JP2005081069A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of providing behavior of game balls with multiple changes in a limited area of a game board and to provide the game machine suited for adopting a large-scale variable display device. <P>SOLUTION: This game machine 1 provided with the game board having a game area for falling the game balls is characterized in having a variable display device 100 formed with a display area of information on the game board, a guide passage 130 guiding the game balls to the upper part of the display area and making the game balls fall downward through the front face of the game area, and a stage 110 formed with a space for retaining the game balls in the lower part of the display area. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine, and more particularly to a so-called pachinko gaming machine that provides a game using a game ball as a medium.

  As this type of gaming machine, for example, gaming machines that are classified as “first type” in the internal rules of customs law (rules concerning customs business and laws concerning optimization of business) are known.

  This gaming machine has a variable display device composed of a liquid crystal display unit or the like at the center of the game board, and is composed of numbers, patterns, etc. such as “1” to “7” on the effective line of this variable display device. The displayed game is displayed on the basis of various effects, thereby notifying the player of the current gaming state.

  In addition, obstacles such as windmills and game nails are provided at various locations on the game board, and the game balls launched at the top of the game board change their courses irregularly due to contact with these obstacles. It falls below the game board.

  In addition, a control device is incorporated inside the gaming machine, and the control device regards the start winning as a result of the operation of the game ball entering the start chuck (start winning device) arranged below the variable display device. The jackpot lottery control is executed to determine whether or not the special gaming state has been won in response to the establishment of the winning.

  In addition, with the execution of the jackpot lottery control, the contents to be notified on the variable display device, that is, “Atari” and “Lose” are determined, and then, for determining the effect pattern to determine the effect pattern related to this notification Random lottery is executed. Then, according to the effect pattern determined by this random number lottery, various symbols are displayed in a variable manner together with the background image on the active line. For example, when each symbol is stopped by a combination having a certain regularity such as “7-7-7” Is set to “Atari”, and thereafter, the control state of the gaming machine is switched to the control state for the special gaming state.

  In addition, the special gaming state here corresponds to a gaming state such as a so-called “big hit” and “big hit with probability variation”, and the player is provided below the start chucker under the continuation of this special gaming state. With the execution of the opening / closing control of the special winning device (attacker), the game can be enjoyed more advantageously than in the normal time.

  By the way, obstacles such as windmills and game nails are provided at various locations on the game board as described above, and the behavior of the game balls is changed visually by contact of these obstacles with the game balls falling on the game board. It provides the player with the above fun.

  However, since this type of gaming machine starts the big hit lottery control on the condition that the game ball starts to win against the start chucker, the player's line of sight is the start chucker or variable display device arranged below the variable display device. There is a tendency to concentrate on the symbols displayed on the screen. For this reason, the game ball that falls from a position away from the start chucker or the variable display device does not substantially enter the player's field of view, and the visual sense obtained by the behavior (dance) of the game ball on the game board. The fun wasn't that much.

In recent years, a large-sized variable display device has been placed in the center of the game board against this background, and a large amount of image data is displayed on the variable display device based on a variety of effects. It provides players with new and interesting alternatives.
However, the adoption of a large variable display device makes it difficult to install an obstacle on the game board itself, thereby reducing the frequency of contact between the obstacle and the game ball. There is a risk of seriously damaging the fun of the.

  The present invention has been made in view of such technical background, and it is an object of the present invention to provide a gaming machine capable of adding more changes to the behavior of a game ball in a limited area such as a game board. To do. It is another object of the present invention to provide a gaming machine suitable for adopting a large variable display device.

The present invention has the following configuration in order to solve the above technical problem.
That is, the present invention is a gaming machine including a gaming board having a gaming area where gaming balls fall,
A display device forming an information display area on the game board;
A guide passage provided above the display area, for allowing the game ball to drop downward through the front of the display area;
A stage where the game ball stays below the display area;
It is characterized by having.

According to the gaming machine of the present invention configured as described above, the guide path is provided above the display area, and the game ball reaching the guide path falls downward through the front of the display area.
In other words, according to the present configuration, since the guide path that allows the game ball to fall through the front side of the information display area is provided, the information display area can be used as a game area where the game ball falls. Therefore, for example, even if it becomes difficult to install obstacles due to the adoption of a large display device, the adoption of this configuration secures more paths through which game balls can fall in a limited area such as a game board. can do.

  In addition, since the game ball falls to the front of the information display area, the player can enjoy the fun that is displayed by displaying this information and the game that falls in front of the display area without diverting the line of sight from the display area. It is possible to recognize both the fun obtained from the behavior of the sphere. For this reason, in the information display area where the player's line of sight concentrates, it becomes possible to provide the player with more fun associated with these synergistic effects.

Moreover, the structure by which the opening part for dropping the said game ball toward the downward direction was provided in the said guidance channel | path may be sufficient.
According to this configuration, when the game ball enters the opening formed in the guide passage, the game ball passes through the opening and falls straight downward. In other words, since this configuration has an opening that regulates the falling direction of the game ball, for example, the falling point of the game ball can be set at a fixed position as compared with the case where the game ball is dropped so as to draw a parabola. it can. Therefore, the game ball will land at a position determined through this opening.

In addition, a winning opening is provided below the stage for the game ball to enter (win) .
Of the upper surface of the stage, a portion positioned just above the winning opening is formed with an inclination for dropping the game ball to the front of the stage,
The opening part of the said guidance channel | path may be the structure currently formed in the perpendicular | vertical upper direction of the site | part located right above the said winning opening.

According to this configuration, the winning opening is provided below the stage. Also, on the top of the stage,
An inclination for dropping the game ball to the front of the stage is formed at a position located directly above the winning opening. For this reason, the game ball falls to the front of the stage due to this inclination and reaches the winning opening. Further, the opening provided in the guide passage is opened vertically above the portion provided with an inclination capable of guiding the game ball to the winning opening, that is, substantially vertically above the winning opening. A game ball that has fallen straight in front of the area enters the winning opening with a higher probability than other game balls due to the inclination provided at the drop point. Therefore, according to the adoption of this configuration, the degree of attention to the behavior of the game ball can be further improved.

In addition, the game ball on the stage is provided with a transfer device for transferring upward on the side of the stage,
The guide passage may guide the game ball transferred by the transfer device to a position substantially vertically above the winning opening out of the stage.

  According to this configuration, the game ball taken into the transfer device is transferred upward on the side of the stage. The game ball transferred by the transfer device is guided substantially vertically above the winning opening through the guide passage. In other words, the game ball guided by the guide passage is guided vertically above the winning opening from a position above the stage and away from the vertical above the winning opening. Therefore, the game ball transferred by the transfer device is given again the chance to reach the stage and the winning opening.

In addition, it has an open end at a position higher than the stage, and has a communication passage for guiding the game ball that has entered the open end to the side end of the stage,
The transfer device may transfer a game ball that has entered the stage through the communication passage and crossed the stage to the upper side of the stage.

  According to this structure, the game ball crossing the stage is transferred to the upper part of the stage by being taken into the transfer device. In addition, the transferred game ball is guided above the winning opening by the guide passage, and reaches the stage again from this guide passage. For this reason, game balls that were originally in a situation of falling from the side edge of the stage across the stage are again guided to the stage by adopting this configuration. The behavior of the game sphere such as crossing the stage in this way is converted into a behavior in the direction of gravity by adopting this configuration.

  Moreover, the structure by which the buffer part which suppresses the repulsion of the game ball with respect to this stage may be provided in the upper surface of the said stage.

  According to this configuration, since the impact of landing is buffered by the buffer portion, a game ball that has originally entered the stage from a height that would fall from the stage can be localized on the stage with a higher probability. In addition, in the combination with the transfer device described above, the game ball is localized on the stage by the buffer portion, so that the game ball can be prevented from entering the transfer device again.

A sensor for detecting the position of the game ball falling in front of the display area; and a control device for adjusting a display timing of information displayed in the display area;
The control device may be configured to adjust the display timing of the information based on the position of the game ball detected by the sensor.

  According to this configuration, the control device for adjusting the display timing of the information is provided, and the control device determines the display timing of the information based on the output of the sensor that detects the position of the game ball falling on the front of the display area. It is adjusted. For this reason, information is displayed in the display area at a timing correlated with the behavior of the game ball.

  Various contents described in the means for solving the above problems can be combined as much as possible without departing from the problems solved by the present invention and the technical idea of the present invention.

  As described above, the gaming machine of the present invention can provide a gaming machine capable of giving more changes to the behavior of the game ball in a limited area such as a game board. In addition, it is possible to provide a gaming machine suitable for employing a large display device.

Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of a gaming machine according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
In the present embodiment, a pachinko gaming machine that is classified as “first type” in the internal rules of the Act on the Optimization of Business Administration (the Rules on Customs Business etc. and the Act on Business Optimization) will be described as an example.

  The gaming machine 1 shown in the present embodiment has an outer frame 3 fixed to a so-called “island” of a game store where the gaming machine 1 is installed as shown in FIG. 1, and one side held by the outer frame 3. A front frame 4 provided to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame 3 and a window frame 5 provided to be openable and closable at the upper front of the front frame 4 are provided. The main components of the gaming machine 1 are attached to the front frame 4 in a collective manner.

  As main components provided in the table frame 4, a game board 6 having a game area formed on the board surface, a game ball (game medium) to be supplied to the game machine 1, and a prize ball paid out from the game machine 1 are temporarily stored. Receptacle 2, launch drive device 7 for launching the game ball onto the top of the game board 6, operation handle 8 for operating the launch drive device 7, and paying out a predetermined number of prize balls into the saucer 2 as required. Examples include a game ball payout device 53, a main control device 50 that processes main control relating to games, a sub-control device 60 that controls various devices based on commands output from the main control device 50, and the like.

  The window frame 5 provided on the front frame 4 includes a see-through window 9 through which a player can look into the previous game board 6 in the frame. Further, glass is fitted into the see-through window 9, and a decoration LED 10, a decoration lamp 11, and a speaker (sound generator) 12 are provided on the outer periphery of the see-through window 9.

The tray 2 provided on the front frame 4 is attached below the window frame 5.
A spiral slope is formed inside the tray 2, and a game ball borrowing port 2 a leading to the CR unit 70 is provided at the most upstream part. Further, a prize ball payout exit 2b for prize ball payout is provided downstream thereof. A storage ball alignment path 2c that aligns the game balls in the tray 2 in a line and guides them into the game machine 1 is formed at the most downstream portion. A game ball supply port 2d communicating with the launch drive device 7 is provided at the end of the storage ball alignment path 2c. Further, on the front surface of the tray 2, ball removal buttons 2 e and 2 f for discharging the game balls in the tray 2 to the outside of the tray 2 are provided.

  An ashtray 20 is provided at the lower left of the tray 2. An operation handle 8 is provided at the lower right of the tray 2. The operation handle 8 incorporates a main switch for operating the firing drive device 7 provided on the back surface of the front frame 4 and a touch antenna for detecting the presence or absence of the operation. The batting force of the game ball can be adjusted by the opening operation for the operation handle 8.

More specifically, the outputs of the main switch and the touch antenna are input to a launch control device 52 provided on the back of the gaming machine, and the launch drive device 7 transfers the game ball to the game board 6 under the control of the launch control device 52. Has been launched. Further, the launch drive device 7 incorporates a launcher for launching the game ball, an electric motor (both not shown) for continuously swinging the launcher, and the like. The hitting force of the game ball is adjusted by reflecting the output on the amount of movement of the launcher.

  In addition, regarding the launch of the game ball, in the present embodiment, a firing stop button 21 is provided on the left side of the tray 2. The launch stop button 21 is an external operation device for temporarily stopping the launch operation of the game ball while the operation handle is fixed based on the player's judgment. The player operates (presses down) the launch stop button 21. ), It is possible to temporarily stop the launch of the game ball at an arbitrary timing while maintaining the opening degree of the operation handle 8.

  A game ball payout device 53 (see FIG. 3) is provided on the back side of the front frame 4, and stores a game ball as a prize ball, a prize ball counting device for counting game balls to be paid out as a prize ball, and the gaming machine 1. And a prize ball alignment rail for sending the game balls in the game ball tank provided to the prize ball counting device to the prize ball counting device (both not shown). Then, the required number of game balls required at that time are counted by a prize ball counting device and paid out as prize balls in the previous tray 2.

The game ball payout device 53 is connected to the payout control device 51.
The payout control device 51 controls the award ball payout operation by the game ball payout device 53 based on the control command output from the main control device 50. In addition to the game ball payout device 53, the payout control device 51 is connected with a ball lending signal control device 71. The payout control device 51 operates the CR unit 70 via the ball lending signal control device 71. The required number of game balls are supplied into the tray 2.

  The game board 6 is made of a substantially square plywood as shown in FIG. 2, and is stored and fixed in a game board storage frame (not shown) formed on the back surface of the front frame 4. Further, a guide rail 13a and a game ball regulation rail 13b are provided on the front surface of the game board 6, and a game area where the game ball falls is constituted by an area surrounded by the guide rail 13a and the game ball regulation rail 13b. .

  In the game area, various winning devices 25, 26, 27, 28 with obstacles 14 such as game nails and windmills, and winning holes opened at the entrance where game balls can enter, were not reached. An out port 15 for discharging the game balls to the outside of the game area and a variable display device 100 for displaying various symbols based on the effects are provided.

  Further, on the upper part of the variable display device 100, a normal symbol display device (LED display device) 18 for notifying the result of the success / failure determination relating to the opening control of the start chucker 26, which will be described in detail later, by symbols such as “O” and “X”. And a pass hold number display lamp 16 for displaying the hold number of rights related to the execution of the determination, a specific hold number display lamp 19 for displaying the start winning hold number, and the like. Further, on both sides of the variable display device 100, there are provided through-chuckers 49 that trigger the random number lottery executed in the open / close control determination.

  The obstacles 14 such as game nails and windmills have a function of changing the direction of the fall of the game balls launched on the game board 6 to make the processing of the game balls interesting, and various winning devices 25, 26, 27, 28 and the function of guiding the game ball in the vicinity of the through chucker 49.

  In addition, as a winning device, a general winning device 25 that leads to payout of a predetermined number of winning balls (game balls) by entering a game ball and a jackpot lottery control, which will be described in detail later, or a variable display of symbols A start chucker (starting winning device) 26 serving as a trigger for starting, a big winning device 27 having an opening / closing door 27c that is opened at the time of transition to a special gaming state, and a trigger for opening the start chucker 26 for a certain period of time; An opening winning device 28 can be exemplified.

Each winning device has a built-in sensor (not shown) for detecting the passage of the game ball, and the output of the sensor is input to the input port of the main controller 50. Further, in the present specification, an operation in which a game ball enters a winning opening provided in these winning devices 25, 26, 27, 28 is referred to as winning. In particular, when a game ball enters the start chucker 26, this winning may be referred to as a “start winning”.

  The start chuck 26 is provided at the approximate center of the game board 6 and below the variable display device 100. Further, on both sides of the start winning opening 26a formed in the start chucker 26, a movable portion having a function of moving outward from the starting winning opening 26a under the execution of the opening control and further expanding the opening area of the starting winning opening 26a. A piece 26b is provided.

  The movable piece 26b is connected to a solenoid incorporated in the start chuck 26 via a link mechanism, and moves outward or inward of the start winning opening 26a depending on whether the solenoid is energized. The solenoid is connected to the movable object control device 67, and control relating to the energization is processed by the movable object control device 67 under the control of the main control device 50.

  The normal symbol display device 18 is a display device for displaying a normal symbol for notifying the result of the determination on whether or not the start control of the start chucker 26 is executed. For example, “O”, “X”, etc. Display the symbol. More specifically, “○” is displayed in response to winning / failing determination, and “×” is displayed in response to a loss.

  In addition, this win / no-win determination is referred to as “small hit” by those skilled in the art and players, and the opening control of the start chuck 26 is started on the condition of the win for the small hit. In addition, when the opening control is executed, the movable piece 26b provided in the start chuck 26 moves outward at a predetermined cycle, and the opening of the winning opening 26a is widened compared to the normal time, so that the game ball wins the winning opening 26a. It becomes easy to do. Therefore, the player can enjoy the game advantageously during this time.

  Also, the right to execute the determination is established by passing the game ball to the previous through chucker 49. In other words, when the game ball passes through the through chucker 49, a lottery right for random lottery related to the determination of whether or not the bonus is won is obtained, and the main control device 50 performs the determination of whether or not the bonus is made on the condition that the lottery right is established. Yes. In addition, for example, the lottery right may be suspended with an upper limit of the number of reservations 4, and the number of reservations can be confirmed from the number of lighting of the passage reservation number display lamp 16.

  The big winning device 27 includes a big winning opening 27a having a wider opening compared to other winning openings, a V zone (continuous winning area) 27b opened inside the large winning opening 27a, and a normal gaming state. An open / close door 27c is provided for preventing the game ball from entering the large winning opening 27a. In addition, the open / close door 27c is opened / closed under open / close control that is executed while the special game state continues, and a passage leading to the inside of the special winning opening 27a is secured.

  Similarly to the start chuck 26 described above, the open / close door 27c is connected to a solenoid (not shown) provided on the back surface of the game board 6 via a link mechanism. The movable object control device 67 controls the opening and closing thereof.

  In addition, the open / close control is a control that allows the game ball to enter (win) the big winning opening 27a by opening / closing the normally closed open / close door 27c under the execution of the open / close control. Further, under the special gaming state, the unit operation period of the open / close door 27c is set as one round, and the round is normally digested with 15 to 16 rounds as an upper limit. And it is the structure in which opening and closing control occurs sequentially with digestion of this round.

Next, the opening winning device 28 will be described. The opening winning device 28 is formed with an opening 28a through which a game ball can enter, and in the present embodiment, a total of two locations are provided on both sides of the large winning device 27. Further, when a game ball is won through the opening 28a, the movable piece 26b provided in the start chucker 26 is opened for a certain period of time, so that the game ball can easily enter the start chucker 26.

  The specific number-of-holds display lamp 19 includes a plurality of lamps, and displays the number of held start prizes according to the number of lighting of the lamps. The lamp lighting control is managed by the lamp control device 62, which is one of the sub-control devices. When there is a start prize worth a hold, the number of lamps to be lit is received in response to the start prize. It is a mechanism to increase one. Further, when the held start winning is exhausted with the execution of various controls, the number of lamps to be lit is controlled to be reduced by one.

The variable display device 100 is provided substantially at the center of the game board 6 and displays image data (identification information) having a motif as a design based on various effects. If the display of symbols is described as an example, each image data is continuously variably displayed on an effective line provided in the symbol display area as if it were a symbol on the rotating drum. In addition, a character image and a background image are displayed together with a symbol, and an unexpectedness and an interest that can be visually obtained for a player by providing the symbol, the character image, and the background image are provided.
In this specification, these character images and background images are included, and may be simply referred to as “symbols”.

  Further, the outline of the control method of the variable display device 100 will be described. Under the execution of the program required for control of the variable display device 100, the main control device 50 is triggered by the establishment of the start prize for the player. A jackpot random number lottery control process (hereinafter simply referred to as a jackpot lottery control) is executed to determine whether or not to shift to an advantageous gaming state.

  Further, in order to notify the player of the determination result, main controller 50 further executes random number lottery for determining a symbol variation pattern, a temporary stop symbol, and a final stop symbol. In this random number lottery, a random number lottery is executed for a data selection table corresponding to “Atari” or a data selection table corresponding to “losing” based on the lottery result of the previous jackpot lottery control. Then, a control command corresponding to the variation pattern data set to the random number range value including the random number extracted by this random number lottery, the type data of the fixed stop symbol, etc. is generated, and the symbol control which is one of the sub-control devices 60 It is transmitted to the device 61.

  More specifically, the data related to the gaming state such as “Atari” and “Loose” is used as a preceding command, and a subsequent command such as variation pattern data is transmitted to the symbol control device 61 together with the preceding command. Then, the symbol control device 61 analyzes the received control command, reads out the image data of the temporary stop symbol and the fixed stop symbol corresponding to this control command from the ROM 61a of the symbol control device 61, and the variable display device together with various effects. 100.

  Note that the “temporary stop symbol” is a symbol displayed in the display mode as if it is temporarily stopped on the effective line of the variable display device 100. The “determined stop symbol” is a symbol that stops on the active line of the variable display device 100.

  The main control device 50 is a device that executes main control (basic program) related to games, and is a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 50a that is a basic processing device and a RAM (temporarily storing data used for processing by the CPU 50a). A random access memory (Random Access Memory) 50c and a ROM (Read Only Memory) 50b storing various programs processed by the CPU 50a are provided.

  An example of a program recorded in the ROM 50b is as follows. A random number lottery execution program used for jackpot lottery control and the like, and a control command to be output to the various sub-control devices 60 based on the judgment result of the jackpot lottery control are generated / An output control program to be output can be exemplified.

  Further, the main control device 50 is connected to a sub control device 60 such as a symbol control device 61, a lamp control device 62, and a sound control device 63. The main control device 50 is connected to each sub control device 60. A control command including a preceding command and a subsequent command is transmitted.

The lamp control device 62, which is one of the sub-control devices, controls the effect using the electrical accessories based on the control command output from the main control device 50.
More specifically, the control program for the specific hold number display lamp 19 and the passing hold number display lamp 16 and the program for controlling the light emission of the decoration LED 10 provided on the front of the game machine and the electric decoration incorporated in various winning devices are recorded. ROM 62b, a CPU 62a for processing a program recorded in ROM 62b based on a control command output from main controller 50, and a RAM 62c for temporarily storing data used for processing in CPU 62a.

  The voice control device 63 is a device for controlling the speaker 12 provided on the front surface of the gaming machine 1, and the ROM 63b in which a program used for controlling the speaker 12 is recorded, and the program recorded in the ROM 63b is the main control device 50. CPU 63a that processes based on the control command output from the CPU 63, and RAM 63c that temporarily stores data used for processing in the CPU 63a.

  The symbol control device 61 generates image data based on a control command output from the main controller 50 and transmits it to a video display processor (VDP) 65, and various symbols are transmitted via the video display processor 65. A function of displaying on the variable display device 100 is provided.

  More specifically, the main control device 50 analyzes the control command received from the main control device 50 and records an image generation program for generating image data suitable for each time, and the image generation program recorded in the ROM 61b. CPU 61a for processing based on the control command output from the CPU 61, RAM 61c for temporarily storing data used for processing in the CPU 61a, and the like.

  Next, various controls processed by the control system of the gaming machine 1 including the main control device 50 and the sub control device 60 will be described.

[Basic program]
First, as shown in FIG. 4, the main controller 50 starts up a basic program upon power-on, and executes an initial setting process (S100). In this initial setting process, a power-off check process, a RAM area initialization, a normal activation command transmission process to each sub-control device, an error state recovery process, and a system timer interrupt process are executed.

  Among these, the power-off check process distributes whether or not the power is turned on after the power-off occurs, that is, whether the power-on is restored from power-off or is activated from the normal state (operating state). In this embodiment, the items to be checked in the distribution are (1) the RAM clear switch shut-off state, (2) the flag value set when the power-off occurs, and (3) the contents of all RAM areas. Are set as check items.

  If it is determined as a result of the power-off check processing that the power-off recovery has been initiated, initialization of the RAM and transmission of a normal activation command to each sub-control device are executed. The error at the time is released.

Further, main controller 50 executes a system timer interrupt process after initialization of various data.
This system timer interrupt process is a process for periodically executing the main routine as a machine cycle during operation of the gaming machine with steps 101 to 113 described later as a main routine. The timer is updated based on the reset signal of the built-in clock, and the machine cycle is established based on the value of this timer.

  Subsequently, after the initial setting process, the main controller 50 proceeds to the subsequent step 101 to set a random number range value for random number lottery executed in the jackpot lottery control described in detail later. In addition, a random number update process that continuously updates random numbers within the set random number range value is executed.

  Further, after the random number update process, the main controller 50 performs a start winning ball detection sensor (specific winning ball detection sensor) 47, a special winning ball detection sensor (special winning ball detection sensor) as one process of the input management process (S102). 48) Read the sensor output obtained from the passing ball detection sensor 46 etc. via the input port.

  Here, the starting winning ball detection sensor 47 is a sensor that detects a game ball that has won the start chucker 26. The big winning ball detection sensor 48 is a sensor that detects a game ball won in the big winning device 27. The passing ball detection sensor 46 is a sensor that detects a game ball won in the through chucker 49.

  In the winning management process, the input port is checked and the edge of the switch provided in the main controller 50 is detected. In addition to these port and switch checks, the winning information of all winning devices can be individually counted, and the signals obtained by these checks and the winning information of all winning devices can be used in various processes thereafter. Execute data conversion processing to convert data. Here, the winning information corresponds to whether or not a game ball has been detected, the timing of establishment of a winning game ball, and the like.

  Next, the main controller 50 executes an abnormality monitoring process such as a supply ball run-out error or a pan full error (S103), and then executes a normal symbol control process (S104).

  In the normal symbol control process, the success / failure determination related to the success / failure of the small hit is executed. In this determination of success / failure, random number lottery is executed using the winning information acquired by the passing ball detection sensor 46 (for example, winning establishment timing) as a parameter for random number extraction. Further, based on the result of this determination, normal symbols such as “◯” and “x” to be displayed on the normal symbol display device 18 are determined.

Next, main controller 50 executes a special symbol control process (S105).
In the special symbol control process, the jackpot lottery control is executed based on information obtained by the establishment of the start winning prize (for example, the winning timing), and a preceding command corresponding to the lottery result of the jackpot lottery control is prepared. In addition, designation of a symbol corresponding to the fixed stop symbol to be displayed and variation pattern data used for displaying this symbol are selected by random number lottery, and a subsequent command corresponding to the selected data is prepared.

Next, main controller 50 performs output management processing (S106).
In the output management process, a control command to be transmitted to each sub control device (symbol control device 61, voice control device 63, lamp control device 62, payout control device 51, etc.) is edited and sent to each sub control device at an appropriate timing. In response, the control command is transmitted. In addition, the desired data is also transmitted to the central management device 54 outside (hall, test laboratory, etc.).

  Subsequently, the variable symbol display control process is executed (S107). In this process, the control command generated in the special symbol control process is transmitted to the variable display device 100 and the normal symbol display device 18, and various symbols are displayed on the variable display device 100 and the normal symbol display device 18 as described above.

  Subsequently, the main control device 50 executes a normal symbol electric accessory control process (S108). In the normal symbol electric accessory control process, referring to the result of the small hit / no-go determination obtained in the previous normal symbol control process, the movable piece 26b is opened / closed based on this determination. More specifically, opening control is executed under the condition of winning a small hit, and under this opening control, a voltage is applied to a solenoid provided in the start chuck 26 to open the movable piece 26b.

Next, the main controller 50 executes a special winning area control process (S109).
The big winning area control process refers to the lottery result of the big hit lottery control, and executes the open / close control of the big prize device 27 in response to the winning of the big hit lottery control.

  More specifically, in response to the start of the first round accompanying the transition to the special gaming state, the main controller 50 applies a voltage to the solenoid of the big prize device 27 through the movable object controller 67 at an appropriate timing. Then, the open / close door 27c is operated. In addition, energization of the solenoid when a predetermined time is reached after the operation of the opening / closing door 27c is reached, or when the number of game balls (winning number) entering the big winning opening 27a reaches an upper limit value is satisfied. Is stopped, and the opening / closing control of the opening / closing door 27c is once ended. Further, the end of the opening / closing control is regarded as the end of the first round.

  Further, the main control device 50 receives a game ball entering the V zone 27b inside the special winning opening 27a during the first round, and starts the subsequent second round after the end of the first round. . Then, upon the start of the second round, the opening / closing control of the opening / closing door 27c is started again. In the same manner, on the condition that a winning is made in the V zone 27b, the round is further developed into the third round, the fourth round, etc., with a maximum of 15 to 16 rounds as an upper limit.

  In addition, if there is no winning in the V zone 27b during the round, the special game state is terminated after the completion of the round without waiting for all the rounds to be completed. The control state is returned to the control state corresponding to the normal gaming state. In this way, in the special winning area process, the opening / closing control of the opening / closing door 27c is executed up to, for example, 15 to 16 rounds based on the presence / absence of continuation of the round.

Subsequently, main controller 50 performs a payout control process (S110).
In this payout control process, the presence / absence of a winning is determined based on the outputs of the various sensors obtained in the input management process in step 102, and at the time of winning a prize ball is paid out via the game ball payout device 53. To do.

Further, a lamp / LED control process (S111) and an audio control process are executed (S112).
In the lamp / LED control process, the player is provided with light effects by flashing the decorative lamp 11 and the decorative LED 10 based on the lottery result of the big hit lottery control. In addition, the number of lighting of the specific hold number display lamp 19 is changed.
Also, in the audio output control, the result of the big hit lottery control is read into the audio control device 63, and a sound effect according to the progress of the game is provided to the player via the audio generation device 12 constituted by a speaker or the like. .

  Then, as the final process of the main routine, main controller 50 determines whether or not the power has been turned off (S113), and once exits from the process routine when the power is turned off. If it is determined that the gaming machine is still in operation, the process returns to step 101 and the main routine from step 101 to step 113 is repeated again.

  Thus, various controls are executed in the control system of the gaming machine 1, and various devices of the gaming machine 1 are controlled by executing these various controls. In addition, a game is provided to the player through these controls.

Next, the detailed structure of the variable display device 100 will be described.
As shown in FIG. 5, the variable display device 100 includes a frame-like frame 101 that is assembled to an opening 6 a formed substantially at the center of the game board 6, and a display unit that closes the opening 6 a from the back side of the game board 6. The display unit 102 facing the opening 6a is recognized by the player as a symbol display area.

  Further, the frame 101 assembled to the opening 6 a forms a stage 110 under the variable display device 100. More specifically, the frame 101 extends from the lower part of the display unit 102 facing the back of the opening 6a to the front side of the opening 6a, and the game ball stays on the front side of the display unit 102 facing the opening 6a. The stage 110 is configured.

  Further, the stage 110 is provided with an undulation that changes the speed and course of the game ball that has entered the stage 110 and an inclination for dropping the game ball that has stalled on the stage 110 to the front of the stage 110. Then, for example, a game ball that has entered the stage 110 due to a collision with an obstacle 14 provided on the side of the variable display device 100 drifts on the stage 110 while changing its course and speed, and eventually the stage 110 moves from the stage 110 to the game ball. Rolls down.

  Further, a start winning opening 26 a is opened below the stage 110, and the game ball rolling down from the stage 110 falls to or around the start winning opening 26 a opened below the stage 110. In other words, the game ball on the stage 110 falls from the stage 110 as if it were a start-up prize, so that the player can be provided with the visual interest.

  In addition, on both sides of the frame 101, tubular communication passages (not shown) having an open end 103 at a position higher than the stage 110 are formed. In addition, the opening 104 that forms the outlet of the communication passage is open to the side end portion 110b of the stage 110, and the game ball that has entered the communication passage passes through the communication passage from the side end portion 110b of the stage 110 to the stage 110. You will enter inside.

  In addition, the gaming machine 1 shown in the present embodiment includes a transfer device 200 that transfers the game ball in the stage 110 to the upper portion of the variable display device 100, and the start winning opening 26a along the upper portion of the variable display device 100. A guiding passage 130 for guiding the ball to fall on the stage 110, a buffer 140 for positioning the dropped game ball at the drop point, and an inclination in the buffer 140 to move the game ball on the buffer 140 And a dropping device 150 for dropping the stage 110 forward.

<Outline of transfer device>
The transfer device 200 is provided on both sides of the variable display device 100. Further, as shown in FIG. 6, a power shaft 201 extending in the vertical direction of the variable display device 100, an electric motor 202 that rotates the power shaft 201, and the power shaft 201 are rotatably inserted therein. A pipe 203, a main shaft 204 disposed adjacent to the power shaft 201, a power transmission mechanism 205 that transmits the rotation of the power shaft 201 to the main shaft 204, a stopper 206 that rotates around the pipe 203, and an electric motor A torque generating mechanism 220 that transmits a driving force of the motor 202 to the stopper 206 and generates a torque for biasing the game ball to the main shaft 204, and a housing 210 that accommodates these components. I have.

  The power shaft 201 is fixed to the output shaft of the electric motor 202 and rotates when electric power is supplied to the electric motor 202. The power shaft 201 is inserted into the pipe 203 as described above, and pinions 205 a for transmitting the rotation of the power shaft 201 to the main shaft 204 are provided at the upper and lower ends of the power shaft 201 protruding from the end of the pipe 203. It has been.

  The main shaft 204 is provided with a reduction gear 205b at the upper end and the lower end thereof, and the rotation of the power shaft 201 is transmitted to the reduction gear 205b by meshing of the reduction gear 205b and the pinion 205a of the power shaft 201. 204 rotates at a low speed in the opposite direction to the power shaft 201. The pinion 205a and the reduction gear 205b constitute a power transmission mechanism 205.

  On the outer peripheral surface of the main shaft 204, a guide 204a that spirally extends while turning counterclockwise from the lower portion to the upper portion of the main shaft 204 is formed. Further, the game ball is transferred to the upper part of the main shaft 204 by the rotation of the guide 204a. In addition, a discharge plate 204 b that rotates together with the main shaft 204 is provided on the upper portion of the main shaft 204 so as to extend in the radial direction from the surface of the main shaft 204.

  The stopper 206 has a rectangular shape consisting of a long side somewhat shorter than the entire length of the main shaft 204 and a short side somewhat longer than the shortest distance between the main shaft 204 and the power shaft 201, and a pipe that supports the stopper 206. 203 supports the stopper 206 by penetrating the stopper 206 in the vertical direction. On the other long side, a transfer rail 206a that protrudes facing the main shaft 204 is formed. A torque generating mechanism 220 is provided on the pipe 203 that supports the stopper 206 and the power shaft 201 inserted into the pipe 203.

  As shown in FIGS. 6 and 11, the torque generating mechanism 220 includes a swing arm 221 fixed to the pipe 203, a support shaft 222 provided on the swing arm 221, and a bearing (not shown) on the support shaft 222. And a drive gear 224 fixed to the upper end of the power shaft 201. Further, the support shaft 222 supports the planetary gear 223 at a position where the drive gear 224 and the planetary gear 223 are always meshed.

  The housing 210 forms a bearing for the main shaft 204 and the power shaft 201 described above, and also forms a guide wall 211 for guiding the transfer of the game ball by the main shaft 204 together with the stopper 206. Further, as shown in FIG. 7, the relative position between the main shaft 204 and the power shaft 201 supported by the housing 210 is such that the power shaft 201 is provided adjacent to the main shaft 204, and the stopper 206 is disposed on the surface thereof. The formed transfer rail 206 a is supported by the pipe 203 in a direction facing the main shaft 204.

  FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the main part of the transfer device 200 disposed on the right side of the variable display device 100, and the main shaft 204 is disposed on the left side of the power shaft 201. On the other hand, the transfer device 200 arranged on the left side of the variable display device 100 is slightly different from the transfer device 200 for the right side shown in FIG. Therefore, the left-side transfer device 200 will be omitted from the description of the right-side transfer device 200.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the guide wall 211 has a first guide wall 211a that faces the main shaft 204 and extends in the vertical direction of the main shaft 204 while ensuring a space through which the game ball can enter. The game ball that extends from the first guide wall 211a toward the main shaft 204 and enters between the first guide wall 211a and the main shaft 204 is provided at a position where the game ball can be held between the stopper 206 and the second guide wall 211a. The guide wall 211b is composed of a total of two wall surfaces.

  As shown in FIGS. 6 and 9, the lower end of the first guide wall 211 a has a discharge port 212 for discharging the game ball in the transfer device 200 to the outside of the transfer device 200, and the discharge port 212. A discharge passage 213 for discharging the discharged game balls onto the game board 6 is provided. In addition, a discharge path 212 a communicating with the discharge port 212 is provided inside the transfer device 200.

  In addition, at the lower end of the second guide wall 211b, a take-in port 214 for taking the game ball reaching the side end portion 110b of the stage 110 into the transfer device 200 is formed. Further, as shown in FIG. 8, a discharge port 215 for discharging the game ball transferred to the upper portion of the main shaft 204 from the upper portion of the transfer device 200 to the outside of the transfer device 200 is provided at the upper portion of the first guide wall 211a. Is formed. A guide passage 130 is connected to the discharge port 215.

Subsequently, the operation state of these various parts will be described following the process of transferring the game balls.
First, the operation principle of the torque generating mechanism 220 will be described with reference to FIGS.
When power is not supplied to the electric motor 202 and the drive gear 224 is still stopped, the planetary gear 223 that meshes with the drive gear 224 moves (revolves) with respect to the drive gear 224 as shown in FIG. First, the planetary gear 223 is stationary while meshed with the drive gear 224 (see point P in FIG. 11).

  Also, as shown in FIG. 12, when electric power is supplied to the electric motor 202 from this state and the drive gear 224 rotates clockwise, the swing arm 221 causes the planetary gear 223 to follow the rotation of the drive gear 224. By revolving around, it moves toward the main shaft 204 (in the direction of arrow T in the figure). Therefore, due to the revolution of the planetary gear 223, torque is generated on the swing arm 221 to urge the stopper 206 in the rotation direction of the drive gear 224, and this torque is applied to the stopper 206 through the pipe 203. become.

At this time, when an external force F that hinders the movement of the stopper 206 acts on the stopper 206, the swing arm 221 moves together with the stopper 206 and moves in a direction opposite to the rotation of the drive gear 224 (counterclockwise). The stopper 206 stops at a position where the external force F and the torque T generated on the swing arm 221 are balanced.
At this time, although the torque T generated by the rotation of the drive gear 224 is added to the swing arm 221, the planetary gear 223 provided on the swing arm 221 rotates idly (autorotates) with respect to the drive gear 224. As a result, the generation of the torque T more than necessary with respect to the swing arm 221 is suppressed as the drive gear 224 idles. The value of torque T can be adjusted to an appropriate value by changing the reduction ratio of planetary gear 223 and drive gear 224 and changing the rotational speed of electric motor 202.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 13, when the supply of electric power to the electric motor 202 is cut off in this state and the electric motor 202 is stopped, the torque T added to the swing arm 221 is lost. Therefore, the stopper 206 urged in the rotation direction of the drive gear 224 is pushed back in a direction opposite to the direction in which the drive gear 224 is rotated by the external force F.

That is, the torque generation mechanism 220 generates torque T on the stopper 206 via the swing arm 221 when supplying electric power to the electric motor 202. Further, since the torque T is lost when the power is cut off, the stopper 206 receives the external force F acting on the stopper 206 and moves away from the main shaft 204.

  Subsequently, the transfer state of the game ball will be described separately when power is supplied to the electric motor 202 and when power is not supplied.

<When supplying power>
First, when electric power is supplied to the electric motor 202, the power shaft 201 and the drive gear 224 rotate in the direction of arrow A in FIG. Further, the main shaft 204 rotates in the direction opposite to the drive gear 224 (the direction of arrow B in FIG. 6). The rotation of the drive gear 224 is transmitted to the stopper 206 via the torque generating mechanism 220, and a torque T for biasing the game ball is generated in the stopper 206.

  Further, the game ball that has entered the transfer device 200 through the intake port 214 opened at the lower end of the second guide wall 211b rides on the guide 204a formed on the outer peripheral surface of the main shaft 204, and the guide wall 211 and the stopper 206 While being held in between, it is transferred to the upper part of the main shaft 204 by the guide 204a.

  More specifically, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the game ball is supported at a total of four locations including a guide 204a, a first guide wall 211a, a second guide wall 211b, and a stopper 206 (transfer rail 206a). The contact surface between the game ball and the guide 204 a relatively moves above the main shaft 204 as the main shaft 204 rotates, so that the game ball is lifted above the main shaft 204.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 8, the game ball that has reached the top of the guide wall 211 loses its place due to contact with the discharge plate 204b that rotates together with the main shaft 204, and the game ball is placed on the top of the first guide wall 211a. It is discharged from the opened discharge port 215 and reaches the guide passage 130.

<When power is not supplied>
When power is not supplied, the power shaft 201, the drive gear 224, and the main shaft 204 are stopped by stopping the electric motor 202. Further, the torque T that urges the stopper 206 in the rotation direction of the drive gear 224 is also lost when the drive gear 224 is stopped. Therefore, the game ball on the guide 204a rolls down to the stopper 206 side due to the inclination of the guide 204a as shown in FIG.

  Further, the gravity acting on the game ball becomes an external force F that moves the stopper 206, so that the game ball is released from the guide 204a while pushing the stopper 206 away from the main shaft 204 as shown in FIGS. drop down. Then, it falls directly below it through the discharge path 212a inside the housing 210. The dropped game ball is discharged onto the game board 6 through the discharge port 212 and the discharge passage 213 formed at the lower end of the first guide wall 211a.

  Thus, the gaming machine 1 shown in the present embodiment includes the transfer device 200 on both sides of the variable display device 100, and can enter the transfer device 200 from the side end 110b of the stage 110 through the intake port 214. The game balls are transferred to the side of the variable display device 100 and eventually reach the upper part of the moving device 200. In other words, the game ball originally falling from the stage 110 is transferred to a position higher than the intake port 214 such as the upper part of the moving device 200 adjacent to the side of the variable display device 100, and is used again for the game. Will be.

Further, a stopper 206 that guides the transfer of the game ball in cooperation with the guide 204a formed on the main shaft 204 guides the transfer of the game ball when power is supplied to the electric motor 202, and discharges when the power is not supplied. In response to the gravity acting on the game ball inside the transfer device 200, the game ball is moved to a position where the game ball can be discharged. For this reason, the game balls in the transfer device 200 are discharged onto the game board 6 when the electric motor 202 is stopped.
That is, the transfer device 200 of this configuration can naturally discharge the game balls in the transfer device 200 by shutting off the power.

  Further, according to the transfer device 200 of this configuration, when the game ball is held between the guide 204a and the stopper 206 and the main shaft 204 rotates in this state, the game ball follows the rotation of the main shaft 204 and the main ball 204 is rotated. Is pushed upward. That is, in transferring the game ball, the game ball can be transferred with one system of power.

  In addition, as a method for transferring the game ball, for example, a belt conveyor method configured by a route for going and returning can be adopted, but as in this configuration, by moving the guide 204a relative to the game ball. If the game ball is transferred, the return route of the transfer device 200 becomes unnecessary, and the transfer device 200 can be made smaller accordingly. Further, the configuration of the transfer device 200 described above is merely an example, and details thereof can be appropriately changed according to various specifications, for example, a pulley is used instead of various gears.

<Guidance passage>
Next, the guide passage 130 connected to the discharge port 215 will be described.
As shown in FIG. 5, the guide passage 130 is installed inside the opening 6 a where the display unit 102 faces. More specifically, the game ball starts from the discharge port 215 of the transfer device 200 that opens on both sides of the variable display device 100, passes from the discharge port 215 through the upper portion of the variable display device 100, and substantially vertically above the start winning port 26a. It forms a passage that leads.

  In addition, a circular landing 131 (hereinafter referred to as “Kroon 131”) that is wider than the width of the guide passage 130 is provided in the center of the guide passage 130. In addition, a pit (opening) 131a through which a game ball can pass is formed on the bottom surface of the croon 131. Then, the game ball that has reached the cron 131 through the guide passage 130 changes the course within the cron 131 and eventually falls to the stage 110 from the pit pit 131a provided on the bottom surface thereof. The diameter of the pit hole 131a is substantially equal to the diameter of the game ball. The game ball that has entered the pit hole 131a is regulated in its dropping direction by the pit hole 131a and falls vertically toward the stage 110.

  Moreover, the pit hole 131a is located substantially vertically above the start winning opening 26a that opens below the stage 110, and the game ball that has fallen into the pit hole 131a falls on the front of the display unit 102 and is provided at the point of drop. Landing on the buffer portion 140.

As described above, the gaming machine shown in the present embodiment includes the guide passage 130 that guides the game ball transferred by the transfer device 200 to the upper part of the stage 110 substantially vertically above the start winning opening 26a. In addition, the guide passage 130 is provided with a cron 131 having a pit 131 a, and the game ball that has fallen into the pit 131 a formed in the cleon 131 falls on the front of the display unit 102 and reaches the stage 110.
In other words, the gaming machine 1 shown in the present embodiment guides the game ball to the display area of the design where the game ball cannot fall, and uses this display area as the game area where the game ball falls, In a limited area such as the game board 6, a path through which more game balls fall is secured.

<Buffer part>
Next, the buffer unit 140 provided at the falling point of the game ball will be described.
As shown in FIG. 5, the buffer portion 140 is located vertically below the pit 131a. In addition, the shock absorber 141 is configured to include a shock absorber 141 that suppresses repulsion of the game ball due to the collision with the stage 110, and a holding portion 142 that holds the shock absorber 141 on the stage 110.

  Further, the buffer material 141 is made of, for example, an impact-absorbing gel or a non-resilience rubber having a high ability to buffer an impact, and the surface of the buffer material 141 is in the center of the holding portion 142 so as to be flush with the surface of the holding portion 142. Buried. Further, the surface (upper surface) of the buffer part 140 composed of the buffer material 141 and the holding part 142 is provided with a gradient that gradually falls from the center to the side end part 140a of the buffer part 140 and eventually reaches the surface of the stage 110. ing. That is, the surfaces of the cushioning material 141 and the holding portion 142 are gently raised in an arc shape, and the game ball rolling from the side of the stage 110 to the surface of the cushioning portion 140 is caused by the gradient of the cushioning portion 140. And move quickly from the surface of the buffer portion 140.

  On the other hand, the game ball that has fallen from above the stage 110 and landed on the shock absorber 140 loses its kinetic energy in the vertical direction due to contact with the shock absorber 141 provided in the shock absorber 140. It is localized on the surface of the buffer part 140 with almost no bounce on the surface of the buffer part 140. At this time, since the game ball enters the surface of the buffer unit 140 at an angle that is almost perpendicular, the game ball is difficult to roll to the side of the buffer unit 140, and the game ball that has landed on the buffer unit 140 has a high probability. To localize on the surface.

  That is, most of the game balls dropped from the drop hole 131a opened above the stage 110 are localized at the buffer portion 140 of the stage 110 located above (directly above) the start winning opening 26a. By rolling down before the stage 110, many of them will win the start winning opening 26a with a high probability.

  As described above, the gaming machine 1 shown in the present embodiment is provided with the buffer portion 140 that forms one surface of the stage 110 vertically below the pit hole 131a provided in the croon 131, and the kinetic energy of the game ball that has dropped from the pit hole 131a. Is buffered by the buffer unit 140, so that the game ball is localized on the stage 110.

  In addition, since the buffer portion 140 is provided with a slope that gradually falls from the center to the side end portion 140 a, the game ball that has rolled into the buffer portion 140 from the side of the buffer portion 140 is from above the surface of the buffer portion 140. Move quickly out of the surface. For this reason, the contact between the game ball falling on the buffer unit 140 and the game ball rolling on the buffer unit 140 from the side of the buffer unit 140 is positively avoided.

  In addition, about the game ball which is localized at the buffer part 140, it is also possible to promote the fall of the game ball with respect to the front of the stage 110 by forming the inclination which goes forward of this stage 110 directly on the surface of the buffer part 140. However, in the present embodiment, a falling device 150 that tilts the buffer portion 140 provided on the stage 110 toward the front side of the stage 110 to form an appropriate tilt on the buffer portion 140 is incorporated in the stage 110, and the game ball is dropped. Prompts.

<Falling device>
Hereinafter, the dropping device 150 will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 14.
The dropping device 150 includes a movable plate 151 whose front end portion 151a is pivotally connected to a frame 101 constituting the stage 110 so as to be rotatable about a connecting shaft 152, and the movable plate 151 is connected to the stage 110 around the connecting shaft 152. And a cam mechanism 155 for inclining forward.

The movable plate 151 also serves as the holding portion 142 of the buffer portion 140 described above.
41 is embedded in the upper surface of the movable plate 151 that also serves as the holding portion 142. For this reason, as the movable plate 151 is inclined, the cushioning material 141 is also inclined to the front of the stage 110, and the game ball falls to the front of the stage 110 due to this inclination.

  The cam mechanism 155 includes an electric motor 156 having a plate cam 157 fixed to the output shaft 156a, and a spring 158 that constantly maintains the contact state between the movable plate 151 and the plate cam 157, and the plate cam 157 is connected to the movable plate 151. When electric power is supplied to the electric motor 156 in contact with the back surface, the movable plate 151 follows the rotation of the plate cam 157 and rotates around the connecting shaft 152. Further, whether or not electric power is supplied to the electric motor 156 is managed by the main control device 50 and the movable object control device 67 described above.

  It should be noted that some examples of the control method of the electric motor 156 provided in the dropping device 150 include waiting for supply of electric power to the electric motor 156 until the game ball is localized in the shock absorber 140 after the game ball is dropped. A control example such as supplying electric power to the electric motor 156 after localization can be given. In this example, a sensor for detecting the passage of the game ball is provided in the pit pit 131a of the cruel 131 and the discharge port 215 of the transfer device 200, the condition that the sensor detects the passage of the game ball and a predetermined time has elapsed. For example, it is considered that the game ball has been localized in the buffer unit 140 and power is supplied to the electric motor 156.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the shock absorber 140 includes the movable plate 151 that also serves as the buffer portion 140, the dropping device 150 that includes the cam mechanism 155 for tilting the movable plate 151 forward of the stage 110, and the like. The game ball being localized is dropped to the front of the stage 110 by the tilting device 150. For this reason, it is possible to drop the game ball from the stage 110 without forming an inclination in front of the stage 110 in the buffer portion 140 in advance. That is, since the falling point of the game ball can be formed horizontally, the game ball can be localized on the surface of the buffer portion 140 with a higher probability.

  As described above, by adopting this configuration, the falling point of the game ball can be formed horizontally, so that the game ball can stay in a limited area such as the stage 110 for a longer time. Therefore, the game ball floats on the stage 110 for a long time. For example, the player can be provided with a visual interest such as whether or not the game ball on the stage 110 reaches the start winning opening 26a for a longer time. It becomes possible to do.

Next, the behavior of the game ball around the variable display device 100 will be described in order with reference to FIG.
First, when a game ball enters a communication passage (not shown) having an opening end 103 at a position higher than that of the stage 110, the game ball is opened to a communication passage opening 104 (opened to the side end portion 110b of the stage 110). It is guided into the stage 110 through (exit) (arrow A in FIG. 5).

  In addition, since the opening end 103 corresponding to the entrance of the communication passage is opened at a sufficiently high position with respect to the stage 110, the entry speed of the game ball entering the stage 110 through this connection passage is determined by the collision with the obstacle 14. Due to the high approach speed, the game ball crosses (arrives) with high probability from one side of the stage 110 to the other side. (Arrow B in FIG. 5).

In this embodiment, since the communication passage and the transfer device 200 are provided on both sides of the variable display device 100, the game balls distributed to the left of the variable display device 100 at the top of the variable display device 100 are variable. The stage 110 is reached through a communication passage provided on the left side of the display device 100, and the stage 110 is crossed from the left side to the right side to reach the transfer device 200 on the right side of the variable display device 100. Conversely, the variable display device 1 is placed above the variable display device 100.
The game balls distributed to the right side of 00 reach the stage 110 through a communication passage provided on the right side of the variable display device 100, cross the stage 110 from the right side to the left side, and perform variable display. It reaches the transfer device 200 on the left side of the device 100. In this specification, the one side and the other side of the stage 110 are determined by their relative positional relationships.

  In addition, since the intake port 214 leading to the transfer device 200 is formed on the other side of the stage 110, the game ball that has entered the intake port 214 across the stage 110 is transferred to the transfer device 200. It is transferred to the upper part of the transfer device 200 through 200 (arrow C in FIG. 5). The discharge port 215 opened at the top of the transfer device 200 passes through a guide passage 130 extending to the start end and is guided above the stage 110 (arrow D in FIG. 5).

  In addition, when the supply of electric power to the electric motor 156 is interrupted during the transfer of the game ball, the stopper 206 is pushed back to a position where the game ball can be discharged due to the gravity acting on the game ball. Through the discharge path 212a ensured in the transfer device 200, it is discharged onto the game board 6 through the discharge port 212 and the discharge passage 213 opened at the lower end thereof (arrow E in FIG. 5).

  In addition, the game ball discharged from the upper part of the transfer device 200 to the outside through the inside of the transfer device 200 passes through the guide passage 130 extending substantially vertically above the start winning opening 26a from the transfer device 200, and starts the winning prize. It falls into a pit 131a that opens substantially vertically above the mouth 26a (arrow F in FIG. 5). Then, the front of the display unit 102 is dropped and landed on the buffer unit 140 on the stage 110. Further, the kinetic energy of the game ball is lost due to contact with the buffer material 141 provided in the buffer unit 140, and the game ball is localized on the surface of the buffer unit 140.

  In this situation, when the dropping device 150 is operated and the shock absorber 140 is inclined so as to form a downward gradient toward the front of the stage 110, the game ball that has been localized in the shock absorber 140 is caused by this inclination. Then, it rolls down to the front of the stage 110 (arrow G in FIG. 5). In addition, since the start winning opening 26a is opened below the buffer portion 140, the game ball that has rolled down to the front of the stage 110 will start and win the start winning opening 26a with a high probability.

  As described above, the gaming machine 1 shown in the present embodiment includes the transfer device 200 that transfers the game ball in the stage 110 along the side of the display unit 102 and the game ball above the stage 110 and the start prize. A guide passage 130 that is guided substantially vertically above the mouth 26a and drops onto the buffer part 140 of the stage 110, and a game ball that is localized on the buffer part 140 is inclined to the buffer part 140 and dropped to the front of the stage 110. And a dropping device 150.

  Therefore, even if the game ball was originally dropped from the stage 110 without winning the start winning opening 26a, it is transferred to the upper side of the stage 110 by the transfer device 200. Is given a chance to fall. In other words, since the transfer device 200 that transfers the game ball to a higher position of the game board 6 is provided, it is possible to secure a substantial number of game areas where the game balls fall in a limited area such as the game board 6. Become.

Further, in this configuration, the stage 110 is provided at the lower part of the variable display device 100 secured as a symbol display area, and is further transferred to the upper part of the transfer device 200 through the moving device 200 provided on the side of the stage 110. Since the guide path 130 for guiding the game ball along the upper side of the stage 110 to guide it substantially vertically above the start winning opening 26a is provided, the area that should be used as the display area of the symbol is originally used as the game ball. It can be used as an area where the camera can fall. In addition, the guide passage 130 is taken into the transfer device 200 so that the game ball transferred to the upper side of the stage 110 through the transfer device 200 is dropped onto the stage 110 through the pit 131a opened substantially vertically above the start winning opening 26a. The game ball that reaches the upper side of the stage 110 through the guide passage 130 is again given a chance to reach the start prize.

  In addition, since the stage 110 is provided with a buffering portion 140 for localizing the game ball that has fallen on the stage 110 to the dropping point, not only on the side of the stage 110 but also above the stage 110. Even when a game ball is dropped on the stage 110 from a higher position on the game board 6, the game ball can stay on the stage 110.

  In other words, even a game ball that has entered the stage 110 from a height that would normally bounce off the stage 110 is localized on the stage 110 by contact with the buffer 140. Therefore, it becomes possible to guide the game ball from a wider range to the stage 110 around the variable display device 100, and the path of the game ball to the start winning opening 26a is widened through the stage 110. Can be secured. In addition, since the game ball that has fallen on the stage 110 is localized on the surface of the buffer portion 140, a phenomenon that the game ball enters the transfer device 200 again can be avoided.

  In addition, since the dropping device 150 that provides an inclination to the buffer portion 140 that also serves as the surface of the stage 110 is provided, the game ball on the stage 110 can be transferred to the stage 110 without forming an inclination downward on the stage 110 in advance. It will be possible to drop it forward. That is, since it becomes possible to form the surface of the stage 110 horizontally or at an angle close to it, the game ball does not easily fall from the stage 110, and a longer time in a limited area such as the stage 110, It will continue to be secured.

  Thus, in the gaming machine shown in the present embodiment, the gaming ball can be kept in the player's field of view for a longer time in front of and around the variable display device 100. It is possible to provide the player with the visual excitement obtained by the behavior for a longer time.

  In addition, the various configurations shown in the present embodiment can be secured through the front of the variable display device 100 even in a situation where it is difficult to secure a route to the start winning opening 26a around the variable display device 100. Even in a gaming machine in which the display device 100 is enlarged, it is possible to secure a large number of paths to the gaming board 6 to the start winning opening 26a.

The above-described embodiment is merely an example, and various modifications can be made according to various specifications.
For example, as shown in FIG. 15, a sensor 180 that detects the passage of a game ball is attached to a pit pit 131 a of the croon 131 or a discharge port 215 of the transfer device 200, and the front of the variable display device 100 is placed in the control system of the gaming machine 1. A configuration in which the position of the falling game ball and the image to be displayed on the variable display device 100 are synchronized can be considered.

  More specifically, the output of the sensor 180 is read into the symbol control device 61, and the position (height, etc.) of the game ball is calculated based on the detection time of the sensor output and the elapsed time from the detection time. Then, the symbol control device 61 determines the data of the image to be displayed on the variable display device 100 and the display timing of this data using the position of the game ball as a parameter, and sets the image composed of this data at an appropriate timing. Is displayed on the variable display device 100. That is, in this example, the symbol control device 61 is provided with a function for adjusting the display timing of information such as an image using the position of the game ball detected by the sensor 180 as a parameter, and is variably displayed at a timing correlated with the behavior of the game ball. Information such as an image is displayed on the device 100.

  Further, as an image to be displayed on the variable display device 100, for example, as shown in FIG. 15, an image 181 having a game ball as a motif can be exemplified, and the symbol control device 61 has the image 181 behind the game ball. The image data is transmitted to the display unit 102 at the timing of being displayed overlapping with each other.

  In addition, the image 181 using the game ball as a motif is preferably an image having a slightly larger diameter than the actual game ball (181a in FIG. 15). In this case, the large size of the variable display device 100 is used. Even when the visibility of the game ball is reduced along with the change, the behavior of the game ball can be clearly recognized by the player by displaying the image 181.

The perspective view which looked at the game machine shown to this Embodiment from diagonally upward. The enlarged view of the game board provided in the gaming machine shown in this embodiment. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a control system of the gaming machine shown in this embodiment. The flowchart for demonstrating the basic program processed in the control system of the gaming machine shown in this embodiment. The perspective view which looked at the variable display apparatus shown to this Embodiment from diagonally upward. The figure which shows the internal state of the transfer apparatus at the time of supply of electric power. Sectional drawing which shows the A-A 'cross section of FIG. Sectional drawing which shows the B-B 'cross section of FIG. The figure which shows the internal state of the transfer apparatus at the time of the non-supply of electric power. Sectional drawing which shows the A-A 'cross section of FIG. The figure which shows the state of each component of the torque generation mechanism at the time of non-operation of a drive gear. The figure which shows the state of each component of the torque generation mechanism at the time of the action | operation of a drive gear. The figure which shows the state of each component of the torque generation mechanism at the time of a stop of a drive gear. The schematic block diagram of the dropping apparatus shown to this Embodiment. Explanatory drawing explaining the example of control of the variable display apparatus synchronized with the position of the game ball.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Game machine 2 Receptacle 2a Game ball borrowing port 2b Prize ball discharge port 2c Reserving ball alignment path 2d Game ball supply port 2e, 2f Ball release button 3 Outer frame 4 Front frame 5 Window frame 6 Game board 6a Opening 7 Launch drive device 8 Operation handle 9 Perspective window 10 Decoration LED
11 Decorative Lamp 12 Speaker (Sound Generator)
13a Guide rail 13b Game ball regulation rail 14 Obstacle 15 Out port 16 Passage hold number display lamp 17 Variable display device 18 Normal symbol display device 19 Specific hold number display lamp 20 Ashtray 21 Launch stop button 25 General winning device 26 Start chucker 26a Start Prize opening 26b Movable piece 27 Large winning device 27a Large winning port 27b V zone 27c Open / close door 28 Opening winning device 28a Open port 46 Passing ball detection sensor 47 Start winning ball detection sensor 48 Large winning ball detection sensor 49 Through chucker 50 Main control Device 51 Discharge control device 52 Launch control device 53 Game ball payout device 54 Centralized control device 60 Sub control device 61 Design control device 62 Lamp control device 63 Voice control device 65 Video display processor 67 Movable object control device 70 CR unit 1 ball lending signal control device 100 the variable display device 101 frame 102 display unit 103 communication passage opening end 104 opening 110 stage (Stage)
110b Side edge of stage 130 Guide passage 131 Kroon (dance)
131a Pitfall (opening)
140 Buffering part 140a Side end part of buffering part 141 Buffering material 142 Holding part 150 Inclining device 151 Movable plate 151a Front end of movable plate 152 Connection shaft 155 Cam mechanism 156 Electric motor 156a Output shaft 157 Plate cam 158 Spring 180 Sensor 181a Image 200 Transfer device 201 Power shaft 202 Electric motor 203 Pipe 204 Main shaft 204a Guide 204b Discharge plate 205 Power transmission mechanism 205a Pinion 205b Reduction gear 206 Stopper 206a Transfer rail 210 Housing 211 Guide wall 211a Guide wall 211b Guide wall 212 Discharge port 212a Discharge path 213 Discharge Passage 214 Intake port 215 Discharge port 220 Torque generating mechanism 221 Oscillating arm 222 Support shaft 223 Planetary gear 224 Drive gear

Claims (7)

A gaming machine having a game board having a game area where a game ball falls,
A display device forming an information display area on the game board;
A guide passage provided above the display area, for allowing the game ball to drop downward through the front of the display area;
A stage where the game ball stays below the display area;
A gaming machine characterized by comprising:   The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein an opening for dropping the game ball downward is provided in the guide passage. A winning opening is provided below the stage for the gaming ball to win,
Of the upper surface of the stage, a portion positioned just above the winning opening is formed with an inclination for dropping the game ball to the front of the stage,
The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein the opening portion of the guide passage is formed vertically above a portion located immediately above the winning opening. A transport device for transporting the game ball on the stage upward on the side of the stage,
The gaming machine according to claim 3, wherein the guide passage guides the game ball transferred by the transfer device to a position substantially vertically above the winning opening out of the stage. It has an open end at a position higher than the stage, and includes a communication passage that guides the game ball that has entered the open end to the side end of the stage,
The gaming machine according to claim 4, wherein the transfer device transfers a game ball that has entered the stage through the communication passage and crossed the stage to the upper side of the stage.   The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein a buffer section that suppresses repulsion of a game ball with respect to the stage is provided on an upper surface of the stage. A sensor for detecting the position of a game ball falling in front of the display area, and a control device for adjusting the display timing of information displayed in the display area,
The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the control device adjusts the display timing of the information based on the position of the game ball detected by the sensor.

Images