JP2006230784A - Game stand - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To prevent the act of fraudulently stealing a large quantity of game media in a game parlor where a game medium supply device is installed for automatically supplying game media when there is a shortage of game tokens accumulated inside a game stand. <P>SOLUTION: The procedure in the game stand for executing the put-out process for putting out tokens accumulated in a hopper comprises a process for detecting an error in the put-out caused by the shortage of tokens in the hopper and transmitting a put-out error command (Step S1202a), a process for releasing the execution of the error management when a reset switch is operated (Step S1203a) and transmitting an error releasing command to restore the put-out process (Step S1204a), and a process for suspending the put-out process till a prescribed condition for supply is established if the supply is started by a supply device for supplying the hopper with tokens (Step S1205a). <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine represented by a slot machine (pachislot), a pachilot, and a pachinko.

  In general, a gaming machine such as a slot machine is equipped with a payout device (hereinafter referred to as a “hopper”) for accumulating game medals used by the player in the game, and the game medals correspond to the player's game progress. To be paid out from the hopper. For this reason, the amount of game medals accumulated in the hopper changes. For example, in a gaming state such as a big bonus controlled to a gaming state advantageous to the player, a large amount of gaming medals are paid out to the player, so that the amount of gaming medals in the hopper decreases. When such a gaming state occurs a plurality of times in a short period, the amount of game medals in the hopper is insufficient and the progress of the game is stopped.

  Normally, when there are not enough game medals in the hopper, the attendant at the game store opens the door of the game stand and manually supplies medals to the hopper provided inside the game stand. In order to reduce such manual work by a staff member, a game medium supply device that automatically supplies game medals to a hopper of a game table has been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

In the above game medium supply device, a sensor for detecting whether or not the game medal satisfies a predetermined reference amount is arranged in the hopper of the game stand, and the lack of the game medal is recognized by the detection of the sensor. The game medals are automatically replenished. As a result, game medals are always accumulated in the hopper at a predetermined reference amount or a predetermined reference amount.
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-024143

  However, as described above, there are many people who illegally steal game medals in the hopper of the game table in the game store having the game medium supply device in the game table. This is because, in a game store equipped with a game medium supply device, the clerk does not replenish game medals manually, so at least the clerk does not approach the person who illegally steals the game medals. As a result, gamers can easily steal game medals.

  In other words, at game stores that are not equipped with a game medium supply device as in the past, when the medals in the hopper were insufficient, the clerk opened the door of the game stand and manually supplied the medals. In addition, it was possible to visually inspect whether or not unauthorized devices were attached to the game table.

  On the other hand, in the case of a game store equipped with a game medium supply device, even if the game medals in the hopper of the game stand are illegally stolen, if there are no more game medals in the hopper, the game medals are automatically Since it is replenished, a large number of game medals can be stolen.

  For this reason, recently, even though a game medium supply device has been introduced at a considerable cost, the automatic supply function is set not to be used, and a game store staff manually supplies a game medal. It has come to cope with the shortage of game medals in the hopper.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and in a game store equipped with a game medium supply device that automatically supplies game media when the amount of game media stored in the game table is insufficient, The purpose is to prevent the illegal stealing of game media.

In order to achieve the above object, a game machine according to the present invention has the following configuration. That is,
A game machine having a payout device for storing game media and executing payout processing for paying out the stored game media,
Detecting means for detecting occurrence of a payout error due to a lack of game media in the payout device;
In accordance with detection of the occurrence of a payout error by the detection means, error processing means for executing error processing;
An error canceling operation means arranged inside the game machine and capable of canceling the execution of the error processing and returning the payout processing by performing a predetermined operation;
When a predetermined operation is performed in the error release operation means and the replenishment process is started by the game medium replenishment device that replenishes the payout device with the game medium, the payout process is waited until a predetermined replenishment condition is satisfied. A payout waiting means.

  According to the present invention, a large amount of game media is illegally stolen in a game store equipped with a game media supply device that automatically supplies game media when the amount of game media stored in the game table is insufficient. It becomes possible to prevent the act.

[First Embodiment]
1. Overall Configuration of Slot Machine FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a slot machine 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. In the center of the slot machine 100 shown in FIG. 1, three reels (left reel 110, middle reel 111, and right reel 112) having a plurality of types of symbols arranged on the outer peripheral surface are stored. It is configured to be able to rotate. In the present embodiment, each symbol is printed on the belt-like member at an appropriate interval (for example, 21 symbols), and this reel-like member is attached to a predetermined circular frame member to constitute each reel 110 to 112. When viewed from the player, three symbols on the reels 110 to 112 are displayed in the vertical direction from the symbol display window 113, and a total of nine symbols can be seen. Then, by rotating the reels 110 to 112, the combination of symbols that can be seen by the player varies. In the present embodiment, three reels are provided in the center of the slot machine 100, but the number of reels and the installation position of the reels are not limited to this.

  In addition, a backlight (not shown) for illuminating each symbol displayed on the symbol display window 113 is disposed on the back of each reel 110 to 112. It is desirable that the backlight is shielded for each symbol so that the individual symbols can be illuminated evenly. In the slot machine 100, an optical sensor (not shown) including a light projecting unit and a light receiving unit is provided in the vicinity of each of the reels 110 to 112. The light projecting unit and the light receiving unit of the optical sensor are provided. A light shielding piece of a certain length provided on the reel passes between the parts. Based on the detection result of this sensor, the position of the symbol on the reel in the rotation direction is determined, and the reels 110 to 112 are stopped so that the target symbol is displayed on the winning line 114.

  The winning line display lamp 120 is a lamp that indicates an effective winning line. An effective pay line is determined in advance by the number of game media (in this embodiment, medals are assumed) inserted into the slot machine 100. Of the five winning lines 114, for example, when one medal is inserted, the middle horizontal winning line is valid, and when two medals are inserted, the upper horizontal winning line and the lower horizontal winning line are added. When three medals are inserted and three medals are inserted, the five added with the right-down winning line and the upper-right winning line become effective as the winning line. Note that the number of winning lines 114 is not limited to five.

  The start lamp 121 is a lamp that informs the player that the reels 110 to 112 are in a state of being able to rotate. The re-game lamp 122 is a lamp for notifying the player that the current game can be re-played (the medal need not be inserted) when winning a re-game which is one of the winning combinations in the previous game. . The notification lamp 123 is a lamp for notifying the player that a specific winning combination (specifically, a bonus such as a big bonus or a regular bonus) is won internally in the internal lottery. The medal insertion lamp 124 is a lamp that notifies that a medal can be inserted. The reel panel lamp 128 is an effect lamp. The medal insertion buttons 130 and 131 are buttons for inserting a predetermined number of medals stored electronically in the slot machine 100.

  In this embodiment, every time the medal insertion button 130 is pressed, a maximum of three are inserted one by one, and when the medal insertion button 131 is pressed, three are inserted. The medal slot 134 is an slot for a player to insert a medal when starting a game. That is, the medal can be inserted electronically by the medal insertion button 130 or 131, or an actual medal can be inserted from the medal insertion slot 134. The payout number display 125 is a display for displaying the number of medals to be paid out to the player as a result of winning a winning combination.

  The game number display 126 is a display for displaying the number of games in the big bonus game, the number of winnings of a predetermined winning combination, and the like. The stored number display 127 is a display for displaying the number of medals electronically stored in the slot machine 100. The start operation unit 135 is a unit for starting the rotation of the reels 110 to 112. When a desired number of medals is inserted into the medal insertion slot 134 and the start operation unit 135 is operated, an internal lottery of a winning combination and the rotation of the reels 110 to 112 are started.

  The stop button unit 136 is provided with stop buttons 137 to 139. The stop buttons 137 to 139 are button-type switches for individually stopping the reels 110 to 112 that have started rotating by the operation of the start operation unit 135. Note that a light emitter may be provided inside each stop button 137 to 139, and when the stop button 137 to 139 can be operated, the light emitter may be turned on to notify the player.

  The storage / settlement button 132 settles the medals electronically stored in the slot machine 100 and discharges them to the medal tray 171 from the medal payout outlet 155, and four or more sheets inserted into the medal slot 134. This button is used to switch between a storage function for electronically storing up to 50 medals and 50 medals obtained by winning.

  The door key 140 is a hole into which a key for unlocking the front door 102 of the slot machine 100 is inserted. The medal payout exit 155 is a payout exit for paying out medals. The medal tray 171 is a container for collecting medals paid out from the medal payout opening 155. In the present embodiment, the medal tray 171 employs a tray that can emit light, and may be referred to as a tray lamp hereinafter.

  The sound hole 160 is a hole for outputting the sound of a speaker provided inside the slot machine 100 to the outside. The upper lamp 150, the side lamp 151, the center lamp 152, the waist lamp 153, and the lower lamp 154 are decorative lamps for exciting games. The rendering device 180 includes a liquid crystal display (LCD) that displays various types of information.

2. Internal Configuration of Slot Machine FIG. 2A is a diagram showing an internal state of the slot machine 100 when the front door 102 is opened by inserting a key into the door key 140 and releasing the lock. FIG. 2B is a view showing the inside of the slot machine 100 as viewed from the side. 2A and 2B, reference numeral 201 denotes an automatic replenishing device, which is attached to the back side of the slot machine 100.

  The medals supplied from the automatic replenishing device 201 fall in the direction of the arrow 207 and are accumulated in the hopper 205 (device for paying out medals accumulated in the bucket from the medal payout opening 155). Reference numeral 203 denotes a sensor (automatic replenishment sensor) that detects whether or not the medal accumulated in the hopper 205 has reached a predetermined amount. When the medal in the hopper 205 is insufficient and the automatic replenishment device 201 automatically replenishes the medal. Furthermore, medals are replenished until detected by the automatic replenishment sensor 203, and when detected by the automatic replenishment sensor 203, the replenishment operation is controlled to stop. The medal overflowing from the hopper 205 proceeds along the arrow 206 and is collected from the collection path 204.

  Reference numeral 202 denotes a reset switch. When the key is inserted into the door key 140 and rotated, the shading piece of the hinge is rotated and reset. The reset signal of the reset switch 202 is taken into the main controller 300 below and used as an error cancel command. In addition, as a reset switch, you may utilize the button of a front door (not shown), for example.

3. Configuration of Control Unit 3-1 Control Unit Next, the control unit of the slot machine 100 will be described. The control unit in the present embodiment includes a “main control unit” (300 in FIG. 3) that controls the whole and a “sub control unit” (400 in FIG. 4) that performs control and the like related to effects for exciting the game. It is configured.

3-2 Main control unit 300
The main control unit 300 includes a CPU 310 which is an arithmetic processing unit for controlling the whole, a data bus 362 and an address bus 363 for the CPU 310 to transmit and receive signals to and from each IC and each circuit, and the other will be described below. It has a configuration. The clock correction circuit 314 is a circuit that divides the clock signal oscillated from the crystal oscillator 311 and supplies it to the CPU 310. For example, when the frequency of the crystal oscillator 311 is 12 MHz, the divided clock signal is 6 MHz. The CPU 310 operates by receiving the clock signal divided by the clock correction circuit 314 as a system clock. In addition, the CPU 310 sets a monitoring cycle for constantly monitoring the state of sensors and switches, which will be described later, a predetermined time (idle timer) for monitoring a non-game state, or a transmission cycle of a motor drive pulse. A timer circuit 315 is connected via a bus.

  The timer circuit 315 determines a fixed interrupt time based on the received frequency division data, and transmits an interrupt request to the CPU 310 at each interrupt time. In response to this interrupt request, the CPU 310 executes monitoring of each sensor and transmission of drive pulses. For example, when the system clock of the CPU 310 is set to 6 MHz, the frequency division value of the timer circuit 315 is set to 1/256, and the data for frequency division of the ROM 312 is set to 44, the reference time for this interrupt is 256 × 44 ÷ 6 MHz = 1. It becomes 877 ms and becomes a fixed cycle.

  Connected to the CPU 310 are a ROM 312 for storing programs for controlling each IC, lottery data used for internal winning lottery, reel stop positions, and a RAM 313 for storing temporary data. Has been. Other storage means may be used for these ROM 312 and RAM 313.

  The CPU 310 is connected to an input interface 360 for receiving an external signal, and the medal insertion sensor 320, the start lever sensor 321 and the stop button sensor are connected via the input interface 360 at every interrupt time of the interrupt cycle described above. 322, medal insertion button sensor 323, settlement / saving switch 324, medal payout sensor 326, automatic replenishment sensor 203, reset switch 202, and the like are detected, and the detection results of each sensor are monitored.

  Two medal insertion sensors 320 are installed in the passage inside the medal insertion slot 134, and detect whether or not a medal has passed. The start lever sensor 321 is installed in the start operation unit 135 and detects a start operation by the player. The stop button sensor 322 is installed in each of the stop buttons 137 to 139 and detects the operation of the stop button by the player.

  An index sensor 325 is connected to the input interface 361. The index sensor 325 is installed at a predetermined position on the mounting base of each of the reels 110 to 112, and becomes H level each time the light shielding piece provided on the reel passes through the index sensor 325. When detecting this signal, the CPU 310 determines that the reel has made one rotation, and resets the rotational position information of the reel to zero.

  The output interface 370 includes a reel motor driving unit 330 for driving a reel, a hopper motor driving unit 331 for driving a motor of the hopper 205, a game lamp 340 (specifically, a winning line display lamp 120, a start Lamp 121, re-game lamp 122, notification lamp 123, medal insertion lamp 124, etc.) and 7-segment display 341 (payout number display 125, game count display 126) are connected. An output interface 371 for transmitting a control command to the sub control unit 400 is connected to the data bus 362 of the CPU 310.

  A random number generation circuit 317 is connected to the CPU 310 via a data bus 362. The random number generation circuit 317 counts clock signals oscillated from the crystal oscillator 311. When a latch signal is input from the CPU 310, the count value at that time is held as a random number value. Further, the CPU 310 selects the random number generation circuit 317 via the address decoding circuit 350 (that is, inputs a chip select signal), thereby acquiring the held random number value. The acquired random number value is used for random lottery such as internal lottery of a winning combination.

3-3 Configuration of Sub Control Unit 400 The CPU 410 receives various control commands transmitted from the main control unit 300 via the input interface 461 and the data bus 462, and the sub control unit 400 according to the contents of the received control command. Control the whole. The ROM 412 is one of storage means for storing programs, data, and the like for controlling the entire sub-control unit 400. The RAM 413 has a work area for programs processed by the CPU 410 and is one of storage means for storing variable data and the like.

  The clock correction circuit 414 is a circuit that divides the clock signal oscillated from the crystal oscillator 411 and supplies it to the CPU 410. The CPU 410 operates by receiving the clock signal divided by the clock correction circuit 414 as a system clock. Further, the CPU 410 is connected to a timer circuit 415 for setting a monitoring cycle for constantly monitoring the state of sensors, switches and the like described later.

  The timer circuit 415 determines a fixed interrupt time based on the frequency division data received from the CPU 410, and transmits an interrupt request to the CPU 410 for each interrupt time. In response to this interrupt request, the CPU 410 performs monitoring of each sensor and the like.

  The CPU 410 is connected to an input / output interface 460 for receiving an external signal or transmitting a control signal from the CPU 410, and the door is connected to the CPU 410 via the input / output interface 460 at every interrupt time of the interrupt cycle described above. The state of the sensor 421 or the like is detected, and the detection result of each sensor is monitored. Further, lighting of the backlight 420 is controlled via the input / output interface 460.

  The lamps (upper lamp 150, side lamp 151, center lamp 152, waist lamp 153, lower lamp 154, reel panel lamp 128, titlenell lamp 422, payout outlet strobe 423, pan lamp 171) are various displays and output. The CPU 410 is connected to and controlled by the interface 470, the demultiplexer 419, the data bus 462, and the address bus 463.

  The tone generator IC 480 reads out and outputs a musical tone signal from the ROM 481 based on the control data transferred from the CPU 410. The musical sound signal is amplified by the amplifier 482 and then output as a sound from the speaker 483.

  The output interface 470 transmits various control commands to the door / liquid crystal screen control unit 490 based on instructions from the CPU 410. Based on this control command, the door / liquid crystal screen control unit 490 controls the display of the LCD 180 and the door device 491.

4). Configuration of Automatic Replenishment System Next, replenishment of medals to the slot machine 100 will be described with reference to FIG. When a medal lent out from the medal lending machine 510 is inserted into the medal slot 134 and the game is started, the amount of medals in the hopper 205 is constantly monitored during the game.

  When the amount of medals in the hopper 205 is insufficient and the medals cannot be paid out at the time of winning, the information is transmitted as a payout error command from the main control unit 300 to the hall computer 520 via the external output unit 502. .

  Also, an effect (hopper empty) that is transmitted to the sub-control unit 400 in parallel and indicates that a payout error has occurred in the effect device 501 (speaker (483), lamps (150 to 154, etc.), LCD (180)). Error display).

  When the hall computer 520 receives a payout error command from the slot machine 100 and then receives an error release command (details will be described later), it outputs a replenishment request instruction to the automatic replenishment control unit (replenishment control means) 532 of the automatic replenishment system 530. To do. As shown in FIG. 5, the automatic supply system 530 includes an automatic supply device 201 that actually supplies medals to the slot machine 100 and an automatic supply control unit 532 that controls the automatic supply device 201 to supply game media. Device (also referred to as a game medium supply device).

  In response to the replenishment request instruction, the automatic replenishment control unit 532 controls the automatic replenishment device 201 to replenish medals to the hopper 205 of the slot machine 100. The replenishment of medals continues until the automatic replenishment sensor 203 is turned on. When the automatic replenishment sensor 203 is turned on, the signal is transmitted from the main control unit 300 to the automatic replenishment control unit 532 via the external output unit 502 and the hall computer 520. Then, the replenishment of medals is stopped (this ensures that the hopper is sufficiently replenished).

  Thus, in this embodiment, since the payout error command and the error cancel command are transmitted to the outside of the gaming machine (in this embodiment, to the hall computer 520), the payout error and the error cancellation can be recognized outside the gaming machine. .

  The error cancellation command and the ON signal (supplement sensor detection command) of the automatic replenishment sensor 203 are also transmitted to the sub-control unit 400 in parallel. In the sub-control unit 400, when the error cancel command is received, the rendering device 501 performs an effect that medals are being replenished by the automatic replenishment system 530. In addition, when the supply sensor detection command is received, the rendering device 501 returns to the original rendering state.

  The medals supplied to each automatic replenishment device 201 are assumed to circulate in each island, and as shown in FIG. 6, a circulation path 603 is installed between each island (601, 602). To do. However, in the example of FIG. 6, the circulation path 603 is arranged on the ceiling side of the hall, but is not particularly limited thereto, and may be embedded under the floor of the hall, for example.

5. Configuration and Output Signal of External Output Unit 502 FIGS. 7A and 7B are diagrams showing details of an output signal output from the external output unit 502. FIG. In FIG. 7A, reference numeral 701 denotes a relay output terminal of the external output unit 502. Terminal number 1 (702) is a medal insertion signal, terminal number 2 (703) is a medal payout signal, terminal number 3 (704) is a bonus signal (regular bonus), and terminal number 4 (705) is a bonus signal (big). Terminal number 5 outputs an external signal (replay). Terminal number 9 (710) outputs a payout error signal, and terminal number 10 (711) outputs an error cancellation signal. Terminal number 6 (707) is a relay common of output signals 702 to 706, 710, and 711.

  Similarly, terminal number 7 (708) inputs an external stop release signal, and terminal number 8 (709) is the relay common of the input signal 708.

  FIGS. 7B-1 to 7B-5 show a medal insertion signal output, a medal payout signal output, a bonus signal output, a payout error signal output, and an error release signal output, respectively. As shown in FIG. 7 (b-1), the medal insertion signal is output when the start lever 135 is operated. The cycle of the output signal is 50.679 ms. For example, when the number of inserted medals is 3, a 3-pulse signal is output.

  As shown in FIG. 7B-2, the medal payout signal is output when the hopper 205 is driven and medal payout is started. The cycle of the output signal is 50.679 ms. For example, when the medal payout number is 3, 3 pulses of signal are output.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 7B-3, the bonus signal output is turned on when the bonus state is entered, and turned off when the bonus state is finished.

  As shown in FIGS. 7B-4 and 7B-5, the payout error signal is turned on when it is determined that a payout error has occurred, and the ON state continues until the reset switch 202 is operated. To do. When the reset switch is operated, an error release signal is output in one pulse (pulse length = 50.679 ms).

6). Winning combination will be described in detail with reference FIG. 8 (a) ~ (c) an example of a structure with payout number of symbol combinations for each winning combination in each game state of the slot machine 100. The type of winning combination varies depending on the gaming state of the slot machine 100. In the present embodiment, there are three types of game states, a normal game, a BB general game, and an accessory game, and the type of winning combination and the number of payouts differ depending on each game state.

  In a normal game, a winning combination (BB and RB) in which a game having a high internal winning probability for at least some winning combinations by winning a prize can be performed from the next time, and a winning combination (watermelon, bell, Cherry) and a winning combination (re-playing combination) that does not require the insertion of medals in the next game are set (see FIG. 8A).

  By winning BB, the game shifts to BB general games. The BB general game includes a winning combination (SRB) in which the winning of the bonus game can be performed from the next time, and a winning combination (watermelon, bell, Cherry) and are set. By winning the SRB, the game shifts to an accessory game. In the bonus game, a winning combination (combination) in which medals are paid out by winning is set.

(1) Winners in regular games:
・ Specific role (Big Bonus (BB))
When the blue 7-blue 7-blue 7 and red 7-red 7-red 7 symbol combinations are aligned with any of the winning lines 114 of the reel display window 113, 15 medals are paid out and a special combination is won. To do. When a special combination is won, the game shifts to a specific game, and a BB general game of a specific game is started for a predetermined number of games (30 games in the present embodiment) from the next game. This BB general game is a game in which the winning combination in the BB general game of FIG. When winning BB, watermelon, bell, cherry, and SRB win with high probability, so the player can win a large number of medals.

  In addition, in the BB general game, the symbol combination of replay-replay-replay, which was a re-playing role during a normal game, is set as a special role (SRB). When the special combination (SRB), which is set only during the BB general game, is won, there is one payout, and the next game shifts to a bonus game described later. When the accessory game ends, the game returns to the normal game again. The BB general game end condition ends when 30 games of the normal game are ended, or when the special game (SRB) is won twice and the bonus game is ended.

・ Special role (Regular Bonus (RB))
When the BAR-BAR-BAR symbol combination is aligned with any of the winning lines 114 of the reel display window 113, 15 payout medals are paid out, and a game of a game is started from the next game. The prize game is a game in which a winning combination (replay-replay-replay symbol combination) called 15 prizes is won with a high probability for a predetermined number of games (12 games in this embodiment). . In the present embodiment, the accessory game is ended when the player wins the accessory eight times during 12 games. If you win a special role once, you can get about 115 medals.

・ Watermelon, bell, cherry Watermelon-Watermelon-Watermelon symbol combination, Bell-Bell-Bell symbol combination, Cherry-ANY-ANY symbol combination on any of the winning lines 114 of the reel display window 113 The number of medals to be paid out is paid out, and the next game remains a normal game.

-Re-gamer When the replay-replay-replay is aligned with any of the winning lines 114 of the reel display window 113, the re-gamer wins, and the next game can be performed without inserting medals.

(2) Winners in BB general games:
-Special combination When the combination of replay-replay-replay is aligned with any of the winning lines 114 of the reel display window 113, a medal with a payout number of 1 is paid out, and the game of the object is started from the next game. The bonus game is the same as the bonus game in the special role (RB).

・ Watermelon, bell, cherry The number of payouts of watermelon, bell, cherry in BB general games is set to 15 for watermelon-watermelon-watermelon, 10 for bell-bell-bell, and 2 for cherry-ANY-ANY. ing. In the BB general game, the payout numbers are set to be different for some winning combinations. In BB general games, the above watermelons, bells, and cherries are won internally with higher probability than normal games.

(3) Winners in the game
-Accompaniment When the replay-replay-replay symbol combination is aligned with any of the winning lines 114 of the reel display window 113, 15 medals are paid out.

  Although the winning combination and the gaming state of the slot machine 100 have been described above, the slot machine according to the present embodiment is not limited to this, and it is needless to say that various winning combinations and gaming states can be set. For example, among the winning combinations in the present embodiment, the big bonus (BB) and the regular bonus (RB) can be replayed as a pattern that shifts to the bonus game, and the replay (replay) can be replayed without newly inserting medals. Each of these symbols is distinguished from a “winning combination” and may be called an “acting combination”. However, the “winning combination” according to the present invention includes an “operating combination”.

7. Processing Flow in Main Control Unit 300 7-1 Main Processing Flow FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing basic control of a game in the slot machine 100 of the present embodiment. Basic control of the game is performed mainly by the CPU 310, and the game process shown in FIG. Hereinafter, this game process will be described. After the power is turned on and various initialization processes are executed, in step S901, a process related to medal insertion is performed. Here, it is checked whether or not medals have been inserted, and the winning line display lamp 120 is turned on according to the number of medals inserted. It is not necessary to insert a medal when winning the re-game in the previous game.

  In steps S902 and S903, processing related to a game start operation is performed. Specifically, it is checked in step S902 whether the start lever 135 has been operated. If it is determined that the start lever 135 has been operated, the number of inserted medals is determined. In step S903, a valid pay line 114 is determined.

  In step S904, the random number generated by the random number generator 311 is acquired. In step S905, an internal lottery of a winning combination is performed using the random number obtained in step S904 and the winning combination lottery table stored in the ROM 312. Moreover, the effect lottery which selects the effect aspect of the slot machine 100 using the random number value acquired by step S904 is also performed, and the selected effect is performed. Note that the random number values acquired in step S904 (specifically, there are a plurality of types) are selected when the reel stop control table is selected, or when determining the number of rights, in addition to the internal winning lottery. Also used for etc.

  In step S906, rotation of all reels 110 to 112 is started. At this time, one reel stop control table is selected by referring to the reel stop control table selection table stored in the ROM 312 based on the lottery probability based on the internal lottery result in step S905. The selected reel stop control table number is stored in a command and transmitted to the sub-control unit 400.

  In step S907, the stop buttons 137 to 139 can be received. When any one of the stop buttons is pressed, any of the reels 110 to 112 corresponding to the pressed stop button is selected as the reel stop selected in step S906. Stop based on the control table.

  In step S908, winning determination is performed. Here, it is determined that the winning combination is won when the symbol combination corresponding to the winning combination that has been won internally or the winning combination with the flag carried over is displayed on the activated winning line 114.

  In step S909, if any winning combination with payout is won, the number of medals corresponding to the winning combination is paid out. In step S910, game state control processing is executed. In this game state control process, control for shifting the type of game is performed. For example, in the case of a BB winning or RB winning, a BB game or an RB game is prepared to be started next time. Prepare to start normal games from the next time. As described above, one game is completed, and the game progresses by repeating this thereafter.

7-2 Winning Determination Processing FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing details of step S908 (winning determination processing).

  In step S1001, the set number of effective lines is acquired, and in step S1002, the reel symbol position of the stopped reel is read and the winning determination table is read. In step S1003, by comparing the reel symbol position read in step S902 with the winning determination table, it is determined whether or not a winning is made, and the winning determination result is acquired.

  In step S1004, the number of medals to be paid out is calculated based on the winning determination result. In calculating the number of medals to be paid out, the effective line acquired in step S1001 is compared with the winning determination result acquired in step S1003, and it is determined whether or not the acquired effective line matches. If they match, the payout number is set as medal payout number information.

7-3 Medal Payout Processing Next, details of the medal payout processing (step S909) in FIG. 9 will be described. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the flow of medal payout processing.

  In step S1101, medal payout number information (set in step S1004 in FIG. 10) is acquired. In step S1102, a medal payout command is transmitted to the external output unit 502. The external output unit 502 receives the medal payout command and sets a terminal number (step S1103). In step S1104, a medal payout command is output to the hall computer 520 based on the set terminal number.

  In step S1105, medal payout number information is set for the hopper 205. In step S1106, an initial value is set as a no-medal detection timer. The medal-free detection timer is a timer for monitoring an error at the time of payout when the number of medals set in step S1105 is paid out by driving the hopper 205 in step S1107.

  When the hopper 205 is driven in step S1107, in step S1108, it is determined whether or not a medal payout is detected by the medal payout sensor 326. If it is determined that a payout is detected, the process proceeds to step S1109. To stop. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1108 that no payout has been detected, the process proceeds to step S1110, where the timer value of the no-medal detection timer is subtracted. In step S1111, it is determined whether or not the timer value of the subtracted medal detection timer has become zero. If a payout is detected before the timer value of the no-medal detection timer reaches 0, the process returns to step S1108 and proceeds to step S1109.

  On the other hand, if the timer value of the no-medal detection timer becomes 0 in step S1111, it is determined that a hopper error has occurred, and the process proceeds to step S1112 to execute hopper error processing.

  In step S1113, it is determined whether or not the remaining number of medals to be paid out from the hopper 205 has become 0, and the processing from step S1106 to step S1113 is performed until the remaining number of medals to be paid out from the hopper 205 becomes 0. repeat. If it is determined in step S1113 that the remaining number has become zero, the process is terminated.

  FIG. 19A is an example of a timing chart when it is determined that a hopper error has occurred. In FIG. 19A, reference numeral 1901 indicates the drive / stop timing of the hopper 205, and 1902 indicates the ON / OFF timing of the medal payout sensor 326. When the hopper 205 is driven in step S1107 (1903), the medal payout sensor 326 detects a medal (for one sheet) (1904). If the medal payout sensor does not turn on for a certain period of time (t1) even though the hopper 205 is continuously driven (when there are not enough medals in the hopper 205), it is determined that a hopper error has occurred. The In this embodiment, it is assumed that t1 = 2 sec.

  Here, as an example of the hopper error, the processing in the case of detecting the shortage of medals in the hopper 205 in FIG. 11 is given, and a specific time chart is shown in FIG. 19A. The cause of the hopper error is as follows. Not only the lack of medals, but also cases where medals are clogged. For reference, FIG. 19B shows a time chart when medals are jammed in the medal payout opening 155 and a hopper error occurs.

  In FIG. 19B, 1905 indicates the timing for driving / stopping the hopper 205, and 1906 indicates the timing for turning on / off the medal payout sensor. When the hopper 205 is driven (1907), the medal payout sensor detects a medal (for one sheet) (1908). Since the hopper 205 is continuously driven, the medal payout sensor 326 detects the next medal (1909). However, if the medal payout sensor 326 remains ON for a predetermined time (t2) or longer (when the medal payout outlet 155 is clogged), it is determined that a hopper error has occurred. In this embodiment, it is assumed that t2 = 1 sec.

7-4 Hopper Error Processing Next, details of the hopper error processing (step S1112) in FIG. 12 will be described. FIG. 12A shows the flow of hopper error processing.

  In step S1201a, the driving hobber 205 is stopped, and in step S1202a, a payout error command is transmitted to the sub-control unit 400 and the hall computer 520. In step S1203a, it is determined whether or not a reset switch operation has been performed, and the process waits until a reset switch operation is performed.

  If it is determined in step S1203a that the reset switch has been operated, the process proceeds to step S1204a, and an error release command is transmitted to the sub-control unit 400 and the hall computer 520. In step S1205a, standby processing is executed.

  As described above, in the slot machine according to the present embodiment, when a hopper error occurs, the hall computer 520 recognizes a payout error until the clerk presses the reset switch 202. Therefore, there is no medal in the hopper 205. However, medals are not replenished to the hopper 205 by the automatic replenishment system 530.

7-5 Standby Process Next, details of the standby process (step S1205a) in FIG. 12 will be described. FIG. 12B is a diagram showing the flow of standby processing.

  In step S1201b, it is determined whether or not the automatic replenishment sensor 203 is turned on. If the automatic replenishment sensor 203 has not been turned on, the process waits until the automatic replenishment sensor 203 is turned on.

  If it is determined in step S1201b that the automatic replenishment sensor 203 is turned on, the process proceeds to step S1202b, and a replenishment sensor detection command is transmitted to the hall computer 520.

8). Process Flow in Sub-Control Unit 400 8-1 Main Process Flow Next, a process flow in the sub-control unit 400 during game execution will be described with reference to FIG. When the power of the slot machine 100 is turned on, an initial process is started in step S1301, and the slot machine 100 is activated in a state before the power is turned off. In step S <b> 1302, it is confirmed whether various control commands are received from the main control unit 300. When a control command is received from the main control unit 300, an effect process (a demonstration effect, a game effect, and an error effect on the LCD 180) corresponding to the control command is executed in step S1303. On the other hand, when the control command is not received, it waits until the control command is received.

8-2 Effect Processing Next, the flow of effect processing (step S1303) in FIG. 13 will be described. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing details of the effect process. In step S1401, it is determined whether the received command is an error command. If it is not an error command, the process advances to step S1409 to perform an effect process based on the received command.

  On the other hand, if the received command is an error command, the process advances to step S1402 to determine whether or not the error command is a payout error command. If it is not a payout error command, the process advances to step S1408 to notify an error corresponding to the error command.

  On the other hand, if the error command is a payout error command, the process advances to step S1403 to display a hopper empty error. FIG. 18A is a view showing an example of a hopper empty error display displayed on the LCD 180. This display is performed until an error cancel command is received.

  If an error cancel command is received in step S1404, the process proceeds to step S1405, and a standby display is performed. FIG. 18B is a diagram showing an example of a standby display displayed on the LCD 180. This display is performed until a replenishment sensor detection command is received.

  If the replenishment sensor detection command is received in step S1406, the process proceeds to step S1407, and the original effect state (the effect state before receiving the error command) is restored.

  As described above, the control in the sub-control unit 400 allows the player to grasp whether the medal in the hopper is insufficient or whether the medal is being replenished.

9. Process Flow in Hall Computer 520 9-1 Basic Process Flow Next, a process flow in the hall computer 520 will be described. FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the flow of basic processing in the hall computer 520. The basic process in the hall computer 520 is divided into an automatic supply start process (step S1501) and an automatic supply end process (step S1502).

9-2 Automatic Supply Start Process First, details of the automatic supply start process (step S1501) will be described. FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a flow of automatic supply start processing in the hall computer 520. In step S1601, the process waits until a payout error command is received. When a payout error command is received in step S1601, in step S1602, the process waits until an error cancel command is received.

  If an error release command is received in step S1602, a medal replenishment request instruction is issued to the automatic replenishment control unit 532 in step S1603.

9-3 Automatic Replenishment End Process Next, details of the automatic replenishment end process (step S1502) will be described. FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a flow of automatic supply end processing in the hall computer 520. In step S1701, it is determined whether a supply end condition is satisfied. When the supply end condition is not satisfied, the process waits until the supply end condition is satisfied.

  If it is determined in step S1701 that the replenishment end condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S1702, and a medal replenishment end instruction is output to the automatic replenishment control unit 532, and the process ends.

  As described above, since the hall computer 520 is configured to issue a replenishment request instruction and a replenishment end instruction to the automatic replenishment control unit 532, the hall computer 520 manages when the replenishment process starts and when the replenishment process ends. can do.

9-4 Display in Hall Computer Next, processing in the hall computer 520 will be described. FIG. 38 is a diagram showing an example of a payout error display screen displayed on the hall computer 520 based on various commands transmitted from the external output unit 502.

  Various commands transmitted from the external output unit 502 via the signal line 3803 are stored in the hall computer main body 3801 and displayed on the display screen 3802. As shown in the display screen 3802, the payout error display screen displays a payout error list, an error release list, and a determination result.

  As for the determination result, for example, an illegal determination is made when the above-mentioned payout error occurrence time is close to the occurrence time of the payout error that has occurred this time. However, it is assumed that the hall side can arbitrarily set the time until fraud determination.

  In addition, a monitoring camera 3804 for monitoring the player can be provided, and an image captured by the monitoring camera 3804 can be taken into the hall computer main body 3801. As a result, it is possible to monitor a slot machine determined to be illegal.

  As is apparent from the above description, conventionally, when the amount of medals in the hopper falls below the reference amount, the hopper is automatically replenished with medals, so it is possible to illegally steal a large number of medals. However, according to this embodiment, even if medals are illegally stolen and medals in the hopper disappear, medals are not automatically replenished to the hopper, and a large number of medals are illegal. It is possible to avoid being stolen.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the reason for requesting the automatic supply system to supply the medal is when the medal cannot be paid out because there is no medal in the hopper even though the slot machine has won a prize ( In other words, when a payout error occurs) and the hall staff has reset the payout error with the reset switch. In other words, when a medal is replenished, the hall attendant always operates the reset switch, and it becomes possible for the hall attendant to visually check whether an illegal device is installed in the slot machine. As a result, cheating can be detected and prevented.

  Furthermore, unlike the case where a conventional automatic replenishing device is not provided, the hall staffs do not need to replenish medals and simply perform the reset switch operation. improves.

[Second Embodiment]
In the first embodiment, the output of the automatic replenishment sensor is taken into the main control unit 300, and when the automatic replenishment system 530 replenishes medals to the hopper 205, replenishment is performed until the automatic replenishment sensor 203 is turned on. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, after the start of the replenishment of medals, the replenishment may be automatically stopped when a certain time has elapsed.

  In the first embodiment, the payout error command, the error release command, and the replenishment sensor detection command are transmitted to the hall computer 520. However, the present invention is not particularly limited to this, and automatic replenishment is performed. You may comprise so that it may transmit directly with respect to a control part. Details of this embodiment will be described below.

1. Configuration of Main Control Unit FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of the main control unit 2000 of the slot machine according to the present embodiment. The difference from FIG. 3 is that the automatic replenishment sensor 203 is not included in the various sensor inputs taken into the input interface 360. Since other points are the same as those in the first embodiment, description thereof is omitted.

2. Configuration of Automatic Replenishment System Next, the supply of medals to the slot machine 100 will be described with reference to FIG. The difference from FIG. 5 is that the external output unit 502 and the automatic replenishment control unit 532 are communicably connected, and are configured to transmit a payout error command and an error release command directly to the automatic replenishment control unit 532. .

3. Processing Flow in Main Control Unit Hereinafter, processing different from that in the first embodiment will be described as processing in the main control unit 2000.

3-1 Hopper Error Processing FIG. 22A is a diagram showing the flow of hopper error processing in the slot machine according to the present embodiment.

  In step S2201a, the driving hopper 205 is stopped, and in step S2202a, a payout error command is transmitted to the sub-control unit 400 and the automatic replenishment control unit 532. In step S2203a, it is determined whether or not a reset switch operation has been performed, and the process waits until a reset switch operation is performed.

  If it is determined in step S2203a that the reset switch has been operated, the process proceeds to step S2204a, and an error release command is transmitted to the sub-control unit 400 and the automatic replenishment control unit 532. In step S2205a, standby processing is executed.

  As described above, in the slot machine according to the present embodiment, when a hopper error occurs, the automatic replenishment system 530 recognizes a payout error until the clerk presses the reset switch. However, the medal is not replenished to the hopper 205 by the automatic replenishment system 530.

3-2 Standby Process Details of the standby process (step S2205a) in FIG. FIG. 22B is a diagram showing the flow of standby processing.

  In step S2200b, an initial value is set in the standby time timer. In the standby time timer, the timer value is subtracted for each interrupt. In step S2202b, it is determined whether or not the standby time has elapsed (determining whether or not the timer value has reached 0). If it is determined in step S2202b that the standby time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S2203b, and a standby end command is transmitted to the sub-control unit 400 and the automatic replenishment control unit 532.

  Here, a standby time timer is prepared and the standby time is measured. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and an addition counter that adds a counter value for each interrupt may be provided.

4). Processing Flow in Sub Control Unit Hereinafter, processing different from that in the first embodiment will be described as processing in the sub control unit.

4-1 Effect Processing Next, the flow of effect processing will be described with reference to FIG. In step S2301, it is determined whether the received command is an error command. If it is not an error command, the process advances to step S2309 to perform an effect process based on the received command.

  On the other hand, it is determined whether or not the received command is a payout error command. If it is not a payout error command, the process advances to step S2308 to notify an error corresponding to the payout error command.

  On the other hand, if the error command is a payout error command, the process advances to step S2303 to display a hopper empty error. This display is performed until an error cancel command is received.

  If an error cancel command is received in step S2304, the process proceeds to step S2305, and a standby display is performed. This display is performed until a standby end command is received.

  If a standby end command is received in step S2306, the process proceeds to step S2307 to return to the original effect state (the effect state before receiving the error command).

5. Process Flow in Automatic Replenishment System In this embodiment, the payout error command, error release command, and replenishment sensor detection command output from the external output unit 502 are input to the automatic replenishment control unit. In this embodiment, the hall computer process is executed in an automatic supply system. Hereinafter, processing different from the processing of the hall computer in the first embodiment will be described as processing in the automatic replenishment system.

5-1 Automatic Supply Start Processing FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing the flow of automatic supply start processing in the automatic supply system 530. In step S2401, the process waits until a payout error command is received. When a payout error command is received in step S2401, in step S2402, the process waits until an error cancel command is received.

  If an error cancel command is received in step S2402, medals are supplied to the slot machine in step S2403.

  As is clear from the above description, in this embodiment, when a medal is replenished to the hopper, the timer is automatically counted by the main control unit assuming the time when the replenishment of the medal is expected. It is possible to replenish medals without providing a replenishment sensor.

[Third Embodiment]
In the second embodiment, when replenishing medals to the hopper, the main controller counts the time assuming that the replenishment of medals will be completed, and after the timer elapses, the sub-control unit and It is transmitted to the automatic replenishment control unit, the sub control unit is configured to return to the original production state upon receipt of the standby end command, and the automatic replenishment control unit is configured to terminate the replenishment of medals upon receipt of the standby end command. The present invention is not particularly limited to this. For example, the sub-control unit may be configured to count the timer independently, and may return to the original effect state after the timer time has elapsed after receiving the error cancel command. This embodiment will be described below.

1. Process Flow in Main Control Unit Hereinafter, a process different from the second embodiment will be described as a process in the main control unit.

1-1 Hopper Error Processing FIG. 25A shows a flow of hopper error processing in the slot machine according to the present embodiment.

  In step S2501a, the driving hopper is stopped, and in step S2502a, a payout error command is transmitted to the sub-control unit 400 and the automatic replenishment control unit 532. In step S2503a, it is determined whether or not a reset button operation has been performed, and the process waits until a reset button operation is performed.

  If it is determined in step S2503a that the reset button has been operated, the process proceeds to step S2504a, and an error release command is transmitted to the sub-control unit 400 and the automatic replenishment control unit 532. In step S2505a, standby processing is executed.

  As described above, in the slot machine according to the present embodiment, when a hopper error occurs, the automatic replenishment control unit 532 recognizes a payout error until the clerk presses the reset button. Even if this is not the case, the automatic replenishment system 530 will not replenish the hopper 205 with medals.

1-2 Standby Processing Next, details of the standby processing (step S2505a) in FIG. FIG. 25B is a diagram showing the flow of standby processing.

  In step S2500b, an initial value is set in the standby time timer. In the standby time timer, the timer value is subtracted for each interrupt. In step S2502b, it is determined whether or not the standby time has elapsed (whether or not the timer value has become 0). If it is determined in step S2502b that the standby time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S2503b, and a standby end command is transmitted to the automatic supply control unit 532.

  Here, a standby time timer is prepared and the standby time is measured. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and an addition counter that adds a counter value for each interrupt may be provided.

2. Process Flow in Sub Control Unit Hereinafter, a process different from the second embodiment will be described as a process in the sub control unit.

2-1 Production Process Next, the flow of production process will be described with reference to FIG. In step S2601, it is determined whether the received command is an error command. If it is not an error command, the process advances to step S2610 to perform effect processing based on the received command.

  On the other hand, it is determined whether or not the received command is a payout error command. If it is not a payout error command, the process advances to step S2609 to notify an error corresponding to the payout error command.

  On the other hand, if the error command is a payout error command, the process advances to step S2603 to display a hopper empty error. This display is performed until an error cancel command is received.

  If an error cancellation command is received in step S2604, the process proceeds to step S2605, and a standby time timer is set. In step S2606, standby display is started. Under the timer monitoring by the standby time timer set in step S2605, the standby display is continued until a predetermined time elapses. When the predetermined time elapses, the process proceeds to step S2608, and the original effect state (error command is received). Return to the previous stage).

3. Processing Flow in Automatic Replenishment System Hereinafter, processing different from the second embodiment will be described as processing in the automatic replenishment system.

3-1 Automatic Supply Start Processing FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing the flow of automatic supply start processing in the automatic supply system 530. In step S2701, the process waits until a payout error command is received. If a payout error command is received in step S2701, in step S2702, the process waits until an error cancel command is received.

  If an error cancel command is received in step S2702, medals are supplied to the slot machine in step S2703.

  As is clear from the above description, in the present embodiment, the sub-control unit is configured to count the timer independently, and after receiving the error release command, the timer time elapses (the instruction from the main control unit is received). None) It is possible to return to the original performance state.

[Fourth Embodiment]
In the first embodiment, the output of the automatic replenishment sensor is input to the main control unit, and the sub-control unit is transmitted from the main control unit as a replenishment sensor detection command. It is not limited. For example, the output of the automatic replenishment sensor may be directly input to the automatic replenishment control unit, and may be transmitted as a replenishment sensor detection command from the automatic replenishment control unit to the sub-control unit. Details of this embodiment will be described below. Also in the following description, it is assumed that the payout error command, error release command, and replenishment sensor detection command output from the external output unit 502 are input to the automatic replenishment control unit.

1. Processing Flow in Main Control Unit Hereinafter, processing different from that in the first embodiment will be described as processing in the main control unit.

1-1 Hopper Error Processing FIG. 28A is a diagram showing a flow of hopper error processing in the slot machine according to the present embodiment.

  In step S2801a, the driven hopper 205 is stopped, and in step S2802a, a payout error command is transmitted to the sub-control unit and the automatic replenishment control unit. In step S2803a, it is determined whether or not a reset switch operation has been performed, and the process waits until a reset switch operation is performed.

  If it is determined in step S2803a that the reset switch has been operated, the process proceeds to step S2804a, and an error release command is transmitted to the sub-control unit and the automatic replenishment control unit. In step S2805a, standby processing is executed.

  As described above, in the slot machine according to the present embodiment, when a hopper error occurs, the automatic replenishment control unit recognizes a payout error until the reset switch 202 is pressed by the store clerk, so there is no medal in the hopper. Even then, the automatic replenishment system 530 does not replenish medals to the hopper.

1-2 Standby Processing Next, details of the standby processing (step S2805a) in FIG. FIG. 28B is a diagram showing the flow of standby processing.

  In step S2800b, an initial value is set in the standby time timer. In the standby time timer, the timer value is subtracted for each interrupt. In step S2802b, it is determined whether or not the standby time has elapsed (whether or not the timer value has reached 0). If it is determined in step S2802b that the standby time has elapsed, the process ends.

  Here, a standby time timer is prepared and the standby time is measured. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and an addition counter that adds a counter value for each interrupt may be provided.

2. Processing Flow in Sub Control Unit Hereinafter, processing different from that in the first embodiment will be described as processing in the sub control unit.

2-1. Effect Process Next, the flow of the effect process will be described with reference to FIG. In step S2901, it is determined whether the received command is an error command. If it is not an error command, the process advances to step S2909 to perform an effect process based on the received command.

  On the other hand, it is determined whether or not the received command is a payout error command. If it is not a payout error command, the process advances to step S2909 to notify an error corresponding to the payout error command.

  On the other hand, if the error command is a payout error command, the process advances to step S2903 to display a hopper empty error. This display is performed until an error cancel command is received.

  If an error cancel command is received in step S2904, the process proceeds to step S2905 to start standby display. The standby display is continued until the replenishment sensor detection command is received from the automatic replenishment control unit 532. When the replenishment sensor detection command is received (when “Yes” is determined in step S2906), the process proceeds to step S2907, and the original effect state (error The production state before receiving the command is restored.

3. Process Flow in Automatic Replenishment System In this embodiment, the payout error command, error release command, and replenishment sensor detection command output from the external output unit 502 are input to the automatic replenishment control unit. In this embodiment, the hall computer process is executed in an automatic supply system. Hereinafter, processing different from the processing of the hall computer in the first embodiment will be described as processing in the automatic replenishment system.

3-1 Automatic Supply Start Processing FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing the flow of automatic supply start processing in the automatic supply system 530. In step S3001, the process waits until a payout error command is received. When a payout error command is received in step S3001, in step S3002, the process waits until an error cancel command is received.

  If an error release command is received in step S3002, medals are supplied to the slot machine in step S3003. The replenishment of medals continues until the automatic replenishment sensor 203 is turned on. When the automatic replenishment sensor 203 is turned on (in the case of “Yes” in step S3004), the process proceeds to step S3005, and a replenishment sensor detection command is issued. Send to the control unit.

[Fifth Embodiment]
In the first embodiment, the ON signal of the automatic replenishment sensor 203 is input to the main control unit, and is transmitted directly from the main control unit to the sub control unit as a replenishment sensor detection command. It is not limited. For example, when the automatic replenishment control unit receives an ON signal of the automatic replenishment sensor and stops replenishment, the automatic replenishment control unit transmits a replenishment sensor detection command to the main control unit, and the main control unit transmits from the automatic replenishment control unit. The supplied replenishment sensor detection command may be transmitted to the sub-control unit. This embodiment will be described below. Also in the following description, it is assumed that the payout error command, error release command, and replenishment sensor detection command output from the external output unit 502 are input to the automatic replenishment control unit.

1. Processing Flow in Main Control Unit Hereinafter, processing different from that in the first embodiment will be described as processing in the main control unit.

1-1 Hopper Error Processing FIG. 31A is a diagram showing a flow of hopper error processing in the slot machine according to the present embodiment.

  In step S3101a, the driving hopper is stopped, and in step S3102a, a payout error command is transmitted to the sub-control unit and the automatic replenishment control unit. In step S3103a, it is determined whether or not a reset switch operation has been performed, and the process waits until a reset switch operation is performed.

  If it is determined in step S3103a that the reset switch has been operated, the process proceeds to step S3104a, and an error release command is transmitted to the sub-control unit and the automatic replenishment control unit. In step S3105a, standby processing is executed.

  As described above, in the slot machine according to the present embodiment, when a hopper error occurs, the automatic replenishment system recognizes a payout error until the clerk presses the reset switch, so even if there is no medal in the hopper. The automatic replenishment system 530 does not replenish medals to the hopper.

1-2 Standby Processing Next, details of the standby processing (step S3105b) in FIG. FIG. 31B is a diagram showing the flow of standby processing.

  In step S3101b, the process waits until a replenishment sensor detection command is received from automatic replenishment system 530. When the replenishment sensor detection command is received in step S3101b, the process proceeds to step S3102b, and the received replenishment sensor detection command is transmitted to the sub-control unit.

2. Processing Flow in Sub Control Unit Hereinafter, processing different from that in the first embodiment will be described as processing in the sub control unit.

2-1. Effect Process Next, the flow of the effect process will be described with reference to FIG. In step S3201, it is determined whether the received command is an error command. If it is not an error command, the process advances to step S3209 to perform an effect process based on the received command.

  On the other hand, it is determined whether or not the received command is a payout error command. If it is not a payout error command, the process advances to step S3209 to notify an error corresponding to the error command.

  On the other hand, if the error command is a payout error command, the process advances to step S3203 to display a hopper empty error. This display is performed until an error cancel command is received.

  If an error cancellation command is received in step S3204, the process proceeds to step S3205 to start standby display. The standby display is continued until the replenishment sensor detection command is received. When the replenishment sensor detection command is received (when “Yes” is obtained in step S3206), the process proceeds to step S3207, and the original effect information (before receiving the error command). Return to the production state.

3. Process Flow in Automatic Replenishment System In this embodiment, the payout error command, error release command, and replenishment sensor detection command output from the external output unit 502 are input to the automatic replenishment control unit. In this embodiment, the hall computer process is executed in an automatic supply system. Hereinafter, processing different from the processing of the hall computer in the first embodiment will be described as processing in the automatic replenishment system.

3-1 Automatic Replenishment Start Processing FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing the flow of automatic replenishment start processing in the automatic replenishment system. In step S3301, the process waits until a payout error command is received. If a payout error command is received in step S3302, in step S3302, the process waits until an error cancel command is received.

  If an error cancel command is received in step S3302, medals are replenished to the slot machine in step S3303. The replenishment of medals continues until the automatic replenishment sensor 203 is turned on. When the automatic replenishment sensor 203 is turned on (in the case of “Yes” in step S3304), the process proceeds to step S3305, and the replenishment sensor detection command is sent. Send to the control unit.

[Sixth Embodiment]
In the first embodiment, when the payout error command is received in the sub-control unit, only the hopper empty error display is performed. However, the present invention is not limited to this, for example, every time a payout error command is received. The reception time may be stored, and the fraud determination may be performed according to the reception interval of the payout error command. Details of this embodiment will be described below.

1. Processing Flow in Sub Control Unit Hereinafter, processing different from that in the first embodiment will be described as processing in the sub control unit.

1-1 Effect Processing The flow of effect processing will be described with reference to FIG. In step S3401, it is determined whether the received command is an error command. If it is not an error command, the process advances to step S3410 to perform effect processing based on the received command.

  On the other hand, it is determined whether or not the received command is a payout error command. If it is not a payout error command, the process advances to step S3409 to notify an error corresponding to the error command.

  On the other hand, if the error command is a payout error command, the process advances to step S3403 to perform fraud determination processing, and then a hopper empty error is displayed in step S3404. This display is performed until an error cancel command is received.

  If an error cancel command is received in step S3405, the process proceeds to step S3406, and standby display is started. The standby display is continued until the replenishment sensor detection command is received. When the replenishment sensor detection command is received (when “Yes” is determined in step S3407), the process proceeds to step S3408, and the original effect information (before the error command is received). Return to the production state.

1-2 Fraud Determination Process Details of the fraud determination process in step S3403 will be described with reference to FIG. In step S3501, the payout error occurrence time is acquired and the data is stored. In step S3502, the previous payout error occurrence time is read, and in step S3503, the time difference between the previous payout error occurrence time and the current payout error occurrence time is calculated and set as a measured value.

  In step S3504, the measurement value set in step S3503 is compared with a preset fraud determination time (assuming that it can be arbitrarily set on the hall side), and the set measurement value is less than the fraud determination time. If YES in step S3505, the flow advances to step S3505 to perform error processing.

  As described above, in the slot machine according to the present embodiment, when the payout error occurrence interval is shorter than the predetermined time (injustice determination time), it is determined that the medal has been illegally stolen and error processing is performed.

[Seventh Embodiment]
In the sixth embodiment, the fraud determination process is performed by the sub-control unit that has received the payout error command. However, the present invention is not particularly limited to this. For example, the fraud determination is performed by the automatic replenishment system. Processing may be performed.

1. Process Flow in Automatic Supply System 1-1 Automatic Supply Start Process FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing the flow of the automatic supply start process in the automatic supply system. In step S3601, the process waits until a payout error command is received. When a payout error command is received in step S3601, fraud determination processing is performed in step S3602.

  In step S3603, the process waits until an error cancel command is received. If an error release command is received in step S3603, it is determined in step S3604 whether or not a medal replenishment stop setting is set. If the medal replenishment stop setting has been set, the process is terminated without replenishing medals.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S3604 that the medal replenishment stop setting is not set, the process proceeds to step S3605 to replenish medals. The replenishment of medals continues until the automatic replenishment sensor 203 is turned on. If the automatic replenishment sensor 203 is turned on (in the case of “Yes” in step S3606), the process proceeds to step S3607, and a replenishment sensor detection command is issued Send to the control unit.

1-2 Fraud Determination Process Details of the fraud determination process in step S3602 will be described with reference to FIG. In step S3701, the payout error occurrence time is acquired and the data is stored. In step S3702, the previous payout error occurrence time is read. In step S3703, the time difference between the previous payout error occurrence time and the current payout error occurrence time is calculated and set as a measured value.

  In step S3704, the measurement value set in step S3703 is compared with a preset fraud determination time (assuming that it can be arbitrarily set on the hall side), and the set measurement value is less than the fraud determination time. If YES in step S3705, the flow advances to step S3705 to perform error processing.

  As described above, when the occurrence interval of the payout error is shorter than the predetermined time (injustice determination time), it is determined that the medal has been illegally stolen and error processing is performed.

[Other Embodiments]
In the first to seventh embodiments, the slot machine has been described as a gaming machine. However, the gaming machine according to the present invention is not limited to a slot machine, and can be applied to a pachinko machine or a patty lot. Absent.

  In the first to seventh embodiments, the sub-control unit controls to perform hopper empty error display and standby display. However, the present invention is not particularly limited to this, for example, You may make it perform a hopper empty error display and a standby display by control of an automatic replenishment control part.

1 is a perspective view of a slot machine 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. In the slot machine 100, it is a figure which shows the inside state when the front door 102 is opened by inserting a key in the door key 140 and releasing the lock. FIG. 4 is a view showing a state where the inside of the slot machine 100 is viewed from the side. 3 is a block diagram showing a main control unit of the slot machine 100. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a sub control unit of the slot machine 100. FIG. FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining how to supply medals to the slot machine 100. 6 is a diagram showing a circulation path of medals supplied to the replenisher 531. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating details of an output signal output from an external output unit 502. FIG. FIG. 3 shows an example of the configuration of symbol combinations for each winning combination in each gaming state of the slot machine 100 and the number of payouts. 4 is a flowchart showing basic control of a game in the slot machine 100. FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the detail of a winning determination process. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a medal payout process. It is a figure which shows the flow of a hopper error process. 4 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing in a sub-control unit 400. It is a flowchart which shows the detail of effect processing. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the basic process in an automatic replenishment system. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the automatic supply start process in an automatic supply system. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the automatic supply completion | finish process in an automatic supply system. It is a figure which shows an example of the hopper empty error display and standby display which were displayed on LCD180. It is an example of a timing chart when it is determined that a hopper error has occurred. It is a figure which shows the structure of the main control part of the slot machine concerning the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure for demonstrating supply of the medal to the slot machine concerning the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the hopper error process in the slot machine concerning the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the presentation process in the slot machine concerning the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the automatic supply start process in the automatic supply system which supplies a medal to the slot machine concerning the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the flow of the hopper error process in the slot machine concerning the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the presentation process in the slot machine concerning the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the automatic supply start process in the automatic supply system which supplies a medal to the slot machine concerning the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the flow of the hopper error process in the slot machine concerning the 4th Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the presentation process in the slot machine concerning the 4th Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the automatic supply start process in the automatic supply system which supplies a medal to the slot machine concerning the 4th Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the flow of the hopper error process in the slot machine concerning the 5th Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the presentation process in the slot machine concerning the 5th Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the automatic supply start process in the automatic supply system which supplies a medal to the slot machine concerning the 5th Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the presentation process in the slot machine concerning the 6th Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the fraud determination process in a sub-control part. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the automatic supply start process in an automatic supply system. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the fraud determination process in an automatic replenishment system. It is a figure which shows an example of the payout error display screen displayed on a hall computer.

Claims (23)

A game machine having a payout device for storing game media and executing payout processing for paying out the stored game media,
Detecting means for detecting occurrence of a payout error due to a lack of game media in the payout device;
In accordance with detection of the occurrence of a payout error by the detection means, error processing means for executing error processing;
An error canceling operation means arranged inside the game machine and capable of canceling the execution of the error processing and returning the payout processing by performing a predetermined operation;
When a predetermined operation is performed in the error release operation means and the replenishment process is started by the game medium replenishment device that replenishes the payout device with the game medium, the payout process is waited until a predetermined replenishment condition is satisfied. Withdrawal waiting means,
A game table characterized by comprising: The payout waiting means waits for the payout processing until the predetermined supply condition is satisfied, which is established when a sensor installed in the payout device detects a predetermined amount of game media. The listed game table. 2. The game stand according to claim 1, wherein the payout waiting unit waits for the payout process until the predetermined supply condition is satisfied, which is satisfied when a predetermined time elapses in advance. Sending means for sending out payout error control information indicating the occurrence of the payout error and error canceling control information indicating that a predetermined operation has been performed in the error canceling operation means as control information that can be recognized by an external device. The game table according to claim 1, further comprising: Informing means for informing the player of the state of the game in a predetermined notification mode;
Based on the occurrence of the payout error, the notification means performs the game medium shortage notification indicating that the game medium in the payout device is insufficient, and the notification means based on the start of the replenishment process. Notification control means for controlling notification during replenishment indicating that the game medium is being replenished to the payout device;
The game table according to claim 1, further comprising: 6. The game table according to claim 5, wherein the notification control unit controls the notification unit so as to perform the notification during supply until a sensor installed in the payout device detects a predetermined amount of game media. . It further comprises timer means for timing a predetermined time, and the notification control means controls the notification means so as to notify the replenishment until the timer means counts the predetermined time. The game table according to claim 5. A game machine having a payout device for storing game media and executing payout processing for paying out the stored game media,
Detecting means for detecting occurrence of a payout error due to a lack of game media in the payout device;
In accordance with detection of the occurrence of a payout error by the detection means, error processing means for executing error processing;
An error canceling operation means arranged inside the game machine and capable of canceling the execution of the error processing and returning the payout processing by performing a predetermined operation;
When the occurrence of a payout error is detected by the detection means and a predetermined operation is performed by the error release operation means, the game medium supply device supplies the game medium to the payout device. Transmitting means for transmitting start control information for starting
A game table characterized by comprising: The game apparatus further comprises a game medium detecting means for detecting a game medium to be paid out by the payout device, wherein the detection means does not detect a game medium in the game medium detecting means for a predetermined time after the payout apparatus starts paying out the game medium. 9. The game table according to claim 8, wherein a game table is detected as a payout error. When the sensor installed in the payout device detects a predetermined amount of game media, the transmission means transmits end control information for ending the supply of game media to the game media supply device. The game table according to claim 8. The transmission means transmits, to the game medium supply device, end control information for ending supply of game media when a predetermined time has elapsed after transmitting the start control information. Item 15. The game table according to Item 8. A game medium replenishing device comprising a replenishment control means for controlling a replenishment process when replenishing a game medium with respect to a payout apparatus that executes a payout process for paying out a game medium provided in a game table,
The replenishment control means includes
Payout error control information indicating a payout error that has occurred due to a lack of gaming media in the payout device;
In the error canceling operation means, which is arranged inside the gaming table and is capable of canceling the error process executed by the occurrence of the payout error and returning the payout process by performing a predetermined operation. Error release control information indicating that has been performed, and
When the game is received, the game medium supply device is controlled to perform the supply process. The information processing apparatus further comprises acquisition means for acquiring information indicating that a predetermined amount of game media has been supplied to the payout device, wherein the supply control means includes information indicating that a predetermined amount of game media has been supplied by the acquisition means. 13. The game medium supply device according to claim 12, wherein control is performed so that the supply process is terminated when acquired. The apparatus further includes receiving means for receiving information indicating that the replenishment process has been performed for a predetermined time, and the supply control means receives information indicating that the replenishment process has been performed for a predetermined time by the receiving means. The game medium replenishing device according to claim 12, wherein the replenishing process is controlled to end. 14. The game according to claim 13, further comprising transmission means for transmitting information indicating that a predetermined amount of game media has been supplied by the acquisition means to the game table. Medium supply device. 13. The game medium supply device according to claim 12, further comprising management means for managing a reception history of the payout error control information. 17. The game medium according to claim 16, further comprising a determination unit that analyzes the reception history based on a predetermined fraud determination pattern and determines whether or not fraudulent acts have been performed on the gaming table. Replenishment device. A hall computer communicably connected to a gaming machine and a gaming medium supply device for supplying gaming media to the gaming machine,
Error information receiving means for receiving payout error control information indicating the occurrence of a game medium payout error in the gaming table, and error canceling control information indicating that a canceling operation for the payout error has been performed,
Start instruction means for instructing the game medium supply device to start supply of game media to the game table when the payout error control information and the error cancellation control information are received;
A hall computer comprising: Supply information receiving means for receiving information indicating that a predetermined amount of game media has been supplied to the game table;
When the supply information receiving means receives information indicating that the predetermined amount of game media has been supplied, an end instruction means for instructing the game medium supply device to end the supply of game media to the game table. When,
The hall computer according to claim 18, further comprising: 19. The hall computer according to claim 18, further comprising management means for managing a reception history of the payout error control information received by the error information receiving means. 21. The hall computer according to claim 20, further comprising a determination unit that analyzes the reception history based on a predetermined fraud determination pattern and determines whether or not fraudulent activity has been performed on the gaming table. . A game machine having a payout device for storing game media and executing payout processing for paying out the stored game media, a game medium supply device for supplying game media to the game table, and managing the game table A gaming system that is communicably connected to a hall computer,
The game table is
Detecting means for detecting occurrence of a payout error due to a lack of game media in the payout device;
In accordance with detection of the occurrence of a payout error by the detection means, error processing means for executing error processing;
An error canceling operation means arranged inside the game machine and capable of canceling the execution of the error processing and returning the payout processing by performing a predetermined operation;
Sending means for sending out the payout error control information indicating the occurrence of the payout error and the error release control information indicating that a predetermined operation has been performed in the error release operation means, and
The hall computer
Receiving means for receiving the payout error control information and the error cancellation control information;
When the payout error control information and the error cancellation control information are received, the game medium supply device is provided with a start instruction means for instructing start of supply of game media to the game table,
The game medium supply device is
2. A gaming system according to claim 1, wherein the game medium starts to be supplied to the gaming machine based on an instruction from the start instruction means. A gaming system comprising a gaming machine having a payout device for accumulating gaming media and executing a payout process for paying out the accumulated gaming media, and a gaming media supply device for supplying gaming media to the gaming machine. ,
The game table is
Detecting means for detecting occurrence of a payout error due to a lack of game media in the payout device;
In accordance with detection of the occurrence of a payout error by the detection means, error processing means for executing error processing;
An error canceling operation means arranged inside the game machine and capable of canceling the execution of the error processing and returning the payout processing by performing a predetermined operation;
Sending means for sending out the payout error control information indicating the occurrence of the payout error and the error release control information indicating that a predetermined operation has been performed in the error release operation means, and
The game medium supply device is
A gaming system characterized by starting supply of gaming media to the gaming table when the payout error control information and the error cancellation control information are received.

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