JP2009201735A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine that performs a discharge from each memory as equally as possible if multiple memory areas memorize discharges of detected prize win balls. <P>SOLUTION: The game machine has a plurality of memory areas that can memorize the number of prize win balls discharged by a discharge device based on a prize win detected by a prize win device at the rate of the number of discharged balls detected per prize win ball. When the plurality of memory areas have memories of discharges, the discharge device discharges the quantity of balls once set per detection of one prize win based on the memory of the discharge in the corresponding memory area or repeats discharges in the area up to the number of preset discharge times. Then a confirmation sequence sequentially confirms the memories of discharges to be discharged after the next memory area and performs discharges as well. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that pays out a prize ball based on detection that a game ball has won a prize device.

  Conventionally, in a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine using a game ball, a plurality of winning devices such as a normal winning port and a grand winning port are provided in a gaming area formed on the gaming board, and each winning device is The number of prize balls (number of game balls) that a player can acquire when winning a game ball is set in advance, and when the game ball wins each winning device, the number of prize balls corresponding to each winning device is set by the payout device. I try to pay out.

  In addition, when a large number of game balls are continuously won in each winning device, the payout by the paying device will not be in time, so a payout counter corresponding to the number of prize balls is provided, and the payout counter for each prize ball is individually awarded. It is known that counts and prize balls are paid out in order from a predetermined high priority payout counter.

JP 2001-239031 A

  However, in the case of a configuration in which prize balls are paid out in order from a predetermined high priority payout counter as in the above-described gaming machine, until the payout of the high priority payout counter is completed, Since it does not move to the priority payout counter, when a large number of game balls wins in a plurality of winning devices with different prize balls, the payout counter with the lower priority does not easily turn out. As a result, in a payout counter with a lower priority, there is a possibility that the counter value will increase due to the increase in the counter value due to winning, rather than the decrease in the counter value due to payout.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and when a payout for detecting a winning ball is stored in a plurality of storage areas that can be stored for each number of payouts for detecting a winning ball, each memory is stored. Providing gaming machines that control the amount of payout stored in the area to be executed as evenly as possible to prevent the stored value from overflowing in a specific storage area and smoothly pay out prize balls With the goal.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, a game control means for controlling a game, a payout control means for paying out a predetermined number of game balls, and a game ball flowing down in a game area formed on the game board can be won. A plurality of winning devices, and a payout device that is controlled by the payout control means and is capable of paying out a prize ball based on detection of winning in the winning device, and for each winning device, a prize ball for detecting one winning ball In the gaming machine in which the payout device pays out the number of payout of prize balls set for the detection of the one winning ball in one payout, the payout control means includes the winning device A payout storage means having a plurality of storage areas capable of storing the number of prize balls to be paid out by the payout device based on the detection of the winning prize, for each of the payout numbers for the detection of the one winning ball, and a plurality of the payout storage means Memory When there is a memory to be paid out in a storage area confirmed by the payout confirmation means and a payout confirmation means for confirming whether there is a memory to be paid out in the area in a preset order for the plurality of storage areas A payout unit that performs payout by the payout device once for each check on the storage area and reduces memory for the payout from the storage area, and whether the payout check means has a memory to be paid out. If there is a memory to be paid out in the storage area that has been confirmed, after paying out once by the payout device based on the memory to be paid out in the storage area, the next in accordance with the preset order It is characterized by sequentially checking whether there is a memory to be paid out after the storage area.

  According to the invention of claim 2, a game control means for controlling a game, a payout control means for paying out a predetermined number of game balls, and a game ball flowing down in a game area formed on the game board can be won. A plurality of winning devices, and a payout device that is controlled by the payout control means and is capable of paying out a prize ball based on detection of winning in the winning device, and for each winning device, a prize ball for detecting one winning ball In the gaming machine in which the payout device pays out the number of payout of prize balls set for the detection of the one winning ball in one payout, the payout control means includes the winning device A payout storage means having a plurality of storage areas capable of storing the number of prize balls to be paid out by the payout device based on the detection of the winning prize, for each of the payout numbers for the detection of the one winning ball, and a plurality of the payout storage means Memory When there is a memory to be paid out in a storage area confirmed by the payout confirmation means and a payout confirmation means for confirming whether there is a memory to be paid out in the area in a preset order for the plurality of storage areas A payout unit that repeatedly executes payout by the payout device within a range within a preset maximum payout number for payout by the payout device, and reduces memory for the number of payout executions from the storage area; The payout confirming means, if there is a memory to be paid out in the storage area that has been confirmed whether there is a memory to be paid out, the maximum payout number by the payout device based on the memory to be paid out in the storage area After paying out within the range, there is a memory to be paid out for the next storage area or later in accordance with the preset order. And carrying out of the confirmation order.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the first or second aspect, the payout operation of the payout device is suspended according to the number of payouts stored in the storage area of the payout storage means or the payout number paid out by the payout means. Dispensing suspension means is provided.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in any one of the first to third aspects, the payout storage means adds a value of a counter provided for each payout number for the detection of the one winning ball by the winning detection, and Subtracted by payout by the payout device and stored in the storage area.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in any one of the first to fourth aspects, the payout control means confirms all the storage states of the payout storage means for each payout quantity and stores the payout quantity for each payout quantity. It is characterized by comprising a payout remaining confirmation means for judging that there is no payout to be paid out if there is not all.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, when there are memories to be paid out in a plurality of storage areas, the memories to be paid out can be taken out from the plurality of storage areas as evenly as possible, It is possible to suppress the overflow of the stored value related to payout.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, when a large number of game balls are awarded to a specific winning device and there are memories to be paid out in a specific storage area, the memory area to be paid out is stored in the storage area. The payout device repeats payout within a range within the maximum payout count, and then sequentially checks whether there is a memory to be paid out for the next storage area or later according to a preset order. It is possible to prevent the stored value relating to the payout of prize balls from overflowing. Furthermore, since the maximum number of payouts for repeating the payout is set, even if more memory to be paid out is stored in the storage area, after the payout is repeated for the maximum number of payouts, the next storage area is paid out. As a result, the memory value relating to the payout of prize balls can be prevented from overflowing in other storage areas.

  According to the invention of claim 3, when the number of payouts stored in the payout storage means is small and the operation time of the payout device is short, the payout device pause time is set short and the payout stored in the payout storage means If the number is large and the operation time of the payout device is long, the pause time can be set longer, so that the prize balls can be quickly paid out, and further, the heat generation due to the long time operation of the payout device can be suppressed. It becomes possible.

  According to the invention of claim 4, since the value of the counter provided for each payout number for the detection of one winning ball is added by winning detection and subtracted by payout by the payout device, it is more efficient than storing the payout number as it is. I can remember well.

  According to the invention of claim 5, the payout control means confirms all the states of storage by the payout storage means for each payout number and determines that there is no payout to be paid out if there is no memory for every payout number. Since the confirmation means is provided, it is possible to prevent the payment from being left behind.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1 is a front view showing an entire gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a view showing the back side of the gaming machine, and FIG. 3 is a block diagram simply showing connection of a control board, a device and the like of the gaming machine. It is.

  A gaming machine 1 shown in FIG. 1 is a pachinko gaming machine that uses a game ball as a game medium, and an outer rail 3 and an inner rail 4 are arranged in a substantially circular shape on the edge of the gaming board 2, and the outer rail 3 and the inner rail A game area 6 divided by 4 is provided on the game board 2. On the front side of the gaming machine 1, there is a decorative lamp 35, an upper ball receiving tray 36 for receiving paid out game balls, a lower ball receiving tray 37 for receiving game balls when the upper ball receiving tray 36 is full, sound effects And a launching device 64 for projecting and launching a game ball toward the game area 6 in response to a player's launch operation. Reference numeral F1 denotes an outer frame of the gaming machine, F2 denotes a front frame attached to the outer frame F1, and G denotes a glass frame attached to the front frame F2 by a hinge so as to be opened and closed. The game board 2 is provided in the outer frame F1, and a player can visually recognize the game area 6 from the front side of the gaming machine through the glass frame F2. In the game area 6, a plurality of nails (not shown) for guiding a game ball driven into the game area 6 are erected at a required position. Hereinafter, main parts of the gaming machine 1 will be described.

  In the game area 6, a display device 10, an upper start port 41, a lower start port 42, a big winning port 45, and an out port 49 are arranged in order from the upper part to the lower part on the center line. A left sleeve winning port 51, a right sleeve winning port 52, a left dropping winning port 53, and a right dropping winning port 54 are arranged on the left and right sides of the upper starting port 41, the lower starting port 42 and the large winning port 45, respectively. Further, normal symbol variation start gates 55 and 56 are provided on the left and right of the display device 10, lamp windmills 74 and 75 are provided above them, and windmills 76 and 77 are provided below them. The upper start opening 41, the lower start opening 42, the big winning opening 45, the left sleeve winning opening 51, the right sleeve winning opening 52, the left dropping winning opening 53, and the right dropping winning opening 54 are connected to the game board 2 in the present invention. The game ball flowing down in the formed game area 6 corresponds to a plurality of winning devices that can win (win). When a game ball wins (wins a ball) at each of the award ports (winning devices) and a win (ball) is detected, a predetermined number of prize balls (game balls) are detected by the player for the detection of one win ball. To be paid out. The number of prize balls (game balls) to be paid out for the detection of one winning ball is set for each winning port (winning device). In the present embodiment, there are three for winning the upper start opening 41, four for the lower starting opening 42, 13 for the large winning opening 45, and the left sleeve winning opening. 51, the right sleeve winning port 52, the left dropping winning port 53, and the right dropping winning port 54 are set to 10 payouts.

  The display device 10 can display symbols and the like, and includes an image display device such as a liquid crystal, a dot matrix, or an LED display device. In this embodiment, the liquid crystal display (TFT-LCD module) is used.

  In the display device 10, the lower left part is a normal symbol display unit 50, and the other part is a special symbol display unit 11. The special symbol display unit 11 corresponds to a display means capable of variably displaying a determination symbol for displaying the determination result, and the left special symbol (medium determination symbol) on the left side and the middle special symbol (medium determination) on the center The right special symbol (right judgment symbol) is variably displayed on the right side, and is variably displayed for a predetermined time. After that, the left special symbol, middle special symbol, and right special symbol are stopped and displayed as finalized symbols. Is done. Further, in addition to the special symbol (determination symbol), a background image (including characters, backgrounds, characters, etc.) may be displayed on the special symbol display unit 11, and the background image changes in the special symbol. Variation display may be possible due to a predetermined condition such as start. Further, on the upper left and right sides of the special symbol display unit 11, special symbol fluctuation reserved ball number displays 43 made of LEDs or the like are provided. In this embodiment, the left special symbol, the middle special symbol, and the right special symbol which are displayed in a variable and stopped state are eight patterns of “1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8”, respectively. ing. In this embodiment, when the game success / failure determination result is a jackpot (winning), the special symbol display unit 11 has a jackpot special symbol combination, in this example “1,1,1” (so-called “1”). Special symbol (judgment symbol) is stopped and displayed in a combination of the same numbers (such as “2)” or “2,2,2” (so-called '2' tick)) Transition to game (special game). In this embodiment, the privilege advantageous to the player is set to increase the ease of acquiring the game ball by the player.

  The normal symbol display unit 50 variably displays and stops a normal symbol for determining a small hit such as a symbol or a picture (character). The normal symbols that are changed and stopped on the normal symbol display unit 50 in the present embodiment are ten patterns of “0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9”. . The normal symbol is a small hit normal symbol, which is a small hit when stopped at an odd number in this example.

  The upper start port 41 has a shape with an open top so that a game ball can enter (winning is possible). On the other hand, the lower start port 42 is provided directly below the upper start port 41, and the two movable pieces 42a and 42b are substantially vertical by the lower start port solenoid on the back surface, making it difficult to win (enter) a game ball. It is controlled so as to be able to change between a narrow open state (normal state) and a generally V-shaped (reverse C-shaped) easy-to-win open / open state. A space between the movable pieces 42a and 42b of the lower start port 42 corresponds to a winning (ball-entering) area. The lower opening of the lower start port 42 is displayed with a fixed stop (per odd symbol) with a fixed stop display at a specific normal symbol (an odd number in this embodiment) after the normal symbol fluctuates in the normal symbol display section 50. Performed when established.

  Further, on the back of the game board 2, an upper start port detection switch (upper start port sensor) and a lower start port detection switch (lower start port sensor) are provided in each winning ball passage, The game ball is configured to detect winning of a game ball (entering a ball) into the upper start port 41 and the lower start port 42. In the present embodiment, the detection (winning) of the game ball at the upper start port 41 and the lower start port 42 is set based on the acquisition of the random number value and the start of the variation display of the special symbol (determination symbol). Has been. In addition, even if a game ball wins at the upper start port 41 and the lower start port 42 while the special symbol display unit 11 is displaying the variation of the special symbol, a new special symbol variation display may be started immediately. Therefore, the number of winnings to the upper start port 41 and the lower start port 42 is stored as a special symbol variation holding ball number, and the special symbol variation display in the special symbol display unit 11 is temporarily suspended and the special symbol is suspended. The stored value of the variable reserved ball number is lit and displayed on the special symbol variable reserved ball number display unit 43, and the result of the success / failure determination is displayed when the special symbol display unit 11 starts or ends the change. As a result, the stored value of the number of special symbol variation reserved balls is subtracted and the number displayed on the special symbol variation reserved ball number display 43 is reduced. In this embodiment, the upper limit of the number of winning times stored in the upper starting port 41 and the lower starting port 42, that is, the upper limit value of the number of special symbol variation holding balls is set to four.

  When the number of special symbol variation holding balls is stored up to the set upper limit number (that is, the maximum number is stored), the upper start port detection switch and the lower start port detection switch detect more winning game balls. However, the number of special symbol fluctuation reserve balls is an invalid ball that is not stored, and a prize ball (prize game ball) for winning is paid out for the invalid ball without making a change and determination of whether or not the ball is valid.

  The normal symbol variation start gates 55 and 56 are detected by detecting a game ball passing through the normal symbol variation start gates 55 and 56 with a normal symbol variation start switch provided on the back of the game board 2. The display unit 50 starts to change the normal symbol. Further, during the normal symbol variation display, the normal symbol variation generated by the passing of the game ball through the normal symbol variation start gates 55 and 56 is stored as the number of normal symbol variation reserved balls up to four times. The normal symbol fluctuation holding ball number display 49 provided at the lower right position of the game area 6 displays the normal symbol fluctuation holding ball numerical value, and the normal symbol fluctuation holding ball number is reduced by starting the fluctuation of the normal symbol. The number of symbols displayed on the symbol variation holding ball number display 49 is reduced. Furthermore, a left sleeve winning opening detection switch and a right sleeve winning opening detection switch for detecting the winning balls of the left sleeve winning opening 51 and the right sleeve winning opening 52, and the left dropping winning opening 53 and the right dropping winning opening 54 are provided. A left drop winning opening detection switch and a right drop winning opening detection switch for detecting a winning ball are respectively provided on the back of the corresponding game board.

  The special prize opening 45 includes an opening / closing plate 46 that is opened and closed by a special prize opening opening solenoid provided on the back of the game board 2. The special winning opening 45 is normally in a state in which the opening / closing plate 46 is closed, and a part of the special winning opening 45 is a specific area that is opened when the special winning opening 45 is opened to allow a winning. A winning opening 47 is provided. Further, the specific area winning opening 47 is provided with an open / close door that is opened and closed by a specific area opening solenoid when a predetermined condition is satisfied. Further, the specific area winning opening 47 is provided with a specific winning ball detection switch (specific area sensor) for detecting a specific winning ball, and the right to continue to open the large winning opening 45 by the detection of the winning ball is established. In the embodiment, up to 15 rounds can be repeated. In addition, a winning ball count switch (count sensor) for detecting a winning ball that has won the grand winning port 45 and has not won the specific area winning port 47 is provided in the approximate center of the big winning port 45. It has been.

  The launching device 64 has a launching motor that is driven by the operation of the operation lever 65 on the back side, and the game ball is ejected by the driving of the launching motor. The launch ball fired by the launch device 64 is guided to the game area 6 through a launch ball guide path formed between the inner guide rail 4 and the outer guide rail 3 erected on the game board surface. The game ball guided to the game area 6 rolls down and falls down and wins each device and each prize opening, or if no prize is given anywhere, the game board 2 enters the game board 2 from the out slot 49. It is discharged to the back side.

  Further, on the back side of the gaming machine 1, as shown in FIG. 2, a plurality of control boards, devices, and the like are provided. Main control boards include a main control board 200, a sub-control board 205, a display control board 210, an audio control board 220, a payout control board 240, a power supply board 250, and a launch control board 260. Reference numeral 265 is an external terminal, 281 is a payout device, 283 is a no-ball detection switch, 289 is a ball storage tank, 291 is a ball guide rod, and 71 is an error release switch. Each control board is provided with a control circuit. Moreover, each control board is arrange | positioned in the back side of the game machine 1 in the state accommodated in the case individually or collectively. The main control board is simply shown using the block diagram of FIG.

  The main control board 200 corresponds to a game control means for controlling a game in the present invention, and includes at least a microcomputer including a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, and a plurality of counters, a sub control board 205, a payout control board 240, etc. It is connected. The CPU executes a control program and performs main control related to the game. The main control board 200 operates by receiving power from the power board 250.

  The CPU in the main control board 200 includes a control unit, a calculation unit, various counters, various registers, various flags, etc., performs calculation control, generates a random number value, and outputs a control signal to the sub-control board 205 or the like. (Transmission) is possible.

  The RAM stores the number of times the determination condition is satisfied by entering the upper start port 41 and the lower start port 42, that is, the special symbol variation holding ball detected by the upper start port detection switch or the lower start port detection switch. Temporary storage of various data such as the storage area for the number of normal symbols fluctuation holding balls detected by the number and the normal symbol fluctuation start switch, the storage area for various random values generated by the CPU, and the game data necessary for the game A storage area, a flag, and a CPU work area are provided.

  In the ROM, control programs and control data for the CPU, variation patterns and symbol data relating to variation display in the special symbol display unit 11 are written, and determination values for big hits and small hits are written. Yes.

  Note that the CPU of the main control board 200 also functions as a big hit determination unit for determining whether or not a game is won or a small hit determination unit for determining a small hit. In the control signal (command) output from the main control board 200, symbol variation data for variably displaying the special symbol on the special symbol display unit 11 according to the mode based on the jackpot determination result, the special symbol display unit 11 The jackpot determination result data to be displayed, the jackpot determination result data to be displayed on the special symbol display unit 11, and the jackpot determination result data to be displayed on the normal symbol display unit 50 in an aspect based on the small hit determination result are at least included. In addition, the control signal output from the main control board 200 may include data such as when power is turned on, when an abnormality occurs, and when a big hit round is performed.

  The sub-control board 205 includes an input / output circuit that connects the CPU, ROM, RAM, microcomputer having a plurality of counters, the main control board 200, and an input / output circuit that connects the display control board 210 and the lamp relay board. I have. The sub-control board 205 corresponds to game control means for controlling the game together with the main control board, and controls the game according to the control signal output from the main control board 200. In this embodiment, the sub-control board 205 also serves as a lamp control board, receives the control signal output from the main control board 200, and controls the lamp relay board and the display control board 210 based on the received control signal. A signal is being output. The control signal from the main control board 200 includes variation data for the special symbol display unit 11, a control signal for the decorative lamp 35, and the like, and controls the game according to the contents of the control signal. The ROM of the sub-control board 205 stores control programs, data constants, and the like, and the RAM has a storage area for various data and a work area for the CPU. Lamps such as a decoration lamp 35 are connected to the lamp relay board, and the operation of the decoration lamp 35 and the like is controlled by a control signal transmitted from the sub-control board 205 to the lamp relay board. The sub control board 205 is operated by receiving power from the power board 250.

  The display control board 210 includes a microcomputer including a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM, an input circuit that connects the sub control board 205, an output circuit that connects the audio control board 220 and the display device 10, and the like. Based on the control signal output from the substrate 205, the display of the display device 10 is controlled. A control program is stored in the ROM of the display control board 210. In the display control board 210, the CPU reads predetermined display control data from the ROM based on the control signal from the sub-control board 205, generates control data in the storage area of the RAM, and outputs it to the VDP (not shown). To do. The VDP reads necessary data from the ROM based on a command from the CPU, creates display image map data, and stores it in the VRAM. The image data stored and stored in the VRAM is converted into RGB signals by a D / A conversion circuit provided in the output circuit and output to the special symbol display unit 11.

  The audio control board 220 synthesizes an audio signal with the signal output from the display control board 210 and outputs it to the amplifier. The amplifier amplifies the audio signal and outputs it to the speaker 38.

  The payout control board 240 corresponds to payout control means for paying out a predetermined number of game balls in the present invention, and includes a microcomputer having a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM. The payout control board 240 corresponds to a sub-control means together with the sub control board 205, and receives the control signal output from the main control board 200 to control the payout device 281. A control program is stored in the ROM of the payout control board 240. The RAM of the payout control board 240 corresponds to payout storage means in the present embodiment, and the number of prize balls (game balls) to be paid out by the payout device 281 based on the detection of winnings in various winning ports (winning devices). Can be stored for each number of payouts for the detection of one winning ball. That is, when one winning ball is detected at one winning opening (for example, the lower start opening 42), the number of payouts (for example, three) set for the detection of one winning ball is stored as one payout unit. The In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 18, there is a prize ball payout counter (corresponding to a counter provided for each payout number for detection of one winning ball in the present invention) for each payout number for detection of one winning ball. The payout device 281 is provided for each payout number corresponding to the detection of one winning ball and is added to the corresponding storage area in the RAM of the payout control board 240, thereby paying out the device 281 based on the detection of the winning device. The number of prize balls to be paid out is configured to be memorable. The value of the counter in the prize ball payout counter corresponds to the number of winnings before payout. For example, a prize ball payout counter for three prize balls is provided for three payouts with respect to detection of one prize ball, and three prize balls are detected each time it is detected that a prize has been won in a prize device for three prize balls. 1 is added to the prize ball payout counter (the count is added). On the other hand, for the number of payouts corresponding to the detection of one winning ball, a prize ball payout counter for four prize balls is provided, and each time it is detected that a prize has been won in the four prize balls, four prize balls are detected. 1 is added to the prize ball payout counter. Each prize ball payout counter has an upper limit value that can be stored. The counter value in the prize ball payout counter is subtracted by payout by the payout device 281 and the value after subtraction is stored in the storage area. The RAM (payout storage means) is provided with a plurality of storage areas for storing the number of prize balls paid out for each of the number of payouts for the detection of one winning ball, corresponding to the plurality of prize ball payout counters. The payout control board 240 is operated by the power supplied from the power board 250.

  The payout control board (payout control means) 240 includes a payout confirmation means, a payout means, a payout suspension means, and a payout remaining check means executed by a control program.

  The payout confirmation means has a memory to be paid out in a plurality of storage areas in a RAM (payout storage means) of the payout control board 240, that is, a counter value of a prize ball payout counter stored in the storage area ( Whether the number of winnings is 1 or more is confirmed in the order set in advance for the plurality of storage areas.

  When there is a memory to be paid out in the storage area confirmed by the payout confirmation means, the payout means pays out once by the payout device 281 for each confirmation of the storage area, or a preset maximum payout The payout is repeated within the range of the number of times, and the memory for the payout is reduced from the storage area. The payout by the payout device 281 is a single payout performed by driving a payout motor (electrical drive source) of the payout device 281 and paying out the number of prize balls payout set for the detection of the one winning ball. It comes out.

  In addition, the payout confirming means stores the next memory according to the preset order after the payout device 281 pays out once or repeats payout within the maximum payout count based on the memory to be paid out in the storage area. It is sequentially confirmed whether there is a memory to be paid out after the area.

  The payout suspending means suspends the payout operation of the payout device according to the payout number stored in the RAM (payout storage means) of the payout control board 240 or the payout number paid out by the payout device 281. Also, the longer the number of payouts stored in the RAM (payout storage means) of the payout control board 240, or the larger the number of payouts paid out by the payout device 281, the longer the payout operation pause time is set. It has become. Therefore, since the pause time can be set according to the operating time of the payout motor (electrical drive source) in the payout device, the burden on the payout device is suppressed, and when normally paying out a small number of payouts, etc. It is possible to prevent a decrease in the payout capacity per unit time.

  The payout remaining confirmation means confirms the state of storage for each payout quantity by the payout storage means for all storage areas (that is, confirms whether or not there is a memory to be paid out for all of the plurality of storage areas), and the payout If there is no memory for every number (no memory to be paid out in all storage areas), it is determined that there is no payout to be paid out.

  The power supply board 250 is supplied with AC24V from the outside, converts the input AC24V into DC34V, converts the converted DC34V into DC12V and DC5V by each regulator, and supplies them to each board.

  The launch control board 260 controls the launch motor in the launch device 64.

  As shown in the front view of FIG. 4 and the exploded perspective view of FIG. 5, the payout device 281 includes a payout device case main body 281a, a payout motor 281c having a payout screw 281b, a main body cover 281d, a payout sensor (here, a photo sensor) 281e. , Case bearing 281f, case bearing cover 281g, and the like. The dispensing device 281 is configured such that the dispensing screw 281b rotates when a dispensing motor (electric drive source) 281c is operated. The game ball that has been guided from the ball guide bar 291 and entered the payout device 281 rides on the wing portion of the payout screw 281b, and gradually moves downward by the rotation of the payout screw 281b. Game balls are paid out one by one from (not shown). The payout sensor 281e corresponds to a prize ball payout detecting means, and detects the paid game balls one by one. The dispensing device 281 stops dispensing by stopping the operation of the dispensing motor (electric drive source) 281c. During the rest period, the payout motor (electric drive source) is stopped.

  Here, the game in the gaming machine 1 will be briefly described. In the gaming machine 1, when a game ball launched by the launching device 64 toward the gaming area 6 wins the various winning devices and a winning is detected, one winning ball is awarded for each winning device. The number of game balls set for detection (the number of game balls paid out in one payout unit) is paid out to the upper ball tray 36 as a prize ball. The payout motor (electrical) of the payout device 281 every time the payout device 281 finishes one payout, or every time the payout device 281 repeats payout within the range of the set maximum payout number. The drive source) 281c is temporarily stopped, and the next payout is performed after a predetermined pause time. When the number of payouts stored in the RAM (payout storage means) of the payout control board 240 is small (that is, when the payout number corresponding to the detection of one winning ball is stored in a storage area), the payout motor ( When the pause time of the electric drive source 281c is shortened and the number of payouts stored in the RAM (payout storage means) of the payout control board 240 is large (that is, when the number of payouts for detecting one winning ball is large) ), The pause time of the payout motor (electric drive source) 281c is lengthened. Or, when the payout device 281 performs a single payout and the drive time of the payout motor (electric drive source) 281c in the payout device 281 is short, the payout motor (electric drive source) 281c. When the driving time of the payout motor (electric drive source) 281c is long, the pause time of the payout motor (electric drive source) 281c may be set long. .

  When the game ball passes through the normal symbol variation start gates 55 and 56, a normal symbol random number value is acquired, and a normal symbol hit (small hit) determination is performed based on the acquired random number value, and the normal symbol display unit At 50, the normal symbol starts to fluctuate and stops after fluctuating for a predetermined time. At that time, if the hit determination result of the normal symbol is a small hit, the small hit normal symbol, in this example, stops at an odd number, and the two movable pieces 42a, 42b of the lower start port 42 The solenoid for the start port changes from a narrow open state (normal state) that is almost vertical and difficult to win, to a substantially V-shaped (reverse C-shaped) open and open state that is easy to win, and the game ball is easy to win. When a game ball is won and detected at the lower start opening 42, the number of prize balls set for the detection of one winning ball is paid out from the payout device 281 and then the The driving of the payout motor 281c is stopped during a pause time.

  Further, when a game ball is won and detected at the upper start port 41 and the lower start port 42, the prize ball is paid out, and a jackpot random number value, a jackpot symbol random number value, etc. are acquired, and the acquired jackpot The jackpot determination is made based on the random number value. After the determination, the special symbol (determination symbol) starts to change in the special symbol display unit 11, and is stopped and displayed after the predetermined time change.

  When the result of determining whether or not the jackpot is successful (a jackpot), the special symbol display unit 11 displays a jackpot symbol (a jackpot determination symbol). In this example, “1,1,1” (so-called “1” roar ) Or “2, 2, 2” (a combination of the same numbers such as so-called “2”), and the game shifts to a jackpot game (special game). In the big win game (special game) state, the open / close plate 46 of the big prize opening 45 is opened to make it easy to receive the game balls falling on the surface of the game area 6 so that the big prize opening 45 can be won. . When a winning to the big winning opening 45 is detected, the number of prize balls set for the detection of one winning ball is paid out from the payout device 281 and then becomes the pause time. The driving of the payout motor 281c is stopped. The opening / closing plate 46 is closed after a predetermined time (for example, 29.5 seconds) has elapsed or when the number of winning balls reaches a predetermined number (for example, 10). Further, when a winning ball to the specific area winning opening 47 in the big winning opening is detected during the opening of the big winning opening 45 or within about 2 seconds after the closing of the big winning opening 45, the big hit is repeated again. A right is generated, and the opening / closing plate 46 is repeatedly opened for a predetermined maximum number of rounds (for example, a maximum of 15 rounds). Further, the opening / closing plate 46 may be repeatedly opened and closed for a predetermined maximum number of rounds (for example, up to 15 rounds) or for a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) even if a winning ball to the specific area winning port 47 is not detected.

  The jackpot includes a normal jackpot and a probable jackpot (special jackpot). In the case of a normal jackpot, the probability of the next jackpot is set to a low probability (1/315 in this embodiment) after the end of the special game, whereas in the case of a probable jackpot (special jackpot) After the game is over, the next jackpot probability is set to a high probability (5/315 in this embodiment). In the case of the normal jackpot, a normal jackpot symbol (ordinary jackpot determination symbol) consisting of even numbers such as “2, 2, 2”, etc. is displayed on the special symbol display unit 11, while Is displayed on the special symbol display unit 11 with a probability variation jackpot symbol (special jackpot determination symbol) composed of odd numbers such as “1, 1, 1”.

  Next, the control process of the gaming machine 1 will be described. As the random number counter provided on the main control board 200, there are a jackpot random number counter, a jackpot symbol random number counter, a reach random number counter, a special symbol data random number counter, an effect random number counter, a normal symbol random number counter, and the like.

The jackpot random number counter is used for jackpot determination (game success / failure determination) by the jackpot determination means (win / no-go determination means), and is composed of random numbers from “0” to “629”. The random number of the jackpot random number counter (the jackpot random number) is incremented by 1 every time a normal symbol / special symbol main random number update process to be described later starts at “0” when the gaming machine is turned on. Is set to “0” and the addition is repeated again. The jackpot random number value is acquired due to winning at the upper start port 41 and the lower start port 42, and the acquired value is set as a jackpot value in the low probability state of '3', '397' If it matches any one, it becomes a big hit, while in the high probability state, '3', '53', '113', '173', '227', '281', '337', If it matches any of '397', '449', and '503', it will be a big hit.

  The jackpot symbol random number counter determines a jackpot symbol combination that is confirmed and stopped in the special symbol display unit 11 when the jackpot winning / bad determination result is a hit, from the random numbers from “0” to “7” Become. The jackpot symbol random number value starts from “0” when the power is turned on, and is incremented by 1 every update processing of a normal symbol / special symbol main random number, which will be described later. The addition is repeated. The jackpot symbol random number value is acquired due to winning in the upper start winning opening 41 and the upper starting winning opening 42. The jackpot symbol random number value is assigned a jackpot symbol combination that is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display unit 11 when the jackpot winning / failing determination result is a hit. In the present embodiment, when it is “0”, it is one grove (all the same symbols) where the jackpot symbol combination is “1,1,1”, and when it is “1”, it is “2,2,2”. 2 slots, if '2', 3 slots, '3, 3, 3'; if '3', 4 slots, '4, 4, 4' 5 for eyes, 4 for 5 and 5 for 5; 6 for 6; 6, 6 for 6; In this case, a jackpot symbol combination consisting of 7 grids of “7, 7, 7” and 8 grids of “8, 8, 8” is allocated.

  The reach random number counter is used for determining whether or not a reach state is reached when the jackpot determination result based on the jackpot random number value is out of reach, and is a random number of “0” to “126”. Consists of. The reach state in the present embodiment excludes the special symbol (for example, the middle special symbol) that is stopped and displayed last among the left special symbol, the middle special symbol, and the right special symbol that are displayed with the variable symbol stopped on the special symbol display unit 11. When other special symbols (for example, left special symbol and right special symbol) are the same (excluding the final stop symbol, the state is equal to the jackpot special symbol combination, and finally the jackpot special symbol combination) And a case where a special symbol combination is included. The random number of the reach random number counter (reach random number) starts from “0” when the gaming machine 1 is turned on, and is incremented by 1 every time a normal symbol / special symbol main random number update process described later is performed. Then, it is set to “0” and the addition is repeated again. The reach random number is acquired due to winning at the upper start port 41 and the lower start port 42, and when the determination result is wrong, the numerical value is compared with the reach reach value determined in advance. Presence or absence is determined. In this embodiment, reach establishment values are “5”, “17”, “28”, “40”, “51”, “63”, “74”, “86”, “97”, “109”, “ 120 '.

  The special symbol data random number counter is used for determining a special symbol combination to be stopped and displayed on the special symbol display unit 11 when the jackpot determination result based on the jackpot random number value is out, The special symbol data 1 random number counter for determining the left special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the display unit 11, the special symbol data 2 random number counter for determining the middle special symbol, and the special symbol data 3 for determining the right special symbol. Each special symbol data random number counter is composed of random numbers from “0” to “7”.

The random number of the special symbol data 1 starts from “0” when the power is turned on, and is incremented by “1” every time a normal symbol / special symbol main random number update process to be described later is reached. And the addition is repeated again. The random number of the special symbol data 2 starts from “0” when the power is turned on, and is incremented by “1” when the random number of the special symbol data 1 is rewritten to “0”, and reaches “7”. Then, it is rewritten to “0” and the addition is repeated again. Furthermore, the random number of the special symbol data 3 starts from “0” when the power is turned on or after the reset process, and is incremented by “1” when the random number of the special symbol data 2 is rewritten to “0”. When it reaches', then it is rewritten to '0' and the addition is repeated again. Thereby, even if the random number ranges of the special symbol data 1 to 3 are the same, the random numbers of the special symbol data 1 to 3 can be prevented from being synchronized (added in the same combination).

  Each of the random numbers of the special symbol data 1 to 3 is “1” when “0”, “2” when “1”, and “3” when “2”. A judgment symbol consisting of a left special symbol, a middle special symbol, and a right special symbol that are stopped and displayed on the display unit 11 is assigned. The random numbers of the special symbol data 1 to 3 are acquired due to winning in the upper starting port 41 and the lower starting port 42, and the special symbol data 1 to 3 is obtained by combining the random numbers of the acquired special symbol data 1 to 3 when the special symbol data is lost. A judgment symbol consisting of a left special symbol, a middle special symbol, and a right special symbol displayed on the symbol display unit 11 is determined.

  The effect random number counter is used for selecting and determining the variation pattern of the special symbol in the special symbol display unit 11 and includes effect random numbers from ‘0’ to ‘198’. This effect random number value starts from “0” when the gaming machine 1 is turned on, and is incremented by 1 for each of the normal symbol / special symbol main random number update processing to be described later. It is set to 0 'and the addition is repeated again. The random number value (effect random number value) of the effect random number counter is acquired due to winning at the upper start port 41 and the lower start port 42. The obtained effect random number value is compared with the numerical value for determining the variation mode to which the variation mode is assigned, and the variation mode in the special symbol display unit 11 is determined.

  About the acquired jackpot random number value, jackpot symbol random number value, reach random number value, special symbol data random number value, production random number value, respectively, a maximum of four, in the corresponding area in the RAM of the main control board 200, the number of reserved balls Stored in correspondence and used sequentially.

The normal symbol random number counter is used to determine a small hit. When the gaming machine 1 is turned on, it starts from “0” and is incremented by “1” every time a normal symbol / special symbol main random number update process described later is performed. When 9 'is reached, it is then rewritten to' 0 'and the addition is repeated again. The normal symbol random numbers are acquired every time the game balls that have passed through the normal symbol variation start gates 55 and 56 are detected by the normal symbol variation start switch, and up to four normal symbols are stored in the RAM of the main control board 200. It is stored in the symbol random number storage area.

  In addition, a normal symbol is assigned to the normal symbol random value. The normal symbol random number value “0” is assigned as “0”, “1” is assigned to “1”, “2” is assigned to “2”, and so on. In the present embodiment, the hit probability for small hits is ½. Specifically, when the obtained random number value of the normal symbol random number is an odd number, the hit is small and the lower start port 42 Expand and open. In addition, when the acquired random number value of the normal symbol random number is other than that, it is not a small hit, and the lower start port 42 is left in a narrow open state where it is difficult to win.

  In the main control board (main control circuit) 200, the CPU of the microcomputer performs a main process M in accordance with a control program stored in the ROM. FIG. 6 is a flowchart of the main process M in the main control board 200.

  In the main process M, an initial setting process (S10), an interrupt prohibition process (S20), a normal symbol / special symbol main random number update process (S30), an interrupt permission process (S40), and an interrupt process (S100) are performed.

  In the initial setting process (S10), stack setting, interrupt time setting, CPU setting, SIO, PIO, CTC setting and the like are performed. This main process M is repeatedly performed every interrupt time (4 ms), but the initial setting process (S10) is a process necessary only when the power is turned on, and is executed only in the first round, and thereafter. Although not well known, details are omitted. In the interrupt prohibition process (S20), even if the interrupt process (S100) is entered every 4 msec, the interrupt is prohibited until the interrupt is permitted. In the normal symbol / special symbol main random number update process (S30), various random numbers are added by 1 for each normal symbol / special symbol main random number update process (S30), and when the set upper limit value of each random number is reached as described above, Return to '0' and the addition is performed again. The updated random number is stored in the RAM of the main control board 200. In the interrupt permission process (S40), the interrupt process (S100) that enters every 4 msec is permitted.

  In the interrupt process (S100), as shown in FIG. 7, an output process (S110) is first performed. In the output process (S110), the command (control signal) stored in the output buffer of the main control board 200 by each process is output to the corresponding control board or the like. In the subsequent input processing (S120), signal input is performed when various sensors (such as detection switches of the winning devices) detected in the gaming machine 1 are detected. In the next normal symbol / special symbol main random number update process (S130), the same process as the normal symbol / special symbol main random number update process (S30) performed in the loop process in the main process M is performed. .

  In the winning detection process (S140), as shown in FIG. 8, it is determined to which winning device a game ball has won and a winning is detected (S140-1 to S140-7), and the winning opening from which the winning is detected is determined. The prize ball (game ball) payout command (prize ball command) set for the detection of one winning ball is set (S140-8 to S140-14). More specifically, it is first determined whether or not a winning at the upper start port 41 is detected (S140-1). If a winning is detected, a command for three winning balls is set in the output buffer of the main control board 200. (S140-8). If no winning is detected at the upper start opening 41, it is determined whether a winning is received at the lower starting opening 42 (S140-2). If a win is detected, the winning ball 4 is determined. This command is set in the output buffer of the main control board 200 (S140-9). If no winning at the lower start opening 42 is detected, it is determined whether a winning at the left sleeve winning opening 51 is detected (S140-3). If a winning is detected, the winning ball 10 is determined. This command is set in the output buffer of the main control board 200 (S140-10). If no winning at the left sleeve winning opening 51 is detected, it is determined whether a winning at the right sleeve winning opening 52 is detected (S140-4). If a winning is detected, the winning ball 10 is determined. This command is set in the output buffer of the main control board 200 (S140-11). If no winning at the right sleeve winning opening 52 is detected, it is determined whether a winning at the left dropping winning opening 53 has been detected (S140-5). If a winning is detected, the winning ball 10 is determined. This command is set in the output buffer of the main control board 200 (S140-12). If no winning at the left dropping winning opening 53 is detected, it is determined whether a winning at the right dropping winning opening 54 is detected (S140-6), and if a winning is detected, the winning ball 10 is detected. This command is set in the output buffer of the main control board 200 (S140-13). If no winning at the right drop winning opening 54 is detected, it is determined whether a winning at the large winning opening 45 is detected (S140-7). If a winning is detected, 13 winning balls are detected. The command is set in the output buffer of the main control board 200 (S140-14). If no winning device is detected in any winning device, no winning ball command is set.

  On the other hand, when a winning at the upper starting winning opening 41 is detected and a winning at the lower starting opening 42 is detected, a holding addition process (S140-15) is performed.

  In the holding addition process (S140-15), as shown in FIG. 9, it is determined whether the number of special symbol fluctuation holding balls is 4 or more (S140-15-1). 15) is finished, if it is less than 4, 1 is added to the number of special symbol variation holding balls (S140-15-2), and the jackpot random number value, the reach random number value, the special symbol data random value, and the effect random number value are acquired. It is stored in the corresponding area of the RAM (S140-15-3), and this hold addition process (S140-15) is completed.

  In the special operation process (S150), as shown in FIG. 10, a success / failure determination process (S150-1) and a jackpot determination process (S150-2) are performed.

  In the success / failure determination process (S150-1), as shown in FIG. 11, it is determined whether or not the special symbol is changing in the special symbol display unit 11 (S150-1-1). On the other hand, if (S150-1) is finished and not changing, it is determined whether or not the number of special symbol change reservation balls is 1 or more (S150-1-2). When the number of special symbol variation holding balls is 0, the success / failure determination process (S150-1) ends. On the other hand, when the number is 1 or more, the acquired and stored jackpot random value is compared with the jackpot value. (S150-1-3). At this time, if it is in the low probability state, it is compared with either “3” or “397” set as the jackpot success value, while in the high probability state, “3” is set as the jackpot success value. , '53', '113', '173', '227', '281', '337', '397', '449', and '503'. In the case of a jackpot, a jackpot flag is set (S150-1-4), and a jackpot symbol combination determination process (S150-1-5) is performed.

  In the jackpot symbol combination determination process (S150-1-5), the jackpot symbol combination assigned to the acquired jackpot symbol random number is determined. That is, when the acquired jackpot symbol random number is '0', the first slot where the jackpot symbol combination is '1,1,1', and when the acquired jackpot symbol random number is '1' Is determined in the second tick that the jackpot symbol combination is '2, 2, 2'. In addition, when the determined jackpot symbol combination is an odd symbol combination, for example, “1, 1, 1”, etc., it is set to a high probability state, and is acquired in the next determination process (S150-1). If the jackpot random number value is compared with the value of the big jackpot in the high probability state, while the determined jackpot symbol combination is an even number of symbol combinations, for example, '2, 2, 2', etc., it is set to the low probability state. In the next round of success / failure determination processing (S150-1), the acquired jackpot random number value is compared with the jackpot value in the low probability state.

  On the other hand, when the jackpot random number value acquired and stored does not match the jackpot value, the off symbol combination determination process (S150-1-6) is performed. In the off symbol combination determination process (S150-1-6), it is determined whether all of the random numbers of the acquired special symbol data 1 to 3 match, and if they match, the acquired reach random number value is reached. Contrast with established value. When the acquired reach random number value matches the reach establishment value, the random value obtained by adding 1 to the random value of the special symbol data 2 is assigned to the random values of the special symbol data 1 to 3 as the random value of the special symbol data 2 The special symbol that is displayed is determined as a symbol combination that is out of place. On the other hand, if the acquired reach random number value does not match the reach establishment value, the random value obtained by adding 1 to the random value of the special symbol data 3 is used as the random value of the special symbol data 3, and the special symbol data 1 to 3 The special symbol assigned to the random number value is determined as an outlier symbol combination. In addition, when only the random number value of the acquired special symbol data 1 and the random number value of the special symbol data 3 match, if the acquired reach random number value matches the reach establishment value, the acquired special symbol data If the special symbols assigned to the random numbers 1 to 3 are determined to be out-of-order symbol combinations, and the acquired reach random number value does not match the reach establishment value, 1 is added to the random number value of the special symbol data 3. Using the added random number as the random value of the special symbol data 3, the special symbols assigned to the random values of the special symbol data 1 to 3 are determined as outlier symbol combinations. Also, if the random numbers of the acquired special symbol data 1 to 3 do not all match, and if the acquired reach random number value matches the reach establishment value, the acquired random number value of the special symbol data 3 is changed to the special symbol data 1 The special symbols assigned to the random values of the special symbol data 1 to 3 are determined to be out of the special symbol combination, while the acquired reach random number value matches the reach establishment value. If not, the special symbol assigned to the random number values of the special symbol data 1 to 3 is determined as an extra special symbol combination.

  After the jackpot symbol combination determination process (S150-1-5) or the off symbol combination determination process (S150-1-6), a special symbol variation start process (S150-1-7) is performed. In the special symbol variation start process (S150-1-7), the special symbol display unit 11 starts the variation of the special symbol. The variation mode at that time is performed in a variation mode determined based on the acquired effect random number value.

  Next, in the reserved ball number subtraction process (S150-1-8), the special symbol variation reserved ball number stored in the RAM is decremented by 1, and then the success / failure determination process (S150-1) ends.

  In the jackpot process (S150-2) performed after the success / failure determination process (S150-1), when the jackpot flag is set in the hit / failure determination process (S150-1), the jackpot symbol combination determination process (150 -1-5) A special symbol is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display unit 11 with the jackpot symbol combination determined in 1-5), and a jackpot action (hit game) is executed. On the other hand, if the jackpot flag is not set, the special symbol display unit 11 stops and displays the special symbol with the symbol combination determined to be out in the symbol combination determination processing (S150-1-6), and the special operation processing. (S150) is terminated.

  Following the special operation process (S150), a reserved ball number process (S155) is performed. In the reserved ball number processing (S155), the current special symbol variation reserved ball number is loaded and set in the output buffer.

  In other processing (S157), other various processing required in the gaming machine is executed. As other processing, there are, for example, processing for normal symbol variation and small hits. These processes are not particularly related to the present invention and will not be described.

  Next, control processing executed by the CPU of the payout control board (payout control means) 240 will be described. As shown in FIG. 12, in the control process (S160) by the CPU of the payout control board 240, RAM initialization (S160-1), device initialization (S160-2), sensor and switch input (S160-3) , Timer update (S160-4), payout sensor monitoring (S160-5), main control command analysis (S160-6), payout device control (S160-7), output processing (S160-8) are performed and output After the process (S160-8), the process returns to the sensor and switch input (S160-3) and the above processes are repeated.

  In initialization of the RAM (S160-1), initialization of the RAM in the payout control board 240 is performed. In the device initialization (S160-2), various devices in the payout control board 240 are initialized. Further, in the sensor and switch input (S160-3), the switches, such as the full device provided in the payout device, the no-ball detection switch 283, and the lower ball tray 37, are input. In the timer update process (S160-4), the timers such as the operation of the payout device 281 and the pause time are updated. In the payout sensor monitoring process (S160-5), the payout sensor (here, a photo sensor) 281e monitors payout abnormalities such as payout of prize balls, excessive discharge of prize balls, and insufficient number of payouts.

  In the main control command analysis process (S160-6), as shown in FIG. 13, it is determined whether the command received from the main control board 200 is valid or invalid (S160-6-1). When the main control command analysis process (S160-6) is completed and the command is valid, it is determined whether the received command is a winning ball command set in the winning detection process (S140) in the main control board 200. If the command is not a prize ball command (S160-6-2), other command processing (S160-6-5) is performed, and then the main control command analysis processing (S160-6) ends. The other command processing (S160-6-5) is a known technique that is not related to the present invention, and thus description thereof is omitted. On the other hand, when the received command is a prize ball command, the type of received prize ball command (that is, the type of command for designating the number of prize balls to be set for detection of one prize ball, for example, a prize ball When 1 is added to the winning ball payout counter corresponding to 3 command sets, 4 winning ball command sets, etc.), it is confirmed whether or not the memorable upper limit of the winning ball payout counter is exceeded (S160-6-3). If the value obtained by adding 1 to the prize ball payout counter exceeds the storable upper limit value of the prize ball payout counter, the main control command analysis process (S160-6) is terminated without adding, and the upper limit value (for example, If it does not exceed the 2-byte length 65535), 1 is added to the prize ball payout counter corresponding to the received prize ball command (S160-6-4), and then this main control command analysis (S160-6) Ends.

  In the payout device control process (S160-7), as shown in FIG. 14, it is first confirmed whether the payout device 281 is operating (the payout motor 281c is driving) (S160-7-1). If there is, it is confirmed whether or not the payout sensor (prize ball detecting means) 281e has detected the paid out prize ball (game ball) (S160-7-2). When the paid out prize ball (game ball) is detected, the payout number is subtracted from the set prize ball payout number (S160-7-3). For example, when three payout numbers are set by the three award balls command, the number 1 of game balls paid out is subtracted and the remaining payout number (number of payout game balls) is two. And Next, it is determined whether the remaining number of payouts is 1 or more (S160-7-4). On the other hand, when the paid-out prize ball (game ball) is not detected by the payout sensor (prize ball detecting means) 281e, the payout number subtraction process (S160-7-3) is not performed. It is determined whether the remaining payout number is 1 or more (S160-7-4). When the remaining payout number is not 1 or more, the operation of the payout device 281 is stopped (S160-7-5), and this payout device control (S160-7) is ended. On the other hand, when the remaining number of payouts is 1 or more, the driving of the payout motor 281c is continued (S160-7-6), and thereafter, the payout device control (S160-7) is ended. By performing the processing of S160-7-2 to S160-7-6, the operation of the payout device 281 (drive of the payout motor 281C) corresponds to the number of payouts set for the detection of one winning. Until the payout is completed, that is, until one payout is completed, the payout device 281 is operated when the payout for the number of payouts set for the detection of one winning is finished, that is, when one payout is finished. (Driving motor 281C driving) stops.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in S160-7-1 that the payout device 281 is not in operation, it is confirmed whether or not the stop time (pause time of the payout motor) of the payout device 281 has passed (S160-7-7). If not, the payout device control process (S160-7) ends. On the other hand, if the pause time has elapsed, it is confirmed whether an error has occurred (S160-7-8). If an error has occurred, the payout device control process (S160-7) ends. On the other hand, if it is determined that an error has not occurred, it is confirmed whether there is a ball lending payout request from a prepaid card unit (not shown) connected to the gaming machine 1 (S160-7-). 9). If there is no ball rental payout request, it is confirmed whether there is a prize ball payout number (ie, the payout number is 1 or more) (S160-7-10). If there is no payout number, this payout device control process (S160). -7) ends. On the other hand, if there is a payout number (that is, 1 or more), a payout control board payout number determination process (S160-7-11) is performed. When it is determined in S160-7-10 that there is a ball lending payout request, the payout number is set to 25 (S160-7-14). The payout control board payout number determination process (S160-7-14) will be described later. Note that S160-7-2 to 6 and S160-7-13 correspond to payout means.

  After the payout control board payout number determination process (S160-7-11) or the setting of the payout number 25 (S160-7-14), a pause time setting process (S160-7-12), and the payout apparatus operation start ( S160-7-13) is performed, and thereafter, the payout device control process (S160-7) ends. The pause time setting process (S160-7-12) will be described later.

  The payout control board payout number determination process (S160-7-11) shown in FIG. 15 is performed after confirming the payout number of prize balls set for the detection of a single winning ball by one payout. This is a process of an example of sequentially confirming whether or not there is a memory to be paid out for the subsequent storage areas in the order. In the payout control board payout number determination process (S160-7-11), as shown in FIG. 15, the number of repeated confirmations for the storage area of the counter value of the prize ball payout counter is the total number of prize ball payout counters 15 (S160-7-11-1). With this setting, it is possible to confirm whether or not there is a memory to be paid out for all the storage areas in which the counter value of the prize ball payout counter is stored. Next, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the prize ball payout counter is 0 (there is no memory to be paid out in the storage area of the prize ball payout counter) in the current confirmation storage area (S160-7-11-2). . The confirmation order of the storage area is based on the storage area of 15 15-pay ball payout counters, which is the maximum payout number for detection of 1 winning ball, by the initial setting performed when the gaming machine is turned on or reset. Are set in descending order from the storage area of the 15 payout ball payout counter (the storage area of the 15 payout ball payout counter → the storage area of the 14 payout ball payout counter → the storage area of the 13 payout ball payout counter) → ...) is set to confirm. As shown in FIG. 18, the prize ball payout counter is provided from 1 to 15 payouts, and the count value (counter value) can be increased or decreased by each prize ball payout counter. The value of the payout counter) is stored in a storage area corresponding to the prize ball payout counter (that is, corresponding to the payout number) in the RAM (storage means) of the payout control board 240. In the example of FIG. 18, the value of the 13-pay prize ball payout counter is 5, that is, the payout (winning) of 13 payouts is stored 5 times, while the value of the 3-ball payout ball payout counter is 3, That is, the payout (winning) of 3 payouts is stored three times, and the stored value of the prize ball payout counter for the other payouts is 0. In this embodiment, the check is made from the 15 payout ball payout counter which is the maximum payout number. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the check may be made from the single payball payout counter which is the minimum payout number. Good.

  When it is confirmed in S160-7-11-2 that the value of the prize ball payout counter is not 0 (that is, when there is a memory to be paid out), the value stored in the prize ball payout counter is decremented by 1 (S160). -7-11-3), the number of payouts corresponding to the stored value of the prize ball payout counter (for example, 13 payout numbers in the case of 13 prize ball payout counters) is calculated from the payout device 281. The number of payouts is set (S160-7-11-4), and then the confirmation object moves to the storage area of the next prize ball payout counter (S160-7-11-5), and then this payout control board is set. The payout number determination process (S160-7-11) ends. The payout of the number of payouts determined in the payout control board payout number determination process (S160-7-11) is performed in S160-7-2 to 6 and S160-7- in the payout apparatus control process (S160-7). 13 is performed according to the confirmation order of the value (stored value) of the prize ball payout counter. That is, the payout means of the present embodiment sequentially checks whether or not there is a memory to be paid out for the next storage area and after in accordance with a preset order after paying out by the payout device. Thus, it is possible to suppress the overflow of the storage area related to the payout of the prize balls in the other storage areas, compared to the case where the payout of the specific storage area is concentrated.

  On the other hand, if the value (stored value) of the prize ball payout counter is 0, it moves to the storage area of the next prize ball payout counter (S160-7-11-6), and the number of repeated confirmations of storage is 1. Subtraction is performed (S160-7-11-7), and then the number of repetitions is confirmed to be 0 (S160-7-11-8). If it is not 0, the process returns to S160-7-11-2 and again the prize ball Whether or not the payout counter is stored is confirmed to be zero, and the subsequent processing is repeated in the same manner as described above based on the confirmation result. If it is determined in S160-7-11-8 that the number of repetitions is 0, that is, the check for the storage area of the prize ball payout counter has been completed, there is no payout of prize balls to be paid out by the payout device 281 (payout amount). (No)) and no payout is set (S160-7-11-9), and thereafter, the payout control board payout number determining process (S160-7-11) is ended. The payout control board payout number determination process (S160-7-11) corresponds to a payout check means and a payout remaining check means.

  In the pause time setting process (S160-7-12), according to the number of payouts paid out by the payout device 281 or the number of payouts stored in the storage area of the prize ball payout counter (storage area of the payout storage means). Thus, the payout operation of the payout device 281 is suspended. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 16, the number of payouts stored in the storage area of the prize ball payout counter (storage area of the payout storage means) or the number of payouts paid out by the payout device 281 is 5 Any one of 6 to 10 pieces, 11 to 15 pieces, and 16 pieces or more is determined (S160-7-12-1 to S160-7-12-3). The number of payouts stored in the storage area of the prize ball payout counter (storage area of the payout storage means) is set in S160-7-11-4 in the payout control board payout number determination process (S160-7-11). The number of payouts. Instead of the number of payouts stored in the storage area of the prize ball payout counter (storage area of the payout storage means), the number of game balls detected by the payout sensor (prize ball detection means) 281e in the payout device 281 is used. In this case, the number of game balls detected by the payout sensor (prize ball detecting means) 281e is set as the payout number paid out by the payout device 281. In this embodiment, the number of payouts paid out by the payout device 281, that is, the number of prize balls paid out from the start of driving of the payout motor 281 c of the payout device to the stop of driving is determined by the payout device 281. Number of game balls detected by the payout sensor (prize ball detecting means) 281e by one payout or one payout when payout is repeated within a range within the maximum payout number as in other embodiments described later. It is said.

  In the pause time setting process (S160-7-12), if the number of payouts is 5 or less, the payout is repeated after one payout or within a range within the maximum payout number in other embodiments described later. The rest time of the later payout motor is set to 150 ms (S160-7-12-7), and if it is 6 to 10, the rest time is set to 300 ms (S160-7-12-6), 11 If the number is 15 to 15, the pause time is set to 450 ms (S160-7-12-5), and if it is 16 or more, the pause time is set to 700 ms (S160-7-12-4). After the pause time is set, the pause time setting process (S160-7-12) ends. The pause time setting process (S160-7-12) and S160-7-7 of the payout device control (S160-7) correspond to payout suspending means.

  In the output process (S160-8), if there is data in the buffer, a signal for driving the payout device 281 is transmitted according to the data.

  In the payout control board payout number determination process (S160-7-11B) shown in FIG. 17, after the payout device 281 repeats payout within the range of the maximum payout count, the confirmation order of the memory to be paid out is the next storage area. This process is an example of sequentially checking whether or not there is a memory to be paid out, and is performed instead of the payout control board payout number determination process (S160-7-11) shown in FIG. If the value of the maximum number of payouts is too large, the confirmation in the other storage area becomes too late and the stored value may overflow. Therefore, the value of the maximum payout number is preferably about 2 to 4 times. In the payout control board payout number determination process (S160-7-11B) in FIG. 17, the maximum payout number is set to three.

  In the payout control board payout number determination process (S160-7-11B), first, the confirmation repetition number for the storage area in which the counter value of the prize ball payout counter is stored is set to 15 (S160-7-11B-). 1). With this setting, it is possible to check whether or not there is a memory to be paid out for all the storage areas in which the counter value of the winning ball payout counter is stored. Note that the order of confirming the memory to be paid out for a plurality of storage areas is determined by the initial setting at the time of turning on or resetting the gaming machine, and the number of payouts for detecting one winning ball, for example, 15 15 paying ball payout counters. From the storage area of the 15 payout ball payout counter in descending order (the storage area of the 15 payout ball payout counter → the storage area of the 14 payout ball payout counter → the 13 payout prize ball payout) It is set to check in the storage area of the counter →. As shown in FIG. 18, the prize ball payout counter is provided from 1 to 15 payouts, and the count value (counter value) can be increased or decreased by each prize ball payout counter. The value of the payout counter) is stored in a storage area corresponding to the prize ball payout counter (that is, corresponding to the payout number) in the RAM (storage means) of the payout control board 240. In the example of FIG. 18, the value of the 13-pay prize ball payout counter is 5, that is, the payout (winning) of 13 payouts is stored 5 times, while the value of the 3-ball payout ball payout counter is 3, That is, the payout (winning) of 3 payouts is stored three times, and the stored value of the prize ball payout counter for the other payouts is 0.

  After the confirmation repeat number is set to 15 in S160-7-11B-1 of the payout control board payout number determination process (S160-7-11B), it is determined whether the current payout continuation number is 1 or more (S160-). 7-11B-2). The payout continuation number is the number of payout repetitions by the payout device 281 and is set to 0 in the initial setting such as when the gaming machine is turned on or reset. Further, the payout continuation number is such that the payout continuation number set for the payout device 281 (that is, the number of payout repetitions) is decremented by 1 every time one payout is executed by the payout device 281. . If the current payout continuation number (that is, the remaining payout continuation number and the remaining payout repetition count) is 1 or more, the stored value of the prize ball payout counter in the storage area currently being checked is decremented by 1 (S160-7-). 11B-7), the number of payouts corresponding to the stored value of the prize ball payout counter, that is, the number of payouts for detection of one winning ball set in the prize ball payout counter (for example, 13 prize ball payout counters) If there is, the number of payouts 13) is set as the number of payouts from the payout device 281 (S160-7-11B-8). Then, the current payout continuation number (remaining payout repetition number) is decremented by 1 (S160-7-11B-9), and this payout control board payout number determination process (S160-7-11B) ends.

  On the other hand, in S160-7-11B-2, the payout continuation number (remaining payout repetition number) in the storage area of the prize ball payout counter currently confirmed in S160-7-11B-2 is less than 1, that is, the prize ball payout counter currently being checked is stored. When it is determined that the payout continuation number (remaining payout repetition number) of the area is 0, the confirmation target moves to the storage area of the next prize ball payout counter (S160-7-11B-3), It is determined whether the stored value of the prize ball payout counter is 3 or more in the storage area (S160-7-11B-4). If the value stored in the prize ball payout counter is 3 or more, the payout continuation number (number of payout repetitions) is set to 3 (S160-7-11B-10), and then the value stored in the prize ball payout counter is 1. Subtracted (S160-7-11B-7), the number of payouts corresponding to the stored value of the prize ball payout counter, that is, the number of payouts for the detection of one winning ball set in the prize ball payout counter is the payout device. The number of payouts from 281 is set (S160-7-11B-8). Then, the current payout continuation number (remaining payout repetition number) is decremented by 1 (S160-7-11B-9), and this payout control board payout number determination process (S160-7-11B) ends.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S160-7-11B-4 that the value stored in the prize ball payout counter is less than 3, it is determined whether the value stored in the prize ball payout counter is 0 (S160-7-11B-5). . If the stored value of the prize ball payout counter is not 0, the payout continuation number (number of payout repetitions) is set as the stored value of the payout counter (S160-7-11B-6). For example, if the stored value of the five-pay prize ball payout counter is 2, the number of payout continuations (number of payout repetitions) is set to 2. Next, 1 is subtracted from the memorized value of the prize ball payout counter (S160-7-11B-7), and the number of payouts corresponding to the prize ball payout counter (for example, 13 prize ball payout counters). , 13 payouts) is set as the payout number from the payout device 281 (S160-7-11B-8), and the current payout continuation number (remaining payout repetition count) is decremented by 1 (S160-7-). 11B-9), and thereafter, the payout control board payout number determination process (S160-7-11B) ends.

  If it is determined in S160-7-11B-5 that the value stored in the prize ball payout counter is 0, the game moves to the storage area of the next prize ball payout counter (S160-7-11B-11), The repeat number is decremented by 1 (S160-7-11B-12), and then it is confirmed whether the repeat number is 0 (S160-7-11B-13). If the number of repetitions is not 0, the process returns to S160-7-11B-4 to determine again whether the stored value of the prize ball payout counter is 3 or more and the subsequent processing based on the determination. Repeated. On the other hand, when it is determined in S160-7-11B-13 that the number of repetitions is 0, that is, the confirmation of the storage area of the prize ball payout counter has been completed, there is no payout to be paid out by the payout device 281 (no payout remaining) ) Is determined and no payout is set (S160-7-11B-14), and then the payout control board payout number determination process (S160-7-11B) ends. The payout control board payout number determination process (S160-7-11B) corresponds to a payout check means and a payout remaining check means.

  Note that the prize ball payout of the payout number determined in the payout control board payout number determination process (S160-7-11B) is S160-7-2 to 6 and S160-7 in the payout device control (S160-7). At -13, the determination is made according to the order of confirmation of the prize ball payout counter value (stored value). That is, the payout unit according to the present embodiment confirms whether there is a memory to be paid out after the next storage area according to a preset order after the payout device repeats payout within the range of the maximum payout count. Thus, it is possible to prevent the stored value relating to the payout of prize balls from overflowing in other storage areas. When the maximum number of payouts is greater than one, when a phenomenon occurs in which a particular prize ball payout counter has more memory than the others, the memory accumulated in that particular prize ball payout counter is quickly digested. It is possible to prevent the stored value relating to the payout of prize balls from overflowing in the storage area. In this embodiment, the check is made from the 15 payout ball payout counter which is the maximum payout number. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the check may be made from the single payball payout counter which is the minimum payout number. .

  As described above, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, when there are memories to be paid out in a plurality of storage areas, the payout of the number of payouts set for the detection of one winning is based on the memory to be paid out in the storage area. After the payout device performs once, or after the payout device repeats payout within the preset maximum payout number (maximum payout repetition number), the check order is paid sequentially to the next storage area and after. Since the memory to be paid out is checked and the payout is executed in the same manner, the memory to be paid out can be taken out from a plurality of storage areas as evenly as possible, and the memory value related to the payout of prize balls overflows in a specific memory area. It is possible to suppress this.

  In addition, this invention is not limited to the said Example, It can change in the range which does not deviate from the meaning of invention.

It is a front view of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a rear view of the gaming machine. It is a block diagram which shows simply the connection of the control board, apparatus, etc. of the gaming machine. It is a front view of the payout device of the gaming machine. It is a disassembled perspective view of the same dispensing device. It is a flowchart of a main process. It is a flowchart of the interruption process in the main process. It is a flowchart of a winning detection process in the interrupt process. It is a flowchart of the pending | holding addition process in the interruption process. It is a flowchart of special operation processing in the same interrupt processing. It is a flowchart of the success / failure determination process in the interrupt process. It is a flowchart of the process of the payout control board in the same gaming machine. It is a flowchart of the main control command analysis process in the process of the same payout control board. It is a flowchart of the payout apparatus control process in the process of the same payout control board. 10 is a flowchart of a payout control board payout number determination process in the payout device control process. It is a flowchart of the idle time setting process in the process of the same payout control board. 12 is a flowchart of another payout control board payout number determination process in the payout device control process. It is a figure which shows the example of a prize ball payout counter and a count.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Game machine 2 Game board 10 Display apparatus 11 Special symbol display part 64 Launcher 281 Dispensing apparatus

Claims (5)

Game control means for controlling the game;
A payout control means for paying out a predetermined number of game balls;
A plurality of winning devices capable of winning a game ball flowing down in a game area formed on the game board;
A payout device controlled by the payout control means and capable of paying out a prize ball based on a winning detection to the winning device;
Have
For each of the winning devices, the number of prize balls to be paid out for detection of one winning ball is set, and the payout device pays out the number of prize balls to be set set for detection of the one winning ball in one payout. In gaming machines,
The payout control means includes
A payout storage means having a plurality of storage areas capable of storing a payout number of prize balls to be paid out by the payout device based on detection of winning in the winning device for each payout number for detection of the one winning ball;
A payout confirmation means for confirming whether or not there are memories to be paid out in a plurality of storage areas of the payout storage means in an order set in advance for the plurality of storage areas;
When there is a memory to be paid out in the storage area confirmed by the payout confirmation means, the payout means performs the payout by the payout device once for each confirmation with respect to the storage area and decreases the memory for the payout from the storage area When,
With
The payout confirmation means performs payout once by the payout device based on the memory to be paid out in the storage area when there is a memory to be paid out in the storage area in which it is confirmed whether there is a memory to be paid out. Thereafter, the game machine is configured to sequentially check whether there is a memory to be paid out for the next storage area or later in accordance with the order set in advance. Game control means for controlling the game;
A payout control means for paying out a predetermined number of game balls;
A plurality of winning devices capable of winning a game ball flowing down in a game area formed on the game board;
A payout device controlled by the payout control means and capable of paying out a prize ball based on a winning detection to the winning device;
Have
For each winning device, the number of prize balls to be paid out for detection of one winning ball is set, and the payout device pays out the number of paying out prize balls set for detection of the one winning ball in one payout. In gaming machines,
The payout control means includes
A payout storage means having a plurality of storage areas capable of storing a payout number of prize balls to be paid out by the payout device based on detection of winning in the winning device for each payout number for detection of the one winning ball;
A payout confirmation means for confirming whether or not there are memories to be paid out in a plurality of storage areas of the payout storage means in an order set in advance for the plurality of storage areas;
When there is a memory to be paid out in the storage area confirmed by the payout confirmation means, the payout by the payout device is repeatedly executed within a range within a preset maximum number of payouts for payout by the payout device. A payout means for reducing memory for the number of payout executions from the storage area;
With
When there is a memory to be paid out in the storage area that has confirmed whether or not there is a memory to be paid out, the payout confirming means is within the maximum number of payouts by the payout device based on the memory to be paid out in the storage area. A gaming machine characterized in that after paying out in a range, a check is sequentially made as to whether or not there is a memory to be paid out in the subsequent storage area in accordance with the order set in advance.   2. A payout suspending means for suspending the payout operation of the payout device according to the number of payouts stored in a storage area of the payout storage means or the number of payouts paid out by the payout means. Or the gaming machine of 2.   The payout storage means adds a value of a counter provided for each payout number corresponding to the detection of the one winning ball by the winning detection, subtracts it by payout by the payout device, and stores it in the storage area. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3.   The payout control means includes a payout remaining confirmation means for checking all the states of the storage by the payout storage means for each payout number and determining that there is no payout to be paid out if there is no memory for each payout number. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by:

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