JP2006025946A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine allowing a player to see the behavior of game balls discharged to the back side of a game board and the mechanical motion of an interlocking mechanism etc. disposed on the back side of the game board to drive an opening/closing generator, etc., and capable of attracting the eyes of the player by emphasizing and displaying the motion, and enhancing the novel amusement of a game. <P>SOLUTION: If a game ball is held by a game ball holding mechanism inside a discharge passage on the backside of the transparent game board after entering the opening/closing generator, the presentation is displayed on a display means disposed on the back of the transparent game board. Accordingly, by visually emphasizing and displaying the structure and motion of the game ball holding mechanism and the interlocking mechanism for interlocking/linking the game ball holding mechanism and the opening/closing generator, the amusement of the game can be drastically enhanced. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine, and more particularly, to a bullet ball gaming machine in which a gaming ball is launched on a gaming board so that a profit can be obtained by the behavior of the gaming ball.

  Conventionally, there is a ball game machine as one of the game machines, and a pachinko game machine is known as a representative of this ball game machine. The pachinko gaming machine is a game for the purpose of launching a game ball on the game board and entering a predetermined winning opening, and acquiring more winning balls to be paid out in accordance with the winning. On the board, game members such as obstacle nails and windmills that change the flow direction of the game ball are provided. In addition, the winning opening or the like is opened when the game ball enters the initial state in the closed state, and also opens and closes when the game ball enters in the open state (so-called “tulip type bonus” )) Is provided as appropriate.

  In addition, the above-mentioned opening / closing accessory normally has a left and right movable piece standing in parallel and forms a passage of approximately one game ball between the movable pieces, but when the left and right movable pieces are opened, Both pieces are lying on their sides, and the game balls falling on both pieces can be guided to the winning path, and many game balls can be easily won. Here, a state where both pieces stand up in parallel is referred to as a closed state or a closed state, and a state where both pieces lie on the left and right sides is referred to as an open state or an open state. As such an opening / closing member, a mechanical structure that mechanically opens the movable piece by the kinetic energy of a game ball that has fallen and entered, or a game ball that has fallen and entered is electrically detected and moved. An electric structure is known in which a solenoid that drives a piece is excited to open a movable piece.

Further, in the pachinko gaming machine, a liquid crystal display device is arranged in the approximate center of the gaming board, and identification information including symbols and the like is displayed on the liquid crystal display device like a slot machine which is also one of gaming machines. A general game machine is a game machine that executes a so-called “variable display game” in which a display is changed and a stop is displayed in a specific combination to shift to a game state advantageous to the player.
In the “variable display game”, when a game ball fired on the game board by a player wins one of the winning openings called a start opening, an internal lottery is performed based on the winning, and a lottery result Depending on the display area of the display device, the identification information is variably displayed and stopped, and when the lottery result is won and the identification information is stopped and displayed in a predetermined award mode, It shifts to a so-called “hit game state” which is a state advantageous to the player. In many cases, the opening and closing member is attached to the start opening (see, for example, Patent Document 1).
In such a pachinko gaming machine, if the opening and closing accessory is in an open state, it is easy to enter the starting port. Therefore, the player is sensitive to the operation of the opening and closing accessory, and is highly interested in the operation. is doing.
JP 2001-300044 A

However, in the conventional gaming machine equipped with an opening / closing accessory, since the drive structure of the opening / closing accessory is arranged on the back side of the gaming board, the mechanism by which the opening / closing accessory operates for the player. In addition, the player cannot see the behavior of the game balls discharged behind the game board, so that it is not considered that the discharge balls become a game target.
In particular, if the drive structure is of a mechanical type using a link mechanism or the like, its movement can be one of the pleasures of games, but there is no gaming machine that can see such an operation situation.
The present invention has been made to solve the above-described conventional problems, and is provided on the back side of the game board in order to drive the behavior of the game ball discharged to the back side of the game board or the opening / closing accessory. It is an object of the present invention to provide a gaming machine that can visually recognize a mechanical operation of a mechanism and the like, attract the player's line of sight so that the operation can be highlighted, and enhance a new interest of the game.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, it is possible to guide the launched game ball from the upper side to the lower side, and a transparent game board in which a part or all of the game ball is formed of a transparent member and the back can be seen through, and the transparent game. A plurality of opening and closing accessories provided on the board and movable in a closed state in which a game ball is difficult to enter and an open state in which a game ball is easy to enter, and a game ball inserted into the opening and closing agent, A game ball holding mechanism that temporarily holds in a discharge path provided on the back side of the transparent game board, and is arranged on the back side of the transparent game board so as to be visible through the transparent game board, and at least the game On the basis of a display means for forming an effect displayable area behind the ball holding mechanism, a detection means for detecting the game ball held by the game ball holding mechanism, and a detection signal from the detection means, The table indicates that the game ball holding mechanism is held. And the gaming machine and a effect display control means for effect display in effect displayable region of the means.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the gaming machine according to the first aspect, in conjunction with the holding operation of the game ball by the game ball holding mechanism, the game machine is different from the opening / closing member into which the game ball has entered. An interlocking mechanism for mechanically opening and closing the opening / closing accessory is provided, and the effect display control means effects display the opening operation of the interlocking mechanism and other opening / closing accessory.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the gaming machine according to the first or second aspect, in the state in which the game ball that has entered the opening / closing tool is held by the game ball holding mechanism, When a game ball enters, a holding release mechanism for releasing the holding of the game ball is provided, and the effect display control means provides an effect display of the operation of the holding release mechanism.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the gaming machine according to any one of the first to third aspects, the game ball that has entered the entrance of the opening / closing accessory is moved to the game ball in the discharge path. A discharge path switching mechanism that distributes between a game ball holding / discharge path provided with a holding mechanism and a general discharge path that bypasses the game ball holding mechanism is provided.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the gaming machine according to the first or second aspect, a game ball that has entered the opening / closing member is held and discharged by the game ball holding mechanism provided with the game ball holding mechanism in the discharge path. A discharge path switching mechanism that distributes the path to a general discharge path that bypasses the game ball holding mechanism, and a switch that is provided on the downstream side of the general discharge path and that is held by the game ball holding mechanism. A holding release mechanism for releasing the holding of the game ball when the game ball enters, and the effect display control means provides an effect display of the operation of the holding release mechanism.

  According to the present invention, there is a novel behavior of a game ball in which a game ball that has entered the opening / closing accessory is temporarily held behind the game board, and the holding state can be visually confirmed, and behind the game ball holding mechanism. Since the holding state of the game ball can be highlighted, it is possible to enhance the new interest of the game and to increase the variety of effects in the game. In particular, in conjunction with the holding operation of the game ball by the game ball holding mechanism, there is provided an interlocking mechanism that mechanically opens and closes another opening / closing member different from the opening / closing member into which the game ball has entered. In this case, the game machine becomes a novel gaming machine in which the player can visually recognize the mechanism and the operation of the interlocking mechanism that drives the opening / closing member to open / close. In addition, the movement of the interlocking mechanism and the opening / closing operation of the opening / closing member can be displayed on the display means so that the player can be satisfied, and the display is advantageous to other players. Show off that you are in a state and immerse yourself in superiority.

The gaming machine according to the present embodiment is capable of guiding the fired game ball from the upper side to the lower side, partly or entirely formed of a transparent member, and the transparent game board can be seen through the back, and the transparent game A plurality of opening and closing accessories provided on the board and movable in a closed state in which a game ball is difficult to enter and an open state in which a game ball is easy to enter, and a game ball inserted into the opening and closing agent, A game ball holding mechanism that temporarily holds in a discharge path provided on the back side of the transparent game board, and is arranged on the back side of the transparent game board so as to be visible through the transparent game board, and at least the game On the basis of a display means for forming an effect displayable area behind the ball holding mechanism, a detection means for detecting the game ball held by the game ball holding mechanism, and a detection signal from the detection means, The table indicates that the game ball holding mechanism is held. It is obtained by a structure and a effect display control means for effect display in effect displayable region of the means.
That is, a new behavior of the game ball that the game ball entered into the opening / closing accessory is temporarily held behind the game board is visually recognized, and the holding state of the game ball is produced and emphasized behind the game ball holding mechanism. With the display, it is possible to enhance the new interest of the game and to increase the variety of effects in the game.
As described above, in this embodiment, since the gaming machine of a novel mechanism that allows the player to visually recognize the mechanism and operation of the gaming ball holding mechanism that holds the gaming ball is provided, the player is provided with a new fun of gaming. can do.

In addition, the gaming machine according to the present embodiment mechanically moves another opening / closing member different from the opening / closing member into which the game ball has entered in conjunction with the holding operation of the game ball by the game ball holding mechanism. While providing an interlocking mechanism for opening, the effect display control means can also be configured to effect-display the opening operation of the interlocking mechanism and other opening / closing accessories. Note that the interlocking mechanism may have a mechanical configuration that operates by the kinetic energy of the game ball that flows down.
With the above-described configuration, when the game ball is held by the game ball holding mechanism, the other opening / closing member is mechanically interlocked to be in an open state, so that the movement is interesting, the interest is improved, and other opening / closing is also performed. Since the bonus is released and the player is in an advantageous state, the game motivation is also improved. Then, from one behavior that a game ball enters a predetermined opening / closing tool, a continuous series of mechanical movements such as holding the game ball and opening other opening / closing tools can be visually recognized by the player. The mechanism and operation of the interlocking mechanism for opening and closing the accessory is clearly understood, and the enjoyment of the game is remarkably increased. Further, at this time, the movement of the interlocking mechanism and the opening / closing operation of the opening / closing tool are displayed on the display means, so that the fun of the game is further increased. It is possible to show off to other players that the player is in an advantageous gaming state and immerse themselves in a sense of superiority.

In addition, the gaming machine according to the present embodiment, when the game ball that has entered the opening and closing role is held by the game ball holding mechanism, when another game ball enters the opening and closing role, It is preferable that a holding release mechanism for releasing the holding of the sphere is provided, and the effect display control unit is configured to display the operation of the holding release mechanism.
For example, when a game ball enters a predetermined opening / closing accessory and is held by the game ball holding mechanism, and another game ball subsequently enters the predetermined opening / closing accessory, the game ball is held. It is made to flow after being released, and the situation is displayed on the display means so that the player can visually recognize it.
With this configuration, the player can enjoy the mechanical movements associated with each other by the operation of the game ball holding mechanism and the operation of the holding release mechanism by the effect display, and the mechanism of the gaming machine can be played through the transparent game board. It can be a gaming machine with excellent interest that can be drawn into a game while being visually recognized by a person.

Furthermore, in the gaming machine according to the present embodiment, a game ball that has entered the entrance of the opening / closing accessory is a game ball holding / discharge path provided with the game ball holding mechanism in the discharge path, and the game ball It can be set as the structure provided with the discharge path switching mechanism which distributes to the general discharge path which detours a holding | maintenance mechanism.
That is, the discharge path communicating with the entrance of the opening / closing accessory is branched into a game ball holding / discharge path provided with the game ball holding mechanism and a general discharge path, and the discharge path is switched to the upstream side of the branch portion. A mechanism is provided, and it is determined by the sorting operation of the discharge path switching mechanism whether the game ball that has entered the opening / closing accessory is held or whether it flows down normally without being held. On the other hand, as described above, in this embodiment, when the game ball is held by the game ball holding mechanism, the other opening / closing accessory is brought into an open state, so that the player can play the game ball. Interest will be improved by paying close attention to whether or not is held. In addition, since this situation can be displayed on the display means, the fun of the game is further improved.

Further, the holding release mechanism may be provided on the downstream side of the general discharge path. That is, a discharge path switching that distributes game balls that have entered the opening and closing accessory into a game ball holding discharge path having the game ball holding mechanism and a general discharge path that bypasses the game ball holding mechanism in the discharge path A holding release that releases the holding of the game ball when another game ball enters the opening / closing accessory provided on the downstream side of the mechanism and the general discharge path and held by the game ball holding mechanism The effect display control means displays the operation of the holding release mechanism.
The holding release mechanism also has a mechanical configuration that operates by the kinetic energy flowing down of the game ball. For example, when the game ball holding mechanism is linked to the game ball via the linkage mechanism, the movement is transmitted through the transparent game board. It becomes more interesting by being visually recognized.

  By the way, the transparent game board is composed of a transparent member made of a synthetic resin such as a colorless transparent acrylic resin, polycarbonate resin, polyarylate resin, methacrylic resin or the like, and a glass plate disposed on the front side thereof. A game area in which game balls flow down is formed between the transparent protective plate. On the surface side of the transparent game board, obstacle nails for randomly changing the flow direction of the game ball flowing down, members rotating in a windmill to regulate the flow direction, and opening and closing operation to expand and contract the entrance There are provided a plurality of opening and closing objects provided with movable pieces. A game ball discharge path through which the game ball that has entered the entrance has passed is formed between the back of the transparent game board and the display means.

The display means includes a display device such as a liquid crystal panel, a CRT, a plasma display, and an EL, and is disposed behind the transparent game board at a predetermined interval at which the game ball discharge path can be provided. A still image or a moving image (including animation and live action) can be effect-displayed at a predetermined position in the effect displayable area. In addition, the variable display game described in the background art can be displayed.
The image displayed in the effect displayable area of the display means is visually recognized by the player through the transparent game board and the transparent protective plate arranged in front of the transparent game board. Note that the image in the effect displayable area stores necessary image data in a memory or the like of a control unit that controls the overall operation of the gaming machine, and a predetermined program is stored by a game program stored in the memory of the control unit. Image data is selected and displayed in a desired pattern. The display means may be composed of a plurality of liquid crystal panels.

  In the present embodiment, the opening / closing accessory is a mechanical type (referred to as a so-called “mechanical chew”) provided with a movable piece that is rotated left and right by a rotation mechanism provided therein when a game ball flowing down the game area enters. In addition, when a ball is entered, it is provided as appropriate at the start opening where the variable display game is executed, the general winning opening, or the like. For example, in this opening / closing accessory, when a game ball enters the entrance, a turning mechanism provided in the vicinity of the entrance turns and the movable piece moves in conjunction with the turning. A transition is made from the closed state to the open state.

  In addition, the game ball holding mechanism, for example, forms a game ball holding portion in the discharge path connected to the entrance of the opening / closing accessory, and the game ball holding portion moves to open and close the flow path of the game ball. In addition, a locking piece capable of temporarily holding the game ball is used by closing the flow path and preventing the game ball that has entered the ball from being discharged. Note that the number of game balls that can be held by the game ball holding unit is not limited to a single number, and a plurality of game balls can be held simultaneously. The holding release mechanism is for releasing the holding state of the game ball by driving the locking piece of the game ball holding mechanism, and a specific configuration of the holding release mechanism and a trigger for operating the holding release mechanism. Although it does not specifically limit as, it can be made to interlock | cooperate with the said opening-and-closing tool through an interlocking mechanism, for example.

  The detection means is provided in a game ball holding portion of the gaming machine holding mechanism or a passage therethrough, and is a mechanical contact type using a limit switch, or a light detection in which a light emitting diode or the like is used as a light source to detect this with a light receiving element. For example, a magnetic detection type that detects the magnetism of the movable piece can be applied.

  Further, the effect display control means has a function of effect-displaying the movement of the game ball holding mechanism on the display means at a position behind the game ball holding mechanism, and the game ball is held by the game ball holding means. The game ball holding mechanism in a state where the game ball is held by the detection signal from the detection means that has detected the game ball and the surrounding area of the game ball holding mechanism, that is, the members interlocked with the game ball holding mechanism, A predetermined effect display can be performed at. This effect display control means is responsible for its function by a control unit such as a computer that controls the overall operation of the gaming machine. Further, this effect display control means, for example, by disposing the above-mentioned detecting means on the plurality of opening / closing objects, highlights which opening / closing object has been operated by the effect and accurately notifies the player. You can also

In addition, the interlocking mechanism includes each opening / closing member arranged on the transparent game board, the rotating member connected to the opening / closing member, the game ball holding mechanism provided in the discharge path, or the holding Other interlocking members such as a release mechanism are mechanically connected to each other by a link having a fixed rotation axis, a rotation node, etc., and other actuators, etc., and are mechanically integrated by the kinetic energy of the game ball. The other opening / closing combination connected can be opened / closed by operating the opening / closing combination or the rotating member.
In addition, as a means for monitoring the operating state of such an interlocking mechanism, for example, a mechanical contact type using a limit switch, a light detection type in which a light emitting diode is used as a light source to detect this, a magnetic detection of a movable piece A monitoring sensor such as a magnetic detection type is provided, and a detection signal for detecting the operation of the interlocking mechanism is output from the monitoring sensor to the control unit. An effect image or the like can be displayed.

  The discharge path switching mechanism is a mechanism for distributing game balls that have entered the entrance of the opening / closing accessory to a predetermined discharge path. A game piece can be selectively introduced into a plurality of branch paths by arranging a movable piece and rotating the flow path switching movable piece. Further, the discharge path switching mechanism and a trigger member provided on the downstream side of the branch path, or other opening / closing member can be connected via an interlocking mechanism, and the trigger member or other opening / closing member can be connected. When the object is operated, the flow path switching movable piece can be configured to rotate in conjunction with each other.

  As described above, in the gaming machine according to the present embodiment, the game ball entered in the opening / closing role is temporarily held by the game ball holding mechanism in the discharge path provided on the back surface of the transparent game board. In addition, the game ball holding mechanism, the game ball held by the game ball, or other members interlocked with the game ball holding mechanism, and the mechanism and operation of the interlock mechanism for interlocking are displayed at the positions behind them. By displaying effects on the means, it is possible to visually highlight and display, and it is possible to dramatically increase the interest of the game and to increase the variety of effects in the game.

Hereinafter, a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described more specifically with reference to the drawings.
(Configuration of pachinko machines)
FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine that is a gaming machine according to the present embodiment, FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view around a transparent gaming board in the pachinko gaming machine, and FIGS. 3 to 8 are pachinko gaming machines. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an opening / closing accessory and a game ball holding mechanism provided on the transparent game board and an interlocking mechanism for interlocking them.
As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the pachinko gaming machine 10 includes an outer frame 11 for fixing the pachinko gaming machine 10 to a gaming machine installation base (game island) (not shown) provided in the game hall, A main body frame 12 disposed in the frame 11, a transparent game board 14 and other various parts (not shown) that are detachably attached to the main body frame 12, and one side pivoted to the main body frame 12 so as to be opened and closed. The front frame 16 and a liquid crystal display device as a display means that is positioned on the back side of the transparent game board 14 and is detachably attached to the back side of the main body frame 12 so as to be visible through the transparent game board 14 32. Further, a transparent protective plate 14a made of a glass plate or the like is provided on the front side of the transparent game board 14, and an effect displayable area A of the liquid crystal display device 32 is formed through the transparent protective plate 14a and the transparent game board 14. It is possible to see through. A game area where a game ball flows down is formed between the transparent protective plate 14a and the transparent game board 14.

  Speakers 46R and 46L are attached to the upper part of the main body frame 12, and a firing handle 26 is attached to the lower right side. Further, on the back side of the firing handle 26, a launching device 130 (see FIG. 10) having a bullet ball device made of a solenoid or the like is provided. Further, a touch sensor (not shown) is provided on the periphery of the launching handle 26. ) Is provided, and when the touch sensor is touched, it is detected that the firing handle 26 is gripped by the player. When the shooting handle 26 is gripped by the player and is rotated in the clockwise direction, electric power is supplied to the shooting device 130 according to the rotation angle, and the game balls are sequentially supplied to the transparent game board 14. Fired. Note that the touch sensor provided on the firing handle 26 may be any sensor that can determine that the player has gripped the firing handle 26. The type of sensor, such as an optical detection sensor or a thermal detection sensor, may be used. It doesn't matter.

  1 and 2, reference numeral 21 denotes a tray unit attached to the lower front portion of the main body frame 12. An upper tray 20 and a lower tray 22 are formed, and are arranged so as to be positioned below the front frame 16. ing. The game balls stored in the upper plate 20 are supplied to the launching device 130, and the game balls exceeding the capacity of the upper plate 20 are supplied to the lower plate 22. In FIG. 1, reference numeral 132 denotes various lamps used for effect display and notification. Reference numeral 150 denotes a card unit, which can receive a predetermined amount of game balls by inserting a predetermined card. In FIG. 2, 46 ′ is a cover for the speakers 46 </ b> R and 46 </ b> L, and is formed on the front frame 16.

  1 and 2, reference numerals 30a and 30b are guide rails provided on the transparent game board 14, and the inside surrounded by the guide rails 30a and 30b is a game ball movable area 15a in the game area. A game ball non-movable range 15b is set in the outer portion. The game ball launched by the operation of the launch handle 26 is guided by the guide rail 30a and flows down in the game ball movable range 15a. Further, a plurality of obstacle nails are driven on the transparent game board 14 so that the flow direction when the game ball flows down the game ball movable range 15a from the upper part to the lower part is changed in a complicated manner. Note that some or all of the additional components such as the obstacle nail are omitted in each drawing.

  In addition, the transparent game board 14 is won by a plurality of general winning holes 5 that are awarded when a game ball (not shown) enters, a starting hole 6 that triggers a variable display game to be described later, and a variable display game. The winning ball 8 that can be opened for a predetermined time in the jackpot game executed at the time of the game, and the game balls that have not entered the general winning port 5, the starting port 6, and the big winning port 8 are game ball non-movable ranges. An out port 7 for discharging to 15b is provided. 3 is a first game ball guiding member, and 4 is a second game ball guiding member, both of which are capable of guiding the game ball launched on the transparent game board 14 in a predetermined direction. Reference numeral 40 denotes a shutter that can be freely opened and closed at the grand prize winning opening 8. When a big hit gaming state is achieved in the variable display game, an open state in which a game ball is easily received is repeated a predetermined number of times (a predetermined number of rounds) under a predetermined condition.

Here, the configuration of the transparent game board 14 will be further described.
As shown in FIG. 1, a plurality of general winning holes 5 are provided in the game area of the transparent gaming board 14, and in this embodiment, the closed state in which it is difficult for game balls to enter the respective general winning holes 5. And an opening / closing accessory Y comprising a pair of left and right movable pieces 58 that move to an open state in which a game ball can easily enter.
Then, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, a game ball passage opening (not shown) is formed between the pair of left and right movable pieces 58, and a starting end portion of the game ball passage opening is defined as a ball entrance P. Further, a discharge path R is provided on the back surface of the transparent game board 14 so as to communicate with the game entrance P and to guide the game ball to flow down in communication with other winning ports. The transparent game board 14 is formed using a transparent member made of a synthetic resin such as a colorless and transparent acrylic resin, polycarbonate resin, polyarylate resin, or methacrylic resin so that the back can be seen from the front. Visible from the player.
Among the discharge paths R, in the present embodiment, those that communicate with the opening / closing accessory Y attached to the start port 6 are widened to form an enlarged portion R1 so that it is shaped like a stomach bag. A partition T is provided at the center of the enlarged portion R1 to form left and right branch paths that merge again on the downstream side.
This branch path is short-circuited with the game ball holding discharge path U (left branch path) provided with a game ball holding mechanism E for temporarily holding a game ball that has entered, and bypassing the game ball holding mechanism E. The general discharge path U ′ (right branch path) is made to pass, and the flow path of the game ball is switched by a discharge path switching mechanism V provided on the upstream side.

The game ball holding mechanism E includes a game ball locking piece W disposed in a game ball holding portion S formed in the middle of the game ball holding discharge path U so as to freely advance and retreat. Is formed by a locking portion W1 for locking the game ball that has entered the opening and closing accessory Y and has flowed down, and a connecting portion W2 connected to the other opening and closing accessory Yb and the discharge path switching mechanism V. It is formed in a substantially square shape and is provided so as to be rotatable around the pivotal support portion W3.
In the present embodiment, the game ball locking piece W, the other opening / closing accessory Yb, and the discharge path switching mechanism V are connected to the linkage mechanism F including the link rods K1 and K2 and the rotation shaft M thereof. And, in conjunction with the holding operation of the game ball by the game ball holding mechanism E, the other opening / closing tool Yb different from the opening / closing tool Y into which the game ball has entered is mechanically opened. I have to.

Further, the discharge path switching mechanism V has a structure in which a game ball collision piece V3 protrudes in the middle of a piece V2 that is swingable about a rotation pivot V1, and when the piece is swung left and right, the piece body Either the flow path switching unit V4 formed in the upper half of V2 or the game ball collision piece V3 enters the game ball holding unit S.
With this configuration, when a game ball enters the opening / closing accessory Y with the game ball collision piece V3 of the piece V2 entering the game ball holding portion S (see FIG. 3), the game ball is It collides with the game ball collision piece V3 of the body V2, and pushes it down to flow down. At this time, as shown in FIG. 4, the frame body V <b> 2 swings, and the flow path switching unit V <b> 4 formed in the upper half part enters the discharge path R to block the game ball holding / discharge path U. . At the same time, the interlocking mechanism F including the link mechanism is actuated to swing the game ball locking piece W so that the locking portion W1 enters the game ball holding portion S, and the game ball of the piece V2 The game ball that has flowed down by pushing the collision piece V3 is locked and held, and the movable piece 58 of the other opening / closing accessory Yb is opened. As described above, the operation of closing the flow path to the game ball holding portion S by the piece V2 and the operation of locking the game ball by the game ball locking piece W are synchronized with each other through the interlock mechanism F. I have to. Therefore, in the state where the game ball is held in this way, the flow path switching portion V4 of the frame V2 of the discharge path switching mechanism V advances into the game ball holding section S and the game ball holding discharge path U is blocked. Since the flow path to the general discharge path U ′ is in a selected state, when another game ball enters the opening / closing accessory Y next time, the other game ball flows to the flow path of the piece V2. It is guided by the switching unit V4 and flows down the general discharge path U ′ (see FIG. 4).

  In the present embodiment, when a game ball that has entered the opening / closing accessory Y is held by the game ball holding mechanism E and another game ball enters the other opening / closing accessory Yb, A holding release mechanism for releasing the holding of the game ball is provided. That is, as shown in FIG. 4, when another game ball enters the other opening / closing accessory Yb in the open state while the game ball is held, it is provided inside the opening / closing accessory Yb. The movable piece 58 is closed by the rotating mechanism, and the state shown in FIG. 3 is obtained. In association with this closing operation, the interlock mechanism F operates to swing the locking portion W1 of the gaming ball locking piece W downward, release the holding of the gaming ball, and flow down the gaming ball. Become. At the same time, the game ball collision piece V3 of the piece V2 of the discharge path switching mechanism V enters the game ball holding portion S, while the upper half retreats. That is, the state of FIG. 3 is restored. As described above, in the present embodiment, the game ball locking piece W itself becomes the game ball holding mechanism E, and the other opening / closing accessory Yb functions as a holding release mechanism as a trigger for releasing this holding function. become.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the game ball locking piece W and the frame body V2 are mechanically connected by the interlocking mechanism F including the link mechanism, and the interlocking mechanism F is used to interlock each other. It has become. By appropriately using such an interlocking mechanism F, the operation mode of mechanically interlocking the game ball holding mechanism E and other opening / closing accessory Yb etc. with the kinetic energy of the game ball is diversified, and the unexpectedness in the pachinko game is increased. Can be added.

5 to 8 are explanatory views showing modified examples of the holding release mechanism according to the present embodiment, in which a holding release lever Z constituting the holding release mechanism is disposed downstream of the general discharge path U ′. is doing.
The holding release lever Z is linked to the game ball holding mechanism E and the third opening / closing accessory Yc via a linkage mechanism F formed of a link mechanism. That is, one end of the connecting rod K3 is pivotally connected to a connecting shaft M1 that connects the game ball retaining piece W and the connecting rod K1 constituting a part of the game ball holding mechanism E, and the connecting rod K3 is connected. A base end of a holding release lever Z, which is pivotally attached to the pivot axis Z2, is connected to the other end of the shaft via a coupling shaft M2. And the front end Z1 which becomes a collision piece with the game ball of this holding release lever Z is erected in the discharge path R joined with the game ball holding discharge path U on the downstream side of the general discharge path U ′. Further, the holding release lever Z is interlocked and connected to the third opening / closing accessory Yc by a connecting rod K4 connected via the connecting shaft M2.

As shown in FIG. 5, the front end portion Z1 of the holding release lever Z is in a state in which a game ball collision piece V3 projecting from the piece V2 of the game ball holding mechanism E enters the game ball holding portion S. Is positioned so as not to disturb the flow of the game ball. In this state, when the game ball enters and flows down from the opening / closing accessory Y, collides with the game ball collision piece V3 of the piece V2 and pushes it down, the game ball is moved to the game as shown in FIG. It is held in the locking part W1 of the ball locking piece W, and the flow path switching part V4 of the piece V2 enters the discharge path R and closes the game ball holding discharge path U in the previous embodiment ( As in FIG. 4, the front end Z1 of the holding release lever Z swings upward so as to prevent the game ball from flowing down.
Then, as shown in FIG. 7, when another game ball enters the opening / closing accessory Y in this state, the game ball flows down the general discharge path U ′, and the front end portion Z1 of the holding release lever Z is reached. Clash with. Then, as shown in FIG. 8, the game ball further flows down while pushing down the holding release lever Z, but is connected via the interlocking mechanism F in conjunction with the movement of the holding release lever Z pushed down. The game ball locking piece W of the game ball holding mechanism E swings downward to release the game ball, and the game ball held previously flows down. At this time, the frame body V2 also swings and returns to the state shown in FIG. At the same time, in conjunction with the holding release lever Z, the third opening / closing accessory Yc opens to enter an open state.
As described above, in this embodiment, the holding release lever Z as a separate independent holding release mechanism is provided in the discharge path R communicating with the opening / closing accessory Y, so that the game ball entering the opening / closing accessory Y is When another game ball subsequently enters the opening / closing accessory Y while being held by the game ball holding mechanism E, the holding of the game ball can be released.

  In this embodiment, the opening / closing member Y, the other opening / closing member Yb, and the third opening / closing member Yc are also operated to open and close. That is, when a game ball enters the closed opening / closing accessory Y, the opening / closing accessory Y is opened, and the entered game ball is held in the middle of the discharge path R, and another opening / closing accessory Yb is opened. When a game ball subsequently enters the opening / closing combination Y, the opening / closing combination Y and the other opening / closing combination Yb are closed, and the third opening / closing combination Yc is opened. When a game ball enters one of the opening and closing objects in this way, other opening and closing objects are affected by this, so that the game is complicated and diversified, and it is possible to further inspire gaming.

  Further, the present embodiment is further characterized in that the game state related to the opening / closing accessory Y such as the game ball holding mechanism E and the state in which the game ball is held or released is held in the game. In the back of the ball holding mechanism E, the effect display is performed on the effect displayable area A of the liquid crystal display device 32 visible through the transparent game board 14. For this purpose, the interlocking mechanism monitoring sensor 115 (see FIG. 10) (not shown) is provided in the interlocking mechanism F and the other opening / closing accessory Yb, which is provided with detection means for detecting these operations. The detection signal from the sensor 115 is acquired by a control unit described later, and as will be described later, the display of the liquid crystal display device 32 includes the game ball held by the effect display control unit and the surrounding portion including the game ball holding mechanism E. The effect is displayed on the displayable area A. Accordingly, not only the movements of the game ball holding mechanism E and the interlocking mechanism F are visually recognized through the transparent game board 14, but these operations and the like are emphasized in the liquid crystal display device 32 disposed behind the transparent game board 14. Therefore, the player's interest can be finally attracted, and the player can have fun playing the game.

The liquid crystal display device 32 serving as a display means may be disposed so as to overlap all or part of the transparent game board 14 from the back side, but in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. It arrange | positions so that the substantially whole board 14 may overlap. In other words, the game ball movable area 15a and the game ball non-movable area 15b formed on the transparent game board 14 are disposed so as to overlap each other. In this way, the liquid crystal display device 32 is disposed so as to overlap substantially the entire transparent game board 14 and can be seen through from the transparent game board 14, so that the game ball movable range 15 a on the transparent game board 14 and the game can be viewed. Predetermined effect display can be performed using the substantially rectangular effect displayable area A including the sphere non-movable area 15b.
In other words, the opening / closing accessory Y (Yb, Yc), the game ball holding mechanism E, and the members behind them are connected through the effect display control means that functions by the control unit that controls the operation of the pachinko gaming machine 10. On the effect displayable area A, a predetermined effect display that emphasizes the interlocking state can be performed.

  FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing a state of effect display in the pachinko gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment. Here, the detection signal is acquired by the interlocking mechanism monitoring sensor 115 that senses the game ball entering the game ball holding unit S, and the effect display of the liquid crystal display device 32 is performed via the holding mechanism effect display control means of the control unit. The entire game ball holding mechanism E including the game ball holding unit S and the interlocking mechanism F holding the corresponding game ball in the possible area A, and the opening / closing accessory Y (Yb, Yc) arranged around the game ball holding mechanism E It shows a state in which an effect display is made to highlight the mechanism of the interlocking mechanism that mechanically operates by emitting and blinking the color effect image G. In FIG. 9, here, an example in which the above-described modification is adopted as the holding release mechanism, and an effect displayable area of the liquid crystal display device 32 that is visually recognized through the transparent game board 14 that is formed substantially of a transparent member. A part of A is schematically shown. Further, in order to display the effect, the interlocking mechanism monitoring sensor 115 is a mechanical sensor that detects the rotation operation of the frame V2 of the discharge path switching mechanism V.

Here, a state in which a state in which the game ball is actually held in the game ball holding unit S is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32 will be described.
On the transparent game board 14, when the game ball that has been launched enters the opening / closing member Y and pushes down the game ball collision piece V3 of the piece V2, the piece V2 rotates, which is referred to as the interlock mechanism. Detected by the monitoring sensor 115. The main control circuit 60 described later of the control unit that has received the detection signal outputs an effect display command to the sub control circuit 200 described later. In accordance with this command, the sub control circuit 200 reads predetermined image data from a predetermined effect image table to generate an effect image G, and displays it on the liquid crystal display device 32. That is, the surroundings of the interlocking mechanism F that interconnects the game ball holding part S and the opening / closing accessory Y (Yb, Yc) of the game ball holding mechanism E are made brighter than others or made to stand out with a predetermined coloring. The effect image G is displayed in the effectable area A. Therefore, the holding state of the dynamically produced game ball is effectively highlighted through the transparent game board 14. As the effect image G, various types of effect patterns are prepared, and various effect display can be performed by changing the contents to be displayed according to the game conditions and the like. Can be further enhanced. In the memory of the control unit, image data corresponding to the arrangement pattern of the game ball holding unit S, the opening / closing accessory Y, the holding release lever Z, etc. on the transparent game board 14 is stored in advance, and is stored at a predetermined location. Based on the signals from the interlocking mechanism monitoring sensors 115 provided respectively, it is possible to appropriately display the effect of not only the above-described holding state of the game ball but also the released state.

As described above, the pachinko gaming machine 10 is provided on the transparent gaming board 14 formed of a transparent member and the transparent gaming board 14 so that the gaming balls are difficult to enter and the gaming balls are easy to enter. A plurality of opening / closing members Y, Yb, Yc movable in the open state and a game ball that has entered the opening / closing member Y are temporarily placed in a discharge path R provided on the back side of the transparent gaming board 14. The game ball holding mechanism E to be held, the liquid crystal display device 32 disposed on the back side of the transparent game board 14 so as to be viewed through the transparent game board 14, and at least held by the game ball holding mechanism E The interlocking mechanism monitoring sensor 115 that can detect the game ball, and the fact that the gaming ball is held by the gaming ball holding mechanism E based on the detection signal from the interlocking mechanism monitoring sensor 115 of the liquid crystal display device 32. On the display area A Since the game machine is provided with an effect display control means for displaying and displaying, a game ball that has entered the opening and closing accessory Y while enjoying a pachinko game aiming to acquire a prize ball by winning a game ball and winning a prize as usual It becomes a novel pachinko gaming machine 10 that is temporarily held behind the transparent gaming board 14, and the holding state can be seen through the transparent gaming board 14, and behind the game ball holding mechanism E on the liquid crystal display device 32. Since the holding state of the game ball can be highlighted, a new interest of the game can be enhanced.
Furthermore, since various effect displays according to the game can be displayed at various locations on the transparent game board 14, the effect of the effect is remarkably enhanced.

Here, the variable display game will be briefly described. In the variable display game, when a game ball wins the start opening 6, whether or not to win is determined based on the winning, and an internal lottery is performed within the control unit. When a plurality of identification information including symbols and symbols are displayed in a variable manner and stopped, and the lottery result is won and the plurality of identification information is stopped and displayed in a predetermined specific award mode, for example, all the same symbols are used. When the stop display is made, the state shifts to a state advantageous to the player, which is called a “hit game state”. In this jackpot game state, as described above, a round game in which the shutter 40 of the big prize opening 8 is opened for a predetermined time can be performed a predetermined number of times.
Hereinafter, the control of the entire pachinko gaming machine 10 and its electrical configuration, including the effect display associated with the pachinko game such as the variable display game and the effect display of the holding state of the game ball, will be described focusing on the control unit.

(Electric configuration of pachinko machines)
FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a control circuit of the pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment. As shown in the figure, the main control circuit 60 responsible for the main control in advancing the pachinko game includes a main CPU 66, a main ROM (read only memory) 68, and a main RAM (read / write memory) 70.

  The main CPU 66 is connected to a main ROM 68, a main RAM 70, and the like, and has a function of executing various processes according to a program stored in the main ROM 68.

  In the main ROM 68, a game program for controlling the operation of the pachinko gaming machine 10 by the main CPU 66 is stored, and in addition, a jackpot determination table referred to when a jackpot determination is made by random lottery, Various tables such as an effect condition selection table that is referred to when selecting is stored.

  In the present embodiment, the main ROM 68 is used as a medium for storing programs, tables, and the like. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and any other storage medium can be used as long as it is a computer-readable storage medium. For example, it may be recorded on a storage medium such as a hard disk device, a CD-ROM, a DVD-ROM, or a ROM cartridge. Further, these programs may not be recorded in advance, but may be downloaded and recorded in the main RAM 70 after the power is turned on. Furthermore, each program may be recorded on a separate storage medium. In this embodiment, the main CPU 66, the main ROM 68, and the main RAM 70 are provided separately. However, a one-chip microcomputer in which these are integrated may be used.

  The main RAM 70 has a function of storing various flags and variable values as a temporary storage area of the main CPU 66. Specific examples of data stored in the main RAM 70 include, for example, a control state flag, a specific area passing flag, a high probability flag, a jackpot determination random number counter, a jackpot symbol determination random number counter, a missed symbol determination random number counter, and an effect condition. A random number counter for selection, a grand prize opening number counter, a big prize opening prize counter, a waiting time timer, a big prize opening time timer, a variable related to an output including data indicating the number of holdings in a variable display game or a normal symbol game, There are data, variables, and the like for supplying commands to the sub-control circuit 200 described later.

The control state flag indicates the control state of the variable display game. The specific area passing flag is for determining whether or not the game ball has passed the specific area. The high probability flag indicates whether or not to relatively increase the probability of shifting to the jackpot gaming state.
The jackpot determination random number counter is for determining the jackpot of the variable display game. The jackpot symbol determination random number counter is for determining the symbol as the identification information related to the jackpot to be stopped when the jackpot is determined in the variable display game. The off-set symbol determination random number counter is for determining identification information to be stopped and displayed when it is not a big hit. The effect condition selection random number counter is for determining a variation display pattern of the identification information. These counters are stored and updated so that the main CPU 66 sequentially increases “1”, and various functions of the main CPU 66 are executed by extracting random numbers from the counters at a predetermined timing.

  In the present embodiment, such a random number counter is provided, and the main CPU 66 stores and updates the random number counter so as to increase “1” according to a program. You may comprise so that an apparatus like a generator may be provided. Further, although it is out of place, a reach determination counter or the like may be provided for determining whether or not to reach (a state where it is a big hit depending on the stop display result of the last identification information that is changing).

  The big prize opening number counter indicates the number of times the big prize opening 8 is opened in the big hit gaming state, that is, the number of round games (so-called round number). The winning prize winning counter indicates the number of gaming balls won in the winning prize opening 8 during one round, and the number of gaming balls that have passed through the V count sensor 102 or the count sensor 104 in the winning prize opening 8. It shows with.

  The waiting time timer is for synchronizing processing executed in the main control circuit 60 and the sub control circuit 200. The big prize opening time timer is for measuring the time for driving the shutter 40 and opening the big prize opening 8. Note that the timer in the present embodiment is stored and updated in the main RAM 70 so as to be subtracted by the predetermined cycle at a predetermined cycle. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the CPU itself may include a timer. . The data indicating the number of holdings in the variable display game holds the fluctuation display when the game ball wins the starting port 6 but the fluctuation display of the identification information cannot be executed, but the fluctuation of the held identification information changes. Indicates the number of times.

  In the present embodiment, the main RAM 70 is used as a temporary storage area of the main CPU 66. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and any readable / writable storage medium may be used.

  The main control circuit 60 also has a command for a reset clock pulse generating circuit 62 that generates a clock pulse of a predetermined frequency, an initial reset circuit 64 that generates a reset signal when the power is turned on, and a sub-control circuit 200 described later. IC for serial communication 72 is provided. The reset clock pulse generation circuit 62, the initial reset circuit 64, and the serial communication IC 72 are connected to the main CPU 66.

  Note that the reset clock pulse generation circuit 62 performs a system timer interrupt process by interrupting the main process even if the main CPU 66 is performing the main process, every predetermined cycle (for example, 2 milliseconds). Generate clock pulses. The serial communication IC 72 corresponds to transmission means for transmitting various commands to the sub control circuit 200 (various means included in the sub control circuit 200).

  Further, various devices are connected to the main control circuit 60. For example, as shown in FIG. 10, a V count sensor 102, a count sensor 104, a general winning ball sensor 106, an interlocking mechanism monitoring sensor 115, a starting winning ball. A sensor 116, a special prize opening solenoid 120, a seesaw solenoid 122, and a backup clear switch 124 are connected.

  Here, the V count sensor 102 is provided in the V zone in the special winning opening 8, and it is a continuation condition of the round game that the game ball passes through the V zone. The V count sensor 102 supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when the game ball passes through the V zone at the special winning opening 8.

  The count sensor 104 is provided in a general pitch zone different from the V zone at the big prize opening 8, and this count sensor 104 is predetermined when a game ball passes through the general pitch zone at the big prize opening 8. The detection signal is supplied to the main control circuit 60.

  The general winning ball sensor 106 is provided in the general winning opening 5. The general winning ball sensor 106 supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when a game ball passes through each of the general winning ports 5.

  The interlocking mechanism monitoring sensor 115 is a magnetic sensor, an optical sensor, a mechanical sensor, or the like for detecting the operating state of the interlocking mechanism or the opening / closing member. In this embodiment, this mechanical sensor is used, A transition is detected, the transition is converted into an operation signal and transmitted to the main control circuit 60, and the effect image G is displayed on the effect displayable area A of the liquid crystal display device 32 via the sub control circuit 200. To display.

  The start winning ball sensor 116 is provided at the start port 6. The start winning ball sensor 116 supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when a game ball wins the start opening 6.

  The special prize opening solenoid 120 is connected to the shutter 40 that opens and closes the special prize opening 8, and the shutter 40 is driven in accordance with a drive signal supplied from the main CPU 66 to open or close the special prize opening 8. State.

  The seesaw solenoid 122 has a plate shape and is connected to a seesaw (not shown) provided inside the shutter 40. The seesaw solenoid 122 is displaced in accordance with a drive signal supplied from the main CPU 66 to change the inclination of the seesaw. . As a result of the seesaw being tilted, the game ball can be switched so as to easily pass through the V zone or to pass through the general entrance zone.

  The backup clear switch 124 is built in the pachinko gaming machine 10 and has a function of clearing backup data in the event of a power interruption or the like in accordance with the operation of the game hall manager. The main control circuit 60 is connected to a payout / launch control circuit 126. The payout / firing control circuit 126 is connected to a payout device 128 that pays out a game ball as a prize ball, a launch device 130 that fires a game ball, and a card unit 150.

  The payout / launch control circuit 126 receives a prize ball control command supplied from the main control circuit 60 and a lending ball control signal supplied from the card unit 150, and transmits a predetermined signal to the payout device 128. Then, the payout device 128 pays out the game ball. Further, the payout / launch control circuit 126 performs a control of launching a game ball by supplying a launch signal to the launch device 130. In addition, the launching device 130 is provided with a device for launching a game ball such as the launching solenoid (or launching motor) or the touch sensor described above.

  Further, the sub-control circuit 200 is connected to the serial communication IC 72. The sub-control circuit 200 performs display control in the liquid crystal display device 32, control related to sound generated from the speakers 46R and 46L, control of various lamps 132, and the like according to various commands supplied from the main control circuit 60. It also functions as a display area control means when displaying the above-described holding state of the game ball, opening / closing operation of the opening / closing accessory Y (Yb, Yc), driving operation of the interlocking mechanism F, etc. in the effect displayable area A To do. In the present embodiment, a command is supplied from the main control circuit 60 to the sub control circuit 200 and a signal cannot be supplied from the sub control circuit 200 to the main control circuit 60. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a configuration may be adopted in which a signal can be transmitted from the sub control circuit 200 to the main control circuit 60.

  The sub control circuit 200 includes a sub CPU 206, a program ROM 208 as a storage means, a work RAM 210, a display control circuit 250 for performing display control in the liquid crystal display device 32, and sound control for performing control related to sound generated from the speakers 46R and 46L. The circuit 230 and the lamp control circuit 240 that controls the various lamps 132 are configured, and an effect corresponding to the progress of the game is executed in accordance with a command from the main control circuit 60.

  The sub CPU 206 is connected to a program ROM 208, a work RAM 210, and the like, and the sub CPU 206 has a function of executing various processes in accordance with a program stored in the program ROM 208. In particular, the sub CPU 206 controls the sub control circuit 200 in accordance with various commands supplied from the main control circuit 60. In particular, the sub CPU 206 performs display control for the liquid crystal display device 32 and includes the effect display control means. It functions as various control means to be described later.

  In the program ROM 208, a program for controlling the game effect of the pachinko gaming machine 10 by the sub CPU 206 is stored, and various table data defining setting conditions for making a determination regarding the effect display are also stored.

  The program ROM 208 stores a plurality of types of effect patterns that define conditions related to the progress of effect display. The effect display by the sub-control circuit 200 controlled by this effect pattern is executed in accordance with the progress of the variable display game including the change display and stop display of the identification information.

  In the sub-control circuit 200 according to the present embodiment, the program ROM 208 is used as a storage unit that stores programs, tables, and the like. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a computer-readable storage medium including the control unit is used. As long as it is different, it may be recorded on a storage medium such as a hard disk device, a CD-ROM, a DVD-ROM, or a ROM cartridge. Of course, the main ROM 68 may be used as the storage means. Further, these programs may not be recorded in advance, but may be downloaded after the power is turned on and recorded in the work RAM 210 or the like. Furthermore, each program may be recorded on a separate storage medium.

  Furthermore, in this embodiment, the main control circuit 60 including the main CPU 66 and the main ROM 68 and the sub control circuit 200 including the sub CPU 206 and the program ROM 208 are separately configured. However, the main control circuit 60 including the main CPU 66 and the main ROM 68 is provided. In this case, the program stored in the program ROM 208 described above may be stored in the main ROM 68 and executed by the main CPU 66. Of course, it may be configured only by the sub control circuit 200 including the sub CPU 206 and the program ROM 208. In this case, the program stored in the main ROM 68 is stored in the program ROM 208 and executed by the sub CPU 206. You may comprise. The work RAM 210 has a function of storing various flags and variable values as a temporary storage area of the sub CPU 206. In the present embodiment, the work RAM 210 is used as a temporary storage area of the sub CPU 206. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and any readable / writable storage medium may be used.

  The display control circuit 250 includes an image data processor (hereinafter referred to as VDP) 212 as display control means, an image data ROM 216 for storing various image data, a D / A converter 218 for converting image data as an image signal, It comprises an initial reset circuit 220 that generates a reset signal when the power is turned on. The VDP 212 described above is connected to the sub CPU 206, the image data ROM 216 storing the image data, the D / A converter 218 that converts the image data into an image signal, and the initial reset circuit 220.

The VDP 212 includes a circuit such as a so-called sprite circuit, a screen circuit, and a pallet circuit, and can perform various processes for displaying an image on the liquid crystal display device 32. That is, the VDP 212 performs display control for the liquid crystal display device 32. Further, the VDP 212 includes a storage medium (for example, a video RAM) as a buffer for displaying an image in the effect displayable area A of the liquid crystal display device 32.
In the image data ROM 216, various types of image data such as identification information image data indicating identification information, background image data, effect image data such as the effect image G, and the like are separately stored. Of course, related image data indicating a related image is also stored.

  Further, the VDP 212 reads various image data such as identification information image data indicating identification information, background image data, effect image data, etc. from the image data ROM 216 in response to an image display command supplied from the sub CPU 206, and displays it on a liquid crystal display. Image data to be displayed on the device 32 is generated. In particular, in the present embodiment, for example, image data indicating a state in which a game ball is held by the game ball holding mechanism E, image data indicating opening / closing of the opening / closing accessory Y (Yb, Yc), and an image indicating the operation of the interlock mechanism F The data and the like are provided with a setting table that is associated with the detection signal from the interlocking mechanism monitoring sensor 115 in a one-to-one relationship with a code indicating the display area. An effect image G or the like is displayed at a predetermined position in accordance with an image display command supplied from the sub CPU 206 while referring to the effect.

  Further, the VDP 212 superimposes the generated image data in order from the image data located at the rear, stores it in the buffer, and supplies it to the D / A converter 218 at a predetermined timing. The D / A converter 218 converts the image data as an image signal, and supplies the image signal to the liquid crystal display device 32, thereby displaying an image on each display area of the liquid crystal display device 32.

  The audio control circuit 230 includes a sound source IC 232 that controls audio, an audio data ROM 234 that stores various audio data, and an amplifier 236 (hereinafter referred to as AMP) for amplifying audio signals. The sound source IC 232 is connected to the sub CPU 206, the initial reset circuit 220, the audio data ROM 234, and the AMP 236. The sound source IC 232 controls sound generated from the speakers 46R and 46L.

  The sub CPU 206 selects an effect pattern and selects one piece of audio data from a plurality of pieces of audio data stored in the audio data ROM 234. Thereafter, the sub CPU 206 reads the selected audio data from the audio data ROM 234 and supplies it to the sound source IC 232. The sound source IC 232 that has received the sound data converts the sound data into a predetermined sound signal and supplies the sound signal to the AMP 236. The AMP 236 amplifies the sound signal and generates sound from the speakers 46R and 46L. The lamp control circuit 240 includes a drive circuit 242 for supplying a lamp control signal and a decoration data ROM 244 in which a plurality of types of lamp decoration patterns are stored.

(Description of holding mechanism effect display control routine)
The pachinko gaming machine 10 configured as described above is entirely managed and driven by a game program stored in the main ROM 68 of the main control circuit 60 that controls the liquid crystal display device 32, the payout device 128, and the like. Then, referring to the flowchart shown in FIG. 11, a holding mechanism effect display control routine that emphasizes the movement of the game ball holding mechanism E that is called from the game program and executed by the sub-control circuit 200 (see FIG. 9). However, it will be described below.

  In the holding mechanism effect display control routine, the game ball that has entered the opening / closing accessory Y is detected by the interlocking mechanism monitoring sensor 115 and is held to the game ball holding unit S disposed on the back side of the transparent gaming board 14. The movement of the game ball holding mechanism E and other members (the other opening / closing member Yb, the third opening / closing member Yc, the discharge path switching mechanism V, etc.) linked to this state is displayed on the liquid crystal display at the back position. This is a routine of image processing for effect display on the effect displayable area A of the device 32.

  That is, the movement of the interlocking mechanism F that interconnects the opening / closing accessory Y (Yb, Yc) and the like is detected by the interlocking mechanism monitoring sensor 115 and is displayed on the effect displayable area A of the liquid crystal display device 32 in FIG. As shown, an effect image G is displayed, and this is visually recognized by the player through the transparent game board 14 so that the movement of the game ball holding portion S is effectively displayed. The program of the holding mechanism effect display control routine is stored in the program ROM 208 of the sub-control circuit 200, and the data portion of the display pattern such as the display position on the effect displayable area A is rewritten as necessary. Can be executed.

  As shown in FIG. 11, in the first step S1 in the holding mechanism effect display control routine, a sensor signal is acquired from the interlocking mechanism monitoring sensor 115 provided in the game ball holding part S of the transparent gaming board 14 of the pachinko gaming machine 10. Determine whether or not. When the sensor signal is acquired, it is determined that the holding state is obtained, and the process proceeds to step S2, and when the signal is not acquired, the process proceeds to step S3 and the normal effect display process is executed. In step S2 corresponding to the holding state of the game ball, it is determined on the basis of the setting table which area in the display area A can be displayed including the opening / closing combination corresponding to the sensor signal, and the display can be performed. On the area A, a display area for displaying an emphasized image and an effect pattern are set.

  In the next step S4 following step S2, a display area effect process is performed in which an effect image G (see FIG. 9) such as a predetermined still effect image or a moving image is displayed in the set display area and emphasized. Thereafter, the process returns to the main program routine. In step S3 following step S1, a normal effect display process corresponding to the progress of the game is performed.

As shown in FIG. 9, the highlighting in the present embodiment is such that the peripheral portion of the interlocking mechanism F that connects the game ball holding portion S and the opening / closing accessory Y, Yb, Yc of the game ball holding mechanism E to each other in a light emitting state. The effect image G is conspicuous.
In this way, the effect image G that emphasizes the game ball held in the game ball holding unit S in accordance with the holding state is displayed on the display means, or the game ball holding mechanism E and the opening / closing accessories Y, Yb, Yc are By visually appealing the state of operating in conjunction with each other, it is possible to provide new fun of the game.

  The pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment is configured as described above, and a game ball holding portion in the discharge path R provided on the back surface of the transparent game board 14 for the game ball entered in the opening / closing accessory Y. S is temporarily held in S, and the mechanism and operation of the game ball holding mechanism E and the interlocking mechanism F are visually highlighted on the effect displayable area A of the liquid crystal display device 32 in the rear position, It is possible to dramatically increase the interest of the game and to increase the variety of effects in the game.

  The above-described embodiments of the present invention are merely specific examples, and the present invention is not limited thereto. That is, a specific configuration such as the transparent gaming board 14 and the liquid crystal display device 32 and an image including an identification symbol can be appropriately changed according to the form of the game machine to be applied. For example, in the present embodiment, the opening / closing accessory Y (Yb, Yc) arranged on the transparent game board 14 is a series connected by a link mechanism, but a plurality of series may be used. Further, the specific form and arrangement of the interlocking mechanism F and the opening / closing accessory Y (Yb, Yc), the production pattern at the time of operation of the opening / closing accessory Y (Yb, Yc) are not particularly limited, The pattern can be appropriately changed to a different pattern.

It is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine which is an example of the gaming machine concerning this embodiment. It is a disassembled perspective view around the game board in the pachinko gaming machine. It is a mimetic diagram showing composition of a transparent game board provided with a game ball maintenance mechanism etc. It is a mimetic diagram showing composition of a transparent game board provided with a game ball maintenance mechanism etc. It is a schematic diagram which shows the modification of a holding | maintenance cancellation | release mechanism. It is a schematic diagram which shows the modification of a holding | maintenance cancellation | release mechanism. It is a schematic diagram which shows the modification of a holding | maintenance cancellation | release mechanism. It is a schematic diagram which shows the modification of a holding | maintenance cancellation | release mechanism. It is a schematic diagram which shows the state of the effect display in the same pachinko gaming machine. It is a block diagram which shows the electric constitution of the pachinko gaming machine. It is a flowchart of a holding mechanism effect display control routine of the pachinko gaming machine.

Explanation of symbols

10 Pachinko machines 14 Transparent game board 32 Liquid crystal display device (display means)
115 Interlocking mechanism monitoring sensor A Effect displayable area E Game ball holding mechanism G Effect image Y, Yb, Yc Opening and closing member

Claims (5)

A transparent game board that allows the launched game ball to flow down from the upper side to the lower side, part or all of which is formed of a transparent member, and the back can be seen through,
A plurality of opening and closing objects provided on the transparent game board and movable between a closed state in which game balls are difficult to enter and an open state in which game balls are easy to enter;
A game ball holding mechanism for temporarily holding a game ball entered in the opening and closing accessory in a discharge path provided on the back side of the transparent game board;
Display means disposed on the back side of the transparent gaming board so as to be visually recognized through the transparent gaming board, and forming an effect displayable area at least behind the gaming ball holding mechanism;
Detecting means for detecting a game ball held by the game ball holding mechanism;
Based on a detection signal from the detection means, effect display control means for effect-displaying on the effect displayable area of the display means that the game ball is held by the game ball holding mechanism;
A gaming machine comprising:   In conjunction with the operation of holding the game ball by the game ball holding mechanism, the effect display is provided with an interlocking mechanism that mechanically opens and closes another opening / closing tool different from the opening / closing tool into which the game ball has entered. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the control means displays the opening operation of the interlocking mechanism and the other opening / closing accessory.   A holding release mechanism for releasing the holding of the game ball when another game ball enters the opening / closing tool while the game ball held in the opening / closing tool is held by the game ball holding mechanism; The game machine according to claim 1, wherein the effect display control means provides an effect display of the operation of the holding release mechanism.   Discharging the game balls that have entered the entrance of the opening / closing accessory into a discharge path that holds the game ball holding mechanism and a general discharge path that bypasses the game ball holding mechanism in the discharge path The game machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a path switching mechanism. A discharge path switching mechanism that distributes game balls that have entered the opening and closing accessory into a game ball holding discharge path having the game ball holding mechanism and a general discharge path that bypasses the game ball holding mechanism in the discharge path; A holding release mechanism that is provided on the downstream side of the general discharge path and releases the holding of the game ball when another game ball enters the opening / closing accessory while being held by the game ball holding mechanism. With
The gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the effect display control means provides an effect display of the operation of the holding release mechanism.

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