JP2012232218A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To find out abnormal operation of an inflow restriction member by monitoring the operation of a device for driving the inflow restriction member to suppress the occurrence of disadvantages or uncomfortableness to a player or disadvantages to an administrator.SOLUTION: The game machine includes a medium inflow restricting means for restricting the inflow of a game medium to a predetermined area, a restriction changing means for shifting the medium inflow restricting means between a first inflow restricting state and a second inflow restricting state, and a restriction controlling means for controlling the drive of the restriction changing means, and the restriction changing means includes a solenoid coil and a magnetic portion operated in association with the medium inflow restricting means. The game machine further includes abnormal restriction-detecting means for detecting abnormal shifting of a restriction state of the medium inflow restricting means based on a transient response of electric current passing through the solenoid coil.

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine represented by a ball ball game machine, a ball-type spinning machine, a medal-type spinning machine, and the like.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a gaming machine that regulates inflow of game media into a predetermined area by driving a solenoid is known. Specifically, a ball game machine (for example, refer to Patent Document 1 below) that controls a member that restricts inflow to a winning opening or a start port by using a solenoid, or a game ball is thrown in and a game ball is paid out. 2. Description of the Related Art A ball-type spinning game machine that controls a member using a solenoid and a medal-type spinning machine that uses a solenoid to control a member that restricts the reception of game medals are known. Here, the “solenoid” includes a solenoid coil, a magnetic member, and an urging member that returns the relative position of the solenoid coil and the magnetic member to a predetermined reference position, and includes a magnet corresponding to the supply of current to the solenoid coil. In this device, the magnetic member is moved to a predetermined position by mechanical energy, and the magnetic member is returned to the initial position in response to interruption of the current to the solenoid coil. That is, a solenoid is a device that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy via magnetic energy.

JP 2006-280609 A

  Even in the case of conventional gaming machines, even if there is a malfunction in the operation of the inflow restricting member of the game medium regulated by the solenoid due to failure due to aging, disconnection, etc., management of the gaming machine will be performed unless there is a complaint or report from the player It was difficult for those who found them to occur. As a result, a disadvantageous or unpleasant state occurs for the player, or a disadvantageous state occurs for the administrator of the gaming machine. For example, for a player of a ball game machine, in an advantageous special game state (a big hit state) in which a prize ball can be obtained continuously, an inflow restricting member to a prize winning device or an accessory can be opened to allow a game ball to pass through. If you cannot get enough prize balls that you should have been able to win by not being in a state or shortening the time of the open state, or a lottery to shift to a special game state (electronic random lottery or mechanical (Lottery by distribution) should be able to be acquired by the inflow restricting member to the starting device not being in an open state or by shortening the open time in an advantageous specific game state in which the right of the lottery by distribution is more easily obtained than in the normal state. In some cases, the transfer lottery rights could not be fully acquired. In addition, with regard to a player of a ball-type spinning game machine (rotating-type game machine using a sphere as a game medium), the inflow restricting member in the payout device is not driven, so that the payout of the prize ball is delayed or As the inflow restricting member is not driven, the input of the game ball is stagnated. In the above description, a bullet ball game machine and a ball-type revolving game machine have been described as examples. However, the present invention also applies to a game machine in general provided with an inflow restricting member for a game medium driven by a solenoid. Further, the above problem is not limited to the solenoid, and is generally applicable to the case where the movement of the magnetic member is controlled by the current supply of the solenoid coil.

  Therefore, in the gaming machine of the present invention, the operation of the device that drives the inflow restricting member is monitored to detect an abnormal operation of the inflow restricting member, which is disadvantageous or unpleasant for the player or unfavorable for the administrator. Is suppressed from occurring.

In order to solve the above problems, a gaming machine according to the present invention is:
The first inflow restricting state and the second inflow restricting state are looser than the first inflow restricting state, and the second inflow restricting state can be shifted between the first inflow restricting state and the second inflow restricting state. Medium inflow restricting means for restricting the inflow of the game medium into a predetermined area due to the difference between,
Restriction changing means for shifting the inflow restriction state of the medium inflow restriction means between the first inflow restriction state and the second inflow restriction state;
Game progress control means for comprehensive control of game progress;
Restriction control means for controlling the drive of the restriction changing means based on the control of the game progress by the game progress control means;
A gaming machine including
The restriction changing means includes a magnetic part that is interlocked with the transition of the inflow restriction state of the medium inflow restriction means, and a solenoid coil that generates a stress that moves the magnetic part,
The restriction control means controls the supply of current to the solenoid coil;
The gaming machine is
A regulation abnormality detection means for detecting an abnormality in regulation state transition in the medium inflow regulation means based on a transient response of a current flowing through the solenoid coil;
In response to detection of abnormality in the restriction state transition by the restriction abnormality detection means, restriction abnormality notification control means for controlling notification of abnormality in the restriction state transition;
Is further included.

  In the gaming machine of the present invention, the transient response of the current flowing through the solenoid coil of the regulation changing means is not detected by the disconnection or the like by substantially detecting the transient response of the current flowing through the solenoid coil. An abnormality in the state transition of the inflow restriction state of the medium inflow restriction means when the mobility of the magnetic part with respect to the solenoid coil deteriorates due to secular change can be detected. Thereby, it is possible to suppress occurrence of a disadvantageous or unpleasant state for the player or a disadvantageous state for the manager.

The front perspective view of an example of a bullet ball game machine concerning the 1st form. The front view showing an example of a game board. The rear view showing an example of a bullet ball game machine. The block diagram showing an example of an electrical configuration of a ball game machine. The flowchart showing an example of the main process performed by the main control board of a ball game machine. The flowchart showing an example of the normal process in the main process of a main control board. The flowchart showing an example of the jackpot process in the normal process of the main control board. The flowchart showing an example of the hit process in the normal process of the main control board. The flowchart showing an example of the timer interruption process performed by the main control board of a ball game machine. The flowchart showing an example of the solenoid operation confirmation process in the timer interruption process of a main control board. The flowchart showing an example of the process at the time of power-on performed by the main control board of a ball game machine. The flowchart showing an example of the normal process performed by the sub control board of a ball game machine. The flowchart showing an example of the display control process in the normal process of a sub control board. The flowchart showing an example of the main process performed by the payout control board of a ball game machine. The flowchart showing an example of the payout control process in the payout control board. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a special winning opening solenoid drive circuit and a special winning opening abnormality detection circuit of a main control board in the ball game machine according to the first embodiment. The graph which represents qualitatively an example of the transient response of the monitoring voltage accompanying the initial normal driving of the big prize opening solenoid. The graph which represents qualitatively an example of the transient response of the monitoring voltage accompanying the drive at the time of failure of the big prize opening solenoid. The graph which represents qualitatively an example of the transient response of the monitoring voltage accompanying the drive at the time of deterioration of a big prize opening solenoid. The block diagram showing the example of a change of the big winning opening solenoid drive circuit and big winning opening abnormality detection circuit of a main control board. The block diagram showing the other example of a change of the big winning opening solenoid drive circuit of a main control board, and a big winning opening abnormality detection circuit. The graph which represents qualitatively an example of the transient response of the monitoring voltage accompanying the drive at the time of half-opening of the big prize opening solenoid. The front side perspective view of an example of a ball-type spinning machine. The perspective view which shows the state which open | released the payout block and the game block with respect to the front block. The perspective view of an example of a selector. The principal part expansion longitudinal cross-sectional view of an example of an upper plate ball stop part and a selector. The partial cross-sectional view of an example of an upper plate ball removal operation part and a selector. The partial exploded perspective view of an example of a payout block. It is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an example of a payout apparatus, (a) represents a state where no payout operation is performed, (b) represents a state where a payout operation is performed, and (c) represents a ball removal operation. The figure showing the state which is. An exploded perspective view of an example of a game block. The front view of an example of a game panel. The partial exploded perspective view of an example of a rotating drum unit. The expanded view of an example of a symbol seal. The block diagram showing the electrical structural example of the ball-type swivel game machine which concerns on a 1st form. The flowchart showing an example of the timer interruption process of a main control board. The flowchart showing an example of the main process of a main control board. The flowchart showing an example of the normal game process of a main control board. The flowchart showing an example of the fluctuation waiting process in the normal game process of the main control board. The flowchart showing an example of the game ball betting process in the fluctuation waiting process of the main control board. The flowchart showing an example of the insertion execution process in the game ball betting process of the main control board. The flowchart showing an example of the command interruption process in the payout control board. The flowchart showing an example of the timer interruption process in a payout control board. The flowchart showing an example of the main process in the payout control board. The flowchart showing an example of the game ball payout process in the main process of the payout control board. The flowchart showing an example of the payout execution process in the game ball payout process of a payout control board. The flowchart showing an example of the timer interruption process in a sub control board. The flowchart showing an example of the command interruption process in a sub control board. The flowchart showing an example of the main process in a sub control board. The flowchart showing an example of the period timer process in the main process of a sub control board.

Means 1.
The gaming machine according to the present invention is
The first inflow restricting state and the second inflow restricting state are looser than the first inflow restricting state, and the second inflow restricting state can be shifted between the first inflow restricting state and the second inflow restricting state. Medium inflow restricting means (for example, blade 60, shutter 62, input flicker 1413a, payout flicker 1033b) for restricting the inflow of the game medium to a predetermined area due to the difference between
Restriction changing means for shifting the inflow restriction state of the medium inflow restriction means between the first inflow restriction state and the second inflow restriction state (for example, a big prize opening solenoid 991, a start opening solenoid 992, a payout solenoid 1033c, Charging solenoids 1414a-1414c),
Game progress control means (general processing of the main control board and payout control processing of the payout control board) for comprehensive control of the game progress,
Based on the control of the game progress by the game progress control means, regulation control means for controlling the driving of the regulation changing means (for example, part of the external output processing S201, port output processing S2114, large winning opening solenoid drive circuit 900, A start-up solenoid drive circuit 920);
A gaming machine including
The restriction changing means includes a magnetic part (a part of plungers of various solenoids 991, 992, 1033c, 1414a to 1414c) interlocked with the inflow restriction state transition in the medium inflow restriction means, and stress for moving the magnetic part. A generated solenoid coil (solenoid coil L1),
The restriction control means controls a current flowing through the solenoid coil;
The gaming machine detects a regulation abnormality detecting means (for example, a big prize opening abnormality detection circuit 910, a start opening abnormality detection) for detecting an abnormality in the regulation state transition in the medium inflow regulating means based on a transient response of a current flowing through the solenoid coil. A circuit 930, a closing solenoid abnormality detection circuit 1910, a dispensing solenoid abnormality detection circuit 1930), and a regulation abnormality that controls notification of the regulation state transition abnormality in response to detection of the regulation state transition abnormality by the regulation abnormality detection means. It is further characterized by further including notification control means (for example, a prize winning port error process S209, a start port error process S211, a part of the external output process S201, a part of the port output process S2114).

In the present specification, the “first inflow restriction state” implies an inflow prohibition state in which game media cannot flow into a predetermined area and an inflow permission state in which game media can flow into the predetermined area. On the other hand, the “second inflow restriction state” is an inflow permission state in which game media can flow into a predetermined area, and is a state in which game media flows more easily than the first inflow restriction state.
In this specification, the “transient response of the current flowing through the solenoid coil” means a temporal change in the current flowing through the solenoid coil. In the transient response of the current, the supply of current to the solenoid coil is started (excitation start). Change from the current value at the time until reaching a predetermined steady-state current value (for example, change from 0A [ampere] to 24A) or the current value at the time of interruption of current supply to the solenoid coil (demagnetization start) To a steady-state current value (for example, a change from 24 A to 0 A). For example, the current transient characteristic at the start of current supply to the solenoid coil is the current value in the steady state after completion of excitation as the saturation current value, and the current value is saturated with the start of current supply to the solenoid coil. This is a characteristic that the current value decreases to a predetermined value after increasing to a predetermined value smaller than the current value, and then increases to a saturation current value. The phenomenon in which the current flowing through the solenoid increases monotonously from the start of the current to the solenoid coil and does not reach the saturation current value is due to the magnetization of the magnetic part and the change in the relative position between the solenoid coil and the magnetic part. Expressed.
In this specification, “interlocking with the medium inflow restricting means” means not only the case where the magnetic part moves in response to the supply or interruption of the current to the solenoid coil, but also the medium inflow restricting means is forced by an external force. This also means that the magnetic part moves in the same manner even when the inflow restriction state is changed to the second inflow restriction state or vice versa.
In this specification, “magnetic part” means a member (soft magnetic part) made of a material (soft magnetic material) that is magnetized in response to application of a magnetic field, or a material (hard magnetic material: magnet) that generates a magnetic field. ) (Hard magnetic part). For example, when the magnetic part is a soft magnetic part, the magnetic part is attracted to the solenoid coil in response to the supply of current to the solenoid coil, and the magnetic part is separated from the solenoid coil in response to the interruption of the current to the solenoid coil. As a result, the inflow restriction state of the medium inflow restriction means is changed. On the other hand, when the magnetic part is a hard magnetic part, the magnetic part is pulled away from the solenoid coil according to the current supplied to the solenoid coil, and the magnetic part is attracted to the solenoid coil according to the interruption of the current to the solenoid coil. As a result, the inflow restriction state of the medium inflow restriction means is changed.

  With the above configuration, by detecting the transient response of the current flowing in the solenoid coil, it is possible to detect whether or not the regulation state transition of the medium inflow regulation means due to disconnection or secular change is abnormal. This is because the transient response of the current flowing through the solenoid coil is different from the normal case, when no current flows through the solenoid coil due to disconnection or the like, or when the mobility of the magnetic part with respect to the solenoid coil deteriorates due to secular change. It is.

  In the present invention, the notification of the regulation abnormality transition further includes abnormality notification means (for example, an acoustic device, a light emitting device, and an auxiliary display device) in which the gaming machine is controlled by the regulation abnormality notification control means. It may be performed by a means, or may be performed by an external abnormality notifying means (for example, a management computer for an installation hall) electrically connected to the gaming machine. Further, the notification of the regulation abnormality transition may be performed by both an abnormality notification means provided in the gaming machine and an external abnormality notification means. If the abnormality notification means is an abnormality notification means provided in the gaming machine, it can be notified to a player or an employee in the hall of the gaming machine, and if the abnormality notification means is only an external abnormality notification means, It is also possible to notify only the manager of the installation hall without notifying the person.

Mean 2.
In the gaming machine of the above means 1,
The regulation abnormality detection means converts the current transient response into a voltage transient response that is qualitatively substantially the same as the current transient response, and based on the voltage transient response, the medium inflow regulation means It is characterized by detecting an abnormality in the restriction state transition.
In this specification, “qualitatively substantially the same” means that the change increase / decrease pattern is the same, and means that there may be a difference in the change amount or change time.

  If it is said structure, a regulation abnormality detection detection means can be simplified. This is because it is generally easier to handle the magnitude of voltage in an electric circuit than to handle the magnitude of current.

Means 3.
In the gaming machine of the above means 2,
The transient response conversion means includes a resistance element (for example, a prize winning solenoid monitoring circuit S911) electrically connected in series with the solenoid coil,
The transient response of the voltage is a transient response of a voltage drop in the resistance element.

  With the above configuration, the transient response of the current flowing through the solenoid coil is changed at both ends of the resistance element without changing the qualitative characteristics of the transient response of the current flowing through the solenoid coil (hereinafter referred to as “transient current characteristics”). Can be easily converted into a transient response of the voltage drop. Thereby, the transient response of the current flowing through the solenoid coil can be monitored substantially simply.

Means 4.
In the gaming machine of the above means 1 to 3,
The restriction changing means includes a plunger including the magnetic part that moves to the solenoid coil side in response to the supply of current to the solenoid coil (for example, the plungers of the big prize opening solenoid 991 and the start opening solenoid 992, pistons 1414a2 and 1033c2). ) And an urging portion that moves the magnetic portion of the plunger to the opposite side of the solenoid coil in response to interruption of the current to the solenoid coil (for example, a big prize opening solenoid 991, a start opening solenoid 992). , Payout solenoid 1033c, and input solenoids 1414a to 1414c),
The medium inflow restricting means shifts from the first inflow restricted state to the second inflow restricted state in accordance with the movement of the plunger toward the solenoid coil.

  With the above configuration, when the solenoid coil is energized, the medium inflow restricting means takes the second inflow restricting state, so that it is possible to improve the safety against prevention of fraud. This is because it is easy to forcibly cut off the energization of the solenoid coil by improper action and to make modifications to realize it, but forcibly energize the solenoid coil and realize it. This is because it is more difficult to add a modification to do so than when blocking.

Means 5.
In the gaming machine of the above means 4,
The regulation abnormality detection means is
Defined time elapse detection means (for example, an abnormality detection timing signal generation circuit 915) for detecting that a predetermined determination time has elapsed since the start of excitation of the solenoid coil based on the restriction control means;
A transient response conversion means (for example, a prize winning solenoid monitoring circuit 911) for converting a transient response of the current flowing through the solenoid coil into a transient response of the voltage;
A disconnection detection threshold voltage generation means (for example, a normal operation reference voltage generation circuit 913) for generating a predetermined disconnection detection threshold voltage;
Disconnection determination that determines that the disconnection is abnormal when the monitoring voltage by the transient response conversion means is less than the predetermined disconnection detection threshold voltage in response to detection of the passage of the predetermined determination time by the specified time passage detection means. Means (for example, a prize winning solenoid abnormality detection circuit 914),
Including
The regulation abnormality notification control unit controls the notification of the disconnection abnormality according to the determination of the disconnection abnormality by the disconnection determination unit,
The predetermined determination time is less than the time from the start of excitation of the solenoid coil to the completion of excitation of the solenoid coil with respect to the initial normal drive of the medium inflow regulating means;
The voltage when the time after the start of excitation of the solenoid coil with respect to the initial normal drive of the medium inflow restricting means has passed the predetermined determination time is the normal voltage, and the initial normal drive of the medium inflow restricting means The predetermined disconnection detection threshold voltage is not less than the normal voltage and not more than the steady voltage, where the voltage when the excitation of the solenoid coil is completed is a steady voltage.

  In this specification, “regulatory deregulation transition” means that the medium inflow restriction means shifts from the first inflow restriction state to the second inflow restriction state, and “start of deregulation transition” means the first inflow restriction state. This means the start of a specific change from the state toward the second inflow restriction state.

  With the above configuration, after the start of excitation (start of supply of current to the solenoid coil) in the transient response of the voltage when the solenoid coil and the regulation control means are disconnected and when the voltage is normal Since the voltage at the time of disconnection is lower than the voltage at the normal time until the steady voltage is reached, it is determined that there is an abnormality when the monitoring voltage is lower than the predetermined illegal transition detection threshold voltage By this, it is possible to distinguish between disconnection and normal operation. Note that the predetermined determination time and the predetermined disconnection detection threshold voltage are determined based on transient responses of two voltages examined in advance for the case of disconnection and the initial normal case.

Means 6.
In the gaming machine of the above means 4,
The regulation abnormality detection means is
Defined time elapse detection means (for example, an abnormality detection timing signal generation circuit 915) for detecting that a predetermined determination time has elapsed since the start of excitation of the solenoid coil based on the restriction control means;
A transient response conversion means (for example, a prize winning solenoid monitoring circuit 911) for converting a transient response of the current flowing through the solenoid coil into a transient response of the voltage;
A deterioration detection threshold voltage generating means for generating a predetermined deterioration detection threshold voltage;
Deterioration that is determined to be a deterioration abnormality when the monitoring voltage by the transient response conversion means is greater than the predetermined deterioration detection threshold voltage in response to detection of the passage of the predetermined determination time by the specified time passage detection means. Determination means (for example, a prize winning solenoid abnormality detection circuit 914);
Including
The regulation abnormality notification control unit controls the notification of the deterioration abnormality according to the determination of the deterioration abnormality by the deterioration determination unit,
The predetermined determination time is equal to or longer than the time from the start of excitation of the solenoid coil to the start of deregulation transition with respect to the initial normal drive of the medium inflow control unit, and the initial normal drive of the medium inflow control unit Less than the time from the start of excitation of the solenoid coil to the completion of the transition to the deregulation,
The voltage when the time after the start of excitation of the solenoid coil with respect to the initial normal drive of the medium inflow restricting means has passed the predetermined determination time is the normal voltage, and the initial normal drive of the medium inflow restricting means The voltage when the excitation of the solenoid coil is completed is a steady voltage, and the predetermined deterioration detection threshold voltage is not less than the normal voltage and not more than the steady voltage.

  In the present specification, the “near completion of deregulation transition” means near the completion of a specific change from the first inflow restriction state to the second inflow restriction state. The near-completion is not limited to the case where the strict deregulation transition is completed, but after the strict deregulation transition is completed, the voltage in the transient response of the initial normal voltage is higher than the predetermined deterioration detection threshold voltage. Means including a large period.

  With the above configuration, in the transient response of the voltage in the case of deterioration and in the normal case, the time from the start of excitation (start of supplying current to the solenoid coil) to the vicinity of the completion of excitation is higher than the normal voltage. Since the voltage at the time of deterioration becomes higher, it is possible to distinguish between disconnection and normal time by determining that the monitoring voltage is abnormal when the monitoring voltage is lower than a predetermined illegal transition detection threshold voltage. Note that the predetermined determination time and the predetermined disconnection detection threshold voltage are determined based on transient responses of two voltages examined in advance for the case of disconnection and the initial normal case.

Mean 7
In the gaming machine of the above means 6,
The regulation abnormality detection means generates a predetermined deterioration sign detection threshold voltage smaller than the deterioration detection threshold voltage, and the driving time measured by the specified sign detection threshold voltage generation means and the specified time elapse detection means is the specified time. In response to the detection that the elapsed time has passed, the monitoring voltage is converted to the deterioration sign detection threshold voltage based on the monitoring voltage by the transient response conversion means and the deterioration sign detection threshold voltage by the deterioration sign detection threshold voltage generation means. Further including a deterioration sign determination means for determining that there is an abnormality sign in the state transition of the medium inflow restriction means when the difference is larger than
The regulation abnormality notification control means further generates a deterioration sign detection signal according to the determination of the abnormality sign by the deterioration sign determination means, and further controls the notification of abnormality based on the deterioration sign detection signal,
The deterioration sign detection threshold voltage is larger than the monitoring voltage when the drive time has passed the specified time in the normal normal inflow control of the medium in the restriction changing means.

  If it is said structure, it can replace | exchange or repair a solenoid when the player is not playing with the game machine by alert | reporting beforehand in the state which does not have a trouble which disturbs a game. As a result, it is possible to suppress waiting for a player in the game or to move to another gaming machine, to suppress discomfort to the player, and to suppress a decrease in operation of the gaming machine. it can. When this deterioration sign is detected, it is preferable not to notify the player but only to the administrator of the gaming machine.

Means 8.
In the gaming machine of the above means 4,
The regulation abnormality detection means includes a transient response conversion means for converting a transient response of a current flowing through the solenoid coil into a transient response of the monitoring voltage, a deterioration detection threshold voltage generation means for generating a predetermined deterioration detection threshold voltage, and A deterioration sign detection threshold voltage generating means for generating a predetermined deterioration sign detection threshold voltage smaller than the deterioration detection threshold voltage; a break detection threshold voltage generating means for generating a predetermined break detection threshold voltage smaller than the deterioration sign detection threshold voltage; Specified time elapsed detection means for detecting that the time from the start of excitation of the solenoid coil has passed a predetermined determination time, and for detecting that the time from the start of excitation of the solenoid coil has passed the predetermined determination time. Accordingly, the monitoring voltage and the deterioration detection threshold voltage are compared, and when the monitoring voltage exceeds the deterioration detection threshold voltage, the medium inflow restriction means A deterioration determining means for determining that the state transition is abnormal, and comparing the monitoring voltage with the deterioration sign detection threshold voltage in response to detection that the drive time has passed the specified time, and the monitoring voltage is A deterioration determining means for determining that there is an abnormality sign in the deregulation transition of the medium inflow restricting means when the deterioration sign detection threshold voltage is greater than the threshold voltage, and in response to detecting that the drive time has passed the specified time A disconnection determination unit that compares a monitoring voltage with the disconnection detection threshold voltage and determines that the state transition of the medium inflow regulation unit is abnormal when the monitoring voltage is less than the disconnection detection threshold voltage;
The regulation abnormality notification control means generates a deterioration detection signal according to the abnormality determination by the deterioration determination means, generates a deterioration sign detection signal according to the determination of the abnormality sign by the deterioration sign determination means, and A disconnection detection signal is generated according to the abnormality determination by the disconnection determination means,
The gaming machine notifies the player of the abnormality in response to detection of the deterioration detection signal and the disconnection detection signal, and stops the progress of the game in response to the deterioration detection signal and the disconnection detection signal. Error control means for causing
The regulation abnormality notification control means informs an external device of the occurrence of an abnormality based on the deterioration detection signal, the deterioration sign detection signal and the disconnection detection signal,
The disconnection detection threshold voltage is smaller than the monitoring voltage when the drive time has passed the specified time in the normal normal inflow control of the medium by the restriction changing means, the deterioration detection threshold voltage and the deterioration Each of the sign detection threshold voltages is larger than a monitoring voltage when the predetermined time has elapsed in the initial normal driving of the medium inflow regulating unit by the regulation changing unit.

  With the above configuration, the determination of occurrence of disconnection, the determination of occurrence of deterioration, and the determination of occurrence of deterioration signs can be performed at the same timing, and the processing load on the control device related to these determinations is reduced compared with the case where they are individually performed it can.

Means 9.
In the gaming machine of the above means 5-8,
The predetermined determination time is equal to or longer than the time from the start of excitation of the solenoid coil to the start of the deregulation transition with respect to the initial normal drive of the medium inflow regulating means, and the deregulation transition from the start of excitation of the solenoid coil. It is characterized by the time until the completion of.

  With the above configuration, a highly accurate determination can be made. This is because, in the transient response characteristics of voltage (current), when there is a change in the relative position between the solenoid coil and the magnetic part, a large voltage change occurs between the normal time and other cases.

Means 10.
In the gaming machine of the above means 5-8,
The predetermined determination time is a time from the start of excitation of the solenoid coil to the completion of the transition of the regulation relaxation with respect to the initial normal driving of the medium inflow regulating means.

  With the above configuration, it is possible to make a determination with higher accuracy. This is because, in the transient response characteristic of voltage (current), when the change of the relative position between the solenoid coil and the magnetic portion is completed, a larger voltage change occurs between the normal time and other cases.

Means 11.
In the gaming machine of the above means 1-10,
A sub-control in which the gaming machine controls an effect associated with the progress of the game in accordance with a command signal from the game progress control means of the main control board and the main control board including the game progress control means and the restriction control means. A substrate,
The regulation abnormality detection means is an electric circuit formed on the main control board,
The solenoid coil is electrically connected to the main control board.
Means 12.
In the gaming machine of the above means 1-10,
The gaming machine includes a main control board including the game progress control means, a regulation control means, and a payout control board different from the main control board,
The regulation abnormality detection means is an electric circuit formed on the payout control board,
The solenoid coil is electrically connected to the payout control board.

Means 13.
In the gaming machine of the above means 4,
The regulation abnormality detecting means is monitored by a transient response converting means (for example, a big prize opening solenoid monitoring circuit 911) for converting a transient response of the current flowing through the solenoid coil into a transient response of a monitoring voltage, and the transient response converting means. Information format conversion means (for example, an A / D converter circuit 918) for converting the analog information of the monitoring voltage to monitoring voltage information which is digital information corresponding to the monitoring voltage, and a predetermined disconnection detection threshold voltage The disconnection detection threshold voltage information holding means for holding the disconnection detection threshold voltage information (for example, a partial area of the ROMs 502, 1045a2 and 1037a2), and the drive time from the start of driving of the solenoid coil by the restriction changing means has a specified time. Specified time passage detecting means for detecting that the passage has passed (for example, solenoid operation confirmation processing S202, solenoid In response to detection of the idling operation confirmation processing S2108 and part of the dispensing solenoid operation confirmation processing S3316) and that the drive time has passed the specified time, the monitoring voltage information and the disconnection detection from the information format conversion means Based on the disconnection detection threshold voltage information held in the threshold voltage information holding unit, when the monitoring voltage is less than the disconnection detection threshold voltage, it is determined that the state transition of the medium inflow regulation unit is abnormal. Disconnection determination means (for example, a part of solenoid operation confirmation processing S202, solenoid operation confirmation processing S2108, payout solenoid operation confirmation processing S3316),
The regulation abnormality notification control unit generates a disconnection notification signal according to the determination of the abnormality by the disconnection determination unit, and controls abnormality notification,
The disconnection detection threshold voltage information is information corresponding to a voltage smaller than a monitoring voltage when the drive time has passed the specified time in the normal normal inflow control of the medium by the restriction changing means. It is a feature.

  If it is said structure, there exists an effect substantially the same as the case of said means 5. Furthermore, since the timing of abnormality determination by the unauthorized transition determination means can be managed in software and the monitoring voltage information value and the unauthorized transition detection threshold voltage information value can be compared in software, they are implemented in hardware. Compared to the case, although the information format conversion means is added, the hardware configuration as a whole can be simplified.

Means 14.
In the gaming machine of the above means 4,
The regulation abnormality detecting means is monitored by a transient response converting means (for example, a big prize opening solenoid monitoring circuit 911) for converting a transient response of the current flowing through the solenoid coil into a transient response of the monitoring voltage, and the transient response converting means. Information format conversion means (for example, an A / D converter circuit 918) for converting analog information of the monitored voltage to monitor voltage information which is digital information corresponding to the monitor voltage, and deterioration corresponding to a predetermined deterioration detection threshold voltage Deterioration detection threshold voltage information holding means for holding detection threshold voltage information (for example, a partial area of ROM 502, 1045a2, 1037a2), and the drive time from the start of driving of the solenoid coil by the restriction changing means has passed a specified time Specified time elapse detection means for detecting that (for example, solenoid operation confirmation processing S202, solenoid A part of the operation confirmation processing S2108 and the payout solenoid operation confirmation processing S3316), and the monitoring voltage information from the information format conversion means and the deterioration detection threshold in response to detection that the drive time has passed the specified time. Based on the deterioration detection threshold voltage information held in the voltage information holding means, it is determined that the state transition of the medium inflow control means is abnormal when the monitoring voltage exceeds the deterioration detection threshold voltage. Deterioration determination means (for example, solenoid operation confirmation processing S202, solenoid operation confirmation processing S2108, part of the dispensing solenoid operation confirmation processing S3316),
The regulation abnormality notification control means generates a deterioration notification signal according to the determination of the abnormality by the deterioration determination means, and controls abnormality notification,
The deterioration detection threshold voltage information is information corresponding to a voltage larger than a monitoring voltage when the drive time has passed the specified time in the normal normal inflow control of the medium by the restriction changing means. It is a feature.
If it is said structure, there exists an effect substantially the same as the case of said means 6. FIG. Furthermore, since the timing of abnormality determination by the unauthorized transition determination means can be managed in software and the monitoring voltage information value and the unauthorized transition detection threshold voltage information value can be compared in software, they are implemented in hardware. Compared to the case, although the information format conversion means is added, the hardware configuration as a whole can be simplified.

Means 15.
In the gaming machine of the above means 14,
The regulation abnormality detection means is measured by a deterioration sign detection threshold voltage holding means for holding deterioration sign detection threshold voltage information corresponding to a predetermined deterioration sign detection threshold voltage smaller than the deterioration detection threshold voltage, and the specified time elapsed detection means. The monitoring is performed based on the monitoring voltage by the transient response conversion means and the deterioration sign detection threshold voltage by the deterioration sign detection threshold voltage generation means in response to the detection that the specified time has passed. A deterioration sign determination means for determining that there is an abnormality sign in the state transition of the medium inflow restriction means when the voltage is greater than the deterioration sign detection threshold voltage;
The regulation abnormality notification control means further generates a deterioration sign detection signal according to the determination of the abnormality sign by the deterioration sign determination means to control the notification of the abnormality sign,
The deterioration sign detection threshold voltage is larger than the monitoring voltage when the drive time has passed the specified time in the normal normal inflow control of the medium in the restriction changing means.
If it is said structure, there exists an effect substantially the same as the case of said means 7.

Means 16.
In the gaming machine of the above means 4,
The regulation abnormality detecting means is monitored by the transient response converting means for converting the transient response of the current flowing through the solenoid coil into a transient response of the monitoring voltage to monitor the transient response of the monitoring voltage, and the transient response converting means. Information format conversion means for converting analog information of the monitoring voltage into monitoring voltage information that is digital information corresponding to the monitoring voltage, and a deterioration detection threshold that holds deterioration detection threshold time information corresponding to a predetermined deterioration detection threshold time In the transient response of the monitoring voltage from the time information holding means and the information format conversion means, the monitoring voltage is once increased from the start of driving of the solenoid coil by the restriction changing means, and then the monitoring voltage is decreased and starts increasing again. The node arrival time corresponding to the arrival time to the node position and the deterioration detection threshold held in the deterioration detection threshold time information holding means Based on the information during, and a degradation determiner unit and the state transition is abnormal in the medium inflow control means when the node reaching time is larger than between the deterioration detection threshold time,
The regulation abnormality notification control means generates a deterioration notification signal according to the determination of the abnormality by the deterioration determination means, and controls abnormality notification,
The deterioration detection threshold time is longer than a node arrival time for the initial normal driving of the medium inflow restricting means by the restriction changing means.

  With the above configuration, the transient response characteristics of the voltage when the solenoid coil is deteriorated and when it is normal are examined in advance, and the time between them is set as the reference node arrival time, so that the difference in node arrival time It is possible to distinguish between deterioration and normal. Although details will be described later, the arrival time of the magnetic part by the solenoid coil becomes slow, so that the node arrival time at the time of deterioration becomes longer than that at the normal time. In addition, if the voltage is compared at a single timing, when a voltage is applied to the solenoid coil from a half-open state due to a game ball being sandwiched by the medium inflow restricting means, the voltage is similar to that at the time of deterioration. In order to show transient response characteristics, it is difficult to identify them, but according to the difference in node arrival time, it is also possible to distinguish between degradation time and half-open time. Although details will be described later, the node arrival time at the half-open time is shorter than the normal time, contrary to the node arrival time at the time of deterioration being longer than normal. Thereby, it is possible to reduce the notification of the abnormality when it is not necessary to notify the abnormality, such as when half-opened.

Means 17.
In the gaming machine of the above means 16,
The regulation abnormality detection means, a deterioration sign detection threshold time information holding means for holding deterioration sign detection threshold time information corresponding to a predetermined deterioration sign detection threshold time shorter than the deterioration detection threshold time, the node arrival time and the deterioration Based on the deterioration sign detection threshold time information held in the sign detection threshold voltage information holding means, when the node arrival time is longer than the deterioration sign detection threshold time, the medium inflow restriction means shifts to the state transition. A deterioration sign determining means for determining that there is an abnormality sign,
The regulation abnormality notification control unit generates a deterioration sign notification signal according to the determination of the abnormality sign by the deterioration determination unit and controls the notification of the abnormality sign,
The deterioration sign detection threshold time is characterized in that it is longer than the node arrival time for the initial normal drive of the medium inflow restricting means by the restriction changing means.
If it is said structure, there exists an effect similar to said means 6 and means 15.

Means 18.
In the gaming machines of the above means 1 to 17,
A game board (e.g., game board 30) provided with a prize device (e.g., variable prize device 32, start prize device 33), and medium launching means for launching game media to the game board;
The predetermined area is an internal area of the winning device;
The medium inflow restricting means is disposed at the entrance of the winning device, and restricts the inflow of game media ejected by the medium ejecting means into the internal area of the winning device.
With this configuration, it is possible to detect an abnormality of the solenoid that controls the restriction of the flow of the game medium to the winning device involved in the payout of the game medium.

Means 19.
In the gaming machines of the above means 1 to 17,
A betting operation means for generating a betting operation signal in response to an operation for betting a game medium to perform a unit game; and an external storage means for storing a game medium held by the player outside the gaming machine,
The medium inflow restricting means restricts inflow from the external storage means to a medium discharge passage leading to a discharge port for discharging game media from the gaming machine;
The restriction control means inserts a predetermined number of game media in response to detection of reception of the betting operation signal.
With this configuration, it is possible to detect an abnormality of the solenoid that controls the insertion of the game medium.

Means 20.
In the gaming machines of the above means 1 to 17,
A symbol display means for displaying a symbol pattern;
A symbol change means for changing the symbol pattern displayed by the symbol display means in the previous period;
An external storage means for storing the game medium outside the gaming machine;
An internal storage means for storing the game medium inside the gaming machine;
Dispensing means for paying out the number of game media corresponding to the medium acquisition role in response to detection that the symbol pattern includes a symbol pattern corresponding to a medium acquisition role capable of acquiring game media When,
The game progress control means includes lottery means for determining a winning combination by lottery,
The medium inflow restricting means restricts the inflow from the internal storage means to the medium discharge passage leading to the external storage means;
The restriction change control means permits the number of game media corresponding to the medium acquisition combination to flow into the medium discharge passage according to the display of the symbol pattern corresponding to the medium acquisition combination by the symbol display means. It is characterized by.
With this configuration, it is possible to detect an abnormality of a solenoid that controls the payout of game media.

  The best mode of the gaming machine according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the first embodiment, the case where the gaming machine is a ball and ball game machine (hereinafter referred to as “pachinko machine”), and in the second embodiment, the case where the gaming machine is a ball-type spinning game machine will be described. It should be noted that the present invention can also be applied to other gaming machines such as a revolving gaming machine using medals as gaming media.

(Embodiment 1)
(Configuration of front side of pachinko machine)
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a pachinko machine. As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko machine 10 includes an outer frame 11 that forms an outer shell of the pachinko machine 10, and an inner frame 12 that is supported on one side of the outer frame 11 so as to be openable and closable. Below, the structure of the outer frame 11 and the inner frame 12 is demonstrated separately.

  The opening / closing axis of the inner frame 12 is set so as to extend vertically on the opposite side (left side of the pachinko machine 10 in FIG. 1) from the position where the handle (game ball launching handle 18 described later) is installed as viewed from the front of the pachinko machine 10. The inner frame 12 can be sufficiently opened to the front side with the opening / closing axis as an axis. If the opening / closing axis of the inner frame 12 is in the vertical direction on the handle installation location side (the right side of the pachinko machine 10 in FIG. 1), the game ball launching handle is opened when the inner frame 12 is opened. This is because the 18 heads and the like interfere with adjacent pachinko machines and card units (ball lending units), and the inner frame 12 cannot be fully opened.

  The inner frame 12 is roughly divided into a lower pan unit 13 attached to the lowermost portion thereof, and an opening / closing axis on the left and right sides of the inner frame 12 in the upper range of the lower pan unit 13 as an axis. A front frame set 14 that is freely attached, a resin base (not shown), and a game board 30 described later that is attached to the rear side of the resin base are provided. Each of these configurations will be described in detail below.

  The lower plate unit 13 is fixed to the inner frame 12 with a fastener such as a screw. On the front side of the lower tray unit 13, a lower tray 15, a ball release lever 17, a game ball launching handle 18, an ashtray 22, and a sound output port 24 are provided. The lower tray 15 serving as a ball receiving tray is provided at substantially the center of the lower tray unit 13 and plays a role of stopping a game ball discharged from the discharge port 16 when the upper tray described later becomes full. is there. The ball removal lever 17 is for removing a game ball in the lower plate 15. By moving the ball removal lever 17 to the left in FIG. 1, a predetermined position on the bottom surface of the lower plate 15 is opened, The game ball stopped in the tray 15 can be discharged through the opening on the bottom surface of the lower tray 15 to the player's ball storage box (dollar box). The game ball launching handle 18 is disposed so as to protrude to the front side on the right side of the lower plate 15. In accordance with the operation of the game ball launching handle 18 by the player, the game ball is driven toward a game board 30 (see FIG. 2), which will be described later, which is arranged behind the window 101 by a game ball launching device having a launch solenoid. It is. The sound output port 24 is an output port for outputting sound from a speaker provided in the lower plate unit 13 or on the back surface. The ashtray 22 is provided on the left side of the lower plate 15. The right side of the ashtray 22 is supported by the lower plate 15 so as to rotate about the axis in the left-right direction (horizontal direction) as an axis (for example, forwardly toward the front side).

  On the other hand, an upper plate 19 as a receiving tray for game balls is provided integrally with the front frame set 14 at a lower portion of the front frame set 14 (above the lower plate 15 described above). The upper tray 19 is a ball receiving tray for temporarily storing the game balls and guiding them to the game ball launching device 38 while aligning them in a line. In the conventional pachinko machine, a front decorative frame that can be opened and closed with respect to the inner frame is provided below the front frame set, and an upper plate is provided on the front decorative frame. However, in this embodiment, the front decorative frame is omitted. The upper plate 19 is provided directly on the front frame set 14. Similar to the lower plate 15, the upper plate 19 has a structure in which the surface layer is formed of flame-retardant ABS resin. In addition, an effect button 79 (see FIG. 4) for the player to perform operations such as changing the background of the decorative symbol display device 42 is provided at the lower left of the upper plate 19.

  The front frame set 14 is further provided with light-emitting devices such as various lamps around the periphery (for example, a corner portion). These light emitting devices play a role of enhancing the effect of the game during the game by changing and controlling the light emission mode such as lighting and blinking according to the change of the gaming state in the big hit gaming state or the like. For example, at the periphery of the window portion 101, an annular illumination portion 102 containing a light emitting means such as an LED is provided symmetrically, and lighting or blinking in the big hit gaming state, it is in a big hit gaming state It is the structure which alert | reports.

  In addition, a ball lending operation unit 120 is disposed below the window unit 101, and the ball lending operation unit 120 is provided with a ball lending button 121, a return button 122, and a frequency display unit 123. When the ball lending operation unit 120 is operated with a bill or a card inserted in a card unit (ball lending unit) (not shown) arranged on the side of the pachinko machine 10, a game ball is lent according to the operation. Done. The ball lending button 121 is operated to obtain a lending ball based on information recorded on a card or the like (recording medium), and the lending ball is supplied to the upper plate 19 as long as there is a remaining amount on the card or the like. Is done. The return button 122 is operated when requesting the return of a card or the like inserted into the card unit. The frequency display unit 123 displays remaining amount information such as a card. Note that the ball lending operation unit 120 is not required for a pachinko machine in which a game ball is directly rented from the ball lending device unit to the upper plate without using a card unit, that is, a so-called cash machine. Therefore, a decorative seal or the like is attached to the installation portion of the ball rental operation unit 120. Thereby, the common use of the lending operation unit 120 of the pachinko machine using the card unit and the cash machine can be achieved.

  Next, the configuration of the game board 30 will be described. FIG. 2 is a front view showing the configuration of the game board 30. As shown in FIG. 2, the game board 30 includes: (1) a board on which a plurality of through-holes such as an out port 36 are formed, a game ball that restricts the game area and is ejected from the game ball launcher. A rail unit 50 that guides the game ball into the game area, (2) a flow restriction member such as a nail that regulates the flow of the game ball in the game area, and (3) an irregular change in the flow direction and speed of the game ball A flow state changing member such as a windmill, etc., (4) an invariable winning device 31 provided on the front side of the substrate in correspondence with a predetermined through hole, and (5) a game ball flowing into the invariable winning device 31 A passage detection device SW1 (see FIG. 4) for an invariable winning device for detecting the position, (6) a variable winning device 32 provided on the front side of the substrate corresponding to a predetermined through hole, and (7) a variable winning device. 32 for variable prize winning device that detects the passage of game balls that have flowed into Over-detection device SW2 (see FIG. 4), (8) Start winning device 33 provided on the front side of the board corresponding to a predetermined through hole, and (9) Passing of the game ball flowing into start winning device 33 A passing detection device SW3 (see FIG. 4) for a start winning device that detects the game, (10) a start device (through gate) 34 provided on the front side of the board, and (11) a game ball that has flowed into the start device 34 Passing detection device SW4 (see FIG. 4) for a starting device that detects the passage of the game, and (12) a game ball that is provided on the back side of the game board and flows into the invariable winning device 31, the variable winning device 32, and the out port 36 A rear-side passage forming member (not shown) that forms a discharge passage through which to pass, (13) a special symbol display device 38 that displays a lottery result of the big hit lottery in a special symbol, and a lottery result of the winning lottery in a normal symbol Normal symbol display device to display 1, (14) a decorative symbol display device 42 that displays a lottery result of a big hit lottery with a decorative symbol, (15) a special symbol hold display device 720 that displays the number of times that the right of a big hit lottery is held, and (16) a lottery per lot And a normal symbol hold display device 721 for displaying the number of times the right is held. The game balls that have flowed into the various winning devices (the invariable winning device 31, the variable winning device 32, and the starting winning device 33) are guided to the discharge passage through the winning devices and have not flowed into the various winning devices. The sphere is guided from the out port 36 to the sphere discharge path.

  The rail unit 50 includes an inner rail 51 and an outer rail 52, and is generally annular. A substantially circular partition area in the ring of the rail unit 50 is a game area. A portion where the rail 51 and the outer rail 52 are parallel to the inner and outer doubles with a predetermined interval (a portion on the left side) forms a guide passage. The game ball launched from the game ball launching device is guided to the game area through the guide passage. The rail unit 50 further includes a return ball preventing member 53 provided at the tip portion (upper left portion in FIG. 2) of the inner rail 51. The return ball preventing member 53 temporarily guides the guide path from the guide passage to the upper part of the game area. The played game ball is prevented from returning to the guide passage again. Further, the rail unit 50 includes a return member 54 provided at a position (upper right portion in FIG. 2) corresponding to the maximum flight portion of the game ball along the outer rail 52. The game ball that has been launched by the return member 54 at a predetermined momentum and has reached the return member 54 is bounced back to the center of the game area. The rail unit 50 also includes a backflow prevention valve 57 provided at the entrance of the guide passage. The backflow prevention valve 57 protrudes in a substantially vertical direction from the inner rail 51 to the lower end of the rail unit 50, and allows the game ball launched from the game ball launching device to pass through, but does not reach the game area and flows back through the guide passage. The ball is not allowed to pass to the game ball launcher side. The game ball that has flowed back flows down in a substantially vertical direction when it collides with the backflow prevention valve 57 and is guided to a return passage (not shown) communicating with the upper plate 19 or the lower plate 15.

  The invariable winning device 31 is a winning device in which an invariant opening is formed. The “invariant mouth” is an entrance where there is no change in regulation of the inflow of game balls due to a constant size or the like. Therefore, the difficulty of the inflow of game balls to the invariable winning device 31 does not change. In the following, the invariant opening of the invariable winning device 31 is also referred to as a general winning opening. The passage detection device SW1 corresponding to the permanent prize winning device 31 is provided in the vicinity of the entrance of the through hole of the substrate corresponding to the permanent prize winning device 31 or the permanent prize winning device 31 or the back side passage of the back side passage member. The passing of the game ball that has flowed into the invariable winning device 31 is detected by the passage detection device SW1. In addition, according to the detection of the game ball by the passage detection device SW1, a predetermined number of prize balls associated with the unchanged prize device 31 are paid out to the upper plate 19 or the lower plate 15.

  The variable winning device 32 is a winning device in which a variable opening is formed. The “variable port” is an entrance through which the inflow regulation of the game ball can be changed by changing its size. Hereinafter, the variable opening of the variable winning device 32 is also referred to as a big winning opening. Specifically, the variable winning device includes an openable / closable shutter (a kind of medium inflow restricting means) 62, a large prize opening solenoid (a kind of restriction changing means) 991 for driving the shutter 62 (see FIG. 4), And a stress transmission mechanism for transmitting the stress generated by the winning opening solenoid 991 to the shutter 62. The shutter 62 includes an inflow prohibition state (a kind of first inflow restriction state) in which the inflow of game balls is prohibited without forming a big prize opening according to the operating state of the big prize opening solenoid 991, and a big prize opening. And an inflow permission state (second inflow restriction state) in which the inflow of game balls is permitted is selectively taken. The passage detection device SW2 corresponding to the variable winning device 32 is provided in the vicinity of the variable winning device 32 or the entrance of the back side passage of the back side passage member corresponding to the variable winning device 32 or the variable winning device 32. Note that a predetermined number of prize balls associated with the variable winning device 32 is paid out to the upper plate 19 or the lower plate 15 in accordance with the detection of the game ball by the passage detection device SW1.

  Here, the operation of the variable winning device 32 related to the characteristic part of the present invention will be described in detail. The grand prize opening solenoid 992 includes a solenoid coil, a cylinder disposed inside the solenoid coil, a shaft portion movable inside the cylinder, and a magnetic portion formed of a ferromagnetic material provided at one end of the shaft portion. And a biasing portion disposed between one end of the solenoid coil and the magnetic portion. When a current is passed through the solenoid coil, the magnetic part of the plunger is magnetized by the magnetic action of the solenoid coil, and is attracted to the solenoid coil against the urging force of the urging part. On the other hand, when the current to the solenoid coil is interrupted, the magnetic part of the plunger is demagnetized, and is bent away from the solenoid coil due to the urging force of the urging part. When the magnetic part of the plunger is separated from the solenoid coil, the shutter 62 is in an inflow prohibition state via the stress transmission mechanism, while when the magnetic part of the plunger is attracted from the solenoid coil, The inflow permission state is taken through the stress transmission mechanism. Note that the plunger and the shutter 62 are mechanically connected, and when the shutter 62 is changed from the inflow prohibition state to the inflow permission state to the forced external force, the plunger magnetic portion also moves to the solenoid coil side by the external force. Move to.

  The variable winning device 32 alternately repeats the inflow prohibition state and the inflow permission state of the shutter 62 a predetermined number of times in the special game state. More specifically, in a special game state in which the special symbol display device 38 is in a specific display mode (when the determined symbol after the decoration symbol display device 42 is stopped is a combination of predetermined symbols), the shutter is released. The state transition from the inflow permission state to the inflow prohibition state due to the passage of a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) from the state transition from the inflow prohibition state of 62 to the inflow permission state or a predetermined number (for example, 10) of winnings to the big prize opening Up to one round, the shutter 62 of the variable winning device 32 opens and closes a predetermined number of rounds (for example, 15 times).

  The start winning device 33 is a winning device including a start winning portion 33a in which a constant opening is formed and a start winning portion 33b in which a variable opening is formed. The invariant port and the variable port in the start winning device 33 are also referred to as an upper start winning port and a lower start winning port, respectively. Specifically, the start winning device 33 includes a pair of freely openable / closable blades (a kind of medium inflow restricting means) 60 and a start opening solenoid (a kind of restriction changing means) 992 for driving the pair of blades 60 (see FIG. 4). ) And a stress transmission mechanism that transmits the stress generated by the start-up solenoid 992 to the pair of blades 60. The pair of blades 60 is allowed to enter the first inflow permitted state (a kind of the first inflow restricted state) in which the inflow of the game ball is permitted and the inflow of the game ball in accordance with the operating state of the start port solenoid 992. The second inflow permission state (second inflow restriction state) having a variable opening larger than that in the first inflow permission state is selectively taken. The passage detection device SW3 corresponding to the start winning device 33 is provided in the vicinity of the start winning device 33 or the entrance of the back side passage of the back side passage member corresponding to the start winning device 33 or the back side passage member. When the passing detection device SW3 detects a game ball, if the number of holdings of the special symbol change by the special symbol display device 38 (the right of jackpot lottery) has not reached the maximum number of holdings, Rights increase only once. Note that a predetermined number of prize balls associated with the start winning device 33 are paid out to the upper plate 19 or the lower plate 15 in accordance with the detection of the game ball by the passage detection device SW3.

  Here, the operation of the start winning device 33 related to the characteristic part of the present invention will be described in detail. The configuration of the start port solenoid 992 is substantially the same as the configuration of the above-described prize winning port solenoid 991. In the start-up solenoid 992, when a current is passed through the solenoid coil, the magnetic part of the plunger is attracted to the solenoid coil against the biasing force of the biasing part, and the current to the solenoid coil is interrupted. Is bent by the urging force of the urging portion, and the magnetic portion of the plunger is separated from the solenoid coil. When the magnetic part of the plunger is separated from the solenoid coil, the pair of blades 60 takes the first inflow permission state via the stress transmission mechanism, while the magnetic part of the plunger is attracted from the solenoid coil. If there is, the second inflow permission state is established via the stress transmission mechanism. The plunger of the start-up solenoid and the pair of blades 60 are mechanically connected, and the pair of blades 60 is changed from the first inflow permission state to the second inflow permission state by a forced external force. In response to this external force, the magnetic part of the plunger also moves to the solenoid coil side.

  The starting device 34 is a device in which a permanent opening is formed. The invariant opening of the starting device 34 is also referred to as a normal symbol starting opening. The game ball that has flowed into the starting device 34 flows out from the starting device 34 to the front side of the game board 30, unlike the above-described various winning devices. A passage detection device SW4 corresponding to the starter 34 is provided in the starter 34. When detecting the game ball by the passage detection device SW4, if the number of hold of the right to make the special symbol change by the normal symbol display device 38 (the right of jackpot lottery) has not reached the maximum hold number, Rights increase only once. The prize balls are not paid out in response to the detection of the game balls by the passage detection device SW4.

  The special symbol display device 38 variably displays the special symbol as the identification information in response to the winning of the start winning device 33, and the decorative symbol display device 42 variably displays the decorative symbol corresponding to the variation display of the special symbol, The normal symbol display device 41 variably displays the normal symbol in response to the inflow to the starting device 34. The special symbol display device 38 is composed of two-color LEDs 38a and 38b, and display contents are controlled by a main control board 261 (see FIG. 4) described later. For example, the LEDs 38a and 38b are variably displayed in red and green. The number of times the jackpot lottery right is held in association with the inflow of the game ball into the start winning device 33 is held up to 4 times, and the number of times held is lit and displayed by the four holding lamps 720a of the special symbol hold display device 720. In addition, the structure which displays the frequency | count of a hold | maintenance on a part of decoration design display apparatus 42, without providing the special symbol reservation display apparatus 720 may be sufficient.

  The decorative symbol display device 42 is configured by an image forming device such as a liquid crystal display device, and the display content is controlled by a display control device 45 (see FIG. 4). On the decorative symbol display device 42, for example, symbols as identification information are displayed at three locations, upper, middle, and lower. These symbols are scrolled and variably displayed on the decorative symbol display device 42.

  The normal symbol display device 41 includes lamps 41a and 41b for normal symbols. In the present embodiment, the normal symbol lamp 41a is provided, for example, above both display surfaces of the decorative symbol display device 42, and its external shape is a “◯” shape. On the other hand, the normal symbol lamp 41b is provided adjacent to the upper right side of the lamp 41a, and its external shape is an “x” shape. In the normal symbol display device 41, for example, the display symbol (ordinary symbol) by the lamps 41a and 41b changes every time the game ball passes the starter 34. Specifically, the lamps 41a and 41b blink alternately. When stopped with the lamp 41a being lit, the variable winning portion 33b of the start winning device 33 is in the second inflow restriction state for a predetermined time. The number of lottery rights held with the inflow of the game ball into the starter 34 is held up to a maximum of four times, and the number of times of holding is displayed on the four holding lamps 721a of the normal symbol hold display device 721. In addition, the structure which displays the frequency | count of a hold | maintenance on a part of decoration design display apparatus 42 may be sufficient, without providing the normal design reservation display apparatus 721.

(Back view of pachinko machine)
Next, the configuration of the back surface of the pachinko machine 10 will be described. FIG. 3 is a rear view of the pachinko machine 10. First, an overall outline of the rear configuration of the pachinko machine 10 will be described. In the pachinko machine 10, various control boards are arranged in the back (actually the back of the inner frame 12 and the game board 30) in such a manner that they are arranged vertically or horizontally, A game ball supply device (payout mechanism) for supplying game balls, a protective cover made of resin, and the like are attached. In this embodiment, various control boards are divided into two mounting bases to form two control board units, and these control board units are individually attached to the inner frame 12 or the back surface of the game board 30. . In this case, the main controller including the main control board 261 (see FIG. 4), the power monitor including the power monitor board 540 (see FIG. 4), and the sub controller including the sub control board 262 (see FIG. 4) And a power supply board 313 (see FIG. 4). The payout control apparatus including the payout control board 311 (see FIG. 4), the launch control apparatus including the launch control board 312 (see FIG. 4), and the power supply board 313 (see FIG. 4). Is mounted on the other mounting base as a unit. Here, for convenience, the former unit is referred to as a “first control board unit” 201 and the latter unit is referred to as a “second control board unit” 202. In addition, since the dispensing mechanism and the protective cover are integrated as one unit, and the resin portion is generally referred to as a back pack, the unit is referred to as a “back pack unit” 203 here.

  The first control board unit 201, the second control board unit 202, and the back pack unit 203 are configured so that they can be attached and detached without using any tools or the like in units of units. The frame 12 or the back of the game board 30 can be opened and closed. As a result, even if the units 201 to 203 and other members are arranged one behind the other, the hidden parts and the like can be easily confirmed.

  The first control board unit 201 includes a main control board 261 that controls the progress of the game, a power supply monitoring board 540 that controls power supply monitoring, and display control and sound lamp control of the decorative symbol display device 42 according to instructions from the main control board 261. And a sub-control board 262 that manages the above. The main control board 261 and the power supply monitoring board 540 are accommodated in a board box 263 made of a transparent resin material or the like. The board box 263 includes a substantially rectangular parallelepiped box base and a box cover that covers the opening of the box base. The box base and the box cover are connected to each other by a sealing unit so that the board box cannot be opened. 263 is sealed. The sealing unit can be applied to any configuration as long as the box base and the box cover are connected so that they cannot be opened. In addition, the sealing unit can prevent unauthorized opening after the sealing. Even if an unauthorized opening is performed, it can be detected early and easily.

  The second control board unit 202 includes a payout control board 311, a launch control board 312, a power supply board 313, and a card unit connection board (not shown). The payout control board 311 controls the driving of a payout motor 358a (see FIG. 4) for paying out prize balls and lending out rental balls. The launch control board 312 performs drive control of a launch solenoid (not shown) in accordance with the operation of the game ball launch handle 18 by the player. The power supply board 313 supplies power at a predetermined voltage required by various control devices. Further, the card unit connection board is electrically connected to the ball lending operation unit 120 (see FIG. 1) and a card unit (not shown), and takes a ball lending operation command by the player and outputs it to the payout control board 311. . Note that a card unit connection board is not required in a cash machine in which game balls are lent directly to the upper plate from a ball lending device or the like without using a card unit.

  The payout control board 311 is housed in a payout control board case 280 made of a transparent resin material or the like, and the power supply board 313 is housed in a power supply board case 281 made of a transparent resin material or the like. The card unit connection board is housed in a card unit connection board case 314 made of a transparent resin material or the like, and the firing control board 312 is housed in a firing control board case (not shown) made of a transparent resin material or the like. In particular, the payout control board 311 is accommodated in a sealed board box 262 in the same manner as the main control board 261.

  The payout control board 311 is electrically connected to the state return switch 321. For example, when the state return switch 321 is pressed when a payout error such as a ball clogging of the payout motor 358a occurs, the payout motor is slowly moved. Rotate forward to eliminate clogging (return to normal).

  The configuration of the back pack unit 203 will be described. The back pack unit 203 is a unit in which a resin-formed back pack 351 and a game ball payout mechanism 352 are integrated. The back pack 351 is integrally formed of, for example, ABS resin, and includes a substantially flat base portion 353 and a protective cover portion 354 that protrudes rearward of the pachinko machine and has a horizontally long substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape.

  The protective cover portion 354 has a shape in which the left and right side surfaces and the upper surface are closed and only the lower surface is opened, and has a size sufficient to surround at least the electric accessory unit (center accessory). The sub-control board 262 is also enclosed. A large number of ventilation holes 354 a are provided on the back surface of the protective cover portion 354. Each of the air holes 354a has a long hole shape, and the air holes 354a are adjacent to each other at a relatively close position. Therefore, the back surface of the back pack 351 can be easily opened by cutting the resin portion between the adjacent vent holes 354a. That is, by cutting the resin portion between the air holes 354a, the display control device 45 and the like inside thereof can be exposed.

  The base portion 353 is provided with a payout mechanism portion 352 so as to bypass the protective cover portion 354. That is, a tank (part of a kind of internal storage means) 355 opened upward is provided at the uppermost part of the back pack 351, and game balls supplied from the island facilities of the game hall are sequentially provided in the tank 355. To be replenished. Below the tank 355 is connected, for example, a tank rail (part of a kind of internal storage means) 356 that has two rows (two rows) of ball passages in the horizontal direction and is gently inclined toward the downstream side. A case rail (a part of a kind of internal storage means) 357 is connected to the downstream side of the rail 356 in the vertical direction. The payout device 358 is provided at the most downstream portion of the case rail 357, and a required number of game balls are paid out appropriately according to a predetermined electrical configuration such as a payout motor. The game balls paid out from the payout device 358 are supplied to the upper plate 19 through a payout passage or the like (not shown). The tank rail 356 and the vibrator 360 for applying vibration to the tank rail 356 are unitized so as to be integrated, and the vibrator 360 is driven on the assumption that a ball clogging occurs near the tank rail 356. In this way, the clogging of the balls can be solved.

  The payout mechanism unit 352 is provided with a payout relay board 381 that relays a payout command signal from the payout control board 262 to the payout device 358, and a power source for switching between taking in and shutting off external power supplied from the outside. A switch board 382 is installed. The power switch board 382 is supplied with predetermined power (for example, AC 24V) via a voltage converter, and the power supply to the power board 313 can be turned on or off by switching the power switch 382a.

  An inner frame opening detection switch 388 for detecting that the inner frame 12 is opened with respect to the outer frame 11 is provided on the upper right side of the inner frame 12, and when the inner frame 12 is opened, the inner frame opening detection is performed. The data is output from the switch 388 to the management computer installed in the game hall. A front frame open detection switch 389 is provided on the left side of the inner frame open detection switch 388. When the front frame set 14 is opened, the front frame open detection switch 389 outputs the information to the management computer.

(Electric configuration of pachinko machine and various control processes)
Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko machine 10 will be described with reference to FIG. The pachinko machine 10 includes a power supply board 313, a power supply monitoring base 540, a main control board 261, a sub control board 262, a payout control board 311, a display control board 45, and the like. Hereinafter, these control boards will be described individually.

  The configuration of the main control board 261 will be described. On the main control board 261, an MPU 501 as a one-chip microcomputer which is an arithmetic unit is mounted. The MPU 501 is a ROM 502 that stores various control programs executed by the MPU 501 and fixed value data, and a memory for temporarily storing various data when the control program stored in the ROM 502 is executed. RAM 503. The main control board 262 includes an interrupt circuit (not shown), a timer circuit (not shown), an input / output port 505, a data transmission / reception circuit (not shown), a prize winning solenoid drive circuit 900, a prize winning opening. Various circuits such as an abnormality detection circuit 910, a start port solenoid drive circuit 920, and a start port abnormality detection circuit 930 are incorporated. Note that the special winning opening operation abnormality detection circuit and the start winning opening operation abnormality detection circuit are characteristic portions of the present invention, and therefore will be separately described in detail in the description of the characteristic portions described below.

  The RAM 503 is configured such that even after the power supply to the pachinko machine 10 is stopped, the power of the backup voltage is supplied from the power supply device 313 and data can be retained (backup). A backup area is provided for temporarily storing and the like. The NMI terminal (non-maskable interrupt terminal) of the MPU 501 is connected to the power failure monitoring circuit 542 when external power supply is stopped due to a power failure or when the main power is shut off due to the power switch 384a being turned off on the power switch board 382 (see FIG. 4). When the power failure signal SG1 is input to the MPU 501, an NMI interrupt process described later as a power failure process is immediately executed.

  An input / output port 505 is connected to the MPU 501 of the main control board 261 via a bus line 504 including an address bus and a data bus. The input / output port 505 includes a RAM erasing switch circuit 543, a payout control board 311, a launch control board 312, a sub-control board 262, a special symbol display device 38, a normal symbol display device 41, and a special symbol hold display. A device 720, a normal symbol hold display device 721, a special prize opening solenoid 991, a start opening solenoid 992, various passage detection devices SW1 to SW4, and the like are connected.

  The payout control board 311 performs prize ball payout control and rental ball payout control by the payout motor 358a. The MPU 511 that is an arithmetic unit includes a ROM 512 that stores a control program executed by the MPU 511, fixed value data, and the like, and a RAM 513 that is used as a work memory or the like. Like the RAM 503 of the main control board 261, the RAM 513 of the payout control board 311 is configured to hold data even when the power is shut off, and includes a backup area for temporarily storing various data. As with the MPU 501 of the main control board 261, the power failure monitoring circuit 542 of the power monitoring board 540 also outputs the power failure signal SG1 to the NMI terminal of the MPU 511. When the power failure signal SG1 is input to the MPU 511, The NMI interrupt process as a process is immediately executed. The power failure signal SG1 from the power failure monitoring circuit 542 is transmitted via the power supply board 313.

  An input / output port 515 is connected to the MPU 511 of the payout control board 311 via a bus line 514 including an address bus and a data bus. A main control board 261, a payout motor 358a, and the like are connected to the input / output port 515.

  The launch control board 312 permits or prohibits the launch of a game ball by a launch solenoid (not shown), and the launch solenoid is permitted to drive when a predetermined condition is satisfied. Specifically, a sensor signal indicates that a connection signal indicating that the card unit and the payout control board are connected is output from the payout control board 311 and that the player is touching the game ball launching handle 18. The firing control device 312 outputs a firing permission signal to the main control board 261 on the condition that it is detected by the reception of the sound and the firing stop switch (not shown) for stopping the firing is not operated. The main control board 261 that has received the firing permission signal outputs a firing solenoid control signal to the firing control board 312. As a result, the launch control board 312 drives the launch solenoid according to the launch solenoid control signal, and as a result, the game ball is launched with a strength according to the amount of operation of the game ball launch handle.

  The sub-control board 262 controls the ringing control of the effect speaker 710 and the like according to the change display of the decorative design based on the command from the main control board 261, the lighting (flashing) control of the effect lamp 711, and the main control board 261. The function to edit the command to the display control board 45 based on the command from and send it to the display control board 45 is achieved. The MPU 550 of the sub-control board 262 includes a ROM 551 that stores a control program executed by the MPU 550, fixed value data, and the like, and a RAM 552 that is used as a work memory or the like. An input / output port 554 is connected to the MPU 550 via a bus line 553 composed of an address bus and a data bus. The input / output port 554 is connected to a speaker, a lamp, an effect button 79 for executing a predetermined display effect during variable display on the decorative symbol display device 42, and a main control board 261. Examples of the effect button 79 include a display effect button such as a step-up notice for notifying that the possibility of a big hit state is high depending on the manner in which predetermined characters appear sequentially. When the effect button 79 is pressed, an effect designation command for executing a predetermined effect is generated and transmitted to the display control board 45.

  The display control board 45 controls the variation display of the decorative symbols on the decorative symbol display device 42. The display control board 45 includes an MPU 521 having a RAM 523 used as a work RAM, a ROM (program ROM) 522, a video RAM 524, a character ROM 525, an image controller 526, an input port 527, and an output port 529. I have.

  The MPU 521 receives a symbol display command (stop symbol command, variation pattern command, confirmation command, etc.) transmitted from the sub-control board 262 via the input port 527, and analyzes or receives the content of the received command. Based on the command, predetermined arithmetic processing is performed to control the image controller 526 (specifically, generation of an internal command for the image controller 526). The program ROM 522 is a memory for storing various control programs executed by the MPU 521 and fixed values, and also stores and holds JPEG format image data for background images. The RAM 523 is a memory for temporarily storing work data, flags, and the like that are used when the MPU 521 executes various programs.

  The image controller 526 is configured by a VDP (Video Display Processor). The VDP is a kind of drawing circuit that directly operates an LCD driver (liquid crystal driving circuit) incorporated in the decorative symbol display device 42. Since it is an IC chip, it is also called a “drawing chip” and its entity is a drawing. It can be said to be a microcomputer chip with built-in processing software. The image controller 526 adjusts the timing of each of the MPU 521, the video RAM 524, etc. to intervene in reading and writing data, and reads the display data stored in the video RAM 524 from the character ROM 525 at a predetermined timing, and sets the output port 529. And output to the decorative symbol display device 42.

  The video RAM 524 stores display data to be displayed on the decorative symbol display device 42, and the display content of the decorative symbol display device 42 is changed by rewriting the content of the video RAM 524. The character ROM 525 serves as an image data library for storing character data such as symbols displayed on the decorative symbol display device 42. The character ROM 525 holds bitmap image data of various display patterns, a color palette table to be referred to when determining the expression color of each dot of the bitmap image, and the like. In particular, a symbol code (symbol number) is assigned to each symbol image data in the bitmap format, and at the command level, each symbol image can be managed only by the symbol code. It should be noted that a plurality of character ROMs 525 may be provided, and image data or the like may be stored in each character ROM 525 in a shared manner. Further, the background image JPEG format image data stored in the program ROM 522 may be stored in the character ROM 525.

  The power supply board 313 includes a power supply unit 541 for supplying power to each unit of the pachinko machine 10 at a predetermined voltage. The power supply unit 541 of the power supply board 313 supplies power to the main control board 261, the payout control board 311 and the like at a necessary operating voltage through the power supply path. As its outline, the power supply unit 541 takes in the 24 volt AC power supplied from the outside via the power switch board, 24 volt voltage for driving various switches, motors, etc., and 5 volt for logic. The voltage is converted into a desired voltage such as a backup voltage for RAM backup, and a voltage of 24 volts, a voltage of 5 volts, Supply power at backup voltage. The main control board 261 is supplied with power of an operating voltage (a voltage of 24 volts, a voltage of 5 volts, and a backup voltage) via the power supply monitoring device 540. The launch control device 312 is supplied with power of an operating voltage (a voltage of 24 volts and a voltage of 5 volts) via the main control board 261.

  The power failure monitoring board 540 includes a power failure monitoring circuit 542 that monitors power interruption due to a power failure or the like, a RAM erase switch circuit 543, and a reset circuit 544 that outputs a reset signal. The power failure monitoring circuit 542 is a circuit for outputting a power failure signal SG1 to each NMI terminal of the MPU 501 of the main control board 261 and the MPU 511 of the payout control device 311 when the power is cut off due to the occurrence of a power failure or the like. The power failure monitoring circuit 542 monitors the DC stable voltage of 24 volts, which is the maximum voltage output from the power supply unit 541, and determines that a power failure (power shutdown) occurs when this voltage is less than 22 volts. The power failure signal SG1 is output to the main control board 261 and the payout control device 311. By the output of the power failure signal SG1, the main control board 261 and the payout control device 311 recognize the occurrence of the power failure and execute the NMI interrupt process. Note that the power supply unit 541 outputs a voltage of 5 volts, which is a drive voltage of the control system, for a time sufficient to execute the NMI interrupt processing even after the DC stable voltage of 24 volts becomes less than 22 volts. Is maintained at a normal value. Therefore, the main control board 261 and the payout control board 311 can normally execute and complete the NMI interrupt process. The RAM erase switch circuit 543 is a circuit that outputs a RAM erase signal SG2 for clearing backup data to the main control board 261 and the payout controller 311 when the RAM erase switch is pressed. When the RAM erase signal SG2 is input when the pachinko machine 10 is turned on, the main control board 261 and the payout control board 311 clear the data held in the respective backup areas. The reset circuit 544 is a circuit that outputs a reset signal to initialize the main control board 261, the payout control board 311, the sub control board 262, and the display control board 45. The reset signal from the reset circuit 544 is directly given to the main control board 261, but is given to the payout control board 311, the sub control board 262 and the display control board 45 via the power supply board 313. It is done.

  Here, the display contents of the special symbol display device 38, the normal symbol display device 41, and the decorative symbol display device 42 will be described. In the pachinko machine 10 of the present embodiment, a special symbol displayed on the special symbol display device 38 as a symbol for showing the occurrence of the jackpot to the player, and a decorative symbol displayed on the decorative symbol display device 42. Two types are provided. The decorative symbol is a symbol that changes in synchronization with the special symbol. The decorative symbol starts changing at the same time when the special symbol starts to change (or almost at the same time), and at the same time when the special symbol stops changing (or almost at the same time). To stop the fluctuation. This decorative design is provided in order to provide a player with a variety of display effects so that the player is not bored.

  First, the display contents of the special symbol display device 38 will be described. The special symbol change display is represented by a change in the lighting pattern such as a color change (red / green change) or blinking of the special symbol display lamps 38a and 38b. The variation display of the special symbol is started based on winning of the game ball to the first start port 33, and the variation display of the special symbol is simultaneously stopped after a certain time. After the stop, if the special symbols are aligned, that is, if the special symbol display lamps 38a, 38b are in the same color lighting state, it is a big hit, and if the special symbols are not aligned when the variable display is stopped, When the special symbol display lamps 38a and 38b are turned on in different colors, the display is lost, and the variation display is performed again based on the winning to the first start port 33. The number of times that a game ball has won the first start opening 33 is held up to a maximum of four times, and the number of times that the game ball is held is lit and displayed on the holding lamp 720a of the special symbol hold display device 720. In the present embodiment, if the special symbol display lamps 38a and 38b are both in a red lighting state when the variable display is stopped, the special symbol display lamps 38a and 38b are both regarded as a specific symbol (probability variation symbol). If it is a green lighting state, it is regarded as a non-specific symbol (non-probability variation symbol).

  Next, display contents of the decorative symbol display device 42 will be described. On the display screen of the decorative symbol display device 42, for example, as shown in FIG. 8, three decorative symbol strings are displayed in three display areas divided into an upper stage, a middle stage, and a lower stage. These decorative symbol sequences are scrolled from right to left. The decorative symbol is composed of, for example, a main symbol composed of numbers “1” to “9” and a sub symbol smaller than the main symbol, and a symbol sequence of the decorative symbol is formed by the main symbol and the sub symbol. In each symbol row formed of decorative symbols, the main symbols are arranged in ascending or descending numerical order, and sub-designs are arranged between any two main symbols. When a winning to the first winning opening 33, that is, a start winning is generated, the decorative symbol is displayed in a variable manner, and the variable symbol is stopped after a predetermined time corresponding to the variation pattern. × Nine nine decorative symbols are displayed as display results. In the variable display in the case of winning the big hit lottery, the display control device 45 is arranged such that three of the nine main symbols on the straight line in the vertical direction or the diagonal direction are stopped along the effective line. Is controlled, and a jackpot symbol pattern is shown to the player. On the other hand, in the variable display when the big hit lottery is lost, three of the same main symbols on the straight line in the vertical direction and the diagonal direction among the nine decorative symbols do not stop along the active line. Then, the display control device 45 performs control, and the player is presented with a pattern pattern of losing.

  Next, display contents of the normal symbol display device 41 will be described. The variation display of the normal symbol is expressed by alternately lighting the normal symbol display lamp 41a (appearance is ◯ shape) and the normal symbol display lamp 41b (appearance is X shape). The variation display of the normal symbol is started on condition that the game ball flows into the second start port 34, and the variation display of the normal symbol stops after a certain time. When the display lamp 41a stops, the first start port 33 is configured to be in an activated state (opened) for a predetermined time. The number of times that the game ball has passed through the second start port 34 is held up to a maximum of 4 times, and the number of times of holding is displayed on the hold lamp 721a of the normal symbol hold display device 721.

  Next, the operation of the pachinko machine 10 configured as described above will be described. In the present embodiment, the MPU 501 in the main control board 261 uses various counter information in the game to perform jackpot lottery, setting of symbol display of the special symbol display device 38, and the like. Specifically, a counter group related to the special symbol and a counter group related to the normal symbol are provided. First, a counter group related to special symbols will be described. As a group of counters related to the special symbol, the jackpot random number counter C1 used for the jackpot lottery, the jackpot symbol counter C2 used for the selection of the jackpot symbol of the special symbol display device 38, and the special symbol display device 38 fluctuate. Stop pattern selection counter C3 used for selection of stop patterns (corresponding to reach lottery of reaching or completely losing in the variation of decorative symbols) and initial value setting of jackpot random number counter C1 An initial value random number counter CINI1 and variation type counters CS1 to CS3 for determining a type used for variation pattern selection are provided. Here, the variation pattern means each pattern (form) in a case where features having common features of variation display are divided.

  Each of the counters C1 to C3, CINI1, and CS1 to CS3 is a loop counter that adds 1 to the previous value every time it is updated, and returns to 0 after reaching the maximum value. Each counter is updated at short time intervals, and the updated value is appropriately stored in a counter buffer set in a predetermined area of the RAM 503. The RAM 503 is provided with a holding ball storage area 700 composed of one execution area and four holding areas (holding first to fourth areas). Each value of the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot symbol counter C2, and the stop pattern selection counter C3 is stored in accordance with the winning timing of the game balls.

  Next, the specific contents of each counter will be described in detail. The jackpot random number counter C1 is incremented one by one within a range of, for example, 0 to 738, and returns to 0 after reaching the maximum value (that is, 738). In particular, when the jackpot random number counter C1 makes one round, the value of the random number initial value counter CINI1 at that time is read as the initial value of the jackpot random number counter C1. The random number initial value counter CINI1 is a loop counter (value = 0 to 738) that is updated in the same range as the big hit random number counter C1, and is updated once every timer interrupt and within the remaining time of normal processing. Updated repeatedly. The jackpot random number counter C1 is updated periodically (once every timer interruption in this embodiment), and stored in the reserved ball storage area of the RAM 503 at the timing when the game ball wins the first start port 33. There are two types of random numbers that are jackpots, low probability and high probability. When the probability is high, the special symbol combination is a special symbol combination that is a predetermined probability variation symbol (in this embodiment, when the specific symbol display lamps 38a and 38b are both lit in green). When the value of the subsequent jackpot is increased, that is, when the probability change is so-called, the normal time (low probability) is not such a probability change state (in the present embodiment, the specific symbol display lamps 38a and 38b are both red. When it is lit).

  The jackpot symbol counter C2 is incremented, for example, one by one within a range of 0 to 4, for example, and returns to 0 after reaching the maximum value (that is, 4). The jackpot symbol counter C2 determines a symbol when the special symbol display device 38 stops changing when the jackpot is won. For example, when the value of the jackpot symbol counter C2 is “0” or “1”, the special symbol display lamps 38a and 38b are both stopped in green, and the combination of the stopped symbols is a non-specific symbol (normal jackpot symbol). meaning. On the other hand, when the value of the jackpot symbol counter C2 is “2”, “3”, “4”, the special symbol display lamps 38a, 38b are both stopped in red, and the combination of the stopped symbols in this case is a specific symbol (probability) It means a fluctuating symbol). The jackpot symbol counter C2 is updated periodically (once every timer interruption in this embodiment) and stored in the reserved ball storage area of the RAM 503 at the timing when the game ball wins the first start port 33.

  The stop pattern selection counter C3 is incremented one by one within a range of 0 to 238, for example, and returns to 0 after reaching the maximum value (that is, 238). The stop pattern selection counter C3 is updated periodically (once every timer interruption in this embodiment), and stored in the reserved ball storage area of the RAM 503 at the timing when the game ball wins the first start port 33. In this embodiment, since the special symbol variation display is expressed by two display lamps 38a and 38b, there is no concept of reach in the case of a special symbol, but in the case of a decorative symbol, three decorative symbols are stopped. The concept of reach exists. The stop pattern selection counter C3 determines a stop pattern corresponding to reach in the decorative symbol variation display. Specifically, after a reach has occurred, the final stop symbol is stopped by one shift before and after the reach symbol, and when the reach occurs, the final stop symbol stops at other than before and after the reach symbol. It is divided into “reach other than front / rear out” and “complete out” where no reach occurs. Here, “reach” refers to a combination of symbols that stop before the decorative symbol displayed on the display screen of the decorative symbol display device 42 starts changing display, and the combination of symbols that stop first is the same symbol (in a decorative symbol having a plurality of effective lines). It will be a combination of jackpot symbols, suggesting to the player that it will be a big win depending on the display result of the remaining symbols that are the same symbol on any active line) This is one type of entertainment production that is expected from the player.

  The variation type counter CS1 is incremented one by one within a range of 0 to 198, for example, and after reaching the maximum value (that is, 198), returns to 0. The variation type counter CS2 is incremented one by one within a range of, for example, 0 to 240, and returns to 0 after reaching the maximum value (that is, 240). For example, the variation type counter CS3 is incremented one by one within a range of 0 to 162, for example, and reaches a maximum value (that is, 162) and then returns to 0. The variation type counter CS1 determines a rough symbol variation mode such as the reach type such as normal reach, super reach, premium reach, etc., and the variation type counter CS2 further refines the symbol such as normal reach A, normal reach B, etc. The variation mode is determined, and the variation type counter CS3 determines, for example, the addition / subtraction of the variation time in the case of a slip stop variation. Therefore, a variety of variation patterns can be easily realized by combining these variation type counters CS1 to CS3. The counters CS <b> 1 to CS <b> 3 are updated once every time a normal process to be described later is executed once, and are repeatedly updated even within the remaining time in the normal process. Then, the buffer values of the counters CS1 to CS3 are acquired when determining the variation pattern at the start of variation of the special symbol by the special symbol display device 38 and the decorative symbol display device 42.

  Next, a counter group related to normal symbols will be described. The counter group related to the normal symbol includes a winning random number counter C4 used for winning lottery and an initial value random number counter CINI2 used for setting an initial value of the winning random number counter C4.

  The hit random number counter C4 is a loop counter that adds 1 to the previous value every time it is updated, and returns to 0 after reaching the maximum value. The counter value is updated at short time intervals, and the updated value is appropriately stored in a counter buffer set in a predetermined area of the RAM 503. The RAM 503 is provided with a holding ball storage area comprising one execution area and four holding areas (holding first to fourth areas). The value of the hit random number counter C4 is stored in accordance with the inflow of game balls.

  Next, the specific contents of the winning random number counter C4 and the initial value random number CINI2 will be described in detail. The hit random number counter C4 is a loop counter that is incremented one by one within a range of 0 to 250, for example, and returns to 0 after reaching the maximum value (that is, 250). When the winning random number counter C4 makes one round, the value of the winning initial value random number counter CINI2 at that time is read as the initial value of the winning random number counter C4. The initial value random number counter CINI2 is a loop counter (value = 0 to 250) that is updated in the same range as the hit random number counter C4. The value is updated once every timer interrupt and the remainder of the normal processing Updated repeatedly in time. The hit random number counter C4 is updated periodically (once every timer interruption in this embodiment), and stored in the reserved ball storage area of the RAM 503 at the timing when the game ball flows into the second start port 34. The number of random number values hit by the hit random number counter C4 is 149, and the value is “5 to 153”. In addition, the magnitude | size and range of each counter are only examples, and can be changed arbitrarily. However, if importance is attached to randomness as random numbers, the sizes of the jackpot random number counter C1, stop pattern selection counter C3, hit random number counter C4, and variation type counters CS1 to CS3 are all different prime numbers and are synchronized in any case. It is desirable to set a numerical value that does not.

  Each control process executed by the MPU 501 in the main control board 261 will be described. The processing of the MPU 501 is broadly divided into main processing that is started when the power is turned on, timer interrupt processing that is periodically started (internal interrupt processing), and power failure signal SG1 input to the NMI terminal. There is an NMI interrupt process (external interrupt process). For convenience of explanation, the timer interrupt process and the NMI interrupt process will be described first, and then the main process will be described.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the timer interrupt process. The timer interrupt process is executed by the MPU 501 of the main control board 261 every 2 ms, for example. In the timer interruption process, first, reading processes such as various winning switches are executed ("switch reading process" S501). Specifically, the status of various switches connected to the main control board 261 (excluding the RAM erase switch) is read, and the status of the various switches is determined to detect various detection information (such as winning detection information). save.

  After the switch reading process S501, the operating statuses of the special winning opening solenoid 991 and the start opening solenoid 992 are confirmed ("solenoid operation confirmation process" S502). Here, the solenoid operation confirmation processing S502 will be described in detail. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the solenoid operation confirmation process. It is determined whether or not a special prize opening abnormality signal is received from the special prize opening abnormality detection circuit 910 for the special prize opening solenoid 991 (S601). When the big prize opening abnormality signal is received, the big prize opening abnormality flag is set (“large prize opening abnormality flag setting process” S602), and the big prize opening error command is set (S603). On the other hand, when the special winning opening abnormality signal is not received, it is determined whether or not the starting opening abnormality signal is received from the starting opening abnormality detection circuit 930 (S604). When the start port abnormality signal is received, the start port abnormality flag is set (“start port abnormality flag setting process” S605), and the start port error command is set (S606).

  After the solenoid abnormality detection process S502, as shown in FIG. 9, the random number initial value counter CINI1 and the hit initial value random number counter CINI2 are updated (S503). Specifically, the initial value random number counter CINI1 and the hit initial value random number counter CINI2 are each incremented by one. When those counter values reach a predetermined maximum value, they are cleared to “0”. The updated values of the counters CINI1 and CINI2 are stored in a predetermined buffer area of the RAM 503.

  Next, the big hit random number counter C1, the big hit symbol counter C2, the stop pattern selection counter C3 and the hit random number counter C4 are updated (S504). Specifically, the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot symbol counter C2, the stop pattern selection counter C3 and the hit random number counter C4 are each incremented by 1 and when the counter values reach a predetermined maximum value, “0” is set. To clear. Then, the updated values of the counters C1 to C4 are stored in a predetermined buffer area of the RAM 503.

  Next, a start winning process associated with winning in the start winning device 33 is executed (S505). Specifically, the start winning process S505 first determines from the detection information of the passage detection device SW2 whether or not the game ball has won the start winning device 33 (start winning). When it is determined that the game ball has won the start winning device 33, it is determined whether or not the number N of the operation-reserved balls of the special symbol display device 42 is less than the upper limit value (4 in this embodiment). If there is a winning to the start winning device 33 and the number of operation hold balls N <4, the operation hold ball number N is incremented by 1 and the updated jackpot random number counter C1, jackpot symbol counter C2 and stop pattern selection counter C3 are updated. Each value is stored in the first area among the empty reserved areas in the reserved ball storage area 700 of the RAM 503. On the other hand, if there is no winning in the starting winning device 33 or if there is a winning in the starting winning device 33 and the number of suspended balls N <4, the starting winning process S505 is terminated.

  After the start winning process S505, the firing control process is executed by outputting a firing solenoid control signal, a ball feed solenoid control signal, and the like to the firing control board 312 (S506).

  The NMI interrupt process (not shown) is executed by the MPU 501 of the main control board 261 when the power of the pachinko machine 10 is shut down due to the occurrence of a power failure or the like. That is, when the power of the pachinko machine 10 is cut off due to the occurrence of a power failure or the like, the power failure monitoring circuit 542 in the power failure monitoring device 540 outputs the power failure signal SG1 to the NMI terminal of the MPU 501 in the main control board 261, and the MPU 501 executes The internal control is interrupted and the NMI interrupt process is started. In the NMI interrupt process, the MPU 501 sets information on occurrence of power shutdown, specifically, sets a power failure flag to logic “1”. When this power failure flag is logic “1” (when the power failure flag is set), it indicates that the power is cut off (power failure), and when the power failure flag is logic “0” (the power failure flag is released). Indicates a normal state. An NMI interrupt processing program is stored in the ROM 502 of the main control board 261. For a predetermined time after the power failure signal SG1 is output, the backup voltage power is supplied from the power supply board 313 via the power failure monitoring board 540 so that the processing of the main control board 261 can be executed. The power failure process in the NMI interrupt process and the normal process after the NMI interrupt process is executed within the time. In this way, in the event of a power failure, the NMI interrupt processing is set only for the power failure flag, the normal processing is executed up to the final processing program, the power off occurrence information setting is confirmed, and the processing proceeds to power failure processing. Can be simplified. The NMI interruption process similar to the above is similarly executed in the payout control apparatus 311. Further, after the power failure signal SG1 is output, the power supply is set so that the process of the payout control apparatus 311 can be executed for a predetermined time. Similarly, the backup voltage power is supplied from the substrate 313.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by the MPU 501 in the main control board 261. This main process is started by a reset at power-on. In the main process, first, an initial setting process associated with power-on is executed (S101). Next, in order to wait for the payout control device 311 and the sub control device 262 to become operable, a wait process (for example, about 1 second) is executed (S102). After the wait, access to the RAM 503 is permitted (S103).

  Thereafter, it is determined whether or not a RAM erase switch (not shown) is turned on (specifically, it is determined whether or not a RAM erase signal is input from the power supply monitoring device) (S104), and is turned on. If so, the process proceeds to S113. On the other hand, if the RAM erase switch is not turned on, it is further determined whether or not the information about occurrence of power interruption is set in the RAM 503 (S105), and if not set, the process proceeds to S113. If the power-off occurrence information is set, the RAM determination value is calculated (S106), and the calculated RAM determination value is not normal, that is, the calculated RAM determination value is stored at the time of power-off. If the data does not match, the data stored in the RAM (referred to as data in the RAM) has been destroyed, so the process also proceeds to S113 in this case. As described above, the RAM determination value is a checksum value at a work area address of the RAM 503, for example. Instead of the RAM determination value, the validity of the RAM data may be determined based on whether or not the keyword written in a predetermined area of the RAM 503 is correctly stored.

  As described above, in the pachinko machine 10, when the RAM data is initialized when the power is turned on, for example, when the installation hall of the pachinko machine 10 is started, the power is turned on while pressing the RAM erase switch. Therefore, if the RAM erase switch is pressed, the process proceeds to the RAM initialization process (S113). Similarly, when the information on occurrence of power interruption is not set, or when abnormality of the RAM data is confirmed by the RAM determination value (checksum value or the like), the process proceeds to initialization processing of the RAM 503 (S113 to S117). To do. That is, in the RAM initialization process from S113, the used area of the RAM 503 is cleared to 0, and the initial value of the RAM 503 is set (S113). Next, a payout initialization command is transmitted to the payout control device 311 (S114), then a command at power-on is transmitted (S115), and then the counter and timer are initialized (S116). Thereafter, an interrupt is permitted (S117), and the process proceeds to normal processing described later. If the RAM erase switch is not turned on, the information about occurrence of power interruption is set, and if the RAM judgment value (checksum value, etc.) is normal, the process proceeds to S108, and the information about occurrence of power interruption is obtained. Is cleared (the power failure flag is set to “0”). Next, a payout return command is transmitted to the payout control device 311 (S109), and then a return command for returning the control device on the sub control board side to the gaming state at the time of power-off is transmitted (S110). Next, the counter and timer are initialized (S111). Thereafter, an interrupt is permitted (S112), and the process proceeds to normal processing described later.

  Next, normal processing will be described with reference to FIG. In this normal process, the main process of the game is executed. As an outline, each process of S201 to S213 is executed as a periodic process with a period of 4 ms, and processing (S215 and S216) for updating various counter values in the remaining time processing is executed.

  In the normal processing, first, output data such as a command updated in the previous processing is transmitted to each control board on the sub side (S201). Specifically, the presence / absence of winning detection information is determined, and if there is winning detection information, a winning ball payout command corresponding to the number of acquired game balls is transmitted to the payout control device 311. Further, when the decorative symbol display device 42 displays the variation of the decorative symbol, it includes a variation pattern command, a decorative symbol stop symbol code information designation command (specific per designation, non-specific per designation, or off designation). Hereinafter, an effect command (including an effect time addition specifying command) and an effect stop command (also referred to as a confirmation command) are transmitted to the sub-control device 262.

  Next, each value of the variation type counters CS1 to CS3 is updated (S202). Next, a prize ball counting signal, a payout abnormality signal, and a lower pan full signal received from the payout control device 311 are read (S203), and a special symbol change process for performing a special symbol change display by the special symbol display device 38 is executed. (S204). With this special symbol variation processing, in addition to jackpot determination and special symbol variation pattern setting, determination of variation pattern command for decoration symbol display effect, decoration stop symbol code information designation command, and demonstration time addition designation command, etc. Is also done. Details of the special symbol variation process will be described later.

  After the special symbol variation process S204 is finished, in the case of a big hit state, a special winning opening / closing process for opening or closing the special winning opening 61 of the variable winning device 32 is executed (S205). That is, the big winning opening 61 is opened for each round of the big hit state, and it is determined whether the maximum opening time of the big winning opening 61 has passed or whether a predetermined number (for example, 10 balls) of game balls have been won in the big winning opening 61. To do. When either of these conditions is satisfied, the special winning opening 61 is closed. This is repeated for a predetermined number of rounds. Details of the jackpot process will be described later.

  Next, normal symbol display control by the normal symbol display device 41 is executed (S206). On the condition that the game ball has flowed into the starter 34, the value of the winning random number counter C4 is acquired each time, and the normal symbol winning lottery is performed based on the value of the winning random number counter C4. And according to the lottery result, the normal symbols are displayed on the display lamps 41a and 41b of the normal symbol display device 41 in a variable manner. When the normal symbol lottery is won and the normal symbol hit state (a state where “◯” is displayed) is reached, the blade 60 of the starter 33 is released for a predetermined time (“winning process” S207). Details of the hit process S207 will be described later.

  Next, it is determined whether or not there is an abnormality in the operation of the special winning opening solenoid 991 (S208). Specifically, it is determined whether or not a special prize opening abnormality flag for identifying whether or not there is an abnormality in the operation of the special prize opening solenoid 991 is set. If there is an abnormality in the operation of the special winning opening solenoid 991, the special winning opening error process S209 is executed. This error process continues until the gaming machine 10 is reset. On the other hand, if there is no abnormality in the operation of the special winning opening solenoid 991, it is determined whether there is an abnormality in the operation of the start opening solenoid 992 (S210). Specifically, it is determined whether or not a special prize opening abnormality flag for identifying whether or not there is an abnormality in the operation of the start opening solenoid 992 is set. If the operation of the start port solenoid 992 is abnormal, start port error processing S211 is executed. This error process continues until the gaming machine 10 is reset.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the information on occurrence of power interruption has been set (S212). If it has been set (S212: Y), the process proceeds to a power failure error process S213. In the power failure error processing S213, interrupt prohibition is set, output of a power shutoff notification command indicating that the power is shut off is transmitted to another control device, and then output of all control signals is stopped, and a RAM judgment value is calculated Then, the access to the RAM 503 is prohibited, and the infinite loop is continued until the power supply is completely shut down and the processing cannot be executed. Here, the RAM determination value is, for example, a checksum value at the work area address of the RAM 503. On the other hand, if it is determined that the information on occurrence of power interruption has not been set, whether or not the next normal processing execution timing has been reached, that is, a predetermined time (4 ms in this embodiment) has elapsed since the start of the previous normal processing. (S214) If the predetermined time has already elapsed, the process returns to the external output process S201.

  On the other hand, if the predetermined time has not yet elapsed since the start of the previous normal process, the initial value random number counter CINI1 and the remaining time until the predetermined time, that is, the execution timing of the next normal process, The hit initial value random number counter CINI2 and the variation type counters CS1 to CS3 are repeatedly updated (S211, S212). First, the initial value random number counter CINI1 and the hit initial value random number counter CINI2 are updated (S215). Next, the counter variation type counters CS1 to CS3 are updated (S216). In addition, since the execution time of each process of S201-S212 changes according to the state of a game, the remaining time until it reaches the execution timing of the next normal process is not constant and changes. Therefore, the initial value random number counter CINI1 (that is, the initial value of the big hit random number counter C1) and the hit initial value are repeatedly executed by repeatedly updating the initial value random number counter CINI1 and the hit initial value random number counter CINI2 using the remaining time. The random number counter CINI2 (that is, the initial value of the hit random number counter C4) can be updated at random. Similarly, the variation type counters CS1 to CS3 can be updated at random.

  Here, the special symbol variation process S204 will be described. In the special symbol variation process S204, first, it is determined whether or not a big hit (special gaming state). If the result of determination is that the jackpot is in effect, this processing is terminated as it is. If it is not during the big hit, it is determined whether or not the special symbol display device 38 is displaying the variation of the special symbol. If the special symbol variation display is not in progress, it is determined whether or not the number N of the operation reserved balls of the special symbol display device 38 is larger than 0. If the number N of the operation reserved balls is 0, the present processing is terminated. On the other hand, if the number N of working reserve balls> 0, the number N of working reserve balls is decremented by 1 to shift the data stored in the reserve ball storage area. This data shift is a process of sequentially shifting the data stored in the holding first to fourth areas of the holding ball storage area to the execution area side. The holding first area → the execution area, the holding second area → Specifically, the data in each area moves, such as the hold first area, the hold third area → the hold second area, and the hold fourth area → the hold third area. After the data shift process S405, a special symbol variation start process is executed. In this variation start process, first, it is determined whether or not the jackpot is based on the value of the jackpot random number counter C1 stored in the execution area of the reserved ball storage area. Whether or not the jackpot is determined is based on the relationship between the jackpot random number counter value and the mode at that time. If it is a big win, a stop symbol (either a specific symbol or a non-specific symbol) is determined based on the value of the big hit symbol counter C2 stored in the execution area of the reserved ball storage area, and the variation type counter CS1, A jackpot effect pattern is determined based on the count value of CS2. On the other hand, if it is not a big hit, the lost symbol is determined as a stop symbol, and the lost effect pattern is determined based on the count values of the variation type counters CS1 and CS2. Thereafter, regardless of whether or not it is a big hit, the addition time of the production time is determined according to the value of the variation type counter CS3. After determining the adding time of the effect time, the effect pattern designation command (also referred to as a variation pattern designation command) according to the determined jackpot effect pattern and the lost effect pattern, and the decoration stop symbol code information according to the value of the jackpot symbol counter C2 An effect time addition designation command corresponding to the command and effect time addition time is set.

  If the special symbol is being displayed in a varying manner, it is determined whether or not the varying time has elapsed. The variation time of the special symbol is determined according to the effect pattern and the effect addition time of the special symbol. If the fluctuation time has not passed, the special symbol display symbol is updated. On the other hand, if the fluctuation time has passed, the special symbol stop symbol is determined as the display symbol and the decorative symbol fluctuation display is stopped. A production pattern stop command is set for this. Note that “update the display symbol of the special symbol” means that the special symbol display lamps 38a and 38b are changed to a lighting state different from the current lighting state. For example, the lighting color of the special symbol display lamps 38a and 38b To change. In addition, “special symbol stop symbol is set as display symbol” means that special symbol display lamps 38a and 38b are lit in a stop symbol (a lighting color of a lamp corresponding to a specific symbol, a non-specific symbol, and a detached symbol). It means to do.

  Here, the jackpot process S205 will be described in detail. FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the jackpot process. In the jackpot process, first, it is determined whether or not the jackpot is being hit (S301). Specifically, it is determined by whether or not a big hit flag that identifies whether or not a big hit is set. If the jackpot is not being hit, it is determined whether or not the jackpot is started (S302). Specifically, it is determined whether or not the big hit transition flag is set. Here, the jackpot transition flag is a flag for identifying whether or not to shift to the jackpot gaming state (special gaming state). In the special symbol variation process S204, the jackpot is won and the variation of the special symbol is determined. Set when is completely stopped. If it is not a big jackpot start, the jackpot processing S205 ends. On the other hand, if it is a big jackpot start, a jackpot start processing S303 is executed (a jackpot start processing). Specifically, the opening command is set, the jackpot transition flag is canceled, the jackpot medium flag is set, the number of rounds is initialized to “0”, and the value corresponding to the specified opening period in the winning prize solenoid control timer Is set. The specified opening period is a certain period from the start of the jackpot gaming state to the opening of the big winning opening in the first round.

  When it is determined in the determination process S301 that a big hit is being made, the value of the big winning opening solenoid control timer is updated ("big winning opening solenoid control timer updating process" S304). Specifically, when the value of the big prize opening solenoid control timer exceeds “0” and is larger, “1” is subtracted, and when the value of the big prize opening solenoid control timer is “0”, it is set to “0”. Maintained. The special prize opening solenoid control timer is a software timer that is updated every 4 ms, which is a substantial repetition period of normal processing. After the big prize opening solenoid control timer update process S304, it is determined whether or not the big prize opening solenoid 991 is being driven (S305). Specifically, the determination is made based on whether or not a big prize opening solenoid drive flag for identifying whether or not the big prize opening solenoid 991 is being driven (voltage is being applied). If the winning prize solenoid drive flag is not set, that is, the opening period, the specified inter-round period that closes the winning prize opening between rounds, or the end of the big winning state from the end of the opening of the big winning opening in the final round If it is the specified ending period until the end, it is determined whether or not the special winning opening solenoid control timer is “0” (S306). If the winning prize solenoid control timer is “0” in the determination process S306, it means that a predetermined opening period, a predetermined period between rounds, or a predetermined ending period has elapsed. When the big winning opening solenoid control timer is not “0”, the big hit processing S205 is ended. On the other hand, when the big winning opening solenoid control timer is “0”, whether or not the number of rounds is the prescribed maximum number of rounds. Is determined (S307). When the number of rounds is not the specified maximum number of rounds, the round starting process S308 is executed because the specified opening period or the specified inter-round period has ended. Specifically, in the round start process, the number of rounds is updated to a value larger by “1”, the number of winning balls is initialized, and a predetermined maximum opening that drives the big winning opening solenoid 991 to the big winning opening solenoid control timer is performed. A value corresponding to the period is set, and a round command indicating the start of each round is set. After the round start process S308, a big winning opening solenoid drive flag is set (“a big winning opening solenoid opening flag is set” S309). Thereby, the opening of the big prize opening is substantially started. On the other hand, if the number of rounds is the prescribed maximum number of rounds, the end of the ending period is ended, so the jackpot end process S310 is executed. Specifically, in the jackpot end processing, the jackpot flag is canceled, and when the jackpot is a specific jackpot or a regular jackpot, the special symbol jackpot probability is high and the normal symbol hit probability is shifted to a probability-variable gaming state. A probability-changing gaming state flag for making a game and a time-saving gaming state flag for making a transition to a time-saving gaming state with a high probability of winning a normal symbol are set.

  When the large winning opening solenoid drive flag is set in the determination process S305, it is determined whether or not the number of winning balls is greater than or equal to the specified maximum number (S311), and the number of winning balls is less than the specified maximum number of winning balls. If there is, it is further determined whether or not the special winning opening solenoid control timer is “0” (S312). If the big prize opening solenoid control timer is “0” in the determination process S316, it means that the maximum opening time has elapsed. If the number of winning balls is not equal to or greater than the prescribed maximum number and the big prize opening solenoid control timer is not “0”, the big hit process S205 is ended and the open state of the big prize opening is maintained. On the other hand, when the number of winning balls is equal to or greater than the prescribed maximum number or when the large winning opening solenoid control timer is “0”, the large winning opening solenoid driving flag is canceled (“large winning opening solenoid driving flag canceling process” S313). ). As a result, the special winning opening is substantially closed. After the big winning opening solenoid drive flag release processing S313, it is determined whether or not the number of rounds is the specified maximum number of rounds (S314). When the number of rounds is not the prescribed maximum number of rounds, a round continuation process S315 for shifting to the next round is executed. After the round continuation process S315, the jackpot process S205 ends. In the round continuation processing S315, a value corresponding to the prescribed inter-round period is set in the special winning opening solenoid control timer. On the other hand, when the number of rounds is the prescribed maximum number of rounds, all rounds have been completed, so all round completion processing S316 for shifting to the ending period is executed. In the all round completion process S316, a value corresponding to the specified ending period is set in the special winning opening solenoid control timer, and an ending command is set. After the all-round completion process S316, the jackpot process S205 ends.

  Here, the winning process S206 will be described in detail. FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the winning process. In the hit process, first, it is determined whether or not the hit is being made. Specifically, it is determined whether or not a hit flag for identifying whether or not a hit is set (S401). If it is not hit, it is determined whether or not the hit is started (S402). Specifically, in the normal symbol variation process S206, it is confirmed whether or not the normal symbol lottery has been won and the normal symbol variation by the normal symbol variation process S206 is completely stopped. When winning and the change of the symbol is completely stopped, it is determined that the winning is started. If it is determined that the winning is not started, the winning process S206 ends. On the other hand, if it is determined that the winning is a win, it is determined whether or not the gaming state is a probability variation gaming state (S403). If it is determined that the gaming state is not a probability variation gaming state, the gaming state is further increased. It is determined whether or not is in a time saving gaming state (S404). Specifically, in the determination process S403, it is determined whether or not the probability variation gaming state flag is set. In the determination process S404, it is determined whether or not the time reduction gaming state flag is set. When the gaming state is not the probability variation gaming state or the time reduction gaming state but the normal gaming state, the normal time start processing S405 is executed. In the normal time hit process S405, the hit flag is set, and the start opening solenoid control timer is set to a value corresponding to the maximum opening time in the normal gaming state. The start-up solenoid control timer is a software timer that is updated every 4 ms, which is a substantial repetition period of normal processing. On the other hand, when the gaming state is the probability variation gaming state or the time shortening gaming state, the start process S406 per specific time is executed. In the specific time start process, a winning flag is set, and a value corresponding to the maximum opening time in the specific gaming state is set. Note that the maximum opening time in the specific gaming state is longer than the maximum opening time in the normal gaming state. After the normal time start process S405 and the specific time start process S406, the start port solenoid drive flag is set ("start port solenoid drive flag setting process" S407). As a result, the blade 60 is changed from the first inflow permission state to the second inflow permission state. Upon completion of the start port solenoid drive flag setting process S407, the hit process S407 ends.

  If it is determined in the determination process S401 that the hit is being made, the start port solenoid control timer is updated to a value smaller by “1” (“start port solenoid control timer update process” S408). Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the start port solenoid control timer is “0” (S409). When the start opening solenoid control timer is “0”, it means that the maximum opening time has elapsed. When the start port solenoid control timer is “0”, the start port solenoid drive flag is canceled (“start port solenoid drive flag release process” S407), while when the start port solenoid control timer is not “0”. The start opening solenoid drive flag release process S410 is skipped, and the hit process S207 ends.

  Each process executed by the MPU 550 of the sub control device 262 will be described. FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the main process of the sub-control device 262. This main process is activated by a reset at power-on.

  The main process of the sub-control device 262 first executes an initial setting process associated with power-on (S701), and initializes I / O and timers and sets each interrupt such as a timer interrupt. Next, it is determined whether or not all the power-off processes have been completed, that is, whether all the lamps are turned off or the speaker is muted (S702). If all the power-off processes have been completed (S702: Y), the process proceeds to S914. If all the power-off processes are not completed, the RAM 552 may be destroyed, so it is determined whether or not the RAM 552 is destroyed (S703). Specifically, RAM destruction check data is preset in the RAM 552, and the determination is made based on the RAM destruction check data. If it is determined that the RAM 552 is not destroyed, the process proceeds to step S707. On the other hand, when it is determined that the RAM 552 is destroyed, a read / write check is performed on each area of the RAM 552 (S704), and it is determined whether the RAM 552 functions normally based on the result of the read / write check (S705). . If the RAM 552 is not normal, a predetermined lamp is turned on to notify the abnormality of the RAM (S711).

  On the other hand, if the RAM 552 is normal, RAM destruction check data is set in the RAM 552 (S706). Next, it is determined whether or not the power is turned on after the power is turned off (S707). If the power is not turned on after the power is turned off, the area other than the uninitialized area in the RAM 522 is cleared (S708). Thereby, all the commands transmitted from the main control board 261 other than the power command are cleared. Next, interrupts such as timer interruption and command reception processing from the main control board 261 are permitted (S709). Next, the initial value of the RAM 522 is set (S710), and then the process proceeds to normal processing described later. On the other hand, if the power is turned on after the power is turned off in step S707, the process proceeds to step S709.

  Next, normal processing of the sub-control device 262 will be described with reference to FIG. First, it is determined whether or not 1 ms or more has elapsed (S801). If it is before 1 ms has elapsed, the random numbers for generating the off symbol, jackpot symbol, notice symbol, etc. related to the decorative symbol are updated (S810). Specifically, a jackpot decorative symbol (for a specific symbol) counter, a jackpot decorative symbol (for a non-specific symbol) counter, a reach decorative symbol counter, a complete off-decorative symbol counter, a symbol symbol for effects such as a warning symbol, etc. are provided. The counter values associated with these decorative symbols are updated. Note that the values of these counters are updated randomly. That is, by using the value of the R register built in the MPU 550, the values of these counters are updated at random. That is, when updating these counters, the lower 2 bits of the R register are added to the previous value, and when the addition result exceeds the maximum value, “6” is subtracted to determine the current value.

  After the random number update process (S810), a command is received from the main control board 261 and a process corresponding to each command is performed (S811). Here, when the command from the main control board 261 is a command related to the display of the decorative design, the command to the display control device 45 is edited based on the command, and the edited command is sent to the display control device 45. Send. More specifically, the display command from the main control board 261 includes a change pattern designation command (a command generated based on the stop pattern selection counter C3 and the change type counters CS1 and CS2, and includes normal reach, super reach, A command for designating a pattern variation mode such as premium reach), a decoration stop symbol code information command (designated per-specification, non-specific per-designation or out-of-designation command), production command (generated based on variation type counter CS3) Command for changing the change time), stop command (decorative symbol stop command, so-called fixed command), and the like. On the other hand, the sub-control device 262 transmits the change pattern designation command from the main control board 261 as it is to the display control device 45, but in the decoration stop symbol code information command, the specific per designation, non-specific per designation, and off designation are specific. Edit the decorative command (stop symbol) into the determined command. In this editing, the stop symbol is determined by the decorative symbol counter in the MPU 550.

  Further, the effect command from the main control board 261 is edited into a command including designation of various effects in addition to the change of the change time. Then, the sub control device 262 transmits these commands to the display control device 45. As a result, the display control device 45 analyzes the received command, generates an image of a decorative symbol in accordance with the command, and outputs the image to the decorative symbol display device 42, whereby the decorative symbol display device 42 displays a predetermined effect display. In this way, the variable display is executed.

  Thereafter, it is confirmed whether or not the RAM 552 is destroyed (S812). If not, the process returns to step S801. If it is destroyed (S812: Y), an infinite loop process is performed.

  On the other hand, if 1 ms or more has elapsed in step S801, a lamp lighting pattern corresponding to the effect pattern of the decorative symbol display device 42 is output to the effect lamp 711, and the effect lamp 711 is turned on (S802). The creation of the lamp lighting pattern is specifically performed by the process of step S807 described later. Next, a predetermined lamp is turned on for 30 seconds by a power-on command and notified (S803). Next, a customer waiting effect command for switching between the title of the decorative symbol and the still image is generated and transmitted to the display control device 45 (S804). Next, when displaying the reserved number of special symbols on the decorative symbol display device 42, a command for that purpose is generated and transmitted to the display control device 45 when the reserved number display is updated (S805).

  Next, the input operation of the effect button 79 is confirmed. When there is an input operation, an effect command is generated so that a predetermined effect corresponding to the effect button 79 is displayed on the decorative symbol display device 42, It transmits to the display control apparatus 45 (S806). Next, the lamp lighting pattern corresponding to the effect pattern of the decorative symbol display device 42 is edited (S807). Next, the ringing pattern output from the speaker 710 corresponding to the command received from the main control board 261 is edited, and information on the ringing pattern is output to the speaker 710 (S808).

  Next, various time managements for executing the display effect of the decorative symbol display device 42 are performed (S808). Thereafter, the process returns to step S801 through steps S810, S811, and S812. In this way, in the sub-control device 262, based on the ringing control of the effect speaker 710 and the lighting (flashing) control of the effect lamp 711 according to the variation display of the decorative symbols, and the command from the main control board 261. The command to the display control device 45 is edited and transmitted to the display control device 45.

  Display control in the display control device 45 will be described. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing display control processing executed by the MPU 521 in the display control device 45. The MPU 521 executes display control of the decorative symbol display device 42 while processing various commands provided from the sub-control device 262 according to the procedure shown in FIG.

  First, it is determined whether or not a display command has been received from the sub-control device 262 (S901). If not received, it waits until some command is received. When a display command is received, the contents of the display command are stored in the RAM 523 (S902). Next, various arithmetic processes such as generating an internal command for the image controller 526 are started based on the information stored in the RAM 523 (S903). As a result, the image controller 526 starts drawing processing in response to a command (internal command) from the MPU 521. It should be noted that symbol display is continued under the cooperation of the MPU 521 and the image controller 526 until a display command is received after the display command is received. Meanwhile, the MPU 521 performs control of the image controller 526 and command reception processing in parallel.

  Thereafter, it is determined whether or not a confirmation command has been received from the sub-control device 262 (S904). Then, on the condition that the confirmation command has been received, the process proceeds to step S905 to instruct the image controller 526 to confirm the display with the stop symbol. As a result, the image controller 526 displays the changed symbol as a stop symbol. In this way, one round of display processing is performed from the start of change of the symbol to the stop of change (definite display). The display control device 45 is controlled by the sub-control device 262 at the time of starting and stopping the change of the symbol, but the continuous symbol change during that time is autonomous by the MPU 521 and the image controller 526 in the display control device 45. Secured by image control.

  The payout control executed by the MPU 511 in the payout control device 311 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a main process of the payout control device 311. This main process is started by a reset at power-on.

  First, an initial setting process associated with power-on is executed (S1001). Specifically, a predetermined value set in advance is set in the stack pointer, and an interrupt mode is set. Next, RAM access is permitted (S1002), and an external interrupt vector is set (S1003).

  Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the information on occurrence of power interruption is stored in the RAM 513 (S1004). If not stored, the process proceeds to S1010. If the occurrence information of power-off is stored in the RAM 513, a RAM determination value is calculated (S1005). If the calculated RAM determination value is not normal, that is, the calculated RAM determination value is stored at the time of power-off. If it does not match, the data stored in the RAM 513 has been destroyed, and in this case as well, the process proceeds to S1010. As described above, the RAM determination value is a checksum value at a work area address of the RAM 513, for example. Instead of the RAM determination value, the validity of the data stored in the RAM 513 may be determined based on whether or not the keyword written in a predetermined area of the RAM 513 is correctly stored. In the RAM initialization process from step S1010, the used area of the RAM 513 is cleared to 0 (S1010), and the initial value of the RAM 513 is set (S1011). Thereafter, the MPU 511 peripheral device is initialized (S1008), an interrupt is permitted (S1009), and the process proceeds to a payout control process described later.

  On the other hand, if power failure occurrence information is set (S1004: Y) and the RAM judgment value (checksum value, etc.) is normal (S1006: Y), processing at power recovery (when power failure is restored) Process). That is, the initial value of the RAM 513 is set (S1007), the MPU511 peripheral device is initialized (S1008), the interrupt is permitted (S1009), and the process proceeds to a payout control process described later.

  Next, payout control processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. This payout control process is executed following the main process of the payout control device 311. In the payout control process, first, a command from the main control board 261 is acquired and stored as the total number of winning balls (S1101). Here, if the command from the main control board 261 is a regular command, all payouts are permitted. If the command from the main control board 261 is a prize ball command, a payout return command, or a payout initialization command, processing corresponding to the command is performed.

  Next, it is determined whether or not a payout permission command transmitted from the main control board 261 is received. When the payout permission command is received, the state return operation is executed when it is determined that the state return operation has started as a result of checking the state return switch 321 (S1103).

  Thereafter, the setting of the lower pan full tank state or the lower pan full tank release state is executed according to the change in the state of the lower pan 15 (S1104). That is, when the lower pan 15 is determined to be full based on the detection signal from the lower pan full switch, when the lower pan is full, the lower pan full state is set. , Set the lower pan full release state. Further, the setting of the tank ball absence state or the tank ball absence release state is executed according to the change of the tank ball state (S1105). That is, the tank ball no switch state is determined based on the detection signal of the tank ball no switch, and when the tank ball is not used, the setting of the tank ball no state is executed. Perform configuration. Thereafter, the presence / absence of the state to be notified is determined, and if there is a state to be notified, a signal for notifying the state is transmitted to the main control board 261 and also notified by the 7-segment LED provided in the payout control device 311 (S1106). ).

  Next, a prize ball payout process is executed by each process of steps S1107, S1108, and S1115. That is, if the prize ball cannot be paid out and the total number of prize balls stored in step S1101 is not 0, the prize ball control process is started (S1115). In the winning ball control process, first, the payout motor 358a is driven to rotate in the forward direction, and the winning ball is paid out. Whether the rotation of the payout motor 358a is normal or not is determined based on the detection result of the payout rotation sensor. Then, the prize ball control process is terminated. On the other hand, if the rotation of the payout motor 358a is normal, it is determined from the detection result of the payout count switch whether or not the game ball is normally counted. If the game ball count is not normal, the payout motor 358a is driven to execute the retry process and the payout motor 358a is stopped, and then the prize ball control process is terminated. Further, if the game ball count is normal, it is determined whether or not the game ball count by the payout count switch has reached the total number of prize balls, and the payout is completed. The stop process of 358a is executed, and then the prize ball control process is ended. On the other hand, if the payout has not been completed, the prize ball control process is terminated as it is.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1107 that a prize ball cannot be paid out, or if the total number of prize balls in step S1108 is 0, the process proceeds to a lending payout process. In the lending payout processing in S1109, S1110, and S1116, if the lending payout request is not received in step S1109 and a lending payout request is received from the card unit in step S1110, the lending control processing is started ( S1116). In the ball lending control process, firstly, the payout motor 358a is driven to rotate in the forward direction to pay out the lending ball. Whether the rotation of the payout motor 358a is normal or not is determined by the detection result of the payout rotation sensor. Then, the lending control process S1116 is terminated. Further, if the rotation of the payout motor 358a is normal, it is determined from the detection result of the payout count switch whether or not the game ball is normally counted. If the game ball count is not normal, the payout motor 358a is driven to execute the retry process and the payout motor 358a is stopped, and then the lending control process S1116 is terminated. Further, if the game ball count is normal, it is determined whether or not the game ball count by the payout count switch has reached a predetermined number of rented balls (25) and the payout is completed. Then, the stop process of the payout motor 358a is executed, and thereafter the lending control process S1116 is ended. On the other hand, if the payout has not been completed, the lending control processing S1116 is terminated as it is.

  On the other hand, if it is not in a state in which it is not possible to pay out a rental ball in step S1109 and a rental ball payout request has not been received from the card unit in step S1110, or if it is in a state in which it is not possible to pay out a rental ball in step S1109, a blocked ball state Vibrator control (vibrating motor control) is executed for release (S1111). Thereafter, it is determined whether or not a power failure has occurred (S1112). If no power failure has occurred, the process returns to step S1101. If a power failure has occurred, information on the occurrence of power interruption is set (S1113), a RAM judgment value is created (S1114), and then an infinite loop is entered to wait for the input of a reset signal.

(Main configuration related to the present invention)
The structure of the main characteristic part in the pachinko machine 10 will be described in detail. As shown in FIG. 2, the pachinko machine 10 includes a shutter (a kind of medium inflow restricting means) 62 that variably restricts the inflow of game balls to the big prize opening 61 of the variable prize winning device 32 and the start prize winning device 34. And a blade (a kind of medium inflow restricting means) 60 that variably restricts the inflow of game balls to the starting opening. The shutter 62 allows the inflow permission to allow the game ball to flow in from the inflow prohibition state (a type of the first inflow restriction state) in which the game ball cannot flow into the big prize port 61 in accordance with the driving of the big prize solenoid 991 (see FIG. 4). It changes to a state (a kind of second inflow restriction state). On the other hand, the blade 60 has a second state in which the game ball can easily flow into the start port from the first inflow permission state (a kind of the first inflow restriction state) in which the game ball can flow into the start port than in the first inflow permission state. It changes into an inflow permission state (a kind of 2nd inflow regulation state). The big prize opening solenoid 991 and the start opening solenoid 992 are connected to the main control board 261 via a wire harness.

  The pachinko machine 10 includes a large prize opening solenoid drive circuit 900 formed on the main control board 261, a big prize opening abnormality detection circuit 910, a start opening solenoid drive circuit 920, and a start opening abnormality detection circuit 930. . The special winning opening solenoid drive circuit 900 and the start opening solenoid driving circuit 920 have substantially the same configuration, and the special winning opening abnormality detection circuit 910 and the start opening abnormality detection circuit 930 have substantially the same configuration. Therefore, only the special winning opening solenoid drive circuit 900 and the special winning opening abnormality detection circuit 910 will be described in detail. FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the special winning opening solenoid drive circuit 900 and the special winning opening abnormality detection circuit 910.

  The special prize opening solenoid drive circuit 900 includes a power supply circuit 901 and a special prize opening solenoid drive control circuit 902. One end of the solenoid coil L1 of the big prize opening solenoid 991 is electrically connected to the power supply circuit 901, and the other end is connected to the solenoid drive control circuit 902. Power is supplied to the power supply circuit 901 from the power supply board 313 through the power supply monitoring board 540 at a voltage of 24 V that is a drive system voltage. The drive control circuit 902 controls current conduction between the points A and B in FIG. 16 in response to the reception of the special prize opening solenoid control signal. Specifically, a transistor element is provided as the special winning opening solenoid drive control circuit 902, the source terminal is connected to the solenoid coil, and the drain terminal is connected to the special winning opening solenoid monitoring circuit 911 of the special winning opening abnormality detection circuit 910. The gate terminal is connected to the input / output port 505. The transistor element is turned on in response to the input of the large winning opening solenoid control signal from the input / output port 505 to the gate terminal, and a voltage of substantially 24 V is applied between the source terminal and the drain terminal.

  The special prize opening abnormality detection circuit 910 includes a special prize opening solenoid monitoring circuit 911, a power supply circuit 912, a normal operation reference voltage generation circuit 913, a special prize opening solenoid abnormality detection circuit 914, and an abnormality detection timing signal generation circuit 915. And a special prize opening abnormality signal output control circuit 916. The special winning opening solenoid monitoring circuit 911 monitors the current flowing through the solenoid coil L1. Specifically, a resistance element and a branch wiring are provided as the prize winning solenoid monitoring circuit 911, one end of the resistance element is connected to the prize winning solenoid drive control circuit 902, and the other end is short-circuited to the ground potential. The branch wiring connects the large winning opening solenoid drive control circuit 902 side of the resistance element and the large winning opening solenoid abnormality detecting circuit. In this embodiment, a resistance element having a very small resistance value of about 1 ohm is used in order not to impede the driveability of the special winning opening solenoid 991. A voltage drop (monitoring voltage) corresponding to a voltage drop caused by a resistance element is applied to the branch wiring. Since the voltage drop is proportional to the current value flowing through the resistance element (same as the current value flowing through the solenoid coil L1), it can be converted into a voltage transient response without impairing the transient response characteristics of the current flowing through the solenoid coil L1. .

  Power is supplied to the power supply circuit 912 from the power supply board 313 via the power supply monitoring board 540 at a voltage of 5 V that is a control system voltage. The normal operation reference voltage generation circuit 913 converts the voltage of 5 V from the power supply circuit 912 into a predetermined voltage smaller than the voltage drop input from the prize winning solenoid monitoring circuit 911, and the prize winning solenoid abnormality detection circuit 914. Output to. Note that the voltage generated by the normal operation reference voltage generation circuit 913 is a threshold voltage for identifying whether the driving of the prize winning solenoid is normal or abnormal. The special winning opening solenoid abnormality detection circuit 914 continues to output a signal having a predetermined voltage when the voltage drop and the threshold voltage are compared to satisfy a predetermined condition (for example, when the voltage drop is larger than the threshold voltage).

  The abnormality detection timing signal generation circuit 915 generates an abnormality detection timing signal at a predetermined timing based on the big prize opening solenoid control signal output from the input / output port 505. Specifically, the abnormality detection timing signal generation circuit 915 is a timer circuit, and starts time measurement in response to the input of the big prize opening solenoid control signal, and generates an abnormality detection timing signal when a predetermined fixed time has elapsed. To do. The abnormality detection timing signal is a pulse signal having a predetermined width. The special prize opening abnormality signal output control circuit 916 outputs a special prize opening abnormality detection signal to the input / output port 505 in response to the input of the abnormality detection timing signal. Specifically, the special prize opening abnormality signal output control circuit 916 latches the level of the signal from the special prize solenoid abnormality detection circuit 914, and outputs the voltage signal of the level latched over a predetermined period as the special prize opening abnormality detection signal. To the input / output port 505.

  When the MPU 501 receives the special prize opening abnormality detection signal, the MPU 501 executes a process for notifying that there is an abnormality in the operation of the special prize opening solenoid 991. In the above description, the special winning opening solenoid drive circuit 900 has been described, but the configuration of the start opening solenoid driving circuit 920 is the same as that of the special winning opening solenoid drive circuit 900. Further, although the special winning opening abnormality detection circuit 910 has been described, the configuration of the starting opening abnormality detection circuit 930 is substantially the same as the special winning opening abnormality detection circuit 910. It should be noted that those configurations are substantially the same when the threshold voltage generated by the normal operation reference voltage generation circuit 913 is different in the special winning opening abnormality detection circuit 910 and the start opening abnormality detection circuit 930 or when an abnormality detection timing signal is detected. This means that the output timing of the abnormality detection timing signal generated by the generation circuit may be different.

  Here, a voltage drop (monitoring voltage) corresponding to the output of the large winning opening solenoid control signal from the input / output port 505 at the reference point X between the large winning opening solenoid monitoring circuit 911 and the large winning opening solenoid abnormality detection circuit 914. The transient response of will be described. FIG. 17 is a graph qualitatively illustrating an example of the transient response of the monitoring voltage accompanying the initial normal driving of the special winning opening solenoid. The horizontal axis represents the elapsed time, and the vertical axis represents the drop voltage. The transient response of the monitoring voltage is qualitatively the same as the transient response of the current flowing through the winning prize solenoid. Note that Vsh shown in FIG. 17 is a threshold voltage in the present embodiment, and a boundary between the transient response of the monitored voltage within the allowable range and the transient response of the monitored voltage determined to be abnormal is determined by this threshold voltage Vsh. It is determined.

  As shown in FIG. 17, when a big prize opening solenoid control signal is output from the input / output port 505 at time T0, excitation of the solenoid coil L1 in the big prize opening solenoid 991 is started. The monitoring voltage rises with time, and the excitation of the solenoid coil L1 proceeds and the magnetization of the magnetic part of the plunger (piston) proceeds. At time Ti, the plunger starts to move against the urging force of the urging member of the big prize opening solenoid 991 by the attractive force between the solenoid coil L1 and the magnetic part. While the plunger is moving, the relative position between the solenoid coil L1 and the magnetic part approaches, so the effective inductance of the big prize solenoid 991 by the solenoid coil L1 and the magnetic part increases (in accordance with the law of electromagnetic induction). The increase in the reverse current due to the change in the magnetic flux density in the solenoid coil L1), the increase rate of the monitoring voltage decreases. Along with this, the monitoring voltage starts to decrease thereafter. Since the movement of the plunger is fast, the start of the movement of the plunger and the start of the decrease in the monitoring voltage (peak position) are substantially the same. When the movement of the plunger is completed at the time Tf and the relative position between the solenoid coil L1 and the magnetic part is not changed, the monitoring voltage starts to increase again (node position). Finally, excitation of the solenoid coil L1 is completed at time Ts, and the monitoring voltage becomes a predetermined steady voltage.

  Next, the transient response of the drop voltage (monitoring voltage) according to the output of the large winning opening solenoid control signal from the input / output port 505 at the reference point X when the plunger of the large winning opening solenoid does not move due to a failure or the like will be described. . FIG. 18 is a graph qualitatively showing an example of the transient response of the monitoring voltage that accompanies the driving when the special winning opening solenoid is in failure. In FIG. 18, the transient response of the monitoring voltage at the time of failure is indicated by a broken line, and the transient response of the initial normal monitoring voltage shown in FIG. 17 is also indicated by a solid line for comparison.

  As shown in FIG. 18, when a big prize opening solenoid control signal is output from the input / output port 505 at time T0, excitation of the solenoid coil L1 in the big prize opening solenoid 991 is started. The monitoring voltage rises with time, and the excitation of the solenoid coil L1 proceeds and the magnetization of the magnetic part of the plunger (piston) proceeds. Furthermore, unlike the case of the transient response of the normal monitoring voltage even if time passes, the monitoring voltage does not decrease because the relative position between the solenoid coil L1 and the magnetic part does not change, and as time passes, Monotonically increases to a steady voltage. Therefore, in the transient response of the monitoring voltage at the time of failure, when the elapsed time from time T0 is substantially the same in the period from time Ti to time Ts, the monitoring voltage at the time of failure is higher than the initial normal monitoring voltage. Large value.

  Next, the big prize opening from the input / output port 505 at the reference point X when the movement speed of the plunger of the big prize opening solenoid becomes slow due to deterioration due to increase in sliding resistance due to repeated sliding or deterioration over time. The transient response of the drop voltage (monitoring voltage) according to the output of the solenoid control signal will be described. FIG. 19 is a graph qualitatively showing an example of the transient response of the monitoring voltage that accompanies the driving when the special winning opening solenoid is deteriorated. In FIG. 19, the transient response of the monitoring voltage when the deterioration is small is indicated by a broken line, the transient response of the monitoring voltage when the deterioration is large is indicated by a one-dot chain line, and for comparison, the initial response shown in FIG. The transient response of the normal monitoring voltage is also shown by the solid line.

  As shown in FIG. 19, the transient response of the monitoring voltage at the time of deterioration shown by the broken line is substantially the same as the transient response of the normal normal monitoring voltage in the period from time T0 to time Ti. . Note that since the drag required to start the movement of the plunger has increased, the movement of the plunger is started at a time Ti1 later than the time Ti. When the plunger is moving, the effective inductance of the large winning opening solenoid 991 due to the solenoid coil L1 and the magnetic portion increases, but the effective rate of increase of the inductance is the initial rate because the moving speed of the plunger is slow. It is smaller than the normal transient response and the rate of decrease of the monitoring voltage is small. Therefore, the movement of the plunger is completed at the time Tf1 later than the time Tf, and the difference in the monitoring voltage between the time Ti and the time Tf1 in the transient response of the monitoring voltage at the time of deterioration is the transient response of the initial normal monitoring voltage. Becomes smaller than the difference in the monitoring voltage between time Ti and time Tf. After the time Tf1, the monitoring voltage starts increasing again. Finally, the excitation of the solenoid coil L1 is completed at a time later than the time Ts, and the monitoring voltage reaches a predetermined steady voltage. Further, in the transient response of the monitoring voltage when the deterioration indicated by the alternate long and short dash line progresses, the movement of the plunger is completed at time Tf2, which is later than the time Tf1, and the transient of the monitoring voltage indicated by the alternate long and short dashed line The difference in monitoring voltage between time Ti and time Tf2 in the response is further smaller than the difference in monitoring voltage between time Ti and time Tf1 in the transient response of the monitoring voltage indicated by the broken line.

  Here, the overall operation of the main control board 261 when the special winning opening solenoid 991 is driven will be described in detail almost in chronological order, taking an initial normal transient response as an example. The special winning opening solenoid 991 is not operated except during a big hit (in a special game state). Note that the threshold voltage is Vsh, the detection timing is a predetermined time Tf after the start of the operation of the special prize opening solenoid 991, and the monitoring voltage at the detection timing is greater than the threshold voltage. Specifically, the normal operation reference voltage generation circuit 913 always generates a signal having a voltage Vsh that is a threshold voltage, and the abnormality detection timing signal generation circuit 915 performs a predetermined time from the input of the big prize opening solenoid drive signal. It is set to generate an abnormality detection timing signal when (Tf) has elapsed.

  First, when the big winning opening solenoid drive flag is set during the big hit (S309 in FIG. 7), the big winning opening solenoid control signal is sent from the input / output port 505 to the special winning opening solenoid drive control circuit 902 and the abnormality detection timing signal generation circuit. It is output to 915 (S201 in FIG. 6). The special winning opening solenoid drive control circuit 902 opens a current path between point A and point B in response to the input of the special winning opening solenoid control signal. As a result, excitation of the solenoid coil L1 of the big prize opening solenoid 991 is started. Further, the abnormality detection timing signal generation circuit 915 starts measuring elapsed time.

  The special winning opening solenoid abnormality detection circuit 914 compares the monitoring voltage output from the special winning opening solenoid monitoring circuit 911 and changing according to the elapsed time with the constant threshold voltage Vsh output from the normal operation reference voltage generating circuit 913. When the monitoring voltage is higher than the threshold voltage Vsh, a signal of a predetermined H level (for example, 5V) is output from the special winning opening solenoid abnormality detection circuit 914, and the monitoring voltage is higher than the threshold voltage Vsh. A signal of L level (for example, 0.5 V) is output to. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 17, an L level signal is output during a period from time T0 until time T1 until the monitoring voltage reaches voltage Vsh. When the time T1 is reached, the L level signal is changed to the H level signal, and the H level signal is output during the period from the time T1 to the time T2. When the time T2 is reached, the H level signal is changed to an L level signal, and an L level signal is output during the period from time T2 to time T3. In this embodiment, the essential operation is not involved after time Tf.

  When the elapsed time reaches a predetermined time Tf, an abnormality detection timing signal is output from the abnormality detection timing signal generation circuit 915. In the big prize opening solenoid abnormality output control circuit, in response to the input of the abnormality detection timing signal, if the signal from the big prize opening solenoid abnormality detection circuit 914 when the abnormality detection timing signal is inputted is the H level, the big prize opening An abnormal signal is output for a predetermined period.

  In the initial normal operation of the big prize opening solenoid 991 as shown in FIG. 17, no big prize opening abnormality signal is output. However, when the operation of the big prize opening solenoid follows the transient response of the monitoring voltage at the time of failure as shown in FIG. 18, the supervising voltage exceeds the threshold voltage Vsh at time Tf, so An abnormal signal is output. Further, when the operation of the prize winning solenoid follows the transient response of the monitoring voltage at the time of excessive deterioration as shown by the one-dot chain line in FIG. 19, the monitoring voltage exceeds the threshold voltage Vsh at time Tf. Therefore, a special winning opening abnormality signal is output. In addition, when following the transient response of the monitoring voltage at the time of deterioration of the allowable range as shown by the broken line in FIG. Not.

  The MPU 501 periodically confirms the big prize opening abnormality signal input to the input / output port 505 (S601 in FIG. 10). When the big prize opening abnormality signal is received, the big prize opening abnormality flag is set in order to shift to error processing, and the big prize winning in order to notify that there is an abnormality in the operation of the big prize opening solenoid 991. A mouth abnormal command is set. When the special prize opening abnormality command is set, the special prize opening abnormality command is transmitted to the sub-control board 262 (S201 in FIG. 6). Further, when the big prize opening abnormality flag is set, the big prize opening error process (S209) is executed and the error state continues until the gaming machine 10 is reset. The sub-control board 262 transmits an error volume control signal and an error voice control signal to the speaker 710 in order to notify the occurrence of an error by sound in response to the reception of the special prize opening abnormality command, and to notify the occurrence of the error by light emission. A lamp control signal is transmitted to the lamp 711, and an error image control signal is transmitted in order to notify the occurrence of an error by image display (external output processing S210). Further, an error notification control signal is transmitted to a management computer connected to the gaming machine 10 in order to notify the occurrence of an error (external output processing S210).

  The speaker 710 outputs a predetermined sound pattern with a predetermined sound volume based on the error sound volume control signal and the error sound control signal. The lamp 711 emits light with a predetermined light emission pattern based on the lamp control signal. The decorative symbol display device 42 displays a predetermined image according to the image display signal from the display control device 45 based on the error image control signal.

  If it is said game machine 10, error control and error alerting | reporting can be performed at the time of failure or predetermined deterioration of the special winning opening solenoid 991. Thereby, abnormal operations of the shutter 62 of the variable winning device 32 and the blades 60 of the start winning device 33 can be detected, and occurrence of a disadvantageous or unpleasant state for the player or a disadvantageous state for the manager can be suppressed. .

  In the above description, the case where the error is determined at the timing (time Tf) corresponding to the node position in the initial normal transient response has been described. If so, the error may be determined at another timing.

  In the above, the case where error control and error notification are performed when a failure and deterioration exceeding an allowable range are detected has been described, but the present invention is configured to perform error control and error notification only at the time of a failure. Also good. In the above description, the case where error notification is given to both the player and the administrator when a failure and deterioration exceeding the allowable range are detected has been described. However, in the present invention, the player or the administrator is notified. Alternatively, the error notification may be provided.

  In the above description, the case of determining an error without distinguishing between a failure time and a deterioration time exceeding an allowable range has been described. However, in the present invention, they may be determined individually. In this case, in the special prize opening abnormality detection circuit 910 and the start opening abnormality detection circuit 930, a threshold voltage for deterioration determination (deterioration detection threshold voltage) and a threshold voltage for failure determination higher than the threshold voltage (failure detection threshold). Voltage) is separately generated and compared with the monitoring voltage at the same time or at different timings, and the abnormality detection signal at the time of deterioration and the abnormality detection signal at the time of failure may be individually output. Moreover, when determining failure and deterioration exceeding an allowable range individually, error notification may be selectively performed to the player and / or the administrator for each determination.

  In the above description, the case has been described in which the transient response of the monitoring voltage is monitored and the error determination is performed in the special winning opening abnormality detection circuit 910. It may be done automatically. In the following, a variation example in which error determination is performed by software will be described.

  20 and 21 are block diagrams showing examples of changes in the special winning opening solenoid driving circuit and the special winning opening abnormality detection circuit of the main control board. Note that members that are substantially the same as those described above are denoted by the same reference numerals in the members that are substantially the same as those shown in FIG. 16, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

  The prize winning hole abnormality detection circuit 940 shown in FIG. 20 is connected to the prize winning solenoid monitoring circuit 911, a gain adjustment amplification circuit 917 for amplifying the monitoring voltage, and the amplified monitoring voltage which is analog information is monitored voltage. And an A / D converter circuit 918 for converting into digital information corresponding to. The gain adjustment amplifier circuit 917 amplifies the monitoring voltage with a predetermined amplification factor in accordance with the dynamic range of the input end of the A / D converter circuit 918. Note that the gain adjustment amplifier circuit 917 is not an essential element in the present invention. The A / D converter circuit 918 samples the transient response of the monitoring voltage at a predetermined interval (for example, the interrupt period of the timer interrupt process of the main control board 261), and the discrete data obtained by the sampling is input to the input / output port 505. Output.

  As shown in FIG. 21, the special prize opening solenoid drive circuit 950 includes a power supply circuit 901 and a special prize opening solenoid drive control circuit 902. The power supply circuit 901 is connected to one end of the solenoid coil L1 of the special winning opening solenoid 991 through the special winning opening solenoid monitoring circuit 911 '. The big prize opening solenoid drive control circuit 902 is connected to the other end of the solenoid coil L1. The prize winning hole abnormality detection circuit 940 ′ is connected to the prize winning solenoid monitoring circuit 911 ′, and a gain adjustment amplification circuit 917 ′ for amplifying the monitoring voltage and the amplified monitoring voltage as analog information as the monitoring voltage. And an A / D converter circuit 918 for converting into corresponding digital information. The prize winning solenoid monitoring circuit 911 ′ includes a resistance element (not shown) that connects the power supply circuit 901 and the solenoid coil L1, a first branch wiring that is electrically connected to one end of the resistance element, and a resistance element. And a second branch wiring electrically connected to the other end. The gain adjustment amplifier circuit is a circuit that amplifies the potential difference between the first branch wiring and the second branch wiring. Specifically, an operational amplifier is used as the gain adjustment amplifier circuit 917 '. The A / D converter circuit 918 samples the transient response of the voltage generated by the gain adjustment amplifier circuit 917 ′ at a predetermined interval (for example, the interrupt cycle of timer interrupt processing of the main control board 261), and is obtained by sampling. The discrete data is output to the input / output port 505.

  In the case of the configuration shown in FIG. 20 or FIG. 21, as processing means executed in the MPU, threshold voltage information holding means for holding threshold voltage information corresponding to a predetermined threshold voltage, and driving of the solenoid coil L1 are started. Stipulated time elapse detecting means for detecting that the stipulated time has passed, and holding monitoring voltage information and threshold voltage information from the A / D converter circuit in response to detection that the stipulated time has passed. Based on the detection threshold voltage information held in the means, it is configured to include a determination means that determines that the monitoring voltage is abnormal when the monitoring voltage is equal to or higher than the detection threshold voltage. Even with the configuration shown in FIG. 20 or FIG. 21, the same effects as the above gaming machine 10 can be obtained.

In the case of the configuration shown in FIG. 20 or FIG. 21, as processing means executed in the MPU, threshold time information holding means for holding threshold time information corresponding to a predetermined threshold time, and solenoid coil L1 Based on the node arrival time corresponding to the arrival time from the start of driving to the node position and the threshold time information held in the threshold time information holding means, it is determined that the node arrival time exceeds the threshold time and is abnormal. It is also possible to adopt a configuration including a deterioration determination means that
In the case of this configuration, in addition to the same effects as the gaming machine 10 described above, there are additional effects described below. The shutter 62 of the variable winning device 32 and the blade 60 of the start winning device 33 may be in a half-open state due to a game ball being pinched. Here, the case where those solenoids 991 and 992 are driven from such a half-open state will be described. FIG. 22 is a graph that qualitatively represents an example of the transient response of the monitoring voltage accompanying the half-open driving of the special winning opening solenoid. As shown in FIG. 22, the transient response of the monitoring voltage at the half-open time is substantially the same as the transient response of the initial normal monitoring voltage in the period from time T0 to time Ti. In addition, since the position of the magnetic part of the plunger has moved to the solenoid coil L1 side, the movement start of the plunger is started at a time Ti3 slightly later than the time Ti. When the plunger is moving, the effective inductance of the big prize opening solenoid 991 due to the solenoid coil L1 and the magnetic part increases, but the monitoring voltage decrease rate is small because the plunger moving distance is short. Therefore, the movement of the plunger is completed at the time Tf3 earlier than the time Tf, and the difference in the monitoring voltage between the time Ti and the time Tf3 in the transient response of the monitoring voltage in the half-open state is the transient response of the initial normal monitoring voltage. Becomes smaller than the difference in the monitoring voltage between time Ti and time Tf. After the time Tf3, the monitoring voltage starts increasing again. Finally, the excitation of the solenoid coil L1 is completed at a time earlier than the time Ts, and the monitoring voltage reaches a predetermined steady voltage. The same applies to the start-up solenoid 992. As can be seen from FIG. 22, when the comparison between the monitoring voltage and the threshold voltage at a predetermined timing is performed only once, the monitoring voltage at time Tf becomes larger than the threshold voltage Vsh even in the half-open state. It will be judged. Even if the comparison timing and the threshold voltage Vsh are changed, it is extremely difficult to distinguish the half-disclosure from the deterioration time exceeding the allowable range. However, when the error determination is determined based on the time to reach the node position as in this configuration, it is semi-disclosed and at the time of failure (the node position in this case is not reached, so it is considered as an infinite time) In addition, it is possible to distinguish the deterioration time exceeding the allowable range. As a result, when the node arrival time exceeds a predetermined threshold time (for example, Tf−T0), it is determined to be abnormal, so that it is determined as an error at the time of failure or deterioration exceeding the allowable range, and an error at the time of half-opening Is not determined. This prevents the game from being interrupted at the half-open time because it is not determined as an error at the half-open time when the error should not be determined.

  In the above description, the case where the operations of the winning prize opening solenoid 991 and the start opening solenoid 992 are monitored has been described. However, the operation of only one of them may be monitored, or another solenoid such as a ball feed solenoid may be used. The operation may be further monitored.

  In the above, in the prize winning hole abnormality detection circuit 910, the transient response of the current flowing through the prize winning solenoid 991 is not directly converted into the transient response of the monitoring voltage, but is indirectly monitored. Direct monitoring by current transient response may also be used. The same applies to the start-up solenoid 992.

(Embodiment 2)
In the second embodiment, a case is described in which the gaming machine is a spinning-type gaming machine using a gaming sphere as a gaming medium (hereinafter referred to as a “ball-type spinning gaming machine”), but the present invention can also be applied to other gaming machines. Moreover, even if it is a rotating type game machine, it is not limited to the specific form demonstrated below, You may change the design suitably, unless it deviates from the main point of this invention.

  The configuration of the ball-type spinning machine of this embodiment will be described. FIG. 23 is a front view showing an example of a ball-type spinning game machine, and FIG. 24 is a perspective view showing the internal configuration of the ball-type spinning game machine in a state where it is opened in blocks.

  As shown in FIG. 23 or FIG. 24, the ball-type spinning machine 1010 is supported by an outer frame 1011 that forms the outer shell of the ball-type spinning machine 1010 and one side of the outer frame 1011 so that it can be opened and closed. Door block 1012. The door block 1012 is attached to the outer frame 1011 so as to be openable and closable by hinges 1013 and 1013, and an opening / closing axis thereof is set to extend vertically on the left side when viewed from the front of the ball-spinning game machine 1010. The door block 1012 can be sufficiently opened to the front side with the opening / closing axis as the axis. As shown in FIG. 24, the door block 1012 includes a front block 1020 that constitutes the front surface of the ball-cylinder gaming machine 1010, a payout block 1030 that is attached to the front block 1020 so as to be openable and closable rearward, The game block 1040 is attached to the front block 1020 so as to be openable and closable rearward and is encapsulated by the front block 1020 and the payout block 1030.

(Configuration of front block)
As shown in FIG. 24, the front block 1020 includes a front panel 1100, a front block frame 1200, a rotating display panel 1022, a display panel holding frame 1024, an upper plate unit 1300 (see FIG. 1), and a selector 1400 ( Game ball throwing device).

  As shown in FIG. 23, the front panel 1100 has a window hole 1102 for exposing a game area provided on the front surface of the game block 1040 (see FIG. 24) and surrounds the window hole 1102. An LED cover portion 1104, upper speaker portions 1106 and 1106, a right middle effect LED cover portion 1108, a left middle effect LED cover portion 1110, a central panel portion 1112, an operation panel portion 1122 and the like are disposed.

  The top effect LED cover portion 1104, the right middle effect LED cover portion 1108, and the left middle effect LED cover portion 1110 of the front panel 1100 are each a light emitting device such as a light emitting diode (LED) (not shown) attached from the back side of the front panel 1100. Covering. This light-emitting device is turned on or blinked as the game progresses, thereby providing a visual effect of the game. The upper speaker units 1106 and 1106 play various sound effects as the game progresses, and inform the player of the game state to produce an auditory effect of the game.

  The center panel portion 1112 of the front panel 1100 is made of colorless and transparent glass, and describes the predetermined winning conditions, the number of game balls to be paid out (the number of winning balls), the game method, and the like. This is a window through which an information posting panel (not shown) can be seen. In order to make it easy to see the display content of the information posting panel, a fluorescent lamp 1041k (see FIG. 31) is installed on the back side of the central panel portion 1112. A 1-bet button 1114 is disposed on the left side of the central panel portion 1112. General-purpose buttons 1116 and 1118 are arranged on the right side of the central panel portion 1112. The general-purpose buttons 1116 and 1118 are buttons whose usage can be appropriately set for each type of gaming machine, such as switching of gaming modes and switching of display modes on a liquid crystal screen. A key cylinder insertion hole 1120 that exposes the front surface (key hole) of the door key cylinder 1202 for opening and closing the front block is provided on the right side of the general-purpose button 1116 and the like of the central panel portion 1112. An operation panel portion 1122 that protrudes forward is disposed below the central panel portion 1112.

  In the operation panel section 1122 of the front panel 1100, a start lever 1124 for starting rotation of later-described rotating cylinders L, M, and R (see FIG. 31) and rotation of the left rotating cylinder L are sequentially performed from the left side of FIG. A left-turn cylinder stop button 1126L for stopping the rotation of the right cylinder R, and a right-turn cylinder stop button 1126R for stopping the rotation of the right cylinder R. A small window hole 1130 is provided for exposing an upper plate ball removal lever 1386 for performing an operation of flowing a game ball from the upper plate 1302 to the lower plate 1128. The start lever 1124 is a lever that is pressed and operated by the player when the player starts the game, and automatically returns to the original position after the hand is released. When the start lever 1124 is operated while a predetermined number of game balls are betted, the cylinders L, M, and R start to rotate at the same time. Above the base end of the start lever 1124, the rotation cylinders L, M, and R are ready for rotation, that is, a predetermined number of game balls are taken in by the selector 1400 (see FIG. 24), and the start lever 1124 is operated. A start lever LED (not shown) for notifying the acceptable state is embedded. Further, around each of the spinning cylinder stop buttons 1126L, 1126M, and 1126R, the spinning cylinder stop buttons LEDL, 134M, and 134R for notifying the state in which the operation can be accepted are embedded. Each spinning cylinder stop button LED 1134L, 1134M, 1134R is turned on when the corresponding spinning cylinder L, M, R is rotating at a constant speed, and is extinguished when the rotation of the corresponding spinning cylinder L, M, R is stopped. A lower tray 1128 for storing game balls is disposed below the operation panel unit 1122.

  On the inner surface of the lower plate 1128, there is a lower speaker cover unit 1136 that covers the lower speaker unit 1204 (see FIG. 24) provided on the front block frame 1200, and an exit for game balls that flow from the upper plate 1302 to the lower plate 1128. In addition, there is provided a lower tray discharge outlet 1138 in which game balls may be directly paid out from a payout device 1033 (see FIG. 28), which will be described later. In addition, a lower plate ball removal lever 1140 for performing an operation of dropping a game ball from a lower plate 1128 to a game ball housing case (a so-called dollar box) (not shown) disposed below the lower plate 1128 is provided at the lower front portion of the lower plate 1128. Is provided. The game ball can be dropped from the lower plate 1128 by sliding the closing plate 1144 with the lower plate ball removing lever 1140 to open the opening 1142. An ashtray 1146 is provided on the left side of the lower plate 1128. A left lower effect LED cover portion 1148 and a lower right effect LED cover portion 1150 are provided on both sides of the operation panel portion 1122 and the lower plate 1128, respectively. The lower left effect LED cover portion 1148 and the lower right effect LED cover portion 1150 cover a light emitting device such as a light emitting diode (not shown) attached from the back side of the front panel 1100.

  As shown in FIG. 24, the front block frame 1200 is a rectangular frame that is slightly smaller than the front panel 1100 and is screwed to the back side of the front panel 1100. A lower speaker unit 1204 for auditory performance is attached to the lower part of the front block frame 1200. By providing the speaker unit 1106 (see FIG. 23) and the speaker unit 1204 above and below, an auditory effect full of realism can be performed. The front block frame 1200 is provided with a door opening / closing mechanism 1208. When a key (not shown) is inserted into the door key cylinder 1202 (see FIG. 23) constituting the door opening / closing mechanism 1208 and rotated to the right side, the locking claws 1210 and 1210 that are locked to the outer frame 1011 rotate downward. Then, the locking to the outer frame 1011 is released. Conversely, when a key (not shown) is inserted into the door key cylinder 1202 and rotated to the left, the locking claws 1212 and 1212 that are locked to the dispensing block 1030 rotate downward, and the locking to the dispensing block 1030 is locked. Canceled. In addition, the front block frame 1200 is provided with a guide passage 1214 that continues to the lower tray discharge outlet 1138.

  The rotating display panel 1022 is a colorless and transparent glass plate and has a substantially trapezoidal shape corresponding to the shape of the window hole 1102 of the front panel 1100. The display panel presser frame 1024 is screwed to the front block frame 1200 with a rotating display panel 1022 interposed between the display panel presser frame 1024 and the front panel 1100. The display panel presser frame 1024 has a substantially trapezoidal shape corresponding to the shape of the rotary display panel 1022 and is formed with a predetermined depth. That is, the window hole 1102 of the front panel 1100 protrudes forward from the central panel portion 1112 and is formed with a depth corresponding to the protruding length.

  As shown in FIG. 23, the upper plate unit 1300 is a member having an upper plate 1302 for storing game balls, and the operation panel unit is configured to close the opening between the central panel unit 1112 and the operation panel unit 1122. It is attached to the back side of 1122. The upper plate unit 1300 includes an upper plate unit main body 1320, a CR operation unit 1350, an upper plate ball stopper 1360 (see FIG. 26) (not shown), and an upper plate ball removal operation unit 1380.

  The upper plate unit main body 1320 is a member having the upper plate 1302 as described above, and is formed with a desired depth and an inclination from the left side to the right side in the drawing. A game ball guide path 1322 (see FIG. 26) branched into a plurality (for example, three) is provided in a downstream portion of the upper plate 1302 (below the CR operation unit 350). The game ball guide path 322 aligns the game balls and sequentially guides them to the selector 1400 (see FIGS. 24 and 26).

  The CR operation unit 1350 includes a frequency display unit 1352, a ball lending button 1306, a ball lending button LED (not shown), a ball lending switch (not shown), a card return button 1308, and a card return switch (not shown). . The frequency display unit 1352 displays a frequency corresponding to the remaining amount of the card by inserting the card into a CR unit (not shown) arranged adjacent to the ball-type spinning game machine 1010. A ball lending button 1306 is a button for performing a game ball lending operation. The ball lending switch 1356 is a switch that detects a lending operation by the ball lending button 1306. The ball lending button LED 1354 notifies the player by lighting that the game ball can be lent, and when the game ball is lent, the ball lending button LED 1354 blinks to lend the game ball. To inform you that you are in the middle of When the ball lending button 1306 is operated while the ball lending button LED 1354 is lit, a predetermined number of game balls are lended to the upper plate 1302. Note that the operation of the ball lending button 1306 is not accepted when the ball lending button LED 1354 is blinking. The card return button 1308 is a button for performing a return operation of the card inserted in the CR unit. The card return switch is a switch that detects a return operation by the card return button 1308. When the card return button 1308 is operated, the card is returned from the CR unit.

  The upper dish ball removal operation unit 1380 includes a ball removal lever exposed on the front surface side of the spinning reel type gaming machine 1010 and a lever operation transmission mechanism provided on the inside side of the spinning drum type gaming machine 10. In response to the operation of the ball release lever, the lever operation transmission mechanism moves the return shutter 1420 (see FIG. 26) of the selector 1400. As a result, the game balls stored in the upper plate 1302 are paid back to the lower plate 1128.

  The upper plate ball stopper 1360 is attached to the lower side of the game ball guide path 1322 and opens and closes the entrance from the game ball guide path 1322 to the selector 1400. Specifically, the upper tray ball stopper 1360 prevents the game ball from falling from the upper tray 1302 even if the selector 1400 is removed when the selector 1400 needs to be replaced due to a failure or the like.

  In the selector 1400, a predetermined number of game balls stored on the upper plate 1302 and the upper surface of the selector 1400 are ball-type according to the operation of the 1 bet button 1114 (see FIG. 23) and the mac bet button 1304 (see FIG. 23). It is taken into the inside of the revolving game machine 1010 or paid back to the lower plate 1128 according to the operation of the upper plate ball removing operation unit 1380 (see FIG. 1). Specifically, as shown in FIG. 25, the selector 1400 includes a plurality of game ball insertion portions 1410a, 1410b, one corresponding to a plurality of game ball guide paths 1322 (see FIG. 26) of the upper plate 1302, respectively. 1410c (also referred to as a first game ball throwing portion 1410a, a second game ball throwing portion 1410b, and a third game ball throwing portion 1410c, when they need to be distinguished from each other), and an upper plate 1302 A return shutter 1420 for restricting the flow of the game ball from the base plate 1128 to the lower plate 1128, a return switch board 1440 for detecting whether or not the return shutter 1420 has moved from the reference position, one end of the return shutter 1420 including the hollow protrusion 1408, and A substrate cover 1450 that covers the return switch substrate 1440 and a return shutter 1420 arranged inside the hollow protrusion 1480 are used as a reference. And a selector relay terminal plate 1462 and a selector relay terminal plate 1462 that relay transmission of electrical signals between the main control board 1045a and the plurality of game ball insertion portions 1410a, 1410b, 1410c. And a selector relay device 1460 including a relay terminal plate cover 1464 to be covered. The selector 1400 disperses a predetermined number of game balls according to a bet operation into a plurality of game ball insertion units 1410a, 1410b, and 1410c and simultaneously inputs them, so that only a single game ball insertion unit is provided. This makes it possible to quickly perform a throw-in operation (bet operation).

  Here, the upper plate ball removal operation unit 1380, the upper plate ball stopper 1360, and the selector 1400 will be described in detail. FIG. 26 is a longitudinal sectional view of an example of the upper bowl stopper 1360 and the selector 1400 as viewed from the rear side. FIG. 27 is a partial cross-sectional view of an example of the upper dish ball removal operation unit 1380 and the selector 1400. In the following, the game ball throwing units 1410b and 1410c have substantially the same configuration as the game ball throwing unit 410a, and thus detailed description thereof is omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 26, the upper plate ball stopper 1360 is provided at the end of the casing 1361, the shaft member 1362 that is rotatably provided in the casing 1361 within a rotation range of 90 degrees, and the end of the shaft member 1362. And an opening / closing member 1363 that is movable in accordance with the rotation of the shaft member 1362. The shaft member 1362 includes pressing portions 1375a and 1375b formed at a tip opposite to the operation handle at intervals of about 90 degrees in the circumferential direction. Each pressing portion 1375a, 1375b is formed in a tongue-like shape, and protrudes in the radial direction of the shaft member 1362, respectively. The opening / closing member 1363 includes a plurality of closing portions 376 for closing each of the plurality of ball passages 1402 and pressed portions 1378a and 1378b that receive stress for moving the opening / closing member.

  The state shown in FIG. 26 is a state where the pressing portion 1375a presses the pressed portion 1378a and the opening / closing member 1363 is moved to the right side. In this state, a game to each of the plurality of ball passages 1402 is performed. Sphere inflow is allowed. 26, when the shaft member 1362 is rotated clockwise as viewed from above the paper surface of FIG. 26 by operating the operating handle, the pressing portion 1375b faces substantially horizontal and the pressed portion of the opening / closing member 1363 Press 1378b. As a result, the opening / closing member 1363 moves to the left, and the size of the entrance of the closed portion 1376 of the spherical passage 1402 is reduced. In this state, the inflow of game balls into each of the plurality of ball paths 1402 is prohibited. In this state, even if the selector 1400 is removed in a state where the game balls are stored in the upper plate 1302 and the game ball guide path 1322, those game balls will not be dropped. Conversely, when the shaft member 1362 is rotated counterclockwise by operating the operation handle from this state, the inflow of game balls into each of the plurality of ball passages 1402 is permitted.

  As shown in FIG. 27, the upper dish ball removing portion 1380 includes a base portion 1381 attached to the lower side of the upper plate unit main body 1320 via the CR operation display portion 1350, and a support shaft erected on the base portion 1381. 1382, a rotating piece 1384 and a pressing piece 1385 that rotate about 1383, and an upper dish ball removing lever 1386 that slides along the front surface of the base portion 1381. A connecting portion 1384 b that is pivotally attached to an upper dish ball removing lever 1386 is provided on the base portion 1384 a of the rotating piece 1384. In addition, the base portion 1384 a of the rotating piece 1384 is connected to the base portion 1381 via a coil spring 1387. A bifurcated grip 1384 c is provided at the tip of the rotating piece 1384. The grip portion 1384c is a portion that slidably grips the convex portion 1385b provided on the base portion 1385a of the pressing piece 1385. A pressing portion 1385 c that presses the return shutter 1420 of the selector 1400 is provided at the tip of the pressing piece 1385. The hollow protrusion 1408 of the selector 1400 stores a coil spring that presses the return shutter 1420 toward the pressing piece 1385 side.

  The state shown in FIG. 27 is a state where the upper dish ball removing lever 1386 is not operated. That is, the rotating piece 1384 is pulled counterclockwise by the coil spring 1387, and the pressing piece 1385 is pulled clockwise by the rotating piece 1384, so that the pressing portion 1385c is separated from one end of the return shutter 1420. State. In this state, the return shutter 1420 is at the reference position by the urging force of the coil spring 1430 disposed inside the hollow protrusion 1408. From this state, if the upper dish ball removal lever 1386 is picked and moved downward in the figure (actually, from the right side to the left side when viewed from the front of the ball-type revolving game machine 1010), the upper dish ball removal lever 1386 is rotated. The moving piece 1384 rotates clockwise, and the pressing piece 1385 is rotated counterclockwise by the rotating piece 1384, and the pressing portion 1385 c presses the return shutter 1420. As a result, the return shutter 1420 moves. In this state, when the hand is released from the upper dish ball removal lever 1386, the return shutter 1420 is pressed forward by the urging force of the coil spring disposed in the hollow projection 1408, and the state shown in FIG. 27 is restored.

  As described above with reference to FIG. 25, the selector 1400 includes a plurality of game ball throwing units 1410a, 1410b, 1410c, a return shutter 1420, a return switch board 1440, a board cover 1450, and a return shutter 1420. A coil spring (not shown) for returning to the reference position and a selector relay device 1460 are provided.

  As shown in FIG. 25, the game ball throwing portion 1410a of the selector 1400 includes a resin-made casing made up of a casing 1411 and a cover 1412. The outer surface of the casing 1411 is an attachment surface for the cover 1412 of the adjacent game ball insertion portion 1410b, and the outer surface of the cover 1412 of the game ball insertion portion 1410a is an attachment surface for the substrate cover 1450. When the casing 1411 and the cover 1412 are assembled, a bowl-shaped portion 1417 constituting the ball passage 1402 is formed. As shown in FIG. 26, the game ball throwing portion 1410a passes through the throwing flicker 1413a (a kind of medium inflow restriction means) and the throwing solenoid 1414a (a kind of inflow restriction changing means), as shown in FIG. A sensor 1415a and a count sensor 1416a are provided. In addition, a guide passage 1404 extending obliquely downward and a discharge passage 1406 extending substantially vertically downward are formed in the game ball throwing portion 1410a on the downstream side of the ball passage 1402.

  As shown in FIG. 26, the input flicker 1413a regulates the inflow of game balls from the ball passage 1402 to the discharge passage 1406. The insertion flicker 1413a has a proximal end portion 1413a1 and a distal end portion 1413a2 that are rotatably connected by a support shaft 1413a3. The proximal end side portion 1413a1 and the distal end side portion 1413a2 of the input flicker 1413a are rotatably supported by the support shafts 1411a1 and 1411a2 of the casing 1411a, respectively. A gripping portion 1413a4 for gripping the tongue piece 1414a1 of the closing solenoid 1414a is provided at the proximal end portion of the closing flicker 1413a. In addition, an opening / closing portion 1413a5 for opening / closing the discharge passage 1406a is provided at the tip of the charging flicker 1413a.

  The closing solenoid 1414a is energized by the operation of the bet buttons 1114 and 1304 and operates to contract the piston (plunger) 1414a2 upward. A knob 1414a3 is attached to the tip of the piston 1414a2. The knob portion 1414a3 has the tongue piece 1414a1 extending in the radial direction of the piston 1414a2. The piston 1414a2 is provided with a coil spring 1414a4. The coil spring 1414a4 biases the main body portion 1414a5 of the closing solenoid 1414a and the knob portion 1414a3 in the direction of separating them. That is, when the energization to the closing solenoid 1414a is cut off, the piston 1414a2 extends downward by the biasing force of the coil spring 1414a4.

  When the bet buttons 1114 and 1304 are pressed, the closing solenoid 1414a is energized, and the piston 1414a2 is contracted to rotate the proximal end portion 1413a1 of the closing flicker 1413a counterclockwise in the drawing. At the same time, the tip end side portion 1413a2 of the insertion flicker 1413a rotates clockwise in the drawing to open the discharge passage 1406a, so that the game ball waiting in the ball passage 1402a can fall naturally. On the contrary, when the energization of the closing solenoid 1414a is cut off, the piston 141a2 is extended by the urging force of the coil spring 1414a4 and the proximal end side portion 1413a1 of the closing flicker 1413a is rotated clockwise in the drawing. At the same time, the tip end side portion 1413a2 of the insertion flicker 1413a rotates counterclockwise in the drawing and closes the discharge passage 1406a at the opening / closing portion 1413a5, so that the game ball cannot fall naturally.

  The passage sensor 1415a is disposed in the discharge passage 1406a and immediately downstream of the opening / closing part 1413a5 of the input flicker 1413a, and detects whether or not the game ball has been normally taken in. The passage sensor 1415a has a substantially U-shaped cross section so as to surround the tip end portion 1413a2 of the input flicker 1413a, and a light emitting element is provided on either the front side or the back side of the input flicker 1413a, and The light receiving element is provided. In addition, the light emitting element and the light receiving element are provided as a pair in the upper and lower directions and at an interval shorter than the diameter of one game ball. After the game ball is detected by the upper element 1415a1, the game balls are simultaneously detected by the upper and lower elements 1415a1 and 1415a2, and then only the lower element 1415a2 is detected within a predetermined time. When it is determined that the game ball has been properly taken in. Conversely, when the lower element 1415a2 does not detect a game ball even after a predetermined time has elapsed after detecting the game ball with the upper element 1415a1, or after the game element is detected with the lower element 1415a2, the upper side and When the lower balls 1415a1 and 1415a2 detect a game ball at the same time, and then only the upper ball 1415a1 detects a game ball, it is determined that the game ball has been inserted by unauthorized means, 1010 informs that an error has occurred and prohibits the game. Therefore, for example, it is possible to prevent fraudulent acts such as playing a game ball using a fraudulent tool. The upper element 1415a1 is in a state where the number of game balls detected by the passage sensor 1415a is one less than the number of game balls to be inserted by the game ball insertion unit 1410a (for example, 4, 9, or 14). When the final game ball is detected, the charging solenoid 1414a is de-energized, the opening / closing part 1413a5 of the charging flicker 1413a projects into the discharge passage 1406, and the game ball is configured from the ball passage 1402 to the discharge passage 1406. Yes.

  The count sensor 1416a counts the game balls thrown in by the game ball throwing unit 1410a separately from the passage sensor 1415a. The count sensor 1416a detects the passage of the game ball by an action different from that of the passage sensor 1415a. If the number of game balls counted by the count sensor 1416a is less than the number of game balls determined to have passed normally by the passage sensor 1415a, a bet error will occur. This further prevents fraud. Specifically, the passage sensor 1415a is an optical sensor, but the count sensor 1416a is a magnetic sensor. When a magnetic sensor is used as the count sensor 1416a, it can be determined whether or not the material that has passed is an iron material. Thereby, an illegal act of playing a game can be prevented even better by inserting an inexpensive resin game ball or the like that is different from a normal game ball.

  The return shutter 1420 has a plurality of window holes 1422, one corresponding to each of the plurality of game ball guide paths 1322, and the ball passages 1402 and the guide passages 1404 a, 1404 b, and 1404 c are provided to the sides of the window holes 1422. Blocking walls 1424a, 1424b and 1424c for blocking are provided. In addition, tongue pieces 1426a, 1426b, and 1426c extending toward the spherical passages 1402a, 1402b, and 1402c are provided below the window holes 1422a, 1422b, and 1422c. Each tongue piece 1426a, 1426b, 1426c is a part which guides a game ball to each window hole 1422a, 1422b, 1422c from ball passages 1402a, 1402b, 1402c. When the upper tray ball removal lever 1386 is not operated, the return shutter 1420 is at the reference position, and the game balls from each of the plurality of ball passages 1402 to the plurality of guide passages 1404 at the blocking wall 1424 of the return shutter 1420. Inflow is prohibited. On the other hand, when the upper tray ball removal lever 1386 is operated and the pressing portion 1385c of the return shutter 1420 is pressed, the return shutter 1420 moves from the reference position and passes through the window holes 1422a, 1422b, and 1422c of the return shutter 1420. The inflow of game balls from the ball path 1402 to the guide path 1404 is permitted. As a result, the game ball flows from the upper plate 1302 to the lower plate 1128 through the guide passages 1404a, 1404b, and 1404c. At this time, the movement of the return shutter 1420 from the reference position is detected by a return switch (not shown) of the return switch board 1440, and based on the detection result, it is impossible to accept operations of the 1-bet button 1114 and the max-bet button 1304. A state occurs.

  The selector relay terminal plate 1462 transmits the detection results of the passage sensor 1415a and the count sensor 1416a to the main controller 1045 described later.

(Composition of withdrawal block)
As shown in FIG. 24, the payout block 1030 is attached to the front block 1020 so as to be freely opened and closed. The opening / closing axis of the payout block 1030 is set so as to extend up and down on the left side when viewed from the front of the ball-cylinder gaming machine 1010, and the payout block 1030 can be sufficiently opened rearward with the opening / closing axis as an axis. It has become. The payout block 1030 is locked to the front block 1020 by a door opening / closing mechanism 1208. Specifically, the locking claws 1212 and 1212 of the door opening / closing mechanism 1208 are locked to the engaging portions 1031a and 1031a of the payout block 1030. The door key (not shown) is inserted into the door key cylinder 1202 and rotated to the left to lock. The latches 1212 and 1212 are unlocked. The payout block 1030 has a one-touch type stopper 1031b, and is connected to the front block 1020 by this stopper 1031b.

  FIG. 28 is a partially exploded perspective view showing an example of the payout block 1030. As shown in FIG. 28, the payout block 1030 includes a game ball tank 1032 for storing game balls for lending and winning balls, a payout device 1033 for paying out game balls, and a game. A tank rail 1034 and a case rail 1035 for guiding the game ball from the ball tank 1032 to the payout device 1033, a payout relay terminal plate 1036, a payout control device 1037 for controlling the payout operation of the game ball, and a power supply of the game ball Power supply control device 1038 and a CR unit connection terminal plate 1039 for connecting the ball-cylinder gaming machine 1010 to the CR unit.

  The payout block main body 1031 protrudes rearward in the center to cover the game block 1040 (see FIG. 24), and the game ball tank 1032 and the tank rail 1034 so as to surround the protective cover portion 1031c. A case rail 1035, a payout device 1033, a payout relay terminal plate 1036, a CR unit connection terminal plate 1039, a payout control device 1037, and a power supply control device 1038 are mounted. The payout block main body 1031 has an upper plate guide passage 1031d for guiding game balls from the payout device 1033 to the upper plate 1302, a lower plate guide passage 1031e for guiding game balls from the payout device 1033 to the lower plate 1128, and a payout device 1033. A discharge passage 1031f is formed for discharging the game ball from the outside to the outside of the ball-type spinning game machine 1010. In the lower dish guide passage 1031e, when the upper dish guide passage 1031d overflows with game balls, the game balls are introduced from the payout device 1033. The upper plate guide passage 1031d and the lower plate guide passage 1031e communicate with the upper plate discharge port 1312 and the lower plate discharge port 1138, respectively.

  The payout block main body 1031 is provided with a pair of upper and lower rotating shaft portions 1031g. In each rotating shaft portion 1031g, a bracket 1031h extends from the payout block main body 1031 in a substantially horizontal direction, and protrudes downward from the bracket 1031h. The front block 1020 is provided with an annular bearing portion (not shown) into which the rotating shaft portion 1031g is dropped, so that the front block 1020 and the payout block 1030 can be easily attached and detached.

  The game ball tank 1032 is a horizontally long box-shaped container that opens upward, and game balls supplied from the game ball circulation facility in the game machine installation island are sequentially replenished. The bottom of the game ball tank 1032 is gently inclined. The downstream end of the bottom of the game ball tank 1032 is opened to send the game ball to the tank rail 1034.

  The tank rail 1034 is attached below the game ball tank 1032 and has four rows of bowl-shaped passages (not shown) in the horizontal direction. The bowl-shaped passage is gently inclined toward the downstream side. On the tank rail 1034, four pendulums 1034a and 1034b that rectify the game balls so as not to flow due to being stacked are attached in two rows and two columns. A ball stop lever 1034c for preventing the game ball from flowing from the tank rail 1034 to the case rail 1035 is attached to the downstream side of the pendulums 1034a and 1034b.

  The case rail 1035 is arranged vertically on the downstream side of the tank rail 1034. The case rail 1035 has a ball passage 1035a that is curved to the left and right with wavy undulations so that the game ball does not flow vigorously, and a ball breakage detection device 35b is assembled to the upper portion thereof. The ball breakage detecting device 1035b has a case in which there are not enough game balls inside the case rail 1035, that is, a ball is clogged upstream from the case rail 1035 and the game balls are not sufficiently supplied to the case rail 1035. Is detected. Based on the detection result of the ball break detection device 1035b, a ball clogging error is notified. Note that a plurality of case rails 1035 (for example, four) are connected in the front-rear direction corresponding to the number of bowl-shaped passages of the tank rail 1034.

  The payout device 1033 is for paying out a predetermined number of game balls by satisfying a predetermined winning condition or by pressing a ball lending button 1306 with a card inserted in a CR unit (not shown). In this embodiment, the maximum number of prize balls of the pachinko machine is 15 balls, whereas the maximum number of prize balls of the ball-type spinning game machine 1010 is 75, which is a ball-type spinning machine compared to the pachinko machine. In view of the fact that the maximum number of prize balls of the gaming machine 10 is large, more payout devices 1033 are provided than pachinko machines so that prize balls can be quickly paid out. In other words, if the pachinko machine has two payout devices 1033, the game can proceed quickly, but in the case of the ball-type spinning game machine 1010, the number of prize balls is large and all the prize balls are not paid out. In this embodiment, four payout devices 1033 are provided in the front-rear direction to speed up the payout of the winning ball so that the game can proceed without delay.

  The mounting bases 1036a and 1036b are divided into two parts, and have ball passages 1036a1 and 1036b1 connected to the upper plate guide passage 1031d and the lower plate guide passage 1031e, and ball passages 1036a2 and 1036b2 connected to the discharge passage 1031f on the right side. Have. The upper parts of one of the ball paths 1036a1 and 1036b1 are slightly inclined toward the upper dish guide path 1031d, respectively, so that it is easier to guide the game ball to the upper dish guide path 1031d than the lower dish guide path 1031e. Further, the lower part of one of the ball passages 1036a1 and 1036b1 has a tapered shape so as to straddle the upper plate guide passage 1031d and the lower plate guide passage 1031e. The other spherical passages 1036a2 and 1036b2 are configured such that the spherical passage 1036a2 on the back side merges with the spherical passage 1036b2 on the front side and continues to the discharge passage 1031f on the front side.

FIGS. 29A to 29C are longitudinal sectional views showing an example of the configuration of the dispensing device 1033. FIG. 29 (a) shows that the game ball is being paid out, FIG. 29 (b) shows that the game ball is being paid out to the upper plate, and FIG. 29 (c) shows that the game ball is being discharged to the outside of the gaming machine. ing.
As shown in FIG. 29A, the payout device 1033 has a resin casing including a casing 1033a and a cover (not shown), and a payout flicker 1033b, a payout solenoid 1033c, , And a switching piece 1033g. Formed inside the casing 1033a are a ball passage 1033d, a discharge passage 1033e extending substantially vertically downward on the downstream side of the ball passage 1033d, and a discharge passage 1033f extending from the middle of the discharge passage 1033e and extending obliquely downward. Yes. The switching piece 1033g is disposed at a branch portion from the payout passage 1033e to the discharge passage 1033f. Normally, since the switching piece 1033g is maintained substantially vertically upward, the game ball does not flow into the discharge passage 1033f.

  The payout flicker 1033b is a member for opening and closing the ball passage 1033d. The payout flicker 1033b includes a base end side portion 1033b1 and a tip end side portion 1033b2 that are rotatably connected by a support shaft 1033b3. The proximal end portion 1033b1 and the distal end portion 1033b2 of the payout flicker 1033b are rotatably supported by the spindles 1033a1 and 1033a2 of the casing 1033a, respectively. A gripping portion 1033b4 for gripping the tongue piece 1033c1 of the payout solenoid 1033c is provided at the base end portion of the payout flicker 1033b. An opening / closing portion 1033b5 for opening / closing the ball passage 1033d is provided at the tip of the payout flicker 1033b.

  The payout solenoid 1033c is energized by pressing a ball lending button 1306 while satisfying a predetermined winning condition or by inserting a card into a CR unit (not shown), and contracts the piston (plunger) 1033c2 upward. Is. A knob portion 1033c3 is attached to the tip of the piston 1033c2. The knob portion 1033c3 has the tongue piece 1033c1 extending in the radial direction of the piston 1033c2. The piston 1033c2 is provided with a coil spring 1033c4. The coil spring 1033c4 biases the main body portion 1033c5 of the payout solenoid 1033c and the knob portion 1033c3 in a direction to separate them. That is, when the power supply to the dispensing solenoid 1033c is turned off, the piston 1033c2 moves downward by the urging force of the coil spring 1033c4.

  As shown in FIG. 29 (a), in a state where the ball passage 1033d is closed by the opening / closing portion 1033b5 of the payout flicker 1033b, a predetermined winning condition is satisfied, or there is a remaining number in the frequency display portion 1352. When the ball lending button 1306 is pressed, the dispensing solenoid 1033c is energized. Then, as shown in FIG. 29 (b), the piston 1033c2 is contracted to rotate the proximal end portion 1033b1 of the payout flicker 1033b counterclockwise in the drawing. At the same time, the tip end portion 1033b2 of the payout flicker 1033b rotates clockwise in the drawing to open the ball passage 1033d, so that the game ball can fall naturally. On the contrary, when the discharge solenoid 1033c is deenergized, the piston 1033c2 is extended by the urging force of the coil spring 1033c4 to rotate the proximal end portion 1033b1 of the discharge flicker 1033b clockwise in the drawing. At the same time, the tip end portion 1033b2 of the payout flicker 1033b rotates counterclockwise in the drawing to close the ball passage 1033d, and the game ball returns to the state where it cannot fall naturally, that is, the state shown in FIG.

  The payout device 1033 is equipped with a count sensor 1033h having a substantially U-shaped cross section. The count sensor 1033h is arranged immediately downstream of the opening / closing portion 1033b5 of the payout flicker 1033b, and is for counting the game balls falling in the ball passage 1033d. When the number of game balls detected by the count sensor 1033h reaches a predetermined value (for example, 35, 75, 125, or 250), the payout solenoid 1033c is de-energized and the payout flicker 1033b passes through the ball path 33d. It is configured to close.

  A substantially L-shaped pressing piece 1033i for moving the knob portion 1033c3 up and down is provided below the payout solenoid 1033c. The pressing piece 1033i is rotatably attached to the support shaft 1033a3 of the casing 1033a, and presses the knob portion 1033c3 upward at the distal end portion 1033i1.

  A substantially fan-shaped operation lever 1033j (see FIG. 28) is disposed outside the casing 1033a. In FIG. 7B (a) to FIG. 7B (c), reference numeral 33a4 denotes a rotation shaft of the operation lever 1033j. The operating lever 1033j is connected to a protrusion 1033g1 provided at the intermediate portion of the switching piece 1033g and a protrusion 1033i2 provided at the base end of the pressing piece 1033i. That is, when the operation lever 1033j is rotated, the switching piece 1033g and the pressing piece 1033i are configured to be interlocked. When the operation lever 1033j is operated counterclockwise in the drawing, as shown in FIG. 29 (c), the payout passage 1033e is closed by the switching piece 1033g and the ball passage 1033d and the discharge passage 1033f are communicated. On the other hand, the knob 1033c3 of the dispensing solenoid 1033c is pushed up by the pressing piece 1033i, and the dispensing flicker 1033b opens the ball passage 1033d. When the operation lever 1033j is operated as described above while preventing the game ball from flowing with the ball stop lever 1034c provided on the tank rail 1034, the game ball on the downstream side of the ball stop lever 1034c is It is discharged outside. When the payout device 1033 or the case rail 1034 fails, the payout device 1033 or the case rail 1034 is discharged in the state where the downstream game ball is discharged from the ball stop lever 1010 from the ball stop lever 1034c as described above. (See FIG. 28) can be replaced.

  The payout control device 1037, the power supply control device 1038, and the CR unit connection terminal plate 1039 shown in FIG. 28 will be described. The payout control device 1037 controls the payout of prize balls and lending balls. As is well known, a payout control board 1037a (see FIG. 34) including a central CPU for control and other ROM, RAM, various ports, and the like. It has.

  The power supply control device 1038 generates and outputs a predetermined power supply voltage required by various control devices. The power control device 1038 is provided with a power control board 1038 ′, a power switch 1038a, a RAM erasing reset switch 1038b, a stop switch 1038c, and a setting change key cylinder (not shown). Yes. When the power switch 1038a is turned on, it supplies power to each unit including the CPU. When the reset switch 1038b is pressed and the power switch 1038a is simultaneously turned on, the contents of the RAM are reset. When the reset switch 1038b is pressed while the power switch 1038a is turned on, the error state is reset. The stop switch 1038c is for switching whether or not the game is temporarily stopped at the end of the big bonus. The setting change key cylinder 1038d constitutes a setting change device. In the setting change device, the ball turnout rate of the ball-type spinning game machine 1010 is determined in advance in a plurality of steps (for example, 6 steps), and the ball turnout rate is set in any step. The procedure for changing the setting is as follows. First, with the power switch 1038a turned off, a setting change key (not shown) is inserted into the setting change key cylinder and rotated 90 degrees clockwise. When the power switch 1038a is turned on in this state, the current ball-out rate (setting) of the 7-segment LED display portion 1041g (see FIG. 31) on the front surface of the game block 1040 described later is a numerical value “1” to “6” Displayed either. Next, when the reset switch 1038b is pushed, the number displayed on the 7-segment LED display unit 1041g changes and increases by 1 (however, in the case of “6”, it returns to “1”). When the start lever 1124 (see FIG. 1) is pressed in a state where any number from “1” to “6” is displayed on the 7-segment LED display portion 1041g, the exit rate (setting) is determined.

  The CR unit connection terminal plate 1039 is electrically connected to the ball lending button 1306 (see FIG. 1) on the front surface of the ball-type spinning game machine 1010 and a CR unit (not shown), and receives a ball lending operation command from the player. This is output to the payout control apparatus 1037. Note that the CR unit connection terminal plate 39 is unnecessary in a cash machine in which game balls are rented directly from the ball lending device or the like to the upper plate 1302 (see FIG. 1) without using a CR unit.

  The payout control device 1037 and the power supply control device 1038 are configured such that a control board is accommodated in a substrate case made of a transparent resin material or the like.

(Game block configuration)
As shown in FIG. 24, the game block 1040 is attached to the front block 1020 so as to be freely opened and closed. The opening / closing axis of the game block 1040 is the same as the opening / closing axis of the payout block 1030, and, like the payout block 1030, the game block 1040 is attached to be openable and detachable by a drop structure. The game block 1040 has a one-touch type stopper 1040a, and is connected and fixed to the payout block 1030 by the stopper 1040a. A stopper 1031i for hooking the stopper 1040a is fixed to the payout block 1030 side. In other words, the game block 1040 is integrated with the payout block 1030 and is opened and closed with respect to the front block 1020, and after being disconnected from the payout block 1030, the game block 1040 is configured to rotate forward with respect to the payout block 1030. The The game block 1040 is a main block that forms the core of the ball-type spinning game machine 1010, and the game block 1040 can be replaced by making such a game block 1040 easy to attach and detach as described above. By replacing the gaming block 1040, it is possible to change to a gaming machine having completely different gaming characteristics, and to reduce the cost of replacing a new gaming machine.

  FIG. 30 is an exploded perspective view of the game block 1040. As shown in FIG. 30, the game block 1040 includes a game panel 1041 that is visually recognized through a window hole 1102 (see FIG. 23) of the front panel 1100. The gaming panel 1041 includes a pair of upper and lower window holes 1041a and 1041b. A liquid crystal display device 1042 is attached to the back side of the game panel 1041 corresponding to the upper window hole 1041a, and the display screen of the liquid crystal display device 1042 can be viewed through the upper window hole 1041a. In addition, the spinning unit 1043 is attached to the back side of the game panel 1041 corresponding to the lower window hole 1041b, and the symbol display by the spinning unit 1043 can be visually recognized through the lower window hole 1041b. Further, on the back side of the game panel 1041, a main control device 1045 is attached to one side of the spinning unit 1043 via a main mounting base 1044, and a sub-control is provided behind the liquid crystal display device 1042 via a sub mounting base 1046. A device 1047 is attached. The main controller 1045 is arranged in a vertically long shape so as to be orthogonal to the game panel 1041.

  FIG. 31 is a front view of the game block 1040. 31 shows a state where a plurality of (for example, 21) symbols (for example, 21 symbols) are attached in a row from the rotating drum unit 1043 and the strip-shaped symbol seals 1043L, 1043M, and 1043R shown in FIG. 11 are removed.

  From the lower window hole 1041b of the game panel 1041, three lower patterns of the window holes 1041b of the design stickers 1043L, 1043M, and 1043R (see FIG. 33) that are attached to the cylinders L, M, and R respectively. Exposed from. In FIG. 31, a pair of left and right nine pairs of LEDs 1043L1, 1043M1, and 1043R1 are exposed in three rows and three columns.

  An effective line display portion 1041c is provided on the left side of the lower window hole 1041b of the game panel 1041. The active line display unit 1041c includes a 1-bet display unit 1041c1, 2-bet display units 1041c2 and 1041c2 arranged above and below, and 3-bet display units 1041c3 and 1041c3 arranged at the uppermost and lowermost levels. The predetermined bet display portions 1041c1 to 1041c3 are lit according to the number of bets on the game balls.

  On the both sides of the upper window hole 1041a of the game panel 1041, there are provided electric accessories 1041d and 1041e. In addition, on the right side of the lower window hole 1041b, an electric accessory 1041f, a 7-segment LED display unit 1041g, and an LED display unit 1041h are arranged in this order from the top. These electric actors 1041d, 1041e, and 1041f are used for game effects, big bonus or regular bonus confirmation notifications, and the like. The 7-segment LED display unit 1041g is a part for displaying the number of game balls bet and the number of payouts, an error code, the total number of payouts in the bonus, and six levels of settings when the settings are changed. The LED display unit 1041h is provided with four LEDs. Among them, the upper three LEDs constitute a bet number display portion 1041h1. The bet number display section 1041h1 displays the bet number within a range of 1 to 3 by turning on the number of LEDs corresponding to the number of game balls inserted into the selector 1400. The remaining one LED is a re-game display unit 1041h2. The replay display portion 1041h2 lights up when the replay symbols displayed as “re” on the substantially fan-shaped frame among the symbols on the symbol stickers 1043L, 1043M, and 1043R shown in FIG. Is informed that a game can be played without a betting of a game ball. When the start lever 1124 is pressed after a predetermined time has elapsed after the replay symbols are aligned on the active line, the replay display portion 1041h2 is turned off as the rotating cylinders L, M, and R rotate.

  Further, an information posting panel (not shown) exposed from the center panel portion 1112 is attached below the lower window hole 1041b. A certificate 1041i and a model name sticker 1041j are affixed to one end of the information posting panel. Further, as shown by a broken line, a fluorescent lamp 1041k for illuminating the information posting panel from the rear side is disposed inside the information posting panel.

  The liquid crystal display device 1042 provides a notification effect for winning a small role during a normal game, a suggestion effect for suggesting that the game state transitions from a normal game state to a bonus state, an effect during a big bonus or a regular bonus, Display of the number of small-games and the number of JAC games, the effect of notifying that a specific gaming state (for example, an RT state in which replay is easy to win), the timing and order of pressing the rotation stop buttons 1126L, 1126M, 1126R An effect to notify the user is performed.

  FIG. 32 is a partial exploded perspective view of an example of the rotating drum unit 1043. As shown in FIG. 32, the rotating drum unit 1043 has three rotating drums (so-called reels) L, M, and R, and each of the rotating drums L, M, and R is stored in the rotating drum unit frame 1043a. is there. Since each of the spinning cylinders L, M, and R has substantially the same configuration, the right spinning cylinder R will be described as an example.

  The right drum R is obtained by winding a symbol seal 1043R in which 21 symbols (identification elements) are drawn at equal intervals around the outer peripheral surface of a cylindrical skeleton member 1043R2 that forms a cylindrical cage, and the cylindrical skeleton member 1043R2 Is attached to the rotating shaft 1043R5 of the stepping motor 1043R4 for the right turn cylinder via the disk-shaped reinforcing plate 1043R3.

  The stepping motor 1043R4 for the right swirl is screwed to a motor plate 1043R6 that is suspended from the swivel unit frame 1043a. The motor plate 1043R6 has a pair of light emitting elements and light receiving elements. A position detection sensor 1043R7 is installed. A pair of photosensors (not shown) constituting the rotation position detection sensor 1043R7 are arranged in the sensor housing with a predetermined interval.

  A sensor cut van 1043R9 extending in the axial direction is attached to one of the five vehicle radii 1043R8 of the cylindrical skeleton member 1043R2. The 10-sensor cut van 43R9 is aligned so that it can pass through the gap between both elements of the rotation position detection sensor 1043R7. Then, every time the right turn cylinder R makes one rotation, the turn position detection sensor 1043R7 detects the passage of the tip of the sensor cut bang 1043R9, and outputs a detection signal to the main controller 1045 each time it is detected. Based on this detection signal, main controller 1045 can check and correct the angular position of right cylinder R every rotation. In addition, the symbol seals 43L, 43M, and 43R wound around the respective spinning drums L, M, and R are different in the order and frequency of the symbols drawn on each.

  The stepping motor 1043R4 is set so that the right cylinder R makes one round by a drive signal of 504 pulses (also referred to as an excitation signal or an excitation pulse; the same applies hereinafter), and the rotational position is controlled by this excitation pulse. That is, when the right turn R makes one round, 21 symbols are sequentially exposed from the lower window hole 1041b of the game panel 41, so 24 pulses (= 504 pulses / 21 symbols) are required to switch from one symbol to the next. ). Then, based on the number of pulses from when the detection signal of the rotating drum position detection sensor 1043R7 is output, it is recognized which symbol is exposed from the window hole 1041b, or an arbitrary symbol is exposed from the window hole 1041b. Control can be performed. In this embodiment, a hybrid (HB) type two-phase stepping motor employing a 1-2 phase excitation method is used as the stepping motor 1043R4. The stepping motor 1043R4 is not limited to a hybrid type or two-phase, and various stepping motors such as a two-phase or five-phase stepping motor can be used. A drive signal (drive signal data) for the stepping motor 1043R4 is given to the motor driver 70 as excitation data.

  The main control device 1045 is responsible for the main control of the ball-type spinning game machine 1010. Specifically, the main control device 1045 receives a signal from the start lever 1124 and receives a winning combination (big bonus, regular bonus, small role, replay). And a command signal is issued to the sub-control device 1047 and the payout control device 1037 based on the lottery result. As shown in FIG. 34, the main controller 1045 has a configuration in which a CPU 1045a1 that controls the main control, a ROM 1045a2 that stores a game program, a RAM 1045a3 that stores necessary data according to the progress of the game, and various devices are connected. A main control board 1045a including an output port 1045a4, a random number generation circuit 1045a5 used for various lotteries, a clock circuit 1045a6 used for time counting and synchronization, and a transparent resin that accommodates the main control board 1045a A substrate case 1045b (1045b1, 1045b2) (see FIG. 30) made of a material or the like is used.

  The sub-control device 1047 is based on a command signal (command) issued from the main control device 1045, and a light-emitting device for game effect (not shown) that is covered with various LED cover portions such as the LED cover portion 104 (see FIG. 23). LED) is turned on and blinking, sound effects emitted from the upper and lower speakers 1106 and 1204 (see FIG. 23), and the display mode displayed on the liquid crystal display device 1042 are controlled. The configuration of the sub-control device 1047 is the same as that of the main control device 1045. The sub-control including the CPU for controlling the various LEDs, the upper and lower speakers 1106 and 1204, and the liquid crystal display device 1042, and other ROM, RAM, input / output ports, and the like. A substrate 1047a and a substrate case 1047b (1047b1, 1047b2) made of a transparent resin material or the like for accommodating the sub-control substrate 1047a.

(Control system for ball-type spinning machine)
A control system of the ball-type spinning machine 1010 will be described. FIG. 34 is a block diagram showing a control system of the ball-type spinning machine 10.

  As shown in FIG. 34, the main control board 1045a functions as a control unit configured as a microcomputer centering on a CPU 1045a1 that is an arithmetic processing unit, and a ROM (or flash memory) 1045a2 that stores a processing program temporarily. A working RAM 1045a3, an input / output port 1045a4, and the like for storing data are connected to the CPU 1045a1 via an internal bus.

  The input / output port 1045a4 of the main control board 1045a has a reset signal from the reset switch 1038b, a setting signal from the setting key switch 1038d1, a 1-bet signal from the bet button 1114, a maximum bet signal from the max bet button 1304, and a selector 1400. The auxiliary passage detection signals from the count sensors 1416a1, 1416b1, 1416c1 for detecting the game balls taken in, and the upper elements 1415a1, 1415b1, 1415c1 in the passage sensors 1415a, 1415b, 1415c for detecting the game balls taken in by the selector 1400 Upstream passage detection signals from the lower element passage sensors 1415a2, 1415b2, 1415c2 in the passage sensors 1415a, 1415b, 1415c, Fluctuation start signal from the moving lever 1124, stop signals from the left, middle, and right turn stop buttons 1126L, 1126M, and 1126R, detection signals from the turn position detection sensors 1043L7, 1043M7, and 1043R7, a game paid out from the payout device 1033 A count signal based on a count switch signal from a count sensor 1033h that detects a ball, a game ball detection signal from a ball break detection device 1035b that detects a game ball in the case rail 1035, a paying-out signal that represents the payout period, and the like are input. Is done.

  Further, from the input / output port 1045a4 of the main control board 1045a, the closing solenoids 1414a, 1414b, 1414c based on the betting signals from the betting buttons 1114, 1304, the closing solenoids based on the count values of the passage sensors 1415a, 1415b, 1415c. 1414a, 1414b, 1414c drive stop signals, fluctuation start signals from the start lever 1124, and drive signals for the spinning stepping motors 1043L4, 1043M4, 1043R4 based on stop command signals from the spinning cylinder stop buttons 1126L, 1126M, 1126R, etc. Is output. Control signals for controlling the contents of effects displayed on the liquid crystal display device 1042, sound effects emitted from the speakers 1106 and 1204, lighting and blinking of various light emitting devices (LEDs) covered with the upper LED cover 1104, etc. Is output to the sub-control board 1047a.

  The above-described CPU 1045a1 includes a ROM 1045a2 that stores various control programs executed by the CPU 1045a1 and fixed value data, and a work area that temporarily stores various data when executing the control program stored in the ROM 1045a2. In addition to the working RAM 1045a3 for securing the above, various processing circuits necessary for the ball-type spinning machine 1010 such as a timer circuit and a data transmission / reception circuit such as an interrupt circuit as well known are incorporated, although not shown. ing.

  The ROM 1045a2 and the RAM 1045a3 constitute a main memory, and a processing program (including an output control information generation processing program) for executing various processes is stored in the ROM 1045a2 described above as a part of the processing program. In the RAM 1045a3, a plurality of work areas are secured functionally. As is well known, in addition to a stack memory (stack memory area) for storing the value of the program counter provided in the CPU 1045a1, in this example, a power failure flag memory for storing a power failure flag and a stack for storing a stack pointer Pointer storage memory, checksum correction value memory for storing correction values related to the checksum of data stored in the RAM 45a3, and memory such as a power recovery command buffer and power recovery command counter used during power recovery Area is secured.

  In addition to I / O devices such as the sub-control board 1047a, the input / output port 1045a4 is an external device capable of transmitting information to a gaming machine management device (not shown) such as a computer for a hall manager, an external information display device, The centralized terminal board, the power failure monitoring circuit 1038f provided on the power supply control board 1038 ′, the closing solenoids 1414a, 1414b, 1414c, the payout control board 1037a, and the like are electrically connected.

  The power supply control board 1038 ′ is equipped with a power supply unit 1038 e that supplies driving power to each electronic device of the ball-type spinning machine 1010 including the main control board 1045 a, the power failure monitoring circuit 1038 f described above, and the like. The power failure monitoring circuit 1038f monitors the power-off state, and generates a power failure signal not only at the time of a power failure but also when the power switch 1038a is turned off. For this reason, the power failure monitoring circuit 1038f monitors the stabilized drive voltage of 24 VDC output from the power supply unit 1038e, and determines that the power has been disconnected when the drive voltage drops below, for example, 22 volts. A signal is output. The power failure signal is supplied to each of the CPU 1045a1 and the input / output port 1045a4, and the CPU 1045a1 recognizes this power failure signal to execute the power failure process. The power supply unit 1038e is configured to output a stabilized voltage of 5 volts used as a drive voltage in a control system such as the main control board 1045a even when the output voltage is reduced to less than 22 volts. As a time during which the stabilization voltage is output, a sufficient time is secured to execute the power failure process by the main control board 1045a.

  Further, when the reset signal is transmitted from the reset switch 1038b at the same time when the stabilization drive voltage is supplied from the power supply unit 1038e, the main control board 1045a erases the information written in the RAM 1045a3 and stabilizes from the power supply unit 1038e. When a reset signal is transmitted from the reset switch 1038b in a state where the drive voltage is supplied, the error state is reset.

  Furthermore, when the power is turned on after the setting key switch 1038d1 is turned on when the power is turned off, that is, when the power is turned on after the setting key is inserted into the setting change key cylinder 1038d and rotated. A state in which the exit rate of the trunk game machine 10 can be changed occurs. In this state, when a reset signal is transmitted from the reset switch 1038b, the bonus probability and the small role probability of the ball-type spinning game machine 1010 are changed, and the change result is represented by the numbers “1” to “6”. Output to the 7-segment LED display 1041g (see FIG. 27). Then, when a setting confirmation signal is received from the start lever 1124 in a state where any of the numbers “1” to “6” is displayed on the 7-segment LED display unit 1041g, the exit rate of the ball-type rotating game machine 1010 Confirm (Setting).

  The payout control board 1037a has a configuration substantially similar to that of the main control board 1045a, and includes a CPU, a ROM (or flash memory) for storing a processing program, a working (working) RAM for temporarily storing data, Input / output ports and the like are connected to the CPU via an internal bus.

  A control process executed on the main control board 1045a will be described. The control processing of the main control board 1045a is roughly divided into main processing that is activated in response to power recovery by external power supply restart or power switch 1038a being turned on, and interrupt processing that interrupts the main processing. The For convenience of explanation, after describing the interrupt process, the main process will be described. As interrupt processing, there are power failure interrupt processing for interrupting in response to reception of a power failure signal at the NMI terminal, and timer interrupt processing for periodically interrupting by measuring time with a timer.

  First, the power failure interrupt process will be described. When a power failure occurs, a power failure signal is generated by the power failure monitoring circuit 1038f of the power control board 1038 'and output to the main control board 1045a. In main control board 1045a, the NMI terminal of CPU 1045a1 receives a power failure signal, and an interrupt process (not shown) (hereinafter referred to as “power failure interrupt process”) is executed in which a power failure flag is set in response to the reception of the power failure signal. In the power failure interrupt process, first, the register data currently used is saved in a backup area in the RAM 1045a3 ("register save process"). After the register saving process, the power failure flag is set (“power failure flag setting process”). The power failure flag is information representing the occurrence of a power failure state held in a specific area in the RAM 45a3. After the power failure flag setting process, the CPU 45a1 is notified of the end of the process in its own interrupt ("interrupt end declaration process"). After the interrupt end declaration process, the register data saved in the backup area of the RAM 1045a3 in the register saving process is restored to the register of the CPU 45a1 ("register restoring process"). After the register restoration process, a new interrupt is permitted (“interrupt permission process”). The power failure interrupt process ends when the interrupt permission process is completed. If the power failure flag setting process can be performed without destroying the data in the register in use, the register saving process and the register restoring process can be omitted.

  Next, timer interrupt processing will be described. FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing an example of timer interrupt processing in the main control board 45a. In the main control board 45a, timer interrupt processing is periodically performed. In this embodiment, the timer interrupt process is substantially performed at a period of 1.49 ms [milliseconds].

In the timer interrupt process, first, information on all registers used in the normal process in the main process described later is stored in the backup area of the RAM 1045a3 ("register save process" S2101). After the register saving process S2101, it is confirmed whether or not a power failure flag is set (S2102). When the power failure flag is set, the backup process S2103 is executed.
In the backup process S2103, first, it is determined whether or not the transmission of various commands stored in the ring buffer has been completed. If the transmission of these commands has not ended, the backup process S2103 is temporarily ended and control returns to the timer interrupt process. This is control for completing the transmission of the command before starting the backup process S2103. On the other hand, when the transmission of these commands is completed, the value of the stack pointer of the CPU 1045a1 is saved in the backup area in the RAM 1045a3 ("stack pointer saving process"). After the stack pointer saving process S2102, a RAM determination value, which will be described later, is cleared, and the output state of the output port in the input / output port 45a4 is cleared, and all actuators (not shown) are turned off ("stop process"). After the stop process, a new RAM determination value is calculated and stored in the backup area (“RAM determination value storage process”). The RAM determination value is a 2's complement of the checksum value in the work area of the RAM 1045a3. Here, the 2's complement of the tick sum value is a value generated when each digit (bit) of the check sum value is inverted in binary representation. In this case, the value obtained by adding 1 to the exclusive OR (“FFFF”) of the checksum value of the RAM 1045a3 and the RAM determination value is “0”. In this embodiment, the complement of the checksum value is used as the RAM determination value. However, in the present invention, the checksum value itself may be used as the RAM determination value. After the RAM determination value storage process S304, access to the RAM 1045a3 is prohibited ("RAM access prohibition process"). Thereafter, an infinite loop is entered in preparation for the case where the processing cannot be executed due to complete interruption of the internal power. Note that, for example, when the power failure flag is erroneously set due to noise or the like, although not shown, it is confirmed whether the power failure signal is still input before entering the infinite loop. If the power failure signal is not output, the internal power supply is restored, so that writing to the RAM 1045a3 is permitted, the power failure flag is released, and the process returns to the timer interrupt process. On the other hand, if the power failure signal is continuously input, an infinite loop is entered (not shown).

  As described above, it is determined whether or not the command transmission is completed at the initial stage of the backup process S2103, and when those transmissions are not completed, the transmission process is prioritized. By adopting a configuration in which the backup process S2103 is executed after the command transmission process is completed, it is not necessary to construct a power failure processing program that also considers that the backup process is executed during the command transmission. As a result, it is possible to simplify the program related to the processing at the time of power failure and to reduce the capacity of the ROM 1045a2.

  The power supply unit 1038e of the power supply control board 1038 ′ outputs backup power used as drive power for the control system for a sufficient time to complete the power failure interrupt process and the backup process even after a power failure occurs. . With this backup power, backup processing of power failure interrupt processing and timer interrupt processing is performed. In this embodiment, backup power is continuously output for 30 ms [milliseconds] after the occurrence of a power failure.

  Returning to the description of the timer interrupt process, as shown in FIG. 35, when it is determined in the determination process S2102 that the power failure flag is not set, a watchdog timer for monitoring the occurrence of malfunction is initialized. Then, an interrupt permission is issued to the CPU 1045a1 itself ("interrupt end declaration process" S2104). After the interrupt termination declaration process S2104, each stepping motor (43L4, 43M4, 43R4) is referred to rotate each cylinder (L, M, R) with reference to the left drive stop flag, the middle drive stop flag, and the right drive stop flag. ) Is transmitted ("stepping motor control process" S2105). Specifically, if the left drive stop flag is not set, a rotation drive signal is transmitted to the stepping motor 43L4 of the left rotation cylinder L. The middle cylinder M and the right cylinder R are the same as the case of the left cylinder L. After the stepping motor control process S2105, switch state changes in various devices connected to the input / output port 1045a4 are monitored ("switch reading process" S2106). After the switch reading process S2106, changes in the state of sensors in various devices connected to the input / output port 1045a4 are monitored ("sensor monitoring process" S2107).

  After the sensor monitoring process S2107, it is determined whether or not a dispensing solenoid operation abnormality command is received from the dispensing control board 1037a. If received, the dispensing solenoid operation is performed to transfer to the sub control board 1047a. The abnormal command is reset and the error process is executed. If the error command is not received, this process ends ("solenoid operation monitoring process" S2108).

  After the solenoid operation abnormality monitoring process S2108, various counter values and various timer values are subtracted ("timer subtraction process" S2109). After the timer subtraction process S2109, the bet number and the acquired ball number are output to the external concentration terminal board in order to count the difference ball number (difference between the total number of bets and the total number of acquisitions) ("difference ball counting process" S2110). .

  After the difference ball counting process S2110, various commands accumulated in the ring buffer are transmitted to the sub control board 47a ("command output process" S2111). After the command output process S2111, the segment data displayed on the 7-segment LED display unit 1041g, the acquired number display device, etc. is set ("segment data setting process" S2112). The segment data set in the segment data setting process S2112 is transmitted to a predetermined segment data display device in the 7-segment LED display unit 1041g or the like (“segment data display process” S2113). Accordingly, the 7-segment LED display unit 1041g and the like display numbers, characters, symbols, and the like corresponding to the received segment data. Data is output from the input / output port 1045a4 to the I / O device ("port output processing" S2114). After the port output process S2114, the data of each register saved in the backup area in the register save process S2101 is restored to the corresponding register in the CPU 1045a1 ("register return process" S2115). After the register restoration process S2115, the next timer interrupt is permitted ("interrupt permission process" S2116). A series of timer interrupt processing is completed through the above processing.

  The main process in the main control board 1045a will be described. FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing main processing of the main control board 1045a. The main process of the main control board 1045a is executed when returning from the power failure state.

  In the main process of the main control board 1045a, first, an initial value of the stack pointer is set ("stack pointer initial setting process" S2201). After the stack pointer initial setting process S1201, an interrupt mode permitting the interrupt process is set ("interrupt mode setting process" S2202). After the interrupt mode setting process S2202, various settings for the register group, the I / O device, and the like in the CPU 45a1 are performed ("register setting process" S1203).

  After the register setting process S2203, a setting key is inserted into the setting key switch 1038d1, and it is determined whether or not a predetermined operation (such as a right rotation operation) is performed (S2204). If it is determined that the setting key is operated, one probability setting selected from a plurality of predetermined probability settings (in this embodiment, six settings from “setting 1” to “setting 6”) The data in all the areas of the RAM 1045a3 excluding the predetermined area that holds the set value is forcibly cleared ("forced RAM clear processing" S2205). After the forced RAM clearing process S2205, the current setting value can be reset (resetting the setting) ("probability setting selection process" S2206). In changing the set value, the operation of the reset switch 1038b and the operation of the start lever 1124 are used. After the probability setting selection process S2206, the process proceeds to the normal game process.

  If it is determined in the determination process S2204 that the setting key switch 1038d1 is not operated, is the set value of the selected probability setting within a predetermined range (“1” to “6”)? It is determined whether or not (S2207). Note that the set value takes only a value within a predetermined range unless an abnormal situation such as mechanical or electrical destruction of the RAM 45a3 occurs between the occurrence of a power failure state and the return from the power failure state. Absent. If the set value is within a predetermined range, it is determined whether or not a power failure flag is set (S2208). When the power failure flag is set, the checksum value of the work area of the RAM 45a3 is newly calculated, and it is determined whether or not the new checksum value is normal (S2209). The new checksum value is normal means that the new checksum value and the checksum value before the occurrence of the power failure state are the same, that is, the new checksum value and the RAM determination held in the backup area of the RAM 45a3. It means that the value obtained by adding 1 to the exclusive OR with the value is “0”. This value is “0” when the new checksum value and the checksum value before the occurrence of the power failure are the same, and other than “0” when they are different. Unless an abnormal situation such as mechanical or electrical destruction of the RAM 45a3 occurs between the occurrence of a power failure state and the return from the power failure state, this value is not “0”.

  If it is determined in the determination process S2207 that the set value of the probability setting is not within the predetermined range, if it is determined in the determination process S2208 that the power failure flag is not set, or a new checksum is determined in the determination process S2209 When it is determined that the value obtained by adding 1 to the exclusive OR of the value and the RAM determination value is other than “0”, the interrupt is prohibited (“interrupt prohibition setting process” S2216). After the interrupt inhibition setting process S2216, all output ports of the input / output port 1045a4 are cleared, and all actuators connected to the input / output port 1045a4 are turned off ("all output port clear process" S2217). After the all output port clear process S2217, a process for notifying the occurrence of an error is performed ("error notification process" S2218). This error notification state continues until the reset switch 1038b is operated.

  If it is determined in the determination process S2209 that the new checksum value is normal, the value of the stack pointer stored in the backup area is written to the stack pointer of the CPU 1045a1, and the value of the stack pointer is before the occurrence of the power failure state. ("Stack pointer return process" S2210). As a result, after returning from the power failure state, it is possible to resume from the process interrupted by the occurrence of the power failure state. After the stack pointer recovery process S2210, a power recovery command indicating recovery from the power failure state is set ("power recovery command setting process" S2211). As a result, the power recovery command is transmitted to the sub control board 1047a. After the power recovery command setting process S2211, the state of the stop changeover switch 1038c is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 1045a3 ("game form setting process" S2212). After the game form setting process S2212, the sensor values of various devices are initialized ("sensor initialization process" S2213). After the sensor initialization process S2213, the power failure flag is canceled ("power failure flag cancellation process" S2214). If a power failure occurs during payout after the power failure flag release process S2214, a payout command for resuming payout is set ("payout command setting process" S2215). After the payout command setting process S2215, the process is resumed from the process at the address before the occurrence of the power failure indicated by the stack pointer. Specifically, the interrupt end declaration process S2104 after the backup process S2103 (see FIG. 35) in the timer interrupt process described above is executed.

  The normal process for performing the main control related to the game at the normal time will be described. FIG. 37 is a flowchart showing an example of a normal game process executed on the main control board 1045a. The normal game process of the main control board 1045a is executed after the probability setting process S2206 (see FIG. 36) in the main process.

  In the normal game process, as shown in FIG. 37, first, interrupt permission is set (“interrupt permission setting process” S2301). After the interrupt permission setting process S2301, the state of the stop change switch 1038c for determining the game form is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 1045a3 (“game form setting process” S2302). The game form setting process S2302 is the same process as the game form setting process S2212 (see FIG. 36) in the main process. After the game form setting process S2302, the process proceeds to the loop process described below. In the following, a case where a continuous game is in progress will be described.

  In the loop process, the data in the area holding information that changes for each game in the RAM 1045a3 is cleared ("game information clear process" S2303). Specifically, information related to the previous game is cleared. The information to be cleared includes, for example, information related to random numbers, information related to control of the reels L, M, and R, information related to winning, and information related to errors. Information related to winning includes information such as winning symbols, winning lines, and number of game balls to be won.

  After the game information clear process S2303, it waits while performing a predetermined process until a change start signal is input ("change wait process" S2304). Here, the fluctuation waiting process S2304 will be described in detail. FIG. 38 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the fluctuation waiting process S2304.

  In the variable waiting process S2304, first, a game monitoring timer is set (“game monitoring timer setting process” S2401). Here, the setting of the game monitoring timer means that the value of the timer is reset and a new time measurement by the timer is started. The game monitoring timer is a timer for measuring a game interval, and when a predetermined time has elapsed without being played by the player, the image on the liquid crystal display device 42 is transferred to a predetermined image (demonstration image). Used to make

  After the game monitoring timer setting process S2401, it is determined whether or not a re-game has been won in the previous game. If a re-game has been won, the same number of games as the previous game bet is automatically set. The ball is automatically bet ("automatic betting process" S2402).

  After the automatic betting process S2402, it is confirmed whether an error has occurred in the selector 1400. If an error has occurred, the speaker 1106, 1204, the light emitting devices 1132, 1134L1, etc., the liquid crystal display device 1042, etc. An input error command for informing an error is set (“input error notification process” S2403). For example, a case where an upstream passage detection signal or a downstream passage detection signal is received from the passage sensors 1415a, 1415b, and 1415c except during a game ball insertion period can be mentioned. The throw error command stored in the ring buffer is output to the sub control board 1047a in the command output process S2111 of the timer interrupt process executed after the storage. In the following, various commands stored in the ring buffer are output to the sub control board 1047a in the command output process S2111 of the timer interrupt process executed after the storage, similar to the case of the input error command.

  After the insertion error notification process S2403, it is determined whether or not an error has occurred in the payout device 1033. If an error has occurred in the payout device 1033, a liquid crystal such as a speaker 1106, 1204 light emitting device 132, 134L1, etc. A payout error command for informing the display device 42 of an error is set ("payout error notification process" S2404). Specifically, whether or not a signal being paid out from the payout board 1037a is in an on state, and whether or not a count signal from the payout board 1037a based on count switch signals from various count sensors 1033h is in an on state. Is determined. If the result of this determination is that the payout signal is not in the on state (during the payout period) but one of the count signals is in the on state, error processing is executed and a payout error command is set. The As a result, the game cannot proceed and an error is notified. Note that the same payout error notification process is executed in a state waiting for some input from the player even during other processes, for example, in a reel stop waiting state during reel rotation.

  After the payout error notification process S2404, it is determined whether or not the return button 1308 has been operated. If the return button 1308 is being returned, input by the operation of another button or the like is prohibited ("return process" S2405).

  After the return process S2405, as shown in FIG. 38, it is confirmed whether or not the 1-bet button 114 or the max-bet button 304 is operated. If any of the bet buttons is operated, a predetermined number is displayed. Game balls are bet ("game ball bet process" S2406). Note that the number of inserted game balls is counted by the passage sensors 1415a, 1415b, and 1415c, and separately counted by the count sensors 1416a, 1416b, and 1416c.

  Here, the game ball betting process S2406 will be described in detail. FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing an example of the game ball betting process S2406. In the game ball betting process S2406, it is first determined whether or not the insertion has been completed (S2501). Specifically, in the normal gaming state or the like, if the bet number is “3” (the number of inserted balls is 15), it is determined that the insertion is completed, and during JAC, the bet number is “1” (the inserted ball). When the number is 5), it is determined that the insertion is completed. If the insertion has been completed, the game ball betting process S2406 ends. If the insertion has not been completed, it is determined whether or not a maximum bet signal has been received (S2502). When the maximum bet signal is received, the value of the total inserted number counter is set to “15” in the normal gaming state or the like, and to “5” during JAC or the like (“total inserted number counter setting process”). "S2503). On the other hand, if the maximum bet signal has not been received, it is determined whether or not a 1 bet signal has been received (S1504). When the 1-bet signal is received, the value of the total inserted number counter is set to “5” (“total inserted number counter setting process” S2505), and when it is not received, the game ball bet process S2406 is performed. Ends.

  In the total thrown number counter setting processing S2503, S2505, when the value of the total thrown number counter is set, the first to third thrown retry flags are set ("full thrown retry flag setting process" S2506). ) Initial setting is performed so that the insertion process is performed in all of the three game ball insertion units 1410a to 1410c. After all the input retry flag setting processing S2506, it is determined whether or not any input retry flag is set (S2507). If all the payout retry flags are not set, the game ball The betting process S2406 ends. On the other hand, if the input retry flag is set for any item, it is determined whether or not the value of the total input number counter is “0” (S1508), and the value of the total input number counter is “0”. If there is, the game ball betting process S2406 ends.

  If the value of the total inserted number counter is not “0” in the determination process S2508, it is determined whether or not the all-item payout retry flag is set (S2509). In the determination process 2509, if the throw-in retry flag of any item is released, the payout of the game ball is delayed in any item as will be described later. The system waits for a time (“wait process” S2510), and then proceeds to the input number distribution process S2511. In this embodiment, the wait time in the wait process S2510 is 80 ms. This weight processing S2510 is provided in order to suppress the flapping of game balls when the flow of game balls to the discharge passages 1406a to 1406c is prohibited in the ball passages 1402a to 402c by the input flickers 1413a to 1413c. . Further, it is provided to accurately determine the transient response of the voltage in driving the closing solenoids 1414a to 1414c for operating the closing flickers 1413a to 1413c.

  In order to throw game balls as evenly as possible in the plurality of game ball throwing units 1410a to 1410c, the number of each game ball throwing unit thrown is distributed, and the planned number of throws corresponding to each game ball Is determined ("input number distribution process" S2511).

  After the throwing number distribution process S2511, it is determined whether or not the throwing timer interrupt execution flag is set (S2512). If the insertion timer interrupt execution flag is set, the maximum value “3” is set in the input item pointer (“input item pointer maximum value setting process” S2513).

  After the throwing-in pointer maximum value setting process S2513, the game is assigned to each of the game ball throwing units 1410a to 1410c by the throwing number sorting process S2511 and thrown in each game ball throwing unit 1410a to 1410c. The number of balls thrown is counted and a process for managing the end of the throw is executed ("insertion execution process" S2514). After the insertion execution process S2514, a process for managing the counting of the number of game balls passing through the respective count sensors 416a to 416c is executed (“count sensor passing number counting process” S2515). After the count sensor passing number counting process S2515, it is determined whether or not the throwing line pointer is the minimum value “1” (S2516). If the input item pointer is not “1”, the value of the payout item pointer is decreased by “1” (“input item pointer subtraction process” S2517), and the process returns to the input execution process S2514. On the other hand, if the making line pointer is “1”, the driving of each making solenoid 1414a to 1414c is controlled based on each making solenoid operation flag (“all entry solenoid operation control process” S2518). Specifically, the dispensing solenoids 1414a to 1414c having the newly set closing solenoid operating flag are changed to the on state, and the closing solenoids 1414a to 1414c having the already set closing solenoid operating flag are maintained in the on state and are turned on. The closing solenoids 1414a to 1414c whose solenoid operation flag has been newly released are changed to the off state, and the closing solenoids 1414a to 1414c whose release solenoid operation flag has already been released are maintained in the off state.

  After all the closing solenoid operation control processing S2518, the closing solenoid operation abnormality monitoring processing S2519 is performed. In the making solenoid operation abnormality monitoring process S2519, as shown in FIG. 40, it is determined whether or not the making solenoid operation abnormality flag is set (S5101). When the making solenoid operation abnormality flag is not set, this processing S3326 ends. When the making solenoid operation abnormality flag is set, a making solenoid operation abnormality command is transmitted to the sub control board 1047a (“ "Sending solenoid operation error command transmission processing" S5102), error processing is executed ("Sending solenoid operation error processing" S5103). The sub-control board 1047a notifies the occurrence of the abnormality in response to the reception of the closing solenoid operation abnormality command.

  After the closing solenoid operation abnormality monitoring process S2519, it is determined whether or not the values of all the passage sensor counters are “0” (S2520). If the value of the all-pass sensor counter is “0”, the process returns to the determination process S2507. On the other hand, if the value of any of the passage sensor counters is not “0”, the input timer interrupt execution flag is canceled (“input timer interrupt execution flag release process” S2521), and the process returns to the determination process S2512. As described above, the game ball betting process S2406 is realized by the determination process S2501 to the insertion timer interrupt execution flag releasing process S2521.

  Returning to FIG. 38, after the game ball betting process S2406 is completed, it is determined whether or not the bet number is less than the minimum prescribed number (S2407). If the bet number is less than the minimum prescribed number, the insertion error notification process S2403 to the determination process S2407 are repeated. On the other hand, if the bet number is not less than the minimum prescribed number, it is determined whether or not a change start signal corresponding to the operation of the start lever 1124 has been received (S2408). If the variation start signal has not been received, the process from the error notification process S2403 to the determination process S2408 is repeated. On the other hand, when the variation start signal is received, the number of game balls counted by the passage sensors 1415a to 1415c in the game ball betting process S2406 is compared with the number of game balls counted by the count sensors 416a to 416c. If the number of game balls counted by the count sensors 1416a to 1416c is less than the number of game balls counted by the passage sensors 1415a to 1415c, an error process (number error process) is executed ("injected ball"). Number comparison process "S2409). As described above, through the processing steps (S2401 to S2409), the fluctuation waiting process S2404 is completed.

  After the fluctuation waiting process S2404, as shown in FIG. 37, the value of the random number counter latched by hardware when the start lever 1124 is operated is read and stored in the RAM 45a3 (“random number generation”). Processing "S2305). When the start lever 1124 is operated, the random number counter is latched by hardware so that the operation of the start lever 1124 and the acquisition of the random number value are synchronized in time. Note that although the value of the random number counter can be read by software, in this case, the time from the operation of the start lever 1124 to the acquisition of the random number value is more uneven than in the case of latching by hardware.

  After the random number generation process S2305, the winning combination corresponding to the random value acquired in the random number generation process S2305 is determined by referring to the random number table corresponding to the probability setting, the number of bets, and the gaming state, and according to the type of the winning combination Winning flags (for example, Big Bonus Winning Flag, Regular Bonus Winning Flag, Cherry Winning Flag, Bell Winning Flag, Watermelon Winning Flag, Replay Winning Flag) are set. A set value command representing a value is set ("internal lottery process" S2306). Winning roles include, for example, a big bonus role (hereinafter also referred to as “BB”), a regular bonus role (hereinafter also referred to as “RB”), and various small roles (in this embodiment, a cherry role, a bell role, and a watermelon role) , A re-playing role and a loser role. Note that a plurality of types of winning combinations may be selected in one game.

  After the internal lottery processing S2306, based on the winning combination, the number of bets, and the gaming state, one manual stop control table used for controlling each of the cylinders L, M, R from the manual stop control table group held in the ROM 45a2 is reference-controlled. The table is selected as a table, and the table number of the reference control table is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 45a3 ("rotation initialization process" S1307). When the winning combination is other than losing, sliding control is performed according to this reference control table to rotate the rotating cylinder extra within a predetermined range (less than 5 symbols) in order to win the winning combination as much as possible. When the winning combination is lost, the same slip control is performed in order to prevent other winning combinations from winning. This reference control table is reselected from the manual stop control table group as necessary. In this embodiment, each of the spinning cylinder stop buttons (1126L, 1126M, 1126R) is arranged in a predetermined order (for example, “left spinning cylinder stop button 1126L → middle spinning cylinder stop button 1126M → right spinning cylinder stop operation unit 1126R”) and “left spinning cylinder”. The stop control button 1126L → the right turn cylinder stop operation unit 1126R → the middle turn cylinder stop button 1126M ”) is referred to, and in the other operation order, the reference control table from the manual stop control table group. The predetermined symbol pattern is stopped by re-selection or other control method or by using them. Further, when the change of the symbol display is automatically stopped, it is stopped with a predetermined symbol pattern by referring to the automatic stop control table held in the ROM 1045a2.

  After the rotation initialization process S2307, a symbol variation standby process S2308 is executed. In the symbol variation standby process S2308, first, it is determined whether or not the measurement time by the symbol variation monitoring timer is equal to or longer than a predetermined time (for example, 4.1 seconds). Here, the “symbol fluctuation monitoring timer” is a timer that measures the elapsed time from the time of the last symbol display fluctuation start. If the measurement time of the symbol fluctuation monitoring timer is less than a predetermined specified time, a variable waiting command (internal state command of the internal state command) indicating that the specified time has elapsed (hereinafter referred to as “variable waiting state”). Is stored in the ring buffer. Note that the player is informed of the variable standby state by a variable standby state display device (not shown). After that, until the measurement time of the symbol fluctuation monitoring timer becomes equal to or longer than the predetermined specified time, whether or not the measurement time by the symbol fluctuation monitoring timer is equal to or longer than the predetermined specified time while the change waiting state is notified. Is repeated. On the other hand, when the measurement time of the symbol fluctuation monitoring timer is equal to or longer than the predetermined specified time, the symbol fluctuation monitoring timer is reset and started, the notification of the standby state for the specified time is stopped, and the predetermined specified time has elapsed. A specified time elapse command (a kind of internal state command) indicating this and a bet number command to be output to the external concentration terminal board are stored in the ring buffer. Thereafter, information related to control of each stepping motor (1043L4, 1043M4, 1043R4) of the symbol display variation unit in a predetermined area of the RAM 1045a3 is initialized for rotation start. Note that actual driving of each of the stepping motors 1043L4, 1043M4, and 1043R4 is controlled by stepping motor control processing S2105 (see FIG. 35) of timer interrupt processing.

  After the symbol variation standby process S2308, a rotation control process S2309 for controlling the rotation of each of the spinning cylinders L, M, R in the spinning cylinder unit 43 is executed. In the rotation control process S2309, first, information on the rotation of each of the rotating cylinders L, M, R in a predetermined area of the RAM 1045a3 is initialized, and all the rotating cylinders representing that all of the rotating cylinders L, M, R are rotating. A rotation command (a type of spinning cylinder rotation information command) and a symbol variation state command (a type of internal state command) indicating the symbol display variation state are stored in the ring buffer ("rotation start process"). Next, the process waits from the start of rotation of each cylinder (L, M, R) to the steady rotation at a constant speed (“design stop standby process”). Specifically, whether or not these rotations are steady rotations is determined by whether or not a detection signal is received from the rotating cylinder position detection sensor 1043R7 corresponding to the rotating cylinder that has started rotating last. If the detection signal is received, it is determined that the rotations are steady rotations. If the detection signal is not received, it is determined that the rotation of any of the rotating cylinders is not steady rotations. . If these rotations are not steady rotations, the determination process S2303 is repeatedly executed. In this embodiment, all the spinning cylinders L, M, R start to rotate simultaneously. When all the rotations of the spinning cylinder are steady rotations, the operation waits for the operation of the left rotation cylinder stop button 1126L, the middle rotation cylinder stop button 1126M, and the right rotation cylinder stop button 1126R, and according to these operations. Then, the rotating cylinder L, the rotating cylinder M, and the rotating cylinder R are stopped with reference to the reference control table selected from the manual stop control table group. In response to the stop of each of the rotating cylinder L, the rotating cylinder M, and the rotating cylinder R, a rotating cylinder stop command (a type of rotating cylinder rotation information command) and a rotating cylinder command (a type of stop symbol command) representing a stopped symbol are ring buffers. Stored in If at least one of the rotating cylinders L, M, R is still rotating even after the specified rotation time has elapsed, the rotation of all the rotating cylinders L, M, R currently rotating is stopped ("automatic stop processing"). ). In the automatic stop process, the symbol pattern corresponding to the loser will be displayed no matter which winning combination is won, unless the winning combination has already been confirmed before the automatic stop is started. Then, the rotation of all the rotating drums L, M, R currently being rotated is stopped.

  After the rotation control process S2309, as shown in FIG. 37, a winning confirmation process S2310 is executed. In the winning confirmation process S2310, first, the pattern pattern for each activated line is confirmed, and if any winning combination other than the winning combination has been won, an error process for notifying the occurrence of a winning error is executed. The On the other hand, if only the winning combination is winning, a winning flag corresponding to all winning winning combinations (for example, big bonus winning flag, regular bonus winning flag, cherry winning flag, bell winning flag, watermelon winning flag, A replay winning flag) is set. Further, the number of acquired game balls corresponding to each winning combination won is added within a range not exceeding the maximum number of acquired game balls, so that the number of acquired game balls is finally determined. Further, in the winning confirmation processing S1310, a winning combination command including information on the type of winning combination, a winning line command including information on the type of winning line, and a winning combination error command including information on winning errors are stored in the ring buffer. .

  After the winning confirmation process S2310, a payout command including information on the number of acquired game balls is set ("acquired ball payout process" S2311). After the acquired game ball payout process S2311, a re-game process S2312 is performed. In the re-game process S2312, various processes such as setting the internal state to a re-game are performed when the re-game win flag is set in the win confirmation process S2310. Further, a re-game command (a kind of internal state command) indicating that the next game is a re-game is stored in the ring buffer.

  After the re-game process S2312, an accessory operating process S2313 is performed. In the in-community-acting process S2313, processing during the actuating of an accessory such as a big bonus (BB) combination and a regular bonus (RB) combination is performed. When the internal state is the big bonus game state, control during the small role game, transition control from the small role game to the JAC game, control during the JAC game, transition control from the JAC game to the small role game, and the big bonus Game state end control and the like are performed. The end determination of the big bonus game state is determined by whether or not the total number of game balls acquired during that state is greater than or equal to a predetermined number. When the total number of acquisitions is equal to or greater than the predetermined number of acquisitions, a big bonus end process is performed. On the other hand, when the total number of acquisitions is less than the predetermined number of acquisitions, the big bonus end process is skipped. On the other hand, when the internal state is a regular bonus, control during the JAC game, end control of the regular bonus game state, and the like are performed. The termination condition for the regular bonus is also determined by whether or not the total number of acquisitions is equal to or greater than the predetermined number of acquisitions.

  After the accessory operating process S2313, an accessory operating determination process S2314 is performed. In the combination act determination process S2314, a winning flag for the big bonus combination indicating that the big bonus combination is won is set, and a big bonus winning flag indicating that the big bonus combination is won is set. If so, a process for starting the big bonus is executed ("BB start process"). In addition, when the regular bonus combination winning flag indicating that the regular bonus combination is won is set and the regular bonus winning flag indicating that the regular bonus combination is won is set, the regular bonus combination is set. Is executed ("RB start process").

  After the accessory operation determination process S2314, a game progress display process S2315 is executed. In the game progress display processing S2315, when the internal state is a big bonus game state or a regular bonus game state, data for displaying the number of remaining JAC games, the total number of acquired game balls in one big bonus, and the like. Is set. In addition, after the end of the big bonus or regular bonus, the internal state is changed to the specific gaming state in order to shift to a specific gaming state such as a replay time (“RT”) in which the winning probability of replaying is higher than the normal gaming state. The specific game state command (a kind of internal state command) indicating the specific game state is set and stored in the ring buffer.

  A control process executed by the payout control board 1037a will be described. The control process of the payout control board 1037a is roughly divided into a main process that is activated in response to power recovery by restarting the supply of external power or turning on the power switch 1038a, and an interrupt process that interrupts the main process. The For convenience of explanation, after describing the interrupt process, the main process will be described. The interrupt process includes a command interrupt process that interrupts in response to reception of various commands from the main control board 1045a and a timer interrupt process that is repeatedly executed periodically (2 ms in this embodiment). For convenience of explanation, the interrupt process will be described first, followed by the main process.

  First, command interrupt processing will be described. FIG. 41 is a flowchart showing an example of command interruption processing of the payout control board 1037a. The command interruption process is executed when the payout control board 1037a receives a command from the main control board 1045a. As shown in FIG. 45, when the command interrupt process is executed, first, the received command is stored in the data buffer for reception (“command reception process” S3001). After the command reception process S3001, a command reception flag is set ("command reception flag setting process" S3002). The external interrupt process ends when the command reception flag setting process S3002 ends.

  Next, timer interrupt processing will be described. FIG. 42 is a flowchart showing an example of timer interrupt processing of the payout control board 1037a. As shown in FIG. 42, in the timer interrupt process, first, it is determined whether or not a command reception flag is set (S3101). When the command reception flag is set, the command stored in the data buffer for reception is read (“command reading process” S3102). After the command reading process S3102, the command reception flag is canceled ("command reception flag cancellation process" S3103). After the command reception flag release processing S3103, it is determined whether or not the read command is a payout command (S3104). If it is a payout command, the number of prize balls (number of payouts) corresponding to the type of payout command is set in the prize ball number counter (“prize ball number counter setting process” S3105). On the other hand, when the read command is not a payout command, the winning ball number counter setting process S3105 is skipped. If it is determined in the determination process S3101 that the command reception flag is not set, the command reading process S3102 to the prize ball number counter setting process S3105 are skipped.

  Next, the state of the detection signal from the overflow detection switch (not shown) is confirmed, and setting control of the lower pan full state is performed based on the reception state ("lower pan full state setting process" S3106). . Specifically, when the overflow detection switch is continuously detected for 200 ms, “bottom pan is full”, the lower pan full state is set, and in other cases, the lower pan is full. Is released.

  After the lower plate full state setting process S3106, the reception state of the game ball detection signal from each ball break detection device 1035b is confirmed, and setting control of the ball presence state is performed based on the reception state (“ball presence state”). Setting process "S3107). Specifically, setting control for the presence of a sphere is performed as follows. First, it is determined whether or not all the game ball detection signals are in the ON state, that is, it is determined whether or not a predetermined number or more of game balls are stored in all of the ball paths 1033d and 1035a. When all the game ball detection signals are in the on state, it is confirmed whether or not the state continues for 2000 ms. When the on-state of the game ball detection signal has passed 2000 ms, there are more than a predetermined number (20 in this embodiment) of game balls in all the ball passages 1035a. When the ball presence state setting process S4007 ends and the on-state of the game ball detection signal has not elapsed 2000 ms, the ball presence state setting process S3106 ends as it is. On the other hand, when at least one of the game ball detection signals is in the off state, it is determined whether or not the state continues for 200 ms. If the state has passed for 200 ms, the ball presence flag is canceled. Then, the sphere presence state setting process S3107 ends, and if the state does not continue for 200 ms, the sphere presence state setting process S3107 ends as it is.

  After the ball presence state setting processing S3107, when the state in the lower pan full state setting processing S3106 or the ball presence state setting processing S3107 is a state to be notified, the state is notified ("state notification process" S3108). . Specifically, in the case of “full of lower tray ball”, the player is informed by the sound from the speakers 1106 and 1204, or the player is informed by the image by the liquid crystal display device 1042. . Further, when the game ball is not stored in the game ball tank 1032 (when the flag with a ball is released), the player is similarly notified of the fact.

  After the status notification process S3108, it is determined whether or not the prize ball payout is disabled (S3109). The prize ball payout disabled state is a case where a payout of a ball is currently being executed. If the prize ball payout is not disabled, it is determined whether or not the value of the prize ball number counter is “0” (S3110). When the value of the prize ball number counter is “0”, there is no game ball to be paid out based on the payout command, so the process proceeds to S3112. If the value of the prize ball number counter is not “0”, Since there is a game ball to be paid out based on the payout command, “1” is set in the payout state counter (“payout state counter setting process” S4011). If it is determined in the determination process S3109 that the prize ball cannot be paid out, or if the value of the prize ball number counter is “0” in the determination process S3110, the process proceeds to the next process S3112.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the rental ball payout state is disabled (S3112). Note that the rental ball payout disabled state is a case where the payout of the winning ball is currently being executed. If it is not in the lend-out status, it is determined whether or not a lend-out request signal is received from the card unit (S3113). If the rental ball payout request signal has been received, “2” is set in the payout state counter in order to pay out the winning ball (“payout state counter setting process” S3114). On the other hand, when the lending payout request signal has not been received, the payout state counter setting process S3114 is skipped. If it is determined in S3112 that the rental ball payout is not possible, the determination process S3113 and the payout state counter setting process S3114 are skipped.

  Next, a payout timer interrupt execution flag is set ("payout timer interrupt execution flag setting process" S3115). After the payout timer interrupt execution flag setting process S3115, the reception state of the signal from the payout solenoid abnormality detection circuit 1910 is confirmed. If the signal is received, the payout solenoid operation abnormality flag is set ("payout solenoid operation confirmation process"). S3116).

  The main process in the payout control board 37a will be described. FIG. 43 is a flowchart showing an example of main processing of the payout control board 37a. As shown in FIG. 43, in the main process, first, various settings are made for a register group around the CPU, an I / O device, and the like ("initial setting process" S3201). After the initial setting process S3201, access to the RAM 1037a3 is permitted ("RAM access permission process" S3202), and an external interrupt vector is set ("external interrupt vector setting process" S3203). After the external interrupt vector setting process S3203, all areas of the RAM 1037a3 are cleared to “0” (S3204), and then an initial value is set in the RAM 1037a3 (“RAM initial setting process” S4105), and other peripheral devices of the CPU 37a1. Initial setting is performed ("CPU peripheral device initial setting process" S3206). After the CPU peripheral device initial setting process S3206, interrupt permission is set (S3207), and the game ball payout process S3208 is repeatedly executed. In a normal game, in response to receiving a payout command from the main control board 1045a, pay out game balls with the number of winning balls based on the type of payout command, and pay out 25 game balls when a lending payout request is made. It is processing to issue.

  Here, the game ball payout process S3208 will be described in detail. FIG. 44 is a flowchart showing an example of the game ball payout process S3208. As shown in FIG. 44, in the game ball payout process S3208, it is first determined whether or not the value of the payout state counter is “0” (S3301). When the payout state counter is “0”, that is, when no payout command is received, it is determined whether or not reception of a count switch signal from the count sensor 33h is detected (S3302). When reception of the count switch signal is detected, processing for outputting the count signal to the main control board 1045a is performed (“count signal output processing” S3303). On the other hand, when the reception of the count switch signal is not detected, the count signal output process S3303 is skipped. If it is determined in the determination process S3301 that the value of the payout state counter is other than “0”, the determination process S3302 and the count signal output process S3303 are skipped.

  Next, it is determined whether or not a sphere presence flag is set (S3304). When the ball presence flag is not set, the game ball payout process S3208 is not performed because the game ball cannot be paid out because a predetermined number or more of the game balls are not stored in the ball passage 1035a of the case rail 35. finish. On the other hand, when the ball presence flag is set, the process proceeds to S3305 and subsequent steps in order to pay out the game ball.

  If it is determined in the determination process S3304 that the ball presence flag is set, the value of the payout state counter is confirmed (S3305, S3307), and if the value is neither “1” nor “2” Since it is not the situation to pay out the game ball, the game ball payout process S3208 ends. When the value of the payout state counter is “1”, the game ball is paid out based on the payout command, so the value of the prize ball number counter is set in the total payout number counter (“total payout number”). Counter setting process "S3306). On the other hand, when the value of the payout state counter is “2”, “25” is set as the value of the total payout number counter (“total payout number counter setting process” S3308). The reason why “25” is set as the value of the total payout number counter is that, in this embodiment, 25 game balls are paid out each time a lending payout request signal is received.

  When the value of the total payout number counter is set in the total payout number counter setting processing S3306, S3308, the first to fourth payout retry flags are set ("retry flag setting processing for all items" S3309). Initial setting is performed so that the payout process is performed for all four ball passages 1033d.

  After the all-item payout retry flag setting process S3309, output of a payout signal to the main control board 1045a is started ("payout signal output start process" S3310).

  After the payout signal output start process S3310, it is determined whether any payout retry flag is set (S3311). If all the payout retry flags are not set, error processing is executed to It is notified that the payout has become impossible in a state where the ball has not been paid out ("error processing" S3312). The error process S3312 is an infinite loop, and the error can be eliminated by resetting the ball-type spinning gaming machine 10. On the other hand, if any one of the payout retry flags is set, it is determined whether or not the value of the total payout number counter is “0” (S 3313), and if the value of the total payout number counter is “0”. Then, it is determined whether or not the value of the payout state counter is “2” (S3314). If the value of the payout state counter is “2”, a lending end signal is output to the CR unit (“lending end signal output process” S3315). Since the payout is not based on the payout request signal, the loan end signal output process S3315 is skipped. Next, “0” is set to the value of the payout state counter (“payout state counter initialization process” S3316), and the game ball payout process S3308 ends. If the value of the payout state counter is set to “0”, the winning ball payout is permitted and the lending payout is permitted.

  Before the determination process S3313, it is confirmed whether or not the payout retry flag of any of the articles is released. If the payout retry flag is not set even in one of the articles, an abnormality such as a ball clogging occurs. Therefore, error processing may be performed. That is, if even one of the ball paths 1033d of the payout device 1033 is clogged, even if 80 or more game balls are stored in the ball path 1035a of the case rail 1035, the game balls cannot be paid out reliably. In some cases, the game ball can be paid out reliably by urging the user to cancel the abnormality by executing error processing.

  If the value of the total payout number counter is not “0” in the determination process S3313, it is determined whether or not the payout retry flag for all items is set (S3317). If one of the payout retry flags is canceled in the determination process 3317, the payout of the game ball has been delayed in any of the articles as will be described later, so that it waits for a predetermined time before redistributing the game balls. ("Wait process" S3318), and thereafter, the process proceeds to a payout number distribution process S3319. In this embodiment, the wait time in the wait process S4218 is 80 ms. This wait process S4218 is provided to suppress fluttering of the game ball on the upstream side of the payout passage 1033e when the ball passage 1033d of the game ball is closed by the payout flicker 1033b. Further, it is provided to accurately determine the transient response of the voltage in driving the dispensing solenoid 1033c that operates the dispensing flicker 1033b. On the other hand, when the all-item payout retry flag is set, the process proceeds to the payout number distribution process S3319 without performing the wait process S3318.

  In order to pay out game balls evenly in the four ball passages 1033d from which game balls are paid out, the number of payouts to be paid out by each of the ball passages is distributed (“payout number distribution process” S4219). ). After the payout number distribution process S3319, it is determined whether or not a payout timer interrupt execution flag is set (S3320). If the payout timer interrupt execution flag is set, the maximum value “4” is set in the payout item pointer (“payout item pointer maximum value setting process” S3321). After the payout item pointer maximum value setting process S3321, the number of game balls that are distributed to each ball path by the payout number distribution process S3319 and started to be paid out in each ball path 33d are counted and the payout is performed. Is executed (“payout execution process” S3322). After the payout execution process S3322, it is determined whether or not the payout item pointer is the minimum value “1” (S3323). If the payout item pointer is not “1”, the value of the payout item pointer is decreased by “1” (“payout item pointer subtraction process” S3324), and the process returns to the payout execution process S4222. On the other hand, if the payout line pointer is “1”, each payout solenoid 1033c is driven based on each payout solenoid operation flag (“all line payout solenoid operation control process” S3325). Specifically, in each article, when the payout solenoid operation flag is newly set, the payout solenoid 1033c is changed to an on state, and when the payout solenoid operation flag is already set, the payout solenoid 1033c is turned on. When the state is maintained and the payout solenoid operation flag is newly released, the payout solenoid 1033c is changed to an off state, and when the payout solenoid operation flag is already released, the off state of the payout solenoid 1033c is maintained. The

  After the entire payout solenoid operation control process S2518, a payout solenoid operation abnormality monitoring process S3326 is performed. In the dispensing solenoid operation abnormality monitoring process S3326, as shown in FIG. 45, it is determined whether or not the dispensing solenoid operation abnormality flag is set (S5201). If the payout solenoid operation abnormality flag is not set, this processing S3326 ends. If the payout solenoid operation abnormality flag is set, a payout solenoid operation abnormality command is transmitted to the main control board 11045a (" Dispensing solenoid operation abnormality command transmission processing "S5202), error processing is executed (" dispensing solenoid operation error processing "S5203). In response to reception of the payout solenoid operation abnormality command, the main control board 1047a transfers the command to the sub control board 1047a and executes error processing to stop the game progression (see solenoid operation abnormality monitoring process S2108). ).

  After the payout solenoid abnormality monitoring process S3326, it is determined whether or not the value of the payout game ball counter for all items is “0” (S3327). If all the payout game ball counter values are “0”, the process returns to the determination process S3311. On the other hand, if the value of any payout game ball counter is not “0”, the payout timer interrupt execution flag is canceled (“payout timer interrupt execution flag release process” S3328), and the process returns to the determination process S3320. As described above, the game ball payout process S3208 is realized by the determination process S3301 to the payout timer interrupt execution flag release process S3328.

  A control process executed by the sub control board 1047a will be described. The control process of the sub control board 1047a is roughly divided into a main process that is activated when the external power is restored from a power failure or a power is restored by turning on the power, and an interrupt process that interrupts the main process. For convenience of explanation, after describing the interrupt process, the main process will be described. As interrupt processing in the CPU, there are regular timer interrupt processing and regular command interrupt processing.

  The timer interrupt process will be described. FIG. 46 is a flowchart illustrating an example of timer interrupt processing in the sub-control board 1047a.

  The timer interrupt process is executed with a period of approximately 1 ms. In the timer interrupt process, first, an interrupt flag is read (“interrupt flag read process” S4001). After the interrupt flag reading process S4001, it is determined whether or not the interrupt flag is valid (S4002). Specifically, it is confirmed that it is a timer interrupt among various interrupts to the CPU. If the interrupt flag is valid, the interrupt timer counter is incremented and the interrupt timer counter is updated ("interrupt timer counter update process" S4003). After the interrupt timer counter update process S4003, the interrupt flag related to the timer interrupt is canceled ("interrupt flag release process" S4004). As a result, the next timer interrupt process for the CPU can be executed. If it is determined in the determination process S4002 that the interrupt flag is not valid, the interrupt timer counter update process S4003 and the interrupt flag release process S4004 are skipped because they are other interrupt processes.

  The command interrupt process will be described in detail. FIG. 47 is a flowchart showing an example of command interrupt processing in the sub-control board 47a. The command interruption process is executed in response to the transmission of a command from the main control board 45a. Since the command transmission in the main control board 45a is performed with a period of approximately 1.49 ms, this processing is performed with a period of approximately 1.49 ms.

  In the command interrupt process, first, it is determined whether or not the strobe signal from the main control board 45a is normal (S4101). If the strobe signal is normal, command data is acquired ("command data acquisition process" S4102). After the command data acquisition process S4102, it is determined whether or not the content is normal (S4103). If the command data is normal, the command is received (“command reception process” S2104), and after the command reception process S4104, the retry counter value is changed to a predetermined retry maximum value (“retry counter maximum value setting”). Process "S4105).

  If it is determined in step S4101 that the strobe signal is not normal, the retry counter value is changed to a predetermined maximum retry number (S4106). If it is determined in the determination process S4103 that the command data is not normal, the retry counter value is changed ("retry counter update process" S4107). In this change, the retry counter value is increased by one. After the process of changing the retry counter value (S4105, S4106, S4107), it is determined whether the retry counter value is the maximum value (S4108). When the retry counter value is the maximum value, the interrupt flag is read (“interrupt flag read process” S4109). After the interrupt flag reading process S4109, the value of the retry counter is cleared to the initial value (“0”) (“retry counter clear process” S4110). After the retry counter clear process S4110, the interrupt flag is released ("interrupt flag release process" S4111). By releasing the interrupt flag, the next command interrupt process can be executed.

  When the retry counter value is not the maximum value, that is, when the strobe signal is normal but the command data is not normal, the interrupt flag read process S4109, the retry counter clear process S4110, and the interrupt flag release process S4111 are skipped. The acquisition of command data at a predetermined timing is repeated until the retry counter value reaches a predetermined maximum retry value.

  The main process executed by the sub control board 1047a will be described in detail. FIG. 48 is a flowchart showing an example of the main process of the sub control board.

  In the main processing, first, in response to the supply of internal power from the power supply control board 1038 ′, initialization of the sub control board 1047a itself and initialization of peripheral devices such as the liquid crystal display device 1042 connected to the sub control board 1047a are performed. Is performed ("initialization process" S4201). After the initialization process S4201, it is determined whether or not the system state is a voltage drop state (S4202). Here, the system state includes a voltage drop state indicating that the supply voltage is equal to or lower than a predetermined voltage, and an initialization indicating that the sub-control board 1047a and the peripheral device connected to the sub-control board 1047a are being initialized. It implies a state and a normal state indicating that the supply voltage is a predetermined voltage and normal game can be performed. Note that the initialization state is selected during the initialization process S4201.

  When it is determined in the determination process S4202 that the system state is a voltage drop state, a backup process S4210 described later is executed. On the other hand, if the system state is not a voltage drop state, it is determined whether or not the value of the interrupt timer counter has changed (S4203). When the value of the interrupt timer counter is changed, the interrupt timer counter is updated (“interrupt timer counter update process” S4204). In the interrupt timer counter update process S4204, the value of the interrupt timer counter is decreased by 1. After the interrupt timer counter update process S4204, a periodic timer process S4205 described later is performed. After the cycle timer process S4205, it is determined whether or not the system state is a voltage drop state (S4206). If the system state is not a voltage drop state, it is determined whether any command is received from the main control board 1045a (S4207). If a command has been received, a received command confirmation process S4208 described later is performed. On the other hand, if a command has not been received, the received command confirmation process S4208 is skipped. After the received command confirmation process S4208, the base value of the random number that determines the details of the effect is updated ("random number base value update process" S4209). After the random number base value update process S4209, the process proceeds to a determination process S4202. When the system state is not a voltage drop state, the above-described processes (S4202 to S4209) are repeatedly executed in sequence.

  If it is determined in the determination processing S4202 and determination processing S4206 that the system state is a voltage drop state, register data and stack data are stored in the external RAM ("backup processing" S4210). After the backup process S4210, it is determined whether or not the system state is a voltage drop state (S4211). If the system state is a voltage drop state, the determination process S4211 is repeatedly executed. On the other hand, if the voltage drop state is not established, the system waits for a predetermined time (30 ms in this embodiment) to confirm that the cancellation of the voltage drop state is not a malfunction due to noise or the like (“wait process” S4212). After the wait process S4212, it is determined again whether or not the system state is a voltage drop state (S4213). If the system state is a voltage drop state, the process returns to the determination process S4211. On the other hand, if the system state is not a voltage drop state, it is determined that the supply of internal power has been resumed normally, and a process for starting the main process is performed ("start process" S4214). After the startup process S4214, the process returns to the initialization process S4201, and the main process is resumed.

  The periodic timer process S4205 in the main process of the sub control board 1047a will be described in detail. FIG. 49 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the cycle timer process S4205. By executing the timer interrupt process substantially every 1 ms, the periodic timer process S4205 is also executed substantially every 1 ms. In the cycle timer process 4205, as shown in FIG. 49, first, a startup command confirmation process S4301 is executed. In the startup command confirmation process S4301, it is confirmed whether any command is received from the main control board 1045a within 2 seconds after the execution of the startup process S4214. When no command is received from the main control board 45a, it is determined that the main control board 45a has not been normally activated, and processing for notifying the occurrence of an error is performed. On the other hand, if any command is received from the main control board 1045a, this process is terminated and the process proceeds to the device control process S4302.

  In the device control process S4302, the drive control of the liquid crystal display device 1042, the speakers 1106, 1204, the light emitting devices 1132, 1134L1, and the like is performed in accordance with various commands whose reception is confirmed in the reception command confirmation process S4208 (FIG. 47) described below. Is done. Specifically, a signal for controlling them is transmitted.

  In the system state change process S4303, it is determined whether or not there is a change in the system state. Depending on the determination result, the voltage drop flag indicating the voltage drop state and the initialization flag indicating the initialization state are set or canceled. . If there is a change in the system state, processing corresponding to the change is executed. When the voltage drop flag and the initialization flag are canceled, the system state is regarded as a normal state, and this process ends. After the system state changing process S4303, a voltage monitoring process S4304 is executed.

  In the voltage monitoring process S4304, it is determined whether or not the voltage of the internal power supplied from the power supply board 1038 ′ is equal to or lower than a predetermined voltage. If the internal voltage is equal to or lower than the predetermined voltage, the voltage drop flag is canceled. If the voltage drop flag is set, the voltage drop flag is set. On the other hand, if the internal voltage is not lower than the predetermined voltage, the voltage drop flag is canceled if the voltage drop flag is set. After the voltage monitoring process S4304, the value of the cycle timer counter is added to the value of the long cycle timer counter, and the long cycle timer counter is updated ("long cycle timer counter addition process" S4305). After the long cycle timer counter update process S4305, it is determined whether or not the value of the long cycle timer counter is 10 or more (S4306). By the determination process S4305, the following processes (S4307 to S4312) are executed approximately every 10 updates of the periodic timer counter. Since the periodic timer counter is updated approximately every 1 ms, the following processing is executed approximately every 10 ms.

  If it is determined in the determination process 2402 that the value of the long-period timer counter is less than 10, this process ends. On the other hand, when the value of the long cycle timer counter is 10 or more, the value of the long cycle timer counter is decreased by 10 and the value of the long cycle timer counter is updated ("long cycle timer counter subtraction process" S4307). . After the long period timer counter subtraction process S4307, data of a desired light emission pattern from a light emission data table including a plurality of light emission patterns for various light emitting devices (light emitting devices 132, 134L1, etc.) held in the ROM of the sub control board 1047a. Is extracted and stored in the output data buffer ("light emission data update process" S4308). The stored data is output by the device control process 4302 in the next periodic timer process S4206.

  After the light emission pattern data update process S4308, a process for synchronizing the light emission effect and the sound effect is executed ("light emission / sound synchronization process" S4309). After the light emission / sound synchronization processing S2405, in the situation where the sound effect is being performed, if the player is left for a predetermined time (30 seconds in this embodiment) without any input, The volume of the sound effect is changed to a low volume (“acoustic fade-out process” S4310). Further, it is confirmed whether or not a predetermined time (in this embodiment, 50 seconds) has passed without any input by the player, and a demonstration flag is set ("demonstration start confirmation process" S4311). A predetermined demonstration effect is started in the liquid crystal display device 1042 by setting the demonstration flag. After the demonstration start confirmation processing S4311, the volume setting of the volume adjustment switch (not shown) in the volume changing operation device (not shown) is confirmed, and the volume at the time of error notification or production for the speakers 1106 and 1204 is updated. ("Volume setting process" S4312).

  After the volume setting process S4312, data for controlling the liquid crystal display device 1042, the speakers 1106 and 1204, the light emitting devices 132 and 134L1, and the like are updated (“notification data change process” S4313).

  Here, the characteristic part in said ball-type spinning machine 1010 is demonstrated. In the ball-type spinning game machine 1010, there are three throwing flickers 1413a for restricting the taking-in of game balls at the time of betting in the throwing device and four payout flickers 1033b for restricting the payout of game balls at the time of medium acquisition in the payout device 33. It is driven by three input solenoids 1414a to 1414c and four discharge solenoids 1033c. The operation of each of the closing solenoids 1414a to 1414c is monitored by a closing solenoid abnormality detection circuit 1910 formed on the main control board 1045a in the same manner as in the case of the big winning opening solenoid of the first embodiment. The closing solenoid abnormality detection circuit 1910 includes three pairs of circuits similar to the special winning opening abnormality detection circuit 910 (see FIG. 16). The operation of each payout solenoid 1033c is monitored by a payout solenoid abnormality detection circuit 1930 formed on the payout control board 1037a in the same manner as in the case of the big prize opening solenoid of the first embodiment. The payout solenoid abnormality detection circuit 1930 includes four pairs of circuits similar to the special prize opening abnormality detection circuit 910. In addition, in the closing solenoid abnormality detection circuit 1910 and the dispensing solenoid abnormality detection circuit 1930, the power supply circuit (the power supply circuit 901 and the power supply circuit 912) and the normal operation reference voltage generation circuit are shared. As a result, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained.

  Various modifications described in connection with the first embodiment can also be adopted for the ball-type spinning machine. Further, the present invention can be applied to a slot machine (medal-type spinning game machine) that uses medals as game media.

  The present invention is suitable for a gaming machine such as a ball ball game machine, a ball-type spinning machine, and a medal-type spinning machine.

10: Game machine 32: Variable winning device 62: Shutter (a kind of medium inflow restricting means)
33: Start winning device 60: Blade (a kind of medium inflow restricting means)
34: Starter 900: Large winning opening solenoid drive circuit 901: Power supply circuit 902: Large winning opening solenoid drive control circuit 910, 950: Large winning opening abnormality detection circuit 911: Large winning opening solenoid monitoring circuit 912: Power supply circuit 913: Normal Operation reference voltage generation circuit (disconnection detection threshold voltage generation means, deterioration detection threshold voltage generation means, deterioration sign detection threshold voltage generation means)
914: Large winning opening solenoid abnormality detection circuit (part of disconnection determination means, deterioration determination means, deterioration sign determination means)
915: Abnormality detection timing signal generation circuit (specified time passage detection means)
916: Large winning opening abnormality signal output control circuit (part of disconnection determination means, deterioration determination means, deterioration sign determination means)
917: Gain adjustment amplifier circuit 918: A / D converter circuit (information format conversion means)
920: Start port solenoid drive times: (regulation control means)
930, 940: Start port abnormality detection circuit (at least part of the regulation abnormality detection means)
991: Grand prize opening solenoid 992: Start opening solenoid 1010: Ball-type rotating game machine 1413a: Input flicker (a kind of medium inflow regulating means)
1414a-1414c: closing solenoid (a kind of restriction changing means)
1414a2: Piston (a kind of magnetic part)
1033b: Dispensing flicker (a kind of medium inflow restricting means)
1033c: Dispensing solenoid (a kind of restriction changing means)
1033c2: Piston (a kind of magnetic part)
1900: Input solenoid drive circuit 1910: Input solenoid abnormality detection circuit 1920: Discharge solenoid drive circuit 1930: Discharge solenoid abnormality detection circuit

Claims (1)

The first inflow restricting state and the second inflow restricting state are looser than the first inflow restricting state, and the second inflow restricting state can be shifted between the first inflow restricting state and the second inflow restricting state. Medium inflow restricting means for restricting the inflow of the game medium into a predetermined area due to the difference between,
Restriction changing means for shifting the inflow restriction state of the medium inflow restriction means between the first inflow restriction state and the second inflow restriction state;
Game progress control means for comprehensive control of game progress;
Restriction control means for controlling the drive of the restriction changing means based on the control of the game progress by the game progress control means;
A gaming machine including
The restriction changing means includes a magnetic part that is interlocked with the transition of the inflow restriction state of the medium inflow restriction means, and a solenoid coil that generates a stress that moves the magnetic part,
The restriction control means controls the supply of current to the solenoid coil;
The gaming machine is
A regulation abnormality detection means for detecting an abnormality in regulation state transition in the medium inflow regulation means based on a transient response of a current flowing through the solenoid coil;
In response to detection of abnormality in the restriction state transition by the restriction abnormality detection means, restriction abnormality notification control means for controlling notification of abnormality in the restriction state transition;
A gaming machine further comprising:

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