JP2007244800A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a technique which enables the display of images without a turbulence by accomplishing the transference of image data from a volatile image memory fast to a non-volatile image memory concerning a game machine which executes performance display according to the progress in games. <P>SOLUTION: The game machine is provided with a pattern CPU 311 which designates texture data, pallet data and the like necessary for the computer graphic display of polygons or the like one after another, a GPU 300 which generates pixel data based on the texture data and the like read out using a file system from a source ROM 340, a frame buffer area of main RAMs 321 and 322 for temporarily making the volatile storage of the pixel data generated and a decoration pattern display device 16 which displays images by the polygons based on the pixel data accumulated in the frame buffer area. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that executes an effect display in accordance with the progress of a game.

  As this type of gaming machine, there is a gaming machine that displays a video based on material image data stored in a ROM as the game progresses, such as a pachinko machine (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

As such known gaming machines, there is one that realizes effect display using so-called computer graphics (hereinafter referred to as “CG”) such as polygons. Specifically, in such a known gaming machine, computer graphic software (hereinafter, “CG display software” is exemplified) is drawn on the display control board with the assistance of hardware such as a graphic chip. Yes.
Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2003-135751 (FIG. 2)

  In this known technical document, there is no description that an operating system is mounted on the display control board, but it is presumed that the operating system is mounted because CG is displayed. The CG display software reads out texture data used for displaying video using polygons from the ROM one by one using the file system of the operating system. The CG display software continuously displays videos one after another based on the texture data read out in this way.

  In recent gaming machines using CG, it is desired to store more texture data and the like in the ROM in order to realize various presentation displays, and a large-capacity ROM is required. In general, a large-capacity ROM has a slow access. In a gaming machine, a RAM having a faster access than the ROM is provided to compensate for the slow access of the ROM. It is required to develop data.

  Here, when a RAM having a storage capacity almost the same as the storage capacity of the ROM can be adopted as this RAM, all texture data prepared in the ROM in advance can be transferred to the RAM. Any texture data can be read from the RAM and used as needed.

  However, in reality, when the prices of RAM and ROM having the same storage capacity are compared, RAM is more expensive than ROM. Therefore, in gaming machines, such a large-capacity RAM is used in terms of cost. There were circumstances that were difficult to adopt. Therefore, in the gaming machine, a low-priced RAM is used instead of a small storage capacity, and the CG display software divides the texture data prepared in the ROM in advance into several parts and transfers them to the RAM with a small storage capacity. Are used. For this reason, texture data and the like are frequently transferred in such a RAM having a small storage capacity.

  Moreover, in the gaming machine, although a video composed of a combination of short stories is displayed, the combination of these short stories is random and the combination is different every time. For this reason, the CG display software must transfer the necessary texture data to the RAM each time, because the texture data to be transferred to the RAM next time is not determined immediately before displaying each story. . At this time, if the CG display software tries to expand the texture data etc. using the file system of the operating system, it takes time to prepare for display such as transfer time. In the game machine to display, it was difficult to display the video in real time without any disturbance.

  Therefore, the present invention provides a technique capable of transferring video data from a nonvolatile video memory to a volatile video memory at a high speed and displaying a video without any disturbance.

(Solution 1)
The gaming machine of the present invention includes a game control unit that controls a game operation using a game medium, an effect control unit that controls an effect operation associated with the game operation by the control of the game control unit, and a control of the effect control unit In the gaming machine including the display device that executes the display operation, the effect control unit can store the video data used for displaying the video in a nonvolatile manner, and the video data can be stored in a volatile manner. A volatile video memory, a display control processor for controlling the video display and transferring the video data from the nonvolatile video memory to the volatile video memory, and a video to be displayed in accordance with an instruction of the display control processor In response, the video data is read from the volatile video memory and a video based on the read video data is displayed on the display device. The non-volatile video memory includes a display control program for controlling display of video, an operating system as basic software for operating the display control program, and the display control program for displaying video. Scheduler data referred to control display, and a program loader capable of transferring the operating system, and the volatile video memory includes an operating system interference area as a storage area used by the operating system, and the operating system. An operating system non-interference area as a storage area not used by the system, and the program loader transfers the operating system from the non-volatile video memory to the volatile video memory and starts up The operating system starts the display control program transferred from the non-volatile video memory to an operating system interference area of the volatile video memory, and the display control program transfers the video data to the non-volatile video memory. From the non-interference area transfer means for transferring to the operating system non-interference area of the volatile video memory, and the video display processor using the video data transferred to the operating system non-interference area of the volatile video memory, Video display control means for displaying video. If the production control unit is configured by a substrate, the production control unit may be configured as one substrate, or alternatively, a display control board that controls the production operation related to the display, and other production operations. The effect control board to be controlled may be a board having a different configuration.

  First, in the operating system interference area, by specifying an identifier (for example, a file name) attached to each video data with the support of the operating system (file system function thereof), for example, each video data can be stored without being aware of the address. It is a storage area that can be easily stored and read. On the other hand, the operating system non-interference area is a storage area in which the operating system (file system function thereof) cannot participate in the memory space of the volatile video memory. For example, if the address and the data size are not directly specified, the video data is directly stored. It is a storage area that cannot be stored or read.

  In the gaming machine of the present invention, the display control program transfers video data from the nonvolatile video memory to the operating system non-interference area in the memory space of the volatile video memory. Therefore, the display control program can transfer the video data to the volatile video memory at a high speed because the operating system is not involved in transferring the video data from the nonvolatile video memory to the volatile video memory.

  Here, in general, the volatile video memory has a smaller storage capacity than the non-volatile video memory, and the display control program stores all video data prepared in the non-volatile video memory in advance. It cannot be transferred to memory. Therefore, the display control program divides all video data prepared in advance in the nonvolatile video memory into several groups and transfers them from the nonvolatile video memory to the volatile video memory in units of groups.

  In general, a gaming machine displays a video composed of a combination of short stories, but the combination of these short stories is random and the combination is different every time. For this reason, the display control program transfers the necessary video data to the volatile video memory each time it is determined that the video data that should be transferred to the volatile video memory immediately before the display of each story is not immediately before. Must.

  However, in the gaming machine of the present invention, the non-interference area transfer means of the display control program can expand the video data from the nonvolatile video memory to the volatile video memory at a high speed. Even when it is determined only in the above, video data can be transferred to the volatile video memory at high speed to be aligned. Therefore, even when the gaming machine of the present invention displays an image by a random combination of short stories, the image can be displayed in real time without any disturbance based on the image data prepared in the volatile image memory.

(Solution 2)
In the above solution 1, in the gaming machine of the present invention, the video data is temporarily stored in the volatile video memory and the resident data that should be constantly stored in the volatile video memory. The non-interactive area of the volatile video memory includes a resident area capable of permanently storing the resident data, and a non-resident area capable of temporarily storing the non-resident data. The non-interference area transfer means transfers the resident data from the nonvolatile video memory to the resident area.

  According to such a configuration, the display control program, for example, transfers resident data that is frequently used from the nonvolatile video memory to the resident area in the operating system non-interference area of the volatile video memory. Therefore, the operating system is not involved when the display control program transfers the resident data from the nonvolatile video memory to the resident area of the volatile video memory.

  In the gaming machine of the present invention, the display control program can transfer the resident data at high speed without involving the operating system. Therefore, even when displaying a random combination of different scenes each time, the display control program can display the video without any disturbance based on the resident data read from the resident area of the volatile video memory.

(Solution 3)
In the above solution 1 or 2, the gaming machine according to the present invention, the video data is temporarily stored in the volatile video memory and the resident data to be stored permanently in the volatile video memory. The non-interactive area of the volatile video memory includes a resident area capable of permanently storing the resident data and a non-resident area capable of temporarily storing the non-resident data. And the non-interference area transfer means transfers the non-resident data from the non-volatile video memory to the non-resident area.

  In general, a gaming machine often has a different combination of scenes constituting a video to be displayed each time, so the display control program changes the non-resident data to be transferred from the non-volatile video memory to the volatile video memory. It has become.

  In the gaming machine of the present invention, the display control program transfers non-resident data from the non-volatile video memory to the operating system non-interference area in the memory space of the volatile video memory, so that the operating system is not involved. The non-resident data can be transferred to the non-resident area of the volatile video memory at high speed. Therefore, even when a random combination of different scenes is displayed each time, the display control program can display the video without any disturbance based on the nonresident data read from the nonresident area of the volatile video memory.

(Solution 4)
In any one of the above solutions 1 to 3, the gaming machine according to the present invention is configured such that the video data includes model data used for displaying a framework of an object included in the video to be displayed and an object included in the video to be displayed. Texture data used for displaying a texture to be pasted on the surface of the object, and palette data used for coloring a polygon formed by pasting the texture on the surface of the object.

  It is generally known that video data used for video display has a large data size. In particular, video data such as model data, texture data, and palette data used for display of polygons and the like has recently been required to have a variety of displays. And the total data size tends to be huge.

  In the gaming machine of the present invention, when the display control program displays the video, the model data, texture data, and palette data are transferred from the non-volatile video memory to the non-volatile video memory operating system without being involved in the operating system. Transferring to interference area. Therefore, the display control program can transfer the model data, texture data, and palette data from the nonvolatile video memory to the volatile video memory at high speed. Therefore, the display control program pastes the texture based on the texture data to the model based on the model data using the model data, texture data, and palette data transferred to the non-interference area of the operating system of the volatile video memory. Colored polygons can be displayed without distortion by a palette based on data.

(Solution 5)
In the gaming machine according to any one of the above solutions 1 to 4, the gaming machine of the present invention may be applied to a ball-type gaming machine. Here, as the basic configuration of the ball-type game machine, the launching means for launching the game ball into the game area, and the winning detection means for detecting that the game ball launched into the game area has won the start winning opening; The symbol display means for displaying the stop symbol in accordance with the lottery result of the internal lottery executed with the winning at the start winning opening, and the stop symbol is a specific display mode is advantageous to the player. Special gaming state transition means for transitioning to the special gaming state. The “symbol” includes characters, symbols, foreground, background, still image, moving image, and any combination thereof.

  In the gaming machine of the present invention, one of the solutions 1 to 4 can be exhibited, and the display control program can be used for, for example, symbol variation display, so-called reach effect display, effect display in a special game state, and the like. The necessary video data can be transferred from the non-volatile video memory to the operating system non-interference area of the volatile video memory at high speed and used for video display.

(Solution 6)
In the gaming machine according to any one of the above solutions 1 to 4, the gaming machine according to the present invention may be applied to the following ball-type gaming machine. Here, as a basic configuration of the ball-type game machine, a launching means for launching the game ball into the game area, a winning detector for detecting that the game ball has won the start winning opening provided in the game area, and A winning device that opens and closes the movable piece in response to a winning at the start winning opening and accepts a game ball, and a game ball that is received by the winning device along with the opening and closing operation of the movable piece, Special game state transition means for shifting to a special game state advantageous to the player when triggered by passing through the specific area is provided.

  In the gaming machine of the present invention, any one of the solutions 1 to 4 can be exhibited, and the display control program may indicate that the game ball received by the winning device may pass through the specific area. Displaying video by transferring necessary video data at high speed from the non-volatile video memory to the operating system non-interference area of the volatile video memory for the production display that gives the player a sense of expectation and the display of the special game state. Can be used for

(Solution 7)
In the gaming machine according to any one of the above solutions 1 to 4, the gaming machine of the present invention may be applied to a spinning-type gaming machine. Here, as a basic configuration of the swing type gaming machine, starting and stopping are performed according to the player's operation in a state where a predetermined number of gaming values are multiplied for each game, and the display of the symbols is performed by the starting. While changing, a symbol display means for displaying a combination of a plurality of symbols at the time of stopping, a start operation means capable of accepting a start operation for starting the symbol display means, and a stop for stopping the symbol display means A game value that gives a player a number of game values according to the type of combination of symbols when a combination of a predetermined symbol is displayed when the symbol display unit is stopped when the stop operation unit can accept an operation. Providing means and special game state transition means for shifting to a special game state advantageous to the player when a combination of specific symbols is displayed when the symbol display means is stopped. To have. Note that the predetermined number of game values to be multiplied for each game may be one or more.

  In the gaming machine of the present invention, one of the solutions 1 to 4 can be exhibited, and the player can have a sense of expectation that the display control program may shift to the special gaming state. For presentation display and special game display, etc., the necessary video data is prepared from the non-volatile video memory to the non-interference area of the volatile video memory at high speed, and from the non-interference area of the volatile video memory. These images can be displayed by reading at high speed.

(Solution 8)
In the gaming machine according to any one of the solving means 1 to 4, the gaming machine of the present invention may be applied to a revolving gaming machine that uses a game ball as a gaming medium. Here, as a basic configuration of a swing-type gaming machine using game balls, game value counting means that collects a specified number of game balls as game media as one unit of game value, and for each game The game value counting means is multiplied by a predetermined number of the game values set as one unit, and is started and stopped according to the player's operation, and the display of the symbols is changed by the start, while the stop is stopped. Symbol display means for displaying a combination of symbols at times, start operation means for accepting a start operation for starting the symbol display means, and stop for accepting a stop operation for stopping the symbol display means When a combination of predetermined symbols is displayed when the operation means and the symbol display means are stopped, the number of game balls corresponding to the number of game values corresponding to the type of the symbol combination A game value providing means for providing to a player, the case where a specific combination of symbols on the time of stopping the symbol display unit is displayed, and a special game state transition means for shifting to an advantageous special game state for the player. Note that the predetermined number of game values to be multiplied for each game may be one or more.

  In the gaming machine of the present invention, one of the solutions 1 to 4 can be exhibited, and the player can have a sense of expectation that the display control program may shift to the special gaming state. Video data required for production display and production display in special gaming state is read from the non-volatile video memory and prepared in the non-interactive area of the volatile video memory at high speed. These images can be displayed by reading from the area at high speed.

  The gaming machine of the present invention can transfer video data from the nonvolatile video memory to the volatile video memory at high speed, and can display the video without any disturbance.

Hereinafter, an embodiment in which the present invention is applied to a pachinko machine will be described with reference to the corresponding drawings.
(1. Outline configuration example of pachinko machine)
FIG. 1 is a front view showing a configuration example of a pachinko machine 1 to which a gaming machine as an embodiment of the present invention is applied. A plurality of pachinko machines 1 are installed side by side in an island facility of a game arcade. In the case of a so-called CR machine, a card unit 12 is installed. Hereinafter, a schematic configuration example of the pachinko machine 1 will be described first.

  In the pachinko machine 1, a base frame is attached to a wooden outer frame via a hinge mechanism so as to be opened and closed. A front frame (glass frame 5) is attached to the base frame so as to be openable and closable with respect to the base frame via a hinge mechanism. In the present embodiment, the frame bodies such as the base frame and the front frame are collectively referred to as “main body frame 17”. Of these, the game board 2 is detachably fitted into the base frame.

  A plurality of frame lamps (frame decoration lamps 31 and the like) are arranged in the glass frame 5 along the vertical direction, and an upper speaker 29 for outputting sound effects and sounds as the game progresses. Further, an effect button 10 or the like that can be appropriately pushed by the player is provided. In addition, an upper plate 4 that accommodates game balls is provided at the lower part of the glass frame 5, and a lower plate 6 is provided at the lower part of the base frame. In addition, a firing handle 8 is provided at the lower right corner of the base frame located under the glass frame 5. The launch handle 8 is an operation unit that is operated by the player to sequentially fire the game balls accommodated in the upper plate 4. A lower speaker 29 is arranged inside the left side position of the upper plate 4.

  The game board 2 has a substantially circular game area formed on the front surface thereof, and an effect device 14 is provided at the center thereof. In the game area, a large number of guide nails (not shown) are driven in a predetermined gauge arrangement, and a windmill (not shown) and various winning openings 15b (start winning opening, large winning opening, general winning opening, etc.) ), A gate opening 13, a panel decoration lamp (no reference symbol), and the like are disposed as panel components. Each of the various winning openings 15 is provided with a winning detector (not shown in FIG. 1) for detecting the winning of a game ball.

  In addition, a ball stage 14a is formed at the lower edge of the effect device 14, and when the game ball is guided on the ball stage 14a, the game ball changes its movement while rolling. Given. Further, when the game ball falls to the entrance of the ball guide path 14b formed in the ball stage 14a, the game ball is guided to the ball guide path 14b and enters the start winning opening 15b provided immediately below, and is not shown. A winning is detected by the winning detector.

  A special symbol display device 41 using a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) is provided at the lower right edge of the game board 2. When there is a start winning, the special symbol display device 41 repeats lighting or extinguishing after that (for example, triggered by the starting winning), and after a predetermined time (corresponding to “variation time” described later) has elapsed, Depending on the result of the executed internal lottery (big hit lottery and determination), the lighting state or the extinguishing state is set. Furthermore, a normal symbol display device 42 using a light emitting diode is provided at the lower right edge of the game board 2. The normal symbol display device 42 is also configured to change the lighting state over a variable period triggered by the passage of the gate port 13. Here, when the lighting state of the normal symbol display device 42 becomes a predetermined lighting state, for example, the electric tulip type start winning device (winning detection means) is put into an open state in which it is easy to win a predetermined time.

  In addition, a decoration symbol display device 16 is disposed in the effect device 14. The decorative symbol display device 16 is a display device that displays a decorative symbol that decoratively represents the results of the jackpot lottery and determination. In the decorative symbol display device 16, when there is a winning at the start winning opening 15 b, the display contents thereafter change, and an image representing the variation of the decorative symbol depending on whether the special symbol display device 41 is on or off. Etc. are displayed. This decorative symbol stops after it fluctuates for a certain period of time (fluctuation time), and if it is won as a result of the jackpot lottery and determination, a predetermined stop symbol pattern (for example, three of the same type of decorative symbols are arranged. Display mode), and the pachinko machine 1 shifts to a special gaming state (hereinafter referred to as “special gaming state”).

  In this special game state, for example, a round operation is repeated for 15 rounds. In each round operation, for example, the special winning opening solenoid 18 is actuated once, so that the special winning opening 15c can receive a game ball. In the decorative symbol display device 16, the display content is switched to a round display with a big hit as the round operation, and a round effect display (a count display of the number of winning prizes, a continuous round count, etc.) is performed. For example, when a special game state in which a round action of 15 rounds is executed is finished and a transition is made to a special game (so-called “probability change” or “short time”, etc.), information indicating that a special game is being executed (“probable change” or “short time change”). Middle)) may be displayed.

  Also, special symbol holding lamps 43 are provided on the left and right sides of the lower edge portion of the production device 14 in the game board 2. The special symbol hold lamp 43 is configured to hold the start winning when the conditions for starting and storing are complete and display the hold status. Specifically, each special symbol holding lamp 43 is provided with semi-transmission areas imitating numbers such as “1”, “2”, “3”, and “4”. From left to right, “1” to “4” are represented and arranged in order. These four semi-transmissive regions represent the number of stored special symbols (1 to 4) according to the light emission (lighting) modes of “1” to “4”.

  Further, a normal symbol holding lamp 44 is provided at the lower edge of the game board 2. The normal symbol hold lamp 44 holds the passage of the gate port 13 while the lighting state of the normal symbol display device 42 is changing, and displays the hold status. In the vicinity of the normal symbol holding lamp 44, a big hit type display lamp 45 is provided. At least one of the big hit type display lamps 45 is turned on when the big hit is made, thereby displaying the type of the big hit. In addition, a main control board and a sub control board are provided on the back of the game board 2, and a display control board (decoration design control board described later) is arranged on the back of the decoration design display device 16. Yes. The main body frame 17 is provided with a payout control board and a launch control board (not shown).

(2. Electric configuration example of pachinko machine)
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an electrical configuration example of the pachinko machine 1.
First, the main control board 3 (game control unit) is connected to a board such as the sub control board 35 (effect control unit) and the payout control board 25. The sub control board 35 is connected to a decorative design control board 30 that controls the display operation, and the payout control board 25 is connected to the firing control board 47 and the prize ball payout device 21.

  The decorative design control board 30 is connected to the decorative design display device 16. In the present embodiment, the sub control board 35 (effect control board) and the decorative design control board 30 (display control board) are separate, but the sub control board 35 and the decorative design control board are not limited thereto. 30 may be integrated, and the sub-control board 35 (production control unit) may have the function of the decorative design control board 30. When such a form is adopted, the sub control board 35 is directly connected to the decorative symbol display device 16.

  The sub control board 35 transmits to the decorative design control board 30 an effect display command for controlling the effect display operation according to the progress of the game during the game operation. The decorative symbol control board 30 receives the effect display command and the like, and causes the decorative symbol display device 16 to display an image according to the progress of the game based on the effect display command. This effect display command includes an effect display pattern number designated by the sub control board 35, and this effect display pattern number represents a number corresponding to the effect display pattern to be executed and controlled by the decorative symbol control board 30. Yes. The sub control board 35 controls lighting of the panel decoration lamp 12 and the frame decoration lamp 31 via the lamp relay board 32 and the lamp relay board 34, respectively.

  The main control board 3 includes electronic components such as a CPU 3a (hereinafter referred to as “main CPU”), a RAM 3b, a ROM 3c, an input / output interface, etc. (all not shown). The main control board 3 is connected with a winning detector 15a (winning detecting means) for detecting a start winning. The winning detector 15a has entered the various winning holes (starting winning port 15b, large winning port 15c, general winning port, etc.) in the game area (hereinafter referred to as “starting winning”). And the detection signal is output to the main control board 3. The gate passage detector (gate switch) 13 a detects that a game ball has passed through the gate port 13, and outputs a gate passage signal as a detection signal to the main control board 3.

  Control of the gaming operation by the main control board 3 is performed, for example, by the main CPU 3a executing a control program (hereinafter referred to as “main control program”). The main control program generates a random number on the software, and acquires a random number value (a jackpot determination random number value) in response to a start winning (referred to as “big hit lottery” in the present embodiment). Then, the main control program determines whether or not the acquired random number value matches the jackpot random value at the jackpot determination timing described later (referred to as “determination” in this embodiment), and both random number values are When it is determined that they match, it is determined as “big hit”, while when it is determined that they do not match, it is determined as “out of place”. Here, the big hit determination timing refers to the time of starting winning when there is no starting memory, and when there is starting memory, the time to start displaying the variation of the special symbol corresponding to this starting winning after starting winning. Say.

  The main control program starts the special symbol variation display by the special symbol display device 41 after the start winning is made in this way, and when the predetermined variation time has elapsed, the special symbol is displayed according to the jackpot lottery result. A stop symbol is displayed on the display device 41. The “big hit” includes a so-called “probable big hit” and a so-called “short-time big hit”.

  The main control program shifts to the special gaming state if the jackpot is determined as a result of the jackpot lottery and determination. In this special gaming state, the main control program repeatedly operates, for example, the special winning opening solenoid 18 for a predetermined number of times (round operation) so that the special winning opening 15c can easily accept a game ball for 15 rounds, for example. . At this time, the player can win more prize balls by winning a game ball (game medium) while the special winning opening 15c is opened. In addition to the above, there are various types of game operation control by the main control board 3, but since all are well-known, detailed description is omitted here.

  The main control program outputs a lottery result and an effect command to the sub-control board 35 along with the execution of the jackpot lottery and determination. This effect command includes information related to the time for which the effect operation is to be executed (corresponding to the aforementioned “variation time”).

  The sub control board 35 controls the rendering operation according to the lottery result and the rendering command received from the main control board 3. The sub-control board 35 includes electronic components such as a CPU 35a (hereinafter referred to as “sub-CPU”), a RAM 35b, a ROM 35c, and an input interface (such as a command reception buffer). In the sub-control board 35, the CPU 35a controls the rendering operation by executing a control program (hereinafter referred to as “sub-control program”).

  When receiving a command or the like from the main control board 3, the sub control program stores it in the command reception buffer. Here, in the sub-control board 35, a reception interrupt is generated when a command or the like (lottery result, effect command, game state command, etc.) is received in the command reception buffer. When a reception interrupt occurs, this sub control program receives a command from the command reception buffer and analyzes it.

  The sub-control program executes a lottery (hereinafter referred to as “effect lottery”) as to what effect pattern should be controlled according to the lottery result obtained from the analysis result of the command and the variation time. Specifically, the sub-control program manages an effect control scheduler, and this effect control scheduler executes for each lottery result (depending on whether it is a “hit” or “out”). Multiple production patterns to be managed are managed. Furthermore, this production control scheduler manages a plurality of production patterns according to the length of the variation time even if the lottery result is the same. In this way, the sub-control program executes the effect lottery to select the effect pattern corresponding to the lottery result and the variation time while referring to the effect control scheduler.

  After executing such an effect lottery, the sub-control program causes the speaker 29 to output a sound according to the effect pattern over the varying time, or turns on the panel decoration lamp 12 in a predetermined color via the lamp relay board 32. The frame decoration lamp 31 is turned on or off with a predetermined color via the lamp relay board 34.

  In addition, the sub-control program also selects an effect display pattern related to the variable display by the decorative symbol display device 16 in accordance with the selected effect pattern. After selecting the effect display pattern, the sub control program controls the sub control board 35 to output an effect display command including information on the effect display pattern and the stop symbol to the decorative design control board 30.

  Upon receiving the effect display command output from the sub control board 35, the decorative symbol control board 30 changes the effect display operation being controlled thereafter. Specifically, the decoration design control board 30 first analyzes the effect display command received from the sub control board 35, and acquires information related to the effect display pattern and the decoration stop design. Then, the decorative design control board 30 displays the decorative design on the decorative design display device 16 in a varying manner according to the effect display pattern, and then performs display control so that the decorative design becomes the decorative stop symbol.

  The payout control board 25 includes a CPU 25a (hereinafter referred to as “payout CPU”), a RAM 25b, a ROM 25c, an input / output interface, and the like, and is connected to the main control board 3 so as to be capable of bidirectional communication. That is, the main control board 3 and the payout control board 25 are connected by the serial signal upper and lower lines Su and Sd and the ACK signal transmission lines Au and Ad in parallel therewith.

  For example, when the main control board 3 transmits a prize ball command instructing the payout of a prize ball in the serial format through the down line Sd, the payout control board 25 that has received the command sends an ACK signal to the main control board 3 through the transmission line Au. Send. Further, when the payout control board 25 transmits a status command indicating the state of the payout control board 25 (for example, during payout processing) to the main control board 3 through the uplink line Su, the main control board 3 that has received the command sends the transmission line. An ACK signal is transmitted to the payout control board 25 through Ad.

  The prize ball payout device 21 performs a game ball payout operation under the control of the payout control board 25. That is, when the payout control board 25 receives a prize ball command from the main control board 3, the payout motor 20 of the prize ball payout device 21 is operated to perform the payout operation for the number instructed by the prize ball command. The payout ball detector 22 detects the number of prize balls actually paid out one by one and feeds it back to the payout control board 25. On the other hand, the motor drive sensor 24 detects the rotation state (rotation angle) of the payout motor 20 and feeds it back to the payout control board 25.

  In addition, in addition to the firing motor 49, a signal line from the firing handle 8 is connected to the firing control board 47. The firing handle 8 includes a touch detection unit 48 that detects the contact of a human body (player) and outputs the touch detection signal to the firing control board 47. The firing handle 8 incorporates a firing switch (not shown), and outputs an ON signal to the firing control board 47 by operating the firing handle 8. The launch control board 47 has a function of controlling the launch operation of the game ball when a card unit connection signal output by the card unit as the inter-bed sand 12 is input via the payout control board 25. Yes. The launch control board 47 permits the drive of the launch motor 49 only after receiving the card unit connection signal, the touch detection signal, and the ON signal, thereby allowing the game ball to be launched.

  When the payout CPU 25a of the payout control board 25 detects a failure such as a so-called ball bite, a ball breakage, a full tank, or a connection abnormality between the main control board 3 and the payout control board 25, the payout control board 25 determines the type of the fault. The corresponding error information is displayed. Specifically, the payout control board 25 is provided with a 7-segment LED 4a, and the 7-segment LED 4a displays, for example, an error number for each of the various types of failures.

  The payout control board 25 is provided with an operation switch 4b as an error canceling means, and the operation switch 4b is disposed at a position where it can be operated from the outside. The operation switch 4b is used as a trigger when voice guidance is given on how to deal with each failure when such various failures occur, and when clearing error information (numerical display) displayed on the 7-segment LED 4a. It is the operation means operated by.

(3. Decorative design control board)
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example in which the electrical configuration of the decorative design control board 30 is simplified.
The decorative design control board 30 (production control unit, display control unit) includes a source ROM 340, a first main RAM 321, a second main RAM 322, a graphic processor unit (hereinafter referred to as “GPU”) 300, and a scaler 337.

  The decorative symbol control board 30 has a function of controlling an effect display operation based on an effect display command from the sub control board 35 and the like. The decorative design control board 30 is connected to the decorative design display device 16 described above, and outputs a video signal corresponding to the video to be displayed to the decorative design display device 16 based on the effect display command or the like.

  Here, in this embodiment, the video is composed of a combination of a plurality of scenes (story), and each scene is composed of a combination of a large number of frames. Each of these scenes is continuously displayed in a predetermined order. Each scene is visually configured by displaying a number of frames one after another. Each frame is configured by computer graphics such as polygons. In the present embodiment, the video is configured by displaying 60 frames per second, for example. In addition, as the video, for example, a video indicating that the power is restored from the power failure state, a video related to the change display of the symbol, and the changing symbol is a predetermined stop symbol mode (for example, a display mode in which three symbols of the same kind are arranged). It includes a video about so-called reach production that implies that it may be.

  By the way, in this decorative design control board 30, a so-called embedded real-time operating system such as μITRON is operating. In this operating system, data and programs are handled in a file format by a so-called file system function, and a display control program for controlling a display operation is running. This file system function is a function for managing a data body in a so-called file format by a header attached to the data body stored in the memory space.

  This display control program is a general term for software that draws with the assistance of a graphic chip (GPU 300 to be described later). The display control program includes application software (user system modules and user modules described later), and in a broad sense, display-related library software (hereinafter referred to as “library”) and driver software (hereinafter referred to as “driver”). May be included. The configuration of these software will be described later.

(3-1. Example of hardware configuration)
Hereinafter, each component mounted on the decorative design control board 30 will be described in detail.
(3-1-1. Source ROM)
The source ROM 340 is connected to the bus 307 via the external interface 333, and is connected to the external interface 333 by a 16-bit bus line (random access 105 ns, page mode access 30 ns). The source ROM 340 is composed of five flash ROMs, and each flash ROM has a storage capacity of 1 Gbit. In the source ROM 340, each data is read from the transfer source address of the source ROM 340 over the transfer data size by the external interface 333 according to the transfer source address and transfer data size set in the external interface 333. The memory space of the source ROM 340 will be described later.

(3-1-2. Main RAM)
The main RAMs 321 and 322 are each connected to the bus 309 via the memory controller 315. The main RAMs 321 and 322 are each composed of two SDRAMs (Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory). . Each SDRAM has a storage capacity of 256 Mbit and is connected to the memory controller 315 by a 32-bit bus line.

  That is, the main RAMs 321 and 322 are connected to the memory controller 315 by bus lines each having a 32-bit width. The synchronous clocks of these 32-bit bus lines are 133 MHz. The bus 309 includes two buses, and the main RAMs 321 and 322 are connected to different buses. Accordingly, the main RAMs 321 and 322 can be independently read and written under the control of the memory controller 315.

The main RAMs 321 and 322 can store programs and data in a volatile manner, and have an operating system interference area and an operating system non-interference area.
Of these, the operating system interference area is a storage area in which the operating system (file system function thereof) manages the data storage destination in a so-called file format. Specifically, the operating system interference area can store and read each data by specifying a file name as an identifier attached to each data under the control of the operating system (file system function thereof), for example. Storage area.

  In the operating system interference area, when texture data or the like is handled by the file system function with the support of the operating system 111, this single data is managed as a single file in a so-called file format. In this operating system interference area, if an identifier (for example, a file name) assigned to each texture data or the like is designated, for example, each texture data can be easily stored and read without being aware of the address. It is an area. That is, the operating system interference area is a collective term for storage areas that are subject to interference such as control by the operating system when data is stored or read, and is a storage area used by the operating system.

  On the other hand, the operating system non-interference area is a storage area in which the operating system 111 (file system function thereof) cannot participate in the memory space of the main RAMs 321 and 322. For example, if the address and data size are not directly specified, the texture data directly It is a storage area where it is impossible to store or read out. Specifically, the operating system non-interference area of the main RAMs 321 and 322 can store programs and data from a designated absolute address (transfer destination address) to a data size (transfer data size). In the main RAMs 321 and 322, data or the like is read from the transfer destination address to the transfer data size by the memory controller 315 according to the transfer destination address and the transfer data size set in the memory controller 315, respectively. The memory space of these main RAMs 321 and 322 will be described later.

(3-1-3. GPU configuration example)
The GPU 300 includes a bus controller 306, a bus 307, an external interface 333, a DMA controller 384, a CPU interface 383, and a symbol CPU 311. In this GPU 300, the operation clock of the symbol CPU 311 is 266 MHz, but the operation clocks of other blocks (VDP 330 and the like) are 133 MHz. The GPU 300 includes a boot ROM 301, a timer 302, a serial interface 303, an I / O port 304, and a peripheral interface 305. Further, the GPU 300 includes a bus interface 308, a bus 309, a memory controller 315, and a VDP 330. The bus 307 and the bus 309 are connected via the bus interface 308.

(3-1-3-1. Configuration example other than symbol CPU)
An external interface 333, a DMA controller 384, a CPU interface 383, and a peripheral interface 305 are connected to the bus 307, and data transfer in these is controlled by the bus controller 306.

  The DMA controller 384 reads data from the source ROM 340 in accordance with the designated transfer source address and transfer data size, and transfers the data to the main RAMs 321 and 322 in accordance with the designated transfer destination address and transfer data size.

  A boot ROM 301, a timer 302, a serial interface 303, and an I / O port 304 are connected to the peripheral interface 305. The boot ROM 301 is a memory that stores a boot program in a nonvolatile manner. This boot program is a program that executes initialization processing of hardware such as the external interface 333 or load processing of a program loader.

  The timer 302 exhibits a clocking function by hardware. The serial interface 303 is an interface having a function as a buffer (command receiving buffer described later) that receives an effect display command or the like from the sub-control board 35 by serial communication. The I / O port 304 is a port for exchanging signals with the outside.

(3-1-3-2. Configuration example of symbol CPU)
Further, a symbol CPU (Central Processing Unit) 311 as a display control processor is connected to the bus 307 via a CPU interface 383. The symbol CPU 311 is built in the GPU 300 together with the VDP 330 described later.

  The symbol CPU 311 gives an instruction to each block via the CPU interface 383. For example, when the symbol CPU 311 activates the boot program of the boot ROM 301 via the peripheral interface 305 when the power is turned on, the boot program loads the program loader from the source ROM 340 to the main RAMs 321 and 322.

  The program loader loaded in the main RAMs 321 and 322 stores display scheduler data (scheduler data), operating system, device driver software, library software, and application software in respective predetermined areas of the main RAMs 321 and 322, respectively. Load (transfer).

  In addition, when the design CPU 311 designates the transfer source address, the transfer destination address and the transfer data size to the DMA controller 384, the DMA controller 384 is stored from the transfer source address of the source ROM 340 to the transfer data size. Data is transferred from the transfer destination address in the operating system non-interference area of the main RAMs 321 and 322 to the transfer data size.

(3-1-4. Configuration example of VDP)
The VDP 330 has a function of displaying an image on the decorative symbol display device 16. The VDP 330 has a function of continuously displaying frames of polygons configured by mapping textures such as patterns on a three-dimensional object configured by modeling, for example, and visually configuring an image by these frames. This three-dimensional object represents a three-dimensional model corresponding to a shape to be displayed using model data. In the present embodiment, texture data is mainly exemplified as data (material image data) to be handled. However, description will be made while appropriately including model data as necessary.

The VDP 330 includes a geometry engine (GEC) 331, a rendering controller (RDC) 332, and a video output controller (VOC) 336.
(3-1-4-1. Geometry engine)
The geometry engine 331 includes a register (not shown) in which the symbol CPU 311 can write a set value. The symbol CPU 311 writes a drawing command group in the register based on the display scheduler data. Then, the geometry engine 331 operates in accordance with the writing of the setting value of each register. Examples of contents (set values) written by the symbol CPU 311 include a drawing command group as a collection of commands for controlling drawing (hereinafter referred to as “drawing commands”). In the following description, this drawing command group is referred to as “GE input stream (GIS data)”.

  The geometry engine 331 executes so-called geometry processing while reading the GE input stream (GIS data) and the GE link table (GLT) stored in the main RAMs 321 and 322. This GE link table represents a table in which a plurality of data in which the start address and data size of data for reading a GE input stream are specified are collected. Then, the geometry engine 331 stores the display list (hereinafter referred to as “SA list”) for the sort accelerator 334 as a result of the geometry processing in the main RAMs 321 and 322. In the present embodiment, the GE input stream (GIS data) and the GE link table (GLT) are also referred to as “GE list”.

  Among them, the GE link table (GLT) is table data in which the geometry engine 331 collects a plurality of head addresses and data sizes specified for reading GE input streams (GIS data) from the main RAMs 321 and 322 for each GE input stream. . This GE input stream (GIS data) is data in which a plurality of parameters and the like for executing arithmetic processing are collected.

  The geometry engine 331 is dedicated hardware that executes geometry processing for executing calculations for converting the coordinates of a three-dimensional model placed in space into screen coordinates in three-dimensional computer graphics. Specifically, the geometry engine 331 first converts a modeling coordinate system, which is coordinate data of polygons constituting an object, into a viewpoint coordinate system with the viewpoint as the origin. Then, the geometry engine 331 performs projection conversion by calculating effects such as perspective and a portion hidden by the front object, and finally converts the screen coordinate system to match the displayed screen. When the geometry engine 331 completes the above processing, it transmits an interrupt signal. When receiving this interrupt signal, the symbol CPU 311 enters an end interrupt process, and writes a set value to the register of the rendering controller 332 in the end interrupt process.

(3-1-4-2. Rendering controller)
When the symbol CPU 311 writes to the register, the rendering controller 332 operates according to the written setting value. The rendering controller 332 is dedicated hardware that executes a so-called rendering process in which when a three-dimensional object is expressed two-dimensionally, the object is shaded so as to appear three-dimensionally.

  The rendering controller 332 includes a drawing command register (not shown), a sort accelerator 334, and a rendering controller 335. The sort accelerator 334 and the rendering controller 335 operate according to the written drawing command and the like when a drawing command or the like is written from the symbol CPU 311 to the drawing command register.

  The contents written to the drawing command register by the symbol CPU 311 include the above-described SA list (including vertex calculation commands and drawing commands) read from the main RAMs 321 and 322 and a display list for the rendering controller 335 (hereinafter referred to as “RC list”). Can be exemplified. Among these, the sort accelerator 334 generates an RC list according to the SA list written in the drawing command register, and stores it in the main RAMs 321 and 322.

  The rendering controller 335 reads texture data according to the drawing command, SA list, and RC list written in the drawing command register, and generates pixel data used for drawing a polygon or the like. This pixel data is drawing data used for drawing one frame. The rendering controller 335 transfers the generated pixel data to the frame buffer areas of the main RAMs 321 and 322. When the rendering controller 335 finishes the above processing, the rendering controller 335 transmits an interrupt signal to the symbol CPU 311. When receiving this interrupt signal, the symbol CPU 311 enters an end interrupt process, and writes a set value to the register of the video output controller 336 in the end interrupt process.

(3-1-4-3. Video output controller)
When the symbol CPU 311 writes in a register (not shown), the video output controller 336 operates in accordance with the written content (setting value). The video output controller 336 generates a synchronization signal (such as a V blank signal) to the decorative symbol display device 16 and, at the same time, synchronizes with the synchronization signal and outputs the pixel data generated in the frame buffer areas of the main RAMs 321 and 322 to an image. This is converted into a signal and output to the scaler 337. The scaler 337 changes the video display range based on the video signal output from the video output controller 336, and outputs the video signal based on the changed display range to the decorative design display device 16.

(3-2. Memory space of source ROM)
Next, the memory space of the source ROM 340 described above will be described.
(3-2-1. Types of data)
The source ROM 340 stores model data (material image data) used to display a shape representing a framework of an image such as a polygon, texture data (material image data) used to display a texture to be attached to the shape of the framework, and palette data (material). In addition to image data) and display scheduler data (scheduler data), the application software (display control program), library software (display control program), driver software (display control program), operating system, and load program are nonvolatile. I remember it. Of these, in this embodiment, data used for displaying images such as model data, texture data, and palette data is referred to as “resources”, and “resource number (data identifier)” is assigned as an identifier for identifying them. And manage it. In this embodiment, for example, 5319 texture data (and model data) are used, and for example, 300 palette data are used.

  Of these, the texture data indicates the data body of the primitive texture data including the data body and the primitive header information. That is, the texture data represents a data body obtained by deleting the primitive header information from the primitive texture data. This primitive header information includes information for managing the data body. In the present embodiment, the data body is called “texture data”. Note that the model data and the like similarly indicate the data body of the primitive model data including the data body and the primitive header information.

  The display scheduler data is data that is referenced by application software to control the display of video. For example, the display scheduler data is necessary for the combination of scenes constituting the video to be displayed, the display order of each scene, and the display of each scene. It includes information that can identify specific model data and texture data. This display scheduler data further includes information such as the coordinates of polygons to be arranged in the layers (windows) constituting each frame and the priority order when, for example, four layers are overlapped. This display scheduler data is data that is referred to when each scene is displayed by the application software.

(3-2-2. Memory map)
FIG. 4 is a memory map showing a configuration example of the memory space of the source ROM 340.
The source ROM 340 not only has an area (not shown) for storing the operating system, application, library software, device driver software, and the like, but also a texture data group TDG necessary for video display, and the texture data group TDG. And an area for storing the header management information HTJ.

  Here, the texture data TD is a kind of material image data in which only the data body is extracted from the original material image data in which the original header information is attached to the data body, for example, so-called bitmap data. This primitive header information includes a resource number as an identifier assigned to distinguish this data body individually, data size of this data body, data type flag, width, height, and information on the pallet. This resource number is an identification number assigned to each texture data TD or the like and palette data as information relating to the palette used for each pixel. This palette data includes, for example, information relating to the color of each pixel of the frame. The data type flag represents the type of data relating to whether the data body is texture data, model data, palette data, or the like. The width and height represent the width and height on display when this texture is displayed.

  On the other hand, the header management information HTJ represents information obtained by extracting only desired partial information from the original header information. Specifically, the header management information HTJ is data generated in advance from, for example, the source header information of the source texture data by predetermined tool software. The header management information HTJ as the contents adds a group ID (group identifier) to information including the resource number, the data size of each texture data TD, and information on the palette used for each pixel extracted from the header information. It is what.

  This group ID is an identifier of a data group for identifying each texture data group TDG included in the plurality of texture data groups TDG. In this embodiment, for example, 19 texture data groups TDG are prepared. In response to this, “0” is assigned as a group ID to a resident texture data group TDG to be developed in a resident area (resident area) described later, for example, and a non-resident texture to be developed in a non-resident area (non-resident area). Any one of “1” to “18” is assigned to the data group TDG. The header management information HTJ is prepared for all texture data, palette data, etc., regardless of whether they are resident or non-resident.

(3-3. Memory map of main RAM)
FIG. 5 is a memory map showing a configuration example of the memory space of the main RAMs 321 and 322.
The main RAMs 321 and 322 have, as their memory spaces, an operating system area OSE, a list area LSTE, a first non-resident area (non-resident area) HJE1 (HJE), a frame buffer area FBE, a resident area (resident area) JE, and a second non-resident area. An area (non-resident area) HJE2 (HJE) is included. In the present embodiment, the first non-resident area HJE1 and the second non-resident area HJE2 are collectively referred to as “non-resident area HJE” when it is not necessary to distinguish between them.

  Among these, the operating system area OSE is an area where the operating system is loaded at the time of booting. The list area LSTE is an area for storing each list (list data) used by the GPU 300. The frame buffer area FBE is an area for storing pixel data generated by the GPU 300 for drawing a frame based on the texture data TD and the like.

  The frame buffer area FBE is divided into, for example, two areas. While the pixel data is generated in the one frame buffer area FBE by the GPU 300, the pixel data generated from the other frame buffer area FBE by the GPU 300 is generated. Is output for drawing.

  The resident area JE is a storage area in which a texture data group TDG that is frequently used (hereinafter referred to as “resident texture data group TDG”) among the plurality of texture data groups TDG can be stored permanently. On the other hand, the non-resident area HJE is a memory capable of temporarily storing a texture data group TDG other than the resident texture data group TDG (hereinafter referred to as “non-resident texture data group TDG”) among the plurality of texture data groups TDG. It is an area. In this non-resident area HJE, for example, the first non-resident area HJE 1 is formed in the memory space of the RAM 321, and the second non-resident area HJE 2 is formed in the memory space of the RAM 322.

(4. Software configuration example)
The configuration example of the hardware related to the decorative design control board 30 is as described above. Next, a configuration example of software that operates on the decorative design control board 30 will be described.
FIG. 6 is a diagram hierarchically representing software that operates on the decorative design control board 30.

(4-1. Operating system)
An operating system 111 is operating on the decorative design control board 30, and various software programs are operating on the operating system 111. Specifically, on the operating system 111, device driver software 112 (device driver), library software 113 (library), and application software 114 (application) are mainly operating, and the application 114 as the upper software is a video. Is displayed, the device driver 112 is controlled using the library 113 as lower-level software.

  Here, the operating system 111 is operated on the decorative design control board 30 for the following reason. First, in recent years, computer graphics (hereinafter referred to as “CG”) creation software has been provided for computer operating systems, and CG engineers can use CG creation software that runs on computer operating systems to create CG animations. Easy to create environment. In general, software that operates on an operating system is easier to develop than dedicated software that depends on hardware. In recent years, CG library software that operates on such an operating system (hereinafter referred to as a “library”). ) Etc. are provided.

  In the present embodiment, the operating system 111 is mounted on the decorative design control board 30, and the application 114 uses a number of CG animations created by using a library provided by a CG engineer, A form that displays video is adopted.

(4-2. Device driver)
Among these, the device driver 112 is driver software for controlling a device connected to the GPU 300. For example, a peripheral device driver 112a, an external memory driver 112b, and a GDC driver 112c are prepared.

  The peripheral device driver 112 a is driver software for controlling peripheral devices such as the timer 302, the serial interface 303, and the I / O port 304 connected to the peripheral interface 305. The external memory driver 112b is driver software for controlling reading of texture data TD and the like from the source ROM 340 connected to the external interface 333.

  The GDC driver 112c is driver software prepared for using the graphics function of the GPU 300. Specifically, the GDC driver 112c is driver software that is mainly used by the user module 114b and the graphic library 113d in the application 114 that is higher-level software. The GDC driver 112c executes the processes of the geometry engine 331, the rendering controller 332, and the video output controller 336 in a geometry task, a rendering task, and a video output task, respectively.

(4-3. Library)
As the library 113, a movie library 113c and a graphic library 113d are prepared.
The movie library 113c is library software for reproducing a moving image using moving image data. On the other hand, the graphic library 113d is library software used by the user module 114b for displaying video, and executes drawing processing in accordance with the designation of the user module 114b.

  The graphic library 113d is library software for performing graphic functions while being assisted by the geometry engine 331, the rendering controller 335, and the video output controller 336 included in the VDP 330 of the GPU 300. The graphic library 113d models a three-dimensional object corresponding to a skeleton of a shape to be displayed using model data, and maps a texture (pattern or the like) to the object using texture data, so-called three-dimensional graphics. It has a function to display an image by creating a frame with a video.

(4-4. Application)
As the application 114, a user system module 114a and a user module 114b are prepared. When the user system module 114a and the user module 114b receive the V blank signal, they execute a steady process. The V blank signal is a signal output from the video output controller 336.

(4-4-1. User system module)
Among these, the user system module 114a executes a common process even if the type of the pachinko machine is different. In the steady process, for example, a command reception process, a scaler control process, and a watchdog timer (WDT) Peripheral device control processing including clear processing, design consistency determination processing, noise countermeasure processing, state transition processing, and test command processing are executed.

(4-4-2. User module)
On the other hand, the user module 114b executes different processes depending on the type of the pachinko machine. In the steady process, for example, a control process related to display at the time of recovery from a power outage state, a control process related to a display change of symbols, an animation The control processing related to the display of video and the control processing related to the display of moving images are executed. Further, the user module 114b executes a control process related to display at the time of recovery from a power failure state and a control process related to symbol change display.

  Detailed functions of the user module 114b will be described later. Note that the processes executed by the user system module 114a and the user module 114b are distributed as an example for convenience, and can be appropriately distributed as needed.

(5. Example of operation of decorative design control board)
The pachinko machine 1 on which the decorative design control board 30 is mounted has the above-described configuration. Next, a state in which the effect display process is executed by the operations of the user system module 114a and the user module 114b will be described. Hereinafter, in this embodiment, the reset process, the transfer process to the resident area, the power-on handler generation process, the transfer process to the non-resident area, the normal handler generation process, and the display process will be described in this order. First, the reset process will be described.

(5-1. Reset processing)
This reset start process (reset process) is a process that is executed when power is restored or after an instantaneous power failure occurs during operation.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of a basic processing procedure of reset processing in the decorative symbol control board 30. This reset process represents a process example that is sequentially executed when the decorative symbol control board 30 is reset or newly powered on, or when an instantaneous power failure occurs during operation.

(5-1-1. Initialization related to hardware)
In this hardware initialization process, the minimum hardware initialization is performed. First, the symbol CPU 311 is initialized (step S10). In the initialization process for the symbol CPU 311, settings relating to the interrupt processing of the symbol CPU 311 are made.

  Next, in the initialization process related to the hardware, the initialization process is executed for the external interface 333 (for example, PCI bus) (step S20), and the initialization process is executed for the memory controller 315 (step S30). At the same time, in the initialization process regarding the hardware, the initialization process for the VDP 330 is executed. As described above, hardware initialization processing is performed.

(5-1-2. Boot processing of OS etc.)
Next, boot processing is executed. In this boot process, the boot program of the boot ROM 301 is executed after performing the minimum initialization such as the bus and port as described above. This boot program loads the startup program of the source ROM 340 onto the main RAMs 321 and 322 and executes it.

  The program loader included in the startup program on the main RAMs 321 and 322 transfers the operating system 111 from the source ROM 340 to the main RAMs 321 and 322 (step S40). Further, the program loader reads the user system module 114a, the user module 114b, and the like from the source ROM 340, and transfers them to the operating system interference area of the main RAMs 321 and 322 (step S40).

  After the program loader transfers each of these programs, the program code of the operating system 111 is sequentially executed, and the operating system 111 is activated (step S50). In this embodiment, after the reset, the operating system 111 is loaded from the beginning and started from the initial state. That is, the operating system 111 is loaded from the beginning every time and operates from the initial state every time.

  Thereafter, the operating system 111 activates the user system module 114a and the user module 114b (step S60). In this embodiment, a task corresponds to each of the executed programs. For example, a main task is assigned to the user system module 114a and the user module 114b. The main task is internally managed separately for each of the user system module 114a and the user module 114b.

(5-1-3. Hot / cold determination processing)
The user system module 114a executes the following hot / cold determination processing after executing various initial settings.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the procedure of the hot / cold determination process. In this hot / cold determination process, when the user module 114b recovers from the power failure state (at the time of power recovery), it is determined whether a cold start described later should be performed or a hot start described later should be performed. Yes.

  First, the hot / cold determination process is executed when the backup data in the memory space to be backed up in the main RAMs 321 and 322 (hereinafter referred to as “backup target area”) is reliable at the time of power recovery. If this happens, it is assumed that the data stored in the entire memory space of the main RAMs 321 and 322 including the backup target area is reliable (for example, there is no defect such as missing data), and the data in the memory space is continued. This is because, for example, the texture data TD in a reliable memory space in the resident area can be used as it is at the time of power recovery (hereinafter referred to as “hot start”). In this way, in the case of hot start, the display of the video after power recovery can be made faster than the case of starting other than hot start (cold start described later).

  Hereinafter, the hot / cold determination process will be described in detail. In the present embodiment, among the data transferred from the source ROM 340 to the main RAMs 321 and 322 by the user module 114b, the data in the backup target area is referred to as “backup data”. The user module 114b has a function of calculating a sum value for the data in the backup target area of the main RAMs 321 and 322, and a function of calculating a sum value for the backup data of the backup RAM. In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the backup target areas of the main RAMs 321 and 322 constitute a part of the resident area JE.

  In the present embodiment, the user module 114b holds the sum value calculated for the data in the backup target area before transfer, for example. In the present embodiment, the sum value held in this way is referred to as a “predetermined sum value”.

  In this hot / cold determination process, first, a sum value is calculated for data existing in the backup target area of the main RAMs 321 and 322, and a sum determination is executed (step S81). Here, in the present embodiment, calculating a sum value for data to be processed is referred to as “sum determination”. Next, the user module 114b compares the sum value calculated from the data existing in the backup target areas of the main RAMs 321 and 322 with a predetermined sum value, and determines whether or not both sum values match. The consistency of the sum value is confirmed (step S82). As described above, the user module 114b confirms whether or not the backup data remaining in the specific area (corresponding to the backup RAM) of the main RAMs 321 and 322 is normal at the time of power recovery (confirming means).

  As a result of such sum determination, when these sum values match and the data in the backup target area of the main RAMs 321 and 322 can be trusted, the user module 114b sets the activation mode to “hot start” (step S83). ) Start operation (referred to as “hot start” in this embodiment). At the same time, the user module 114b clears the backup target area in the memory space of the main RAMs 321 and 322 to zero (step S84). Note that “0 clear” means initialization by filling “0” in the target storage area. On the other hand, as a result of the sum determination, if these two sum values do not match and the data in the backup target area cannot be trusted, the user module 114b determines that not only the backup target area but also all the other storage areas in the main RAMs 321 and 322 are stored. The storage area (backup non-target area) is also cleared to 0 and initialized (step S88). That is, when the backup data remaining in the backup RAM of the main RAMs 321 and 322 is not normal, the user module 114b transfers the corresponding transfer source data in the source ROM 340 to the operating system non-interference area of the main RAMs 321 and 322. (Transfer instruction means).

  Then, the user module 114b sets the activation mode to “cold start” (step S89), and starts retransfer from the beginning for all data to be transferred to the resident area JE, for example. In the present embodiment, when the power is restored, the user module 114b starts the operation by transferring data from the beginning in this way is called “cold start”.

(5-2. Transfer of display scheduler data)
Next, the user module 114b transfers the display scheduler data from the source ROM 340 to the main RAMs 321 and 322 (scheduler data transfer means).

Next, transfer of the texture data group TDG will be described.
(5-3. Number of data included in each texture data group)
FIG. 9 illustrates the number of texture data TD included in each texture data group TDG.
In the present embodiment, since there is a request to reduce the memory capacity of the main RAMs 321 and 322, all of these texture data TD and the like are divided and transferred as a texture data group TDG by dividing them in units of groups. In this embodiment, the resident texture data group TDG corresponding to the group ID = “0” includes, for example, 1449 pieces of texture data TD. That is, in this embodiment, the resident texture data group TDG corresponding to this group ID = “0” including 1449 texture data TD in the resident area JE is transferred.

  On the other hand, in this embodiment, the non-resident texture data group TDG corresponding to the group ID = “1” to “18” has, for example, 219, 252, 93, 51, 217, 171 and 153, respectively. 366, 435, 390, 236, 156, 201, 351, 313, 63, 489, and 14 texture data TD are included.

(5-4. Transfer process to resident area)
FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of transfer processing to the resident area JE. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of development of the header management information HTJ and the texture data group TDG transferred to the main RAMs 321 and 322. is there. The transfer process to the resident area JE shown in FIG. 10 is a process in which the user module 114b transfers the resident texture data group TDG from the source ROM 340 to the resident area JE of the main RAMs 321 and 322.

  The user module 114b (header management information transfer means) transfers the header management information HTJ from the source ROM 340 to the main RAMs 321 and 322 at the time of initialization (step S101).

  Subsequently, the user module 114b further collects the texture data group TDG corresponding to “0” designated as the group ID (group identifier), for example, from the plurality of texture data groups TDG, from the source ROM 340 to the main RAM 321. , 322 (collective transfer means).

  Specifically, the user module 114b specifies a transfer source address indicating a storage position in the source ROM 340 for the texture data group TDG (referred to as “resident texture data group TDG”) corresponding to the group ID = “0”. At the same time, the transfer data size of this resident texture data group TDG is designated. Further, the user module 114b designates a storage position (transfer destination address) in the resident area JE of the main RAMs 321 and 322 for the resident texture data group TDG. When the transfer source address or the like is specified in this way, the user module 114b is resident corresponding to the group ID = “0” from the source ROM 340 to the resident area JE in the operating system non-interference area of the main RAMs 321 and 322 at the cold start. The texture data group TDG is transferred (step S102). The resident texture data group TDG includes, for example, each texture data TD that is frequently used.

  When the header management information HTJ and the resident texture data group TDG (the illustrated texture data group TDG) are expanded in this way, the storage state in the source ROM 340 illustrated in FIG. 4 is expanded as illustrated in FIG. It is in a state. That is, in the main RAMs 321 and 322, the header management information HTJ and the texture data group TDG in the source ROM 340 are transferred and stored as they are. In this state, since there is no means for operating (handling) the texture data group TDG, the user module 114b cannot separately operate the individual texture data TD included in the texture data group TDG. For this reason, in this embodiment, a handler is generated as follows.

(5-5. Handler generation process at power-on)
FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure of power-on handler generation processing.
The user module 114b corresponds to the resident texture data group TDG transferred to the resident area JE among the texture data groups TDG transferred to the main RAMs 321 and 322, for example, in the graphic library 113d based on the header management information HTJ. The texture handler TH is generated as follows.

  Specifically, for the resident texture data group TDG transferred to the resident area JE of the main RAMs 321 and 322, the user module 114b uses the resident texture data group from the header extraction information of the header management information HTJ as shown in FIG. A texture handler TH that can identify each texture data TD included in the TDG is generated. The header management information HTJ is, for example, 32-byte data, and is provided corresponding to about 5619 pieces of texture data TD included in all texture data groups TDG.

  First, the graphic library 113d sets “0” as the resource number to be processed (step S151). Next, the graphic library 113d refers to the contents of the header management information HTJ corresponding to this resource number (in this case “0”) (step S152), and the group ID included in the header management information HTJ is “0”. Whether or not (step S153).

  The graphic library 113d acquires an offset value of each texture data TD included in the resident texture data group TDG from the header management information HTJ using the group ID “0” as a search key, and this resident texture data group TDG. By adding an offset value (offset address) to the head address of the texture, an offset of each texture data TD included in the resident texture data group TDG is acquired (step S154). The graphic library 113d includes the resident texture data group TDG transferred to the resident area JE of the main RAMs 321 and 322 and is included in the resident texture data group TDG from the header extraction information of the header management information HTJ as shown in FIG. A texture handler TH that can identify each texture data TD is generated (step S155).

  The graphic library 113d increments the resource number to be processed (step S156), and determines whether the resource number to be processed (for example, 0 to 5618) has exceeded 5618 (step S157). The numerical value “5618” is because the total number of texture data TD and palette data (not shown) (hereinafter, mainly exemplified as texture data TD) is exemplified as 5619 in the present embodiment. Here, if the resource number to be processed exceeds 5618, the handler generation process is terminated, and if the resource number to be processed does not exceed 5618, the process returns to step S152.

  On the other hand, if the group ID is not “0” in step S153 (for example, “1” to “18”), the process proceeds to step S156. In this way, the graphic library 113d identifies all the texture data TD included in the resident texture data group TDG (group ID = “0”) from the header management information HTJ on the resident area JE of the main RAMs 321 and 322. A possible texture handler TH is generated. As described above, when the transfer process of the resident texture data group TDG is completed, the transfer process of the non-resident texture data group TDG is executed according to the progress of the game. First, an outline of the game control process will be described.

(5-6. Game control processing)
Here, on the main control board 3, a main control program for controlling the progress of the game is operating, and the main control program acquires a random number for determining a big hit (a big hit lottery) triggered by a start winning prize. When there is a start win, the main control program compares the acquired jackpot determination random number value with a predetermined hit value at the jackpot determination timing, and executes the jackpot determination. At the same time, if there is such a start-up prize, the main control program then continues the blinking state (special symbol variation display state) by the special symbol display device 41 for the variation time determined by lottery separately, and then the big hit Depending on the results of the lottery and determination, the special symbol display device 41 is turned on or off (displayed state of the stopped symbols).

  When such a big hit lottery and determination are executed, the main control board 3 outputs the big hit lottery and determination results (lottery result and effect command) to the sub-control board 35. This effect command includes information regarding the variation time during which the effect operation is to be controlled according to the lottery result. The sub-control board 35 that has received the lottery result and the effect command executes the effect lottery, and selects an effect pattern according to the result of the effect lottery. This effect pattern is a pattern for outputting sound or light. Further, on the sub-control board 35, an effect display pattern corresponding to this effect pattern is selected.

  This effect display pattern represents a pattern related to which effect display operation should be executed among a plurality of prepared effect display operations over a variable time, and includes information corresponding to each scene to be displayed as the effect display operation. . A texture data group TDG including texture data TD necessary for displaying each scene is determined by referring to display scheduler data corresponding to this effect display pattern. In the present embodiment, a combination of texture data groups TDG to be transferred (loaded) from the source ROM 340 to the main RAMs 321 and 322 in order to display each scene is referred to as a “data load pattern”.

(5-6-1. Data load pattern)
FIG. 14A to FIG. 14P are diagrams each showing an example of a data load pattern.
This data load pattern is a pattern indicating which non-resident texture data group TDG should be transferred (loaded) to the non-resident area HJE of the main RAMs 321 and 322 according to the scene to be displayed according to the display scheduler data. In this embodiment, as an example, 16 types of data load patterns are prepared as illustrated.

  In this embodiment, as a data load pattern, among the 18 non-resident texture data groups TDG that can be transferred to the non-resident area HJE in a space that starts with a “{” mark and ends with a “}” mark, The group IDs of the non-resident texture data group TDG to be processed are arranged from the left while being separated by “,” marks. Although “0” is arranged as the last group ID in each data load pattern shown in the figure, this does not represent the resident texture data group TDG to be developed in the resident area JE, but should be transferred. There is no more non-resident texture data group TDG, indicating the end of each data load pattern.

  For example, in the data load pattern shown in FIG. 14A, first, for example, the non-resident texture data group TDG corresponding to the group ID “3” is transferred, and then the non-resident texture data corresponding to the group ID “4”. The group TDG will be transferred. For example, in the data load pattern shown in FIG. 14B, first, for example, a non-resident texture data group TDG corresponding to the group ID “1” is transferred, and then non-resident corresponding to the group ID “5”. The texture data group TDG is transferred, and then the non-resident texture data group TDG corresponding to the group ID “8” is transferred.

(5-7. Transfer process to non-resident area)
(5-7-1. Reception of production command)
The sub control board 35 controls the effect operation based on the effect command received from the main control board 3 as the game progresses. Specifically, the sub-control program operating on the sub-control board 35 transmits an effect display command and the like to the decorative symbol control board 30 by an interrupt process (command transmission process included therein).

(5-7-2. Normal transfer processing)
FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure of normal transfer processing. This normal transfer process represents a process in which the non-resident texture data group TDG is transferred from the source ROM 340 to the non-resident areas HJE of the main RAMs 321 and 322 as the game progresses.

  First, in the command reception process included in the steady process, an effect display command or the like from the sub-control board 35 is received and stored in the command reception buffer. Then, the user system module 114a periodically polls the command reception buffer to determine whether or not an effect display command exists as a command in the command reception buffer. This effect display command includes the effect display pattern.

  The user module 114b acquires an effect display command from the command reception buffer, and specifies an effect display pattern (such as a type of reach effect pattern) from display scheduler data corresponding to the effect display pattern number included in the effect display command. To do. Further, the user module 114b refers to the display scheduler data (step S201), and specifies each scene constituting the effect display pattern, the display order of each scene, texture data TD necessary for displaying each scene, and the like. The display scheduler data includes display information related to each scene constituting the effect display pattern, the display order of these scenes, texture data necessary for displaying each scene, and the like. The user module 114b designates a group ID such as a texture data group TDG necessary for displaying each scene constituting the effect display pattern according to the display scheduler data. Actually, there is data to be transferred in addition to the texture data TD, but in this embodiment, the texture data TD is illustrated.

  Next, when the designated group ID (also referred to as “designated group ID”) is not “0 (resident)”, the user module 114b performs a so-called file open function for the non-resident texture data group TDG corresponding to the group ID. Is executed (step S202). Thereafter, the user module 114b designates, for example, a transfer source address and a transfer data size, and collectively selects a texture data group TDG corresponding to a specified group ID (group identifier) among a plurality of texture data groups TDG. Transfer from the source ROM 340 to the main RAMs 321 and 322 (batch transfer means).

  More specifically, the user module 114b collectively transfers the non-resident texture data group TDG corresponding to this group ID from the source ROM 340 to the non-resident area HJE in the operating system non-interference areas of the main RAMs 321 and 322. (Step S203). At this time, the user module 114b grasps the transfer destination address (corresponding to the top address) in which the non-resident texture data group TDG is expanded in the non-resident area HJE.

  When the expansion ends in this way, the user module 114b executes a so-called file close function (for example, “fclose”) that makes it impossible to read the non-resident texture data group TDG from the source ROM 340 (step S204).

(5-8. Normal handler generation processing)
FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the procedure of a normal handler generation process. This normal handler generation processing generates a texture handler TH for reading each texture data TD included in the non-resident texture data group TDG transferred to the non-resident area HJE among the texture data group TDG transferred to the main RAMs 321 and 322. Represents the processing to be performed. Note that the normal handler generation process shown in FIG. 16 represents a process of generating one texture handler TH, for example, and is actually repeatedly executed over the required number of texture data TD.

  The user module 114b, for example, in the graphic library 113d, for each texture data TD included in the non-resident texture data group TDG that has been transferred to the main RAMs 321 and 322, based on the header management information HTJ, individually as follows: (Data read information) is generated (data read information generating means).

  First, the graphic library 113d holds the top address of the storage position where the non-resident texture data group TDG is expanded when the non-resident texture data group TDG is transferred to the main RAMs 321 and 322. The header management information HTJ is, for example, 32-byte data, and is provided corresponding to about 5619 pieces of texture data TD included in all texture data groups TDG. A resource number is assigned to each texture data TD.

  The graphic library 113d first determines whether it is time to generate the texture handler TH (step S251). Here, in the present embodiment, the timing immediately before the VDP 330 uses the texture data TD corresponding to the texture handler TH is adopted as the timing for generating the texture handler TH. If it is not time to generate the texture handler TH, the normal time handler generation processing is terminated. If it is time to generate the texture handler TH, a resource number corresponding to the required texture data TD is designated (step S252).

  The graphic library 113d refers to the content of the header management information HTJ corresponding to this resource number (step S253), and acquires offset information that is a part of the header extraction information included in the header management information HTJ. This offset information includes an offset value from the start address of the storage position of the non-resident texture data group TDG including the texture data TD for each texture data TD or the like (resource). The graphic library 113d acquires an offset corresponding to the specified resource number from the offset information (step S254).

  The graphic library 113d generates a texture handler TH as shown in FIG. 13 including the head address (transfer destination address) and offset for each resource number for identifying each texture data TD (step S255). That is, the texture handler TH includes offsets such as the top address of the non-resident texture data group TDG and the texture data TD corresponding to the resource number. Note that this texture handler TH may include an absolute address as a result of calculation by adding this offset to the head address as appropriate, instead of including the head address and offset. Furthermore, the graphic library 113d generates a texture handler TH for this resource (next texture data TD) immediately before using the desired next texture data TD, if necessary.

(6. Display processing)
FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a display processing procedure. Note that the user module 114b executes a data reading process and a drawing process based on the following handler as a display process in a part of the symbol control process included in the steady process.

  In this display process, the user module 114b controls the graphic library 113d according to the display scheduler data, and is included in the texture data group TDG and the like that have been transferred from the operating system non-interference area of the main RAMs 321 and 322 based on this texture handler TH. Each texture data TD to be read is identified and read, and the VDC 330 of the GPU 300 is controlled by the GDC driver 112c using each read texture data TD (video display control means, display start instruction means).

(6-1. Data read processing based on handler)
First, the user module 114b refers to the display scheduler data and specifies a resource number for the graphic library 113d according to the scene to be displayed. The graphic library 113d refers to the texture handler TH based on the designated resource number (step S301).

  Next, the graphic library 113d, based on the texture handler TH, for example, from the main RAMs 321 and 322 (non-resident areas HJE and resident areas JE), based on the offset value from the head address of the non-resident texture data group TDG or the like. The texture data TD corresponding to the resource number is read (step S302). If the texture handler TH includes an absolute address, the graphic library 113d uses the absolute address of the texture handler TH to transfer the texture data TD corresponding to the resource number from the main RAMs 321 and 322 from the non-resident texture data group TDG. Is read.

(6-2. Drawing process)
When the graphic library 113d reads out the necessary texture data TD from the main RAMs 321 and 322, by instructing the GDC driver 112c, the graphics library 113d uses the palette data of the main RAMs 321 and 322 to assist the hardware such as the GPU 300. In response to this, pixel data is generated in the frame buffer area of the main RAMs 321 and 322 (step S303). This pixel data is drawing data for polygon display configured by mapping a texture based on texture data on the surface of an object based on model data.

  Next, the graphic library 113d reads pixel data one after another from the frame buffer areas of the main RAMs 321 and 322, and causes the video output controller 336 of the GPU 300 to draw using the pixel data (step S304). In other words, the user module 114b controls the GPU 300 to the graphic library 113d, maps the texture based on the texture data TD read simultaneously to the object based on the model data to display the video using the polygon or the like, and configures the polygon. Images are displayed by displaying frames using polygons one after another. Furthermore, while the graphic library 113d creates frame data (a collection of pixel data) in one of the two frame buffer areas, the frame data already created from the other frame buffer area It is read out for video display. In these two frame buffer areas, reading and creation of frame data are repeatedly executed alternately.

  Here, for example, the graphic library 113d visually configures this scene by superposing four layers for each pixel (pixel) to form one frame and continuously displaying the configured frames one after another. is doing. In this way, the graphic library 113d can display an image constituted by continuous display of each scene in accordance with an instruction from the user module 114b.

(7. Reference to usefulness according to this embodiment)
First, the operating system interference area in the memory space of the main RAMs 321 and 322 can be specified by specifying an identifier (for example, a file name) attached to each data with the support of the operating system 111 (file system function thereof). This is a storage area where each video data can be easily stored and read without being conscious. On the other hand, the operating system non-interference area is a storage area in the memory space of the main RAMs 321 and 322 in which the operating system 111 (the file system function thereof) cannot participate. For example, if the address and the data size are not directly specified, direct video data This is a storage area in which it is impossible to store or read.

  In the present embodiment, the user module 114 b transfers video data from the source ROM 340 to the operating system non-interference area in the memory space of the main RAMs 321 and 322. Therefore, since the operating system 111 is not involved in the transfer of the video data to the source ROM 340, the user module 114b can transfer the video data to the main RAMs 321 and 322 at high speed.

  Here, the main RAMs 321 and 322 generally have a smaller storage capacity than the source ROM 340, and the user module 114b transfers all the video data prepared in the source ROM 340 in advance to the main RAMs 321 and 322 as they are. I can't. Therefore, the user module 114b transfers all video data prepared in the source ROM 340 in advance into several groups and transfers them from the source ROM 340 to the main RAMs 321 and 322 in units of groups.

  In general, a pachinko machine displays an image composed of a combination of short stories, but the combination of these short stories is random and the combination is different each time. For this reason, the user module 114b transfers the necessary video data to the main RAMs 321 and 322 each time, since it is not determined that the data to be transferred to the main RAMs 321 and 322 will be immediately before the display of each story. There must be.

  However, in the present embodiment, the user module 114b (non-interference area transfer means) can expand the video data from the source ROM 340 to the main RAMs 321 and 322 at a high speed. For example, the video data to be transferred is determined only immediately before. Even when there is no video data, the video data can be transferred to the main RAMs 321 and 322 at high speed to be aligned. Therefore, even when the pachinko machine 1 displays an image by a random combination of short stories, the image can be displayed in real time based on the image data prepared in the main RAMs 321 and 322 without being disturbed.

  In the present embodiment, the operating system non-interference area of the main RAMs 321 and 322 is a resident area JE that can store video data (hereinafter referred to as “resident data”) that should be stored permanently among video data. And non-resident area HJE that can store video data to be temporarily stored (hereinafter referred to as “non-resident data”) among the video data. The user module 114b (non-interference area transfer means) transfers this resident data from the source ROM 340 to the resident area JE in the operating system non-interference areas of the main RAMs 321 and 322.

  According to such a configuration, the user module 114b transfers, for example, frequently used resident data from the source ROM 340 to the resident area JE in the operating system non-interference areas of the main RAMs 321 and 322. Therefore, the operating system 111 is not involved when the user module 114b transfers the resident data from the source ROM 340 to the resident area JE of the main RAMs 321 and 322.

  In this embodiment, the user module 114b can transfer resident data at high speed without the operating system 111 being involved. Therefore, even when displaying a random combination of different scenes each time, the user module 114b can display the video without any disturbance based on the resident data read from the resident area JE of the main RAMs 321 and 322.

  In this embodiment, the user module 114b (non-interference area transfer means) transfers this non-resident data from the source ROM 340 to the non-resident area HJE in the operating system non-interference areas of the main RAMs 321 and 322.

  In general, in a pachinko machine, the combination of scenes constituting the video to be displayed is often different every time, so that the non-resident data that the user module 114b should transfer from the source ROM 340 to the main RAMs 321 and 322 changes every time and becomes random. Yes.

  In the present embodiment, the user module 114b transfers the non-resident data from the source ROM 340 to the operating system non-interference area in the memory space of the main RAMs 321 and 322. The non-resident data can be transferred to the non-resident area HJE of the main RAMs 321 and 322. Therefore, even when displaying a random combination of different scenes each time, the user module 114b can display the video without any disturbance based on the non-resident data read from the non-resident area HJE of the main RAMs 321 and 322.

  In this embodiment, the video data to be transferred to the operating system non-interference area of the main RAMs 321 and 322 includes model data used for displaying the framework of the object included in the video to be displayed, and the object included in the video to be displayed. It includes texture data used for displaying a texture to be pasted on the surface and palette data used for coloring a polygon formed by pasting the texture on the surface of the object.

  In general, it is known that data used for video display has a large data size. In particular, video data such as model data, texture data, and palette data used for display of polygons and the like has recently been required to have a variety of displays. And the total data size tends to be huge.

  In the present embodiment, the user module 114b transfers the video from the source ROM 340 to the operating system non-interference area of the main RAMs 321 and 322 without receiving support from the operating system 111 when displaying the video. Therefore, the user module 114b can transfer model data, texture data, and palette data from the source ROM 340 to the main RAMs 321 and 322 at high speed. Therefore, the user module 114b pastes the texture based on the texture data to the model based on the model data using the model data, texture data, and palette data that have been transferred to the operating system non-interference area of the main RAM 321, 322, and the palette. Colored polygons can be displayed without distortion by a palette based on data.

  In this way, the user module 114b can quickly transfer necessary model data, texture data, pallet data, and the like from the source ROM 340 to the main RAM 321, for example, in the case of symbol variation display, so-called reach effect display, special game state effect display, and the like. It can be transferred to the non-interference area of the operating system 322 and used for video display.

(8. First application example)
The pachinko machine as the first application example includes a display control board (production control unit, display control unit) having substantially the same configuration and operation as the decorative design control board 30. Since the same configuration and operation as in FIG. 1 are performed, the description of the same configuration and operation will be omitted, and different points will be mainly described below. Note that, in the first application example, when the same configuration and operation as in the above embodiment are described, the same reference numerals as in the above embodiment are used.

  This pachinko machine belongs to a so-called “feather” type. Pachinko machines are roughly composed of a main body frame and a game board, and a game board is detachably installed inside the main body frame. A substantially circular game area is formed on the front surface (board surface) of the game board. Note that the external configuration other than the game board is substantially the same as that of the first embodiment, and a description thereof is omitted.

  In the game area of the game board, an effect device is arranged at the center, and this effect device functions as a big prize opening and also functions as a prize device for detecting that a game ball has won. Fulfill. In this effect device, for example, a liquid crystal display device (display device) for displaying an image is arranged. In addition to the regular winning openings arranged on the left and right sides of the effect device, a pair of left and right one-time starting openings and a two-time starting opening are arranged at the center. In addition, various decorative bodies, decorative lamps, windmills, and many obstacle nails are provided in the game area of the game board.

  The rendering device has a pair of left and right movable pieces (movable members), and these movable pieces can be displaced between a state opened in the left-right direction and a position closed toward the inside. When these movable pieces are in the open position, the big prize opening is opened, and the game ball can be received. A large prize opening solenoid is provided behind the effect device, and this special prize opening solenoid is driven to open and close the pair of left and right movable pieces.

  Normally, when the big prize opening solenoid is not actuated, the movable piece is in the closed position, and therefore, the big prize opening cannot receive the game ball. On the other hand, when a prize is won at the above-mentioned one-time start port or two-time start port during a game, the big prize port solenoid is activated. As a result, the pair of movable pieces move to the open position, and the big prize opening is opened for a predetermined time, thereby allowing the game ball to be won. The opening / closing operation of the movable piece is performed only the number of times of opening / closing assigned to the start port once (one time) or the number of times of opening / closing assigned to the start port twice (twice).

  In the effect device, a winning prize count switch is provided corresponding to each of the pair of left and right movable pieces. A game ball that has won a prize winning opening is detected for passage by the corresponding prize winning count switch, that is, the number of winning prizes is counted. As described above, when the game ball is received in the effect device by the operation of the special prize opening solenoid, the game ball rolls in the effect device. There is a specific area in the effect device, and when a game ball passes through the specific area, a transition is made to a special game state that is advantageous to the player.

  In this special game state, for example, for a maximum of 15 rounds, the opening and closing operation (round operation) of the movable pieces provided in the left and right pairs of the production device is repeated in each round to make the game ball acceptable in the production device. A prize ball corresponding to the number of game balls played is given to the player. In this way, the player can enjoy more benefits in the special gaming state.

  According to the first application example, substantially the same effect as in the above embodiment can be achieved, and the user module 114b has a sense of expectation that a game ball accepted by the winning device may pass through the specific area. Video data such as necessary model data, texture data, and palette data is quickly transferred from the source ROM 340 to the operating system non-interference area of the main RAMs 321 and 322 for the effect display for the player and the effect display in the special game state. Can be transferred and used for video display.

(9. Second application example)
Next, a configuration example of a slot machine to which a gaming machine as a second application example of the present invention is applied will be described.
A slot machine as a second application example includes a pachinko machine as the above embodiment in that it includes a display control board (production control unit, display control unit) having substantially the same configuration and operation as the decorative design control board 30. Since the same configuration and operation as in FIG. 1 are performed, the description of the same configuration and operation will be omitted, and different points will be mainly described below. Note that, in the second application example, when the same configuration and operation as in the above embodiment are described, the same reference numerals as in the above embodiment are used.

  This slot machine has a box-shaped housing, and is installed in an island facility or the like of a game arcade based on this housing. In the island facility, a plurality of slot machines are arranged in a row in the width direction, and usually a medal sand (not shown) is attached between the machines. When, for example, cash is inserted into the medal sand (the inter-sand sand), medals corresponding to the amount of money are lent out, and the player can use them to perform a slot machine game. Note that the game medium is not limited to medals or coins, but may be a mode using game balls, tokens, or the like. Alternatively, a mode in which a prepaid card is inserted into the inter-bed sand and the remaining frequency and medals are exchanged may be implemented.

  The housing of the slot machine has a front door on the front surface facing the player, and the front door can be opened forward with one side end (left side end in this example) as the center. A keyhole is formed in the front door, and the keyhole is configured such that the inserted dedicated key can be rotated left and right. Here, in this slot machine, when the dedicated key is turned to the right, the locked front door can be unlocked. Further, the front door has a glass plate (transparent plate) at the middle position thereof, and a rectangular display window is formed at the center thereof. This slot machine is equipped with three reels (left reel, middle reel, right reel) as an example of a mechanical symbol display device (symbol display means), and these reels are located at the back of the front door, that is, a housing. It is placed inside the body.

  A reel band is stretched around the outer periphery of each reel, and various symbols are attached to the surface. Although not shown in the figure, for example, the figure “7” or a specific alphabet (or its character string), a bell or other auspicious material, watermelon, apple Included are those designed with fruits and vegetables such as cherries, and those designed with characters, figures, symbols, etc. that characterize the type of slot machine.

  The slot machine can change or stop the display mode of symbols by rotating or stopping these reels. From the front of the slot machine, only a part of the reel is visible through the display window, and three symbols are effectively displayed for each reel when the reel is stopped.

  In the glass plate, display areas are formed on both sides of the display window, and various character information and symbol information are attached to the display areas in a predetermined arrangement. A lamp unit is disposed behind the glass plate, and information in this display area is lit and displayed by the lamp. For example, when a player first inserts medals through the medal insertion slot, the bet number is added according to the number of inserted medals. At this time, the medal line lamp corresponding to the bet number is lit up in the display area on the right side. When the bet number reaches the maximum (for example, 3 bets), the inserted medals are stored as credits, and the credit number is numerically displayed on the display unit.

  When the player operates the start lever (start operation means) with the medal line lamp lit up, the internal lottery (internal lottery) is executed, and the reels start to rotate all at once and the symbols change. Further, when the player operates a stop button (stop operation means), the reels corresponding to the right, middle, and left stop rotating, and the variation of symbols stops. Here, when the variation of symbols stops, display of a predetermined symbol combination is allowed in accordance with the result of the internal lottery.

  At this time, if a certain symbol combination (for example, a state in which specific symbol combinations are aligned in a row) is displayed on the activated line activated in the display window, a privilege is given to the player. As this privilege, for example, a medal can be paid out or a special game state (so-called big bonus game, regular bonus game, or assist time, challenge time, etc.) can be given, and the player executes a special game. This makes it possible to receive more medals.

  When a predetermined symbol combination is displayed on the active line by the gaming operation described above, the number of medals to be paid out according to the type of symbol combination displayed at that time is displayed on the display unit. Further, when a transition is made to a big bonus game or a regular bonus game, the number of remaining games is displayed on the display unit during the progress. The paid-out medals are stored as credits until the number of credits on the display unit is maximized, and medals exceeding the maximum number of credits are paid out to the tray through the payout opening. In addition, the player can release the medal storage (credit) by operating the credit check button, and can receive the payout of the medal stored until then.

  The slot machine in this embodiment has a liquid crystal display device (display device, display device) above the display window. In the liquid crystal display device, images for effects and various bonus games are provided as the game progresses. The number of medals earned in is displayed. In addition, two speakers for outputting sound effects, BGM, voices, and the like accompanying the progress of the game are provided on the left and right of the payout opening. In addition, lamps are arranged at various locations on the front door, and these lamps can perform effects by light-emitting decoration according to the gaming state.

  FIG. 18 schematically shows configurations of various mechanism elements, electronic devices, operation members, and the like equipped in the slot machine 101. The slot machine 101 has a main control board 192 (game control unit) for comprehensively controlling the progress of the game. The main control board 192 includes a CPU 210, a ROM 212, a RAM 214, and an input / output interface 216. Etc. are implemented. The CPU 210 generates a random number for lottery by software such as a game control program and internally executes the lottery. Then, during the normal game, the CPU 210 collates the random value acquired on the software with the operation of the start lever 118 and the winning value, and determines whether or not the internal lottery is won.

  These operation buttons, to which the bet buttons 112, 114, 116, the start lever 118, the stop buttons 120, 122, 124, the storage settlement button 146, and the like are connected to the main control board 192, use a sensor (not shown). An operation by the player is detected, and the detected operation signal is output to the main control board 192. Specifically, the start lever 118 outputs an operation signal for starting the three reels to the main control board 192, and the stop buttons 120, 122, and 124 each output an operation signal for stopping the three reels. Output to 192.

  In addition, an error release sensor (not shown) is installed at the back of the keyhole, and this error release sensor has a function of detecting that the dedicated key is turned counterclockwise after being inserted into the keyhole. Upon detection, a reset signal is output to the main control board 192. On the other hand, when the front door is opened when the error release sensor is rotated clockwise and unlocked after the dedicated key is inserted into the key hole, the door opening sensor 232 provided behind the front door is opened. Thus, an open signal is output to the main control board. The door opening sensor 232 is installed adjacent to the error release sensor 200, and when the front door is opened, it can be detected that the front door is separated from the main body portion.

  The slot machine 101 accommodates other devices together with the main control board 192, and various signals are input from these devices to the main control board 192. The equipment includes a reel device (such as a left reel drive motor 188a, a middle reel drive motor 188b, and a right reel drive motor 188c) having the above three reels, and a hopper device 178.

  The reel device has a position sensor for detecting a reference position related to the rotation of each reel, and these position sensors (left reel position sensor 206a, middle reel position sensor 206b, right reel position corresponding to each reel, respectively). A detection signal (index signal) from the sensor 206c is input to the main control board 192. Further, an insertion sensor 204 and a lockout solenoid 202 are installed at the back of the medal insertion slot.

  Among these, the insertion sensor 204 detects a medal inserted from a medal insertion slot (not shown), and outputs this detection signal to the main control board 192. On the other hand, the lockout solenoid 202 plays a role of locking out (blocking) a passage of a medal selector disposed behind the medal slot inside the front door.

  The lockout solenoid 202 locks out the medal selector passage in a normal (non-actuated) state, but when activated, the lockout solenoid 202 opens this passage (lockout release) to make it possible to accept medal insertion. The inserted medal is detected by the insertion sensor 204. Conversely, when the lockout solenoid 202 is deactivated, the medal selector is locked out and no medal insertion is accepted, and even if the player inserts a medal, it is spit out and returned to the tray. In addition, since the function of the insertion sensor 204 is invalidated at this time, neither bet addition or credit addition by medal insertion is performed.

  The hopper device 178 has a payout sensor 198 that detects medals paid out in the payout port one by one, and a payout medal signal for each medal is input to the main control board 192 from the payout sensor 198. ing. In addition, a medal full tank sensor 186 is provided in a game medal auxiliary storage (not shown), and when the number of medals stored inside exceeds a predetermined number, it indicates that the number of medals exceeds a predetermined number. The detected signal can be output to the main control board 192, and an error display notifying the abnormality of the gaming machine is performed by the liquid crystal display unit 158 or the like, and the player or the like is notified.

  On the other hand, a control signal is output from the main control board 192 to the reel device including the reel drive motors 188a, 188b, and 188c for rotating the reels and the hopper device 178. That is, the main control board 192 outputs a drive pulse signal for controlling the start and stop of each reel drive motor 188a, 188b, 188c to the reel device and the hopper device 178. The hopper device 178 receives a drive signal from the main control board 192 in accordance with the type of symbol on which the combination is displayed, and in response to this, the hopper device 178 performs a medal payout operation.

  At this time, if the number of medals necessary for payout is insufficient in the hopper device 178 or if there are no medals at all, the number detection by the payout sensor 198 is delayed. In this state, when a predetermined time elapses (for example, for 3 seconds), the payout sensor 198 outputs a payout medal abnormality signal to the main control board 192. In response to this, the main control board 192 causes the error display unit 134, the liquid crystal display unit 158, and the like to display content that informs that an abnormality has occurred in the medal payout.

  The slot machine 101 includes a sub control board 194 (effect control unit and display control unit) in addition to the main control board 192. The sub control board 194 includes a CPU 218, a ROM 220, a RAM 222, an input / output interface 230, a sound source. An IC 228 and an audio amplifier 226 are mounted. The sub control board 194 receives various command signals from the main control board 192, controls the lighting, blinking and extinguishing of each of the lamps 160, 162, 164 and 166, and controls the operation of the speaker 156. Yes. The sub control board 194 is connected to a display control board 30z described later. The display control board 30z is connected with a liquid crystal display unit 158 that displays an image by the control. The function of the display control board 30z may be mounted on the sub control board 194. In this case, the display control board 30z is not connected to the sub control board 194, and the liquid crystal display unit 158 is directly connected.

  Further, an external terminal board 196 is connected to the main control board 192, and the slot machine 1 is connected to the hall computer 208 in the game hall (hall) via the external terminal board 196. The external terminal board 196 plays a role of relaying various signals (inserted medal signal, payout medal signal, game status, etc.) transmitted from the main control board 192 to the hall computer 208.

  In addition, a power supply unit 170 is accommodated in the slot machine 101, and the power supply unit 170 takes in power from an external power source and generates power necessary for the operation of the slot machine 101. The power generated here is supplied from the power supply unit 170 to each unit (the main control board 192, the sub control board 194, the display control board 30z, and the like).

  The power supply unit 170 also includes a setting key switch 172, a reset switch 174, and a power switch 176. None of these switches are exposed to the outside of the slot machine 101, and can only be operated by opening the front door. Among these, the power switch 176 is for turning on / off the power supply to the slot machine 101, and the setting key switch 172 is for setting a winning probability (for example, setting) using a lottery random number generated by software, for example. 1-6) for changing. The reset switch 174 is used to cancel an error that has occurred in the slot machine 101, and is also operated when changing the setting together with the setting key switch 172.

  Here, the display control board 30z has substantially the same configuration and the same function as the decorative design control board 30 in the above embodiment except that the content of the image displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 158 is different. The liquid crystal display device 158 controls the display operation of video such as a character image. The display control board 30z is an effect display different from the variable display pattern such as the reach effect in the first embodiment, and displays an image in which several scenes are combined as an effect display accompanying the progress of the game. It has a function to make it.

  On the display control board 30z, two main RAMs 321 and 322 (volatile video memory), a source ROM 340 (nonvolatile video memory) and a GPU 300 are mounted as in the above embodiment. The display control board 30z may have a form in which the function is mounted on the sub-control board 194. That is, the sub-control board 194 may be provided with the symbol CPU 311, the main RAMs 321 and 322, the source ROM 340, the GPU 300, and the like.

  In the slot machine 101, in the GPU 300 of the display control board 30z, the VDP 330 (video display processor) instructs the reading of the texture data group stored in the source ROM 340 under the control of the design CPU 311 (display control processor), An image using polygons based on the read texture data is displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 158 (display device, display).

  According to the second application example of the present invention, except for the fact that the gaming machine is a swivel type gaming machine, it is possible to achieve substantially the same effect as the above embodiment, and the user module 114b is brought into a special gaming state. In order to provide the player with a sense of expectation that there may be a transition, or to display an effect in a special game state, video data such as necessary model data, texture data, and palette data is quickly transferred from the source ROM 340 to the main RAM 321. , 322 operating system non-interference area can be used for video display.

(10. Reference to other embodiments)
The above is the description of one embodiment, but the embodiment of the present invention is not limited to this. In the following, other embodiments will be described with some examples. For example, in each embodiment, a display unit (decorative symbol display device or the like) that performs a display operation using a liquid crystal element is illustrated, but is not limited thereto, and a display unit that uses an EL (Electro Luminescence) element. Or you may apply to the display means using plasma. The software configuration in the above embodiment can be changed as appropriate, for example, by including functions such as each library 113d in the user module 114b.

  In addition, in the said embodiment, although the decoration design control board 30 is controlling the production | presentation operation | movement which concerns on a display, it is not restricted to this, For example, the sub control board 35 only produces other production | presentation operations other than the presentation operation | movement concerning a display. Instead, a form having the function of the decorative design control board 30 may be employed. In the second application example, the display control board 30z controls the presentation operation related to the display. However, the display control board 30z is not limited to this. For example, the sub control board 194 performs other presentation operations other than the presentation operation related to the display. Not only that, the display control board 30z may have the function.

  Each of the above embodiments can also be applied to a spinning-type game machine that uses a game ball as a game medium. A spinning-type gaming machine using a game ball has substantially the same configuration as a spinning-type gaming machine using medals and coins as a game medium and performs almost the same operation. It is different from a swing-type game machine using coins.

  In other words, a revolving type gaming machine that uses a game ball to play is equipped with a game value counting device (game value counting means) that collects a specified number of game balls as a game medium to make one unit of game value. The game value counting device is different in that it is multiplied by a predetermined number of game values made into one unit. Further, in a revolving type gaming machine that uses a game ball to play, a number of game balls corresponding to the number of game values according to the type of combination of displayed symbols are given to the player (game value giving means) The point is different. Note that there is one predetermined number of game values that can be played for each game in both a spinning-type gaming machine that uses medals and coins and a spinning-type gaming machine that uses gaming balls. However, there may be more than one. According to the spinning type gaming machine that uses such a game ball to play a game, it is possible to exert substantially the same effect as the second application example of the above embodiment.

It is a front view which shows the structural example of a pachinko machine. It is a block diagram which shows the electrical structural example of a pachinko machine. It is a block diagram which shows the electrical structural example of a decoration design control board. It is a memory map which shows the structural example of the storage area of source ROM. It is an example of the memory map of main RAM. It is the figure which represented hierarchically the software which operate | moves on a decoration design control board. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the basic process sequence of the procedure of a reset process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the procedure of a hot / cold determination process. It is the figure which illustrated the number of each texture data contained in each texture data group. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the transfer process to a resident area. It is a figure which shows the example of expansion | deployment of the header management information and the texture data group transferred to main RAM. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the procedure of a power-on handler production | generation process. It is a figure which shows an example of a mode that a texture handler is produced | generated. is there. It is a figure which shows an example of a data load pattern. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a normal expansion | deployment process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the procedure of a normal time handler production | generation process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a display process. FIG. 4 is a block diagram schematically showing configurations of various mechanism elements, electronic devices, operation members, and the like equipped in the slot machine.

Explanation of symbols

1 Pachinko machine (game machine)
3 Main control board (game control unit)
3a Main CPU
16 Decorative design display device (display device)
30 decorative design control board (production control unit, display control unit)
30z display control board (production control unit, display control unit)
35 Sub-control board (production control unit)
101 slot machine (game machine)
158 Liquid crystal display (display device, display)
192 Main control board (game control unit)
194 Sub-control board (production control unit)
300 GPU
311 Design CPU (Display Control Processor)
315 Memory controller 321 First main RAM (volatile video memory)
322 Second main RAM (volatile video memory)
330 VDP (video display processor)
340 Source ROM (nonvolatile video memory)
JE resident area (resident area)
HJE Non-resident area (non-resident area)
HTJ header management information TD texture data (example of material image data)
TDG texture data group (an example of material image data group)
TH texture handler (data reading information)

Claims (4)

A game control unit for controlling a game operation using a game medium;
An effect control unit that controls an effect operation accompanying the game operation by the control of the game control unit,
In a gaming machine comprising a display device that performs a display operation under the control of the effect control unit,
The production control unit
A nonvolatile video memory for storing video data used for video display in a nonvolatile manner;
A volatile video memory capable of storing the video data in a volatile manner;
A display control processor for controlling display of video and transferring the video data from the nonvolatile video memory to the volatile video memory;
A video display processor that reads the video data from the volatile video memory in accordance with an instruction to be displayed according to an instruction of the display control processor, and displays the video based on the read video data on the display device;
The non-volatile video memory is
A display control program for controlling video display;
An operating system as basic software for operating the display control program;
Scheduler data referred to by the display control program for controlling display of video; and
A program loader capable of transferring the operating system, and
The volatile video memory is
An operating system interference area as a storage area used by the operating system;
An operating system non-interference area as a storage area not used by the operating system,
The program loader is
Transferring the operating system from the non-volatile video memory to the volatile video memory and starting up;
The operating system is
Activating the display control program being transferred from the non-volatile video memory to the operating system interference area of the volatile video memory;
The display control program is
Non-interference area transfer means for transferring the video data from the non-volatile video memory to an operating system non-interference area of the volatile video memory;
A game machine comprising: video display control means for controlling the video display processor using video data transferred to an operating system non-interference area of the volatile video memory and displaying video. In the gaming machine according to claim 1,
The video data is
Resident data to be stored permanently in the volatile video memory;
Non-resident data to be temporarily stored in the volatile video memory, and
The operating system non-interference area of the volatile video memory is
A resident area capable of permanently storing the resident data; and
A non-resident area capable of temporarily storing the non-resident data, and
The non-interference area transfer means includes:
A gaming machine, wherein the resident data is transferred from the nonvolatile video memory to the resident area. In the gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2,
The video data is
Resident data to be stored permanently in the volatile video memory;
Non-resident data to be temporarily stored in the volatile video memory, and
The operating system non-interference area of the volatile video memory is
A resident area capable of permanently storing the resident data; and
A non-resident area capable of temporarily storing the non-resident data, and
The non-interference area transfer means includes:
A gaming machine, wherein the non-resident data is transferred from the nonvolatile video memory to the non-resident area. In the gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
The video data is
Model data used to display the framework of the objects included in the video to be displayed,
Texture data used to display the texture to be pasted on the surface of the object included in the video to be displayed;
Pallet data used for coloring polygons formed by pasting the texture on the surface of the object.

Images