JP2007082628A - Game machine, image generation apparatus, image generation method and program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine with an image display function capable of inserting the disturbance of an image full of presence at an optional timing without increasing source image data, and to provide an image generation apparatus, an image generation method and a program therefor. <P>SOLUTION: The game machine with the image display function for displaying images comprises: a first image data generation part (3041) for generating first image data; a mapping part (3042) for developing the first image data to a prescribed three-dimensional graphic defined inside a virtual three-dimensional space; and a second image data generation part (3043) for generating second image data for which the three-dimensional graphic for which the first image data are mapped is converted to a two-dimensional image with a prescribed view point set inside a virtual three-dimensional space as a reference. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an image generation technique for displaying an image suitable for a gaming machine such as a slot machine.

  In recent years, gaming machines such as slot machines and pachinko machines are available that display various effect images using an image display device together with a pattern that produces a lottery result. For example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-167016 is configured to display a game-related image by arranging a liquid crystal display device on the front surface of a reel (Patent Document 1). Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-45503 discloses a virtual structure image obtained by modeling an object defined as a three-dimensional object in a virtual three-dimensional space and mapping image data on the surface of the object. A gaming machine to which a so-called three-dimensional image display technique is applied that converts a two-dimensional image into a two-dimensional image based on a predetermined viewpoint position is disclosed (Patent Document 2). In such a gaming machine, an effect pattern corresponding to the theme of the slot machine is displayed by the image display device during the game inherent to the slot machine or even when no game is played.

Here, in a gaming machine that displays a two-dimensional image, the original image data is displayed as it is. In a gaming machine that displays a three-dimensional image, a virtual three-dimensional figure is observed from a predetermined viewpoint. It was displayed as an image projected on the two-dimensional plane.
JP 2004-167016 A (FIGS. 1 to 3) JP 2002-45503 A (FIGS. 7 and 8)

  Here, as the production pattern of image display used in gaming machines and the like becomes complicated and the story becomes stronger, it is necessary to prepare a special production screen that was not originally actively displayed as a production pattern. Came out. For example, there is a case where it is desired to display an image in which the entire screen is disturbed due to the loss of the synchronization signal, such as when noise is mixed during television image communication. The content of the effect is a case where a flying object is approaching during communication, and a case where an atmosphere in which radio waves are disturbed by the flying object is expressed by a disturbance of the screen is considered.

  However, an image display device that displays a disturbed image in which noise is mixed (hereinafter, such an image that is actively displayed is referred to as a “disturbed image”) as an effect pattern to be displayed. There were no gaming machines. In the image display, display image data is generated based on the original image data or a three-dimensional figure in the virtual space, so that a “disturbed image” cannot be displayed essentially.

  If it is intended to express the disturbance of the entire screen, it is conceivable to store an image in which the entire screen is disturbed as image data and display such an image in a scene in which noise is mixed. However, although the background image changes from scene to scene, it is unnatural and not interesting to display the same image every time noise enters.

  On the other hand, holding image data expressing all noise for each scene in which noise enters increases the capacity of the image data unnecessarily.

  Also, when holding image data that expresses noise, it is necessary to specify the scene where the noise enters to some extent, so in the case of a production pattern that cannot specify when and when noise is mixed in the story, it is optional. It is virtually impossible to provide a realistic noise image at this timing.

  Therefore, in view of the above-described problems, the present invention provides a gaming machine, an image generation apparatus, and an image generation method having an image display function that can be inserted at an arbitrary timing, without increasing the original image data, with a screen disturbance full of presence. , And a program for the purpose.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, a gaming machine according to the present invention is a gaming machine having an image display function for displaying an image, and includes a first image data generation unit that generates first image data, and a virtual three-dimensional space. A mapping unit that expands the first image data to a predetermined three-dimensional figure defined in the above, and a two-dimensional image with the three-dimensional figure mapped with the first image data as a reference based on a predetermined viewpoint set in a virtual three-dimensional space And a second image data generation unit that generates second image data converted into an image.

  The image generation apparatus of the present invention acquires the first image data and maps the first image data to a mapping unit that expands the first image data into a predetermined three-dimensional figure defined in the virtual three-dimensional space. A second image data generation unit that generates second image data obtained by converting a three-dimensional figure into a two-dimensional image based on observation from a predetermined viewpoint set in a virtual three-dimensional space, To do.

  Furthermore, the image generation method of the present invention includes a step of acquiring first image data, a step of developing the first image data into a predetermined three-dimensional figure defined in the virtual three-dimensional space, and the first image data mapping Generating second image data obtained by converting the three-dimensional figure formed into a two-dimensional image based on a predetermined viewpoint set in a virtual three-dimensional space.

  According to these inventions, assuming that the first image data is generated based on the conventional image generation technology, the first image data is mapped as a texture to a predetermined three-dimensional figure, and the three-dimensional figure is displayed at the viewpoint position. The second image data is converted into a two-dimensional image obtained when the image is observed. For this reason, while the second image data follows the texture of the first image data as it is, the display image based on the first image data is greatly distorted according to the structure of the three-dimensional figure, the distance between the viewpoint and the three-dimensional figure, and the like. An image can be displayed. For this reason, it is possible to generate an image in which the entire screen is distorted or distorted at an arbitrary timing without providing special original image data for displaying a “disturbed image”. In addition, since the image is always based on the first image data, the image based on the first image data is reflected in the image based on the disturbed second image data, and the “disturbed image” having a sense of reality and reality can be positively displayed. Is possible.

  Here, the image generation apparatus and the image generation method need only acquire the first image data as existing in advance, and include cases where the first image data is not generated by itself.

  Here, the “gaming machine” is not limited, but includes, for example, a rotary gaming machine (hereinafter referred to as “slot machine”), a pachinko machine (including a first kind pachinko machine and a second kind pachinko machine), and the like.

  Here, it is preferable to map the first image data to the three-dimensional figure while rotating the three-dimensional figure around a predetermined rotation axis in the virtual three-dimensional space at every predetermined interval. By processing in this way, the position and rotation state of the three-dimensional figure with respect to the viewpoint change every interval, and when the first image data is a so-called moving image, the disturbance is complicated and more realistic and more realistic. Reality can be increased.

  Here, the “interval” can be arbitrarily determined. For example, it is conceivable to rotate a predetermined angle for each horizontal synchronization period (frame period) of the television signal.

  Here, it is preferable to apply a deformed polygonal column as a three-dimensional figure. If it is a deformed polygonal column, the direction of the side connecting the vertices of the polygon when observed from the viewpoint is not uniform, and regularity can be suppressed when converted to the second image data, so a more effective screen This is because it is possible to produce a disturbing way.

  However, a symmetric simple figure (a prism, cylinder, sphere, cube, rectangular parallelepiped, or a three-dimensional figure having a symmetric curved surface) may be adopted as the three-dimensional figure. In such a case, since regular image distortion is provided, an intentional secondary processed image such as a concave mirror or a world reflected on the convex mirror can be provided.

  Here, it is preferable that either the first image data or the second image data is alternately output to the image display device. By controlling the display in this way, it is possible to produce an effect that the normal image (for example, the image based on the first image data) and the “disturbed image” (for example, the image based on the second image data) are switched. It is possible to produce an intermittent feeling, such as when the screen is disturbed due to mixing, and it is possible to produce an image production full of realism and reality.

  Here, such processing can be realized by controlling which image data is output by controlling the validation of the mapping and the generation of the second image data. Alternatively, it can be realized by controlling which image data is output by selectively controlling either the stored first image data or second image data.

  Here, it is preferable that the first image data and the second image data are data for displaying a moving image generated every frame period. This is because if the first image data is a moving image, the second image data also becomes a moving image, and an image that disturbs the relay screen during communication is provided, so that the presence and reality can be further increased. .

  The program of the present invention is a program for causing a computer to execute the image generation method of the present invention. Such a program is stored in a storage medium and distributed. Such storage media include various types of ROM, USB memory with flash memory, USB memory, SD memory, memory stick, memory card, and other physical storage media such as FD, CD-ROM, and DVD-ROM. It also includes a transmission medium such as the Internet capable of transmitting the program.

  According to the present invention, since the original first image data is further expanded into a three-dimensional figure and the second image data is generated can be displayed, special original image data for displaying a disordered image can be displayed. Without providing, it is possible to generate an image in which the entire screen is distorted or distorted at an arbitrary timing. Moreover, since it is always based on the first image data, the image based on the first image data is reflected in the image based on the disturbed second image data, and it is possible to positively display a disordered image with a sense of reality and reality. is there.

Hereinafter, as a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a slot machine installed in a game hall or the like will be described with reference to the drawings. The following embodiments are merely examples of application of the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to the embodiments and can be applied with various modifications.
(Definition)
The terms used in this specification are defined as follows.
“Game” refers to a series of operations from the insertion of a medal to the operation of a stop switch before the next medal is inserted.
“Normal game” refers to a “game” executed with an expected value set for a default state.
The “special game” is a “game” that is different from the “normal game” and is advantageous to the player.

“Lottery” refers to a process in which a computer draws a lottery with a predetermined expected value using a random number or the like when a gaming machine reaches a predetermined condition (switch operation state or the like).
“Winning” refers to a case where the result of the “lottery” is a win, in particular, a case where a win is obtained by a computer lottery. In the present embodiment, it is distinguished from “winning” determined mechanically.
“Winning” means that a combination of symbols on the active line indicated by the stopped reels is in a state indicating a specific combination.

The “combination” is to specify the type of winning when the result of the lottery is winning. It is also called “winning role” when the “winning role” or the design is complete.
The “special role” is a role for shifting to “special game”.
The “small role” is a role for paying out to the player the number of medals corresponding to the type of the small role.

“Replay” is a role for giving the right to replay while maintaining the number of medals inserted in the previous game.
The “effective line” indicates the arrangement of the stopped symbols for the sake of convenience, and indicates whether the symbol is a specific “combination” or “losing” depending on the combination of symbols arranged on the effective line. When a plurality of “effective lines” are set, they are collectively referred to as “effective line group”.

(Embodiment)
FIG. 1 is a front view showing an appearance of a slot machine (game machine) according to an embodiment of the present invention.
(Case configuration)
As shown in FIG. 1, a front panel 20 is attached to a front surface portion of a housing of the slot machine 10 according to the present embodiment so as to be freely opened and closed. It is a display area in which an effect display device 40 having a display function is provided in the upper part of the front panel 20, and an operation unit is provided in the center.

  An effect display device 40 having a display function is provided in the upper part of the housing. The effect display device 40 is configured to include, for example, a liquid crystal panel, and is configured to be able to display images for various effects and information necessary for the game. The effect display device 40 is provided with one transparent display window 21. The area of the display window 21 is not provided with a liquid crystal for displaying an image, a member constituting the liquid crystal (such as a polarizing plate), or a circuit for controlling the liquid crystal, and transmits light. It is an area that cannot physically display an image.

  Three reels (rotating drums) are arranged in a position inside the housing and visible through the display window 21. From the left side when viewed from the front, the left reel 31L, the middle reel 31C, and the right reel 31R are arranged in this order.

  The reels 31L, 31C and 31R are formed in a ring-shaped hollow structure. The outer periphery of the reel is formed in the width of the reel tape that is affixed to the outer peripheral surface, and a plurality of openings are provided on the outer peripheral surface in accordance with the shape of the pattern printed on the reel tape. The inside of the reel is hollow, and the rotating shaft is supported by a frame extending from the outer peripheral surface.

  Each reel tape on which a winning symbol (a symbol constituting a winning combination) is printed is affixed to the outer peripheral surface of the reel. On each reel tape, for example, 21 symbols are printed at regular intervals. The arrangement of the symbols is different for each reel tape. The design of the reel tape corresponds to the opening provided on the outer peripheral surface of the reel. From the display window 21, the reels 31L, 31C, and 31R are observed through the display window. The size of the display window 21 is such that three consecutive symbols in the vertical direction of the outer peripheral surface of each reel can be seen. Is set. In FIG. 1, a circle shown on the reel group 31 (meaning a group of reels 31L, 31C, and 31R) represents one symbol.

  Stepping motors (not shown) are connected to the respective rotation shafts of the reels 31L, 31C, and 31R. This stepping motor is capable of rotating the reels 31L, 31C and 31R at an arbitrary speed or stopping at an arbitrary angle (position). When each reel rotates, the symbols of the reels 31L, 31C, and 31R are visually recognized as moving up and down in the display window 21.

  A back lamp (not shown) is provided inside the reels 31L, 31C, and 31R. Three back lamps are arranged for each reel, and light is emitted through the openings on the outer peripheral surface of the reel for a total of nine symbols visible from the display window 21 when the reels are stopped.

  A broken line on the display window 21 shown in FIG. 1 indicates an effective line group 22 including effective lines 22a, 22b, and 22c. The effective line group 22 includes a horizontal effective line 22a in the horizontal direction, two effective lines 22b in the upper and lower horizontal directions, and two effective lines 22c in the diagonally downward and leftward directions. ing. The symbols attached to the reels 31L, 31C and 31R are spaced so that all nine symbols visible from the display window 21 are positioned on these effective line groups 22 when the reels 31L, 31C and 31R are stopped. Is arranged in.

  A medal slot 23 is provided at a position corresponding to the lower right side of the effect display device 40 in the center of the casing of the slot machine 10. When medals are inserted from the medal insertion slot 23, one to five lines of the effective lines 22a, 22b and 22c are activated according to the number of inserted medals. That is, the inserted number of medals is collected as a premium. When one medal is inserted, one effective line 22a is effective. When two medals are inserted, three horizontal effective lines 22a and 22b are effective. In total, including two effective lines 22c in the direction, five effective lines 22a to 22c become effective. These controls are performed by a later-described main CPU (central processing unit) 51 (see FIG. 2). For example, when three medals are inserted, if a combination of specific symbols on at least one effective line 22a to 22c is stopped when the reels 31L, 31C, and 31R are stopped, the combination is selected. It will be a prize for the corresponding role.

  Various operation switches operated by the player are provided at the center of the housing. For example, in this embodiment, a start switch 41, a stop switch group 42, and a bet switch group 43 are provided.

  The start switch 41 is a switch, for example, a button operated by the player when starting the rotation of the reels 31L, 31C, and 31R. The stop switch group 42 includes a left stop switch 42L that is operated when stopping the left reel 31L, a middle stop switch 42C that is operated when stopping the middle reel 31C, and a right stop that is operated when stopping the right reel 31R. Switch 42R. These stop switches 42L, 42C, and 42R are juxtaposed as buttons, for example.

  The bet switch group 43 is a switch group for designating the number of bets (the number of bets) when the player inserts a medal in the credit. The bet switch group 43 includes a 1-bet / 2-bet switch 43a and a MAX bet switch (3-bet switch) 43b. It is configured. These bet switches 43a and 43b are also arranged as buttons, for example. When the 1-bet / 2-bet switch 43a is operated, one or two medals are bet (collected as a game amount), and when the MAX bet switch 43b is operated, the maximum 3 bets Medals are bet. That is, the number of bets designated by operating the bet switch group 43 is collected from the number of medals that are credited, and the credit is subtracted by the number of bets.

  Further, a medal payout opening 90 is provided at the center of the lower portion of the housing, and speakers 71 are provided on both sides of the medal payout opening 90. During the game (game), various effects, for example, lighting of a back lamp, image display using the effect display device 40, and output of sound from the speaker 71 are performed. Furthermore, as such an effect, there is a case where a notification effect of the possibility of winning is performed.

An outline of the normal game executed in the slot machine having these configurations will be briefly described.
In the slot machine 10, when a player inserts a medal from the medal insertion slot 23 or operates the bet switch group 43, the effective lines 22a to 22c are activated according to the number of bets.

  When the player who has designated the bet number operates the start switch 41, a winning combination according to the bet number is performed and the reels 31L, 31C and 31R start to rotate. When the player operates the stop switches 42L, 42C, and 42R, the reels 31L, 31C, and 31R stop rotating according to the operated button. At this time, if the lottery result of the combination being performed simultaneously with the operation of the start switch 41 is a winning combination, the combination of symbols arranged on the activated effective line group 22 is a predetermined combination of combinations. The reels are controlled so as to match the combination of symbols, and medals are paid out according to the winning combination.

(System configuration)
Next, a system configuration such as an internal configuration of the slot machine 10 will be described.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a system configuration of the slot machine 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention. Inside the casing of the slot machine 10, a main control board 50, a sub control board 60, a reel board 11, a central display board 12, and a power supply board 13 connected to the main control board 50 are arranged.

(Main control board 50)
The main control board 50 is provided with a main CPU 51, ROM 52, RAM 53, and interface circuit (I / F circuit) 54, which are connected to each other via a bus 55.

  The main CPU 51 reads (fetches), interprets (decodes), and executes instructions constituting the program. The main CPU 51 reads out programs, data, and the like stored in the ROM 52, and controls the entire slot machine 10 based on these.

  The ROM 52 stores software programs and data necessary for lottery processing and other game controls based on operations as shown in the flowchart of FIG. The RAM 53 is used when the main CPU 51 performs various controls, and is configured to be able to temporarily store data and the like.

  The I / F circuit 54 performs timing control and the like when signals are transmitted and received between the main control board 50, the sub control board 60, the reel board 11, the central display board 12, and the power supply board 13. It is like that. However, transmission of signals from the main control board 50 to the sub control board 60 is performed between the main control board 50 and the sub control board 60, but transmission of signals from the sub control board 60 to the main control board 50 is not performed. It is configured not to be performed.

(Sub-control board 60)
The sub control board 60 is provided with a sub CPU 61, ROM 62, RAM 63, image control processor 64, image data ROM 65, video RAM 66, tone generator circuit 67, amplifier 68 and interface circuit (I / F circuit) 69. The sub CPU 61, ROM 62, control RAM 63, image control processor 64, tone generator circuit 67 and I / F circuit 69 are connected to each other via a bus 70. The image data ROM 65 and the video RAM 66 are connected to an image control processor 64, and the amplifier 68 is connected to a sound source circuit 67.

  The sub CPU 61 reads (fetches), interprets (decodes) and executes instructions constituting the program. Then, the sub CPU 61 reads out programs and data stored in the ROM 62, and controls the entire sub control board 60, in particular, controls the effects for the player. Note that there are no restrictions on the processing capability or development language of the sub CPU 61.

  The ROM 62 stores a software program, data, and the like necessary for the processing shown in the flowchart of FIG. 7 to be described later and other effects during the game. The RAM 63 is used when the sub CPU 61 performs various controls, and is configured to be able to temporarily store data and the like.

  The sub CPU 61, ROM 62, and RAM 63 have the same functions as the main CPU 51, ROM 52, and RAM 53 provided on the main control board 50, respectively. The ROM 62 and the RAM 63 may be the same as the ROM 52 and the RAM 53, respectively, but those having a capacity larger than these may be used.

  The above-described effect display device 40 is connected so that frame image data stored in the video RAM 66 can be transferred under the control of the image control processor 64. The image data ROM 65 stores original image data for generating image data such as characters, characters, and backgrounds displayed on the effect display device 40. The video RAM 66 is used when the image control processor 64 generates image data to be displayed on the effect display device 40, and image data generated based on the original image data read from the image data ROM 65 is frame image data. As shown in FIG.

  Furthermore, in this embodiment, a speaker 71, the above-described back lamp, and the like are provided in addition to the effect display device 40 as effect peripheral devices. The speaker 71 is connected to the amplifier 68. These effect peripheral devices output effects during the game (such as a notification effect of the possibility of winning a role), and are connected only to the sub-control board 60 and connected to the main control board 50. Not.

  The I / F circuit 69 performs timing control and the like when receiving a signal from the main control board 50. As described above, the signal is transmitted from the main control board 50 to the sub control board 60, but the signal is not transmitted from the sub control board 60 to the main control board 50. That is, only one-way transmission is possible.

(Reel board 11)
A stepping motor (not shown) for driving the left reel 31L, the middle reel 31C, and the right reel 31R is connected to the reel substrate 11. Each stepping motor is further connected to the rotation shafts of these reels 31L, 31C and 31R. Control signals for controlling the operations of the reels 31L, 31C and 31R are supplied from the main CPU 51 to the reel substrate 11.

(Central display board 12)
The central display substrate 12 is attached to, for example, a central portion on the back side of the front panel 20.
The central display board 12 includes a selector 81, a 1-bet / 2-bet switch 43a, a MAX bet switch (3-bet switch) 43b, a start switch (lever) 41, a left stop switch (button) 42L, and a middle stop switch (button) 42C. A right stop switch (button) 42R, a setting display section 82, and a setting change switch 83 are connected.

  The selector 81 is configured to identify whether or not the medal inserted from the medal insertion slot 23 is a genuine one, and to eliminate an illegal medal. The setting display unit 82 is arranged so as to be visible from the back side of the front panel 20, and displays settings relating to probability and payout (for example, settings 1 to 6). The setting change switch 83 is a switch operated when changing the setting related to the probability and the payout.

(Power supply board 13)
A setting change enabling switch 91, a power switch 92, a hopper device 93, and a power device 94 are connected to the power device board 13.
The setting change enable switch 91 is a switch that is operated when a setting change using the setting change switch 83 is enabled. That is, the setting change using the setting change switch 83 can be performed only when the setting change enable switch 91 is in the ON state. The power switch 92 is a switch for switching the power supply device 94 on / off. The hopper device 93 is a device for storing and paying out medals. Based on an instruction from the main CPU 51 via the power supply device board 13, a predetermined number of medals are stored in the medal payout opening 90 from medals stored in advance. It comes to pay out.

(Function block on main control board)
Next, a functional configuration of the main control board 50 will be described.
FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram showing a functional configuration of the main control board 50.
As shown in FIG. 3, in the present embodiment, for example, the main CPU 51 executes a program recorded in the ROM 52, whereby the following control unit 101, role lottery unit 103, reel control unit 106, winning determination unit 107. The gaming state control unit 108 and the payout control unit 109 are functionally realized. For example, the RAM 53 functions as the following flag information storage unit 105, and the following lottery table 102 data is stored in the ROM 52, for example.

(Role lottery section 103)
The role lottery unit 103 is a functional block for performing lottery of a role (special role, small role, replay, etc.).
The combination lottery unit 103 obtains one random number after generating a random number internally for each game, refers to the lottery table 102 stored in the ROM 52, and determines the combination of the combination based on the area to which the acquired random number belongs. The presence / absence of winning and the winning combination are determined.

  For example, the role lottery unit 103 performs a lottery when the start switch 41 is operated, and determines whether the “game” is “winning” or “losing” and “winning” when it is “winning”. decide. That is, the role lottery unit 103 generates a random number within a predetermined range (for example, 0 to 65535 in decimal notation) when the start switch 41 is pressed, and the predetermined lot is selected when the predetermined condition is satisfied. Get a random value. In the lottery table 102, a special role winning area, a small role winning area, a replay winning area, a non-winning (losing) area, and the like are set at a predetermined ratio with respect to random numbers that can be acquired by the role lottery unit 103. ing.

  Then, the combination lottery unit 103 determines an area to which the random number value belongs by comparing the acquired random number value with the lottery table 102 and determines a combination corresponding to the area to which the random value belongs. . For example, when the extracted random number value belongs to the special combination winning area, it is determined that the special combination is won, and when it belongs to the non-winning area, it is determined to be lost. When a winning combination is won, a flag for the winning combination is turned on.

Further, the winning lottery section 103 arranges symbols 31L, 31C, and 31R that represent the winning combination when the reels 31L, 31C, and 31R are “winned” after each of the stop switches 42L, 42C, and 42R is pressed. The stop is controlled so that the winning combination is won. Further, when the lottery result is “losing” (non-winning), stop control is performed so that the symbol arrangement does not represent any combination. In any case, the stop symbol does not change even if the timing of pressing the stop switches 42L, 42C, and 42R is changed.
Note that the lottery performed by the winning lottery unit 103 may be performed only once per game to determine the winning combination, but may be configured to perform multiple lotteries.

  In addition to the configuration led by the role lottery unit 103 in which a lottery is performed at the timing of pressing the start switch 41 or the stop switches 42L, 42C, and 42R and the lottery result is determined, the reels can be operated without any special pull-in operation. The group 31 may be stopped, and as a result, the winning determination unit 107 may detect the positions where the reels 31L, 31C, and 31R are stopped, and determine whether there is a winning or a winning combination. In this case, there is no concept of lottery or winning combination, and the combination lottery unit 103 may not exist. Further, depending on the type of game, whether or not the role lottery unit 103 is led, that is, whether to make a lottery or make a winning determination by reel may be switched.

(Control unit 101)
The control unit 101 is a central functional block that controls the operation timing of the combination lottery unit 103, the reel control unit 106 and the winning determination unit 107, which will be described later.
For example, on the condition that the start switch 41 is operated, the control unit 101 causes the combination lottery unit 103 to perform combination lottery, causes the reel control unit 106 to start the rotation of the reel group 31, and the stop switch. The reel control unit 106 is controlled to stop the reel group 31 on the condition that the group 42 has been operated, and further, the winning determination unit 107 is configured to perform a prize determination on the condition that the reel group 31 is stopped. It is.
Note that the operation of the control unit 101 is not limited to these, and governs general control required for the main control board 50.

(Flag information storage unit 105)
The flag information storage unit 105 is configured to be able to store the type of the winning combination and the fact that the flag is turned on when a flag for a certain combination is turned on by the lottery result of the combination lottery unit 103.

(Reel control unit 106)
The reel control unit 106 is a functional block that controls the rotation and stop of the reel group 31 (reels 31L, 31C, and 31R) based on an instruction from the control unit 101.
More specifically, the reel control unit 106 has a game state (for example, a normal game state, a special game state, etc.), a result of a lottery by the combination lottery unit 103, and a stop switch group 42 (stop switches 42L, 42C and 42R). Based on the operated timing or the like, the stop positions of the reels 31L, 31C and 31R are determined, and the driving of the stepping motor is controlled to stop the rotation of the reels 31L, 31C and 31R at the determined positions. It has become.

  For example, if the winning lottery unit 103 results in “losing” and no winning combination is won, each reel is set so that the combination of symbols of any winning combination is not stopped on the activated effective line. The stop positions of 31L, 31C and 31R are determined, and each reel is stopped at the determined position. On the other hand, if a winning combination is selected for a certain role, the symbol combination is determined so that the winning symbol combination is stopped on the active line that is active, and the symbol combination is valid at that time. The stop positions of the reels 31L, 31C, and 31R are determined so as to appear in the effective lines, and each reel is stopped at the determined position.

In particular, when the special combination is “winned”, the stop combinations of the reels 31L, 31C, and 31R are controlled so that the combination of the special combination symbols is stopped on the active line that is enabled (for example, (Within 4 symbols), pull-in control is performed so that the symbols related to the special role are aligned as much as possible. However, even if the special role is “winned”, the combination of symbols of the special role will not stop on the activated active line when “winning” for a small role or replay. Then, stop positions of the reels 31L, 31C and 31R are determined, and stop control is performed.
Such control when stopping the reels 31L, 31C and 31R may be performed using a reel control table.

(Winning determination unit 107)
The winning determination unit 107 is a functional block for determining the final winning state.
The winning determination unit 107 determines whether or not a combination of symbols in the active line group 22 is arranged in any of the active lines that are active, and if there is an in-line combination, It is determined that the winning combination has been won. The lottery of the combination is determined in advance by the combination lottery unit 103. However, when a mechanical reel is used, the reel may not be stopped as scheduled, so the position of the finally stopped reel is detected. Because you have to do it.

  The winning determination unit 107 determines a symbol positioned on the active line by detecting, for example, an angle at the time when the stepping motor is stopped, the number of steps, and the like, and based on this, determines the presence / absence of a winning combination.

  Instead of pre-determining a combination by the combination lottery unit 103 and stopping the reels 31L, 31C and 31R together, the reels are stopped one after another at a retractable position, and finally the actual reels 31L, The positions of 31C and 31R may be detected, and the winning determination unit 107 may determine the combination of symbols and determine the combination.

(Game state control unit 108)
The gaming state control unit 108 is a functional block for controlling the special game from the next game until the predetermined end condition is satisfied when the winning determination unit 107 has won a special role as a result of the determination. It is.

  For example, the game state control unit 108 causes the reel control unit 106 to perform reel control for special games according to the lottery result of the role lottery unit 103 during the special game, or causes the sub control board 60 to perform special game effects. Or let it be done.

(Payout control unit 109)
The payout control unit 109 is a functional block for causing the hopper device 93 to pay out medals according to the winning combination as a result of the determination by the winning determination unit 107.

(Functional block on sub control board)
Next, a functional configuration of the sub control board 60 will be described.
FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram showing a functional configuration of the sub control board 60.
As shown in FIG. 4, in the present embodiment, for example, when the sub CPU 61 executes a program recorded in the ROM 62, the effect pattern selection unit 201 is functionally realized. In addition, the effect control unit 202 is functionally realized by controlling the image control processor 64 by the sub CPU 61 executing the program recorded in the ROM 62.

  The effects implemented by the sub-control board 60 are effects by an image displayed in the image display area around the display window 21 by the effect display device 40 and effects by sound generated from the speaker 71. Unlike the operations on the main control board 50, these effects do not change the direction of the game itself, such as lottery. However, the effects of the image and sound stimulate the player, and the expectation of winning the prize It plays an important role in improving the quality and eliminating monotony.

(Production pattern selection unit 201)
The effect pattern selection unit 201 is a functional block that selects an effect pattern according to the gaming state.
Specifically, the effect pattern selection unit 201 receives a signal from the role lottery unit 103 of the main control board 50 and selects an effect pattern according to the winning combination or the like, or a winning determination unit of the main control board 50 In response to signals from 107 and the special role game control unit 108, an effect pattern corresponding to a winning combination or a gaming state is selected.

  Here, the effect pattern is determined based on the progress of the game such as whether the start switch 41 is pressed, which stop switch 42 is pressed, and which reels 31L, 31C, and 31R are stopped, as a result of lottery. Is selected in accordance with the type of game, such as a normal game or a special game.

(Production control unit 202)
The production control unit 202 is a functional block that controls production based on the production pattern selected by the production pattern selection unit 201.
That is, the production control unit 202 creates 3D image data based on the production pattern, converts it into 2D image data, supplies it to the production display device 40, and displays an image on the image display area. To work.

  In addition, the effect control unit 202 controls the sound source circuit 67 to generate a sound signal based on sound source data stored in a sound source data ROM (not shown). The sound signal is amplified by the amplifier 68 and then output from the speaker 71.

(Detailed function blocks of the production control unit)
Next, the configuration of the effect control unit 202 will be described. The image generation apparatus (method) of the present invention is functionally realized by the effect control unit 202 as follows.

FIG. 5 shows detailed functional blocks of the effect control unit 202.
As shown in FIG. 5, the effect control unit 202 includes an image control unit 301, a sound control unit 302, an object data storage unit 3031, a texture data storage unit 3032, a three-dimensional graphic data storage unit 3033, an image data generation unit 304, The image data storage unit 3051, the second image data storage unit 3052, and the display control unit 306 are configured. The image data generation unit 304 further includes a first image data generation unit 3041, a mapping unit 3042, a second image data generation unit 3043, and a switching unit 3044.

  The image control unit 301 and the sound control unit 302 are functionally realized by the sub CPU 61 executing a program stored in the ROM 62. The object data storage unit 3031, the texture data storage unit 3032, and the three-dimensional graphic data storage unit 3033 correspond to the image data ROM 65. The first image data storage unit 3051 and the second image data storage unit 3052 correspond to the video RAM 66. The image data generation unit 304 and the display control unit 306 are functionally realized by the image control processor 64 that operates based on the control of the sub CPU 61.

(Image control unit 301)
The image control unit 301 causes the image data generation unit 304 to display an object to be displayed in the virtual three-dimensional space, the position of the object, the type of texture, according to the effect pattern selected by the effect pattern selection unit 201. The position of the viewpoint for developing the virtual three-dimensional space into a two-dimensional image can be continuously indicated every frame period. That is, the image control unit 301 determines a story on the image according to the effect pattern and controls its development.

(Sound controller 302)
The sound control unit 302 is configured to control the sound source circuit 67 so as to generate and generate a sound signal corresponding to the effect pattern selected by the effect pattern selection unit 201. The sound controlled by the sound control unit 302 is temporally linked with the image control unit 301 so as to have a close relationship with the progress of the image displayed by the control of the image control unit 301. ing.

(Object data storage unit 3031)
The object data storage unit 3031 stores shape definition information of various objects to be displayed in the virtual three-dimensional space.
The object is defined as a collection of polygons that are minute polygons, for example. In this case, the object data is a collection of polygon data. Each polygon data is defined by a set of relative coordinates of each vertex of the polygon with respect to predetermined reference coordinates. An object is defined by a set of relative coordinates of vertices for all the polygons constituting the object. Then, by performing a known coordinate transformation operation on the relative coordinates of the vertices of the polygon defining the object, it is possible to place the object at an arbitrary coordinate point in the virtual three-dimensional space.

The objects include characters and monsters appearing in the production pattern, automobiles and tanks, moving bodies such as helicopters and aircraft, buildings, animals and plants, and the like.
In addition to objects defined by polygons, objects include sprites, that is, objects defined by, for example, bitmap data as a single picture. An object displayed by such a sprite is suitable for a part of a background image that does not require a three-dimensional effect, a fire or light, etc., whose solid shape is not clear. The object data storage unit 3031 also includes such sprite data.
Further, the object data storage unit 3031 stores information on viewpoints (cameras) and environmental light sources for developing objects and the like arranged in a virtual three-dimensional space into two-dimensional images, background image data, and the like.

(Texture data storage unit 3032)
The texture data storage unit 3032 stores texture data developed for an object arranged in the virtual three-dimensional space.

  The texture is applied to the surface of the object (polygon) by being developed on the surface of the object or polygon which is only a set of vertex coordinates. The texture data is original image data developed in a unit area, for example, bitmap data. When a texture based on this texture data is pasted as a texture on a predetermined polygon, it is realized by a mapping process in which the texture data is subjected to predetermined image conversion, for example, affine conversion, and the texture is developed into a polygon shape.

(Solid figure data storage unit 3033)
The three-dimensional graphic data storage unit 3033 is an area that stores object data of a three-dimensional graphic that is a target for developing (mapping) the first image data in the present invention.
This three-dimensional figure can be defined by polygon data like other objects. In particular, object data that defines a deformed polygonal column (a rectangular column whose long-axis cross section is not a regular polygon) is stored as the solid figure data (see FIGS. 8A and 8B). Details will be described later.

(First image data generation unit 3041)
The first image data generation unit 3041 is a block that functions as a three-dimensional image data generation unit that can update image data for each frame period. That is, the first image data generation unit 3041 arranges the object designated by the image control unit 301 at an arbitrary position in the virtual three-dimensional space, maps the texture, combines it with the background image, and forms a single picture. Generate frame image data.

  The object is arranged by reading out the object data stored in the object data storage unit 3031 and converting the relative coordinates of each polygon constituting the object into a position in the virtual three-dimensional space to be arranged. The texture is mapped by performing affine transformation on the texture data corresponding to the object stored in the texture data storage unit 3032 and developing the texture on each polygon constituting the object.

  When the position of the object in the virtual three-dimensional space is determined, the first image data generation unit 3041 develops the three-dimensional image into a two-dimensional image, so that the texture-mapped object is determined for each scene of the effect pattern. The object data is subjected to coordinate transformation so as to be a two-dimensional image obtained when observed from the observed viewpoint position, and synthesized with the background image data. The first image data generated by these processes is stored in the first image data storage unit 3051 as frame image data.

(Mapping unit 3042)
The mapping unit 3042 is a functional block that expands the first image data into a predetermined three-dimensional figure defined in the virtual three-dimensional space.

  The three-dimensional figure can be arbitrarily set, but at least a figure that can obtain a “disturbed image” to be expressed is used. For example, when a polygonal column-shaped solid figure having a polygonal cross-section is used, an image such as a skew in which scanning lines are distorted in the horizontal direction can be displayed in a television image due to disturbance of a synchronization signal. In order to produce irregularities such as noise, it is preferable that the cross section is not distorted as much as possible so that the cross section does not become a regular polygon and the end face of the polygonal column does not become a similar polygon.

  FIG. 8A is a wire frame image of such a deformed polygonal column. As shown in FIG. 8A, the solid figure 400 has deformed polygons whose end surfaces 401 and 402 are different from each other. A side 403 is formed by connecting the apexes of the end faces. Data stored in the three-dimensional graphic data storage unit 3033 is the relative coordinates of the vertices of such a three-dimensional graphic.

  Furthermore, it is preferable to make a shape with a twist so that the sides of the polygonal column do not become horizontal. FIG. 8B shows a solid figure shape when a twist is further added to the solid figure 400 shown in FIG. 8A. By adding a twist in this way, it is possible to prevent the sides 403 from being horizontal to each other.

  The mapping unit 3042 maps the first image data stored in the first image data storage unit 3033 to the surface of the three-dimensional figure as texture data. That is, the first image data is regarded as one texture data, divided and assigned to each of the polyhedrons of the irregular solid polyhedron, and subjected to affine transformation as necessary to be deformed and developed. The image is like pasting a single picture onto a three-dimensional surface.

  Furthermore, the mapping unit 3042 rotates the solid figure 400 around the axis in the virtual three-dimensional space at predetermined intervals, for example, every frame period. The position and rotation state of the three-dimensional figure with respect to the viewpoint change at every interval.

(Second image data generation unit 3043)
The second image data generation unit 3043 generates second image data obtained by converting the three-dimensional figure to which the first image data is mapped into a two-dimensional image based on a predetermined viewpoint set in the virtual three-dimensional space. It is a functional block. The second image data generation unit 3043 generates second image data for each frame period and stores the second image data in the second image data storage unit 3052.

  FIG. 9 schematically shows the positional relationship of the first image, the solid figure, and the viewpoint in the virtual three-dimensional space based on the first image data. As shown in FIG. 9, the first image 500 based on the first image data generated by the first image data generation unit 3041 is developed from a virtual three-dimensional space into a two-dimensional image. When only the first image 500 is displayed, it is equivalent to the first image 500 observed from the viewpoint C at the viewing angle θ.

  In this embodiment, the three-dimensional figure 400 to which the first image 500 is mapped is observed from the viewpoint C. The second image data generation unit 3043 generates, as the second image data, two-dimensional image data when the stereoscopic figure 400 to which the first image data is mapped is observed from the viewpoint C as one object.

  In the present embodiment, the solid figure 400 is arranged so that the direction of the axis 404 is horizontal in the virtual three-dimensional space. With this arrangement, distortion occurs in the direction of the scanning line, and it is possible to produce an image as if the synchronization signal was disturbed in the television image. Of course, there is no limitation on the arrangement of the solid figures in the axial direction.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the distance between the viewpoint C and the solid figure 400 is set to a close positional relationship so that the solid figure 400 enters the full viewing angle θ of the viewpoint C. With such a positional relationship, the entire display image becomes a “disturbed image”.

  When the distance between the viewpoint C and the three-dimensional figure 400 is long and the three-dimensional figure 400 occupies a part of the viewing angle θ, an image in which only a part of the display image is disturbed can do. This is a positional relationship for displaying a “disturbed image” only on a part of the image. At this time, the first image 500 is displayed on the background or another background image is displayed.

  Here, since the three-dimensional figure 400 is rotated around the axis 404 by the mapping unit 3042, the regularity such as a predetermined disturbance manner is eliminated at a predetermined position of the image, and the second image in which the disturbance flows. Can be generated.

(Switching unit 3044)
The switching unit 3044 is a functional block for alternately outputting either the first image data or the second image data.

  The switching unit 3044 controls the mapping unit 3042 and the second image data generation unit 3043 to enable or disable the mapping process and the second image data generation, thereby switching output image data. ing. That is, when the mapping process by the mapping unit 3042 and the generation of the second image data by the second image data generation unit 3043 are enabled, the second image is displayed, and the mapping process and the generation of the second image data are disabled. In the case of the first image, the first image is displayed. This process has an advantage that the processing load on the image control processor 64 and the like is reduced while the mapping process and the second image data generation are disabled.

  If there is a margin in processing capability of the image control processor 64 or the like, the second image data is continuously generated for each frame period during the period in which the “disturbed image” may be displayed. The image data storage unit 3052 is updated, and only when the second image is displayed, the second image data stored in the second image data storage unit 3052 is supplied to the effect display device 40 and the “disturbed image” is displayed. You may make it display.

  FIG. 10 shows an example of a noise timing chart that defines the switching timing of the first image and the second image in the switching unit 3044. The period of “ON” means that the mapping process and the generation of the second image data are validated and “disturbed image” is displayed. The period of “OFF” means that the mapping process and the generation of the second image data are invalidated and a “normal” image based on the first image data is displayed.

  For example, in the case of an NTSC television signal, a moving image for one second is displayed in 30 frames. As shown in the noise timing chart of FIG. 10, the first image and the second image are frequently displayed in 30 frames. By switching the switching unit 3044, it is possible to produce an image effect that noise is sporadically mixed and the television image is disturbed.

(Display control unit 306)
The display control unit 306 is a functional block that reads the first image data or the second image data by the image data generation unit 304 and supplies the first image data or the second image data to the effect display device 40.
If the second image data is configured to be continuously generated during the predetermined period, the display control unit 306 performs a switching process (for example, the timing in FIG. 10) between the first image data and the second image data at a predetermined timing. May be executed. In that case, the switching unit 3044 may be omitted.

(Description of operation)
Next, the operation of the slot machine 10 according to the present embodiment configured as described above will be described. First, control of the main control board 50 and then control of the sub control board 60 will be described.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing control by the main control board 50.
In FIG. 6, when a player inserts a medal and the start switch 41 is operated, the control unit 101 detects that the start switch 41 is turned on, and the combination lottery unit 103 performs a combination lottery process. (Step S101 / YES, Step S102). On the other hand, when the start switch 41 is not operated by the player and the control unit 101 cannot detect that the start switch 41 is turned on, the process proceeds to step S101 until it detects that the start switch 41 is turned on. Repeat the process.

  In the combination lottery process in step S102, the combination lottery unit 103 acquires a random number and performs a combination lottery process by comparing the acquired random number with the lottery table. As a result of the lottery, if any combination is won, the flag of the combination is turned on in the flag information storage unit 105. The lottery result by the combination lottery unit 103 is transmitted as winning combination information to the sub-control board 60 via the I / F circuit 54 (step S103).

  The reel control unit 106 determines whether any one of the stop switch groups 42 has been operated (step S104). When any one of the stop switches is operated (step S104 / YES), reel control is performed so that the winning combination can be won, and the rotation of the reel corresponding to the operated stop switch is stopped (step S104). S105).

  If no winning combination has been won in the winning lottery process in step S102 (when “losing” has been won), the reel control unit 106 has not won any winning combination in step S105. The reel control corresponding to is performed.

  Subsequently, the reel control unit 106 determines whether all the stop switches are operated and all the reels are stopped (step S106). When all the reels have not stopped yet (step S106 / NO), the processing from the detection processing of presence / absence of the stop switch operation in step S104 is repeated.

  When all the reels are stopped (step S106 / YES), the winning determination unit 107 determines the presence / absence of winning based on the combination of symbols arranged on the activated effective line (step S107). As a result, if there is any winning (step S107 / YES), a winning process corresponding to the winning combination is executed (step S108).

When the winning combination is a “special combination”, the game state control unit 108 performs a transition process for executing the “special game” from the next game until a predetermined end condition is satisfied.
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S107 that there is no winning (step S107 / NO), the process returns to step S101.

  Subsequently, during the “special game”, the gaming state control unit 108 provides the reel control unit 106 with a “special game” so as to provide the player with a gaming state corresponding to the big bonus game or regular bonus game that is the “special role”. The reel control during “game” is performed, or the sub-control board 60 is performed for “special game”. When the specified number of games of the big bonus game or the regular bonus game is finished, a process of shifting to the “normal game” is performed.

  If the winning combination is not “special combination”, if the flag of the special combination is stored in the flag information storage unit 105 in the on state, the storage state of the flag in the flag information storage unit 105 is carried over to the next game. .

  When the winning combination is “replay”, the winning determination unit 107 causes the control unit 101 to carry a bet (the number of bets) on the game to the next game. On the other hand, when the winning combination is neither “special combination” nor “replay”, the payout control unit 109 causes the hopper device 93 to pay out the number of medals corresponding to the winning combination.

Next, the operation of the sub control board 60 will be described.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing control by the sub-control board 60.
In FIG. 7, the effect pattern selection unit 201 first reads the effect pattern from the main control board 50 (step S201). When the read effect pattern is a “disturbed image” that generates noise (step S202 / YES), the image control unit 301 gives the image data generation unit 304 an effect of “disturbed image”. The following instructions are given to do so.

  In step S <b> 203, the first image data generation unit 3041 creates an object in the virtual three-dimensional space based on the object data stored in the object data storage unit 3031 and the texture data stored in the texture data storage unit 3032. 3D image data is generated by executing coordinate calculation to be arranged. Then, the image is synthesized with the background image so as to be an image observed from the viewpoint position specified for each frame period, the three-dimensional image data is developed into two-dimensional image data, and the first image data is generated. The data is stored in the storage unit 3051.

  Next, in step S204, the switching unit 3044 refers to a noise timing chart (for example, FIG. 10) showing the timing for switching between the first image and the second image. In the noise timing chart, when the image to be displayed in the next frame period is the first image (step S205 / NO), the switching unit 3044 invalidates the processing of the mapping unit 3042 and the second image data generation unit 3043. . Therefore, since the second image data is not generated, the display control unit 306 reads the first image data from the first image data storage unit 3051 and outputs it to the effect display device 40. With this first image data, a non-disturbed first image is displayed in the image display area of the front panel as the next frame image.

  On the other hand, when the image to be displayed in the next frame period is the second image in the noise timing chart (step S205 / YES), the switching unit 3044 performs the processing of the mapping unit 3042 and the second image data generation unit 3043. Activate.

  In this case, in step S206, the mapping unit 3043 reads out the object data of the solid figure 400 (see FIG. 9) from the solid figure data storage unit 3033, and rotates the solid figure 400 by a predetermined rotation angle. Then, the mapping unit 3042 reads the first image data from the first image data storage unit 3051 and performs a mapping process on the rotated solid figure 400.

  Next, in step S207, the second image data generation unit 3043 generates a second image obtained by observing the mapped solid figure 400 from the viewpoint C set for generating the second image data. In other words, the three-dimensional image, which is three-dimensional image data, is developed into two-dimensional image data to generate second image data, which is stored in the second image data storage unit 3052.

  In step S208, the display control unit 306 determines which of the first image data stored in the first image data storage unit 3051 and the second image data stored in the second image data storage unit 3052 by these steps. The image specified by the noise timing chart is selected and output to the effect display device 40.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, instead of the first image data generated by the conventional process, a second image in which a three-dimensional figure in which the first image data is mapped as a texture is developed into a two-dimensional image is displayed. Therefore, while following the texture of the first image as it is, a “disturbed image” in which the first image is greatly distorted according to the structure of the three-dimensional figure, the distance between the viewpoint and the three-dimensional figure, and the like is displayed. Therefore, it is possible to generate an image in which the entire screen is distorted or distorted at any timing without providing special original image data for displaying a “disturbed image”.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, since the second image is always based on the first image data, the “disturbed image” reflects the original first image, so that the screen itself is disturbed. In addition, it is possible to actively display images with realistic and realistic effects.

  Furthermore, according to the present embodiment, since the deformed polygonal column is applied as a three-dimensional figure, regularity can be excluded from the second image, and a more effective screen disturbance can be produced.

  Furthermore, according to the present embodiment, the second image data is generated by rotating the three-dimensional figure in the virtual three-dimensional space at every predetermined interval, so that the way of disturbance becomes more complicated and the position of the disturbance is fixed. Image display with a higher sense of reality and reality.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, since the switching unit alternately outputs either the first image data or the second image data, it is possible to produce an intermittent feeling as if the screen is disturbed due to noise. Thus, it is possible to produce an image with more realism and reality.

  Furthermore, according to the present embodiment, since the second image is output every frame period, when the first image is a moving image, the second image also becomes a moving image so that the relay screen during communication is disturbed. Therefore, it is possible to further increase the sense of reality and reality.

(Modification)
The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment and can be implemented with various modifications.
For example, in the above embodiment, a deformed polygonal column is used as a three-dimensional figure for mapping the first image data. However, a simple simple figure such as a prism, a cylinder, a sphere, a cube, a rectangular parallelepiped, or a symmetrical figure is used as the three-dimensional figure. A solid figure having a curved surface may be adopted. When such a three-dimensional figure is used, regular image distortion is provided. Therefore, for example, by pasting the first image onto a three-dimensional figure having a symmetrical curved surface, the world reflected on the concave mirror or convex mirror can be expressed as the second image, and an intentional secondary processed image can be easily generated. Can do.

  In the above embodiment, the slot machine is taken as an example to describe the embodiment of the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and can be applied to, for example, a pachinko machine. Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to gaming machines. The image generation method of the present invention can be applied to any image generation apparatus capable of displaying a three-dimensional image. For example, the present invention can be applied to a 3D game device, a simulator, and the like.

  The embodiment described above can be realized by a computer executing a program. The means for supplying the program to the computer may be a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM recording the program or a transmission medium such as the Internet for transmitting the program. As mentioned above, although embodiment of this invention has been explained in full detail with reference to drawings, a concrete structure is not restricted to said embodiment, In the range which does not deviate from the summary of this invention, it can change suitably.

An example to which the embodiment of the present invention is applied will be described.
11 and 12A to 12G are hard copies of images displayed on the effect display device by applying the embodiment.

  FIG. 11 shows a case where the first image is displayed. An image is displayed around the display frame 21. In the image display area 600, a character 603 (person) with a texture mapped as an object is displayed. A credit number 301 of the number of medals bet by operation of these switches is displayed in the sprite data at a position corresponding to the lower left of the image display area 600 and immediately above the 1-bet / 2-bet switch 43a and the MAX bet switch 43b. Is displayed based on. In the lower right portion of the image display area 600, the number of medals to be paid out according to the winning combination as a result of the game is displayed as a winning number 602 based on the sprite data.

  12A to 12G are images displayed in the image display area 600 corresponding to the noise timing chart of FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 12A, since the mapping process and the second image data process are invalidated at time t1 in FIG. 10, the first image data without any disturbance is output to the effect display device 40, and the image display area In 600, a first image is displayed.

  As shown in FIG. 12B, since the mapping process and the second image data process are validated at time t2, the second image data that is the “disturbed image” is output to the effect display device 40, and the image display area In 600, a second image is displayed. Here, the first image is bent and distorted at a plurality of lines on the second image. The polygonal line 610 is a portion corresponding to the side 403 (FIG. 9) of the solid figure when the solid figure is observed from the viewpoint. Since the first image, which is a texture, is bent by the sides of the three-dimensional figure, the upper and lower images are displayed as distorted according to the angle formed by the two surfaces that contact each other.

  In FIG. 12C, the second image at time t3 is displayed. Since it corresponds to a different frame period, it can be seen that the solid figure is rotated and the position of the broken line 610 is changed.

  FIG. 12D is an image of the image display area 600 corresponding to time t4. Here, since the first image is selected again, the first image is displayed. By displaying such a first image alternately with the second image, it is possible to produce an effect that a “correct” image can be seen for a moment between noises.

  12E, 12F, and 12G are images of the image display area 600 corresponding to times t5 to t7. The second image is output again, and the state where the position of the polygonal line changes as time progresses is shown.

  According to the above embodiment, that is, it was confirmed that the image was full of realism as if the scanning line was irregularly disturbed due to noise. That is, a skew-like image in which the scanning lines are distorted in the horizontal direction due to the disturbance of the synchronization signal is displayed on the television image.

The front view of the slot machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention The block diagram which shows the system configuration | structure of the slot machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention. Functional block diagram showing the functional configuration of the main control board Functional block diagram showing the functional configuration of the sub-control board Functional block diagram showing the detailed functional configuration of the production control unit Flow chart showing control by main control board Flow chart showing control of sub control board Pre-stage explanatory diagram of the solid figure of the embodiment Conceptual diagram of wire frame structure of solid figure of embodiment Arrangement conceptual diagram of first image data, three-dimensional figure and viewpoint in virtual three-dimensional space Noise timing chart of the embodiment Display image based on first image data (non-noise state) of the embodiment Display image (non-noise state) at time t1 in the embodiment Display image (noise state) at time t2 in the embodiment Display image (noise state) at time t3 in the embodiment Display image at time t4 in the embodiment (non-noise state) Display image (noise state) at time t5 in the embodiment Display image (noise state) at time t6 in the embodiment Display image (noise state) at time t7 in the embodiment

Explanation of symbols

10 slot machine 21 display window 31 reel 31L left reel 31C middle reel 31R right reel 40 effect display device 50 main control board 51 main CPU
52, 62 ROM
53, 63 RAM
54, 69 I / F circuit 60 Sub control board 101 Control unit 102 Lottery table 103 Role lottery unit 105 Flag information storage unit 106 Reel control unit 107 Winning determination unit 108 Game state control unit 201 Production pattern selection unit 202 Production control unit 301 Image Control unit 302 Sound control unit 3031 Object data storage unit 3032 Texture data storage unit 3033 Solid graphic data storage unit 304 Image data generation unit 3041 First image data generation unit 3042 Mapping unit 3043 Second image data generation unit 3044 Switching unit 3051 First Image data storage unit 3051 Second image data storage unit 306 Display control unit

Claims (14)

A gaming machine having an image display function for displaying an image,
A first image data generation unit for generating first image data;
A mapping unit that expands the first image data into a predetermined three-dimensional figure defined in the virtual three-dimensional space;
A second image data generation unit that generates second image data obtained by converting the three-dimensional figure to which the first image data is mapped into a two-dimensional image based on a predetermined viewpoint set in the virtual three-dimensional space When,
A gaming machine characterized by comprising: The mapping unit
Mapping the first image data to the three-dimensional figure while rotating the three-dimensional figure around a predetermined rotation axis in a virtual three-dimensional space at predetermined intervals;
The gaming machine according to claim 1.   The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein a deformed polygonal column is applied as the three-dimensional figure. Further, the turbulence effect that alternately outputs either the first image data generated by the first image data generation unit or the second image data generated by the second image data generation unit to the image display device. With parts,
The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3. The disorder production part
Controlling which image data is output by controlling the validation of the mapping unit and the second image data generation unit;
The gaming machine according to claim 4. The disorder production part
Controlling which image data is output by selectively controlling either the stored first image data or the second image data;
The gaming machine according to claim 4. The first image data and the second image data are data for displaying a moving image, generated for each frame period.
The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 6. A mapping unit that acquires the first image data and expands the first image data into a predetermined three-dimensional figure defined in the virtual three-dimensional space;
Second image data for generating second image data obtained by converting the three-dimensional figure to which the first image data is mapped into a two-dimensional image based on observation from a predetermined viewpoint set in the virtual three-dimensional space A generator,
An image generation apparatus comprising: The mapping unit
Mapping the first image data to the three-dimensional figure while rotating the three-dimensional figure around a predetermined rotation axis in a virtual three-dimensional space at predetermined intervals;
The image generation apparatus according to claim 8. Furthermore, a turbulence rendering unit that alternately outputs either the first image data or the second image data generated by the second image data generation unit to the image display device,
The image generation device according to claim 8 or 9. Obtaining first image data;
Expanding the first image data into a predetermined three-dimensional figure defined in the virtual three-dimensional space;
Generating second image data obtained by converting the three-dimensional figure to which the first image data is mapped into a two-dimensional image based on a predetermined viewpoint set in the virtual three-dimensional space;
An image generation method comprising: Further, the method includes a step of rotating the solid figure around a predetermined rotation axis in a virtual three-dimensional space at predetermined intervals.
The image generation method according to claim 11. Furthermore, the method further comprises a step of alternately outputting either the first image data or the second image data.
The image generation method according to claim 11 or 12. A program for causing a computer to execute the image generation method according to any one of claims 11 to 13.

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