JP2011010678A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine with a button lock device which enables the accurate locking of an operation button both at the forward and backward positions and moreover, the automatic depression of it down to the backward position from the forward position.SOLUTION: The button lock device 44 has a locking member 60 which is freely turnably supported on a base member 41 to its forward lock position of getting engaged with a performance button 42 at the forward position to lock it, to its backward lock position of getting engaged with the performance button 42 at the backward position to lock it and to its unlock position and a turning drive mechanism 70 which can drive the locking member 60 to turn over to the forward lock position, to the backward lock position and to the unlock position.

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine including an operation button that can be advanced and retracted, and more particularly to a button lock device that can lock an operation button in an advanced position and lock it in a retracted position.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in a pachinko gaming machine, a model provided with an effect button that is supported by a base member so as to be able to advance and retreat over an advance position and a retract position and is biased to an advance position by a return spring (for example, Patent Document 1). 2) is widely used in practice.

  In this type of pachinko gaming machine, a big hit lottery is performed based on the winning of a game ball at the starting port, and a special symbol is displayed after the symbol changes. If the result of the jackpot lottery is notified in accordance with the type of the special symbol displayed, and if the winner is won by the jackpot lottery, then a jackpot gaming state in which the big winning opening is opened and closed over a plurality of rounds occurs. Here, when the player operates the effect button during the button operation valid period during the symbol variation, the big hit expectation degree (hit hit reliability) won in the big hit lottery is notified (for example, see Patent Document 1). ).

  In addition, when winning in the big hit lottery, a high probability lottery is performed, and the result of the high probability lottery is notified together with the result of the big hit lottery for the type of the special symbol displayed. In the case of winning in the high-precision lottery, after the big hit gaming state ends, the winning probability of the big hit lottery shifts to a high-probable gaming state higher than usual. Here, the result of the high-precision lottery is informed to the player at first glance, and when the player operates the effect button during the button operation valid period in the big hit gaming state etc., the high-winning lottery is won. The expected high degree of accuracy (highly reliable reliability) is notified.

  Such a game effect can enhance the interest together with the player's feeling of participation and enhance the effect of the effect. By the way, Patent Document 2 discloses a button lock device that can lock an effect button (reel button) in the retracted position, and a button lock device that can lock the effect button in the advanced position and lock it in the retracted position. ing.

  In the first button lock device of FIGS. 5 and 6 of Patent Document 2, the effect button is provided so as to be able to advance and retreat back and forth, and a locking plate is attached to the rear end portion of the shaft extending rearward from the effect button. The lock member is disposed in front of the locking plate, and is driven to move back and forth by the solenoid. When the lock member is in the unlock position, the player can normally operate the effect button (free), and the lock member moves from the unlock position to the rear lock position and engages the locking plate from the front side. The production button is locked at the retracted position.

  In the second button lock device of FIG. 7 of Patent Document 2, the effect button is provided so as to be able to advance and retreat up and down, and a locking plate is attached to the lower end portion of the shaft extending downward from the effect button. When the lock member is driven to move in the horizontal direction by the solenoid and the lock member is in the unlocked position, the effect button can be normally operated. When the production button is in the advanced position, the lock member moves from the unlocked position to the locked position, engages the locking plate from below, the production button is locked in the advanced position, and the production button is in the retracted position In addition, the lock member moves from the unlock position to the lock position, engages the locking plate from above, and the effect button is locked at the retracted position.

JP 2004-275450 A JP 2009-56085 A

  The first button lock device includes a lock member that can be engaged with a stop plate of the effect button from the front side, and a solenoid that drives the lock member to move back and forth so that the effect button can be locked in the retracted position. The effect button cannot be locked at the advanced position with this lock member and solenoid. Therefore, the effect button is advanced by separately providing a second lock member that can be engaged with the stop plate of the effect button from the rear side and a second solenoid that drives the second lock member to move back and forth. Although the position can be locked, the structure becomes large, the assembly becomes difficult, and the manufacturing cost becomes high.

  On the other hand, the second button lock device is configured such that the effect button can be locked at the advanced position and locked at the retracted position. However, it is impossible to accurately predict the timing at which the player operates the effect button, and the operation button operation speed (advance / retreat speed) may be fast, or the effect button may be continuously operated (repeated). In view of the above, it is difficult to reliably lock the advance button or the retracted position from a state where the effect button can be normally operated (including during the operation of the effect button).

  In other words, even if the lock member is moved from the unlock position to the lock position in order to lock the effect button at the advance position or the retract position, the effect button does not stay at the advance position or the retract position. Is assumed. In this case, the lock member and the locking plate collide, and if so, the lock member, the effect button, etc. may be damaged by receiving an excessive force. Or there is a possibility that the effect button is erroneously locked to the reverse entry position or advance position.

  Since the effect button can be detected by the button SW when the effect button moves to the retracted position, it can be used as a trigger for moving the effect button from the unlocked position to the locked position. However, since the time during which the effect button stays at the retracted position is often short, the lock member is moved from the unlock position to the lock position while the effect button stays at the retracted position. The reliability of properly engaging the locking plate is very low.

  Here, the inventor of the present application is configured to be able to lock the effect button at the advanced position and lock at the retracted position, and further, a button lock device capable of automatically pressing the effect button from the advanced position to the retracted position. Was proposed and studied for practical use. Here, in the second button lock device, the effect button can be driven from the advanced position to the retracted position. Therefore, the second button lock device can be realized by combining the first and second button lock devices. While the problem of the button lock device is not improved, the structure becomes larger, the assembly becomes difficult, and the manufacturing cost becomes expensive.

  An object of the present invention is to easily lock the operation button at both the advanced position and the retracted position with a simple structure, and to automatically press the operation button from the advanced position to the retracted position. It is an object of the present invention to provide a gaming machine equipped with a button lock device.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, the operation button (42) supported by the base member (41) so as to be able to advance and retract between the advanced position and the retracted position and biased to the advanced position by the return spring (49) is provided. The gaming machine (1) includes a button lock device (44) that can lock the operation button (42) in the advanced position and lock in the retracted position, and the button lock device (44) includes the advanced button. The advance lock position that engages the position operation button (42) and locks the operation button (42), and the retreat lock that engages the operation button (42) in the retreat position and locks the operation button (42). A lock member (60) supported by the base member (41) so as to be rotatable over the position and the lock release position, and the lock member (60) in the advance lock position, the retreat lock position, and the lock release position. And a rotation drive mechanism (70) capable of being driven to rotate.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect of the invention, the operation button (42) includes an engagement portion with which the lock member (60) can be engaged in both the advanced position and the retracted position. (42h) is provided.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the second aspect of the invention, when the operation button (42) is in the advanced position, the rotation drive mechanism (70) moves the lock member (60) from the unlocked position to the retracted locked position. The operation button (42) is moved from the advanced position to the retracted position by the lock member (60) by being rotationally driven in a predetermined direction.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the second or third aspect of the invention, when the operation button (42) is in the retracted position, the rotation drive mechanism (70) locks the lock member (60) from the retracted lock position. The engagement of the lock member (60) with the operation button (42) is instantaneously released by rotationally driving the release member in a predetermined direction.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the invention according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, the rotation drive mechanism (70) includes an electric motor (71) and a worm gear that is rotationally driven by the electric motor (71). (72) and a worm wheel (73) meshed with the worm gear (72) and connected to the lock member (60).

  According to the gaming machine of claim 1, in the button lock device, the lock member is engaged with the advancement lock position that engages the operation button at the advancement position and locks the operation button, and the operation button at the retreat position. The revolving lock mechanism is supported by the base member so as to freely rotate between the retreat lock position for locking the operation button and the lock release position, and the rotation drive mechanism moves the lock member to the advance lock position, the retreat lock position, and the lock release position. Therefore, the operation button can be reliably locked to both the advanced position and the retracted position with a simple structure.

  According to the gaming machine of the second aspect, since the operation button is provided with the engaging portion in which the lock member can be engaged at both the advanced position and the retracted position, the structure of the operation button is simplified. In addition, it is advantageous to make the rotational drive mechanism compact.

  According to the gaming machine of claim 3, when the operation button is at the advanced position, the rotational drive mechanism rotationally drives the lock member from the unlocked position to the retracted lock position in a predetermined direction. Since the operation button can be moved from the advanced position to the retracted position, the operation button can be automatically pressed from the advanced position to the retracted position.

  According to the gaming machine of the fourth aspect, when the operation button is in the retracted position, the rotational drive mechanism rotationally drives the lock member from the retracted lock position to the unlocked position in a predetermined direction. Since the engagement with the operation button is instantaneously released, the operation button can be instantaneously returned from the retracted position to the advanced position so that the operation button can be normally operated.

  According to the gaming machine of claim 5, the rotation drive mechanism includes an electric motor, a worm gear that is rotationally driven by the electric motor, and a worm wheel that meshes with the worm gear and is connected to the lock member. The speed reduction mechanism comprising the worm gear and the worm wheel allows the lock member to be moved into the advance lock position and the retraction lock position against the force received by the lock member from the operation button when the lock member is in the advance lock position and the retreat lock position. It is possible to increase the restraining force for restraining the operation button, that is, the restraining force for restraining the operation button to the advanced position or the retracted position.

1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine according to Embodiment 1. FIG. It is a block diagram of the control system of a pachinko gaming machine. It is a top view of the plate structure equipped with the operation button device. It is a top view of an operation button device. It is a bottom view of an operation button device. FIG. 11 is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the operation button device in a state where the effect button is in the advanced position. FIG. 12 is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the operation button device in a state where the effect button is in the retracted position. It is a front view of a production button. It is a bottom view of a production button. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line X-X in FIG. 4. It is the XI-XI sectional view taken on the line of FIG. It is operation | movement explanatory drawing of the button lock apparatus of a state in which a production | presentation button exists in an advance position, and a lock member exists in a lock release position. It is operation | movement explanatory drawing of the button lock apparatus of a state which a production | presentation button exists in an advance position, and a lock member exists in an advance lock position. It is operation | movement explanatory drawing of the button lock apparatus of a state which a production | presentation button exists in a retreat position, and a lock member exists in a retreat lock position. It is operation | movement explanatory drawing of the button lock apparatus of the state in which the production | presentation button exists in an advance position and the lock member has engaged with the production | production button from the upper side. It is operation | movement explanatory drawing of the button lock apparatus of the state which the effect button moved further below from the retracted position, and the lock member released the engagement from the effect button. It is a block diagram of a control system of the operation button device. It is a flowchart of button lock movement drive control. It is a functional block diagram of the pachinko gaming machine of the second embodiment. It is a figure which shows a gaming state and its transfer destination. It is a figure which shows the relationship between a jackpot symbol, a jackpot game state, and a subsequent game state. It is a figure which shows the relationship between a small hit design, a small hit game, and a subsequent game state. It is a flowchart of the timer interruption process which an effect control board performs. It is a flowchart of a command reception process. It is a flowchart of a change production selection process. It is a flowchart of the process during the end of a variation effect. It is a flowchart of a hit production selection process. It is a flowchart of an ending effect selection process. It is the figure which showed the table used for a mode flag change process. It is a figure which shows the relationship between button effect mode and a button effect mode flag. It is the figure which showed the multiple types of production | presentation selection table and various production patterns. It is a flowchart of a button effect mode switching process. It is a flowchart of effect button processing. It is a flowchart of a 1st button lock control process. It is a table used by the 1st button lock control processing. It is a flowchart of the 2nd button lock control processing. It is a table used by the 2nd button lock control processing. It is a table used by the 2nd button lock control processing. It is a flowchart of a 3rd button lock control process. It is a table used by the 3rd button lock control processing. It is a flowchart of the 4th button lock control processing. It is a table used by the 4th button lock control processing. It is a flowchart of the 5th button lock control processing. It is a flowchart of a button automatic control process. It is a flowchart of an image control process. It is a flowchart of an image control process.

  In the gaming machine of the present invention, the operation button is supported by the base member so as to be able to advance and retreat over the advanced position and the retracted position, and is urged to the advanced position by a return spring. It is equipped with a button lock device that can be locked in both the entry positions. Hereinafter, modes for carrying out the invention will be described based on examples.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has an opening / closing frame 2 attached to an outer frame attached to an island structure or the like of a game hall so that the opening / closing door 2 can be opened and closed. ing. A game board 4 is mounted on the opening / closing frame 2, and a game area 5 is formed on the front side of the game board 4. A window 3a is formed in the opening / closing door 3, and a transparent plate 3b is attached to the window 3a, and the front side of the game area 5 is covered by the transparent plate 3b.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the open / close door 3 is provided with a dish structure 6 below the window 3 a, and a firing handle 7 is mounted on the lower right side of the dish structure 6. The tray structure 6 is formed so as to bulge forward from the main body portion of the open / close door 3, and a storage tray 6 a for storing game balls is formed in the tray structure 6, and an operation button device unique to the present plan 40 is equipped. The operation button device 40 will be described in detail later.

  When the firing handle 7 is rotated, the game balls introduced from the storage tray 6a to the launch position are launched. Here, when there are a plurality of game balls in the storage tray 6a, the plurality of game balls are It is fired continuously at intervals of about 0.6 seconds. The launched game ball is guided by the guide rail 8 and thrown into the upper part of the game area 5.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the game board 4 includes a number of obstacle nails 10, a start winning opening device 11, a gate 12, a big winning opening device 13, a plurality of general winning openings 14, a center accessory 15, an image. A display 16 and a game display board 19 are mounted in the illustrated arrangement, and a control device 20 is mounted on the back side of the game board 4.

  The start winning opening device 11 includes first and second start winning openings 11a and 11b, an opening / closing member 11c for opening and closing the second start winning opening 11b, and game balls won in the first and second start winning openings 11a and 11b, respectively. First and second start ports SW11d and 11e to be detected, and an electric chew SOL11f for opening and closing the opening and closing member 11c. The opening / closing member 11c makes it impossible to win the game ball to the second start winning opening 11b in the closed position and enables it in the open position. The gate 12 is provided with a gate SW12a for detecting a passed game ball.

  The big prize opening device 13 includes a big prize opening 13a, an opening / closing member 13b for opening / closing the big prize opening 13a, a big winning opening SW13c for detecting a game ball won in the big prize opening 13a, and a big winning opening for opening / closing the opening / closing member 13b. It has SOL13d. The openable / closable member 13b makes it impossible to win a game ball to the special winning opening 13a in the closed position and enables it in the open position. Each general winning opening 14 is provided with a general winning opening SW 14a for detecting a winning game ball.

  The game display board 19 includes a first special symbol indicator 19a, a second special symbol indicator 19b, a normal symbol indicator 19c, a first special symbol hold lamp 19d, a second special symbol hold lamp 19e, and a normal symbol hold lamp 19f. I have.

  On the first special symbol display 19a, the first special symbol is stopped and displayed after the symbol changes based on the winning of the game ball to the first start winning opening 11a, and on the second special symbol display 19b, the second start The second special symbol is stopped and displayed after the symbol changes based on the winning of the game ball in the winning opening 11b. When a big hit symbol is stopped and displayed on the first or second special symbol indicator 19a or 19b, a big hit gaming state occurs, and the big prize opening device 13 opens / closes the opening / closing member 13b, which is normally large in blocking. The winning opening 13a is opened and closed over a plurality of rounds.

  On the normal symbol display 19c, the normal symbol is stopped and displayed after the symbol changes based on the winning of the game ball to the gate 12. When the symbol is stopped and displayed on the normal symbol display 19c, an auxiliary game is generated, and the start winning port device 11 opens and closes the opening / closing member 11c, and the normally closed second start winning port 11b is set to 1 or Open and close multiple times.

  The first special symbol holding lamp 19d has up to four first reserved numbers which are the number of game balls won in the first start winning opening 11a and have not yet been subjected to the symbol variation in the first special symbol display 19a. The second special symbol holding lamp 19e is displayed with the number of game balls won in the second start winning slot 11b and the second reserved number that has not yet been used for the symbol variation on the second special symbol display 19b. Up to four are displayed, and the normal symbol hold lamp 19f displays up to four hold numbers which are the number of game balls won in the gate 12 and have not yet been used for the symbol change in the normal symbol display 19c.

  By turning the launch handle 7, the game ball that is launched and thrown into the upper part of the game area 5 falls while hitting a plurality of obstacle nails 10, changing its direction, and winning holes 11 a, 11 b, 13 a, 14. If any of the winning areas is won, the game area 5 is discharged out of the game area 5, and if any of the winning holes 11a, 11b, 13a, 14 is not won, it is finally formed at the lower end of the gaming area 5. It is discharged out of the gaming area 5 from the out port 9 that has been made.

A control system of the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be described.
As illustrated in FIG. 2, the control device 20 includes a main control device 21 and a sub control device 25. The main control device 21 is configured by providing a game control board 22 with a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM. The game control board 22 is connected to the board external information terminal board 23.

  The sub-control device 25 includes a payout control board 26, an effect control board 27, an image control board 28, and a lamp control board 29. Each of the plurality of control boards 26 to 29 includes a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM. The production control board 27 includes an RTC. The payout control board 26 is connected to the frame external information terminal board 24.

  The game control board 22 receives the ball detection signal from the first and second start openings SW11d, 11e, the gate SW12a, the big prize opening SW13c, the general prize opening SW14a and the control information from the payout control board 26, and The SOL 11f, the special winning opening SOL 13d, the symbol indicators 19a, 19b, 19c, and the symbol holding lamps 19d, 19e, 19f are controlled, and control information (game) Information).

  The payout control board 26 receives the control information from the game control board 22 and the ball detection signals from the payout ball detection SW31, the ball presence detection SW32, and the full tank detection SW33, and controls the payout drive motor 30 to receive the prize opening 11a. , 11b, 13a, 14 for one winning game ball, the number of game balls set for each of the winning openings 11a, 11b, 13a, 14 is paid out to the storage tray 6a, and the game control board 22 and the frame external information Control information (payout information) is output to the terminal board 24.

  The effect control board 27 receives the control information from the game control board 22 and the operation detection signal from the operation button device 40, outputs the control information to the image control board 28, and further receives the control information from the image control board 28. In response, the operation button device 40 is controlled and control information is output to the lamp control board 29. The image control board 28 receives control information from the effect control board 27, controls the image display 16 and the speaker 34, and outputs control information to the effect control board 27. The lamp control board 29 receives the control information from the effect control board 27 and controls the frame lamp 35 and the panel lamp 36 mainly in synchronization with the control by the image control board 28.

Next, the operation button device 40 will be described in detail.
As shown in FIGS. 1 to 17, the operation button device 40 includes a base member 41, an effect button 42, an effect button SW43, a button lock device 44, an ENTER button 45, a cross button 46, an ENTER button SW47, and cross buttons SW48a to 48d. It has.

  As shown in FIGS. 4 to 7 and 10, the base member 41 includes a base body 50 having a bottom wall portion 50 a and a peripheral wall portion 50 b erected from the outer periphery of the bottom wall portion 50 a, and the inside of the base body 50. An upper inner cover 51, an upper outer cover 52 fixed to the base main body 50 so as to cover the inside of the base main body 50 and the upper inner cover 51, a substrate 53 fixed to the lower surface of the base main body 50, and the substrate 53. A lower cover 54 fixed to the base body 50 so as to cover, and a lock device case 55 provided on the lower side of the base body 50 and fixed to at least one of the base body 50, the substrate 53, and the lower cover 54.

  The operation button device 40 is configured such that the upper surface of the upper outer cover 52 is exposed upwardly substantially in tandem with the upper surface of the dish structure 6, and the effect button 42, the ENTER button 45, and the cross button 46 are exposed upward. Is assembled to the dish structure 6.

  As shown in FIG. 4 and FIG. 6 to FIG. 10, the effect button 42 is in the advanced position (see the solid line in FIG. 6 and FIG. 10) and the retracted position (see the virtual line in FIG. 7 and FIG. 10). Thus, it is supported by the base member 41 so as to be able to advance and retreat up and down, and is biased to the advanced position (upward) by the return spring 49. This effect button 42 corresponds to the operation button of the present invention.

  The effect button 42 extends downward from the projecting operation part 42a and the projecting operation part 42b, which are circular in plan view, and protrudes outward from the projecting operation part 42a to the left and right sides from the cylindrical part 42b and the cylinder part 42b. A pair of projecting portions 42c, a shielding plate mounting portion 42d extending downward from the right projecting portion 42c, an inner flange portion 42e extending inwardly from the cylindrical portion 42b, and extending downward from both left and right inner end portions of the inner flange portion 42e A pair of leg portions 42f, a pair of hook portions 42g for retaining the effect buttons provided in the middle in the length direction of the pair of leg portions 42f, and an effect button provided at the lower end of the pair of leg portions 42f It has a pair of engaging portions 42h for locking.

  A cylindrical portion 50c protruding upward from the bottom wall portion 50a is formed on the left portion of the base body 50, and a pair of protruding portion insertion portions 50d are formed on the left and right sides of the cylindrical portion 50c. . The cylindrical portion 42b of the effect button 42 is fitted into the cylindrical portion 50c so as to be movable up and down, and the pair of projecting portions 42c of the effect button 42 is inserted into the pair of projecting portion insertion portions 50d so as to be movable up and down. The effect button 42 is assembled so that it can be rotated up and down and prevented from rotating.

  In the left portion of the base body 50, an opening 50e is formed in the bottom wall portion 50a, and a pair of left and right engaging portions 50f protruding upward from the bottom wall portion 50 are formed. Openings 53a and 53b communicating with the opening 50e are formed in the substrate 53 (also the lower cover 54). The pair of leg portions 42f of the effect button 42 passes near the outside of the pair of locking portions 50f, extends downward through the openings 50e, 53a, 53b, and reaches the inside of the lock device case 55. The pair of hook portions 42g are located below the pair of locking portions 50f.

  A return spring 49 made of a compression coil spring is mounted between the inner collar portion 42e of the effect button 42 and the bottom wall portion 50a of the base body 50 on the inner side of the cylindrical portion 42b of the effect button 42 and the outer side of the pair of legs 42f. Has been. With the pair of hook portions 42g engaged with the pair of locking portions 50f from the lower side, the effect button 42 is in the advanced position, and the retracting operation portion 42a protrudes upward from the upper outer cover 52. Become. The effect button 42 moves downward from the advance position, the height positions of the upper surface of the in / out operation unit 42a and the upper surface of the upper outer cover 52 are substantially the same, and the effect button 42 becomes the retracted position. When the effect button 42 moves further downward from the retracted position and the in / out operation portion 42a comes into contact with the upper end portion of the cylindrical portion 50c, it does not move further downward.

  As shown in FIGS. 4, 6, 7, and 10, the effect button SW 43 includes an optical sensor having a light emitting unit and a light receiving unit, and is mounted on the lower surface of the substrate 53 on the right side of the lock device case 55. Yes. A shielding plate 43 a is attached to the shielding plate attachment portion 42 d of the effect button 42. When the effect button 42 is in the advanced position, the shielding plate 43a is positioned between the light emitting part and the light receiving part of the effect button SW43 (see FIG. 6), and the effect button SW43 is turned off. When the effect button 42 is in the retracted position, the shielding plate 43a retracts downward from between the light emitting portion and the light receiving portion of the effect button SW43 (see FIG. 7), and the effect button SW43 is turned on.

The button lock device 44 will be described.
As shown in FIGS. 10 to 16, the button lock device 44 is configured such that the effect button 42 can be locked at the advanced position and can be locked at the retracted position, and is accommodated in the lock device case 55. .

  The button lock device 44 engages the effect button 42 at the advanced position (see FIG. 13) that engages the effect button 42 at the advanced position and locks the effect button 42 at the retracted position. A pair of lock members 60 supported by the base member 41 so as to be rotatable between a retraction lock position (see FIG. 14) for locking and an unlock position (see FIGS. 12, 15, and 16); A rotation drive mechanism 70 is provided that can rotate the pair of lock members 60 over the advance lock position, the retract lock position, and the lock release position.

  The pair of lock members 60 are provided symmetrically with respect to the center of the effect button 42 so as to correspond to the pair of leg portions 42f of the effect button 42, respectively. The pair of lock members 60 are integrally connected at their base end portions via a connecting shaft 61 positioned rearward of the leg portion 42f and facing left and right, and a pair of the lock device case 55. Is pivotally supported by the shaft support portion 55a so as to be able to rotate 360 degrees.

  Here, the effect button 42 has a pair of engaging portions to which the pair of locking members 60 can be engaged at both the advanced position and the retracted position at the lower end of the pair of leg portions 42f. 42h is provided. Each engaging portion 42h is integrally provided on the leg portion 42f so as to protrude from the main body portion to the center side of the effect button 42, and a portion including the engaging portion 42h is a pair of downward opening and upward opening. It is formed in a bifurcated shape.

  Each lock member 60 is formed in, for example, an L shape in a side view, and a front end portion of the lock member 60 is engaged with the engaging portion 42h of the effect button 42 at the advanced position, and the first lock portion 60a is engaged in a surface contact state from below. It has the 2nd lock part 60b engaged with the engaging part 42h of the production | presentation button 42 of an entrance position from the upper side in the surface contact state. In addition, since the part including the engaging part 42h of the leg part 42f is formed in the bifurcated shape, the lock member 60 can be prevented from being unnecessarily released from the engaging part 42h.

  The rotation drive mechanism 70 includes an electric motor 71, a worm gear 72 that is rotationally driven by the electric motor 71, and a worm wheel 73 that meshes with the worm gear 72 and is connected to a pair of lock members 60. For example, the electric motor 71 is disposed on the rear side of the connecting shaft 61, the worm gear 72 is fixed to the output shaft 71 a of the electric motor 71, and the worm wheel 73 is fixedly fitted to the connecting shaft 61.

  The lock member 60 does not engage with the engaging portion 42h of the effect button 42 when in the unlocked position, and the player can normally operate (free) the effect button 42. Stay at the advance position without being operated. Regarding the rotation direction of the lock member 60, the clockwise direction in FIGS. 12 to 16 is the α direction, and the counterclockwise direction is the β direction.

  When the production button 42 is in the advanced position, the rotational drive mechanism 70 rotationally drives the lock member 60 from the unlocked position to the advanced lock position in FIG. 13 so that the lock member 60 becomes substantially horizontal. Then, the effect button 42 is engaged with the engaging portion 42h of the effect button 42 from below, and the effect button 42 is locked at the advanced position. From this state, the rotation drive mechanism 70 rotates the lock member 60 in the β direction from the advance lock position of FIG. 13 to the lock release position, so that the lock member 60 is engaged from the engagement portion 42h of the effect button 42. To release.

  Further, in a state in which the effect button 42 is pressed down to the retracted position, the rotation drive mechanism 70 rotates the lock member 60 from the unlocked position to the retracted lock position of FIG. The member 60 assumes a substantially horizontal posture and engages with the engaging portion 42h of the effect button 42 from above, and the effect button 42 is locked at the retracted position. Here, when the effect button 42 is in the advanced position, the rotation drive mechanism 70 drives the lock member 60 to rotate in the β direction from the unlocked position to the retracted lock position in FIG. The effect button 42 is pulled down by engaging the engaging portion 42h of the button 42 from above, that is, the effect button 42 is moved from the advanced position to the retracted position by the lock member 60, and the effect button 42 is automatically pressed. Is done.

  Further, when the effect button 42 is in the retracted position (from the state where the effect button 42 is locked in the retracted position), the rotation drive mechanism 70 moves the lock member 60 from the retracted lock position to the unlocked position in FIG. By rotationally driving in the α direction, the engagement of the effect member 42 of the lock member 60 with the engaging portion 42h is gradually released, that is, the effect button 42 gradually returns to the advanced position. On the other hand, when the production button 42 is in the retracted position, the rotational drive mechanism 70 rotationally drives the lock member 60 from the retracted lock position to the unlocked position in FIG. 14 in the β direction, as shown in FIG. In addition, the lock member 60 is engaged with the engaging portion 42h of the effect button 42 from the upper side to further lower the effect button 42 from the retracted position, and then the engagement member 42h of the effect button 42 of the lock member 60 is engaged with the engaging portion 42h. Is instantaneously released, that is, the effect button 42 is instantaneously returned to the advanced position.

  An ENTER button SW 47 (see FIG. 17) corresponding to the ENTER button 45 is mounted on the substrate 53. The cross button 46 includes four first to fourth cross buttons 46a to 46d (see FIG. 4), and the first to fourth cross buttons SW48a to 48d corresponding to the first to fourth cross buttons 46a to 46d. (See FIG. 17) is mounted on the substrate 53.

  As shown in FIG. 17, the effect control board 27 further generates operation detection signals from the SWs 43, 47, 48 a to 48 d of the operation button device 40 based on the control information from the game control board 22 and the image control board 28. Based on this, various processes are executed, and the button lock movement drive control is executed by controlling the electric motor 71. The electric motor 71 is a servo motor with an encoder or a stepping motor, and the effect control board 27 detects the rotational position of the electric motor 71 and controls the rotational position of the lock member 60 from the rotational position.

  As shown in FIG. 18, in the effect button lock / unlock control executed by the effect control board 27, first, it is determined whether or not the effect button 42 is locked in the advanced position (S1). If S1; The member 60 is rotated from the lock release position to the advance lock position in the α direction (S2). In S1; No, it is determined whether or not the effect button 42 is locked in the retracted position (S3). In S3; Yes, the lock member 60 is rotated from the unlocked position to the retracted locked position in the β direction. (S4) At this time, if the effect button 42 stays at the advanced position, the effect button 42 is automatically pressed from the advanced position to the retracted position and locked to the retracted position.

  In the case of S3; No, it is determined whether or not the effect button 42 is unlocked from the advanced position (S5). In the case of S5; Yes, the lock member 60 is rotated from the advanced lock position to the unlocked position in the β direction. (S6). In S5; No, it is determined whether or not the lock member 60 is gradually unlocked from the retracted position (S7). In S7; Yes, the lock member 60 moves from the retracted lock position to the unlocked position in the α direction. It is rotated (S8). S7: If No, it is determined whether or not the lock member 60 is instantly unlocked from the retracted position (S9). If S9; Yes, the lock member 60 moves from the retracted lock position to the unlocked position in the β direction. It is rotated (S10).

  S9: If No, it is determined whether or not the production button 42 is automatically operated once from the advanced position to the retracted position (S11). If S11; Yes, the lock member 60 is retracted from the unlock position in the β direction. It is turned to the on-lock position and then turned to the lock release position. Note that the rotation direction of the lock member 60 from the retraction lock position to the lock release position after the automatic operation may be either the α direction or the β direction. S11: In the case of No, it is determined whether or not the production button 42 is automatically continuously operated a plurality of times from the advanced position to the retracted position (S13). In the case of S13; Yes, the lock member 60 is moved from the unlocked position in the β direction. It is rotated to the retraction lock position, and then reciprocally rotated between the retraction lock position and the lock release position rotated in the α direction from the retraction lock position, and then rotated to the lock release position. The Note that the rotation direction of the lock member 60 from the retraction lock position to the lock release position after the automatic operation may be either the α direction or the β direction.

  As described above, in the button lock device 44, the pair of locking members 60 are engaged with the advancement lock position where the effect button 42 is locked by engaging the advance button 42 at the advance position, and the effect button 42 at the retreat position. The rotation drive mechanism 70 advances the pair of lock members 60, and is supported by the base member 41 so as to be freely rotatable over the retreat lock position where the effect button 42 is engaged and locked, and the unlock position. Since it is rotationally driven over the locked position, the retracted lock position, and the unlocked position, it is possible to securely lock the effect button 62 in both the advanced position and the retracted position with a simple structure, and to unlock it. be able to. Here, two types of speed release can be set for unlocking the effect button 42 from the retracted position to the advanced position.

  Since the effect button 42 is provided with a pair of engaging portions 42h that can engage the pair of locking members 60 at both the advanced position and the retracted position, the structure of the effect button 42 is simplified. In addition, it is advantageous in configuring the rotational drive mechanism 70 compactly.

  When the production button 42 is at the advanced position, the rotation drive mechanism 70 rotates the pair of lock members 60 from the unlock position to the retraction lock position in a predetermined direction (β direction), thereby the lock member 60. Thus, the effect button 42 can be moved from the advanced position to the retracted position, so that the effect button 42 can be automatically pressed from the advanced position to the retracted position.

  When the production button 42 is in the retracted position, the rotational drive mechanism 70 rotationally drives the pair of lock members 60 from the retracted lock position to the unlocked position in a predetermined direction (β direction). Since the engagement of the lock member 60 with the effect button 42 is instantaneously released, the effect button 42 can be instantaneously returned from the retracted position to the advanced position so that the effect button 42 can be normally operated. . The effect button 42 can be stably locked at the advanced position and the retracted position by the pair of lock members 60 provided symmetrically with respect to the effect button 42.

  The rotation drive mechanism 70 includes an electric motor 71, a worm gear 72 that is rotationally driven by the electric motor 71, and a worm wheel 73 that meshes with the worm gear 72 and is connected to the lock member 60. And a worm wheel 73 to reduce the lock member 60 against the force received from the effect button 42 when the lock member 60 is at the advance lock position and the retract lock position. It is possible to increase the restraining force that restrains the entrance lock position, that is, the restraining force that restrains the effect button 42 at the advanced position and the retracted position.

The second embodiment is employed in the configuration of the first embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 19, the main control device 21 (game control board 22) constitutes a random number acquisition means 21a, a random number determination means 21b, and a game state control means 21c, and a sub-control device 25 (effect control board 27, image control). The board 28 and the lamp control board 29) constitute an effect control means 25a having an effect mode setting means 25b, a button lock control means 25c, and a button drive control means 25d.

  The random number obtaining unit 21a obtains a random value (big hit random number value, big hit symbol random number value, reach random number value) triggered by the winning of a game ball in the start winning opening 11a, 11b, and the random number judging unit 21b is a random number obtaining unit. The special symbol type is determined (selected) based on the random number value acquired in 21a, and the determined special symbol type is stopped and displayed on the special symbol indicators 19a and 19b after the symbol variation.

  In specific processing by the random number determination means 21b, first, when the acquired jackpot random number value matches the jackpot specific value with a predetermined low probability (for example, 1/300) or high probability (for example, 1/30), Next, on the basis of the jackpot symbol random number value, any one of six types of jackpot symbols of probability variation symbols A and B, normal symbol, random symbol symbols A and B, and sudden symbol symbol shown in FIG. 21 is selected at a predetermined selection rate. One is selected. On the other hand, if the big hit random number does not match the big hit specific value, or if the big hit random value matches the small hit specific value, the small hit symbol shown in FIG. 22 is selected, and the big hit random value matches the small hit specific value If not, the lost symbol is selected.

  As shown in FIG. 20, there are five types of gaming states of the pachinko gaming machine 1: normal gaming state, probability variation gaming state, latent probability gaming state, short-time gaming state, and jackpot gaming state. Any one of the gaming states is set to be alternatively switchable. The big hit gaming state, the probability variation gaming state, and the latent probability gaming state correspond to specific gaming states that are more advantageous to the player than the normal gaming state. It should be noted that the short-time gaming state is a gaming state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal gaming state.

  The gaming state control means 21c shifts to the big hit gaming state when the big hit symbol (probability variation symbol A, B, normal symbol, sudden probability symbol A, B, sudden collision symbol) is stopped and displayed in a gaming state other than the big hit gaming state. Let Here, as shown in FIG. 21, for example, in the case of probability variation symbols A and B and a normal symbol, the big prize opening 13a opens 9R long, and the maximum opening time of the big prize opening 13a in each round is about 30 seconds. As a result, a large number of balls can be obtained, and in the case of the accrual symbols A and B and the sudden symbol, the grand prize opening 13a performs 9R short opening, and the maximum opening time of the big prize opening 13a in each round is about Since it is 0.2 seconds, it is not possible to actually get a ball.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 21, the gaming state control means 21c shifts to the probability changing gaming state after the end of the jackpot gaming state based on the establishment of the probability variation symbols A and B and the probability symbol A, and the jackpot based on the establishment of the probability symbol B. After the gaming state is finished, the game is shifted to the latent game state, and after the big hit gaming state based on the establishment of the normal variation symbol and the sudden symbol, the state is shifted to the short-time gaming state.

  Further, the game state control means 21c substantially converts the probability variation game state based on the establishment of the probability variation symbol A and the probability symbol A and the latent probability game state based on the formation of the probability symbol B until the next big hit gaming state occurs. The probability variation game state based on the establishment of probability variation symbol B is continued until the maximum symbol variation of the special symbol is performed a set number of times (for example, 40 times), and then the latent symbol game state is shifted to the normal symbol, The short-time gaming state based on the establishment of the sudden symbol is continued until the symbol variation of the special symbol is performed a set number of times (for example, 40 times), and then the normal gaming state is entered.

  In the normal gaming state and the short-time gaming state, the winning probability of the big-hitting lottery that generates the big-hitting gaming state is low (for example, 1/300), and in the short-time gaming state, the second openable type is compared to the normal gaming state. The opening frequency of the start winning opening 11b is high and the opening time is long. In the probability variation gaming state and the latent probability gaming state, the winning probability of the big hit lottery that generates the big hit gaming state is higher than the normal gaming state (for example, 1/30), and in the probability varying gaming state, the normal gaming Compared to the state, the opening frequency of the openable second start winning opening 11b is high and the opening time is long.

  In this way, the gaming state control means 21c generates the big hit gaming state, the probability variation gaming state, the latent probability gaming state, and the short-time gaming state by a predetermined lottery, and the predetermined lottery is generated by the random number obtaining unit 21a and the random number judging unit 21b. And includes a big hit lottery, a probability variation lottery, and a latent lottery. And the big win symbol (probability change symbol A, B, normal symbol, any one of the random symbol A, B, the emergency symbol) is selected and displayed, so that the big hit lottery that generates the big hit gaming state is won. Therefore, one of the probability variation symbols A and B and the probability variation symbol A is selected and displayed, so that it is won in the probability variation lottery that generates the probability variation gaming state, and the probability variation symbol B is selected and displayed. A game state is generated, and it is won by a latent lottery.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 22, in the game state other than the big hit game state, when the small hit symbol is stopped and displayed, the big win is obtained in the same manner as the big hit game state based on the establishment of the winning symbols A and B and the sudden symbol. A small hit game in which the mouth 13a performs 9R short opening occurs, and the gaming state after the small hit game is the same as the gaming state before the small hit game. Therefore, the player cannot recognize the big hit game state and the small hit game based on the establishment of the confident symbol B at a glance.

  Here, in the normal gaming state and the latent probability gaming state, and in the short-time gaming state and the probability variation gaming state, only the winning probability of the big hit lottery is different, and after the big hit gaming state, after the small hit game, Although it is difficult for the player to specify the game state, it is expected that the player is in a more advantageous game state.

  The effect control means 25a, the effect mode setting means 25b, the button lock control means 25c, and the button drive control means 25d will be described.

  The production mode setting means 25b includes a participation type production mode in which a player can participate in the switching of the game production by operating the production button 42 during a button operation valid period in which the operation of the production button 42 is valid. A non-participation-type production mode that cannot participate in the switching of the game and an automatic participation-type production mode in which the player can automatically participate in the switching of the game production without operating the production button 42 are selected through a predetermined operation by the player. To be switchable automatically.

  The button lock control means 25c controls the button lock device 44 to enable the effect button 42 to be held in the unlocked state in the participation type effect mode, and to move the operation button to and from the advance position in the non-participation effect mode. It is configured to be held in a locked state at one of the entry positions. The button drive control unit 25d controls the button lock device 44 to move the effect button 42 from the advanced position to the retracted position during the button operation valid period in the automatic participation type effect mode.

  The production control means 25a controls the production means 39 including the image display 16 for executing the game production, and in the participation type production mode and the automatic participation type production mode (or only in the participation type production mode), the button The effect means 39 is notified of the effect during the operation effective period, and the game effect is switched when the effect button 42 is operated from the advanced position to the retracted position, and the button operation effective period is excluded in the non-participatory effect mode. The button lock control means 25c has the following configuration in the participation type effect mode.

  In the first button lock control, the button lock control unit 25c is in a state in which the effect button 42 is locked at one of the advanced position and the retracted position and unlocked during the button operation effective period. Alternatively, either one of the above states is determined based on the result of one of the big hit lottery, the probability variation lottery, or the latent probability lottery, and depending on the state, either the big hit lottery, the probability variation lottery, or the latent probability lottery It is configured so that the selected reliability is different.

  In the second button lock control, the button lock control means 25c locks the effect button 42 in one of the advanced position and the retracted position when the set time T elapses while the effect button 42 is unlocked during the button operation effective period. The set time T is determined based on the result of any one of the jackpot lottery, the probability variation lottery, or the latent probability lottery, and the reliability that is won by the jackpot lottery, the probability variation lottery, or the latent probability lottery according to the set time T Are configured differently.

  In the third button lock control, the button lock control means 25c determines the advance position when the effect button 42 is operated to the retracted position N times while the effect button 42 is unlocked during the button operation effective period. While locking to one of the retreat positions, the set number of times N is determined based on the result of any one of the big hit lottery, the probability variation lottery, and the latent probability lottery. It is configured so that the reliability of winning is different in either.

  In the fourth button lock control, the button lock control means 25c keeps the effect button 42 locked in the retracted position during the button operation effective period, or locks the effect button 42 in the retracted position. In addition to releasing the lock from the state, the presence / absence of unlocking of the effect button 42 is determined based on the result of any of the jackpot lottery, the probability variation lottery, and the latent probability lottery, and the jackpot lottery, the probability variation lottery, The reliability of winning in any of the latent lotteries is configured to be different.

  In the fifth button lock control, the button lock control means 25c holds the effect button 42 in the unlocked state during the button operation valid period regardless of the results of the big hit lottery, the probability variation lottery, and the latent probability lottery.

  In addition, in the first to third button lock controls, the button lock control means 25c can lock any of the effect buttons 42 at either the advanced position or the retracted position during the button operation effective period. The position is determined based on the result of one of the big hit lottery, the probability variation lottery, or the latent probability lottery, and the reliability that is won in the big hit lottery, the probability variation lottery, or the latent probability lottery is further different depending on the position. Has been.

  Next, in order to achieve the above configuration of the effect control means 25a having the effect mode setting means 25b, the button lock control means 25c, and the button drive control means 25d, the sub-control device 25 (effect control board 27, image control board 28). The specific processing and control executed by will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 23, the effect control board 27 executes a timer interrupt process every minute time, and in this timer interrupt process, a command reception process (S21), a button effect mode switching process (S22), and an effect button process. (S23), command transmission processing (S24) is sequentially executed. In S21, a command from the game control board 22 (image control board 28) is received. In S23, the command set in the steps described later is transmitted to the image control board 28 (lamp control board 29).

  As shown in FIG. 24, in the command reception process of S21, when a hold number increase command is received (S31; Yes), a hold number addition process (S32) is executed and a hold number command is set (S33). When the change start command is received (S34; Yes), change effect selection processing (S35) is executed. When the change stop command is received (S36; Yes), the changing effect end process (S37) is executed. When the opening command is received (S38; Yes), the hit effect selection process (S39) is executed. When an ending command is received (S40; Yes), an ending effect selection process (S41) is executed. Finally, a customer waiting command reception process (S42) is executed, and the process returns.

  As shown in FIG. 25, in the variation effect selection process in S35, the variation start command received from the game control board 22 is analyzed (S51), and the mode flag MF (the current mode among the five types of A to E modes in FIG. 29) is analyzed. Next, a button effect mode flag BMF (participation effect mode, non-participation effect mode and automatic participation effect mode in FIG. 30) is referred to (S52). The button effect mode flags 0, 1, and 2 corresponding to the current button effect mode are referred to (S53), and the hold number subtraction process (S54) is executed. As shown in FIG. 31, five types of effect selection tables A to E respectively corresponding to the five types of A to E modes are stored.

  In the variation effect pattern selection process (S55), one of the five types of effect selection tables A to E corresponding to the mode flag MF referred to in S52 is extracted and analyzed in the effect selection table and S51. Based on information including the type of special symbol, one of a plurality of types of variation effect patterns 1, 2, 3,... Is selected.

  Here, as shown in FIG. 31, one or more types of specific variation effect patterns are selected from among a plurality of types of variation effect patterns, a plurality of types of hit effect patterns, and a plurality of types of ending effect patterns to be selected. There are one or more types of specific hit production patterns, one or more types of specific ending production patterns, and a button operation effective period in which the operation of the production buttons 42 is valid is set for each specific production pattern. Yes.

  When the variation effect pattern is selected, when the BMF is 0 or 2 (that is, the participation type effect mode or the automatic participation type effect mode), any one of all types of the change effect patterns is selected, and the BMF is 1 In the case of (that is, non-participation effect mode), one of one or more types of variation effect patterns other than the specific variation effect pattern is selected. Thereafter, a change effect start command including information on the change effect pattern selected in S55 is set (S56), and the process returns.

  As shown in FIG. 26, in the variation effect end processing of S37, the variation stop command received from the game control board 22 is analyzed (S61), the mode flag MF is referred to (S62), and it is determined whether or not it is a hit ( S63). In the case of winning (S63; Yes), the mode flag changing process (S64) is executed, and as shown in FIG. 29, the mode flag MF corresponding to the winning symbol that triggered the winning (for example, in the case of probability variation symbol A) 1 (B mode)) is changed and set, and a value corresponding to the symbol (for example, 10000 in the case of probability variation symbol A) is set to the gaming state stay counter MC.

  On the other hand, if it is not a win (S63; No), it is determined whether MF is 0 (A mode or not) (S65). If S65; No, MC is subtracted from MC-1 (S66). When MC becomes 0 (S67; Yes), 0 (A mode) is set in MF (S68). After S64, after S68, if S65; Yes, S67; If No, next, a variable effect end command is set (S69), and the process returns.

  As shown in FIG. 27, in the winning effect selection process in S39, the opening command received from the game control board 22 is analyzed (S71), the mode flag MF is referred to (S72), and then the button effect mode flag BMF is set. Reference is made (S73). Next, in the winning effect pattern selection process (S74), one of the five types of effect selection tables A to E shown in FIG. 31 corresponding to the mode flag MF referred to in S72 is extracted, and the effect selection table and Based on the type of special symbol, one of a plurality of types of hit effect patterns 1, 2, 3,... Is selected.

  In this case, when BMF is 0, 2 (that is, participation type production mode, automatic participation type production mode), one of all types of hit production patterns is selected, and BMF is 1 (that is, non-participation type production). Mode), one of one or more types of hit effect patterns other than the specific hit effect pattern is selected. Thereafter, an opening effect start command including information on the hit effect pattern selected in S74 is set (S75), and the process returns.

  As shown in FIG. 28, in the ending effect selection process of S41, the ending command received from the game control board 22 is analyzed (S76), the mode flag MF is referred to (S77), and then the button effect mode flag BMF is set. Reference is made (S78). Next, in the ending effect pattern selection process (S79), any one of the five types of effect selection tables A to E shown in FIG. 31 corresponding to the mode flag MF referred to in S77 is extracted. Based on the type of special symbol, one of a plurality of types of ending effect patterns 1, 2, 3,... Is selected.

  In this case, when BMF is 0, 2 (that is, participation type production mode, automatic participation type production mode), any one of all kinds of ending production patterns is selected and BMF is 1 (that is, non-participation type production). Mode), one of one or more types of ending effect patterns other than the specific ending effect pattern is selected. Thereafter, an ending effect start command including information on the ending effect pattern selected in S79 is set (S80), and the process returns.

  The first to fifth button lock controls are executed when a specific effect pattern is selected in the participatory effect mode, and in particular, the button lock control related to the big hit lottery is executed for a specific variable effect pattern. The button lock control related to the probability variation lottery and the latent probability lottery is executed for a specific variation effect pattern, a hit effect pattern, or an ending effect pattern.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 32, in the button effect mode switching process in S22, first, it is determined whether or not it is a button effect mode switching period, for example, a special symbol is not changing and a predetermined time from when the special symbol change is stopped. It is determined whether or not it has elapsed (S81). S81: If Yes, it is next determined whether or not there is a button effect mode switching operation, for example, whether or not a predetermined switching operation has been performed using the ENTER button 45 and the cross button 46 of the operation button device 40 (S82). . If S81; No, or if S82; No, return. S82: Yes, if BMF = 0 (S83; Yes), set BMF to 1 (S84); if BMF = 1 (S83; No, S85; Yes), set BMF to 2 (S86) When BMF = 2 (S83; No, S85; No), 0 is set in BMF (S87), and the process returns.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 33, in the effect button process of S23, first, it is determined whether or not the button effect mode flag BMF is 1 (S91), and in the case of the non-participatory effect mode that becomes S91; Yes, the control flag 1 or 2 is set in CF (S91a), and the process proceeds to SA. The effect button lock control of SA is as described above with reference to FIG. 18. With this effect button lock control, the effect button 42 is locked at the advanced position or the retracted position with CF = 1 or 2.

  S91: In the case of No, it is determined whether or not a specific effect pattern (a specific variation effect pattern or a hit effect pattern or an ending effect pattern) is to be executed (S92). In the case of S92; S92: If Yes, it is determined whether or not the button effect mode flag BMF is 0 (S93). If the participation effect mode is S93; Yes, then any of the first to fifth button lock controls is executed. If not (S94 to 98; No), it is determined whether or not the effect button 42 has been operated (S99). If S99; No, the process returns. If S99; Yes, the effect button command is set (S100). ), Return.

  When the first button lock control is executed (S94; Yes), as shown in FIG. 34, first, whether or not the holding state has been selected, that is, the next processing of S102 is performed to select the specific effect pattern. It is determined whether it has been executed later (S101). S101; If Yes, return. In the case of S101; No, the holding state selection process (S102) is executed, and in this process, as shown in FIG. 35, in each of the big hit lottery, the probability variation lottery, and the latent probability lottery, the case of winning and the case of not winning Thus, either one of holding in the locked state at the advanced position, holding in the locked state at the retracted position, and holding in the unlocked state is alternatively selected and determined at the selection rate shown in the figure.

  When the locked position is held at the advanced position (S103; Yes), the control flag CF is set to 1 (S104), and when held at the retracted position (S103; No, S105; Yes), the CF Is set to 2 (S106), and when it is held in the unlocked state (S103; No, S106; No), 0, 3 or 4 or 5 is set to CF (S107), and the process proceeds to SA.

  With the button lock movement drive control of SA, the effect button 42 is maintained in the unlocked state with CF = 0, and the effect button 42 is locked at the advanced position with CF = 1. With CF = 2, the effect button 42 is locked at the retracted position, and at this time, the effect button 42 at the advanced position is locked after being automatically depressed to the retracted position. When CF = 3, the effect button 42 locked at the advanced position is unlocked, and when CF = 4 or 5, the effect button 42 locked at the retracted position is unlocked. The effect button 42 protrudes to the advanced position by the return spring 49.

  When the second button lock control is executed (S95; Yes), as shown in FIG. 36, first, whether or not the set time / unlock position has been selected, that is, the following processes of S112 and S113 are performed. It is determined whether or not it has been executed after selection of a specific effect pattern (S111). In the case of S111; No, the set time selection process (S112) is executed, and then the lock position selection process (S113) is executed.

  In the set time selection process of S112, as shown in FIG. 37, in each of the big hit lottery, the probability variation lottery, and the latent chance lottery, the set time T is set as a plurality of types shown in the figure in the case of winning and not winning, respectively. Any one of these times is alternatively selected and determined at the illustrated selection rate. In the lock position selection process of S113, as shown in FIG. 38, in each of the big win lottery, the probability variation lottery, and the latent probability lottery, the advance position and the retreat position are set as the lock positions in the case of winning and not winning, respectively. One of the positions is alternatively selected and determined at the selection rate shown.

  S111: Yes, or after S113, it is determined whether or not it is a button operation valid period (S114). If S114; No, the process returns. S114: If Yes, it is determined whether it is the start time of the button operation effective period (S115). If S115: Yes, 0, 3 or 4 or 5 is set to the control flag CF (S116). In the case of S115; No or after S116, the button unlock time t is counted (S117), and then it is determined whether or not the button unlock time t is equal to or longer than the set time T selected in S112 (S117). S118). S118: Return if No, if S118; Yes, hold in locked position at advance position (S119; Yes), set CF to 1 (S120), hold locked in retracted position (S119; No), 2 is set in CF (S121), and each shifts to SA.

  With the effect button lock control of SA, first, the effect button 42 is unlocked with CF = 0, 3 or 4 or 5, and at this time, the effect button 42 in the retracted position is moved to the advanced position by the return spring 49. Protrusively. Next, when the set time T has elapsed with the effect button 42 unlocked, the effect button 42 is locked at the advanced position with CF = 1, and the effect button 42 is locked at the retracted position with CF = 2. The

  When the third button lock control is executed (S96; Yes), as shown in FIG. 39, first, it is determined whether or not the set number of times / unlock position has been selected, that is, the following processes of S132 and S133 are performed. It is determined whether or not it is executed after selection of a specific effect pattern (S131). In the case of S131; No, the set number selection process (S132) is executed, and then the lock position selection process (S133) is executed.

  In the set number selection process of S132, as shown in FIG. 40, in each of the big hit lottery, the probability variation lottery, and the latent probability lottery, the set number N is shown as the set number N in the case of winning and not winning, respectively. Any one of the number of times is alternatively selected and determined at the selection rate shown in the figure. In the lock position selection process in S133, either the advance position or the retract position is alternatively selected and determined as the lock position, as in the case of the second button lock control (FIG. 38).

  If S131; Yes or after S133, it is determined whether or not it is a button operation valid period (S134). If S134; No, the process returns. S134: If Yes, it is determined whether it is the start time of the button operation effective period (S135). If S135; Yes, 0, 3 or 4 or 5 is set to the control flag RF (S136). In S135; No, or after S136, it is determined whether or not the effect button 42 has been operated (S137). If S137; No, the process returns. S137: In the case of Yes, the button operation number n is added to n + 1 (S138), and it is determined whether or not the button operation number n is equal to or more than the set number N selected in S132 (S139). S139: No, return; S139; Yes, hold in locked position at advance position (S140; Yes), set CF to 1 (S141), hold locked in retracted position (S140; No), 2 is set in CF (S142), and the process proceeds to SA.

  With the effect button lock control of SA, first, the effect button 42 is unlocked with CF = 0, 3 or 4 or 5, and at this time, the effect button 42 in the retracted position is moved to the advanced position by the return spring 49. Protrusively. Next, in a state where the effect button 42 is unlocked, when the effect button 42 is operated N times for the set number of times, the effect button 42 is locked at the advanced position as CF = 1, and the effect button 42 is set as CF = 2. Locked in the retreat position.

  When the fourth button lock control is executed (S97; Yes), as shown in FIG. 41, it is first determined whether or not the effect button 42 is held in the locked position at the retracted position (S151), and S151; If no, return. S151: In the case of Yes, it is determined whether or not the selection of unlocking has been performed, that is, whether or not the processing of the next S153 has been executed after selection of the specific effect pattern (S152). In the case of S152; No, a lock release presence / absence selection process (S153) is executed. In this process, as shown in FIG. 42, in each of the big win lottery, the probability variation lottery, and the latent probability lottery, the case of winning or not winning Then, one of the unlocked state and the unlocked state is alternatively selected and determined at the illustrated selection rate.

  In the case of S152; Yes or after S153, it is determined whether or not the set time has been selected, that is, whether or not the next processing of S156 has been executed after selection of the specific effect pattern (S155). In the case of S155; No, the set time selection process (S156) is executed. In this process, as in the case of the second button lock control (FIG. 37), in each of the big hit lottery, the probability variation lottery, and the latent probability lottery, In the case of winning and in the case of non-winning, any one of a plurality of types of times shown in the figure is alternatively selected and determined as the set time T with the selection rate shown in the figure.

  S155: If Yes, or after S156, it is determined whether or not the button operation is valid (S157). If S157; No, the process returns. S157: If Yes, the button lock time t is counted (S158), and then it is determined whether or not the button lock time t is equal to or longer than the set time T selected in S156 (S159). S159: No, return; S159; Yes, hold in locked position at advance position (S160; Yes), set CF to 1 (S161), hold locked in retracted position (S160; No), 5 or 6 is set in CF (S162), and the process proceeds to SA.

  When the set time T has elapsed with the effect button 42 locked to the retracted position by the SA effect button lock control, the lock is released and the return button 49 projects to the advanced position, and CF = 1, and the effect button 42 is Locked to the advanced position, CF = 5 or 6 and the effect button 42 is held in the unlocked state. At this time, the effect button 42 in the retracted position protrudes to the advanced position by the return spring 49.

  When the fifth button lock control is executed (S98; Yes), as shown in FIG. 43, 0, 3 or 4 or 5 is set in the button lock flag RF (S171), and the process returns. That is, the effect button 42 is unlocked and held in the state by the SA effect button lock control.

  Incidentally, in the case of the automatic participation type production mode of S93 in FIG. 33; Yes, as shown in FIG. 44, the button automatic control process is executed, and it is first determined whether or not it is the start time of the button operation effective period (S172). , S172; If No, return. S172: If Yes, it is determined whether or not the production button 42 is automatically operated once (S173). If S173; Yes, the control flag CF is set to 6 (S174). If S173; No, It is determined whether the production button 42 is automatically operated continuously (S175). If S175; Yes, the control flag CF is set to 7 (S176), and the process proceeds to SA.

  With the effect button lock control of SA, the effect button 42 is automatically operated once from the advanced position to the retracted position with CF = 6, and when CF = 7, the effect button 42 is automatically plural from the advanced position to the retracted position. It is operated continuously twice.

  As shown in FIG. 45, in the image control process executed by the image control board 28, when a hold number command is received (S181; Yes), the hold number is changed and displayed on the image display 16 in the process of S182. Further, when the change effect start command is received (S183; Yes), the change effect pattern corresponding to the command is displayed in the process of S184, and when the change effect end command is received (S185; Yes), the process of S186 is performed. The display of the variation effect pattern is terminated. If an opening effect start command is received (S187; Yes), a win effect pattern corresponding to the command is displayed in the process of S188, and if an ending effect start command is received (S189; Yes), the process of S190 The ending effect pattern corresponding to the command is displayed.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 46, it is determined whether or not a specific effect pattern (specific variation effect pattern or hit effect pattern or ending effect pattern) is being executed (S191). If S191; Yes, the button operation is valid. It is determined whether or not it is a period (S192). If S192 is Yes, the image display unit 16 is notified that the button operation is valid (for example, an instruction to operate the effect button 42) (S193). Next, it is determined whether or not an effect button command has been received (S194). S191; No or S192; No or S194; S194: If Yes, in the process of S195, the specific performance pattern being executed is partially switched and displayed. For example, the expected degree of winning in the big hit lottery, the probability variation lottery, or the latent probability lottery is displayed on the image display 16. Is displayed.

Next, some specific application examples in the participation type effect mode will be described.
(1) At the time of starting the symbol variation of the special symbol, the mission indicator effect is displayed on the image display 16 and the operation instruction of the effect button 42 is displayed. Therefore, when the player can press the effect button 42, the winning reliability in the big hit lottery becomes 100%.
(2) The operation instruction of the effect button 42 is displayed on the image display 16 in a so-called reach state during the change of the special symbol. Therefore, when the player can press the effect button 42, the winning reliability in the big hit lottery becomes 100%.
(3) The probability change promotion chance effect is displayed on the image display 16 and the operation instruction of the effect button 42 is displayed in a predetermined round of the big hit gaming state. Therefore, when the player can press the effect button 42, the winning reliability in the probability variation lottery becomes 100%.

(4) In a so-called reach state during the change of the special symbol, the image display unit 16 is caused to display a continuous operation instruction (repetitive strike instruction) of the effect button 42. Therefore, when the player hits the production button 42 repeatedly and the gauge becomes MAX, the winning reliability in the big hit lottery becomes 100%.
(5) The probability change promotion chance effect is displayed on the image display 16 in the predetermined round of the big hit gaming state, and the continuous operation instruction (continuous hitting instruction) of the effect button 42 is displayed. Therefore, when the player hits the production button 42 repeatedly and the gauge becomes MAX, the winning reliability in the probability variation lottery becomes 100%.

(6) An instruction to place the hand on the effect button 42 is displayed on the image display 16 in a so-called reach state in which the special symbol is changing. Therefore, when the production button 42 protrudes, it hits the hand and the winning reliability in the big hit lottery becomes 100%.
(7) In a predetermined round of the big hit gaming state, the probability change promotion chance effect is displayed on the image display 16 and an instruction to place a hand on the effect button 42 is displayed. Therefore, when the production button 42 protrudes, it hits the hand and the winning reliability in the probability variation lottery becomes 100%.

(8) During the big hit game state and the small hit game due to the establishment of the winning symbol, a high reliability reliability effect is displayed on the image display 16 and a continuous operation instruction (repetitive hitting instruction) of the effect button 42 is displayed. Therefore, as the player repeatedly strikes the effect button 42 and the gauge approaches MAX, the reliability of the probability changing gaming state and the latent probability gaming state increases.
(9) The game effect in the set period after the big hit game state due to the establishment of the winning symbol B and the game effect in the set period after the small hit game due to the establishment of the small hit game are defined as a common game effect. The operation instruction of the production button 42 is displayed inside. Therefore, when the player can press the effect button 42, the winning reliability in the latent lottery becomes 100%.

  The production control means 25a causes the image display 16 to execute a predetermined game through the operation of the production button 42 during the big hit gaming state in the participation type production mode, and the button lock control means 25c performs the predetermined game. In response, the effect button 42 may be locked or unlocked.

  In this case, for example, a mole game is performed as a predetermined game, and the effect button 42 can be operated only when a mole appears. In addition, a number or the like is input using the cross button 46, and the effect button 42 can be operated only when the input number matches the password. In this case, the earlier the password is entered, the higher the score of the game.

  The effect mode setting means 25b is a participatory effect mode in which the player can participate in the switching of the game effect by operating the effect button 42 during the button operation effective period, and the switching of the game effect without the player operating the effect button 42. The automatic participation type production mode that can be automatically participated in is set to be selectively switchable through a predetermined operation by the player, and the button drive control means 25d is in the button operation effective period in the automatic participation type production mode. The production button 42 is moved from the advance position to the retract position. In other words, the specification is suitable for both a player who wants to participate in the switching of the game effects by operating the effect button 42 and a player who wants to participate in the switching of the game effects without operating the effect buttons 42, and responds to both requests. Can do.

  The effect control means 25a informs the effect means 39 during the button operation effective period in at least the participation effect mode among the participation effect mode and the automatic participation effect mode. A player who wants to participate in the switching can recognize the button operation effective period by the notification to that effect, and can operate for the button operation during the button operation effective period.

  In the participatory effect mode, the button lock control means 25c selects one of the state where the effect button 42 is locked at one of the advanced position and the retracted position and the unlocked state during the button operation effective period. Based on the result of a predetermined lottery (big hit lottery, probability variation lottery, latent probability lottery) that causes any one of the above states to generate a specific gaming state (big hit gaming state, probability variation gaming state, latent probability gaming state) The reliability of winning in the lottery differs depending on the state. In other words, the game in which the player can operate the effect button 42 during the button operation valid period and the player who cannot operate the effect button 42 in the lottery, and the reliability is operated for the button operation. The user can be notified during the operation, and the game effect using the effect button 42 can be made novel and a desired effect can be realized.

  The button lock control means 25c is locked to one of the advance position and the retreat position when the set time T has elapsed with the effect button 42 being unlocked during the button operation valid period in the participation type effect mode. The time T is determined based on the result of the lottery, and the reliability of winning in the lottery varies depending on the set time T. In other words, when the player operates the effect button 42 during the button operation effective period, the reliability won in the lottery varies depending on the period during which the player can operate the game, and the reliability is operated for the button operation. The user can be notified during the operation, and the game effect using the effect button 42 can be made novel and a desired effect can be realized.

  In the participatory effect mode, the button lock control means 25c is set to the advance position and the retreat position when the effect button 42 is operated to the retreat position N times while the effect button 42 is unlocked during the button operation effective period. While being locked to one of the positions, the set number N is determined based on the result of the lottery, and the reliability of winning in the lottery differs depending on the set number N. In other words, when the player operates the effect button 42 during the button operation valid period, the reliability that is won in the lottery varies depending on the number of times that the player can operate, and the reliability is operated for the button operation. The user can be notified during the operation, and the game effect using the effect button 42 can be made novel and a desired effect can be realized.

  In the participatory effect mode, the button lock control means 25c keeps the effect button 42 locked in the retracted position during the button operation effective period, or from the state where the effect button 42 is locked in the retracted position. In addition to unlocking, the presence / absence of the effect button 42 is determined based on the result of the lottery, and the reliability of winning in the lottery varies depending on whether the effect button 42 is unlocked. In other words, the reliability of winning in the lottery differs depending on whether the production button 42 stays at the retracted position during the button operation valid period and when it returns to the advanced position from the retracted position. Thus, when the player attaches his / her hand to the effect button 42, the presence / absence of unlocking of the effect button 42 can be sensed, and the reliability of the player and the effect button 42 can be determined. The player can be informed, and the game effect using the effect button 42 can be made novel and a desired effect can be realized.

  In the participation type production mode, the button lock control unit 25c locks the production button 42 at either the advance position or the retreat position during the button operation valid period, and the position is set as the lottery result. The reliability determined by the lottery is further different depending on the position. In other words, the reliability of the winning button in the lottery differs depending on whether the position of the effect button 42 that the player cannot operate during the button operation effective period is the advance position or the retreat position, thereby further improving the effect. Can be made.

  It should be noted that various changes other than those disclosed above can be added without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, only one lock member 60 may be provided, or three or more lock members 60 may be provided. Further, the lock member 60 may be engageable with a portion other than the engaging portion 42 h of the effect button 42. Moreover, the rotation drive mechanism 70 can employ various configurations other than the above configuration.

  In the above embodiment, the case where the present invention is applied to the effect button of the pachinko gaming machine has been described. However, various operation buttons other than the effect button of the pachinko gaming machine (for example, the ENTER button and the cross button), the pachinko game machine The present invention may be applied to various operation buttons of various game machines (for example, slot machines) other than the machine.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 41 Base member 42 Production button 42h Engagement part 44 Button lock device 49 Return spring 60 Lock member 70 Rotation drive mechanism 71 Electric motor 72 Worm gear 73 Worm wheel

Claims (5)

In a gaming machine equipped with an operation button that is supported by a base member so as to be able to advance and retreat over the advance position and the retract position, and is biased to the advance position by a return spring,
A button lock device capable of locking the operation button at the advanced position and lockable at the retracted position;
The button lock device is
Engage with the operation button at the advance position to lock the operation button, the retreat lock position to engage the operation button at the retreat position and lock the operation button, and the unlock position. A lock member supported by the base member so as to be freely rotatable,
A rotational drive mechanism capable of rotationally driving the lock member over an advance lock position, a retract lock position and an unlock position;
A gaming machine characterized by comprising:   The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the operation button is provided with an engaging portion with which the lock member can be engaged at both the advanced position and the retracted position.   When the operation button is at the advanced position, the rotation drive mechanism rotates the lock member from the unlocked position to the retracted lock position in a predetermined direction so that the operation button is retracted from the advanced position by the lock member. The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein the gaming machine is moved.   When the operation button is in the retracted position, the rotational drive mechanism rotationally drives the lock member from the retracted lock position to the unlocked position in a predetermined direction, thereby instantly engaging the lock member with the operation button. The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein the gaming machine is released.   The said rotation drive mechanism has an electric motor, the worm gear rotationally driven by this electric motor, and the worm wheel which meshes with this worm gear and was connected with the lock member. The gaming machine according to any one of the above.