JP2011019795A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine which performs image display without giving an unnatural feeling to a player by shortening a time of waiting a drawing control means so as to reduce frequency of occurrence of drop frame. <P>SOLUTION: The game machine includes: a display information generation means to generate the display information based on image information; a drawing control means to generate drawing information based on the display information; and an image display device which displays a predetermined image based on the drawing information. The display information includes primary information and secondary information generated from the primary information. A display information generation means includes a primary information generation means to form the primary information from the image information and a secondary information generation means to form the secondary information from the primary information. When a state where the drawing information can be generated is made, the drawing control means generates the drawing information based on the secondary information if after the secondary information generation means starts the generation of the secondary information, but generates the drawing information based on the primary information if before starting the generation of the secondary information. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a game machine represented by a pachinko machine, a slot machine, and the like.

  Conventionally, a display CPU of a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine or a slot machine is equipped with a control CPU and a VDP (video display processor), and an image displayed on the display device is generated by the control CPU. The VDP is generated based on the instruction.

  In general pachinko machines and slot machines, for example, when a player operates, the VDP is an image based on an image generation command generated by the control CPU so that an image corresponding to this operation can be displayed immediately. The configuration is such that can be generated immediately. Also, if there is a command for generating a new image from the control CPU while the VDP is generating an image, the image that was being generated may be displayed on the display device. After receiving a signal from the VDP that the image generation has been completed, the next image generation command is issued to the VDP.

  However, if the generation of the image generation command by the control CPU is performed after a signal indicating that the generation of the display image received from the VDP has been completed, the generation of the command by the control CPU becomes a VDP work wait, Since the CPU and the VDP work in different time zones, the processing efficiency is poor.

  Therefore, in each frame period, the fact that the processing for forming the display target image of the identification information has been completed is received from the display processor means, and the unupdated image data of the identification information stored in the image data storage means There is a game machine that develops image data of identification information on display memory means within a range of free time (see, for example, Patent Document 1). According to this, it becomes possible to transfer image data during a period of time that was previously idle.

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2005-177088

However, in the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, the processing of the control CPU and the processing of the VDP are still performed at different timings, and the VDP does not perform processing while the processing by the control CPU is performed. In addition, there was an inefficiency that the control CPU did not perform processing while VDP processing was being performed. The present invention has been made to solve such a problem, and includes drawing control. It is an object of the present invention to provide a gaming table that can reduce the frequency of frame dropping by shortening the period of waiting for the means, and display an image that does not give a sense of incongruity to the player.

  The present invention relates to a display information generating means for generating display information based on image information, a drawing control means for generating drawing information based on the display information, and an image for displaying a predetermined image based on the drawing information. A display device, wherein the display information includes primary information and secondary information generated from the primary information, and the display information generating means generates the primary information from the image information. When the drawing control means includes a primary information generating means for generating information and a secondary information generating means for generating the secondary information from the primary information. After the generation of the secondary information by the secondary information generation means is started, the drawing information is generated based on the secondary information, and the generation of the secondary information is performed by the secondary information generation means. If it ’s before you start And generating the drawing information based on the primary information, a gaming table.

  According to the gaming machine according to the present invention, it is possible to reduce an occurrence frequency of frame dropping by shortening a period of waiting for the drawing control unit, and to perform an excellent effect that an image display that does not give the player a sense of incongruity can be performed. Can play.

It is the external appearance perspective view which looked at the pachinko machine from the front side (player side). It is the external view which looked at the same pachinko machine from the back side. It is the schematic front view which looked at the game board from the front. The circuit block diagram of a control part is shown. It is the block diagram which showed the internal structure of VDP in detail. (A) An example of the stop symbol form of the special figure is shown. (B) An example of a decorative design is shown. (C) An example of a usual stop display symbol is shown. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a main control part main process. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a main control part timer interruption process. (A) It is a flowchart of the main process which CPU of a 1st sub control part performs. (B) It is a flowchart of the command reception interruption process of a 1st sub control part. (C) It is a flowchart of the timer interruption process of a 1st sub control part. (D) It is a flowchart of the image control process of a 1st sub control part. (A) It is a flowchart of the main process which CPU of a 2nd sub control part performs. (B) It is a flowchart of the command reception interruption process of a 2nd sub control part. (C) It is a flowchart of the timer interruption process of a 2nd sub control part. It is the figure which showed the example of the image displayed on a decoration symbol display apparatus. It is the figure which showed CPU and VDP processing of the 1st sub control part in time series. It is the schematic which showed the structure of attribute data. (A) It is a flowchart of an image control process. (B) It is the figure which showed the example of the character scheduled to draw this time. It is a flowchart of an image control process. It is the figure which showed the example of the structure of the attribute data (secondary creation information) in the case of carrying out rotation drawing of a character. (A)-(c) It is the figure which showed the example of a calculation of the parameter set when rotating drawing. (A)-(c) It is the schematic which showed other embodiment of this invention. (A) And (b) It is the schematic which showed other embodiment of this invention.

  Hereinafter, a gaming table (for example, a ball game machine such as a pachinko machine 100 or a spinning game machine such as a slot machine) according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

<Overall configuration>
First, the overall configuration of the pachinko machine 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. In addition, the figure is the external appearance perspective view which looked at the pachinko machine 100 from the front side (player side).

  As an external structure, the pachinko machine 100 includes an outer frame 102, a main body 104, a front frame door 106, a door 108 with a ball storage tray, a launching device 110, and a game board 200 on the front surface.

  The outer frame 102 is a wooden frame member having a vertical rectangular shape for fixing to an installation location (island facilities or the like) provided in a gaming machine installation sales shop.

  The main body 104 is a member that is provided inside the outer frame 102 and serves as a longitudinal rectangular gaming machine base body that is rotatably attached to the outer frame 102 via a hinge portion 112. The main body 104 is formed in a frame shape and has a space 114 inside.

  The front frame door 106 is attached to the front surface of the main body 104 on the front side of the pachinko machine 100 so as to be openable and closable with a lock function, and is configured in a frame shape so that the inside of the front frame door 106 can be opened. Is a door member having an opening. The front frame door 106 is provided with a transparent plate member 118 made of glass or resin at the opening, and a speaker 120 and a frame lamp 122 are attached to the front side. A game area 124 is defined by the rear surface of the front frame door 106 and the front surface of the game board 200.

  The door 108 with a ball storage tray is a door member attached to the lower side of the main body 104 on the front surface of the pachinko machine 100 so as to have a lock function and be openable and closable. The ball storage tray-equipped door 108 is capable of storing a plurality of game balls (hereinafter simply referred to as “balls”), and an upper plate 126 provided with a passage for guiding the game balls to the launching device 110. A lower plate 128 that stores game balls that cannot be stored in the upper plate 126, a ball removal button 130 that discharges the game balls stored in the upper plate 126 to the lower plate 128 by the player's operation, A ball discharge lever 132 that discharges game balls stored in the lower plate 128 to a game ball collection container (common name, dollar box) by operation, and a game ball guided to the launching device 110 by operation of the player 200 ball launching handles 134 for launching into the game area 124, chance buttons 136 for changing the effects of the various effects devices 206 by the player's operation, and the chance button 136 to emit light. Sub button lamp 138, ball lending operation button 140 for instructing ball lending to a card unit (CR unit) installed in the game store, and return operation button for instructing the card unit to return the player's balance 142, and a ball rental display unit 144 for displaying the balance of the player and the state of the card unit.

  The launching device 110 is attached to the lower side of the main body 104, and a launching rod 146 that rotates when the ball launching handle 134 is operated by the player, and a launching rod 148 that strikes the game ball at the tip of the launching rod 146. .

  The game board 200 has a game area 124 on the front surface, and is detachably attached to the main body 104 using a predetermined fixing member so as to face the space 114 of the main body 104. The game area 124 can be observed from the opening after the game board 200 is mounted on the main body 104.

  FIG. 2 is an external view of the pachinko machine 100 of FIG. 1 viewed from the back side. The upper part of the back surface of the pachinko machine 100 has an opening that opens upward, a ball tank 150 for temporarily storing game balls, and a lower part of the ball tank 150 that is positioned below the ball tank 150. A tank rail 154 is provided for guiding a ball passing through the formed communication hole and dropping to the dispensing device 152 located on the right side of the back surface.

  The payout device 152 is formed of a cylindrical member, and includes a payout motor, a sprocket, and a payout sensor (not shown) inside.

  The sprocket is configured to be rotatable by a payout motor. The sprocket that temporarily passes through the tank rail 154 and flows down into the payout device 152 is temporarily retained, and the payout motor is driven to rotate by a predetermined angle. Thus, the temporarily accumulated game balls are sent one by one downward to the payout device 152.

  The payout sensor is a sensor for detecting the passage of the game ball sent out by the sprocket. When the game ball is passing, either a high signal or a low signal is passed. Either the high signal or the low signal is output to the dispensing control unit 600. The game ball that has passed through the payout sensor passes through a ball rail (not shown) and reaches the upper plate 126 disposed on the front side of the pachinko machine 100. The pachinko machine 100 has this configuration. To pay out the ball to the player.

  On the left side of the payout device 152 in the figure, a main board case 158 that houses the main board 156 that constitutes the main control section 300 that performs control processing for the entire game, and control related to effects based on the processing information generated by the main control section 300 The first sub-board case 162 that houses the first sub-board 160 that constitutes the first sub-control unit 400 that performs processing, and the second sub-board that performs control processing related to effects based on the processing information generated by the first sub-control unit 400. An error release switch that constitutes a second sub-board case 166 that houses the second sub-board 164 that constitutes the control unit 500, a payout control unit 600 that performs control processing related to the payout of game balls, and that releases an error by the operation of a game clerk Discharge board case 172 storing the payout board 170 having 168, launch base constituting the launch control unit 630 that performs control processing relating to the launch of the game ball A launch board case 176 that houses 174, a power management unit 660 that supplies power to various electrical gaming machines, and a power switch 178 that turns the power on and off by the operation of a game store clerk and an RWM clear by being operated when the power is turned on A power board case 184 that houses a power board 182 that includes an RWM clear switch 180 that outputs a signal to the main controller 300, and a CR interface 186 that transmits and receives signals between the payout controller 600 and the card unit are provided. ing.

  FIG. 3 is a schematic front view of the game board 200 as viewed from the front. In the game board 200, an outer rail 202 and an inner rail 204 are arranged, and a game area 124 in which a game ball can roll is defined.

  An effect device 206 is disposed in the approximate center of the game area 124. The effect device 206 is provided with a decorative symbol display device 208 substantially in the center, and around the normal symbol display device 210, the first special symbol display device 212, the second special symbol display device 214, and the ordinary device. A symbol holding lamp 216, a first special symbol holding lamp 218, a second special symbol holding lamp 220, and a high-probability medium lamp 222 are provided. Hereinafter, the normal symbol may be referred to as “general symbol” and the special symbol may be referred to as “special symbol”.

  The effect device 206 performs the effect by operating the effect movable body 224, and details thereof will be described later.

  The decorative symbol display device 208 is a display device for performing various displays used for decorative symbols and effects. In this embodiment, the decorative symbol display device 208 is constituted by a liquid crystal display device (Liquid Crystal Display). The decorative symbol display device 208 is divided into four display areas, a left symbol display area 208a, a middle symbol display area 208b, a right symbol display area 208c, and an effect display area 208d, and the left symbol display area 208a and the middle symbol display area 208b. The right symbol display area 208c displays different decorative symbols, and the effect display area 208d displays an image used for the effect. Furthermore, the position and size of each display area 208a, 208b, 208c, 208d can be freely changed within the display screen of the decorative symbol display device 208. In addition, although the liquid crystal display device is employ | adopted as the decoration symbol display apparatus 208, it is not a liquid crystal display device, What is necessary is just the structure which can display various effects and various game information, for example, a dot matrix display device Other display devices including a 7-segment display device, an organic EL (ElectroLuminescence) display device, a reel (drum) display device, a leaf display device, a plasma display, and a projector may be adopted.

  The general map display device 210 is a display device for displaying a general map, and is configured by a 7-segment LED in this embodiment. The first special figure display device 212 and the second special figure display device 214 are display devices for displaying a special figure, and are configured by 7 segment LEDs in this embodiment.

  The multi-purpose hold lamp 216 is a lamp for indicating the number of general-purpose variable games (details will be described later) that are on hold. In this embodiment, the general-purpose variable games are reserved up to a predetermined number (for example, two). It is possible to do. The first special figure hold lamp 218 and the second special figure hold lamp 220 are lamps for indicating the number of special figure variable games (details will be described later) that are being held. In this embodiment, the special figure variable games are displayed. It is possible to hold up to a predetermined number (for example, four). The high-probability medium lamp 222 is a lamp for indicating that the gaming state is a high probability state in which a big hit is likely to occur or a high probability state, and the gaming state is changed from a low probability state in which a big hit is unlikely to occur. Turns on when switching to the probability state, and turns off when switching from the high probability state to the low probability state.

  In addition, a general prize opening 226, a general figure starting opening 228, a first special figure starting opening 230, a second special figure starting opening 232, and a variable winning opening 234 are provided around the effect device 206. ing.

  In this embodiment, a plurality of general winning holes 226 are arranged on the game board 200. When a predetermined ball detecting sensor (not shown) detects a ball entering the general winning holes 226 (in the general winning holes 226). In the case of winning, the payout device 152 is driven, and a predetermined number (for example, 10 balls) of balls are discharged to the upper plate 126 as prize balls. The player can freely take out the balls discharged to the upper plate 126. With these configurations, the player can pay out the winning balls to the player based on winning. The ball that has entered the general winning opening 226 is guided to the back side of the pachinko machine 100 and then discharged to the amusement island side. In this embodiment, a ball to be paid out to a player as a consideration for winning may be referred to as a “prize ball”, and a ball lent to a player may be referred to as a “lending ball”. They are called “balls (game balls)”.

  The normal start port 228 is configured by a device called a gate or a through chucker for determining whether or not a ball has passed a predetermined area of the game area 124. In this embodiment, the left side of the game board 200 is used. One is arranged. Unlike the ball that has entered the general prize opening 226, the ball that has passed through the normal start port 228 is not discharged to the amusement island side. When the predetermined ball detection sensor detects that the ball has passed the usual figure starting port 228, the pachinko machine 100 starts the usual figure variable game by the usual figure display device.

  In the present embodiment, only one first special figure starting port 230 is disposed at the center of the game board 200. When a predetermined ball detection sensor detects a ball entering the first special figure starting port 230, a payout device 152, which will be described later, is driven, and a predetermined number (for example, three) of balls is used as a prize ball for the upper plate 126. And the special figure changing game by the first special figure display device is started. The ball that has entered the first special figure starting port 230 is guided to the back side of the pachinko machine 100 and then discharged to the amusement island side.

  The second special figure starting port 232 is called an electric tulip (electric Chu). In the present embodiment, only one second special figure starting port 232 is disposed directly below the first special figure starting port 230. The second special figure starting port 232 has a wing that can be opened and closed to the left and right, and the sphere cannot be entered while the wing is closed. When stopped, the blades open and close at a predetermined time interval and a predetermined number of times. When a predetermined ball detection sensor detects a ball entering the second special figure starting port 232, the payout device 152 is driven and a predetermined number (for example, four) of balls is discharged to the upper plate 126 as prize balls. At the same time, the special figure variable game by the second special figure display device is started. The ball that has entered the second special figure starting port 232 is guided to the back side of the pachinko machine 100 and then discharged to the amusement island side.

  The variable winning opening 234 is called a large winning opening or an attacker, and in the present embodiment, only one variable winning opening 234 is disposed below the center of the game board 200. This variable winning opening 234 has a door member that can be freely opened and closed, and it is impossible to enter a ball while the door member is closed, and the special figure display device stops and displays the jackpot symbol when the special figure variable game is won. In this case, the door member opens and closes at a predetermined time interval (for example, an opening time of 29 seconds and a closing time of 1.5 seconds) and at a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 times). When a predetermined ball detection sensor detects a ball entering the variable winning opening 234, the payout device 152 is driven to discharge a predetermined number (for example, 15 balls) of balls to the upper plate 126 as prize balls. The ball that entered the variable winning opening 234 is guided to the back side of the pachinko machine 100 and then discharged to the amusement island side.

  Further, a plurality of disc-shaped hitting direction changing members 236 called a windmill and a plurality of game nails 238 are arranged in the vicinity of these winning openings and start openings, and at the bottom of the inner rail 204, After guiding a ball that has not won any prize opening or start opening to the back side of the pachinko machine 100, an out opening is provided for discharging to the game island side.

  This pachinko machine 100 supplies the ball stored in the upper plate 126 by the player to the launch position of the launch rail, drives the launch motor with strength according to the operation amount of the player's operation handle, and launches 146 Further, the outer rail 202 and the inner rail 204 are passed by the launcher 148 and driven into the game area 124. Then, the ball that has reached the upper part of the game area 124 falls downward while changing the advancing direction by the hitting direction changing member 236, the game nail 238, etc., and a winning opening (general winning opening 226, variable winning opening 234) or start opening (First special figure starting port 230, second special figure starting port 232), winning out any winning port or starting port, or just passing through the normal drawing start port 228, out port 136 To reach.

<Directing device 206>
Next, the rendering device 206 of the pachinko machine 100 will be described.

  On the front side of the effect device 206, a warp device 242 and a stage 244 are arranged in an area where the game ball can roll, and an effect movable body 224 is arranged in an area where the game ball cannot roll. . In addition, a decorative symbol display device 208 and a shielding device 246 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a door) are disposed on the back side of the effect device 206. That is, in the effect device 206, the decorative symbol display device 208 and the shielding device 246 are positioned behind the warp device 242, the stage 244, and the effect movable body 224.

  The warp device 242 discharges the game balls that have entered the warp inlet 242a provided at the upper left of the effect device 206 to the stage 244 below the front surface of the effect device 206 from the warp outlet 242b.

  The stage 244 can roll a ball discharged from the warp outlet 242b, a ball carried on by a nail of the game board 200, or the like, and the passed ball is a first special figure starting port 230 at the center of the stage 244. A special route 244a is provided to facilitate entry into the golf course.

  In this embodiment, the effect movable body 224 includes an upper arm 224a and a forearm 224b imitating the upper arm and forearm of a human right arm, and an upper arm motor and an elbow (not shown) that rotate the upper arm 224a to the position of the shoulder. A forearm motor (not shown) that rotates the forearm 224b at a position is provided. The effect movable body 224 moves in front of the decorative symbol display device 208 by the upper arm motor and the forearm motor.

  The shielding device 246 includes a lattice-like left door 246a and right door 246b, and is disposed between the decorative symbol display device 208 and the front stage 244. Belts wound around two pulleys (not shown) are fixed to the upper portions of the left door 246a and the right door 246b, respectively. That is, the left door 246a and the right door 246b move to the left and right as the belt driven by the motor through the pulley moves. In the state where the left door 246a and the right door 246b are closed, the shielding device 246 covers the inner end portions of the shielding device 246 so that it is difficult for the player to visually recognize the decorative symbol display device 208. In the state where the left door 246a and the right door 246b are opened, each inner end portion slightly overlaps the outer end portion of the display screen of the decorative symbol display device 208, but the player can visually recognize all of the display of the decorative symbol display device 208. It is. In addition, the left door 246a and the right door 246b can be stopped at arbitrary positions, respectively, for example, only a part of the decorative design so that the player can identify which decorative design the displayed decorative design is. Can be shielded. In addition, the left door 246a and the right door 246b may be configured so that a part of the decorative symbol display device 208 behind the lattice hole can be visually recognized, or the shoji part of the lattice hole is closed with a translucent lens body. The display by the decorative symbol display device 208 may be made vaguely visible to the player, or the shoji part of the holes in the lattice is completely blocked (shielded), and the decorative symbol display device 208 behind is made completely invisible. Also good.

<Control unit>
Next, the circuit configuration of the control unit of the pachinko machine 100 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. FIG. 4 is a circuit block diagram of the control unit.

  The control unit of the pachinko machine 100 can be roughly classified into a main control unit 300 that controls the central part of the game and a command signal (hereinafter simply referred to as “command”) transmitted by the main control unit 300. A first sub-control unit 400 that controls the second sub-control unit 500 that controls various devices based on a command transmitted from the first sub-control unit 400, and a command transmitted by the main control unit 300 A payout control unit 600 that mainly performs control related to payout of game balls, a launch control unit 630 that controls the launch of game balls, and a power management unit 660 that controls the power supplied to the pachinko machine 100. Yes.

<Main control unit>
First, the main control unit 300 of the pachinko machine 100 will be described.

  The main control unit 300 includes a basic circuit 302 that controls the entire main control unit 300. The basic circuit 302 includes a CPU 304, a ROM 306 for storing control programs and various data, and temporary data. RAM 308 for storing data, I / O 310 for controlling input / output of various devices, counter timer 312 for measuring time and frequency, and WDT 314 for monitoring abnormalities in program processing are mounted. . Note that another storage device may be used for the ROM 306 and the RAM 308, and this is the same for the first sub-control unit 400 described later. The CPU 304 of the basic circuit 302 operates by inputting a clock signal of a predetermined period output from the crystal oscillator 316 as a system clock.

  In addition, the basic circuit 302 includes a counter circuit 318 used as a hardware random number counter that changes a numerical value in the range of 0 to 65535 each time a clock signal output from the crystal oscillator 316 is received (this circuit includes two circuits). And a signal output from various sensors 320 including a ball detection sensor provided inside each start opening, winning opening and variable winning opening, and receiving an amplification result and a reference voltage. A sensor circuit 322 for outputting the comparison result to the counter circuit 318 and the basic circuit 302, a drive circuit 324 for performing display control of the first special figure display device 212 and the second special figure display device 214, A drive circuit 326 for performing display control of the figure display device 210, and various status display units 328 (for example, a general map hold lamp 216, a first special figure hold lamp) 18, a second special figure holding lamp 220, a high-accuracy middle lamp 222, and the like) and a solenoid 332 that opens and closes the second special figure starting port 232, the variable prize opening 234, and the like. A drive circuit 334 for controlling is connected.

  When the ball detection sensor 318 detects that a ball has won the first special figure starting port 126, the sensor circuit 320 outputs a signal indicating that the ball has been detected to the counter circuit 316. Upon receiving this signal, the counter circuit 316 latches the value of the counter corresponding to the first special figure starting port 126 at that timing, and stores the latched value in the built-in counter value corresponding to the first special figure starting port 126. Store in the register. Similarly, when the counter circuit 316 receives a signal indicating that the ball has won the second special figure starting port 128, the counter circuit 316 latches the value at the timing of the counter corresponding to the second special figure starting port 128. The latched value is stored in a built-in counter value storage register corresponding to the second special figure starting port 128.

  Further, an information output circuit 336 is connected to the basic circuit 302, and the main control unit 300 is connected to an information input circuit 350 provided in an external hall computer (not shown) or the like via this information output circuit 336. The game information (for example, game state) of the machine 100 is output.

  In addition, the main control unit 300 is provided with a voltage monitoring circuit 338 that monitors the voltage value of the power source supplied from the power management unit 660 to the main control unit 300. The voltage monitoring circuit 338 is a voltage value of the power source. Is less than a predetermined value (9v in this embodiment), a low voltage signal indicating that the voltage has dropped is output to the basic circuit 302.

  In addition, the main control unit 300 is provided with a start signal output circuit (reset signal output circuit) 340 that outputs a start signal (reset signal) when the power is turned on. When an activation signal is input, game control is started (main control section main processing described later is started).

  The main control unit 300 includes an output interface for transmitting a command to the first sub-control unit 400 and an output interface for transmitting a command to the payout control unit 600. With this configuration, the first control unit 300 Communication with the sub-control unit 400 and the payout control unit 600 is enabled. Information communication between the main control unit 300 and the first sub-control unit 400 and the payout control unit 600 is one-way communication. The main control unit 300 sends commands and the like to the first sub-control unit 400 and the payout control unit 600. The first sub control unit 400 and the payout control unit 600 are configured such that signals such as commands cannot be transmitted to the main control unit 300.

<Sub control unit>
Next, the first sub control unit 400 of the pachinko machine 100 will be described. The first sub-control unit 400 includes a basic circuit 402 that controls the entire first sub-control unit 400 mainly based on commands transmitted from the main control unit 300. The basic circuit 402 includes a CPU 404 and ROM 406 for storing control programs and various effects data, RAM 408 for temporarily storing data, I / O 410 for controlling input / output of various devices, and for measuring time and frequency The counter timer 412 is mounted. The CPU 404 of the basic circuit 402 operates by inputting a clock signal of a predetermined period output from the crystal oscillator 414 as a system clock. The ROM 406 may store the control program and various effect data in separate ROMs.

  The basic circuit 402 includes a sound source IC 416 for controlling the speaker 120 (and amplifier), a drive circuit 420 for controlling various lamps 418 (for example, the chance button lamp 138), and a shielding device 246. A drive circuit 432 for performing drive control, a shielding device sensor 430 that detects the current position of the shielding device 246, a chance button detection sensor 426 that detects pressing of the chance button 136, a shielding device sensor 430, and a chance button detection sensor The sensor circuit 428 that outputs the detection signal from the 426 to the basic circuit 402, and the image data stored in the ROM 406 based on the signal from the CPU 404 are read, and the display image is generated using the work area of the VRAM 436 to decorate A VDP 434 (image) that displays an image on the symbol display device 208. Are connected Oh and display processor), the.

  FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of the VDP 434 in detail. The VDP 434 includes a CPU I / F 434a, a CG bus I / F 434b, and an attribute register 434c for temporarily storing instructions received via the CPU I / F 434a. The CPU I / F 434a is an I / F for transmitting / receiving data to / from the CPU 404 and the RAM 408, and the CG bus I / F 434b is an I / F for transmitting / receiving data to / from the ROM 406. The CPU I / F 434a, CG bus I / F 434b, and attribute register 434c are connected to the drawing control unit 434d, the data transfer control unit 434e, and the display control unit 434f via the bus B1.

  The drawing control unit 434d reads out image data from the ROM 406 according to a command stored in the attribute register 434c, generates a predetermined image, and then stores the generated image in a predetermined area of the VRAM 436 via the VRAM I / F 434g. The data transfer control unit 434e controls transfer of image data between the attribute register 434c and the VRAM 436. The display control unit 434f receives the image generated by the drawing control unit 434d and transmits it to the DAC 434h, and outputs a synchronization signal for causing the decorative symbol display device 208 to sample the image signal from the DAC 434h at a predetermined timing. The DAC 434h converts the image data, which is a digital signal input from the display control unit 434f, into analog R (red), G (green), and B (blue) signals and outputs them to the decorative symbol display device 208. .

  In the work area of the VRAM 436, two display areas A and B (frame buffer) and other storage areas are provided. The display area A and the display area B are both storage areas for temporarily storing image data of an image to be displayed on the decorative symbol display device 208, but either one can be designated as a drawing area. A configuration capable of developing (storing) image data in a display area designated as a drawing area when image data of a display area not designated as an area is displayed on the decorative symbol display device 208 as an image; It has become. With such a configuration, by switching (swapping) the designation of the drawing area between the display area A and the display area B, the image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 157 can be easily switched. The other storage area stores a color palette storage area for storing image color information, information on frequently used image data, and the like.

  Returning to FIG. 4, the second sub-control unit 500 of the pachinko machine 100 will be described next. The second sub-control unit 500 includes a basic circuit 502 that receives the control command transmitted from the first sub-control unit 400 via the input interface and controls the entire second sub-control unit 500 based on the control command. The basic circuit 502 includes a CPU 504, a RAM 508 for temporarily storing data, an I / O 510 for controlling input / output of various devices, and a counter timer for measuring time and frequency 512 is installed. The CPU 504 of the basic circuit 502 operates by inputting a clock signal of a predetermined period output from the crystal oscillator 514 as a system clock, and controls a control program and data for controlling the entire second sub-control unit 500, and an image display A ROM 506 storing data and the like is provided.

  The basic circuit 502 includes a drive circuit 516 for controlling the drive of the effect movable body 224, an effect movable body sensor 424 that detects the current position of the effect movable body 224, and a detection signal from the effect movable body sensor 424. Is output to the basic circuit 502, a game board lamp drive circuit 530 for controlling the game board lamp 532, and a game table frame lamp drive for controlling the game table frame lamp 542 The circuit 540 is connected to a serial communication control circuit 520 that performs lighting control by serial communication between the game board lamp drive circuit 530 and the game stand frame lamp drive circuit 540.

<Discharge control unit, launch control unit, power supply management unit>
Next, the payout control unit 600, the launch control unit 630, and the power management unit 660 of the pachinko machine 100 will be described.

  The payout control unit 600 controls the payout motor 602 of the payout device 152 mainly based on a command signal or the like transmitted from the main control unit 300, and a prize ball or a rental ball based on a control signal output from the payout sensor 604 It is detected whether or not the payout has been completed, and communication with a card unit 608 provided separately from the pachinko machine 100 is performed via the interface unit 606.

  The launch control unit 630 outputs a control signal output from the payout control unit 600 to permit or stop the launch, or a launch intensity output circuit provided in the ball launch handle 134 to operate the ball launch handle 134 by the player. Control of the launch motor 632 that drives the launcher 146 and launcher 148, and control of the ball feeder 634 that supplies the launcher 110 with a ball from the upper plate 126 based on a control signal that indicates the launch intensity according to the amount. I do.

  The power management unit 660 converts the AC power supplied from the outside to the pachinko machine 100 into a DC voltage, converts it into a predetermined voltage, and controls each control unit such as the main control unit 300 and the first sub control unit 400, the payout device 152, etc. Supply to each device. Further, the power management unit 660 supplies a power storage circuit (for example, a power supply circuit) for supplying power to a predetermined part (for example, the RAM 308 of the main control unit 300) for a predetermined period (for example, 10 days) even after the external power supply is cut off. , Capacitor). In the present embodiment, a predetermined voltage is supplied from the power management unit 660 to the payout control unit 600 and the second sub control unit 500, and the main control unit 300, the second sub control unit 500, and the launch control unit are supplied from the payout control unit 600. Although a predetermined voltage is supplied to 630, the predetermined voltage may be supplied to each control unit and each device through another power supply path.

<Type of design>
6A to 6C, the first special symbol display device 212, the second special symbol display device 214, the decorative symbol display device 208, and the normal symbol display device 210 of the pachinko machine 100 are stopped and displayed. The types of special maps and common maps to be explained FIG. 6 (a) shows an example of the stop symbol form of the special figure.

  The special figure 1 variable game is started on the condition that the first start port sensor detects that the ball has entered the first special figure start port 230, and the ball has entered the second special figure start port 232 The special figure 2 variable game is started on the condition that the second start port sensor has detected. When the special figure 1 variable game is started, the first special symbol display device 212 performs “variable display of special figure 1” by repeating all lighting of seven segments and lighting of one central segment. In addition, when the special figure 2 variable game is started, the second special symbol display device 214 displays “fluctuation display of special figure 2” which repeats lighting of all seven segments and lighting of one central segment. Do. These “variation display of special figure 1” and “variation display of special figure 2” correspond to an example of the symbol fluctuation display according to the present invention. Then, when the variation time determined before the variation start of the special figure 1 (corresponding to the variation time referred to in the present invention) elapses, the first special symbol display device 212 stops and displays the special symbol form of the special figure 1. When the variation time determined before the start of variation 2 (this also corresponds to the variation time according to the present invention) has elapsed, the second special symbol display device 214 stops and displays the stop symbol form of the special diagram 2. Therefore, from the start of “figure display of special figure 1” until the stop symbol form of special figure 1 is stopped, or after the start of “fluctuation display of special figure 2”, the stop symbol form of special figure 2 is displayed. Until stop display corresponds to an example of the symbol variation stop display referred to in the present invention, hereinafter, after the “variable display of special figure 1 or 2” is started, the stop symbol form of special figure 1 or 2 is stopped and displayed. The series of displays up to is referred to as symbol variation stop display. As will be described later, the symbol variation stop display may be continuously performed a plurality of times. FIG. 6A shows ten types of special drawings from “Special Figure A” to “Special Figure J” as stop symbol forms in the symbol variation stop display. In the figure, the white portions in the figure indicate the locations of the segments that are turned off, and the black portions indicate the locations of the segments that are turned on.

  “Special Figure A” is a 15 round (15R) special jackpot symbol, and “Special Figure B” is a 15R jackpot symbol. In the pachinko machine 100 according to the present embodiment, as will be described later, the determination as to whether or not the big hit in the special figure variable game is made by lottery of hardware random numbers, and the decision as to whether or not it is a special big hit is made by lottery of software random numbers. The difference between the jackpot and the special jackpot is the difference in whether the probability of winning the jackpot is high (special jackpot) or low (jackpot) in the next special figure variation game. Hereinafter, a state having a high probability of winning the jackpot is referred to as a special figure high probability state, and a state having a low probability is referred to as a special figure low probability state. Moreover, after the 15R special jackpot game ends and after the 15R jackpot game ends, both shift to the time-saving state. Although the time reduction will be described in detail later, the state that shifts to the time reduction state is referred to as a normal high probability state, and the state that does not shift to the time reduction state is referred to as a normal low probability state. “Special figure A”, which is a 15R special jackpot symbol, is a special figure high probability normal figure high probability state, and “Special figure B”, which is a 15R jackpot symbol, is a special figure low probability ordinary figure high probability state. These “special chart A” and “special chart B” are symbols that give a relatively large profit amount to the player.

  “Special figure C” is a 2R jackpot symbol called sudden probability change, and is a special figure high probability normal figure high probability state. That is, “Special Figure C” is 2R compared to “Special Figure A” which is 15R. "Special figure D" is a 2R jackpot symbol called sudden time reduction, and is a special figure low probability normal figure high probability state. That is, “Special Figure D” is 2R compared to “Special Figure B” which is 15R.

  “Special figure E” is a 2R jackpot symbol called hidden probability change, and is a special figure high probability normal figure low probability state. "Special figure F" is a 2R jackpot symbol suddenly called normal, and is a special figure low probability normal figure low probability state. These “special drawing E” and “special drawing F” are both 2R and are in a state in which they do not shift to the time-saving state.

  "Special figure G" is a first small hit symbol, and "Special figure H" is a second small hit symbol, both of which are in a special figure low probability normal figure low probability state. The small hit here is equivalent to the same short hit big hit with 2R. That is, “Special Figure G” and “Special Figure H” are in the same state as “Special Figure F”, but the effects displayed on the decorative symbol display device 208 are different in both cases. By providing “G”, “Special Figure H”, and “Special Figure F”, the interest of the game is enhanced.

  In addition, “Special Figure I” is a first off symbol, and “Special Figure J” is a second off symbol, and the profit amount given to the player is a relatively small profit amount.

  In the pachinko machine 100 of the present embodiment, symbols other than “Special Figure A” are prepared as 15R special jackpot symbols, and the same applies to other symbols such as 15R jackpot symbols.

  FIG. 6B shows an example of a decorative design. There are 10 types of decoration patterns of the present embodiment: “Decoration 1” to “Decoration 10”. The first start port sensor detects that a ball has won the first special figure start port 230 or the second special view start port 232, that is, the ball has entered the first special view start port 230; or On the condition that the second start port sensor detects that a ball has entered the second special symbol start port 232, the left symbol display area 208a, the middle symbol display area 208b, and the right symbol display of the decorative symbol display device 208 are displayed. Displayed in the order of “decoration 1” → “decoration 2” → “decoration 3” →... “Decoration 9” → “decoration 10” → “decoration 1” →... “Decoration display of decorative pattern” is performed. When the 15R jackpot of “Special Figure B” is notified, a symbol combination (for example, “decoration 1—decoration 1—decoration”) corresponding to the 15R jackpot corresponding to the 15R jackpot is displayed in the symbol display areas 208a to 208c. 1 ”or“ decoration 2—decoration 2—decoration 2 ”). When the 15R special jackpot of “special drawing A” is notified, a combination of three symbols of the same odd number of decorative symbols (for example, “decoration 3—decoration 3—decoration 3” or “decoration 7—decoration 7—decoration 7”). Etc.) is stopped and displayed.

  In addition, the 2R jackpot called “hidden probability change” of “Special Figure E”, the 2R jackpot called “Special Figure F” suddenly, or the first small hit of “Special Figure G”, “Special Figure H” When notifying the second small hit, “decoration 1-decoration 2—decoration 3” is stopped and displayed. Furthermore, in order to notify the 2R jackpot called “sudden change” of “special drawing C” or the 2R jackpot called “sudden time reduction” of “special drawing D”, “decoration 1-decoration 3—decoration 5” is displayed. Stop display.

  On the other hand, when notifying the first deviation of “Special Figure I” and the second deviation of “Special Figure J”, the symbol combinations other than the symbol combinations shown in FIG. 6B are stopped in the symbol display areas 208a to 208c. indicate.

  FIG.6 (c) shows an example of the usual stop display symbol. In the present embodiment, there are two types of stoppage display modes for ordinary maps: “general diagram A” which is a winning symbol and “general symbol B” which is a missed symbol. Based on the fact that the above-mentioned gate sensor has detected that a sphere has passed through the general-purpose start opening 228, the normal symbol display device 210 repeats all lighting of the seven segments and lighting of the central one segment. Perform a “normal change display”. Then, when notifying the winning of the common figure variable game, the “normal figure A” is stopped and displayed, and when notifying the usual figure variable game, the “normal figure B” is stopped and displayed. Also in the figure, the white portions in the figure indicate the locations of the segments that are turned off, and the black portions indicate the locations of the segments that are turned on.

<Main control unit main processing>
Next, main control unit main processing executed by the CPU 304 of the main control unit 300 will be described with reference to FIG. This figure is a flowchart showing the flow of main processing of the main control unit.

  As described above, the main control unit 300 is provided with the start signal output circuit (reset signal output circuit) 340 that outputs the start signal (reset signal) when the power is turned on. The CPU 304 of the basic circuit 302 to which this activation signal has been input starts reset by a reset interrupt and executes the main process of the main control unit shown in FIG. 7 in accordance with a control program stored in advance in the ROM 306.

  In step SA01, initial setting 1 is performed. In this initial setting 1, stack initial value setting (temporary setting) to the stack pointer (SP) of the CPU 304, interrupt mask setting, I / O 310 initial setting, initial setting of various variables stored in the RAM 308, and WDT 313 The operation is permitted and initial values are set. In the present embodiment, a numerical value corresponding to 32.8 ms is set in WDT 313 as an initial value.

  In step SA03, the counter value of WDT 313 is cleared, and the time measurement by WDT 313 is restarted.

  In step SA05, whether or not the low voltage signal is ON, that is, the voltage value of the power source supplied from the power management unit 660 to the main control unit 300 by the voltage monitoring circuit 338 is a predetermined value (in this embodiment). 9v), it is monitored whether or not a low voltage signal indicating that the voltage has dropped is output. If the low voltage signal is on (when the CPU 304 detects that the power supply is cut off), the process returns to step SA03. If the low voltage signal is off (if the CPU 304 does not detect that the power supply is cut off), the step returns. Proceed to SA07. Even if the predetermined value (9 V) is not yet reached immediately after the power is turned on, the process returns to step SA03, and step SA05 is repeatedly executed until the supply voltage becomes equal to or higher than the predetermined value.

  In step SA07, initial setting 2 is performed. In this initial setting 2, a process for setting a numerical value for determining a cycle for executing a main control unit timer interrupt process, which will be described later, in the counter timer 312 and a predetermined port of the I / O 310 (for example, a test output port, A process of outputting a clear signal from the output port to the first sub control unit 400, a setting for permitting writing to the RAM 308, and the like are performed.

  In step SA09, it is determined whether or not to return to the state before the power interruption (before the power interruption), and the state before the power interruption is not restored (when the basic circuit 302 of the main control unit 300 is set to the initial state). ) Proceeds to an initialization process (step SA13).

  Specifically, first, a RAM clear signal transmitted when a store clerk or the like of an amusement store operates the RWM clear switch 180 provided on the power supply board is turned on (indicates that there has been an operation). That is, it is determined whether or not RAM clear is necessary. If the RAM clear signal is on (RAM clear is necessary), the process proceeds to step SA13 to set the basic circuit 302 to the initial state. On the other hand, when the RAM clear signal is OFF (when the RAM clear is not necessary), the power status information stored in the power status storage area provided in the RAM 308 is read, and the power status information is information indicating suspend. It is determined whether or not. If the power status information is not information indicating suspend, the process proceeds to step SA13 to set the basic circuit 302 to an initial state. If the power status information is information indicating suspend, a predetermined area of the RAM 308 is set. A checksum is calculated by adding all the 1-byte data stored in (for example, all areas) to a 1-byte register whose initial value is 0, and the calculated checksum results in a specific value (for example, 0) (whether or not the checksum result is normal). If the checksum result is a specific value (eg, 0) (if the checksum result is normal), the process proceeds to step SA11 to return to the state before the power interruption, and the checksum result is a specific value. If the value is other than 0 (for example, 0) (if the result of the checksum is abnormal), the process proceeds to step SA13 to set the pachinko machine 100 to the initial state. Similarly, when the power status information indicates information other than “suspend”, the process proceeds to step SA13.

  In step SA11, power recovery processing is performed. In this power recovery process, the value of the stack pointer stored in the stack pointer save area provided in the RAM 308 at the time of power failure is read out and reset to the stack pointer (this setting). In addition, the value of each register stored in the register save area provided in the RAM 308 at the time of power interruption is read out and reset in each register, and then the interrupt permission is set. Thereafter, as a result of the CPU 304 executing the control program based on the reset stack pointer and registers, the pachinko machine 100 returns to the state when the power is turned off. That is, the processing is resumed from the instruction next to the instruction (predetermined in step SA15 and step SA17) performed immediately before branching to the timer interrupt process (described later) immediately before the power interruption. A RAM 308 mounted on the basic circuit 302 in the main control unit 300 shown in FIG. 4 is provided with a transmission information storage area. In step SA11, a power recovery command is set in the transmission information storage area. This power recovery command is a command indicating that the power has been restored to the state at the time of power interruption, and is transmitted to the first sub control unit 400 in step SB33 in the timer interrupt process of the main control unit 300, which will be described later.

  In step SA13, initialization processing is performed. In this initialization process, interrupt prohibition setting, stack initial value setting to the stack pointer (this setting), initialization of all storage areas of the RAM 308, and the like are performed. Further, here, a normal return command is set in the transmission information storage area provided in the RAM 308 of the main control unit 300. This normal return command is a command indicating that the initialization process (step SA13) of the main control unit 300 has been performed. Like the power recovery command, the normal return command is the first command in step SB33 in the timer interrupt process of the main control unit 300. 1 is transmitted to the sub-control unit 400.

  In step SA15, after setting for prohibition of interruption, a basic random number initial value update process is performed. In this basic random number initial value update process, two initial value generation random number counters for generating the initial values of the ordinary figure winning random number counter and the special figure random value counter, the ordinary figure timer random number value, and the special figure timer, respectively. Two random number counters for generating each random number value are updated. For example, if the range of values that can be taken as normal timer random numbers is 0 to 20, a value is acquired from a random number counter storage area for generating a normal timer random value provided in the RAM 308, and 1 is added to the acquired value. Then, it is stored in the original random number counter storage area. At this time, if the result of adding 1 to the acquired value is 21, 0 is stored in the original random number counter storage area. Other initial value generation random number counters and random number counters are similarly updated. Further, after this basic random number initial value update process is completed, an interrupt permission is set, and the process proceeds to Step SA17.

  In step SA17, effect random number update processing is performed. In this effect random number update process, a random number counter for generating an effect random number used by the main control unit 300 is updated. In the RAM 308 of the main control unit 300, a first special figure notice lottery random number counter for generating a first special figure notice lottery random number value that can take a value in the range of 0 to 127, and a value in the range of 0 to 127 are also taken. A second special figure notice lottery random number counter for generating a second special figure notice lottery random number value to be obtained is provided. In step SA17, the values of these counters are updated.

  The main control unit 300 repeatedly executes the processes of step SA15 and step SA17 except during the timer interrupt process that starts every predetermined period.

<Main control unit timer interrupt processing>
Next, the main control unit timer interrupt process executed by the CPU 304 of the main control unit 300 will be described with reference to FIG. This figure is a flowchart showing the flow of the main control unit timer interrupt process.

  The main control unit 300 includes a counter timer 312 that generates a timer interrupt signal at a predetermined cycle (in this embodiment, about once every 2 ms), and the main control unit timer interrupt is triggered by this timer interrupt signal. The process is started at a predetermined cycle.

  In step SB01, timer interrupt start processing is performed. In this timer interrupt start process, a process of temporarily saving each register value of the CPU 304 to the stack area is performed.

  In step SB03, the WDT is periodically updated (so that the count value of the WDT 314 exceeds the initial setting value (32.8 ms in the present embodiment) and no WDT interrupt occurs (so as not to detect a processing abnormality). In the embodiment, the restart is performed once every about 2 ms, which is the period of the main control unit timer interrupt.

  In step SB05, input port state update processing is performed. In this input port state update processing, detection of various sensors 318 including the above-mentioned front frame door open sensor, inner frame open sensor, lower pan full sensor, and various ball detection sensors via the input port of the I / O 310. A signal is input to monitor the presence / absence of a detection signal, and stored in a signal state storage area provided for each sensor 318 in the RAM 308. If the detection signal of the sphere detection sensor is described as an example, information on the presence / absence of the detection signal of each sphere detection sensor detected in the timer interruption process (about 4 ms before) is stored in the RAM 308 for each sphere detection sensor. This information is read out from the previous detection signal storage area partitioned and stored in the RAM 308 in the previous detection signal storage area partitioned for each sphere detection sensor, and the previous timer interrupt processing (about 2 ms before) ) Is read from the current detection signal storage area provided for each sphere detection sensor in the RAM 308, and this information is read out from the previous detection signal storage area described above. To remember. Further, the detection signal of each sphere detection sensor detected this time is stored in the above-described current detection signal storage area.

  In step SB05, the information on the presence / absence of the detection signal of each sphere detection sensor stored in each storage area of the detection signal storage area, the previous detection signal storage area, and the current detection signal storage area is compared. It is determined whether or not the information on the presence or absence of detection signals for the past three times in the ball detection sensor matches the winning determination pattern information. This main control unit timer interrupt process that is repeatedly started at a very short interval of about 2 ms while one game ball passes one ball detection sensor is started several times. For this reason, every time the main control unit timer interruption process is started, in the above-described step SB05, a detection signal indicating that the same game ball has passed the same ball detection sensor is confirmed. As a result, a detection signal indicating that the same game ball has passed the same ball detection sensor is stored in each of the detection signal storage area, the previous detection signal storage area, and the current detection signal storage area. That is, when the game ball starts to pass through the ball detection sensor, there is no detection signal before, a previous detection signal, and a current detection signal. In the present embodiment, in consideration of erroneous detection of the sphere detection sensor and noise, it is determined that there is a prize when the detection signal is stored twice continuously after no detection signal. The ROM 306 of the main control unit 300 shown in FIG. 4 stores winning determination pattern information (in this embodiment, information indicating that there is no previous detection signal, that there is a previous detection signal, and that there is a current detection signal). In this step SB05, information on presence / absence of detection signals for the past three times in each sphere detection sensor is predetermined winning determination pattern information (in this embodiment, no previous detection signal, previous detection signal, current detection signal present). In the case of the general winning port 226, the variable winning port 234, the first special figure starting port 230, and the second special figure starting port 232, or the ordinary drawing starting port 228. Is determined to have passed. In other words, it is determined that there has been a winning at these winning ports 234, 230 and the starting ports 230, 232, 228. For example, when the information on the presence / absence of the detection signals for the past three matches with the above-described winning determination pattern information in the general winning opening sensor for detecting the winning at the general winning opening 226, there is a winning at the general winning opening 226. If the information on the presence / absence of detection signals for the past three times does not match the above-described winning determination pattern information, the subsequent general winnings are performed. The process branches to the subsequent process without performing the process associated with winning the prize to the mouth 226. Note that the ROM 306 of the main control unit 300 stores winning determination clear pattern information (in this embodiment, information indicating that there is a detection signal before the previous time, no previous detection signal, and no current detection signal). After it is determined that there has been a single win, it is not determined that there has been a win until the information on the presence or absence of detection signals for the past three times matches the winning determination clear pattern information in each ball detection sensor, and the winning determination is cleared. If it matches the pattern information, it is next determined whether or not it matches the winning determination pattern information.

  In step SB07 and step SB09, a basic random number initial value update process and a basic random number update process are performed. In these basic random number initial value update processing and basic random number update processing, the value of the initial value generation random number counter performed in step SA15 is updated, and then the normal winning random number value used in the main control unit 300, Two random number counters for generating the special figure 1 random value and the special figure 2 random value are updated. For example, if the range of values that can be taken as a random number value for a normal winning number is 0 to 100, a value is acquired from a random number counter storage area for generating a normal winning random number value provided in the RAM 308, and 1 is added to the acquired value. Then, it is stored in the original random number counter storage area. At this time, if the result of adding 1 to the acquired value is 101, 0 is stored in the original random number counter storage area. If it is determined that the random number counter has made one round as a result of adding 1 to the acquired value, the value of the initial value generating random number counter corresponding to each random number counter is acquired and stored in the storage area of the random number counter. set. For example, a value is acquired from a random number counter for generating a regular winning random number that fluctuates in a numerical range of 0 to 100, and a result obtained by adding 1 to the acquired value is stored in a predetermined initial value storage area provided in the RAM 308. If the value is equal to the previously set initial value (for example, 7), the value is acquired as an initial value from the initial value generation random number counter corresponding to the random number counter for generating the random number for winning the normal number, The initial value set this time is stored in the above-described initial value storage area in order to determine that the random number counter for generating the winning random number value has made one round next time, in addition to setting it in the random number counter for generating the winning random value Keep it. Further, apart from the above-described initial value storage area for determining that the random number counter for generating the random number for winning the normal signal has made one round next, it is determined that the random number counter for generating the special figure random number has made one round. An initial value storage area is provided in the RAM 308. In the present embodiment, the counter for acquiring the random number value of FIG. 1 and the counter for acquiring the random value of FIG. 2 are separately provided, but the same counter may be used.

  In step SB11, effect random number update processing is performed. In this effect random number update process, a random number counter for generating an effect random number used by the main control unit 300 is updated. Here, the random number counter for generating the effect random number performed in step SA17 is updated. Accordingly, the values of the special figure 1 notice lottery random number counter and the special figure 2 notice lottery random number counter are updated in this step SB11.

  In step SB13, timer update processing is performed. In this timer update process, the normal symbol display symbol update timer for timing the time for the symbol to be changed / stopped on the normal symbol display device 210, and the time for the symbol to be changed / stopped to be displayed on the first special symbol display device 212 are timed. Special symbol 1 display symbol update timer for performing, special symbol 2 display symbol update timer for measuring the time for the symbol to be changed and stopped on the second special symbol display device 214, a predetermined winning effect time, a predetermined opening time Various timers including a timer for measuring a predetermined closing time, a predetermined end effect period, and the like are updated.

  In step SB15, winning prize counter updating processing is performed. In this winning opening counter update process, when winning holes 234, 230 and starting holes 230, 232, 228 are won, the RAM 308 stores the winning ball number storage area provided for each winning hole or for each starting hole. The value is read out, 1 is added, and the original prize ball number storage area is set.

  In step SB17, a winning acceptance process (details will be described later) is performed. In step SB19, a payout request number transmission process is performed. The output schedule information and the payout request information output to the payout control unit 600 are composed of 1 byte, strobe information in bit 7 (indicating that data is set when on), and power supply in bit 6. Input information (indicating that it is the first command transmission after power-on when turned on), bits 4-5 for the current processing type for encryption (0-3), and bits 0-3 for encryption processing The number of subsequent payout requests is indicated.

  In step SB21, a normal state update process is performed. This normal state update process performs one of a plurality of processes corresponding to the normal state. For example, in the normal state update process in the middle of the normal symbol display (the above-described general symbol display symbol update timer value is 1 or more), the 7-segment LED constituting the normal symbol display device 210 is repeatedly turned on and off. Turns off drive control. By performing this control, the normal symbol display device 210 performs a usual fluctuation display (ordinary figure fluctuation game).

  Also, in the normal state update process at the timing when the normal symbol change display time has elapsed (the timing when the value of the general symbol display symbol update timer has changed from 1 to 0), if the hit flag is on, the win symbol is displayed. The normal symbol display device 210 is controlled so that the 7-segment LED constituting the normal symbol display device 210 is turned on / off, and when the hit flag is off, the normal symbol display device 210 is configured to be in the off symbol display mode. 7 segment LED on / off drive control is performed. Further, the RAM 308 of the main control unit 300 is provided with a setting area for performing various settings in various processes, not limited to the normal state update process. Here, the above-described lighting / extinguishing drive control is performed, and the setting area is set to indicate that the normal stop display is being performed. By performing this control, the normal symbol display device 210 determines the symbol of either the winning symbol (the general symbol A shown in FIG. 6C) or the off symbol (the universal symbol B shown in FIG. 6C). Display. Thereafter, information indicating the stop period is set in a storage area of a normal stop time management timer provided in the RAM 308 in order to maintain the display for a predetermined stop display period (for example, 500 msec). With this setting, the symbol that has been confirmed and displayed is stopped and displayed for a predetermined period, and the player is notified of the result of the normal game.

  Further, if the result of the usual figure variable game is a hit, the usual figure hit flag is turned on as will be described later. When the usual figure hit flag is on, in the usual figure state update process at the timing when the predetermined stop display period ends (when the usual figure stop time management timer value changes from 1 to 0), The normal operation is set in the setting area, and the blade member is held open by the solenoid (332) for opening and closing the blade member of the second special figure starting port 232 for a predetermined opening period (for example, 2 seconds). In addition, a signal indicating the open period is set in the storage area of the blade open time management timer provided in the RAM 308.

  In the usual state update process that starts at the timing when the predetermined opening period ends (the timing when the value of the blade opening time management timer is changed from 1 to 0), the blade member has a predetermined closing period (for example, 500 milliseconds). A signal for holding the blade member in the closed state is output to the opening / closing drive solenoid 332, and information indicating the closing period is set in the storage area of the blade closing time management timer provided in the RAM 308.

  Further, in the normal state update process that starts at the timing when the predetermined closing period ends (when the value of the blade closing time management timer is changed from 1 to 0), the non-operating state is set in the setting area of the RAM 308. To do. Furthermore, if the result of the usual figure fluctuation game is out, the usual figure out flag is turned on as will be described later. When the off-normal flag is on, the normal state update process at the timing when the predetermined stop display period described above ends (the timing at which the normal stop time management timer value changes from 1 to 0) In the setting area of the RAM 308, normal operation inactive is set. In the general state update process in the case where the general map is not in operation, nothing is done and the process proceeds to the next step SB23.

  In step SB23, a general drawing related lottery process is performed. In this general map-related lottery process, the open / close control of the general map variable game and the second special map start port 232 is not performed (the state of the general map is not in operation), and the pending general map variable game is not held. When the number is 1 or more, it is decided whether to win or not to win the result of the variable figure game by random lottery based on the random number value stored in the random number value storage area. When the winning judgment is made and the winning is made, the winning flag provided in the RAM 308 is set to ON. If unsuccessful, turn off the winning flag. Regardless of the result of the hit determination, next, the value of the random number counter for generating the normal figure timer random value is acquired as the normal figure timer random number value, and a plurality of fluctuation times are obtained based on the acquired general figure timer random number value. One time for displaying the variable map on the general map display device 112 is selected from among them, and this variable display time is stored in the general map variable time storage area provided in the RAM 308 as the normal map variable display time. In addition, the number of pending general figure variable games is stored in the usual figure pending number storage area provided in the RAM 308, and from the number of pending custom figure variable games each time a hit determination is made. The value obtained by subtracting 1 is re-stored in the usual figure number-of-holds storage area. Also, the random number value used for the hit determination is deleted.

  Subsequently, the special figure state update process for each of the special figure 1 and the special figure 2 is performed. First, the special figure state update process (the special figure 2 state update process) for the special figure 2 is performed (step SB25). In the special figure 2 state update process, one of the following eight processes is performed in accordance with the state of the special figure 2. For example, in the special figure 2 state update process in the middle of the special figure 2 fluctuation display (the value of the above-mentioned special figure 2 display symbol update timer is 1 or more), the 7-segment LED constituting the second special symbol display device 214 is turned on. Performs lighting / extinguishing drive control that repeatedly turns off. By performing this control, the second special symbol display device 214 performs the variable display of the special figure 2 (special figure 2 variable game).

  Further, the RAM 308 of the main control unit 300 includes a 15R big hit flag, a 2R big hit flag, a first small hit flag, a second small hit flag, a first off flag, a second off flag, a special figure probability variation flag, and a normal figure. A flag for each probability variation flag is prepared. In the special figure 2 state update process starting at the timing when the special figure 2 fluctuation display time has elapsed (the timing when the special figure 2 display symbol update timer value has changed from 1 to 0), the 15R big hit flag is on, and the special figure probability fluctuation When the flag is also on and the normal figure probability fluctuation flag is on, the special figure A, 15R jackpot flag shown in FIG. 6A is on, the special figure probability fluctuation flag is off, and the common figure probability fluctuation flag is on. When the special figure B, 2R big hit flag is on, the special figure probability fluctuation flag is on, and the general figure probability fluctuation flag is also on, the special figure C, 2R big hit flag is on, the special figure probability fluctuation flag is off, When the probability fluctuation flag is on, the special figure D, 2R jackpot flag is on, the special figure probability fluctuation flag is on, and when the common figure probability fluctuation flag is on, the special figure E, 2R jackpot flag is on, special chart Probability flag is off, normal When the rate fluctuation flag is also off, the special figure F, when the first small hit flag is on, the special figure G, when the second small hit flag is on, the special figure H, and the first off flag are on. In such a case, the 7-segment LED constituting the second special symbol display device 214 is controlled to be turned on / off so that the special figure I and the second off flag are turned on, respectively, so that the special figure I is in the respective mode. A setting indicating that the special figure 2 stop display is in progress is made in the setting area of the RAM 308. By performing this control, the second special symbol display device 214 has a 15R special jackpot symbol (special symbol A), a 15R jackpot symbol (special symbol B), a sudden probability variation symbol (special symbol C), and a sudden time-short symbol symbol (special symbol). D), hidden probability variation (special E), suddenly normal (special F), first small hit (special G), second small hit (special H), first off symbol (special) Any one of the symbols I) and the first off-set symbol (special symbol J) is confirmed and displayed. After that, information indicating the stop period is set in the storage area of the special figure 2 stop time management timer provided in the RAM 308 in order to maintain the display for a predetermined stop display period (for example, 500 milliseconds). With this setting, the specially displayed special figure 2 is stopped and displayed for a predetermined period, and the result of the special figure 2 variable game is notified to the player. In addition, if the time reduction number stored in the time reduction number storage unit provided in the RAM 308 is 1 or more, 1 is subtracted from the time reduction number, and if the subtraction result becomes 1 to 0, the special figure probability is changing. If not (details will be described later), the time reduction flag is turned off. Further, the hourly flag is also turned off during the big hit game (in the special game state).

  In addition, in order to execute the general command rotation stop setting transmission process in the command setting transmission process (step SB33), 4H is additionally stored as transmission information (general information) in the transmission information storage area described above, and the variable display is stopped. The special figure 2 identification information indicating that is special figure 2 is additionally stored in the RAM 308 as information to be included in command data, which will be described later, and the processing is terminated.

  If the result of the special figure 2 variable game is a big hit, the big hit flag is turned on as will be described later. When the jackpot flag is on, in the special figure 2 state update process at the timing when the predetermined stop display period ends (the timing when the special figure 2 stop time management timer value changes from 1 to 0), the RAM 308 In the setting area, the special figure 2 is in operation and waits for a predetermined winning effect period (for example, 3 seconds), that is, a period during which an image for notifying the player that the big win by the decorative symbol display device 208 is started is displayed. Therefore, information indicating the winning effect period is set in the storage area of the special figure 2 standby time management timer provided in the RAM 308. Further, 5H is additionally stored as transmission information (command type) in the above-described transmission information storage area in order to execute the general command winning effect setting transmission process in the command setting transmission process (step SB33).

  Further, in the special figure 2 state update process that starts at the timing when the predetermined winning effect period ends (the timing when the value of the special figure 2 standby time management timer changes from 1 to 0), a predetermined release period (for example, 29 seconds) Or, until a winning of a predetermined number of game balls (for example, 10 balls) is detected in the variable winning opening 234.) The door member is opened to the open / close driving solenoid (332) of the variable winning opening 234. A signal to be held is output, and information indicating an opening period is set in a storage area of a door opening time management timer provided in the RAM 308. Further, 7H is additionally stored as transmission information (command type) in the above-described transmission information storage area in order to execute the general command big prize opening release setting transmission process in the command setting transmission process (step SB33).

  In the special figure 2 state update process that starts at the timing when the predetermined opening period ends (the timing when the door opening time management timer value changes from 1 to 0), the predetermined closing period (for example, 1.5 seconds) A signal for holding the door member in a closed state is output to a solenoid (332) for opening and closing the door member of the variable prize opening 234, and a closing period is indicated in a storage area of a door closing time management timer provided in the RAM 308. Set the information. Further, 8H is additionally stored as transmission information (command type) in the above-described transmission information storage area in order to execute the general command big prize opening closing setting transmission process in the command setting transmission process (step SB33).

  In addition, in the special figure 2 state update process that starts at the timing when the door member opening / closing control is repeated a predetermined number of times (15 rounds or 2 rounds in this embodiment) and finished, a predetermined end effect period (for example, 3 seconds) In other words, the effect standby period is stored in the storage area of the effect standby time management timer provided in the RAM 308 in order to set to wait for a period during which an image for informing the player that the big hit by the decorative symbol display device 208 is to be ended is displayed. Set the information indicating. Also, if the normal probability fluctuation flag is set to ON, at the same time as the end of the jackpot game, the time reduction number 100 is set in the time reduction number storage unit provided in the RAM 308, and the time reduction flag provided in the RAM 308 is set. Turn on. If the ordinary probability fluctuation flag is set to OFF, the number of time reductions is not set in the time reduction number storage unit, and the time reduction flag is not turned on. The short time here means that the pachinko machine is in an advantageous state for the player in order to shorten the time from the end of the big hit in the special figure variable game to the start of the next big hit. If the short time flag is set to ON at this time, it is a normal high probability state. In the ordinary high probability state, compared to the ordinary low probability state, if the common figure variable game is hit, there is a high possibility that the variation time will be shortened. Also, the fluctuation time of the normal figure variable game is shorter in the normal figure high probability state than in the normal figure low probability state. Further, in the normal high-probability state, the opening time in one opening of the pair of blade members of the second special start port 232 tends to be longer than in the normal low-probability state. In addition, the pair of blade members are more likely to be opened in the normal high probability state than in the normal low probability state. In addition, as described above, the hourly flag is set to off during the big hit game (in the special game state). Therefore, the normal low probability state is maintained during the jackpot game. This is because, if the game is in a high probability state during a jackpot game, a large number of games will be placed in the second special figure starting port 232 during the jackpot game until a predetermined number of game balls are entered in the variable winning slot 234. There is a problem that a ball enters and the number of game balls that can be acquired during the jackpot increases, resulting in an increase in euphoria. This is to solve this problem.

  Furthermore, 6H is additionally stored as transmission information (command type) in the above-described transmission information storage area in order to execute the general command end effect setting transmission process in the command setting transmission process (step SB33).

  Also, in the special figure 2 state update process that starts at the timing when the predetermined end production period ends (when the production standby time management timer value changes from 1 to 0), the special figure 2 is not activated in the setting area of the RAM 308. Set medium. Further, if the result of the special figure 2 variable game is out of the way, the off flag is turned on as will be described later. In the case where the miss flag is on, even in the special figure 2 state update process at the timing when the predetermined stop display period described above ends (the timing when the special figure 2 stop time management timer value changes from 1 to 0), In the setting area of the RAM 308, special figure 2 inactive is set. In the special figure 2 state update process when the special figure 2 is not operating, nothing is done and the process proceeds to the next step SB27.

  Subsequently, special figure state update processing (special figure 1 state update process) for special figure 1 is performed (step SB27). In the special figure 1 state update process, each process described in the special figure 2 state update process is performed according to the state of the special figure 1. Each process performed in the special figure 1 state update process is the same as the process in which “special figure 2” in the contents described in the special figure 2 state update process is replaced with “special figure 1”. Omitted. The order of the special figure 2 state update process and the special figure 1 state update process may be reversed.

  When the special figure state update process in step SB25 and step SB27 is completed, a special figure related lottery process for each of special figure 1 and special figure 2 is performed. Also here, the special figure related lottery process (special figure 2 related lottery process) for special figure 2 is performed first (step SB29), and then the special figure related lottery process for special figure 1 (special figure 1 related lottery process) (Step SB31). Also for these special drawing related lottery processes, the main control unit 300 performs the special figure 2 related lottery processing before the special figure 1 related lottery processing, so that the special figure 2 variable game start condition and the special figure 1 fluctuation Even if the game start conditions are satisfied at the same time, since the special figure 2 variable game is changing first, the special figure 1 variable game does not start changing. Further, the notification of the result of the jackpot determination of the special figure variable game by the decorative symbol display device 208 is performed by the first sub-control unit 400, and the lottery result of the lottery based on the winning at the second special figure starting port 232 is notified. However, it is performed in preference to the notification of the lottery result of the lottery based on the winning at the first special figure starting port 230.

  In step SB33, command setting transmission processing is performed, and various commands are transmitted to the first sub-control unit 400. Note that the output schedule information transmitted to the first sub-control unit 400 is composed of 16 bits in the present embodiment, bit 15 is strobe information (indicating that data is set when ON), bit 11 -14 are command types (in this embodiment, commands such as basic command, symbol variation start command, symbol variation stop command, winning effect start command, end effect start command, jackpot round number designation command, power recovery command, FRAM clear command, etc. Information that can specify the type), bits 0 to 10 are composed of command data (predetermined information corresponding to the command type).

  Specifically, the strobe information is turned on and off in the command transmission process described above. If the command type is a symbol variation start command, information indicating the value of the 15R jackpot flag or 2R jackpot flag, the value of the special figure probability variation flag, the timer number selected in the special figure related lottery process, etc. is included in the command data. In the case of the symbol variation stop command, the value of the 15R jackpot flag, 2R jackpot flag, the value of the special figure probability variation flag, etc. are included. In the case of a jackpot round number designation command, the value of the special variation probability flag, the number of jackpot rounds, and the like are included. When the command type indicates a basic command, device information in the command data, presence / absence of winning at the first special figure starting port 230, presence / absence of winning at the second special figure starting port 232, winning of the variable winning port 234 Includes presence or absence.

  In the general command rotation start setting transmission process described above, the value of the 15R jackpot flag or 2R jackpot flag, the value of the special figure probability fluctuation flag, the special figure related lottery process, and the special figure stored in the RAM 308 as command data 2. Information indicating the timer number selected in the related lottery process, the number of the first special figure variable game or the second special figure variable game held, etc. is set. In the general command rotation stop setting transmission process described above, information indicating the value of the 15R jackpot flag, the 2R jackpot flag, the value of the special figure probability variation flag, etc. stored in the RAM 308 is set in the command data. In the above-mentioned general command winning effect setting transmission process, the command control data stored in the RAM 308, the effect control information output to the decorative symbol display device 208, various lamps 418, and the speaker 120 during the winning effect period, the special figure probability variation Information indicating the value of the flag, the number of the first special figure variable game or the second special figure variable game held, etc. is set. In the above-described general command end effect setting transmission process, command control data stored in the RAM 308, effect control information to be output to the decorative symbol display device 208, various lamps 423, and the speaker 120 during the effect standby period, special figure probability variation Information indicating the value of the flag, the number of the first special figure variable game or the second special figure variable game held, etc. is set. In the general command big prize opening release transmission process described above, the number of big hits stored in the RAM 308 in the command data, the value of the special figure probability fluctuation flag, the first special figure fluctuation game or the second special figure fluctuation held. Information indicating the number of games is set. In the above-mentioned general command big prize opening closing setting transmission process, the number of big hit rounds stored in the RAM 308 in the command data, the value of the special figure probability fluctuation flag, the first special figure fluctuation game or the second special figure fluctuation held Information indicating the number of games is set. In step SB33, general command special figure hold increase processing is also performed. In this general command special figure pending increase process, special figure identification information (information showing special figure 1 or special figure 2) stored in the transmission information storage area of the RAM 308, command notice information (preliminary notice information, false) Set either advance notice information or no advance notice information).

  In the first sub-control unit 400, it is possible to determine the production control according to the change of the game control in the main control unit 300 by the command type included in the received output schedule information, and it is included in the output schedule information. Based on the information of the command data, the contents of effect control can be determined.

  In step SB35, an external output signal setting process is performed. In this external output signal setting process, the game information stored in the RAM 308 is output to the information input circuit 350 separate from the pachinko machine 100 via the information output circuit 334.

  In step SB37, device monitoring processing is performed. In this device monitoring process, the signal states of the various sensors stored in the signal state storage area in step SB05 are read and monitored for the presence or absence of a front frame door opening error or a bottom pan full error, etc. Device information indicating whether or not there is a front frame door open error or a lower plate full error is set in the transmission information to be transmitted to the first sub-control unit 400 when a lower plate full error is detected. Further, various solenoids 332 are driven to control the opening and closing of the second special figure starting port 232 and the variable prize opening 234, and the normal symbol display device 210 and the first special symbol display via the display circuits 324, 326 and 330. Display data to be output to the device 212, the second special symbol display device 214, the various status display units 328, and the like is set in the output port of the I / O 310. Further, the output schedule information set in the payout request number transmission process (step SB19) is output to the first sub-control unit 400 via the output port (I / O 310).

  In step SB39, it is monitored whether or not the low voltage signal is on. Then, when the low voltage signal is on (when power supply cutoff is detected), the process proceeds to step SB43. When the low voltage signal is off (power supply cutoff is not detected), the process proceeds to step SB41.

  In step SB41, a timer interrupt end process is performed. In this timer interrupt end process, the value of each register temporarily saved in step SB01 is set in each original register, the interrupt permission is set, etc., and then the main control part main process shown in FIG. Return to.

  On the other hand, in step SB43, a specific variable or stack pointer for returning to the power-off state at the time of power recovery is saved as a return data in a predetermined area of the RAM 308, and power-off processing such as initialization of input / output ports is performed. After that, the process returns to the main process of the main control unit shown in FIG.

<Processing of First Sub-Control Unit 400>
Next, processing of the first sub control unit 400 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5A is a flowchart of main processing executed by the CPU 404 of the first sub control unit 400. FIG. 5B is a flowchart of command reception interrupt processing of the first sub control unit 400. FIG. 5C is a flowchart of the timer interrupt process of the first sub control unit 400.

  First, in step SC01 in FIG. 9A, various initial settings are performed. When power is turned on, an initialization process is first executed in SC01. In this initialization processing, initialization of input / output ports, initialization processing of a storage area in the RAM 408, and the like are performed. Further, among the image color pallet data and image data stored in the ROM 406, a frequently used one is transferred to the VRAM 436. Specifically, a VRAM transfer request is made to the VDP 434 in order to transfer image data or the like stored in the ROM 406 to the VRAM 436.

  In step SC03, it is determined whether or not the timer variable is 10 or more. This process is repeated until the timer variable becomes 10, and when the timer variable becomes 10 or more, the process proceeds to step SC05.

  In step SC05, 0 is assigned to the timer variable. In step SC07, command processing is performed. The CPU 404 of the first sub control unit 400 determines whether a command has been received from the main control unit 300. In step SC09, an effect control process is performed. For example, when there is a new command in SC07, the effect data corresponding to this command is read from the ROM 406, and the effect data is updated when the effect data needs to be updated.

  In step SC11, when pressing of the chance button is detected, processing for changing the effect data updated in step SC09 to effect data corresponding to the pressing of the chance button is performed.

  In step SC13, image control processing (details will be described later) is performed.

  In step SC15, when there is a command to the sound source IC 416 in the effect data read in SC09, this command is output to the sound source IC 416.

  In step SC <b> 17, if there is a command to various lamps 418 in the effect data read in SC <b> 09, this command is output to the drive circuit 420.

  In step SC19, when there is a command to the shielding device 246 in the effect data read in SC09, this command is output to the drive circuit 426.

  In step SC21, if there is a control command to be transmitted to the second sub-control unit 500 in the effect data read in SC09, the control command is set to be output, and the process returns to SC03.

  Next, the command reception interrupt process of the first sub-control unit 400 will be described using FIG. This command reception interrupt process is a process executed when the first sub-control unit 400 detects a strobe signal output from the main control unit 300. In step SD01 of the command reception interrupt process, the command output from the main control unit 300 is stored as an unprocessed command in a command storage area provided in the RAM 408.

  Next, the first sub control unit timer interrupt process executed by the CPU 404 of the first sub control unit 400 will be described with reference to FIG. The first sub-control unit 400 includes a hardware timer that generates a timer interrupt at a predetermined cycle (in this embodiment, once every 2 ms). Execute in the cycle.

  In step SE01 of the first sub control unit timer interrupt process, 1 is added to the value of the timer variable storage area of the RAM 408 described in step SC03 in the first sub control unit main process shown in FIG. Is stored in the timer variable storage area. Therefore, in step SC03, the value of the timer variable is determined to be 10 or more every 20 ms (2 ms × 10).

  In step SE03 of the first sub-control unit timer interrupt process, a control command is transmitted to the second sub-control unit 500 set in step SC21, an effect random number value is updated, and the like.

<Processing of Second Sub-Control Unit 500>
Next, the process of the second sub control unit 500 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 6A is a flowchart of main processing executed by the CPU 504 of the second sub-control unit 500. FIG. 7B is a flowchart of command reception interrupt processing of the second sub control unit 500. FIG. 8C is a flowchart of the timer interrupt process of the second sub control unit 500.

  First, in step SG01 of FIG. When power is turned on, an initialization process is first executed in SG01. In this initialization processing, initial setting of input / output ports, initialization processing of a storage area in the RAM 508, and the like are performed.

  In step SG03, it is determined whether or not the timer variable is 10 or more. This process is repeated until the timer variable becomes 10, and when the timer variable becomes 10 or more, the process proceeds to step SG05.

  In step SG05, 0 is assigned to the timer variable. In step SG07, command processing is performed. The CPU 504 of the second sub control unit 500 determines whether a command has been received from the CPU 404 of the first sub control unit 400.

  In step SG09, an effect control process is performed. For example, when there is a new command in SG07, the effect data corresponding to this command is read from the ROM 506, and when the effect data needs to be updated, the effect data is updated.

  In step SG 11, if there is a command from the first sub-control unit 400 to the game board lamp 532 or the game table frame lamp 542, this command is output to the serial communication control circuit 520.

  In step SG13, if there is a command from the first sub-control unit 400 to the effect movable body 224, this command is output to the drive circuit 516, and the process returns to SG03.

  Next, the command reception interrupt process of the second sub control unit 500 will be described with reference to FIG. This command reception interrupt process is a process executed when the second sub control unit 500 detects the strobe signal output from the first sub control unit 400. In step SH01 of the command reception interrupt process, the command output from the first sub-control unit 400 is stored as an unprocessed command in a command storage area provided in the RAM 508.

  Next, the second sub control unit timer interrupt process executed by the CPU 504 of the second sub control unit 500 will be described with reference to FIG. The second sub-control unit 500 includes a hardware timer that generates a timer interrupt at a predetermined cycle (in this embodiment, once every 2 ms), and a timer interrupt process is performed in response to this timer interrupt. Execute in the cycle.

  In step SI01 of the second sub control unit timer interrupt process, 1 is added to the value of the timer variable storage area of the RAM 508 described in step SG03 in the second sub control unit main process shown in FIG. Is stored in the timer variable storage area. Therefore, in step SG03, the value of the timer variable is determined to be 10 or more every 20 ms (2 ms × 10). In step SI03 of the second sub-control unit timer interrupt process, an effect random number update process is performed.

<Image control processing>
Next, the image control process in step SC13 in the main process executed by the CPU 404 of the first sub control unit 400 will be described with reference to FIGS.

  First, an overview of image control processing that is processing for generating an image to be displayed on the decorative symbol display device 208 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the decorative symbol display device 208. In this embodiment, in the production, for example, an image in which the main character A and the main character B battle with a sword is displayed on the decorative symbol display device 208. In this case, five characters (images) of (1) background A, (2) hero A, (3) hero B, (4) effect A, and (5) effect B are superimposed as shown in FIG. As a result, an image of one frame to be displayed on the decorative symbol display device 208 is generated.

  FIG. 12 is a diagram showing the processing of the CPU 404 and the VDP 434 of the first sub control unit 400 in time series. In the present embodiment, the VDP 434 periodically (for example, 60 times per second) transmits a V blank signal (vertical synchronization signal) to the CPU 404, and the CPU 404 receives the V blank signal every time it receives the V blank 436. The designation of the display area A and the display area B in the frame buffer is switched. Therefore, the VDP 434 receives the display area A or the display area A that is not designated as the drawing area from the time when the V blank signal is received until the next V blank signal is received (for example, between 1 / 60≈16.67 ms). An image of one frame drawn (stored) in B is displayed on the decorative symbol display device 208, and an image of the next frame is drawn in the display area A or B designated as the drawing area.

  The CPU 404 creates attribute data for each piece of image data ((1) Background A, (2) Main character A, etc.) used in the image control process, based on presentation data stored in the ROM 406 in advance. This attribute data is a parameter used when the VDP 434 draws an image in the display area A or B designated as the drawing area in the frame buffer of the VRAM 436. The CPU 404 first creates attribute data in the RAM 408, and transfers the created attribute data to the attribute register 434c of the VDP 434 for storage. The VDP 434 draws an image in the display area A or B designated as the drawing area based on the attribute data stored in the attribute register 434c.

  In the conventional image control processing, as shown in the upper part of the figure, for example, (1) background A, (2) hero A, (3) hero B, (4) effect A and (5) effect B 5 When drawing an image using two characters, the CPU 404 first draws (1) the attribute data of the background A and stores it in a predetermined area of the RAM 408, and then creates (1) the background A. The attribute data is transferred to a predetermined area of the attribute register 434c of the VDP 434. Then, (1) a drawing instruction command for instructing drawing of the background A is stored in a predetermined area of the attribute register 434c. Although details will be described later, in creating attribute data, the CPU 404 first creates primary creation information in a form in which some of the data items are randomly arranged in the RAM 408, and based on this primary creation information. The second creation information is rearranged in a predetermined order to store the data items in the attribute register 434c (created (converted)). In the transfer of attribute data, the CPU 404 transfers the attribute data of the secondary creation information to the attribute register 434c.

  The VDP 434 stores the display area A or B specified as the drawing area based on (1) the background A drawing instruction command and (1) the background A attribute data (secondary creation information) stored in the attribute register 434c. (1) Draw an image of background A. (1) When the drawing of the background A image is completed, the VDP 434 transmits a drawing end signal to the CPU 404. The CPU 404 that has received the drawing end signal creates (2) the attribute data of the hero A to be drawn next and transfers it to the attribute register 434c, and then (2) stores the drawing instruction command of the hero A in the attribute register 434c. . The VDP 434 (2) draws an image of the hero A based on (2) the hero A drawing instruction command and attribute data, and then sends a drawing end signal to the CPU 404. In the following, with respect to (3) hero B, (4) effect A, and (5) effect B, an image of one frame to be displayed on the decorative symbol display device 208 is drawn by performing the above processing in order.

  Since the VDP 434 cannot access the attribute register 434c while the CPU 404 transfers the attribute data to the attribute register 434c, the VDP 434 cannot perform drawing. In addition, the CPU 404 cannot transfer attribute data to the attribute register 434c while the VDP 434 is drawing. Therefore, conventionally, as described above, the creation of attribute data by the CPU 404 and the drawing of an image by the VDP 434 are alternately performed. However, such a processing procedure is a wasteful waiting time in both the CPU 404 and the VDP 434. Because of this, it was inefficient.

  Therefore, in this embodiment, the CPU 404 creates attribute data one after another without waiting for the reception of the drawing end signal from the VDP 434, and the creation of the primary creation information and the secondary creation information of the attribute data is completed. Every time it is determined whether or not a drawing end signal has been received from the VDP 434 (drawing end determination). If the drawing end signal is received, the CPU 404 transfers the attribute data to the attribute register. If the drawing end signal has not been received, the CPU 404 starts conversion of the created primary creation information into secondary creation information or creation of the next attribute data.

  FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of attribute data. In the effect data stored in advance in the ROM 406, characters (for example, first to fifth characters) used for the frame to be drawn this time are set in the drawing order, and the attribute data is created for each character by the CPU 404 in the drawing order. The For example, in the example shown in the figure, the attribute data is created in the order of the first character → second character → third character → fourth character → fifth character.

  The primary creation information of the attribute data includes, for example, “color palette number”, “inter-pixel calculation information (translucent, addition, subtraction)”, “rotation angle”, “horizontal enlargement / reduction ratio”, as shown in FIG. , “Vertical enlargement / reduction ratio”, “horizontal size and vertical size”, and the like. Among these, in the first creation information, for example, “rotation angle”, “horizontal enlargement / reduction ratio, vertical enlargement / reduction ratio”, and “horizontal size / vertical size” within the thick frame are randomly stored in the storage area of the RAM 408. It is in an arranged state.

  The secondary creation information of the attribute data includes data items randomly arranged in the storage area of the RAM 408 ("rotation angle", "horizontal enlargement / reduction ratio, vertical enlargement / reduction ratio" and "horizontal size and vertical" in the thick frame). The data included in the “size”) is coordinate-converted and stored in a predetermined order so that the VDP 434 can read the command. The attribute data is stored in the attribute register 434c of the VDP 434 in the form of this secondary creation information.

  After creating the primary creation information, the CPU 404 performs a drawing end determination to determine whether or not a drawing end signal has been received from the VDP 434, and the previous drawing (drawing of the character with the previous drawing order) is completed. If not, the secondary creation information is created (the primary creation information is converted into the secondary creation information) and stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 408. The secondary creation information stored in the RAM 408 is copied and transferred as it is without conversion at the next timing of transferring attribute data to the attribute register 434c.

  If the previous drawing is completed in the drawing end determination, the CPU 404 transfers the primary creation information to the attribute register 434c. At this time, the CPU 404 performs coordinate conversion of the data included in the data item within the thick frame of the primary creation information and stores it in a predetermined order (processing for converting the primary creation information to the secondary creation information). ) At the same time, and the secondary creation information is stored in the transfer destination attribute register 434c.

  In this embodiment, as described above, attribute data in a format that can be read by the VDP 434 is stored in the attribute register 434c by two types of methods according to the state of the VDP 434.

  Returning to FIG. 12, specifically, as shown in the central part of FIG. 12, the CPU 404 first draws (1) the primary creation information of the attribute data of the background A to create the primary creation information of the RAM 408. Store in a predetermined area. Next, in the case of a character to be drawn first, the created primary creation information is converted to secondary creation information while being transferred, and stored in a predetermined area of the attribute register 434c. Then, (1) a drawing instruction command for instructing drawing of the background A is stored in a predetermined area of the attribute register 434c, and subsequently drawn (2) of the primary creation information of the attribute data of the main character A Start creating.

  The VDP 434 is designated as a drawing area in the frame buffer of the VRAM 436 based on (1) the background A drawing instruction command and (1) background A attribute data (secondary creation information) stored in the attribute register 434c. (1) An image of background A is drawn in the display area A or B. (1) When the drawing of the background A image is completed, the VDP 434 transmits a drawing end signal to the CPU 404.

  When the creation of the primary creation information of the attribute data of the main character A is completed, the CPU 404 determines whether a drawing end signal has been received from the VDP 434. At this time, if the drawing end signal is received as in the example shown in the figure, the created (2) primary creation information of the main character A is transferred to the secondary creation information while being transferred. While being stored in a predetermined area of the attribute register 434c, (2) a drawing instruction command for instructing drawing of the main character A is stored in a predetermined area of the attribute register 434c. Then, the creation of the primary creation information of the attribute data of the main character B to be rendered next (3) begins.

  The VDP 434 stores the display area A or B designated as the drawing area based on (2) the drawing instruction command of the main character A and (2) the attribute data (secondary creation information) of the main character A stored in the attribute register 434c. (2) Draw an image of the main character A, and when drawing is completed, send a drawing end signal to the CPU 404.

  When the creation of the primary creation information of the attribute data of the main character B is completed, the CPU 404 determines whether a drawing end signal has been received from the VDP 434. At this time, as in the example shown in the figure, when the drawing end signal is not received, (3) the primary creation information of the main character B is converted into the secondary creation information and stored in the RAM 408. Then, (3) after the creation of the second creation information of the main character B is completed, it is determined again whether or not a drawing end signal has been received from the VDP 434. At this time, as in the example shown in the figure, if the drawing end signal has not been received, the creation of the primary creation information of the attribute data of the effect A to be drawn next (4) is started.

  If the drawing end signal is received, the created (3) secondary creation information of the attribute data of the main character B is transferred and stored in a predetermined area of the attribute register 434c, and (3) the main character is stored. A drawing instruction command for instructing the drawing of B is stored in a predetermined area of the attribute register 434c, and (4) creation of primary creation information of attribute data of the effect A is started.

  The CPU 404 (4) after the creation of the primary creation information of the attribute data of the effect A is completed, as shown in the example shown in the figure, the attribute data that has not yet been transferred to the attribute register 434c ((3) the main character B (4) Start conversion of the primary creation information of effect A into secondary creation information without determining whether or not a drawing end signal has been received from VDP 434. . Then, (4) when the creation of the secondary creation information of effect A (storage in the RAM 408) is completed, it is determined whether or not a drawing end signal has been received from the VDP 434. At this time, as in the example shown in the figure, when the drawing end signal is received, (3) the second creation information of the attribute data of the main character B, and (4) the attribute data of the effect A The secondary creation information is transferred to the attribute register 434c, and (3) the main character B and (4) the drawing instruction command for instructing the drawing of the effect A are stored in a predetermined area of the attribute register 434c. Then, the creation of the primary creation information of the attribute data of the effect B to be rendered next (5) is started.

  If the drawing end signal has not been received, (3) secondary creation information of the attribute data of the main character B and (4) secondary creation information of the attribute data of the effect A are transferred to the attribute register 434c. (5) Creation of the primary creation information of the attribute data of effect B is started.

  The VDP 434 stores (3) the main character B drawing instruction command and (2) the main character A attribute data (secondary creation information), and (4) the effect A drawing instruction command stored in the attribute register 434c. Based on the attribute data of the effect B (secondary creation information), (3) the main character B and (4) the image of the effect A are continuously drawn in the display area A or B designated as the drawing area, and the drawing is completed. If so, a drawing end signal is transmitted to the CPU 404.

  The CPU 404 determines whether or not a drawing end signal has been received from the VDP 434 when the creation of the primary creation information of the attribute data of the effect B is completed (5). At this time, as in the example shown in the figure, when the drawing end signal has not been received, the primary creation information of the effect B is converted into the secondary creation information and stored in the RAM 408. Then, (5) after the creation of the secondary creation information of the effect B is completed, it is determined again whether or not a drawing end signal has been received from the VDP 434. At this time, when the drawing end signal is received as in the example shown in the figure, (5) the secondary creation information of the attribute data of the effect B is transferred to the attribute register 434c, and (5) A drawing instruction command for instructing the drawing of the effect B is stored in a predetermined area of the attribute register 434c.

  The VDP 434 displays the display area A or B designated as the drawing area based on the (5) effect B drawing instruction command and (5) effect B attribute data (secondary creation information) stored in the attribute register 434c. (5) Draw the image of effect B, and send the drawing end signal to the CPU 404 when the drawing is completed.

  Next, the flow of the image control process in step SC13 in the main process executed by the CPU 404 of the first sub control unit 400 will be described.

  FIG. 14A and FIG. 15 are flowcharts of the image control process. FIG. 14B is a diagram showing an example of a character scheduled to be drawn this time.

  In step SF01, it is determined whether a V blank signal has been received from VDP 434. If the V blank signal is received, the process proceeds to step SF03. If not, the process waits until the V blank signal is received. In step SF03, first, the designation of the display areas A and B in the VRAM 436 is swapped. As a result, an image of one frame stored in the display area not designated as the drawing area is displayed on the decorative design display device 208. Next, the scheduled character in this process is set. Here, based on the effect data set in the effect control process in step SC09 or the chance button control process in step SC11 in the main process of the first sub-control unit 400, until the next V blank signal is received. Set how many characters (images) to draw. Specifically, based on the effect data, for example, as shown in FIG. 14B, the first drawing character is set to use five characters (images) in the current drawing frame, and the drawing is performed. The first character is set in order 1, the second character is set in drawing order 2, the third character is set in drawing order 3, the fourth character is set in drawing order 4, the fifth character is set in drawing order 5, and stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 408. . Here, the value of the drawing counter N set in a predetermined area of the RAM 408 is set to 1 in order to count the number of drawn characters.

  In step SF05, attribute data of the Nth character is created. Here, since N = 1 is set in step SF03, the first creation information of the attribute data of the first character is created based on the effect data and stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 408. In step SF07, the attribute data is transmitted to the attribute register 434c of the VDP 434. Here, the primary creation information of the first character created in step SF05 is transferred to the secondary creation information while being transferred, and stored in a predetermined area of the attribute register 434c in the form of the secondary creation information. Let

  In step SF09, a drawing instruction is issued to the VDP 434. Specifically, a drawing instruction command for instructing drawing of the first character is stored in a predetermined area of the attribute register 434c of the VDP 434. The VDP 434 draws the first character in the display area A or B designated as the drawing area in the frame buffer of the VRAM 436 based on the attribute data stored in the attribute register 434c based on the drawing instruction command (generates a display image). ) At this time, if the image data of the first character is stored in the other storage area of the VRAM 436, drawing is performed using this image data, and the image data of the first character is stored in the other storage area of the VRAM 436. If not, the image data is transferred from the ROM 406 and drawn. When the drawing of the first character is completed, the VDP 434 transmits a drawing end signal to the CPU 404.

  In step SF11, it is determined whether there is an undrawn scheduled character. Specifically, it is determined whether or not there is an undrawn scheduled character based on the value of the drawing counter N (1 is added in steps SF15 and SF25 described later). In this example, since five scheduled characters of the first to fifth characters are set in step SF03, if N <5, the process proceeds to step SF15 as an undrawn scheduled character, and if N = 5, undrawn The process proceeds to step SF13 with no scheduled character. In step SF13, it is determined whether a drawing end signal is received from the VDP 434. If a drawing end signal is received, the process ends. If not, the process waits until a drawing end signal is received.

  In step SF15, 1 is added to the drawing counter N, and the primary creation information of the attribute data of the Nth character is created based on the effect data and stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 408. In step SF17, it is determined whether a drawing end signal is received from the VDP 434. If the drawing end signal has been received, the process returns to step SF07. If the drawing end signal has not been received, the process proceeds to step SF19. In step SF19, the primary creation information of the attribute data of the Nth character created in step SF15 is converted into secondary creation information and stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 408.

  In step SF21, it is determined whether a drawing end signal is received from the VDP 434. If the drawing end signal has been received, the process proceeds to step SF29. If the drawing end signal has not been received, the process proceeds to step SF23. In step SF23, it is determined whether there is an undrawn scheduled character. Here, as in step SF11, it is determined whether there is an undrawn scheduled character based on the value of the drawing counter N. If N <5, the process proceeds to step SF25 with an undrawn scheduled character. In the case of = 5, it is determined that there is no undrawn scheduled character and the process proceeds to step SF29.

  In step SF25, 1 is added to the drawing counter N, and the primary creation information of the attribute data of the Nth character is created based on the effect data and the like, and stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 408. In step SF27, the primary creation information of the attribute data of the Nth character created in step SF25 is converted into secondary creation information, stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 408, and the process returns to step SF21.

  In step SF29, the secondary creation information of the attribute data created in step SF19 or step SF27 is transferred to the attribute register 434c of the VDP 434, and the process returns to step SF09.

  Next, details of the attribute data will be described. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of attribute data (secondary creation information) when a character is rotated and drawn. FIGS. 17A to 17C are set when rotating a character. It is the figure which showed the example of calculation of a parameter.

  As shown in FIG. 16, the secondary creation information of the attribute data is composed of a plurality of detailed data items designated by offset addresses every 16 bits so that the VDP 434 can read the attribute data. In the example in which the character shown in the figure is rotated and drawn, the attribute data includes, for example, the pallet number (PAL), the upper left horizontal coordinate (after rotation) (CGH), and the VRAM space in ascending order of address. The upper left vertical coordinate (CGV) of the VRAM space (before rotation) (OrgCGH), the upper left vertical coordinate of the VRAM space (OrgCGV), the horizontal size of the VRAM space (CGHZ) ), VRAM space vertical size (CGVZ), character local coordinate horizontal size (DHZ), character local coordinate vertical size (DVZ), rotation VRAM space parameter (CGDY), and rotation VRAM space parameter (CGDY) CGLX) and the like. Based on these parameters, the VDP 434 rotates the character image data stored in advance in the ROM 406 and draws it in the frame buffer of the VRAM 436. The VRAM space is a two-dimensional space (region) set for arranging (storing) each data in the VRAM 436.

  As shown in FIG. 17A, character image data S is arranged in the VRAM space together with palette data (color palette storage area) and the like. At this time, the coordinates of the upper left corner of the image data S are (OrgCGH, OrgCGV). When the image data S is rotated clockwise by θ (0 ° ≦ θ ≦ 90 °), the coordinates of the point P0 shown in FIG. 5B are (OrgCGH, OrgCGV), and the coordinates of the point P1 are (CGH, CGV). The other parameters CGHZ, CGVZ, DHZ, DVZ, CGDY, and CGLX have the dimensions shown in FIG. 5B, and the values of these parameters are calculated by the calculation formula shown in FIG. The

  In the primary creation information of attribute data, primary creation primary creation information that does not rotate or deform the character image is created and converted from the primary creation information to the secondary creation information. At this time, the above-mentioned parameters may be changed or added based on the calculation formulas shown in FIG. 17C to create secondary creation information for drawing accompanied by rotation or deformation. .

  Next, other embodiments of the present invention will be described. FIGS. 18A to 18C and FIGS. 19A and 19B are schematic views showing other embodiments of the present invention.

  In the present embodiment, in the attribute data creation by the CPU 404, an example in which first creation information is created first and second creation information is created based on this is shown. The present invention is not limited to this. For example, as shown in FIGS. 18A to 18C, the attribute data that can be read by the VDP 434 in the order of primary creation information → secondary creation information → third creation information in the order of creation steps. May be created.

  In this case, as shown in FIG. 6A, after the CPU 404 creates the primary creation information of the attribute data and stores it in a predetermined area of the RAM 408, the drawing end determination is performed, and the drawing of the VDP 434 is finished. If the first creation information is transferred, the second creation information is converted in the order of the third creation information (T1), and the third creation information is stored in a predetermined area of the attribute register 434c of the VDP 434. Let Also, as shown in FIG. 5B, if the VDP 434 has not finished drawing in the drawing end determination after the creation of the primary creation information, the CPU 404 continues to create secondary creation information. The data is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 408, and then the drawing end determination is performed again. At this time, if the drawing of the VDP 434 has been completed, the second creation information is transferred to the third creation information while being transferred (T2), and the third creation information is converted into a predetermined value in the attribute register 434c of the VDP 434. It is memorized in the area.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 5C, when the VDP 434 has not finished drawing in the drawing end determination after the creation of the second creation information, the CPU 404 continues to create the third creation information. The data is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 408. If the VDP 434 has finished drawing in the next drawing end determination, the third creation information stored in the RAM 408 is transferred to the attribute register (T3) and stored in a predetermined area. Needless to say, attribute data that can be read by the VDP 434 may be created by a plurality of steps of creation.

  Also, the secondary creation information may not be created based on the primary creation information at all times, but the secondary creation information may be created from the beginning according to the conditions. In this case, for example, when the secondary creation information of another character created before is not stored in the RAM 408, the CPU 404 first creates the primary creation information as shown in FIG. If the drawing of the VDP 434 is finished in the drawing end determination after the creation of the primary creation information, the primary creation information is converted into important creation information while being transferred and stored in the attribute register 434c (T1). If drawing of the VDP 434 is not finished in the drawing end determination after the creation of the primary creation information, the secondary creation information is created based on the primary creation information, and the drawing of the VDP 434 is made in the subsequent drawing end judgment. If completed, the second creation information is transferred and stored in the attribute register 434c (T2).

  On the other hand, when the secondary creation information of another character created previously is stored in the RAM 408, as shown in FIG. 5 (b), the secondary creation information is initially displayed based on the production data and the like. If it is created and stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 408, and the drawing of the VDP 434 is finished in the subsequent drawing end determination, all the second creation information stored in the RAM 408 is transferred to the attribute register 434c. Remember (T3). By doing so, the occurrence frequency of frame dropping may be further reduced.

  As described above, the pachinko machine 100 according to the present embodiment uses the display information (in this embodiment, the attribute data in the present embodiment) based on the image information (effect data stored in the ROM 406, character image data, etc.). Display information generation means (CPU 404 in this embodiment) for generating data) and drawing control means (image data drawn in the frame buffer of the VRAM 436 in this embodiment) based on the display information. In this embodiment, the game table includes a VDP 434 and a VRAM 436) and an image display device (in this embodiment, a decorative symbol display device 208) that displays a predetermined image based on the drawing information. Is the primary information (primary creation information in this embodiment) and secondary information generated from the primary information (in this embodiment). Display information generation means 404 includes primary information generation means for generating primary information from image information (in this embodiment, step SF05 in the image control processing of the first sub-control unit 400, Step SF15 and Step SF25), and secondary information generating means for generating secondary information from the primary information (in this embodiment, Step SF19 and Step SF27 in the image control processing of the first sub-control unit 400), The drawing control means 434, 436 is based on the secondary information if the secondary information generation means starts generating secondary information when the drawing information can be generated. If the drawing information is generated before the generation of secondary information by the secondary information generating means is started, the drawing information is generated based on the primary information (in this embodiment, Specifically, based on what display information generation unit 404 is converted into the secondary information while transferring primary information to the drawing control unit 434, the control unit 434, 436 generates drawing information drawn).

  For this reason, it becomes possible to shorten the period during which the display information generating means 404 waits for the drawing control means 434, 436, reducing the occurrence frequency of frame dropping, and performing image display that does not give the player a sense of incongruity. There is. In other words, it may be possible to prevent an incomplete image from being displayed due to the designation of the drawing area of the frame buffer being switched before completely drawing an image of one frame.

  Further, the pachinko machine 100 is displayed on the image display device 208 by the display information generating unit 404 and the drawing control units 434 and 436 every time a predetermined period (in this embodiment, the transmission interval of the V blank signal by the VDP 434) elapses. The display information generating unit 404 generates a drawing information corresponding to a predetermined image to be generated, and the display information generating unit 404 instructs the drawing control units 434 and 436 to start generating the drawing information based on the predetermined display information. In the present embodiment, the first sub-control unit 400 includes an image control process in step SF09), and the generation start command unit instructs the drawing control units 434 and 436 to start generating the drawing information and sets the other image information. The display information generation is started based on the drawing information generated by the drawing control means 434, 436. In parallel to execute the formation.

  For this reason, the period during which the display information generating unit 404 is not performing the image display control operation can be reduced, the limited resources provided in the pachinko machine 100 can be used effectively, and the frequency of frame dropping is reduced. In some cases, the player can display an image without giving a sense of incongruity.

  Further, the display information generation unit 404 transfers the generated display information to the drawing control units 434 and 436 (in the present embodiment, the processing of Step SF07 and Step SF29 in the image control processing of the first sub control unit 400). The drawing control means 434, 436 generates drawing information based on the display information transferred by the transfer means.

  By doing in this way, since the drawing control means 434, 436 generates drawing information based on the display information that has been converted in advance into a format that can be easily processed by the drawing control means 434, 436, the processing of the drawing control means 434, 436 In some cases, the efficiency can be improved, the limited resources provided in the pachinko machine 100 can be used effectively, the frequency of frame dropping can be reduced, and an image display that does not give the player a sense of incongruity can be performed. is there.

  In addition, the pachinko machine 100 can configure a predetermined image from a plurality of images (in this embodiment, for example, (1) background A, (2) hero A, etc.), and draws each of the plurality of images. When generating the drawing information to be generated, the display information generation unit 404 generates display information, the transfer unit transfers display information, the generation start command unit instructs, and the drawing control units 434 and 436 draw information. Is repeatedly performed a plurality of times during a predetermined period. As described above, by generating a lot of display information and drawing information, various image effects may be performed.

  The pachinko machine 100 also includes first display information (in this embodiment, for example, (2) image data and production data of the hero A in the present embodiment) by the display information generating means 404. For example, (2) hero A attribute data) and second image information (in this embodiment, for example, (3) hero B image by the display information generation means 404 after the first display information is generated) Generation of second display information (in this embodiment, for example, (3) hero B attribute data) and the first display information based on the first display information by the drawing control means 434, 436. Generation of drawing information (in this embodiment, for example, (2) image data of the main character A arranged in the frame buffer) and second display by the drawing control means 434 and 436 When the second drawing information based on the information (in this embodiment, for example, (3) image data of the main character B arranged in the frame buffer) is generated during a predetermined period, the drawing control means 434, 436 If the generation of the first display information is completed when the drawing information can be generated, the generation of the second display information is started after the transfer of the first display information is started by the transfer means. And after the generation of the first display information is completed and the generation of the second display information is started, the first display information is generated by the transfer means after the generation of the second display information is completed. Start transferring.

  For this reason, it is possible to further shorten the period during which the display information generating unit 404 waits for the drawing control units 434 and 436, thereby reducing the occurrence frequency of frame dropping and performing image display that does not give the player a sense of incongruity. There is a case.

  Further, the pachinko machine 100 according to the present embodiment generates image display information (attribute data in the present embodiment) in a process that is periodically executed (in this embodiment, the transmission period of the V blank signal). Display information generation means (CPU 404 in this embodiment), first storage means (RAM 408 in this embodiment) used when display information generation means 404 generates display information, and display information generation means. An image to be displayed on the image display device (in this embodiment, the decorative symbol display device 208) is generated based on the displayed display information. When the generation is completed, a generation end signal (in this embodiment, a drawing end signal) is generated. The image generation means (VDP 434 in this embodiment) to be output to the display information generation means 404 and the second memory used when the image generation means 434 receives the display information The display information generating unit 404 generates a display information of the current image from the image generating unit 434, and generates a previous image generation end signal from the image generating unit 434. When the first image generation end signal is received at the time when the first stage of generation of display information of the current image (in this embodiment, generation of primary generation information) is completed, The remaining stage of the display information of the current image (in this embodiment, creation of secondary creation information) is generated using the second storage unit 434c.

  For this reason, the waiting time of the display information generation unit 404 and the image generation unit 434 may be reduced, and the image display efficiency may be improved. In addition, this makes it possible to display a larger number of images within one frame image, so that more various image effects may be performed.

  In addition, the display information generation unit 404 can generate display information of a plurality of types of images within the process executed within one cycle (in this embodiment, within the transmission interval of the V blank signal by the VDP 434). Is stored in the second storage unit 434c, and display information for the next image is generated. Specifically, if the previous image generation by the image generation unit 434 is not completed when the display information of the current image is created, the next image is displayed after the display information of the current image is stored in the second storage unit 434c. Generate display information. Therefore, it is possible to continue the processing of the display information generation unit 404 without waiting for the end of the processing by the image generation unit 434, and it may be possible to display more images in one frame image.

  In addition, when the display information generation unit 404 has finished generating the display information of the current image using the first storage unit 408, the display information generation unit 404 generates the display information of the next image using the first storage unit 408. End. Therefore, when the display information of the current image and the display information of the next image are transferred to the second storage unit 434c, it is not necessary to generate the remaining stage of the display information of the next image using the second storage unit 434c. In some cases, the display information of the current image and the display information of the next image can be efficiently and continuously transferred by the same transmission method.

  In addition, when the display information generation unit 404 generates display information of a plurality of types of images within one cycle, the first storage unit 408 uses the first storage unit 408 to generate the display information of the first image. The remaining stage is generated using the second storage unit 434c. As a result, processing is performed in comparison with the case where the display information is transferred from the first storage unit 408 to the second storage unit 434c after the first storage unit 408 is used to generate the display information of the first image. You may be able to save time.

  In addition, the display information generation unit 404 generates display coordinate information (parameters such as CGH and CGV in this embodiment) before the image is deformed in the first stage of display information generation, and in the subsequent stage. You may make it produce | generate the display coordinate information after deform | transforming an image. As described above, when the processing of display coordinate conversion increases, the processing efficiency of the display information generation unit 404 can be improved by performing this processing step by step.

  In this embodiment, every time the CPU 404 receives a V blank signal, the designation of the display area A and the display area B in the frame buffer of the VRAM 436 is switched. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Instead, the designation of the drawing area may be switched every time the CPU 404 receives the V blank signal a predetermined number of times (for example, twice).

  In the present embodiment, the CPU 404 transfers attribute data from the RAM 408 to the attribute register 434c, but the VDP 434 may transfer attribute data. In the present embodiment, the VDP 434 and the VRAM 436 are configured separately, but the VDP 434 may include the VRAM 436.

  It should be noted that the game table according to the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and it is needless to say that various changes can be made without departing from the gist of the present invention. For example, in addition to the pachinko machine 100 (1 type), the present invention can be applied to a pachinko machine (2 types and 3 types), a sealed pachinko machine, a pachinko machine, and the like. It can also be applied to ball game machines, smart balls, and the like.

  Further, for example, the present invention can be applied to a slot machine using medals (coins) as a game medium. Here, as a slot machine to which the present invention is applied, a plurality of reels provided with a plurality of types of symbols, a start switch for starting rotation of the plurality of reels, and each of the plurality of reels are provided. Provided by a stop switch for individually stopping the rotation of the reels, lottery means for determining whether or not an internal winning of a plurality of predetermined winning combinations is made by lottery, and the plurality of reels when stopped An example includes a determination unit that determines whether or not the winning combination is determined based on whether or not the combination of symbols is a winning combination that has been won internally by the lottery means.

  Further, for example, a game can be executed by applying the present invention to a game program that simulates the operation of a real machine such as a pachinko machine for a home game machine.

  In addition, the actions and effects described in the embodiments of the present invention are only the most preferable actions and effects resulting from the present invention, and the actions and effects according to the present invention are described in the embodiments of the present invention. It is not limited to things.

  The gaming machine of the present invention can be used particularly in the field of gaming machines represented by slot machines and gaming machines (such as pachinko machines).

100 Pachinko machine 208 Decorative design display device 404 CPU of first sub-control unit
406 ROM of the first sub-control unit
408 RAM of the first sub-control unit
434 VDP
436 VRAM

Claims (5)

Display information generating means for generating display information based on image information;
Drawing control means for generating drawing information based on the display information;
An image display device that displays a predetermined image based on the drawing information;
The display information includes primary information and secondary information generated from the primary information,
The display information generating means includes primary information generating means for generating the primary information from the image information, and secondary information generating means for generating the secondary information from the primary information,
When the drawing control means is ready to generate the drawing information,
If the generation of the secondary information by the secondary information generation means is started, the drawing information is generated based on the secondary information,
If it is before the generation of the secondary information by the secondary information generation means, the drawing information is generated based on the primary information,
Amusement stand. The display information generation unit and the drawing control unit are configured to generate the drawing information corresponding to a predetermined image displayed on the image display device every time a predetermined period elapses,
The display information generating means includes generation start command means for instructing the drawing control means to start generation of the drawing information based on the predetermined display information, and the generation start instruction means The display information is generated in parallel with the generation of the drawing information by the drawing control unit by instructing the control unit and starting generation of the display information based on the other image information. And
The game table according to claim 1. The display information generation means includes transfer means for transferring the generated display information to the drawing control means,
The drawing control unit generates the drawing information based on the display information transferred by the transfer unit.
The game table according to claim 2. The predetermined image can be composed of a plurality of images,
When generating the drawing information for drawing each of the plurality of images, the display information generating unit generates the display information, the transfer unit transfers the display information, and the generation start command unit. Wherein the command and the generation of the drawing information by the drawing control means are repeated a plurality of times during the predetermined period,
The game table according to claim 3. Generation of first display information based on first image information by the display information generating means;
Generation of second display information based on second image information by the display information generation means after generating the first display information;
Generation of first drawing information based on the first display information by the drawing control means;
When generating the second drawing information based on the second display information by the drawing control means during the predetermined period,
When the drawing control unit is ready to generate the drawing information, the transfer unit starts transferring the first display information if the generation of the first display information is not completed. The generation of the second display information is started later, and after the generation of the first display information is completed and the generation of the second display information is started, the generation of the second display information is performed. The transfer means starts transfer of the first display information after completion,
The game table according to claim 4.