JP2011206468A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of suppressing overheat of electronic components.SOLUTION: The game machine includes: a temperature detecting means 50 for detecting the temperature of an electronic component such as a CPU constituting an image control circuit 105; and a determination part for determining whether nor not the temperature detected by the temperature detecting means reaches a first threshold previously set to be not more than a temperature limit for heat resistance. When the determination part determines that the temperature detected by the temperature detecting means 50 reaches the first threshold, an image output stopping means stops the control of images by the image control circuit 105 while continuing the processing by a main control circuit 101.

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine provided with a temperature sensor and capable of suppressing overheating of electronic components.

  Since the CPU mounted on the control board of the gaming machine performs various processes, it tends to generate heat more easily than other control elements (electronic components). In recent years, the processing number of CPU (GPU) of the image control board which controls the liquid crystal display device is increasing from the sophistication and complexity of the production by the liquid crystal display device. Along with this, the clock frequency required for the CPU of the image control board increases, so that the heat generation action by the CPU of the image control board also increases. As a result, the image control board, particularly the CPU itself, becomes overheated. As described above, when the CPU of the image control board is overheated, the CPU and other control elements and the like malfunction, causing a problem in the effect of the liquid crystal display device that plays a central role in the effect of the gaming machine. Further, if this overheating state continues, the CPU is burned and cannot be reused, and the peripheral control board is adversely affected.

  In order to prevent such problems, there is a gaming machine in which a control board on which a CPU is mounted is provided with a cover member integrated with a cooling fin and a temperature sensor. The cooling fin includes a small motor and a rotating blade connected to the rotating shaft of the small motor, and the detected temperature range and the rotation speed of the rotating blade are associated with each other. Accordingly, the rotational speed of the rotary blade (rotary shaft of the small motor) changes (see, for example, Patent Document 1). For example, when the detected temperature is less than 25 ° C., the rotational speed of the rotor blade is 0 rpm. (Rotating blades are stopped), and at 25 ° C. or more and less than 30 ° C., the rotation speed is 180 rpm. And at 30 ° C. or higher, 360 rpm. And As described above, by overcooling the CPU by cooling the CPU, problems such as effects are prevented.

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-24146

  However, in this case, if the cooling fan stops operating due to a failure of the cooling fan or insertion of foreign matter into the rotor blades of the cooling fan, overheating of the electronic components such as the CPU cannot be suppressed, and the electronic components fail. Resulting in.

  In view of the above background, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that suppresses overheating of electronic components.

A first invention is a gaming machine including an image output device, wherein at least a main control circuit that controls basic progress of the game, an image control circuit that controls an image displayed on the image output device, Temperature detecting means for detecting the temperature of a predetermined electronic component constituting the image control circuit, and whether the temperature detected by the temperature detecting means has reached a first threshold value set in advance below the heat resistant limit temperature of the electronic component When the determination unit for determining whether or not the determination unit determines that the temperature detected by the temperature detection unit has reached the first threshold, the control of the progress of the game by the main control circuit is continued, Image output stopping means for stopping image control by the image control circuit.
According to a second aspect of the present invention, when the determination unit determines that the temperature detected by the temperature detection unit has reached the first threshold value, before the image output stop unit stops the image control by the image control circuit. And image output stop notification means for notifying that the control of the image by the image control circuit is stopped.
3rd invention has the cooling device which cools the temperature of the said predetermined electronic component used as the detection object of the said temperature detection means,
The cooling device operates when power is supplied to the image control circuit.
In a fourth aspect, when the determination unit determines that the temperature detected by the temperature detection unit has reached a second threshold value lower than the first threshold value, the temperature detected by the temperature detection unit is the second threshold value. Warning notifying means for notifying that the above has been reached.

  When the temperature detected by the temperature detection means reaches a first threshold value set below the heat-resistant limit temperature of an electronic component (hereinafter referred to as “detection component”) to be detected by the temperature detection means, the image output stop means The control of the image by the control circuit is stopped. That is, since the main processing of the image control circuit is stopped, it is possible to prevent the temperature of the detection component from rising and overheating. Furthermore, failure of other electronic components around the detection component and other control circuits can be prevented.

  Since the image output stop means stops the image control by the image control circuit while continuing the control of the progress of the game by the main control circuit, the disadvantage suffered by the player can be reduced. This is because, for example, the game itself is continued even if the temperature of the detection component reaches the first threshold during a jackpot game or in a state that is advantageous to the player such as a winning probability of jackpot winning. . As a result, the profit obtained by the player is not lost.

  In addition, when the gaming machine has other effect control circuit (for example, lamp control circuit) related to the effect in addition to the image control circuit, if the image output stop means continues the control by the other effect control circuit, The decrease can be suppressed. Furthermore, when the image output stop unit stops the image control by the image control circuit, the other effect control circuit can be changed. For example, the image control by the image control circuit is changed to a flashy effect rather than an effect in a normal state as a whole. As a result, the amount that the effect by the image is not performed is compensated for, and a decrease in the interest of the game can be suppressed.

  The image output stop notification means notifies the stop of the image control by the image control circuit before the image control by the image control circuit is stopped. Therefore, even if the image is not output suddenly from the image output device, the player You can continue playing without worrying.

  Further, when the temperature detected by the temperature detecting means by the warning means reaches a second threshold value that is lower than the first threshold value, the temperature of the detected component has reached the second threshold value, in other words, the temperature of the detected component is the heat resistance limit. It is notified that the temperature is close. That is, as a result, even if the detection component reaches the first threshold value and the image is no longer displayed on the image output device, it is suggested or notified in advance, so the image is output suddenly (without notice). Rather than disabling the image output from the device, the discomfort experienced by the player can be reduced.

  Further, when the cooling device is activated when power is supplied to the image control circuit, it is possible to stabilize the detection component while suppressing an increase in the temperature of the detection component. As a result, it is possible to reduce the problem of image display by the image output apparatus.

  Temperature detecting means for detecting the temperature of a predetermined electronic component constituting the image control circuit, and whether or not the temperature detected by the temperature detecting means has reached a first threshold value that is set in advance below the heat resistant limit temperature of the electronic component When the determination unit for determining whether the temperature detected by the temperature detection means has reached the first threshold, the control of the progress of the game by the main control circuit is continued and the control of the image by the image control circuit is stopped. Since the image output stop means is provided, it is possible to suppress the electronic component that is the target of temperature detection from being overheated.

It is a front view of the gaming machine of the present embodiment. It is a rear view of the gaming machine of FIG. It is a block diagram of a control means. 4A is a block diagram of the image control board in FIG. 3, and FIG. 4B is a perspective view of the cooling device in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the main process in a main control board. It is a flowchart which shows the timer interruption process in a main control board. It is a flowchart which shows the input control process in a main control board. It is a flowchart which shows the special figure special electric power control process in a main control board. It is a flowchart which shows the main process in an effect control board. It is a flowchart which shows the timer interruption process in an effect control board. It is a flowchart which shows the command reception process in an effect control board. (A) is a flowchart which shows the warning effect execution process in an effect control board, (b) is a flowchart which shows the warning effect end process in an effect control board. It is a flowchart which shows the electric power interruption error alerting | reporting process in an effect control board. It is a flowchart which shows the warning effect continuation determination process in an effect control board. It is a flowchart which shows the main process in an image control board. It is a flowchart which shows the timer interruption process in an image control board. It is a flowchart which shows the input control process in an image control board. It is a flowchart which shows the temperature management control process in an image control board.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be specifically described with reference to the drawings.

  The gaming machine 1 includes a gaming board 2, and an image output device 13 made up of a liquid crystal display device or the like is fitted in a frame body 14 and integrated with a central body at the center of the gaming board 2. ing. That is, the game area 5 is formed on the game board 2 facing the periphery of the frame body 14 constituting the center accessory. Further, the gaming machine 1 includes a game ball launching mechanism for launching a game ball, and the game ball launching mechanism has an operation handle 3 that is rotatably arranged. When the player touches the operation handle 3, the touch sensor 3 b in the operation handle 3 detects that the player has touched the operation handle 3 and transmits a touch signal to the firing control board 106.

  When the firing control board 106 receives a touch signal from the touch sensor 3b, the firing control board 106 permits energization of the firing solenoid 3c. When the rotation angle of the operation handle 3 is changed, the gear connected to the operation handle 3 rotates and the launch volume knob 3a connected to the gear rotates. A voltage corresponding to the detected angle of the firing volume knob 3a is applied to the firing solenoid 3c. The operation handle 3, the launch volume knob 3a, the touch sensor 3b, and the launch solenoid 3c constitute a game ball launch mechanism of the present invention.

  When a voltage is applied to the firing solenoid 3c, the firing solenoid 3c operates according to the applied voltage, and the strength according to the turning angle of the operation handle 3 (the turning angle of the knob 3a of the firing volume). (Hereinafter referred to as “game ball launch strength”), a game ball is launched toward the game area 5. The launched game ball rises between the rails 4a and 4b and reaches the upper part of the game board 2, and then falls (flows down) in the game area 5. At this time, the game ball falls unpredictably due to a collision with a plurality of nails or windmills provided in the game area 5.

  The game area 5 is provided with a plurality of general winning ports 11. Each general winning opening 11 is provided with a general winning opening detecting sensor 11a, and when this general winning opening detecting sensor 11a detects the entering of a game ball, a predetermined winning ball (for example, 10 game balls) is provided. To be paid out.

  The game area 5 is provided with a first prize gate 9 and a second prize gate 10 through which game balls can pass. The first winning gate 9 is provided with a first gate detection sensor 9a for detecting the passage of the game ball, the second winning gate 10 and the second gate detection sensor 10a for detecting the passage of the game ball are provided. When the gate detection sensors 9a and 10a detect the passing of the game ball, a normal symbol lottery is performed.

  Furthermore, below the game area 5 and below the image output device 13, there is provided a first start port 6 that is invariable and can always be won. The first starting port 6 is provided with a first starting port detection sensor 6a for detecting the entrance of a game ball. When the detection sensor 6a detects the entrance of a game ball, the first special symbol is drawn. . When the first start port detection sensor 6a detects a game ball entering, a predetermined prize ball (for example, three game balls) is paid out.

  Further, on the downstream side of the winning gate 10, there is provided a second start port 7 that is variable and can be switched between a winning possible state and a winning impossible state. The second start port 7 is switched by the second start port control device 70 to a state in which a winning is possible or a state in which a winning is not possible. The second start port control device 70 includes a movable piece 70b, and the movable piece 70b operates only when a predetermined condition is satisfied. That is, normally, the winning path to the second starting port 7 is cut off by the movable piece 70b that is stopped (not activated) (except when a predetermined condition is satisfied), and the second starting port cannot win a prize. To be controlled. On the other hand, when the predetermined condition is satisfied, the movable piece 70b is operated, so that a winning path to the second starting port 7 is formed and the second starting port 7 is in a state where a winning can be achieved. Here, the predetermined condition is to win a prize in the above-described normal symbol lottery.

  The second start port 7 is also provided with a second start port detection sensor 7a for detecting the entrance of the game ball. When the detection sensor 7a detects the entrance of the game ball, the second special symbol lottery is selected. Done. When the detection sensor 7a detects a game ball entering, a predetermined prize ball (for example, three game balls) is paid out.

  As shown in FIG. 1, below the second winning gate 10, there is provided a large winning opening 8 that is variable and can be switched between a winning possible state and a winning impossible state. The special winning opening 8 is switched by the special winning opening control device 80 to a state where a prize can be won or a state where a prize cannot be won. The special prize opening control device 80 includes a revolving door 80b, and the revolving door 80b operates only when a predetermined condition is satisfied. That is, normally (except when a predetermined condition is satisfied), the winning path to the big prize opening 8 is cut off by the rotating door 80b that is stopped (not activated), and the big prize opening 8 cannot be awarded. Controlled by the state. On the other hand, when the predetermined condition is satisfied, the movable piece 70b is operated, so that a winning path to the second starting port 7 is formed and the second starting port 7 is in a state where a winning can be achieved. Note that the predetermined condition here refers to the above-described lottery of the first special symbol and the lottery of the second special symbol (hereinafter, when referring to both the lottery of the first special symbol and the lottery of the second special symbol, simply “ "Special drawing lottery") is to win a special prize.

  The big prize opening 8 is provided with a big prize opening detection sensor 8a. When the big prize opening detection sensor 8a detects a winning of a game ball, preset prize balls (for example, 15 game balls) are provided. To be paid out.

  At the bottom of the game area 5, there is a discharge port 12 for discharging game balls that have not won any of the first start port 6, the second start port 7, the big winning port 8, and the general winning port 11. Is provided.

  The game board 2 is provided with an effect device for performing various effects. Specifically, in addition to the image output device 13 described above, an effect accessory device 15 is provided above the image output device 13. By the operation of the effect accessory device 15, the effect can be made more flashy and various expectations can be given to the player. Furthermore, an illuminating lighting device 16 having a plurality of movable lights 16a is provided on the upper and lower portions of the game board 2. Various light effects are performed by changing the light irradiation direction and emission color of each light 16a. In addition, an audio output device 17 is provided on the outside in the horizontal direction of the effect lighting device 16 installed on the upper part of the game board 2, and various sound effects can be produced by changing the pitch and volume of the sound. Is done.

  The image output device 13 displays an image mainly according to the progress of the game. Among them, the effect that is performed at a high frequency is a lottery effect performed in response to a special symbol lottery based on an effective winning of the game ball to the first start port 6 or the second start port 7. Basically, in the lottery effect, first, the decorative symbols that make up the effect symbol change for a predetermined time in a predetermined manner, and then stop (hereinafter, the effect symbol is displayed in a stopped state as “the effect symbol stop display”). "It is called" change display of effect design "that the effect design is displayed in a change state). The stop display of the effect symbol means that the lottery effect ends. In addition, when a production | presentation symbol is comprised with a some decoration design, it is called the stop display of a production | presentation symbol when all the decoration designs are stopped and displayed.

  When a special symbol lottery or special game is not performed for a predetermined period of time (a so-called customer waiting state), a demonstration effect is performed.

  The effect button 18 is configured so that it can be pressed, and in a game, for example, the operation is effective only when a message for operating the effect button 18 is displayed on the image output device 13. The effect button 18 is provided with an effect button detection switch 18a. When the effect button detection switch 18a detects a player's operation, an effect button operation detection signal is transmitted to an effect control board 102, which will be described later. Depending on the situation, a special performance is executed.

  Below the game area 5, a symbol display device comprising a first special symbol display device 19, a second special symbol display device 20, and a normal symbol display device 21, a first special symbol hold number display device 22, a second special symbol display device 22. A number-of-holds display device comprising a symbol number-of-holds display device 23 and a normal symbol number-of-holds display device 24, and a status display device comprising a time-short state display device 26 are provided.

  The special symbol display devices 19 and 20 are devices that display the results of a special symbol lottery performed on the condition that a game ball wins at the start ports 6 and 7. A special symbol is set as a result of the special symbol lottery. When the special symbol lottery is performed, the special symbol corresponding to the lottery result is displayed on the special symbol display devices 19 and 20 in a stopped state. That is, the special symbol stop display on the special symbol display devices 19 and 20 is a notification of the lottery result of the special symbol. In addition, a special symbol is displayed on the first special symbol display device 19 for the special symbol lottery based on the winning at the first starting port 6, and the special symbol lottery based on the winning at the second starting port 7 is selected. The special symbol is displayed on the second special symbol display device 20. Hereinafter, the special symbol displayed on the first special symbol display device 19 is referred to as a first special symbol, and the special symbol displayed on the second special symbol display device 20 is referred to as a second special symbol.

  Each of the special symbol display devices 19 and 20 includes, for example, a plurality of LEDs. When the jackpot is won, a specific LED corresponding to the jackpot is turned on. LED lights up. In this way, the characters, figures, patterns, etc. that appear when the LEDs of the special symbol display devices 19 and 20 are lit constitute a special symbol. Before this special symbol stops, it always changes for a predetermined time. To do. That is, a special symbol display is performed for one special symbol lottery, and a special symbol variation display and a special symbol stop display are performed in one special symbol display.

  The normal symbol display device 21 is a device that displays a result of a normal symbol lottery performed on condition that a game ball passes through the winning gate 10. The normal symbol is set as the result of the normal symbol lottery. When the normal symbol lottery is performed, the normal symbol corresponding to the lottery result is displayed on the normal symbol display device 21 in a stopped state. That is, the stop display of the normal symbol on the normal symbol display device 21 is a notification of the lottery result of the normal symbol.

  The normal symbol display device 21 includes, for example, a plurality of LEDs. When winning, the specific LED corresponding to the winning is turned on, and when it is lost, the specific LED corresponding to the lost is displayed. Light. In this way, characters, figures, patterns, and the like that appear when the LED included in the normal symbol display device 21 is lit constitute a normal symbol, but always vary for a predetermined time before the normal symbol stops. That is, the normal symbol display is performed for one normal symbol lottery, and the normal symbol variation display and the normal symbol stop display are performed in one normal symbol display.

  By the way, even if a game ball wins at the start openings 6 and 7 during the special symbol variation display or during the special game, the special symbol variation display is performed immediately and the result of the special symbol lottery is not notified. In this case, the special symbol variation display (definite notification of the result of the special symbol lottery) is put on hold under certain conditions. There is an upper limit for the number of special symbols that can be suspended, and the upper limit is set to “4” for each of the start ports 6 and 7. That is, it is possible to hold up to four special symbol variation displays, that is, special symbol lottery rights, for each of the start ports 6 and 7. The first special symbol reservation number display device 22 corresponds to the first start port 6, and the second special symbol reservation number display device 23 corresponds to the second start port 7. Indicates the current number of holds (U1, U2) in a predetermined manner. Similarly, for the normal symbol variation display, the upper limit number of reservations is set to four, and the number of reservations is displayed on the normal symbol reservation number display device 24.

  As shown in FIG. 2, on the back side of the game board 2, there are a main control board 101, an effect control board 102, a payout control board 103, a lamp control board 104, an image control board 105, a launch control board 106, and a power source. A control means 100 comprising a substrate unit including the substrate 107 is provided. The power supply board 107 is provided with a power plug for supplying power to the gaming machine and a power switch.

(Internal structure of control means)
Next, the control means 100 for controlling the progress of the game will be described with reference to FIG. The main control board 101 controls the basic operation of the game. The main control board 101 includes a main CPU 101a, a main ROM 101b, and a main RAM 101c. The main CPU 101a reads out the program stored in the main ROM 101b based on the input signals from the detection sensors and timers, performs arithmetic processing, and directly controls each device and display device, or determines the result of the arithmetic processing. In response, a predetermined command is transmitted to another board. The main RAM 101c functions as a data work area during the arithmetic processing of the main CPU 101a.

  On the input side of the main control board 101, there are a first start port detection sensor 6a, a second start port detection sensor 7a, a big winning port detection sensor 8a, a first winning gate detection sensor 9a, a second winning gate detection sensor 10a, And the general winning opening detection sensor 11a is connected, and the detection signal corresponding to each sensor is input into the main control board 101 via an input port (not shown).

  On the output side of the main control board 101, a second start opening / closing solenoid 70c for moving the movable piece 70b of the second start opening control device 70 and a large winning opening opening / closing solenoid for moving the open / close door 80b of the large winning opening control device 80 are provided. 80c is connected, and a signal for controlling each solenoid is output via an output port (not shown). Further, on the output side of the main control board 101, the first special symbol display device 19, the second special symbol display device 20, the normal symbol display device 21, the first special symbol hold number display device 22, the second special symbol hold number. The display device 23 and the normal symbol holding number display device 24 are connected, and a signal for controlling each display device is output via an output port (not shown).

  Further, a game information output terminal board 108 is connected to the output side of the main control board 101, and information relating to a predetermined game (hereinafter referred to as game information) is converted via an output port (not shown). Output as an external signal. The game information output terminal board 108 is connected to a game information display device 700 and a hall computer of the game store, and the predetermined game information (external signal) is transferred from the game information output terminal board 108 to the game information display device 700 and the hall. Sent to the computer. The predetermined game information is output (displayed) on the game information display device 700, so that the player is provided with a material for determining the game machine (unit) installed in the game store. On the other hand, predetermined game information is output (displayed / printed) by a display device or a printer connected to the hall computer, so that the game shop can grasp the operating status of each gaming machine.

  In this embodiment, the game information output terminal board 108 and the game information display device 700 are connected and the game information display device 700 and the hall computer are connected, but the connection mode is limited to this. The game information output terminal board 108 is connected to the hall computer, and the hall computer and the game information display apparatus 700 are connected to each other. It is also possible to be connected directly to

  The effect control board 102 mainly controls each effect such as during game play or standby. The effect control board 102 includes a sub CPU 102a, a sub ROM 102b, and a sub RAM 102c, and is connected to the main control board 101 so as to be communicable in one direction from the main control board 101 to the effect control board 102. An effect button detection switch 18 a is connected to the input side of the effect control board 102, and an effect button detection signal indicating that the operation of the effect button 18 has been performed is input to the effect control board 102.

  The sub CPU 102a reads out a program stored in the sub ROM 102b based on a command transmitted from the main control board 101 or an input signal from the effect button detection SW 18a or a timer and performs arithmetic processing. Based on this, the command is transmitted to the lamp control board 104, the image control board 105, or an effect information output terminal board 110 described later. The sub RAM 102c functions as a data work area when the sub CPU 102a performs arithmetic processing.

  The payout control board 103 performs game ball launch control and game ball payout control. The payout control board 103 includes a payout CPU 103a, a payout ROM 103b, and a payout RAM 103c. The payout control board 103 is connected to the main control board 101 and the launch control board 106 so as to be capable of bidirectional communication.

  A payout ball counting switch 31a for detecting whether or not a game ball has been paid out is connected to the input side of the payout CPU 103a, and payout based on a payout ball detection signal from these and an input signal from a timer. The program stored in the ROM 103b is read out to perform arithmetic processing, and corresponding data is transmitted to the main control board 101 based on the processing.

  On the output side of the payout control board 103, a payout driving unit 31 b of the payout device 31 for paying out a predetermined number of game balls from the storage tank 30 to the player is connected. The payout CPU 103a reads out a predetermined program from the payout ROM 103b based on the prize ball request signal transmitted from the main control board 101, performs arithmetic processing, and controls the payout device 31 to give a predetermined game ball to the player. Pay out. At this time, the payout RAM 103c functions as a data work area during the calculation process of the payout CPU 103a.

  Also, the payout CPU 103a confirms whether or not the game ball lending device 800 is connected to the payout control board 103, and if the game ball lending device 800 is connected, causes the launch control board 106 to fire the game ball. Send the permitted launch control data.

When the launch control board 106 receives the launch control data from the payout control board 103, the launch control board 106 permits the launch. Then, the touch signal from the touch sensor 3b and the input signal from the launch volume 3a are read out, the energization control of the launch solenoid 3c is performed, and the game ball is launched.
In the present embodiment, the rotation speed of the firing solenoid 3c is set to about 99.9 (times / minute) from the frequency based on the output period of the crystal oscillator provided on the firing control board 106. As a result, the number of game balls to be fired in one minute is about 99.9 (pieces / minute) because one ball is fired each time the firing solenoid rotates.

  The lamp control board 104 includes a lamp CPU 104a, a lamp ROM 104b, and a lamp RAM 104c, as in the above-described boards. The lamp control board 104 controls the lighting of the effect lighting device 16 provided on the game board 2, and Drive control for a motor for changing the light irradiation direction is performed. In addition, energization control is performed on a drive source such as a solenoid or a motor that operates the effect accessory device 15. The lamp control board 104 is connected to the effect control board 102 and performs each control described above based on a command transmitted from the effect control board 102.

  The image control board 105 includes at least an image generation unit 105B that generates image data related to an image such as a moving image or a still image displayed on the image output device 13, and sound related to sound such as music output from the audio output device 17. An audio generation unit 105C that generates data, and an overall unit 105A that performs overall control of the image generation unit 105B and the audio generation unit 105C.

  The overall control unit 105A of the image control board 105 receives the effect confirmation command transmitted from the effect control board 102, and the overall CPU 105Aa of the overall control unit 105A outputs the image displayed on the image output device 13 and the audio output device 17. Perform overall control of the audio being played. A general ROM 105Ab is connected to the general CPU 105Aa, and a control program such as an operating system and an application for instructing the general CPU 105Aa is stored in the general ROM 105Ab.

  A temperature detection sensor 50 is connected to the input side of the control unit 105A of the image control board 105, and a temperature detection signal from the sensor is input to the control unit 105A via an input port (not shown). In addition, a cooling drive unit 51b of a cooling device 51 for cooling an image CPU 105Ba of an image generation unit 105B described later is connected to the output side of the overall unit 105A.

  The temperature detection sensor 50 is incorporated in a circuit constituting the image generation unit 105B, and periodically sends a temperature detection signal indicating the temperature to the general unit 105A. In this embodiment, the temperature detection signal is directly sent to the overall unit 105A, but the temperature detection signal may be relayed to the image generation unit 105B and sent to the overall unit 105A.

  A cooling drive signal for operating the cooling drive unit 51b is transmitted from the overall control unit 105A when the image control board 105 is powered on. Thus, the image CPU 105Ba is cooled because the image CPU 105Ba performs a more complicated process than the other CPUs of the image control board 105 and the CPUs of the other boards, and is much easier to heat than those. . As shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the cooling device 51 is attached to the image control board 105 so as to surround the image CPU 105Ba. The cooling device 51 includes a base 51c and a rotary blade 51b. When the rotary blade 51a connected to the cooling drive unit 51b rotates, the air in the space surrounded by the cooling device 51 including the image CPU 105Ba is cooled. Discharged.

  The overall CPU 105Aa is connected to the image CPU 105Ba of the image generation unit 105B and the audio CPU 105Ca of the audio generation unit 105C. The image CPU 105Ba finally generates an image signal corresponding to an image to be displayed on the image output device 13, The generated image signal is transmitted to the drive circuit of the image output device 13. On the other hand, the audio CPU 105Ca finally generates an audio signal corresponding to the audio output from the audio output device 17, and transmits the generated audio signal to the drive circuit of the audio output device 17.

  The image CPU 105Ba is connected to an image ROM 105Bb in which a control program executed by the image CPU 105Ba and image data are stored, and a control program necessary for the operation of the image CPU 105Ba is read out. The image ROM 105Bb also stores in advance image data related to background images such as landscapes, characters, and items that form images to be displayed on the image output device 13, for example, decorative symbols and backgrounds of decorative symbols. The image CPU 105Ba is also connected to a VRAM 105Bc that stores image data generated in advance and stores image data stored in the image ROM 105Bb in advance.

  The image CPU 105Ba executes various image processing such as background image display processing, decorative design display processing, and character image display processing on the image output device 13, but the background image, decorative design image, and character image are output as images. The image is superimposed on the display screen of the device 13. That is, the decorative design image and the character image are displayed so as to be seen in front of the background image. At this time, if the background image and the design image overlap at the same position, the design image is preferentially stored in the VRAM 105Bc by referring to the Z value of the Z buffer of each image data by a known hidden surface removal method such as the Z buffer method. .

  On the other hand, the voice CPU 105Ca is also connected with a voice ROM 105Cb in which voice CPU 105Ca executes a control program and voice data, and a control program necessary for the operation of the voice CPU 105Ca is read out. In the voice CPU 105Ca, voice data related to the voice output from the voice output device 17 is also stored in advance. The audio CPU 105Ca is also connected to an audio RAM 105Cc that stores the generated audio data.

  The game information output terminal board 108 is a relay board for transmitting an external signal generated on the main control board 101 to the hall computer of the game shop and the game information display device 700. In the present embodiment, the game information output terminal board 108 is directly connected only to the game information display device 700 on the output side, and is connected to the hall computer via the game information display device 700. The game information output terminal board 108 is wired to the main control board 101 and provided with a connector for connecting to a hall computer or the like of a game store.

  The payout information output terminal board 109 is a relay board for outputting to the hall computer a prize ball request signal indicating the number of prize balls to be paid and a ball rental request signal indicating the number of balls to be paid out, generated in the payout control board 103. It is. In the present embodiment, the payout information output terminal board 109 is also connected to the hall computer via the game information display device 700. The payout information output terminal board 109 is connected to the payout control board 103 by wiring, and is provided with a connector for connecting to a hall computer or the like of a game store.

  The effect information output terminal board 110 is a relay board for outputting an image control board temperature error signal indicating that the image CPU 105Ba has been overheated to the hall computer. In the present embodiment, the effect information output terminal board 110 is also connected to the hall computer via the game information display device 700. The effect information output terminal board 110 is wired to the image control board 105 and is provided with a connector for connecting to a hall computer or the like of a game store.

  In this embodiment, the game information output terminal board 108, the payout information output terminal board 109, and the image information output terminal board 110 are connected to the hall computer via the game information display device 700. The output terminal boards 108 to 110 may be connected to both the game information display device 700 and the hall computer. Further, the information output terminal plates 108 to 110 may be connected to the game information display device 700 through a hall computer.

  The power supply board 107 has a backup power supply composed of a capacitor (not shown), monitors the power supply voltage supplied to the gaming machine, and controls the power interruption detection signal when the power supply voltage becomes a predetermined value or less. Output to the substrate 101. More specifically, when the power interruption detection signal becomes high level, the main CPU 101a becomes operable, and when the power interruption detection signal becomes low level, the main CPU 101a becomes inactive state. The backup power source is not limited to a capacitor, and for example, a battery may be used, and a capacitor and a battery may be used in combination.

(Main processing of main control board)
The main process of the main control board 101 will be described with reference to FIG. When power is supplied to the main control board 101 by the power supply board 107, a system reset occurs in the main CPU 101a, and the following main processing is performed.

  First, in step S10, initialization processing is performed. In this process, in response to power-on, the activation program and the main control program for controlling the progress of the game are read from the main ROM 101b, and the peripheral devices of the main CPU 101a and the storage areas of the main RAM 101c are initialized. As a result, the main control program operates to perform the following processing on the main control board 101.

  In step S20, the random number is updated to determine the special figure fluctuation pattern in the special symbol fluctuation display composed of the reach determination random number value, the special figure fluctuation pattern determination random value, and the like.

  In step S30, an initial value random number composed of a jackpot determining initial value random number, a special symbol determining initial value random number, a winning determination initial value random number, and the like is updated. Thereafter, the processes of step S20 and step S30 are repeated until a predetermined interrupt process is performed.

(Timer interrupt processing of main control board)
The timer interrupt process of the main control board 101 will be described with reference to FIG. A clock pulse is generated every predetermined period (4 milliseconds) by the reset clock pulse generation circuit provided on the main control board 101, thereby executing a timer interrupt process described below.

  First, in step S100, the information stored in the register of the main CPU 101a is saved in the stack area.

  In step S110, a special symbol timer counter that performs a special symbol change time update process, a special symbol stop time update process, an opening time update process, an open / close time update process of the special winning opening 8, and the like The time control process of updating the auxiliary game timer counter for performing the update process of the fluctuation time, the update process of the stop time of the normal symbol, and the update process of the opening / closing time of the second start port 7 is performed.

  In step S120, random number update processing of the jackpot determination random number value, the special symbol determination random number value, and the hit determination random number value is performed. Specifically, each random number counter is incremented by 1 to update the random number counter. When the addition result exceeds the maximum value in the random number range, the random number counter is reset to 0. When the random number counter makes one round, the random number is updated from the initial random number value at that time.

  In step S130, initial value random number update processing is performed in which the random number counter is updated by adding +1 to the big hit determination initial value random number counter, the special symbol initial value random number counter, and the hit determination initial value random number counter.

  In step S200, input control processing is performed. In this process, an input control process for determining whether or not a new valid signal is transmitted from a predetermined detection sensor is performed. Details will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S300, control of the first special symbol display device 19, the second special symbol display device 20, the first special symbol hold number display device 22, the second special symbol hold number display device 23, and the big prize opening control device 80. Special symbol special electric control processing (special symbol related processing) for performing (control of special symbol system device) is performed. Details will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S400, the normal symbol display device 21, the normal symbol hold count display device 24, and the second starting port control device 70 (normal symbol system control) are performed. )I do.

  In step S500, a payout control process is performed. In this process, it is checked whether or not the winning ball counter corresponding to the starting port (the first starting port 6 and the second starting port 7), the big winning port 8, and the general winning port 11 exceeds "0". If “0” is exceeded, a prize ball request signal indicating the number of prize balls corresponding to each prize opening is transmitted to the payout control board 103. When a prize ball signal is transmitted, an update process for subtracting “1” from the prize ball counter related to the signal is performed.

  In step S600, external signal output control data for outputting information related to the game as an external signal to an external device such as the game information display device 700, the second start port opening / closing solenoid 70c, and the prize winning port opening / closing solenoid 80c are driven. Drive control data (start port opening / closing solenoid drive data and grand prize opening / closing solenoid drive data), and display for displaying predetermined symbols on the symbol display devices 19, 20, 21 and the hold number display devices 22, 23, 24 Data creation processing of control data (special symbol display data, normal symbol display data, special symbol hold display data, normal symbol hold display data) is performed.

  In step S700, output control processing is performed. In this process, first, a port output process for outputting a signal based on the external signal output control data and the drive control data created in S600 is performed. Subsequently, in order to light each LED of the symbol display devices 19, 20, and 21 and the hold display devices 22, 23, and 24, display device output processing is performed for outputting a signal based on the display control data created in step S600. . Finally, command transmission processing for transmitting the command set in the transmission buffer of the main RAM 101c to another board is also performed.

  In step S800, the information saved in step S100 is returned to the register of the main CPU 101a.

  The input control process will be described with reference to FIG. First, in step S210, the general winning a prize opening detection sensor input program is operated to perform a general winning opening detection sensor input process. That is, it is determined whether a detection signal is input from the general winning opening detection sensor 11 a, in other words, whether the game ball has won the general winning opening 11. When a detection signal is input from the general winning opening detecting sensor 11a, predetermined data is added to the general winning opening winning ball counter used for winning balls and updated.

  In step S220, a special winning opening detection sensor input program is operated to perform a special winning opening detection sensor input process. That is, it is determined whether or not the detection signal from the special winning opening detection sensor 8a has been inputted, in other words, whether or not the game ball has won the special winning opening 8. When a detection signal is input from the big prize opening detection sensor 8a, predetermined data is added to the big prize mouth prize ball counter used for the prize ball and updated, and a game ball won in the big prize mouth 8 is updated. The counter value of the round winning counter (C) for counting is added and updated.

  In step S230, the first start port detection sensor input program is operated to perform the first start port detection sensor input process. That is, it is determined whether a detection signal from the first start port detection sensor 6a has been input, in other words, whether or not the game ball has won the first start port 6. When a detection signal is input from the first start port detection sensor 6a, game media information (a jackpot determination value, a special symbol determination value, a reach determination value) required for the lottery of the first special symbol and the special symbol display related to the lottery , And a special figure variation pattern judgment value) are acquired and stored in the first special symbol storage area of the main RAM 101c. In the present embodiment, this storage area has first to fourth storage sections capable of storing game mediation information, and the number of game mediation information that can be stored in this storage area is up to 4. It has become. Further, in step S230, predetermined data is added to the start opening prize ball counter used for the prize ball and updated.

  In step S240, the second start port detection sensor input program is operated to perform the second start port detection sensor input process. That is, it is determined whether a detection signal from the second start port detection sensor 7a has been input, in other words, whether the game ball has won the second start port 7. When a detection signal is input from the second start port detection sensor 7a, game media information (a jackpot determination value, a special symbol determination value, a reach determination value) necessary for the lottery of the second special symbol and the special symbol display related to the lottery , And a special figure variation pattern determination value) are acquired and stored in the second special symbol storage area of the main RAM 101c. In the present embodiment, this storage area has first to fourth storage sections capable of storing game mediation information, and the number of game mediation information that can be stored in this storage area is up to 4. It has become. In step S240, predetermined data is added to the start opening prize ball counter used for the prize ball and updated.

  In step S250, the first winning gate detection sensor input program is activated to perform the first winning gate detection sensor input process. That is, it is determined whether the detection signal from the first winning gate detection sensor 9a is input, in other words, whether the game ball has won the first winning gate 9. When a detection signal is input from the first winning gate detection sensor 9a, game media information (winning determination value and normal symbol determination value) necessary for normal symbol lottery and normal symbol display related to the lottery is acquired. And stored in the normal symbol storage area of the main RAM 101c.

  In step S260, the second winning gate detection sensor input program is operated to perform the second winning gate detection sensor input process. That is, it is determined whether the detection signal from the second winning gate detection sensor 10a is input, in other words, whether the game ball has won the second winning gate. When a detection signal is input from the second winning gate detection sensor a, game media information (winning determination value and normal symbol determination value) necessary for normal symbol lottery and normal symbol display related to the lottery is acquired. And stored in the normal symbol storage area of the main RAM 101c.

  In the present embodiment, this normal symbol storage area has first to fourth storage sections that can store game mediation information, respectively, and the number of game mediation information that can be stored in this storage area is 4. It is up to pieces. When this process ends, the input control process ends.

  The special figure special electric control process will be described with reference to FIG. In step S301, the value of the special figure special electricity processing data is loaded, and the branch address is referred to from the special figure special electric treatment data loaded in step S302. If special figure special electric treatment data = 0, the special symbol memory determination process (step S310). If the special symbol special power processing data = 1, the processing shifts to the special symbol variation processing (step S320). If the special symbol special power processing data = 2, the processing shifts to the special symbol stop processing (step S330). If special figure special electric processing data = 3, the process shifts to jackpot game processing (step S340), and if special figure special electric processing data = 4, the process moves to small hit game processing (step S350). If data = 5, the process proceeds to the special game end process (step S360).

  In step S310, a special symbol memory determination program is activated to perform a special symbol memory determination process. That is, a special symbol lottery is performed based on the game mediation information acquired and stored in step S230 and step S240, and the lottery result is confirmed. Furthermore, the special symbol variation display (special symbol display) corresponding to the special symbol lottery is started. Here, the time required for the special symbol variation display (hereinafter referred to as the special symbol variation time) is also determined based on the game mediation information acquired and stored in step S230 and step S240. When the special symbol variation display starts, a special symbol variation start command having information such as the special symbol lottery and the special symbol variation time is set in the transmission buffer of the main RAM 101c.

  In step S320, the special symbol variation program is operated to perform special symbol variation processing. That is, it is determined whether or not the special symbol variation time of the variation display of the special symbol has elapsed, and if it has been determined, the special symbol variation display is terminated and the special symbol corresponding to the result of the special symbol lottery is ended. Stop display of symbols.

  In step S330, a special symbol stop program is activated to perform a special symbol stop process. That is, it is determined whether or not the time required for the special symbol stop display (hereinafter referred to as a special symbol stop time) has elapsed. If it is determined that the special symbol stop display has elapsed, the special symbol stop display is terminated. If the result of the special symbol lottery is a jackpot, the jackpot game is started at the end of the special symbol stop display, and a jackpot game opening command indicating that is set in the transmission buffer of the main RAM 101c. Also, if the special symbol lottery result is a small hit, the small hit game is started at the end of the special symbol stop display, and a small hit game opening command indicating that is set in the transmission buffer of the main RAM 101c. To do.

  In step S340, the jackpot game program is activated to perform jackpot game processing. That is, when the result of the special symbol lottery is a jackpot, the jackpot game is executed. When the jackpot game ends, a jackpot game ending command indicating the fact is set in the transmission buffer of the main RAM 101c.

  In step S350, a small hitting game program is operated to perform a small hitting game process. That is, when the result of the special symbol lottery is a small hit, a small hit game is executed in step S350. When the small hit game ends, a small hit game ending command indicating that is set in the transmission buffer of the main RAM 101c.

  In step S360, the special game end program is operated to perform a special game end process. That is, a gaming state associated with the jackpot is newly set, and a gaming state designation command associated with the gaming state is set in the transmission buffer of the main RAM 101c.

(Production control board main processing)
Next, the main process of the effect control board 102 will be described with reference to FIG. When power is supplied from the power supply board 107 to the effect control board 102, a system reset occurs in the sub CPU 102a, and the following main processing is performed.

  First, in step S1000, initialization processing is performed. In this process, in response to power-on, an activation control program for controlling the activation program and effects is read from the sub ROM 102b, and the peripheral devices of the sub CPU 102a and the storage areas of the sub RAM 102c are initialized. As a result, the effect control program operates to perform the following processing on the sub control board 102.

  In step S1001, the sub CPU 102a updates effect random numbers such as effect mode determination random numbers and effect pattern determination random numbers. Thereafter, the process of step S1001 is repeated until a predetermined interrupt process is performed.

(Timer interrupt processing of production control board)
The timer interrupt process of the effect control board 102 will be described with reference to FIG. A clock pulse is generated every predetermined period (for example, 4 milliseconds) by the reset clock pulse generation circuit provided on the effect control board 102, thereby executing a timer interrupt process described below.

  First, in step S1110, the information stored in the register of the sub CPU 102a is saved in the stack area.

  In step S1120, time control processing for updating the effect timer counter related to various effects is performed.

  In step S1130, random number update processing of various effect random numbers is performed. Specifically, each random number counter is incremented by 1 to update the random number counter. When the addition result exceeds the maximum value in the random number range, the random number counter is reset to 0. When the random number counter makes one round, the random number is updated from the initial random number value at that time.

  In step S1200, the input control program is activated to perform input control processing. Various commands and signals transmitted from the main control board 101 or the image control board 105 are stored in dedicated areas corresponding to the respective commands in the sub RAM 102c. Note that when a previously transmitted command or signal is stored, the previous command is overwritten and the newly transmitted command is stored. Details will be described later with reference to FIGS.

  In step S1300, the effect button program is activated to perform effect button processing. That is, when a detection signal from the effect button detection switch 18a is received, an effect button confirmation command is transmitted to the lamp control board 104 and the image control board 105 to transmit that the effect button 18 has been operated. Set to.

  In step S1400, the demonstration effect program is activated to perform demonstration effect processing. That is, a demonstration effect determination process for determining whether to perform a demonstration effect is performed. As a result of the determination process, if the sub CPU 102a determines that a demonstration effect is to be performed, the sub CPU 102a sets a demonstration effect confirmation command in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 102c.

  In step S1500, the special figure reservation number effect pattern determination program is operated to perform special figure reservation number effect pattern determination processing. That is, the current special figure hold status (for example, the special figure hold number (the first special figure hold number (U1) and the second special figure hold number (U2))) is displayed on the image output device 13 as a special figure. Hold number effect pattern determination processing is performed. Specifically, the current special figure hold number is confirmed based on a special figure hold number counter provided on the sub-control board 102, and a special figure hold effect confirmation command associated with the special figure hold number is generated. , Set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 102c.

  In step S1700, the output control program is activated to perform output control processing. In this process, a command set in the transmission buffer is transmitted to the lamp control board 104 and the image control board 105 in order to perform a predetermined effect.

  In step S1140, the information saved in step S1110 is returned to the register of the sub CPU 102a.

  The input control process by the input control program will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S1201)
It is determined whether or not a gaming state designation command has been received effectively. If the input control program determines that there is no valid reception, it moves the process to step S1203. If the command reception program determines that there is valid reception, in step S1202, the command reception program operates the gaming state setting program to set the state of the gaming condition indicated by the gaming state designation command.

(Step S1203)
It is determined whether or not a start opening prize designation command has been received. If the input control program determines that there is no valid reception, it moves the process to step S1205. If it is determined that there has been a valid reception, the input control program activates the special figure reservation number addition program in step S1204 to perform special figure reservation number addition processing. That is, the type of special figure hold (first special figure hold or second special figure hold) indicated by the start opening prize designation command is confirmed, and the number of special figure holds in the sub RAM 102c provided for each type of special figure hold. Add the counter value of the counter.

(Step S1205)
It is determined whether or not a special figure change start command has been received effectively. If the input control program determines that there is no valid reception, it moves the process to step S1207. If the co-input control program determines that there has been a valid reception, in step S1206, the lottery effect pattern determination program is activated to perform a lottery effect pattern determination process. That is, the definite special symbol lottery, that is, the lottery effect pattern associated with the lottery effect mode corresponding to the special symbol display is determined based on the special symbol variation start command.

  The lottery effect pattern consists of a decorative pattern display pattern, a decorative pattern background display pattern made up of scenes and characters, etc., based on the change start command, the decorative pattern change mode and stop mode, presence or absence of reach effect, background Type, variation mode, etc. are set. One special figure change start command is associated with one or more lottery effect patterns, and an effect random number determination value is associated with the lottery effect pattern. That is, for each special figure change start command, a lottery effect pattern determination table in which a lottery effect pattern and an effect random number determination value are associated is set and stored in the sub ROM 102b. The lottery effect pattern determination program determines the lottery effect pattern by acquiring the effect random number in step S1206 and collating it with the lottery effect pattern determination table based on the special figure change start command. A lottery effect confirmation command is uniquely associated with the lottery effect pattern, and the lottery effect pattern determination program sets the lottery effect confirmation command corresponding to the determined lottery effect pattern in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 102c.

(Step S1207)
It is determined whether or not an effect designating command has been received effectively. If the input control program determines that there is no valid reception, it moves the process to step S1209. If it is determined that there is a valid reception, the input control program operates the special figure reservation number subtraction program in step S1208 to perform special figure reservation number subtraction processing. That is, the type of hold (first special figure hold or second special figure hold) indicated by the effect symbol designation command is confirmed, and the counter value of the hold number counter in the sub RAM 102c is decremented by “1”.

(Step S1209)
It is determined whether or not a special figure change end command has been received. If the input control program determines that there is no valid reception, it moves the process to step S1211. If the input control program determines that there is a valid reception, in step S1210, the lottery effect end program is executed by operating the lottery effect end program.

(Step S1211)
It is determined whether or not a demo designation command has been received successfully. If it is determined that there is no valid reception, the input control program moves the process to step S1213. If it is determined that there is a valid reception, the input control program activates the demonstration effect standby time measurement program in step S1212 and performs the demonstration effect standby time measurement start process as a pre-process for starting the demonstration effect. .

(Step S1213)
It is determined whether or not a special game opening command (a big hit game opening command or a small hit game opening command) has been received. If the input control program determines that there is no valid reception, it moves the process to step S1215. If it is determined that there is valid reception, the input control program activates the special game opening program and performs special game effect pattern determination processing in step S1214. That is, the special effect confirmation command associated with the content of the special game effect that is the main effect related to the special game is set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 102c.

(Step S1215)
It is determined whether or not there is a valid reception of a round designation command. The round designation command is a command transmitted by the main control board 101 at the start of a round game that constitutes a jackpot game at the time of the jackpot game, and indicates that the round game is started. If the input control program determines that there is no valid reception, it moves the process to step S1217. If it is determined that there is valid reception, the input control program activates the round start effect determination program in step S1216 and performs round start effect determination processing. That is, a round start effect determination command indicating the content of the round start effect in which the round number related to the jackpot game is displayed is set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 102c.

(Step S1217)
It is determined whether or not a special game ending command (a big hit game ending command or a small hit game ending command) has been received. If the input control program determines that there is no valid reception, it moves the process to step S1219. If it is determined that there is valid reception, the input control program operates the special game ending effect pattern determination program in step S1218 to perform special game ending effect pattern determination processing. That is, a special game ending effect confirmation command associated with the content of the special game ending effect, which is an effect related to the ending of the special game, is set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 102c.

(Step S1219)
It is determined whether or not a warning effect designation command has been received effectively. If the input control program determines that there is no valid reception, it moves the process to step S1221. If it is determined that there is valid reception, the input control program activates the warning effect execution program and performs warning effect execution processing in step S1220. Details will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S1221)
It is determined whether or not an image / audio stop command has been received effectively. If the input control program determines that there is no valid reception, it moves the process to step S1223. If the input control program determines that there has been a valid reception, in step S1222, the input audio / video stop program is activated to perform an audio / video stop process. Details will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S1223)
It is determined whether or not a warning production end command has been received effectively. If the input control program determines that there is no valid reception, it ends the command reception process. If the input control program determines that there has been a valid reception, in step S1224, the input control program activates the warning effect end program and performs a warning effect end process. Details will be described with reference to FIG.

  The warning effect execution process by the warning effect execution program will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S1220-1)
The warning effect confirmation command is set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 102c. As will be described later, when the image control board 105 receives a warning effect confirmation command, the image output device 13 performs a warning effect. The contents of the warning effect will be described later.

(Step S1220-2)
The warning effect execution flag is turned ON in the warning effect execution flag storage area of the sub RAM 102c. The warning effect execution flag is turned on while the warning effect is being performed, that is, while the temperature of the image CPU 105Ba is within a preset warning range (second threshold value or more and less than the first threshold value).

(Step S1220-3)
The warning production time is set in the warning production remaining time counter. The warning effect time is the time required for one warning effect. The warning effect remaining time counter is a means for measuring the remaining time of the warning effect. Thus, the remaining time of the warning effect is measured because a single warning effect time is finite, and the warning effect is repeatedly performed while the temperature of the image CPU 105Ba is within the above warning range. The warning effect remaining time counter is subtracted every 4 ms in step S1120.

  The warning effect end process by the warning effect end program will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S1224-1)
A warning effect end command is set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 102c. As will be described later, when the image control board 105 receives the warning effect end command, the warning effect performed in the image output device 13 is ended.

(Step S1224-2)
The warning effect execution flag turned on in the warning effect execution flag storage area is turned OFF. As will be described later, the fact that the warning effect end command has been transmitted from the image control board 105 means that the temperature of the image CPU 105Ba entering the warning range is the second threshold value that is the minimum value of the warning range. Because it became low.

(Step S1224-3)
Since the warning effect ends, the warning effect remaining time counter is cleared.

  The audio / video stop process by the audio / video stop program will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S1222-1)
The video / audio stop flag is turned ON in the video / audio stop flag storage area of the sub RAM 102c. As will be described later, the image / sound stop flag is turned on while the image control and sound control by the image control board 105 are stopped due to the temperature of the image CPU 105Ba exceeding the first threshold value which is the heat-resistant limit temperature. While this flag is ON, the special effect mode is set, and a special effect (stronger or flashier than when power is supplied to the image control board 105) is performed by the lamp control board 104. This is to reduce the decrease in interest due to the inability to produce effects by the image output device 13 and the audio output device 18.

(Step S1222-2)
An image control board temperature error signal is transmitted to the effect information output terminal board 110. The image control board temperature error signal transmitted to the effect information output terminal board 110 is transmitted to the game information output device 700. In the game information output device 700, an image control board temperature error notification is performed. In this embodiment, the phrase “image / sound stops. The game continues. Please call the store clerk !!” is scroll-displayed on the game information output device 700.

(Step S1222-3)
An RST signal (reset signal) is transmitted to the image control board 105. When the image control board 105 receives the RST signal, the image control and sound control in progress is stopped, and the input control is not performed even if a command or signal is received.

  The warning effect continuation determination process by the warning effect continuation determination program will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S1601)
It is determined whether or not the warning effect execution flag is turned on in the warning effect execution flag storage area of the sub RAM 102c. If it is determined that the warning effect execution flag is not ON, the warning effect continuation determination is terminated.

(Step S1602)
It is determined whether the remaining warning effect time = 0. If it is determined that the remaining warning time is not 0, the warning effect continuation determination is terminated.

(Step S1603)
The warning effect execution flag is turned ON in the warning effect execution flag storage area of the sub RAM 102c.

(Step S1604)
The warning production time is set in the warning production remaining time counter. The warning effect remaining time counter is subtracted every 4 ms in step S1120.

(Main processing of image control board)
Next, the main process of the image control board 105 will be described with reference to FIG. When power is supplied from the power supply board 107, a system reset occurs in the overall CPU 105Aa, and the following main processing is performed.

  First, in step S2000, initialization processing is performed. In this process, when the power is turned on, the activation program and the overall program for controlling the effects by image and sound are read from the overall ROM 102b, and the peripheral devices of the overall CPU 105Aa and the storage areas of the sub RAM 102c are initialized.

  Next, in step S2001, OS processing is performed. That is, the operating system is loaded into the overall RAM 105Ac and activated from the initial state. In the present embodiment, the operating system is software for preparing an execution environment for programs (applications) related to image control and sound control, and manages the overall CPU 105Aa.

  Next, in step S2002, a cooling device operation signal is transmitted. That is, a signal for operating the cooling device 51 is transmitted to the cooling drive unit 51 b of the cooling device 51. Thereafter, predetermined interrupt processing is performed.

(Image control board timer interrupt processing)
The timer interrupt processing of the image control board 105 by a program such as an operating system will be described with reference to FIG. A clock pulse is generated at a predetermined cycle (for example, 32 milliseconds) by a reset clock pulse generation circuit provided on the image control board 105, whereby a timer interrupt process described below is executed.

  First, in step S2100, the information stored in the register of the general CPU 105Aa is saved in the stack area.

  In step S2110, time control processing for updating an image control timer counter related to various effects is performed.

  In step S2120, it is determined whether an input control prohibition flag, which will be described later, is ON in the input control prohibition flag storage area of the overall RAM 105Ac. Here, if it is determined that it is not ON, the process proceeds to step S2300, and if it is determined that it is ON, the process proceeds to step S2200.

  In step S2200, the input control program is activated to perform input control processing. Various commands transmitted from the effect control board 102 are stored in predetermined areas corresponding to the respective commands of the overall RAM 102c. When the previously transmitted command is stored, the previous command is overwritten and the newly transmitted command is stored. Details will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S2300, the output control program operates to perform output control processing. That is, the image data generated by the image generation unit 105B and stored in the VRAM 105Bc is transmitted to the drive unit 13b of the image output device 13, and the sound generated by the sound generation unit 105C and stored in the sound RAM 105Cc. The data is transmitted to the drive unit 17b of the audio output device 17. Further, the command set in the overall RAM 105Ac in the image control board timer interrupt process is transmitted to the effect control board 102.

  In step S2120, the information saved in step S2100 is returned to the register of the sub CPU 102a.

  The input control process by the input control program will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S2201)
It is determined whether or not a lottery effect confirmation command has been received. If the operating system determines that there is no effective reception (if it determines that a lottery effect confirmation command is not newly stored in the overall RAM 105Ac), it moves the process to step S2203. If the operating system determines that there is valid reception, in step S2202, the operating system activates the lottery effect execution program and executes the lottery effect based on the lottery effect confirmation command. That is, the lottery effect image data associated with the lottery effect confirmation command and stored in the general ROM 105Ab is transmitted to the image unit 105B and stored (written) in the VRAM 105Bc of the image generation unit 105B. Further, here, based on the lottery effect image data stored in the VRAM 105Bc, the image CPU 105Ba reads the lottery effect image information stored in the image ROM 105Bb and combines it with the lottery effect image data stored in the VRAM 105Bc ( Process to add). Note that the lottery effect image data stored in the general ROM 105Ab includes information related to the configuration of the image (lottery effect image (decorative pattern / background image), its arrangement, display priority, etc.). The lottery effect image information includes information necessary for the image itself in which the shape, size, pattern, color scheme, color tone, and the like of the decorative design / background image are defined.

(Step S2203)
It is determined whether or not a special game effect confirmation command has been received effectively. If the operating system determines that there is no effective reception (if it is determined that a new special game effect confirmation command is not newly stored in the overall RAM 105Ac), the operating system moves to step S2205. If the operating system determines that there has been a valid reception, in step S2204, the operating system activates the special game effect execution program and executes the special game effect based on the special game effect confirmation command in the same manner as the lottery effect execution process. .

(Step S2205)
It is determined whether or not a round start effect determination command has been received effectively. If the operating system determines that there is no valid reception (if it determines that a new round start effect determination command is not stored in the overall RAM 105Ac), it moves the process to step S2207. If the operating system determines that there is a valid reception, in step S2206, the operating system starts the round start effect execution program, and executes the round start effect based on the round start effect determination command, as in the lottery effect execution process. To do.

(Step S2207)
It is determined whether or not a special game ending effect confirmation command has been received effectively. If the operating system determines that there is no valid reception (if it is determined that a special game ending effect confirmation command is not newly stored in the overall RAM 105Ac), the operating system moves to step S2209. If the operating system determines that there is a valid reception, the special game ending effect execution program is activated in step S2208, and the special game ending effect based on the special game ending effect confirmation command is executed as in the lottery effect execution process. Execute.

(Step S2209)
It is determined whether or not a special figure hold number effect confirmation command has been received. If the operating system determines that there is no valid reception (if it is determined that a special figure pending number effect confirmation command is not newly stored in the overall RAM 105Ac), the operating system proceeds to step S2211. If the operating system determines that there has been a valid reception, in step S2210, the operating system activates the special figure hold number effect execution program, and in the same manner as the lottery effect execution process, the special figure based on the special figure hold number effect confirmation command. Execute the hold number effect.

(Step S2211)
It is determined whether or not there is a valid reception of a demonstration effect confirmation command. If the operating system determines that there is no effective reception (if it determines that a new demonstration effect confirmation command is not stored in the overall RAM 105Ac), it moves the process to step S2213. If the operating system determines that there is a valid reception, in step S2212, the operating system executes the demonstration effect execution program, and executes the demonstration effect based on the demonstration effect confirmation command in the same manner as the lottery effect execution process.

(Step S2213)
It is determined whether or not an effect button confirmation command has been received effectively. If the operating system determines that there is no valid reception (if it determines that a new effect button confirmation command is not stored in the overall RAM 105Ac), it moves the process to step S2215. If it is determined that there is valid reception, the operating system activates the effect button effect execution program in step S2214, and executes the effect button effect based on the effect button confirmation command in the same manner as the lottery effect execution process.

(Step S2215)
It is determined whether or not the warning effect confirmation command has been received effectively. If the operating system determines that there is no valid reception, it moves the process to step S2215. If it is determined that there is valid reception, the operating system activates the warning effect execution program in step S2214 and executes the warning effect based on the warning effect confirmation command. In the portable device of this embodiment, in the image output device 13, the phrase “The temperature of the image CPU has reached the danger area. Further, the words “The temperature of the image CPU has reached a dangerous area. Please call the store clerk !!” together with a predetermined warning sound are output from the audio output device 17.

(Step S2217)
It is determined whether or not the temperature detection signal has been received effectively. If the operating system determines that there is no valid reception, it moves the process to step S2219. If the operating system determines that there has been a valid reception, the temperature management control program is activated in step S2218 to perform the temperature management control process. Details will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S2219)
It is determined whether or not a warning production end command has been received effectively. If the operating system determines that there is no valid reception, it moves the process to step S2221. If the operating system determines that there has been a valid reception, in step S2220, the operating system performs a warning effect end process that activates the warning effect end program and ends the currently executed warning effect.

(Step S2221)
It is determined whether or not an RST signal has been received effectively. If the operating system determines that there is no valid reception, it ends the input control process. If the operating system determines that there is a valid reception, in step S2222, the operating system turns on the input control prohibition flag in the input control prohibition flag storage area of the overall RAM 105Ac, and excludes the input control prohibition flag, and the overall RAM 105Ac, VRAM 105Bc, and The data stored in the audio RAM 105Cc is erased, and the input control process ends.

  The temperature management control process by the temperature management control program will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S2218-1)
Check the temperature indicated by the temperature detection signal. The temperature detection signal is transmitted from the temperature detection sensor 50, and the temperature detection signal indicates the temperature detected by the temperature detection sensor 50.

(Step S2218-2)
It is determined whether or not the temperature confirmed in step S2218-1 (hereinafter referred to as “the detected temperature”) is equal to or higher than a preset first threshold value. If the detected temperature is equal to or higher than the first threshold, the process proceeds to step S2218-10, and if not, the process proceeds to step S2218-3.

  In the present embodiment, the first threshold value is set to the heat resistant limit temperature (115 ° C. in the present embodiment) of the image CPU 105Ba. The heat resistant limit temperature is a limit (allowable) temperature that the image CPU 105Ba can withstand without being impaired. In the present embodiment, the heat resistant limit temperature is set as the first threshold value, but the first threshold value may be lower than the heat resistant limit temperature. This is because a failure of the image CPU 105Ba can be prevented.

(Step S2218-3)
It is determined whether or not the detected temperature is equal to or higher than a preset second threshold value (110 ° C. in the present embodiment). The second threshold is set lower than the first threshold. If the detected temperature is equal to or higher than the second threshold, the process proceeds to step S2218-7, and if not, the process proceeds to step S2218-4. The second threshold value, that is, the width of the warning range is not particularly limited.

(Step S2218-4)
It is determined whether or not the warning status flag is turned on in the warning status flag storage area of the overall RAM 105Ac. If it is determined that the warning state flag is not turned on, the temperature management control process is terminated. If it is determined that the warning state flag is turned on, the process proceeds to step S2218-5. As will be described later, this flag is turned on when the detected temperature is equal to or higher than the second threshold and lower than the first threshold.

(Step S2218-5)
A warning effect end command is set in the transmission buffer of the overall RAM 105Ac. This command is transmitted to the effect control board 102. Here, the warning effect end command is transmitted to the effect control board 102 until the temperature management control process is performed, the detected temperature is not less than the second threshold value and less than the first threshold value, and the warning effect is performed. However, this is because the detected temperature becomes lower than the second threshold, and it is no longer necessary to perform a warning effect for the time being.

(Step S2218-6)
The warning state flag is turned off, and the temperature management control process ends.

(Step S2218-7)
It is determined whether or not the warning state flag is ON in the warning state flag storage area. If it is determined that the warning state flag is ON, the temperature management control process is terminated. If it is determined that the warning state flag is not ON, the process proceeds to step S2218-8.

(Step S2218-8)
A warning effect designation command is set in the transmission buffer of the overall RAM 105Ac. This command is transmitted to the effect control board 102. Here, the warning effect designation command is transmitted to the effect control board 102 until the temperature management control process is performed, the detected temperature is lower than the second threshold value, and the warning effect is not performed. This is because the detected temperature is equal to or higher than the second threshold and lower than the first threshold, and it is necessary to perform a warning effect.

(Step S2218-9)
The warning state flag is turned on, and the temperature management control process ends.

(Step S2218-10)
The video / audio stop flag is turned ON in the video / audio stop flag storage area of the general RAM 105Ac. The image / sound stop flag is a flag that is turned on before stopping image control and sound control by the image control board 105 described later.

(Step S2218-11)
The warning state flag is turned off, and the temperature management control process ends.

  As described above, when the temperature detected by the temperature detection sensor 50 reaches the first threshold value set to be equal to or lower than the heat resistance limit temperature of the image CPU 105, the image control by the image control board 105 is stopped. Regardless, the overheated state of the temperature detection target electronic component (in this embodiment, the image CPU 105Ba) can be suppressed. Further, failure or malfunction of other electronic components and other control circuits around the detection target CPU 105Ba can be prevented.

  In addition, since the power supply stop unit stops the image control and the sound control by the image control board 105, it is possible to reduce the disadvantage suffered by the player. For example, even if the temperature of the image CPU 105Ba reaches the first threshold value in the middle of a state that is advantageous to the player, such as during a jackpot game or a high probability of winning the jackpot, the image output device 13 and the audio output device 18 This is because it is possible to continue the basic game just by the fact that the production by is not performed.

  Further, immediately before the image control and sound control by the image control board 105 are stopped, it is informed that the game will be continued if the image is not displayed on the image output device 13, so that the player can feel safe without panicking. The game can be continued with heart.

  Further, when the temperature detected by the temperature detection sensor 50 reaches the second threshold value lower than the first threshold value, it is notified (clearly displayed) that the temperature of the image CPU 105Ba is close to the heat-resistant limit temperature (within the warning range). . That is, as a result, even if the image CPU 105Ba reaches the first threshold value and the image is no longer displayed on the image output device 13, this is suggested in advance, so that an image is suddenly output from the image output device 13. Rather than disappear, the discomfort experienced by the player can be reduced. In addition, since it is also notified that “call the store clerk”, it is possible to prevent the stoppage of the production by the image and sound. When the temperature detected by the temperature detection sensor 50 reaches the second threshold value, a signal indicating this is transmitted to the game information output device 700 and also to the hall computer, so that the fact is surely confirmed. This makes it possible to prevent the stop of the production by the image and sound.

  In the present embodiment, power supply to the image control board 105 is started and the cooling device 51 is activated. Therefore, the temperature of the image CPU 105Ba can be stabilized while being suppressed. As a result, it is possible to reduce the problem of the production by the image output device 13. Note that when the cooling device 51 operates from the start of power supply to the image control board 105 and the operating rate of the cooling device 51 increases, the failure rate of the cooling device 51 relatively increases. However, even if the cooling device 51 breaks down and the cooling capacity is lowered or stopped, the failure of the image CPU 105Ba can be prevented regardless of the temperature operation state.

  The main control board 101 constitutes the main control circuit of the present invention, and the image control board 105 constitutes the image control circuit of the present invention. Further, the image CPU 105Ba constitutes a predetermined electronic component of the present invention. The general CPU 105Aa that executes the image / sound stop program constitutes the image / sound stop means of the present invention. The overall CPU 105Aa that executes the temperature management control program constitutes the determination unit of the present invention. Further, the overall CPU 105Aa that executes the image / sound stop program and the game information output device 700 constitute image output stop notification means, and the overall CPU 105Aa that executes the warning effect execution program of the present invention and the image output device 13 perform the warning notification of the present invention. Configure the means.

  In the present embodiment, the image control is stopped by prohibiting the input control of the image control board 105 and clearing the RAMs 105Ac, 105Bc, and 105Cc of the image control board 105. Image control can also be stopped by stopping power supply.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Game machine 2 Game board 13 Image output device 15 Production-use equipment 16 Production lighting device 17 Audio output device 50 Temperature detection sensor (temperature detection means)
51 Cooling device 100 Control means 101 Main control board 102 Production control board 104 Lamp control board 105 Image control board

Claims (4)

A gaming machine comprising an image output device,
A main control circuit that controls at least the basic progression of the game;
An image control circuit for controlling an image displayed on the image output device;
Temperature detecting means for detecting the temperature of a predetermined electronic component constituting the image control circuit;
A determination unit that determines whether or not the temperature detected by the temperature detection unit has reached a first threshold that is set in advance to be equal to or lower than a heat-resistant limit temperature of the electronic component;
When the determination unit determines that the temperature detected by the temperature detection unit has reached the first threshold, the image control circuit controls the image while continuing the control of the game progress by the main control circuit. Image output stopping means for stopping;
A gaming machine characterized by comprising:   When the determination unit determines that the temperature detected by the temperature detection unit has reached the first threshold value, the image control circuit before the image output stop unit stops controlling the image by the image control circuit. The game machine according to claim 1, further comprising: an image output stop notification unit that notifies that the image control by the stop is performed. A cooling device for cooling the temperature of the predetermined electronic component to be detected by the temperature detecting means;
The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the cooling device operates when power is supplied to the image control circuit.   When the determination unit determines that the temperature detected by the temperature detection unit has reached a second threshold value that is lower than the first threshold value, notifies that the temperature detected by the temperature detection unit has reached the second threshold value. The game machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a warning notification means.