JP2010029300A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of securing an area for setting a game ball detection member in such a state as not to be recognized by a player, and capable of accurately detecting game balls. <P>SOLUTION: The Pachinko machine 10 includes a game board 26 through which game balls pass, a transparent cell 65 which is disposed on the game board 26 and through which game balls can pass, and a game ball detection switch 127 which irradiates a game ball with light to detect the game ball by receiving the light reflected from the game ball. The game ball detection switch 127 is disposed inside the game board 26 in such a state that the emitted light is incident obliquely relative to the transparent cell 65. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine or a slot machine that plays a game using a game medium such as a game ball or a game medal.

As a conventional pachinko machine, a game ball detecting member (for example, a reflective photo interrupter) that detects a game ball is provided inside a glass plate positioned in front of the game board, and detects a game ball moving on the game board. Proposed. This type of game detection member is composed of an optical sensor or the like, and irradiates light in a direction substantially orthogonal to the glass plate and receives light reflected by a game ball moving on the game board. Count game balls.
JP-A-5-269237 JP-A-10-33754

  By the way, in the conventional pachinko machine, since the game ball detection member is provided inside the glass plate, it is necessary to attach the game ball detection member and electric wiring to the glass plate, which is difficult in terms of space and game. The appearance from the person also gets worse. In addition, a part of the light emitted from the game ball detection member is reflected by the inner surface of the glass plate and is received by the game ball detection member, so that the game ball is not always present even though it is actually not present. As a result, the game ball is erroneously detected.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can secure an installation site for a game ball detection member and can accurately detect a game ball without being recognized by a player.

  The invention according to claim 1 includes a game board having a transparent portion through which a game ball passes, and a game ball detection member that detects the game ball by receiving reflected light reflected by the game ball by irradiating light. The gaming ball detecting member is provided inside the gaming board so that the irradiated light is inclined with respect to the transparent portion.

  According to invention of Claim 1, the light irradiated from the game ball detection member inclines and injects with respect to a transparent part. For this reason, a part of the light emitted from the game ball detection member is reflected by the game ball that passes through the transparent part and passes over the transparent part, and is incident on the transparent part again as reflected light. The light is received by the game ball detection member while traveling along the same optical path. Further, a part of the light emitted from the game ball detection member does not pass through the transparent part but is reflected by the inner surface of the transparent part, and is at a predetermined angle on the inner side of the game board (different from the game ball detection member side). Side). For this reason, the light reflected by the game ball can be reliably received by the game ball detecting member, and the light reflected by the inner surface of the transparent portion without being reflected by the game ball can be prevented. As a result, the reflected light reflected by the transparent portion can be prevented from being mistakenly detected as the reflected light reflected by the game ball, and the detection accuracy of the game ball can be improved.

  In addition, since the game ball detection member is provided inside the game board, a circuit board, electrical wiring, and the like necessary for causing the game ball detection member to function can be provided inside the game board. For this reason, the space inside the game board can be used effectively. In addition, unlike the conventional configuration in which the game ball detection member is provided on the glass plate, the game ball detection member can be provided at a position that cannot be visually recognized by the player, so that the design of the gaming machine can be improved.

  In the present specification, “irradiated light is incident on the transparent portion with an inclination” means that the incident angle of the irradiated light is an acute angle (1 degree to less than 90 degrees) with respect to the plane direction of the transparent portion. It means that. In addition, “the incident angle of the irradiated light with respect to the transparent portion” is an opening angle at which the light reaches the transparent portion on the basis of the surface of the transparent portion, and two opening angles from the inner surface of the transparent portion. Means the smaller of the angles.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the gaming machine according to the first aspect, the light emitted from the game ball detecting member is incident on the transparent portion at an inclination angle of 30 degrees or more and 60 degrees or less.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, when the light emitted from the game ball detecting member is incident on the transparent part at an inclination angle of less than 30 degrees, the angle of the light passing through the transparent part is also less than 30 degrees. This becomes a problem because it is difficult to irradiate the game ball. On the other hand, when the light emitted from the game ball detection member is incident on the transparent part at an inclination angle larger than 60 degrees, a part of the light reflected by the transparent part is also detected by the game ball detection member. Even though the game ball is not detected, the game ball is erroneously detected, which is a problem. As described above, the configuration is such that the light emitted from the game ball detection member is incident on the transparent portion at an inclination angle of 30 degrees or more and 60 degrees or less, thereby making it easier to detect the game ball and playing the game. The detection accuracy of the sphere can also be improved.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the gaming machine according to the second aspect, the light emitted from the game ball detecting member is incident on the transparent portion at an inclination angle of 45 degrees.

  According to the third aspect of the present invention, since the light emitted from the game ball detecting member is incident on the transparent portion at an inclination angle of 45 degrees, the reflected light reflected by the game ball maintains this angle. Proceeding toward the game ball detecting member side, the light is reliably received. At the same time, the reflected light reflected from the inner surface of the transparent portion of the light emitted from the game ball detecting member is reflected at an angle of 45 degrees (the opening angle from the reference angle of incidence is 135 degrees). Even in the game board, the game ball detection member is not received by the game ball detection member because it proceeds to a part far from the game ball detection member. Thereby, the detection accuracy of the game ball by the game ball detection member can be further enhanced.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the gaming machine according to any one of the first to third aspects, the game board is formed of a transparent acrylic resin.

  According to the invention described in claim 4, since the game board is formed of a transparent acrylic resin, the entire game board becomes a transparent portion. Accordingly, it is possible to detect the game ball by receiving the light reflected by the game ball only by providing the game ball detection member on the back side of the game board. As a result, it is not necessary to separately provide a transparent portion, and the number of parts can be reduced.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the gaming machine according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, the transparent portion is colored in a predetermined color.

  According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, since the transparent portion is colored in a predetermined color, even if the game ball detecting member is disposed on the back side (back side) of the transparent portion, the transparent portion is colored. The player's field of view is blocked, and the player cannot visually recognize the game ball detection member. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the player from feeling uncomfortable that the game ball detecting member is seen, and thus it is possible to prevent a situation where the gameability is lowered.

  Next, a gaming machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the present embodiment, a configuration in which the present invention is applied to a pachinko machine that is an example of a ball game machine will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the front part of the pachinko machine (game machine) 10 according to the first embodiment mainly includes an outer frame 12, an inner frame 14, a front frame 16, an upper plate part 18, and a lower part. A dish portion 20, a locking device 22, a firing handle 24, and the like are provided.

  The outer frame 12 is obtained by assembling and fixing a wooden plate-like body into a substantially rectangular frame shape. The inner frame 14 is entirely made of plastic and is pivotally supported so as to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame 12. A locking device 22 is provided slightly below the center of the right end of the inner frame 14.

  The front frame 16 is a specific example of the front door of the present invention, occupies about 2/3 of the entire front portion of the pachinko machine 10, and is pivotally supported at the left end of the inner frame 14 so that it can be opened and closed. Has been. The front frame 16 is entirely made of plastic, and corresponds to the shape of the game area 28 (see FIG. 2) formed in the game board 26 so that the game board 26 (see FIG. 2) can be seen from the front. It has an opening 30 formed in a substantially circular shape. A glass plate 32 is attached to the back surface of the front frame 16 by a glass frame (not shown). Then, based on the player, the game area 28 formed on the game board 26 is positioned behind the glass plate 32.

  Further, an upper plate portion 18 is provided below the front frame 16. The upper plate portion 18 is provided with a production button 40 and a ball lending operation portion 155.

  A lower dish portion 20 is provided below the upper dish portion 18. A launching handle 24 for launching a game ball is provided on the lower right side of the lower plate part 20. The firing handle 24 is provided with a firing lever 44 and a firing stop button 46, respectively.

  Further, sub-speakers 48 for outputting predetermined sound effects are respectively provided on the lower left and right sides of the lower plate part 20.

  The inner frame 14 has an opening (not shown) that matches the shape of the game area 28. A game board 26 is attached to the inner surface of the inner frame 14. Thereby, the player can visually recognize the game area 28 of the game board 26 through the opening of the inner frame 14 and the opening 30 of the front frame 16.

  Furthermore, a ball lending device 154 is provided on the front left side of the pachinko machine 10. In this embodiment, a CR unit is applied as the ball lending device 154. The ball lending device 154 is formed with a card insertion slot 157 for inserting a prepaid card. In addition, the structure which provided the cash unit as the ball lending apparatus 154 may be sufficient. In this cash unit, instead of the card insertion slot 157, a cash insertion slot (not shown) for inserting cash is formed.

  The ball lending operation unit 155 is provided with a ball lending switch 156 for requesting ball lending and a return switch 158 for requesting the return of the prepaid card inserted into the card insertion slot 157, respectively. .

  For example, when a prepaid card is inserted into the card insertion slot 157 of the ball lending device 154, the stored information of the prepaid card is read by a card reader / writer inside the ball lending device 154. When the remaining frequency of the prepaid card is “0”, the prepaid card is automatically returned from the card insertion slot 157. On the other hand, when the remaining frequency of the prepaid card is not “0”, when the ball lending switch 156 is pressed, the remaining frequency of the prepaid card is subtracted by the card reader / writer and the stored information of the prepaid card is rewritten. The number corresponding to the frequency (lending amount) is drawn, and the game ball (lending ball) is guided from the payout device (game medium payout means) 161 to the upper plate part 18. At this time, for example, when the remaining frequency of the prepaid card is subtracted to “0”, the prepaid card is automatically returned from the card insertion slot 157.

  In the configuration using a cash unit as the ball lending device 154, cash is counted by a cash counter inside the ball lending device when cash is inserted into the cash slot of the ball lending device. When the ball-lending switch is pressed after the amount of money reaches the predetermined amount, the cash amount is reduced by the cash counter and the number corresponding to the reduced amount (loan amount) is drawn. A ball (rented ball) is guided from the dispensing device 161 to the upper plate 18.

  Next, the surface structure of the game board 26 will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the game board 26 is held by the inner frame 14, and its back side is covered by the back mechanism board. In the game board 26, a substantially circular game area 28 is formed by an outer rail 50 and an inner rail 52 provided on the surface of the game board 26. Inside the game area 28, a start port 56B, a center accessory 64, a warp entrance 58, a number of obstacle nails 60, and the like are mainly disposed.

  The center accessory 64 is disposed at a substantially central portion of the game area 28 and mainly includes an effect symbol display device (symbol display device) 62 and lamps 66.

  The effect symbol display device 62 is display-controlled based on control signals from the main control board 102 (see FIG. 6) and the sub control board 106 (see FIG. 6), and has a substantially rectangular display surface (display area) 62A. have. On the display surface 62A, special design effects are displayed. Specifically, on the display surface 62A of the effect symbol display device 62, there is formed an effect symbol display area in which one or a plurality of effect symbols are displayed while changing one after another in a predetermined direction and then stopped. . That is, the left effect symbol display area for displaying the left effect symbol, the center effect symbol display area for displaying the center effect symbol, and the right effect symbol display area for displaying the right effect symbol are arranged in a substantially horizontal row. They are formed side by side (not shown). In each effect symbol display area, a symbol variation direction is set in a direction (vertical direction) substantially orthogonal to the arrangement direction of these display areas, and a plurality of effect symbols are sequentially displayed in that direction.

  The effect symbol display device 62 causes the effect symbols displayed in the display area of the display surface to change and stop display when the game ball enters the start opening 56B. Then, for example, when the production symbols are aligned with the same three-digit symbols “7, 7, 7” and stopped (determined display), the big winning opening 86 of the big winning device 84 arranged in the variable winning device 80 is opened. Is done. In the pachinko machine 10 of the present embodiment, when a game ball enters the start opening 56B, each effect symbol is changed, and the effect symbol is arranged in the same three-digit symbol, thereby giving a specific value of “big hit”. is there.

  Here, in the pachinko machine 10 of the present embodiment, for example, two types of big hits are set in advance. Specifically, there is a probable big hit that is established when three digits of the same odd-numbered effect symbols such as “7, 7, 7” are arranged. In addition, there is a normal jackpot that is established when the same even-numbered effects such as “8, 8, 8” are arranged in three digits.

  The probable big hit and the normal big hit are big hits having a relatively large number of rounds (for example, 15 rounds) and the opening time of the big winning opening 86 being about 26 seconds. For this reason, the number of prize balls is relatively large. In each big hit, a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls enter the big winning opening 86, or a predetermined time (for example, 10) even if a predetermined number (for example, 10) of the game balls do not enter. For example, when 26 seconds) elapses, the big winning opening 86 is closed and one round is completed.

  Further, the probability variation state is a state in which the probability of shifting to a big hit (meaning two kinds of big hits, a probable big hit and a normal big hit) becomes a predetermined high probability. The open time extended state is a state in which the opening time of the start port 56B is extended more than usual. For example, the normal opening time is about 0.1 seconds, while in the extended opening time state, it is extended to about 4 seconds. The start port 56B is opened by winning a normal symbol lottery, and functions as a normal electric accessory.

  In addition, after the probable big hit, the probability of shifting to the big hit becomes a special symbol probability fluctuation state in which the probability is higher than the normal gaming state. Then, the variation time of the special symbol and the normal symbol is shortened until the next big hit is generated, or until the special symbol variation display is performed a predetermined number of times (for example, 10,000 times), and the start port 56B. The open extension function is activated. In addition, after the normal jackpot, the probability of shifting to the big jackpot becomes a predetermined low probability state that is the same as the normal gaming state, and the variation time of the special symbol and the normal symbol is reduced by a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times). When the opening extension function of the start port 56B is activated, the short game state is set.

  The center accessory 64 is mounted so as to protrude from the front peripheral portion of the effect symbol display device 62. The center accessory 64 has a pair of movable blade pieces 64A. The opening area of the warp entrance 58 is changed by the movement of the blade piece 64A.

  In addition, on the lower left side of the game area, a 7-segment display board (design) which controls display of an identification symbol (which means an identification symbol of a special symbol and an identification symbol of a normal symbol) based on a control signal from the main control board 102. Display device) 68 is arranged. The 7-segment display board 68 displays a 7-segment display 70 for displaying a special symbol identification symbol, four normal symbol hold display LEDs 72, four special symbol hold indication LEDs 74, and a normal symbol identification symbol. And two normal symbol display LEDs 76.

  Here, in the case of a probable big hit, a predetermined identification symbol (for example, a probable big hit symbol consisting of an odd number) is stopped and displayed on the 7-segment display 70. In the case of a normal big hit, another predetermined identification symbol (for example, a normal big hit symbol consisting of an even number) is stopped and displayed on the 7-segment display 70.

  Further, a normal symbol operation gate 78 is arranged on the left side of the effect symbol display device 62. A gate switch 124 (see FIG. 6) is disposed inside the normal symbol operating gate 78. As a result, when the game ball passes the normal symbol operation gate 78, the gate switch 124 is operated, and the normal symbol display LED 76 of the 7-segment display board 68 is variably displayed.

  Each normal symbol hold display LED 72 and each special symbol hold display LED 74 are composed of four round red LEDs, and are arranged close to the left and right sides of the 7-segment display 70. In this case, the number of game balls that have passed through the normal symbol operation gate 78 is set to hold the normal symbols up to four, and the lights are sequentially turned on and shifted for each passage. In addition, the number of game balls that have entered the start opening 56B is also reserved for up to four special symbols, which are sequentially lit and shifted for each incoming ball. Each time the variable display on the 7-segment display 70 starts, the number of unstarted times is exhausted, and one special symbol hold display LED 74 is turned off. Further, each time the normal symbol display LED 76 starts to change the normal symbol, the number of unstarted times is consumed, and one normal symbol hold display LED 72 is turned off. Then, when a predetermined jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the 7-segment display 70, a jackpot is generated and the jackpot 86 is opened. Further, when the two normal symbol display LEDs 76 are stopped and displayed in a predetermined display mode (a winning symbol), a normal symbol hit occurs and the start port 56B is opened. The special symbol identification symbol displayed on the 7-segment display 70 and the special symbol effect symbol displayed on the effect symbol display device 62 indicate the same game result (lottery result). .

  The start port 56B is disposed below the effect symbol display device 62 and is formed so as to open and close the pair of wing piece members 56A in a so-called tulip type. Inside thereof, there are provided a start port switch 120 (see FIG. 6) for detecting the passage of the game ball and a start port solenoid 130 (see FIG. 6) for operating the wing piece member 56A. When the pair of wing piece members 56A are opened to the left and right, the opening area of the start port 56B is increased, and the possibility of entering a game ball is increased. When the pair of wing piece members 56A are closed and the separation distance is reduced. The opening area of the start opening 56B is reduced, and the normal state is reduced where the possibility of entering a game ball is reduced.

  The variable winning device 80 is disposed below the start opening 56 </ b> B, and includes a substrate 82 and a big winning device 84. Here, the grand prize winning device 84 is disposed substantially at the center, and has a grand prize winning opening 86 opened in a strip shape, an opening / closing plate 88 for opening or closing the special winning prize opening 86, and opening / closing the opening / closing plate 88. A large winning opening solenoid 132 (see FIG. 6) and a count switch 126 (see FIG. 6) for detecting a winning ball are provided.

  A windmill 63 is disposed on the lower left side of the center accessory 64. Further, a pair of side lamps 90 are respectively disposed on the lower left portion and the lower right portion of the game area.

  Further, an out port 92 is provided below the game board 26, and a back ball preventing member 94 is provided below the out port 92. The back ball preventing member 94 prevents the game ball that has returned without reaching the game area 28 from returning to the launch position again. A foul ball prevention member 96 is attached to the tip of the inner rail 52.

  Here, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, a transparent cell (transparent portion) 65 made of resin or the like is provided on the surface of the game board 26 and in the vicinity of the foul ball prevention member 96. Yes. The transparent cell 65 constitutes a part of the board surface of the game board 26. Therefore, a game ball that passes between the inner rail 52 and the outer rail 50 and goes to the game area 28 always passes through the upper surface of the transparent cell 65. The transparent cell 65 only needs to be transparent, and may or may not be colored. If the transparent cell 65 is colored in a predetermined color (for example, yellow, pink, red, blue, etc.), the transparent cell 65 is provided inside the game board 26. Further, it is possible to prevent a game ball detection switch 127 described later from being visually recognized by the player and the designability from being deteriorated.

  A game ball detection switch (game ball detection member) 127 for detecting a game ball is provided in a space S formed inside the game board 26 and on the inner side of the transparent cell 65. In the game board 26, a space 127 for accommodating the game ball detection switch 127 and related components such as electric wiring is formed in advance. An example of the game ball detection switch 127 is a reflective photo interrupter manufactured by Sharp Corporation.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the game ball detection switch 127 generates a detection signal indicating a detection result of the game ball by generating a light emitting unit 127A that emits light, a light receiving unit 127B that receives reflected light, and a detection result of the game ball. A detection signal processing circuit unit 127 </ b> C that outputs the signal. Here, for example, an infrared light emitting diode is used for the light emitting unit 127A. For example, a silicon photodiode is used for the light receiving unit 127B. The detection signal processing circuit unit 127 </ b> C generates a detection signal based on the light reception result of the light receiving unit 127 </ b> B and outputs the detection signal to the main control board 102. The detection signal processing circuit 127C can count the number of game balls based on the detection result of the light receiving unit 127B, and can output information on the count value to the main control board 102 on the detection signal. Note that a detection signal related to a game ball may be output from the detection signal processing circuit 127C to the main control board 102, and the CPU 102A of the main control board 102 may count the game balls. The main control board 102 controls the game effect by specifying the count value of the game balls.

  As shown in FIGS. 3 and 5, the game ball detection switch 127 is arranged so that the irradiated light is incident on the inner surface 65 </ b> A of the transparent cell 65 at an angle with a predetermined angle. Is provided. Specifically, the axis of the light emitting portion 127A of the game ball detection switch 127 is inclined at a predetermined inclination angle α (α: acute angle) with respect to the inner surface 65A of the transparent cell 65. Specifically, the axis of the light emitting portion 127A of the game ball detection switch 127 is in the range of 30 degrees or more and 60 degrees or less with respect to the inner surface 65A of the transparent cell 65, and in particular, the inclination angle α is 45 degrees. It is preferable that it is set. In this case, a part of the light emitted from the light emitting portion 127A of the game ball detection switch 127 is in the range of 30 degrees to 60 degrees with respect to the inner surface 65A of the transparent cell 65, and the optimum angle is 45 degrees. It becomes possible to enter with the inclination angle α. The predetermined inclination angle α with respect to the inner surface 65A of the transparent cell 65 is an opening angle with the optical path with respect to the inner surface 65A of the transparent cell 65, and an acute angle of the two opening angles α and β. Means the side angle α.

  When the inclination angle α is 90 degrees, that is, when the game ball detection switch 127 is not generally inclined and attached, the light reflected by the transparent cell 65 returns to the light receiving unit 127B. Therefore, there is a problem of erroneous detection when there is a game ball even when there is no game ball.

  In the present embodiment, the number of game balls is counted and used for production. For example, each time 3000 game balls are counted, a highly reliable notice or reach is generated. Or you may make it transfer to a special game mode.

  Next, an electronic control device that constitutes the pachinko machine 10 will be described.

  As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the electronic control unit includes a main control board 102, a payout control board 104, a sub control board 106, and a launch control board 108.

  The main control board 102 includes a CPU 102A and a ROM 102B. The CPU 102A of the main control board 102 controls the start opening solenoid 130, the big prize opening solenoid 132, the symbol display device 134, and the sub control board 106 based on the data stored in the ROM 102B. Further, the CPU 102A of the main control board 102 controls the entire game and mainly determines a game state such as determination of success / failure.

  In particular, the CPU 102A executes a jackpot lottery process (special game lottery process) triggered by the entry of a game ball into the start port 56B, and determines the success / failure using an arbitrary random number (special symbol determination random number). It has. The CPU 102A also has a function of determining a variation pattern (variation time) of the special symbol (identification symbol) with the execution of the special symbol determination.

  The variation pattern of the identification symbol corresponds to the effect pattern (game effect) of each effect symbol displayed on the effect symbol display device 62. The “determination of the variation pattern of the identification symbol” performed by the CPU 102A is “effect symbol”. Corresponds to “determining the production pattern (game production)”. When the variation pattern of the special symbol (identification symbol) (the production pattern of the production symbol) is determined, the 7-segment display 70 starts the variation display of the special symbol (identification symbol) and produces the production symbol display device 62. When the variation display of the effect symbol is started and the variation time specified by the determined variation pattern elapses, the special symbol and the effect symbol are stopped and displayed. The player's success / failure determination result (big hit lottery result) is notified to the player. The effect symbol display device 62 is arranged at a position approximately in the center of the surface (board surface) of the game board 26 so as to easily enter the player's field of view. On the other hand, the 7-segment display 70 is arranged at the end of the surface (board surface) of the game board 26 (the left end of the board surface in the present embodiment) so as not to easily enter the player's field of view. For this reason, it is common for a player to play a game while paying attention to the display content of the effect symbol display device 62.

  Then, the CPU 102A controls the payout of prize balls generated by the game balls entering into the sub-control board 106 that controls the change display and stop display of the above-described effect symbols, and various winning holes provided on the game board surface. The payout control board 104 for performing the control is directly controlled. Further, the CPU 102 </ b> A of the main control board 102 indirectly controls the effect display board 110, the amplifier board 112, the decoration drive board 114, and the effect button board 116 via the sub control board 106.

  The ROM 102B of the main control board 102 stores a program for realizing control of the entire game executed by the CPU 102A.

  Further, the main control board 102 is connected to the start port switch 120, the big prize port switch 122, the gate switch 124, the count switch 126, and the game ball detection switch 127 described above via the relay terminal plate 118, respectively. Electrically connected.

  In addition, the main control board 102 is electrically connected to the start port solenoid 130, the big prize port solenoid 132, and the symbol display device 134 via the relay terminal plate 128, respectively. The 7-segment display board 68 is an embodiment of the symbol display device 134.

  The payout control board 104 is electrically connected to the glass frame switch 138, the external tank switch 140, and the tank switch 142 via the relay terminal plate 136, respectively. Further, the payout control board 104 is electrically connected to the error LED 146 via the relay terminal board 144. The payout control board 104 is electrically connected to the lower pan full tank switch 148. Further, the payout control board 104 is electrically connected to a ball rental display board 152 and a ball rental apparatus (CR unit) 154 via a relay terminal board 150, respectively.

  The ball rental display board 152 is electrically connected with a ball rental switch 156 and a return switch 158, respectively. The payout control board 104 is electrically connected to a payout device 161 having a payout motor 162 and a payout switch 164 via a relay terminal plate 160, respectively. Further, the payout control board 104 is electrically connected to the main control board 102 and the launch control board 108, respectively.

  As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the sub control board 106 is electrically connected to the effect display board 110, the amplifier board 112, the decoration drive board 114, and the effect button board 116.

  The sub-control board 106 controls game effects based on control signals from the main control board 102. The sub control board 106 includes a CPU 106A and a ROM 106B.

  The CPU 106 </ b> A of the sub control board 106 receives the control signal from the main control board 102 and controls each board such as the effect display board 110, the amplifier board 112, the decoration drive board 114, and the effect button board 116.

  The ROM 106B stores data (especially information related to game decoration) necessary for controlling each board.

  As shown in FIG. 7, an effect display device 166 (62) and an effect display ROM 168 are electrically connected to the effect display board 110. In the effect display ROM 168, data (image data) of effect symbols that are displayed in a variable manner and stopped on the effect symbol display device 62 are stored. In particular, the effect display ROM 168 stores data related to an effect design (for example, an image related to lightning light described later) that constitutes a special effect described later. The effect symbol display device 62 is an embodiment of the effect display device 166.

  The amplifier board 112 is electrically connected to various speakers 170 (48) that output predetermined sound effects. The sub-speaker 48 is an embodiment of various speakers 170.

  In addition, various types of LEDs and lamps 172 (66) are electrically connected to the decorative driving board 114. The decoration driving board 114 receives a control signal from the sub-control board 106 and performs control related to game decoration. In particular, the decorative drive board 114 controls the light emission of each lamp 66 based on a control signal from the sub-control board 106. In addition, an operation switch 174 (40) is electrically connected to the effect button board 116. The lamps 66 are an embodiment of various LEDs / lamps 172. The effect button 40 is an embodiment of the operation switch 174.

  Next, the operation of the pachinko machine 10 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  As shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, a part of the light emitted from the light emitting unit 127A of the game ball detection switch 127 travels in the axial direction, and a predetermined inclination angle α (for example, 30 degrees) with respect to the transparent cell 65. The incident light enters the transparent cell 65 at 60 degrees or less and particularly preferably 45 degrees. The light that has entered the transparent cell 65 travels through the transparent cell 65, and is emitted to the outside of the game board 26 as long as there is no game ball B passing over the transparent cell 65. For this reason, this light is not received by the light receiving portion 127B of the game ball detection switch 127. As a result, the number of game balls is not counted.

  Further, if there is a game ball B passing over the transparent cell 65, the light emitted to the outside of the game board 26 is reflected by the game ball through the transparent cell 65 and is incident on the transparent cell 65 again. Then, it proceeds toward the inside of the game board 26. At this time, part of the light returns at the same angle (optical path) as the inclination angle α at which the light emitted from the game ball detection switch 127 enters the transparent cell 65, and is received by the light receiving unit 127 B of the game ball detection switch 127. Received light. Thereby, the detection signal processing circuit 127C of the game ball detection switch 127 is obtained based on the detection signal indicating that the game ball is detected (or counting the detected game balls based on the light reception result of the light receiving unit 127B. A detection signal relating to the count value) is generated and output to the main control board 102. In this way, the main control board 102 receives the detection signal from the game ball detection switch 127, and determines the number of game balls that have passed over the transparent cell 65, in other words, the number of game balls that have been launched into the game area 28. Can be identified.

  On the other hand, a part of the light emitted from the light emitting unit 127A of the game ball detection switch 127 travels in the axial direction and has a predetermined inclination angle α (for example, 30 degrees to 60 degrees, particularly 45 degrees with respect to the transparent cell 65). However, it is reflected by the inner surface 65A of the transparent cell 65. The reflected light reflected by the inner surface 65A of the transparent cell 65 travels toward the inside of the game board 26 at a predetermined inclination angle (α + 90 degrees) with respect to the transparent cell 65. Since this reflected light travels to the opposite side of the game ball detection switch 127 with respect to the line L orthogonal to the inner surface 65A of the transparent cell 65, it is not received by the light receiving portion 127B of the game ball detection switch 127. As a result, the reflected light reflected by the inner surface 65A of the transparent cell 65 is not received by the game ball detection switch 127, and it is possible to prevent the game ball detection switch 127 from misidentifying the count value of the game ball.

  As described above, according to the pachinko machine 10 of the present embodiment, only the reflected light reflected by the game ball is received by the light receiving unit 127B of the game ball detection switch 127 and light other than the reflected light that is not reflected by the game ball (for example, The light reflected by the inner surface 65A of the transparent cell 65 is not received by the light receiving unit 127B. As a result, only the reflected light reflected by the game ball can be received by the light receiving unit 127B of the game ball detection switch 127, and a detection signal matching the number of game balls (a detection signal specifying the number of game balls). Can be output to the main control board 102. As a result, the main control board 102 can accurately specify the number of game balls launched into the game area 28. Therefore, the main control board 102 can accurately execute the game control based on the result of the number of game balls.

  In particular, when the light emitted from the game ball detection switch 127 is incident on the transparent cell 65 at an inclination angle α of less than 30 degrees, the angle of the light passing through the transparent cell 65 is also less than 30 degrees, and the game ball This makes it difficult to irradiate the material. On the other hand, when the light emitted from the game ball detection switch 127 is incident on the transparent cell 65 at an inclination angle α larger than 60 degrees, part of the light reflected by the transparent cell 65 is also played by the game ball detection switch 127. Therefore, the game ball is erroneously detected even though the game ball is not detected, which causes a problem. As described above, since the light emitted from the game ball detection switch 127 is incident on the transparent cell 65 at an inclination angle α of 30 degrees or more and 60 degrees or less, the game ball can be easily detected. And the detection accuracy of a game ball can also be improved.

  Furthermore, when the light emitted from the game ball detection switch 127 is incident on the transparent cell 65 at an inclination angle of 45 degrees with respect to the transparent cell 65, the light is reflected by the game ball and then the game ball is detected while maintaining this angle. Proceeding to the switch 127 side, the light receiving unit 127B reliably receives light. At the same time, the reflected light reflected from the inner surface of the transparent cell 65 out of the light emitted from the game ball detection switch 127 is reflected at an angle of reflection of 45 degrees (the opening angle from the incident angle reference is 135 degrees). As a result, the game ball detection switch 127 does not receive light because the process proceeds to a part far from the game ball detection switch 127 even inside the game board 26. Thus, when the light emitted from the game ball detection switch 127 is incident on the transparent cell 65 at an inclination angle of 45 degrees, the detection accuracy of the game ball by the game ball detection switch 127 can be further increased.

  Further, by providing the space S inside the game board 26, a circuit board, electrical wiring, and the like necessary for causing the game ball detection switch 127 to function can be provided inside the game board 26. For this reason, the space (thickness) inside the game board 26 can be used effectively. In addition, unlike the conventional configuration in which the game ball detection switch is provided on the glass plate, the game ball detection switch 127 and related parts can be provided at a position where the player cannot visually recognize, so the design of the pachinko machine 10 is improved. Can be improved.

  In particular, since the transparent cell 65 is colored in a predetermined color, even if the game ball detection switch 127 is arranged on the back side (back side) of the transparent cell 65, the visibility is blocked by the coloring of the transparent cell 65. Thus, the player cannot visually recognize the game ball detection switch 127. As a result, it is possible to prevent the player from feeling uncomfortable that the game ball detection switch 127 and related parts can be seen, and thus to prevent a situation in which the gameability is lowered.

  In this embodiment, it is assumed that the game board is a veneer board, but it is not necessary to be limited to this. For example, even a transparent game board using an acrylic board (acrylic resin) or the like is used. Good. In that case, since the entire game board becomes a transparent part, the transparent cell 65 becomes unnecessary. A game ball can be detected by providing the game ball detection switch 127 directly behind the game board made of acrylic resin. As a result, the number of parts of the game board can be reduced while maintaining the detection performance of the game ball.

1 is a front view of a gaming machine according to a first embodiment of the present invention. It is a front view of the game board of the gaming machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the state by which the game ball | bowl detection member was provided in the game board of the game machine which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the main structures of the game ball detection member provided in the game board of the game machine which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which showed a part of optical path of the light irradiated from the game ball | bowl detection member provided in the game board of the game machine which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of a part of electronic control apparatus of the game machine which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram for demonstrating the sub control board which comprises the electronic controller of the gaming machine which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

10 Pachinko machines (game machines)
26 Game board 65 Transparent cell (transparent part)
127 game ball detection switch (game ball detection member)

Claims (5)

A game board having a transparent part through which a game ball passes;
A game ball detection member for detecting a game ball by receiving reflected light reflected by the game ball and irradiating light;
A gaming machine having
The game ball detection member is a game machine provided inside the game board so that irradiated light is incident on the transparent portion with an inclination.   The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein light emitted from the game ball detection member is incident on the transparent portion at an inclination angle of 30 degrees or more and 60 degrees or less.   The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein light emitted from the game ball detection member is incident on the transparent portion at an inclination angle of 45 degrees.   The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the gaming board is formed of a transparent acrylic resin.   The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the transparent portion is colored in a predetermined color.

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