JP2005080886A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a slot machine with the wiring structure for achieving prevention of fraudulence. <P>SOLUTION: Optical distribution cables CB have optical fiber cables F1-F4 with connectors CN1 and CN2 at both ends, and communication modules ASY1 and ASY2 have connectors MC1 and MC2. The connector MC1 has a transmitting part TX1 with light emitting elements for transmitting optical signals to the optical fiber cables F1 and F2 side and a receiving part RX1 with light receiving elements for receiving optical signals transmitted from the optical fiber cables F3 and F4 side. The connector MC2 has a transmitting part TX2 with light emitting elements for transmitting optical signals to the optical fiber cables F3 and F4 side and a receiving part RX2 with light receiving elements for receiving optical signals transmitted from the optical fiber cables F1 and F2 side. The slot machine is wired so that information is transmitted/received with optical signals by engaging the connectors of the optical distribution cables with the connectors of the communication modules. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a slot machine.

  In recent slot machines, so-called program control using a microprocessor (MPU) has become mainstream. The main control board on which the microprocessor (MPU) is mounted plays a central role in centrally managing and controlling the entire slot machine system to control the progress of the game and the operation status. ing.

  For example, when a player turns on a start lever provided in an operation section of a slot machine, the main control board executes a predetermined program to perform a so-called lottery and further program-control the spinning reel device. To rotate the plurality of reel reels. Subsequently, when the player turns on a plurality of stop buttons provided in the operation unit in an arbitrary order, the main control board performs program control of the spinning reel device, and each spinning reel according to the turn-on order. Is stopped, and when the pattern drawn on each of the stopped reels is arranged in a combination corresponding to the above-mentioned lottery role, a predetermined number of game medals are paid out.

  In addition, the slot machine provides a visual presentation to the player as the game progresses, and produces an audible presentation by producing sound effects. The microprocessor (MPU) is mainly controlled by program control.

  In the conventional slot machine, in order to centrally manage and control the entire system centering on the main control board, the main control board, the operation unit, the spinning reel device, and the effect display device for production Wiring connection is made between each other component such as a sounding device that emits a sound effect and a conductive wiring cable (so-called electric wiring cable).

  However, for example, by superimposing an improper electrical signal on the conductive wiring cable or dropping the wiring cable to the ground potential, the microprocessor (MPU) in the main control board malfunctions, for example. There was a problem with fraudsters trying to gain.

  In addition, it is necessary to display high-quality effects using a vast amount of image data, and it is necessary to transmit information at high speed as the contents of games become increasingly sophisticated and complex. Such high-speed transmission is possible. Development of a simple wiring configuration has been desired.

  The present invention has been made in view of such conventional problems. For example, it is an object of the present invention to provide a gaming machine equipped with a wiring configuration that enables prevention of fraud and implementation of high-speed transmission. To do.

  The invention according to claim 1 is a gaming machine in which a control system is wired by a wiring cable, and the first communication provided at one place so as to wire between at least two places in the control system. Means, a second communication means provided at the other location, and a wiring cable connected between the first and second communication means, wherein the wiring cable transmits information as an optical signal. The first communication means includes light emitting means for converting an electrical signal to be transmitted into an optical signal and entering the optical fiber cable, and the second communication means And a light receiving means for receiving an optical signal transmitted from the optical fiber cable, photoelectrically converting the optical signal into an electric signal, and outputting the electric signal.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, the first communication means is provided at one of the two locations to be wired, the second communication means is provided at the other location, and the wiring having the optical fiber cable By connecting the cable between the first and second communication means, wiring is performed so that optical transmission is performed between the two places by the first and second communication means and the optical fiber cable.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the gaming machine according to the first aspect, the wiring cable further includes a conductive cable that electrically connects the first communication means and the second communication means. It is characterized by.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, not only information transmission by light is performed with an optical fiber cable, but also wiring for electrical transmission with a conductive cable is realized.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the gaming machine according to the first or second aspect, the wiring cable includes a cable side connector fixed to both ends of the optical fiber cable, and the first and second communication means. Is provided with a module-side connector that allows the cable-side connector to be detachably attached, and that both ends of the optical fiber cable are attached to the light-emitting means and the light-receiving means.

  According to the third aspect of the present invention, the first and second communication means provided at the two locations to be wired are provided with the module side connectors, and the cable side connectors are fixed to both ends of the optical fiber cable. Is detachably mounted on each module-side connector described above, thereby realizing wiring between two locations.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the gaming machine according to the third aspect, the cable side connector includes a first connector terminal connected to the conductive cable, and each of the first and second communication means. The module-side connector has a second connector terminal that is electrically connected to the first connector terminal when the cable-side connector is attached.

  According to the invention of claim 4, the cable-side connector is provided with the first connector terminal connected to the conductive cable, and the module-side connector is provided with the first connector terminal when the cable-side connector is attached. A second connector terminal connected to the connector terminal is provided. When the cable-side connector is detachably attached to the module-side connector, the first and second communication means are electrically connected by a conductive cable. Wiring is realized.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the gaming machine according to the fourth aspect, the first and second connector terminals and the conductive cable have a power supply path for supplying power to operate the light emitting means or the light receiving means. It is characterized by comprising.

  According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, when the wiring cable is mounted between the first and second communication means, the conductive cable electrically connects the first and second communication means, and the light emitting means or the light receiving means is connected. A power supply path for supplying power for operating the means is configured. Thereby, when power is supplied to one of the first and second communication means, wiring is realized so as to supply power for operating the light emitting means or the light receiving means in the other communication means.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, when information is transmitted by a conductive cable by being wired so that optical transmission is performed between the two places by the first and second communication means and the optical fiber cable. It is possible to prevent fraud that has been a problem.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, not only information transmission by light using an optical fiber cable but also wiring for transmitting an electrical signal by a conductive cable can be performed. Wiring can be performed by a conductive cable.

  According to invention of Claim 3, it can wire easily by attaching a wiring cable to the 1st, 2nd communication means.

  According to invention of Claim 4, a conductive cable can be easily connected by attaching a wiring cable to the 1st, 2nd communication means.

  According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, when the wiring cable is mounted between the first and second communication means, the conductive cable electrically connects the first and second communication means, and the light emitting means or the light receiving means is connected. Since a power supply path for supplying power for operating the means is configured, when power is supplied to one of the first and second communication means, the light emitting means or the light receiving means in the other communication means is operated. Wiring can be performed so as to supply the necessary power.

  Hereinafter, a slot machine installed in a playground or the like will be described as the best mode for carrying out the invention.

  FIG. 1 is a plan view showing the external structure of the slot machine 100, FIG. 2 is a plan view showing the internal structure of the slot machine 100, and FIG. 3 shows the configuration of the control system of the slot machine 100. FIG.

  In FIG. 1, the slot machine 100 includes a front door 101 that faces a player, and a box-shaped casing 102 (described later) to which the front door 101 is attached so as to be openable and closable.

  The front door 101 includes an upper panel portion 103, a middle panel portion 104, and a lower panel portion 105, and these panel portions 103, 104, and 105 are mechanically molded by being formed of a hard plastic as a whole. It has a strong structure.

  The upper panel portion 103 is provided with an effect lamp 103a, sound emitting portions 103b and 103c to which speakers are attached, and an effect display device 103d formed of a liquid crystal display or the like.

  The middle panel portion 104 is provided with a substantially rectangular transmission window WD formed of a transparent hard plastic plate, and includes three spinning reels R1, R2, and R3 on the back side of the transmission window WD. A rotating reel device 200 is arranged. The transparent reel WD protects the reel reel device 200 from the outside, and the player can view the reel reels R1, R2, and R3 through the transparent window WD.

  Further, an operation unit 104c for a player to operate is provided at the lower end of the middle panel unit 104. The operation unit 104c includes a medal insertion unit MD for inserting game medals and a game unit per game. Bet buttons B1, B2, and B3 for presenting the number of medals, a start lever ST for instructing the start of one game, and three for stopping the spinning reels R1, R2, and R3 individually Stop buttons SP1, SP2 and SP3 are provided.

  On the lower panel 105, an image or the like (not shown) for introducing the game contents of the slot machine 100 is drawn. A discharge port 105a and a tray 105b for paying out a medal to the player, and a speaker are provided. An attached sound emitting unit 105c is provided.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 2, the rear surface structure of the front door 101 and the internal structure of the housing 102 will be outlined. FIG. 2 shows a state where the front door 101 is unlocked and opened from the housing 102.

  In the figure, speakers SR and SL constituting the above-described sound emitting units 103b and 103c are provided on the upper rear surface of the front door 101, and an effect display device 103d is provided between the speakers SR and SL, and an effect display device. The sub-control board 300 is attached to the back side of 103d.

  Below the effect display device 103 d and the sub-control board 300, a substantially rectangular frame body 104 d in which the transmission window WD and the panel surface of the middle panel unit 104 are formed is attached.

  Below the frame body 104d, a selector device (hereinafter referred to as a “sorting device”) G0 that sorts and detects whether the thrown-in material inserted from the medal loading unit MD is a regular medal or a foreign object is sorted by the sorting device G0. Guide member G1 that guides the regular medal to the hopper device HP provided on the housing 102 side, a guide member G2 that guides and discharges the foreign matter sorted by the sorting device G0 to the discharge port 105a, and a hopper A guide member G3 for guiding and outputting a payout medal output from the apparatus HP to the discharge port 105a is provided, and a speaker SW is attached in the vicinity of the discharge port 105a corresponding to the sound emitting unit 105c. .

  Further, a long central display substrate 400 is attached to a region between the frame body 104d and the sorting device G0.

  A casing 102 includes a main power unit PWU, an auxiliary storage unit SHP for storing medals overflowing from the hopper apparatus HP, and a rotating reel R1, R2, R3 facing the transmission window WD. A reel device 200 is provided.

  Further, a power supply substrate 500 is provided on the side surface of the main power supply device PWU, a spinning device substrate 600 is provided on the upper end of the spinning reel device 200, a main control substrate 700 is provided above the spinning reel device 200, and an inner wall of the housing 102 is provided. At one end, an external concentration terminal board 800 connected to a management computer (called a hall computer) provided in a management room of a playground is attached.

  The above-described main control board 700, sub-control board 300, rotator apparatus board 600, central display board 400, power supply apparatus board 500, and external concentrated terminal board 800 are all insulating resin boards on which conductive wiring patterns are formed. An integrated circuit device (IC), electronic components such as transistors, resistors, capacitors, etc. are mounted on the circuit board, and are formed as so-called electric circuit boards. In particular, the main control board 700 and the sub-control board 300 are externally concentrated. The terminal board 800 has a unit structure that is individually housed in a hard plastic housing case.

  Next, the configuration of the control system will be described with reference to the block diagram of FIG. 3. The main control board 700 stores in advance a system program for managing the entire operation of the slot machine 100 and an execution program for the slot machine game. A storage unit (ROM), and a microprocessor (MPU) for executing these programs.

  And the input port and output port provided in the above-mentioned microprocessor (MPU) and the board | substrate 300,600,400,500,800 grade | etc., Are wiring-connected by the wiring cable.

  Furthermore, the production speakers SR, SL, SW, the production lamps 103a, 104a, 104b, and the production display device 103d are connected to the sub-control board 300 via a wiring cable, and the microprocessors in the main control board 700 ( In accordance with the effect control signal supplied from the MPU), the electric circuit provided on the sub-control board 300 drives the effect speakers SR, SL, SW, the effect lamps 103a, 104a, 104b, and the effect display device 103d. By doing this, the player appeals to the player's vision and hearing.

  The spinning device board 600 is connected to the spinning reel device 200 having the spinning reels R1, R2, and R3, which are rotationally driven by an electric motor, from the microprocessor (MPU) in the main control board 700. By controlling the above-described electric motor in accordance with the supplied reel control signal, the rotation, braking and stopping of the spinning reels R1, R2, and R3 are controlled.

  At least the bet buttons B1, B2, and B3, the start lever ST, and the stop buttons SP1, SP2, and SP3 are wired to the central display board 400. The bet buttons B1, B2, and B3, the start lever ST, and the stop button SP1 are connected. , SP2 and SP3 are transferred to the microprocessor (MPU) in the main control board 700 via a wiring cable.

  That is, the central display board 400 functions as a relay board for transferring various output signals generated when the player operates the operation unit 104 c to the main control board 700.

  The power supply device substrate 500 has a function as a so-called switchboard, and distributes and supplies various power generated by the power supply device PWU to the hopper device HP and other parts.

  When the microprocessor (MPU) in the main control board 700 monitors the operation status and the internal state of the slot machine 100 one by one and outputs a signal indicating the monitoring result, the external concentrated terminal board 800 outputs the signal to the above-mentioned hall. It has a function to transfer to the computer side. That is, the external concentrated terminal board 800 has a function as an interface.

  Here, the constituent elements constituting the above-described control system are appropriately wired and connected by a wiring cable that transmits information using an optical fiber. That is, a conductive wiring cable having a large power capacity (so-called electric wiring cable) is used for wiring for supplying power from the power supply device PWU to various places, and there is a risk of fraud. For wiring between components that require high-speed information transmission, a wiring cable (hereinafter referred to as “optical wiring cable”) that transmits information as an optical signal through an optical fiber is used.

  FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the optical wiring cable CB and the communication modules ASY1 and ASY2 to which the optical wiring cable CB is detachably attached. The optical wiring cable CB and the communication modules ASY1 and ASY2 are used for wiring. Mechanism (wiring assembly) is realized.

  5A and 5B are a plan view and a side view showing a state in which the optical wiring cable CB is attached to the communication modules ASY1 and ASY2, and FIG. 5C is a communication module ASY1 and ASY2. It is a side view showing the shape when the rear end side of each is seen.

  First, the structure of the optical wiring cable CB and the communication modules ASY1, ASY2 will be outlined with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5A, 5B, and 5C.

  The optical distribution cable CB includes four fiber cables F1, F2, F3, F4, two conductive distribution cables (so-called electric cable) M1, M2, and these cables F1, F2, F3, F4, M1. , M2 and cable side connectors CN1 and CN2 having a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape fixed to both ends.

  Each of the fiber cables F1, F2, F3, and F4 has a structure in which an outer peripheral surface of an optical fiber having a core and a cladding layer is covered with a plastic protective film, and further, an outer peripheral surface of the protective film is covered with an opaque synthetic resin film. Thus, the structure prevents the intrusion of external light into the optical fiber and the leakage of light from the optical fiber to the outside. Each of the fiber cables F1, F2, F3, and F4 has flexibility and can be bent relatively freely.

  The conductive cables M1 and M2 have a structure in which an electric wire having conductivity is covered with a synthetic resin having insulating properties, and has flexibility.

  The cable side connectors CN1 and CN2 have basically the same structure and are injection-molded with hard plastic. Then, both ends of the optical fiber cables F1, F2, F3, and F4 and the conductive cables M1 and M2 are embedded in the hard plastic at the time of the above-described injection molding, so that the optical fiber cables F1, F2, F3, and F4 are electrically conductive. The cable side connectors CN1 and CN2 are integrally fixed to both ends of the cable M1 and M2.

  The communication module ASY1 includes a substantially rectangular parallelepiped module-side connector MC1 in which the cable-side connector CN1 is detachably fitted, and a transmitter TX1 integrally fixed to the rear end of the module-side connector MC1 with an adhesive or an adhesive. The reception unit RX1 is provided.

  The communication module ASY2 includes a substantially rectangular parallelepiped module-side connector MC2 in which the cable-side connector CN2 is detachably fitted, and a transmitter TX2 that is integrally fixed to the rear end of the module-side connector MC2 with an adhesive or an adhesive. The receiving unit RX2 is provided.

  The communication modules ASY1 and ASY2 both have a symmetrical structure and basically the same structure, and the cable side connectors CN1 and CN2 both have a symmetrical structure and a basic structure. In the assembly process for wiring described later, the cable side connector CN1 can be attached to the communication module ASY1 and the cable side connector CN2 can be attached to the communication module ASY2 respectively. The cable-side connector CN1 can be attached to the communication module ASY2, and the cable-side connector CN2 can be attached to the communication module ASY1.

  Next, the structure of the cable side connectors CN1 and CN2 and the communication modules ASY1 and ASY2 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.

  6A is a perspective view when the rear end side of the communication module ASY1 and the front end side of the cable side connector CN1 are viewed. FIG. 6B is a rear end side of the cable side connector CN1. It is a perspective view at the time of seeing the front end side of communication module ASY1. In addition, since the cable side connectors CN1 and CN2 have basically the same structure, and the communication modules ASY1 and ASY2 also have basically the same structure, in FIG. Portions corresponding to the connector CN2 and the communication module ASY2 are indicated by parenthesized symbols.

  7 shows Y1-Y1 when the optical wiring cable CB, the cable side connectors CN1, CN2 and the communication modules ASY1, ASY2 are broken along the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber cable F1 shown in FIG. FIG.

  8 shows Y2-Y2 when the optical wiring cable CB, the cable-side connectors CN1, CN2, and the communication modules ASY1, ASY2 are broken along the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber cable F2 shown in FIG. FIG.

  9 shows Y3 when the optical wiring cable CB, the cable side connectors CN1, CN2 and the communication modules ASY1, ASY2 are broken along the longitudinal direction of the conductive cables M1, M2 shown in FIG. FIG.

  10 shows Y4-Y4 when the optical wiring cable CB, the cable side connectors CN1, CN2 and the communication modules ASY1, ASY2 are broken along the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber cable F3 shown in FIG. FIG.

  FIG. 11 shows Y5-Y5 when the optical wiring cable CB, the cable side connectors CN1, CN2 and the communication modules ASY1, ASY2 are broken along the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber cable F4 shown in FIG. FIG.

  7 to FIG. 11 shows a state in which the cable side connectors CN1 and CN2 are not attached to the communication modules ASY1 and ASY2, and FIG. 7B to FIG. The cable-side connectors CN1 and CN2 are attached to the communication modules ASY1 and ASY2.

  Further, in FIGS. 7 to 11, the same structural and functional parts are indicated by the same reference numerals in the cable side connectors CN1 and CN2, and the same structural and functional parts are indicated by the same reference numerals in the communication modules ASY1 and ASY2. .

  6A and 6B, the structure of the cable side connector CN1 and the communication module ASY1 will be described as a representative. When the cable side connector CN1 is inserted into the module side connector MC1 as described above, the side wall of the cable side connector CN1 is obtained. The tongue piece K formed on the side wall of the module-side connector MC1 is engaged with the engagement hole Q formed in the connector, thereby preventing the cable-side connector CN1 and the module-side connector MC1 from coming off. .

  The cylindrical end portion P1 of the cable side connector CN1 is formed with four cylindrical fitting holes a1, a2, a3, a4. Further, the end portion of the optical fiber cable F1 is inserted into the fitting hole a1. The held truncated cone-shaped ferrule b1 and fitting hole a2 hold the tip portion of the optical fiber cable F2, and the truncated cone-shaped ferrule b2 and fitting hole a3 held the tip portion of the optical fiber cable F3. The truncated cone-shaped ferrule b3 and the fitting hole a4 are each formed with a truncated cone-shaped ferrule b4 that holds the tip portion of the optical fiber cable F4.

  Furthermore, substantially rectangular fitting holes c1 and c2 are formed in the distal end portion P1 of the cable side connector CN1, and the fitting hole c1 is electrically connected to the distal end portion of the conductive cable M1. A female connector terminal m1 (see FIG. 9) is assembled, and a female connector terminal m2 (see FIG. 9) electrically connected to the tip of the conductive cable M2 is assembled in the fitting hole c2. ing.

  That is, the female connector terminals m1 and m2 are each formed of a bivalve-shaped tongue piece member made of an elastic metal, and male connector terminals e1 and e2 described later are engaged with these tongue piece members. Thus, the connection between the female connector terminal m1 and the male connector terminal e1 and the connection between the female connector terminal m2 and the male connector terminal e2 are performed.

  A substantially rectangular fitting hole P3 into which the distal end portion P1 of the cable side connector CN1 is inserted is formed at the distal end portion P2 of the module side connector MC1. Furthermore, in the fitting hole P3, cylindrical protrusions d1, d2, d3, d4 aligned so as to face the ferrules b1, b2, b3, b4 formed in the cable side connector CN1, Metal male connector terminals e1 and e2 are formed so as to be opposed to the fitting holes c1 and c2 and the female connector terminals m1 and m2.

  Further, fitting holes h1, h2, h3, h4 for fitting ferrules b1, b2, b3, b4 formed on the cable side connector CN1 are provided at the axial centers of the projecting portions d1, d2, d3, d4. Is formed.

  Further, the inner walls of the fitting holes h1, h2, h3, and h4 are tapered surfaces that are matched to the shapes of the outer walls of the frustoconical ferrules b1, b2, b3, and b4.

  That is, as shown in the cross-sectional views of FIGS. 7A and 7B, the fitting hole a of the cable side connector CN1 is formed with a ferrule b1 having a frustoconical outer wall TA, and the module side connector MC1. The fitting hole P3 is formed with a protruding portion d1 in which the above-described fitting hole h1 having a tapered surface TTA matched to the outer wall TA is formed.

  8A and 8B, the fitting hole a2 of the cable side connector CN1 is formed with a ferrule b2 having a frustoconical outer wall TB, and the module side connector MC1. The fitting hole P3 is formed with a protruding portion d2 in which the fitting hole h2 having the tapered surface TTB aligned with the outer wall TB is formed.

  10A and 10B, the fitting hole a3 of the cable side connector CN1 is formed with a ferrule b3 having a frustoconical outer wall TC, and the module side connector MC1. The fitting hole P3 is formed with a protruding portion d3 in which the above-described fitting hole h3 having a tapered surface TTC aligned with the outer wall TC is formed.

  11A and 11B, the fitting hole a4 of the cable side connector CN1 is formed with a ferrule b4 having a frustoconical outer wall TD, and the module side connector MC1. The fitting hole P3 is formed with a protruding portion d4 in which the above-described fitting hole h4 having a tapered surface TTD aligned with the outer wall TD is formed.

  Then, since the outer walls TA to TD and the tapered surfaces TTA to TTD are all designed with the same inclination, when the cable side connector CN1 is mounted in the fitting hole P3 of the module side connector MC1, ferrules b1 and b2 , B3, b4 and the fitting holes h1, h2, h3, h4 can be automatically aligned and fitted.

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 7, 8, 10, and 11, the optical fibers FC1 and FC2 extending from the bottom surfaces of the fitting holes h1 and h2 to the transmitter TX1 side, and the fitting holes h3 and h4, respectively. Optical fibers FC3 and FC3 extending from the respective bottom surfaces to the receiving section RX1 side are embedded in the module-side connector MC1.

  When the ferrules b1, b2, b3, b4 and the fitting holes h1, h2, h3, h4 are fitted, the optical fiber cables F1, F2, held by the ferrules b1, b2, b3, b4, respectively. The optical axes of the cores and clats of F3 and F4 and the cores and clats of the optical fibers FC1, FC2, Fc3, and FC4 are automatically aligned, and the optical fiber cables F1, F2, F3, and F4 and the optical fiber FC1. , FC2, Fc3, and FC4 are used for optical transmission.

  In FIG. 6 again, the transmission unit TX1 includes at least the light emitting diodes LED1 and LED2 and a drive circuit (not shown) for individually driving the light emitting diodes LED1 and LED2 in a single in-line type package having a plurality of lead terminals. It has the structure accommodated in.

  The receiving unit RX1 has at least light receiving diodes PD3 and PD4 and a signal processing circuit (not shown) that outputs a signal output from each of the light receiving diodes PD3 and PD4 by waveform shaping or the like and has a plurality of lead terminals. This package has a housed structure.

  Then, as shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B and FIGS. 8A and 8B, the optical fiber FC1 and FC2 are opposed to the core and the end face (light incident end) of the cladding layer so as to face the transmitter TX1. Each light emitting surface of the provided light emitting diodes LED1 and LED2 is provided, and further, as shown in FIGS. 10A, 10B and 11A, 11B, the cores and claddings of the optical fibers FC3, FC4 The light receiving surfaces of the light receiving diodes PD3 and PD4 provided in the receiving unit RX1 are provided so as to face the end face (light emitting end) of the layer.

  Of the plurality of lead terminals provided in the transmission unit TX1, two predetermined lead terminals are lead terminals for signal input, and separate electric signals are provided for the lead terminals for signal input. When (transmission signal) is supplied, it can be supplied to the light emitting diodes LED1 and LED2 through the drive circuit described above, converted into an optical signal, and incident on the optical fibers FC1 and FC2.

  Of the plurality of lead terminals provided in the receiving unit RX1, two predetermined lead terminals are lead terminals for signal output, and light signals from the optical fibers FC3 and FC4 are received by light receiving diodes. PD1 and PD2 perform photoelectric conversion, and a signal (received signal) reproduced through a signal processing circuit is output from a signal output lead terminal.

  The module-side connector MC1 is provided with a power supply lead terminal (reference numeral omitted) and a ground lead terminal (reference numeral omitted). The male connector terminal shown in FIGS. e1 and the power supply lead terminal are electrically connected internally, and the male connector terminal e2 and the ground lead terminal are electrically connected internally.

  Furthermore, the male connector terminals e1 and e2 are also connected to the transmission unit TX1 and the reception unit RX1, and when a predetermined power supply voltage is supplied between the power supply lead terminal and the ground lead terminal, Power can be supplied to the light-emitting diodes LED1 and LED2 and the above-described drive circuit, and the light-receiving diodes PD1 and PD2 and the above-described signal processing circuit via the mold connector terminals e1 and e2.

  The module-side connector MC2 and the cable-side connector CN2 are basically the same as the module-side connector MC1 and the cable-side connector CN1, and will not be described in detail. However, as shown in FIGS. In addition, the transmitter TX1 having the light-emitting diodes LED1 and LED2 is provided in the module-side connector MC1, whereas the module-side connector MC2 is provided with the receiver RX2 having the light-receiving diodes PD1 and PD2, and further receiving light. The receiver RX1 including the diodes PD3 and PD4 is provided in the module-side connector MC1, whereas the transmitter TX2 including the light-emitting diodes LED3 and LED4 is provided in the module-side connector MC2.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 9, the module-side connector MC2 is also provided with a lead terminal for supplying power and a lead terminal for grounding, and the male connector terminals e1 and e2 are connected to these leads in the same manner as the module-side connector MC1. In addition to being connected to the terminals, the power is supplied to the light receiving diodes PD3 and PD4 and the light emitting diodes LED3 and LED4.

  Further, output signals (reception signals) from the light receiving diodes PD3 and PD4 are output through a predetermined lead terminal provided in the receiving unit RX2, and light is emitted through a predetermined lead terminal provided in the transmitting unit TX2. The structure is such that a transmission signal is supplied to the diodes LED3 and LED4.

  Next, a wiring method using the optical wiring cable CB and the communication modules ASY1 and ASY2 will be described.

  As a representative example, a case where wiring is distributed between the sorting apparatus G0 and the main control board 700 will be described.

  First, the sorting device G0 has a structure similar to that of a so-called inclined type checker, and a game medal inserted into the medal insertion unit MD is placed along an inclined surface provided at a predetermined angle. The rolling speed of the medal and the diameter of the medal are characterized by at least two detection sensors that are caused to roll by their own weight and are provided along the rolling direction at a slightly narrower interval than the diameter of the regular medal. Detect optically or mechanically. The detection signal is sent to the main control board 700.

  Further, a microprocessor (MPU) provided on the main control board 700 analyzes the detection signal described above, determines whether a regular medal is inserted, and sends a control signal indicating the determination result to the sorting device G0. Return it.

  And when it is a foreign material, the actuator provided in the sorting apparatus G0 operates according to the instruction | indication of a control signal, and before the foreign material reaches the end of an inclined surface, the foreign material is moved to the guide member G2 side. It is pushed out and dropped by its own weight, and it is carried out to the discharge port 105a side through the guide member G2.

  On the other hand, in the case of a regular medal, the actuator provided in the sorting device G0 does not operate, and the medal is rolled to the end of the inclined surface, so that the weight falls to the guide member G1 side, and the hopper device Transport to HP.

  The lead terminal of the communication module ASY1 is connected in advance to the wiring terminal provided in the sorting device G0 by soldering or the like, while the communication module is connected to the wiring terminal provided on the main control board 700. The lead terminals of ASY2 are connected in advance by soldering or the like.

  Further, a predetermined power supply voltage is supplied to the power supply lead terminal and the ground lead terminal of the communication module ASY1 or the communication module ASY2.

  In the assembly process of the slot machine 100 and the like, by attaching the cable side connector CN1 of the optical wiring cable CB to the communication module ASY1 and the cable side connector CN2 to the communication module ASY2, respectively, the distribution device G0 and the main control board are mounted. 700 is wired.

  According to this wiring configuration, the detection signal output from the above-described detection sensor provided in the sorting device G0 is supplied to the light emitting diodes LED1 and LED2 in the communication module ASY1, and converted into an optical signal to be converted into the optical fiber cable F1. , F2 can be transmitted to the communication module ASY2 on the main control board 700 side, and the light detection diodes PD1 and PD2 provided in the communication module ASY2 can regenerate the original detection signal and supply it to the microprocessor (MPU).

  On the other hand, when the microprocessor (MPU) analyzes the detection signal and outputs a control signal indicating the detection result, the light emitting diodes LED3 and LED4 provided in the communication module ASY2 photoelectrically convert the control signal into an optical signal. Then, the optical signal is transmitted to the communication module ASY1 on the sorting device G0 side through the optical fiber cables FC3 and FC4, and is regenerated to the original control signal by the light receiving diodes PD3 and PD4 provided in the communication module ASY1. It can be supplied to the actuator in the device G0.

  In this way, the communication module ASY1 is attached to one circuit, board, or device to be wired, and the communication module ASY2 is attached to the other circuit, board, or device, and the connectors CN1, CN2 of the optical wiring cable CB in the assembly process or the like. By detachably attaching to the communication modules ASY1, ASY2, wiring can be performed.

  Unlike conventional conductive wiring cables, optical signals are transmitted by optical fibers, so that illegal acts can be prevented and high-speed information transmission can be performed.

  In addition, if power is supplied to one of the power supply and ground lead terminals of either the communication module ASY1 or the communication module ASY2, the power supply is automatically supplied to the other communication module via the conductive cables M1 and M2. Therefore, the wiring for supplying the power supply voltage to various places can be greatly reduced, for example, the number of parts can be reduced.

  In the above description, the case where the optical wiring cable CB includes the four optical fiber cables F1 to F4 and the two conductive cables M1 and M2 has been described. However, the light emission provided in the communication modules ASY1 and ASY2 is described. If the number of diodes and light receiving diodes is the same, an appropriate number of optical fiber cables can be provided.

  Further, the communication modules ASY1 and ASY2 each including the light emitting diode and the light receiving diode have been described. However, any one of the communication modules ASY1 and ASY2 may be a light emitting diode and the other may be a communication module including only the light receiving diode.

  Moreover, although the structure using a light emitting diode as a light emitting element for transmitting an optical signal has been described, the present invention is not limited to a light emitting diode, and may be another light emitting element (electro-optical conversion element). Moreover, although the structure using a light receiving diode as a light receiving element for receiving an optical signal has been described, other light receiving elements (photoelectric conversion elements) may be used instead of the light receiving diode.

  Further, as a representative example, the wiring configuration between the sorting apparatus G0 and the main control board 700 has been described. However, in the slot machine 100, the bet buttons B1, B2, and B3 provided on the operation unit 104c, and the start In order to wire-connect the lever ST and the stop buttons SP1, SP2 and SP3 to the central display board 400, a plurality of communication modules ASY1 are provided on the operation unit 104c side, and a plurality of communication modules ASY2 are provided on the central display board 400 side. Wiring is performed by detachably connecting the plurality of communication modules ASY1 and the plurality of communication modules ASY2 with a plurality of optical wiring cables CB. Then, with such a wiring configuration, when the bet buttons B1, B2, B3, the start lever ST, and the stop buttons SP1, SP2, SP3 are connected to the central display board 400, wiring is performed with a conventional conductive wiring cable. It was possible to prevent fraud that was a problem.

  Further, the sub control board 300 and the effect display device 103d are wired and connected by the communication modules ASY1 and ASY2 and the optical wiring cable CB, whereby a large-capacity image is transmitted from the sub control board 300 to the effect display device 103d. Data can be transmitted at high speed.

  By mounting the optical wiring cable CB between the communication modules ASY1 and ASY2, wiring is performed, and in the field of gaming machines such as slot machines where it has been difficult to prevent fraud with conductive wiring cables, It is possible to provide a gaming machine such as a slot machine that can be prevented. Further, it is possible to provide a gaming machine such as an advanced slot machine that enables high-speed information transmission by the optical wiring cable CB and that can be enjoyed by a player, for example.

FIG. 3 is a plan view showing an external structure of a slot machine as the best mode for carrying out the invention. FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an internal structure of the slot machine shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a control system provided in the slot machine shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the structure of an optical wiring cable and a communication module for wiring the slot machine shown in FIGS. 1 to 3. It is the figure showing the state which mounted | wore the communication module with the optical wiring cable shown in FIG. It is the perspective view which represented in detail the structure of the cable side connector and communication module which are provided in the optical wiring cable. It is sectional drawing showing the structure of the optical wiring cable and the communication module in detail. Furthermore, it is sectional drawing which represented the structure of the optical wiring cable and the communication module in detail. Furthermore, it is sectional drawing which represented the structure of the optical wiring cable and the communication module in detail. Furthermore, it is sectional drawing which represented the structure of the optical wiring cable and the communication module in detail. Furthermore, it is sectional drawing which represented the structure of the optical wiring cable and the communication module in detail.

Explanation of symbols

100 slot machine CB optical distribution cable F1, F2, F3, F3 optical fiber cable M1, M2 conductive cable CN1, CN2 cable side connector ASY1, ASY2 communication module MC1, MC2 module side connector TX1, TX2 transmission unit RX1, RX2 reception unit LED1-LED4 Light-emitting diode PD1-PD4 Light-receiving diode e1, e2 Male connector terminal m1, m2 Female connector terminal

Claims (5)

A gaming machine in which a control system is wired by a wiring cable,
In order to wire between at least two places in the control system, a first communication means provided at one place, a second communication means provided at the other place, and the first and second places A wiring cable connected between the communication means and
The wiring cable has an optical fiber cable that transmits information as an optical signal,
The first communication means includes a light emitting means for converting an electric signal to be transmitted into an optical signal to be incident on the optical fiber cable.
The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the second communication means includes light receiving means for receiving an optical signal transmitted from the optical fiber cable, photoelectrically converting the optical signal into an electric signal, and outputting the electric signal.   The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the wiring cable further includes a conductive cable that electrically connects the first communication unit and the second communication unit. The wiring cable includes a cable side connector fixed to both ends of the optical fiber cable,
The first and second communication means include a module-side connector that allows the cable-side connector to be detachably mounted, and aligns and mounts both ends of the optical fiber cable to the light-emitting means and the light-receiving means. The gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The cable side connector includes a first connector terminal connected to the conductive cable,
The module-side connector of the first and second communication means has a second connector terminal that is electrically connected to the first connector terminal when the cable-side connector is attached. 3. The gaming machine according to 3.   5. The gaming machine according to claim 4, wherein the first and second connector terminals and the conductive cable constitute a power supply path for supplying power for operating the light emitting means or the light receiving means.

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