JP2008061802A - Game machine system, game machine, and game machine management system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To prevent a fraudulent change of a preset value by interlocking the change of the preset value in each game machine with the changes in other game machines. <P>SOLUTION: In the game machine system, second to fifth slot machines are connected to a first slot machine via communication cables. Each slot machine comprises a setting change key cylinder to be switched between the off-position and the on-position; a signal output means for outputting a switch signal when the key cylinder is switched to the on-position; a received signal determining part for determining whether the switch signal is input or not from other slot machines connected via the communication cables; and a permission means for permitting the change of the preset value when it is determined by the received signal determining part that the switch signal is received, etc. When the setting change key cylinder of the first slot machine is switched to the on-position, the change of the preset values is permitted in the second to fifth slot machines. When all the setting change key cylinders in the second to fifth slot machines are operated, the change of the preset value in the first slot machine is permitted. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine system, a gaming machine, and a gaming machine management system in which a plurality of setting values associated with different winning probabilities are changed by a predetermined setting changing operation.

  As a gaming machine, for example, in a slot machine, the winning probability can be changed by a predetermined setting change operation. This setting change operation can be performed by a setting change device provided in the slot machine, and the setting change device includes a setting change key cylinder, a power switch, and a setting value change button for inserting a setting change key. Since the setting change key is owned only by the store clerk who is the manager of the game hall, the player or the like cannot change the setting without permission.

  For example, the setting values are prepared in six stages from “1” to “6”, are associated with the winning table, and can be changed by a predetermined setting changing operation. By the way, a player who aims to gain profit illegally opens a hole in the front door of the slot machine or forcibly opens the front door that covers the front of the machine and operates a power switch, a setting value change button, etc. Depending on the method and the method of inserting a wire or the like from a gap in the machine body, a medal insertion slot, or a discharge slot to short-circuit the power supply device, the setting value may be changed illegally. Under such circumstances, various slot machines have been devised that prevent the setting value from being illegally changed.

On the other hand, as shown in Patent Document 1, the slot machines in the game hall are managed by a hall computer. For example, information on games executed by each slot machine, information on errors occurring in each slot machine, etc. Collected on a computer. For this reason, when the front door of the slot machine is opened or when the medal payout is abnormal, the game hall administrator can know the error that occurred in the slot machine via the hall computer. It was possible to indirectly prevent unauthorized changes.
JP 2002-058789 A

  However, it is possible for the game hall administrator to prevent the act of changing the set value illegally if he / she knows the occurrence of an error via the hall computer or the like and visually confirms the illegal action. When there is no error notification in the hall computer or when an illegal act is executed without the administrator's knowledge, there is no way to prevent an unauthorized change of the set value.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to make it difficult to illegally change setting values by linking changes in setting values of each gaming machine to other gaming machines. .

  In order to achieve the above object, in the gaming machine system of the present invention, in order to shift to a setting value change mode that can be changed to any one of a plurality of setting values associated with different winning probabilities, Key operation means that can be switched from a transition prohibition position that prohibits transition to the set value change mode to a transition permission position that permits transition to the set value change mode, and the key operation means from the transition prohibition position to the transition permission position. It is determined whether or not a switching signal is input from a signal output unit that outputs a switching signal when a switching operation is performed and an information transmission unit that transmits the switching signal. When the judging means and the key operating means are switched to the transition-permitted position and a switching signal is output from the signal output means, switching is performed from another gaming machine connected via the information transmission means. No. is the case where it is determined by the determining means is input, characterized in that it consists of a plurality of game machines and a permitting means for permitting the change of the set value.

  Further, the information transmission means is characterized in that the remaining gaming machines are connected to one specific gaming machine.

  The information transmission means is characterized in that all other gaming machines are connected to the respective gaming machines.

  In addition, when the key operation means is switched to the transition-permitted position, when the determination means determines that the switching signal is not input from the gaming machine connected to the gaming machine to be switched, an abnormality is externally detected. An informing means for informing is provided.

  In addition, the gaming machine of the present invention enters the set value change mode by a specific key in order to shift to a set value change mode that can be changed to any one of a plurality of set values associated with different winning probabilities. In a gaming machine having key operation means that can be switched from a transition prohibition position that prohibits transition to a transition permission position that permits transition to the set value change mode, a switch that switches the key operation means from the transition prohibition position to the transition permission position. A signal output unit that outputs a switching signal when an operation is performed, and a determination unit that determines whether or not a switching signal is input from another gaming machine connected via an information transmission unit that transmits the switching signal When the key operation means is switched to the transition permission position and the switching signal is output from the signal output means, the switching signal is input from another gaming machine connected through the information transmission means. If it is determined by the determining means is characterized by comprising a permitting means for permitting the change of the set value.

  Further, the gaming machine management system of the present invention uses a specific key to shift to a setting value change mode that can be changed to any one of a plurality of setting values associated with different winning probabilities. Key operation means that switches from the transition prohibition position that prohibits the transition to the change mode to the transition permission position that permits the transition to the setting value change mode, and a switching operation that switches the key operation means from the transition prohibition position to the transition permission position is performed. A plurality of gaming machines having a signal output means for outputting a switching signal when disconnected, and an overall management device connected to each gaming machine and managing each gaming machine. A switching signal is input from the association means for associating each gaming machine with at least one other gaming machine, and the gaming machine associated with the gaming machine switched by the association means. A determination means for determining whether or not one of the plurality of gaming machines is switched to the transition-permitted position, and when a switching signal is output from the gaming machine, connected to the switched gaming machine And a permission means for permitting a change in the set value of the gaming machine that has been switched when it is determined by the determination means that a switching signal is input from the gaming machine that has been switched.

  According to the gaming machine system of the present invention, signal output means for outputting a switching signal when the key operating means is switched to the transition permitted position, and determination means for determining whether or not a switching signal is input from another gaming machine. And a plurality of gaming machines provided with permission means for permitting a change of the set value when it is determined that a switching signal is input from another gaming machine. Since it is possible to change the setting value in response to a switching signal from the gaming machine connected to the operated gaming machine, the changing of the setting value of the switching gaming machine is performed by the gaming machine connected to the gaming machine. Depending on whether or not the switching operation is performed, the change of the setting value of each gaming machine can be linked to the other gaming machines to make it difficult to illegally change the setting value.

  In addition, since the information transmission means connects the remaining gaming machines to one specific gaming machine, a player who does not know one specific machine cannot change the setting value, and it is difficult to change the setting value. Become. In addition, when a plurality of gaming machines are connected to one specific machine, the administrator can change the setting value of the single gaming machine, so that the setting value can be changed in a plurality of gaming machines. The set value can be changed.

  In addition, since the information transmission means connects all other gaming machines to each gaming machine, in order to change the setting value of any gaming machine, it must be switched on all other gaming machines, This makes it difficult to change the set value.

  In addition, when the determination means determines that the switching signal is not input from the gaming machine connected to the gaming machine to be switched, the setting value is invalidated by providing a notification means for notifying the outside of the abnormality. It is possible to reliably detect and notify the action to be changed.

  According to the gaming machine of the present invention, the signal output means for outputting the switching signal at the time of switching to the transition permitted position of the key operation means, and the determination for determining whether or not the switching signal is input from another gaming machine And a permission means for permitting the change of the set value when it is determined that a switching signal is input from another gaming machine, and when any gaming machine is switched, When a switching signal is input from a gaming machine connected to the switched gaming machine, the setting value of the switched gaming machine is allowed to be changed. Gaming machines that depend on whether or not the gaming machine connected to this is switched, and make it difficult to illegally change setting values by linking changes in the setting values of each gaming machine to other gaming machines A system can be constructed freely.

  In addition, according to the gaming machine management system of the present invention, when any one of a plurality of gaming machines is switched, a switching signal is output from the gaming machine associated with the gaming machine by the associating means. The setting value can be changed when the game machine is switched, and as a result, the change in the setting value of the gaming machine that has been switched depends on whether or not the gaming machine associated with the gaming machine has been switched. As a result, the change of the setting value of each gaming machine can be linked to other gaming machines, making it difficult to change the setting value illegally.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the gaming machine system 2 of the present invention has a plurality of slot machines 3 that are gaming machines, and the first to fifth slot machines 3 to 7 are connected via a communication cable 8 that is information transmission means. Are connected to each other. An identification number is assigned to each of the slot machines 3 to 7, so that each slot machine 3 to 7 can be identified. The first to fifth slot machines 3 constitute so-called islands, and a power supply control device 11 is provided for each of these islands. The power supply control device 11 controls the power supply of each slot machine 3 to 7, and an AC current of, for example, 24 V is supplied to each slot machine 3 to 7 through the power supply line 12.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the housing 13 of the first slot machine 3 includes a storage box 14 and a front door 15 provided on the front surface of the storage box 14. The front door 15 includes an upper door 16 provided at the upper portion and a lower door 17 provided at the lower portion. Three display windows 20 are arranged side by side on the upper door 16, and a reel unit having a first reel 21 a, a second reel 21 b, and a third reel 21 c is disposed at the back of the display window 20. A plurality of types of symbols such as “7”, “BAR”, “Cherry”, and the like are arranged on the outer peripheral surfaces of the first, second, and third reels 21a, 21b, and 21c. Three symbols per reel are displayed through 20. The first slot machine 3 has a total of five pay lines, which are three in a row and two diagonally, each of which is a combination of symbols for each reel. A predetermined symbol is arranged on this line. The winning combination is announced when displayed.

  A liquid crystal display device 23 is provided beside the display window 20 and performs, for example, effects using animation to enhance interest. The lower door 17 is provided with various operation buttons such as a single bet button 35, a MAX bet button 36, and a payout button 37 which are operated at the start of the game. Near the various operation buttons, a start lever 38 that is operated after the medal bet is placed, and first, second, and third stop buttons 40 for stopping the reels that start rotating by operating the start lever 38, respectively. , 41, 42 are provided. Below the display window 20, a 7-segment display device 25 for displaying numbers and a specific alphabet is provided.

  The lower door 17 is provided with a medal insertion slot 43 for inserting medals when playing a game. A selector (not shown) is incorporated in the back of the medal insertion slot 43. To the medal tray 45. In addition, when the medal is inserted at an improper timing such as when the selector is inserted in the middle of the game or while various operation buttons are pressed, the selector receives the inserted medal as the medal tray 45. To discharge. In addition, since the number of medals inserted prior to the start of the game is limited to 1 to 3, medals inserted after the fourth are discharged to the medal tray 45 when the credit function is not used. .

  The lower door 17 is provided with a lock 28 for preventing the front door 15 from being opened. To unlock the lock 28, it is necessary to insert a special key and turn it. As shown in FIG. 3, the slot machine 3 is provided with a hopper device 50 for receiving medals to the tray 45, a setting changing device 55 for changing the set value, and the like. The hopper device 50 is provided with a storage tank 52 for storing medals, and an overflow storage box 53 is provided below the storage tank 52.

  When the lock 28 is unlocked with the lower door key (not shown) and the lower door 17 is opened to the open position, the setting changing device 55 is exposed and a setting value changing operation for changing the setting value can be performed. Further, when the lock 28 is unlocked, the upper door 16 can be opened. An engaging portion (not shown) sandwiched between the lower door 17 and the storage box 14 is formed at the lower portion of the upper door 16. After the upper door 16 is closed, the lower door 17 is closed and locked. Then, the upper door 16 cannot be opened, and the lock 28 provided on the lower door 17 needs to be unlocked to open the upper door 16.

  In the setting change device 55, an on position (transition permission position) that allows a transition to a setting value change mode in which a setting value can be changed by a setting change key that is a specific key and a transition to the setting value change mode are prohibited. A setting change key cylinder (key operation means) 55a that can be switched between an off position (transition prohibition position), a power switch 55b that switches the main power on / off, and a setting value change button 55c for sequentially changing the setting value Is provided. The setting change key cylinder 55a, the power switch 55b, and the setting value change button 55c are arranged to face the front of the housing 13. For example, when the setting change key is inserted into the setting change key cylinder 55a, the manager of the game hall first opens the lower door 17, inserts the setting change key into the setting change key cylinder 55a from the front of the housing 13, and turns on the power switch. 55b and setting change button 55c are operated.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the slot machine 3. The operation of the slot machine 3 is basically controlled by the control unit 60. The control unit 60 includes a CPU 61, a ROM 62, a RAM 64, an electronic lottery unit 77, a winning combination determination unit 78, a reception signal determination unit 86 as a determination unit, a set value change control unit 84 as a permission unit, and the like. The first to sixth winning tables 63a to 63f, a setting change program 67, a symbol table 68, a payout table 69, and the like are stored. The winning table is associated with the set value. For example, first to sixth winning tables 63a to 63f are prepared, and the winning probabilities are different depending on the first to sixth winning tables 63a to 63f. The game is executed with reference to the winning table corresponding to the set value. Inside the first slot machine 3, in addition to the control unit 60, a medal sensor, a start switch sensor 76, a display control unit 90, a communication interface (hereinafter referred to as communication I / F) 92 as a signal output means, voice control A device 94, a door sensor 97, a power supply unit, and the like are provided.

  The setting change program 67 stored in the ROM 62 is a program used when changing the winning probability, and the power is supplied with the setting change key inserted into the setting change key cylinder 55a being turned from the off position to the on position. It is read when the switch 55b is turned on. When the setting change key is turned from the on position to the off position and pulled out of the setting change key cylinder 55a, the execution of the setting change program 67 ends. The RAM 64 is used when the control program and the setting change program 67 are read from the ROM 62 and executed.

  The inserted medal sensor is provided inside the selector, and detects an appropriate medal distributed by the selector among medals inserted from the medal insertion slot 43. A detection signal output from the inserted medal sensor is input to the CPU 61, and the CPU 61 detects the number of inserted medals.

  When the 1 bet button 35 and the MAX bet button 36 are pressed, a pressing signal is input to the CPU 61. The CPU 61 determines the number of 1 to 3 medals inserted prior to the start of the game in response to a detection signal from the inserted medal sensor or when one of the 1 bet button 35 or the MAX bet button 36 is pressed. Counting is performed based on the input press signal, thereby determining the number of activated pay lines. Further, the bet number of medals inserted at the start of the game is added up and counted by a counter provided in the CPU 61.

  The start switch sensor 76 is turned on when the start lever 38 is operated, and inputs a game start signal to the CPU 61. The CPU 61 that has received the game start signal rotates the first, second, and third reels 21 a, 21 b, and 21 c based on the game execution program stored in the ROM 62, and operates the electronic lottery unit 77.

  The control unit 60 is provided with an electronic lottery unit 77 and a winning combination determining unit 78. The electronic lottery unit 77 includes a random number generation unit and a random number extraction unit, and extracts one random value every time the game is started. The winning combination determination unit 78 operates in accordance with the random number extraction process in the electronic lottery unit 77, and the first to sixth winning combinations in the ROM 62 indicate whether the extracted random number is lost or a plurality of types of winning combinations. The determination is made with reference to any one of the tables 63a to 63f.

  Driving and stopping control of the first, second, and third reels 21a, 21b, and 21c is performed by the symbol drive control unit 79. The first, second, and third reels 21a, 21b, and 21c are respectively fixed to the drive shaft of the stepping motor 80, and the symbol drive control unit 79 controls the rotation of each of the reels 21a to 21c by controlling the drive of each stepping motor 80. To control. Each stepping motor 80 is supplied with a DC current of 24 V, and the stepping motor 80 is driven based on this supplied current.

  The CPU 61 is provided with a pulse counter for each stepping motor 80 and counts the number of drive pulses supplied to each stepping motor 80. When the reset signal is input from the photo sensor 82, the count value of the corresponding pulse counter is cleared. Thus, each pulse counter monitors the driving of each reel 21a-21c based on the number of drive pulses corresponding to the rotation angle within one rotation of each reel 21a-21c.

  The symbol table 68 stored in the ROM 62 has a symbol code indicating the number of drive pulses corresponding to the rotation angle from the reference position of each reel 21a-21b and the symbols arranged on the reels 21a-21c at a constant pitch. Are associated with each other. As a result, by counting the count value of the pulse counter for each reel, it is possible to identify which symbol has moved on a predetermined winning line, and how much the reel is rotated to achieve a predetermined symbol. It can be predicted whether it will move on the winning line.

  When the first, second, and third stop buttons 40, 41, and 42 are pressed, a stop signal for stopping the reel drive is input to the CPU 61. The rotation of the reels 21a to 21c is started by the operation of the start lever 38. When the rotation of the reels 21a to 21c reaches a certain speed, the operation of the stop buttons 40 to 42 becomes effective.

  “Watermelon”, “7”, “BAR”, “Bell”, “Cherry”, “Replay Symbol”, and the like are arranged on the outer circumference of each reel 21 a to 21 c and determined by the winning combination determining unit 78. The control corresponding to the winning combination is controlled so as to be stopped and displayed on the winning line. For example, if the winning combination is determined by the winning combination determining unit 78, “7-7-7” can be displayed on the winning line. If the winning combination is won, “7-7-7” can be displayed on the winning line. “BAR-BAR-BAR” can be stopped and displayed. When the jackpot is displayed on the winning line, in addition to paying out a predetermined number of medals, a big bonus is generated, and for example, 30 special games can be played. When the small win is displayed on the winning line, a regular bonus is generated in addition to the payout of a predetermined number of medals, and a predetermined number of special games can be played.

  When the winning combination determined by the winning combination determining unit 78 is stopped and displayed on the winning line, the hopper device 50 pays out the medal corresponding to the selected combination to the medal tray 45 as a bonus. A hopper motor 50 a is provided in the hopper device 50, and the hopper motor 50 a is driven by a CPU 61. The CPU 61 controls the hopper motor 50 a based on the payout data read from the payout table 69 stored in the ROM 62. Drive. The hopper motor 50a is supplied with a direct current of 24 V, for example, and operates in response to a drive command from the CPU 61 based on this supplied current.

  The setting change device 55 includes a setting change key cylinder 55a, a power switch 55b, and a set value change button 55c. Only a special setting change key can be inserted into the setting change key cylinder 55a, and the setting change key is managed by, for example, an administrator of the game hall. The power switch 55b is switched on / off, and when changing the set value, the power switch 55b needs to be turned on after the setting change key cylinder 55a is switched to the on position. When the setting change key cylinder 55a is switched to the on position, the switching operation is recognized by the CPU 61.

  The set value change button 55c is operated to switch the set value displayed on the 7-segment display device 25. When the set value change button 55c is pressed, a change signal is input to the control unit 60 correspondingly. The set value displayed on the 7-segment display device 25 is switched. For example, if the current set value is “1”, for example, “1” is displayed on the 7-segment display device 25, and the set values displayed in response to the operation of the set value change button 55c are “2” and “3” in order. , “4”, “5”, “6”. The set value displayed on the 7-segment display device 25 is confirmed according to the operation of the start lever 38, and the set value change mode is ended by returning the setting change key from the on position to the off position. Thereafter, any one of the first to sixth winning tables 63a to 63f corresponding to the newly set value is read from the ROM 62, and the game is controlled using the winning table associated with the set value. When the setting change key cylinder 55a is not switched to the ON position, the setting value is not displayed on the 7-segment display device 25, and the setting value can be switched even by pressing the setting value change button 55c. There is no. Further, in this embodiment, there are six set values “1” to “6” that can be selected, and each set value is associated with the first to sixth winning tables 63a to 63f. The number of corresponding winning tables is not limited to this, and may be more or less.

  The power supply unit generates a direct current used in the slot machine 3 and supplies the direct current to each part of the slot machine 3. The power supply unit includes a 24 V generation circuit and a 5 V generation circuit, and generates a 24 V DC current and a 5 V DC current based on the 24 V AC current supplied from the power supply control device 11. The 24V DC current is supplied to the reel driving motor 80, the hopper driving hopper motor 50a, and the like, and the 5V DC current is supplied to an electronic circuit such as the CPU 61 or the RAM 64. The door sensor 97 outputs an opening detection signal when the lower door 17 is opened at a predetermined angle or more, and the CPU 61 recognizes whether or not the lower door 17 is opened based on the opening detection signal from the door sensor 97. Yes.

  When the CPU 61 recognizes that the setting change key cylinder 55a provided in the setting change device 55 has been switched to the ON position, a switching signal is transmitted from the communication I / F 92 to the slot machine connected via the communication cable. Is done. For example, when the setting change key cylinder 55a of the first slot machine 3 is switched to the ON position, a switching signal is transmitted to each of the second to fifth slot machines 4 to 7 via the communication cables 8a to 8d. . When the setting change key cylinder 55a provided in the second slot machine 4 is switched to the ON position, a switching signal is transmitted from the second slot machine 4 to the first slot machine 3 via the communication cable 8a. .

  The communication I / F 92 outputs a switching signal to the outside via the communication cable 8 when the setting change key cylinder 55a is switched to the ON position. The communication I / F 92 of the slot machine 3 includes, for example, four connection ports, and communication cables 8a to 8d from the second to fifth slot machines 4 to 7 are connected to the connection ports. Communication cables 8a to 8d from the first slot machine 3 are connected to connection ports of the second to fifth slot machines 4 to 7, respectively. Thus, for example, the communication cables 8a to 8d from the second to fifth slot machines 4 to 7 are connected to the connection ports provided in the first slot machine 3, and the second to fifth slot machines 4 to 7 are connected to each other. Each can exchange switching signals with the first slot machine 3.

  The reception signal determination unit 86 of the first slot machine 3 determines whether or not a switching signal is received from the other second to fifth slot machines 4 to 7 connected by the communication cables 8a to 8d. When a switching signal is received from the second to fifth slot machines 4 to 7, a change permission signal is sent to the set value change control unit 84, and a part of the second to fifth slot machines 4 to 7 is transmitted. When the switching signal is received only from the stand or when the switching signal is not received from any of the second to fifth slot machines 4 to 7, the change prohibition signal is changed to the set value. The data is sent to the control unit 84. Note that the reception signal determination unit 86 provided in the second to fifth slot machines 4 to 7 determines whether or not a switching signal is input from the first slot machine 3.

  The set value change control unit 84 receives the change permission signal from the reception signal determination unit 86 and permits the change of the set value, and receives the change prohibition signal from the reception signal determination unit 86 and prohibits the change of the set value. Thus, when the change permission signal is received, the mode shifts to a set value change mode in which the set value can be changed when the power switch 55b is turned on.

  When the setting value change control unit 84 permits the setting value to be changed, the setting value displayed on the 7-segment display device 25 is sequentially switched by pressing the setting value change button 55c, and the 7-segment display is operated by operating the start lever 38. The set value displayed on the device 25 can be confirmed.

  The voice control device 94 and the speaker 95 constitute notification means, and the voice control device 94 controls driving of the speaker 95 and outputs voice. The sound control device 94 outputs sound from the speaker 95 in accordance with the game in the game mode. Further, when the setting change key cylinder 55a is switched to the ON position, if the switching signal is not received from any one of the second to fifth slot machines 4 to 7, the received signal determining unit 86 When the determination is made, the CPU 61 determines that an abnormality has occurred and sends an abnormality determination signal to the voice control device 94. The voice control device 94 receives an abnormality determination signal from the CPU 61 and outputs an alarm sound indicating the occurrence of an abnormal situation to the outside. The output is made to the speaker 95. In addition, you may add the input of the open detection signal from a door sensor as requirements for determining with it being abnormal. For example, when the setting change key cylinder is switched to the ON position, an opening detection signal is output from the door sensor, and a switching signal is output from any one of the second to fifth slot machines. If it is determined that the signal is not received by the reception signal determination unit, it is possible to make it more difficult to illegally change the set value by determining that it is abnormal.

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine system 2 will be described using the flowchart of FIG. A plurality of slot machines are installed in the amusement hall. The first to fifth slot machines 3 to 7 constitute a gaming machine system 2, and the second to fifth slot machines 4 to 7 respectively include communication cables 8a to 8d. Is connected to the first slot machine 3 via

  When changing the setting values of the second to fifth slot machines 4 to 7, it is necessary to switch the setting change key cylinder 55a provided in the first slot machine 3 to the ON position prior to these. When the second to fifth slot machines 4 to 7 receive the switching signal transmitted from the slot machine 3 via the communication cables 8a to 8d, the setting change key cylinders provided in the respective slot machines 4 to 7 When 55a is switched to the ON position, the setting value change control unit 84 allows the setting value to be changed, and the mode shifts to a setting value change mode in which the setting value can be changed. Further, when the second to fifth slot machines 4 to 7 do not receive the switching signal from the first slot machine 3, the change of the set value is prohibited, and an alarm sound is output from the speaker 95.

  When changing the setting value of the first slot machine 3, it is necessary to switch the setting change key cylinder 55a provided in each of the second to fifth slot machines 4 to 7 to the ON position. The reception signal determination unit 86 provided in the first slot machine 3 outputs a change permission signal when receiving a switching signal from the second to fifth slot machines 4 to 7, and receives the change permission signal in response to the change permission signal. Shifts to a set value change mode in which the change of the set value is permitted and the set value can be changed. Further, when the switching signal is not received from the second to fifth slot machines 4 to 7, the change of the set value is prohibited, and an alarm sound is output from the speaker 95 to the outside.

  After the setting value change control unit 84 permits the setting value to be changed, the setting value change button 55c is pressed to sequentially change the setting value in response to this, and when the start lever 38 is operated, a new setting is made. The value is confirmed. After the setting change key cylinder 55a is returned to the off position and the setting value change mode is completed, the winning table associated with the newly set setting value is referred to and the game is executed.

  As described above, by connecting the second to fifth slot machines 4 to 7 to the first slot machine 3 and changing the setting values of the second to fifth slot machines 4 to 7 in conjunction with the first slot machine 3 When changing the setting value of any one of the second to fifth slot machines 4 to 7, the setting change key cylinder 55a of the first slot machine 3 must be switched to the ON position. For this reason, it becomes difficult for the player to change the set value illegally alone. In order to change the setting value of the first slot machine 3, the setting change key cylinder 55a of the second to fifth slot machines 4 to 7 must be switched to the on position, and the setting value can be changed further. It will be difficult. Further, since it is possible to make it difficult to illegally change the setting values of each slot machine without using a hall computer that manages each slot machine in the game hall, a reduction in cost can be expected.

  In the above embodiment, the second slot machine 4 to 7 are connected to the first slot machine 3, and the setting change key cylinder 55a of the first slot machine 3 is switched to the ON position to change the second to second slots. Communication is performed so that the setting values of the fifth slot machines 4 to 7 can be changed, and the setting values of the first slot machine 3 can be changed in response to a switching signal from the second to fifth slot machines 4 to 7. Although the cable 8 is connected, the connection form of the communication cable is not limited to this. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the first to fifth slot machines 101 to 105 may be connected in a daisy chain. The first slot machine 101 is connected to the second slot machine 102 by a communication cable 108a. The second slot machine 102 is connected to the third slot machine 103 by a communication cable 108b in addition to the first slot machine 101. In addition to the second slot machine 102, the third slot machine 103 is connected to the fourth slot machine 104 via a communication cable 108c. The fourth slot machine 104 is connected to the fifth slot machine 105 via a communication cable 108d in addition to the third slot machine 103. It is connected to the. When the first to fifth slot machines 101 to 105 are connected in a rosary shape via the communication cable 108 in this way, the set value change key cylinder is turned on in advance when changing the set value according to the regular connection form. The slot machine that needs to be switched to the position can be easily known, and the manager of the game hall can easily change the setting value for any slot machine.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 7, each of the first to fifth slot machines 111 to 115 may be connected to all other slot machines via a communication cable 118. In such a connection form, unless the setting change key cylinders provided in all the slot machines 111 to 115 are switched to the ON position, the setting values of the respective slot machines 111 to 115 are not allowed to be changed. It is extremely difficult to change the set value by itself.

  In the above embodiment, wired communication is exemplified as the information transmission unit. However, the switching signal may be transmitted and received between the slot machines using wireless communication that transmits information using infrared rays or radio waves. As a result, the communication cable is not routed in the amusement hall, the space in the amusement hall is not wasted, and the cost for laying the communication cable can be saved.

  In the above embodiment, the gaming machine system 2 in which the first to fifth slot machines 3 to 7 are connected to at least one other slot machine via the communication cables 8a to 8d. Although illustrated, slot machines may be associated with each other on a computer. For example, as in the management system 148 shown in FIG. 8, the slot machines 151 to 155 are connected to the computer 150 that is the overall management apparatus via the communication cable 157, and the slot machines 151 to 155 are at least connected to the computer 150. It may be associated with one other slot machine. The computer 150 determines whether or not a switching signal is input from the association table (association means) that associates each slot machine with at least one other slot machine and the slot machine associated with the association table. A setting value that permits a setting value to be changed when the reception signal determination unit determines that a switching signal is received from the slot machine associated with the received signal determination unit (determination unit) A change control unit (permission means).

  As shown in FIG. 9A, the association table 160 associates the second to fifth slot machines 152 to 155 with the first slot machine 151, for example, and the second to fifth slot machines 152 to 155. The first slot machine 151 is associated with each of the above. When the setting change key cylinder is switched to the ON position in all of the first to fifth slot machines 151 to 155, the setting value can be changed in all the slot machines 151 to 155.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 9B, the setting change key cylinders provided in the first to third slot machines 151 to 153 are switched to the ON position, and the fourth and fifth slot machines 154 and 155 are set. In the state where the change key cylinder remains in the off position, the change of the set value of the first slot machine 151 is prohibited, and the change of the set value of the second and third slot machines 152 and 153 is permitted. Thus, by associating each slot machine with the association table on the computer, it is possible to control the association of the slot machines on the software, and the association between the slot machines can be easily changed.

1 is an overall view schematically showing the entire gaming machine system of the present invention. It is a perspective view showing the appearance of the slot machine that constitutes the gaming machine system. It is the enlarged view to which the setting change apparatus provided in the inside of a slot machine and its periphery were expanded. FIG. 4 is a block diagram schematically showing an electrical configuration of the slot machine. It is a flowchart which shows the effect | action of this invention. It is the whole figure which showed roughly the management system which connected the 1st-5th slot machine in a rosary. It is the whole figure which showed roughly the management system which connected all the other slot machines to each of the 1st-5th slot machine. It is the whole figure which showed roughly the management system which matched the 1st-5th slot machine on the computer. It is an explanatory view showing an association table provided in the slot machine.

Explanation of symbols

2 Game machine systems 3-7 1st-5th slot machines (game machines)
8 Communication cable (information transmission means)
25 7-segment display device 38 Start lever 55 Setting change device 55a Setting change key cylinder (key operation means)
55b Power switch 55c Set value change button 84 Set value change control unit (permission means)
86 Received signal determination unit (determination means)
94 Voice control device (notification means)
95 Speaker (notification means)
148 management system 150 computer (overall management device)
160 Association table

Claims (6)

From a transition prohibition position that prohibits a transition to the setting value change mode by a specific key in order to shift to a setting value change mode that can be changed to any one of a plurality of setting values associated with different winning probabilities A key operation means that is switched to a transition permission position that permits transition to the set value change mode;
A signal output means for outputting a switching signal when a switching operation for switching the key operation means from the transition prohibited position to the transition permitted position is performed;
Determination means for determining whether or not the switching signal is input from another gaming machine connected via the information transmission means for transmitting the switching signal;
When the key operation means is switched to the transition permission position and the switching signal is output from the signal output means, the switching signal is input from another gaming machine connected via the information transmission means. A gaming machine system comprising a plurality of gaming machines provided with permission means for permitting change of the set value when determined by the determination means.   2. The gaming machine system according to claim 1, wherein the information transmission means connects the remaining gaming machines to one specific gaming machine.   2. The gaming machine system according to claim 1, wherein the information transmission means connects all other gaming machines to the respective gaming machines.   When the key operation means is switched to the transition-permitted position, when the determination means determines that the switching signal is not input from a gaming machine connected to the gaming machine to be switched, an external The gaming machine system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a notification unit that notifies the abnormality. Transition prohibition position for prohibiting transition to the setting value change mode by a specific key to shift to a setting value change mode that can be changed to any one of a plurality of setting values associated with different winning probabilities In a gaming machine provided with a key operation means that can be switched to a transition permission position that permits transition to the setting value change mode from
A signal output means for outputting a switching signal when a switching operation for switching the key operation means from the transition prohibited position to the transition permitted position is performed;
Determination means for determining whether or not the switching signal is input from another gaming machine connected via the information transmission means for transmitting the switching signal;
When the key operation means is switched to the transition permission position and the switching signal is output from the signal output means, the switching signal is input from another gaming machine connected via the information transmission means. And a permitting means for permitting the change of the set value when it is determined by the determining means. Transition prohibition position for prohibiting transition to the setting value change mode by a specific key to shift to a setting value change mode that can be changed to any one of a plurality of setting values associated with different winning probabilities A key operation means for switching to a transition permission position permitting transition to the setting value change mode, and a switching signal when a switching operation for switching the key operation means from the transition prohibition position to the transition permission position is performed. A plurality of gaming machines having signal output means for outputting;
It is connected to each of the gaming machines and is composed of an overall management device that manages each gaming machine,
Corresponding means for associating each gaming machine with at least one other gaming machine, and the switching signal from the gaming machine associated with the gaming machine switched by the associating means. A determination means for determining whether or not an input is made; and when any one of a plurality of gaming machines is switched to the transition permission position and the switching signal is output from the gaming machine, the switching is performed. Permission means for permitting a change in a set value of the switched gaming machine when the judgment means determines that the switching signal is input from a gaming machine connected to the operated gaming machine; A gaming machine management system characterized by comprising.

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