, and such an effect can make a player feel freshness as an effect, thereby increasing the interest of the game. Can be improved.
[0135]
In the above embodiment, when the power of the slot machine 1 is turned on, the fluorescent lamp signal SIG is turned on, and after a certain period of time (about 1.5 seconds), the fluorescent lamp 6 changes from the transition state to the lighting preparation state. Then, the fluorescent lamp signal SIG is immediately turned off and the fluorescent lamp 6 is turned on. When the slot machine 1 is operating, the fluorescent lamp 6 is kept turned on except when a freeze effect is performed. On the other hand, after the power of the slot machine 1 is turned on and the fluorescent lamp 6 is changed from the transition state to the lighting preparation state, the lighting preparation state may be maintained as it is.
[0136]
In this case, when performing any effect using the fluorescent lamp 6, the CPU 121 of the effect control board 102 may turn off the fluorescent lamp 6 by turning off the fluorescent lamp signal SIG. After the end of the effect, the fluorescent lamp signal SIG is turned on to keep the fluorescent lamp 6 in the lighting preparation state until the start of the next effect. When the power of the slot machine 1 is turned on in this way, the fluorescent lamp 6 is maintained in the lighting preparation state even before the lighting state needs to be turned on. By controlling the fluorescent lamp signal SIG, the fluorescent lamp 6 can be immediately turned on.
[0137]
In the above embodiment, the lighting control of the fluorescent lamp 6 is performed by the inverter circuit 134 including the main circuit 134a and the preheating circuit 134b. However, the lighting control of the fluorescent lamp 6 may be performed by a starter-type lighting circuit or the like as long as the circuit includes a circuit that can maintain the state of preheating the fluorescent lamp 6. Further, even other than the fluorescent lamp, the state is shifted from a non-lighting state to a lighting ready state that can be immediately switched to a lighting state through a transition state for at least a predetermined period, and the lighting preparation state and the lighting state are switched. The same lighting control as described above can be performed for discharge lamps (between cold cathodes, between hot cathodes, and the like) whose state is shifted between.
[0138]
In the above embodiment, the variable display device 2 includes three reels 3L, 3C, and 3R in which a plurality of symbols are arranged in a predetermined order on an outer peripheral portion, and the symbols are rotated by driving these reels 3L, 3C, and 3R. Is displayed in a variable manner. However, a device that virtually displays symbols on a display device such as a liquid crystal display device may be used instead of the variable display device 2 described above.
[0139]
In the above-described embodiment, the case where the present invention is applied to the slot machine as an example has been described. However, a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine is in a state where the power is turned on except when the power is first turned on. Can be controlled so that the fluorescent lamp is in one of the lighting state and the lighting preparation state. In the case of a pachinko gaming machine, the start of rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R can be read and applied, for example, as a delay in the execution of a special figure game.
[0140]
However, the lighting control of the fluorescent lamp is not limited to the freeze effect performed in synchronization with the execution delay of the special figure game. For example, the fluorescent lamp is normally turned on, but when a super-reach occurs in the special map game, the fluorescent lamp is set to the lighting ready state only for a predetermined period until the result of the special map game is derived and displayed. Control may be performed.
[0141]
【The invention's effect】
According to the invention of claim 1, in addition to the lighting mode of the light-off state and the lighting state, the lighting mode of the lighting preparation state that could not be maintained by the conventional lighting control of the discharge lamp can also be used for the effect, The entertainment of the production can be improved. Further, unlike the transition from the unlit state to the lit state, the transition from the lighting preparation state to the lit state can be immediately performed at an arbitrary timing.
[0142]
According to the second aspect of the present invention, the state of the discharge lamp can be shifted from the lighting state to the lighting preparation state at an arbitrary timing by an instruction from the lighting preparation shift instruction means. In addition, it is possible to make the effect using the lighting mode in the lighting preparation state abundant, and to further enhance the interest of the effect.
[0143]
According to the third aspect of the present invention, it is possible to easily perform the effect using the discharge lamp in synchronization with the delay of the start of the variable display, thereby improving the interest of the effect.
[0144]
According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to easily perform the effect using the discharge lamp in synchronization with the delay of the start of the variable display, thereby improving the interest of the effect.
[0145]
According to the invention of claim 5, since the lighting control of the discharge lamp as the effect is performed by the effect control means, the processing load of the game control means relating to the original game can be reduced.
[0146]
According to the invention of claim 6, it is possible to easily perform a so-called freeze effect in which the operation of the slot machine is stopped in accordance with the delay time of the start of the variable display, and it is possible to improve the interest of the effect.
[0147]
According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, a so-called freeze effect in which the operation of the slot machine is stopped can be easily performed in accordance with the delay time of the start of the variable display, and the effect of the effect can be improved.
[0148]
According to the eighth aspect of the present invention, the variable display can be started simultaneously with the elapse of the delay time by absorbing the time of waiting for the start of the variable display by the predetermined delay time. It can be clarified that the control to the lighting preparation state has been performed in response to the delay.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a front view showing the overall structure of a slot machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a view showing an internal structure visually recognized when a front door of the slot machine of FIG. 1 is opened.
FIG. 3 is a view showing a structure on a rear side of a front door of the slot machine of FIG. 1;
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an overall configuration of a control circuit of the slot machine of FIG.
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing circuit components and signal wiring mounted on the game control board and the effect control board.
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the configuration of the inverter circuit of FIG. 5 in detail.
FIG. 7 is a diagram schematically showing a control state of the inverter circuit of FIG. 6;
FIG. 8A is a flowchart showing a process executed by the control unit in the game control board for each game, and FIG. 8B is a flowchart showing a reel change start process in detail.
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a command reception standby process executed by a control unit in the game control board.
[Explanation of symbols]
1 slot machine
2 Variable display device
6 fluorescent light
101 game control board
102 Production control board
134 Inverter circuit

Claims (8)

In a gaming machine capable of performing a predetermined game,
A light-off state in which no voltage is applied between the electrodes, and generation of a discharge until it is possible to generate a discharge inside while energizing a current path formed outside by the voltage applied between the electrodes. And a lighting preparation state in which a voltage can be applied to the current path by the voltage applied between the electrodes and a discharge can be generated inside the state. A lighting state, which is a state of being internally discharged by a voltage applied to, a decorative discharge lamp,
State switching means for switching the state of the discharge lamp from a lighting preparation state in which the current path is energized, to a discharge state by interrupting the current path to stop energization, and switching to a lighting state; ,
Lighting control means for controlling the state of the discharge lamp by controlling at least the interruption of the current path,
At least the extinguished state as the state of the discharge lamp, the lighting preparation state, and the lighting state, it is possible for the player to identify the difference in each lighting mode,
The lighting control unit instructs the switching unit to interrupt the current path at an arbitrary timing in the lighting preparation state, and shifts the state of the discharge lamp from the lighting preparation state to the lighting state. A game machine comprising a lighting transition instruction means for causing the game machine to turn on. The state switching unit switches the state of the discharge lamp from a lighting state in which the current path is interrupted and discharging to a lighting preparation state by forming the current path and energizing to stop discharging. Is possible,
The lighting control unit instructs the switching unit to form the current path at an arbitrary timing in the lighting state, and shifts the state of the discharge lamp from the lighting state to the lighting preparation state. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, further comprising lighting preparation shift instruction means. In the predetermined game, a game can be started by setting a bet amount for one game, and a display result of a variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information each of which can be identified is derived. A variable display control means for controlling a variable display on the variable display device, wherein a game in which one game is completed by being displayed, and a predetermined prize can be generated according to the display result of the variable display device,
When a predetermined condition is satisfied, a variable display delay for controlling the start of the variable display by the variable display control means to a delayed state until a predetermined delay time elapses after the variable display start condition is satisfied. Control means,
The lighting preparation shift instructing means instructs the switching means to change from a state in which the current path is cut off to a state formed from a state in which the current path is interrupted when the variable display delay means performs control to the delay state. The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein a state of the discharge lamp is shifted from the lighting state to the lighting preparation state. The lighting transition instructing means may be configured such that when the variable display is started by the variable display control means after the delay time has elapsed, the switching means is in a state of being cut off from a state in which the current path is formed. The gaming machine according to claim 3, wherein an instruction is given to shift the state of the discharge lamp from the lighting preparation state to the lighting state. A change start instructing means for instructing the change display control means to start the change display on the variable display device by an operation of a player, and for satisfying a start condition of the change display,
A game control unit that includes the change start instruction unit, the change display control unit, and the change display delay control unit, controls a progress of the game, and transmits control information according to a progress state of the game,
Including the lighting control means and the state switching means, further comprising an effect control means that receives control information from the game control means and controls the effect by the effect device including the discharge lamp,
The game control means includes a determination means for determining whether or not the predetermined condition for controlling to the delay state is satisfied when an instruction is given from the fluctuation start instruction means, and the determination means When it is determined to control to the delay state, transmitting delay control information indicating that the delay control is performed to the effect control means,
The lighting preparation shifting means, when the effect control means receives the delay control information, instructs the switching means to change the state from the state in which the current path is cut off, and The gaming machine according to claim 3, wherein a state is shifted from the lighting state to the lighting preparation state. The effect control means further includes a time-measuring means for measuring an elapsed time after receiving the delay control information,
The lighting transition instructing means instructs the switching means to change from a state in which the current path is formed to a state in which the current path is cut off when the timing means measures the predetermined delay time. The gaming machine according to claim 5, wherein a state is shifted from the lighting preparation state to the lighting state. The game control means, when the delay display has been started by the fluctuation display control means after the delay time has elapsed, transmits to the effect control means the fluctuation start control information indicating that,
The lighting transition instructing means, when the effect control means receives the fluctuation start control information, instructs the switching means to change from a state in which the current path is formed to a state in which the current path is formed, and 7. The gaming machine according to claim 5, wherein a state is shifted from the lighting preparation state to the lighting state. The variable display can be started on condition that a preset shortest period of one game has elapsed from the start of the variable display in the immediately preceding game,
A variable display standby unit configured to wait for the start of the variable display until the shortest period of the one game has elapsed when the minimum period of the one game has not elapsed when the start condition of the variable display is satisfied;
The gaming machine according to any one of claims 3 to 7, wherein the predetermined delay time is longer than a time during which the start of the variable display is waited by the variable display standby unit.

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