JP2006141749A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of preventing fraudulent setting change. <P>SOLUTION: Inside a case body, an indication display device 66 for visually reporting the operation timing of an input operation unit for setting change by displaying prescribed display at a display part is provided. In the case that the operation timing of one of the input operation units or the plurality of input operation units matches with an indication displayed by the indication display device 66, a processing relating to the setting change is performed on the basis of the operation input of the input operation unit. In the case that the operation timing of the input operation unit does not match with the indication displayed by the indication display device, the operation input is invalidated. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a game in which game specifications can be set in a plurality of stages by a setting change device.

Conventionally, in a gaming machine such as a slot machine, when changing the setting of a game, that is, when adjusting the number of medals that the slot machine can pay out by changing the probability of winning in the winning lottery Was operated by operating a setting change device provided in the housing.
The settings are classified into, for example, a setting value 1 to a setting value 6, and the probability of winning the winning combination (winning probability) varies depending on the difference of the setting values. For example, the setting value 6 is formed to have a higher probability of being “around” than the setting value 1.

Here, an example of an operation when changing the setting will be described with reference to FIG. 2, taking a slot machine as an example of a conventional gaming machine. Note that FIG. 2 is a front view of the power supply unit according to the embodiment of the present invention, but only portions common to the conventional slot machine are used for description.
The operation for changing the setting in the conventional slot machine is performed using the power switch 63, the setting key switch 62, the setting change switch 61 shown in FIG. 2, and the start switch of the slot machine (not shown).
The power switch 63 is for turning on and off the main power of the slot machine. The setting key switch 62 is for switching the slot machine to the setting change mode. The setting key switch 62 has a keyhole, and a predetermined key is inserted and turned to turn the switch on and off. The setting change switch 61 is for determining a set value of a game, and is formed so that the set value can be changed every time it is pressed. Specifically, when the slot machine is in the setting change mode, the set value is displayed on the display unit for displaying the number of payouts during the game. When the setting change switch 61 is pressed, numbers indicating the set values are sequentially incremented and displayed.

The start switch functions as an operation switch for starting the rotation of the rotating reel during the game, but in the setting change mode state, the setting value displayed on the display unit by operating the setting change switch 61 is changed to the slot machine. It functions as a means for confirming the setting.
The setting change operation is performed according to the following procedure.
First, the power switch 63 is turned off, a predetermined key is inserted into the setting key switch 62, and the switch is turned on. Thereafter, the power switch 63 is turned on. By the operations so far, the control of the slot machine is switched from the game mode to the setting change mode. Next, the setting change switch 61 is pressed to display a desired setting value on the display unit. When the desired setting value is displayed, press the start switch once. By this operation, the displayed setting value is confirmed as the setting of the slot machine. Thereafter, the setting key switch 62 is turned OFF, the key is removed, and the slot machine is returned to the game mode. In this way, the setting change work is completed.

This setting change operation is usually performed by the game hall manager before opening the store, after closing the store, etc., but during the game, the front door of the gaming machine is slightly opened and an illegal device such as a wire is inserted. Then, a so-called fraudulent action called a setting change goto is known in which the switch of the setting change device is operated to increase the winning probability illegally. In order to prevent such an illegal act, as shown in Patent Document 1, an invention has been made in which a setting change device is provided in a place where it is difficult for a player to touch.
JP 2003-339938 A

However, if the front door of the gaming machine can be opened, it is possible to touch the switch, and the conventional method of changing the setting by a simple switch operation effectively prevents the above-described fraud. Is not enough.
Therefore, in the present invention, the setting switch cannot be changed unless the operation switch for changing the setting is operated at a predetermined operation timing, and the display instructing the operation timing cannot be visually recognized unless the front door of the gaming machine is opened. Thus, an object is to provide a gaming machine that can prevent unauthorized setting changes.

The features of the present invention will be described below using the embodiment of the invention shown in the drawings.
In addition, the code | symbol in parenthesis shows the code | symbol used in embodiment of invention, and does not limit the technical scope of this invention.
(Feature point)
(Claim 1)
The invention described in claim 1 is characterized by the following points.
That is, the invention according to claim 1 controls the gaming machine (1), the front door (3) that opens to the front side, the front door (3) that can close and open the front opening of the housing (1). The present invention relates to a gaming machine having at least a control device (20) for performing and an input operation device operated to change game settings.

The present invention is suitable for a gaming machine such as a slot machine.
The casing (1) is a box-shaped casing that opens to the front side, and at least the control device (20) is accommodated therein. In addition to the above, the gaming machine may have a symbol display means such as a rotating reel having a plurality of symbols displayed on the surface, and a payout device for paying out game media such as medals.
The front door (3) is attached so as to be able to open and close the opening (11) of the housing (1) via a hinge, and is formed to be above the front structure of the gaming machine when the door is closed. It is what. The front door (3) may be divided into an upper door (30) that closes the upper opening (13) of the housing (1) and a lower door (40) that closes the lower opening (14).

The control device (20) is a so-called control board on which various electronic components are mounted, a game control device (20A) for performing control related to the game, and an effect control device (20B) for performing an effect associated with the game. including.
The input operation device is a device for making an external input necessary for the control device to change the setting of the gaming machine, and can be a plurality of operation switches. The setting change device (60) can be configured by including this input operation device and other devices necessary for performing the setting change operation.
Here, the setting of the game will be described by taking the slot machine as an example. The setting is ranked from the setting value 1 to the setting value 6, and the probability that the winning combination is won by the difference in the setting value (winning probability) ) Are different. For example, the setting value 6 is formed to have a higher probability of being “around” than the setting value 1. If the winning probability is high, the chances of winning are naturally increased. Therefore, adjusting the set value changes the amount of the relative payout medal of the gaming machine.

  In the present invention, as the input operation device, a setting change permission input device (setting key switch (62)) for enabling the setting change, and a setting change input device for changing the setting after the setting change is permitted (Setting change switch (61)), setting change confirmation input device (start switch (47)) for confirming the setting value input by the setting change input device, the setting change processing is terminated, and the gaming machine is in a state that can be played. And a game start permission input device (setting key switch (62)) for visualizing the operation timing of the input operation device by displaying a predetermined display on the display unit in the housing (1). An instruction display device (66) for notification is provided. The control device (20) includes a setting change means (110) for changing a game setting based on an input of the input operation device, and an instruction for controlling the operation of the instruction display device (66). Display control means (100).

Then, the setting changing means (110), when the operation timing of any one or a plurality of input operation devices among the input operation devices matches the instruction displayed by the instruction display device (66), Performs processing related to setting change based on the operation input of the input operation device, and invalidates the operation input when the operation timing of the input operation device does not match the instruction displayed by the instruction display device (66) It is formed so that it may do.
Here, each of the input operation devices may be provided with a switch for each step of setting change (setting change permission, setting change, setting confirmation, game start permission) for each step. There may be provided a single switch capable of handling the above. Or you may form so that it may take charge of one step with the combination of several switch operation. Furthermore, the “input operation device” may include a device that performs other functions than when changing the setting (for example, a start switch (47) for starting the rotation of the rotating reel (23) during the game). Absent. In other words, not all “input operation devices” may be installed inside the housing (1).

  On the other hand, the instruction display device (66) is provided inside the housing (1). The instruction display device (66) has a “display unit” for displaying a predetermined instruction that can be used to notify the operation timing of the input operation device. This instruction display is visual. Accordingly, the “display unit” can recognize the display by visual recognition, such as a timing lamp (64) and a rotating cylinder display device (68). The “indication display” displayed by the “display unit” may indicate that the switch is pressed by the lighting or flashing pattern of the lamp, or the rotating body is rotated to display the ON / OFF characters of the switch. Can be mentioned. The content of “instruction display” may be fixedly set in advance, or may be determined every time the setting is changed by lottery or the like. The display control of these display units is performed by the instruction display control means (100).

Note that “processing related to setting change” specifically includes setting change permission processing by a setting change permission input device, setting change processing by a setting change input device, setting change confirmation processing by a setting change confirmation input device, and game start permission. A game start permission process by the input device is included.
(Function)
In the present invention, when changing the setting of the gaming machine, first, the setting change permission input device is operated to set the gaming machine to the setting change mode, and the setting change input device is operated to change the setting value. Then, the setting change confirmation input device is operated to confirm the changed setting value, and finally the game start permission input device is operated to return the gaming machine to the game mode. These operations are not treated as valid operations unless they are performed in accordance with the instructions displayed on the display unit by the instruction display device (66). For example, if the switch is set to be valid when the switch is operated while the timing lamp (64) is lit, even if the switch is operated when the lamp is extinguished, the operation is treated as if there was no change and the setting change I can't do it.

The input operation according to the instruction may be applied to all the steps of the setting change permission, the setting change, the setting confirmation, and the game start permission, or may be applied in any one or more of the above steps. It is good also as a thing.
According to the present invention, if the input operation device is not operated while looking at the display of the instruction display device (66) installed inside the housing (1), the operation is not treated as being effective. Therefore, it is necessary to open the front door (3), and it is possible to prevent an illegal act of slightly opening the front door (3) and operating the setting change switch.
(Claim 2)
The invention described in claim 2 is characterized by the following points in addition to the features of the invention described in claim 1 described above.

That is, according to the second aspect of the present invention, the instruction display control means (100) determines, by lottery, one mode to be executed from among a plurality of notification modes related to the operation timing of the input operation device. Features.
Here, the “notification mode related to the operation timing” refers to an instruction display pattern. When a lamp is taken as an example, for example, lighting or blinking time of a lamp, lighting order of a plurality of lamps, and the like are included. The “plurality of notification modes” means that there are a plurality of patterns having different times and orders with respect to the blinking time and lighting order of the lamps described above.
The lottery may be triggered every time the setting is changed (for example, every time when the operation of the setting change permission input device is validated), or may be done every time the display pattern is finished once.

According to the present invention, since the mode of indication display changes randomly, it is necessary to visually check the indication display device (66), and it is possible to prevent an act of illegally changing settings by learning the indication display pattern. it can.
(Claim 3)
The invention described in claim 3 is characterized by the following points in addition to the characteristics of the invention described in claim 1 or 2.
That is, the invention according to claim 3 is characterized in that the display portion of the instruction display device (66) is provided in a place where the display is visible when the front door (3) is substantially fully opened. .

Here, “substantially fully open” includes an open state up to about 80% of the state where the front door (3) is opened to the limit.
The present invention provides a display device (66 ) Display part, for example, a cover (65) covering the `` display part '' is provided, and the cover (65) seems to be formed so that it does not open unless the front door (3) is fully opened. It also includes anything.
According to the present invention, unless the front door (3) is largely opened, the indication display device (66) cannot be displayed and correct operation input cannot be performed. I can do it.

(Claim 4)
The invention described in claim 4 is characterized by the following points in addition to the features of the invention described in any one of claims 1 to 3.
That is, the invention according to claim 4 includes a cover (65) capable of exposing or concealing the display unit by opening and closing, and an opening / closing of the cover for detecting opening and closing of the cover (65). A detection device (69) is provided, and the instruction display device (66) displays the display section when the cover open / close detection device (69) detects the cover opening.
In the present invention, unless the cover (65) is opened, the cover opening / closing detection device (69) does not detect that the cover (65) is opened, and therefore, the instruction display is not performed. As a result, the input operation device It is formed so that the operation for changing the setting cannot be performed. Depending on the position at which the cover open / close detection device (69) is provided, it is possible to prevent the indication from being displayed only by slightly opening the cover (65).

  The cover (65) only needs to be formed so that the “display unit” can be visually recognized from the front side when opened and can be concealed when closed. For example, it may be a plate-like lid that is rotatable along a vertical rotation axis provided in the vicinity of the “display unit”.

  In the present invention, if the operation switch for changing the setting is not operated at a predetermined operation timing, the setting cannot be changed, and the display indicating the operation timing is not visible unless the front door of the gaming machine is opened. It is possible to prevent an unauthorized setting change by slightly opening the front door.

A preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings, taking a slot machine as an example of a gaming machine.
(Explanation of drawings)
1 to 9 show an embodiment of the present invention.
1 is an exploded perspective view showing the slot machine S, FIG. 2 is a front view and a plan view of the setting change device, FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing an instruction display device, and FIG. 4 is a schematic view of input and output of the slot machine control device. FIG. 5 to FIG. 9 are block diagrams showing setting change control.
As shown in FIG. 1, the slot machine S according to the present embodiment is roughly divided into a casing 1 having an opening 11 on the front side, an exchange unit 2 detachably provided inside the casing 1, and a casing unit. The front door 3 is configured to open and close one opening 11 so that the opening 11 can be opened and closed. The front door 3 further includes an upper door 30 that can open and close the upper opening 13 of the housing 1 and a lower opening of the housing unit 1. The upper door 30 is configured to be able to open and close 14.

(Case 1)
The housing 1 is a box that opens to the front side consisting of a bottom plate 15, a side plate 16, a top plate, and a back plate. Is provided. The power supply unit 4 and the hopper unit 5 are placed on the bottom plate 15. Further, a hinge for engaging the lower door 40 and rotatably supporting it is provided on the left side of the front side of the side plate 16.
Here, the power supply unit 4 includes a power supply device (not shown), and has a store operation unit 200 including a power switch 63 for turning on the main power of the slot machine S on the front side. . The store operation unit 200 functions as a setting change device 60 for changing the setting of the slot machine S, which will be described later. The power supply unit 4 and the hopper unit 5 are not necessarily replaced when the replacement unit 2 is replaced, and can be left installed in the housing 1 at the time of replacement.

(Exchange unit 2)
The replacement unit 2 includes a support body 21 for installing or fixing various components, and a reel unit 22 and a substrate unit 24 fixed to the support body 21. Further, the front vertical frame of the support 21 is provided with a hinge for engaging the upper door 30 and rotatably supporting it.
Here, the reel unit 22 has a plurality of rotating reels 23 having a plurality of symbols displayed around them, and a drive motor for rotating the rotating reels 23, although not particularly shown. Further, although not particularly shown, the board unit 24 has an electronic board inside a board case, and functions as a control device 20 for controlling the game and effects of the slot machine S.

The replacement unit 2 is placed on the middle plate 12 of the housing 1 and stored in the upper portion 13 of the opening. Then, it is fixed to the housing unit 1 by the fixing device 10.
(Upper door 30)
The upper door 30 is a plate-like door formed to be rotatable and lockable on the support 21 of the replacement unit 2, and a symbol display that allows the symbol of the rotating reel 23 to be seen from the front side at a substantially central portion. A lamp 33 is provided around the symbol display window 31 for notification and the like. Below the symbol display window 31, there is provided a numerical value display section 32 for displaying numbers relating to games and the like using a 7-segment display or a liquid crystal display device. Further, above the symbol display window 31, there is provided an image display unit 34 for performing an effect accompanying the game using a liquid crystal display device, a CRT, a dot matrix or the like.

Although not particularly illustrated, the upper door 30 is provided with two upper door engaging portions that are engageable with hinges provided on the support body 21 at intervals in the vertical direction on the back surface of the upper door 30. A lock mechanism is provided on the opposite side of the door engaging portion. The upper opening 13 of the housing 1 can be sealed by closing and locking the upper door 30 with the replacement unit 2 housed and fixed in the housing 1.
The upper door 30 may be formed so as to be attached to the side plate 16 of the housing 1.
(Lower door 40)
The lower door 40 is a door wider than the upper door 30 for closing the opening lower portion 14 of the housing 1, and is formed on the side plate 16 of the housing 1 so as to be rotatable and lockable.

The upper part of the lower door 40 is an operation part for operating the slot machine, and the upper surface of the lower door 40 protrudes forward of the upper door 30 when the door is closed.
Here, as the operation unit, as shown in FIG. 1, a medal insertion slot 42 for inserting a game medal, and an insertion switch 41 for detecting the inserted game medal built below the medal insertion slot 42. , A bet switch 45 for reducing the number of stored medals to replace the medal insertion, a settlement switch 46 for paying out the stored inserted medals, a start switch 47 for starting rotation of the rotary reel 23, and rotation of the rotary reel 23. A stop switch 48 for stopping is provided.

In addition, a medal tray 43 for storing the paid-out medals is formed at the lower part of the lower door 40. Between the operation unit and the medal tray 43, game contents and other indications are displayed. The display panel is attached. A keyhole 44 is provided at the upper right end of the lower door 40. The key hole 44 is for unlocking the front door 3, and when the predetermined key is inserted into this hole and turned, the lower door 40 is unlocked. Then, the lower door 40 is unlocked, so that the upper door 30 is also releasable.
Further, although not particularly shown, a medal selector is provided on the back side of the lower door 40 for determining whether the medal is correct or not while guiding the medal inserted from the medal insertion slot 42. Speakers 49 for outputting various sounds are provided on the left and right sides of the lower part of the back surface of the lower door 40. Although not shown in particular, the lower door 40 has two lower door engaging portions that can be engaged with the hinges provided in the housing 1 at intervals in the vertical direction. A locking mechanism is provided on the opposite side of the engaging portion.

(Setting change device 60)
The setting change device 60 is a means related to an operation when changing the setting of the slot machine S. In the present embodiment, the operation of each operation means is formed so as not to be handled as an effective operation unless it is performed according to the display of the instruction display device 66 that notifies the operation timing.
Here, the setting of the slot machine S is ranked from the setting value 1 to the setting value 6, and the probability of winning the winning combination (winning probability) differs depending on the difference of the setting value. For example, the setting value 6 is formed to have a higher probability of being “around” than the setting value 1. Specifically, if the winning probability is high, the possibility of winning is naturally increased. Therefore, by adjusting the set value, the amount of the relative payout medal of the gaming machine changes.

As shown in FIG. 2B, the setting change device 60 is an operation switch and a display unit that are input operation devices provided in the store operation unit 200 of the power supply unit 4 and has the following configuration.
(1) Setting change switch 61
(2) Setting key switch 62
(3) Power switch 63
(4) Setting change confirmation switch (start switch 47)
(5) Instruction display device 66
(Setting change switch 61)
The setting change switch 61 is a setting change input device and is a switch for changing the setting of the slot machine. Specifically, it is a push button type switch, and is configured such that the set value is changed each time the switch is pressed. Although the changed set value can be displayed on the numeric display unit 32 of the upper door 30, another display unit may be provided in the vicinity of the setting change switch 61. Alternatively, the setting change switch 61 may be formed as a dial-type or slide-type switch, and the setting may be changed to the numerical value by aligning the knob with the scale on which the setting value is displayed.

(Setting key switch 62)
The setting key switch 62 is a switch for enabling the setting change by the setting change switch 61, and can be turned on and off by inserting a key into the keyhole and rotating it. If the setting key switch 62 is not ON, the setting change by the setting change switch 61 cannot be performed.
Specifically, when the setting key switch 62 is turned ON, the slot machine S is switched from the game mode to the setting change mode, and the setting value is displayed on the numeric display unit 32 by the operation of the setting change switch 61 when the power switch 63 is subsequently turned ON. Is displayed, or the setting change switch 61 is physically operable. That is, the setting key switch 62 functions as a setting change permission input device.

Further, after the setting change is confirmed, the setting key switch 62 is turned OFF to switch the slot machine S from the setting change mode to the game mode. That is, the setting key switch 62 also functions as a game start permission input device.
(Power switch 63)
The power switch 63 is for turning on the main power of the slot machine S, but also functions as a setting change permission input device when the setting is changed. Specifically, after the power switch 63 is turned off, the setting key switch 62 is turned on, and then the power switch 63 is turned on so that the setting change operation can be performed.

(Setting change confirmation switch)
Here, in the present embodiment, the setting change confirmation switch as the setting change confirmation input device for confirming the setting value changed by the setting change switch 61 as the setting of the slot machine S is also used as the start switch 47. ing. That is, when the slot machine S is in the setting change mode, the setting change is confirmed by operating the start switch 47 after the setting change switch 61 is operated.
The store operation unit 200 may be provided with a dedicated switch as a setting change confirmation switch.

(Instruction display device 66)
The instruction display device 66 is for displaying and notifying the operation timing of the setting change switch 61, the setting key switch 62, and the start switch 47 as the setting change confirmation input device on a display unit.
Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2B, the instruction display device 66 includes a timing lamp 64 as a display unit, and a cover 65 that can cover the timing lamp 64 is provided.
The timing lamp 64 includes three lamps arranged vertically, and a small lamp 64A, a medium lamp 64B, and a large lamp 64C are provided in order from the bottom. This timing lamp 64 is formed so as to repeat blinking at a predetermined interval by opening the cover 65.If the person who changes the setting does not perform the switch operation in accordance with the blinking timing, it is treated as an error. Become. The blinking control of the timing lamp 64 is performed by the instruction display control means 100 described later, which will be described later. Note that a single timing lamp 64 may be provided as shown in FIG.

  The cover 65 is a shielding member attached to the outer box of the power supply unit 4 so as to be rotatable in a horizontal direction around a rotation shaft 67 provided on the side of the timing lamp 64, and the timing lamp 64 is viewed from the front side. The front plate 65a can be covered, a fan-shaped upper cover plate 64b formed at the upper end of the front plate 65a, and a fan-shaped lower cover plate 64c formed at the lower end of the front plate 65a. When the front plate 65a covers the timing lamp 64 from the front side (closed state), the cover 65 has the upper cover plate 64b and the lower cover plate 64c housed inside the outer box of the power supply unit 4 ( In the state where the front plate 65a is in a position where the timing lamp 64 can be seen from the front side (opened state), the upper cover plate 64b and the lower cover plate 64c are the timing lamps. The field of view is blocked so that 64 cannot be seen from above or below (see FIG. 3).

Further, the cover 65 is attached so that the opening direction is opposite to the lower door 40 as shown in FIG. For this reason, the cover 65 collides with the lower door 40 unless the lower door 40 is opened more than a certain angle. Therefore, in order to fully open the cover 65 and visually recognize the timing lamp 64 from the front side, it is necessary to fully open the lower door 40 or close to the fully open state (see the dashed line in FIG. 2A). Operation that opens the door illegally becomes difficult.
Further, although not specifically shown, a cover open / close detection device 69 (see FIG. 4) for detecting the opening / closing of the cover 65 is provided inside the power supply unit 4. The cover open / close detection device 69 is provided, for example, when the end of the upper cover plate 64b or the lower cover plate 64c opposite to the front plate 65a is located on the farthest side (closed), or conversely on the outermost side. A detection device such as a limit switch or a photo sensor that detects this when it is positioned (when opened) can be used. That is, when the cover 65 is opened by a predetermined angle, the cover open / close detection device 69 detects the opening of the cover. The rotation angle of the cover 65 is such that at least the back surface of the front plate 65a (the surface facing the timing lamp 64 when closed) is flush with the front surface of the power supply unit 4 (parallel) with respect to the front surface of the power supply unit 4. It is preferable to rotate to a position that is a right angle or an obtuse angle. When the cover opening is detected, the timing lamp 64 starts blinking.

Incidentally, the cover 65 may be manually opened when the setting is changed, but may be formed so as to automatically open in conjunction with the opening of the lower door 40. For example, a coil spring is provided on the rotary shaft 67 and always urged in the direction to open the cover 65. When the door is closed, the cover 65 is closed by contacting the door, but when the lower door 40 is opened to some extent, the spring is repelled. The cover 65 can be rotated and opened by force so that the timing lamp 64 can be visually recognized.
Further, the “display unit” of the instruction display device 66 is not limited to the timing lamp 64. For example, as shown in FIG. 3B, a spinning cylinder display device 68 on which ON, OFF, etc. are displayed may be provided on the surface of a drum-like rotating body. And it may form so that switch operation may be performed according to the character displayed on the front side. In addition, any display unit may be provided as long as the switch operation timing can be visually notified.

(Setting change operation procedure)
An operation procedure for changing the setting of the slot machine S according to the present embodiment will be described.
(1) Setting change permission processing (start of setting change)
First, the power switch 63 is turned off, and a predetermined key is inserted into the setting key switch 62 to turn it on. Then, by turning on the power switch 63, the slot machine S is switched to the setting change mode. At this time, the current setting value is displayed as, for example, “−3−3” on any one of the plurality of numerical value display portions 32.
(2) Setting change processing (setting value selection)
Next, when the cover 65 is opened to a predetermined position, the timing lamp 64 starts blinking in a predetermined pattern. Therefore, the setting value is changed by operating the setting change switch 61 in accordance with the operation timing indicated by the blinking pattern. An error occurs if the timing is incorrect. The set value after the change is displayed on the numerical value display section 32.

(3) Setting change confirmation process (setting value confirmation)
When the numerical value to be set is displayed on the numerical value display section 32, the start switch 47 is pressed. The operation of the start switch 47 must be performed in accordance with the blinking of the timing lamp 64. As a result, the set value is confirmed, and the display on the numerical value display section 32 is changed to a display indicating that the setting is confirmed, for example, “5”.
(4) Game start permission processing (end of setting change)
Finally, the setting key switch 62 is turned off. The operation of the setting key switch 62 must also be performed in accordance with the blinking pattern of the timing lamp 64. Thereby, the setting change mode is switched to the game mode, and the setting value displayed on the numerical display unit 32 is turned off.

(Slot machine setting change control)
Next, setting change control of the slot machine S will be described.
In the present embodiment, the setting change of the slot machine S is controlled by the setting changing means 110 provided in the control device 20 based on the operation or operation of the setting changing device 60.
(Control device 20)
Here, an outline of the control device 20 will be described.
The control device 20 causes a game control device 20A for controlling the rotation and stop of the rotary reel 23 by operating the start switch 47 and the stop switch 48, and to perform an effect based on various signals from the game control device 20A. Production control device 20B.

The game control device 20A includes a normal game control means 70 for controlling a normal game, a special game control means 80 for controlling a special game, a winning lottery means 90 for performing a lottery related to winning, and an instruction display device. An instruction display control means 100 for controlling 66 and a setting change means 110 for changing game settings are provided. The game control device 20A may have means other than those described above.
The effect control device 20B is for controlling display devices such as the lamp 33 and the speaker 49 for effects.
(Input stage)
As shown in FIG. 4, the input stage of the control device 20 includes a closing switch 41, a bet switch 45, a settlement switch 46, a start switch 47, a stop switch 48, a setting key switch 62, a setting change switch 61, and a power switch 63. Nine parts of the cover open / close detection device 68 are connected. The input stage is not limited to the above parts.

(Output stage)
As shown in FIG. 4, the output stage of the control device 20 includes a reel unit 23, a hopper unit 5, a numerical value display unit 32, a timing lamp 64, and an effect display device 50 (lamp 33, speaker 49, and image display unit 34). The five parts are connected. The output stage is not limited to the above parts.
The winning lottery means 90, the instruction display control means 100, and the setting change means 110 among the means of the game control device 20A will be described in detail below.
(Winning lottery means 90)
The winning lottery means 90 performs a lottery regarding winning using a random number. As a result of the lottery by the winning lottery means 90, a winning flag is established when a predetermined winning combination is won, and a combination of stop symbols of the rotating reel 23 is determined in advance while the winning flag is established. The game is set on the condition that it matches, and the player is given a medal payout or special game profit.

As shown in FIG. 4, the winning lottery means 90 has the following means when roughly classified.
(1) Lottery table 91
(2) Determination means 92
(3) Set value correspondence lottery table acquisition means 93
The winning lottery means 90 is not limited to the above means.
(Lottery table 91)
The lottery table 91 has a winning area for each winning item in the entire random number area generated by the random number generating means. In other words, each winning combination has a “winning” area and a “losing” area.

The lottery table 91 is not particularly shown, but a plurality of lottery tables 91 for normal games and special games are provided for each setting, and the winning probabilities of these lottery tables 91 are averaged. Things are the winning probabilities for each setting. Therefore, when the setting is changed, the entire group of the plurality of lottery tables 91 provided for each setting is changed.
(Determination means 92)
The judging means 92 is for comparing the extracted random number data extracted by the random number extracting means with the lottery table 91 to make a winning judgment. Specifically, the winning determination area data consisting of the winning area of each winning item in all areas of random numbers taken by the random number generating means is compared with the extracted random number data, and the extracted random number data belongs to a predetermined winning area. In this case, the winning corresponding to the winning area is determined, and when the extracted random number data does not belong to any winning area, “lost” is determined.

(Set value correspondence lottery table acquisition means 93)
The set value corresponding lottery table acquisition means 93 is for acquiring a set value corresponding lottery table consisting of a group of lottery tables 91 corresponding to the set value. That is, a set value corresponding lottery table provided for each set value can be selected in accordance with an output signal from the setting changing means 110 described below. Then, using the lottery table 91 relating to the set value corresponding lottery table acquired by the set value corresponding lottery table acquiring unit 93, the determination unit 92 makes a winning determination.
(Instruction display control means 100)
The instruction display control means 100 is for controlling the blinking of the timing lamp 64 based on a signal from the cover open / close detection device 69. That is, the instruction display control means 100 is for determining the operation timing of the operation switch. Although not particularly shown in the drawing, a plurality of timing display patterns by the timing lamp 64 are stored, and pattern lottery means for determining any one of the blinking patterns by lottery is provided. When the cover opening / closing detection device 69 detects the opening of the cover 65, a cover opening flag is established, and the timing lamp 64 is blinked in a blinking pattern determined by lottery by the pattern lottery means.

Here, the cover open flag is a bit set in a memory for storing that the cover 65 is open, and the timing lamp 64 blinks only when the cover open flag is established. It is like that.
Next, an example of lottery of the flashing pattern of the timing lamp 64 is shown.
The three timing lamps 64A, 64B, and 64C shown in FIG. 2B are lit in this order, and any switch operation of the setting change device 60 is performed while the large lamp 64C is lit. It is predetermined that the operation is treated as an effective one. The instruction display control means 100 stores data of “1 second”, “1.5” seconds, and “2 seconds” as the lighting interval pattern, and randomly selects one lighting interval from these data. . First, the small lamp 64A is lit for 3 seconds, for example, and then the middle lamp 64B is lit for 3 seconds with a lighting interval determined by lottery. Further, after a lighting interval determined by lottery, the large lamp 64C is lit for 5 seconds. After the end of one flashing pattern, the lottery is performed again at each end, and the flashing pattern is looped until a predetermined game start permission process (setting key switch 62 OFF) is performed.

In addition, the lighting order and lighting time of each lamp may be determined by lottery. Even when one timing lamp 64 is provided as shown in FIG. 3A, the lighting time and the blinking interval can be determined by lottery.
In this way, by not fixing the blinking pattern, the setting cannot be changed unless the switch is operated while actually observing the timing lamp 64, and the front door 3 is slightly opened and foreign matter is inserted to perform the switch operation. Is almost impossible.
In addition, as the timing display pattern in the case where the rotating display device 68 shown in FIG. 3B is provided as the display unit of the instruction display device 66, the rotating display device 68 rotates with the detection of the opening of the cover 65, and “ For example, when the setting change switch 61 or the start switch 47 as the setting change confirmation input device is operated when the “ON” character is positioned in front, the operation becomes effective, and the setting is performed when the “OFF” character is positioned in front. When the key switch 62 is operated, the setting change mode can be completed. Then, the display order and stop time of “ON” and “OFF” may be determined by lottery.

(Setting change means 110)
The setting change means 110 is for changing game settings based on an operation signal from the setting change device 60. And the setting change means 110 has the following means, as shown in FIG.
(1) Operation signal validation means 111
(2) Setting change permission means 112
(3) Set value changing means 113
(4) Set value determination means 114
The setting changing unit 110 is not limited to the above (1) to (4).

(Operation signal validation means 111)
The operation signal validation unit 111 receives the operation signal of the operation switch, determines whether the operation switch is operated at the operation timing determined by the instruction display control unit 100, and is operated at a predetermined timing. In such a case, the operation is validated. Otherwise, the operation is invalidated and a predetermined error display is performed.
For example, in the above example, if the switch operation performed while the large lamp 64C of the timing lamp 64 is lit is set to be valid, the operation signal of the setting switch 61, the setting key switch 62, or the start switch 47 Is received while the large lamp 64C is lit. When it is determined that these switches are operated at a predetermined timing, the operation signal validation unit 111 outputs the operation signal to each unit of (3) and (4), and the above (3) and (4). Each means performs predetermined setting change control based on the operation signal of each switch. On the other hand, when it is determined that the switch operation has not been performed at a predetermined timing, the operation signal is not output (invalidated) to each means of (3) and (4), so that each of the above (3) and (4) The means does not perform setting change control. Further, when the switch operation is not performed at a predetermined timing, the operation signal validating means 111 outputs an error request signal, and based on this, the numerical display unit 32 and the effect display device 50 display a predetermined error display. I do.

(Setting change permission means 112)
The setting change permission means 112 is a means for performing a setting change permission process, that is, for enabling control related to a setting change operation and a setting change based on the operation based on a signal from the setting key switch 62.
Specifically, when a signal indicating that the setting key switch 62 is ON is received, the state of the slot machine is switched from the game mode to the setting change mode, and the setting can be actually changed by operating the setting change switch 61. To control. Further, the setting value can be displayed on the numerical value display section 32.

The setting change permission means 112 also functions as means for performing a game start permission process for switching the setting change mode to the game mode when the setting key switch 62 is turned off. However, in this case, the setting change permission unit 112 does not operate when the cover opening flag is not established. That is, even if the setting key switch 62 is turned off while the cover 65 of the instruction display device 66 is closed or not fully opened (the cover opening detection device 69 is not detecting opening), the setting change mode is set. Does not end.
(Set value changing means 113)
The setting value changing unit 113 is a unit for performing setting change processing, that is, for changing a numerical value related to the setting based on an output signal from the setting change switch 61.

Specifically, when the setting change switch 61 is operated and the operation signal is received, one numerical value from 1 to 6 is determined and stored. For example, each time the operation signal of the setting change switch 61 is received, the stored numerical value is sequentially incremented. That is, when the setting value before the setting change is “3”, for example, each time the setting change switch 61 is pressed, the numerical values stored as “4”, “5”, and “6” are changed. “1” is stored.
The numerical value stored by the set value changing means 113 is displayed on the numerical value display unit 32.
The set value changing means 113 does not operate when the cover opening flag is not established. That is, even if the setting change switch 61 is operated while the cover 65 of the instruction display device 66 is not open, the setting cannot be changed.

(Set value confirmation means 114)
The setting value determination means 114 is a means for performing setting change confirmation processing, that is, for confirming a numerical value related to the setting based on an output signal from the start switch 47 as a setting change confirmation input device.
Specifically, when the start switch 47 is operated and the operation signal is received, the setting value stored in the setting value changing unit 113 is determined as a numerical value related to the setting, and the numerical data is selected by lottery. Send to means 90. Based on the numerical data, the setting value corresponding lottery table acquisition means 93 selects the setting value corresponding lottery table corresponding to the setting value and makes it usable, so that the setting is changed.

Note that the set value determining means 114 does not operate when the cover opening flag is not established. That is, even if the start switch 47 is operated while the cover 65 of the instruction display device 66 is not opened, the setting cannot be confirmed.
(Setting change control)
Next, the flow of setting change control of the slot machine S having the above-described configuration will be described based on the flows of FIGS.
First, setting change control is started by turning on the power switch 63.
In step 100 in FIG. 5, it is determined whether the setting key switch 62 is ON. If the setting key switch 62 is not ON, the setting change control is terminated as it is. That is, unless the setting key switch 62 is turned on when the power switch 63 is in the OFF state, the setting change mode is not entered. If the setting key switch 62 is ON, the process proceeds to the next step 101.

In step 101, the current setting value of the slot machine S is displayed on the numerical value display unit 32. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 102.
In step 102, the instruction display processing based on the instruction display control means 100 is performed by opening the cover 65 of the instruction display device 66. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 103.
In step 103, a setting change process based on the operation of the setting change switch 61 is performed. Then, the process proceeds to next Step 104.
In step 104, a setting change confirmation process based on the operation of the start switch 47 is performed. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 105.

In step 105, the determined set value is displayed on the numerical value display unit 32. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 106.
In step 106, a game start permission process based on the operation of the setting key switch 62 is performed. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 107.
In step 107, the setting value display on the numerical value display section 32 is turned off. Then, the setting change control ends.
The instruction display process in step 102 will be described based on the flow of FIG. The instruction display process is started when the setting key switch 62 is ON and the power switch 63 is ON.

In step 200 of FIG. 6, it is determined whether or not the cover open / close detection device 69 is detecting cover open. If the cover opening is not detected, the process returns to step 200. If the cover opening is detected, the process proceeds to the next step 201.
In step 201, a cover opening flag is established. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 202.
In step 202, lottery of lighting intervals of the timing lamps 64 is performed. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 203.
In step 203, the timing lamp 64 blinks at the lighting interval determined by lottery. When the predetermined blinking pattern is finished once, the process proceeds to the next step 204.

In step 204, it is determined whether or not there is cover closing detection, that is, whether or not the cover opening / closing detection means 69 detects that the cover 65 is closed (whether or not the opening detection is lost). If there is no cover closing detection, the process returns to step 202. That is, unless the cover 65 is closed, the timing lamp 64 is caused to blink in a different pattern every time. On the other hand, if there is cover closure detection, the process proceeds to the next step 205.
In step 205, the cover open flag is canceled. Then, the instruction display process ends.
The setting change process in step 103 will be described based on the flow in FIG. The setting change process is started when the setting key switch 62 is turned on and the power switch 63 is turned on, similarly to the instruction display process.

In step 300 of FIG. 7, it is determined whether or not the setting change switch 61 has been operated. If the setting change switch 61 is not operated, the process returns to step 300. When the setting change switch 61 is operated, the process proceeds to the next step 301.
In step 301, it is determined whether or not a cover opening flag is established. If there is no cover opening flag, predetermined error processing is performed and setting change control is terminated. That is, even if the setting change switch 61 is operated with the cover 65 closed, the setting change operation cannot be performed. On the other hand, if there is a cover opening flag, that is, if the cover 65 is sufficiently open, the process proceeds to the next step 302.

In step 302, it is determined whether or not the setting change switch 61 has been operated within the time indicated by the instruction display device 66. If it is operated at the displayed predetermined timing, the process proceeds to the next step 303.
In step 303, the operation of the setting change switch 61 is validated. That is, the operation signal validation unit 111 outputs the operation signal of the setting change switch 61 to the set value changing unit 112. Then, the process proceeds to Step 305.
In step 305, the changed setting value is displayed on the numerical value display unit 32. Then, the process proceeds to Step 306.

If it is determined in step 302 that the setting change switch 61 has not been operated within the time indicated by the instruction display device 66, the process proceeds to step 304.
In step 304, predetermined error processing is performed. The error in this case is a notification for notifying that the setting value cannot be changed because the operation timing of the setting change switch 61 is shifted, that is, a redo warning. Then, the process proceeds to step 306.
In step 306, it is determined whether or not the setting change switch 61 has been operated. If the setting change switch 61 is operated, the process returns to step 302. That is, when the switch operation is invalidated and the operation is started again, it is determined whether or not the next switch operation is performed without changing the display of the numerical value display section 32. On the other hand, if the setting change switch 61 is not operated, the process proceeds to the next step 307.

In step 307, it is determined whether or not the setting change confirmation switch, that is, the start switch 47 has been operated. If the start switch 47 is not operated, the process returns to step 306. That is, the setting change control continues unless the intention to confirm the setting is displayed. When the start switch 47 is operated, the setting change control is terminated.
The setting change confirmation process in step 104 will be described based on the flow of FIG. The setting change confirmation process is started by operating the start switch 47 as a setting change confirmation switch.
In step 400 of FIG. 8, it is determined whether or not the cover open flag is established. If there is no cover opening flag, predetermined error processing is performed and setting change control is terminated. That is, even if the start switch 47 is operated with the cover 65 closed, the setting confirmation operation cannot be performed. On the other hand, if there is a cover open flag, that is, if the cover 65 is sufficiently open, the process proceeds to the next step 401.

In step 401, it is determined whether or not the operation of the start switch 47 in step 307 has been performed within the time indicated on the instruction display device 66. If it is operated at the displayed predetermined timing, the process proceeds to step 402.
In step 402, the operation of the start switch 47 is validated. That is, the operation signal validation unit 111 outputs an operation signal for the start switch 47 to the set value change confirmation unit 113. Thereby, the changed setting value is determined as the setting value of the slot machine S. Then, the setting change confirmation process ends.
If it is determined in step 401 that the start switch 47 has not been operated within the time indicated by the instruction display device 66, the process proceeds to step 403.

In step 403, predetermined error processing (redo warning) is performed. Then, the process proceeds to next Step 404.
In step 404, it is determined whether the start switch 47 has been operated. If the start switch 47 is not operated, the process returns to step 404. On the other hand, if the start switch 47 is operated, the process returns to step 401. That is, unless the start switch 47 is operated as indicated, the setting change is not confirmed even if the start switch 47 is operated.
Next, the game start permission process in step 106 will be described based on the flow of FIG. The game start permission process is started based on the setting change confirmation switch validation in step 404.

In step 500 of FIG. 9, it is determined whether or not the setting key switch 62 is turned off. If the setting key switch 62 is not OFF, the process returns to step 500. When the setting key switch 62 is turned off, the process proceeds to the next step 501.
In step 501, it is determined whether or not a cover opening flag is established. If there is no cover opening flag, predetermined error processing is performed and setting change control is terminated. That is, even if the setting key switch 62 is operated with the cover 65 closed, the game mode is not switched. On the other hand, if there is a cover opening flag, that is, if the cover 65 is sufficiently open, the process proceeds to the next step 502.

In step 502, it is determined whether or not the setting key switch 62 has been operated within the time indicated by the instruction display device 66. If it is operated at the displayed predetermined timing, the process proceeds to step 503.
In step 503, the cancellation of the cover opening flag and the instruction display by the instruction display device 66 are stopped. In this case, even if the cover 65 is not closed, the cover release flag is canceled and the instruction display loop is terminated. Then, the game start permission process ends.
If it is determined in step 502 that the setting key switch 62 has not been operated within the time indicated by the instruction display device 66, the process proceeds to step 504.

In step 504, predetermined error processing (redo warning) is performed. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 505.
In step 505, it is determined whether or not the setting key switch 62 has been turned from ON to OFF. If the setting key switch 62 is not operated, the process returns to step 505. On the other hand, when the setting key switch 62 is operated and turned off, the process returns to step 502. That is, unless the setting key switch 62 is turned OFF as indicated, the setting change mode is not terminated even if the setting key switch 62 is operated.
Thus, according to the present embodiment, the switch operation for changing the setting is not treated as an effective operation unless the display on the instruction display device 66 is followed, and the instruction display device 66 opens the front door 3. And it is formed so that it cannot be visually recognized unless the cover 65 is opened. Therefore, even if the front door 3 is slightly opened and the setting change operation is attempted illegally, the instruction display device 66 cannot be seen, and the switch operation is not validated unless the cover 65 is opened. It is almost impossible.

  In the present embodiment, the switch operation in accordance with the display on the instruction display device 66 is required in three steps of the setting change process, the setting change confirmation process, and the game start permission process. The instruction display may be performed in one or two steps. In addition to the above, regarding the setting change permission process, a switch operation according to an instruction may be requested. In this case, after turning off the power switch 63 of the slot machine S, opening the cover 65, and then turning on the power switch 63, the cover open flag is established and the timing lamp 64 starts blinking. The timing at which the key switch 62 is turned on is adjusted accordingly. As described above, even if only an operation according to the instruction is requested at any stage of the setting change operation, the anti-got effect can be sufficiently obtained, so that the normal setting change operation is not complicated.

  The present invention can be used not only for a separation type slot machine but also for a non-separation type slot machine. In addition, it can be used for gaming machines other than slot machines, for example, parrot gaming machines in which pachinko balls are used instead of gaming medals to perform games similar to slot machines.

1 is an exploded perspective view of a slot machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is embodiment of this invention, Comprising: It is the top view and front view of a power supply unit. 1 is a perspective view of an instruction display device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an outline of input and output of the control device of the slot machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an outline of setting change control in the slot machine control according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is other embodiment of this invention, Comprising: It is a flow which shows an instruction | indication display process among setting change control. It is other embodiment of this invention, Comprising: It is a flow which shows a setting change process among setting change controls. It is other embodiment of this invention, Comprising: It is a flow which shows a setting change confirmation process among setting change controls. It is other embodiment of this invention, Comprising: It is a flow which shows a game start permission process among setting change control.

Explanation of symbols

S slot machine 1 housing 2 exchange unit 3 front door 4 power supply unit 5 hopper unit
10 Fixing device 11 Opening
12 Middle plate 13 Upper opening
14 Lower opening 15 Bottom plate
16 Side plate
20 Control device 20A Game control device
20B Production control device 21 Support
22 reel unit 23 rotating reel
30 Upper door 31 Symbol display window
32 Numeric display 33 Lamp
34 Image display
40 Lower door 41 Input switch
42 Medal slot 43 Medal tray
44 Keyhole 45 Bet switch
46 Checkout switch 47 Start switch
48 Stop switch 49 Speaker
50 Production display device 60 Setting change device
61 Setting change switch 62 Setting key switch
63 Power switch 64 Timing lamp
65 Cover 66 Indicator display device
67 Rotating shaft 68 Cylinder display
69 Cover open / close detection device 70 Normal game control means
80 Special game control means 90 Winning lottery means
91 Lottery table 92 Judgment means
93 Set value corresponding lottery table acquisition means 100 Instruction display control means
110 Setting change means 111 Operation signal validation means
112 Setting change permission means 113 Setting value changing means
114 Set value confirmation means 200 Store operation section

Claims (4)

A housing that opens to the front side;
A front door capable of closing and opening and closing the front opening of the housing;
A control device for controlling the gaming machine;
In a gaming machine having at least an input operation device operated to change a game setting,
As the input operation device,
Setting change permission input device for setting changeable state,
A setting change input device for changing the setting after permitting the setting change,
Setting change confirmation input device for confirming the setting value input by the setting change input device,
And a game start permission input device for ending the setting change process and making the gaming machine in a playable state,
An instruction display device for visually informing the operation timing of the input operation device by displaying a predetermined display on the display unit inside the housing,
The control device includes a setting change means for changing a game setting based on an input from the input operation device, and an instruction display control means for controlling the operation of the instruction display device.
The setting change unit is configured to input an operation input to the input operation device when an operation timing of any one or more of the input operation devices matches an instruction displayed by the instruction display device. A process for changing the setting based on the input operation device, and when the operation timing of the input operation device does not coincide with the instruction displayed by the instruction display device, the operation input is configured to be invalidated. To play.   The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the instruction display control means determines a mode to be executed by lottery from a plurality of notification modes related to the operation timing of the input operation device.   The gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the display unit of the instruction display device is provided at a place where the display is visible when the front door is substantially fully opened. The indication display device is provided with a cover capable of exposing or concealing the display unit by opening and closing, and a cover open / close detection device for detecting opening / closing of the cover,
The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the instruction display device displays the display unit when the cover opening / closing detection device detects a cover opening.