JP2005131026A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To inhibit the cost increase and to prevent unscheduled put-out of winning balls in a game machine in which a game control means and a put-out control means are separately mounted. <P>SOLUTION: A winning ball processing means 56F stores the number of winning balls to be put out based on the winning in a total winning number storage buffer 55B, and transmits a put-out command signal (a winning ball control signal, etc.) indicating the number of winning balls to the put-out control means. A winning ball dispensing control processing means 371F executes the put-out process to put out winning balls in the number specified by the put-out command signal and transmits a winning ball count signal to the game control means based on a detection signal from a count switch 301. Then, the winning ball processing means 56F executes the subtraction process of the contents stored in the total winning ball number storage buffer 55B based on the winning signal count signal. When the put-out process of winning balls is terminated, the winning ball dispensing control processing means 371f transmits a put-out process termination signal, and the winning ball processing means 56F transmits the next put-out command signal on condition that the put-out process termination signal is received. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention is a game machine such as a pachinko gaming machine or a slot machine that allows a player to play a predetermined game using a game medium and pays out the game medium to the player based on the fact that a payout condition is established. About.

  Game progress in the gaming machine is controlled by game control means such as a microcomputer mounted on the main board. When the payout control means such as a microcomputer for controlling the payout of the winning ball is mounted on a payout control board different from the main board on which the game control means is mounted, the number of winning balls based on the winning is the game control means. And a control signal indicating the number of winning balls is transmitted to the payout control board. Then, the payout control means performs a process of paying out the number of prize balls based on the winning based on the control signal from the game control means. Further, when there is a ball lending request from the prepaid card unit, the payout control means performs a process of paying out the number of lending balls based on the request.

  For example, in the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, when a hit ball that is driven into a game area wins a prize area, the number of prize balls according to the prize ball (for example, 5, 10, or 15 prize balls) ), And when the payout of the prize is completed, the payout of the prize ball based on the new winning ball is started.

  Further, for example, the gaming machine described in Patent Document 2 has a count switch for detecting a paid-out lending ball and detecting and outputting it to a payout control means, and a game control means for detecting a paid-out prize ball. And a count switch for detecting and outputting to the payout control means. In such a gaming machine, a prize that has not been paid out by the game control means and the payout control means is based on a detection signal from a count switch that detects the payout of prize balls that is output to the game control means and the payout control means. The number of balls is managed.

JP-A-6-312056 (paragraphs 0002-0005, 0078-0125, FIGS. 10 to 13) Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2000-33171 (paragraphs 0112-0125, FIGS. 15, 19-22)

  In the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, when the power of the gaming machine is interrupted while the prize ball (prize ball) is being paid out, the information on the number of prize balls paid out is not transmitted to the game control means. Since the total number of winning balls is not subtracted, there is a possibility that an instruction for paying out a winning ball that has already been paid out will be repeated again, and an unscheduled winning ball may be paid out.

  On the other hand, in the gaming machine described in Patent Document 2, as described above, based on the detection signal from the count switch that detects the payout of the prize ball output to the game control means and the payout control means, Since the number of unpaid prize balls is managed by the control means and the payout control means, there is no problem that unscheduled prize balls are paid out. However, not only the wiring for connecting the count switch and the payout control means but also the wiring for connecting the count switch and the game control means is required, resulting in extra time and cost. Furthermore, since the count switch for detecting the lending of the lending ball that outputs a detection signal only to the payout control means is provided separately from the count switch for detecting the award ball payout, the gaming machine becomes expensive. .

  Therefore, the present invention can suppress an increase in cost and prevent an unscheduled prize ball from being paid out in a gaming machine in which a game control means and a payout control means are provided separately. An object is to provide a gaming machine.

  In the gaming machine according to the present invention, a player can play a predetermined game using a game medium (for example, a game ball), and a payout condition is satisfied (for example, occurrence of a prize, generation of a loan request from a player). ), And a game control means for controlling the progress of the game (for example, a game control microcomputer (basic circuit) 53 mounted on the main board 31). Circuit), payout means (for example, a ball payout device 97) for paying out game media, payout control means for controlling the payout means (for example, a circuit such as a payout control microcomputer mounted on the payout control board 37), Payment of prize game media (for example, prize balls) as prizes based on establishment of payout conditions by game (for example, winning of a game ball in a prize area) and establishment of payout conditions by request for lending (for example, The game control means includes a payout detection means (for example, a payout number count switch 301) for detecting a payout of a rental game medium (eg, a rental ball) based on Y) in step S623 and outputting a detection signal to the payout control means. In addition to storing data on the number of premium game media that can specify the total number of premium game media to be paid out (for example, the total number of prize balls) that are cumulatively added due to the establishment of a payout condition for the game, power supply to the gaming machine has been stopped Game control storage means (for example, power-backed RAM 55; game control storage means 55A) capable of storing the stored contents at least for a predetermined period of time, and payout control means based on premium game medium number data A payout command signal (for example, a prize ball control signal, a prize ball) for designating the number of premium game media to be paid out (for example, the number of prize balls based on winning) The payout command signal transmission means (for example, the portion of the prize ball processing means 56F that executes the prize ball transmission process in step S232), and when the payout control means receives the payout command signal, Volatile storage means (for example, RAM that is not backed up by a power source) that cannot store the number of prize game media designated for payout by a payout command signal when the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped The number-of-payment storage control means for executing the storage control stored in the control storage means 376) (for example, the portion for executing step S546 in the main control communication processing means 371E) and the number of prize games stored in the volatile storage means A prize game medium payout control means (for example, a prize ball lending control processing means 371F) that executes payout control for paying out the medium to the payout means. 17 to 20 shown in FIG. 17 to FIG. 20, and a payout for determining whether the detection signal input from the payout detecting means is a payout of a prize game medium or a rental game medium. Judgment means (for example, a portion of steps 601 and S602 in the winning ball lending control processing means 371F; it is determined by a hardware circuit (AND circuit) which one is paid out of a prize game medium or a lending game medium) You may do it. ), And when the detection signal is determined by the payout determination means to be a payout of prize game media (for example, N in step S602), the prize game medium count indicating the detection of the payout of the prize game medium to the game control means. Count signal transmission means for transmitting a signal (for example, a prize ball count signal) (for example, a part for executing step S605 in the prize ball lending control processing means 371F; a prize game medium count signal is transmitted by a hardware circuit (output circuit)) And a payout control end signal transmitting means (for example, main control communication) for transmitting a payout process end signal (for example, an OFF state of the payout BUSY signal) to the game control means when the payout control ends. The processing means 371E executing step S555), and the game control means outputs a prize game medium count signal. The prize game medium number data subtracting means for subtracting the value of the prize game medium number data when it is received (for example, the portion executing steps S261 and S262 in the prize ball processing means 56F), and the prize game medium number data When a payout control end signal is received (for example, a part for executing step S247 in the prize ball processing means 56F) for confirming whether or not there is an unpaid premium game medium (for example, a part for executing step S247 in the prize ball processing means 56F). In step S271 Y), in response to the fact that the unpaid prize game medium confirmation means confirms that there is an unpaid prize game medium (for example, N in step S247), a new payout command signal is sent to the payout command signal transmission means. Is transmitted (for example, the prize ball transmission process of FIG. 9 is executed).

  Communication abnormality detection means for detecting an abnormality related to signal communication between the game control means and the payout control means (for example, a portion for detecting the connection confirmation signal OFF in the payout control means), and the communication abnormality detection means has detected an abnormality. Communication abnormality notification means (for example, an error display LED 374) for notifying the fact, and the payout control means indicates a control state related to payout in an error state (for example, when the communication abnormality detection means detects an abnormality) When the communication error state setting means (for example, the part executing steps S685 and S686 in the error processing means 371G) to be shifted to the main control unconnected error) and the communication error state setting means shift the control state to the error state, A communication abnormality notification control unit (for example, a display control processing unit 371H) that performs processing for informing the communication abnormality notification unit. Or it may be configured to include a portion) that performs control to display an error in the error display LED374 according to the content of an error condition that.

  The payout control means includes payout error notification means (for example, an error display LED 374) for notifying the occurrence of an error state (for example, payout case error) in which the number of premium game media paid out from the payout means is less than the expected payout number. , When it is detected that the number of prize game media paid out is less than the planned number of payouts even though the payout means pays out the prize game media based on the payout detection signal from the payout detection means. Payout correction means for performing correction payout control for causing the payout means to execute a retry operation for paying out insufficient prize game media (for example, a part of steps S653, S654, S661 to S665 in the prize ball lending control processing means 371F) ), And after the corrected payout control by the payout correcting means, the number of premium game media paid out is still less than the planned payout number. Is detected (for example, Y in the determination in step S661), the payout error state setting means for shifting the control state related to payout to an error state (for example, the part for executing step S666 in the prize ball lending control processing means 371F). When the payout error state setting means shifts the control state to the error state, the payout error notification control means (for example, the content of the error state in the display control processing means 371H) performs processing for notifying the payout error notification means. In response, the error display LED 374 may be configured to execute an error display control).

  An error canceling operation means (for example, an error canceling switch 375) that outputs an error canceling signal (for example, an operation signal according to the operation) in response to a human operation is provided, and the payout control means has an error from the error canceling operation means in an error state. It is configured to include error canceling means for monitoring the cancel signal and canceling the error state on the condition that the input of the error cancel signal is detected (for example, a part for executing steps S672 to S677 in the error processing means 371G). Also good.

  The game control means includes a game control microcomputer (for example, CPU 56, RAM 55, etc.) that executes a game control process for controlling the game, and the payout control means performs a payout process for controlling the payout means. The game control microcomputer includes a payout control microcomputer (for example, a payout control CPU 371, RAM, etc.). When the power supply to the gaming machine is started and the game control process becomes executable, the game control process is executed. The payout control process is executed by at least the payout control microcomputer from the start of execution (for example, the start of the execution of the game control process including the output process of the control command to the payout control board 37). Until it is started (specifically, it receives control commands from the main board 31) It is only necessary that the process is ready to be executed, and it is possible to delay until the timer interrupt is permitted.) (See FIG. 6) May be. Note that, in the delay process, the execution of the control signal transmission process after the start of the execution of the game control process is started. At least the payout control process is executed and the control signal is received after the game control process is ready to be executed. You may make it delay for the predetermined period until it will be in a possible state.

  The payout control means includes a payout control microcomputer (for example, a payout control CPU 371, RAM, etc.) that performs payout processing for controlling the payout means, and is a launching means (for example, a launch motor) that launches game media toward the game area. And a payout control microcomputer for controlling the driving of the launching means in the firing motor control processing means 371B. ) May be included.

  As described above, according to the first aspect of the present invention, the game control means stores the prize game medium number data capable of specifying the total number of prize game media to be paid out, which is cumulatively added when the game payout conditions are established. , A game control storage means capable of storing the stored contents for at least a predetermined period when power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, and a prize game to be paid out to the payout control means based on the premium game medium number data A payout command signal transmitting means for sending a payout command signal for designating the number of media, and when the payout control means receives the payout command signal, the number of prize game media designated for payout by the payout command signal, A payout number storage control means for executing storage control to be stored in a volatile storage means incapable of storing the stored contents when power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, and volatile A prize game medium payout control means for executing payout control for paying out payout means for the number of prize game media stored in the memory means, and a detection signal input from the payout detection means is a prize game medium and a rental game medium And a payout determination means for determining whether the payout is due to the payout, and when the detection signal is determined by the payout determination means as a payout of the prize game medium, detection of the payout of the prize game medium to the game control means The game control means includes a counting signal transmitting means for transmitting a prize game medium counting signal indicating a payout control end signal transmitting means for transmitting a payout process end signal to the game control means when the payout control ends. A prize game medium number data subtracting means for performing a subtraction process for subtracting the value of the prize game medium number data when receiving the prize game medium count signal; and the number of the prize game media And an unpaid prize game medium confirmation means for confirming whether or not there is an unpaid prize game medium in the data, and when the payout control end signal is received, the unpaid prize game medium confirmation means is an unpaid prize. Since it is configured to cause the payout command signal transmission means to newly send out a payout command signal in response to confirming that there is a game medium, the game control means pays out the prize game medium by the prize game medium count signal. The detection can be grasped, and the game control means can manage the number of premium game media paid out. As a result, there is no deviation between the number of prize game media actually paid out and the total number of prize game media specified by the prize game medium count data stored in the game control storage means, and the prize is an unscheduled prize. It is possible to prevent the game medium from being paid out. Further, the number of parts can be reduced, and an increase in the cost of the gaming machine can be suppressed.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, a communication abnormality detecting means for detecting an abnormality related to signal communication between the game control means and the payout control means, and a communication for notifying that when the communication abnormality detecting means detects an abnormality. A communication error state setting unit that shifts a control state related to payout to an error state when the communication abnormality detection unit detects an abnormality, and a communication error state setting unit is in a control state. Communication error notification control means for performing processing for notifying the communication abnormality notification means when the state is shifted to the error state, so that the game control means is not operating normally It is possible to prevent the payout of the premium game medium.

  The invention according to claim 3 further comprises payout error notifying means for notifying the occurrence of an error state in which the number of premium game media paid out from the payout means is less than the expected payout number, and the payout control means is provided with the payout detecting means. When it is detected that the number of premium game media paid out is less than the planned payout amount even though the payout means pays out premium game media based on the payout detection signal of The payout correction means for performing the correct payout control for causing the payout means to execute a retry operation for paying out the medium, and after the correction payout control by the payout correction means is performed, the number of prize game media paid out is still the expected payout number When it is detected that the control state related to the payout is not satisfied, the payout error state setting means for transferring the control state related to the payout to the error state and the payout error state setting means indicate the control state as an error state. Since it is configured to include a payout error notification control means for performing a process for notifying the payout error notification means when the process is shifted to, the payout of unpaid premium game media can be performed reliably. Thus, it is possible to prevent the payout of the prize game medium in a situation where the payout control means cannot perform the payout process normally.

  The invention according to claim 4 further comprises error canceling operation means for outputting an error canceling signal in response to an artificial operation, and the payout control means monitors the error canceling signal from the error canceling operation means in an error state, and Since it is configured to include error canceling means for canceling the error state on the condition that the input of the cancel signal is detected, the data on the number of prize game medium payouts stored in the volatile storage means in the payout control means is It will not be erased.

  According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, when the power supply to the gaming machine is started and the game control process becomes executable, the game control microcomputer can execute the game control process. Since it is configured to execute a delay process that delays for a predetermined period from when the state is reached to when the payout control process is started by the payout control microcomputer, the power supply of the gaming machine is started. Sometimes the payout control microcomputer can reliably receive the control signal from the game control microcomputer.

  According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a launching means for launching a game medium toward a game area, and the payout control microcomputer includes a launch drive control means for executing a driving process for driving the launching means. Therefore, a control means such as a microcomputer for the launching means becomes unnecessary.

Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
First, the overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine that is an example of a gaming machine will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine as viewed from the front. In the following embodiments, a pachinko gaming machine will be described as an example. However, the gaming machine according to the present invention is not limited to a pachinko gaming machine, and can be applied to other gaming machines such as a slot machine.

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame (not shown) formed in a vertically long rectangular shape, and a game frame attached to the inside of the outer frame so as to be opened and closed. Further, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape that is provided in the game frame so as to be opened and closed. The game frame includes a front frame (not shown) installed to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame, a mechanism plate to which mechanism parts and the like are attached, and various parts attached to them (excluding game boards described later). Is a structure including

  As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape. On the lower surface of the glass door frame 2 is a hitting ball supply tray (upper plate) 3. Under the hitting ball supply tray 3, there are provided an extra ball receiving tray 4 for storing game balls that cannot be accommodated in the hitting ball supply tray 3 and a hitting operation handle (operation knob) 5 for firing the game balls. A game board 6 is detachably attached to the back surface of the glass door frame 2. The game board 6 is a structure including a plate-like body constituting the game board 6 and various components attached to the plate-like body. A game area 7 is formed on the front surface of the game board 6.

  Near the center of the game area 7, there is provided a variable display device (special symbol display device) 9 including a plurality of variable display portions each variably displaying a symbol as identification information. The variable display device 9 has, for example, three variable display portions (symbol display areas) of “left”, “middle”, and “right”. In addition, the variable display device 9 is provided with four special symbol start memory display areas (start memory display areas) 18 for displaying the number of effective winning balls that have entered the start winning opening 14, that is, the start memory number. Each time there is a valid start prize, the display color changes (for example, changes from blue display to red display), and the start storage display area is increased by one. Each time the variable display of the variable display device 9 is started, the start memory number display area where the display color is changed is reduced by 1 (that is, the display color is returned to the original). In this example, the symbol display area and the start memory display area are provided separately, so that the start memory number can be displayed even during variable display. The start memory display area may be provided in a part of the symbol display area. Further, the display of the starting memory number may be interrupted during variable display. In this example, the start memory display area is provided in the variable display device 9, but a display (special symbol start memory display) for displaying the start memory number may be provided separately from the variable display device 9. Good.

  Below the variable display device 9, a variable winning ball device 15 is provided as a start winning port 14. The winning ball that has entered the start winning opening 14 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the start opening switch 14a. A variable winning ball device 15 that opens and closes is provided below the start winning opening 14. The variable winning ball device 15 is opened by a solenoid 16.

  An opening / closing plate 20 that is opened by a solenoid 21 in a specific gaming state (big hit state) is provided below the variable winning ball device 15. The opening / closing plate 20 is a means for opening and closing a large winning opening (variable winning ball apparatus). Of the winning balls guided from the opening / closing plate 20 to the back of the game board 6, the winning ball entering one (V winning area: special area) is detected by the V count switch 22, and the winning ball from the opening / closing board 20 is counted. 23. On the back of the game board 6, a solenoid 21A for switching the route in the special winning opening is also provided.

  When a game ball wins the gate 32 and is detected by the gate switch 32a, variable display of the normal symbol display 10 is started. In this embodiment, variable display is performed by alternately lighting the left and right lamps (the symbols can be visually recognized when the lamp is lit). When the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times for a predetermined time. In the vicinity of the normal symbol display 10, a normal symbol start memory display 41 having a display unit with four LEDs for displaying the number of winning balls entered into the gate 32 is provided. Each time there is a prize at the gate 32, the normal symbol start memory display 41 increments the LED to be turned on by one. Then, every time variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of LEDs to be lit is reduced by one.

  The game board 6 is provided with a plurality of winning holes 29, 30, 33, 39, and winning of game balls to the winning holes 29, 30, 33, 39 is performed by winning hole switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a, respectively. Detected. Each winning opening 29, 30, 33, 39 constitutes a winning area provided in the game board 6 as an area for accepting game media and allowing winning. The start winning opening 14 and the big winning opening also constitute a winning area that accepts game media and allows winning. Decorative lamps 25 blinking and displayed during the game are provided around the left and right sides of the game area 7, and an outlet 26 for absorbing a game ball that has not won a prize is provided at the bottom. Two speakers 27 that emit sound effects are provided on the left and right upper portions outside the game area 7. On the outer periphery of the game area 7, a top frame lamp 28a, a left frame lamp 28b, and a right frame lamp 28c are provided. Further, a decoration LED is installed around each structure (such as a big prize opening) in the game area 7. The top frame lamp 28a, the left frame lamp 28b, the right frame lamp 28c, and the decorative LED are examples of a decorative light emitter provided in the gaming machine.

  In this example, a prize ball LED 51 that is lit during award ball payout is provided in the vicinity of the left frame lamp 28b, and a ball break LED 52 that is lit when the supply ball is cut is provided in the vicinity of the top frame lamp 28a. It has been. As described above, the pachinko gaming machine 1 of this embodiment is provided with lamps and LEDs as light emitters in various places. Further, a prepaid card unit (hereinafter referred to as a card unit) that enables lending of a ball by inserting a prepaid card is installed adjacent to the pachinko gaming machine 1 (not shown). The prepaid card stores information for specifying the number of game balls that can be lent according to the amount of money when the player purchases the prepaid card. Then, when the player inserts the prepaid card into the prepaid card unit and performs a predetermined operation, the predetermined number of game balls that can be lent out in the prepaid card unit specified by the information recorded on the prepaid card. A process for lending a game ball is performed.

  The card unit includes, for example, a use indicator lamp that indicates whether or not the card unit is in a usable state, a connection table direction indicator that indicates which side of the pachinko gaming machine 1 corresponds to the card unit, When checking the card insertion indicator lamp that indicates that a card has been inserted, the card insertion slot into which a card as a recording medium is inserted, and the card reader / writer mechanism provided on the back of the card insertion slot A card unit lock is provided to release the unit.

  The game balls launched from the hit ball launching device enter the game area 7 through the hit ball rail, and then descend the game area 7. When the game ball enters the start winning port 14 and is detected by the start port switch 14a, the special symbol starts variable display (variation) on the variable display device 9 if the variable display of the symbol can be started. If the variable display of the symbol cannot be started, the start memory number is increased by one.

  The variable display of the special symbol on the variable display device 9 stops when a certain time has elapsed. If the combination of special symbols at the time of stoppage is a jackpot symbol (specific display result), the game shifts to a jackpot gaming state. That is, the opening / closing plate 20 is opened until a predetermined time elapses or a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls wins. When a game ball wins the V winning area while the opening / closing plate 20 is opened and is detected by the V count switch 22, a continuation right is generated and the opening / closing plate 20 is opened again. The generation of the continuation right is allowed a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 rounds).

  When the combination of special symbols in the variable display device 9 at the time of stoppage is a combination of jackpot symbols (probability variation symbols) with probability fluctuations, the probability of the next jackpot increases. That is, it becomes a more advantageous state for the player in the probability variation state.

  When the game ball wins the gate 32, the normal symbol display unit 10 is in a state where the normal symbol is variably displayed. Further, when the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined time. Further, in the probability variation state, the probability that the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased, and the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 are increased. That is, the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 are increased when the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a winning symbol, or when the stop symbol of the special symbol is a probabilistic symbol. It changes to an advantageous state. Note that increasing the number of times of opening is a concept including changing from a closed state to an open state.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a circuit configuration in the main board 31. 2 also shows the payout control board 37, the effect control board 80, and the like. The main board 31 includes a basic circuit (corresponding to a game control microcomputer) 53 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program, a gate switch 32a, a start port switch 14a, a V count switch 22, a count switch 23, and a winning port switch. 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a, and a switch circuit 58 for supplying a signal from the clear switch 921 to the basic circuit 53, a solenoid 16 for opening / closing the variable winning ball apparatus 15, a solenoid 21 for opening / closing the opening / closing plate 20, and a prize winning opening. A solenoid circuit 59 for driving the solenoid 21A for switching the path in accordance with a command from the basic circuit 53 is mounted.

  The gate switch 32a, the start port switch 14a, the V count switch 22, the count switch 23, the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a, and other switches may be referred to as sensors. That is, the name of the game medium detection means (game ball detection means in this example) that can detect a game ball is not limited. Each of the start port switch 14a, the V count switch 22, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, and 39a for performing the winning detection is also a winning detection means. Note that the winning detection means may be configured to collectively detect the respective game balls that have been won separately at the plurality of winning openings. In addition, even if a passing gate such as the gate switch 32a is used, if a prize ball is to be paid out, a game ball entering the passing gate becomes a win, and a switch ( For example, the gate switch 32a) becomes a winning detection means. Further, in this embodiment, since the game balls won in the V winning area are detected only by the V count switch 22, the number of game balls won in the big winning opening is the number detected by the V count switch 22 and the count switch 23. It becomes the sum with the detection number by. However, the game ball that has won the V winning area may be detected by the V count switch 22 and also by the count switch 23. In this case, the number of game balls won in the big winning opening corresponds to the number detected by the count switch 23.

  A basic circuit 53 realized by a game control microcomputer includes a ROM 54 for storing a game control (game progress control) program and the like, and storage means used as a work memory (variable data storage means for storing variable data). RAM 55, CPU 56 for performing control operations in accordance with programs, and I / O port unit 57. In this embodiment, the ROM 54 and the RAM 55 are built in the CPU 56. That is, the CPU 56 is a one-chip microcomputer. The one-chip microcomputer only needs to have at least the RAM 55 built in, and the ROM 54 and the I / O port unit 57 may be externally attached or built in. Since the CPU 56 executes control according to the program stored in the ROM 54, the CPU 56 executes (or performs processing) hereinafter, specifically, the CPU 56 executes control according to the program. is there. The same applies to CPUs mounted on substrates other than the main substrate 31.

  The game control means is implemented by a circuit that implements various functions including a basic circuit 53 that is mounted on a main board (game control board) 31 and corresponds to a game control microcomputer. That is, the game control microcomputer is realized by the basic circuit 53 including not only the CPU 56 but also the ROM 54 and RAM 55, and the game control means is realized by various circuits including the basic circuit 53 mounted on the main board 31. The processing in the game control means is realized mainly by the CPU 56 in the game control microcomputer executing according to the program.

  The RAM 55 is a backup RAM as a non-volatile storage means, part or all of which is backed up by a backup power source created on a power supply board (not shown). In other words, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, a part or all of the contents of the RAM 55 is stored for a predetermined period (until the power supply of the backup power supply is disabled). In particular, at least data (special symbol process flag or the like) corresponding to the game state, that is, the control state of the game control means, and data indicating the number of unpaid winning balls are stored in the backup RAM. Note that the data according to the control state of the game control means is data necessary for restoring the control state before the occurrence of a power failure or the like based on the data when the power supply is restored after a power failure or the like. . In this embodiment, it is assumed that the entire RAM 55 is backed up.

  The reset signal from the power supply board is input to the reset terminal of the CPU 56, but the reset signal from the power supply board is delayed by the delay circuit 69 in the main board 31. Further, a power-off signal output from the power supply board is input to the basic circuit 53 (specifically, an input port).

  The hitting ball launching device that hits and launches the game ball includes a launch motor 94 that is controlled by a circuit on the payout control board 37, and launches the game ball toward the game area 7 as the launch motor 94 rotates. A drive signal for driving the firing motor 94 is transmitted to the firing motor 94 via the touch sensor substrate 91. The touch sensor detects that the player is touching the operation knob (hitting ball handle) 5 and a signal from the touch sensor is mounted on the touch sensor substrate 91 (the player touches the operation knob 5). Is transmitted to the payout control board 37 via a circuit including a detection circuit for detecting whether or not it is touched. The circuit on the payout control board 37 stops the driving of the firing motor 94 when the signal from the touch sensor circuit indicates an off state. Note that the operation knob 5 is provided with a touch ring that adjusts the resilience and is a part that the player contacts. In the gaming machine, the touch sensor substrate 91 is disposed between the touch ring and the payout control substrate 37, and is disposed in the vicinity of the touch ring. Specifically, the wiring length between the touch ring and the touch sensor substrate 91 is shorter than the wiring length between the touch sensor substrate 91 and the payout control substrate 37.

  The ball payout device 97 pays out one winning ball or one game ball based on a ball lending request, for example, when a payout motor (see FIG. 3) using a stepping motor rotates a cam. In this embodiment, the ball payout device 97 is configured to perform both prize ball payout and ball lending. However, a ball payout device for paying out a prize ball and a ball payout device for lending a ball may be provided separately. When separately provided, the payout means is composed of a ball payout device for paying out a prize ball and a ball payout device for lending a ball. Further, for example, the configuration may be such that the winning ball payout and the ball lending are separated by changing the rotation direction of the cam or the sprocket, or the ball paying device 97 exemplified in the present embodiment (the cam is rotated by the motor). The present invention can be applied to any structure other than the structure).

  In this embodiment, the effect control means (the circuit including the effect control microcomputer) mounted on the effect control board 80 includes the normal symbol start memory display 41 and the decoration lamp provided on the game board 6. 25 and display control of the top frame lamp 28a, the left frame lamp 28b, and the right frame lamp 28c provided on the frame side. The effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80 also performs display control of the variable display device 9 that variably displays special symbols and the normal symbol display 10 that variably displays normal symbols. Further, the effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80 also performs audio output control from the speaker 27.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing components related to payout, such as the payout control board 37 and the ball payout device 97. As shown in FIG. 3, a payout control microcomputer including a payout control CPU 371 is mounted on the payout control board 37. In this embodiment, the payout control CPU 371 is a one-chip microcomputer and has at least a built-in RAM. Further, unlike the RAM 55 in the main board 31, the RAM is a volatile storage means that is not backed up by a power source. The payout control CPU 371, the RAM, the ROM (not shown) storing the payout control program, the I / O port, and the like implement a payout control microcomputer. The payout control means is realized by a circuit that implements various functions including a payout control microcomputer mounted on the payout control board 37. The processing in the payout control means is realized mainly by the payout control CPU 371 in the payout control microcomputer executing according to the program.

  Above the ball payout device 97, a ball break switch 187 is provided as a game medium break detection means. The ball break switch 187 is a switch for detecting the presence or absence of a game ball in the game ball passage. When the ball break switch 187 detects a ball break, the payout operation of the ball payout device 97 stops.

  When a large number of game balls as prizes based on winning a prize and game balls based on a ball lending request are paid out and the hitting ball supply tray 3 is full, the game balls are guided to the surplus ball receiving tray 4 through the surplus ball passage. Further, when the game ball is paid out, a sensing lever (not shown) presses the full tank switch 48 as the storage state detection means, and the full tank switch as the storage state detection means is turned on. In this state, the rotation of the payout motor 289 in the ball payout device 97 stops, the operation of the ball payout device is stopped, and the driving of the ball hitting device is also stopped.

  Below the ball payout device 97, for example, a payout number count switch 301 using a proximity switch is provided. Each time one game ball falls from the ball payout device 97, the payout number count switch 301 is turned on. That is, the payout number count switch 301 detects a game ball actually paid out from the ball payout device 97. Therefore, the payout control means can count the number of game balls actually paid out by the detection signal of the payout number count switch 301. In this example, the payout number count switch 301 detects both the paid-out prize balls and the rental balls. That is, the payout of prize balls and the payout of lending balls are detected by the same detection means. Therefore, the number of parts can be reduced, and the cost of the gaming machine can be reduced. However, the payout of prize balls and the payout of rental balls may be detected by separate detection means.

  Detection signals from the full tank switch 48 and the payout number count switch 301 are input to the I / O port 372 f of the payout control board 37 via the relay board 72. Detection signals from the ball break switch 187 and the payout motor position sensor 295 are input to the I / O port 372e of the payout control board 37 via the relay board 72. The payout motor position sensor 295 is a sensor composed of a light emitting element (LED) and a light receiving element for detecting the rotational position of the payout motor 289, and is used for detecting that the game ball is clogged, that is, so-called ball biting. . The payout control CPU 371 of the payout control board 37 performs a ball payout process when the detection signal from the ball shortage switch 187 indicates a ball full state or when the detection signal from the full tank switch 48 indicates a full tank state. Stop. Furthermore, when the detection signal from the full tank switch 48 indicates a full tank state, the ball launching from the ball striking device is stopped.

  When there is a win, the output circuit 67 of the main board 31 receives a prize ball REQ signal (prize ball request signal) for making a prize ball payout request and a prize ball control indicating the number of prize balls to be paid out as a payout command signal. A signal is output (turns on). The prize ball control signal is composed of 4-bit data (binary 4-digit data) and is output through four signal lines. Note that the ON state of the signal, that is, the output state is a state where the signal is significant, and turning ON means that the signal receiving side is instructed to start some processing based on the signal. To do. For example, the fact that the prize ball control signal indicating the number of prize balls and the prize ball REQ signal are turned on means that the dispense control means is instructed to recognize the number of prizes indicated by the prize ball control signal. To do. The prize ball control signal is input to the I / O port 372e via the input circuit 373A. When the winning ball REQ signal and the winning ball control signal are input via the I / O port 372e, the payout control CPU 371 drives the ball paying device 97 to pay out the number of game balls indicated by the winning ball control signal. I do. A connection confirmation signal indicating that the main board 31 is connected is also output from the output circuit 67 of the main board 31. The prize ball REQ signal and the prize ball control signal correspond to a payout command signal for designating the number of payouts.

  When the payout control means receives a payout command signal, it sends a command accepting signal to the main board 31. The command acceptance signal is transmitted to the main board 31 via the output port 372b of the payout control board 37 and the output circuit 373B. Then, in the main board 31, the data is input to the CPU 56 via the input circuit 68 and the I / O port 57. Further, when the payout control means is executing a prize ball payout process, the payout control means is a payout BUSY signal (a prize ball payout signal indicating that the payout process is being performed via the output port 372b and the output circuit 373B). ). In this embodiment, the command acceptance signal is transmitted when the payout BUSY signal is turned on.

  The payout control means transmits a prize ball count signal to the main board 31 when the payout of one prize ball is confirmed based on the detection signal from the payout number count switch 301. The prize ball count signal is transmitted to the main board 31 via the output port 372b of the payout control board 37 and the output circuit 373B. Then, in the main board 31, the data is input to the CPU 56 via the input circuit 68 and the I / O port 57. The payout control means transmits a payout process end signal indicating that the payout process has ended to the main board 31 when the award ball payout process has ended. The payout process end signal is transmitted even if the prize ball payout process is not completed (completely completed). In other words, the payout process end signal is transmitted when the payout process of the prize ball is completed, and whether or not the unpaid prize ball remains at that time (that is, whether or not the prize ball has been completely paid out). ) The payout process end signal is transmitted to the main board 31 via the output port 372b of the payout control board 37 and the output circuit 373B. Then, in the main board 31, the data is input to the CPU 56 via the input circuit 68 and the I / O port 57. In this embodiment, the payout process end signal is transmitted when the payout BUSY signal is turned off.

  The payout control CPU 371 receives a prize ball information signal indicating the number of prize balls to be paid out and a ball lending number signal indicating the number of balls to be rented via the output port 372b as a terminal board (the frame external terminal board and the board external terminal board). Output) 160. A driver circuit is provided outside the output port 372b, but is not shown in FIG. Further, door opening information switches 161A and 161B are connected to the terminal board 160 (frame external terminal board).

  Further, the payout control CPU 371 outputs an error signal to the error display LED 374 using a 7-segment LED via the output port 372c. Further, a signal for instructing lighting / extinguishing is output to the winning ball LED 51 and the ball running out LED 52 via the output port 372b. A detection signal from an error release switch 375 for releasing the error state is input to the input port 372f of the payout control board 37. The error cancel switch 375 is used to cancel the error state by software reset.

  Further, a drive signal from the payout control board 37 to the payout motor 289 is transmitted to the payout motor 289 in the payout mechanism portion of the ball payout device 97 via the output port 372a and the relay board 72. A driver circuit (motor drive circuit) is provided outside the output port 372a, but is not shown in FIG. A drive signal from the payout control board 37 to the firing motor 94 is transmitted to the firing motor 94 via the output port 372 a and the touch sensor board 91.

  The card unit 50 is equipped with a card unit control microcomputer. In addition, the card unit 50 is provided with a usable indicator lamp, a connecting table direction indicator, a card insertion indicator lamp, and a card insertion slot (not shown). The interface board (relay board) 66 is connected to a frequency display LED 60, a ball lending LED 61, a ball lending switch 62 and a return switch 63 provided in the vicinity of the hitting ball supply tray 3.

  A card lending switch signal indicating that the ball lending switch 62 has been operated and a return switch signal indicating that the return switch 63 has been operated are given to the card unit 50 from the interface board 66 in accordance with the player's operation. . Further, a card balance display signal indicating a prepaid card balance and a ball lending display signal are given from the card unit 50 to the interface board 66. Between the card unit 50 and the payout control board 37, a connection signal (VL signal), a unit operation signal (BRDY signal), a ball lending request signal (BRQ signal), a ball lending completion signal (EXS signal), and a pachinko machine operation signal ( PRDY signal) is transmitted / received via the input port 372f and the output port 372d. An interface board 66 is interposed between the card unit 50 and the payout control board 37. Therefore, a signal such as a connection signal (VL signal) is transmitted and received between the card unit 50 and the payout control board 37 via the interface board 66 as shown in FIG.

  When the power of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on, the payout control CPU 371 of the payout control board 37 outputs a PRDY signal to the card unit 50. The card unit control microcomputer outputs a VL signal when the power is turned on. The payout control CPU 371 determines the connected / unconnected state of the card unit 50 based on the input state of the VL signal. When a card is received in the card unit 50, the ball lending switch is operated and a ball lending switch signal is input, the card unit control microcomputer outputs a BRDY signal to the payout control board 37. When a predetermined delay time elapses from this point, the card unit control microcomputer outputs a BRQ signal to the payout control board 37.

  Then, the payout control CPU 371 of the payout control board 37 raises the EXS signal to the card unit 50 and, when detecting the fall of the BRQ signal from the card unit 50, drives the payout motor 289 to draw a predetermined number of rental balls. Pay to the player. When the payout is completed, the payout control CPU 371 causes the EXS signal to the card unit 50 to fall. Thereafter, when a BRDY signal from the card unit 50 is not in an ON state, a prize ball payout control is executed when a payout command signal is received from the game control means. The power supply voltage AC24V used in the card unit 50 is supplied from the payout control board 37.

  Power supply from the power supply board to the card unit 50 is performed via the payout control board 37 and the interface board 66. In this example, a fuse for protecting the card unit 50 is provided in a 24 V AC power supply line for the card unit 50 arranged in the interface board 66, and a voltage higher than a predetermined voltage is supplied to the card unit 50. It is prevented.

  In this embodiment, the case where the card unit 50 is installed adjacent to the gaming machine as a separate body from the gaming machine is taken as an example, but the card unit 50 may be integrated with the gaming machine. . Further, the present invention can be applied even when a game ball corresponding to the amount of money is lent out in accordance with coin insertion.

  Although not shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the power supply board is installed independently of the electrical component control board (the main board 31, the payout control board 37, and the effect control board 80). The power supply board is mounted with a power supply circuit that generates a voltage to be supplied from the AC power supply (AC24V) to each board and mechanism component in the gaming machine. In this example, the power supply circuit generates AC 24V, VSL (DC + 30V), VLP (DC + 24V), VDD (DC + 12V) and VCC (DC + 5V). Further, the power supply board is provided with a backup power supply (VBB) that supplies power when the power supply is stopped to the backup RAM as a storage content holding means capable of holding the stored contents when the power supply is stopped. The power supply board is provided with a clear switch 921 as an operation means for clearing the backup data stored in the backup RAM. Further, the power supply board is equipped with a power supply monitoring circuit that generates a reset signal for the microcomputer mounted on the electric component control board and outputs a power-off signal.

  The power supply monitoring circuit outputs a power-off signal when a period during which a predetermined voltage (for example, +24 V) used in the gaming machine has become a predetermined value (for example, +5 V) or less continues for a predetermined time (for example, 56 ms). Specifically, the power-off signal is turned on (low level). The power supply monitoring circuit is in a state where the reset signal can be set to a low level when, for example, VCC becomes +4.5 V or less.

  A reset signal from the power supply monitoring circuit is output toward the three substrates 31, 37 and 80. In this way, the reset signal output at the same timing is supplied to the game control microcomputer and the payout control microcomputer, but the delay processing in the main board 31 (software delay processing described later, delay processing by the delay circuit 69). ) Can surely start the payout control process before the game control process.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the game control means and the payout control means. In the configuration shown in FIG. 4, the power supply start time processing means 56A, the power-off processing means 56B, the random number update processing means 56C, the process processing means 56D, the switch processing means 56E, and the prize ball processing means 56F are mounted on the main board 31. The game control microcomputer is implemented as a process executed according to a program. Here, the power supply start time processing means 56A is realized as a part of the main process executed when the gaming machine is turned on, whereas the means 56B to 56F other than the power supply start time processing means 56A are provided. This is realized as part of a timer interrupt process that is activated in response to the occurrence of a timer interrupt during the execution of the main process after powering on the gaming machine. Note that a CTC (counter / timer) register built in the CPU 56 is set so that a timer interrupt is periodically taken every predetermined time (for example, 4 ms). That is, a value corresponding to, for example, 4 ms is set as an initial value in a predetermined register (time constant register). In this embodiment, game control processing (also referred to as game device control processing) for controlling the progress of the game is realized mainly by timer interrupt processing.

  Also, power supply start time processing means 371A, firing motor control processing means 371B, payout motor control processing means 371C, card unit control processing means 371D, main control communication processing means 371E, prize ball lending control processing means 371F, error processing means. 371G and display control processing means 371H are realized as processing executed by the payout control microcomputer mounted on the payout control means 37 in accordance with a program. Also in the payout control means, the power supply start time processing means 371A is realized as a part of the main process executed when the game machine is powered on, whereas means 56B other than the power supply start time processing means 56A. ˜56F is realized as part of the timer interrupt process that is activated in response to the occurrence of a timer interrupt during the execution of the main process after powering on the gaming machine. Further, a CTC (counter / timer) register built in the payout control CPU 371 is set so that a timer interrupt is periodically taken every predetermined time (for example, 4 ms). In this embodiment, payout control processing for controlling payout of game balls is realized mainly by timer interrupt processing.

  In the game control means mounted on the main board 31, when the power supply start processing means 56A is turned on, the input level of the reset terminal of the CPU 56 to which the reset signal is input becomes high. After executing the security check process, which is a process for confirming whether or not the contents of the program are valid, an initial setting process such as a maskable interrupt mode setting is executed. Then, the power supply start time processing means 56A executes software delay processing for delaying the start timing of the game control processing for controlling the progress of the game by software. By such software delay processing, the start timing of the game control processing can be delayed by a desired time.

  The predetermined period to be delayed by the software delay process ensures at least a period from when the power supply to the gaming machine is started and becomes operable to at least after the payout control process is started. That is, a predetermined period to be delayed by the software delay process is determined so that the game control process by the game control means is started after the payout control process by the payout control means is started. With this configuration, the payout control unit can reliably receive the control signal from the game control unit when the power supply of the gaming machine is started.

  Next, if the clear switch 921 is not pressed down by the game store clerk or the like when the power supply is turned on (if it is not in the on state), the power supply start time processing means 56A stores the backup RAM area when the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped. If it is confirmed whether or not data protection processing (processing when power supply is stopped) has been performed, and such protection processing has been performed, the internal state of the game control means (based on the backup data ( Control state) and a game state restoration process for returning the control state of the electric component control means such as the display control means to the state when the power supply is stopped. By the game state restoration process, for example, data indicating the game state before the power supply is stopped (such as a special symbol process flag), data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls, and the like are restored. On the other hand, the power supply start processing means 56A provides data protection when the clear switch 921 is pressed by an amusement store clerk or the like when the power is turned on (in the on state), or when the power supply is stopped even if the clear switch 921 is pressed. If the processing is not normally performed, initialization processing such as clearing the storage contents of the RAM 55 and transmitting an initialization command to the sub-board (the payout control board 37 and the effect control board 80) is executed. In the game state restoration process and the initialization process, the content of the output port buffer corresponding to the connection confirmation signal is set to a value corresponding to the ON state of the connection confirmation signal, and the content of the output port buffer is changed by the winning ball processing means 56F. By outputting to the output port, the connection confirmation signal to the payout control board 37 is turned on. Therefore, the connection confirmation signal is output (turned on) when the main board 31 rises. Note that a connection confirmation signal is also output when the power supply is recovered from an instantaneous power interruption or the like.

  The power-off processing means 56B confirms whether or not a power-off signal is output from the power-supply monitoring circuit mounted on the power supply board (whether or not it is turned on) and detects that the power-off signal is output. In such a case, a power supply stop process, that is, a preparation process for stopping the power supply is executed. That is, the state shifts from a state in which the progress of the game is controlled (a state in which the game control process is executed) to a state in which a power supply stop process (a power-off control process) for saving the game state is executed. The power-off processing means 56B stores data indicating that the power supply stop process has been executed in the backup RAM as the power supply stop process, disables the RAM access, clears the output port, and Set the timer interrupt to execute the control process to disabled state. The connection confirmation signal transmitted to the payout control board 37 is set to the off state by the process of clearing the output port.

  Random number update processing means 56C is a counter of each counter for generating a random number for determination such as a random number for jackpot determination used for game control, a display random number for determining a symbol displayed on the variable display device 9, etc. A process of updating the count value is executed. When the game ball wins the start winning opening 14 and the start opening switch 14a is turned on, the process processing means 56D increases the start winning storage number by 1, extracts each random number value such as a big hit determination random number from the counter, The data is stored in a storage area (data storage area formed in the RAM 55; not shown) corresponding to the value of the start winning memory number. Then, when the process processing means 56D enters a state where variable symbol special display can be started, the big hit determination is made based on each determination random number stored in the storage area according to the internal state (process flag) at that time. Also, processing such as determination of a stop symbol of a special symbol, determination of a variation pattern (variable display mode of a special symbol displayed on the variable display device 9), and the like are executed. Note that a control command (effect control command) related to a special symbol such as a stop symbol or a variation pattern determined by the process processing unit 56D is transmitted to the effect control board 80.

  The switch processing means 56E receives detection signals of switches such as the gate switch 32a, the start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, and 39a via the switch circuit 58, and outputs the detection signals. Determine the state. The winning ball processing means 56F plays data indicating the number of winning balls corresponding to the detected winning game in response to the winning detection from the switch circuit 58 based on the winning port switch 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a being turned on. A prize ball number adding process stored in the total prize ball number storage buffer 55B in the control storage means 55A is executed. The prize ball processing means 56F outputs a payout command signal such as a prize ball control signal indicating the number of prize balls to be paid out to the payout control board 37 based on the data stored in the total prize ball number storage buffer 55B. The prize ball control process such as performing is executed. The payout control means mounted on the payout control board 37 drives the ball payout device 97 according to a payout command signal such as a prize ball control signal indicating the number of prize balls. Specific contents of the prize ball control process by the prize ball processing means 56F will be described in detail later (see FIGS. 7 to 11).

  The game control storage means 55A corresponds to the RAM 55 as a fluctuation data storage means for storing various fluctuation data used for game control. The game control storage means 55A is backed up by a backup power supply 900 so that the stored contents can be retained even when the power supply is stopped. The game control storage means 55A is provided with a total number of winning balls storage buffer 55B for storing data of the number of winning balls to be paid out based on winning. The data on the number of prize balls stored in the total prize ball number storage buffer 55B is data that can specify the total number of prize balls to be paid out.

  As shown in FIG. 4, a plurality of types of control signals are transmitted and received between the main board 31 and the payout control board 37 in order to perform various controls relating to payout control and the like. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of a control signal output from the game control means to the payout control means and a payout control signal input from the payout control means to the game control means. As shown in FIG. 5, the connection confirmation signal is output when the main board 31 rises (when the game control means starts the game control process), indicating that the main board 31 has risen with respect to the payout control board 37. This is a signal for notification. Therefore, when the connection confirmation signal is in the ON state, it indicates that the prize ball can be paid out. Further, as described above, the connection confirmation signal is turned off when the power-off is detected, and is also used as a signal for notifying the dispensing control board 37 that the main board 31 has detected the power-off. Therefore, when the connection confirmation signal is in the OFF state, it indicates that the prize ball cannot be paid out.

  The prize ball REQ signal is a signal (that is, a trigger signal for a prize ball payout request) that is in an output state (= on state) at the time of a prize ball payout request and is in a stop state (= off state) at the end of the payout request. Further, the prize ball REQ signal is turned off when the prize ball payout is forcibly stopped, and is also used as a forcible stop signal for instructing a forced stop of the prize ball payout. The award ball control signal is a signal (award ball number command) output for designating the number (1 to 15) of game balls for which a payout request is made.

  The payout BUSY signal (the signal for paying out a winning ball) is a signal used by the main board 31 to confirm the operation state on the payout control board 37. That is, when the payout BUSY signal is off, it indicates that the award ball is not being paid out, and when the payout BUSY signal is on, the award ball is being paid out. Indicates. The award ball count signal is a signal (pulse signal) that is turned on when the payout control means confirms the payout of one prize ball and is turned off after a predetermined period (for example, 0.5 seconds). is there. Each control signal only needs to be configured so that the output state or the on state and the stop state or the off state can be distinguished, and the above logic may be reversed in polarity.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the connection confirmation signal, the payout REQ signal, and the prize ball control signal are output via the output circuit 67 of the main board 31 and input to the payout control board 37 side via the input circuit 373A. Is done. The payout BUSY signal is output via the output circuit 373 B of the payout control board 37 and is input to the main board 31 side via the input circuit 68. The connection confirmation signal, the prize ball REQ signal, and the payout BUSY signal are each 1-bit data, and are transmitted through one signal line. Since 1 to 15 prize ball control signals are designated, it is composed of 4-bit data and transmitted through four signal lines.

  In the payout control means mounted on the payout control board 37, the power supply start time processing means 371A is similar to the power supply start time processing means 56A in the main board 31 described above when the gaming machine is powered on. In addition, initialization processing such as interrupt mode setting and initialization processing such as RAM clear are executed. However, unlike the power supply start time processing means 56A in the main board 31, the power supply start time processing means 371A in the payout control means does not execute security check processing, software delay processing, and game state restoration processing. The security check process and the software delay process are not executed in order to make the payout control process executable quickly. The game state restoration process is not executed because the RAM (payout control storage means 376 described later) in the payout control microcomputer is not backed up, and the data protection process (power consumption) is stopped when power supply to the gaming machine is stopped. This is because the supply stop process) is not performed.

  When the VL signal from the card unit 50 is in an off state (the prepaid card is not connected), the firing motor control processing means 371B is full when the connection confirmation signal from the main board 31 is in an off state (the main board is not connected). When the tongue switch 48 is on (bottom pan full) or when the touch sensor is off, the non-rotation data (excitation pattern for preventing the firing motor 94 from rotating) is stored in the firing motor excitation pattern buffer. set. When the prepaid card is not connected, the main board is not connected, the lower plate is not full, and the touch sensor is on, the firing motor control processing means 371B rotates the rotation data (the firing motor 94 is rotated). Is set in the firing motor excitation pattern buffer. When the excitation pattern is set in the excitation pattern buffer in this way, the excitation pattern is output to the firing motor 94, and the firing motor 94 is driven.

  Thus, in this embodiment, when a communication error such as a main board non-connection error occurs, the launch motor 94 is disabled, so that the game progresses despite the communication error etc. There is no end. In this embodiment, when a communication error such as a main board non-connection error occurs, the launch motor 94 is disabled and the game ball cannot be launched into the game area 7, but at an incorrect timing. The firing motor 94 may be disabled even when a prize ball REQ signal error occurs when the prize ball REQ signal is turned on or off.

  When the payout motor 289 is to be driven, the payout motor control processing means 371C executes a process of outputting the excitation pattern of the payout motor 289 to the output port. The card unit control processing means 371D executes a prepaid card unit control process for communicating with the card unit 50. The main control communication processing means 371E executes main control communication processing for communicating with the game control means of the main board 31. Details of specific processing by the main control communication unit 371E will be described later in detail (see FIGS. 13 to 16). The prize ball lending control processing means 371F performs control to pay out a lending ball in response to a ball lending request from the card unit 50, and also controls to pay out the number of prize balls indicated by the prize ball control signal from the main board. A prize ball lending control process is executed. Also, when the detection signal from the payout number count switch 301 is input, the prize ball lending control processing means 371F determines whether the detection signal is due to the prize ball or the lending ball, and determines that it is due to the prize ball. In such a case, a process of transmitting a prize ball count signal to the main board 31 is executed. Details of specific processing by the winning ball lending control processing means 371F will also be described in detail later (FIGS. 17 to 20). The error processing unit 371G executes error processing for detecting various errors. Details of specific processing performed by the error processing unit 371G will be described later in detail (see FIGS. 21 and 22). The display control processing unit 371H performs a predetermined display on the error display LED 374 according to the result of the error processing, and executes a display control process for lighting the prize ball LED 51 and the ball-out LED 52.

  The payout control storage unit 376 corresponds to a RAM serving as a variation data storage unit that stores various variation data used for game control. The payout control storage unit 376 is a volatile (not backed up by power) storage unit unlike the game control storage unit 55A. The payout control storage unit 376 stores and counts the number of balls that have not been paid out (the number of balls that have not been paid out), and the number of winning balls that have not been paid out. A prize ball unpaid number counter 376B for storing and counting (number of unpaid prize balls) is provided. The number of prize balls stored in the prize ball unpaid-out number counter 376B is the number of prize balls designated by the prize ball control signal for one transmission. That is, the prize ball unpaid number counter 376B stores only the number of prize balls to be paid out in one prize ball payout.

  FIG. 6 is a timing diagram showing how the microcomputer operates when power supply to the gaming machine is started and when power supply is stopped. When power supply to the gaming machine is started and the voltage of the DC + 24V power supply exceeds a predetermined value, the power-off signal is turned off. When the value of VCC exceeds a predetermined value, the reset signal becomes high level. Note that, as described above, the power supply monitoring circuit sets the reset signal to high level after turning off the power-off signal. The reset signal is input to the main board 31 and the payout control board 37, and is input to the effect control board 80 via a lamp driver board (not shown). Then, it is input to the reset terminal of the payout control CPU 371 mounted on the payout control board 37 and the effect control CPU 101 mounted on the effect control board 80. The payout control CPU 371 and the effect control CPU 101 become operable when the reset signal becomes high level. When in the operable state, first, initialization processing is executed, and thereafter, production control processing and payout control processing are started.

  The reset signal input to the main board 31 is delayed by the delay circuit 69 and then input to the reset terminal of the CPU 56. Therefore, the time when the CPU 56 becomes operable is later than the time when the CPU of the sub-board becomes operable. When the CPU 56 becomes operable, the CPU 56 executes security check processing based on the security check program. When the security check process ends, the software delay process is executed, and then the initialization process and the game control process are started.

  As described above, the CPU 56 performs a process of transmitting a command (command signal) to the CPU of the sub board in the initialization process. Due to the delay by the delay circuit 69 (delay by the hardware circuit) and the execution of the security check process, the time when the CPU 56 starts the initialization process is later than the time when the CPU of the sub-board completes the initialization process. That is, since the execution time of the security check process is determined according to the frequency of the clock signal supplied to the CPU 56, the time when the CPU 56 starts the initialization process is more than the time when the CPU of the sub-board completes the initialization process. The delay amount of the delay circuit 69 is set so as to be delayed.

  In this embodiment, software delay processing is also executed before the CPU 56 starts initialization processing. Therefore, it is more certain that the time when the CPU 56 starts the initialization process is later than the time when the CPU of the sub-board completes the initialization process. Further, for example, when the CPU of the sub board is changed to an inexpensive CPU having a slow operation (that is, when the CPU of the sub board completes the initialization process is delayed), the delay amount of the delay circuit 69 Otherwise, the time when the CPU 56 starts the initialization process may be earlier than the time when the CPU of the sub-board completes the initialization process. However, if it is configured to execute software delay processing as in this embodiment, the time when the CPU 56 starts initialization processing is relative to the execution time of the security check processing and the delay time by the delay circuit 69. Further, since the time of the software delay process is added, the CPU 56 delays the initialization process without changing the configuration of the delay circuit 69 even when the CPU of the sub-board completes the initialization process. It is possible to prevent the time at which the CPU starts from being earlier than the time at which the CPU of the sub-board completes the initialization process.

  The delay time (specific period) by the delay circuit 69 is, for example, the execution time of the security check process from the time until the sub-board using the slowest CPU among the sub-boards that may be adopted starts. The time is set slightly shorter (eg, 700 ms) than the subtracted time. Then, the delay time due to the software delay processing is adjusted according to the operation speed of the sub-board actually used, and the time when the CPU of the sub-board completes the initialization processing is the time when the CPU 56 starts the initialization processing. It should be slow. In this way, if it is configured to be delayed not only by software but also by a hardware circuit, the versatility of delay processing by software can be left in preparation for when a specification change such as a change of a sub board is made, and software Thus, the delay process can be simplified, and the data capacity of the software for the delay process can be reduced.

  When the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, the voltage of the DC + 24V power supply gradually decreases. However, when the voltage of the DC + 24V power supply falls below a predetermined value, the power supply monitoring circuit outputs a power-off signal (sets to a low level). . The power-off signal is input to the main board 31. The game control means mounted on the main board 31 executes a power supply stop process (also referred to as a power-off control process) in response to the power-off signal being output. The power supply monitoring circuit sets the reset signal to a low level when VCC falls below a predetermined value. The game control means mounted on the main board 31 is system reset in response to the reset signal becoming low level. That is, the CPU 56 does not operate. The power supply monitoring circuit sets the reset signal to a low level when a predetermined time elapses from the time when the power supply cutoff signal is output when the power supply voltage decreases.

  The security check process, software delay process and initialization process in the main CPU operation shown in FIG. 6 are executed by the power supply start time processing means 56A shown in FIG. 4, and the gaming device control process (game control process) is 4 is executed by the random number update processing unit 56C and the process processing unit 56D shown in FIG. 4, and the power-off control process is executed by the power-off processing unit 56B shown in FIG. Also, the initialization process in the sub CPU operation (payout control CPU 371) shown in FIG. 6 is executed by the power supply start time processing means 371A shown in FIG. 4, and the payout control process is performed by the firing motor shown in FIG. This is executed by the control processing unit 371B, the payout motor control processing unit 371C, and the like.

  Next, with reference to FIGS. 7 to 11, the prize ball control process executed by the prize ball processing means 56F will be described. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the prize ball control process. In the prize ball control process, the CPU 56 executes any one of steps S231 to S234 according to the value of the prize ball process code.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the prize waiting process 1 (step S231) executed when the value of the prize ball process code is zero. In the award ball waiting process 1, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the payout BUSY signal is turned on (step S241). At this stage, since the payout BUSY signal should not be in the on state, if the payout BUSY signal is in the on state, an abnormal state code is output and the process ends. The abnormal state code is an internal flag formed in the RAM 55.

  If the payout BUSY signal is off, the prize ball REQ signal is turned off and the output of the prize ball control signal is cleared to 0 (steps S243 and S244). The process of step S243 is a process for turning off the prize ball REQ signal after the execution of the prize ball process 3 of step S234 is completed and the previous payout process is completed (completed). Further, it is confirmed whether or not the prize ball timer is 0 (step S245). If the prize ball timer is not 0, the value of the prize ball timer is decreased by 1 (step S246), and the process is terminated. The prize ball timer is a timer for measuring the time required for prize ball processing. At this stage, if the value of the prize ball timer is not 0, the next prize ball after the previous payout process is completed. The waiting time until the REQ signal is turned on (time for providing an interval between the ON periods of a plurality of prize ball REQ signals when consecutive prize ball payout is executed) has not ended. Means.

  If the value of the prize ball timer is 0, the CPU 56 confirms the contents of the total prize ball number storage buffer 55B (step S247). If the value is 0, the process ends. If not, the value of the prize ball process code is set to 1 (step S248), and the process ends.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a prize ball transmission process (step S232) executed when the value of the prize ball process code is 1. In the prize ball transmission process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the content of the total prize ball number storage buffer 55B is smaller than the prize ball command maximum value (“15” in this example) (step S251). If the content of the total prize ball number storage buffer 55B is equal to or greater than the prize ball command maximum value, the prize ball command maximum value is set in the prize ball number buffer (not shown in FIG. 4) (step S252). If the contents of the total prize ball number storage buffer 55B are smaller than the maximum prize ball command value, the contents of the total prize ball number storage buffer 55B are set in the prize ball number buffer (step S253).

  Thereafter, a prize ball control signal designating the number of payouts set in the prize ball number buffer is output (step S254), the prize ball REQ is turned on (step S255), and the value of the prize ball process code is set to 2. (Step S256), and the process ends.

  In this embodiment, the maximum value of the prize ball command is “15”. Accordingly, a prize ball control signal designating the maximum number of payouts of “15” is transmitted to the payout control board 37.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the winning ball waiting process 2 (step S233) executed when the value of the winning ball process code is 2. In the award ball waiting process 2, the CPU 56 checks whether or not a prize ball count signal transmitted from the payout control board 37 has been received (step S261). Each time the CPU 56 receives the prize ball count signal, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the contents of the total prize ball number storage buffer 55B (that is, the data value indicating the total prize ball number) (step S262). By this processing, the game control means can recognize the number of prize balls actually paid out by the payout control means, that is, the number of prize balls that have not been paid out at the present time. Then, the CPU 56 sets the value of the prize ball process code to 3 (step S263) and ends the process.

  As will be described later, the payout control means pays out the number of prize balls specified by the payout command signal after turning on the payout BUSY signal by receiving the payout command signal from the game control means. Therefore, the game control means receives the prize ball count signal after the payout BUSY signal is turned on. In addition, when the payout process of the prize ball is normally performed, the payout of the number of prize balls specified by the payout command signal is completed while the payout BUSY signal is on. The means receives the prize ball count signal within a predetermined period from when the payout BUSY signal is turned on to when it is turned off. However, after the payout BUSY signal is turned off, the payout of the prize ball may be detected and the prize ball count signal may be transmitted to the game control means. In FIG. 5, regardless of whether the payout BUSY signal is on or off, processing for subtracting the value of the data indicating the total number of prize balls is executed in response to reception of the prize ball count signal. Thereby, the game control means can recognize the exact number of winning balls actually paid out (that is, the exact number of unpaid balls).

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the winning ball waiting process 3 (step S234) executed when the value of the winning ball process code is 3. In the award ball waiting process 3, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the payout BUSY signal has been turned off (step S271). If not, the BUSY end determination time value is set in the prize ball timer (step S272). The BUSY end determination time value is a value for the game control means to confirm that the payout BUSY signal is no longer output (turned off) if the payout BUSY signal is kept off for the time indicated by the value. .

  Accordingly, the CPU 56 checks the value of the prize ball timer when the payout BUSY signal is turned off (step S273). If the value is not 0, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the prize ball timer by 1 (step S274), and performs processing. finish. When the value of the prize ball timer becomes 0, it is determined that the payout BUSY signal has been turned off, and the prize ball REQ waiting time is set in the prize ball timer (step S275). Then, the value of the prize ball process code is set to 0 (step S276), and the process is terminated. As described above, the award ball REQ waiting time is the waiting time until the next award ball REQ signal is turned on (when award ball payout is continuously performed, the on periods of a plurality of award ball REQ signals are Is a time for providing an interval).

  When the payout BUSY signal is turned off, it is possible that the payout of all prize balls of the payout number specified by one payout command signal is not completed. When the payout BUSY signal is turned off, the game control means that all the number of prize balls specified by the payout command signal have not been paid out (the payout control means that there are unpaid prize balls) Can be recognized based on the data indicating the total number of winning balls in the total winning ball number storage buffer 55B. When the payout BUSY signal is turned off and the game control means recognizes that the payout of all prize balls has not been completed yet, the game control means pays out the number of prize balls paid out by the payout control means. If an error less than the number (payout case error; refer to step S666) has occurred or if an abnormality has occurred in communication with the payout control means, control for stopping the progress of the game is performed.

  The game control means saves the current control state, for example, the output state of the output port, in the RAM 55 before stopping the progress of the game, and then clears the output state of the output port. Then, the progress of the game is stopped until the abnormal state as described above is resolved. That is, even if a new event (game ball winning or the like) occurs, processing corresponding to the new event is not performed, for example, a newly generated event is stored. When the abnormal state is resolved, the game control unit can restore the output port based on the control state stored in the RAM 55.

  The process executed by the winning ball processing means 56F will be outlined. The prize ball processing means 56F stores the total number of game balls as prize balls to be paid out based on the establishment of the payout condition in the total prize ball number storage buffer 55B by the prize ball number addition process. The total winning ball number storage buffer 55B is provided in the game control storage means 55A capable of storing the stored contents for at least a predetermined period by the backup power supply when the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped. The prize ball processing means 56F is a predetermined number for the payout control means based on the number of prize balls stored in the total prize ball number storage buffer 55B by the prize ball control process (FIGS. 7 to 11) as described above. A payout command signal for designating the number of payouts of the prize ball is transmitted. Here, the predetermined number is 15 if the number of prize balls stored in the total prize ball number storage buffer 55B is 15 or more, and if it is less than 15, the predetermined number is stored in the total prize ball number storage buffer 55B. It is the number of prize balls.

  As will be described later, when the payout control means (main control communication processing means 371E) receives the payout command signal from the game control means, the payout BUSY signal is turned on. The payout BUSY signal is a signal for notifying whether or not the prize ball payout is being executed, but is also used as a command acceptance signal indicating that the payout control means has received the payout command signal.

  Thereafter, the prize ball processing means 56F performs a subtraction process for subtracting the number of prize balls stored in the total prize ball number storage buffer 55B when a predetermined condition is satisfied. In this embodiment, the predetermined condition for executing the subtraction process is that when a prize ball count signal transmitted from the payout control means is received every time a prize ball is paid out, that is, a prize ball count signal. When is turned on. Thus, the game control means pays out the current prize ball by performing the subtraction process of the prize ball number stored in the total prize ball number storage buffer 55B every time the prize ball count signal is turned on. The number (that is, the number of unpaid balls) can be recognized and managed. Therefore, for example, even when the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped while the prize ball is being paid out, the game control means recognizes the number of prize balls that have already been paid out. It is no longer necessary to repeat the prize ball payout command. Therefore, it is possible to reliably prevent an unscheduled prize ball from being paid out. For example, when 15 prize ball payouts are instructed by the payout command signal, when 10 prize ball payouts are made, when the power supply of the gaming machine is stopped and then the power supply is restored, 10 Since the prize ball processing means 56F recognizes that the prize balls are paid out, the prize ball processing means 56F continues the prize ball control on the assumption that the 10 prize balls have not been paid out. There is no end to it. In this case, when the power supply is restored, the remaining five prize ball payouts are commanded.

  As will be described later, the payout control means (award ball lending control processing means 371F) turns off the payout BUSY signal when the payout of the number of payout balls designated by the prize ball control signal is completed. The payout BUSY signal is a signal for notifying whether or not the prize ball payout is being executed, but the payout control means has finished paying out the prize balls of the number of payouts designated by the payout command signal (completed). It is also used as a payout process end signal indicating that the When the payout BUSY signal is turned off, the prize ball processing means 56F turns off the prize ball REQ signal and repeats the above processing. The prize ball processing means 56F can recognize that the prize ball has been paid out by counting the prize ball count signal, but the prize ball is surely paid out normally by receiving the payout process end signal. It becomes possible to recognize that it has ended.

  In this embodiment, the total prize ball number storage buffer 55B for storing the total number itself is exemplified as the storage means for storing the total number of prize balls to be paid out based on the establishment of the payout condition. The storage means for memorizing the total number of balls stores the number of winnings in each winning area, or the number of winnings for each winning area having the same number of winning balls (for example, winnings corresponding to the number of 6 winning balls). The number of winning prizes 33, 39, 29, 30 corresponding to the number of ten or ten winning balls, and the number of winning prizes corresponding to the number of 15 winning balls, and the payout of the winning ball has not been completed (The number of prizes not received) may be stored.

  FIG. 12 is a timing diagram showing an example of the output state of control signals transmitted and received between the game control means and the payout control means. Here, 15 winnings are detected after 6 winnings are detected by switches for detecting winnings (for example, winning port switches 33a, 39a, 29a, 30a, start port switch 14a, count switch 23). The case will be described. As described above, when a winning is detected, the number of winning balls corresponding to the winning is added to the total winning ball number storage buffer 55B in the winning ball number adding process.

  As shown in FIG. 12, when six winnings are detected, the CPU 56 outputs the prize ball REQ signal in the output state (ON state: based on the fact that the content of the total prize ball number storage buffer 55B is no longer 0). And a prize ball control signal indicating six is output (see steps S254 and S255). When the payout control CPU 371 receives the prize ball REQ signal, the payout control CPU 371 turns on the payout BUSY signal indicating that the prize ball is being paid out, and drives the payout motor 289 to indicate six prize ball control signals. The prize ball payout process is executed. Each time the payout control CPU 371 receives a prize ball payout detection signal from the payout number count switch 301, it sends a prize ball count signal to the main board 31. Each time the CPU 56 receives a prize ball count signal, the CPU 56 performs a subtraction process on the value of the prize ball number stored in the total prize ball number storage buffer 55B. When the payout process for six prize balls is completed, the payout control CPU 371 turns off the payout BUSY signal. A change from the on state to the off state of the payout BUSY signal also indicates that the payout process end signal has been turned on. When the CPU 56 confirms that six prize balls have been paid out based on the payout processing end signal, the CPU 56 stops the prize ball REQ signal (off state: high level) and outputs a prize ball control signal. Is stopped (see steps S271, S243, and S244).

  When the payout process based on the 6 winnings is finished, the CPU 56 sets the prize ball REQ signal to the output state based on the fact that the content of the total prize ball number storage buffer is not 0, and 15 prize ball control signals indicating To the output state. When the payout control CPU 371 receives the prize ball REQ signal, it turns on the payout BUSY signal indicating that the prize ball is being paid out, and drives the payout motor 289 to indicate the 15 prize ball control signals. The prize ball payout process is executed. Each time the payout control CPU 371 receives a prize ball payout detection signal from the payout number count switch 301, it sends a prize ball count signal to the main board 31. Each time the CPU 56 receives a prize ball count signal, the CPU 56 performs a subtraction process on the value of the prize ball number stored in the total prize ball number storage buffer 55B. When the payout process for 15 prize balls is completed, the payout control CPU 371 turns off the payout BUSY signal. When the CPU 56 confirms that 15 prize balls have been paid out based on the payout process end signal, the CPU 56 stops the prize ball REQ signal and stops outputting the prize ball control signal.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12, the payout process based on the 15 winnings generated later is waited until the payout process based on the 6 winnings is completed. That is, when a plurality of winnings are continuously generated, the CPU 56 sends out a winning ball payout request based on the subsequent winning until the paying of the winning ball based on the previous winning is confirmed by the payout processing end signal. Wait for. In other words, the payout command signal transmission means in the game control means, from the payout control means, when the number of unpaid premium game media is stored in the game control storage means (in this example, the total number of prize balls stored buffer). The next payout command signal is output on condition that the payout process end signal is received.

  Next, the main control communication process executed by the main control communication processing unit 371E will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the main control communication process. In the main control communication process, the payout control CPU 371 executes one of steps S531 to S533 according to the value of the main control communication control code.

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing main control communication normal processing (step S531) executed when the value of the main control communication control code is zero. In the main control communication normal process, the payout control CPU 371 ends the process without executing the subsequent processes when the error bit is on (step S541). The error bit is a bit in an error flag that is set when it is detected that various errors have occurred. In step S541, if even one bit in the error flag is set, it is determined that the error bit is set.

  If the BRDY signal is on, the payout control CPU 371 ends the process without executing the subsequent processes (step S542). That the BRDY signal is on means that a ball lending request is generated from the card unit 50. That is, when a ball lending request is generated, communication with the game control means of the main board 31 (communication relating to prize ball payout) does not proceed. Further, when the ball payout operation is being performed, that is, when a ball lending operation flag to be described later is set, the processing is terminated without executing the subsequent processing (step S543). Therefore, even when the ball payout operation is in progress, communication with the game control means of the main board 31 (communication related to prize ball payout) does not proceed. If the connection confirmation signal from the main board 31 is in the off state, the process is terminated without executing the subsequent processes (step S544).

  If the conditions in steps S541 to S543 are not satisfied and the connection confirmation signal is in the on state, the payout control CPU 371 confirms whether or not the prize ball REQ signal is in the on state (step S545). If it is in the on state, the number of prize balls indicated by the prize ball control signal is set in the prize ball non-payout number counter 376B (step S546), and processing for turning on the payout BUSY signal is performed (step S546). S547). Specifically, the bit corresponding to the payout BUSY signal in the output port buffer corresponding to the output state of the output port is set to the on state. Then, the payout BUSY signal output time is set in the main control communication control timer (step S548), the value of the main control communication control code is set to 1 (step S549), and the process ends. The main control communication control timer is a timer used for monitoring the time related to communication with the game control means of the main board 31, but at this stage, the payout BUSY for setting the timing for turning off the payout BUSY signal The signal output time is set. The payout BUSY signal output time is set to a time sufficient to complete (complete) the payout process of the award balls with the number of payouts specified by the payout command signal. The payout BUSY signal output time may be a fixed time or a time corresponding to the number of payouts specified by the payout command signal. The unpaid-out number counters 376A and 376B are formed in a volatile (not backed up by power) RAM area.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing main control communication processing (step S532) executed when the value of the main control communication control code is 1. In the main control communication process, the payout control CPU 371 sets the prize ball REQ signal error bit in the error flag when the prize ball REQ signal is off (step S551) (step S552). This is because it is strange that the prize ball REQ signal immediately turns off at this stage.

  Next, the payout control CPU 371 checks the value of the main control communication control timer (step S553), and if not 0, subtracts 1 from the value of the main control communication control timer (step S554) and ends the process. . If the value of the main control communication control timer is 0, a process for turning off the payout BUSY signal is performed (step S555). Specifically, the bit corresponding to the payout BUSY signal in the output port buffer corresponding to the output state of the output port is set to the OFF state. Also, a prize ball REQ signal OFF monitoring time is set in the main control communication control timer (step S556). The prize ball REQ signal off monitoring time is a time for monitoring the prize ball REQ signal to turn off. Then, the value of the main control communication control code is set to 2 (step S557), and the process ends.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a main control communication end process (step S533) executed when the value of the main control communication control code is 2. In the main control communication process, the payout control CPU 371 checks whether or not the prize ball REQ signal is turned off (step S561). If it becomes an OFF state, it will transfer to step S565. If it is not in the off state, the value of the main control communication control timer is decremented by 1 (step S562). If the value of the main control communication control timer is 0 (step S563), the prize ball REQ signal error bit is set in the error flag, assuming that the prize ball REQ signal is not turned off (step S564). The process proceeds to S565.

  In step S565, the value of the main control communication control code is set to 0 (step S565), and the process ends.

  Next, with reference to FIGS. 17 to 20, the winning ball lending control processing executed by the winning ball lending control processing means 371F will be described. FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a prize ball lending control process. In the winning ball lending control process, the payout control CPU 371 confirms that the detection signal of the payout number count switch 301 is turned on (step S601), and confirms whether or not the paid out game ball is a lending ball. (Step S602). In this example, whether or not the game ball is a lending ball is confirmed by whether or not the current payout control state is lending the ball. Whether or not the ball is being lent is confirmed, for example, by whether or not the ball renting operation bit in the payout control state flag formed in the RAM is set. When the ball is not being lent, it is determined that the prize ball is in use.

  If it is during the winning ball, the value of the winning ball unpaid-out number counter 376B is decremented by 1 (step S603). If it is not in the winning ball but in the ball lending, the value of the ball lending unpaid-out number counter 376A is decreased by 1 (step S604). When the value of the winning ball unpaid-out counter 376B is decremented by 1, the payout control CPU 371 turns on the winning ball count signal for a predetermined period (step S605). As a result, a prize ball count signal is transmitted to the main board 31.

  In the prize ball lending control process, the error bit is checked to determine whether or not the payout operation (one prize ball payout or one ball lending) is performed as shown in FIG. Only in the payout start waiting process. That is, the confirmation process of the payout number count switch 301, the subtraction process of the non-payout number counter, the output process of the prize ball count signal, etc. shown in FIG. 17 are executed without checking the error bit. Accordingly, even if an error occurs, the subtraction process of the unlapped ball number dispenser counter 376A or the unsold ball number dispenser counter 376B is executed in accordance with the detection output from the dispensed number count switch 301, and the unsuccessful prize ball unpaid number counter When the value of 376B is subtracted, a prize ball count signal is output. Therefore, the number of unpaid game balls can be managed even in an error state. Even if an error state is detected, a prize ball count signal can be output in response to the detection of a payout of a prize ball. Therefore, even in an error state, it is detected on the payout control board 37 side. Information indicating that the winning ball has been paid out can be transmitted to the main board 31 side.

  In the example shown in FIG. 17, in the award ball lending control process, the payout control CPU 371 realizes the processes of steps S601, S602, and S605 according to the program stored in the ROM. That is, a payout determination means for determining whether the detection signal input from the payout detection means is a payout of the prize game medium or the rental game medium, and a detection signal by the payout determination means is based on the payout of the prize game medium When judged, the count signal transmitting means for transmitting the prize game medium count signal indicating the detection of the payout of the prize game medium is realized by the software configuration. However, the present invention is not limited to such a configuration, and the processing as described above can also be realized by a hardware circuit mounted on the payout control board 37. For example, in the payout control board 37, the detection signal from the payout number count switch 301 and the payout BUSY signal output toward the main board 31 are branched, and the branched signals are input to the AND circuit. So that Then, an AND circuit ANDs the detection signal and the payout BUSY signal to create a prize ball count signal. In this way, by ANDing the detection signal and the payout BUSY signal by the AND circuit, the winning ball count signal is output only when the payout number count switch 301 detects the payout of the game ball during the output of the payout BUSY signal. Accordingly, the prize ball count signal indicates that the payout of the prize ball has been detected. The output circuit provided on the payout control board 37 outputs a prize ball count signal created by the AND circuit to the main board 31. Also with such a configuration, when the game ball that has been paid out is a prize ball, a prize ball count signal can be output to the main board 31 in accordance with the payout of the prize ball.

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the payout start waiting process (step S610) executed when the payout control code is 0. In the payout start waiting process, the payout control CPU 371 does not execute the subsequent processes if the error bit is set (step S621). On the other hand, if the BRDY signal is not in the ON state, the process for paying out a prize ball after step S631 is executed. If the BRDY signal is on and the BRQ signal, which is a ball lending request signal, is on, a ball lending operation flag is set (steps S623 and S624). Then, “25” is set in the unpaid number counter (step S625), and “25” is set in the unpaid number counter in the payout motor rotation count buffer (step S626).

  The payout motor rotation frequency buffer is referred to in the payout motor control processing by the payout motor control processing means 371C. That is, in the payout motor control process, control is performed to rotate the payout motor 289 by the number of rotations corresponding to the value set in the payout motor rotation frequency buffer. Thereafter, the payout control CPU 371 sets the value of the payout control code to 1 (step S634) and ends the process.

  If the BRDY signal is not in the on state, the payout control CPU 371 checks whether or not the value of the award ball non-payout number counter 376B is 0 (step S631). If 0, the process ends. The prize ball unpaid-out counter 376B has a non-zero value (indicated by the prize ball control signal) when the prize ball REQ signal is received from the game control means of the main board 31 in step S546 in the main control communication normal process. Number) is set. Accordingly, when the value of the unpaid-out number counter is not 0, a prize ball operating flag is set (step S632), and the value of the unpaid-out number counter 376B is set in the payout motor rotation number buffer (step S633). . Thereby, in the payout motor control processing by the payout motor control processing means 371C, control is performed to rotate the payout motor 289 by the number of rotations corresponding to the value set in the payout motor rotation frequency buffer. Thereafter, the payout control CPU 371 sets the value of the payout control code to 1 (step S634) and ends the process.

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a payout motor stop waiting process (step S611) executed when the payout control code is 1. In the payout motor stop waiting process, the payout control CPU 371 checks whether or not the payout operation is completed (step S641). The payout control CPU 371 sets a flag to that effect when, for example, the payout motor brake process (the process of applying a brake to stop the payout motor rotation) in the payout motor control process by the payout motor control processing means 371C ends. In step S641, it is possible to confirm whether or not the payout operation has been completed by confirming the flag.

  When the payout operation is completed, the payout control CPU 371 sets the payout passing monitoring time in the payout control monitoring timer (step S642). The payout passing monitoring time is a time that has a margin in the time from when the last payout ball is paid out by the payout motor 289 until it passes through the payout number count switch 301. Then, the value of the payout control code is set to 2 (step S643), and the process ends.

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing a payout passing waiting process (step S612) executed when the value of the payout control code is 2. In the payout passage waiting process, the payout control CPU 371 first decrements the value of the payout control timer by 1 (step S651). Then, the value of the payout control timer is confirmed (step S652). If the value is not 0, that is, if the payout control timer has not timed out, the process is terminated.

  If the payout control timer has timed out, the payout control CPU 371 checks whether or not a ball lending payout process (ball lending operation) has been executed (step S653). Whether or not the ball lending operation has been executed is confirmed by whether or not the ball lending operation in-process flag formed in the RAM is set. When the ball lending operation is not executed, that is, when the prize ball payout process (prize ball operation) is executed, the payout control CPU 371 checks the value of the award ball unpaid-out counter 376B (step) S654). If the value of the winning ball unpaid-out counter 376B is 0, it is determined that the winning ball payout processing has been completed normally, and the in-progress ball operating flag formed in the RAM is reset (step S655). The re-payout operation counter is cleared (step S656), the payout control code is set to 0 (step S657), and the process is terminated. If the payout operation is normally executed, the process of step S657 is unnecessary, but after the corrected payout process described later is executed, the process of step S657 is required.

  If the ball lending operation has been executed, the payout control CPU 371 checks the value of the ball lending unpaid-out number counter 376A (step S658). If the value of the sphere lending unpaid-out counter 376A is 0, it is determined that the lending sphere payout process has been completed normally, and the sphere lending operation flag formed in the RAM is reset (step S659). The re-payout operation counter is cleared (step S656), the payout control code is set to 0 (step S657), and the process is terminated.

  If the value of the award ball unpaid number counter 376B is not 0 in step S654, or if the value of the ball lending unpaid number counter 376A is not 0 in step S658, it is actually paid out. This means that the number of game balls is less than the planned number of payouts (insufficient payout). In this case, the payout control CPU 371 performs control for the corrected payout process in steps S661 to S666. Here, a maximum of two re-payout operations are performed until the number of game balls to be paid out is paid out. An error bit is set when the number of game balls to be paid out is not paid out even after two re-payout operations are performed.

  In step S661, the payout control CPU 371 checks whether or not the value of the re-payout operation counter is 2. If not 2, the value of the unpaid-out number counters 376A and 376B is set in the payout motor rotation number buffer (step S662). Further, the value of the re-payout operation counter is incremented by 1 (step S664), the value of the payout control code is set to 1 (step S665), and the process is terminated. The processes in steps S662 and S665 are the same as the processes in steps S633 and S634 in the payout start waiting process, although the values set in the payout motor rotation frequency buffer are different.

  When it is confirmed in step S661 that the value of the re-payout operation counter is 2, the payout control CPU 371 sets a payout number count switch non-passing error bit (payout case error bit) in the error flag. (Step S666), the process ends.

  Therefore, in this embodiment, the prize ball lending control means 371F in the payout control means is based on the detection signal from the payout number count switch 301 as the payout detection means, and the volatile storage means (the number of unpaid in this example). When it is detected that a prize game medium less than the number of payouts stored in the counter 376A, B) has been paid out, the payout means is limited to a predetermined number of times (in this example, twice). Let the shortage of premium game media be paid out.

  Next, the relationship between the type of error and the display of the error display LED 374 will be described. The display control of the error display LED 374 is performed by the display control processing unit 371H. When the connection confirmation signal from the main board 31 is turned off, control is performed to display “1” on the error display LED 374 as a main board non-connection error. When the disconnection of the payout count switch 301 or a ball clogging occurs at the payout count switch 301, the error display LED 374 is controlled to display “2” as the payout switch abnormality detection error 1. The disconnection of the payout number count switch 301 or the occurrence of ball clogging in the payout number count switch 301 is determined by the detection signal of the payout number count switch 301 not being turned off.

  When the detection signal of the payout number count switch 301 is turned on even though the game ball is not paying out, a control for displaying “3” on the error display LED 374 as a payout switch abnormality detection error 2 is performed. Do. If the detection signal of the payout count switch 301 does not turn on despite the rotation abnormality of the payout motor 289 or the game ball being paid out, “4” is displayed on the error display LED 374 as a payout case error. Control. When the prize ball REQ signal is turned on at an improper timing or when the prize ball REQ signal is turned off at an improper timing, “5” is displayed in the error display LED 374 as a prize ball REQ signal error. Control to display.

  In addition, when the lower pan is full, that is, when the full switch 48 is turned on, control is performed to display “6” on the error display LED 374 as a full error. When the supply ball is insufficient, that is, when the ball break switch 187 is turned on, control is performed to display “7” on the error display LED 374 as a ball break error.

  Further, when the VL signal from the card unit 50 is turned off, control is performed to display “8” on the error display LED 374 as a prepaid card unit unconnected error. When communication with the card unit 50 is performed at an improper timing, control is performed to display “9” on the error display LED 374 as a prepaid card unit communication error. The prepaid card unit communication error is detected in the prepaid card unit control process.

  Among the above errors, after the occurrence of a payout switch abnormality detection error 2, a payout case error or a prize ball REQ signal error, the error release switch 375 is operated and an operation signal is output from the error release switch 375 (becomes turned on). The payout control means returns to the state before the error occurred.

  Next, error processing executed by the error processing unit 371G will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing error processing. In the error processing, the payout control CPU 371 checks the error flag, and the set bits are only payout switch abnormality detection error 2, payout case error and prize ball REQ signal error (any one of the three). It is confirmed whether it is only a bit, or only two of the three bits (or only those three bits) (step S671). If only those bits are set, it is confirmed whether or not the operation signal is turned on from the error release switch 375 (step S672). When the operation signal is turned on, the error recovery time is set in the pre-error recovery timer (step S673). The error recovery time is the time from when the error release switch 375 is operated until when the error is actually returned to the normal state.

  When the operation signal from the error release switch 375 is not in the on state, the payout control CPU 371 checks the value of the timer before error return (step S674). If the value of the timer before error recovery is 0, that is, if the timer before error recovery is not set, the process proceeds to step S678. If the pre-error return timer is set, the value of the pre-error return timer is decremented by -1 (step S675). If the pre-error return timer value becomes 0 (step S676), the payout switch of the error flags is set. Bits of abnormality detection error 2, payout case error and prize ball REQ signal error are reset (step S677).

  As described above, since the error state (which is in the payout prohibition state as shown in step S621 in FIG. 18) is canceled based on the operation of the error cancel switch 375, the payout prohibition state is quickly canceled and the payout is performed. Processing can be activated. In addition, even when the error state is canceled, the data on the number of game balls paid out stored in the unpaid-out number counters 376A and 376B in the payout control storage unit 376 that is not backed up is not erased. , No penalty for players.

  In step S678, the payout control CPU 371 checks the detection signal of the full switch 48. If the detection signal of the full tank switch 48 is output (if it is in the ON state), the full tank error bit in the error flag is set (step S679). If the detection signal of the full tank switch 48 is OFF, the full tank error bit is reset (step S680).

  Further, the payout control CPU 371 checks the detection signal of the ball break switch 187 (step S681). If the detection signal of the ball break switch 187 is output (if it is on), the ball break error bit in the error flag is set (step S682). If the detection signal of the ball break switch 187 is OFF, the ball break error bit is reset (step S683). When the ball break error bit is set, in the display control processing by the display control processing means 371H, the bit corresponding to the ball break LED 52 in the output port buffer is set to a value corresponding to the lighting state.

  Further, the payout control CPU 371 checks the state of the connection confirmation signal from the main board 31 (step S685). If the connection confirmation signal is not output (if it is in the off state), the main board unconnected error bit is set. Set (step S686). If the connection confirmation signal is output (if it is on), the main board unconnected error bit is reset (step S687).

  Further, the payout control CPU 371 checks the value of the switch timer corresponding to the payout number count switch 301 among the switch timers in which the state of the detection signal of each switch is set, and the value is the switch on maximum time (for example, “ 240 ") (step S688), the bit of the payout switch abnormality detection error 1 is set in the error flag (step S689). If the value of the switch timer corresponding to the payout number count switch 301 is equal to or shorter than the maximum switch-on time, the bit of the payout switch abnormality detection error 1 is reset (step S690). Note that the value of each switch timer is incremented by 1 when the state of the input port to which the detection signal of each switch is input is in the switch-on state, and cleared by 0 when the switch is in the off state. Accordingly, the fact that the value of the switch timer corresponding to the payout number count switch 301 exceeds the switch on maximum time means that the payout number count switch 301 is in the on state exceeding the switch on maximum time. Then, it is determined that the game ball is clogged at the disconnection of the payout number count switch 301 or at the portion of the payout number count switch 301.

  Also, the payout control CPU 371, when the value of the switch timer corresponding to the payout count switch 301 becomes a switch-on determination value (for example, “2”) (step S691), the ball lending operation flag and the winning ball operation If both the middle flags are in the reset state (step S692), it is determined that the game ball has passed the payout number count switch 301 even though the payout operation is not in progress, and the bit of the payout switch abnormality detection error 2 is set in the error flag (step S692). S693). If the ball lending operation flag or the winning ball operation flag is set, the bit of the payout switch abnormality detection error 2 is reset (step S694).

  Further, the payout control CPU 371 checks the input state of the VL signal from the card unit 50 (step S695). If the VL signal is not input (if it is in the off state), the prepaid card unit not yet in the error flag is displayed. A connection error bit is set (step S696). If the VL signal is input (if it is on), the prepaid card unit unconnected error bit is reset (step S697).

  As described above, in the display control process by the display control processing unit 371H, the error display LED 374 performs notification by display (numerical display) according to the error bit in the error flag. In this embodiment, the game control means mounted on the main board 31 and the payout control means mounted on the payout control board 37 perform bi-directional communication with respect to prize ball payout, but a communication error is indicated by an error display LED 374. Can be notified. Note that as a communication error, a main board non-connection error due to the connection confirmation signal from the main board 31 being turned off, and a prize ball REQ signal error in which the prize ball REQ signal is turned on or off at an incorrect timing (steps S561 to S564 and However, when a communication error such as a main board unconnected error occurs, the firing motor 94 is disabled. That is, the game ball cannot be launched into the game area 7. Therefore, the game does not proceed despite the occurrence of a communication error such as a main board unconnected error.

  Further, since the communication error is detected on the payout control means side, even if the game control means and the payout control means perform bi-directional communication with respect to the prize ball payout, the communication without increasing the burden on the game control means. Can detect errors.

  In this embodiment, the main board non-connection error is automatically eliminated when the connection confirmation signal is turned on (see steps S685 and S687), but the error state is also determined on the condition that the error release switch 375 is operated. You may make it cancel.

  In this embodiment, communication errors with the card unit 50 (prepaid card unit non-connection error and prepaid card unit communication error) and other errors are reported in a distinguishable manner. Therefore, a communication error between the game control unit and the payout control unit is easily identified.

  As described above, according to this embodiment, the prize ball processing means 56F stores the prize ball count storage buffer 55B of the game control storage means 55A in response to the reception of the prize ball count signal from the payout control means. Since the subtraction process of the prize ball number data being performed is executed, the game control means can recognize the prize ball payout almost in real time, and can reliably manage the number of unpaid prize balls. As a result, even if the gaming machine is powered off while the prize balls are being paid out, the number of prize balls that have already been paid out is recognized. It is avoided that duplicates are made, and unscheduled prize balls are prevented from being paid out.

  Also, the prize ball processing means 56F transmits the next payout command signal to the payout control means on the condition that the payout process end signal from the payout control means is received, so that the payout of the prize ball is surely completed. In the payout control means, it is possible to prevent the signal from being missed or misrecognized and prevent the correct payout from being made, and to further suppress the increase in the cost of the gaming machine. it can.

  That is, when the communication of the payout command signal exchanged between the game control means and the payout control means is executed regardless of the end of the payout, the payout command signal is transmitted by one-way communication. Since it is transmitted to the payout control means, there is a possibility that a signal is missed or misrecognized in the payout control means, and the number of award balls based on the winning may not be paid out correctly. Such a situation is avoided. Further, when the RAMs in the game control means and the payout control means are backed up respectively, and the power supply is restored after the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, the information indicating the number of unsold prize balls in the power backed up RAM If it is configured to continue the process of paying out the winning ball based on the information, the information indicating the number of unpaid prize balls saved in the RAM in the game control means and the RAM in the payout control means are saved. However, in the configuration in this embodiment, the RAM in the payout control means is not backed up by the power supply, and such a situation does not occur. It is also possible to suppress an increase in the cost of the gaming machine.

  Further, the error processing means 371G shifts to the error state because the main control non-connection error has occurred when the connection confirmation signal is turned off, and when the display control processing means 371H shifts to the error state, the error contents are displayed. Since the corresponding display is controlled to be displayed on the error display LED 374, it is possible to reliably notify a communication error, and to prevent the award ball from being paid out when the game control means is not operating normally. can do.

  In addition, when the prize ball lending control means 371F determines that the number of prize balls that have been paid out is less than the expected number of payouts even though the prize balls have been paid out, the shortage of prize balls is paid out. Control for the payout means, and after the corrected payout control is performed, if it is determined that the number of prize balls that have been paid out is still less than the planned payout number, control related to payout When the state is set to the error state and the display control processing unit 371H is set to the error state, the display control of the error display LED 374 is executed to notify that an error relating to payout has occurred. It is possible to reliably pay out the prize balls for payout, as well as to be able to reliably notify the payout error, and to pay out the prize balls when the payout process cannot be performed normally. It can be prevented from being.

  Further, since the error processing means 371G releases a predetermined error state in response to the error release switch 37 being turned on, the prize ball stored in the volatile payout control storage means 376 in the payout control means. It is possible to avoid erasing the unpaid number of data. In addition, when the power supply start processing means 56A starts to supply power to the gaming machine and the game control process becomes executable (operable state), the game control process executes the game control process. Since the delay process for delaying at least a predetermined period from the time when it becomes possible to the time when the payout control process starts to be executed is executed, the payout control means from the game control means when the power supply of the gaming machine is started The control signal can be received reliably.

  Further, since the firing motor control processing unit 371B executes a driving process for driving the firing unit, a control unit such as a microcomputer for controlling the firing unit is not necessary. As a result, the cost of the gaming machine can be reduced.

  In the above embodiment, the output of the payout number count switch 301 is input only to the payout control board 37. Therefore, compared with the case where the output of the payout number count switch 301 is supplied to both the main board 31 and the payout control board 37, the circuit configuration is simplified and the cost can be reduced. Furthermore, since the payout number count switch 301 detects the payout of the game ball without distinguishing between the winning ball and the rental ball, the number of parts can be reduced, and the cost of the gaming machine can be further reduced.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the payout control means detects the winning ball payout when the detection signal from the payout number count switch 301 is input even in an error state where the payout of the game ball is stopped. When it is determined that there is a prize ball, a prize ball count signal is transmitted to the game control means, so that a prize ball count signal indicating that a payout of the prize ball has been detected can be reliably transmitted to the game control means. .

  In the above embodiment, when the payout control means ends, the payout control means transmits a payout process end signal indicating that to the game control means. That is, the payout BUSY signal is switched from the on state to the off state (see step S555). Here, the timing at which the payout BUSY signal is switched to the OFF state is the time when the payout BUSY signal output time set in the main control communication control timer has timed out (see steps S548 and S553). Accordingly, at this point in time, it is possible that the payout of all prize balls of the number of payouts specified by one payout command signal has not been completed.

  In the above embodiment, when the payout BUSY signal is turned off, if the payout of all prize balls of the number of payouts specified by one payout command signal is not completed, the game control means It was configured to perform control for stopping the progress of the game. However, in such a case, the game control means does not perform the control to stop the progress of the game, and based on the data indicating the total number of winning balls, the unpaid portion (corrected portion) that has not been paid out yet. It may be configured to recognize the number of prize balls and newly send out a payout command signal designating the payout of the number of prize balls corresponding to the unpaid out amount (see steps S247 and S251 to S255). In the case of such a configuration, the payout control means executes a payout process for unpaid prize balls in response to receiving a payout command signal designating the payout of the number of unpaid prize balls.

  Specifically, in the main control communication normal process (step 531) shown in FIG. 14, when the payout control means receives a payout command signal designating the payout of the number of unpaid prize balls, the payout command signal The number of prize balls designated in the above is newly set in the prize ball unpaid-out number counter 376B (step S546). That is, when the payout command signal is received, the value of the award ball unpaid number counter 376B is not 0 (a state in which the payout of the number of prize balls specified by the previous payout command signal has not been completed). The value of the ball unpaid number counter 376B is updated to the number of prize balls indicated by the current payout command signal (prize ball control signal) (that is, the value of the prize ball unpaid number counter 376B is cleared before the present prize ball control). Set the number of prize balls indicated by the signal). Then, in the payout start waiting process (step S610) shown in FIG. 18, the payout control means executes the payout process for the number of prize balls newly set in the prize ball non-payout number counter 376B (steps S631 to S633). In order to realize such a configuration, for example, even if the number of game balls actually paid out by the payout process executed last time is less than the planned payout number (even if payout shortage occurs), it is related to payout. Do not execute control that shifts the control state to the error state. That is, in the payout passing waiting process (step S612) shown in FIG. 20, the value of the unpaid award ball counter 376B is cleared (set to 0) without performing the process of setting the error bit in step S666, and the payout control code Is set to 0 to shift to a payout start waiting process. With this configuration, when a payout command signal designating the payout of the number of unpaid prize balls is received, the payout of prize balls is based on the value set in the prize ball unpaid number counter 376B. The process can be executed (see step S621).

  In the above embodiment, the RAM provided on the payout control board 37 is not backed up by power, but a part or all of the RAM may be backed up by power as in the case of the main board 31.

  In the above embodiment, the payout request is made by the award ball REQ signal and the payout number is designated by the payout number signal. However, the payout request and the payout number are designated by the prize ball control signal. Also good. In this case, the payout control means may determine that the payout request is made at the same time when the prize ball control signal is output. According to such a configuration, it is not necessary to use the prize ball REQ signal.

  In the above-described embodiment, the payout BUSY signal is output during the payout process of the winning ball. However, the payout BUSY signal may be output also during the payout process of the rental ball. If comprised in that way, it can recognize that the game control means is in a ball lending process. Accordingly, the game control means can determine that an error has occurred when it is recognized that the ball lending process has been continuously executed for a predetermined period or longer based on the ON state of the payout BUSY signal.

  In the above embodiment, the payout control means determines that the prize ball payout has ended when it detects that the payout motor 289 has rotated by the planned payout number. However, the number of times detected by the payout motor position sensor is the expected payout number. If it reaches, it may be determined that the prize ball payout has ended. That is, the payout control means is configured to determine whether or not the payout has been completed by detecting the operation amount of the payout means (in this example, the rotation amount of the payout motor 289 or the number of detections by the payout motor position sensor). May be.

  Further, in the above embodiment, the payout control unit checks whether or not the payout is completed based on the detection signal of the payout number count switch 301, but the payout is completed based on the output signal of the payout motor position sensor. You may make it confirm whether it did.

  Also, the payout control means detects the operation amount of the drive means (for example, payout motor 289, cam, etc.) of the payout means, and determines whether or not an abnormality related to payout (payout unit error) has occurred based on the detected amount. It may be configured to. With such a configuration, it is possible to reliably detect an abnormality relating to payout.

  In the above embodiment, the ball payout device 97 is configured to execute both ball lending and prize ball payout. However, even if the mechanism for lending the ball and the mechanism for paying the prize ball are independent, The invention can be applied.

  In the above-described embodiment, the payout is prohibited when the ball is out of the ball or the lower pan is full. However, when it is not preferable to perform another payout or when the payout cannot be performed, You may set it in a payout prohibition state. For example, the payout prohibition state may be set also when the glass door frame 2 is in an open state and a detection signal is output from the door opening switches 161A and 161B.

  In the above-described embodiments, different expressions such as transmission / reception and output / input are used for the exchange of various signals, but transmission and output or reception and input are used in substantially the same meaning. It goes without saying that the expressions can be interchanged. In addition, the transmission / reception of signals having many meanings such as control commands is made transmission / reception, and the transmission / reception and output / input are made of transmission / reception of signals for transmitting information by switching on / off. There are also cases where they are used properly. Even in this case, these expressions are interchangeable.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, the recording medium used in the recording medium processing apparatus (card unit 50) is a magnetic card (prepaid card). However, the recording medium is not limited to a magnetic card, and is a non-contact type or a contact type. An IC card may be used. In addition, when the recording medium processing device is configured to be able to identify the recording information based on the identification code, the recording medium can be read at least by the recording medium processing device such as an identification code that can identify the recording information It may be something that can be recorded on. Further, the recording medium may be a medium on which a predetermined information recording symbol such as a barcode is printed so as to be readable. The shape of the recording medium is not limited to a card shape, and may be any shape such as a disk shape, a spherical shape, or a chip shape.

  The pachinko gaming machine of each of the above embodiments mainly gives a player a predetermined game value when the stop symbol of the special symbol variably displayed on the variable display unit 9 based on the start winning is a combination of the predetermined symbols. It was a first type pachinko game machine that can be used, but if there is a prize in a predetermined area of an electric game that is released based on a start prize, a second type pachinko game that can give a predetermined game value to a player 3rd type pachinko game where a predetermined right is generated or continued when there is a prize for a predetermined electric game that is released when the stop symbol of the pattern variably displayed based on the machine or the start winning combination becomes a combination of the predetermined pattern The present invention can be applied even to a machine.

  Furthermore, the present invention can be applied to a slot machine or the like provided with an electrical component for paying out the game medium, not limited to a pachinko game machine in which the game medium is a game ball.

  The present invention is applicable to a game such as a pachinko gaming machine, and in particular, in a gaming machine in which a game control means and a payout control means are separately provided, while suppressing an increase in cost and an unscheduled prize game This is useful for preventing the medium from being dispensed.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko game machine from the front. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a game control board (main board). It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a payout control board. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of a game control means and a payout control means. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of a control signal. FIG. 6 is a timing chart showing how the microcomputer operates when power supply to the gaming machine is started and when power supply is stopped. It is a flowchart which shows a prize ball control process. It is a flowchart which shows prize ball waiting processing 1. It is a flowchart which shows a prize ball transmission process. It is a flowchart which shows the winning ball waiting process 2. FIG. It is a flowchart which shows prize ball waiting processing 3. It is a timing chart which shows the example of the output state of a control signal. It is a flowchart which shows main control communication processing. It is a flowchart which shows main control communication normal processing. It is a flowchart which shows the process during main control communication. It is a flowchart which shows a main control communication end process. It is a flowchart which shows payout control processing. It is a flowchart which shows the payout start waiting process. It is a flowchart which shows a payout motor stop waiting process. It is a flowchart which shows payout passage waiting processing. It is a flowchart which shows an error process. It is a flowchart which shows an error process.

Explanation of symbols

1 Pachinko machine 31 Game control board (main board)
37 payout control board 55 RAM (game control storage means)
56 CPU
94 firing motor 97 ball dispensing device 289 dispensing motor 301 dispensing number count switch 371 dispensing control CPU
374 LED for error display
375 Error release switch 376 Dispensing control storage means (RAM)

Claims (6)

A gaming machine in which a player can play a predetermined game using a game medium and pays out the game medium to the player based on the fact that a payout condition is satisfied,
Game control means for controlling the progress of the game;
A payout means for paying out the game medium;
A payout control means for controlling the payout means;
A payout detection means for detecting a payout of a prize game medium as a prize based on establishment of a payout condition by a game and a payout of a rental game medium based on establishment of a payout condition by a loan request, and outputting a detection signal to the payout control means; With
The game control means includes
Stores the number of prize game medium data that can specify the total number of prize game media to be paid out, which are cumulatively added when the payout condition is established by the game, and stores at least a predetermined content when power supply to the gaming machine is stopped. Game control storage means that can be stored for a period of time;
A payout command signal sending means for sending a payout command signal designating the number of prize game media to be paid out to the payout control means based on the prize game medium number data;
The payout control means includes
When the payout command signal is received, the number of premium game media designated for payout by the payout command signal is not stored in the storage contents when power supply to the gaming machine is stopped. Payout number storage control means for executing storage control to be stored in the means;
A prize game medium payout control means for executing payout control for paying out the payout means for the number of prize game media stored in the volatile storage means;
A payout determining means for determining whether the detection signal input from the payout detecting means is a payout of a prize game medium or a rental game medium;
Count signal transmission for transmitting a prize game medium count signal indicating detection of payout of prize game media to the game control means when the detection signal is determined by the payout judgment means to be paid out of the prize game medium Means,
A payout control end signal transmitting means for sending a payout process end signal to the game control means when the payout control is ended,
The game control means includes a prize game medium number data subtracting means for performing a subtraction process for subtracting a value of the prize game medium number data when receiving the prize game medium count signal;
An unpaid premium game medium confirmation means for confirming whether or not there is an unpaid premium game medium in the premium game medium number data;
When the payout control end signal is received, in response to the fact that the unpaid prize game medium confirmation means confirms that there is an unpaid prize game medium, a new payout command signal is sent to the payout command signal transmission means. A gaming machine characterized by being transmitted. A communication abnormality detecting means for detecting an abnormality related to signal communication between the game control means and the payout control means;
When the communication abnormality detection means detects an abnormality, the communication abnormality notification means for notifying that effect,
The payout control means includes
A communication error state setting unit that shifts a control state related to payout to an error state when the communication abnormality detection unit detects an abnormality;
The gaming machine according to claim 1, further comprising: a communication abnormality notification control unit that performs processing for notifying the communication abnormality notification unit when the communication error state setting unit shifts the control state to an error state. A payout error notification means for notifying the occurrence of an error state in which the number of premium game media paid out from the payout means is less than the planned payout number
Withdrawal control means
Insufficient when it is detected that the number of premium game media paid out is less than the planned payout amount even though the payout means has paid out premium game media based on the payout detection signal from the payout detection means. Payout correction means for performing correction payout control for causing the payout means to execute a retry operation for paying out the premium game media for
A payout error that shifts the control state related to payout to an error state when it is detected that the number of paid out prize game media is still less than the expected payout amount after the correction payout control by the payout correcting means is performed. State setting means;
The game according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: a payout error notification control means for performing processing for notifying the payout error notification means when the payout error state setting means shifts the control state to an error state. Machine. An error canceling operation means for outputting an error canceling signal according to a human operation,
The payout control unit includes an error canceling unit that monitors the error canceling signal from the error canceling operation unit in an error state and cancels the error state on condition that the input of the error canceling signal is detected. The gaming machine described. The game control means includes a game control microcomputer that executes a game control process for controlling the game,
The payout control means includes a payout control microcomputer that performs payout processing for controlling the payout means,
The gaming control microcomputer starts the execution of the gaming control process when the gaming control process becomes executable when power supply to the gaming machine is started and the gaming control process becomes executable. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein a delay process for delaying a predetermined period until the payout control process is started is executed by at least the payout control microcomputer. The payout control means includes a payout control microcomputer that performs payout processing for controlling the payout means,
A launching means for launching a game medium toward the game area;
The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the payout control microcomputer includes a firing drive control unit that executes a driving process for driving the firing unit.

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