JP2008018175A - Game system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game system with which a player can call a hall stuff at appropriate timing with a reduced burden. <P>SOLUTION: This game system includes a main CPU 201 which carries out the control of transferring the game to a predetermined game state, a game machine which includes an external connection circuit 181 outputting the control information in the main CPU 201, and an input-output board 606 which weighs a cashbox 410 containing game balls paid by the game machine and, when the weight is a predetermined value, transmits an overweight signal to the main CPU 201. When the main CPU 201 receives the overweight signal from the input-output board 606 in a predetermined game state, the main CPU 201 sets overweight control information indicating that the cashbox 410 is overweight, and the external connection circuit 181 outputs the overweight control information set by the main CPU 201. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming system, and more particularly to a gaming system including a pachinko gaming machine that pays out gaming balls.

  Conventionally, a plurality of gaming machines are installed in each island facility arranged in a game hall in a game store, and a calling device (also referred to as an island facility device) is associated with each gaming machine above the island facility. Is arranged. This calling device is provided with a calling switch for calling an attendant when trouble occurs during a game or when a ball box is needed. When this calling switch is turned on, the calling device Decorative lamps and LEDs provided in the LED are turned on, and call notifications are made to staff (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2).

The calling device also functions as a display device that displays the number of jackpot occurrences and the probability variation occurrence of the corresponding gaming machine.
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 06-142332 JP 09-285632 A

  However, since the above-described call switch for calling a staff member is provided in the upper part of the island facility, it is difficult to operate the call switch while sitting on a chair.

  For this reason, when a player calls a staff member, it is necessary to perform an operation of slightly lifting his / her waist from the chair or an operation of getting up once. The operation accompanying the calling of the staff member is troublesome for the player.

  In addition, since the operation of the call switch is performed at the player's discretion between games, the call switch is often not operated at an appropriate timing. In this case, there is a possibility that the call of the staff will be delayed and the progress of the game may be hindered.

  In particular, in the case where game balls are sufficiently accumulated in the dollar box (game ball storage box) but the timing of the operation of the call switch is missed, the exchange of the dollar box by the attendant is not in time, and the game ball May overflow from the dollar box.

  Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming system that can call an attendant at an appropriate timing and can reduce the inconvenience of a player when calling the attendant.

  In order to solve the above problems, in the gaming system of the present invention according to claim 1, the game ball (game ball 400) wins the start prize device (start prize device 18) provided in the game board (game board 2). As a trigger, the display means (special symbol display 24) performs variable display control of the identification symbol (special symbol), and when the identification symbol is in a specific mode, the gaming state is advantageous to the player. A gaming machine (gaming machine 1a) comprising gaming control means (main CPU 201 of the main control circuit 200) for controlling to shift to a specific gaming state, and output means (external connection circuit 181) for outputting control information in the gaming control means to the outside. ) And a weighing device (weighing a game ball storage box (dollar box 410) for storing a game ball paid out from the game machine and being electrically connected to the game control means ( The weighing device includes a transmission means (CPU 603) for transmitting an excess weight signal to the game control means when a predetermined weight (excess value) set in advance is measured, and the game control The means sets excess control information indicating that the game ball storage box is overweight when a weight excess signal is received from the transmission means during the specific gaming state, and the output means is set by the game control means. The excess control information is output to the outside.

  In this way, when the game control means receives an overweight signal from the transmission means during the specific gaming state, the game control means sets excess control information indicating that the game ball storage box is overweight, and the output means The excess control information set by the means is output to the outside.

  According to this, when the weight of the game ball storage box for storing the game balls is exceeded (that is, when the game balls are stored in the game ball storage box so as to be replaced), the excess control information indicating that is The output means automatically outputs to the outside.

  In other words, according to the present invention, when it is necessary to exchange the game ball storage box, the player waits at a remote position for information indicating that fact without performing an operation such as operating the call switch by himself / herself. Since it is possible to inform and call the staff in charge, the troublesomeness of the player when calling the staff can be reduced.

  Further, the output of the excess control information from the output means is limited when the gaming state is in a specific gaming state advantageous to the player, that is, during the gaming state in which a lot of gaming balls are paid out. When the necessity of exchange is low (that is, when the necessity of calling an attendant is low), it is possible to prevent a situation where an attendant is called by mistake.

  Furthermore, according to the present invention, whether or not the weight of the game ball storage box has been exceeded (that is, whether or not the game ball storage box needs to be replaced) is determined by measurement of the weighing device. Compared to the conventional case where it is determined by the player's eye whether or not the box needs to be replaced, it is possible to more accurately specify the replacement time of the game ball storage box. As a result, information indicating that the game ball storage box needs to be replaced can be output to the outside at an appropriate timing, and an attendant can be called at an appropriate timing.

  The present invention according to claim 2 has a calling device (calling device 700) capable of displaying predetermined information on the display unit (calling lamp 701) in addition to the configuration of the invention according to claim 1, and outputs The means is electrically connected to the calling device and outputs the excess control information set by the game control means to the calling device. When the calling device receives the excess control information from the output means, the excess control information Information corresponding to the above is displayed on the display unit.

  In this way, the output means outputs the excess control information set by the game control means to the calling device, and when the calling device receives the excess control information from the output means, the information corresponding to the excess control information is output. It is designed to be displayed on the display unit.

  According to this, when the weight of the game ball storage box for storing the game ball is exceeded (that is, when the game ball is stored in the game ball storage box so that the game ball needs to be replaced), the information indicating the fact is given. Information is displayed on the display unit.

  In other words, according to the present invention, when it is necessary to exchange the game ball storage box, the player who holds the game at a remote position does not need to perform the operation such as operating the call switch by himself. Information indicating that the box needs to be exchanged can be notified and called through the display unit, so that it is possible to reduce the troublesomeness of the player when calling the staff.

  In addition, the display of information indicating the necessity of replacement of the game storage box on the display unit is limited when the gaming state is in a specific gaming state advantageous to the player, that is, during a gaming state in which a lot of game balls are paid out. When the need for replacement of the game ball storage box is low (that is, when the necessity to call the clerk is low), it is possible to prevent a situation where the clerk is called by mistake.

  Furthermore, according to the present invention, the player can play the game without being distracted by the storage status of the game storage box, so that it is possible to concentrate on the original game and improve the game system of the game system. be able to.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in addition to the configuration of the second aspect of the invention, the display unit is a lamp capable of blinking display, and the calling device receives the excess control information from the output means. The display unit blinks in accordance with the excess control information.

  As described above, when receiving the excess control information from the output unit, the calling device causes the display unit that is a lamp to blink according to the excess control information.

  According to this, information indicating the necessity of exchanging the game storage box can be more surely notified to the staff, and the player can concentrate on the original game with more peace of mind.

  The present invention described in claim 4 has setting means (CPU 603) for setting a predetermined weight (excess value) in addition to the configuration of the invention described in any one of claims 1 to 4, The apparatus is characterized by transmitting an overweight signal to the game control means when the weight set by the setting means is measured.

  In this way, the weighing device transmits an overweight signal to the game control means when weighing the weight set by the setting means. In this case, for example, if a small weight is set in advance by the setting means, the game ball storage box can be replaced early, so even if the number of the same number of balls is played, more game ball storage boxes can be stored. It can be stacked.

  According to this, even if it is the same number of balls, the ball pitch effect can be further enhanced as compared with the conventional game system, and the hall sales effect can be enhanced.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in addition to the configuration of the first aspect of the present invention, the output means is provided to a host computer (host computer 800) that controls a gaming machine in the gaming system. The excess control information that is electrically connected and set by the game control means is output to the host computer.

  Thus, the output means outputs the excess control information set by the game control means to the host computer.

  According to this, when the weight of the game ball storage box for storing the game balls is exceeded (that is, when the game balls are stored in the game ball storage box so as to be replaced), the excess control information indicating that is The data is automatically output to the host computer by the output means and transmitted to the staff who manages the host computer.

  In other words, according to the present invention, when it is necessary to exchange the game ball storage box, the player waits at a remote position for information indicating that fact without performing an operation such as operating the call switch by himself / herself. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the inconvenience of the player when calling the clerk.

  According to the present invention, the following effects can be obtained.

  That is, according to the present invention, it is possible to call an attendant at an appropriate timing, and it is possible to reduce the troublesomeness of the player when calling the attendant.

  Hereinafter, the best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described more specifically with reference to the drawings. Here, in the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals are given to the same members, and duplicate descriptions are omitted. In addition, since description here is the best form by which this invention is implemented, this invention is not limited to the said form.

  Hereinafter, the configuration of the gaming system 1 in the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. FIGS. 1-16 has shown one Embodiment of the gaming system provided with the gaming machine 1a to which the prepaid card system is applied.

  1 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a gaming system according to the present embodiment, FIG. 2 is a front view showing a gaming board of the gaming machine shown in FIG. 1, and FIG. 3 is a lower plate and a weighing device according to the present embodiment. 4 is an explanatory view showing the back side of the main body frame in the gaming machine of FIG. 1, FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a control system of the gaming system shown in FIG. 1, and FIG. 6 is a weighing shown in FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of timer interrupt processing by the weighing circuit of the apparatus, FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of input detection processing by the weighing circuit of the weighing apparatus shown in FIG. 3, and FIG. 8 is a weighing of the weighing apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the main control circuit of the gaming machine according to this embodiment, and FIG. 10 is the processing of the switch input detection processing according to this embodiment. Step-by-step flow 11 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the dollar box weight check processing according to the present embodiment, FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the special symbol control processing according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 13 is the present embodiment. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the special symbol display time management processing according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 15 is a flowchart of the jackpot end interval processing according to the present embodiment. FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a display mode of the liquid crystal display unit in the calling device.

  First, the configuration of the gaming system 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2.

  The gaming system 1 according to the present embodiment is disposed below a pachinko gaming machine (game machine) 1a in which a game using a game ball is performed, and a lower plate 5b (described later) in the gaming machine 1a. It has a weighing device 600 for weighing the weight, and a calling device 700 that is arranged above the gaming machine 1a and can display predetermined information.

  The gaming machine 1a is electrically connected to the weighing device 600 and the calling device 700.

  In addition, the gaming machine 1a, the weighing device 600, and the calling device 700 are each electrically connected to a host computer 800 that controls the gaming machine 1a in the gaming system 1 (see FIG. 5).

  Here, in the pachinko gaming machine 1a in the gaming system 1, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the main body frame 3a to which the game board 2 (FIG. 2) is attached is connected to the island facility via a hinge (not shown). The main body frame 3a is rotatably mounted on the fixed outer frame 3b (that is, the main body frame 3a is supported by using one end of the main body frame 3a as a rotation fulcrum and is supported by the outer frame 3b so as to be opened and closed. ), The gaming machine main body 3 is constituted by the main body frame 3a and the outer frame 3b. And the glass door 4, the upper plate 5a, the lower plate 5b, the ashtray 10, and the launching handle 7 which cover the main body frame 3a of such a gaming machine main body 3 so that the speakers 8a and 8b and the game board 2 are visible are provided. It is arranged.

  In addition, on the front side of the gaming machine main body 3, a game area 2a (described later) in which a game is executed is provided so as to face the player.

  One end of the glass door 4 and the upper plate 5 a is pivotally supported by the gaming machine main body 3, and the other end is engaged with the gaming machine main body 3.

  The game board 2 (FIG. 2) is surrounded by rails 6 and has a game area 2a in which game balls can flow down. In the game area 2a, there are a number of games such as game nails and windmills (not shown), a general winning device 12, a passing gate 13, a big winning device 15, an out port 16, a starting winning device 18, and the like. The member is arranged.

  In addition, on the back surface of the game board 2, a liquid crystal display device 21 having a display area 21a capable of displaying an effect image (for example, animation corresponding to a game state or other notification information) is disposed.

  In addition, the display area 21a of the liquid crystal display device 21 includes an area for displaying an effect image and a decorative symbol display area in which a decorative symbol is displayed in a variable manner.

  The decorative symbol display area is divided into left, middle, and right, and the decorative symbols are individually displayed in a variable manner.

  In the present embodiment in which the game board 2 is transparent, the display area 21 a of the liquid crystal display device 21 is disposed so as to be visible through the game board 2. Here, instead of the liquid crystal display device 21, for example, a CRT (cathode ray tube) or a plasma display can be used.

  Here, the general winning device 12 is a device in which a predetermined number of game balls are paid out when a game ball is won, and the passing gate 13 uses normal symbol indicators 25a and 25b (described later) when the game ball has passed. It is a device for blinking.

  Further, a special symbol display 24, normal symbol indicators 25a and 25b, four normal symbol passage storage indicators 23, and four special symbol start memory indicators 22 are respectively arranged at the upper center of the game board 2. ing. The special symbol indicator 24 is composed of 7 segment LEDs, while the normal symbol indicators 25a and 25b, the normal symbol passage memory indicator 23, and the special symbol start memory indicator 22 are each composed of LEDs. Yes.

  The grand prize winning device 15 is a so-called attacker-type opening / closing device having a door 15a and a game ball receiving port. The door 15a is closed to make it difficult to win the game ball, and the door 15a is opened to play a game. An opening / closing operation with an open state that facilitates winning of a ball is performed. Furthermore, a passing area through which game balls that have won the grand prize device 15 pass is provided inside the big prize device 15.

  The start winning device 18 includes a receiving port 18c into which a game ball enters (wins), a variable wing 18a that can be changed between an open state in which the game ball is likely to win in the receiving port 18c and a closed state in which the game ball is difficult to win. , 18b.

  Here, the closed state in the start winning device 18 is a state in which the variable wings 18 a and 18 b are closed and the game balls are difficult to enter the receiving port 18 c of the start winning device 18. On the other hand, the open state in the start winning device 18 is a state in which the variable wings 18 a and 18 b are opened in an inverted eight-character shape and the game ball easily enters the receiving port 18 c of the start winning device 18.

  The out port 16 is a device for collecting and collecting game balls that have not won any of the general winning device 12, the start winning device 18, and the big winning device 15.

  Below the glass door 4, as shown in FIG. 1, an upper plate 5a for storing game balls paid out from the first outlet 55 and supplying the game balls to a launching device 90 to be described later is disposed. A lower tray 5b for temporarily storing game balls overflowing from the upper tray 5a is disposed below the upper tray 5a. Further, a shutter button 8 is provided at a predetermined position of the upper plate 5a, which is operated when the game ball stored in the upper plate 5a is moved to the lower plate 5b and taken out at the end of the game.

  Here, the game ball overflowing from the upper plate 5 a and the game ball moving by operating the shutter button 8 reach the lower plate 5 b through the second discharge port 56.

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, a side surface of the lower plate 5b is formed with a long hole 5bd extending in the lateral direction. A lever 5bb protrudes. In the central portion of the lower plate 5b, there is provided a circular ball extraction hole 5ba that is opened in response to the ball extraction operation and drops the game ball stored in the lower plate 5b and discharges it outside the machine. .

  The ball removal hole 5ba is normally closed by a shutter 5bc biased by a spring force so that the game ball 400 does not fall (see FIG. 3A). When the ball removal lever 5bb is operated, the shutter 5bc moves against the spring force, the ball removal hole 5ba is opened, and the game ball 400 can be dropped (see FIG. 3B). ). That is, in the present embodiment, it is possible to drop the game ball 400 stored in the lower tray 5b and discharge it outside the machine by performing a ball removal operation on the ball removal lever 5bb.

  Here, the ball removal operation means that the ball removal lever 5bb is slid laterally along the long hole 5bd by the player's hand 510 (see FIG. 3B).

  In addition, the game ball 400 discharged (paid out) through the ball punching hole 5ba has a dollar box (game ball storage box) 410 placed in advance on the placement surface 601 of the weighing device 600. Thus, it can be collected and stored (see FIG. 3B).

  On the right side of the lower plate 5b, there is provided a launching handle 7 that is rotated when the game ball is launched to the game area 2a via the rail 6. The launch handle 7 is provided with a stop button (not shown) for stopping the launch of the game ball.

  Then, when the player turns the launch handle 7 to perform a launch operation, the game balls in the upper plate 5a are disposed on the back surface of the main body frame 3a by a launch ball supply device (not shown). It is supplied to the launching device 90 (see FIG. 5), and is launched into the game area 2a along the rail 6 by the launching device 90.

  The passing gate 13 detects a passing game ball. When a game ball passes through the passing gate 13, a random number value for normal winning lottery is extracted as passing memory, and the passing memory is stored in a passing storage area ("0" to "4") of the main RAM 203 described later. Is done. Based on this passing memory, the normal symbol indicators 25a and 25b are blinked for a predetermined time. Further, the number of passage memories stored in the passage storage areas (“1” to “4”) is displayed on the four normal symbol passage storage indicators 23 described above.

  For example, when two passage memories are stored in the passage storage areas (“1” to “4”), two of the four normal symbol passage storage indicators 23 are lit. The number of lighting of the normal symbol passing memory display 23 can inform the player of the number of passing memories stored in the passing memory area (“1” to “4”).

  The normal symbol indicators 25a and 25b flash alternately, and the normal symbol indicators 25a and 25b finish blinking (the game state is shifted to the specific gaming state until the blinking ends). When the “winning” is displayed (hereinafter referred to as “normal hitting time”), it is 30 seconds in the normal gaming state that is difficult to be played, and 6 seconds in the probability variation state in which the gaming state is likely to shift to the specific gaming state. The start winning device 18 is switched to an open state in which it is easy to accept a game ball for a predetermined time (the open time is 0.3 seconds in the normal game state. If it is in the state, the 1.8 second open state is repeated three times.)

  Further, when a game ball wins the start winning device 18, a big hit lottery random number or the like is extracted as a start memory, and the start memory is stored in a start storage area ("0" to "4") of the main RAM 203 described later. It has come to be remembered. The number of start memories stored in the start storage area ("1" to "4") is displayed on the four special symbol start memory displays 22 described above.

  For example, when two start memories are stored in the start memory area (“1” to “4”), two of the four special symbol start memory indicators 22 are lit. The number of the start memories stored in the start memory area (“1” to “4”) can be notified to the player by the number of lighting of the special symbol start memory display 22. Note that the special symbols on the special symbol display 24 and the decoration symbols in the decorative symbol display area are changed and stopped based on the start-up memory.

  In addition, examples of special symbols displayed on the special symbol display 24 that is a 7-segment LED include alphabets such as “H” and “F” and symbols such as “−”. These numbers and symbols are variably displayed after the game ball has won the start winning device 18. Note that the case where the symbols are alphabets such as “H”, “F”, etc., when the display of these numbers and symbols is stopped after completion is referred to as a specific mode. This specific mode is a display mode that indicates that the game state is in a specific game state that is advantageous to the player as compared with the normal game state (that is, the player has won the “big hit”). In addition, the case (for example, "-") other than a specific aspect stops is called a non-specific aspect.

  Here, the specific modes “H” and “F” are subdivided into “H” which is a probability variation jackpot mode and “F” which is a normal jackpot mode. The normal big hit mode is a mode that indicates that the normal big hit without the transition to the probability fluctuation state is won, and the probabilistic big hit mode is accompanied by the transition to the probability fluctuation state (that is, more advantageous to the player than the normal big hit) This is a mode that indicates that the player wins the probability variation jackpot.

  Further, examples of decorative symbols displayed in the decorative symbol display area include Arabic numerals such as “0”, “1”, “2”... “9”, and other symbols. These numbers and symbols are variably displayed after the game ball has won the start winning device 18. When these numbers and symbols change and display stops, the same numbers such as “7” “7” “7” ”“ 2 ”“ 2 ”“ 2 ””, etc. A case where three symbols are arranged in a row is called a big hit mode. This jackpot mode is a display mode that indicates that the gaming state shifts to a specific gaming state that is advantageous to the player as compared with the normal gaming state (that is, that “hit” is won).

  In addition, the stop modes other than the big hit mode described above are referred to as an off-stop mode.

  The decorative symbol variation display is performed in conjunction with the special symbol variation display described above. Therefore, when the display mode indicating that the special symbol stop mode shifts to the specific game state (that is, the specific mode), the display mode indicating that the decorative symbol stop mode also shifts to the specific game state. (That is, a big hit mode).

  Here, the jackpot mode for allowing the player to recognize that the game state shifts to the specific gaming state is a normal mode that is a display mode that indicates that the player has won the normal jackpot, and a display mode that indicates that the player has won the probability variation jackpot. It is divided into certain variations.

  In addition, the probability variation mode refers to a case where an odd number such as “7” or “3” is the stop mode, while the non-probability variation mode is an even number such as “2” or “6”. When it becomes.

  When the special symbol stop mode becomes a probability variation big hit mode (that is, when the probability variation big hit), the special symbol stop mode in the special symbol display 24 is highly likely to become a specific mode after the end of the specific gaming state. Transition to the probability variation state. On the other hand, when the stop mode of the special symbol becomes the normal big hit mode (that is, the normal big hit mode), after the specific game state is ended, the normal game state is entered.

  Further, the specific game state advantageous to the player is, for example, a series of opening / closing operations (hereinafter referred to as a specific game) until a big prize device solenoid 72S, which will be described later, changes from the open state to the closed state with respect to the big prize device 15. A series of opening / closing operations of the big winning device 15 in the state is referred to as “round operation”), which is a gaming state that makes it easier to win more game balls than in the normal gaming state.

  Here, the variation display of the decorative symbol is performed in conjunction with the above-described variation display of the special symbol. Therefore, if the display mode (that is, a specific mode) for allowing the player to recognize that the special symbol stop mode has been won is a big game, the decorative symbol stop mode also shifts to the specific game state. Is a display mode (i.e., a big hit mode) for allowing the player to recognize.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, when the probability variation big hit is obtained, the special symbol display 24 displays the probability variation big hit mode, while the liquid crystal display device 21 displays the probability variation mode. When the normal big hit is achieved, the special symbol display 24 displays the normal big hit mode, while the display mode 21a of the liquid crystal display device 21 displays the normal mode.

  In the present embodiment, the number of start memories stored in the start storage area (“1” to “4”) and the number of pass memories stored in the pass storage areas (“1” to “4”) are as follows. These are displayed on the special symbol start memory display 22 and the normal symbol passage storage display 23, respectively, but are not limited thereto, and may be displayed on other display media. For example, it may be displayed in the display area 21a.

  Next, the configuration of the back side of the main body frame 3a in the gaming machine 1a will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the back side of the main body frame 3a.

  On the back side of the main body frame 3a in FIG. 4, the right side is the hinge side (the side that is supported by the outer frame 3b through the hinge so as to be opened and closed, that is, the side that is supported as the pivot fulcrum). Yes, the left side is the open / close end side. When the inside of the gaming machine is opened, it is opened from the open / close end side.

  Further, as shown in the figure, on the back surface of the main body frame 3a, various electronic components for realizing the operation of the gaming machine 1a, a substrate on which electronic components and the like are mounted are mounted.

  For example, a main control board case 100 for holding a main control board (not shown) is provided at the center of the back surface of the main body frame 3a, and a frame relay board (not shown) is provided on the right side slightly above the center of the back surface of the main body frame 3a. A frame relay board case 130 is mounted on the left side slightly below the center of the back face of the main body frame 3a, and a power board case 150 holding a power board (not shown) is slightly below the center of the back face of the main body frame 3a. On the lower right side, a payout board case 170 for holding a payout control board (not shown) is mounted.

  Here, the main control board is a board on which a main control circuit 200 (FIG. 5) for controlling the progress of the game of the gaming machine 1a is mounted. The frame relay board is a board that takes in AC power and relays signals between boards. The power supply board is a board that generates a power supply having a voltage necessary for each electronic component to operate. Further, the payout control board is a board that drives and controls the payout device 82 (FIG. 5) that pays out a prize ball, a rental ball, and the like from the first discharge port 55.

  A storage tank 350 for storing game balls is disposed on the upper back of the main body frame 3a. Furthermore, wirings (not shown) for electrically connecting the substrates on which the electronic components are mounted extend at various locations on the back surface of the main body frame 3a.

  A sub control board case 50 is mounted on the left side slightly above the center of the back surface of the main body frame 3a, that is, above the main control board case 100. In the sub control board case 50, a sub control board (not shown) on which a sub control circuit 300 (FIG. 5) for executing predetermined control based on a control signal received from the main control circuit 200 in the main control board is mounted. Is stored.

  In the present embodiment, the sub-control circuit 300 controls image display in the display area 21a of the liquid crystal display device 21, lamps / LEDs (not shown) arranged at various locations in the gaming machine 1a, and the like. Light emission display control and sound output control from the speakers 8a and 8b are performed.

  Further, in FIG. 4, on the right side of the storage tank 350 in the drawing, control information (excess control information command including excess control information, etc.) in the main CPU (game control means) 201 is externally provided (for example, the host computer 800, the calling device 700). An external connection board 180 on which an external connection circuit 181 (FIG. 5), which is output means for outputting to (1), is mounted.

  The back side of the main body frame 3a has such a configuration, but the mounting position of the main control board or the like on which these electronic components such as a CPU are mounted is merely an example, and is mounted on the gaming machine of the present invention. Electronic parts, substrates, and the like are not limited to those listed. That is, as the electronic components, various components such as solenoids that operate upon receiving power supply can be applied, and the main control board is included in the sub control board case 50. Various modes can be considered as the configuration.

  Next, the weighing device 600 disposed below the lower plate 5b will be described.

  The weighing device 600 has a flat mounting surface 601 on the upper surface, and is a device capable of measuring the weight of the dollar box 410 mounted on the mounting surface 601 (see FIG. 1 and FIG. 1). (See FIG. 3).

  Here, the weighing device 600 is a device that performs weighing by taking out an electronic signal by changing a change in the weight of the dollar box 410 placed on the placement surface 601 into a change in the gap of the electrode plate of the capacitor. Yes (that is, a device that performs weighing using a capacitive method). However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the weighing device 600 may be a device that performs weighing using other methods such as a string vibration method, a magnetostriction method, and a gyro method.

  That is, in the gaming system 1 of the present embodiment, the dollar box 410 that accommodates the gaming ball 400 discharged from the ball punching hole 5ba of the gaming machine 1a is measured by the weighing device 600.

  Here, the weighing device 600 can receive an excess weight setting signal indicating a predetermined weight from the host computer 800.

  The excess weight setting signal is a signal indicating a predetermined weight. When the excess weight setting signal is transmitted to the weighing device 600, the weighing device 600 sets the value indicated by the excess weight setting signal as an excess value, and when the set excess value is measured, the gaming machine An overweight signal is transmitted to the main CPU (game control means) 201 in 1a.

  That is, in this embodiment, when the weight of the dollar box 410 arranged on the placement surface 601 reaches the above excess value, an overweight signal is transmitted to the gaming machine 1a.

  Here, the main CPU (game control means) 201 of the gaming machine 1a sets excess control information indicating that the dollar box 410 is overweight when receiving the overweight signal in a specific gaming state described later. Then, an excess control information command including the excess control information is generated. Then, an external connection circuit (output means) 181 (FIG. 5), which will be described later, in the gaming machine 1a outputs an excess control information command generated by the game control means to the calling device 700.

  Next, the calling device 700 disposed above the gaming machine 1a will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the calling device 700 is formed to extend in the width direction, and is provided below the calling lamp 701 for informing predetermined information by blinking display, and the gaming machine 1a. Has a liquid crystal display unit 702 that can display the number of occurrences of big hits and other notification information, and speakers 703a and 703b that are provided on both sides of the liquid crystal display unit 702 and notify predetermined information by voice.

  When the calling device 700 receives an excess control information command including excess control information from the external connection circuit (output unit) 181 of the gaming machine 1a, the calling device 700 blinks and displays the call lamp 701 according to the excess control information command. It is like that.

  That is, according to the present embodiment, when the weight of the dollar box 410 containing the game ball 400 reaches the excess value, the excess control information command including the excess control information indicating that is sent to the external connection of the gaming machine 1a. The call device 700 that is output from the circuit 181 to the call device 700 and receives the command causes the call lamp 701 to blink in accordance with the excess control information included in the excess control information command.

  In this embodiment, if the weight when the gaming ball 400 is full in the dollar box 410 is set as an excess value, the weight of the dollar box 410 reaches the excess value (that is, When the game ball 400 is accumulated in the dollar box 410 so as to be exchanged), the calling lamp 701 can be automatically blinked.

  According to this, when the exchange of the dollar box 410 becomes necessary, the player who is standing by at a remote position can exchange the dollar box 410 without performing an operation such as operating the call switch by himself / herself. Since it can be notified by calling the call lamp 701 that it is necessary, it is possible to reduce the troublesomeness of the player when calling the staff.

  Here, the calling lamp 701 is preferably an LED, but is not limited thereto, and may be any member that can emit light.

  The liquid crystal display unit 702 in the calling device 700 is a display device using a liquid crystal panel, but instead of this, for example, a CRT (cathode ray tube) or a plasma display can be used.

  Next, a control system of the gaming system 1 shown in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a control system of the gaming system shown in FIG.

  The control system of the weighing device 600 has a weighing circuit 602. The weighing circuit 602 includes a CPU 603 for weighing the dollar box 410 placed on the placement surface 601 according to a preset program, and the CPU 603. A RAM 605 for storing various data necessary for operation is mounted.

  The RAM 605 has an excess value indicating a predetermined weight. The excess value is set according to an excess weight setting signal transmitted from the host computer 800.

  Further, the weighing circuit 602 is mounted with a ROM 604 that stores a program and the like for the CPU 603 to control the weighing process of the dollar box 410.

  The CPU 603 has functions of setting means and transmission means.

  The setting means is means for setting an excess value in accordance with an excess weight setting signal transmitted from the host computer 800.

  For example, when the excess weight setting signal transmitted from the host computer 800 indicates 11015 g, the setting means sets “11015 g” as the excess value.

  The transmission means is means for transmitting an overweight signal to the main CPU (game control means) 201 of the gaming machine 1a via the input / output port 606 when a predetermined weight (excess value) set in advance is measured. is there.

  Thereby, it is possible to notify the gaming machine 1a that the weight of the dollar box 410 placed on the placement surface 601 has reached the excess value.

  In the present embodiment, when the value measured by the CPU 603 reaches the above excess value, the weight of the dollar box 410 arranged on the placement surface 601 with respect to the main CPU (game control means) 201 in the gaming machine 1a. An overweight signal is transmitted to indicate that is exceeded.

  Here, in the present embodiment, it is desirable that a value equal to the weight when the gaming ball 400 is full in the dollar box 410 is set as the excess value (for example, the weight of the gaming ball 400 is When the weight of 5.5 g, the dollar box 410 is 15 g, and the maximum capacity of the dollar box 410 is 2000 gaming balls, the excess value may be 11015 g (5.5 g × 2000 pieces + 15 g = 111515 g). desirable).

  The control system of the gaming machine 1a in the gaming system 1 is connected to the main control circuit 200 mounted on the main control board (not shown), and is connected to the main control circuit 200 and mounted on the sub control board (not shown). A sub-control circuit 300, a pay-out control circuit 70a mounted on a pay-out control board (not shown), an external connection circuit (output means) 181 mounted on the external connection board 180, and a launch control circuit 70b. is doing.

  A card unit 81 is connected to the payout control circuit 70a of the pachinko gaming machine 1a.

  The card unit 81 is installed in the vicinity of the pachinko gaming machine 1a, has a slot into which a prepaid card can be inserted, and reads the recorded information recorded on the prepaid card inserted into the slot. Means, a lending command signal output means for outputting a lending command signal for instructing lending of game balls to the payout control circuit 70a in accordance with an operation of the ball lending operation panel 9 (FIG. 5), and a record read by the reading means Write means for subtracting the number of loans instructed to lend by the lending command signal output means from the available lending number specified from the information and recording the information on the prepaid card inserted in the insertion port .

  The main control circuit 200 has a main CPU (microcomputing processing device) 201 that controls the progress of the game of the pachinko gaming machine 1a according to a preset program, and returns various settings to initial values when an abnormality occurs or when the power is turned on. An initial reset circuit 204 that generates a reset signal, a lamp control circuit 207 that controls display of LEDs and the like, and a main RAM 203 that stores various data necessary for the operation of the main CPU 201 are mounted.

  Further, the main control circuit 200 refers to a program for the main CPU 201 to process and control the gaming operation of the gaming machine 1a, a big hit lottery table that is referred to when a big hit lottery is performed, and a normal lottery by random lottery. The normal winning lottery table, the variable display pattern determination table that is referred to when determining the variable display pattern of the decorative symbol by random number lottery, and various probability tables that are referred to when other effects are selected are stored. A main ROM 202 is mounted.

  The main RAM 203 is stored in a start storage counter for counting start memories stored in a start storage area (“0” to “4”), which will be described later, and a passage storage area (“0” to “4”), which will be described later. A passing memory counter for counting the passing memory, a big winning device winning counter for storing the number of game balls won in the big winning device 15 during one round operation, and a large in one specific gaming state A large winning device opening number counter for storing the number of times the winning device 15 is opened (that is, the number of round operations in one specific gaming state) is provided.

  Note that one round operation means that a predetermined number of times (for example, 30 seconds) after the grand prize-winning device 15 is in an open state or a predetermined number ( For example, it is a period from when ten (10) game balls are won to the grand prize winning device 15 until the game ball is closed.

  Here, the main RAM 203 has start storage areas (“0” to “4”).

  The start storage area is an area where the above-described start storage is stored in order from the start storage area “0”. Also, the random number value for big hit lottery stored in the start memory area (“1” to “4”) corresponds to the start memory displayed on the special symbol start memory display 22 and the start memory area “0”. The jackpot lottery random number value stored in is used for the jackpot lottery process.

  Further, the main RAM 203 has (“0” to “4”) passing storage areas.

  The passing storage area is an area in which the normal lottery random numbers extracted on condition that the game ball has passed through the passing gate 13 are sequentially stored from the passing storage area “0”. The random numbers for normal winning lottery stored in the passage storage area (“1” to “4”) correspond to the passage storage displayed on the normal symbol passage storage display 23, and the passage storage area “0”. The random value for lottery per ordinary memorized in “” is used for the lottery per ordinary.

  The main RAM 203 includes a high probability flag. Here, the high probability flag is set to a value (77) indicating the probability variation state when the gaming state is shifted to the probability variation state, while the gaming state is a non-probability variation state (game state other than the probability variation state). When shifted to, a value (00) indicating a non-probability variation state is set.

  Further, the main RAM 203 has a game state flag. Here, the gaming state flag is set to a value (07) indicating the specific gaming state when the gaming state is shifted to the specific gaming state, while the gaming state is a non-specific gaming state (a gaming state other than the specific gaming state). When shifted to, a value (00) indicating a non-specific gaming state is set.

  The main CPU 201 has the functions of a jackpot lottery means, a game control means, a special symbol mode determination means, and a command transmission means.

  The big hit lottery means is a means for performing a big hit lottery when a predetermined condition is satisfied (when a game ball wins the start winning device 18).

  For example, when a game ball wins the start winning device 18, the big hit lottery means executes a big hit lottery based on the random number value for the big hit lottery extracted by the random number lottery.

  Here, when the big win is won by the lottery lottery means, a special mode is displayed on the special symbol display 24 and the big win mode is stopped and displayed on the decorative symbol display area of the liquid crystal display device 21, respectively. The specific gaming state is controlled by the control means.

  As described above, there are two types of jackpots, the normal jackpot and the probability variation jackpot. If the probability variation jackpot, it is easy to derive a specific mode or jackpot mode after the end of a specific gaming state. Control of the probability variation state is performed.

  The game control means wins the big win by lottery by the big win lottery means, and when the big win mode is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 24, the game control means shifts to the specific game state advantageous to the player and the specific A means for controlling the gaming state.

  Here, the control of the specific game state by the game control means is continued until a series of round operations from when the special winning device 15 is opened to when it is switched to the closed state are performed a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 times).

  Further, the game control means is means for controlling the normal game state and the probability variation state. The game control means is means for setting excess control information indicating that the dollar box 410 is overweight when receiving an overweight signal from the weighing device 600 during control of the specific gaming state.

  Here, when the excess control information is set, the game control means generates an excess control information command including the excess control information, and outputs the generated excess control information command to the external connection circuit 181. It has become.

  The special symbol mode determining unit is a unit that determines a stop mode of the special symbol.

  Specifically, the special symbol mode determination means determines the stop mode of the special symbol in the special symbol display 24 based on the jackpot lottery result of the determination unit. Moreover, when the special symbol mode determining means determines the stop mode of the special symbol, the special symbol mode determining unit generates and sets a stop symbol command indicating the stop mode.

  Furthermore, the special symbol mode determining means is a means for determining the variable display pattern and the variable display time of the special symbol.

  Specifically, the special symbol mode determining means determines a variable display pattern command indicating a variable symbol display pattern and a variable display time based on the jackpot lottery result of the jackpot lottery means and a predetermined random number lottery. . Thereby, the variation display pattern and variation display time of the special symbol are determined. Further, the special symbol mode determining means generates and sets the determined variation display pattern command.

  Note that the main CPU 201, which is a game control means, displays the fluctuation display pattern and stop mode on the special symbol display 24 when the special symbol mode determination unit determines the change display pattern and stop mode of the special symbol. The lamp control circuit 207 is controlled.

  Programs for realizing the functions of the respective means described above are stored in the main ROM 202, and the main CPU 201 loads these programs from the main ROM 202 and updates and stores the calculation results in the main RAM 203 for execution. The functions of the respective means described above are realized. Of course, each of the above-described means may be configured by dedicated hardware.

  Further, the main CPU 201 as a command transmission means transmits various generated commands (variable display pattern command, stop symbol command, etc.) to the sub CPU 301 of the sub control circuit 300, thereby executing the effects in the game. .

  In this embodiment, based on the above various commands (variable display pattern command, stop symbol command, etc.), a display effect by the liquid crystal display device 21 or the like, a sound effect by a sound generating means such as a speaker, and a lamp or An effect of light by a light emitting means such as an LED is performed.

  An I / O port (not shown) of the main control circuit 200 is provided inside the passing gate 13 and provided in the passing gate switch 19Sa, which is a sensor for detecting the passing of the game ball, and the start winning device 18. The start winning device switch 19a, which is a sensor for detecting a game ball won in the start winning device 18, is connected.

  In addition, the I / O port is provided in a passing area in the big winning device 15 and is a sensor that detects a gaming ball that passes through the passing area, and a game ball that has won the general winning device 12 Are connected to a general winning device switch 19Sb which is a sensor for detecting the event and a backup clear switch 74S for erasing various data stored in the main RAM 203.

  Further, the following components are connected to the I / O port. That is, actuators such as a movable member solenoid 71S for driving the variable wings 18a and 18b of the start winning device 18 and a large winning device solenoid 72S for opening and closing the door 15a of the large winning device 15 are connected.

  Here, when each of the sensors detects a game ball, the detection signal is input to the main CPU 201 of the main control circuit 200. Therefore, the main CPU 201 determines that each of the actuators 71S and 72S corresponds to the input detection signal. Are driven and controlled.

  Control commands (commands) are transmitted from the command output port 206 of the main control circuit 200 to the sub control circuit 300, the payout control circuit 70a, and the launch control circuit 70b, respectively.

  The sub CPU 301 of the sub control circuit 300 that has received this control command (command) controls the operation of the liquid crystal display device 21, the speakers 8a and 8b, and the decorative lamp 39a, and the payout control circuit that has received this control command (command). The operations of the dispensing device 82 and the launching device 90 are controlled by the firing control circuit 70b.

  The external connection circuit 181 that is an output means is electrically connected to the calling device 700 and the host computer 800, and performs control to output the excess control information command output from the game control means to the calling device 700. .

  The payout control circuit 70a is connected to a payout device 82 for paying out award balls and rental balls. The payout control circuit 70a controls the payout device 82 in response to a payout command signal output from the main control circuit 200 on condition that a game ball has entered the general winning device 12, the start winning device 18, the big winning device 15, and the like. Drive control. As a result, a predetermined number of game balls are paid out from the first outlet 55 as prize balls. In addition, the payout control circuit 70a controls the payout device 82 in response to the payout command signal output from the card unit 81, thereby paying out a predetermined number of game balls from the first outlet 55 as loaned balls. Yes.

  A launch device 90 that launches a game ball toward the game area 2a is connected to the launch control circuit 70b. In addition, the launch control circuit 70 b causes the launch device 90 to launch a game ball by drivingly controlling the launch solenoid in accordance with the turning operation of the handle 7.

  Further, the lamp control circuit 207 is electrically connected to LEDs such as the special symbol display 24, the normal symbol displays 25a and 25b, the normal symbol passage storage display 23, and the special symbol start storage display 22. The lamp control circuit 207 performs display control of the LED based on the control of the main CPU 201.

  Next, the configuration of the sub control circuit 300 will be described. The sub control circuit 300 includes a sub CPU 301, a program ROM 302, a work RAM 303, a command input port (not shown), an image control circuit 305, an audio control circuit 306, and a lamp control circuit 307.

  The program ROM 302 has a control program (effect data) for the sub CPU 301 to process control the image control circuit 305 based on various commands output from the main control circuit 200 and a control for process control of the audio control circuit 306. A program, a control program for controlling the process of the lamp control circuit 307, data on a plurality of types of notification modes, and the like are stored.

  The work RAM 303 serves as a temporary storage unit when the sub CPU 301 performs processing control according to the control program, and includes a reception buffer area (not shown) for storing commands transmitted from the main CPU 201, and processing. A work area (not shown) for storing data necessary for control is allocated.

  The sub CPU 301 draws a command received from the main control circuit 200 via the command input port, and controls the image control circuit 305, the audio control circuit 306, the lamp control circuit 307, and the like according to the lottery result.

  The sub CPU 301 has a function of display control means.

  The display control means is means for performing display control of the liquid crystal display device 21.

  For example, when a variable display pattern command is transmitted from the main CPU 201 which is a command transmission unit, the display control unit performs instruction control on the image control circuit 305 to thereby display a decorative pattern corresponding to the variable display pattern command. Display control of the other, display control of other effect images, and the like. Further, after the decorative symbol change display, the image control circuit 305 is instructed to stop and display the decorative symbol in accordance with the stop mode indicated by the stop symbol command transmitted from the main CPU 201. . In this case, in the decorative symbol display area of the liquid crystal display device 21, after the decorative symbol variable display according to the variable display pattern command is performed, the stop mode corresponding to the stop mode indicated by the stop symbol command is stopped and displayed. .

  The image control circuit 305 executes display such as variable display of decorative symbols in the display area 21a in response to an instruction from the sub CPU 301 (instruction based on effect data set in a predetermined work area of the work RAM 303). The image data ROM 305b for storing various image data and the corresponding image data are extracted from the image data ROM 305b in accordance with the control from the sub CPU 301, and the decorative pattern change display and effects are performed based on the extracted image data. A VDP (Video Display Processor) 305a that generates data for executing image display and the like, and a D / A conversion circuit (D / A converter) 305d that converts display image data generated by the VDP 305a into an analog signal. It has.

  The image data ROM 305b stores image data for causing the liquid crystal display device 21 to display an image. Each image data includes a plurality of pixel data (data in dot units) necessary to display each image data in the display area 21a.

  Here, a VRAM 305c having two buffer areas is connected to the VDP 305a. The VDP 305a performs the following processing when generating data for executing display in the display area 21a based on an instruction from the sub CPU 301 transmitted every predetermined time (for example, 1/30 second). The VDP 305a reads predetermined image data from the image data ROM 305b, develops it to the VRAM 305c, and reads the decompressed image data from the VRAM 305c. Specifically, the VDP 305a performs expansion processing on one buffer area provided in the VRAM 305c, and reads image data that has already been expanded from the other buffer area. Next, the VDP 305 a switches between a buffer area to be expanded and a buffer area to be read based on an instruction from the sub CPU 301. The VDP 305a displays the read image data on the display area 21a via the D / A conversion circuit 305d.

  In this embodiment, a VRAM is used as a storage device for developing image data. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and other storage devices may be used. For example, an SDRAM that can read and write data at high speed may be used.

  Speakers 8 a and 8 b are connected to the audio control circuit 306. The sound control circuit 306 generates a sound signal based on the control of the sub CPU 301. The speakers 8a and 8b generate sound based on the input sound signal.

  The lamp control circuit 307 is connected to a decoration lamp 39a (the decoration lamp is a general term for lamps, LEDs, and the like provided in various places of the gaming machine 1a). The lamp control circuit 307 generates a signal based on the control of the sub CPU 301. The decorative lamp 39a performs lighting display or the like based on the input signal.

  As described above, the speakers 8a and 8b, the decoration lamp 39a, and the liquid crystal display device 21 perform an effect based on the effect data set (control program) by the sub CPU 301.

  Each process in the gaming machine 1a is controlled by the main control circuit 200 and the sub control circuit 300, but the main control circuit 200 processes all or part of the processes controlled by the sub control circuit 300. Alternatively, the sub control circuit 300 may process all or part of the processing controlled by the main control circuit 200.

  Next, a processing procedure by the weighing circuit 602 of the weighing apparatus 600 in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a system timer interrupt processing procedure executed so as to interrupt a main process (not shown) at a predetermined cycle (for example, 2 msec).

  In step S400, the CPU 603 saves the information stored in the register.

  In step S410, the CPU 603 performs a process of updating the time managed by the weighing device 600.

  In step S420, the CPU 603 executes an input detection process (see FIG. 7), which will be described later in detail. In this step, processing for detecting an excess weight setting signal or the like transmitted from the host computer 800 is performed.

  In step S425, the CPU 603 executes dollar box weighing processing (see FIG. 8), which will be described later in detail. In this step, processing for measuring the weight of the dollar box 410 placed on the placement surface 601 is performed.

  In step S430, the CPU 603 serving as a transmission unit transmits the excess weight signal generated in step S425-2, which will be described later, to the main CPU (game control unit) 201 of the gaming machine 1a via the input / output port 606.

  In step S440, the CPU 603 restores the information saved in step S400 to the register.

  Next, the input detection process in step S420 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of input detection processing by the weighing circuit 602 of the weighing device 600.

  In step S420-1, the CPU 603 confirms whether or not an excess weight setting signal is transmitted from the host computer 800. Then, when the excess weight setting signal is transmitted, the CPU 603 proceeds to the process of step S420-2 in order to set the excess value according to the signal. On the other hand, if the excess weight setting signal is not transmitted, the input detection process is terminated.

  In step S420-2, the CPU 603, which is a setting unit, performs processing for setting an excess value stored in the RAM 605 in accordance with the transmitted excess weight setting signal.

  For example, if the weight indicated by the transmitted excess weight setting signal is “11015 g”, the CPU 603 sets the excess value to 11015 g.

  Next, the dollar box weighing process in step S425 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of dollar box weighing processing by the weighing circuit 602 of the weighing device 600.

  In step S425-1, the CPU 603 obtains the weight value indicated by the electronic signal taken out in response to the weight of the dollar box 410 placed on the placement surface 601 and the excess value stored in the RAM 605. Compare (that is, compare the weight of the dollar box 410 placed on the placement surface 601 with the excess value). When the weight value is equal to or greater than the excess value, the CPU 603 generates an overweight signal indicating that the weight of the dollar box 410 disposed on the placement surface 601 has reached the excess value. Therefore, the process proceeds to step S425-2 (for example, when the excess value is 11015 g, the process proceeds to step S425-2 when the weight value is 11015 g or more). On the other hand, if the weight value is smaller than the excess value, the dollar box weighing process is terminated.

  In step S425-2, the CPU 603 generates and sets an overweight signal indicating that the weight of the dollar box 410 placed on the placement surface 601 has reached the excess value.

  Note that the overweight signal set in this step is transmitted to the main CPU (game control means) 201 of the gaming machine 1a in step S430 (FIG. 6).

  Next, a processing procedure by the main control circuit 200 of the gaming machine 1a according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 9A is a flowchart showing a system timer interrupt processing procedure executed so as to interrupt the main process at a predetermined cycle (for example, 2 msec), and FIG. 9B shows the present embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the main process sequence of the game machine 1a which concerns on.

  First, the system timer interrupt process will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S100, the main CPU 201 saves the information stored in the register.

  In step S110, the main CPU 201 updates values such as a jackpot lottery random number value, a jackpot symbol determining random number value, a regular hit lottery random value.

  In step S120, the main CPU 201 executes switch input detection processing (see FIG. 10), which will be described later in detail. In this step, processing for detecting an overweight signal or the like input from the weighing device 600 is performed.

  In step S130, the main CPU 201 sets the remaining variation display time of the special symbols and decoration symbols that are variably displayed, the remaining opening time of the start winning device 18 in an open state in which the game balls are easily received, and the open state in which the game balls are easily received. The remaining opening time of the door 15a of a certain prize winning device 15 is updated.

  In step S <b> 140, the main CPU 201 outputs game information such as execution of decorative symbol variation display and occurrence of jackpot to the external connection circuit 181. In this case, the output game information is output to the calling device 700 and the host computer 800 by the external connection circuit 181.

  For example, when an excess control information command is set in step S124-3, the main CPU 201, which is a game control means, outputs the excess control information command to the external connection circuit 181. The output excess control information command is output to the calling device 700 by the external connection circuit 181 as output means.

  Here, in this embodiment, when the excess control information command is output to the calling device 700, the calling lamp (display unit) 701 in the calling device 700 blinks.

  In step S150, the main CPU 201 drives and controls solenoids such as the movable member solenoid 71S and the big prize device solenoid 72S.

  In step S <b> 160, the main CPU 201 which is a command transmission unit outputs a stop symbol command, a variable display pattern command, a standby state command, other commands, and the like to the sub-control circuit 300.

  In step S170, the main CPU 201 causes the lamp control circuit 207 to display the number of start memories stored in the start storage area ("1" to "4") of the main RAM 203 on the special symbol start storage display 22. Control.

  For example, when two start memories are stored in the start memory area (“1” to “4”), two of the four special symbol start memory indicators 22 are lit.

  Further, the main CPU 201 controls the lamp control circuit 207 in order to display the number of passage memories stored in the passage storage areas (“1” to “4”) of the main RAM 203 on the normal symbol passage storage display 23. .

  Further, the main CPU 201 which is a game control means, when a special symbol variation display pattern or stop mode is determined in a special symbol storage check process (FIG. 13) described later, the variable display pattern or stop mode is displayed as the special symbol. The lamp control circuit 207 is controlled for display on the display 24. As a result, the special symbol on the special symbol display 24 is variably displayed based on the variation display pattern determined by the special symbol memory check process, and is stopped in the stop mode determined by the process.

  Further, when the normal symbol blinking display pattern or stop mode is selected in step S30 described later, the main CPU 201 performs lamp control to display the blinking display pattern or stop mode on the normal symbol displays 25a and 25b. The circuit 207 is controlled. As a result, the normal symbols on the normal symbol displays 25a and 25b are blinked on the basis of the blinking display pattern selected in step S30, and then stopped in the stop mode selected in the same step.

  Further, the main CPU 201 outputs a control command for instructing to display an error such as a ball breakage or a full lower pan on a predetermined lamp, and other necessary control commands to the sub-control circuit 300.

  In step S180, the main CPU 201 pays out a predetermined game ball as a winning ball in accordance with the type of winning device into which the game ball has entered (general winning device 12, large winning device 15, starting winning device 18, etc.). A control command such as a payout command signal is sent to the payout control circuit 70a.

  In step S190, the main CPU 201 restores the information saved in step S100 to the register.

  Next, main processing by the main control circuit 200 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S10, the main CPU 201 restores or initializes various settings in the gaming machine 1a to the setting contents when the power supply was previously turned off.

  In step S20, the main CPU 201 executes a special symbol control process (see FIG. 12) which will be described later in detail.

  In step S30, the main CPU 201 executes each process related to the normal symbol. Specifically, the main CPU 201 performs a normal winning lottery based on a random number for normal winning lottery extracted on condition that the game ball has passed through the passing gate 13, and based on the result of the normal winning lottery, The normal symbol blinking display pattern in the normal symbol displays 25a and 25b is selected. Then, after the normal symbol indicators 25a and 25b blink according to the blinking display pattern, “winning” is displayed on the normal symbol indicators 25a and 25 (that is, when the normal winning lottery is a win). The main CPU 201 controls the opening of the start winning device 18, subtracts "1" from the passing memory counter, and passes the data stored in the passing memory areas ("1" to "4"), respectively. Shift to storage area (“0” to “3”).

  In step S40, the main CPU 201 updates values such as random numbers used in the main process.

  The main CPU 201 repeats the processes from step S20 to step S40 described above.

  Next, the switch input detection process in step S120 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the switch input detection process according to this embodiment.

  In step S121, the main CPU 201 detects signals input from the start winning device switch 19a, the big winning device switch 19Se, the general winning device switch 19Sb, the passing gate switch 19Sa, the weighing device 600, and the like through the I / O port. .

  In step S122, the main CPU 201 executes the following process (1) or (2) according to the content of the detection signal detected in step S121.

  (1) When the main CPU 201 detects a detection signal from the big winning device switch 19Se in step S121, the main CPU 201 adds “1” to the value of the big winning device winning counter.

  (2) When the main CPU 201 detects a detection signal from the start winning device switch 19a provided in the start winning device 18 in step S121, the main CPU 201 checks the value of the start storage counter. When the value of the start memory counter is, for example, 4 or less, “1” is added to the value of the start memory counter, and the random number lottery random number value and the big hit symbol determination random number value are extracted. The jackpot lottery random number value and the jackpot symbol determining random number value are stored as starting memories in a free area of the starting storage area ("0" to "4") of the main RAM 203.

  In step S123, the main CPU 201 performs normal symbol related switch check processing. Hereinafter, the normal symbol related switch check process will be described in detail.

  When the main CPU 201 detects the detection signal output from the pass gate switch 19Sa in step S121, the main CPU 201 checks the value of the pass memory counter. When the value of the passing memory counter is 4 or less, for example, “1” is added to the value of the passing memory counter, and a random number for random lottery is extracted by random lottery. The numerical value is stored as a passing storage in a free area of the passing storage area (“0” to “4”) of the main RAM 203.

  When the value of the passing memory counter is 0, the normal symbol indicators 25a and 25b are not blinking the normal symbol and the number of passing memories is zero. When the value of the passage memory counter is 1, the normal symbol display is performed on the normal symbol indicators 25a and 25b, and the number of passage memories is zero. When the counter value is 5, the normal symbol blinks and the fact that the number of passing memories is 4 is displayed on the normal symbol passing memory display 23 ( In other words, the normal symbol passing memory display 23 displays a value obtained by subtracting “1” from the passing memory counter).

  Next, the dollar box weight check process in step S124 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of dollar box weight check processing according to the present embodiment.

  In step S124-1, the main CPU 201 confirms whether or not an overweight signal, which is a signal input from the weighing device 600, is detected in step S121 (FIG. 10). When the main CPU 201 detects an excess weight signal, the main CPU 201 sets excess control information indicating that the dollar box 410 placed on the placement surface 601 of the weighing device 600 has exceeded the weight. The process proceeds to step S124-2. On the other hand, if the overweight signal is not detected, the dollar box weight check process is terminated.

  In step S124-2, the main CPU 201 confirms whether or not the value (07) indicating the specific gaming state is set in the gaming state flag (that is, whether or not the specific gaming state is in progress). As a result, when the value (07) indicating the specific gaming state is set in the gaming state flag (that is, in the specific gaming state), in order to continue the process of setting excess control information, step S124- On the other hand, if the value (07) indicating the specific gaming state is not set in the gaming state flag (that is, not in the specific gaming state), the processing for setting the excess control information is stopped. Therefore, the dollar box weight check process is terminated.

  In step S124-3, the main CPU 201, which is the game control means, sets excess control information indicating that the dollar box 410 placed on the placement surface 601 of the weighing device 600 has exceeded the weight, and An excess control information command including the excess control information is generated and set.

  The excess control information command set in this step is output to the calling device 700 in step S140 (FIG. 9).

  Here, in the present embodiment, when an excess control information command is transmitted to the calling device 700, the calling lamp (display unit) 701 in the calling device 700 blinks.

  Then, the blinking display notifies a staff member standing by at a distant position that the weight of the dollar box 410 placed on the weighing device 600 has been exceeded.

  That is, according to the present embodiment, when the weight of the dollar box 410 is exceeded (that is, when the dollar box 410 needs to be replaced), the player does not perform an operation such as operating the call switch himself. In both cases, the information indicating that can be called and called to a staff member standing by at a remote location, so that the troublesomeness of the player when calling the staff member can be reduced.

  Next, the special symbol control process in step S20 will be described with reference to FIG. In addition, FIG. 12 is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of the special symbol control process based on this Embodiment.

  In step S20-1, the main CPU 201 executes a process of loading a control state flag. The control state flag is a flag indicating a game state in the special symbol game. The main CPU 201 determines whether or not to execute each process in step S20-2 to step S20-10 based on this control state flag.

  In step S20-2, the main CPU 201 performs a special symbol storage check process (see FIG. 13) described later for details. Here, a big hit lottery process is mainly performed. Then, according to the result of the lottery process, a special symbol stop mode, a variable display pattern, a variable display time, and the like are determined.

  In step S20-3, the main CPU 201 determines that the control state flag is a value (01) indicating special symbol variation display time management and the value of the waiting time timer in which the variation display time is set is “0”. In order to end the variation display of the special symbol, a value (02) indicating special symbol display time management is set in the control state flag, and a waiting time after determination (for example, 1 second) is set in the waiting time timer. When the variable display time is over, the special symbol stop mode determined in step S20-2 is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 24.

  In step S20-4, the main CPU 201 performs a special symbol display time management process (see FIG. 14), which will be described later in detail. Here, management of the remaining display time of the special symbols and decorative symbols that are stopped and displayed, processing for starting a specific gaming state, and the like are mainly performed.

  In step S20-5, the main CPU 201 sets the control state flag to a value (03) indicating the jackpot start interval management, and the value of the waiting time timer in which the time corresponding to the jackpot start interval is set is “0”. Whether or not the condition is satisfied, the step is terminated.

  If the above condition is satisfied, the main CPU 201 adds “1” to the winning device opening number counter in the step and controls the winning device solenoid 72S to open the door 15a of the winning device 15. To do. As a result, the control of the round operation in which the winning device 15 is in an open state in which it is easy to accept the game ball is started, and the game ball can pass through the passing area.

  Next, the main CPU 201 sets a value (04) indicating that the winning device is open to the control state flag, and sets an opening upper limit time (for example, 30 seconds) to the winning device opening time timer.

  In step S20-6, the main CPU 201 confirms whether or not a value (04) indicating that the big winning device is open is set in the control state flag, and a value (04) indicating that the big winning device is open is set. If not, the step ends. On the other hand, when the value (04) indicating that the big winning device is open is set, the condition that the value of the big winning device time timer in which the upper limit for opening is set next is “0”, or the big winning device It is checked in step 15 whether any of the conditions that 10 or more game balls have entered is satisfied. When one of the two conditions is satisfied, the main CPU 201 controls the big winning device solenoid 72S so as to close the door 15a of the big winning device 15. As a result, the special winning device 15 is closed and the round operation is completed.

  In addition, the main CPU 201 sets a value (05) indicating monitoring of the winning ball in the winning device in the control step flag in the step, and sets the remaining winning ball monitoring time (for example, 1 second) in the waiting time timer. set.

  In step S20-7, the main CPU 201 determines that the control state flag is a value (05) indicating monitoring of the winning ball in the winning device and the value of the waiting time timer in which the monitoring time in the winning device is set is “ Check if it is 0 ".

  Then, when any of the above conditions is satisfied, the main CPU 201 checks whether or not the condition that the value of the winning device opening number counter is “15” or more (final round) is satisfied. The special winning device opening number counter is for counting the number of rounds in a specific gaming state.

  Further, when the value of the big winning device opening number counter is “15” or more (final round), the main CPU 201 sets a value (07) indicating the big hit end interval in the control state flag, and also wins the big winning device. Set “0” to the number of times of opening counter. Then, the time corresponding to the jackpot end interval is set in the waiting time timer.

  On the other hand, the main CPU 201 sets a value (06) indicating management of waiting time for reopening a big winning device (06) in the control state flag when the value of the big winning device opening number counter is not “15” or more (final round). At the same time, the time corresponding to the interval between rounds is set in the waiting time timer.

  In step S20-8, the main CPU 201 confirms whether or not the value (06) indicating the large winning device reopening waiting time is set in the control state flag, and the value (06) indicating the large winning device reopening waiting time. ) Is not set, the step ends. On the other hand, when the value (06) indicating the waiting time for reopening the big winning device is set, whether or not the value of the waiting time timer in which the time corresponding to the interval between rounds is set next is “0”. To check. When the value of the waiting time timer is “0”, the main CPU 201 adds “1” to the value of the big winning device opening number counter and opens the door 15 a of the big winning device 15. The large winning device solenoid 72S is controlled. As a result, the special winning device 15 is opened and the control of the round operation is started. Then, a value (04) indicating that the big winning device is open is set in the control state flag, and a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) is set in the big winning device opening time timer as the upper limit time for opening.

  In step S20-9, the main CPU 201 performs jackpot end interval processing (see FIG. 15), which will be described later in detail. Here, mainly, processing for ending the specific gaming state and processing for setting the gaming state after the end of the specific gaming state are performed.

  In step S20-10, the main CPU 201 subtracts “1” from the start memory counter when the control state flag is a value (08) indicating the end of the special symbol game. The main CPU 201 shifts the data stored in the start storage area (“1” to “4”) to the start storage area (“0” to “3”), respectively, and performs a special symbol storage check. The indicated value (00) is set in the control state flag.

  Next, the special symbol memory check process in step S20-2 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the special symbol storage check process according to the present embodiment.

  In step S20-2-1, the main CPU 201 confirms whether or not the control state flag is a value (00) indicating a special symbol storage check, and as a result of the confirmation, the control state flag indicates a special symbol storage check. When the value is (00), the process proceeds to step S20-2-2. On the other hand, when the control state flag is not the value (00) indicating the special symbol storage check, the special symbol storage check process is terminated. .

  In step S20-2-2, the main CPU 201 determines whether or not the value of the start memory counter is “0” (that is, the number of start memories stored in the start storage area (“0” to “4”)). If the value of the start memory counter is “0” as a result of the confirmation, the process proceeds to step S20-2-3, while the value of the start memory counter is If is not "0", the process proceeds to step S20-2-4.

  In step S20-2-3, the main CPU 201 generates and sets a standby state command for instructing to display a demonstration effect image. In the standby state command, the game state is the standby state (the special symbol display on the special symbol display 24, the operation of changing the decorative symbol on the liquid crystal display device 21, etc. is not performed, and the specific game state It is generated when there is no start memory.

  In step S20-2-4, the main CPU 201 sets a value (01) indicating special symbol variation display time management in the control state flag.

  In step S20-2-5, the main CPU 201, which is a jackpot lottery means, performs a jackpot lottery based on the jackpot lottery random value included in the start memory stored in the start memory area ("0").

  Note that when the main CPU 201 performs a lottery to determine whether or not the jackpot has been won, if the gaming state is not a probability variation state (a value (00) indicating a non-probability variation state is set in the high probability flag). And, when the gaming state is the probability variation state (when the value (77) indicating the probability variation state is set in the high probability flag), the referenced big hit lottery table is different. In the present embodiment, the jackpot lottery table referenced in the probability variation state is set with more random numbers than the jackpot lottery table referenced in the normal gaming state, so that it is easier to win the jackpot. Yes.

  Further, when the main CPU 201 is a big hit, the main CPU 201 determines the type of the big hit. For example, when the main CPU 201 is a big hit, the main CPU 201 determines one of the normal big hit and the probability variation big hit as the type of the big hit.

  In step S20-2-6, the main CPU 201 confirms whether or not the result of the big hit lottery performed in step S20-2-5 is a big hit. Then, when the result of the big hit lottery is a big win, the main CPU 201 proceeds to the process of step S20-2-8. On the other hand, when the result of the big hit lottery is not a big hit, the process proceeds to step S20-2-7.

  In step S20-2-7, the main CPU 201, which is a special symbol mode determination unit, determines the stop mode of the special symbol as a non-specific mode “-”. Then, in order for the sub CPU 301 to determine the stop mode of the decorative symbol corresponding to the stop mode of the special symbol, a stop symbol command indicating the stop mode of the special symbol is generated and set.

  In step S20-2-8, the main CPU 201, which is the special symbol mode determination means, determines the special symbol stop mode in the special symbol display 24 based on the type of jackpot determined by the lottery means (for example, the big bonus When the type of jackpot determined by the lottery means is a probability variation jackpot, the probability variation jackpot mode “H” is determined, while the type of jackpot determined by the jackpot lottery means is usually a jackpot In this case, “F”, which is usually a big hit mode, is determined).

  Then, in order for the sub CPU 301 to determine the stop mode of the decorative symbol corresponding to the stop mode of the special symbol, a stop symbol command indicating the stop mode of the special symbol is generated and set.

  In step S20-2-10, the main CPU 201 performs processing for determining a variable display pattern command.

  First, the main CPU 201 extracts one random number value from random numbers generated in the range of 0 to 255 by the random number generator. Next, the main CPU 201 determines a variation display pattern command indicating a variation display pattern of a special symbol and a variation display time based on the extracted random number value and the variation display pattern command determination table. Then, the determined variation display pattern command is generated and set.

  In step S20-2-11, the main CPU 201 sets the variable display time indicated by the variable display pattern command determined in the process of step S20-2-10 in the waiting time timer.

  Note that the special symbol change display on the special symbol display 24 is performed during the change display time set in step S20-2-11. When the variable display time is over, the special symbol that is variable-displayed stops in a state where the stop mode determined in step S20-2-7 or step S20-2-8 is displayed.

  Further, the decorative symbol variation display is performed based on the variation dynamic display pattern command generated in step S20-2-10 during the variation display time set in step S20-2-11. When the variable display time is over, the decorative symbol displayed in a variable manner stops in a state in which a stop mode corresponding to the stop symbol command generated in step S20-2-7 or step S20-2-8 is displayed.

  In step S20-2-12, the main CPU 201 erases the random number value and the like used for the special symbol storage check process this time from a predetermined storage area.

  Next, the special symbol display time management process in step S20-4 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the special symbol display time management process.

  In step S20-4-1, the main CPU 201 confirms whether or not the control state flag is a value (02) indicating special symbol display time management. When the control state flag is a value (02) indicating special symbol display time management, the main CPU 201 proceeds to the process of step S20-4-2, and the control state flag is a value indicating special symbol display time management. If not (02), the special symbol display time management process is terminated.

  In step S20-4-2, the main CPU 201 confirms whether or not the value of the waiting time timer in which the waiting time after determination is set is “0”. When the value of the waiting time timer for which the waiting time after determination is set is “0”, the main CPU 201 proceeds to the process of step S20-4-3, and the waiting time for which the waiting time after determination is set. If the timer value is not “0”, the special symbol display time management process is terminated.

  In step S20-4-3, the main CPU 201 confirms whether or not the big hit lottery performed in step S20-2-5 (FIG. 13) results in a big hit. If the main CPU 201 is a big hit, the main CPU 201 proceeds to the process of step S20-4-5 in order to start control of the specific gaming state. On the other hand, if it is not a big hit, the process proceeds to step S20-4-4.

  In step S20-4-4, the main CPU 201 sets a value (08) indicating the end of the special symbol game to the control state flag, and ends the special symbol display time management process.

  In step S20-4-5, the main CPU 201 sets (00) to the high probability flag and ends the control of the probability variation state.

  Next, the main CPU 201 sets a value (07) indicating the specific gaming state in the gaming state flag to shift the gaming state to the specific gaming state, and starts control of the specific gaming state.

  In step S20-4-6, the main CPU 201 sets a value (03) indicating the big hit start interval management in the control state flag.

  In step S20-4-7, the main CPU 201 sets a time corresponding to the jackpot start interval (for example, 10 seconds) in the waiting time timer.

  Next, the jackpot end interval process in step S20-9 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the big hit end interval process.

  In step S20-9-1, the main CPU 201 confirms whether or not the control state flag is a value (07) indicating a big hit end interval. When the control state flag is a value (07) indicating the jackpot end interval, the main CPU 201 proceeds to the processing of step S20-9-2, and the control state flag is not a value (07) indicating the jackpot end interval. In the case, the jackpot end interval process is ended.

  In step S20-9-2, the main CPU 201 confirms whether or not the value of the waiting time timer in which the time corresponding to the jackpot end interval is set is “0”. Then, when the value of the waiting time timer in which the time corresponding to the big hit end interval is set is “0”, the main CPU 201 proceeds to the process of step S20-9-3. On the other hand, if the value of the waiting time timer in which the time corresponding to the jackpot end interval is set is not “0”, the jackpot end interval processing is ended.

  In step S20-9-3, the main CPU 201 sets a value (08) indicating the end of the special symbol game to the control state flag.

  In step S20-9-4, the main CPU 201, which is a game control means, sets a value (00) indicating the specific game state in the game state flag, and ends the control of the specific game state.

  In step S20-9-5, the main CPU 201 determines whether or not “H”, which is the probability variation big hit mode, is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 24 in step S20-3, that is, the probability changing big hit is determined by the determining means. Check if it was done. If the main CPU 201 determines that the probability variation is a big hit, the main CPU 201 proceeds to the process of step S20-9-6 to control the probability variation state. On the other hand, if it is not determined that the probability variation big hit, the big hit interval process is terminated in order to control the normal gaming state.

  In step S20-9-6, the main CPU 201, which is a game control means, sets the value (77) indicating the probability variation state in the high probability flag and controls the probability variation state.

  Although the embodiment of the present invention has been described above, this is merely a specific example of the present invention, and does not specifically limit the present invention.

  For example, the excess value in the present embodiment is set to a value (11015 g) equal to the weight when the gaming ball 400 is full in the dollar box 410, but is not limited to this, and other values are set. It may be. For example, if the excess value is set low (for example, about 9500 g), it is possible to call an attendant before the dollar box 410 is full. Will come to be.

  Further, if a small weight is set in advance by the CPU (setting means) 603, the dollar box 410 can be exchanged earlier, so that even if the number of balls is the same, a larger number of balls can be obtained. The dollar boxes 410 can be stacked.

  In the present embodiment, the control of the specific gaming state, the normal gaming state, and the probability variation state is performed by the main CPU 201 of the gaming machine 1a. However, the gaming state that can be controlled by the main CPU 201 is limited to this. I can't. For example, the main CPU 201 may be able to perform a time-short state control in which the frequency with which the start winning device 18 is switched to the open state is improved.

  Furthermore, the excess value in the present embodiment is set according to the excess weight setting signal transmitted from the host computer 800 to the weighing device 600, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the weighing device is not limited thereto. 600 may be set by performing a predetermined operation, or may be set by transmitting a predetermined signal from the gaming machine 1a.

  Further, the calling device 700 according to the present embodiment, when the excess control information command is output from the gaming machine 1a (that is, in the specific gaming state, the dollar box 410 placed on the placement surface 601 of the weighing device 600. When the weight of the box reaches the excess value), the call lamp 701 blinks to notify the staff at the remote location that the dollar box 410 needs to be replaced. However, the calling device 700 may notify a staff member that the dollar box 410 needs to be replaced by another method. For example, when an excess control information command is output from the gaming machine 1a, the liquid crystal display unit 702 may be notified by displaying character information “Please replace the dollar box” (see FIG. 16), the speaker 703a and 703b may be informed by outputting a sound prompting replacement of the dollar box 410. Further, the notification may be made by simply turning on the calling lamp 701.

  Further, when the excess control information command is output, the calling device 700 may output a signal indicating that to the host computer 800. In this case, it is possible to directly notify the staff member who manages the host computer 800 that the dollar box 410 needs to be replaced.

  Further, in the external connection circuit 181 in the gaming machine 1a of the present embodiment, when the weight of the dollar box 410 containing the game ball 400 is exceeded (that is, the game ball 400 is accumulated in the dollar box 410 to the extent that it needs to be replaced). In this case, the excess control information command including the excess control information is output to the calling device 700. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the excess control information command is automatically output to the host computer 800. It may be. In this case, it is possible to directly notify the staff member who manages the host computer 800 that the dollar box 410 needs to be replaced.

  In addition, the gaming machine 1a according to the present embodiment outputs the excess control information command to the calling device 700 only when the gaming state is the specific gaming state, but is not limited to this, and other gaming states Even in the case of a probability variation state (for example, the excess control information command may be output). Further, the timing at which the excess control information command of the gaming machine 1a can be transmitted is during the specific gaming state and until the value of the winning device opening number counter reaches a predetermined value (for example, “12”). It may be limited (that is, limited when an undigested round remains a predetermined number of times (for example, three times) or more). Moreover, the said limitation may be performed only at the time of a big hit normally.

  Furthermore, in this embodiment, the gaming system 1 capable of automatically notifying a staff member that the dollar box 410 needs to be replaced is applied to a pachinko gaming machine that uses a gaming ball 400 to play a game. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the game system 1 may of course be applied to a pachislot machine that plays a game using a medal that is a kind of game medium. In this case, medals are accommodated in the dollar box 410 instead of the game balls.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, when the main CPU (game control means) 201 receives an overweight signal from the input / output port 606 during the specific game state, the dollar box (game ball storage box). The excess control information 410 indicates that the weight is exceeded, and the external connection circuit (output means) 181 outputs the excess control information set by the game control means to the outside.

  According to this, when the weight of the dollar box 410 containing the game ball 400 is exceeded (that is, when the game ball 400 is accumulated in the dollar box 410 so as to be exchanged), the excess control information indicating that is Then, the external connection circuit (output means) 181 automatically outputs to the outside.

  In other words, according to the present invention, when the dollar box 410 needs to be replaced, the player waits at a remote position for information indicating that fact without performing an operation such as operating the call switch by himself / herself. Since the staff can be notified and called, the troublesomeness of the player when calling the staff can be reduced.

  Further, the output of the excess control information from the external connection circuit (output means) 181 is limited when the gaming state is in a specific gaming state advantageous to the player, that is, during a gaming state where a lot of game balls are paid out. When the necessity of exchanging the dollar box 410 is low (that is, when the necessity of calling the clerk is low), it is possible to prevent a situation where the clerk is called excessively.

  Furthermore, according to the present invention, whether or not the weight of the dollar box 410 has been exceeded (that is, whether or not the dollar box 410 needs to be replaced) is determined by the weighing of the weighing device 600. Compared to the conventional case in which whether or not the exchange is necessary is determined by the player's visual observation, the exchange time of the dollar box 410 can be specified more accurately. As a result, information indicating that the exchange of the dollar box 410 is necessary can be output to the outside at an appropriate timing, and an attendant can be called at an appropriate timing.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, the external connection circuit 181 outputs the excess control information set by the game control means to the calling device 700, and the calling device 700 receives the excess control information from the calling lamp (output means) 701. When the call is received, information corresponding to the excess control information (for example, blinking display) is displayed on the calling lamp 701.

  According to this, when the weight of the dollar box 410 containing the game ball 400 is exceeded (that is, when the game ball 400 is accumulated in the dollar box 410 so as to be exchanged), the information indicating that fact is used. Information (flashing display) is displayed on the call lamp 701.

  That is, according to the present invention, when the exchange of the dollar box 410 becomes necessary, the player who waits in a remote position without performing an operation such as operating the call switch by himself / herself is sent to the dollar box 410. Since the information indicating the need for replacement can be notified via the call lamp 701 and called, the troublesomeness of the player when calling the staff can be reduced.

  Further, the display of the information indicating the necessity of exchanging the dollar box 410 in the calling lamp 701 is limited when the gaming state is in a specific gaming state advantageous to the player, that is, during a gaming state in which a lot of game balls are paid out. Therefore, when the necessity of exchanging the dollar box 410 is low (that is, when the necessity of calling the clerk is low), it is possible to prevent a situation where the clerk is called by mistake.

  Furthermore, according to the present invention, the player can play the game without paying attention to the accommodation situation of the dollar box 410, so that it is possible to concentrate on the original game, and the gaming system 1 is improved in gaming properties. Can be increased.

  Furthermore, when receiving the excess control information from the external connection circuit 181, the calling device 700 according to the present embodiment displays the calling lamp 701 that is a lamp in a blinking manner according to the excess control information.

  According to this, information indicating the necessity of exchange of the dollar box 410 can be notified to the clerk more reliably, and the player can concentrate on the original game with more peace of mind.

  Further, in the weighing device 600 of the present embodiment, when the weight (excess value) set by the CPU (setting means) 603 is measured, an overweight signal is sent to the main CPU (game control means) 201. It is supposed to send. In this case, for example, if a small weight is preset as an excess value in the CPU (setting means) 603, the dollar box 410 can be exchanged earlier, so even if the number of balls is the same, Many dollar boxes 410 can be stacked.

  According to this, even if it is the same number of balls, the ball pitch effect can be further enhanced as compared with the conventional game system, and the hall sales effect can be enhanced.

  In the above description, the case where the present invention is applied to a gaming system including a pachinko gaming machine in which a main body of a ball and ball game machine is attached to a gaming table is described, but the present invention is not limited to this. The present invention can be applied to a gaming system including various gaming machines such as a pachislot gaming machine (slot machine), a sparrow ball, a smart ball, or various game machines installed in a game center.

It is a perspective view which shows the structure of the game system which concerns on this Embodiment. It is a front view which shows the game board of the gaming machine shown in FIG. It is explanatory drawing which shows the lower pan and weighing | measuring device which concern on this Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the back side of the main body frame in the gaming machine of FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the control system of the gaming system shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of the timer interruption process by the measuring circuit of the measuring apparatus shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of the input detection process by the measuring circuit of the measuring apparatus shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of the dollar box measurement process by the measurement circuit of the measurement apparatus shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of the main control circuit of the game machine which concerns on this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of the switch input detection process which concerns on this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of the dollar box weight check process which concerns on this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of the special symbol control process which concerns on this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of the special symbol memory | storage check process which concerns on this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of the special symbol display time management process which concerns on this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of the jackpot end interval process which concerns on this Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the display mode of the liquid crystal display part in a calling apparatus.

Explanation of symbols

1 gaming system 1a pachinko machine (game machine)
2 gaming board 2a gaming area 3 gaming machine body 3a body frame 3b outer frame 4 glass door 5a upper plate 5b lower plate 5ba ball release hole 5bb ball release lever 5bc shutter 5bd long hole
6 Rail 7 Launch handle 8a, 8b Speaker 8 Shutter lever 10 Ashtray 12 General winning device 13 Passing gate 15 Large winning device 17 Out port 18 Starting winning device 18a, 18b Variable wing 19Se Large winning device switch 19Sb General winning device switch 19Sa Passing gate Switch 19a Start winning device switch 21 Liquid crystal display device (display means)
21a Display area 22 Special symbol start memory indicator 23 Normal symbol passage memory indicator 24 Special symbol indicator 25a, 25b Normal symbol indicator 39a Decoration lamp 50 Sub control board case 55 First outlet 56 Second outlet 70a Discharge control Circuit 70b Launch control circuit 71S Movable member solenoid 72S Large winning device solenoid 74S Backup clear switch 81 Card unit 82 Dispensing device 90 Launching device 100 Main control board case 130 Frame relay board case 150 Power supply board case 170 Discharge control board case 180 External connection ground 181 External connection circuit (output means)
200 Main control circuit 201 Main CPU
202 Main ROM
203 Main RAM
204 Initial reset circuit 205 I / O port 206 Command output port 300 Sub control circuit 301 Sub CPU
302 Program ROM
303 Work RAM
304 Command input port 305 Image control circuit 305a VDP
305b Image data ROM
305c VRAM
305d D / A conversion circuit 306 Audio control circuit 307 Lamp control circuit 350 Storage tank 400 Game ball 410 Dollar box (game ball storage box)
510 Player's Hand 600 Weighing Device 601 Mounting Surface 602 Weighing Circuit 603 CPU
604 ROM
605 RAM
606 I / O port (transmission means)
700 Calling device 701 Calling lamp (display unit)
702 Liquid crystal display unit 703a, 703b Speaker 800 Host computer

Claims (5)

When the game ball wins the start winning device provided on the game board, the display means performs variable display control of the identification symbol, and when the identification symbol is in a specific mode, the gaming state is indicated to the player. A game control means for performing control to shift to a specific gaming state advantageous to the game machine, and an output means for outputting control information in the game control means to the outside;
A weighing device electrically connected to the game control means and capable of weighing a game ball storage box for storing a game ball paid out from the game machine;
The weighing device includes a transmission unit that transmits an overweight signal to the game control unit when weighing a predetermined weight set in advance,
The game control means sets excess control information indicating that the game ball storage box is overweight when receiving an overweight signal from the transmission means during a specific gaming state,
The output means outputs the excess control information set by the game control means to the outside.
A gaming system characterized by that. Having a calling device capable of displaying predetermined information on the display unit;
The output means is electrically connected to the calling device and outputs the excess control information set by the game control means to the calling device.
The calling device, when receiving the excess control information from the output means, causes the display unit to display information corresponding to the excess control information.
The game system according to claim 1. The display unit is a lamp capable of blinking display,
When the call device receives the excess control information from the output means, the display unit blinks the display unit according to the excess control information.
The gaming system according to claim 2. Having setting means for setting a predetermined weight;
The weighing device, when weighing the weight set by the setting means, transmits an overweight signal to the game control means;
The gaming system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The output means is electrically connected to a host computer that controls a gaming machine in the gaming system, and outputs the excess control information set by the game control means to the host computer.
The gaming system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein

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