JP2006000149A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of exhibiting an additional game function besides original game functions by varying the position and the dimension of an operable operation switch and improving the game property and performance. <P>SOLUTION: A stop switch (operation switch) 22 in a game machine body 2 is formed of a touch panel 24 having a plurality of unit operating areas 23, each unit operation area 23 can be independently switched into a valid state and an invalid state by a switch means, and the stop switch 22 is operated only when a player touches the unit operation area 23 which becomes the valid state. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a game machine such as a pachinko machine or a slot machine, and particularly to a related configuration of operation switches used for the game.

  In a conventional pachinko machine, when a game ball enters a start winning opening (starting device) provided on the game board, a lottery is started, and if the result of the lottery is a win, a big prize opening provided on the game board However, there are games in which a specific gaming state that is more advantageous for the player than the normal gaming state is opened for a predetermined time and a predetermined number of times.

  In this type of conventional pachinko machine, a display device such as a liquid crystal display screen is provided on the game board as an effect to notify the player of the result of the lottery, and the display device has a design that attracts the player's interest. In addition to displaying, this symbol is displayed so as to fluctuate between the time when the game ball enters the start winning opening until the predetermined set time elapses, and the symbol when the symbol stops is the result of the lottery. (For example, in the case of winning, three identical symbols are arranged together).

  However, if the effect time by such a display device is set to be long, some players may desire to end the effect early. In order to satisfy such a demand, in recent years, a stop operation switch for shortening the symbol variation time at the player's will is provided on the front surface of the gaming machine (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Furthermore, when notifying means for notifying the player that the pressing operation of the stop button (stop operation switch) for stopping symbol fluctuation is effective, and pressing the stop button when this notifying means is operating, In addition, even when the stop button is pressed when the notification means is not activated, there is also an item that causes a change in game operation with an appropriate probability and functions as a hidden item (e.g., patent document). 1).
JP 2002-159589 A JP 2004-129984 A

  However, the above-described stop operation switch or stop button is a single unit fixed to the gaming machine, and the player can easily press it at any time. No contribution has been made.

  In view of the above-mentioned problems of the prior art, the present invention exhibits an additional game function in addition to the original game function by changing the position and size of the operable operation switch. It is an object of the present invention to provide a gaming machine that can improve game performance and performance.

According to the present invention, the above problem is solved as follows.
(1) In a gaming machine in which a gaming machine body is provided with an operation switch for gaming,
The operation switch is formed by a touch panel having a plurality of unit operation areas, and each unit operation area can be switched between a valid state and an invalid state by a switching means independently of each other, and the player is in a valid state. The operation switch is operated only when the unit operation area is touched.

  (2) A gaming machine body includes a game board, a launching device that launches a game ball, a display device that displays a variable symbol, and a game ball that is launched from the launching device and falls along the game board. Activated by entering or passing the ball and starting the fluctuation of the symbol displayed on the display device, a stop switch for quickly stopping the fluctuation of the symbol displayed on the display device, and opening and closing the game board A winning opening that increases the probability that a game ball that has fallen along the game board will enter by opening it, and a prize ball payout device that pays out a prize ball by winning, and a payout And a control device for causing the control device to open the special winning opening so as to be in a normal gaming state and a more advantageous state for the player by the operation of the starting device. Including specific gaming states The lottery means for performing lottery and the starter device start to change the symbol displayed on the display device, and a predetermined set time elapses from the starter operation, or the stop switch is operated. In a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine provided with a symbol display control means for stopping a symbol displayed on the display device at a symbol corresponding to a lottery result of the lottery means, a plurality of the stop switches are provided. Formed by a touch panel having a unit operation area, and each unit operation area can be switched between a valid state and an invalid state by a switching means independently of each other, and the player touches the unit operation area in the valid state. Only the stop switch is activated.

  (3) In the above item (1) or (2), the switching means includes switching control means for controlling the valid state and the invalid state to repeat alternately in a predetermined pattern or randomly over time. And

  (4) In any one of the above items (1) to (3), a display means is provided in each unit operation area of the touch panel, and the display of the unit operation area in the valid state is changed to the display of other unit operation areas. Touch panel display control means for controlling to be different is provided.

  (5) In the above item (4), the display of one of the unit operation areas in the invalid state is made to be the same as the display of the unit operation area in the valid state in a timely manner on the touch panel display control means. Or a function of controlling to make it similar.

  (6) In any one of the above items (1) to (5), a timer is provided for measuring a time from a predetermined start time until the operation switch or the stop switch is operated, and the time measured by the timer is previously set. When it is shorter than the set time, a function for displaying a successful operation of the operation switch or giving a reward is incorporated in the game control device.

  (7) In the item (6) subordinate to the item (2), the measurement start time of the timer is determined based on the time when the starting device is operated or when the change of the symbol on the display device is started.

According to the present invention, the following effects can be achieved.
(1) According to the invention described in claim 1, the operation switch to be operated is formed by a touch panel having a plurality of unit operation areas, and each unit operation area is independently enabled and disabled by the switching means. Since the operation switch is activated only when the unit operation area that is in the valid state is touched, the operation switch cannot be activated easily. Additional playability associated with the game is created, and the player can be entertained.

(2) When the gaming machine is limited to a pachinko machine as in the invention described in claim 2 and the stop switch for stopping the symbol variation is a touch panel type having a plurality of unit operation areas, the player can When it is attempted to stop the fluctuation of the game, it cannot be easily stopped, and the range of game play widens.
In particular, in the case of a pachinko machine, the part operated by the player is limited to the launching device that launches the game ball, and there are few parts that can demonstrate the skill of the player, but by applying the present invention, the player It is possible to add an element capable of demonstrating the skill of the player and to give the player a sense of satisfaction.

  (3) According to the invention described in claim 3, the switching means is controlled by the switching control means, so that each unit operation area of the touch panel has a predetermined pattern with time, or is randomly enabled and disabled. Since it is switched alternately, the player reads a pattern or expects a coincidence and touches any unit operation area, thereby increasing the game performance.

  (4) According to the invention described in claim 4, the display of the display means provided in each unit operation area in the touch panel changes rapidly, and when viewed from the entire touch panel, the area in the effective state can be escaped or disappeared, for example. Or can be shown as being enlarged or reduced, and the production effect can be enhanced.

  (5) According to the invention described in claim 5, the display of the unit operation area in the invalid state is sometimes the same as or similar to the display of the valid state, so to speak, a false display or a confusing display is made. Therefore, the game performance is further enhanced.

  (6) According to the invention described in claim 6, when the player succeeds in operating the operation switch or the stop switch in a short time, the success is displayed, so that the player can feel a sense of accomplishment and superiority. In the case where the reward can be given, it is possible to provide a player with a sense of satisfaction because it provides an actual profit.

  (7) According to the invention described in claim 7, after confirming that the ball has entered the starting device or that the change of the symbol on the display device has started, it competes how quickly the stop switch can be operated. It will become more interesting as a game.

Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko machine that is an embodiment of the present invention.

This pachinko machine (game machine) has an outer frame (1) whose front is open, and a shaft (not shown) that faces the left side of the front of the outer frame (1) so as to open and close the front opening. And a gaming machine main body (2) pivotally attached.
The gaming machine main body (2) includes an inner frame (2a) pivotally attached to the outer frame (1), and a game board (2b) removably attached to a window portion (not shown) of the inner frame (2a). And a front door (9), which will be described later, and accessory parts attached thereto.

  In the lower center of the front surface of the inner frame (2a) of the gaming machine main body (2), there is a storage tray (3) for storing a game ball for launching and a prize ball that has been paid out. Is provided with an operation handle (5) for adjusting the flight distance of the game ball in the launching device (4) for launching the game ball.

  A portion of the front surface of the gaming machine body (2) above the storage tray (3) is formed with a transparent plate (7) such as a glass plate to cover the front surface of the central gaming area (6), and The front door (9), which is supported by a frame member (8), is pivoted with its left side on the left side of the inner frame (2a) of the gaming machine main body (2) with an axis (not shown) pointing vertically. By wearing, it can be opened and closed forward.

  Between the game board (2b) and the translucent board (7) in the game area (6), there is a substantially circular outer guide rail (10) surrounding the game area (6), and it is required inside the left side. And an inner guide rail (11) that is substantially parallel to each other with an interval of, and when the player holds the operation handle (5) of the launcher (4) and turns it to the right, the launcher (4) The actuated game balls stored in the storage tray (3) are fired upward one by one at a predetermined timing, and the game balls are placed between the guide rails (10) (11). The game is started by passing through and reaching the upper part of the game area (6) and dropping along the game board (2b).

  A large number of game nails are arranged on the game board (2b), and the game balls gradually fall while being rebounded by hitting the game nails, but these game nails are omitted for the sake of simplicity of illustration.

  Near the center of the game board (2b), there is provided a special symbol display device (12) which is composed of a liquid crystal display screen or the like and displays a variable special symbol. As a special symbol displayed on the special symbol display device (12), for example, numbers, symbols, marks, or the like of “0” to “9” are independent of each other in three frames arranged on the left and right sides. It is displayed sequentially, and when those same numbers stop side by side, it becomes a hit display that causes a specific gaming state, and furthermore, odd numbers or specific symbols etc. stop side by side In some cases, after the end of a specific gaming state, the probability of winning again increases (probability variation), and a hit display that causes a special gaming state to occur.

  The game board (2b) is operated by a game ball falling along the board surface at a position directly below the special symbol display device (12), and a lottery to be described later is started, and a special symbol display device ( A start winning opening (starting device) (13) for starting the variation of the special symbol displayed in 12) is provided. A predetermined number of prize balls may be paid out by entering the starting prize opening (13).

  When entering the starting prize opening (13), the starting right to execute the lottery and the symbol variation only once is secured, which is the four lamps (14a) (14b) each formed by a light emitting diode. (14c) Displayed when the first lamp (14a) in the starting right number display device (14) composed of (14d) is turned on.

  The starting right can be stocked up to four times, at which time all lamps (14a) (14b) (14c) (14d) are lit. In this state, even if the player enters the starting prize opening (13), it becomes invalid. The lamps (14a), (14b), (14c), and (14d) are sequentially turned off from the lower ones every time lottery and symbol variation are executed, and the start right can be accumulated again for the number of lights off.

Specific implementation points for the lottery and symbol variation will be described later.
The starter is not only of the type that wins by winning (the award ball is paid out), as in the start winning opening (13) described above, but it can be operated simply by passing a game ball. It can also be of the type designed to do.

Normal symbol operating gates (15) and (15) are arranged on both sides of the start winning opening (13) in the game board (2b).
When the game ball passes through the normal symbol operation gate (15), it is determined whether or not a quasi-special prize state occurs based on a predetermined probability, and with the result of the determination, a special symbol display device on the game board (2b) The display content of the normal symbol display device (16) arranged above (12) is changed, and then stopped in a predetermined display mode.

  In this example, the normal symbol display device (16) is designed so that two lamps (16a) and (16b) each formed of a light emitting diode are alternately turned on, but display is performed. You may form with the liquid crystal display screen which has a display function similar to a display apparatus (12).

  When the lamps (16a) and (16b) that repeatedly turn on and off based on a predetermined probability are displayed with only the lamp (16a) as a predetermined display mode, a quasi-special prize state is generated and started. A pair of left and right movable pieces (13a) (13b) provided on both sides of the upward opening of the winning opening (13) are opened for a predetermined time so that the game ball can easily win the starting winning opening (13). is there. In FIG. 1, the movable pieces (13a) and (13b) are shown open.

  The start winning opening (13) is configured to change between a first state in which the winning opening is enlarged and a second state in which the winning opening is returned to the normal state by opening and closing the movable pieces (13a) and (13b). ing. There are two types of time for the first state: a normal time mode (for example, 0.5 seconds) and an open time extension mode (for example, 2 seconds) longer than the normal time. This open time extension mode is set during a special probability mode period to be described later. Further, there are two types of display variation time of the normal symbol display device (16): a relatively long pattern at normal time (for example, 30 seconds) and a short pattern at specific time (for example, 5 seconds).

  The variable winning device (17) arranged in the lower center of the game board (2b) allows a game ball falling along the board surface to enter with a high probability by opening a wide door to the front side. It is equipped with a special winning opening (18).

  A state in which a game ball can be won in a state where the door of the big winning opening (18) is opened or repeatedly opened and closed is referred to as an advantageous state for the player. A state other than this advantageous state, that is, a state in which the door of the grand prize opening (18) is closed and the game ball cannot enter here or is difficult to enter, is a disadvantageous state for the player. That's it.

In addition, to the game board (2b), the windmill with a ramp (19) that changes the rebound direction of the game ball together with the game nail, and the game ball that has reached the lower end of the game board (2b) are sent to the back of the game board (2b). An outlet (20), various decorative lamps (21), and the like are provided.
In addition, a prize ball payout device (not shown) is provided on the rear surface of the gaming machine body (2) to pay out the prize balls to the storage tray (3) by winning.

A stop switch (operation switch) (22) is provided in front of the lower left portion of the front door (9) to stop the change of the special symbol displayed on the special symbol display device (12) at an early stage.
As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the stop switch (22) is formed by a touch panel (24) that can divide the operation surface into a plurality of unit operation areas (23). In this example, the touch panel (24) can be divided into two unit operation areas (not shown) on the left and right sides, and a total of nine unit operation areas (23) each having three vertical and horizontal lines. Furthermore, it is more preferable that it can be divided into a total of 16 unit operation areas of 4 each in length and width.

  In this example, as shown in FIG. 2, the touch panel (24) is displayed in a thin rectangular parallelepiped case (25) opened on the front surface of the translucent plate (7) of the front door (9). A liquid crystal display screen (26) as a means, a translucent plate (27) made of a glass plate, etc., a fixed side transparent electrode made of indium tin oxide (ITO) provided with dot spacers (28a) for area partitioning on the front surface ( 28), a rectangular frame-shaped peripheral spacer (29), a movable transparent electrode (30) made of the same material as the fixed transparent electrode (28), and a flexible surface material (31) made of a transparent film one after the other. It has become more than a thing.

  As described above, the touch panel (24) has a transparent operation surface on the front surface and is provided with a liquid crystal display screen (26) as a display means at the rear.Basically, the liquid crystal display screen (26) In the portion corresponding to the arbitrary unit operation region (23) in FIG. 2, characters such as “stop” are displayed, and the flexible surface material (31) in the unit operation region (23) is indicated by an imaginary line in FIG. Thus, by pressing backward with a fingertip (32) or the like, the movable-side transparent electrode (30) together with the flexible surface material (31) is elastically bent locally to form the fixed-side transparent electrode (28). When the XY coordinates of the contact point (analog method and digital method are known, but either may be used) coincide with the XY coordinates of the unit operation area (23) When the stop switch (22) is activated, the special symbol displayed on the special symbol display device (12) It is to be able to stop quickly.

The touch panel (24) is not limited to such a structure, and any known structure can be adopted. For example, a plurality of infrared rays are projected at equal intervals from the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction in parallel with the liquid crystal display screen (26), and any one of those infrared rays touches or touches the liquid crystal display screen. The position of the fingertip in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction is detected by being blocked by the fingertip or the like, and when the position is within the unit operation region (23) in the valid state, a stop switch ( 22) is activated, the change of the symbol displayed on the special symbol display device (12) can be stopped at an early stage. It may be an infrared type that prevents (22) from operating.
Further, a plurality of push button switches may be arranged vertically and horizontally, and a lamp as a display means may be provided on the surface of these push buttons.

  The main components described above arranged in the gaming machine main body (2) are controlled by a microcomputer, and the control device will be described below with reference to the control block diagram shown in FIG.

  FIG. 3 shows a control device for the entire gaming machine. In this figure, a control system, a power supply circuit, and the like for controlling the launching device (4) and the prize ball payout device that are not directly related to the present invention are omitted.

  This control device controls basic items common to various pachinko machines, and displays them on a main control board (50) having lottery means for performing lottery as described later, and a special symbol display device (12). And a sub-control board (60) for controlling specific matters related to effects such as contents, lamp lighting, and sound.

  The main control board (50) and the sub control board (60) each have an input port (51) (61) and an output port (52) (62), and a ROM that stores a control program and data ( 53) (63) and an integrated one-chip CPU comprising a RAM (54) (64) functioning as a work area for the CPU, and a series of programs are controlled by a control program stored in the ROM (53) (63). The control process is executed.

  The input port (51) of the main control board (50) is provided at the start winning opening (13), and a start winning sensor (55) for detecting that a game ball has entered it, a normal symbol operation gate (15 ), A normal symbol operation sensor (56) for detecting that a game ball has passed therethrough, and a game ball in the prize winning port (18) in the prize winning port (18) of the variable prize winning device (17). A special prize opening sensor (57) that detects that a player has entered the ball, and is also provided in a specific area within the special prize opening (18), and passes through a specific area for detecting that a game ball has entered this specific area. Each sensor (58) is connected, and each detection signal is input to the main control board (50). The specific area passing sensor (58) may be omitted.

  In the ROM (53) of the main control board (50), the contents of the game control processing processed by the CPU of the main control board (50), the parameters of the game state, the game control program that operates according to the parameters, and other pachinko machines Various parameters for controlling are stored.

The RAM (54) of the main control board (50) temporarily stores input / output data for the main control board (50) and data for arithmetic processing, as well as a random number counter and other counters related to games. It has a function.
In the counter area of the RAM (54), the above-mentioned starting right number is counted and stored up to an upper limit value (for example, 4), and the count value is subtracted every time one lottery and symbol variation are executed. A starting right counting counter as a count value selection number storage means is also formed.

  The output port (52) of the main control board (50) is connected to the input port (61) of the sub control board (60) via a connector cable (not shown), and is connected to the various ports from the main control board (50) side. These commands are sent to the sub-control board (60) side via the connector cable.

  The sub control board (60) receives various commands from the main control board (50), and is connected to the output port (62) of the sub control board (60). It controls transmission of commands required by individual control boards such as the board (71) and the lamp control board (72).

In the ROM (63) of the sub-control board (60), in addition to the control program for the sub-control board (60), the special symbol display time displayed on the special symbol display device (12), the generation ratio of the variable symbol mode, Random number processing program for determining a stop symbol based on a symbol variation command transmitted to the special symbol control board (70) corresponding to the determined variation symbol form and a symbol variation start command sent from the main control substrate (50) Etc. are stored.
The ROM (63) also stores parameters necessary for editing commands to be transmitted to each individual control board, processing of each individual control board, and the like.

In addition to the ROM (63) and RAM (64), the sub-control board (60) also includes a timer (65). The timer (65) may be of a type externally attached to the sub control board (60).
The timer (65) has a function of measuring the time from when the special symbol change starts until the special symbol change time stored in the ROM (63) elapses.

  Each individual control board is configured as an integrated one-chip CPU having the same input port, output port, ROM, RAM (all not shown) as the main control board (50), and is stored in the ROM. A series of control processes are executed by the control program. These individual control boards may be omitted by giving the sub-control board (60) those functions.

  The special symbol control board (symbol display control means) (70) is based on the command from the sub-control board (60), and the specific content displayed on the special symbol display device (12), i.e. Then, a special symbol or the like at the time of stop is determined and displayed on the special symbol display device (12).

  Based on the command from the sub-control board (60), the sound control board (71) generates sound effects and sounds from the speaker (73) provided in the gaming machine body (2) in a timely manner.

  Based on the command from the sub-control board (60), the lamp control board (72), the lamp (14a) (14b) (14c) (14d) in the starting right number display device (14), the normal symbol display device (16 ), The lamps (16a) and (16b), and other decorative lamps (21) are turned on, turned off, and blinked.

The touch panel control board (80) controls the display content of the touch panel (24) and the liquid crystal display screen incorporated therein, and its input port (not shown) is the design of the special design control board (70). It is connected to an output port (not shown) for outputting a fluctuation start signal, and is connected to the sub-control board (60) via an input / output interface (81).
Specifically, a known micro control unit provided in the form of an IC chip for a touch panel can be used as the touch panel control board (80).

  This touch panel control board (80) is functionally described for ease of understanding. As shown in FIG. 4, the interface driver (60) for connecting to the sub-control board (60) and the special symbol control board (70). 82) and the screen division command sent from the sub-control board (60) via the interface driver (82), for example, the operation surface of the touch panel (24) and the liquid crystal display screen (26) are divided into two. The screen dividing means (83) for dividing into a plurality of unit operation areas (23) such as 9 divisions and 16 divisions, and the divided unit operation areas (23) into an effective state and an invalid state independently of each other. Only when the unit operation area (23) that has been switched and activated is touched, the operation of the touch panel (24) is enabled and the operation output of the stop switch (22) is sub-controlled via the interface driver (82). Switching means (84) for transmitting to the substrate (60); Based on a command from the sub-control board (60), the switching means (84) is configured so that the valid state and invalid state in each unit operation region (23) are alternately determined in a predetermined pattern over time or randomly. An image designated by the sub-control board (60) is displayed on each part of the liquid crystal display screen (26) corresponding to each of the divided unit operation areas (23) and the switching control means (85) for controlling to repeat. Display control means (86).

  Based on the command from the sub control board (60), the display control means (86) displays a display such as `` stop '' on each part of the liquid crystal display screen (26) corresponding to each unit operation area (23) over time. When the unit operation area (23) that is in an invalid state is touched, for example, in association with the operation of the touch panel (24), it is not only displayed in a predetermined pattern or alternately repeating randomly In order to draw a promotional image or interest on the LCD display screen (26) when the display of the LCD display screen (26) in that area is displayed as characters such as “invalid” or when the gaming machine is paused It is preferable to have a function capable of displaying such images.

  Although each of these means can be configured as an independent electric circuit, in practice, if the IC chip is configured so as to be able to perform the same function as when all the above-described means are provided. Good.

  The division pattern of the operation surface of the touch panel (24), for example, a two-division pattern or a nine-division pattern, each unit operation area (23) valid / invalid switching program in each pattern, switching time, each unit operation area (23 in each pattern) ), The image pattern to be displayed on each part of the liquid crystal display screen (26), its switching program, etc. are stored in the ROM (63) of the sub-control board (60), and any order from them, for example, It is possible to correspond to the determined stop pattern or extract it at random and send the information to the touch panel control board (80) to control the touch panel (24) and its liquid crystal display screen (26). Good.

  If the image pattern to be displayed on each part of the liquid crystal display screen (26) is a simple one such as `` stop '', the image pattern and other information described above are stored in the touch panel control board (80), From the sub control board (60), only a command for selecting one of them may be transmitted.

Next, the operation of this pachinko machine will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS. Note that portions not related to the present invention are omitted or roughly described, and portions related to the present invention will be described in detail.
As shown in FIG. 5, when the game ball enters the start winning opening (13) when the starting right number has not reached the upper limit, the start winning sensor (55) is activated (step S1), and the main control is performed. In the board (50), a signal from the start winning sensor (55) is received, and a lottery is performed as to whether or not a specific gaming state is to be generated based on a predetermined probability (step S2).

In this lottery, the count values “0” to “349” stored in the ROM (53) of the main control board (50) are always incremented by 1 in the RAM (54) at a predetermined period (4 msec), and the upper limit is set. An infinite loop counter (not shown) that returns to “0” when the value is reached, and a count value when a signal from the start winning sensor (55) is received and a specific game state is generated in the ROM (53) Is compared with a specific value (for example, “7”) stored as, and a match is found. The winning probability at this time is 1/350.
In the special probability mode (probability fluctuation state), the number of specific values is increased (for example, “5”, “7”, “73”, “153”, “139”), and compared with it, the winning probability is increased. It is designed to increase. The winning probability at this time is 1/70.

After the lottery, a stop symbol is selected (step S3).
This selection is based on the RAM (54) on the main control board (50), the winning symbol determination counter for selecting the type of winning symbol, and the symbols so that the symbols are not the same when the specific gaming state is not caused. Left, middle and right symbol determination counters (all not shown) (all count update ranges are “0” to “9”). In addition, a reach determination counter or the like may be provided in the RAM (54), thereby determining whether or not to reach (the two symbols to be stopped first will be the same). .

  Next, the stop symbol selected in step S3 is transmitted to the sub control board (60) as a stop symbol command (step S4), and a change start command is transmitted to the sub control board (60) (step S5). ).

As shown in FIG. 6, in the sub control board (60), after determining the stop symbol command sent from the main control board (50) (step S6), the liquid crystal display screen (26) on the touch panel (24). The effect mode lottery is performed (step S7).
Details of the lottery in this production mode will be described later.

  After the lottery in the production mode is completed, the production mode command and the production start command, which are the lottery results, are transmitted to the touch panel control board (80) via the input / output interface (81) (step S8). ).

  At almost the same time, a stop symbol command and a variation start command are transmitted to the special symbol control board (70) (step S9), where the stop symbol, variation mode, variation time, etc. (Sent from the control board (60)) is embodied and displayed as a specific variation symbol on the special symbol display device (12) (step S10).

  Simultaneously with the start of symbol variation, a symbol variation start signal is output from the special symbol control board (70) and input to the touch panel control board (80) (step S11). In this example, at the touch panel control board (80), when both the change start command from the sub control board (60) and the symbol change start signal from the special design control board (70) are input, the touch panel The production on the liquid crystal display screen (26) of (24) starts, but the above production is performed only by the change start command from the sub control board (60) or simultaneously with the operation of the start winning sensor (55). When starting, there is no need to connect the output port for outputting the symbol variation start signal on the symbol control board (70) to the touch panel control substrate (80).

  When the set variation time has elapsed from the start of symbol variation (step S12) or when the stop switch (22) is operated as described later (step S13), the stop designated by the stop symbol command The variation of the symbol is stopped by the symbol (step S14).

If the lottery result is a win and the winning symbol is displayed as a stop symbol on the special symbol display device (12), it will be in a specific gaming state and the special winning opening (18) will elapse for a predetermined time or Control is performed such as opening until the number of entered balls reaches a predetermined number and repeating this state a plurality of times. In the case of winning with probability fluctuation, the winning probability is increased as described above in a predetermined number of lotteries.
Since these controls are publicly known and are not directly related to the present invention, the description thereof will be omitted.

Next, the details of the lottery in the effect mode will be described.
Examples of the production mode include the following.
<Direction mode 1>
The entire operation surface of the touch panel (24) is set as a single unit operation area (23), and the word `` Stop '' is displayed on the entire liquid crystal display screen (26), and anywhere on the operation surface of the touch panel (24) is touched. Even so, the stop switch (22) is activated.

<Direction mode 2>
The entire operation surface of the touch panel (24) is set as a single unit operation area (23), and the word `` Stop '' is displayed on the entire liquid crystal display screen (26), and anywhere on the operation surface of the touch panel (24) is touched. Even so, the characters of “stop” are changed to “invalid” and the stop switch (22) is not operated.

<Direction mode 3>
The operation surface of the touch panel (24) is divided into two parts on the left and right to form two unit operation areas (23), and the liquid crystal display screen (26) corresponding to the left and right unit operation areas (23) , "Stop" characters are alternately displayed every required time (for example, 0.5 to 5 seconds, the time interval may be changed randomly), and the characters "Stop" are displayed. Only the unit operation area (23) is activated, and the stop switch (22) is activated only when it is touched.

<Direction mode 4>
The operation surface of the touch panel (24) is divided into three vertical and horizontal sections to form nine unit operation areas (23), and “stop” is applied only to the portion of the liquid crystal display screen (26) corresponding to the central one. The stop switch (22) is activated only when the central unit operation area (23) is touched. The portion of the liquid crystal display screen (26) corresponding to the other unit operation region (23) is white or other plain, and the stop switch is not operated even if this portion is touched.

<Direction mode 5>
The operation surface of the touch panel (24) is divided into three vertical and horizontal sections to form nine unit operation areas (23), and “stop” is applied only to the portion of the liquid crystal display screen (26) corresponding to the central one. When the center unit operation area (23) is touched, the stop switch does not operate and the “stop” character is changed to the “invalid” character. The portion of the liquid crystal display screen (26) corresponding to the other unit operation region (23) is white or other plain, and the stop switch is not operated even if this portion is touched.
The first “stop” display in the production modes 2 and 5 is a false display, but this is similar to or confusing the display, for example, before the “stop”, a small “NON” display. It is good also as a display etc. which attached the character.

<Direction mode 6>
The operation surface of the touch panel (24) is divided into three vertical and horizontal sections to form nine unit operation areas (23), and the liquid crystal display screen (26) corresponding to the nine unit operation areas (23) is formed. In each part, the word “stop” is displayed every required time (for example, 0.5 to 5 seconds, the time interval may be changed randomly), and the letter “stop” is displayed. Only the unit operation area (23) is enabled, and the stop switch (22) is operated only when it is touched.
By adjusting the display time and non-display time of the `` stop '' character displayed in each unit operation area (23), the `` stop '' character gives the impression of running around, and the impression of enlargement or reduction is given. (If the “Stop” character is displayed in only one of the four unit operation areas (23) close to each other at the same time, it is reduced. And vice versa).

<Direction mode 7>
Characters such as “HIT”, “big hit”, “probability change”, “short-time OO times”, and “XX reach” are displayed in a timely manner on the entire screen of the liquid crystal display screen (26) or a part thereof.
“Probability” is an abbreviation for probability variation.
“Time saving” generally refers to the state when the symbol variation time is shorter than normal, but depending on the model, the game ball may pass through the normal symbol operation gate (15) after the specific gaming state ends. The opening time of the left and right movable pieces (13a) and (13b) of the start winning opening (13) that is opened at the normal time (for example, 0.5 seconds) until the number of symbol fluctuations reaches a predetermined number (for example, 100 times) There are some which are made longer (for example, 2 seconds), and “short time XX times” means the number of symbol fluctuations (upper limit 100 times) counted after the end of the specific gaming state in such a case.
“XX Reach” is a type of reach. For example, in addition to “Normal Reach”, “Super Reach”, “Premium Reach”, etc., various reach names named in association with characters for each model are listed. is there.

<Direction mode 8>
As an effect mode when the gaming machine is paused, colors such as red, yellow, and blue are randomly displayed at required time intervals in each of the unit operation areas (23) of the nine-divided screen.

In these effect modes 1 to 6, after the stop symbol command sent from the main control board (50) is determined in the sub control board (60) as in step S7 shown in FIG. 6 (step S6). A lottery is drawn corresponding to the stop symbol command.
For example, when the stop symbol command is a winning symbol command, a lottery is selected from the rendering modes 1 to 6. When the stop symbol command is an out symbol command with reach, the rendering modes 4, 5, and 6 are selected. If the stop symbol command is a detach symbol command that does not involve reach, it can be selected from among the rendering modes 4 and 5.

The effect mode 7 is applied in combination with the effect mode selected by lottery when the stop symbol command is a winning symbol command and when it is an out symbol command with reach.
In the production mode 8, when the gaming machine is paused, the sub-control board (60) transmits a pause mode command to the touch panel control board (80), and the next command is sent to the touch panel control board (80). Up to this point, the above-described display is performed on the liquid crystal display screen (26).

  In this example, the stop switch (22) is formed by a touch panel having a plurality of unit operation areas, and each unit operation area is switched between the valid state and the invalid state independently from each other by the switching means, and becomes the valid state. Since the stop switch (22) is activated only when the unit operation area is touched, additional game functions can be exhibited in addition to the original game functions, improving game play and performance. Can be made.

  In addition, by the timer (65) provided on the sub-control board (60) or a timer (not shown) provided separately, when the start winning sensor (55) is actuated, or the symbol variation start signal on the symbol control board (70) Measure the time from when the switch is output until the stop switch (22) is actuated. If the measured time is shorter than a predetermined set time, an indication that the operation of the operation switch was successful (for example, “HIT ")" Is displayed on the liquid crystal display screen (26), or information indicating success is transmitted to the sub-control board (60), and a command from the sub-control board (60) If a reward such as paying out a predetermined prize ball is given to the player, not only a sense of accomplishment and superiority but also a sufficient satisfaction can be given to the player.

  In addition, the arrangement of the touch panel (24) in the gaming machine main body (2) is changed, the entire surface of the translucent plate (7) is changed to a translucent touch panel (24), or the touch panel (24) is replaced with the gaming machine main body ( It may be possible to operate by removing from 2).

  Furthermore, the lottery of the production mode of the liquid crystal display screen (26) on the touch panel (24) is not the sub control board (60), but the main control board (50), the special symbol control board (70), or the touch panel control board ( 80).

The touch panel (24) may have the following additional functions.
(B) Short-time lottery function For example, after the end of a specific gaming state or at an appropriate time before that, the operation surface of the touch panel (24) is divided into nine to form nine unit operation areas (23). In each part of the liquid crystal display screen (26) corresponding to each unit operation area (23), a display distinguishing “valid” and “invalid” is displayed so as to change alternately at a required time interval. Measure the time from the start until the player touches the unit action area (23) in the “valid” state, and depending on the length of the time, the number of short times to be granted is 100 times within 10 seconds, A function is added to determine 50 times in the range of 10 to 20 seconds and 20 times in the range of 20 to 30 seconds.

(B) Lottery function for probability variation For example, in the same manner as in (a) above, the display of the touch panel (24) is started, and the unit operation area (23) in which the player is in the “valid” state from the start of the display. The time until the touch is measured is measured, and if the length of the time is within a predetermined time, for example, 10 seconds, the probability variation mode is set.

(C) Fluctuating symbol selection function For example, the operation surface of the touch panel (24) is divided into a plurality of parts, and each portion of the liquid crystal display screen (26) corresponding to each unit operation area (23) has a different symbol ( (Character such as person, animal, background, etc.) is displayed, and the player selects the favorite design in it and touches the unit operation area (23), so that the variable design is changed to the selected design thereafter. indicate.

(D) Selection function of advance notice effect The touch panel (24) is used as an input means for the player to select a preferred advance notice effect.

(E) Function as a mini game Divide the operation surface of the touch panel (24) into multiple parts, and display `` Enable '' and `` Disable '' on each part of the liquid crystal display screen (26) corresponding to each divided unit operation area (23) '' Is displayed so that it changes alternately at the required time interval, and the time from the start of the display until the player touches the unit operation area (23) in the `` enabled '' state is measured. By displaying the measurement time on the liquid crystal display screen (26), a function for playing a game for training the operation of the touch panel (24) or simply playing as a mini game is added.

The present invention is not limited to a pachinko machine, but can be applied to any gaming machine in which a gaming machine main body is provided with an operation switch for operating a game.
For example, in a slot machine using medals or pachinko balls as a game medium, a stop switch for stopping the change of three rows of symbols displayed on the symbol display device, an effect changeover switch for changing the effect mode, etc. The same operational effects can be achieved by using the same touch panel type as in (1).

1 is an external perspective view of a pachinko machine that is an embodiment of the present invention. Similarly, it is a typical enlarged vertical side view along II-II in FIG. Similarly, it is a block diagram of a control device. Similarly, it is a block diagram of a touch panel control board. Similarly, it is a flowchart explaining game control processing in the main control board. Similarly, it is a flowchart explaining a game control process in the sub-control board.

Explanation of symbols

(1) Outer frame
(2) Machine body
(2a) Inner frame
(2b) Game board
(3) Reservoir
(4) Launcher
(5) Operation handle
(6) Game area
(7) Translucent plate
(8) Frame material
(9) Front door
(10) Outer rail
(11) Inner rail
(12) Special symbol display device (display device)
(13) Start prize opening (starting device)
(13a) (13b) Movable piece
(14) Start right number display device
(14a) (14b) (14c) (14d) lamp
(15) Normal symbol operation gate
(16) Normal symbol display device
(16a) (16b) lamp
(17) Variable winning equipment
(18) Grand prize opening
(19) Windmill with lamp
(20) Out mouth
(21) Lamp
(22) Stop switch (operation switch)
(23) Unit operation area
(24) Touch panel
(25) Case
(26) Liquid crystal display screen (display means)
(27) Translucent plate
(28) Fixed transparent electrode
(28a) Dot spacer
(29) Perimeter spacer
(30) Movable transparent electrode
(31) Flexible surface material
(32) Fingertip
(50) Main control board (including lottery means)
(51) Input port
(52) Output port
(53) ROM
(54) RAM
(55) Start prize sensor
(56) Normal symbol operation sensor
(57) Grand prize sensor
(58) Specific area passing sensor
(60) Sub control board
(61) Input port
(62) Output port
(63) ROM
(64) RAM
(65) Timer
(70) Special design control board (design display control means)
(71) Acoustic control board
(72) Lamp control board
(73) Speaker
(80) Touch panel control board
(81) Input / output interface
(82) Interface driver
(83) Screen division means
(84) Switching means
(85) Switching control means
(86) Display control means

Claims (7)

In a gaming machine in which an operation switch for gaming is provided on the gaming machine body,
The operation switch is formed by a touch panel having a plurality of unit operation areas, and each unit operation area can be switched between a valid state and an invalid state by a switching means independently of each other, and the player is in a valid state. The gaming machine, wherein the operation switch is activated only when the unit operation area is touched. A gaming machine main body is a game board, a launching device that launches a game ball, a display device that displays a variable symbol, and a game ball that is launched from the launching device and falls along the game board. A starter that operates by passing and starts the change of the symbol displayed on the display device, a stop switch that stops the change of the symbol displayed on the display device at an early stage, and a game board that can be opened and closed The prize-winning device that pays out a prize ball by winning, and a prize that has been paid out. A specific game including a storage tray for storing a ball, and the control device opening the special winning opening so as to be in a normal gaming state and a more advantageous state for the player by the operation of the starting device Lottery with state The lottery means to perform and the operation of the starting device start the change of the symbols displayed on the display device, and a predetermined set time elapses from the operation of the starting device, or the stop switch is operated. In a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine provided with a symbol display control means for stopping the symbol displayed on the display device at a symbol corresponding to the lottery result of the lottery means,
The stop switch is formed by a touch panel having a plurality of unit operation areas, and each unit operation area can be switched between a valid state and an invalid state by a switching means independently of each other, and the player is in a valid state. A gaming machine, wherein the stop switch is activated only when the unit operation area is touched.   3. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the switching means includes switching control means for controlling the valid state and the invalid state so as to repeat alternately in a predetermined pattern or at random with time.   A display means is provided in each unit operation area in the touch panel, and touch panel display control means is provided for controlling the display of the unit operation area in an effective state to be different from the display of other unit operation areas. 4. The gaming machine according to any one of 3.   In the touch panel display control means, the display of one of the unit operation areas in the invalid state is made to be the same as or similar to the display of the unit operation area in the valid state in a timely manner. The gaming machine according to claim 4, wherein a function for controlling is added.   A timer is provided for measuring the time from the predetermined start time until the operation switch or the stop switch is operated, and when the time measured by the timer is shorter than a predetermined set time, the operation switch has been successfully operated. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein a function of displaying the above or giving a reward is incorporated in the gaming control device. The gaming machine according to claim 6, which is dependent on claim 2, wherein the measurement start time of the timer is determined based on the operation of the starter or the start of symbol variation in the display device.

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