JP2007267949A - Pattern display device and game machine with it - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a pattern display device which can make the moving display of patterns tricky and a game machine with it. <P>SOLUTION: A belt display unit 1100 is made up of an endless belt like display body having patterns of multiple kinds arrayed on it, an idling pulley 1550 for guiding the display body, a drive pulley 1620 driven to guide and circulate the display body and a tension roller 1710 adapted to apply a prescribed tension onto the display body guided. The belt display unit 1100 thus obtained is arranged integrally in plurality and rotatively moved in the direction of the circulatory display of the patterns to make the belt display units 1100 for displaying them move selectively to a prescribed display position thereby enabling the display of desired patterns in display windows. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a symbol display device, a slot machine (pachislot machine) including the symbol display device, and a game machine represented by a pachinko machine.

  As one of game machines, for example, a slot machine is conventionally known. This slot machine is generally compatible with a symbol display device having a plurality of rows of reels with a plurality of types of patterns, a start switch for instructing the start of reel rotation on the premise that a medal is inserted, and each reel. A stop switch for stopping each reel individually, a lottery means for determining whether or not the internal winning of the winning combination determined in advance according to the operation of the player's start switch is made by lottery, and the internal winning combination In the case of winning, when the combination of the pictures displayed by the reels whose stop switch of the player's stop switch has been operated is a combination of pictures that has been determined in advance corresponding to the internal winning prize winning combination, the winning combination This is a game machine that pays out a predetermined number of medals set according to the winning combination when it is necessary to pay out and pay out.

  A game machine such as a slot machine is determined to win or not by an internal lottery performed inside the game machine, and the symbol display device is controlled to stop so that a game result corresponding to the lottery result is obtained. Control relating to the progression of this series of games is controlled by a microcomputer provided inside the game table main body.

  A typical configuration of such a gaming machine symbol display device such as a slot machine is a drum type that rotates a drum having a symbol drawn on its outer peripheral surface, and a belt type that circulates and moves an endless belt having a symbol drawn thereon. Is listed. As an example of a belt-type symbol display device, there is, for example, Patent Document 1.

Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 62-202877

However, all of the conventional symbol display devices have a fixed order of symbols to be displayed, and there is no interest in moving display.
The present invention provides a symbol display device capable of giving unexpectedness to symbol movement display, and a game machine equipped with the symbol display device.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 1 includes a plurality of symbol display means provided for the display window and capable of cyclically displaying a plurality of types of symbols, and uses any of the plurality of symbol display means. In order to display the symbols on the display window, the symbol display device has a moving means capable of selectively moving the symbol display means to be displayed to a predetermined display position.

  The invention according to claim 2 is the symbol display device according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the symbol display means can change the number of symbols to be displayed on the display window according to the display position. And

  The invention according to claim 3 is the symbol display device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the symbol display means includes an endless belt-like display body in which a plurality of kinds of symbols are arranged, and a display body. A guide unit that guides the display body, a drive unit that guides and rotates the display body, and a tension adjustment unit that applies a predetermined tension to the guided display body.

  The invention according to claim 4 is the symbol display device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the moving means rotates and moves the symbol display means together in the direction of cyclic display of the symbols. Thus, it is a rotational movement means for moving the symbol display means to be displayed at a predetermined display position.

  The invention according to claim 5 includes a plurality of symbol display means provided for the display window and capable of cyclically displaying a plurality of types of symbols, and displays the symbols on the display window using any of the plurality of symbol display means. Therefore, it has a symbol display device having a moving means capable of selectively moving the symbol display means to be displayed to a predetermined display position, and a display control means for controlling the symbol display device in accordance with the progress of the game. It is a game stand.

  The invention according to claim 6 is the gaming table according to claim 5, wherein at least one of the symbol display means of the symbol display device can change the number of symbols to be displayed on the display window according to the display position. In addition, the display control means of the symbol display device controls the moving means to change the number of symbol display means to be displayed without changing the number of symbols to be displayed on the display window.

  The invention according to claim 7 is the game stand according to claim 5 or claim 6, wherein the symbol display means of the symbol display device has a plurality of types of symbols and a reference position for the symbol is provided. An endless belt-shaped display body, a guide section for guiding the display body, a drive section for guiding and circulating the display body, a tension adjusting section for applying a predetermined tension to the guided display body, and a display Reference position detection means for detecting a reference position with respect to the symbols arranged on the body, and the display control means of the symbol display device controls the drive unit to circulate and drive the display body to cyclically display the symbols. In addition, the stop position of the symbol is controlled in accordance with the detection output of the reference position detection means.

  The invention according to claim 8 is the gaming table according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the moving means of the symbol display device integrates a plurality of symbol display means in the direction of cyclic display of symbols. It is a rotational movement means for moving each symbol display means to a predetermined display position by rotating, and the display control means performs control for moving each symbol display means to a predetermined display position. Features.

  The invention according to claim 9 is the gaming table according to any one of claims 5 to 8, wherein the display control means of the symbol display device is a reference of the symbol display means according to a predetermined display position. The symbol stop position with respect to the position detecting means is changed.

  According to the invention according to claim 1, by providing a plurality of symbol display means for the display window, a symbol selected from a plurality of types of symbols for each symbol display means can be displayed on the display window, Provided is a symbol display device capable of moving and displaying an unexpected symbol because the symbol can be displayed by any symbol display means by changing the arrangement of the symbol display means observed from within the display window. can do.

  According to the invention of claim 2, the number of symbols displayed on the display window by the at least one symbol display means on the display window is displayed on the display window by changing the number of symbols according to the display position. The number of symbol display means to be changed can be changed. Therefore, by changing the number of symbol display means without changing the number of symbols observed through the display window, for example, a large symbol or a continuous symbol can be displayed, and a novel, powerful and unexpected symbol can be displayed. A symbol display device capable of moving display can be provided.

  According to the invention according to claim 3, the endless belt-like display body in which a plurality of types of symbols are arranged as the symbol display means, the guide portion for guiding the display body, and the drive portion for guiding and circulatingly driving the display body, The symbol display device can be collectively arranged by including a tension adjusting unit that applies a predetermined tension to the guided display body. Therefore, it is possible to display a symbol selected from a plurality of types of symbols arranged on the display body by independently displaying the symbols observed in the display window at a predetermined position on the display window and to display the entire symbol display device. It can be made compact.

  According to the invention which concerns on Claim 4, the whole symbol display apparatus is made compact by making a moving means into the rotation movement means which rotates each symbol display means integrally to the predetermined display position in the circulation display direction of a symbol. Can be formed.

  According to the invention according to claim 5, by providing a plurality of symbol display devices for the display window, it is possible to display a symbol selected from a plurality of types of symbols for each symbol display device on the display window, By changing the arrangement of the symbol display devices observed from within the display window by the moving means, it is possible to move and display unexpected symbols by controlling any of the symbol display devices according to the progress of the game by the display control means. A game stand can be provided.

  According to the invention of claim 6, at least one symbol display means displays on the display window by changing the number of symbols that the other symbol display means displays on the display window according to the display position. Since the number of symbol display means to be changed is not changed and the number of symbol display means is changed and displayed without changing the number of symbols displayed on the game window, for example, a large symbol or a continuous symbol is displayed. This makes it possible to provide a gaming machine capable of moving and displaying innovative, powerful, and unexpected symbols.

  According to the invention which concerns on Claim 7, the display control means of a symbol display apparatus is detected by the reference position detection means which detects the reference | standard position with respect to the symbol arrange | positioned at the display body, and a display part is controlled by controlling a drive part. A game machine that can display the symbols reliably at the stop position when the symbols are stopped and displayed on the display window by controlling the symbol stop position according to the detection output of the reference position detection means while circulating display I will provide a.

  According to the invention of claim 8, the display control means moves the desired symbol display means to a desired position of the display window by performing control to move each symbol display means to a predetermined display position. It is possible to provide a game table that can be compactly formed as well as a symbol display device.

  According to the invention of claim 9, the display control means of the symbol display device changes the symbol stop position relative to the reference position detection means of the symbol display means according to the predetermined stop position by the moving means, thereby displaying the symbol display. Depending on the stop position of the means, the stop position of the symbol can be adjusted. Therefore, when the symbol is viewed through the display window regardless of the stop position of the symbol display means, the symbol can always be displayed at the same display position and the stop position of the symbol can be easily controlled by the moving position.

  In the present embodiment, an endless belt-like display body provided with a plurality of types of symbols, a guide section for guiding the display body, a drive section for guiding and circulating the display body, and a predetermined display The symbol display means is composed of a tension adjusting unit for applying tension, and a plurality of the symbol display means are integrated and rotated in the direction of cyclic display of the symbols, thereby selectively displaying the symbol display means to be displayed. A symbol display device capable of displaying a desired symbol of the display window by moving to a position was configured.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

<Overall configuration>
FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an appearance of a slot machine 100 as a game table. Inside the slot machine 100, a reel unit including a plurality of reels on which a plurality of types of patterns to be described later is provided is disposed. Further, a symbol display device 1000 according to the present invention is disposed below the reel unit, that is, inside the center of the slot machine 100.

  The slot machine 100 of the present embodiment is equipped with two main reel units 105 and a symbol display device 1000. The main reel unit 105 is subjected to display control in accordance with the game result by the main control unit 300 described later. In the symbol display device 1000, display control is performed by a display control unit 500 that receives a control command from a sub-control unit 400 that receives a control command from a main control unit 300, which will be described later. The main reel unit 105 displays a symbol as a game result, and the player can directly confirm the presence or absence of winning by observing the main reel unit 105. On the other hand, the symbol display device 1000 receives a control command from the sub-control unit 400 for a symbol that is completely different from the winning symbol combination, displays the symbol in various display modes, and performs display control that excites the game. The player proceeds with the game by observing either the main reel unit 105 or the symbol display device 1000. Note that handle portions 201 c are provided on both sides of the main body 201 and are used when the slot machine 100 is transported.

  First, the main reel unit 105 will be described. The main reel unit 105 is provided on the upper front surface of the front door 101 via a reel display window 113. When viewed from the front of the reel display window 113, the main reel unit 105 is composed of reels 110 to 112. Three patterns applied thereto can be seen from the reel display window 113 in the vertical direction. In other words, when all the reels 110 to 112 are stopped, the player can see a total of nine patterns of 3 × 3. When these reels 110 to 112 are rotated and stopped, various combinations of patterns are displayed on the reel display window 113. In this embodiment, three reels are provided. However, the number of reels and the installation position of the reels are not limited to this.

  On the back side of each of the reels 110 to 112, a backlight (not shown) for illuminating each picture displayed on the reel display window 113 is disposed. The backlight is capable of emitting light of, for example, seven colors (three primary colors of red, green, and bluish purple and a mixed color such as white) and includes an LED corresponding to each primary color. Is done.

  The winning line display lamp 120 is a lamp indicating a winning line 114 that is valid for each game. The effective pay line 114 changes depending on the number of game media (in this embodiment, medals are assumed) inserted into the slot machine 100. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, in the case of having five winning lines 114, when one medal is inserted, the middle horizontal winning line, when two medals are inserted, the upper horizontal winning line and the lower horizontal winning line are shown. When 3 sheets are added, 3 lines are added, and 5 lines including 2 diagonal lines are valid, and the winning combination is judged by the combination of the patterns on the effective line 114. It becomes. Of course, the number of winning lines is not limited to five.

  The start lamp 121 is a lamp that informs the player that the reels 110 to 112 are in a state of being able to rotate. When the replay lamp 122 wins a replay that is a winning combination (for example, when a combination of replay patterns such as replay-replay-replay is arranged on the winning line 114), the next game is re-released to the player. It is a lamp that informs that it is a game. In the case of a re-game, the medal that is a game medium is exempted in the next game.

  The notification lamp 123 is a lamp for notifying the player that a special winning combination (for example, a big bonus (BB) or a regular bonus (RB)) has been won internally. The medal insertion lamp 124 is a lamp for notifying the player that it is necessary to insert a medal at the start of the game.

  The medal insertion number display lamp 125 is a lamp for displaying the number of medals inserted by the player. In this embodiment, since up to three medals can be inserted in one game, the number of inserted medals is displayed using three vertically arranged lamps. Of course, in addition to displaying with a lamp, the number of inserted medals may be directly displayed on a 7-segment display or the like.

  The payout number display unit 126 is a display unit that displays the number of medals to be paid out to the player when winning a winning combination with a medal payout. The game number display 127 is a display for displaying the number of general games in the big bonus game. The stored number display 128 is a display that displays the number of medals stored electronically (credited).

  The medal insertion buttons 131 and 132 are insertion buttons for electronically inserting the stored medals into the slot machine 100, and are so-called bet buttons. In the present embodiment, there is a maximum medal insertion button 131 (a so-called “max bet button”) and a single medal insertion button 132 for inserting one medal every time the button is pressed, and one of these buttons is pressed. As a result, 1 to 3 medals necessary for the game are electronically inserted into the slot machine 100. When two medals are inserted, the one-medal insertion button 132 is pressed twice. The number of inserted medals is subtracted from the current stored number, and the remaining number is displayed on the stored number display 128.

  The medal slot block 133 has an opening through which a player directly inserts medals when starting a game. When a medal is directly inserted and a medal is clogged in a medal selector unit (not shown) immediately below the medal insertion slot, the medal cancel switch 133a is operated to eliminate the clogging of the medal. The start lever 135 is a lever-type switch that starts the rotation of the reels 110 to 112 as a game start operation.

  The stop button unit 136 is provided with three stop buttons 136a to 136c. Each stop button is a button type switch that stops the corresponding reel 110 to 112 when pressed. The left reel 110 is stopped by operating 136a, the middle reel 111 is operated by operating 136b, and the right reel 112 is stopped by operating 136c.

  Each stop button is provided with a lamp (not shown). After the start lever 135 is operated, all the lamps are turned on when the reels 110 to 112 can be stopped. Notify that the stop operation has become possible. Each stop button lamp is turned off each time the stop button is pressed. Of course, it is also possible to change the light emission color of the lamp between the stop operation enabled state and other states.

  The settlement button 138 is a button that is pressed when performing a settlement process in which the medals acquired by the player are settled and discharged. The checkout button 138 is used to switch whether or not to store up to a maximum of 50 medals acquired by winning or winning a predetermined number (for example, 3) of medals inserted by the player from the medal slot block 133. For example, when the settlement button is pressed once and the settlement process is performed, the non-storage mode is set, and when the settlement button is pressed again, the storage mode is set. Here, storing medals means temporarily storing the number of medals temporarily in a control unit (to be described later) without directly paying out medals.

  The key hole 139 is a hole into which a door opening / closing key is inserted. When the key is inserted and turned clockwise, the lock is released and the front door 101 of the slot machine 100 can be opened. The medal discharge port 165 is an opening for discharging medals, and medals paid out at the time of winning a prize are discharged from here. The discharged medals are accumulated in the tray 160.

  The upper lamp 190, the side lamps 151 and 152, the center lamps 153 and 154, the waist lamps 155 and 156, and the lower lamps 157 and 158 are effects lamps for exciting the game, and are turned on / off / Flashes. The title panel 140 is illuminated by a title panel lamp (not shown). In the present embodiment, the tray 160 is made of a translucent material, and is configured to exhibit the same effect as the lamp for production described above by making lamp light incident from the tray mounting surface. In addition, the tray 160 is provided with an ashtray unit 170 configured to be detachable.

  Note that speaker sound holes (not shown) are provided on the left and right in the vicinity of the upper lamp 190. Further, a sound hole for outputting sound effects from the rear speaker is provided immediately below the stop button unit 136. A speaker cover 173 with a decoration is attached to the sound hole of the rear speaker, from which a game sound effect is output.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the symbol display device 1000 according to the present invention is disposed inside the panel below the main reel unit 105. The panel is provided with three display windows 1001 for observing the symbol display device 1000, and the symbol display device 1000 is arranged corresponding to each display window 1001. Although details will be described later, when the symbol display device 1000 is observed from the display window 1001, three symbols can be seen in the vertical direction. That is, when the symbol display device 1000 stops, the player can see a total of nine symbols of 3 × 3. The symbol display device 1000 is different from the main reel unit 105 in that the symbol display device 1000 can separately perform cyclic display for each symbol observed from the display window. When these symbol display devices 1000 perform cyclic display and individually stop, various combinations of symbols are displayed on the display window 1001 and an unexpected cyclic display mode can be performed.

  In the illustrated embodiment, the symbol display device 1000 includes a left symbol display device 1000L, a middle symbol display device 1000C, and a right symbol display device 1000R. The left symbol display device 1000L, the middle symbol display device 1000C, and the right symbol display device. The symbol 1000R may be collectively referred to as the symbol display device 1000 or the symbol display device 1000L / CR. In the present embodiment, the three symbol display devices 1000L, C, and R are provided, but the number and installation position are not limited to this.

  Backlights (not shown) for illuminating individual symbols displayed on the display window 1001 are arranged on the back side of the symbols that are stopped and displayed on the symbol display devices 1000L, C, and R. The backlight is capable of emitting light of, for example, seven colors (three primary colors of red, green, and bluish purple and a mixed color such as white) and includes an LED corresponding to each primary color. Is done. A specific configuration will be described later.

  Similarly to the main reel unit 105, the symbol display device 1000 may include a winning line display lamp. In this embodiment, the symbol display by the symbol display device 1000 is 3 × 3 like the main reel unit 105, but it is not composed of three horizontal lines or straight lines instead of the same five effective lines as the main reel unit 105. The main reel unit 105 may be different from the main reel unit 105 such as 7 including an irregular effective line. The outline of the symbol display device 1000 is such that an endless belt displaying symbols is circulated and displayed by a driving means such as a motor, and a desired symbol is displayed on a display window. Details will be described later.

<Control block>
Next, the configuration of the control unit of the slot machine 100 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. The control unit in the present embodiment is roughly composed of a main control unit 300 that controls the whole, a sub-control unit 400 that performs control related to effects for exciting games, and a display control unit 500 that controls the symbol display device 1000. It is configured.

<Main control unit>
The microprocessor (hereinafter referred to as “Main CPU”) 310 serves as a center of control in the slot machine 100, and exchanges control signals and data with peripheral units via the bus 370.

  The random number generator 311 generates a random number used for internal lottery and the like, and includes a plurality of counters, a clock oscillator, a frequency divider, a latch circuit, and the like. The random value generated by the random number generator 311 is stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 313 via the bus 370 and is sent to the Main CPU 310 as necessary.

  The Main CPU 310 has a first medal sensor (medal sensor 1) 348 and a second medal sensor (medal sensor 2) that detect medals inserted from the insertion slot of the medal insertion block 134 via the input interface 360 and the bus 370. 349, a start lever sensor 344 that detects an operation of the start lever 135, a left stop button sensor 341 that detects which stop button is pressed when any of the stop buttons is pressed, a middle stop button sensor 342, a right When one of the stop button sensor 343 and the medal insertion buttons 131 and 132 is pressed, a one-sheet insertion button sensor 345 and a three-sheet insertion button sensor 346 for detecting which medal insertion button is pressed are connected.

  A ROM (read-only memory) 312 is one of storage means for storing programs for performing various controls, various control data, and the like. The Main CPU 310 reads a program, various control data, and the like via the bus 370. A RAM (Random Access Memory) 313 has a work area for a program processed by the Main CPU 310 via the bus 370 and is one of storage means for storing variable data and the like.

  Also, a left reel motor drive unit 321 that controls a motor M that rotates / stops each reel 110 to 112, a middle reel motor drive unit 322, a right reel motor drive unit 323, a motor drive unit-control unit 331, and a medal A hopper driving unit 331 that controls a dispensing device (so-called hopper) is connected to the Main CPU 310 via an output interface 350 and a bus 370.

  The game lamp 380 is a lamp such as the winning line display lamp 120, the start lamp 121, and the re-game lamp 122 shown in FIG. 1, and the 7SEG display 390 is a variety of payout number display 126, game number display 127, and the like. The display is collectively shown, and is connected to and controlled by the Main CPU 310 via the output interface 350 and the bus 370.

  The output interface 350 transmits various commands to the input interface 430 of the sub-control unit 400 based on instructions from the Main CPU 310. The command includes, for example, a command indicating that a medal has been inserted, a command indicating that the start lever 135 has been operated, a command indicating a pressed stop button, and the contents of the effect (backlight, upper lamp, audio output, There are commands that define the content of the effects produced by the LCD display device or the like.

<Sub control unit>
The microprocessor (hereinafter referred to as SubCPU) 410 receives various commands transmitted from the main control unit 300 via the input interface 430 and the bus 470, and controls the sub control unit 400 as a whole according to the contents of the received commands. To do.

  The ROM 411 is one of storage means for storing programs and data for controlling the sub-control unit 400 as a whole. The RAM 412 has a work area for programs processed by the SubCPU 410, and is one of storage means for storing variable data and the like.

  The production light-emitting display 450 collectively represents the upper lamp 190, the side lamps 151 and 152, the center lamps 153 and 154, the waist lamps 155 and 156, the lower lamps 157 and 158, and the tray lamp, and follows the instructions of the SubCPU 410. Turns on / flashes / extinguishes. The effect light-emitting display 450 is connected to the SubCPU 410 via the output interface 420 and the bus 470.

  The tone signal forming unit 460 forms a tone signal based on the control data transferred from the SubCPU 410 and outputs the tone signal. This musical sound signal is amplified by an amplifier 461 and then output as a sound from a speaker (specifically, an upper speaker and a rear speaker) 462.

  The output interface 420 transmits various control data to the symbol display control unit 500 based on an instruction from the SubCPU 410. Based on this control data, the symbol display control unit 500 serves as a display control means for controlling display of the symbol display device 1000.

<Pattern display control unit>
The SubCPU 510 receives various commands transmitted from the sub-control unit 400 via the input interface 530, analyzes the content of the received command, and reads out control data for executing the display form designated by the command from the ROM 512. The read control data is expanded in the storage area of the RAM 511, and control signals are output to the left reel motor drive unit 551, the middle reel motor drive unit 552, and the right reel motor drive unit 553 according to the control data. Each reel motor drive unit performs display control of the symbol display device 1000 by outputting a drive pulse for controlling each motor (stepping motor M) of each symbol display device 1000L, C, R based on the control signal. In addition, a detection signal of a sensor (not shown) for grasping the symbol position displayed on each symbol table device 1000L, C, R and the display position (display angle) of each symbol display device 1000L, C, R By inputting to the symbol SubCPU 510 via each reel motor drive unit, the symbol position in the current display window 1001 of each symbol display device 1000L, C, and R and the display position of the symbol display device 1000 are grasped.

  The ROM 511 and the RAM 512 are one of storage means for storing a control program, data, and the like of the symbol control SubCPU 510.

  The main control unit 300, the sub control unit 400, and the symbol display control unit 500 that controls the symbol display device 1000 as described above are divided by function and mounted on individual circuit boards as shown in FIG. Yes.

<Design display device>
Next, an example of the symbol display device 1000 will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the main part showing the internal structure of one of the symbol display devices 1000L, C, and R. The outline of the symbol display device 1000 includes a plurality of belt display units 1100 that can circulate and display a plurality of types of symbols, and displays the symbols on the display window 1001 (see FIG. 6) using any of the plurality of belt display units 1100. Therefore, it has the moving means 1200 which can selectively move the belt display unit 1100 to be displayed to a predetermined display position.

  Therefore, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, three belt display units 1100 are provided, and moving means 1200 for moving the three belt display units 1100 so as to face a display window (not shown) is provided. I have. FIG. 3 shows a state in which three symbol display devices 1000 are arranged in a row, and is a diagram of these symbol display devices 1000 as viewed from obliquely upward on the rear side. Therefore, the symbol display device 1000 displays a symbol to be described later in a diagonally upward direction on the left side of the drawing, and the player does not illustrate the direction from the diagonally upward left side to the diagonally downward right side. The symbol is visually recognized through the display window 1001.

  FIG. 4 is a perspective view of one symbol display device 1000 as viewed from the diagonally upper rear side. Therefore, the front of the symbol display device 1000 is obliquely upward on the left side in the drawing, and this is directly opposite to the display window 1001 (not shown). In FIG. 4, a display body 1400 on which a pattern to be described later is described is removed.

  FIG. 5 is a side sectional view of the symbol display device 1000. 6 is a front view showing a state in which three symbol display devices 1000L, C, and R are arranged, FIG. 7 is a rear view thereof, and FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the symbol display device 1000.

  In the symbol display device 1000, an approximately L-shaped unit frame 1300 is used as a substrate, and a unit base 1310, which will be described later, is assembled so as to be rotatable about a center shaft 1301. The unit base 1310 is a disk-shaped member, and three belt display units 1100 are attached to one side surface of the unit base 1310. On the other hand, a unit rotating gear 1320 having a tooth portion 1321 on the outer peripheral portion is attached to the other side surface of the unit base 1310. The unit base 1310 and the unit rotating gear 1320 are pivotally attached to the center shaft 1301 via the linear bush 1330. The unit frame 1300 is provided with moving means 1200 for driving the unit rotation gear 1320.

  The unit base 1310 is provided with three belt display units 1100. The belt display unit 1100 includes an endless belt-like display body 1400 provided with a plurality of kinds of symbols, and a guide unit 1500 (sprocket 1510, side plate 1520, spacer 1530, set screw 1540, idle pulley 1550 for guiding the display body 1400. Belt circulation path components constituted by idle rollers 1560 and the like, and a drive unit 1600 (belt circulation path components constituted by a stepping motor 1610, a drive pulley 1620, etc.) that guides the display body 1400 and circulates it. , And a tension adjusting unit 1700 (a belt circulation path component constituted by a roller 1720, a roller shaft 1730, and the like) that applies a predetermined tension to the guided display body 1400.

  The belt display unit 1100 includes a display body 1400 on which a plurality of types of symbols, for example, a symbol depicting a character is arranged as shown in FIG. The display body 1400 is made of an endless belt-like film, and feed holes 1410 corresponding to sprockets 1510 of a guide portion 1500 described later are formed at both ends.

  The guide unit 1500 is an idle pulley 1550 that is pivotally attached to the unit base 1310. The guide unit 1500 guides the display body 1400 and circulates and displays the symbols arranged on the display body 1400. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, the idle pulley 1550 is configured by interposing a cylindrical bush 1511 between a pair of sprockets 1510. By interposing the bush 1511, the left and right sprockets 1510 can rotate independently, so that they do not interfere with each other's rotation and the followability of the display body 1400 to the feed hole 1410 is improved. The idle pulley 1550 is pivotally attached to a predetermined position of the unit base 1310 by a pulley shaft 1512 inserted through the side plate 1520. At this time, a washer 1513 is interposed between the sprocket 1510 and the side plate 1520 and between the sprocket 1510 and the unit base 1310 to reduce friction.

  The drive unit 1600 includes a drive pulley 1620 that uses a stepping motor 1610 as a drive source. That is, a stepping motor 1610 is built in a cylindrical drive pulley 1620 and the stepping motor 1610 is attached to the unit base 1310.

  An endless belt-like display body 1400 is bridged between the drive pulley 1620 and the idle pulley 1550, and the sprocket 1510 of each pulley 1550 is fitted into the feed hole 1410 of the display body 1400. Further, a tension roller 1710 is disposed at an appropriate position to adjust the film tension. That is, the tension roller 1710 serves as a tension adjusting unit 1700 that applies a predetermined tension to the display body 1400.

  Further, idle rollers 1560 are arranged inside the display body 1400 as necessary. That is, a plurality of idle rollers 1560 are rotatably attached to the side plate 1520 and the unit base 1310 so that the display body 1400 is stretched while maintaining a predetermined shape.

  In the illustrated embodiment, three belt display units 1100 are arranged on the unit base 1310. Specifically, the middle belt display unit 1100 is disposed at a horizontal position passing through the center of the unit base 1310, and the upper belt display unit 1100 and the lower belt display unit 1100 are arranged above and below the middle belt display unit 1100. Each is arranged.

  The middle belt display unit 1100 includes a middle drive pulley 1620, a middle idle pulley 1550, and an endless middle display body 1400 stretched between the pulleys 1620 and 1550. Further, an intermediate tension roller 1710 is provided on each of the upper side and the lower side of the intermediate display body 1400 as the tension adjusting unit 1700. The intermediate tension roller 1710 is configured by attaching a roller shaft 1730 inserted through a cylindrical roller 1720 to the unit base 1310. The middle idle roller 1560 is arranged so as to face the center of the display window 1001, and the middle sprocket 1510 is pivotally attached by a middle pulley shaft 1512 inserted through the front end side of the middle side plate 1520. The rear end side of the middle side plate 1520 is attached to the unit base 1310 by a set screw 1540 with a spacer 1530 interposed.

  Further, a reflective photosensor 1340 is attached to the unit base 1310 via a sensor bracket 1345 at the rear of the middle drive pulley 1620. The reflective photosensor 1340 detects an index 1420 provided on a display body 1400, which will be described later, and sets a reference point for cyclic display.

  An upper belt display unit 1100 is disposed above the middle belt display unit 1100. In the upper belt display unit 1100, an upper drive pulley 1620, an upper idle pulley small 1550, and an upper idle pulley 1550 are arranged at the apex of a substantially triangular shape. The upper idle pulley 1550 faces the display window 1001. The upper idle roller small 1560 and the upper idle roller middle 1560 are rotatably attached to the upper side plate 1520 by an upper pulley shaft 1512.

  The upper belt display unit 1100 includes an upper side plate 1520 and a unit base 1310 such that a display body 1400 between the upper idle pulley medium 1550 and the upper idle pulley small 1550 is positioned along the outer peripheral edge of the unit base 1310. A plurality of upper idle rollers 1560 are rotatably arranged at predetermined positions.

  A reflective photosensor 1340 is attached to the unit base 1310 via a sensor bracket 1345 behind the upper drive pulley 1620. Further, an upper tension roller 1710 faces the display body 1400 between the small upper idle pulley 1550 and the upper drive pulley 1620 so that a predetermined tension is applied to the display body 1400. The upper tension roller 1710 is configured by attaching a roller shaft 1730 inserted through a cylindrical roller 1720 to the unit base 1310.

  A lower belt display unit 1100 is disposed below the middle belt display unit 1100. This lower belt display unit 1100 also has a lower drive pulley 1620, a lower idle pulley small 1550, and a lower idle pulley 1550 arranged at the apex of a substantially triangular shape, and the lower idle pulley 1550 faces the display window 1001. . The lower idle roller small 1560 and the lower idle roller middle 1560 are rotatably attached to the lower side plate 1520 by a lower pulley shaft 1512.

  The lower belt display unit 1100 includes a lower side plate 1520 and a unit base 1310 such that a display body 1400 between the lower idle pulley medium 1550 and the lower idle pulley small 1550 is positioned along the outer peripheral edge of the unit base 1310. A plurality of lower idle rollers 1560 are rotatably arranged at predetermined positions.

  A reflective photosensor 1340 is attached to the unit base 1310 via a sensor bracket 1345 behind the lower drive pulley 1620. Further, a lower tension roller 1710 faces the display body 1400 between the lower idle pulley small 1550 and the lower drive pulley 1620 so as to apply a predetermined tension to the display body 1400. The lower tension roller 1710 is configured by attaching a lower roller shaft 1730 inserted through a cylindrical lower roller 1720 to the unit base 1310.

  In this embodiment, the idle pulley 1550, the drive pulley 1620, and the idle roller 1560 of each belt display unit 1100 are unit bases so that the length of the display body 1400 is the same for both the middle belt display unit 1100 and the upper and lower belt display units 1100. 1310. Further, the same idle pulley 1550 and drive pulley 1620 of each belt display unit 1100 may be used. By making the length of the display body 1400, the idle pulley 1550, and the drive pulley 1620 all the same, the parts can be shared. Further, since the circulation speed becomes the same by sharing, the control program of the belt display unit 1100 can be shared. Details will be described later.

  The unit base 1310 to which each of the belt display units 1100 described above is attached can rotate together with the unit rotation gear 1320 with the center shaft 1301 as a fulcrum. The unit rotation gear 1320 is a disk-like member having the same size as that of the unit base 1310. The unit rotation gear 1320 has a predetermined range on the outer peripheral surface, for example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. A tooth portion 1321 that meshes with a tooth portion 1451 of a unit drive gear 1450 described later is formed in the range of the half circumference.

  Unit drive gear 1450 is attached to the output shaft of unit drive motor 1470 formed of a stepping motor fixed to unit frame 1300 via motor bracket 1460. Accordingly, when the unit drive motor 1470 is driven by a predetermined pulse, the unit base 1310 rotates around a predetermined direction and a predetermined range with the center shaft 1301 as a fulcrum. And this predetermined direction corresponds with the direction in which each belt display unit 1100 circulates and displays a symbol. The predetermined range is a range in which each belt display unit 1100 can display a predetermined number of symbols on the display window 1001 with a predetermined size.

  Accordingly, the unit base 1310, the unit rotation gear 1320, the unit drive gear 1450, and the unit drive motor 1470 described above are displayed on the display window 1001 so as to display symbols on the display window 1001 using any one of the plurality of belt display units 1100. The moving unit 1200 is configured to selectively move the unit 1100 to a predetermined display position.

  The symbol display device 1000 shown in FIG. 4 configured as described above is used in the game table, for example, arranged in three horizontal rows as shown in FIGS. 3, 6, and 7. Then, as shown in FIG. 6, each symbol display device 1000L / C / R displays three symbols vertically in each display window 1001, and displays nine symbols in total as a standard position. To do. That is, a state where the three belt display units 1100 included in one symbol display device 1000 display one symbol each is set as a standard position. Needless to say, this standard position can be determined arbitrarily. In this embodiment, the belt display unit 1100 that can be observed through the display window 1001 can be changed by driving the unit base 1310 with a unit drive motor 1470 as shown in FIG. In the present embodiment, the display position of the belt display unit 1100 determined in advance is set so that the range of (1) to (5) in FIG. The standard position may be set to any position of (1) to (5). When the display position (1) is set to the standard position, since nine belt display units 1100 are observed from the display window 1001, the visual impact on the player is great and interest is high, so a high effect of attracting customers is expected. .

When the display positions (4) and (5) are set to the standard position, only one of the upper and lower belt display units 1100 can be observed through the display window 1001, and at first glance, the upper and lower belt display units 1100 are idle. The shape of the display body 1400 that follows the roller 1560 can only be recognized as a slot machine having an ordinary reel structure. However, the player can have a significant impact by changing the display position to (1), (2), and (3) during the game.

  For example, a character shown in FIG. 9 is drawn on the display body 1400 provided in each belt display unit 1100 of each symbol display device 1000. That is, 11 symbols are drawn on each display body 1400, and one symbol represents one character, and some symbols represent one character by combining multiple symbols. . In addition, although the same character is drawn on the display body 1400 with which each symbol display apparatus 1000L * C * R is equipped, the arrangement | sequence is different.

  In this embodiment, although the symbol arrangement of the display body 1400 is different in each symbol display device 1000, the same display body 1400 is used for one belt display unit 1100. This is because the same display body 1400 is used for each belt display unit 1100 to make the symbol display device 1000 appear as an integrated display device such as one reel. And by changing the display position of the symbol display device 1000 using the moving means, it is intended to cause an unexpected display form in which one display device is split and changed to a plurality of display devices. . Of course, display units 1400 having different designs and arrangements may be mounted for each belt display unit 1100. Even in such a case, a display form in which different symbol display devices 1000 are switched and changed by changing the display position of the belt display unit 1100 can be performed.

  Each symbol display device 1000 displays a symbol as shown in FIG. 10, for example. That is, the left symbol display device 1000, the middle symbol display device 1000, and the right symbol display device 1000 each display three symbols. Specifically, in each symbol display device 1000, the upper belt display unit 1100 displays one symbol on the upper side of the display window 1001, and the middle belt display unit 1100 displays one symbol in the center of the display window 1001. The lower belt display unit 1100 displays one symbol on the lower side of the display window 1001.

  In this display mode, three symbols are displayed on each display window 1001, and nine symbols are displayed in total. At this time, the position of the unit base 1310 is set so that each belt display unit 1100 faces the front, and the symbol of each belt display unit 1100 is displayed at the reference position. In this case, since the symbol display position can be individually controlled for each symbol display device 1000 and for each belt display unit 1100, even an integral symbol can be individually disassembled and displayed. From the viewpoint of the player, an unexpected display form can be performed in which symbols that should be displayed integrally are disassembled and displayed disregarding the arrangement.

  In the display mode shown in FIG. 11, the upper belt display unit 1100 displays two symbols on the upper side and the center of the display window 1001, and the middle belt display unit 1100 displays one symbol on the lower side of the display window 1001. indicate. Therefore, the unit drive motor 1470 is driven so as to rotate the unit base 1310 by a predetermined angle. Further, the display position of the symbol is adjusted so that each symbol is correctly displayed in the center of the display window 1001. For this reason, the stepping motor 1610 which is the drive unit 1600 is controlled by the display control means so that the actual display position of the symbol is shifted from the reference display position by a predetermined amount.

  Also in the display mode shown in FIG. 11, the number of symbols displayed in one display window 1001 is three, and three rows of symbol display devices 1000 are arranged, so that a total of nine symbols are displayed. Is displayed. On the other hand, the symbol of the lower belt display unit 1100 is not displayed. Accordingly, by rotating the unit base 1310, the same number of symbols are displayed by the two belt display units 1100, and the belt display that the display control means displays without changing the number of symbols displayed on the display window 1001. Control to change the number of units 1100 is performed.

  In the display mode shown in FIG. 12, the upper belt display unit 1100 displays three symbols over the entire area of the display window 1001. In this display mode, the symbols can be changed in the display order according to the symbol arrangement as in the conventional display device. It is possible to perform a normal variation display form that does not give a sense of incongruity to the player. Therefore, the unit drive motor 1470 is driven so as to rotate the unit base 1310 by a predetermined angle. Further, the stepping motor 1610 is controlled so that each symbol of the upper belt display unit 1100 is displayed correctly over the entire area of the display window 1001.

  Also in the display mode shown in FIG. 12, the number of symbols displayed in one display window 1001 is three, and the three rows of symbol display devices 1000 are arranged, so that a total of nine symbols are displayed. Is displayed. Therefore, by rotating the unit base 1310, the same number of symbols are displayed by one belt display unit 1100, and the belt display that the display control means displays without changing the number of symbols displayed on the display window 1001. Control to change the number of units 1100 is performed.

  In the display mode shown in FIG. 13, the middle belt display unit 1100 displays one symbol on the upper side of the display window 1001, and the lower belt display unit 1100 displays two symbols on the center and lower side of the display window 1001. indicate. Therefore, the unit drive motor 1470 is driven so as to rotate the unit base 1310 by a predetermined angle. Further, the display position of the symbol is adjusted so that each symbol is correctly displayed in the center of the display window 1001. For this reason, the stepping motor 1610 which is the drive unit 1600 is controlled by the display control means so that the actual display position of the symbol is shifted from the reference display position by a predetermined amount.

  In the display mode shown in FIG. 13, the number of symbols displayed in one display window 1001 is three, and three symbol display devices 1000 are arranged, so that a total of nine symbols are displayed. Is displayed. On the other hand, the symbol of the upper belt display unit 1100 is not displayed. Accordingly, by rotating the unit base 1310, the same number of symbols are displayed by the two belt display units 1100, and the belt display that the display control means displays without changing the number of symbols displayed on the display window 1001. Control to change the number of units 1100 is performed.

  In the display mode shown in FIG. 14, the lower belt display unit 1100 displays three symbols over the entire area of the display window 1001. Therefore, the unit drive motor 1470 is driven so as to rotate the unit base 1310 by a predetermined angle. Further, the stepping motor 1610 is controlled so that each symbol of the lower belt display unit 1100 is displayed correctly over the entire area of the display window 1001.

  In the display mode shown in FIG. 14, the number of symbols displayed in one display window 1001 is three, and three symbol display devices 1000 are arranged, so that a total of nine symbols are displayed. Is displayed. Therefore, by rotating the unit base 1310, the same number of symbols are displayed by one belt display unit 1100, and the belt display that the display control means displays without changing the number of symbols displayed on the display window 1001. Control to change the number of units 1100 is performed.

  FIG. 15 is a conceptual diagram showing offset control of the reference position of the symbol in the belt display unit 1100. The width (H) in the rotation direction of one symbol is, for example, 30 mm, and the total length (L) of the display body 1400 on which eleven symbols are drawn is 330 mm. On the other hand, if the effective diameter (φ) in the idle pulley 1550 facing the display window 1001 is 30 mm, it is possible to overlook one symbol as a whole when the idle pulley 1550 is viewed from the front.

  However, if the display position of the symbol is changed by rotating and moving the unit base 1310, for example, if the center line in the idle pulley 1550 and the symbol center line are displayed in accordance with the rotation angle of the unit base 1310, As a result, the display position of the symbol is shifted, and the symbol becomes difficult to see.

  Therefore, it is necessary to change the symbol stop position of the belt display unit 1100 according to the rotation angle of the unit base 1310. Taking the middle belt display unit 1100 as an example, as shown in FIG. 15, when the unit base 1310 changes from the display position (1) (left figure) to the display position (3) (right figure), the belt display unit 1100 The symbol stop position (open circle) moves by “a” as shown in the right figure. The central positions (1) to (11) of the symbols of the display 1400 shown in the lower right diagram of FIG. 15 must be stopped and displayed at the moved new symbol stop position. In the present embodiment, control is performed to apparently offset the detection position of the index 1420 of the display body 1400 when the stop display position is changed. Although details will be described later, the belt display unit 1100 of the present embodiment is configured to recognize the symbol position of the display body 1400 by detecting the index 1420 of the display body 1400 with the reflective photosensor 1340. . The sub CPU 510 can recognize the current symbol position by counting the number of drive pulses output after detecting the index 1420 with a counter.

  Here, the reel symbol position and the reel symbol interval counter are corrected by the offset amount, and the symbol count start timing from the index detection position as the reference point is delayed according to the rotation angle of the unit base 1310. On the other hand, when the offset is reversed with respect to the rotation direction, the counting start symbol is offset to solve the difficulty in viewing the symbol. This method has an advantage that even when the stop position of the belt display unit 1100 is an arbitrary position, the stop position can be corrected by setting an offset amount corresponding to the stop position in the offset counter. Of course, a method of controlling the stop position by controlling the offset in a controlled manner as described above is also conceivable, but other methods may be used. For example, when the stop position of the belt display unit 1100 is determined in advance, a plurality of indexes 1420 of the display body 1400 may be provided according to the display position. For example, in this embodiment, the display body 1400 is provided with five indexes corresponding to the display positions (1) to (5). Control may be performed so that the sub CPU 510 sets the symbol position when the reflective photosensor 1340 detects the index 1420 corresponding to the display position of the belt display unit 1100. With this method, even if the rotation is forward or reverse, it is only necessary to reset the symbol position when the index is detected, so the control burden is reduced.

  16 to 22 are flowcharts of the slot machine including the symbol display device 1000 according to the present invention. 16 and 17 are flowcharts in the main control unit 300 of the slot machine 100 of the present embodiment. The main control unit 300 controls the progress of the game and transmits the progress of the game as a control command to the sub-control unit 400. FIG. 18 is a flowchart in the sub-control unit 400. The sub-control unit 400 controls effects such as the symbol display control unit 500, various decorative lamps, and sound effects according to the control command received from the main control unit 300. 19 to 22 are flowcharts in the symbol display control unit 500. The symbol display control unit 500 receives the control command from the sub-control unit 400 and controls the symbol display device 1000. In the game execution process of FIG. 16, in the medal acceptance process in step 1002 (hereinafter, step is abbreviated as ST), medals inserted from the 1-sheet insertion button sensor 345, the 3-sheet insertion button sensor 346, and the medal insertion slot 133 are selected. The medal sensor 1 (348) and medal sensor 2 (349) to be detected are monitored and waits until a medal necessary for the game is inserted. In the start lever reception process of ST1004, after the medal reception is normally performed, the start lever sensor 344 monitors whether or not the start lever 135 as a game start operation is operated, and waits until the operation is performed. In the internal lottery process of ST1006, a random number generated by the random number generator 311 is extracted in response to a game start operation, and whether or not a winning combination is determined.

  In the reel stop preparation process of ST1008, a process of determining control data for determining the stop positions of the reels 110 to 112 of the main reel unit 105 is performed based on the result of the internal lottery process. In the effect lottery process of ST1010, based on the internal lottery result, selection of which effect is to be performed from among a plurality of types of effects set for exciting the game such as the symbol display device 1000 according to the present invention, various decorative lamps, sound effects, etc. Processing is performed. The effect selected here is transmitted to the sub-control unit 400 as a control command. In the reel rotation start process in ST1012, parameters necessary for the rotation of the reels 110 to 112 are set. Control is performed in the main reel rotation control process of ST2200 in the timer interruption process of FIG. 17 to be described later, and the reels are simultaneously rotated.

  In the stop button reception process of ST1014, the left stop button sensor 341, the middle stop button sensor 342, and the right stop button sensor 343 are monitored to accept the player's operation of each of the stop buttons 136a to 136c, and any one of the stop buttons is operated. Wait until is done. In the reel stop process of ST1016, the control data of the reel for which the stop button operation was performed in ST1014 is set. The reel on which the stop operation has been performed is subjected to stop control in the main reel rotation control process of ST2200 in the timer interrupt process of FIG. 17 described later.

  In ST1018, it is determined whether or not each of the reels 110 to 112 is stopped. If all the reels are not stopped, the process returns to ST1014 and waits until all the reels are stopped. If all the reels are stopped, the process proceeds to ST1020.

  In the winning determination process of ST1020, it is determined whether the combination of the internal lottery result of ST1006 and the symbols displayed on each of the stopped reels 110 to 112 match a predetermined combination. A winning combination is determined when the symbol combination of the same winning combination as the internal winning winning combination is stopped and displayed. In the medal payout process of ST1022, it is determined in ST1020 that the winning is determined, and when a medal payout is necessary, a process of setting a predetermined number of medal payout numbers set according to the winning combination is performed. The medal payout is performed in the medal payout process of ST2014 in the timer interrupt process of FIG. 17 described later. In the winning effect process of ST1024, a process of executing a winning effect executed based on the winning is performed. Specifically, a control command indicating the start of a winning effect is set. The set control command is transmitted to the sub-control unit 400 in the command output process of ST2020 in the timer interrupt process of FIG. 17, and a winning effect is performed in the sub-control unit 400. In the game state update process of ST1026, a process for updating a state parameter or the like corresponding to a change in the game state or the like according to the result of the current game is performed. For example, when there is a prize for a special winning combination such as a big bonus in the current game, the game state is updated from the next game to the big bonus game state. The above processing is repeatedly executed for each game.

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart of the timer interrupt process. This timer interrupt process is a control program executed at a constant interrupt time interval separately from the above-described game execution process, and controls specific switches and devices as the game progresses by the game execution process. In ST2002, input port data is acquired. Each sensor from the left stop button sensor 341 to the right reel index sensor 354 shown in FIG. 2 is connected to the input port, and the detection state of these sensors is acquired by reading the port data. In ST2004, it is determined whether or not set value change processing is being performed in main controller 300. If the change processing is being performed, set value update processing is executed in ST2006. The set value changing process is a process of selecting and setting lottery data and the like used for determination in the internal lottery process in ST1006 of the game execution process on the game store side. If the set value change process is not in progress, the process proceeds to ST2008, and the main control unit 300 determines whether or not the medal insertion process is in progress.

  If a medal insertion process is in progress in ST2008, the process proceeds to ST2010, and a medal insertion acceptance process is executed. In the medal insertion acceptance process, when the detection output of the one-sheet insertion button sensor 345 and the three-sheet insertion button sensor 346 is in the input port, the operation is started from the number of medal stored electronically stored in the main control unit 300. A process of subtracting medals according to the inserted button is performed. When the detection output from the medal sensor 1 (348) and the medal sensor 2 (349) is in the input port, it is determined whether the medal is inserted from the medal insertion port 133 and whether the medal is a regular medal. In addition, when it is determined that the token is a regular medal, a process for accepting a medal is performed. When medals exceeding the number required for the game are inserted, processing for adding to the number of stored medals is performed. On the other hand, the process proceeds to ST2012, and it is determined whether or not the main control unit 300 is performing a payout process. If the payout process is in progress in ST2012, the process proceeds to ST2014 to execute the medal payout process. In the medal payout process, if the medal stored number has not reached the upper limit with respect to the medal payout number set in ST1022 of the game execution process, the medal payout number is added to the medal stored number. Then, the medal payout device is driven to pay out medals. When a medal is paid out by the medal payout device, the payout sensor 1 (350) and the payout sensor (351) detect the medals to be paid out one by one, and the payout number set in the medal payout process of ST1022 of the game execution process The medal payout device is driven until it becomes 0.

  If the payout process is not in progress in ST2012, the process proceeds to ST2200, and the main reel rotation control process is executed. Note that the reels to be controlled are the reels 110 to 112 in FIG. 1 or FIG. 26, and perform the main game in the slot machine 100. In the main reel rotation control process, a design pulse is output by a detection output of a reel index sensor 352 to 354 provided on each reel to output a drive pulse for driving the reels 110 to 112 and monitor a design position of the reel. And after that, a process for counting the drive pulses and grasping the symbol position of each reel is performed.

  In the panel lamp update process of ST2016, a process of updating the display state of the game lamps 380 and 7SEG display device 390 controlled to be turned on by the main control unit 300 is performed. In the output port data output process of ST2018, the drive signal is output through the output port of the output interface 350.

  Then, in the command output process of ST2020, in response to the fact that the control command to be output to the sub-control unit 400 is registered in a predetermined storage area, the registered control command is transmitted to the sub-control unit. This completes the timer interrupt process.

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart of command determination processing. This command determination process is executed in the sub-control unit 400, and it is determined whether there is a reception command that is received data of the control command transmitted from the main control unit 300 in ST1202. If there is no reception command, this process is performed. Exit. Here, the presence / absence of a received command determines that a new control command has been received based on a change between the received command determined in the previous command determination process and the control command received in the current command determination process.

  If a command has been received, it is determined in ST1214 whether or not the received command is for a sub-reel, ie, the symbol display apparatus 1000. If the received command is for the symbol display control section 500, the process proceeds to ST1270 to execute the sub reel command output process. In the sub reel command output process, a sub reel control command corresponding to the received command is transmitted to the symbol display control unit 500. The symbol display control unit 500 controls the symbol display device 1000 based on the sub reel control command. If the received command is not for the symbol display device 1000, the process proceeds to ST1215, and it is determined whether or not it is an effect command.

  In ST1215, if the received command is an effect command, the process proceeds to ST1250, an effect selection process is executed in ST1250, and the process proceeds to ST1262, where the effect execution process is executed, and then this process ends. The effect selection process is a process of selecting effect data for performing a lamp and sound effect in the game in accordance with the effect command transmitted from the main control unit 300. The production data is a control command (reel rotation start command, stop button reception command, reel stop command, winning determination command, winning effect command, gaming state command) related to the progress of the game in order to advance the presentation according to the progress of the game. Correspondingly set. The effect execution process is a process for generating a lamp and a sound effect based on the selected effect data and a control command related to the progress of the game. Specifically, each time the SubCPU 410 reads a lamp emission control pattern and sound effect data according to a control command stored in the ROM 411 and receives a control command relating to the progress of the game, the output interface 420, the musical sound signal forming unit Production data corresponding to 460 is output, and a lamp production and a sound effect production are executed. In the effect execution process, a process of transmitting a control command corresponding to a reel rotation start command, a stop button reception command, a reel stop command, a winning determination command, a winning effect command, and a gaming state command to the symbol display control unit 500 is also performed. . And the symbol display control part 500 controls the trigger of the effect display etc. of the symbol display apparatus 1000 according to the received control command.

  In ST1216 to ST1232, when a control command related to the progress of a game is received, a corresponding effect is executed in ST1262.

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart of the sub reel control process. This sub-reel control process is a process executed by the display control unit 500 and controls the symbol display device 1000 in a display mode according to the sub-reel control command from the sub-control unit 400 to display the symbol on the display window 1001. In the present embodiment, the display control of all the symbol display devices 1000 is performed in the sub reel control process. Each of the three symbol display devices 1000 includes three belt display units 1100. Therefore, the sub reel control process must control a total of nine belt display units 1100 and three motors for controlling the moving means of each symbol display device 1000. Therefore, in this embodiment, the belt length, the drive pulley, and the motor of the belt display unit 1100 of the symbol display device 1000 are made common in order to control all the symbol display devices 1000 without complicating the control program. This not only allows the parts to be shared but also facilitates the control. That is, by making the drive pulley and the motor common, all the motors can be driven at the same speed with one drive pulse pattern. Further, by making the belt length the same in all units and making the number of symbols drawn on the belt and the pitch the same, it is possible to share the symbol position control program. That is, one belt display unit 1100 is controlled by performing a control program for performing drive control including symbol position control of one belt display unit 1100 three times that is the number of each belt display unit. By repeating this three times, which is a few minutes of each symbol display device 1000, display control of all the belt display units 1100 can be performed.

  The moving means can be controlled by repeating a control program for controlling the stop position of one moving means three times, which is a few minutes of each symbol display device 1000. This will be described in detail below.

  The sub reel control process includes a part for performing symbol display control of the belt display unit 1100 from ST2310 to ST2316 and a part for controlling the moving means from ST2317 to ST2320. In this process of performing symbol display control, first, in ST2310, the iterative process is started. In this iterative process, the following ST2312 to ST2400 are repeated three times, for example, the number of symbol display devices 1000, and in ST2316, the iterative process ends.

  That is, in ST2312, it is determined whether or not there is display reel control data for the symbol display device 1000 to be controlled. If there is data for the symbol display device 1000 to be controlled, the process proceeds to ST2314 to display the display position. Offset data is acquired, and display reel control processing is executed in ST2400. In the display reel control process, display control of the three belt display units 1100 of the symbol display device 1000 is performed. Details will be described later. The display position offset data is the offset data of the symbol display position set according to each belt display unit 1100 when the belt display unit 1100 is set at a predetermined angular position by the moving means of the symbol display device 1000. . Then, in ST2316, the steps after ST2314 are repeated three times, which is the number of symbol display devices 1000.

  In ST2317, repetitive control of the moving means is started. In ST2318, it is determined whether or not there is moving reel control data. If there is data, moving reel control processing is executed in ST2500. On the other hand, in ST2318, when there is no moving reel control data, this process is terminated. The moving reel control data is control data for controlling the movement of the belt display unit 1100 to a predetermined angular position. If the angular position is the same as the previous process, the moving reel control data holds the position. Movement control is performed up to an angle that coincides with. In ST2320, the above ST2318 and subsequent steps are repeated three times, which is the number of moving means.

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart of the display reel control process. In this display reel control process, ST2410 to ST2424 are repeated three times, which is the number of belt display units 1100.

  In ST2412, an index sensor detection storage area is set. In ST2414, the reel control information of the belt display unit 1100 to be controlled is developed in the storage area. In ST2416, it is determined whether the reel drive signal is on. If the reel drive signal is on, the process proceeds to ST2418, and if the reel drive signal is not on, the process proceeds to ST2422. In the next ST2600, a symbol position control process is executed. In the symbol position control process, details will be described later, but the symbol position is mainly reset by the index sensor and the subsequent symbol position is monitored, and the symbol currently displayed on the display window is tracked. It is. The reel drive signal is for identifying whether the belt display unit 1100 to be controlled is in a rotating state or a stopped state.

  In ST2418, rotation control data including the drive pulse pattern of the stepping motor of the belt display unit is acquired from the data table. In ST2420, the acquired rotation control data is set in the output port of the corresponding stepping motor. In ST2422, the reel control information developed in ST2414 is updated with the current control. Thus, the control of the belt display unit 1100 is finished. Then, ST2410 to ST2424 are repeated three times, which is a few minutes of the belt display unit 1100.

  FIG. 21 is a flowchart of the symbol position control process. In this symbol position control process, the reel symbol interval counter is updated in ST2610. In the reel symbol interval counter, a number corresponding to the number of steps of the stepping motor corresponding to the interval of symbols arranged on the belt is set. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 15, since the number of steps per symbol is 20, the reel symbol interval counter is set to 20. When the symbol interval counter is subtracted and finally becomes 0, it means that the symbol has passed the display reference position. In ST2612, it is determined whether or not the reel symbol interval counter is zero. If the reel symbol counter is not 0, the process proceeds to ST2626. If the reel symbol counter is 0, the process proceeds to ST2614.

  In ST2614, the value of the reel symbol position is updated in accordance with the rotation direction of the reel symbol position. The reel symbol position is the same as the number of symbols arranged on the belt, and represents the symbol display position. In the present embodiment, when the number of symbols arranged on the belt is 11, and the left reel symbol position is 8, the child character is displayed at the display reference position as shown in FIG. The reel symbol position is added / subtracted according to the belt rotation direction. In ST2616, 20 is prepared in the reel symbol interval counter to cope with the next symbol. In ST2618, it is determined whether or not the reel symbol position is smaller than 0 or larger than 11, and if not smaller than 0 or larger than 11, the process proceeds to ST2626, and if smaller than 0 or larger than 11, the process proceeds to ST2620. move on.

  In ST2620, if the reel symbol position is determined to be 0 in ST2618, the reel symbol position is set to 11, and if it is determined to be 11, the reel symbol position is set to 0. That is, the reel symbol position is initialized according to the rotation direction of the belt reel. In ST2626, an index sensor detection result is acquired. In ST2628, it is determined whether or not index detection is present in the input port. If there is no detection, this process ends. If there is detection, the process proceeds to ST2630.

  If index detection is being performed, the reel symbol position is corrected with display offset data in ST2630. Specifically, the values of the reel symbol position and the reel symbol interval counter are shifted based on the offset data. In ST2632, the reel symbol position and the reel symbol interval counter are set again. The offset data is predetermined for each belt display unit 1100 corresponding to the display angle of the symbol display device 1000.

  FIG. 22 is an example of a flowchart of the moving reel control process and a data table of rotation control pattern data. In the moving reel control process, the reel control information is expanded in the storage area in ST2510. In ST2700, a rotation control pattern acquisition process is executed. In this rotation control pattern, as shown in FIG. 22B, the movement speed and the movement distance are acquired from a predetermined data table. The rotation control pattern is a data table in which a movement destination and a movement speed (high speed, low speed) are determined with respect to the current movement position. The destination is described as 0, 30, 60, -30, and -60 for convenience. Specifically, output counter data that is the number of steps of the stepping motor from the current position to the destination is set. ing. The moving speed is also described as “high speed” and “low speed” for the sake of convenience. Specifically, output interval data in which the output period of the driving pulse of the stepping motor 1470 is set is set. Therefore, the rotation control pattern data table includes the origin positions “0 (display position in FIG. 10)” “30 (display position in FIG. 11)” “60 (display position in FIG. 12)” “−30 (FIG. 13). Display position) ”and“ −60 (display position in FIG. 14) ”, it is composed of five tables specifying the destination. In this embodiment, the movement position is set in advance and the data table is prepared so that the control can be easily performed. Of course, it is possible to set an arbitrary movement position by the number of drive pulses. .

  In ST2512, output interval data and output number counter data acquired from the rotation control pattern are set. In ST2514, it is determined whether or not the reel drive signal is on. If not, the process proceeds to ST2530, and if it is on, the process proceeds to the next ST2516.

  In ST2516, the output interval counter is subtracted. When the output interval counter becomes 0, the drive pulse is output. That is, the output period of the drive pulse is controlled. In ST2518, it is determined whether or not the output interval counter is 0. If not, the process proceeds to ST2530, and if it is 0, the process proceeds to ST2520. In ST2520, rotation control data is acquired. The rotation control data is a drive pulse pattern of the stepping motor 1470. In ST2522, the rotation control data is set in the drive pulse output port of stepping motor 1470. By setting the drive pulse pattern to the output port, the drive pulse is output, and the stepping motor 1470 rotates.

  In ST2524, it is determined whether or not the output number counter is 0. If it is 0, it is determined that the movement to the movement destination is completed, and the process proceeds to ST2530. If it is not 0, the process proceeds to the next ST2526. In ST2526, the output number counter is subtracted, and in ST2528, an output interval counter for outputting the next drive pulse is newly set. In ST2530, the storage content of the current reel control information is updated and stored in order to proceed to the next processing. As described above, in the present embodiment, a plurality of belt display units 1100 and moving means can be controlled by repeating a common control program for the number of units, respectively, and complicated operations can be performed independently. Can be made easier.

Next, a specific display mode by the display device of the present embodiment will be described.
FIG. 23 and FIG. 24 are schematic views illustrating patterns of the cyclic display of symbols in the symbol display device 1000. FIG. 23A shows a display mode in which the symbol display of each belt display unit 1100 is cyclically displayed sequentially in the order of the belt symbol arrangement. For this reason, the three belt display units 1100 show patterns that display symbols as if they were one display unit. That is, the three belt display units 1100 interlock and display the symbols in a cyclic manner, thereby converting the symbols so that the large display unit rotates downward. Moreover, in FIG.23 (b), each belt display unit 1100 displays the same design, respectively, and cyclically displays it in the state where the design was prepared. On the contrary, this display mode is a display mode for displaying that each belt display unit 1100 exists independently.

  In FIG. 24, the symbol display device 1000 is in a state where the unit base 1310 is moved so as to display two symbols of the upper belt display unit 1100 and one symbol of the middle belt display unit 1100 as shown in FIG. 11. A cyclic display pattern is shown. In FIG. 24A, the symbols are circulated and displayed between the upper belt display unit 1100 and the middle belt display unit 1100 so as to suck the symbols. By circulating the sucked symbols so that the same symbols are sucked together, an unusual display mode that cannot be achieved by a conventional display device can be obtained. Also, at the time of stoppage, display the design of a character that is integrated across multiple frames as shown in the symbol arrangement of FIG. 9 so that the symbols are combined into one symbol. Can do. In FIG. 24B, the symbols are circulated and displayed so as to spring out from between the upper belt display unit 1100 and the middle belt display unit 1100. This display mode can also be realized as an unusual display mode by stopping the display so as to constitute the above-mentioned integrated character design.

  FIG. 25 is a schematic diagram showing a process in which symbols using moving means are aligned. That is, the left symbol display device 1000L is rotated downward, the middle symbol display device 1000C is stopped, and the right symbol display device 1000R is rotated upward. It is possible to adopt a display mode in which symbols are aligned with a character imitating a girl from a display state that is not displayed. This can also be achieved by belt circulation, but realizes a display mode in which symbols are aligned from an unexpected operation by moving the belt display unit 1100 at a stroke by the moving means. It is possible to effectively use the moving means while increasing the display mode by displaying the effect instead of merely rotating the belt display unit 1100.

  FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a slot machine 100 showing an embodiment in which the symbol display device 1000 according to the present invention is used for a production device. That is, the difference from the slot machine 100 shown in FIG. 1 is that the arrangement of the main reel unit 105 and the symbol display device 1000 is different, and the winning determination is made by the display of the main reel unit 105. Note that portions having the same function are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted. In the present embodiment, by using the display device 1000 as a production device, the above-mentioned display mode is used for suggesting or encouraging the winning mode that is stopped and displayed by the reels 110, 111, and 112 of the main reel unit 105. Can be used.

  FIG. 27 is a perspective view showing an embodiment in which the symbol display device 1000 according to the present invention is applied to the pachinko machine 10. That is, it is configured so that a hit / fail is determined based on the symbols displayed by the symbol display device 1000, and if the player wins, the player is provided with a profit. An exciting display mode can be executed.

  FIG. 28 is a perspective view of the main part showing an embodiment in which a backlight 1800 is mounted on the symbol display device 1000. In this embodiment, a base material 1820 in which light emitters 1810 such as LEDs (light emitting diodes) are arranged between an idle pulley medium 1550 and an idle pulley small 1550 is bridged by using a bush 1511 constituting an idle shaft. It is designed to be attached in a shape. As described above, when the backlight 1800 is mounted, it is possible to make the design easy to see or to greatly improve the effect by the transmitted light.

  FIG. 29 shows a display in which a belt display unit 1110, a liquid crystal display unit 1120, and a drum display unit 1130 are arranged on a unit base 1310, and any display unit selectively faces a display window 1001. 2 is a side view of the device 2000. FIG. That is, in (a), the liquid crystal display unit 1120 faces the display window 1001, in (b), the belt display unit 1110 faces the display window 1001, and in (c), the drum display unit 1130 faces the display window 1001. The unit base 1310 is moved to a predetermined display position by the unit drive motor 1470 via the unit drive gear 1450 so as to face. Further, the position of the symbol is detected by the reflective photosensor 1340, and the belt display unit 1110 and the drum display unit 1130 are controlled by the display control means so as to display a predetermined symbol. Thus, according to the display device 2000 having different display means, a fresh display that has not been possible in the past is possible.

  FIG. 30 is a perspective view of the slot machine 100 in which the display device 2000 having the three types of display means shown in FIG. 29 is disposed sideways as an effect device, and shows a state in which the liquid crystal display unit 1120 is located on the front surface. ing. In this slot machine 100, the same members as those in the slot machine 100 shown in FIG. 1 or FIG. Of course, a plurality of display devices 2000 may be provided instead of the symbol display device 1000 shown in FIG.

  According to the slot machine 100 provided with such a display device 2000, various games and effects can be performed using different display means, and the interest of the game is remarkably improved.

  Although the present invention has been described with reference to the illustrated embodiments, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and can be appropriately implemented without changing the configuration described in the claims.

It is a perspective view which shows the external appearance of the slot machine as a game stand. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the control part of a slot machine. It is the perspective view which looked at the state which arranged the three symbol display apparatuses from diagonally upward of the rear side. It is the perspective view which looked at one symbol display apparatus from the diagonally upper part of the rear side. It is side part fragmentary sectional drawing of a symbol display apparatus. It is a front view of the state which arranged the three symbol display apparatuses in a line. It is a rear view of the state which arranged the three symbol display apparatuses in a line. It is a disassembled perspective view of a symbol display apparatus. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the symbol arrangement | sequence drawn on the display body. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the display mode of a symbol display apparatus, Comprising: Each belt display unit shows the state which each displays one symbol. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the display aspect of a symbol display apparatus, Comprising: The upper belt display unit shows the state which displays two symbols, and a middle belt display unit displays one symbol. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the display mode of a symbol display apparatus, Comprising: The upper belt display unit shows the state which displays three symbols. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the display mode of a symbol display apparatus, Comprising: The state in which a middle belt display unit displays one symbol and a lower belt display unit displays two symbols is shown. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the display mode of a symbol display apparatus, Comprising: The lower belt display unit shows the state which displays three symbols. It is a conceptual diagram which shows offset control of the reference position of the symbol in a belt display unit. 42 is a flowchart of a game execution process in the slot machine. It is a flowchart of a timer interruption process. It is a flowchart of a command determination process. It is a flowchart of a sub reel control process. It is a flowchart of a display reel control process. It is a flowchart of a symbol position control process. It is an example of the flowchart of a moving reel control process, and the data table of rotation control pattern data. It is a schematic diagram which illustrates the pattern of the cyclic display of the symbol in a symbol display apparatus. It is a schematic diagram which illustrates the pattern of the cyclic display of the symbol in a symbol display apparatus. It is a schematic diagram which shows the process in which a pattern aligns. It is a perspective view of the slot machine which used the symbol display device for the production device. It is a perspective view which shows the Example which applied the symbol display apparatus to the pachinko machine. It is a perspective view of the principal part which shows the Example which mounted the backlight in the symbol display apparatus. FIG. 3 is a side view of a display device in which a belt display unit, a liquid crystal display unit, and a drum display unit are disposed on a unit base, and any display unit selectively faces a display window. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a slot machine in which a display device having three types of display means is disposed sideways as a rendering device.

Explanation of symbols

100 slot machine 101 front door 110 left reel 111 middle reel 112 right reel 113 reel display window 135 start lever 136 stop button unit 300 main control unit 400 sub control unit 500 symbol display control unit 551 left reel motor drive unit 552 middle reel motor drive 553 Right reel motor drive unit 1000 Symbol display device 1001 Display window 1100 Belt display unit 1120 Liquid crystal display unit 1130 Drum display unit 1200 Moving means 1300 Unit frame 1301 Center shaft 1310 Unit base 1320 Unit rotating gear 1321 Tooth part 1330 Linear bush 1400 Display Body 1410 Feed hole 1450 Unit drive gear 1451 Tooth 1460 Motor bracket 1470 Unit drive mode 1500 Guide part 1510 Sprocket 1511 Bush 1512 Pulley shaft 1513 Washer 1520 Side plate 1530 Spacer 1540 Set screw 1550 Idle pulley 1560 Idle roller 1600 Drive unit 1610 Stepping motor 1620 Drive pulley 1700 Tension roller 1720 Roller 1710 Roller Light 1810 Light emitter 1820 Base material 2000 Display device

Claims (9)

A plurality of symbol display means provided for the display window and capable of cyclically displaying a plurality of types of symbols,
What is claimed is: 1. A symbol display device comprising: a moving means capable of selectively moving a symbol display means to be displayed to a predetermined display position in order to display a symbol on a display window using any of a plurality of symbol display means. The symbol display device according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the symbol display means can change the number of symbols to be displayed on the display window according to the display position. The symbol display means includes an endless belt-like display body in which a plurality of types of symbols are arranged, a guide section that guides the display body, a drive section that guides the display body and that is driven to circulate, and a predetermined display section. The symbol display device according to claim 1, further comprising a tension adjusting unit that applies tension. The moving means is a rotational movement means for moving a symbol display means to be displayed at a predetermined display position by rotating a plurality of symbol display means together in the direction of cyclic display of the symbols. The symbol display apparatus in any one of Claim 1 thru | or 3. A symbol display means provided for the display window, comprising a plurality of symbol display means capable of cyclically displaying a plurality of types of symbols, and displaying the symbols on the display window using any of the plurality of symbol display means. A symbol display device having a moving means selectively movable to a predetermined display position;
Display control means for controlling the symbol display device according to the progress of the game;
A game table characterized by comprising: At least one of the symbol display means of the symbol display device can change the number of symbols to be displayed on the display window according to the display position,
6. The display control means of the symbol display device performs control to change the number of symbol display means to be displayed without changing the number of symbols to be displayed on the display window by controlling the moving means. The game table described in 1. The symbol display means of the symbol display device includes a plurality of types of symbols and an endless belt-like display body provided with a reference position for the symbol, a guide unit for guiding the display body, a guide for guiding the display body, and circulation driving A drive unit that performs, a tension adjustment unit that applies a predetermined tension to the guided display body, and a reference position detection unit that detects a reference position with respect to a symbol disposed on the display body,
The display control means of the symbol display device controls the drive unit to circulate the display body to circulate and display the symbols, and to control the stop position of the symbols according to the detection output of the reference position detecting means. The game table according to claim 5, wherein the game table is characterized by the following. The moving means of the symbol display device is a rotational moving means for moving each symbol display means to a predetermined display position by rotating the symbol display means integrally in the cyclic display direction of the symbols,
8. The game table according to claim 5, wherein the display control means performs control to move each symbol display means to a predetermined display position. 9. The display control unit of the symbol display device changes a symbol stop position with respect to a reference position detection unit of the symbol display unit according to a predetermined display position. Game console.

Images