JP2008086794A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To achieve a blocking power against illegal setting alteration actions. <P>SOLUTION: The game machine includes a setting altering function for variably setting internal states pertaining to games and the setting of the internal state is altered associated with the prescribed setting operation. In a put-out block 15 mounted on the rear side of the game machine, a put-out controller 153 and a power source unit 154 are mounted on the rear side of the game machine. The power source unit 154 is provided with a setting key switch 240 which validates the setting operation by the operation of turning a setting alteration key being inserted into a key insertion port. Especially, the setting key switch 240 is so installed as to make the key insertion port face in a direction orthogonal to the front of the game machine. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

  As this type of gaming machine, there is a revolving type gaming machine that uses a game medal or a game ball as a game medium, inserts a predetermined number of game media, and performs a predetermined game start operation to perform a game every time. Are known. For example, in a slot machine, a predetermined number of game medals are inserted, and a game is started by hitting a start lever after the insertion. At this time, the rotation of the reel in the reel device is started with the start of the game, and then the rotation of the reel is stopped with the pressing operation of the stop button by the player. Then, game medals are paid out according to the display pattern when the reels are stopped. In addition, in a ball-use spinning game machine (so-called parrot) that uses a game ball used in a pachinko machine instead of a game medal to perform a game similar to the slot machine, a predetermined number of game balls are inserted, The game is started by hitting the start lever after the insertion. At this time, the reel is rotated and stopped in the same manner as in the slot machine, and a game ball is paid out in accordance with the display pattern when the reel is stopped.

  Game machines such as those described above are generally provided with a setting change function for setting the play rate, etc., and a setting change is performed by a predetermined person who has been authorized in advance, such as a game hall administrator. Is done. In the existing spinning-type game machine, for example, six stages with different payout rates are set, and the payout rate and the like are changed depending on which of “Setting 1” to “Setting 6” is set. In this case, the gaming machine is provided with a setting key switch, and a setting change key can be changed by inserting a setting change key into the key insertion slot of the setting key switch and turning it. That is, each setting operation is validated by a turning operation using the setting change key, and the setting can be changed only in the validated state (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

  By the way, in the slot machine, the setting key switch is installed in a power supply device or the like in the housing, and the key insertion port is generally configured to face the front side of the gaming machine. In this case, an administrator or the like inserts a setting change key from the front with the front door of the slot machine opened, and performs a setting change operation. Here, in the above configuration, there is a possibility that the setting is changed illegally. For example, if even the front door can be opened, or if a hole or the like is illegally formed in the front door, a setting change key can be easily inserted into the setting key switch, and an illegal setting change can be made. Therefore, there is a demand for a technology that can exert deterrence against an illegal setting change act.

On the other hand, a ball-carrying game machine (parrot) is basically installed on the same island facility as a pachinko machine, and like the pachinko machine, the back side of the game machine is openly exposed. . The setting key switch is generally configured such that the key insertion slot faces the back side of the gaming machine. In this case, the setting change key is inserted from the back side of the gaming machine by the administrator or the like with the gaming machine opened to the near side with respect to the island facility, and the setting changing operation is performed. Here, for example, when two rows of gaming machines are installed on the island facility in the gaming hall in the state of facing each other, when one row of gaming machines is opened, the other row The back side of the game machine is exposed. Therefore, a setting change key can be easily inserted into the setting key switch, and an illegal setting change is possible. Therefore, like the slot machine, there is a demand for a technology that can exert a deterrent against an illegal setting change act.
JP 2005-192723 A

  An object of this invention is to provide the gaming machine which can exhibit the deterrent with respect to an unauthorized setting change act.

  Hereinafter, effective means for solving the above-described problems will be described while showing effects and the like as necessary. In the following, for easy understanding, the corresponding configuration in the embodiment of the invention is appropriately shown in parentheses, but is not limited to the specific configuration shown in parentheses.

Means 1. In a gaming machine having a setting change function for variably setting an internal state relating to a game, the setting change of the internal state being performed in accordance with a predetermined setting operation,
A setting validation device (setting key switch 240) that validates the setting operation by rotating the setting change key in a state of being inserted into the key insertion portion (key insertion slot 245a);
A gaming machine, wherein the setting enabling device is installed such that the key insertion portion faces a direction orthogonal to the front direction of the gaming machine.

  The gaming machine of means 1 has a setting change function for variably setting the internal state relating to the game, and the internal state setting is changed in accordance with a predetermined setting operation. Also, a setting validation device is provided, and the setting operation is validated by rotating the setting change key inserted in the key insertion portion. In this case, the setting operation of the internal state is effectively performed by actually performing the setting operation in a state where the setting operation is validated.

  Here, in particular, since the setting enabling device is installed such that the key insertion portion faces the direction orthogonal to the front direction of the gaming machine, the key insertion portion changes the front direction of the gaming machine (or vice versa). Compared to the conventional configuration which is suitable, it becomes difficult to change the setting by illegally inserting the setting change key into the key insertion portion. Therefore, the deterrence against an illegal setting change act can be exhibited.

  In the present specification, “a direction orthogonal to the front direction of the gaming machine” means a direction including a horizontal direction and a vertical direction when viewed from the front side of the gaming machine. In addition, as a configuration for “the key insertion portion faces a direction orthogonal to the front direction of the gaming machine”, the axial direction of the key cylinder or the like in which the key insertion portion is formed is perpendicular to the front direction of the gaming machine. It does not mean only that, as long as the axial direction of the key cylinder or the like does not coincide with the front direction of the gaming machine.

Mean 2. A gaming machine provided with a substrate device (power supply device 154) in which a control board (power supply substrate 201) mounted with various electrical components is housed in a substrate case (substrate case 202),
The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the setting validation device is provided on the opposite side of the electrical component mounting surface of the board device.

  In this type of gaming machine, the board device is generally mounted so that the electrical component mounting surface can be easily visually confirmed from the outside. Considering this point, the setting validation device is made invisible from the outside by providing the setting validation device on the opposite side (non-mounting surface side) of the electrical component mounting surface of the board device. In this case, it is possible to make it difficult to perform an illegal setting change act.

  Means 3. The gaming machine according to means 2, wherein a setting operation member (reset switch 206) for performing the setting operation is provided on the same side as the electric component mounting surface of the board device.

  According to the means 3, the setting operation member for performing the predetermined setting operation is provided on the same side as the electric component mounting surface of the board device. In this case, the setting validation device and the setting operation member are provided on both sides of the substrate device, respectively. When only one side of the substrate device is visible, the setting validation operation and setting by the setting validation device are performed. Setting operations using the operation member cannot be performed together. Therefore, it is not possible to easily perform unauthorized setting changes, and it is possible to take further countermeasures against fraud.

Means 4. In a gaming machine in which the board device is mounted on a mounting device (the back cover member 151 of the payout block 15) with the electric component non-mounting surface side of the control board as a mounting surface,
The board device is fixed from the electric component mounting surface side while the board device is mounted on the mounting device, and the board device is fixed from the electric component non-mounting surface side with the mounting device interposed therebetween. A gaming machine according to claim 2 or 3.

  In the gaming machine of means 4, the board device is mounted on the mounting device with the electric component non-mounting surface side of the control board as the mounting surface. Then, with the substrate device mounted on the mounting device, the substrate device is fixed from the electric component mounting surface side, and the substrate device is fixed from the electric component non-mounting surface side with the mounting device interposed therebetween. Note that a fixing tool such as a screw is used to fix the substrate device. In this case, in order to remove the board device from the gaming machine, it is necessary to release the fixing at the fixing portions on both sides of the board device, which makes it difficult to remove the board device illegally. Therefore, the fraud prevention effect can be enhanced.

Means 5. Various gaming devices required for playing a game are mounted, and at least a part of the gaming devices are exposed on the back side of the gaming machine in a state installed on the island facility, and on the front side of the island facility While having a configuration that is pivotally supported,
In a gaming machine having a setting change function for variably setting an internal state relating to a game, the setting change of the internal state being performed in accordance with a predetermined setting operation,
A setting validation device (setting key switch 240) that validates the setting operation by rotating the setting change key in a state of being inserted into the key insertion portion (key insertion slot 245a);
A gaming machine, wherein the setting enabling device is installed such that the key insertion portion faces a direction orthogonal to the front direction of the gaming machine.

  In the gaming machine of means 5, various gaming devices necessary for playing a game are mounted, and at least a part of the gaming devices are exposed on the back side of the gaming machine while being installed in the island facility. It has a structure that is pivotally supported by the equipment so as to be able to turn to the near side. This is a configuration generally employed in pachinko machines and ball-cylinder spinning machines (parrots). The gaming machine also has a setting change function for variably setting the internal state, and the internal state setting is changed in accordance with a predetermined setting operation. Further, a setting validation device is provided, and the setting operation is validated by rotating the setting change key in a state where the key is inserted into the key insertion portion. In this case, the setting operation of the internal state is effectively performed by actually performing the setting operation in a state where the setting operation is validated.

  Here, in particular, since the setting enabling device is installed such that the key insertion portion faces the direction orthogonal to the front direction of the gaming machine, the key insertion portion changes the front direction of the gaming machine (or vice versa). Compared to the conventional configuration which is suitable, it becomes difficult to change the setting by illegally inserting the setting change key into the key insertion portion. Therefore, the deterrence against an illegal setting change act can be exhibited.

  In the present specification, “various game devices required for playing a game” includes a picture display device for performing a variable display of a picture, a control device for performing various controls of the game machine, and a game medium. As a payout mechanism for paying out game balls.

  Means 6. 6. The gaming machine according to claim 5, wherein the setting enabling device is installed so that the key insertion portion cannot be seen from the back side of the gaming machine.

  According to the means 6, since the key insertion portion cannot be seen from the back side of the gaming machine, it is difficult to find the key insertion portion when trying to make an illegal setting change. Therefore, the deterrent to an illegal setting change act can be exhibited as described above.

  Means 7. The gaming machine according to means 5 or 6, characterized in that the setting validation device is installed in a state in which it is impossible to insert a setting change key from the back side of the gaming machine into the key insertion part.

  According to the means 7, it is possible to make it difficult to perform unauthorized setting changes as compared with the conventional configuration (configuration of existing parrots, etc.) in which the key insertion portion is exposed on the back side of the gaming machine and is freely inserted.

  Means 8. A plurality of unit bodies (a door block 13, a surface changing block 14, and a payout block 15) that are provided so as to overlap in the longitudinal direction of the gaming machine and are pivotally supported individually in the same direction. The game machine according to any one of means 5 to 7, wherein the setting enabling device is installed so that the key insertion portion is exposed in a state where the unit bodies are separated and opened.

  The gaming machine of the means 8 has a plurality of unit bodies, the plurality of unit bodies are provided so as to overlap in the longitudinal direction of the gaming machine, and are pivotally supported so as to be individually rotatable in the same direction. . In such a configuration, the setting validation device is installed so that the key insertion portion is exposed in a state where the plurality of unit bodies are separated and opened. In this case, in order to change the setting by exposing the key insertion part, it is necessary to separate and release the unit bodies. Therefore, even if a fraudulent person tries to change the setting illegally, it takes extra time, and the deterrence of fraudulent action can be applied.

  Means 9. The gaming machine according to claim 8, wherein the setting validation device is installed so that the key insertion portion faces in a direction opposite to the rotation axis side of the unit body.

  According to the means 9, the setting validation device is installed so that the key insertion portion faces in the direction opposite to the rotating shaft side of the unit body. Therefore, assuming a state in which a plurality of unit bodies are separated and opened around the rotation axis, the key insertion portion faces the opened side of each unit body. Therefore, when the setting change key is properly inserted into the key insertion portion to change the setting, the setting change key insertion operation can be easily performed.

Means 10. A substrate device (power supply device 154) is provided in which a control board (power supply substrate 201) on which various electrical components are mounted is housed in a substrate case (substrate case 202), and the substrate device is included in the plurality of unit bodies. A gaming machine mounted on the back side of the gaming machine in the last unit (payout block 15),
The gaming machine according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the setting validation device is provided on the unit body side of the board device.

  According to the means 10, since the board device having the control board and the board case is mounted on the back side of the gaming machine of the last unit body among the plurality of unit bodies, the board device is visually observed from the rear side of the gaming machine. Confirmation is possible. In addition, since the setting validation device is provided on the unit body side of the board device, the setting validation device can be hidden behind the board device as viewed from the rear of the gaming machine. Therefore, it is possible to make it difficult to perform an illegal setting change act.

  Means 11. The rear unit body is provided with an opening (opening window part 265) leading to the front-rear direction of the gaming machine, and the key insertion part of the setting enabling device is disposed in front of the rear unit body through the opening. 11. The gaming machine according to means 10, which is exposed to the side.

  According to the means 11, the key insertion part of the setting validation device is exposed to the front side of the rearmost unit body through the opening. Therefore, the setting change key cannot be inserted into the key insertion part unless the rearmost unit body is opened, and it is possible to make it more difficult to perform an illegal setting change action.

  Means 12. The gaming machine according to claim 10 or 11, wherein a setting operation member (reset switch 206) for performing the setting operation is provided on the back side of the gaming machine.

  According to the means 12, a setting operation member for performing a predetermined setting operation is provided on the back side of the gaming machine. In this case, the setting validation device and the setting operation member are provided on both sides of the substrate device, respectively. When only one side of the substrate device is visible, the setting validation operation and setting by the setting validation device are performed. Setting operations using the operation member cannot be performed together. Therefore, it is not possible to easily perform unauthorized setting changes, and it is possible to take further countermeasures against fraud.

  Means 13. The gaming machine according to any one of means 8 to 12, further comprising a locking device (locking device 60) that makes it impossible to separate and open the plurality of unit bodies.

  According to the means 13, the plurality of unit bodies cannot be separated and opened by locking the locking device, and the plurality of unit bodies can be separated and opened by unlocking the locking device. In this case, it is possible to strictly manage whether the key insertion portion is exposed or hidden inside the gaming machine, so that a more reliable fraud countermeasure can be realized.

  Means 14. While the board device is mounted on the unit body, the board device is fixed from the electric component mounting surface side, and the board device is fixed from the electric component non-mounting surface side with the unit body interposed therebetween. A gaming machine according to any one of means 8 to 13.

  According to the means 14, the substrate device is fixed from the electric component mounting surface side while the substrate device is mounted on the unit body, and the substrate device is fixed from the electric component non-mounting surface side with the unit body interposed therebetween. . Note that a fixing tool such as a screw is used to fix the substrate device. In this case, in order to remove the board device from the gaming machine, it is necessary to release the fixing at the fixing portions on both sides of the board device, which makes it difficult to remove the board device illegally. Therefore, the fraud prevention effect can be enhanced.

Means 15. An effect device (reel device 82 or the like) for performing various effects in the game, and a path component (dispensing ball path part 172, discharge ball path part 174) for distributing game balls as game media,
The gaming machine according to any one of means 5 to 14, wherein the setting validation device is installed between the effect device and the passage component.

  According to the means 15, since the setting validation device is installed using the area between the rendering device and the passage component, efficient space utilization can be realized.

  Means 16. A rotating device (reel device 82) having a rotating body (reels 101 to 103) having a plurality of patterns on the outer peripheral surface is provided, and a variable display of the pattern in the rotating device is provided on the front side of the gaming machine. A start operation member (start lever 33) for starting and a stop operation member (stop switches 35 to 37) for stopping variable display of the pattern are provided, and according to the stop pattern after operation of the stop operation member The game machine according to any one of means 1 to 15, wherein the game medium is paid out.

  The present invention can be applied to a rotating game machine. In such a case, as described in the means 16, a revolving device is provided as a gaming device, and a starting operation member and a stopping operation member are provided on the front portion of the gaming machine, and the player actively operates the starting operation member and the stopping operation member. The game is played by. In such a spinning machine, the present invention is preferably applied.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment relating to a revolving gaming machine using a gaming ball in which a game is played using a gaming ball as a gaming medium will be described with reference to the drawings.

  The gaming machine in the present embodiment requires taking in a game ball (for example, a game ball similar to a pachinko machine: a pachinko ball) as a predetermined number of game media (game value) in the game, and a predetermined condition is satisfied A plurality of game balls, and in some cases, a large number of game balls are paid out. This game machine is supplied with game balls from the same game ball supply system as the pachinko machine in the game hall, etc., and this game is installed in the existing island facility (pachinko island) where the pachinko machine is installed. It is possible to install a machine.

(General description of the gaming machine 10)
First, the outline of the external configuration and internal structure of the gaming machine 10 will be described. Here, FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the entire gaming machine 10, and FIGS. 2 and 3 are perspective views showing an open state of the gaming machine 10. In the following description, unless otherwise noted, directions such as left and right and up and down are described with reference to the state viewed from the front of the gaming machine 10.

  The gaming machine 10 includes an outer frame 11 as a main body frame, and a gaming machine main part 12 attached to the outer frame 11 so as to be rotatable forward. The outer frame 11 is configured by connecting wooden plate members to four sides, and has a rectangular shape as a whole. When the gaming machine 10 is installed in the game hall, the outer frame 11 is attached and fixed to the island facility. The outer frame 11 can be made of a metal such as synthetic resin or aluminum.

  The gaming machine main part 12 includes a door block 13 that is a door unit, a face changing block 14 that is a picture display unit, and a payout block 15 that is a payout unit for game balls. The door block 13 is provided with hinge brackets 18 at two upper and lower portions. The door bracket 13 (the main part 12 of the gaming machine) is externally connected by the hinge bracket 18 and the two upper and lower support brackets 19 on the outer frame 2 side. The frame 11 is supported so as to be rotatable. In this case, the rotation axis is provided on the left side when the gaming machine 10 is viewed from the front, and the gaming machine main part 12 is opened with the right side as the rotation tip when viewed from the front. In a state where the gaming machine main part 12 is closed with respect to the outer frame 11, the rear surface of the outer peripheral edge of the door block 13 comes into contact with the front surface of the outer frame 11.

  The surface changing block 14 is attached to the back side of the door block 13, and the payout block 15 is further attached so as to cover the surface changing block 14 from the back side. The surface changing block 14 and the payout block 15 are rotatably supported by a part of the door block 13, and can rotate integrally with the door block 13 with respect to the outer frame 11. Each has a structure that can be individually rotated.

(Description of door block 13)
The door block 13 includes a front door body 21 having substantially the same size (vertical dimension and horizontal dimension) as the outer frame 11, and an inner frame 22 attached so as to overlap the back side of the front door body 21. I have. Both the front door body 21 and the inner frame 22 are formed of a synthetic resin material, and are joined by screwing at a plurality of locations from the back. The front door body 21 is formed with a visual window 23 for making a reel symbol, a liquid crystal symbol, etc., which will be described later, visible. The visual window 23 is made of a flat transparent plate and is substantially the same as the visual window 23. A transparent panel 24 having the same shape is fitted.

  On the front side of the front door body 21, a central lamp portion 25 is provided above the viewing window 23, and a pair of left and right side lamp portions 26 are provided on both the left and right sides of the viewing window 23. Speaker units 27 are provided at the upper right corner and upper left corner of the body 21. During the game, the lamp units 25 and 26 and the speaker unit 27 perform lamp effects, sound effects, and the like corresponding to the game situation each time. In other words, the player is notified of the establishment of the winning combination by appropriately changing the light emission color and light emission pattern by the lamp units 25 and 26 or by appropriately changing the sound pattern by the speaker unit 27. Further, it is possible to perform error notification or the like using the lamp units 25 and 26 and the speaker unit 27.

  Below the visual recognition window 23, an operation unit 30 provided with various operation members operated by the player is provided. The operation unit 30 has a front plate portion 31 that is horizontally long and slightly arcuate as a whole. The front plate portion 31 is provided with a start lever 33 and a stop switch 35 including a triple button. , 36, 37 are provided. In addition, a button-like bet switch 38 is attached to a position on the upper left side of the front plate portion 31 toward the left side (generally between the start lever 33 and the left stop switch 35).

  The bet switch 38 allows the player to set a bet (the number of bets), and a predetermined number (the equivalent of a bet) of game balls stored in the upper plate 41 is taken in by pushing the bet switch 38. In the present embodiment, a so-called MAX bet switch is provided as the bet switch 38, and game balls equivalent to 3 bets (for 15 balls) are taken in by an effective one-time pressing operation. The bet switch 38 constitutes an input command means for instructing input of a game ball as an investment value. In addition to the bet switch 38 as the MAX bet switch, a configuration in which a 1-bet switch or a 2-bet switch is provided may be used. By the way, the 1-bet switch is a bet switch for taking in a game ball equivalent to 1 bet (for 5 balls) by one push operation, and the 2-bet switch is equivalent to 2 bets by a single push operation (10 This is a bet switch for taking in game balls.

  The start lever 33 is an operation member for starting rotation of each reel (rotating body) of the reel device 82 described later, and a start operation means operated to start rotation of each reel, that is, to start variable display of symbols. Constitute.

  The stop switches 35 to 37 are provided so as to correspond to the reels to be stopped (left, middle and right three rows of reels), and are operated to stop each of the rotating reels individually. Configure the means. Each of the stop switches 35 to 37 can be stopped when each reel is rotated at a constant speed, and is pressed in this state. Further, while a stop operation is possible, a lamp (not shown) is turned on to notify that the stop operation is possible, and is turned off when the rotation of each reel is stopped.

  The rear of the operation unit 30 is a horizontally long opening that opens upward, and an upper plate 41 is attached to the opening. The upper plate 41 constitutes a tray member for temporarily storing game balls lent out from the ball lending device of the island facility and game balls paid out from the payout device. The upper plate 41 stores the game balls. A region is formed. Although detailed explanation by illustration is omitted, three rows of game ball guide passages are formed in the most downstream portion of the upper plate 41, and the game balls stored in the upper plate 41 are arranged in three rows. It will be taken in sequentially.

  A cover 42 provided at the right end of the upper plate 41 is provided with a ball rental operation unit 43 for performing a ball rental operation. The ball lending operation unit 43 is, for example, a ball lending operation or a card in a state where a bill or a card is inserted into a vertically long card unit (ball lending unit) arranged on the side (for example, the left side) of the gaming machine 10. For example, a return operation such as the above is performed and the validity count is confirmed, and the ball is lent out when the ball rental button is pressed.

  In the front door body 21, the right end portion (that is, the side opposite to the opening / closing shaft portion of the door block 13) is used for locking and unlocking the gaming machine main portion 12 (door block 13) with respect to the outer frame 11. A key cylinder installation hole 45 for exposing a locking member (specifically, a key cylinder of the locking device 60 described later) to the front is formed.

  Further, in the front door body 21, a bulging portion 50 that bulges to the front side of the gaming machine is formed below the operation portion 30, and is surrounded by the bulging portion 50. Thus, the lower plate 51 is formed. When the game balls are fully stored in the upper plate 41 and its upstream passage and the game balls are further paid out from the payout device, or for the game balls stored in the upper plate 41 When the ball removal operation is performed, the game ball is discharged to the lower plate 51 through the lower plate discharge port 52. An opening is formed in the bottom of the lower plate 51, and an opening / closing plate 53 is provided in the opening. Further, a ball removal operation piece 54 for removing the ball of the lower plate 51 is provided at a substantially central portion of the bulging portion 50. In addition, lower plate lamp portions 56 are provided on the left and right sides of the lower plate 51 in the bulging portion 50.

  On the back side of the door block 13, the inner frame 22 is provided with a locking device 60 for holding the door block 13 and the payout block 15 in a locked state that cannot be opened. The locking device 60 keeps the state of the outer frame 11 with the door block 13 closed, and keeps the state of the door block 13 with the dispensing block 15 closed. It has become. Further, the unlocked state of the door block 13 and the payout block 15 is released with the unlocking operation of the key cylinder (not shown).

  The inner frame 22 is provided with a take-in unit 65 for taking in a predetermined number of game balls based on an operation (bet input operation) by the player. By taking in a predetermined number of game balls by the take-in unit 65, a start condition for each game (game) is established, and preparations for starting the game are made. The take-in unit 65 includes three take-in devices, and can take in three game balls at the same time.

(Description of the surface changing block 14)
Next, the surface changing block 14 will be described. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the surface changing block 14 as viewed obliquely from the front, and FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the surface changing block 14 as viewed from the oblique rear.

  The main part of the surface changing block 14 is a synthetic resin front frame 81, a reel device 82 as a symbol display device, a liquid crystal display device 83 as an auxiliary effect device, and a main control unit that performs various main controls relating to the game. The control apparatus 84 and the display control apparatus 85 which performs the subordinate display control etc. based on the command from the main control apparatus 84 are provided. In the present embodiment, the face change block 14 is configured to include all the main parts that determine the game content of the gaming machine 10, and if the model change is performed in a game hall or the like, this face change block 14 The model can be changed by replacing 14 with the new model. That is, the surface changing block 14 is an exchange unit at the time of model change.

  The front frame 81 has a substantially square shape when viewed from the front, and a portion bordered in a substantially trapezoidal shape on the front surface has a shape and a size that substantially coincide with the viewing window 23 of the front door body 21. In this case, in a state where the surface changing block 14 is assembled to the door block 13, almost the entire front frame 81 is visible from the viewing window 23 of the front door body 21.

  A display window 91 having a horizontally long rectangular shape is provided on the front surface portion of the front frame 81, and a display window 92 having a horizontally long rectangular shape is also provided above the display window 91. Of the display windows 91 and 92, the lower display window 91 corresponds to a reel symbol display unit for displaying a reel symbol attached to the outer periphery of the reel device 82, and the upper display window 92 is a liquid crystal display device. This corresponds to a liquid crystal image display unit for displaying a display image by 83. An information display substrate 93 is provided on the right side of the lower display window 91. The information display board 93 displays the number of acquired balls when the small combination is established, and the number of games for displaying, for example, the number of remaining games in a special game state such as a big bonus or a regular bonus. A display unit is provided. These display units are composed of a 7-segment display, but it is naturally possible to replace them with a liquid crystal display or the like.

  The reel device 82 includes a metal case member 100 and three reels 101, 102, and 103 of left, middle, and right accommodated in the case member 100. The case member 100 has three reels 101 to 103 rotatably accommodated therein, and a part of the reels 101 to 103 appears forward. Since the configuration of each of the reels 101 to 103 is well known, detailed illustration is omitted here, and the configuration will be briefly described. Each of the reels 101 to 103 includes a cylindrical skeleton member that forms a cylindrical cage, and a belt-like belt wound around the outer periphery thereof. On the outer peripheral surface of the belt, a number of symbols as identification information are printed at equal intervals (for example, 21 symbols). A stepping motor as a drive source is provided at the center of each reel 101-103, and each reel 101-103 is rotationally driven individually, that is, independently, by driving the stepping motor.

  The main control device 84 includes a main control board on which electronic components such as a CPU and a memory are mounted, and a substantially rectangular parallelepiped board case for housing the main control board. The substrate case is formed of a transparent synthetic resin material, and the main control substrate inside the substrate case can be visually recognized by the transparent substrate case. The substrate case is provided with a sealing part (so-called crimping part) f1 as sealing means. The sealing part f1 allows the substrate case to be opened by breaking or the like, and after opening the member that has been broken or the like remains as the opening history, the opening history can be confirmed by the opening history. ing. As a result, in the case where the substrate case is illegally opened, for example, the illegal act can be found by checking the sealing part f1.

  On the other hand, the display control device 85 includes a display control board on which electronic components such as a CPU and a memory are mounted, and a substantially rectangular parallelepiped board case for housing the display control board. The substrate case is formed of a transparent synthetic resin material, and the display control substrate inside the substrate case can be visually recognized by the transparent substrate case. In such a case, the main control device 84 is arranged so that the electronic component mounting surface of the main control board faces outward, and the display control device 85 is arranged so that the electronic component mounting surface of the display control board faces obliquely upward on the rear side. Are arranged. Such an arrangement facilitates unauthorized confirmation of the main control board and the display control board.

  In the surface changing block 14 having the above-described configuration, the entire liquid crystal panel of the liquid crystal display device 83 can be visually recognized from the upper display window 92 of the front frame 81. A part of each of the reels 101 to 103 of the reel device 82 can be seen from the lower display window 91 of the front frame 81. At this time, out of many symbols (21 in this embodiment) attached to the outer circumference of each of the reels 101 to 103, three symbols for each reel can be visually recognized through the lower display window 91. Yes.

(Description of payout block 15)
Next, the payout block 15 will be described. 6 and 7 are perspective views of the dispensing block 15, FIG. 8 is a rear view of the dispensing block 15, and FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view showing a state in which the control devices are removed from the dispensing block 15.

  The payout block 15 includes a back cover member 151 integrally formed of a synthetic resin material, a payout mechanism 152 for paying out game balls, a payout control device 153 that controls payout control, and a power supply voltage generated from an external power supply. It has a power supply device 154 that supplies various control devices and actuators, and is configured by integrating them.

  The back cover member 151 includes a base portion 161 for installing the payout mechanism 152, the payout control device 153, the power supply device 154, and the like, and a protective cover portion 162 that protrudes rearward (rear of the gaming machine 1) and has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. Have. The protective cover portion 162 has a shape in which the left and right surfaces and the upper and lower surfaces and the rear surface are closed, and is large enough to accommodate at least the reel device 82, the main control device 84, and the display control device 85 of the surface changing block 14. Have Although illustration is omitted, a large number of air holes can be provided on the back surface of the protective cover portion 162. The base portion 161 and the protective cover portion 162 are formed separately from each other and integrated by screws or the like, but may be configured such that they are integrally formed.

  The payout mechanism 152 is attached to the base portion 161 of the back cover member 151 so as to bypass the protective cover portion 162. That is, as the payout mechanism 152, a tank 165 opened upward is provided at the uppermost portion of the back cover member 151, and the game balls supplied from the island facilities of the game hall are sequentially replenished to the tank 165. Below the tank 165, for example, tank rails 166 having four rows (four strips) of ball passages in the front-rear direction and having a gentle inclination toward the downstream side are connected, and the tank rails 166 extend in the vertical direction on the downstream side. A case rail 167 is connected.

  A payout device 168 for paying out game balls is provided at the most downstream portion of the case rail 167. The payout device 168 includes a payout motor and a payout gate member that is driven by the payout motor to open and close the payout passage. The payout motor is driven by a control signal from the payout control device 153, and the drive Accordingly, the payout passage is opened. Thereby, the required number of game balls are paid out as appropriate. The game balls paid out from the payout device 168 are basically discharged to the upper plate 41, and when the game balls are full in the upper plate 41, the surplus balls are discharged to the lower plate 51. .

  As shown in FIG. 7, an upper plate communication path 171 that communicates with the upper plate 41 is formed in the lower portion of the base portion 161. Similarly, a payout ball passage portion 172 for circulating game balls paid out from the payout device 168 is formed at the lower portion of the base portion 161, and the terminal portion of the payout ball passage 172 communicates with the lower plate 51. A lower plate communication passage 173 is formed. In addition, a discharge ball passage 174 for discharging game balls in the payout mechanism 152 to the outside of the gaming machine (island equipment side) is formed in parallel with the payout ball passage portion 172.

  Both the tank and the passage members in the dispensing mechanism 152 are formed of a conductive synthetic resin material such as a conductive polycarbonate resin, and are grounded at a part thereof. Thereby, generation | occurrence | production of the noise by charging of a game ball is suppressed.

  The payout control device 153 includes a payout control board on which electronic components such as a CPU and a memory are mounted, and a board case that houses the payout control board, like the main control device 84 described above. The substrate case is formed of a transparent synthetic resin material, and the inside of the dispensing control substrate can be visually recognized by the transparent substrate case. The board case is provided with a sealing portion f2 (so-called crimping portion) as sealing means for connecting the front and back case members constituting the case. The sealing part f2 enables the substrate case to be opened by breaking or the like, and since the member that has been broken remains as the opening history after opening, the opening history can be confirmed by the opening history. ing. Thereby, in the case where the substrate case is illegally opened, an illegal act can be found by checking the sealing part f2.

  In addition, the base plate 161 of the back cover member 151 to which the payout control device 153 is attached is provided with two fixtures 181 made of Nylatch (registered trademark) or the like on the substrate case of the payout control device 153. Are provided with two holes 182 at the top and bottom (see FIG. 9). In this case, by placing the payout control device 153 at a predetermined mounting position and setting the fixture 181 in a fixed state with respect to the attached hole portion 182, the mounting of the payout control device 153 to the back cover member 151 is completed. A grounding metal plate 183 is attached to the base portion 161 of the back cover member 151.

(Description of power supply device 154)
Next, the power supply device 154 will be described. The power supply device 154 includes a power supply board for generating a power supply voltage, and further includes a setting key switch for a hall manager or the like to variably set a payout rate. The gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment. Since the setting key switch has a characteristic feature, the power supply device 154 will be described in detail below. 10, (a) is a side view of the power supply device 154, (b) is a front view of the power supply device 154, and (c) is a rear view of the power supply device 154. 11 and 12 are exploded perspective views of the power supply device 154, and FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view of the setting key switch 240.

  The power supply device 154 includes a power supply board 201 on which various electrical components for generating a power supply voltage are mounted. The power supply board 201 is accommodated in a board case 202 including a pair of front and back case bodies 203 and 204. . Although various electrical components are not shown, the substrate surface visible in FIG. 11 is the electrical component mounting surface. A case body 203 covering the electric component mounting surface side (front surface side) of the power supply substrate 201 is a front case body, and a case body 204 covering the opposite side (back surface side) is a back case body. The case bodies 203 and 204 are both formed of a transparent synthetic resin material, and the power supply substrate 201 inside the case bodies 203 and 204 can be visually recognized even in a state of being accommodated in the substrate case 202.

  As shown in FIG. 11, on the electric component mounting surface side (front surface side) of the power supply board 201, a power switch 205 for starting the gaming machine 10 and a reset for resetting various states of the gaming machine 10 A switch 206 and the like are provided. In addition, various power components such as resistors and capacitors for configuring a power circuit are mounted on the power substrate 201, and signal line patterns, ground patterns, and the like are appropriately formed. Omitted.

  This gaming machine 10 has a backup function for various data, and maintains the state at the time of power failure even in the event of a power failure, and returns to the state at the time of power failure upon recovery from power failure (recovery) It can be done. In this case, for example, when the power supply is shut down in the normal procedure, such as when the game hall is closed, the state before shutting down is stored and retained, but if the power switch 205 is turned on while pressing the reset switch 206, the backup data is reset. It has come to be. If the reset switch 206 is pressed while the power switch 205 is on, the error state is reset.

  The pair of front and back case bodies 203 and 204 have substantially the same shape as the power supply substrate 201 in plan view, and the respective joint portions provided at the peripheral portions of the case bodies 203 and 204 are joined together. The entire power supply substrate 201 is accommodated in the substrate case 202. Openings 208 and 209 are formed in the front case body 203 in accordance with the positions of the power switch 205 and the reset switch 206. When the power supply substrate 201 is accommodated in the substrate case 202, the openings 208 and 209 are formed. Thus, a part of the power switch 205 and the reset switch 206 appears on the front side of the substrate case 202.

  In addition, the front case body 203 is formed with openings 211 for allowing connector parts (not shown) provided on the power supply board 201 to appear on the front side of the board case 202 at a plurality of locations, and for heat dissipation. A large number of small holes 212 are formed.

  In addition, the case member 203 and 204 are coupled to the substrate case 202 in an unopenable state, and a seal coupling part (so-called caulking part) for leaving a trace of the coupling release if the coupling is temporarily released. Is provided. Specifically, cylindrical coupling protrusions 221 and 222 are formed on the front case body 203 and the back case body 204 so as to protrude inward. These coupling protrusions 221 and 222 are provided at two places on each case body 203 and 204, and in a state where both case bodies 203 and 204 are joined, the leading ends of the coupling protrusions 221 and 222 face each other. Holes 221a and 222a formed at the center of the coupling protrusions 221 and 222 are configured to be aligned on the same axis. The hole 221a (hole on the front case body 203 side) of the coupling protrusion 221 is a bottomed hole opened only to the back case body 204 side, whereas the hole 222a ( The hole on the back case body 204 side) is a through hole penetrating in the axial direction. The power supply board 201 is formed with a circular hole 223 having a larger hole diameter than the coupling protrusion 222 provided on the back case body 204. When the power supply board 201 is assembled to the board case 202, the hole 223 is formed. Thus, the interference between the power supply substrate 201 and the coupling protrusions 221 and 222 is avoided.

  In the above configuration, the power supply substrate 201 and both case bodies 203 and 204 are integrated, and a sealing screw is screwed into the hole of each coupling protrusion 221 and 222 from the back case body 204 side. , 204 is subjected to a seal coupling process (caulking process). At this time, the holes 221a and 222a of the case bodies 203 and 204 have a smaller diameter than the screw portion of the sealing screw, and when the sealing screw is screwed, the screw is tightened while being screwed by the sealing screw. Is done.

  Although a detailed description by illustration is omitted, the sealing screw is a so-called breaking screw that breaks the head when a load exceeding a predetermined tightening force is applied when tightening with a tightening tool such as a driver. When the screw head is broken at the time of sealing 204, the screw loosening operation by a driver or the like becomes impossible thereafter. In this case, in order to release the seals of the two case bodies 203 and 204, a plurality of (four in the illustrated configuration) connecting portions provided around the coupling protrusion 222 on the back case body 204 side must be broken. However, the history of seal release remains due to the breakage.

  Instead of the breaking screw, it is also possible to use a so-called one-way screw (also referred to as a one-way screw) that can be screwed in a predetermined tightening direction but cannot be screwed in the opposite loosening direction.

  A setting key switch 240 is attached to the outer surface of the back case body 204. The setting key switch 240 sets the play rate (including the winning probability) of the gaming machine 10 to one of six predetermined levels (“Setting 1” to “Setting 6”), so-called setting change time This is a setting validation device for validating the setting operation of the game machine 10, and the setting change of the gaming machine 10 is made effective by performing a predetermined setting operation in a state where the setting change is validated by the setting key switch 240. Done. After the setting is changed, the payout game balls are adjusted by using the probability lottery data of the combination of symbols related to winning and operation corresponding to each stage.

  As described above, the power supply device 154 is provided with the power switch 205 and the reset switch 206. The power switch 205 and the reset switch 206 can be operated from the front side of the power supply device 154. The switch 240 can be operated from the back side of the power supply device 154 (that is, the side opposite to the power switch 205 and the reset switch 206).

  As a configuration relating to the setting key switch 240, an installation step 231 is formed on the back case body 204 so as to protrude in a step shape on the back side of the substrate case, and the setting key switch 240 is installed on the installation step 231. It has come to be. The installation step portion 231 has openings 232 communicating with the inside and outside of the case, and screw holes 233 are formed at two locations around the opening 232. In addition, substrate sandwiching portions 234 for sandwiching a substrate 244 described later are formed at two places in the upper and lower parts of the drawing so as to sandwich the opening 232. The substrate holding portion 234 is formed with a substantially V-shaped guide groove for guiding the substrate 244.

  As shown in FIG. 13, the setting key switch 240 includes a switch body 241 and a key switch cover 242. In this case, in the switch body 241, the key cylinder 245 is mounted on the substrate 244, and the key insertion port 245a is provided at the tip of the key cylinder 245. Similarly, connector terminals 246 are provided on the substrate 244. The key switch cover 242 includes a peripheral wall portion 242a and a top plate portion 242b that surround four sides, and a window portion 247 is formed by cutting out a part of the peripheral wall portion 242a and the top plate portion 242b. In a state where the switch body 241 is attached to the key switch cover 242, the tip end portion (key insertion port 245 a) of the key cylinder 245 appears from the window portion 247. In addition, inside the key switch cover 242, substrate holding portions 248 for holding the substrate 244 are formed at two locations, upper and lower. The substrate holding portion 248 has a substantially V-shaped guide groove for guiding the substrate 244. In addition, a screw hole 249 is formed in the key switch cover 242 at a position corresponding to the screw hole 233 on the back case body 204 side.

  Then, the switch body 241 is attached to the key switch cover 242 so that one end side of the board 244 is fitted into the board holding portion 248 of the key switch cover 242 (the state shown in FIG. 11), and the setting key switch 240 is installed in this state. It is installed on the installation step 231 of the back case body 204. Further, after the installation, screws (not shown) are screwed into the screw holes 233 and 249 from the inner surface side of the back case body 204 so that the setting key switch 240 cannot be separated from the back case body 204. At this time, the other end side of the substrate 244 is fixed by the substrate holding portion 234 on the back case body 204 side.

  With the setting key switch 240 attached to the back case body 204 as described above, the power supply substrate 201 and the front case body 203 are integrated with the back case body 204. In this case, since the screw for fixing the setting key switch 240 is screwed from the inside of the back case body 204, the screw cannot be removed from the outside of the board case, and the setting key switch 240 cannot be removed. It has become. As described above, the substrate case 202 is subjected to a seal coupling process, and the setting key switch 240 is more difficult to remove by performing this seal coupling process.

  Here, in particular, the setting key switch 240 is provided such that the axial direction of the key cylinder 245 substantially coincides with the substrate plane direction of the power supply substrate 201, whereby the key insertion slot 245 a is arranged in the substrate plane direction of the power supply substrate 201. It is designed to face the same direction. Speaking of the relationship between the power supply board 201 and the board 244 of the setting key switch 240, they are almost vertical. However, in detail, as shown in FIG. 14 (schematic view of the power supply device 154 as viewed from above), the axial direction J1 of the key cylinder 245 is set so as to slightly deviate from the substrate plane direction J2 of the power supply substrate 201. Has been. Therefore, the key insertion slot 245a of the key cylinder 245 is in the same direction as the board plane direction of the power supply board 201 and slightly rearward.

  As shown in FIG. 10B, when the power supply device 154 is viewed from the front, the setting key switch 240 is completely hidden behind the board case 202. As a result, when the setting key switch 240 is mounted on the back side of the gaming machine, it is difficult to cheat the setting key switch 240 from behind the gaming machine.

  The connector terminal 246 provided on the board 244 of the setting key switch 240 is configured to be electrically connected to the connector terminal 251 on the power board 201 via a harness (not shown). In this case, a notch hole 252 for guiding a harness extending from the setting key switch 240 (that is, the back surface side of the power supply board 201) to the front surface side of the power supply board 201 is formed near the connector terminal 251 in the power supply board 201. The back case body 204 is formed with guide ribs 253 for guiding the harness led out from the opening 232 to the vicinity of the notch hole 252 of the power supply substrate 201.

  Therefore, a harness (not shown) extending from the connector terminal 246 of the setting key switch 240 is guided to a gap region between the back case body 204 and the power supply board 201 through the opening 232 of the back case body 204, and further guide ribs 253. Is guided to the vicinity of the notch hole 252 of the power supply substrate 201. The harness is led out to the front surface side (electrical component mounting surface side) of the power supply board 201 through the notch hole 252 and the distal end portion thereof is connected to the connector terminal 251 on the power supply board 201. . In the above configuration, the harness is guided by a prescribed route, and inconveniences such as damage due to interference with other members on the back surface side of the power supply substrate 201 are suppressed.

  In short, a pin-shaped terminal such as an electrical component mounted on the front surface side protrudes from the back surface side of the power supply substrate 201, and it is conceivable that the harness is damaged by contacting the tip of the pin-shaped terminal. In this regard, as described above, the harness is guided by the guide rib 253 along the restriction route, so that the harness does not come into contact with the pin-like terminal, and as a result, damage to the harness is suppressed.

  Further, the front case body 203 is formed with a prismatic enclosure 255 so as to protrude inward (see FIG. 12). The enclosure portion 255 is a connector enclosure member that extends from the surface portion of the front case body 203 to the power supply board 201, and the connector terminal 251 and the notch hole 252 on the power supply board 201 are enclosed by the enclosure portion 255. In this case, since the connector terminal 251 and the cutout hole 252 on the power supply board 201 are surrounded by the enclosing portion 255, an illegal act on the connector terminal 251 from the front side of the power supply device is suppressed. That is, an illegal act such as connecting an unauthorized device to the connector terminal 251 cannot be performed.

  In addition, attachment holes 261 are provided at a plurality of locations (five locations in the present embodiment) on the peripheral edge of the substrate case 202. In addition, a plurality of support columns 262 are provided at positions corresponding to the mounting holes 261 on the substrate case 202 side on the base portion 161 (here, a portion below the protective cover portion 162) of the back cover member 151. Accordingly, with the power supply device 154 placed on the support column 262, a screw or the like is screwed into each mounting hole 261 from the back side of the gaming machine 10, so that the power supply device 154 is attached to the base portion 161 of the back cover member 151. It is supposed to be fixed.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 7, the base portion 161 of the back cover member 151 is connected to the back cover member 151 at the tip end portion (key insertion port 245a) of the key cylinder 245 with the power supply device 154 mounted on the base portion 161. An opening window portion 265 is formed to be exposed inside. The opening window 265 has a size sufficient to expose the key cylinder 245 to the inside of the back cover member 151, and is formed sideways by using a stepped portion formed in the base portion 161. . More specifically, the key switch is set using a space area between the protective cover 162 (the storage area of the reel device 82) and the game ball path components (the payout ball path section 172 and the discharge ball path section 174). 240 is installed. In particular, the setting key switch 240 is provided at a position where it does not overlap with the game ball passage components (the payout ball passage 172 and the discharge ball passage 174).

  In this case, in a state where the power supply device 154 is mounted on the back cover member 151, the key insertion slot 245a of the setting key switch 240 is not visible from the rear of the gaming machine, and the setting change key is inserted into the key insertion slot 245a. Can not be.

  In the gaming machine 10, the key insertion slot 245 a of the setting key switch 240 is not exposed unless the locking device 60 is unlocked and the blocks 13 to 15 are separated and opened. That is, the setting change key can be inserted into the key insertion slot 245a only when the blocks 13 to 15 are separated and opened. Therefore, it is difficult to perform unauthorized setting changes. However, when the blocks 13 to 15 are separated and opened, the key insertion slot 245a faces the open side. Therefore, when the setting is properly changed, the setting change key can be easily inserted into the key insertion slot 245a.

  The power supply device 154 is basically screw-fixed from the back side of the gaming machine using the mounting hole 261. However, since the screw fixing is performed from the back side of the gaming machine, the removal is relatively easy. When removed, the power supply device 154 is removed from the back cover member 151. In this case, even if the key insertion port 245a of the setting key switch 240 is exposed inside the back cover member 151 as a countermeasure against fraud as described above, the countermeasure against the fraud may be ineffective.

  Therefore, in this gaming machine 10, the positions of the key switch cover 242 of the setting key switch 240 and the base portion 161 of the back cover member 151 are matched with each other when the power supply device 154 is mounted on the back cover member 151. Screw holes 266 and 267 are provided (see FIGS. 7 and 10). Then, with the power supply device 154 mounted on the back cover member 151, a screw is screwed into the screw small holes 266, 267 from the inside of the back cover member 151 (that is, the front side in the state shown in FIG. 7). Thus, the power supply device 154 is not removed from the back cover member 151 simply by removing the screw from the back side of the gaming machine. Therefore, unauthorized removal of the power supply device 154 can be suppressed. Further, the anti-tampering method in which the key insertion port 245a of the setting key switch 240 is exposed to the inside of the back cover member 151 as described above can be made to function more reliably.

  In the game hall, the setting is changed by the hall manager or the like according to the following procedure. At this time, when changing the setting, the gaming machine main part 12 (door block 13, surface change) with respect to the outer frame 11 in accordance with the unlocking operation of the locking device 60 (for example, the clockwise rotation operation of the unlocking key). The block 14 and the payout block 15) are separated and opened, and the payout block 15 with respect to the surface changing block 14 in response to another unlocking operation (for example, a counterclockwise turning operation of the unlocking key). Is released. In this state, a setting change key is inserted into the key cylinder 245 (key insertion port 245a) of the setting key switch 240, and a predetermined setting changing operation is performed.

  First, the power switch 205 is turned off, the setting change key inserted into the key cylinder 245 (key insertion slot 245a) is turned 90 degrees clockwise, and then the power switch 205 is turned on. As a result, the current set value is displayed on the count display LED provided in the payout control device 153 and the like, and six-stage setting changes are possible. Thereafter, each time the reset switch 206 is pressed, the setting value display changes as 1 → 2 → 3 →... (The maximum value is 6 and then returns to 1), and the setting is selected by the operation. When the start lever 33 is operated after selecting the setting, the set value is fixed. Thereafter, when the setting change key is turned 90 degrees counterclockwise to return the setting key switch 240 to the original state, the setting operation is completed.

  When the setting change key is turned 90 degrees in the clockwise direction with the power switch 205 turned on, the current setting value is displayed on the count display LED.

  In addition, in the base portion 161 of the back cover member 151, a ball rental unit connection board 271 that manages payout of game balls lent out from the ball rental unit is provided on the side of the power supply device 154.

(Explanation of electrical configuration)
Next, the electrical configuration of the gaming machine 10 will be described based on the block diagram of FIG. In FIG. 15, each electrical component is divided into a door block 13, a surface changing block 14, and a payout block 15. In addition, a supply line of power supplied from the power supply device 154 is indicated by a double line arrow, and a signal line is indicated by a solid line arrow.

  In FIG. 15, the main control device 84, the display control device 85, and the payout control device 153 are all configured by a logical operation device having a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, etc., and the CPU of each control device is a ROM. Various controls relating to the game are executed based on a calculation program stored in advance. Each of these control devices is connected via a signal line, a relay board, and the like, and in the game, the game progresses by exchanging commands and the like between the control devices.

  Specifically, in the surface changing block 14, the reel device 82 and the external terminal board 302 are connected to the main control device 84 via the reel relay substrate 301, and the display control device 85 is connected via the sub relay substrate 303. It is connected. In the reel device 82, the rotation of each of the reels 101 to 103 is controlled based on a command from the main control device 84. The external terminal board 302 is a relay device connected to a hall management device (so-called hall computer) installed in a game hall or the like. Through this external terminal board 302, the game situation (number of games, number of games, etc.) is changed to the hall. Output to the management device. The display control device 85 inputs various commands related to the auxiliary effects of each game from the main control device 84, and performs the auxiliary effects by the liquid crystal display device 83 according to the commands, and the door upper relay board provided in the door block 13 The driving of speakers and lamps is controlled via 306.

  Although description by illustration etc. was abbreviate | omitted, this game machine 10 is provided with the door switch for detecting that the game machine main part 12 (door block 13) was open | released with respect to the outer frame 11, The door switch detection signal is input to the main controller 84 via the reel relay board 301.

  In the main controller 84, a part of RAM is provided with a backup area in which a backup voltage is supplied from the power unit 154 and data can be retained (backup) even after the gaming machine 10 is powered off. ing. Therefore, when the power supply is shut down due to the occurrence of a power failure or the like, various data at the time of power shutdown is stored and retained in the RAM backup area, and the gaming machine 10 is turned on at the next power-on (including power-on due to power failure cancellation). Can be restored to the state before the power was shut off.

  In addition, the payout block 15 is provided with a payout block relay board 305, through which the main control device 84 of the surface changing block 14 and the payout control device 153 of the payout block 15 are connected. Insertion unit 65 is electrically connected. In addition, the main controller 84 of the surface changing block 14 and the door block relay board 307 of the door block 13 are electrically connected via the payout block relay board 305.

  In this case, when various operation members (the bet switch 38, the start lever 33, and the stop switches 35 to 37) of the door block 13 are operated by the player, the operation is detected by the operation detection unit built in these operation members. Each operation detection signal is input to the main controller 84 via the door block relay board 307 and the payout block relay board 305. For example, when an operation detection signal associated with the operation of the bet switch 38 is input to the main control device 84, the main control device 84 outputs an acquisition control signal to the acquisition unit 65 via the payout block relay board 305. The take-in unit 65 drives the solenoid by this take-in control signal, and the game balls are taken in sequentially. The detection signal of the game ball take-in detection sensor at the time of taking in the game ball is also input to the main controller 84 via the payout block relay board 305.

  In addition, a stop symbol (three upper and lower symbols visible from the viewing window 23 of the door block 13 and a combination of the symbols) of each reel of the reel device 82 is a predetermined game ball payout combination (small role symbol, bonus symbol). If it matches, the main control device 84 sets the number of game balls to be paid out according to each winning combination, and sends out a payout control signal corresponding to the payout number via the payout block relay board 305. To 153. As a result, the payout control device 153 drives the payout device 168 (payout motor) to pay out the game ball.

  In the payout control device 153, as in the RAM of the main control device 84, a backup voltage is supplied from the power supply device 154 even after the power of the gaming machine 10 is cut off, as in the RAM of the main control device 84 (backup). There is a backup area that can be used. Therefore, when the power supply is shut down due to the occurrence of a power failure or the like, various data at the time of power shutdown is stored and retained in the RAM backup area, and the gaming machine 10 is turned on at the next power-on (including power-on due to power failure cancellation). Can be restored to the state before the power was shut off.

  The power supply device 154 takes in AC 24 volt power supplied from the outside, generates + 12V power for driving various switches and motors, + 5V power for logic, backup power for RAM backup, etc. + 5V power and backup power are supplied to the main controller 84, the payout controller 153, and the like.

(Simple explanation of the game)
Next, an outline of the game performed by the player for the gaming machine 10 having the above-described configuration will be briefly described.

  At the start of the game, when the player presses the bet switch 38 in a situation where there are enough game balls on the upper plate 41, the take-in unit 65 takes in the game balls. When the start lever 33 is operated after a predetermined number (for example, 15) of game balls corresponding to the number of bets has been taken in, the reels 101 to 103 of the reel device 82 are simultaneously or in a predetermined order. Start spinning. When the start lever 33 is operated, the main control device 84 performs an internal lottery regarding small roles, replays, bonus games, and the like. When the reels 101 to 103 rotate, the symbols attached to the outer peripheral surface thereof are visually recognized in such a manner that they move from top to bottom through the viewing window 23.

  Thereafter, when the player operates the stop switches 35 to 37 in an arbitrary order, the rotation of the corresponding reels 101 to 103 is stopped in accordance with the operation timing of each of the stop switches 35 to 37. At this time, when each of the reels 101 to 103 is stopped, pull-in stop control for stopping a predetermined symbol at a specific position is appropriately performed. For example, when a small combination is established by an internal lottery, the stop symbols can be slid up to 4 symbols from the operation timing of the stop switches 35 to 37 so that the combination of the stop symbols in which the small combination is established (Stop symbol sliding is performed). Incidentally, after the start of the rotation of each of the reels 101 to 103, when the specified time elapses without the operation of the stop switches 35 to 37, the rotation of each of the reels 101 to 103 is stopped when the specified time elapses.

  When the reels 101 to 103 are stopped (when the symbols are stopped), if the stopped symbols and the combinations thereof match the small role symbol or the bonus symbol, the number of game balls corresponding to the winning combination at that time is paid out. In this case, the game ball is paid out to the upper plate 41 by driving the payout device 168.

  According to the embodiment described in detail above, the following excellent effects are obtained.

  In the power supply device 154 provided integrally with the setting key switch 240, the setting key switch 240 is arranged on the side opposite to the electrical component mounting surface, and the key insertion slot 245a faces in the lateral direction with respect to the front direction of the gaming machine. Thus, the setting key switch 240 can be hidden from the rear of the gaming machine. In addition, it is possible to make it difficult to insert a setting change key into the key insertion slot 245a from the back of the gaming machine and perform setting changes illegally. Therefore, the deterrence against an illegal setting change act can be exhibited.

  In particular, the gaming machine 10 is installed in an island facility (pachinko island) in a game hall, and is released from the island facility by rotating to the near side. Further, the rear side of the gaming machine is opened, and the power supply device 154 and the like are exposed. Therefore, for example, if one gaming machine 10 that is opposite to the back is rotated from the island facility, the back of the other gaming machine 10 becomes fully visible, and there is a concern that an illegal setting change action or the like may occur. Fraud countermeasures can be taken.

  Similarly, in power supply device 154, reset switch 206 for performing a setting change operation and setting key switch 240 for enabling the setting change operation are provided on both sides of power supply board 201, respectively. It becomes impossible to perform the setting validation operation by the above and the setting change operation by the reset switch 206 all at once. Therefore, further anti-fraud measures can be taken.

  Since the setting key switch 240 is installed so that the key insertion slot 245a is exposed only when the payout block 15 is separated and opened with respect to the surface changing block 14, even if the fraudulent person tries to change the setting illegally, it is unnecessary. Time and effort (separately opening each of the blocks 14 and 15) is required, so that the deterrence of fraud can be applied.

  Further, since the unlocking operation of the locking device 60 is indispensable in order to separate and open the payout block 15 with respect to the surface changing block 14, the key insertion slot 245a is exposed or the key insertion slot 245a is played. It is possible to strictly manage the concealment inside the machine and realize more reliable fraud countermeasures.

  The payout block 15 is provided with an opening window portion 265 communicating with the longitudinal direction of the gaming machine, and the key insertion port 245a is exposed to the front side of the payout block 15 through the opening window portion 265. Therefore, the payout block 15 must be opened. Thus, the setting change key cannot be inserted into the key insertion slot 245a, and it is possible to make it more difficult to perform an illegal setting change act.

  Since the setting key switch 240 is installed using the space area between the housing part of the reel device 82 and the path component parts of the game balls (the payout ball path part 172 and the discharge ball path part 174), efficient space use is possible. realizable.

  Further, in the gaming machine 10, components having uniqueness for each model, such as the reel device 82, the liquid crystal display device 83, the main control device 84, and the display control device 85, are collectively mounted on the surface changing block 14. Therefore, these devices can be exchanged together as a group. That is, at the time of model replacement in a game hall or the like, the main model replacement work is completed by exchanging the surface changing block 14. Therefore, it is possible to easily change the model of the gaming machine 10. In addition, since parts other than the replacement block 14 can be reused, it is possible to reduce resource consumption.

  In addition to the embodiment described above, for example, the following may be implemented.

  (A) In the above embodiment, in the power supply device 154, the setting key switch 240 is installed so that the key insertion slot 245a faces in the lateral direction with respect to the front direction of the gaming machine. The setting key switch 240 may be installed so that 245a faces upward or downward.

  (B) In the above embodiment, the configuration change key can be inserted into the key insertion slot 245a only when the payout block 15 is separated and opened with respect to the surface change block 14. The configuration may be such that the setting change key can be inserted into the key insertion slot 245a without separating and releasing the payout block 15 from the replacement block 14. However, in this case as well, the setting key switch 240 is installed on the opposite side of the electrical component mounting surface and the key insertion slot 245a faces the front direction of the gaming machine in the same manner as described above, or the setting is changed. A reset switch 206 for performing an operation and a setting key switch 240 for enabling the setting change operation are provided on both sides of the power supply board 201, respectively. Thereby, the deterrent with respect to an unauthorized setting change act can be exhibited.

  (C) In the above embodiment, in the power supply device 154, the substrate case 202 for housing the power supply substrate 201 and the key switch cover 242 of the setting key switch 240 are molded separately, and they are joined together. However, it is also possible to change the circuit board case 202 and the key switch cover 242 so as to be integrally formed.

  (D) In the above embodiment, the setting key switch 240 is integrally provided in the power supply device 154, but this is changed to another board device such as the main control device 84, the display control device 85, and the payout control device 153. The setting key switch 240 may be integrally provided. Alternatively, the setting key switch 240 may be provided integrally with other components of the gaming machine 10 in addition to the setting key switch 240 provided integrally with the board device.

  (E) In the above-described embodiment, the reel device 82 and the liquid crystal display device 83 are used as gaming devices to be mounted on the surface changing block 14, and these devices are arranged side by side, but this is changed. For example, the reel device 82 and the liquid crystal display device 83 are provided side by side. Further, only a single reel device may be mounted, or a plurality of reel devices may be mounted. In addition, the liquid crystal display device that functions as an auxiliary effect device can be changed to another electrical display device such as a dot matrix, LED, electroluminescence (EL), or a fluorescent display tube.

  (F) It is good also as a structure which can divide | segment the door block 13 as a door member into two upper and lower members. For example, the lower door member including the operation unit 30 is defined as a lower door member, and the upper door member is defined as an upper door member.

  (G) In the gaming machine 10, the lower tray 51 is eliminated and only the upper tray 41 is provided. In this case, a large amount of game balls can be stored and held as the gaming machine 10 by increasing the capacity of the upper plate 41 and the payout passage behind it.

  (H) The arrangement of the operation means represented by the start lever 33 and the stop switches 35 to 37 in the above embodiment is merely an example. For example, the start lever 33 may be arranged on the right side, or may be changed as appropriate, such as a button instead of the lever.

  (I) The ball-use type spinning machine 10 in the above-described embodiment does not necessarily have to be installed on Pachinko Island. In this case, the outer frame may not be a requirement, and the gaming machine main part 12 may be supported by a housing or the like. Further, the game ball as a game medium is not limited to a pachinko ball, and may be a metal ball other than a pachinko standard. Other than the metal sphere, for example, a ceramic sphere may be used.

  (J) The present invention can also be embodied in a gaming machine other than a ball-use spinning machine (parrot). For example, the characteristic configuration of the power supply device 154 is applied to a slot machine using game medals as game media. In general, a slot machine has a setting change function. By applying the present invention, an illegal setting change action is suppressed. In the case of a slot machine, it has a housing and a front door on the front side thereof, and the front surface is opened by the front door. A setting change switch (reset switch) is installed on the front side of the board device (power supply device, etc.) so that it can be seen from the front of the gaming machine when the front is opened, and a setting validation device (setting key switch) is installed on the back side of the board device To do. At this time, as described above, it is preferable to install the setting validation device so that the key insertion portion faces in the lateral direction with respect to the front direction of the gaming machine. In this case, the substrate device is provided with a rotation mechanism such as a hinge, and the setting change key is inserted into the key insertion portion in a state where the substrate device is rotated to the front side, thereby enabling the setting change.

  Further, even in a pachinko machine, it is considered that a desired effect can be obtained by applying the present invention as long as it has a setting change function.

It is a perspective view showing the whole gaming machine in one embodiment. It is a perspective view which shows the internal open state of a gaming machine. It is a perspective view which shows the internal open state of a gaming machine. It is a perspective view of a surface change block. It is a perspective view of a surface change block. It is a perspective view of a payout block. It is a perspective view of a payout block. It is a rear view of a payout block. It is a perspective view which shows the state which removed control devices from the payout block. It is a figure which shows the structure of a power supply device. It is a disassembled perspective view of a power supply device. It is a disassembled perspective view of a power supply device. It is a disassembled perspective view of a setting key switch. It is the schematic which looked at the power supply device from upper direction. It is a block diagram for demonstrating the electrical structure of a game machine.

Explanation of symbols

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Game machine, 11 ... Outer frame, 13 ... Door block, 14 ... Replacement block, 15 ... Dispensing block, 33 ... Start lever, 35-37 ... Stop switch, 60 ... Locking device, 151 ... Back cover member, 154 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS ... Power supply device 201 ... Power supply board 202 ... Substrate case 205 ... Power switch 206 ... Reset switch 240 ... Setting key switch 241 ... Switch body 242 ... Key switch cover 244 ... Substrate 245 ... Key cylinder, 245a ... key insertion port, 246,251 ... connector terminal, 252 ... notch hole, 253 ... guide rib, 255 ... enclosure, 265 ... opening window.

Claims (1)

In a gaming machine having a setting change function for variably setting an internal state relating to a game, the setting change of the internal state being performed in accordance with a predetermined setting operation,
A gaming machine comprising a setting validation device that validates the setting operation by rotating the setting change key inserted into the key insertion portion.

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