JP2013144252A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of suppressing execution of processing for the time of power interruption even though a power interruption state is not generated.SOLUTION: An MPU 211 is loaded on a main control board 201, and by executing various kinds of processing in the MPU 211, the progress of a game is controlled. The MPU 211 is provided with an input port 211a, and a power interruption monitoring board 203 is electrically connected to the input port 211a. On the basis of the input of power interruption signals from the power interruption monitoring board 203 at the input port 211a, the processing for the time of power interruption is executed in the MPU 211. In this case, in the MPU 211, a power interruption flag is stored in a RAM 213 when it is continuously confirmed over two or more times of confirmation timing that the power interruption signals are input, and the processing for the time of power interruption is started when it is confirmed at prescribed processing timing that the power interruption flag is stored.

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

  For example, in a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine, a control device is provided. The control device operates based on electric power supplied from an external power source to the gaming machine, and executes processing for advancing the game. In this configuration, the power supplied to the control device may be cut off due to the power interruption of the external power supply. If the power supplied to the control device is cut off and the processing in the control device is suddenly interrupted, it may be disadvantageous for the player.

  Therefore, a monitoring device that monitors the power supplied to the control device is provided, and a predetermined signal is output from the monitoring device to the control device (for example, see Patent Document 1). In this configuration, occurrence of power interruption is confirmed in the control device based on the predetermined signal, power interruption processing is executed before interrupting all processing, and when power is restored, the state before power interruption occurs is started. It has become so. As a result, the above-described inconvenience caused by sudden interruption of various processes is prevented.

JP 2006-158424 A

  Here, in a gaming machine such as the above-described example, it is necessary to suitably execute the power interruption process, and there is still room for improvement in this respect.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described circumstances and the like, and an object thereof is to provide a gaming machine capable of suitably executing a power interruption process.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 1 is a control means for controlling the progress of a game by executing a plurality of progress processes;
Power supply means connected to an external power source and supplying power to at least the control means;
Monitoring means for monitoring the power supply status by the power supply means, and starting output of reduction information when the power supply status becomes a power reduction status;
A power supply means during power interruption for supplying power to at least a predetermined storage means in a situation where power supply from the power supply means is interrupted;
An abnormality detection means for detecting the occurrence of a special abnormality predetermined as an abnormality for the gaming machine;
With
The control means includes
A confirmation process for confirming whether or not the lowering information has been output is performed at a predetermined confirmation timing, and when it is confirmed that the lowering information has been output, power interruption occurrence information is stored in the predetermined storage means. Confirmation processing execution means for executing processing to be stored;
A determination process for determining whether or not the power interruption occurrence information is stored in the predetermined storage means is executed at a predetermined determination timing, and it is determined that the power interruption occurrence information is stored in the determination process. Power interruption processing execution means for starting the power interruption processing when
Means for returning the state of the control means to the state before the power interruption when the power supply is started from the situation where the power supply is interrupted;
Means for storing special abnormality information in the predetermined storage means based on a detection result of the abnormality detection means;
While the special abnormality information is stored, the execution of at least some of the plurality of progress processes is restricted, and even if the special abnormality information is stored, at least Means for not restricting execution of the confirmation processing by the confirmation processing execution means and execution of the determination processing and power interruption processing by the power interruption processing execution means;
It is characterized by having.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to suitably execute the power interruption process.

The front view which shows the pachinko machine in one embodiment. The perspective view which expand | deploys and shows the main structures of a pachinko machine. The perspective view which expand | deploys and shows the main structures of a pachinko machine. The front view which shows the structure of a game board. Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the structure of a stage unit. The rear view which shows the structure of a front door frame. The front view which shows the structure of a back pack unit. The longitudinal cross-sectional view which shows the channel | path structure formed in the dispensing apparatus inside. The block diagram which shows the electrical constitution of a pachinko machine. Explanatory drawing which shows the outline | summary of the various counters used for game control. The flowchart which shows the timer interruption process by MPU of a main control board. The flowchart which shows a power interruption signal reading process. The flowchart which shows a fraud monitoring process. The flowchart which shows an unauthorized system signal reading process. The flowchart which shows a start winning process. The flowchart which shows a main process. The flowchart which shows a normal process. The flowchart which shows an open | release detection process. The block diagram which shows the electrical structure regarding payout of a game ball. The flowchart which shows an input state monitoring process. The flowchart which shows a front door frame open | release signal monitoring process. The flowchart which shows a prize ball permission signal monitoring process. The flowchart which shows the output process for payment. The flowchart which shows a prize ball command output process. The flowchart which shows the main process by MPU of a payout control board. The flowchart which shows a timer interruption process. The flowchart which shows a command determination process. The flowchart which shows the process for full tanks. The flowchart which shows a prize ball setting process. The flowchart which shows a lending setting process. The flowchart which shows payout number setting processing. The flowchart which shows payout control processing. The flowchart which shows the payout state setting process. The flowchart which shows a drive signal output process. The flowchart which shows a prize ball permission signal setting process. The time chart for demonstrating the mode of the output of the prize ball command with respect to a prize ball permission signal. The time chart for demonstrating the handling of prize ball information when a power supply is turned on when a lower plate is full. The time chart for demonstrating handling of prize ball information when a power supply is turned on with a front door frame open.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter referred to as “pachinko machine”), which is a type of gaming machine, will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a front view of the pachinko machine 10, and FIGS. 2 and 3 are perspective views showing an unfolded main configuration of the pachinko machine 10. In FIG. 2, the configuration in the game area of the pachinko machine 10 is omitted for convenience.

  The pachinko machine 10 includes an outer frame 11 that forms an outer shell of the pachinko machine 10, and a gaming machine main body 12 that is attached to the outer frame 11 so as to be rotatable forward. The outer frame 11 is configured by connecting wooden plates to four sides and has a rectangular frame shape. The pachinko machine 10 is installed in the game hall by attaching and fixing the outer frame 11 to the island facility.

  As shown in FIG. 1, a ball lending device (for example, CR unit) Y is provided on the side of the outer frame 11. A card insertion slot H is provided on the front side of the ball lending device Y so that a number of game balls corresponding to the amount stored in the card can be lent by inserting the card into the card insertion slot H. It has become. In addition, what is inserted into the ball lending device Y when receiving the lending of the game ball is not limited to the card, and may be cash or a coin in which cash information is stored.

  The gaming machine main body 12 includes an inner frame 13, a front door frame 14 disposed in front of the inner frame 13, and a back pack unit 15 disposed behind the inner frame 13. The inner frame 13 of the gaming machine main body 12 is supported so as to be rotatable with respect to the outer frame 11. Specifically, the inner frame 13 can be rotated forward with the left side as a rotation base end side and the right side as a rotation front end side in front view.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the front door frame 14 is rotatably supported on the inner frame 13, and can be rotated forward with the left side as a rotation base end side and the right side as a rotation front end side in a front view. It is said that. Further, as shown in FIG. 3, a backpack unit 15 is rotatably supported on the inner frame 13, and when viewed from the front, the left side is the rotation base end side and the right side is the rotation front end side. It is possible to move.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the gaming machine main body 12 is provided with a locking device 16 at its rotating tip, and the gaming machine main body 12 is locked to the outer frame 11 so that it cannot be opened. And has a function of locking the front door frame 14 to the inner frame 13 so that the front door frame 14 cannot be opened. Each of these locked states is released by performing an unlocking operation using the unlocking key on the cylinder lock 17 that is exposed on the front surface of the pachinko machine 10.

  Next, the configuration of the front side of the gaming machine body 12 will be described.

  The inner frame 13 is mainly composed of a resin base 21 whose outer shape is substantially the same as that of the outer frame 11. As shown in FIG. 2, a front door frame opening switch (front body opening detecting means) that detects whether or not the front door frame 14 is opened (or closed) is disposed on the upper portion of the resin base 21. 22 is provided. The front door frame opening switch 22 has a pin that can protrude and retract from the front surface of the resin base 21. When the front door frame 14 is closed with respect to the inner frame 13, the pin is pushed in and the front door frame 14 is closed. When the front door frame 14 is opened with respect to the inner frame 13, the pin returns to the protruding position and the opening of the front door frame 14 is detected.

  Incidentally, the front door frame opening switch 22 outputs a HI level signal as a front door frame opening signal to a main controller 91 described later when the front door frame 14 is in an open state, and the front door frame 14 is in a closed state. In this case, a LOW level signal is output. However, the signal output mode is not limited to this, and the relationship between the HI level signal and the LOW level signal may be reversed.

  A substantially elliptical window hole 23 is formed at the center of the resin base 21. A game board 24 is detachably attached to the resin base 21. The game board 24 is made of plywood, and a game area formed on the front surface of the game board 24 is exposed to the front side of the inner frame 13 through the window hole 23 of the resin base 21.

  Here, the structure of the game board 24 is demonstrated based on FIG.

  The game board 24 is provided with a general winning port 31, a variable winning device 32, a lower operating port 34 and a through gate 35, and a variable display unit 36 having an upper operating port 33. When a game ball enters the general winning port 31, the variable winning device 32, and the operation ports 33 and 34, it is detected by a detection sensor (not shown) disposed on the back side of the game board 24, and based on the detection result. Then, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out. In addition, an out port 37 is provided at the lowermost part of the game board 24, and game balls that have not entered various winning ports etc. are discharged from the game area through the out port 37. The game board 24 is provided with a large number of nails 38 in order to disperse and adjust the falling direction of the game ball as appropriate, and various members (functions) such as a windmill. In the following description, in order to distinguish between the entry to the entry part to be given a privilege, such as the general prize opening 31 and the variable prize winning device 32, and the entry to the out opening 37, the former entry Is also called a prize.

  The variable display unit 36 is provided with a symbol display device 41 that variably displays symbols, and a center frame 42 is disposed so as to surround the symbol display device 41.

  The center frame 42 includes a roof unit 171 surrounding the upper side and the left and right sides of the symbol display device 41, and a stage unit 172 disposed below the symbol display device 41. The roof unit 171 has a pair of stage guide passages (warp passages) that have a ball entrance 173 in the upper frame portion of the roof unit 171 and guide the game balls that have entered the ball entrance 173 onto the stage unit 172. Yes. When a game ball enters the ball entrance 173, the game ball is guided onto the stage unit 172. However, a plurality of nails 38 are disposed around the ball inlet 173 so that the ball entering the ball inlet 173 does not occur frequently.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the stage unit 172 has a rolling surface 174 on which the game ball can roll. The rolling surface 174 has a width of about two game balls, and has a smooth streamline shape that is symmetrical about the center. Specifically, the rolling surface 174 is a peak portion 175 whose center portion is raised upward, its left and right are valley portions 176 that are recessed downward, and its left and right ends are above the center portion. Located in.

  The valley portion 176 has a shape inclined downward toward the front. As shown in FIG. 5A, the game ball that has reached the trough 176 in a sufficiently decelerated state is guided by the inclination of the trough 176, and below the stage unit 172 from the front edge of the trough 176. To be discharged.

  In addition, a front guide path 177 having a shape extending in the front-rear direction and inclined downward toward the front is formed at the top of the mountain portion 175, and a rear guide having a shape extending in the front-rear direction and inclined downward toward the rear. A path 178 is integrally formed. As shown in FIG. 5 (b), the game ball that has reached the front guide path 177 in a sufficiently decelerated state is guided by the inclination of the front guide path 177 and moved from the front edge of the rolling surface 174 to the stage. It is discharged below the unit 172. On the other hand, the game ball that has reached the rear guiding path 178 in a sufficiently decelerated state is guided by the inclination of the rear guiding path 178 as shown in FIG. To be guided to. The upper working port 33 is provided at this guided position.

  When a game ball enters the upper working port 33, it is detected by a detection sensor described later, and a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out based on the detection result. Further, a lottery is performed on whether or not a big hit state (special game state) is to be generated by a main control device, which will be described later, based on the ball entering the upper working port 33. Note that the lottery is similarly performed based on the ball entering the lower operation port 34.

  The symbol display device 41 is configured as a liquid crystal display device provided with a liquid crystal display, and variably displays symbols with a winning at the operation ports 33 and 34 as a trigger. The display content of the symbol display device 41 is controlled by a display control device described later. On the symbol display device 41, for example, symbols are displayed side by side on the left, middle and right, and these symbols are variably displayed as they are scrolled up and down. When a predetermined combination of symbols is stopped and displayed on a preset active line, a special gaming state (hereinafter referred to as a jackpot) occurs. In addition, although the liquid crystal display device is provided as the symbol display device 41, it is not limited thereto, and an organic EL display device, a plasma display device, a CRT, or the like may be used.

  A first specific lamp portion 43 and a second specific lamp portion 44 are provided on the center frame 42. Reserving lamp portions 45 and 46 are provided at the upper and lower portions of the center frame 42, respectively. The lower holding lamp unit 45 corresponds to the symbol display device 41 and the first specific lamp unit 43, and the number of times that the game ball has passed through the operation ports 33 and 34 is held up to four times and the holding lamp unit 45 The number of hold is displayed by lighting. The upper holding lamp unit 46 corresponds to the second specific lamp unit 44, and the number of times that the game ball has passed through the through gate 35 is held up to four times, and the number of the holding balls is displayed by turning on the holding lamp unit 46. It has become so.

  In the first specific lamp unit 43, the emission color is switched in a predetermined order triggered by a winning at the operation ports 33 and 34, and a big hit is generated when the display is stopped in a predetermined color. Further, in the second specific lamp unit 44, when the winning color of the game ball to the through gate 35 is used as a trigger, the emission color is switched in a predetermined order, and when the stop color is displayed in a predetermined color, the lower operation port The electric accessory 34a accompanying 34 is opened for a predetermined time. As a result, a game ball can be won in the lower working port 34.

  The variable winning device 32 is normally in a closed state in which a game ball cannot be won or is difficult to win, and is switched to a predetermined open state in which a game ball is easy to win in the case of a big win. As an opening mode of the variable prize winning device 32, the variable prize winning device 32 is repeated with a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) or a predetermined number (for example, ten) of winnings as one round and a plurality of rounds (for example, 15 rounds) as an upper limit. What is opened is common.

  Here, in the pachinko machine 10, as shown in FIG. 4, a magnetic detection sensor 105, a photo sensor 106, and a vibration detection sensor 107 are provided on the game board 24 as abnormality detection means.

  The magnetic detection sensor 105 is installed on the back side of the game board 24 around the ball entrance 173. As described above, the ball inlet 173 serves as a guide for a game ball to the stage unit 172 provided with the upper operation port 33, so that the ball in front of the glass 62 as the window panel provided in the front door frame 14 is used. An act of bringing a magnet close to the vicinity of the entrance 173 and illegally guiding the game ball to the entrance 173 is assumed. On the other hand, the provision of the magnetic detection sensor 105 makes it possible to detect an unauthorized act using the magnet. The magnetic detection sensor 105 is electrically connected to a main controller described later, and the detection result of the magnetic detection sensor 105 is input to the main controller. In this case, the magnetic detection sensor 105 outputs a HI level signal as a non-detection signal when magnetism is not detected, and outputs a LOW level signal as a detection signal when magnetism is detected.

  The photo sensor 106 is installed on the front side of the game board 24 around the ball entrance 173. When an illegal act using a magnet is performed as described above, it is conceivable that the magnetic detection sensor 105 cannot detect the act. On the other hand, by providing the photo sensor 106, it is possible to detect when a hand or the like is on standby for a predetermined period in front of the glass 62 corresponding to the periphery of the ball entrance 173. Become. The photo sensor 106 is electrically connected to a main control device described later, and the detection result of the photo sensor 106 is input to the main control device. In this case, the photosensor 106 outputs a HI level signal as a non-detection signal when a hand or the like is not detected, and outputs a LOW level signal as a detection signal when a hand or the like is detected. Note that a distance measuring sensor may be used instead of the photosensor 106. The output mode of the signal may be set in reverse.

  Incidentally, the positions of the magnetic detection sensor 105 and the photo sensor 106 are not limited to those described above. For example, an illegal act of illegally attempting to win a general winning opening 31 using the magnet is used. In order to suppress this, the magnetic detection sensor 105 and the photo sensor 106 may be disposed around the general winning award 31. The output mode of the signal may be set in reverse. Further, in the configuration in which the upper operation port 33 is disposed below the variable display unit 36, the magnetic detection sensor 105 and the photo sensor 106 may be disposed in the vicinity thereof.

  The vibration detection sensor 107 is installed on the back side of the game board 24. As described above, the game ball that rolls on the rolling surface 174 of the stage unit 172 arrives on the rear guide path 178 in a state of being sufficiently sufficiently decelerated, and is thereby guided to the upper working port 33. In this case, there is an act of forcibly putting the game ball rolling on the rolling surface 174 into the upper operating port 33 by hitting the front door frame 14 to give vibration to the pachinko machine 10. is assumed. On the other hand, when the vibration detection sensor 107 is provided, it is possible to detect an improper act by applying the vibration. The vibration detection sensor 107 is electrically connected to a main control device described later, and the detection result of the vibration detection sensor 107 is input to the main control device. In this case, the vibration detection sensor 107 outputs a HI level signal as a non-detection signal when no vibration is detected, and outputs a LOW level signal as a detection signal when vibration is detected. The arrangement position of the vibration detection sensor 107 is not limited to the above, and the vibration detection sensor 107 may be arranged on the front door frame 14, the resin base 21, or the back pack unit 15. The output mode of the signal may be set in reverse.

  An inner rail portion 51 and an outer rail portion 52 are attached to the game board 24, and a guide rail is constituted by the inner rail portion 51 and the outer rail portion 52, and a game launched from the game ball launching mechanism 53. A ball is guided to the upper part of the game area. As shown in FIG. 2, the game ball launching mechanism 53 is attached below the window hole 23 in the resin base 21. The game ball launching mechanism 53 is operated by operating a firing handle 54 provided on the front door frame 14. Operation is performed.

  A front door frame 14 is provided so as to cover the entire front side of the inner frame 13. As shown in FIG. 1, the front door frame 14 is formed with a window portion 61 so that almost the entire game area can be viewed from the front. The window part 61 has a substantially elliptical shape and is fitted with a glass 62 having transparency. Around the window 61, light emitting means such as various lamps are provided. An error display lamp part 63 is provided above the window part 61 as a part of the various lamp parts. In addition, on both the left and right sides of the error display lamp unit 63, speaker units 64 are provided for outputting sound effects corresponding to the gaming state.

  Below the window portion 61 in the front door frame 14, an upper bulging portion 65 and a lower bulging portion 66 that bulge to the near side are provided side by side. As shown in FIG. 1, a ball lending operation device 71 is disposed in the upper bulging portion 65. The ball lending operation device 71 is provided with a ball lending button 72, a return button 73, and a frequency display unit 74. In a state where a card or the like is inserted into the ball lending device Y, the ball lending operation device 71 can perform a ball lending operation, a card return operation, and confirmation of the card frequency. That is, the ball lending button 72 is operated to obtain a lending ball based on information recorded on a card or the like (recording medium), and the lending ball is paid out as long as there is a remaining amount on the card or the like. The return button 73 is operated when requesting the return of a card or the like inserted into the ball lending apparatus Y. The frequency display unit 74 displays remaining amount information such as a card.

  An upper pan 81 that opens upward is provided inside the upper bulging portion 65, and a lower pan 82 that also opens upward is provided inside the lower bulging portion 66. The upper plate 81 has a function of temporarily storing game balls paid out from a payout device described later and guiding them to the game ball launching mechanism 53 side while aligning them in a row. In addition, the lower tray 82 has a function of storing game balls that are surplus in the upper tray 81.

  Here, in the pachinko machine 10, the window portion 61, the upper plate 81, and the lower plate 82 are integrated with the front door frame 14. In the conventional pachinko machine, at least the window part and the lower plate are provided as separate units, and the window part can be rotated independently with respect to the lower plate. There was a boundary between the units. In this case, an illegal act performed by inserting an illegal tool from the boundary is assumed. In addition, a fraud suppression structure can be provided at the boundary between the units in order to suppress such fraud, but this leads to a complicated configuration. Further, it is not preferable in design that a boundary is generated in the front portion of the pachinko machine. On the other hand, since the window part 61, the upper plate 81, and the lower plate 82 are integrated with the front door frame 14 as described above, a boundary is generated between the window unit 61 and the lower plate 82. And the above inconvenience is suppressed.

  The game balls paid out from the payout device 114 (see FIG. 7) of the back pack unit 15 are discharged to the upper plate 81 and the lower plate 82 through a passage forming unit 83 provided on the back surface of the front door frame 14. As shown in FIG. 6, the passage forming unit 83 includes a front door side upper tray passage 84 that communicates with the upper tray 81 and a front door side lower tray passage 85 that communicates with the lower tray 82.

  The front door side upper dish passage 84 and the front door side lower dish passage 85 are each communicated with each inner frame side passage (not shown) provided in the inner frame 13. Each of the inner frame side passages communicates with a dispensing device 114 provided in the back pack unit 15. In this case, in the back pack unit 15, a game ball distribution unit described later is provided on the downstream side of the payout device 114, and the upper plate 81 is in a full state from the position of the game ball distribution unit to the entrance of the upper plate 81. When the game balls are filled, the game balls paid out from the payout device 114 thereafter are distributed to the lower plate 82 side by the game ball distribution unit.

  When the front door frame 14 is rotated forward with respect to the inner frame 13, the front door side upper dish passage 84 and the front door side lower dish passage 85 are separated from the inner frame side passages. In this case, each inner frame side passage is closed by an opening / closing member 86 provided in the inner frame 13. As shown in FIG. 2, the opening / closing member 86 is supported by a support shaft 87 provided at the lower end of the opening / closing member 86 so as to be pivotable in the front-rear direction, and further urged to a front position where each inner frame side passage is closed. An urging member is provided. Therefore, in a state where the front door frame 14 is opened with respect to the inner frame 13, the opening / closing member 86 rises as shown in the drawing and closes each inner frame side passage. In the state where the front door frame 14 is closed, the opening / closing member 86 is pushed open against the urging force by the passage forming unit 83 of the front door frame 14.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the passage formation unit 83 is provided with a full tank detection sensor 88 so as to detect a game ball passing through the front door side lower dish passage 85. The full tank detection sensor 88 is configured by a magnetic detection type proximity sensor, and a change in the magnetic field (or magnetic field) when the game ball passes through the detection range is detected and output as an electric signal. Note that the full tank detection sensor 88 is not limited to a magnetic detection type proximity sensor, and may be any as long as it can detect a game ball. For example, a photo sensor or a limit sensor may be used. .

  The full tank detection sensor 88 outputs an electrical signal to the payout control device 141 (see FIG. 7) of the back pack unit 15. Specifically, a LOW level signal is output when a game ball is not detected, and an HI level signal is output when a game ball is detected. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a configuration may be adopted in which a HI level signal is output when a game ball is not detected, and a LOW level signal is output when a game ball is detected. It is good also as a structure which outputs an electrical signal only in the state which is detecting.

  In the dispensing control device 141, it is determined whether or not the lower pan 82 is full based on the detection result of the full tank detection sensor 88, and when it is determined that the lower pan 82 is full, the dispensing device 114. Stop paying out game balls. As a result, when the lower tray 82 is in a full tank state and game balls are connected to the position of the full tank detection sensor 88 in the front door side lower tray passage 85, payout of further game balls is stopped.

  Next, the configuration on the back side of the gaming machine main body 12 will be described. In the following description, FIG. 7 is appropriately referred to in addition to FIG. FIG. 7 is a front view of the back pack unit 15.

  As shown in FIG. 3, a main controller 91 and an audio lamp controller 92 are mounted on the back of the inner frame 13 (specifically, the game board 24). The main control device 91 includes a main control board having a function (main control circuit) that controls the main control of the game and a function (power interruption monitoring circuit) that monitors the power source, and the main control board is a transparent resin. It is configured to be accommodated in a substrate box 93 made of a material or the like. The sound lamp control device 92 includes a sound lamp control board that controls sound and lamp display and control of a display control device (not shown) according to instructions from the main control device 91. The sound lamp control board is made of a transparent resin material or the like. The board box 94 is configured to be accommodated.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the back pack unit 15 includes a back pack 101, and a payout mechanism unit 102 and a control device assembly unit 103 are attached to the back pack 101. The back pack 101 is made of a synthetic resin having transparency, and has a protective cover portion 104 that protrudes rearward and has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape so as to cover the main control device 91 and the sound lamp control device 92 from the rear. Yes.

  The payout mechanism unit 102 is disposed so as to bypass the protective cover unit 104. The payout mechanism portion 102 is disposed at the top of the back pack 101 and is replenished with a tank 111 that is sequentially replenished with game balls supplied from the island equipment of the game hall, and gently inclines from below the tank 111 toward the downstream side. A tank rail 112, a case rail 113 connected to the downstream side of the tank rail 112 and extending in the vertical direction, and a dispensing device 114 provided at the most downstream portion of the case rail 113 are provided.

  The case rail 113 is provided with a ball non-detection sensor 115 so as to detect a game ball connected from the tank 111 to the payout device 114 through a passage in the case rail 113. The ball non-detection sensor 115 is configured by a magnetic detection type proximity sensor, and a change in the magnetic field when the game ball passes through the detection range is detected and output as an electric signal. The ball non-detection sensor 115 is not limited to a magnetic detection type proximity sensor, and may be any as long as it can detect a game ball. For example, a photo sensor or a limit sensor may be used. .

  The ballless detection sensor 115 outputs an electrical signal to the payout control device 141. Specifically, a LOW level signal is output when a game ball is not detected, and an HI level signal is output when a game ball is detected. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a configuration may be adopted in which a HI level signal is output when a game ball is not detected, and a LOW level signal is output when a game ball is detected. It is good also as a structure which outputs an electrical signal only in the state which is detecting.

  In the payout control device 141, it is determined whether or not the tank 111 is in a no-ball state based on the detection result of the no-ball detection sensor 115. Stop paying out balls. This prevents the dispensing device 114 from continuing to operate even though the tank 111 is in a ball-free state.

  The case rail 113 is provided with a ball removal operation switch 116. For example, when the game balls stored in the tank 111 are discharged to the outside of the pachinko machine 10, the ball removal operation switch 116 is pressed when all the game balls on the case rail 113 are also discharged, and the case rail 113 and its downstream side. The game balls stored in the game can be discharged.

  In the payout device 114, game balls are paid out. Here, the configuration of the payout device 114 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 8 is a longitudinal sectional view showing a passage structure formed in the dispensing device 114.

  The payout device 114 includes a housing 121 made of synthetic resin, and a payout passage 122 through which a game ball supplied from the case rail 113 passes is formed in the housing 121. An accommodation portion 123 whose passage width is widened to the left and right is provided in an intermediate portion of the payout passage 122, and the rotating body 124 is accommodated in the accommodation portion 123. The center of the rotating body 124 is fixed to the output shaft 125 a of the payout motor 125.

  The payout motor 125 is composed of a stepping motor, and the output shaft 125a is rotationally driven in a predetermined direction (clockwise or counterclockwise as viewed in FIG. 8). The payout motor 125 is controlled by an MPU provided in the payout control device 141 through a motor driver provided in the payout control device 141. Specifically, when the MPU is given a one-pulse drive signal (also referred to as an excitation signal or an excitation pulse; the same applies hereinafter) to the motor driver, the excitation state of the payout motor 125 is switched, and the output shaft 125a advances one step. The payout motor 125 is set so that the output shaft 125a advances 60 steps when the drive signal of 60 pulses is given from the MPU, and the output shaft 125a rotates once. Then, when the output shaft 125a rotates once, that is, when a driving signal of 60 pulses is output from the MPU of the payout control device 141, the rotating body 124 rotates once.

  On the periphery of the rotating body 124, concave portions 124a are formed at two positions at intervals of 180 °. The recess 124a has a curved surface, and the curvature thereof is approximately the same as the curvature of the game ball. In addition, the distance between the portion between the recesses 124a on the periphery of the rotating body 124 and the passage wall of the storage portion 123 is shorter than the diameter dimension of the game ball, whereas the passage between the recess 124a and the storage portion 123. The distance to the wall is longer than the diameter dimension of the game ball. As a result, when the game ball flowing down the payout passage 122 reaches the recess 124 a of the rotating body 124, the gaming ball is led to the downstream side as the rotating body 124 rotates.

  Here, as described above, since the 60-pulse drive signal is output from the MPU of the payout control device 141 so that the rotating body 124 makes one rotation, the rotating body 124 is formed with recesses 124a at two locations at intervals of 180 °. In the configuration, one game ball is led out to the downstream side by the rotating body 124 and then a 30-pulse drive signal is given to the payout motor 125, whereby the next game ball is led out to the downstream side. It should be noted that the number of pulses of the drive signal necessary for one rotation of the rotating body 124 and the drive signal required for the next game ball to be derived downstream after one game ball is derived downstream. The number of pulses is not limited to the above and is arbitrary.

  A payout ball detection sensor 126 having a substantially flat plate shape is installed in the payout passage 122 at a position downstream of the housing portion 123. The payout ball detection sensor 126 is configured by a known electromagnetic induction type proximity sensor, and converts a magnetic field change caused by the game ball passing through the through hole 127a of the detection unit 127 into an electric signal and outputs the electric signal. The payout ball detection sensor 126 is electrically connected to the payout control device 141, and the payout control device 141 can confirm the number of game balls led out to the downstream side of the rotating body 124 by the payout ball detection sensor 126. It is like that.

  The game balls paid out from the payout device 114 are supplied to the game ball distribution unit 128 provided in the back pack 101. The game ball distribution unit 128 has a plurality of openings arranged side by side in the left-right direction, and the inner opening communicates with the upper plate 81 via the front door side upper plate passage 84 described above. Is communicated with the lower plate 82 via the front door side lower plate passage 85 described above. The game balls paid out from the payout device 114 are distributed to either the upper plate 81 or the lower plate 82 by the game ball distribution unit 128.

  A backpack substrate 131 is installed in the dispensing mechanism unit 102. The back pack substrate 131 is supplied with, for example, a main power of 24 volts AC, and is turned on or off by a switching operation of a power switch 132 as a power operation unit.

  The back pack 101 is provided with an external terminal plate 133 at the upper right portion thereof. The external terminal plate 133 has an output terminal for outputting a signal when the inner frame 13 is opened, an output terminal for outputting a signal when the front door frame 14 is opened, and a signal for outputting a signal during a big hit (in a special gaming state). An output terminal and an output terminal for outputting a signal when the light emission color switching display for one game time in the first specific lamp unit (specific display unit) 43 is completed are provided. And the signal regarding the state on the pachinko machine 10 side is output to the management device (or hall computer) on the game hall side through these output terminals.

  Here, if the output terminal corresponding to the first specific lamp unit 43 has a function of outputting a signal indicating that one game has been completed, the light emission color switching display is completed. It does not have to output a signal. In this case, one game time means that when a lottery is performed based on a single winning to the operation port (lottery opportunity entrance ball part) 33, 34, the display showing the lottery result starts and ends. It means up to. Note that the output terminal corresponding to the first specific lamp unit 43 only needs to output a signal that can specify that one game is being executed. For example, when one game is being executed, a signal is output. It is good also as a structure which performs a signal output when one game time starts or the structure which performs this.

  Further, the game times are not started during the jackpot, and basically, the signal output during the jackpot and the signal output when one game round is completed do not occur simultaneously. However, when the occurrence of fraud, which will be described later, is specified by the main control device, these signal outputs are performed simultaneously. Thereby, in the management apparatus of the game hall side, when these signals are input simultaneously, it is grasped that fraud is detected on the pachinko machine 10 side.

  That is, the external terminal plate 133 is provided with the first output terminal and the second output terminal separately for the first situation and the second situation that do not occur at the same time. When a third situation that is neither of the two situations occurs, signal output is performed from both the first output terminal and the second output terminal. As a result, the number of terminals of the external terminal board 133 can be reduced, and the cost of the pachinko machine 10 can be reduced, and the number of input terminals can also be reduced in the management device on the game hall side. Reduction. Note that the third situation may be a situation in which a predetermined abnormality is detected instead of the situation in which the injustice is detected as described above.

  The back pack 101 is provided with an inner frame opening switch 134 for detecting whether the inner frame 13 is opened (or closed) outside the external terminal plate 133. When the inner frame 13 is closed with respect to the outer frame 11, the metal contact of the switch 134 is closed and the closing of the inner frame 13 is detected. When the inner frame 13 is opened with respect to the outer frame 11, the metal contact is opened. The opening of the inner frame 13 is detected.

  Incidentally, the inner frame opening switch 134 outputs a HI level signal as an inner frame opening signal to the main controller 91 when the inner frame 13 is in an open state, and a LOW level signal when the inner frame 13 is in a closed state. Is output. However, the signal output mode is not limited to this, and the relationship between the HI level signal and the LOW level signal may be reversed.

  A control device collective unit 103 is attached to the lower end of the back pack 101. The control device assembly unit 103 includes a payout control device 141, a power source / launch control device 142, and a ball rental connection terminal plate 143. The payout control device 141, the power supply / launch control device 142, and the ball lending connection terminal plate 143 have the payout control device 141 and the ball lend connection terminal plate 143 behind the pachinko machine 10 and the power supply / launch control device 142 becomes the pachinko machine 10. They are placed one behind the other so as to be in front. Note that the above-described discharge passage is formed in the control device assembly unit 103.

  The payout control device 141 is configured such that a payout control substrate for controlling the payout device 114 is accommodated in a substrate box 144 made of a transparent resin material or the like. In addition, the payout control device 141 is provided with a state return switch 145. For example, when the state return switch 145 is pressed when a payout error occurs, such as a ball jam in the payout device 114, the ball jam is eliminated. Further, a 7-segment display 146 is mounted on the payout control board, and the display content of the 7-segment display 146 can be visually recognized through the board box 144 by opening the inner frame 13 with respect to the outer frame 11. ing.

  The power source and launch control device 142 generates predetermined power required by various control devices and the like, and the power source and launch control board that controls the launch of the game ball in accordance with the operation of the launch handle 54 by the player is made of a transparent resin material, etc. The board box 147 is configured to be accommodated. The power supply and launch control device 142 is provided with a RAM erase switch 148. This pachinko machine 10 has a function for storing and storing various data. Even if a power interruption occurs, the pachinko machine 10 maintains the state when the power is interrupted. You can return. Therefore, for example, when the power supply is turned off in the normal procedure, as in the case of the game hall being closed, the state before the turn-off is stored and held. However, when the power is turned on while pressing the RAM erase switch 148, the RAM data is initialized. It is like that.

  The ball lending connection terminal plate 143 is electrically connected to the ball lending device Y, the payout control device 141, and the ball lending operation device 71 on the front surface of the pachinko machine 10, and mainly takes a command of a ball lending operation by a player and uses it. This is output to the payout control device 141.

<Electric configuration of pachinko machine 10>
Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko machine 10 will be described based on the block diagram of FIG. In FIG. 9, a power supply line is indicated by a double line arrow, and a signal line is indicated by a solid line arrow.

  The main control device 91 is provided with a main control board 201 and a power interruption monitoring board (power failure monitoring board) 203. An MPU 211 is mounted on the main control board 201. The MPU 211 temporarily stores various control programs executed by the MPU 211 and a ROM (non-volatile storage means) 212 storing fixed value data, and various data when the control program stored in the ROM 212 is executed. A RAM (volatile storage means) 213, which is a memory for storing data, and various circuits such as an interrupt circuit, a timer circuit, and a data input / output circuit are incorporated. Note that some or all of the MPU 211, the ROM 212, and the RAM 213 may be provided as separate chips.

  The MPU 211 is provided with an input port 211a and an output port. Note that an input / output port may be provided, and input / output may be appropriately changed in the MPU 211. The same applies to other MPUs described later.

  Connected to the input port 211a of the MPU 211 are a power interruption monitoring board 203, a payout control board 222 provided in the payout control device 141, and other sensor groups (not shown). In this case, a power supply and launch control board 221 is connected to the power interruption monitoring board 203, and power is supplied to the MPU 211 via the power interruption monitoring board 203.

  As part of the switch group, the detection results (detection signals) of the magnetic detection sensor 105, the photo sensor 106, and the vibration detection sensor 107 are input to the MPU 211, and the front door frame opening switch 22 and the inner frame opening switch 134 are also input. Each detection result (each detection signal) is input to the MPU 211. In this case, the RAM 213 has a fraud confirmation counter area 215 as fraud confirmation measuring means used to confirm whether fraud has occurred based on the detection results of the magnetic detection sensor 105, the photo sensor 106, and the vibration detection sensor 107. And a fraud detection flag storage area (fraud detection information storage means) 216 for storing a fraud detection flag as fraud confirmation information which is information indicating that the fraud has been confirmed. .

  In addition, as a part of the switch group, a plurality of detection sensors provided in the ball entrance such as the operation ports 33 and 34 and the variable prize winning device 32 are connected, and the MPU 211 of the main control device 91 enters the ball entrance. Ball determination is performed. Further, the MPU 211 executes the jackpot occurrence determination based on the entrance to the operation ports 33 and 34 in the entrance portion.

  Here, an electrical configuration for determining the occurrence of a jackpot in the MPU 211 will be described with reference to FIG.

  The MPU 211 uses various counter information during the game to perform jackpot lottery, setting the emission color of the first specific lamp unit 43, setting the symbol display of the symbol display device 41, and so on. The jackpot random number counter C1 used for the lottery, the jackpot type counter C2 used when determining the jackpot type such as the probability variation jackpot or the normal jackpot, and the reach random number counter used for the reach lottery when the symbol display device 41 is changed and fluctuated. C3, the random number initial value counter CINI used for setting the initial value of the jackpot random number counter C1, the period for switching the color displayed on the first specific lamp unit 43, and the symbol variable display time on the symbol display device 41 are determined. The fluctuation type counter CS to be used is used.

  Each of the counters C1 to C3, CINI, and CS 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 213. The RAM 213 is provided with a holding ball storage buffer including one execution area and four holding areas (holding first to fourth areas). In each of these areas, a game to the operation ports 33 and 34 is provided. The values of the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2 and the reach random number counter C3 are stored in time series in accordance with the ball entry history.

  For details of each counter, the jackpot random number counter C1 is configured such that, for example, 1 is sequentially added within a range of 0 to 676, and after reaching the maximum value (that is, 676), it returns to 0. In particular, when the jackpot random number counter C1 makes one round, the value of the random number initial value counter CINI at that time is read as the initial value of the jackpot random number counter C1. The random number initial value counter CINI is a loop counter similar to the big hit random number counter C1 (value = 0 to 676). The big hit random number counter C1 is periodically updated, and stored in the reserved ball storage buffer of the RAM 213 at the timing when the game ball enters the operation ports 33 and 34.

  The jackpot type counter C2 is incremented by 1 within a range of 0 to 49, and reaches a maximum value (that is, 49) and then returns to 0. In the present embodiment, the jackpot type counter C2 determines whether the probability change state or the normal state is set after the jackpot is finished. The jackpot type counter C2 is periodically updated, and stored in the reserved ball storage buffer of the RAM 213 at the timing when the game ball enters the operation ports 33 and 34.

  For example, the reach random number counter C3 is incremented one by one within a range of 0 to 238, for example, and reaches a maximum value (that is, 238) and then returns to 0. The reach random number counter C3 is periodically updated and stored in the reserved ball storage buffer of the RAM 213 at the timing when the game ball enters the operation ports 33 and 34.

  For example, the variation type counter CS is incremented one by one within a range of 0 to 240, for example, and reaches a maximum value (that is, 240) and then returns to 0. The switching display time as a period for switching the color displayed on the first specific lamp unit 43 is determined by the variation type counter CS. This switching display time corresponds to the symbol fluctuation display time of the symbol display device 41. The variation type counter CS is updated once every time a normal process to be described later is executed once, and is repeatedly updated even within the remaining time in the normal process. Then, the buffer value of the variation type counter CS is acquired when switching the color displayed on the first specific lamp unit 43 and when determining the variation pattern at the time of symbol variation start by the symbol display device 41.

  At the start of one game round, the MPU 211 of the main control board 201 uses the values of the counters C1 to C3 and CS stored in the reserved ball storage area to win the big hit lottery or the first specific lamp unit 43. The switching time of the displayed color is determined, and the information on the lottery result and the switching time determined here are transmitted to the sound lamp control device 92 as a game turn command. In the sound lamp control device 92, based on the game turn command, the effect content of the corresponding game time such as the fluctuation pattern in the symbol display device 41 and the presence / absence of reach is determined.

  In addition to the above counters, there is provided a second specific lamp random number counter used for a lottery to determine whether or not the electric accessory 34a of the lower working port 34 is in an open state. The value of the second specific lamp random number counter at that time is acquired at the occurrence timing, and a lottery is performed as to whether or not the electric accessory 34a is to be opened based on the acquired value.

  Returning to the description of FIG. 9, the power interruption monitoring board 203, the payout control board 222, and the relay terminal board 223 are connected to the output ports of the MPU 211. Various commands such as a prize ball command are output to the payout control board 222. Through the relay terminal board 223, the above-mentioned command for gaming etc. is outputted from the main control board 201 to the voice lamp control board 224 provided in the voice lamp control device 92.

  Incidentally, although the MPU 211 has an NMI terminal, no external device is connected to the NMI terminal. However, it is assumed that some signal is input to the NMI terminal due to the influence of noise or the like even in a configuration in which no external device is connected in this way. In this case, the NMI interrupt process is started in the MPU 211, but the NMI interrupt process is set to return immediately without executing any process. Specifically, NMI interrupt processing is set so as to be activated when a signal is input to the NMI terminal, and a return instruction for ending the NMI interrupt processing is stored as the processing content of the NMI interrupt processing. ing. Therefore, even if any signal is input to the NMI terminal due to the influence of noise or the like as described above, the influence hardly occurs. The NMI terminal may be omitted.

  The power interruption monitoring board 203 relays between the main control board 201 and the power supply / launch control board 221 and monitors a DC stable voltage of 24 volts, which is the maximum voltage output from the power supply / launch control board 221. When this voltage is 22 volts or more, an HI level signal as a non-interruptible signal (first information) is output (transmitted) to the main control board 201. When this voltage is less than 22 volts, the power is shut off. And a LOW level signal as a power interruption signal (second information) is output (transmitted) to the main control board 201. The main control board 201 confirms the input of the LOW level signal in a predetermined manner, and executes a power interruption process (power failure process) to be described later based on the confirmation result. In this case, a power interruption confirmation counter as a power interruption confirmation measuring means (power failure confirmation measuring means) provided in the RAM 213 of the main control board 201 in determining whether or not to execute the power interruption processing. Area 217 and power interruption flag storage area 218 as power interruption occurrence information storage means (power failure occurrence information storage means) are used.

  The payout control board 222 performs payout control of prize balls and the like by the payout device 114. The MPU 231 which is an arithmetic unit includes a ROM 232 storing a control program executed by the MPU 231 and fixed value data, and a RAM 233 used as a work memory. Note that some or all of the MPU 231, the ROM 232, and the RAM 233 may be provided as separate chips.

  The MPU 231 of the payout control board 222 is provided with an input port and an output port. A main control board 201, a power and launch control board 221, and a backpack board 131 are connected to the input side of the MPU 231. Further, the main control board 201 and the back pack board 131 are connected to the output side of the MPU 231.

  The power and launch control board 221 includes a power-on power supply unit 221a and a launch control unit 221b. The power-on power supply unit 221a is connected to, for example, a commercial power supply (external power supply) in a game hall or the like. Then, based on the external power supplied from the commercial power supply, necessary operating power is generated for each of the main control board 201, the payout control board 222, etc., and the generated operating power is indicated by a double line arrow. This is supplied to the main control board 201 and the payout control board 222 through the path. As its outline, the power-on power supply unit 221a takes in the AC 24 volt power supplied via the back pack substrate 131, and DC + 12V power for driving various sensors, motors, etc., DC + 5V for logic Electric power and the like are generated, and these DC + 12V power and DC + 5V power are supplied to the main control board 201, the payout control board 222, and the like.

  The launch control unit 221b is responsible for launch control of the game ball launch mechanism 53 according to the operation of the launch handle 54 by the player, and the game ball launch mechanism 53 is driven when predetermined launch conditions are met.

  The power source and launch control board 221 is equipped with a power source unit 221c for power interruption. The power-off power supply unit 221c is composed of a capacitor. When the power supply of the pachinko machine 10 is in an ON state (when power is supplied from an external power supply), the power supplied from the power-on power supply unit 221a Charged. In addition, when the power of the pachinko machine 10 is in an OFF state or when a power interruption occurs such as when a power interruption occurs in a commercial power supply (when power supply from an external power source is interrupted), the power supply unit 221c is discharged from the interruption. Memory holding power is supplied to the RAM 213 of the main control board 201. Therefore, even in such a situation, the information stored in the RAM 213 is stored and held without being erased while the power for storing and holding is supplied from the power supply unit 221c for power interruption.

  Incidentally, the capacity of the power supply unit 221c for power interruption is secured relatively large, and information stored in the RAM 213 before the power supply is cut off is retained within a predetermined period (for example, 1 day or 2 days). Further, the power interruption power supply unit 221c is not limited to a capacitor, and may be a battery or a non-rechargeable battery. In the case of a non-rechargeable battery, it is not necessary to charge the power supply means for power interruption when the power of the pachinko machine 10 is ON, but it is necessary to replace it periodically.

  The power supply and launch control board 221 is provided with a power interruption processing power supply unit that is different from the power interruption power supply unit 221c. In the power supply and launch control board 221, even after the DC stable 24 volt power supply becomes less than 22 volts, the power supply unit for the power interruption processing discharges, so that a sufficient time for execution of the power interruption processing described later is performed. During this time, the output of 5 volts, which is the drive power supply for the control system, is maintained at a normal value. Thereby, the main control board 201 and the like can normally execute and complete the power interruption process.

  The sound lamp control board 224 controls the error display lamp unit 63, the speaker unit 64, and the display control device 225. The MPU 241 that is an arithmetic unit includes a ROM 242 that stores a control program executed by the MPU 241, fixed value data, and the like, and a RAM 243 that is used as a work memory and the like.

  The MPU 241 of the sound lamp control board 224 is provided with an input port and an output port. The main control board 201 is connected to the input side of the MPU 241 via the relay terminal board 223. Based on various commands output from the main control board 201, the error display lamp unit 63, the speaker unit 64, and the display The control device 225 is controlled. The display control device 225 controls the symbol display device 41 based on a display command input from the sound lamp control board 224.

<Processing Configuration in MPU 211 of Main Control Board 201>
Next, each control process executed by the MPU 211 of the main control board 201 will be described. The processing of the MPU 211 is roughly classified into a main process that is started when the power is turned on and a timer interrupt process that is started by periodically interrupting the normal process of the main process. The process will be described, and then the main process will be described.

  In the following description, processes other than the processes related to the game ball payout control will be described first, and then the processes related to the game ball payout control will be described. In order to facilitate understanding, the MPU 211 of the main control board 201 is referred to as a main MPU 211, the RAM 213 of the main control board 201 is referred to as a main RAM 213, and the MPU 231 of the payout control board 222 is referred to as a payout MPU 231. The RAM 233 of the payout control board 222 is referred to as a payout side RAM 233.

<Timer interrupt processing>
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing timer interrupt processing. The timer interrupt process is periodically started as described above. In this case, the present embodiment is configured to be activated at a cycle of 2 msec, but this cycle is arbitrary. However, since the timer interrupt processing is set to be executed repeatedly in a short cycle such as confirmation of power interruption signal or fraud detection signal, confirmation of various winnings, etc., other processing is set. It is preferably set shorter than the repetition period of the normal process described later.

  In the timer interruption process, first, a reading process is executed in step S101. In the reading process, the information input to the input port 211a from the ball detection sensor provided separately for the general winning port 31, the variable winning device 32, the upper operating port 33, the lower operating port 34 and the through gate 35 is confirmed. Then, the presence / absence of a ball entering each ball club is specified from the confirmation result. Specifically, input of a signal (for example, a LOW level signal) corresponding to not detecting a game ball in any one process is confirmed, and a game ball is detected in the subsequent two processes. When the input of a signal (for example, an HI level signal) corresponding to being performed is continuously confirmed, it is specified that a game ball has entered in the entrance corresponding to the detection sensor.

  Further, in the reading process in step S101, a power interruption signal reading process for specifying whether or not a power interruption has occurred is executed based on information input to the input port 211a. The power interruption signal reading process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In the power interruption signal reading process, first, in step S201, the information input from the power interruption monitoring board 203 to the input port 211a is confirmed, and whether or not the power interruption signal is input based on the input information. Determine whether. Specifically, the power interruption monitoring board 203 outputs a HI level signal as a non-power interruption signal when the occurrence of power interruption is not detected, and the electric power interruption monitoring board 203 when the occurrence of power interruption is detected. The main control board 201 is provided with an inverting circuit, and when the HI level signal is output from the power interruption monitoring board 203, the LOW level signal is output as the disconnection signal. In the power interruption confirmation area consisting of 1 bit, “0” as no data is stored, and when the power interruption monitoring board 203 outputs a LOW level signal, the power interruption confirmation area of the input port 211a contains “1” as existence data is stored. In step S201, it is determined whether or not “1” is stored in the power interruption confirmation area.

  If it is determined that the power interruption signal is not input, the information of the power interruption confirmation counter area 217 in the main RAM 213 is set as the power interruption reference number information in step S202. Specifically, the information in the power interruption confirmation counter area 217 is set to “2”. Thereafter, the power interruption signal reading process is terminated.

  If it is determined that the power interruption signal is input, 1 is subtracted from the information in the power interruption confirmation counter area 217 in step S203. In a succeeding step S204, it is determined whether or not the power interruption confirmation counter area 217 is “0”. If it is not “0”, the power interruption signal reading process is terminated as it is. If it is “0”, a power interruption flag (information “1”) as power interruption occurrence information (power interruption occurrence information) is stored in the power interruption flag storage area 218 in the main RAM 213 in step S205. To do. Thereafter, the power interruption signal reading process is terminated.

  As described above, in the pachinko machine 10, even if the input of the power interruption signal is confirmed in the main MPU 211, the occurrence of the power interruption is not immediately identified, but the power interruption reference times set as a plurality of times (specifically, (2 times) confirmation timing, that is, power interruption occurs when input of the power interruption signal is confirmed continuously over the number of times of power interruption reference timer interruption processing set as multiple times. Identifies As a result, even if the power interruption signal is input once due to electrical noise or the like, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of power interruption. In addition, the specific value of the power interruption reference times is not limited to “2”, and may be any number as long as it is plural, and may be “3” or “4” or more, for example.

  Returning to the description of the timer interrupt process (FIG. 11), after executing the signal reading process, in step S102, it is determined whether or not the fraud detection flag is stored in the fraud detection flag storage area 216 in the main RAM 213. When the fraud detection flag is not stored, the presence / absence of fraud is specified based on the detection results of the magnetic detection sensor 105, the photo sensor 106, and the vibration detection sensor 107, and the occurrence of fraud is specified. Executes a fraud monitoring process for storing the fraud detection flag.

  The fraud monitoring process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In the fraud monitoring process, an illegal signal reading process is first executed in step S301. The illegal system signal reading process is individually executed for the magnetic detection sensor 105, the photo sensor 106, and the vibration detection sensor 107. The processing configuration of the illegal system signal reading process for each of the sensors 105 to 107 is basically the same, although the types of sensors to be confirmed are different. One illegal system signal reading process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In the illegal system signal reading process, first, in step S401, information input from a predetermined sensor, for example, the magnetic detection sensor 105, to the input port 211a is confirmed, and a detection signal is input based on the input information. It is determined whether or not. Specifically, the magnetism detection sensor 105 outputs a HI level signal as a non-detection signal when no magnetism is detected, and outputs a LOW level signal as a detection signal when magnetism is detected. However, the main control board 201 is provided with an inverting circuit, and when the HI level signal is output from the magnetic detection sensor 105, it serves as an fraud confirmation area consisting of 1 bit of the input port 211a. “0” as no data is stored in the magnetic detection confirmation area, and when the LOW level signal is output from the magnetic detection sensor 105, “0” as existence data is present in the magnetic detection confirmation area of the input port 211a. 1 "is stored. In step S401, it is determined whether or not “1” is stored in the magnetic detection confirmation area.

  If it is determined that no fraud detection signal is input, in step S402, information on the counter area corresponding to the current fraud signal reading process in the fraud confirmation counter area 215 of the main RAM 213 is obtained as fraud reference count information. To "2" information. That is, in the fraud confirmation counter area 215, counter areas are set in a one-to-one correspondence with the magnetic detection sensor 105, the photo sensor 106, and the vibration detection sensor 107, for example, corresponding to the magnetic detection sensor 105. In the illegal system signal reading process, in step S402, information on the counter area corresponding to the magnetic detection sensor 105 is set as the illegal reference number information. Thereafter, the illegal signal reading process is terminated.

  If it is determined that a fraud detection signal is input, in step S403, 1 is subtracted from the counter area information corresponding to the current fraud signal reading process among the counter areas in the fraud confirmation counter area 215. To do. In subsequent step S404, it is determined whether or not the counter area to be subtracted in step S403 is “0”. If it is not “0”, the illegal signal reading process is terminated as it is. If it is “0”, in step S405, the illegal information about the sensor corresponding to the current illegal signal reading process is stored in the register of the main MPU 211. Thereafter, the illegal signal reading process is terminated.

  As described above, in the pachinko machine 10, even if the input of the fraud detection signal is confirmed in the main MPU 211, it is not immediately determined that fraud has occurred. 2) confirmation timing, that is, when the input of the above-described fraud detection signal is confirmed continuously over the number of times of the activation of the timer interruption processing of the fraud standard time set as multiple times, Identify. As a result, even if the detection signal is input once due to electrical noise or the like, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of an unauthorized occurrence.

  Returning to the description of the fraud monitoring process (FIG. 13), after executing the illegal signal reading process, various determination processes in steps S302 to S304 are performed. That is, in step S302, it is determined whether or not unauthorized information about the magnetic detection sensor 105 is stored in the register of the main MPU 211. In step S303, incorrect information about the photosensor 106 is stored in the register of the main MPU 211. In step S304, it is determined whether or not unauthorized information about the vibration detection sensor 107 is stored in the register of the main MPU 211.

  If all of the fraud information is not stored and a negative determination is made in all of steps S302 to S304, the fraud monitoring process is terminated as it is. If any of the above fraud information is stored and an affirmative determination is made in any of steps S302 to S304, the fraud detection processing after step S305 is executed.

  In other words, when the illegal information about the magnetic detection sensor 105 is stored, the act of trying to illegally guide the game ball to the ball entrance 173 by bringing the magnet close to the ball entrance 173 in front of the glass 62 is performed. It means that In addition, the case where unauthorized information about the photosensor 106 is stored means that a hand or the like is waiting in front of the glass 62 corresponding to the periphery of the ball entrance 173. In addition, when illegal information about the vibration detection sensor 107 is stored, an act of forcibly winning a game ball rolling on the rolling surface 174 to the upper operating port 33 is performed. Means that If any of these fraud information is stored, the fraud detection processing after step S305 is executed.

  In step S305, the fraud detection flag is stored in the fraud detection flag storage area 216 of the main RAM 213. By storing the fraud detection flag, it is possible to specify in the main MPU 211 that the fraudulent act using the magnet has been performed or the fraudulent act giving the vibration has been performed.

  In subsequent step S306, the fraud detection command is output to each of the payout side MPU 231 and the MPU 241 of the sound lamp control board 224. The payout side MPU 231 executes a process for restricting payout of game balls by inputting a fraud detection command from the main side MPU 211. The process for limiting will be described later.

  Further, the MPU 241 of the sound lamp control board 224 drives and controls various notification units so as to execute a predetermined fraud notification by inputting a fraud detection command from the main MPU 211. For example, any one of lighting of the error display lamp unit 63, output of a warning sound from the speaker unit 64, or display of the fraud detection image on the symbol display device 41 may be used. Combinations are possible.

  In the subsequent step S307, illegal information is output to the external terminal output port. Thereby, a fraud detection signal is output to the management device on the game hall side through the external terminal board 133, and it can be grasped that the fraudulent act has been performed on the pachinko machine 10 in the management device on the game hall side. Here, as already described in the pachinko machine 10, the external terminal plate 133 is not provided with an output terminal for fraud detection signals. Therefore, here, as the fraud detection signal, the jackpot medium-use signal and the signal at the end of one game round are simultaneously output. Thereafter, the fraud monitoring process is terminated.

  Returning to the description of the timer interrupt process (FIG. 11), if it is determined in step S102 that the fraud detection flag is stored, or after executing the fraud monitoring process in step S103, the initial random number is determined in step S104. Update the value counter CINI. In subsequent step S105, the big hit random number counter C1, the big hit type counter C2, and the reach random number counter C3 are updated.

  Thereafter, in step S106, it is determined whether or not a fraud detection flag is stored. If the fraud detection flag is stored, the timer interrupt process is terminated. If the fraud detection flag is not stored, a start winning process is executed in step S107.

  In the start winning process, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 15, first, in step S501, it is determined whether or not the operating port flag is stored in the operating port flag storage area of the RAM 213. , 34 is determined whether or not a prize (starting prize) has been won. The operating port flag is stored when winning in the upper operating port 33 or the lower operating port 34 is confirmed in step S101.

  If it is determined that the game ball has won the operating holes 33, 34, in the subsequent step S502, the number N of the operation reserved balls of the first specific lamp unit 43 and the symbol display device 41 is less than the upper limit value (4 in the present embodiment). It is determined whether or not there is. The process proceeds to step S503 on the condition that there is a winning at the operation ports 33 and 34 and the number N of activated balls is <4, and 1 is added to the number N of activated balls. Note that the operation port flag is deleted after the process of step S503. In subsequent step S504, the values of the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2 and the reach random number counter C3 updated in step S503 are stored in the first area among the free storage areas of the reserved ball storage area of the RAM 213. Then, after the start winning process, the MPU 211 once ends the timer interrupt process.

  As described above, in the timer interrupt process, when the fraud detection flag is stored in the main RAM 213 by executing the process of step S102 and the process of step S106, the fraud monitoring process and the start winning process are performed. Not executed. Of these, in particular, when the start winning process is not executed, and the occurrence of an illegal act using the magnet or an illegal act giving the vibration is specified, a prize is awarded to the operation ports 33 and 34. Even if it does, the execution of the big hit lottery with respect to it can be controlled.

  On the other hand, regardless of whether or not the fraud detection flag is stored, the processes of step S101, step S104, and step S105 are executed to give an illegal act using the magnet or the vibration. Even when the occurrence of an illegal act is specified, it is possible to maintain the update of the random number counter used for the jackpot lottery and to maintain the periodic confirmation of the input port 211a.

<Main processing>
Next, the main process that is started upon reset at power-on will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  First, in step S601, a startup process associated with power-on is executed. Specifically, in order to wait for the slave control board (such as the payout control board 222) to become operable, it waits for about 500 msec, for example.

  In a succeeding step S602, it is determined whether or not 1 sec which is a permission prohibition period has elapsed after the start-up process in the step S601. If 1 sec has not elapsed, the process of step S602 is executed again. This time measurement is performed by counting the number of times of processing in step S602. For example, if the time required for executing the process of step S602 again after making a negative determination in step S602 is 0.1 msec, the count value becomes 10,000 times, and thus after the start-up process of step S601 It is determined that 1 sec has passed. Note that the specific configuration of time measurement is arbitrary, and for example, time measurement may be performed using a real-time clock. If it is determined in step S602 that 1 sec has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S603.

  In step S603, access to the main RAM 213 is permitted. Thereafter, in step S604, it is determined whether or not the RAM erase switch 148 provided in the power supply and launch control device 142 is turned on. In subsequent step S605, it is determined whether or not the power interruption flag is stored in the main RAM 213. To do. In step S606, a RAM determination value is calculated. In subsequent step S607, it is determined whether or not the RAM determination value matches the RAM determination value stored when the power is turned off, that is, the validity of the stored data. The RAM determination value is, for example, a checksum value at the work area address of the main RAM 213. It is also possible to determine the validity of the stored data based on whether or not the keywords written in a predetermined area of the main RAM 213 are correctly stored.

  As described above, in the pachinko machine 10, when RAM data is initialized when the power is turned on, for example, at the start of business in a hall, the power is turned on while the RAM erase switch 148 is pressed. Therefore, if the RAM erase switch 148 is pressed, the process proceeds to steps S608 to S609. Similarly, when the information on occurrence of power shutdown is not set, or when abnormality of data stored and held is confirmed by the RAM determination value (checksum value or the like), the process proceeds to steps S608 to S609.

  In step S608, the used area of the RAM 213 is cleared to 0 (initialized), and in step S609, initialization processing of the RAM 213 is executed. Thereafter, interrupt permission is set in step S610, and the routine proceeds to normal processing described later.

  On the other hand, if the RAM erase switch 148 has not been pressed, the main side is determined in step S611 on condition that the power interruption flag is stored and the RAM determination value (checksum value etc.) is normal. The power interruption flag is erased from the RAM 213, and the RAM determination value stored in the main RAM 213 is erased in step S612. In step S613, the fraud detection flag is deleted from the main RAM 213. In other words, when the fraud detection using the magnet or the fraud that gives the vibration is specified and the fraud detection flag is stored, the state in which the fraud detection flag is stored is the power supply of the pachinko machine 10. This is maintained until an OFF operation and an ON operation are performed. Thereafter, interrupt permission is set in step S610, and the routine proceeds to normal processing described later. Thereby, it returns to the state before power-off.

<Normal processing>
Next, normal processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In the normal process, in step S701, the variation type counter CS is updated. In the subsequent step S702, a first specific lamp unit control process for switching the color displayed on the first specific lamp unit 43 is executed. In the first specific lamp unit control process, jackpot determination, on / off control of a light source switch of an LED lamp disposed in the first specific lamp unit 43, and the like are performed. In the first specific lamp unit control process, the symbol display device 41 also sets the variable display of the first symbol.

  Specifically, it is determined whether or not the jackpot is based on the value of the jackpot random number counter C1, and further determines the type of jackpot based on the value of the jackpot type counter C2 (determines whether or not it is a so-called probabilistic jackpot). . Further, based on the value of the reach random number counter C3 and the value of the variation type counter CS, the color switching display time displayed on the first specific lamp unit 43 and the variation display time of the first symbol are determined. Each time the on / off control of the first specific lamp unit 43 is started in the first specific lamp unit control process, the number N of the operation-reserved balls is decremented by 1 and when the number of operation-reserved balls N is 0, the on / off control is performed. Does not start.

  After the first specific lamp unit control process, a special winning opening opening / closing process is executed in step S703. In the big prize opening / closing process, the big prize opening of the variable prize winning device 32 is opened or closed in the case of a big hit state. That is, it is determined whether the big winning opening is opened for each round of the big hit state, and whether the maximum opening time of the big winning opening has passed or whether a predetermined number of game balls have been won in the big winning opening. The determination as to whether or not the prescribed number has been won is made by checking the special prize counter. When either of these conditions is satisfied, the special winning opening is closed.

  Thereafter, in step S704, a second specific lamp unit control process for performing a process of switching the color displayed on the second specific lamp unit 44 is executed. In the second specific lamp unit control process, switching of the display color in the second specific lamp unit 44 is started on the condition that the number of retained gate balls is 1 or more. At this time, the display color switching time is also set. In addition, a color for stop display is set based on the value of the second specific lamp random number counter already acquired. When a predetermined color is set as the stop-displayed color, the electric accessory 34a attached to the lower working port 34 is opened for a predetermined time after the stop display of the color.

  After step S704, a game ball launch control process is executed in step S705. In the game ball launch control process, the game ball launch mechanism 53 is once per predetermined period (for example, 0.6 sec) on condition that a launch permission signal is input from the launch control unit 221b of the power source and launch control board 221. Energize the solenoid. Thereby, the game ball on the launch rail of the game ball launch mechanism 53 is launched toward the game area. More specifically, the main MPU 211 repeats “0” output and “1” output to the launch output port at a predetermined period on condition that the launch permission signal is input. While “0” is output to the firing output port, a non-firing signal is output to the power source and the firing control board 221, and the firing control unit 221b sets the solenoid in a non-excited state. On the other hand, while “1” is output to the launch output port, a launch signal is output to the power source and launch control board 221, and the launch controller 221 b sets the solenoid in an excited state.

  That is, the main MPU 211 outputs a firing pulse signal to the power supply and launch control board 221. The launch control unit 221b of the power source and launch control board 221 outputs a solenoid drive signal (drive voltage) obtained by amplifying the voltage of the launch pulse signal to the solenoid, and moves the output shaft of the solenoid to the launch position and the accommodation position. Thus, the launch of the game ball is controlled.

  After step S705, an input state monitoring process is executed in step S706, and a payout output process is executed in step S707. Since these processes are processes related to payout control of game balls, they will be described later.

  Thereafter, in step S708, it is determined whether or not the power interruption flag is stored in the main RAM 213. In step S709, it is determined whether or not a fraud detection flag is stored in the main RAM 213. And the process according to the storage condition of these power interruption flags and fraud detection flags is performed. By the way, the determination process of whether or not the power interruption flag is stored is executed before the determination process of whether or not the fraud detection flag is stored. Processing according to the flag is prioritized.

  Here, in this pachinko machine 10, (1) when both the power interruption flag and the fraud detection flag are not stored, (2) when the power interruption flag is not stored and the fraud detection flag is stored, (3) When the power interruption flag is stored, different processing is executed for each of them. Therefore, the processing of each of these situations will be described individually below.

<When both the power interruption flag and fraud detection flag are not stored>
First, a case where both the power interruption flag and the fraud detection flag are not stored will be described.

  If both the power interruption flag and the fraud detection flag are not stored, a negative determination is made in both step S708 and step S709, and the process proceeds to step S712. In step S712, whether or not the next normal process execution timing has been reached, that is, the timer interrupt process has been set as a predetermined number of times (specifically, twice) from the start of the previous normal process has occurred. It is determined whether or not. Specifically, the main-side RAM 213 is provided with an interrupt counter area so that the value of the counter area is incremented by 1 each time the timer interrupt is activated, and the step S701 is followed. The value in the counter area is cleared to 0 (initialized) at the timing immediately before the process is executed. If the timer interrupt processing has not occurred for the reference number of times, the process proceeds to step S713.

  In step S713, the random number initial value counter CINI is updated. Specifically, the random number initial value counter CINI is incremented by 1 and cleared to 0 (initialized) when the counter value reaches the maximum value. Then, the update value of the random number initial value counter CINI is stored in the corresponding buffer area of the main RAM 213. In step S714, the variation type counter CS is updated. Specifically, the variation type counter CS is incremented by 1 and cleared (initialized) to 0 when the counter values reach the maximum value. Then, the update value of the variation type counter CS is stored in the corresponding buffer area of the main RAM 213.

  Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S708. And since this time is a process when both the power interruption flag and the fraud detection flag are not stored, a negative determination is made in both step S708 and step S709, and the process proceeds to step S712. Thereafter, the above-described processing is repeated from the start of the previous normal processing until the timer interrupt processing has occurred for the interrupt reference count, and when the interrupt reference count is reached, the processing returns to step S701. That is, when both the power interruption flag and the fraud detection flag are not stored, the processing from step S701 to step S707 is repeatedly executed at a cycle of 4 msec. Note that the period is not limited to 4 msec as long as the progress of the game can be well controlled.

<When power failure flag is not stored and fraud detection flag is stored>
Next, the case where the power failure flag is not stored and the fraud detection flag is stored will be described.

  If the power interruption flag is not stored and the fraud detection flag is stored, a negative determination is made in step S708 and an affirmative determination is made in step S709, and the process proceeds to step S710. In step S710, fraud detection handling processing is executed.

  In the fraud detection handling process, “0” is output to the launch output port. As a result, the non-firing signal is output to the power source and the firing control board 221 as described above, and the firing control unit 221b puts the solenoid in a non-excited state. In this case, even if the launch handle 54 has been operated, the state of outputting “0” to the launch output port is maintained until the next game ball launch control process (step S705) is executed, and the game ball is launched. Is prohibited.

  In the fraud detection handling process, “0” is output to all the strobe, solenoid, and display LED related output ports. The strobe-related output port is a port for setting the output of the strobe signal to another control board such as the payout control board 222, and is input from the main MPU 211 by inputting the strobe signal on the other control board. Execute the command confirmation process. By outputting “0” to the strobe related output port, the output of the strobe signal is stopped and the state of outputting “0” to the strobe related output port is maintained until the next command output is executed. The strobe signal output is prohibited.

  The solenoid-related output port is a port for setting the open / close state of the variable winning device 32. In the situation where "1" is output, the variable winning device 32 is in an open state and "0" is output. In such a situation, the variable winning device 32 is closed. As a result, when the above fraud is performed during the big hit, the variable winning device 32 that has been in the open state is switched to the closed state, and the next big winning opening opening / closing process (step S703) is executed. The state of outputting “0” to the solenoid-related output port is maintained, and the opening of the variable winning device 32 is prohibited.

  The display LED-related output port is a port for setting the display state of the first specific lamp unit 43 and the second specific lamp unit 44, and the light emission is stopped in a situation where "0" is output. It becomes a state. Thereby, when the said fraudulent act is performed, while the light emission in the 1st specific lamp part 43 and the 2nd specific lamp part 44 is stopped, the next specific lamp part control process (step S702 or step S704) is carried out. Until it is executed, the state of outputting “0” to the display LED system output port is maintained, and light emission of the first specific lamp unit 43 and the second specific lamp unit 44 is prohibited.

  After executing the fraud detection handling process in step S710, the opening detection process is executed in step S711. Here, the opening detection process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The opening detection process is for monitoring whether or not the front door frame 14 and the inner frame 13 are in an opened state in a state where the fraud detection flag is stored, and the fraud detection flag is stored. Whether or not the front door 14 and the inner frame 13 are in the open state in a state where they are not open is separately performed in the input state monitoring process (step S706).

  In the opening detection process, the opening detection process for the front door frame 14 is executed in steps S801 to S805, and the opening detection process for the inner frame 13 is executed in steps S806 to S810.

  In the opening detection process related to the front door frame 14, first, in step S801, it is determined whether or not the front door frame opening flag is stored in the front door frame opening flag storage area provided in the main RAM 213. If the front door frame opening flag is not stored, it is determined in step S802 whether or not an opening detection signal is input from the front door frame opening switch 22.

  When the opening detection signal is not input, the process proceeds to the opening detection process for the inner frame 13 as it is. If an open detection signal is input, the process proceeds to step S803. In step S803, the front door frame opening flag is stored in the main side RAM 213. Further, the front door frame opening command is output to the MPU 241 of the sound lamp control board 224. The MPU 241 of the sound lamp control board 224 inputs and controls the front door frame opening command to drive and control various notification units so as to execute a predetermined front door frame opening notification. Specifically, the front door frame opening notification is based on a display screen that outputs sound from the speaker unit 64, turns on the error display lamp unit 63, or displays a notification character or figure on the display screen of the symbol display device 41. At least one of notifications is performed. Also, output processing to the hall side is executed. Specifically, the front door frame opening information is output to the external terminal output port so that the front door frame opening signal is output to the management device on the game hall side through the external terminal plate 133. Thereby, it can be grasped that the front door frame 14 is in the open state in the management device on the game hall side. Thereafter, the process proceeds to the opening detection process for the inner frame 13.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S801 that the front door frame opening flag is stored, it is determined in step S804 whether an opening detection signal is input from the front door frame opening switch 22.

  When the opening detection signal is input, the process proceeds to the opening detection process for the inner frame 13 as it is. If no opening detection signal is input, the process proceeds to step S805. In step S805, the front door frame opening flag is deleted from the main side RAM 213. Further, the front door frame closing command is output to the MPU 241 of the sound lamp control board 224. In the MPU 241 of the sound lamp control board 224, the front door frame opening notification is terminated by inputting the front door frame closing command. Also, output processing to the hall side is executed. Specifically, the state where the front door frame opening information is output to the external terminal output port is stopped so that the output of the front door frame opening signal to the management device on the game hall side is stopped. Thereby, it can be grasped that the front door frame 14 is in the closed state in the management device on the game hall side. Thereafter, the process proceeds to the opening detection process for the inner frame 13.

  In the release detection process for the inner frame 13, first, in step S806, it is determined whether or not the inner frame release flag is stored in the inner frame release flag storage area provided in the main RAM 213. If the inner frame opening flag is not stored, it is determined in step S807 whether or not an opening detection signal is input from the inner frame opening switch 134.

  If the opening detection signal is not input, the opening detection process is terminated as it is. If an open detection signal is input, the process proceeds to step S808. In step S808, the inner frame release flag is stored in the main RAM 213. Also, an inner frame release command is output to the MPU 241 of the sound lamp control board 224. In the MPU 241 of the sound lamp control board 224, by inputting the inner frame release command, various types of notification units are driven and controlled to execute a predetermined inner frame release notification. Specifically, the inner frame release notification is a notification on a display screen such as outputting sound from the speaker unit 64, turning on the error display lamp unit 63, or displaying a notification character or figure on the display screen of the symbol display device 41. At least one of Note that this inner frame opening notification mode is distinguishable from the above-described front door frame opening notification, but may be the same mode as the front door frame opening notification. Also, output processing to the hall side is executed. Specifically, the inner frame opening information is output to the external terminal output port so that the inner frame opening signal is output to the management device on the game hall side through the external terminal plate 133. Thereby, it can be grasped that the inner frame 13 is in the open state in the management device on the game hall side. Thereafter, the opening detection process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S806 that the inner frame opening flag is stored, it is determined in step S809 whether an opening detection signal is input from the inner frame opening switch 134.

  If the opening detection signal is input, the opening detection process is terminated as it is. If no opening detection signal is input, the process proceeds to step S810. In step S810, the inner frame release flag is erased from the main RAM 213. Further, the inner frame closing command is output to the MPU 241 of the sound lamp control board 224. The MPU 241 of the sound lamp control board 224 terminates the inner frame opening notification by inputting the inner frame closing command. Also, output processing to the hall side is executed. Specifically, the state where the inner frame opening information is output to the external terminal output port is stopped so that the output of the inner frame opening signal to the management device on the game hall side is stopped. Thereby, it can be grasped that the inner frame 13 is in a closed state in the management device on the game hall side. Thereafter, the opening detection process is terminated.

  Returning to the description of the normal process (FIG. 17), after the opening detection process is executed in step S711, the process proceeds to step S713 without executing the process of step S712. As a result, even if the timer interrupt process has already been executed twice at the timing when the fraud detection flag is stored in the main RAM 213, the process of step S712 is not executed and the process does not return to the process of step S701. As a result, the processes in steps S701 to S707, which are a part of the progress process for advancing the game, are not executed, and the game is restricted from progressing.

  As described above, when the fraud detection flag is stored, the fraud monitoring process in step S103 and the start winning process in step S107 of the timer interrupt process (FIG. 11) are not executed. The game will be regulated so that it will not progress.

  Then, after executing the processes of step S713 and step S714, the process returns to step S708. And each process of step S710-step S711 and step S713-step S714 will be repeated.

  Here, even if the process of step S711 is executed and the fraud detection flag is stored and the game is restricted from proceeding as described above, the opening operation of the inner frame 13 and the front door frame are performed. Both 14 open operations can be monitored. For example, assuming a configuration in which the opening operation of the inner frame 13 and the opening operation of the front door frame 14 are not monitored in a state where the fraud detection flag is stored, the inner frame 13 of the inner frame 13 is subjected to vibration after the pachinko machine 10 is vibrated. Even if the opening operation or the opening operation of the front door frame 14 is performed, it cannot be specified in the main MPU 211. If so, there is a concern that an illegal act on the main control device 91 or an illegal act on the game board 24 may be performed in this situation. On the other hand, according to the present configuration, such inconvenience can be prevented. That is, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of further secondary fraud in the situation where the fraud specific state is set.

<When power interruption flag is stored>
Next, a case where the power interruption flag is stored will be described.

  When the power interruption flag is stored, the power interruption process after step S715 is executed regardless of whether the fraud detection flag is stored. That is, in step S715, the generation of the timer interrupt process is prohibited, and then the RAM determination value is calculated and stored in step S716. After the access to the main RAM 213 is prohibited in step S717, the power supply is completely shut off. The infinite loop continues until the process cannot be executed.

  Here, as already described, even if the occurrence of power interruption is specified in the power interruption signal monitoring process (FIG. 12) executed in the timer interruption process (FIG. 11), the power interruption process is immediately executed. Instead, the power failure flag is stored in the main RAM 213, and it is further determined whether or not the power failure flag is stored after performing the processing of steps S701 to S707 in the normal processing, thereby When normal processing is executed later, it is always executed from the first processing. As a result, it is possible to return to the state before the power interruption without storing the address of the process executed when the power interruption occurred in the main RAM 213 as stack information.

  Even if the fraud detection flag is stored, the execution of the power interruption signal monitoring process and the determination process of the power interruption flag in step S708 are still executed, so that the fraud detection flag is stored. Even when a power interruption occurs in a situation, the power interruption process can be executed.

  In addition, by executing the fraud detection handling process within the range of step S708 to step S714 in the normal process, a plurality of power interruption determination processes for determining whether the power interruption flag is stored are set independently. There is no need to do it. For example, in a fraud monitoring process (FIG. 13), assuming a configuration in which a fraud detection corresponding process for restricting a game from progressing is assumed, a power interruption flag is stored as a part of the fraud monitoring process. It is necessary to determine whether or not there is. Then, it is necessary to perform a determination process whether or not the power interruption flag is stored in the normal process and to perform a determination process whether or not the power interruption flag is stored in the fraud monitoring process. On the other hand, in the pachinko machine 10, as described above, it is only necessary to determine whether or not the power interruption flag is stored in the normal process, and the processing load on the main MPU 211 is reduced.

<Electric configuration for paying out game balls>
Next, the electrical configuration and processing configuration related to game ball payout will be described in detail. First, the electrical configuration will be described with reference to the block diagram of FIG. In FIG. 19, a power supply line is indicated by a double line arrow, and a signal line is indicated by a solid line arrow.

  The main control board 201 and the payout control board 222 are electrically connected via an electrical wiring (signal line) such as a harness, and a command as command information is output from the main control board 201 to the payout control board 222. At the same time, various electrical signals are output from the payout control board 222 to the main control board 201.

  Various electric signals including a prize ball permission signal are input from the payout control board 222 to the input port 211a of the main MPU 211, and electric signals from various sensors and the like are input. Details of the winning ball permission signal will be described later. Further, as already described, an electrical signal or the like from the front door frame opening switch 22 and the inner frame opening switch 134 is input to the input port 211a of the main MPU 211.

  The electrical signals output from the front door frame opening switch 22 and the inner frame opening switch 134 are input to the main control board 201 after being relayed to the power supply and launch control board 221 and the payout control board 222. In this case, the dispensing control board 222 only relays electrical signals from the front door frame opening switch 22 and the inner frame opening switch 134 and does not input them to the dispensing side MPU 231. The same applies to the power supply and launch control board 221.

  A configuration of the main RAM 213 relating to paying out game balls will be described.

  The main RAM 213 is provided with a prize ball counter area 251. The prize ball counter area 251 includes 15 prize ball counter areas, 10 prize ball counter areas, 4 prize ball counter areas, and 3 prize ball counter areas.

  Here, as already described in this pachinko machine 10, as a prize ball entry part (or a prize payout passing part), a general prize opening 31, a variable prize winning device 32, an upper action opening 33 and a lower action opening 34 are provided. Are provided, and the number of winning balls (the number of game balls to be paid out) differs depending on each winning ball entrance. Specifically, the number of winning balls when entering the general winning opening 31 is 10, and the number of winning balls when entering the variable winning device 32 is 15, and entering the upper operation opening 33. In this case, the number of prize balls is three, and the number of prize balls when entering the lower working port 34 is four.

  In this configuration, the 15 winning ball counter area stores how many times 15 winning balls are to be made for entering the variable winning device 32, and the 10 winning ball counter area is the general winning slot 31. It memorizes how many more 10 award balls are made for entering the ball, and the 4 ball counter area indicates how many more 4 award balls for entering the lower operation port 34 are to be performed. The three-ball award counter area stores the number of remaining three award balls for entering the upper working port 33. Each counter area for prize balls is composed of one byte, and the number of unimplemented prize balls can be remembered up to 255 times.

  The prize ball number pattern is an example, and each number is arbitrary. Also, the pattern of the number of winning balls is not limited to the above four types, and may be two types, three types, or five types or more. Each prize ball counter area is not limited to 1 byte, and may be 2 bytes or 3 bytes or more. Furthermore, it is not essential that the number of unexecuted prize balls that can be stored in each prize ball counter area is 255 at the maximum, and if multiple times can be stored, it may be less or more than 255 times. Good.

  The main MPU 211 determines whether or not a winning has occurred based on information (principal information) stored in the winning ball counter area 251. If it is determined that a winning has occurred, the award corresponding to the type of the winning has been determined. The ball command is output to the payout control board 222. The prize ball command is stored in advance in a command storage area 212a of the ROM 212 of the main control board 201.

  As prize ball commands, 15 prize ball commands, 10 prize ball commands, 4 prize ball commands, and 3 prize ball commands are set. When a prize ball command is output based on the prize ball information stored in the 15 prize ball counter area, 15 prize ball commands are output and the prizes stored in the 10 prize ball counter area are output. When a prize ball command is output based on the ball information, ten prize ball commands are output, and a prize ball command is output based on the prize ball information stored in the counter area for four prize balls The four prize ball commands are outputted, and when the prize ball command is outputted based on the prize ball information stored in the three prize ball counter area, the three prize ball commands are outputted.

  Each prize ball command is composed of 2 bytes. That is, each prize ball command includes high-order information and low-order information, and each piece of information is composed of 1 byte. Among the upper information and lower information, information for specifying that the command is a prize ball command is set in the higher information in the payer MPU 231, and the number of prize balls in the payout MPU 231 is set in the lower information. Information to specify is set.

  In addition, the main RAM 213 is provided with a front door frame counter area 252, a prize ball permission counter area 253, and various flag storage areas 254. The front door frame counter area 252 is used when the main MPU 211 determines whether the front door frame 14 is opened or closed. The winning ball permission counter area 253 is used when the main MPU 211 executes processing related to the winning ball permission signal. The various flag storage areas 254 are used for executing various control processes in the main MPU 211.

  The payout control board 222 is electrically connected to the payout device 114, and the payout side MPU 231 outputs a drive signal to the payout motor 125 and outputs an electric signal indicating whether or not a game ball is detected from the payout ball detection sensor 126. input. Further, the payout control board 222 is electrically connected to the ball lending device Y via the ball lending connection terminal plate 143, and the payout side MPU 231 inputs and outputs electrical signals to and from the ball lending device Y. The control of rental balls is executed.

  Further, the payout side MPU 231 receives an electric signal from the full tank detection sensor 88 and the ball non-detection sensor 115, specifies whether or not the lower plate 82 is in a full tank state, and the tank 111 is in a non-ball state. It is specified whether or not. The electric signal output from the full tank detection sensor 88 out of the full tank detection sensor 88 and the non-ball detection sensor 115 is relayed to the power supply and launch control board 221 and then input to the payout control board 222. The payout side MPU 231 outputs to the main side MPU 211 a result of specifying whether or not the lower plate 82 is full. As a result, the main MPU 211 can grasp whether or not the lower pan 82 is full.

  The configuration of the payout side RAM 233 will be described.

  The payout side RAM 233 is provided with a full counter area 261. The full tank counter area 261 is used to specify whether or not the lower tray 82 is full in the payout side MPU 231. The payout side RAM 233 is provided with a ball-free counter area 262. The ballless counter area 262 is used to specify whether or not the tank 111 is in a ballless state in the payout side MPU 231. The payout side RAM 233 has a command storage area 263. The command storage area 263 is used for temporarily storing a prize ball command input from the main MPU 211.

  The payout side RAM 233 is provided with a prize ball number storage area 264. The winning ball number storage area 264 is composed of 1 byte in which a plurality of bits (8 bits) are arranged in a line, and each bit has “0” (data 0 or no information) or “1” ( Data 1 or presence information) is set. The prize ball number storage area 264 has a function for storing information on the number of prize balls specified by analyzing the prize ball command in the payout side MPU 231. In this case, in the information on the number of prize balls (award ball number information or prize payout number information), the setting pattern of the data 1 of each bit and the number of game media correspond one-to-one within a predetermined range of game media. Information. Specifically, “1” (data 1 or presence information) is set for each bit in a predetermined order from the lower bit to the upper bit, and “1” is set for the upper bit. The information is expressed in binary so that the corresponding number of prize balls becomes larger as the number increases. When specifying the information on the number of prize balls from the prize ball command, the prize ball table storage area 232a provided in the ROM 232 of the payout control board 222 is referred to.

  In addition, the payout side RAM 233 is provided with a rented number storage area 265. The number-of-balls storage area 265 has 1 byte, and has a function for storing information on the number of balls entered from the ball-lending device Y in the payout side MPU 231. The payout-side RAM 233 is provided with a payout number counter area 266. The payout number counter area 266 is composed of 1 byte, and has a function as an execution area when the payout side MPU 231 executes payout of game balls.

  The award ball number storage area 264, the rented ball number storage area 265, and the payout number counter area 266 are not limited to 1 byte, and may be 2 bytes or 3 bytes or more. Further, these areas 264 to 266 need not have the same number of bytes.

  In addition, the payout side RAM 233 is provided with various flag storage areas 267. The various flag storage areas 267 are used for executing various control processes in the payout side MPU 231.

  The payout side RAM 233 is provided with a ring buffer for temporarily storing a command when the command is input from the main MPU 211 in addition to the areas 261 to 267. The ring buffer has a plurality of storage areas, and a write pointer and a read pointer are set. Commands are sequentially written in each storage area based on the write pointer, and commands stored in each storage area are sequentially read based on the read pointer.

  The power from the power-on power supply unit 221 a of the power supply and launch control board 221 is supplied to the VCC terminal of the main MPU 211 and the VCC terminal of the payout MPU 231. In a situation where power is supplied from the external power source by the power supplied to the VCC terminal, various control processes are executed in the MPUs 211 and 331, and information is stored and held in the RAMs 213 and 333. Is called.

  In addition, power from the power supply and power supply unit 221 c for power interruption of the launch control board 221 is supplied to the VBB terminal of the main MPU 211. That is, the power from the power interruption power supply unit 221 c is supplied to the main RAM 213 but not supplied to the payout RAM 233. In the situation where the power supply from the external power supply is interrupted by the power supplied to the VBB terminal, the main RAM 213 stores and holds information. As already described, the power supplied from the power-on power supply unit 221 a and the power-off power supply unit 221 c to the main MPU 211 is relayed by the power-off monitoring board 203. The VBB terminal (not shown) of the payout side MPU 231 is grounded or not connected to any electrical wiring.

<Processing configuration related to game ball payout and processing configuration in main MPU 211>
Next, a processing configuration related to paying out game balls in the main MPU 211 will be described. In the following description, the value of the counter area refers to a value that virtually represents the value of the counter area configured in units of bytes in decimal numbers.

<Input status monitoring process>
First, the input state monitoring process executed in step S706 of the normal process (FIG. 17) will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In the input state monitoring process, first, in step S901, input information is acquired from the input port 211a. Specifically, the input information of the input port 211a is stored in a 1-byte general-purpose register provided in the main MPU 211.

  In a succeeding step S902, a payout abnormality signal monitoring process for specifying whether or not an abnormality has occurred regarding the payout of the game ball is executed. Specifically, in the payout abnormality signal monitoring process, when information indicating that an abnormal signal is input from the payout control board 222 is stored in the general-purpose register, the occurrence of a payout abnormality is specified in the main MPU 211. When the occurrence of a payout abnormality is specified, a payout abnormality command (payout abnormality information) is output to the sound lamp control board 224, and abnormality notification is executed.

  In the subsequent step S903, a full tank signal monitoring process for specifying whether or not the lower plate 82 is in a full state is executed. Specifically, in the full tank signal monitoring process, when the information indicating that the full tank signal is input from the dispensing control board 222 is stored in the general-purpose register, the lower pan 82 is mainly in the full state. It is specified in the side MPU 211. When it is specified that the lower pan 82 is in a full state, a full state command (full state information) is output to the sound lamp control board 224 to execute a full state notification.

  In a succeeding step S904, an inner frame open signal monitoring process for specifying whether or not the inner frame 13 is in an open state is executed. Specifically, in the inner frame release signal monitoring process, when the information indicating that the inner frame release signal is input from the inner frame release switch 134 is stored in the general-purpose register, the inner frame 13 is in the open state. Is specified in the main MPU 211. When it is specified that the inner frame 13 is in the open state, an inner frame open state command (main body open notification information) is output to the sound lamp control board 224 to execute the main body open notification.

  Thereafter, the front door frame opening signal monitoring process is executed in step S905, and after the prize ball permission signal monitoring process is executed in step S906, the input state monitoring process is terminated.

<Front door frame opening signal monitoring processing>
Next, the front door frame opening signal monitoring process in step S905 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  Here, the front door frame opening signal monitoring process is (1) a process when the closed state is continued after the front door frame 14 is specified to be closed, and (2) the front door. Processing until the frame 14 is changed from the closed state to the open state until it is specified to be in the open state, (3) after the front door frame 14 is specified to be in the open state, The process when the open state is continued, and (4) the process when the front door frame 14 is changed from the open state to the closed state and until the closed state is specified, are roughly classified. Therefore, the processing of these situations will be described individually.

  First, the processing when the front door frame 14 of the above (1) is specified to be closed and the closed state is continued will be described.

  First, in step S1001, it is determined whether or not the front door frame opening information indicating that the front door frame opening signal indicating that the front door frame 14 is in the open state is input is stored in the general-purpose register. Since this time is the case where the front door frame 14 is in the closed state, a negative determination is made in step S1001 and the process proceeds to step S1002.

  In step S <b> 1002, the opening specific reference number is stored in the first front door frame counter area (opening specific trigger grasping means) in the front door frame counter area 252 of the main RAM 213. Specifically, “3” is stored in the front door frame counter area 252. The first front door frame counter area is a counter used to specify that the front door frame 14 is opened in the main MPU 211 when the closed front door frame 14 is opened. .

  In subsequent step S1003, it is determined whether or not the second front door frame counter area (the closing specific trigger grasping means) in the front door frame counter area 252 of the main RAM 213 is “0”. The second front door frame counter area is a counter used to specify that the front door frame 14 is closed in the main MPU 211 when the opened front door frame 14 is closed. . The second front door frame counter area is maintained in a state of “0” after specifying that the front door frame 14 is in the closed state. Therefore, after it is specified that the front door frame 14 is in the closed state and the closed state continues, the second front door frame counter area is “0”, and in step S1003. An affirmative determination is made, and the front door frame opening signal monitoring process is terminated as it is.

  Next, a process until the front door frame 14 of the above (2) is changed from the closed state to the open state until it is specified to be in the open state will be described.

  Since this time is the case where the front door frame 14 is in the open state, an affirmative determination is made in step S1001 and the process proceeds to step S1001. In step S1001, closing specific reference value information is stored in the second front door frame counter area of the main RAM 213. Specifically, “250” is stored in the second front door frame counter area.

  In a succeeding step S1012, it is determined whether or not the first front door frame counter area is “0”. This time, since the process is a process until the front door frame 14 is in the open state from the closed state until it is specified that the front door frame 14 is in the open state, in step S1002 when the front door frame 14 is in the closed state. The open specific reference value information stored in the first front door frame counter area is not yet “0”. Accordingly, a negative determination is made in step S1012, and the process proceeds to step S1013.

  In step S1013, 1 is subtracted from the value of the first front door frame counter area. In a succeeding step S1014, it is determined whether or not the value of the first front door frame counter area is “0”. In other words, until the front door frame opening signal monitoring process is executed until the front door frame 14 is changed from the closed state to the open state and is specified to be in the open state, the first front door frame counter is executed. The area value is decremented by one. Moreover, since the front door frame opening signal monitoring process is executed as a part of the normal process, its execution cycle is about 4 msec. If the front door frame 14 is in the closed state, “3” is stored in the first front door frame counter area in step S1002. Therefore, in step S1014, whether or not 12 msec has elapsed from the time when the front door frame 14 is opened and changed from the closed state to the open state (when the front door frame opening signal is output from the front door frame opening switch 22). Will be judged.

  If the value of the first front door frame counter area is not “0”, a negative determination is made in step S1014, and the front door frame opening signal monitoring process is terminated as it is. When the value of the first front door frame counter area is “0”, an affirmative determination is made in step S1014, and the process proceeds to step S1015. In step S1015, it is determined whether or not the front door frame opening flag is stored in the front door frame opening flag storage area of the main RAM 213. If the front door frame opening flag is stored, the front door frame opening signal monitoring process is terminated as it is. If the front door frame release flag is not stored, the process proceeds to step S1016.

  In step S1016, the front door frame release flag (front body release information) is stored in the front door frame release flag storage area (front body release information storage means). Thereby, it is specified in the main side MPU 211 that the front door frame 14 is in the open state. In the subsequent step S1017, the front door frame state change flag is stored in the front door frame state change flag storage area of the main side RAM 213. Thereby, it is specified that it is the timing which specified that the front door frame 14 is in the open state in the main side MPU 211. In subsequent step S1018, a front door frame opening command is set. The front door frame open command is output to the payout control board 222 in a payout output process described later, and the front door frame 14 is in an open state by inputting the front door frame open command in the payout side MPU 231. Identify.

  Thereafter, in step S1010, a subcommand setting process is executed. In the sub-command setting process, a front door frame opening state command (front body opening notification information) is output to the sound lamp control board 224, and a front body opening notification is executed.

  Next, a process when the front door frame 14 of (3) is specified to be in the open state and the open state is continued will be described.

  Since this time is the case where the front door frame 14 is in the open state, an affirmative determination is made in step S1001, the process proceeds to step S1011 and “250” is stored in the second front door frame counter area of the main RAM 213. In a succeeding step S1012, it is determined whether or not the first front door frame counter area is “0”. Since this time is after the front door frame 14 is specified to be in an open state and the open state is continued, the first front door frame counter area is maintained at “0”. Yes. Accordingly, an affirmative determination is made in step S1012, and the front door frame opening signal monitoring process is terminated as it is.

  Next, a process until the front door frame 14 in the above (4) is changed from the open state to the closed state and is specified to be in the closed state will be described.

  Since this time is the case where the front door frame 14 is in the closed state, a negative determination is made in step S1001, the process proceeds to step S1002, and “3” is stored in the first front door frame counter area of the main RAM 213.

  In a succeeding step S1003, it is determined whether or not the second front door frame counter area of the main side RAM 213 is “0”. In this case, since the process is performed until the closed state is specified when the front door frame 14 is changed from the open state to the closed state, the second front is determined in step S1011 when the front door frame 14 is in the open state. The closing specific reference count stored in the door frame counter area is not yet “0”. Accordingly, a negative determination is made in step S1003, and the process proceeds to step S1004.

  In step S1004, 1 is subtracted from the value of the second front door frame counter area. In a succeeding step S1005, it is determined whether or not the value of the second front door frame counter area is “0”. That is, the second front door frame counter is executed each time the front door frame opening signal monitoring process is executed until the front door frame 14 is changed from the open state to the closed state until it is specified that the front door frame 14 is in the closed state. The area value is decremented by one. Moreover, since the front door frame opening signal monitoring process is executed as a part of the normal process, its execution cycle is about 4 msec. If the front door frame 14 is open, “250” is stored in the second front door frame counter area in step S1011. Therefore, in step S1005, 1 sec has elapsed from the time when the front door frame 14 is closed and changed from the open state to the closed state (when the output of the front door frame open signal from the front door frame open switch 22 is stopped). It is determined whether or not.

  If the value of the second front door frame counter area is not “0”, a negative determination is made in step S1005, and the front door frame opening signal monitoring process is terminated as it is. When the value of the second front door frame counter area is “0”, an affirmative determination is made in step S1005, and the process proceeds to step S1006. In step S1006, it is determined whether or not the front door frame opening flag is stored in the front door frame opening flag storage area of the main side RAM 213. If the front door frame opening flag is not stored, the front door frame opening signal monitoring process is terminated as it is. If the front door frame opening flag is stored, the process proceeds to step S1007.

  In step S1007, the front door frame opening flag stored in the front door frame opening flag storage area is deleted. Thereby, it is specified in the main side MPU 211 that the front door frame 14 is in the closed state. In the subsequent step S1008, the front door frame state change flag is stored in the front door frame state change flag storage area of the main side RAM 213. Thereby, it is specified that it is the timing which specified that the front door frame 14 is a closed state in the main side MPU211. In subsequent step S1009, a front door frame closing command is set. The front door frame close command is output to the payout control board 222 in a payout output process described later, and the front door frame 14 is closed by inputting the front door frame close command at the payout side MPU 231. Identify.

  Thereafter, in step S1010, a subcommand setting process is executed. In this sub-command setting process, a front door frame closed state command (information for front body closing notification) is output to the sound lamp control board 224, and the front body opening notification is terminated. Thereafter, the front door frame opening signal monitoring process is terminated.

  In the inner frame opening signal monitoring process in step S904, description of specific processing contents for specifying the opened state and the closed state of the inner frame 13 is omitted, but basically the front door frame opening signal monitoring process. The same processing is executed.

<Prize ball permission signal monitoring processing>
Next, the winning ball permission signal monitoring process in step S906 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  First, the winning ball permission signal will be described.

  In the pachinko machine 10, as already described, the power from the power supply and power supply unit 221 c at the time of power interruption of the launch control board 221 is supplied to the main RAM 213, but not supplied to the payout RAM 233. By adopting this configuration, the capacity of the power supply unit 221c for power interruption can be reduced, and the cost of the pachinko machine 10 can be reduced accordingly.

  However, in this configuration, when the power supply from the external power supply to the pachinko machine 10 is stopped, all the information stored in the payout side RAM 233 is erased (destroyed). In this case, if all the information on the number of unpaid prize balls is stored in the payout-side RAM 233 as in the conventional pachinko machine, the power supply to the pachinko machine 10 can be performed in a situation where there are unpaid prize balls. When stopped, all the unpaid prize balls are erased without being paid out. This will cause a great disadvantage to the player.

  On the other hand, in this pachinko machine 10, unpaid prize ball information is basically stored in the prize ball counter area 251 of the main RAM 213, and the main MPU 211 receives a prize ball permission signal from the payout MPU 231. A prize ball command is output to the payout side MPU 231. In the payout side MPU 231, the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 264 of the payout side RAM 233 is the maximum prize ball number (15 prize balls) for one win at a maximum. The output start timing and output stop timing of the prize ball permission signal are set so as to be the sum of the permitted reference number. In addition, this permission reference number is the minimum number of winning balls for one winning or less. Thereby, even if the power supply to the pachinko machine 10 is stopped in a situation where a large number of unpaid prize balls remain, it is possible to reduce the number of prize balls to be erased as much as possible. That is, the prize ball permission signal is information output from the payout MPU 231 to the main MPU 211 in order to specify the output timing of the prize ball command in the main MPU 211.

  In the prize ball permission signal monitoring process, first, in step S1101, it is determined whether or not prize ball permission information indicating that a prize ball permission signal is input is stored in the input port 211a. In the prize ball permission signal monitoring process, the information of the input port 211a may be stored in a general-purpose register or a dedicated register of the main MPU 211. In this case, whether or not the prize ball permission information is stored in the register. Is determined.

  If the prize ball permission information is stored, whether or not the value stored in the prize ball permission counter area (permission grasping means) 253 of the main side RAM 213 is “5” in step S1102. Determine. The prize ball permission counter area 253 is stored because the prize ball permission signal is actually output from the payout control board 222 when the prize ball permission information is stored in the input port 211a. The main MPU 211 identifies whether the data is stored due to noise or the like.

  If the value of the winning ball permission counter area 253 is “5” or more, an affirmative determination is made in step S1102, and the present winning ball permission signal monitoring process is terminated. On the other hand, if the value of the winning ball permission counter area 253 is less than “5”, a negative determination is made in step S1102, and the process proceeds to step S1103. In step S1103, after adding 1 to the value of the winning ball permission counter area 253, the winning ball permission signal monitoring process is terminated.

  Here, since the prize ball permission signal monitoring process is executed as a part of the normal process, its execution cycle is about 4 msec. Therefore, when the prize ball permission signal is output from the payout control board 222 and the value of the prize ball permission counter area 253 is less than “5”, the value of the prize ball permission counter area 253 is 1 in a cycle of about 4 msec. Is added. Further, by executing the process of step S1102, the value of the prize ball permission counter area 253 becomes “5” or more even in a situation where the output of the prize ball permission signal from the payout control board 222 is continued. In the case where the value has been received, the process of adding the value in the winning ball permission counter area 253 is not executed.

  If it is determined in step S1102 that the prize ball permission information is not stored, the value of the prize ball permission counter area 253 is cleared to “0” (after initialization) in step S1104. The prize ball permission signal monitoring process is terminated. That is, in a situation where no prize ball permission signal is output from the payout control board 222, the value of the prize ball permission counter area 253 is maintained at “0”.

<Output processing for withdrawal>
Next, the payout output process executed in step S707 of the normal process (FIG. 17) will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The payout output process is a process for outputting various commands from the main MPU 211 to the payout MPU 231.

  In the payout output process, first, in step S1201, it is determined whether or not the front door frame state change flag is stored in the front door frame state change flag storage area of the main RAM 213. If the front door frame state change flag is stored, the front door frame state change flag is erased in step S1202, and a front door frame open command or front door frame close command is issued in step S1203. The output processing for the payout is finished after the output.

  On the other hand, if the front door frame state change flag is not stored in the front door frame state change flag storage area of the main RAM 213 in step S1201, a negative determination is made, and the process proceeds to step S1204. In step S1204, it is determined whether or not the front door frame opening flag is stored in the front door frame opening flag storage area of the main RAM 213. If the front door frame opening flag is stored, the payout output process is terminated as it is.

  If the front door frame opening flag is not stored, it is determined in step S1205 whether or not the value of the winning ball permission counter area 253 of the main RAM 213 is “5” as the output permission reference number. . Here, as described above, the value of the prize ball permission counter area 253 is the value when the prize ball permission signal is output from the payout side MPU 231 and the value of the prize ball permission counter area 253 is less than “5”. One is added at a period of about 4 msec. The value of the prize ball permission counter area 253 is cleared (initialized) to “0” when the output of the prize ball permission signal from the payout side MPU 231 is stopped. Accordingly, in step S1205, it is determined whether or not the output of the winning ball permission signal from the payout side MPU 231 has continued for 20 msec as the output permission continuation period.

  If the value of the winning ball permission counter area 253 is not “5”, the payout output process is terminated as it is. If the value of the winning ball permission counter area 253 is “5”, whether or not the winning ball information is stored in any of the various counter areas in the winning ball counter area 251 of the main RAM 213 in step S1206. Determine whether. If no prize ball information is stored in any of them, the payout output process is terminated as it is.

  If the prize ball information is stored in any of the various prize ball counter areas, the value of the prize ball permission counter area 253 is cleared (initialized) in step S1207. Thereafter, a prize ball command output process is executed in step S1208, and the payout output process is terminated.

  Here, the prize ball command output processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  First, in step S1301, it is determined whether or not the value of the 15 prize ball counter areas in the main RAM 213 is "0". If it is not “0”, it means that incomplete information on prize balls is stored for 15 prize balls, so that in step S1302, 15 prize ball commands are output to the payout side MPU 231 and 15 Subtract 1 from the value in the counter area for individual prize balls. Thereafter, the prize ball command output process is terminated.

  If the value of the 15 prize ball counter area is “0” in step S1301, the process proceeds to step S1303. In step S1303, it is determined whether or not the value of the four award ball counter area in the main RAM 213 is “0”. If it is not “0”, it means that incomplete information on prize balls is stored for the four prize balls, so that in step S1304, the four prize ball commands are output to the payout side MPU 231 and 4 Subtract 1 from the value in the counter area for individual prize balls. Thereafter, the prize ball command output process is terminated.

  If the value of the four prize ball counter area is “0” in step S1303, the process proceeds to step S1305. In step S1305, it is determined whether or not the value of the three award ball counter area in the main RAM 213 is “0”. If it is not “0”, it means that incomplete information on prize balls is stored for the three prize balls, and therefore, in step S1306, the three prize ball commands are output to the payout side MPU 231 and 3 Subtract 1 from the value in the counter area for individual prize balls. Thereafter, the prize ball command output process is terminated.

  If the value of the three prize ball counter area is “0” in step S1305, the process proceeds to step S1307. In step S 1307, the 10 award ball command is output to the payout MPU 231 and the 10 award ball counter area value is decremented by 1. Thereafter, the prize ball command output process is terminated.

  As described above, the main MPU 211 does not immediately specify that the output of the prize ball command is permitted on the payout control board 222 even if the prize ball permission information is stored in the input port 211a. When the award ball permission information is confirmed continuously for the set number of output permission standards, that is, when the state where the award ball permission signal is output for 20 msec which is the output permission reference period is confirmed. Specify that the output of the prize ball command is permitted (identify that the output is permitted). Then, by specifying that the output of the prize ball command is permitted, one prize ball command corresponding to one win is output to the payout side MPU 231. Since the output permission reference period is set in this way, as described above, when prize ball permission information is stored in the input port 211a, a prize ball permission signal is output from the payout control board 222. The main MPU 211 can identify whether the data is stored due to being stored or stored due to noise or the like. Therefore, when the prize ball permission information is stored due to noise or the like, it is possible to prevent the prize ball command from being output.

  In particular, as will be described later, the prize ball number storage area 264 of the payout-side RAM 233 cannot store a prize ball number exceeding a predetermined maximum reference number. In this case, if the prize ball permission information is stored due to noise or the like and a prize ball command is output for that information, the number of prize balls corresponding to the prize ball command is erased without actually being paid out. End up. This will be detrimental to the player. On the other hand, according to this configuration, it is possible to prevent such inconvenience.

  Further, when the process of step S1204 is executed in the payout output process (FIG. 23), when the front door frame 14 is in the open state, the period during which the prize ball permission signal is input reaches the output permission reference period. No prize ball command is output. In the pachinko machine 10, when the front door frame 14 is in an open state, the payout of game balls is stopped. In this case, by preventing the prize ball command from being output when the front door frame 14 is in the open state, it is possible to prevent the prize ball command from being newly output in a situation where the payout of the game ball is stopped. It becomes possible.

  In the pachinko machine 10, when the power supply from the external power supply is stopped, the information stored in the payout side RAM 233 is erased, so that a prize ball command is output in a situation where the payout of the game ball is stopped. When the power supply is stopped with the front door frame 14 in the open state, the winning ball corresponding to the winning ball command is erased without being paid out. On the other hand, according to the present configuration, such inconvenience can be prevented. It is not essential to prohibit the output of the prize ball command when the front door frame 14 is in the open state, and the prize ball command may be output when the front door frame 14 is in the open state.

<Processing configuration in payout side MPU 231>
Next, a processing configuration in the payout side MPU 231 will be described. The processing of the payout side MPU 231 is roughly divided into an input interrupt process activated by a command input from the main side MPU 211, a main process activated upon power-on, and periodically (2 msec in the present embodiment). There is a timer interrupt process that is started (in a cycle). In the input interrupt process, the command input this time is stored in the storage area corresponding to the write pointer in the ring buffer provided in the payout RAM 233. Hereinafter, main processing and timer interrupt processing will be described.

<Main processing>
The main process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. This main process is started upon reset at power-on.

  First, in step S1401, initial setting associated with power-on is executed. In subsequent step S1402, RAM access is permitted, and in step S1403, an external interrupt vector is set. Thereafter, in step S1404, the entire area of the payout-side RAM 233 is cleared to “0” (initialized), and in step S1405, initialization of the MPU peripheral device is performed. In the subsequent step S1406, an interrupt is permitted. The series of processes in steps S1401 to S1406 described above corresponds to the startup process in the payout-side MPU 231, and for example, 300 msec is required until the startup process is completed. The time required for the start-up process is not limited to 300 msec, and is arbitrary as long as it is shorter than the time required for the start-up process in the main MPU 211.

  Thereafter, the process of step S1406 is repeatedly executed until the power is completely shut off and the process cannot be executed. Note that, by repeatedly executing the interrupt permission setting process in step S1406 in this manner, even if the interrupt permission setting is canceled due to the influence of noise or the like and the non-permitted setting is made, the interrupt permission state is restored. Can be set again.

<Timer interrupt processing>
Next, timer interrupt processing started by the payout side MPU 231 every 2 msec, for example, will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  First, in step S1501, the state return switch 145 is checked, and if it is determined that the state return operation has started, the state return operation is executed. Thereafter, a command determination process is executed in step S1502, a full tank process is executed as a process related to the full tank state of the lower plate 82 in step S1503, and a ball useless process is executed as a process related to the non-ball state of the tank 111 in step S1504. A process is executed, and a prize ball setting process is executed as a process related to the setting of the number of prize balls in step S1505.

  In step S1506, it is determined whether a fraud detection flag is stored in the fraud detection flag storage area in the various flag storage areas 267 of the payout-side RAM 233. The fraud detection flag is stored by inputting the fraud detection command output from the main MPU 211 when the main MPU 211 identifies an illegal act due to a magnet or vibration, and the pachinko machine 10 is turned off. It is a flag that is erased when power is not supplied to the payout side RAM 233 when operated.

  If the fraud detection flag is not stored, a negative determination is made in step S1506, and in step S1507, the rent setting process is executed as processing related to the setting of the rent, and the fraud detection flag is stored. In step S1506, an affirmative determination is made, so that the lending setting process is not executed. Thereby, when the fraud detection flag is stored, the rental of the game ball is not executed.

  If the fraud detection flag is stored and an affirmative determination is made in step S1506, or after the lending setting process is executed in step S1507, a payout number setting process is executed in step S1508 as a process related to the setting of the number of payouts. . Thereafter, in step S1509, payout control processing is executed as processing related to game ball payout, and in step S1510, prize ball permission signal setting processing is executed as processing related to setting of a prize ball permission signal, and then this timer interrupt processing is terminated. To do.

  Hereinafter, a command determination process in step S1502, a full tank process in step S1503, a ball non-use process in step S1504, a prize ball setting process in step S1505, a rent setting process in step S1507, a payout number setting process in step S1508, and a step S1509. The payout control process and the winning ball permission signal setting process in step S1510 will be described in detail.

<Command judgment processing>
First, the command determination processing in step S1502 will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG. Here, as described above, the command input from the main side MPU 211 is temporarily stored in a ring buffer provided in the payout side RAM 233 by executing an interrupt process at the time of input. In the command determination process, the information stored in the storage area corresponding to the current read pointer is read from each storage area of the ring buffer, and the process corresponding to the read information is executed.

  In the command determination process, first, it is determined whether or not the information read in step S1601 is a fraud detection command. If the command is a fraud detection command, the fraud detection flag is stored in the payout-side RAM 233 in step S1602, and then the command determination process ends.

  If the read information is not a fraud detection command, it is determined in step S1603 whether or not it is a prize ball command. If it is a prize ball command, it is determined in step S1604 whether or not a prize ball is not permitted. The prize ball non-permission state is a state where no prize ball permission signal is output from the payout side MPU 231 to the main side MPU 211. When the winning ball is not permitted, it means that the winning ball command is input from the main MPU 211 even though the payout MPU 231 prohibits the output of the winning ball command from the main MPU 211. . Therefore, in this case, abnormality notification processing is executed in step S1605.

  In the abnormality notification process, an abnormality signal is output toward the main MPU 211. The main MPU 211 inputs the abnormality signal from the payout MPU 231 to output a payout abnormality command to the sound lamp control board 224 to execute abnormality notification. In the abnormality notification, the error display lamp unit 63 is turned on, the sound is output from the speaker unit 64, and the abnormality notification image is displayed on the display screen of the symbol display device 41. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. It is good also as any one of these aspects or arbitrary combinations. Further, instead of or in addition to this, an abnormality signal may be output to the game hall management device through the external terminal board 133. The abnormality notification is terminated when a predetermined time elapses, but the termination condition is arbitrary.

  When it is determined in step S1604 that the winning ball is not permitted or the abnormality notification process in step S1605 is executed, the command storage process is executed in step S1606, and then the command determination process is terminated. In the command storage process, a prize ball command is stored in the command storage area 263 of the payout side RAM 233.

  Here, the payout side MPU 231 executes payout of prize balls based on the prize ball command being stored in the command storage area 263, but it is determined in step S1604 that the prize ball is not permitted as described above. Even if the prize ball is executed, the process of step S1606 is executed, and even when a prize ball command is input in the prize ball non-permitted state, the payout of the prize ball for the input of the prize ball command is executed. Become. Thus, even if a prize ball command is output in a situation where the prize ball is not permitted due to some processing mistake or the like in the main MPU 211, it is suppressed from being invalidated.

  In addition, the handling when a prize ball command is input in the prize ball non-permission state is not limited to the above, and for example, a configuration in which a prize ball is paid out without performing abnormality notification may be adopted. The configuration may be such that, after the abnormality notification is executed, the prize ball is not paid out, or the prize ball is not paid out without executing the abnormality notification.

  If the read information is not a prize ball command, it is determined in step S1607 whether it is a front door frame opening command. If it is a front door frame opening command, the front door frame opening flag (dispensing side front body opening) is stored in the front door frame opening flag storage area (dispensing side front body opening information storage means) of the dispensing side RAM 233 in step S1608. After the information is stored, the command determination process is terminated.

  If the read information is not a front door frame opening command, it is determined in step S1609 whether or not it is a front door frame closing command. If it is a front door frame closing command, the command determining process is terminated after the front door frame opening flag is deleted from the front door frame opening flag storage area of the payout side RAM 233 in step S1610. If it is not a front door frame release command, this command determination process is terminated as it is.

<Process for full tank>
Next, the full tank process in step S1503 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the full tank process, it is determined whether or not the lower plate 82 is full based on the detection result of the full tank detection sensor 88 provided in the front door side lower plate passage 85 to the lower plate 82, and various processes are executed. Is done. Then, when the game ball is not detected by the full tank detection sensor 88, the processing after step S1702 is executed, and when the game ball is detected, the processing after step S1709 is executed. In the following description, for the sake of convenience, the processing after step S1709 will be described and then the processing after step S1702 will be described.

  In the full tank process, first, in step S1701, it is determined whether a full tank detection signal is input from the full tank detection sensor 88 or not. Specifically, it is determined whether or not full tank detection information indicating that a full tank detection signal is being input is stored in the input port of the payout side MPU 231.

  If the full tank detection signal is input, the second full counter area in the full tank counter area 261 of the payout-side RAM 233 is cleared (initialized) in step S1709. The second full tank counter area is a counter for measuring a period during which a full tank detection signal is not continuously input from the full tank detection sensor 88. Thereafter, in step S1710, 1 is added to the value of the first full counter area in the full counter area 261. The first full tank counter area is a counter for measuring a period during which a full tank detection signal is continuously input from the full tank detection sensor 88.

  After step S1710, whether or not the first full counter area is “850” as the count value corresponding to the first full specific reference period is specified in step S1711. Here, this full tank process is executed as a part of the timer interrupt process, and the timer interrupt process is started at a cycle of 2 msec as described above. Therefore, when a full tank detection signal is input from the full tank detection sensor 88, 1 is added to the first full tank counter area at a cycle of about 2 msec, so that the full tank detection signal is set to about 1.7 sec (step S1711). It is determined whether it continues over the 1st full tank specific reference period).

  If the first full counter area is “850”, it is determined that the lower pan 82 is full, and the process proceeds to step S1712. That is, when the lower tray 82 is full, the game balls are lined up in the front door-side lower tray passage 85, so that the game balls are continuously detected by the full tank detection sensor 88 and the full tank detection signal is output. Is continued. And about 1.7 sec continues in this state, it is specified that the lower pan 82 is full. As described above, the period for which the lower tray 82 is specified to be full is set to 1.7 sec. If the period is extremely long, the game balls are connected to the position of the payout device 114 and the payout motor 125 and the like are set. This is because there is a risk of failure, and if the period is extremely short, there is a possibility that the lower pan 82 may be specified as being full even though it is not full.

  In step S1712, it is determined whether or not a full tank flag (full tank state information) is stored in the full tank flag storage area (full tank state information storage means) of the payout side RAM 233. If the full tank flag is stored, the full tank process is terminated as it is. If the full tank flag is not stored, the full tank flag is stored in step S1713 and the full tank process is terminated after setting the full tank state. By setting the full tank state, output of the full tank signal from the payout side MPU 231 to the main side MPU 211 is started, and the output state of the full tank signal is maintained while the full tank state is set.

  On the other hand, if the value of the first full counter area is not “850” in step S1711, the first full counter area in step S1714 is “0” as the count value corresponding to the second full tank specific reference period. It is determined whether or not “400”. As described above, since the first full counter area is incremented by 1 with a period of about 2 msec, whether or not the full tank detection signal is continuously input for about 0.8 sec (second full tank specific reference period) in step S1714. Judging.

  If the first full tank counter area is not “400”, the full tank processing is ended as it is. If the first full counter area is “400”, it is determined that the lower pan 82 may be full, and the process proceeds to step S1715. In step S1715, the full tank low speed flag (full tank low speed information) is stored in the full tank low speed flag storage area (full tank low speed information storage means) of the payout side RAM 233. Thereafter, the full tank processing is terminated.

  By storing the full tank low speed flag, the payout side MPU 231 sets the payout speed of the payout motor 125 from the normal cycle up to that point (specifically, pays out game balls at intervals of 60 msec) as will be described later. It is changed to a low speed cycle (specifically, game balls are paid out at intervals of 600 msec).

  The reason why the payout speed of the payout motor 125 is switched to the low speed cycle in this way is as follows. That is, since the full tank detection sensor 88 is configured to continuously output a full tank detection signal while detecting a game ball, if the interval between game balls that are continuously paid out becomes narrow, the full tank detection sensor 88. From the viewpoint, the end of the detection period of one game ball is later than the start of the detection period of the next game ball. As a result, the full tank detection signal 88 is continuously output from the full tank detection sensor 88 even though the lower pan 82 is not full. And if this state continues, it will be specified that the lower pan 82 is a full state.

  On the other hand, as described above, by switching the payout speed of the payout motor 125 to the low speed cycle, the interval between the game balls passing through the front door side lower dish passage 85 continuously becomes wide. More specifically, this interval exceeds the detection range of the full tank detection sensor 88. Therefore, since the output of the full tank detection signal that has been continued is interrupted, it is possible to prevent the lower pan 82 from being specified as being full even though it is not full.

  Returning to the description of the full tank process, if the full tank detection signal is not input from the full tank detection sensor 88 in step S1701, the first full counter area is cleared to “0” in step S1702 (initial setting). ). Thereafter, in step S1703, it is determined whether or not the full tank low speed flag is stored in the full tank low speed flag storage area of the payout side RAM 233. If the full tank low speed flag is not stored, the process proceeds directly to step S1705. If the full tank low speed flag is stored, the full tank low speed flag is erased in step S1704, and then the process proceeds to step S1705.

  By erasing the full tank low speed flag, the payout MPU 231 basically changes the payout speed setting of the payout motor 125 from the low speed cycle to the normal cycle. That is, in the situation where the full tank detection signal is continuously output from the full tank detection sensor 88, the output of the full tank detection signal is interrupted by changing the payout speed of the payout motor 125 to the low speed cycle. The payout speed immediately returns to the normal cycle. Thus, in the configuration in which the payout speed of the payout motor 125 is changed to a low speed cycle as necessary, it is possible to prevent the time required for paying out the game ball from becoming extremely long.

  In a succeeding step S1705, 1 is added to the second full counter area. Thereafter, in step S1706, it is determined whether or not the second full counter area is “250”. Here, the second full tank counter area is incremented by 1 with a period of about 2 msec when no full tank detection signal is input from the full tank detection sensor 88. Therefore, in step S1706, it is determined whether or not the state where no full detection signal is input continues for about 0.5 sec.

  If the second full tank counter area is not “250”, the full tank processing is ended as it is. On the other hand, if the second full tank counter area is “250”, it is determined in step S1707 whether the full tank flag is stored in the full tank flag storage area of the payout side RAM 233. If the full tank flag is not stored, the full tank process is terminated as it is. If the full tank flag is stored, the full tank flag is erased in step S1708, and after the full tank release state is set, the full tank processing is terminated. When the full tank release state is set, the output of the full tank signal from the payout MPU 231 to the main MPU 211 is stopped and the full tank signal output stop state is maintained while the full tank release state is set. Maintained.

  Here, the process of step S1708 is executed after waiting for about 0.5 sec since the output of the full tank detection signal from the full tank detection sensor 88 is stopped in step S1706, and so on. It can be determined that the full tank state is not released even though the game ball is actually waiting in the detection range of the full tank detection sensor 88 due to the influence of.

  In addition, it is good also as a structure which determines whether it is more than a determination value in step S1706, step S1711, and step S1714, respectively.

<Useless ball>
Next, the ball useless process in step S1504 will be described. In the ball non-use process, it is determined whether or not a game ball is stored in the tank 111 based on the detection result of the ball non-detection sensor 115 provided on the case rail 113, and various processes are executed.

  Here, in the ball useless process, a process similar to the full tank process is executed. Specifically, when the ball non-detection signal from the ball non-detection sensor 115 is continuously input for about 10 sec (first ball non-specific reference period), the game ball is stored in the tank 111. Identifies that there is no state. When it is specified that the game ball is not stored, the ball-free flag (ball-free state information) is stored in the ball-free flag storage area (ball-free state information storage means) of the payout side RAM 233 and the ball is not stored. Set to state. By setting the no-ball state, the payout-side MPU 231 starts outputting a payout abnormality signal to the main MPU 211, and the output state of the payout abnormality signal is maintained while the no-ball state is set.

  In addition, when the sphere non-detection signal from the sphere non-detection sensor 115 is less than about 10 sec and is continuously input for about 1.0 sec (second sphere non-specific reference period), the tank 111 It is determined that there is a possibility that the ball will be absent, and the ball no low speed flag (ball no low speed information) is stored in the ball no low speed flag storage area (ball no low speed information storage means) of the payout side RAM 233.

  By storing the ball no-low speed flag, the payout side MPU 231 sets the payout speed of the payout motor 125 from the normal cycle up to that point (specifically, pays out the game ball at intervals of 60 msec) as will be described later. It is changed to a low speed cycle (specifically, game balls are paid out at intervals of 600 msec).

  The reason why the payout speed of the payout motor 125 is switched to the low speed cycle in this way is as follows. In other words, the tank 111 may be clogged with balls. On the other hand, the tank 111 is provided with a vibration motor for vibrating the tank 111 in order to eliminate the ball clogging when the ball clogging occurs. If the ball clogging is not severe, the ball clogging is eliminated by vibrating the tank 111 with a vibration motor. And it is considered that the elimination of the ball clogging is completed within 10 seconds.

  In this situation, when a period when the game ball is not detected by the ball non-detection sensor 115 has passed about 1.0 sec, which is the first ball non-specific reference period, the payout speed of the payout motor 125 is switched to a low speed cycle. Thus, the possibility that the ball clogging is eliminated at the timing before all the game balls waiting on the upstream side of the rotating body 124 of the payout device 114 disappear is increased. If all the game balls waiting on the upstream side of the rotating body 124 of the payout device 114 are exhausted, the game balls are refilled when the game balls are replenished from the tank 111 side toward the rotating body 124 again. It falls through the case rail 113 and directly collides with the rotating body 124, and there is a concern that the rotating body 124 may be broken. On the other hand, the possibility that such an inconvenience occurs is reduced by switching the payout speed to the low speed cycle as described above.

  On the other hand, if the ball non-detection signal is not input from the ball non-detection sensor 115 and the state continues for about 3.0 seconds, the ball non-low speed flag is stored in the ball no low speed flag storage area of the payout side RAM 233. In such a situation, the ball no low speed flag is deleted. By deleting the ball no low speed flag, the payout side MPU 231 basically changes the payout speed setting of the payout motor 125 from the low speed cycle to the normal cycle. In addition, when the no-sphere flag is stored, the no-sphere flag is erased and the no-ball release state is set. By setting the ball non-release state, the output of the payout abnormality signal from the payout MPU 231 to the main MPU 211 is stopped, and while the ball non-release state is set, the output abnormal state of the payout abnormality signal is stopped. Maintained.

<Prize ball setting process>
Next, the winning ball setting process of step S1505 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the winning ball setting process, the number of winning balls is specified from the winning ball command input from the main MPU 211, and the specified winning ball number is added to the winning ball storage area 264 of the payout side RAM 233.

  In the winning ball setting process, first, in step S1801, it is determined whether or not a winning ball command is stored in the command storage area 263 of the payout side RAM 233. If no prize ball command is stored, the prize ball setting process is terminated. If a prize ball command is stored, the process advances to step S1802.

  In step S1802, a prize ball number specifying process is executed. Specifically, based on the information stored in the prize ball table storage area 232a of the ROM 232, the number of prize balls corresponding to the prize ball command input this time is specified. In this case, the low-order information of the prize ball command is compared with the prize ball table storage area 232a, and the number of prize balls is specified. The number of prize balls specified here is stored in the general-purpose register of the payout side MPU 231 instead of information on the prize ball command. In the subsequent step S1803, the winning ball command stored in the command storage area 263 is deleted.

  In a succeeding step S1804, an award ball number adding process is executed. In the addition process, the information on the number of prize balls specified in step S1802 is added to the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 264. In the subsequent step S1805, it is determined whether or not a prize ball low speed flag (prize ball low speed information) is stored in the prize ball low speed flag storage area (prize ball low speed information storage means) of the payout side RAM 233. The award ball low speed flag is a switching reference number (specifically, “2”) in which information on the number of award balls stored in the award ball number storage area 264 is stored in the ROM 232 of the payout control board 222 in advance. It is a flag that is stored in the event of a failure, and is erased when the switching reference number is exceeded.

  Here, when the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 264 becomes the switching reference number, the pachinko machine 10 sets the payout speed of the payout motor 125 in the normal cycle until then. It is comprised so that it may change into a low speed cycle. This is due to the following reason. That is, in the situation where the information on the number of prize balls is not stored in the prize ball number storage area 264, the driving of the payout motor 125 is stopped. In this case, if a single winning is repeatedly generated at a predetermined interval, it is necessary to repeatedly start and stop driving the payout motor 125. Since driving of the dispensing motor 125 requires a larger driving force than when the driving state of the dispensing motor 125 is maintained, it is not preferable to repeatedly start and stop driving the dispensing motor 125 as described above. . On the other hand, when the information on the number of winning balls stored in the winning ball number storage area 264 becomes the switching reference number, the payout speed of the payout motor 125 is switched to a low speed cycle, so that a single winning can be achieved. Even if it occurs repeatedly at a predetermined interval, there is a high possibility that the next winning will occur while the reference number of winning balls is being executed at a low speed cycle, and the start and stop of driving of the payout motor 125 are repeated. The possibility of being done is reduced.

  A configuration in which the payout speed of the payout motor 125 is always low is also conceivable, but in this case, the payout speed of the game ball is chronically slowed down, and the player receives a prize ball in spite of the occurrence of a win. It takes a considerable amount of time to receive, which is not preferable.

  If the prize ball low speed flag is not stored in the prize ball low speed flag storage area in step S1805, the prize ball setting process is terminated as it is. On the other hand, if the prize ball low speed flag is stored, the prize ball low speed flag is erased from the prize ball low speed flag storage area in step S1806, and then the prize ball low speed setting process is terminated. When the prize ball low speed flag is deleted, the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 264 becomes the switching reference number, so that the payout speed of the payout motor 125 set to the low speed period is the normal period. It will return to.

<Rental setting process>
Next, the lending setting process in step S1507 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the ball lending setting process, the number of balls lent is specified based on the ball lending request signal input from the ball lending device Y through the ball lending connection terminal board 143, and the specified number of balls lending is stored in the lending number RAM 233. A process of adding to the area 265 is executed.

  In the lending setting process, first in step S1901, it is determined whether or not a lending state flag (lending state information) is stored in a lending state flag storage area (lending state information storage means) of the payout side RAM 233. . The ball rental status flag is a flag used in the payout side MPU 231 to identify whether or not the ball rental request signal from the ball rental apparatus Y is in the input standby state, and is stored when the input standby state is entered. It is deleted when it is no longer necessary to receive a lending request signal.

  When the lending status flag is not stored, the lending status setting process of steps S1902 to S1906 is executed. When the lending status flag is stored, the lending status of steps S1907 to S1911 is stored. Perform state processing.

  In the lending state setting process, first, in step S1902, it is determined whether or not a connection confirmation signal and a lending standby signal are input from the lending device Y. The connection confirmation signal is a signal indicating a state in which communication with the payout control board 222 is possible in the ball lending apparatus Y. In addition, the ball lending standby signal is stored in the ball lending device Y with information on unpaid balls (specifically, a card on which information on unpaid balls has been stored is held in the ball lending device Y). This is a signal for allowing the payout control board 222 to grasp that the ball lending button 72 of the ball lending operation device 71 is being operated in a situation where the ball lending operation device 71 is being operated. The connection confirmation signal may be omitted.

  If neither one of the connection confirmation signal and the lending standby signal is input, the lending setting process is terminated as it is. On the other hand, if both the connection confirmation signal and the lending standby signal have been input, it is determined in step S1903 whether or not there is a payout error state. The payout error state is a state corresponding to any of the front door frame open state, the lower pan full state, the tank ball free state, or the payout device abnormal state.

  The determination is made by determining whether or not the front door frame opening flag is stored in the front door frame opening flag storage area of the payout side RAM 233 for the front door frame opening state. This is done by determining whether or not a full tank flag is stored in the full tank flag storage area of the payout side RAM 233. For a no tank ball state, is a ball free flag stored in the no ball flag storage area of the payout side RAM 233? The payout device abnormal state is determined by determining whether or not the payout device abnormality flag is stored in the payout device abnormality flag storage area of the payout side RAM 233.

  If it is in the payout error state, the present lending setting process is terminated as it is. If it is not a payout error state, it is determined in step S1904 whether a payout operation is in progress. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the payout motor 125 is stopped. The situation in which the lending status flag is not stored and the payout motor 125 is in operation is a situation in which a payout of a prize ball is being executed or a lending operation based on one lending operation has already been performed. It means that the payout is being executed. In other words, it can be said that it is determined in step S1904 whether or not a winning ball operation is being performed or a lending operation based on a single lending operation is being performed.

  If the payout operation is in progress, the present lending setting process is terminated as it is. If the payout operation is not in progress, the output state of the lending permission signal is set in step S1905. As a result, the payout side MPU 231 starts outputting a ball lending permission signal to the ball lending device Y, and the ball lending device Y inputs the ball lending permission signal, thereby lending based on one operation of the ball lending button 72. The request signal is output. Thereafter, after storing the rent status flag in the rent status flag storage area of the payout side RAM 233 in step S1906, the present rent setting processing is terminated. Note that the ball lending device Y has not operated the ball lending button 72 when it has not input a lending permission signal for a predetermined period (for example, 2 sec) after outputting a lending lending standby signal. Treat as.

  In the ball lending state processing in steps S1907 to S1911, it is first determined in step S1907 whether or not a ball lending request signal is input from the ball lending apparatus Y. The ball lending request signal is a signal that is output when a ball lending device Y requests a lending of a ball. If the ball rental request signal is not input, the process proceeds to step S1909. If a ball rental request signal has been input, in step S1908, an addition process to the ball rental number storage area 265 of the payout side RAM 233 is executed, and then the process proceeds to step S1909. In the addition process, information on the number of lent balls corresponding to 25 pieces corresponding to 100 yen is added to the rented number storage area 265. That is, the ball lending device Y periodically outputs a ball lending request signal in accordance with a ball lending operation in the lending state, and the payout side MPU 231 has a predetermined number of units each time a ball lending request signal is input. The information on the number of lent balls is added to the number of lent balls storage area 265.

  In step S1909, it is determined whether or not an end signal is input from the ball lending apparatus Y. The end signal is a signal that is output when one ball lending operation is performed and the ball lending request signal is output five times, and the paying side indicates that the output of the ball lending request signal for one ball lending operation has ended. This is a signal for the MPU 231 to recognize. If the end signal is not input, the present lending setting process is ended as it is. When the end signal is input, the lending state flag is deleted from the lending state flag storage area of the payout side RAM 233 in step S1910, and the output stop state of the lending permission signal is set in step S1911. Later, the present lending setting process is terminated.

  As described above, the payout side MPU 231 is set to the ball lending state when the ball lending apparatus Y is receiving the ball lending standby signal and is not in a payout error state and is not in a payout operation. In particular, even if a ball lending operation is performed in the ball lending operation device 71 while the payout of a prize ball is being executed, the ball lending operation is not performed during the payout operation. Priority can be given to paying out prize balls.

  Assuming a configuration that prioritizes the ball lending when a ball lending operation is performed in a situation where award ball is being dispensed, information on the number of award balls is stored in the award ball number storage area 264 of the payout side RAM 233. Nevertheless, it is necessary to stop paying out prize balls. In this case, when the pachinko machine 10 is in the power-off state, the information on the number of winning balls is erased as the power-off power is not supplied to the payout side RAM 233 as described above. On the other hand, the ball lending device Y has its own function of holding information when power is interrupted (that is, information on unpaid balls is stored and stored in a card), so that award balls are paid out. If the ball lending device Y does not receive a ball lending request signal, the information on the number of balls lent is retained in the ball lending device Y, and even if the pachinko machine 10 is turned off, The information on the number of balls is not erased. In the above circumstances, even if a ball lending operation is performed in a situation where a prize ball is being dispensed, the prize ball information will be erased without actually being dispensed by giving priority to the prize ball. It is prevented.

<Payout quantity setting process>
Next, the payout number setting process in step S1508 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the payout number setting process, the information stored in the winning ball number storage area 264 or the rented ball number storage area 265 of the payout side RAM 233 is stored in the payout number counter area of the payout side RAM 233, which is an execution area when paying out game balls. The storing process is executed.

  In the payout number setting process, first, in step S2001, it is determined whether or not a ball removal operation is being performed. The ball removal operation refers to an operation for discharging the game balls stored in the tank 111 to the outside of the pachinko machine 10.

  Here, the procedure of the ball removing operation will be described. First, supply from the island facility to the tank 111 is stopped. Thereafter, the front door frame 14 is opened, and a large number of game balls are put into the variable winning device 32 by hand. Thereafter, by closing the front door frame 14, a prize ball command is outputted from the main side MPU 211 to the payout side MPU 231 according to the prize ball permission signal being outputted from the payout side MPU 231 to the main side MPU 211, and the payout is made. The game balls are paid out by the device 114.

  Thereafter, when there is no game ball stored in the tank 111, a ball non-detection signal is output from the ball non-detection sensor 115, and the payout of the game ball by the payout device 114 is stopped. In this case, by operating a ball removal operation switch 116 provided on the case rail 113, a ball removal state is set in the payout side MPU 231. Specifically, the ball removal state flag is stored in the ball removal state flag storage area of the payout side RAM 233. Thereby, even when the ball non-detection signal is output from the ball non-detection sensor 115, the payout of the game ball by the payout device 114 is resumed, and the payout device 114 is downstream of the ball removal operation switch 116. The game balls connected to the position of the payout motor 125 are discharged. Then, when the game ball is discharged, the ball removal from the tank 111 is completed. At this time, the setting of the ball removal state is canceled. That is, the ball removal state flag stored in the ball removal state flag storage area of the payout side RAM 233 is deleted.

  In step S2001, it is determined whether or not the ball removal state is set. If the ball removal state is not set, it is determined in step S2002 whether or not it is a payout error state. The payout error state has already been described. If it is in the payout error state, the payout number setting process is terminated as it is. This prevents the game ball from being paid out in the payout error state.

  If it is not a payout error state, it is determined in step S2003 whether a retry operation is being performed. The retry operation is a process of rotating the rotating body 124 in the opposite direction to the normal state when, for example, a game ball is clogged in the payout device 114. If the retry operation is in progress, the payout number setting process is terminated as it is. If the retry operation is not in progress, the process proceeds to step S2004.

  In step S2004, it is determined whether or not a ball rental operation is in progress. When the renting operation is in progress, a state in which the renting state flag is stored in the renting state flag storage area of the payout side RAM 233, or information on the number of lent balls is stored in the rented number storage area 265 of the payout side RAM 233. It means the state of being. When the rented state flag is stored or when the number of rented balls is stored in the number of rented balls storage area 265, the information on the number of rented balls storage area 265 is stored in the payout-side RAM 233 in step S2005. After updating to the number counter area 266, the payout number setting process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if the rent status flag is not stored and the rent count information is not stored in the rent count storage area 265, in step S2006, the award sphere count storage area 264 of the payout side RAM 233 is stored. After the information is updated in the payout number counter area 266 of the payout side RAM 233, the payout number setting process is terminated. Even when the ball removal state is set in step S2001, after the information in the prize ball number storage area 264 of the payout side RAM 233 is updated to the payout number counter area 266 of the payout side RAM 233 in step S2006, The payout number setting process is terminated.

<Discharge control processing>
Next, the payout control process in step S1509 will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG. In the payout control process, a process of paying out the game ball is executed based on information stored in the payout number counter area 266 of the payout side RAM 233.

  In the payout control process, a payout state setting process is first executed in step S2101 and a drive signal output process is executed in subsequent step S2102. Here, the payout state setting process and the drive signal output process will be described. First, the payout state setting process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In the payout state setting process, first, in step S2201, it is determined whether or not there is a payout error state. The payout error state has already been described. If it is in the payout error state, in step S2207, a stop state is set to stop the payout operation of the payout motor 125, and then the payout state setting process ends. The stop state is set by storing the stop state flag in the stop state flag storage area of the payout side RAM 233 and in any of the normal state flag storage area, the low speed state flag storage area, and the retry state flag storage area of the payout side RAM 233. This is done by deleting the corresponding flag if it is stored. The normal state flag and the low speed state flag will be described later. In addition, when already set to the stop state, that state is maintained.

  If it is determined in step S2201 that there is no payout error state, it is determined in step S2202 whether or not the value of the payout number counter area 266 in the RAM 233 is “0”. If the value of the payout number counter area 266 is “0”, it means that there is no game ball to be paid out. Therefore, after the payout motor 125 is set to the stop state in step S2207, the real payout is made. The state setting process ends.

  If the value in the payout number counter area 266 is not “0” in step S2202, it is determined in step S2203 whether or not a retry state is set. In the retry state, since the payout motor 125 performs a retry-only operation, the payout state setting process is terminated without executing the subsequent processes. If not in the retry state, it is determined in step S2204 whether or not a low speed flag is stored in any low speed flag storage area of the payout side RAM 233. That is, it is determined whether or not the full tank low speed flag is stored in the full tank low speed flag storage area, whether or not the ball no low speed flag is stored in the ball no low speed flag storage area, and the winning ball low speed flag is determined. It is determined whether or not a prize ball low speed flag is stored in the storage area.

  If no low-speed flag is stored, in step S2206, the normal state is set so that the payout speed of the payout motor 125 is set to the normal cycle, and then the payout state setting process is terminated. The normal state is set by storing a normal state flag in the normal state flag storage area of the payout side RAM 233 and storing a flag corresponding to either the stop state flag storage area or the low speed state flag storage area of the payout side RAM 233. This is done by erasing that flag. If the normal cycle has already been set, that state is maintained.

  On the other hand, if any of the low speed flags is stored, in step S2205, after setting the low speed state so that the payout speed of the payout motor 125 is the low speed cycle, this payout state setting process is terminated. To do. The low speed state is set by storing a low speed state flag in the low speed state flag storage area of the payout side RAM 233 and storing a flag corresponding to either the stop state flag storage area or the normal state flag storage area of the payout side RAM 233. This is done by erasing that flag. If the low speed cycle is already set, this state is maintained.

  Next, drive signal output processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The drive signal output process is a process for controlling the drive of the payout motor 125 by outputting a 1-pulse drive signal from the payout side MPU 231 to the motor driver based on the result of the payout state setting process.

  In the drive signal output process, first, in step S2301, it is determined whether or not the vehicle is stopped. If it is in a stopped state, the drive signal output process is terminated as it is. If it is not a stop state, it is determined in step S2302 whether or not it is a retry state. If not in the retry state, it is determined in step S2303 whether or not it is in the normal state.

  In the normal state, after one pulse drive signal is output to the motor driver in step S2304, the drive signal output process is terminated. Here, the payout control process having the drive signal output process is executed as a part of the timer interrupt process (FIG. 26), and the timer interrupt process is started at a cycle of 2 msec. Is also activated at a cycle of about 2 msec. Therefore, when the normal state is set, one pulse of drive signal is output at a cycle of about 2 msec.

  As described above, when the driving signal of 60 pulses is output from the payout side MPU 231, the rotating body 124 advances 60 steps and makes one rotation, and when the rotating body 124 makes one rotation, two game balls are moved downstream. Derived. That is, one game ball is paid out by outputting a drive signal of 30 pulses. In the normal state, as described above, one pulse of the drive signal is output at a cycle of about 2 msec, so that one game ball is paid out from the payout device 114 at a cycle of 60 msec.

  The output period of the drive signal in the normal state is not limited to 2 msec and is arbitrary. In this case, for example, when the output cycle is set to a cycle slower than 2 msec, such as 6 msec, it may be configured to determine whether or not the output timing is for the normal state after an affirmative determination in step S2303. .

  If it is determined in step S2303 that the current state is not the normal state, it is determined in step S2305 whether the output timing is for the low speed state. If it is not the output timing for the low speed state, the main drive signal output processing is terminated as it is, and if it is the output timing for the low speed state, the main drive signal is output after outputting the one pulse drive signal to the motor driver in step S2304. The drive signal output process is terminated.

  In this case, whether or not the output timing is for the low speed state is determined to be negative in step S2305 after the low speed state is set or the drive signal is output at the previous low speed state output timing. This is done by determining whether or not it has been performed once. As described above, since each process in the drive signal output process is started at a cycle of about 2 msec, it is determined in step S2305 whether or not substantially 20 msec has elapsed, and a 1-pulse drive signal is output at a cycle of about 20 msec. The

  As already described, one game ball is paid out by outputting a drive signal of 30 pulses from the payout side MPU 231. In the low-speed state, as described above, one pulse of the drive signal is output at a cycle of about 20 msec, so that one game ball is paid out from the payout device 114 at a cycle of 600 msec.

  In step S2302, if it is a retry state, the retry signal output process is terminated after the retry operation process is executed in step S2306. In the retry operation process, after the retry state is set, the reverse rotation at the speed of 25 step / sec and the forward rotation at the speed of 50 step / sec are alternately performed for 1 sec. A drive signal is output to the payout motor 125 so that the setting is performed.

  Returning to the explanation of the payout control process (FIG. 32), after executing the drive signal output process in step S2102, the process proceeds to step S2103 to execute the ball detection process. In the ball detection process, it is determined whether or not a game ball has been paid out using the payout specifying counter area of the payout side RAM 233.

  The sphere detection process will be specifically described below. When a game ball does not pass through the detection unit 127 of the payout ball detection sensor 126, information “0” (payout non-detection information) is stored in the input port of the payout side MPU 231, and a game ball passes through. The information “1” (payout detection information) is stored in the input port of the payout side MPU 231. When one game ball passes through the detection unit 127, the state where the information “0” is stored is switched to the state where the information “1” is stored, and the information “1” is stored. After the state continues for a predetermined period, the state returns to the state where the information of “0” is stored.

  In the sphere detection process, the switching from the state where the information “0” is stored to the state where the information “1” is stored is monitored. Then, it is specified that the information “1” is switched to the stored state, and based on that, it is specified that one game ball has been paid out. That is, the payout side MPU 231 specifies that one game ball has been paid out based on the start of detection of the game ball by the payout ball detection sensor 126.

  In this case, the ball detection process does not specify that one game ball has been paid out immediately when the switch to the state in which the information “1” is stored is confirmed, but “1”. When the state is switched to the state where the information is stored and the state where the information “1” is stored is confirmed over a predetermined number of times, it is determined that one game ball has been paid out. Specifically, after the state where the information “0” is stored is confirmed, when the state where the information “1” is stored is confirmed twice in succession, one game ball is paid out. Identify that it was issued. Thus, when the payout detection information is stored in the input port of the payout side MPU 231 due to noise or the like, it is possible to prevent the payout side MPU 231 from specifying that one game ball has been paid out. When it is determined in the ball detection process that one game ball has been paid out, the payout specific flag is stored in the payout specific flag storage area of the payout RAM 233.

  It should be noted that in the normal cycle, the former state is continuously three times or more from the state where the information “1” is stored until the state where the information “0” is stored is confirmed. Confirmed 10 times. In the low-speed cycle, the former state is continuously changed three times or more from the state where the information “1” is stored until the state where the information “0” is stored. Confirmed 20 times.

  After executing the ball detection process, it is determined in step S2104 whether or not the process result of the ball detection process is a process result indicating that one game ball has been paid out. Specifically, it is determined whether or not a payout specifying flag (payout specifying information) is stored in the payout RAM 233. If the payout identification flag is not stored, the payout control process is terminated as it is.

  If the payout identification flag is stored, the process proceeds to step S2105. If the determination in step S2104 is affirmative, the payout identification flag is deleted. In step S2105, it is determined whether or not a ball rental operation is in progress. If the ball lending operation is not in progress, the payout control process is terminated after the prize ball subtraction process in steps S2106 to S2110 is executed. On the other hand, if the renting operation is being performed, the payout subtraction process in steps S211 to S2112 is executed, and then the payout control process is terminated.

  In the winning ball subtraction process, first, in step S2106, the value in the winning ball number storage area 264 of the payout side RAM 233 is decremented by 1, and in the subsequent step S2107, the value of the payout number counter area 266 in the payout side RAM 233 is decremented by 1. To do. Thereafter, in step S2108, it is determined whether or not the value in the prize ball number storage area 264 is “2” or less. If it is not “2” or less, the payout control process is terminated as it is. If it is “2” or less, it is determined in step S2109 whether or not the prize ball low speed flag is stored in the prize ball low speed flag storage area of the payout side RAM 233. If the prize ball low speed flag is stored, the payout control process is terminated as it is. If the prize ball low speed flag is not stored, the prize ball low speed flag is stored in the prize ball low speed flag storage area in step S2110. After that, the payout control process is terminated.

  Further, in the lending subtraction process, first, in step S2111, 1 is subtracted from the value in the lending number storage area 265 of the payout RAM 233, and in the subsequent step S2112 the value of the payout number counter area 266 in the payout RAM 233 is set. After subtracting one, the payout control process is terminated.

<Prize ball permission signal setting processing>
Next, the winning ball permission signal setting process of step S1510 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the prize ball permission signal setting process, a process of setting output stop and output start of the prize ball permission signal from the payout side MPU 231 to the main side MPU 211 is executed.

  In the winning ball permission signal setting process, first, in step S2401, it is determined whether or not a fraud detection flag is stored in the payout-side RAM 233. If the fraud detection flag is stored in the payout side RAM 233, the prize ball permission signal setting process is terminated after setting the prize ball non-permission state (output non-permission state) in step S2408.

  More specifically, the setting of the winning ball non-permission state is performed in the winning ball permission state flag storage area (the winning ball permission information storage unit or the output permission information storage unit) of the payout side RAM 233. When the output permission information is stored, the prize ball permission state flag is deleted, and the output of the prize ball permission signal is stopped (the prize ball permission signal from the output means for outputting the prize ball permission signal). Stop the output). In a state where the winning ball permission state flag is erased, the output of the winning ball permission signal from the payout side MPU 231 to the main side MPU 211 is stopped and the state is maintained. The case where the fraud detection flag is stored is a case where a fraudulent act due to a magnet or a fraud act due to vibration is specified in the main MPU 211. In such a case, the output of the winning ball permission signal is stopped. Thus, it is possible to prevent the game ball from being paid out based on the output of a new prize ball command in a situation where the above-mentioned fraudulent activity is being performed.

  In this pachinko machine 10, since the state in which the prize ball permission signal is output is the output state of the HI level signal, the state in which the output of the prize ball permission signal is stopped is the output state of the LOW level signal. . However, when the state where the prize ball permission signal is output is the output state of the LOW level signal, the state where the output of the prize ball permission signal is stopped may be the output state of the HI level signal. Furthermore, the state where the output of the winning ball permission signal is stopped may be a state where no signal is output for the signal path.

  If the fraud detection flag is not stored in the payout side RAM 233, the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 264 of the payout side RAM 233 is three or less, which is the permitted reference number, in step S2402. It is determined whether or not. If the number is four or more, after setting the prize ball non-permission state (output non-permission state) in step S2408, the present prize ball permission signal setting process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S2402 that the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 264 is three or less, which is the permitted reference number, a ball removal operation is in progress in step S2403. It is determined whether or not. If the ball removal operation is not being performed, it is determined in step S2404 whether or not there is a payout error state.

  If it is in the payout error state, after setting the prize ball non-permission state in step S2408, the prize ball permission signal setting process is terminated. In this way, by setting the prize ball non-permission state in the payout error state, in the payout error state, the output of the prize ball permission signal is stopped and the output of the prize ball command is prohibited.

  As already explained, in the payout error state, payout of the game ball is stopped. Further, in the pachinko machine 10, when the power supply from the external power supply is stopped, the information stored in the payout side RAM 233 is erased. Therefore, when a prize ball command is output in the payout error state, if the power supply is stopped while the payout error state continues, the prize ball corresponding to the prize ball command is erased without being paid out. . That is, in a configuration in which a prize ball command is output in a payout error state, there is a high possibility that a prize ball corresponding to the prize ball command is erased without being paid out. On the other hand, according to the present configuration, such inconvenience can be prevented.

  If it is determined in step S2404 that there is no payout error state, it is determined in step S2405 whether or not the full tank low speed flag is stored in the full tank low speed flag storage area of the payout side RAM 233. In step S2406, it is determined whether or not the ball no low speed flag is stored in the ball no low speed flag storage area of the payout side RAM 233.

  If either the full tank low speed flag or the ball no low speed flag is stored, the prize ball permission signal setting process is terminated after setting the prize ball non-permission state in step S2408. In this way, when the full tank low speed state or the ball no low speed state is set, the prize ball disallowed state is set. Output is prohibited.

  As already described, the full tank low speed state or the ball no low speed state is a state that is set as a preceding stage when there is a high possibility of a payout error state thereafter. Then, in the payout error state, payout of the game ball is stopped. Further, in the pachinko machine 10, when the power supply from the external power supply is stopped, the information stored in the payout side RAM 233 is erased. Therefore, when a prize ball command is output in the payout error state, if the power supply is stopped while the payout error state continues, the prize ball corresponding to the prize ball command is erased without being paid out. . That is, in a configuration in which a prize ball command is output in a payout error state, there is a high possibility that a prize ball corresponding to the prize ball command is erased without being paid out. On the other hand, as in this configuration, when it is determined that there is a high possibility of a payout error state, the payout error state is disabled by stopping the output of the prize ball permission signal and prohibiting the output of the prize ball command. It is possible to prohibit the output of the prize ball command before it becomes, and the possibility of the occurrence of the above inconvenience is drastically reduced.

  If the full tank low speed flag is not stored in step S2405, and if the ball no low speed flag is not stored in step S2406, the winning ball permission state (output permission state) is set in step S2407. Later, the winning ball permission signal setting process is terminated. Even when the ball removal operation is being performed in step S2404, after setting the winning ball permission state in step S2407, the winning ball permission signal setting process is terminated.

  Specifically, for setting the winning ball permission state, when the winning ball permission state flag is not stored in the winning ball permission state flag storage area of the payout side RAM 233, the winning ball permission state flag is stored, and the winning ball permission signal is stored. Is started (the output of the winning ball permission signal from the output means for outputting the winning ball permission signal is started). In the state where the prize ball permission state flag is stored, the output of the prize ball permission signal from the payout side MPU 231 to the main side MPU 211 is started, and the state is maintained. In other words, in the state where the ball removal operation is not being performed, the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 264 of the payout side RAM 233 is three or less, which is the permitted reference number, and further, a payout error state, The output of the winning ball permission signal is continued when neither the tongue low speed state nor the ball low speed state is reached.

<About the output of the prize ball command in response to the prize ball permission signal>
Next, the manner in which a prize ball command is output in response to a prize ball permission signal will be described with reference to the time chart of FIG. In the explanation using FIG. 36, it is assumed for convenience of explanation that only a prize corresponding to four prize balls is generated among a plurality of kinds of prizes.

  First, a case where a single winning occurs will be described.

  In a situation where a winning ball permission signal has already been output from the payout side MPU 231 to the main side MPU 211, when a winning occurs at the timing t1, four main winning ball commands are output from the main side MPU 211 to the payout side MPU 231. As a result, the information on the number of four winning balls is stored in the payout side RAM 233, and the output of the winning ball permission signal is stopped by exceeding the permitted reference number (reaching the non-permitted reference number). Payment is started.

  Thereafter, by paying out one game ball at the timing of t2, the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout-side RAM 233 becomes the permission reference number of three. Thereby, the output of the prize ball permission signal is started. Thereafter, the payout of one game ball is further executed at the timing of t3, so that the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 233 becomes two of the switching reference number. As a result, the payout speed of the payout motor 125 is switched from the normal cycle to the low speed cycle. Thereafter, by paying out two game balls by the timing of t4, information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 233 becomes zero. As a result, the output of the drive signal to the payout motor 125 is stopped, and the payout of the prize ball is ended.

  Next, a case will be described in which a win is generated again in a situation where the payout speed of the payout motor 125 is a low speed cycle after a single win has occurred.

  In a situation where a winning ball permission signal has already been output from the payout MPU 231 to the main MPU 211, a winning game is generated at timing t5, whereby four winning ball commands are output from the main MPU 211 to the payout MPU 231. As a result, information on the number of four winning balls is stored in the paying-out RAM 233, and when the permitted reference number is exceeded, the output of the winning ball permission signal is stopped and the payout of game balls is started.

  Thereafter, when one game ball is paid out at the timing of t6, the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 233 becomes three, which is the permitted reference number. Thereby, the output of the prize ball permission signal is started. Thereafter, the payout of one game ball is further executed at the timing of t7, whereby the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 233 becomes two of the switching reference number. As a result, the payout speed of the payout motor 125 is switched from the normal cycle to the low speed cycle.

  Thereafter, a new winning is generated at timing t8 within which the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 233 is not zero, so that four prize balls are given from the main side MPU 211 to the payout side MPU 231. The command is output. As a result, information on the number of four prize balls is stored in the payout side RAM 233, and the output of the prize ball permission signal is stopped when the permitted reference number is exceeded, and the payout motor 125 is paid out when the switching reference number is exceeded. The speed is restored from the low speed cycle to the normal cycle.

  Next, a case where winnings occur continuously will be described.

  As described above, when a new winning is generated at timing t8, four winning ball commands are output from the main MPU 211 to the payout MPU 231. As a result, the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout-side RAM 233 becomes five by adding a new number of prize balls to the number of prize balls stored so far.

  Thereafter, by paying out two game balls by the timing of t9, the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 233 becomes three of the permitted reference number. Thereby, the output of the prize ball permission signal is started. In this case, winnings are generated continuously until the timing t9, and the main-side RAM 213 stores a plurality of pieces of information on four prize balls. Thereafter, four prize ball commands are output from the main-side MPU 211 to the payout-side MPU 231 at a timing t10 which is a timing before a new game ball is paid out. In addition, the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout-side RAM 233 at the timing of t11 becomes the permission reference number, and the output of the prize ball permission signal is started. Thereafter, four prize ball commands are output from the main-side MPU 211 to the payout-side MPU 231 at a timing t12 which is a timing before a new game ball is paid out.

  That is, in the situation where the prize ball information is already stored in the main RAM 213, when the prize ball information stored in the payout RAM 233 becomes the permission reference number and the output of the prize ball permission signal is started, A prize ball command is output from the main side MPU 211 to the payout side MPU 231 at a timing before a new game ball is paid out, and the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 233 exceeds the permitted reference number. Become.

  This is due to the following reason. The payout speed in the normal cycle of the payout motor 125 is set so that one game ball is paid out at intervals of 60 msec. On the other hand, in the payout side MPU 231, the time required until the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 233 becomes the permission reference number and the output of the prize ball permission signal is started is the execution time of the timer interrupt process. It is in the range of 2 msec which is in the range of. In addition, the time required for outputting a prize ball command specified as being permitted to output a prize ball command based on the input of a prize ball permission signal in the main MPU 211 is in the range of 20 msec to 24 msec. . In addition, the time required for the payout side MPU 231 to input a prize ball command from the main side MPU 211 and add information on the number of prize balls corresponding to the prize ball command to the payout side RAM 233 is the execution time of the timer interrupt process. It is in the range of 2 msec which is in the range of. In addition, even if the time required for transmitting the winning ball permission signal and the winning ball command, the error in processing time, and the like are included, the information on the number of winning balls stored in the payout side RAM 233 becomes the permission reference number. The time required for the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout-side RAM 233 to exceed the permitted reference number by inputting a prize ball command is about 40 msec at the maximum. This is shorter than 60 msec which is the time required for paying out one game ball. In other words, when the output of the winning ball permission signal is started in a situation where the winning ball information is already stored in the main RAM 213, the winning ball command is output at a timing before the new game ball is paid out. The processing time related to the prize balls in the main MPU 211 and the payout MPU 231 is set so that the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 233 exceeds the permitted reference number.

  In the configuration as described above, the permission reference number that triggers the output of the winning ball permission signal from the payout MPU 231 to the main MPU 211 is an opportunity to switch the payout speed of the payout motor 125 from the normal cycle to the low speed cycle. One game ball is set more than the switching reference number. Thus, in a situation where a plurality of prize ball information is stored in the main side RAM 213, the prizes stored in the payout side RAM 233 until all the output of each prize ball command corresponding to the prize ball information are executed. The information on the number of balls does not reach the switching reference number. Therefore, a prize ball permission signal is output from the payout MPU 231 to the main MPU 211, and only one prize ball command corresponding to one win is output from the main MPU 211 to the payout MPU 231. In the configuration, it is possible to prevent the payout speed of the payout motor 125 from being switched from the normal cycle to the low speed cycle even though the prize ball information is stored in the main side RAM 213, and to smoothly pay out the game ball. Can be done.

  Returning to the explanation of FIG. 36, the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 233 at the timing of t13 becomes the reference number of authorizations, and the output of the prize ball permission signal is started. Further, by further executing payout of one game ball at the timing of t14, the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 233 becomes two of the switching reference number, and the payout speed of the payout motor 125 is The normal cycle is switched from the normal cycle until then. Thereafter, the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 233 at the timing of t15 becomes zero, the output of the drive signal to the payout motor 125 is stopped, and the payout of prize balls is completed.

<Handling of prize ball information when power supply is started in a full tank>
Next, the handling of prize ball information when power supply from the external power source to the pachinko machine 10 is started while the lower plate 82 is full will be described with reference to the time chart of FIG.

  First, the case where there is a standby process after the startup process in the main MPU 211 will be described with reference to FIG.

  The power supply from the external power supply to the pachinko machine 10 is started at the timing t1, so that the start-up process is started in each of the main MPU 211 and the payout MPU 231. Thereafter, the start-up process of the payout side MPU 231 is completed at the timing of t2. In this case, since the supply of power from the external power supply to the pachinko machine 10 is started with the lower pan 82 in a full state, it is specified in the dispensing side MPU 231 that a full tank detection signal is input from the full tank detection sensor 88. The However, at this point in time, since the payout side MPU 231 specifies that the full tank detection signal is being input, the output of the winning ball permission signal is started.

  Thereafter, the startup process of the main MPU 211 is completed at the timing of t3. However, the main MPU 211 waits without starting execution of various processes until 1 sec has elapsed from this point. Thereafter, at the timing t4 when the main MPU 211 waits without starting execution of various processes, the output continuation period of the full tank detection signal in the payout MPU 231 is about the second full tank specific reference period. When reaching 0.8 sec, the output of the winning ball permission signal is stopped.

  Thereafter, at the timing of t5, execution of various processes is started when 1 sec elapses after the startup process in the main MPU 211. However, since the output of the winning ball permission signal has already been stopped, even if the winning ball information is stored in the main RAM 213, the winning ball command is not output, and the number of winning balls to the payout RAM 233 is information. Is not remembered. Thereafter, the power supply is cut off at the timing of t6.

  As described above, according to this configuration, even if the power is turned on when the lower plate 82 is full, and the power is shut off at a relatively early stage thereafter, no prize ball command is output. Thus, it is possible to prevent the inconvenience that the prize ball information is erased without paying out the game balls. This is because the main-side MPU 211 waits without starting execution of various processes until 1 sec elapses after the startup process. In addition, when the power is turned on when the lower plate 82 is full and the power is shut off at a relatively early stage thereafter, or when this is repeated, the ON / OFF operation of the power switch is repeatedly performed. In addition, there may be a case where the above-described state occurs in a pseudo manner due to noise. In this configuration, the timing at which the startup process is completed in the main MPU 211 may be the same as the timing at which the startup process is started in the payout MPU 231, and the main MPU 211 is earlier in the range of 0.2 sec. It is good also as a structure completed.

  Here, the case where there is no standby process as described above in the main MPU 211 will be described with reference to FIG.

  By starting the power supply from the external power source to the pachinko machine 10 at the timing of t11, the start-up process is started in each of the main MPU 211 and the payout MPU 231. Thereafter, the start-up process of the payout side MPU 231 is completed at the timing of t12. In this case, since the supply of power from the external power supply to the pachinko machine 10 is started with the lower pan 82 in a full state, it is specified in the dispensing side MPU 231 that a full tank detection signal is input from the full tank detection sensor 88. The However, at this point in time, since the payout side MPU 231 specifies that the full tank detection signal is being input, the output of the winning ball permission signal is started.

  Thereafter, the start-up process of the main MPU 211 is completed at timing t13. In this case, execution of various processes is started in the main MPU 211. Then, when a prize ball permission signal is input from the payout side MPU 231 in a situation where the prize ball information is stored in the main side RAM 213, a prize ball command is output from the main side MPU 211 to the payout side MPU 231 at the timing of t14. Is done. As a result, the payout side MPU 231 stops outputting the prize ball permission signal and causes the payout side RAM 233 to store information on the number of prize balls.

  Thereafter, at the timing of t15, the power supply is cut off in a situation where the information on the number of prize balls is stored in the payout side RAM 233. As a result, since the power interruption power is not supplied to the payout side RAM 233, the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 233 is erased without actually executing the payout of game balls. Then, by repeating the operation from the timing t11 to the timing t15, such as from the timing t16 to the timing t17, the game ball payout is actually executed for the award ball information stored in the main RAM 213. It is erased repeatedly without any problems. In this case, it causes a great disadvantage to the player. On the other hand, in this pachinko machine 10, since it is an aspect shown in FIG. 37A as already described, it is possible to prevent the above inconvenience from occurring.

  Note that the award ball information is repeatedly deleted without actually paying out the game balls when the tank 111 is in the absence of balls and power supply from the external power source to the pachinko machine 10 is started. Are similarly concerned. On the other hand, in the pachinko machine 10, in the situation where the main MPU 211 waits without starting execution of various processes, the output continuation period of the ball non-detection signal is set to the second ball non-specific standard in the payout MPU 231. When the period reaches about 1.0 sec, the output of the winning ball permission signal is stopped. Therefore, the occurrence of the above inconvenience is prevented.

<Handling of prize ball information when power supply is started with the front door frame 14 open>
Next, handling of prize ball information when power supply from an external power source to the pachinko machine 10 is started with the front door frame 14 in an open state will be described with reference to the time chart of FIG.

  First, in the main side MPU 211, a period (output permission reference period) from the input of the prize ball permission signal of the payout side MPU 231 to the determination that the output of the prize ball command is permitted is the front door frame opening switch 22. A case where the period from when the front door frame opening signal is input until it is determined that the front door frame 14 is in the open state (opening specific reference period) will be described with reference to FIG.

  By starting the power supply from the external power source to the pachinko machine 10 at the timing t1, the start-up process is started in the main MPU 211 and the standby process is executed after the start-up process. Thereafter, at the timing of t2, execution of various processes is started when 1 sec elapses after the startup process in the main side MPU 211. In this case, since the prize ball permission signal has already been output from the payout side MPU 231, measurement of the output permission reference period is started. In addition, since the power is turned on with the front door frame 14 in the open state this time, measurement of the open specific reference period is started.

  Then, at the timing of t3, the measurement of the open specific reference period of the output permission reference period and the open specific reference period is completed, and the main MPU 211 becomes in a state where the prize ball command cannot be output. Thereafter, the measurement of the output permission reference period is completed at the timing of t4. However, since the prize ball command cannot be output at the timing t3, the prize ball command is not output even if the prize ball information is stored in the main RAM 213, and the prize ball to the payout RAM 233 is output. Number information is not stored. Thereafter, the power supply is cut off at the timing of t5.

  As described above, according to this configuration, even when the power is turned on with the front door frame 14 in the open state and the power is shut off at a relatively early stage thereafter, the prize ball command is not output. Thus, it is possible to prevent the inconvenience that the prize ball information is erased without paying out the game balls. This is because the output permission reference period is set longer than the open specific reference period.

  Here, a case where the output permission reference period is shorter than the open specific reference period in the main MPU 211 will be described with reference to FIG.

  By starting the power supply from the external power source to the pachinko machine 10 at the timing of t11, the start-up process is started in the main MPU 211 and the standby process is executed after the start-up process. Thereafter, at the timing of t12, execution of various processes is started when 1 sec elapses after the startup process in the main-side MPU 211. In this case, since the prize ball permission signal has already been output from the payout side MPU 231, measurement of the output permission reference period is started. In addition, since the power is turned on with the front door frame 14 in the open state this time, measurement of the open specific reference period is started.

  After that, at the timing of t13, a prize ball command is output from the main MPU 211 to the payout MPU 231 by completing measurement of the output permission reference period in the output permission reference period and the open specific reference period. Thereafter, at the timing of t14, the measurement of the opening specific reference period is completed, and the main-side MPU 211 is in a state where a prize ball command cannot be output. Further, in this case, when the front door frame opening command is output from the main side MPU 211 to the payout side MPU 231, the payout side MPU 231 enters a state in which a game ball cannot be paid out. Accordingly, the payout of game balls based on the prize ball command output at the timing of t13 is stopped, and the state where the information on the number of prize balls is stored in the payout side RAM 233 is maintained.

  Thereafter, at the timing of t15, the power supply is cut off in a situation where the information on the number of prize balls is stored in the payout side RAM 233. As a result, since the power interruption power is not supplied to the payout side RAM 233, the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 233 is erased without actually executing the payout of game balls. Then, by repeating the operation from the timing t11 to the timing t15, such as from the timing t16 to the timing t17, the prize ball information stored in the main RAM 213 is stored in the payout RAM 233 as information on the number of prize balls. It is memorized and erased repeatedly without actually paying out the game balls. In this case, it causes a great disadvantage to the player. On the other hand, the pachinko machine 10 is configured as shown in FIG. 38A as described above, so that the above inconvenience is prevented.

  According to the embodiment described in detail above, the following excellent effects are obtained.

  Even if the main MPU 211 confirms the input of the power interruption signal, it does not immediately identify the occurrence of the power interruption, but continues over the number of times of the timer interruption processing of the power interruption reference times set as a plurality of times. When the input of the power interruption signal is confirmed, it is specified that a power interruption has occurred. As a result, even if the power interruption signal is input once due to electrical noise or the like, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of power interruption.

  Even if the occurrence of a power interruption is specified in the power interruption signal reading process (FIG. 12) executed in the timer interruption process (FIG. 11), the power failure is not immediately executed, but the main RAM 213 is interrupted. Since the flag is stored and whether or not the power interruption flag is stored is determined after executing the processing of step S701 to step S707 in the normal processing, the normal processing after power recovery is the first in the normal processing. By starting from the process (process in step S701), the process state before power interruption is obtained. As a result, it is possible to return to the state before the power interruption without storing the address of the process executed when the power interruption occurred in the main RAM 213 as stack information.

  In the main MPU 211, the normal process (FIG. 17) is repeatedly executed, and the timer interrupt process (FIG. 11) is executed so as to interrupt the normal process at a predetermined cycle. As a result, predetermined processing such as confirmation of the signal input to the input port 211a can be periodically executed in a shorter cycle than normal processing by including it in the timer interrupt processing, and for other processing. By including it in the normal process, it is possible to guarantee the periodic execution of the timer interrupt process in a short cycle. In this case, since the determination whether or not the power interruption flag is stored in the main RAM 213 is executed in the normal process, the contents of the process executed before the power interruption at the time of the power interruption are stored. Even if there is no problem, it is possible to return to the processing execution state at the time of power interruption by executing the first process in the normal process at the time of power recovery.

  Further, since the interruption signal reading process (FIG. 12) is included in the timer interruption process, it is possible to periodically check whether or not the interruption signal is output. While it is necessary to complete the power interruption process in the main MPU 211 before the power supply is completely stopped after the power reduction state, the power interruption process is started as described above. In order to achieve this, it is necessary to confirm that the situation where at least the power interruption signal is output continues for a plurality of confirmation timings. In this case, in the configuration in which the execution timing of the power interruption signal reading process greatly depends on the processing status of the main MPU 211, the power reduction situation is assumed assuming the latest timing at which the power interruption signal reading process is executed. After that, it is necessary to set the time until the power supply is completely stopped and the timing for determining whether or not the power interruption flag is stored in the normal process at the design stage of the pachinko machine 10. If it does so, a big restriction | limiting will arise in the design of the process structure of the pachinko machine 10. FIG. On the other hand, since the power interruption signal reading process is periodically executed as described above, it is possible to reduce the restriction.

  In addition, in a configuration in which the timer interrupt processing start cycle is set shorter than the cycle in which the first processing is executed in the normal processing, the power interruption signal reading processing is executed in the timer interrupt processing. As a result, it is possible to advance the timing for checking whether or not the power interruption signal is output.

  Even in the situation where the fraud detection flag is stored, the power interruption signal monitoring process and the power interruption flag determination process in step S708 are still executed, so that the electric power is detected in the situation where the fraud detection flag is stored. Even when a disconnection occurs, the power interruption process can be executed.

  Further, if the power interruption process is not executed in a situation where the fraud detection flag is stored, the initialization process of the main RAM 213 is surely executed when the power is restored. Then, the following illegal acts are assumed. That is, since the big hit random number counter C1 is initialized when the main RAM 213 is initialized, the pachinko machine 10 is stored after the fraud detection flag is stored by performing the action of bringing the magnet closer or the action of giving vibration. By performing the power OFF and ON operations, it is possible to intentionally generate the jackpot random number counter C1. Since the value of the random number for winning the jackpot is determined in advance for each pachinko machine 10, a prize is awarded to the operation ports 33 and 34 at the timing when the value of the random number for winning the jackpot is acquired as lottery information. By generating or illegally outputting a winning signal to the main MPU 211, it is possible to illegally acquire a big win. On the other hand, the pachinko machine 10 can prevent such an illegal act.

  Since the power is supplied from the power interruption power supply unit 221c to the main RAM 213, the state before power interruption is restored at the time of power recovery without executing the information saving process in the power interruption process. It becomes possible. As a result, it is possible to reduce the time required to execute the power interruption process. In particular, as described above, in order to start the power interruption process, it is necessary to confirm that the situation where the power interruption signal is output is continued over a plurality of confirmation timings. If this happens, there is a concern that it will take a long time to complete the power interruption process after the power is reduced. It is possible to shorten the time until the process at the time of power interruption is completed.

  In addition, since the fraud detection flag is erased by restoring power after the power of the pachinko machine 10 is shut off, the fraud detection flag can be erased relatively easily for the game hall manager. . In this case, since the fraud detection flag is erased not when the power is shut off but when the power is restored, the time required for executing the power outage process becomes longer when the fraud detection flag is erased. It will never become.

  When the fraud detection flag is stored in the main RAM 213, a fraud detection command is output from the main MPU 211 to the payout MPU 231, and when the fraud detection command is input to the payout MPU 231, the fraud detection flag is input to the payout RAM 233. Is stored. In a situation where the fraud detection flag is stored in the payout side RAM 233, the output of the winning ball permission signal from the payout side MPU 231 to the main side MPU 211 is stopped. Thus, when a fraudulent act due to a magnet or a fraudulent act due to vibration is specified in the main MPU 211, it is possible to prevent the game ball from being paid out based on the output of a new prize ball command. In addition, since power is not supplied to the payout-side RAM 233 from the power interruption power supply unit 221c, the state where the payout of the game ball is restricted can be released by restoring power after the power of the pachinko machine 10 is shut off. Is possible.

  Progression processing executed in the main MPU 211 when the magnetic detection sensor 105, the photo sensor 106, and the vibration detection sensor 107 are installed on the game board 24 and an illegal act using a magnet or an act of vibrating is performed. Among them, the execution of at least some of them was regulated. More specifically, the game area is restricted so that the game cannot be continued, and the game ball is not paid out. Thereby, after the said fraudulent act is performed, progress of a regular game can be controlled. Therefore, even if the above fraud is performed, it is possible to reduce the disadvantage that the game hall suffers against it.

  The power from the power interruption and power supply unit 221c of the launch control board 221 is supplied to the main RAM 213 but not supplied to the payout RAM 233. Thereby, the capacity of the power supply unit 221c for power interruption can be reduced, and accordingly, the cost of the pachinko machine 10 can be reduced.

  However, in this configuration, when the power supply from the external power source to the pachinko machine 10 is stopped, all the information stored in the payout-side RAM 233 is erased. On the other hand, unpaid prize ball information is basically stored in the main RAM 213, and the main MPU 211 receives one prize for the MPU 231 when a prize ball permission signal is input from the payout MPU 231. The corresponding prize ball command is output. The payout side MPU 231 stores information on the number of prize balls corresponding to the input prize ball command in the payout side RAM 233, and drives and controls the payout device 114 based on the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 233. I tried to do it. Thereby, when there are a large number of unpaid prize balls, only a part of them is stored in the payout side RAM 233 and the rest is stored in the main side RAM 213. Therefore, even if the power to the pachinko machine 10 is shut off in a situation where a large number of unpaid prize balls remain, the number of prize balls to be erased at that time can be reduced as much as possible.

  Incidentally, a configuration is also conceivable in which information on the number of prize balls stored in the main side RAM 213 is subtracted each time a game ball is paid out by the payout device 114 without storing information on the number of prize balls in the payout side RAM 233. However, in this configuration, the processing load on the main MPU 211 is extremely increased, and the effect of reducing the processing load on the main MPU 211 by disposing the payout MPU 231 separately from the main MPU 211 disappears. End up. On the other hand, according to the configuration of the present embodiment, while obtaining the effect of providing the payout side MPU 231 separately from the main side MPU 211, the above excellent effect can be obtained in addition thereto.

  In addition, it is not limited to the description content of embodiment mentioned above, For example, you may implement as follows. Incidentally, each of the following configurations may be applied alone to the configuration of the above embodiment, or may be applied to the configuration of the above embodiment in a predetermined combination. Moreover, you may apply each following structure to embodiment which is not illustrated as an application object of the structure.

  (1) In the above embodiment, the normal processing (FIG. 17) is configured to execute the processing from step S701 to step S707 as processing for progressing the game. It is good also as a structure performed by 11). In this case, in the normal process, the determination as to whether or not the power interruption flag is stored in the main RAM 213 may be repeatedly executed. In addition, the process of any one of steps S709 to S714 or any combination It is good also as a structure which performs this process.

  (2) In the normal processing, the timing for determining whether or not the power interruption flag is stored in the main RAM 213 is not limited to the timing in the above embodiment, and the above determination is performed at the first timing of the normal processing. The above determination may be made at another timing in the normal processing.

  (3) The confirmation as to whether or not the power interruption signal is input to the input port 211a of the main MPU 211 may be performed in the normal process, not in the timer interrupt process.

  Moreover, it is good also as a structure which performs a process at the time of an electric power interruption when it is specified by the timer interruption process that the interruption flag is stored in the said timer interruption process. In this case, since the power interruption process is executed at a timing during the normal process, it is necessary to store the power interruption processing information in the main RAM 213. In such a configuration, the following cheating is assumed. That is, the signal corresponding to the occurrence of power interruption is repeatedly repeated for a short time, which is a range in which the processing information at the time of power interruption is not erased, so that the processing information at the time of power interruption is continuously written in the main RAM 213. When the MPU 211 is input, the storage capacity of the main RAM 213 is exceeded. Then, initialization of the main RAM 213 is executed. In this case, in the configuration in which the jackpot random number counter C1 is initialized in accordance with the initialization of the main RAM 213, the random number initial is intentionally performed by performing an action of repeatedly inputting a signal corresponding to the occurrence of the power interruption. Can be generated. Since the value of the random number for winning the jackpot is determined in advance for each pachinko machine 10, a prize that becomes the opportunity to acquire the lottery information at the timing when the value of the random number for winning the jackpot is acquired as the lottery information. By illegally generating, etc., it is possible to illegally acquire a big win. On the other hand, when the power interruption signal is confirmed a plurality of times, the power interruption flag is stored, and the processing at the time of power interruption is executed based on the power interruption flag, thereby suppressing the occurrence of the illegal act. It becomes possible to do.

  Also, the main MPU 211 does not check the input port 211a every time the timer interrupt process is newly started, but checks the input port 211a once when the timer interrupt process is started twice. Confirmation of input port 211a at a rate of once when timer interrupt processing is activated multiple times, such as confirmation of input port 211a at a rate of once when timer interruption processing is activated three times It is good also as composition which performs. Even in this case, it is preferable that the power interruption flag is stored when the input of the power interruption signal is confirmed a plurality of times.

  (4) In the main MPU 211, it is determined whether or not the situation where the power interruption signal is output following the situation where the non-electric power interruption signal is output is continued over a plurality of confirmation timings. The configuration is not limited to that performed using the disconnection confirmation counter area 217. For example, a register for the main MPU 211 or a main RAM 213 is provided with a current area, a previous area, and a previous-use area, and three times of signal input results from the power interruption monitoring board 203 are stored in these areas. And by calculating the information stored in these areas, the situation where the power interruption signal is output following the situation where the non-electricity interruption signal is output is continued over a plurality of confirmation timings. You may make it identify whether it exists. Specifically, “0” information is stored in the area corresponding to the timing at which the input of the non-interruptible signal is confirmed, and “1” is stored in the area corresponding to the timing at which the input of the power-off signal is confirmed. Information is stored. When the logical product of the information obtained by inverting the information stored in the previous use area, the information stored in the previous use area, and the information stored in the current use area is “1”, It is good also as composition which specifies that the situation where the electric power interruption signal is outputted following the situation where the electric power interruption signal is outputted is continued over a plurality of confirmation timings.

  The feature of the present invention is that "the control means inputs input information of the monitoring result from the monitoring means, confirmation means for confirming the input information input to the input means at each confirmation timing, and The input information confirmed by the confirmation unit is stored as history information, and the history information is stored in the history storage unit for storing and holding the history information over a plurality of subsequent confirmation timings by the confirmation unit. Power interruption specifying means for specifying that the power reduction state is based on the history information, and the history storage means is defined as a number of times of three or more including a predetermined confirmation timing. The information on the monitoring result of the monitoring means corresponding to the confirmation timing corresponding to the reference number of times can be grasped by the power interruption specifying means based on the history information. History information is stored, and the power interruption specifying means is information in which either the first time or the last time among the information of the monitoring result for the reference number of times is not deterioration confirmation information. When the other is reduction confirmation information, the apparatus includes an operation processing execution unit that executes an operation process that results in an operation result indicating that the power is reduced, and based on the operation result of the operation process execution unit, To identify that it is.

  (5) In the above embodiment, the signal from the power interruption monitoring board 203 is input to the input port 211a for inputting the information of the detection result from the detection sensor for detecting the presence / absence of winning in the general winning opening 31 or the like. However, this may be changed. For example, the main MPU 211 may be provided with an input port dedicated to the power interruption monitoring board 203.

  (6) In the above embodiment, when the power interruption monitoring board 203 determines that the power necessary for the main MPU 211 to function is supplied, the HI level signal is sent to the main MPU 211 as the first information. Is output and the LOW level signal is output as the second information to the main MPU 211 when it is determined that the necessary power is not supplied. Instead, the LOW level signal is output as the first information. It is good also as a structure which outputs and outputs a HI level signal as 2nd information.

  (7) In the above embodiment, the power interruption monitoring board 203 monitors the voltage of DC stable 24 volts, and when this voltage falls below 22 volts, it judges that the power supply has been cut off and outputs the second information to the main MPU 211. However, the method for determining the occurrence of power interruption may be changed. For example, all alternating voltages represented by sine waves are represented by positive voltage values, and it is determined whether or not the alternating voltage represented by positive voltage values exceeds a preset voltage value a predetermined number of times within a predetermined period. It is good also as composition to do. In this case, the second information may be output from the power interruption monitoring board 203 when the predetermined number of times is not exceeded within a predetermined period.

  (8) The configuration related to erasing the fraud detection flag from the main RAM 213 is not limited to the configuration in the above embodiment, and is based on the operation of a predetermined operation unit such as the RAM erasure switch 148, for example. It is good also as a structure erased. Moreover, it is good also as a structure erase | eliminated based on the said predetermined operation part being operated and the electric power supply to the pachinko machine 10 being started.

  Moreover, it is good also as a structure which provides the cancellation | release operation part called a clear switch in the board | substrate box 93 of the main control apparatus 91, and is erase | eliminated based on the said cancellation | release operation part being operated. In this case, it is preferable that a signal line for electrical connection between the release operation unit and the main control board 201 is accommodated in the board box 93. The substrate box 93 is provided with trace means such as a caulking structure that requires destruction of a predetermined portion of the substrate box 93 when the internal space is opened and a seal seal that leaves a trace when opened. By accommodating the signal line, it is possible to suppress the act of disconnecting the signal line and to facilitate discovery when the act is performed.

  (9) The power interruption signal in the above embodiment is applied to gaming machines that do not detect fraud using magnets or vibrations that use vibrations, or to only perform abnormality notifications for such fraud. You may apply the structure regarding the determination timing whether the electric power interruption flag is stored when it confirms several times and the said electric power interruption flag is stored.

  (10) A configuration for storing a power interruption flag when a power interruption signal in the above embodiment is confirmed a plurality of times for a gaming machine in which power is supplied to the payout side RAM 233, and the power interruption flag is stored. You may apply the structure regarding the determination timing of whether it is performed.

  (11) In the above embodiment, the payout side MPU 231 may be configured not to execute the process of step S1404, that is, the process of initializing the payout side RAM 233 in the main process (FIG. 25). Even in this case, power at the time of power interruption is not supplied to the payout side RAM 231. Therefore, the fraud detection flag stored in the payout side RAM 231 before the power cut off is deleted by power recovery after the pachinko machine 10 is turned off. It becomes possible to do.

  (12) In the above embodiment, the magnetic detection sensor 105, the photo sensor 106, and the vibration detection sensor 107 are installed on the game board 24, and the fraud specific state is set for the fraud using the magnet and the fraud that gives vibration. However, the illegal acts to be monitored are not limited to those described above.

  For example, only the magnetic detection sensor 105 may be installed, and only an illegal act using a magnet may be monitored. Further, only the photo sensor 106 may be installed, and only an abnormal operation with respect to the pachinko machine 10 may be monitored. Alternatively, only the vibration detection sensor 107 may be installed, and only an illegal act that gives vibration may be monitored. Note that not only the pachinko machine 10 as in the above-described embodiment but also the situation where only the illegal action using the magnet is to be monitored or the situation where only the abnormal operation with respect to the pachinko machine 10 is monitored is, for example, the upper working port This occurs also in a pachinko machine 33 installed on the board surface of the game board 24 instead of on the stage unit 172, or in a pachinko machine in which the upper operation port 33 is arranged in parallel with the lower operation port 34. In this case, by applying the present invention relating to the setting and cancellation of the fraud specific state to these pachinko machines, it is possible to appropriately cope with the above fraudulent acts.

  In addition, for the fraudulent act using the magnet or the fraud that gives vibration, only the notification process may be executed and the fraud specific state may not be set. However, in this case, it is assumed that the notification signal path is cut by cutting off the electrical wiring through which the notification signal is transmitted so that the notification process is not executed. For example, an act of cutting a signal path between the main control board 201 and the sound lamp control board 224 is assumed. Moreover, the act | action which cut | disconnects the signal path | route between the audio | voice lamp control board 224 and alerting | reporting apparatuses (the speaker part 64 and the error display lamp part 63) is assumed. Further, an act of cutting a signal path between the main control board 201 and the external terminal board 133 is assumed. Moreover, the act | action which cut | disconnects the signal path | route between the external terminal board 133 and the management apparatus by the side of a game hall is assumed. On the other hand, a route blocking detection unit that detects that the signal path for notification is blocked is provided, and the control unit such as the main control board 201 performs the illegal identification state based on the detection result of the route blocking detection unit. It is good also as a structure which has a control means to perform control, such as setting of this. In this case, at the stage where a fraudulent act using a magnet or a fraud that gives vibration is performed, only the fraudulent notification is kept, and the game does not proceed for an act that tries to release the fraudulent notification illegally. Can be regulated.

  As the path interruption detection means, a configuration comprising a confirmation signal output means and a confirmation signal input means for constantly transmitting and receiving a connection confirmation signal between the output source and the output destination of the signal path is conceivable. .

  (13) When the illegal specific state is set, at least a game ball may be restricted so as not to be fired. Moreover, it is good also as a structure which does not prohibit launching of a game ball, but switches the launch cycle of a game ball to a cycle slower than before when an illegal specific state is set. In this case, it is possible to obtain the same effect as that in the case where the launch of the game ball is prohibited by switching to a period that does not substantially fire the game ball. In addition, even if the game ball is not substantially fired, the progress of the game can be regulated so that the progress of the game is delayed by switching to a certain slow cycle. In other words, the progress of the game can be restricted by restricting at least the release of the game ball. In addition, when the illegal specific state is set, it may be configured to restrict at least winning to the various winning ports 31 to 34 is invalidated. When the illegal specific state is set, at least the variable winning device (in the case of a special game state, the opening / closing means is opened and the game ball is paid out based on the game ball entering). It is good also as a structure which regulates so that the special pitching apparatus 32 which will become may not open | release.

  In addition, when the illegal specific state is set, a configuration may be adopted that restricts at least the jackpot state (special game state) from shifting. In this case, when the illegal specific state is set, the start winning process may not be executed. In addition, although the lottery process for determining whether or not to generate the big hit state is not executed, the symbol variation display based on winning in the operation ports 33 and 34 may be performed. However, in the case of the change display of the symbol, the outlier display is finally performed. Moreover, although a lottery process is performed, when it is a big win, it is good also as a structure which invalidates it. In any of these configurations, since the big hit state is restricted so as not to occur, it is possible to restrict the regular game from proceeding.

  Further, when the illegal specific state is set, it may be configured to restrict at least the payout of the game ball. In the configuration that restricts the payout of game balls in the situation where the illegal specific state is set as described above, winning ports (payout-corresponding ball portions) 31 to 34 during the restriction. Winning (entering a ball) may be validated, and conversely, it may be invalidated. When valid, the prize ball information is stored in the main-side RAM 213 or the like even in the restricted situation, and when the illegal specific state setting is canceled, the prize ball information corresponds to the prize ball information. The payout of game balls will be executed. By not making the winnings invalidated in this way, it is assumed that, for example, the magnetism detection sensor 105 detects magnetism and the fraud specific state is set even though fraudulent acts are not actually performed. However, the disadvantage that the player suffers can be reduced. On the other hand, when it is determined that an illegal act has actually been performed, a game hall administrator or the like may execute a RAM clear operation to prohibit the game ball from being paid out based on the illegal action. it can. On the other hand, in the case of invalidation, even if a winning is made to the winning openings 31 to 34 in the restricted situation, the winning ball information is not stored. Then, even if the setting of the illegal specific state is canceled, the payout of the game ball corresponding to the winning is not executed. In this case, only the invalidated number of winning balls is stored in the main side RAM 213 or the like, and when the setting of the illegal specific state is canceled, the number of invalidated winning balls is displayed on the symbol display device 41. It is good also as a structure which alert | reports on a screen etc.

  (14) In the above-described embodiment, in a situation where the unauthorized specific state is set, the opening of the opening / closing body such as the inner frame 13 and the front door frame 14 may not be monitored. Even if it is the said structure, when fraud using a magnet is performed, it can control so that a game may not advance. However, in this configuration, it is necessary to prevent the opening of the inner frame 13 from being included in the condition for canceling the setting of the unauthorized specific state. In addition, one of the inner frame 13 and the front door frame 14 may be monitored for opening in a situation where an unauthorized specific state is set.

  (15) In the above embodiment, the fraud monitoring process (FIG. 13) may be executed not by the timer interrupt process (FIG. 11) but by the normal process (FIG. 17). Further, it may be configured such that the signals of the magnetic detection sensor 105, the photo sensor 106, and the vibration detection sensor 107 are input to the NMI terminal of the MPU 211, and the fraud monitoring process is executed by the NMI interrupt process.

  (16) In the above embodiment, either the vibration detection by the vibration detection sensor 107 is caused by intentionally vibrating the pachinko machine 10, or the inner frame 13 or the front door frame 14 is opened / closed. It is good also as a structure which can be specified in the main side 211. Specifically, when the input timing of the vibration detection information from the vibration detection sensor 107 is the input start timing or the input end timing of the opening detection information from the front door frame opening switch 22 or the inner frame opening switch 134. Alternatively, the input of the vibration detection information may be invalidated. The input of the vibration detection information within the invalidity reference period from the input start timing of the opening detection information from the front door frame opening switch 22 or the inner frame opening switch 134 may be invalidated. Or it is good also as a structure which invalidates the input of the said vibration detection information in an invalid reference | standard period from the input completion timing of the opening detection information from the inner frame open | release switch 134. FIG. By setting it as the said structure, only opening / closing the inner frame 13 and the front door frame 14 will perform the setting of an unauthorized specific state, and the possibility that it will be controlled so that a game does not advance is reduced.

  (17) In the above embodiment, after canceling the setting of the unauthorized specification state, the main side MPU 211 specifies that the inner frame 13 is closed, and then a predetermined monitoring permission period (for example, 5 seconds) elapses. The fraud monitoring process (FIG. 13) may not be executed. When canceling the setting of the unauthorized specific state, it is necessary to perform the state with the inner frame 13 opened. In this case, if the vibration detection sensor 107 detects vibration when the inner frame 13 is closed after canceling the setting of the illegal specific state, the incorrect specific state may be set again. Is done. On the other hand, according to this structure, possibility that such a problem will generate | occur | produce is reduced.

  (18) In the above embodiment, the main side RAM 213 is provided with the first fraud detection flag, the second fraud detection flag, and the third fraud detection flag corresponding to the magnetic detection sensor 105, the photo sensor 106, and the vibration detection sensor 107, respectively. It may be configured to be storable, and when an abnormal action is detected in any one of the sensors 105 to 107, a fraud detection flag corresponding to the sensor 105 to 107 may be stored. That is, in the configuration in which the first special abnormal action and the second special abnormal action are set, the control means may include a first abnormality specifying means and a second abnormality specifying means corresponding to each special abnormal action. Good.

  Moreover, in the said structure, you may make it perform the alerting | reporting process corresponding to each sensor 105-107, and the signal output process to the management control apparatus of the game hall side. That is, in the configuration in which the first special abnormal action and the second special abnormal action are set, the control means may include a first abnormality notification process and a second abnormality notification process corresponding to each special abnormal action. Good.

  (19) In the above embodiment, the magnetic detection sensor 105 and the vibration detection sensor 107 may be housed in the board box 93 of the main controller 91. The signal lines from these sensors 105 and 107 are also accommodated in the board box 93. That is, the abnormality detection means is provided in the substrate box of the control means, and the signal transmission unit from the abnormality detection means is also accommodated in the substrate box. By accommodating the abnormality detection means and the signal transmission unit in the board box provided with the trace means as described above, the signal path between the abnormality detection means and the control means is cut off so that the setting of the unauthorized specific state is not performed. It is possible to prevent fraudulent acts.

  (20) In the above embodiment, the signal path between the abnormality detection means such as the magnetic detection sensor 105, the photo sensor 106, or the vibration detection sensor 107 and the main control device 91 is disconnected, and the setting of the unauthorized specific state is not executed. Cheating is assumed. On the other hand, the control means may be configured to be able to specify that the signal path for abnormality detection is disconnected, and may be configured to execute regulation such as setting of the unauthorized specific state based on the specified result. Good. In this case, even if the cheating is performed, the disadvantage that the game hall suffers can be reduced.

  The magnetic detection sensor 105, the photo sensor 106, and the vibration detection sensor 107 may be configured to output a HI level signal when no abnormality is detected and output a LOW level signal when an abnormality is detected. . In this case, when the signal path is cut, the signal input by the control means is automatically a LOW level signal, so that the illegal specific state is set when the act of cutting the signal path is performed. Can do.

  Further, each of the sensors 105 to 107 may output a normal detection signal in a state where no abnormality is detected, and stop outputting the normal detection signal in a state where an abnormality is detected. In this case, when the signal path is disconnected, the control means does not automatically input a normal detection signal. Therefore, when the act of disconnecting the signal path is performed, the unauthorized specific state can be set. .

  That is, the abnormality detection means is configured so that the input state of the detection result of the abnormality detection means in the control means is the same when the abnormality is detected and when the signal path between the abnormality detection means and the control means is disconnected. Alternatively, the signal may be output. In this case, when the signal path is disconnected, the control means does not automatically input a normal detection signal. Therefore, when the act of disconnecting the signal path is performed, the unauthorized specific state can be set. .

  Also, a confirmation signal line for transmitting a connection confirmation signal constantly from the abnormality detection means to the control means is juxtaposed with the abnormality detection signal line for transmitting the abnormality signal, and when one is cut, the other is also cut. It is good also as a structure to be made. Even in this case, when the signal path is disconnected, the control means does not automatically input a normal detection signal. Therefore, when the act of disconnecting the signal path is performed, the illegal specific state is set. It can be carried out.

  (21) In the above embodiment, when a game ball enters a winning port such as the general winning port 31, the variable winning device 32, and the operating ports 33, 34, a privilege is given by paying out the game ball. Although it was set as a structure, it is not limited to this structure, What is necessary is just a structure by which a certain privilege is provided to a player. For example, a configuration in which a prize other than the game ball is paid out when a game ball enters the winning opening may be used.

  (22) In the above embodiment, the present invention is applied to the pachinko machine 10 provided with the upper plate 81 and the lower plate 82 as the storage unit. Instead, the pachinko machine provided with a single outer storage unit. The present invention may be applied to. In this case, the full tank detection sensor 59 is provided so as to detect whether or not the single outer reservoir is full. When it is specified that the outer reservoir is full, the game ball is paid out. To limit.

  (23) In the above embodiment, the main control device 91 may have a function of only the main control board 201 by providing the power interruption monitoring device separately from the main control device 91. Further, instead of the configuration in which the power interruption monitoring board 203 is provided, a power interruption monitoring circuit having the function of the board may be mounted on the main control board 201.

  (24) In the above embodiment, the sound lamp control device 92 controls the display control device 225. Alternatively, the display control device 225 may control the sound lamp control device 92. Further, a single control device having both functions of the sound lamp control device 92 and the display control device 225 may be provided.

  (25) The present invention may be applied to other types of pachinko machines different from the above embodiment.

  (25-1) Opening / closing means for opening / closing a ball entrance portion into which a game ball flowing down, for example, a game ball flowing down, an internal space having an advantageous opening, and a ball entrance to the internal space can be inserted The opening and closing means is opened based on the game ball entering the ball entrance, and the special opening determined in advance based on the game ball entering the advantageous opening. The present invention may be applied to a gaming machine that shifts to a gaming state. In the gaming machine, when the special game state is entered, the accessory device may be in an open state or a special pitching device different from the accessory device may be in an open state.

  In the gaming machine, an act of forcibly entering the advantageous opening by using a magnet or applying vibration is assumed. On the other hand, similarly to the above-described embodiment, the magnetic detection sensor 105, the vibration detection sensor 107, and the like are installed, and when the illegal act is performed, the illegal specific state is set. preferable.

  In the above gaming machine, as the setting of the illegal specific state, it is possible to invalidate at least the entrance to the entrance part. In addition, as the setting of the unauthorized specific state, at least the opening operation of the opening / closing means may be prohibited. Moreover, it is good also as a structure which invalidates at least the entrance into an advantageous opening as setting of a fraud specific state. In addition, it is possible to switch between a first state in which a game ball easily enters the advantageous opening and a second state in which it is more difficult to enter the advantageous opening than the first state in the internal space of the accessory device. In the configuration having such a movable device, the configuration may be such that at least the movable device is maintained in the second state as the setting of the unauthorized specific state.

  (25-2) For example, in a game area where a game ball flows down, a ball entrance part into which the game ball flowing down can enter, an internal space having an advantageous opening, and an opening / closing means for opening and closing a ball entrance to the internal space And the opening / closing means for opening the opening / closing means based on the fact that the lottery result of the lottery means is the first winning result. Control means, first transition means for transitioning the gaming state to a predetermined special gaming state based on the fact that the lottery result of the lottery means is the second winning result, and a game ball has entered the advantageous opening The present invention may be applied to a gaming machine provided with second transition means for shifting to the special gaming state or a special gaming state different from the special gaming state based on the above. In the gaming machine, the accessory device may be in an open state based on the entry into the entrance portion, and the special game state is entered when the game ball enters the advantage port of the accessory device. Moreover, based on having entered into a ball-entry part, it may transfer to a special game state, without going through the open state of an accessory apparatus and the entrance of the game ball to an advantageous opening. In the gaming machine, when the special game state is entered, the accessory device may be in an open state or a special pitching device different from the accessory device may be in an open state. Moreover, it is good also as a structure provided with the display means which displays the lottery result based on the entrance to a entrance part in a game area.

  In the gaming machine, an act of forcibly entering the advantageous opening by using a magnet or applying vibration is assumed. On the other hand, similarly to the above-described embodiment, the magnetic detection sensor 105, the vibration detection sensor 107, and the like are installed, and when the illegal act is performed, the illegal specific state is set. preferable.

  In the above gaming machine, as the setting of the illegal specific state, it is possible to invalidate at least the entrance to the entrance part. In addition, as the setting of the unauthorized specific state, at least the opening operation of the opening / closing means may be prohibited. Moreover, it is good also as a structure which invalidates at least the entrance into an advantageous opening as setting of a fraud specific state. Moreover, it is good also as a structure which invalidates the said lottery result at least as setting of a fraud specific state. Moreover, it is good also as a structure which does not perform the said lottery process at least as setting of a fraud specific state. In addition, it is possible to switch between a first state in which a game ball easily enters the advantageous opening and a second state in which it is more difficult to enter the advantageous opening than the first state in the internal space of the accessory device. In the configuration having such a movable device, the configuration may be such that at least the movable device is maintained in the second state as the setting of the unauthorized specific state.

  (25-3) Moreover, you may apply this invention with respect to the pachinko machine other than the above. For example, the present invention can also be applied to a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine, an arrangement ball machine, or a sparrow ball that generates a right when a gaming ball enters a specific area of a special device.

  In sparrow balls, an act of entering a game ball into a predetermined entry part by performing an illegal act using a magnet or an illegal act of vibrating is assumed. On the other hand, the fraudulent act can be dealt with by setting the fraud specific state as in the above embodiment. On the other hand, in the medal insertion type sparrow ball, an act of inserting a fraudulent jig into the insertion slot and misdetecting the insertion of the medal is assumed. On the other hand, it can be set as the structure which detects insertion of the said fraudulent jig | tool, and when the said insertion is detected, it can cope with the said fraud by performing abnormality alert | report etc. Further, in the configuration, even if it is a situation where the setting of the fraud specific state is performed, it is configured to execute the process for identifying the insertion of the fraudulent jig into the insertion slot and the abnormality notification process for the process, Even if a fraudulent act of inserting a fraudulent jig in a situation where the fraud specific state is set, it can be dealt with.

  (26) Non-ball-type gaming machines, for example, equipped with a plurality of reels with a plurality of types of symbols attached in the circumferential direction, start rotation of the reels by inserting medals and operating the start lever, and the stop switch is operated If a specific symbol or a combination of specific symbols is established on the effective line visible from the display window after the reel has stopped after a predetermined time has elapsed, a privilege such as paying out medals is given to the player The present invention can also be applied to a slot machine.

  In the gaming machine, a fraudulent act is assumed in which a fraudulent jig is inserted into a slot where a medal is inserted, and a medal detection sensor provided in the slot is misdetected. On the other hand, it is preferable to install a detection sensor for detecting insertion of the fraudulent jig and set the fraud specific state when the fraudulent act is performed.

  The above gaming machine may be configured to prohibit at least the insertion of medals as the setting of the illegal specific state. Moreover, it is good also as a structure which invalidates operation of a starting operation means at least as setting of a fraud specific state. Moreover, it is good also as a structure which invalidates operation of a stop operation means at least as setting of a fraud specific state. Further, as the setting of the fraud specific state, at least the medal payout may be prohibited. In addition, as the setting of the illegal specification state, at least the start of rotation of the reel may be prohibited. Moreover, it is good also as a structure which does not perform an attestation determination at least as setting of an unauthorized specific state.

  (27) A pachinko machine and a slot machine that have a take-in device and start rotation of the reel by operating a start lever after a predetermined number of game balls stored in the storage unit are taken in by the take-in device The present invention can also be applied to a gaming machine in which and are fused.

  In the gaming machine, a fraudulent act is assumed in which a fraudulent jig is inserted into the take-in device, and a ball detection sensor provided in the take-in device erroneously detects the take-in of the game ball. On the other hand, it is preferable to install a detection sensor for detecting insertion of the fraudulent jig and set the fraud specific state when the fraudulent act is performed.

  The gaming machine may be configured so that at least the game ball cannot be taken in as the setting of the illegal specific state. Moreover, it is good also as a structure which invalidates operation of a starting operation means at least as setting of a fraud specific state. Moreover, it is good also as a structure which invalidates operation of a stop operation means at least as setting of a fraud specific state. Further, as the setting of the illegal specific state, at least the payout of game balls may be prohibited. In addition, as the setting of the illegal specification state, at least the start of rotation of the reel may be prohibited. Moreover, it is good also as a structure which does not perform an attestation determination at least as setting of an unauthorized specific state.

<Invention Group Extracted from the Embodiments>
Hereinafter, the features of the invention group extracted from the above-described embodiment will be described while showing effects and the like as necessary. In the following, for ease of understanding, the corresponding configuration in the above embodiment is appropriately shown in parentheses, but is not limited to the specific configuration shown in parentheses.

Features 1. Control means (main MPU 211) for controlling the progress of the game;
Power supply means (power-on power supply unit 221a) connected to an external power supply and supplying power to at least the control means;
Monitoring means (power failure monitoring board 203) for monitoring the power supply status by the power supply means, and starting output of reduction confirmation information (power failure signal) when the power supply status becomes a power reduction status; ,
With
The control means includes
Confirmation processing execution means (a function for executing a power interruption signal reading process in the main MPU 211) for performing confirmation processing for confirming whether or not the lowering confirmation information is output at a predetermined confirmation timing;
Based on the confirmation processing that the lowering confirmation information is output from the monitoring unit, a power interruption processing execution unit (step in the main MPU 211 that starts predetermined power interruption processing) is started. A function of executing the processing of S708 and a function of executing the processing of steps S715 to S717),
With
The confirmation processing execution means is a predetermined storage means (main side RAM 213) in the situation where the lowering confirmation information is output at the confirmation timing of the power interruption confirmation reference time set as a plurality of times as the confirmation processing. To store the power interruption occurrence information (power interruption flag) in the
The power interruption process execution means executes a determination process (the process of step S708 in the main MPU 211) for determining whether or not the power interruption occurrence information is stored in the storage means at a predetermined determination timing. In addition, when it is determined in the determination processing that the power interruption occurrence information is stored, the power interruption processing (processing in steps S715 to S717 in the main MPU 211) is started. Gaming machine.

  According to the feature 1, when it is confirmed that the lowering confirmation information is output from the monitoring unit, the power failure processing is not immediately executed, but the lowering confirmation information is output in plural. The process at power interruption is executed based on the confirmation at the confirmation timing of the power interruption confirmation reference time set as the time. As a result, even if the drop confirmation information or information corresponding thereto is input to the control means due to electrical noise or the like, the possibility that the power interruption process will be performed on the information is reduced.

  Further, when it is confirmed at the confirmation timing of the power interruption confirmation reference that the lowering confirmation information is output, the power interruption occurrence information is stored, and it is determined in advance that the power interruption occurrence information has been stored. When it is specified in the determination process executed when the timing is reached, the power interruption process is started. Thereby, even if it does not memorize the contents of the process that was executed before the power interruption at the time of power interruption, by performing a predetermined process that is executed after the determination timing at the time of power recovery, It is possible to return to the processing execution status at the time of power interruption. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the amount of information to be stored at the time of power interruption, and to reduce the number of processes at the time of power interruption.

Feature 2. The monitoring means outputs first information (non-power interruption signal) when the power supply status is not the power reduction status, and second information (power interruption) as the decrease confirmation information when the power supply status is not. Signal), and
In the confirmation processing execution means, as the confirmation processing, the situation in which the second information is outputted following the situation in which the first information is outputted continues over the confirmation timing of the power interruption confirmation reference time. In this case, the game machine according to claim 1, wherein the storage unit executes a process of storing the power interruption occurrence information in the storage unit.

  According to the feature 2, when the situation in which the second information is output following the situation in which the first information is output continues for the confirmation timing of the power interruption confirmation reference time, the power interruption occurrence information is stored. Therefore, it can suppress that the memory | storage process of the said electric interruption generation | occurrence | production information is repeated.

Feature 3. The control means includes
A first process execution means (a function for executing a normal process in the main MPU 211) that repeatedly executes a first process including a plurality of types of processes;
A second process execution means (a function for executing a timer interrupt process in the main MPU 211) that interrupts the first process at a predetermined cycle and executes a second process including a plurality of types of processes;
The plurality of types of processing in the first processing includes the determination processing executed by the power interruption processing execution means,
The gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the confirmation processing executed by the confirmation processing execution means is included in a plurality of types of processing in the second processing.

  In the control means, the first process is repeatedly executed, and the second process is executed by interrupting the first process at a predetermined cycle. As a result, the predetermined process can be periodically executed by including it in the second process, and the other processes are included in the first process to ensure the periodic execution of the second process. Is possible.

  In this case, according to the feature 3, since the determination process for determining whether or not the power interruption occurrence information is stored is included in the first process, the process executed before the power interruption at the time of the power interruption Even if the contents of the above are not memorized, it is possible to return to the process execution status at the time of power interruption by executing a predetermined process executed after the determination timing in the first process at the time of power recovery. it can.

  In addition, since the confirmation process is included in the second process, it can be periodically confirmed whether or not the deterioration confirmation information is output. While it is necessary to complete the power interruption process in the control means during the period from when the power is reduced to when the power supply is completely stopped, the configuration of the above feature 1 is provided, and the power interruption process is performed. In order to start, it is necessary to confirm that at least the situation where the lowering confirmation information is output continues over the confirmation timing of the power interruption confirmation reference times. In this case, in the configuration in which the confirmation timing of the confirmation process greatly depends on the processing status of the control means, assuming that the timing at which the confirmation processing is executed is the latest, the power supply is completely supplied after the power reduction situation is reached. It is necessary to set the time until stoppage and the determination timing of the determination process in the first process at the design stage of the gaming machine. If it does so, a big restriction | limiting will arise in the design of the processing structure of a game machine. On the other hand, since the confirmation process is periodically executed as described above, it is possible to reduce the restriction.

  Feature 4. The first process is set such that a period at which the first process is executed is the first period, and the second process is a second period that is shorter than the first period. 4. The gaming machine according to feature 3, wherein the game machine is set to start an interrupt to the game.

  According to the feature 4, in order to have the configuration of the feature 1 and to start the process at the time of power interruption, at least the situation in which the lowering confirmation information is output continues over the confirmation timing of the power interruption confirmation reference time. In a configuration that needs to be confirmed, it is possible to advance the timing of each confirmation.

  Feature 5. The control means includes an input unit (input port 211a) for inputting information used for controlling the progress of the game from another device, and the decrease confirmation information is input to the input unit. The gaming machine according to any one of 1 to 4.

  According to the feature 5, it is possible to input the degradation confirmation information in the input unit that inputs information from another device.

  Feature 6 Any one of the features 1 to 5, wherein the control means is capable of returning to the state before the power interruption when the power is restored by executing the power interruption process. The gaming machine according to 1.

  According to the feature 6, it is possible to return to the state before the power interruption when the power is restored by executing the power interruption process.

Feature 7. The control means controls the progress of the game by executing a plurality of types of progress processing,
It is a configuration in which a privilege is granted based on the fact that the game content of the game has become a predetermined privilege game content,
Provided with abnormality detection means (magnetic detection sensor 105, photo sensor 106, vibration detection sensor 107) for detecting the occurrence of a special abnormal action predetermined as an abnormal action for a gaming machine,
The control means includes
Based on the detection result of the abnormality detecting means, an abnormality specifying means (function for executing fraud monitoring processing in the main MPU 211) for specifying the occurrence of the special abnormal action;
Restriction means (main side) for restricting execution of at least some of the plurality of types of processing for progress based on the occurrence of the special abnormal action identified by the abnormality identification means A function of executing a process when an affirmative determination is made in step S709 in the MPU 211),
With
Even if the occurrence of the special abnormal action is specified by the abnormality specifying means, the restricting means executes the confirmation processing by the confirmation processing execution means, the determination processing by the power interruption processing execution means, and the power 7. The gaming machine according to any one of features 1 to 6, wherein execution of the disconnection process is not restricted.

  According to the feature 7, the progress of the game is controlled by executing a plurality of types of processing for progress by the control means, and the bonus is based on the fact that the game content becomes the predetermined privilege game content. Is granted. In this case, when a predetermined special abnormal action is performed, execution of at least a part of the plurality of types of progress processing is restricted. As a result, if a special abnormal act is performed, it is possible to restrict the game from proceeding thereafter, and the act of illegally gaining profits by performing the special abnormal act may be prevented. It becomes possible.

  In addition, even if the execution of at least some of the multiple types of progress processing is restricted, the execution of the confirmation process, determination process, and power interruption process is not restricted. Sometimes power interruption processing is performed as usual. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent an act of illegally gaining profit by performing a special abnormal action while exhibiting the above-described effect by enabling the return to the state before the power interruption.

Feature 8 The control means controls the progress of the game by executing a plurality of types of progress processing,
It is a configuration in which a privilege is granted based on the fact that the game content of the game has become a predetermined privilege game content,
Provided with abnormality detection means (magnetic detection sensor 105, photo sensor 106, vibration detection sensor 107) for detecting the occurrence of a special abnormal action predetermined as an abnormal action for a gaming machine,
The control means includes
Based on the detection result of the abnormality detecting means, an abnormality specifying means (function for executing fraud monitoring processing in the main MPU 211) for specifying the occurrence of the special abnormal action;
Based on the occurrence of the special abnormal action specified by the abnormality specifying means, the plurality of types of progress so that the privilege game content is not generated or a privilege corresponding to the privilege game content is not given. Restricting means (function to execute processing in the case where an affirmative determination is made in step S709 in the main MPU 211) so that execution of at least some of the processing for processing is restricted;
With
Even if the occurrence of the special abnormal action is specified by the abnormality specifying means, the restricting means executes the confirmation processing by the confirmation processing execution means, the determination processing by the power interruption processing execution means, and the power 7. The gaming machine according to any one of features 1 to 6, wherein execution of the disconnection process is not restricted.

  According to the feature 8, the progress of the game is controlled by executing a plurality of types of processing for progress by the control means, and the bonus is based on the fact that the game content becomes the predetermined privilege game content. Is granted. In this case, when a predetermined special abnormal action is performed, the plurality of types of progression processing are performed so that the privilege game content is not generated or the privilege corresponding to the privilege game content is not granted. Execution of at least some of the processing is restricted. As a result, it is possible to prevent an act of trying to gain profits illegally by performing a special abnormal act.

  In addition, even if the execution of at least some of the multiple types of progress processing is restricted, the execution of the confirmation process, determination process, and power interruption process is not restricted. Sometimes power interruption processing is performed as usual. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent an act of illegally gaining profit by performing a special abnormal action while exhibiting the above-described effect by enabling the return to the state before the power interruption.

Feature 9 In a situation where power supply from the power supply means is cut off, the power supply means during power interruption (power supply unit 221c for power interruption) that supplies power to the storage means at least,
The control means determines whether or not the power interruption occurrence information is stored when the power supply is started from a situation where the power supply is interrupted, and the power interruption occurrence information is stored. To return to the state before the power interruption,
Further, the abnormality specifying means is for storing special abnormality information (a fraud detection flag) in the storage means when the occurrence of the special abnormal action is specified,
The restricting means is configured to restrict the execution of at least a part of the plurality of types of progress processing based on the storage of the special abnormality information.
The control means executes the process of step S613 in the main MPU 211 that deletes the special abnormality information from the storage means based on the fact that the power supply is started from the situation where the power supply is cut off. The gaming machine according to the feature 7 or 8, wherein the gaming machine is provided with a function of

  According to the feature 9, since the power is supplied from the power supply means during power interruption to the storage means, it is possible to save the information before the power interruption at the time of power recovery without executing the information saving process in the power interruption processing. It becomes possible to return to the state. As a result, it is possible to reduce the time required to execute the power interruption process. In particular, in order to have the configuration of the feature 1 and to start the process at the time of power interruption, at least the situation in which the lowering confirmation information is output continues over the confirmation timing of the power interruption confirmation reference time. Need to be confirmed. If this happens, there is a concern that it will take a long time to complete the power interruption process after the power is reduced. It is possible to shorten the time until the process at the time of power interruption is completed.

  In addition, the game hall manager can release the restricted state relatively by turning off the power supply of the gaming machine to restore the state where the progress of the game is restricted. It can be done easily. In this case, since the special abnormality information is erased not when the power is shut off but when the power is restored, the time required for executing the power interruption process is required to release the restricted state. It won't be long.

Feature 10 A game area where the game ball flows down, a game ball launching means (game ball launching mechanism 53) that launches the game ball toward the game area, and a launch operation means (launching handle 54) operated to launch the game ball And comprising
The bonus game content is that a game ball enters a ball entering part (general winning port 31, variable winning device 32, operation ports 33, 34) provided in the gaming area,
The control means, as part of the plurality of types of progress processing, is a firing control process that is predetermined to cause the game ball launching means to fire based on the operation of the firing operation means. Is equipped with a launch control process execution means (function to execute a game ball launch control process in the main MPU 211),
The restricting means is configured to restrict the execution of the firing control process by the firing control process executing means based on the occurrence of the special abnormal action specified by the abnormality specifying means. 10. The gaming machine according to any one of features 7 to 9.

  In the gaming machine of feature 10, a game ball is launched toward the game area based on the operation of the launch operation means. And a privilege is provided based on a game ball having entered into the entrance part provided in the game area. In this configuration, when a special abnormal action is performed, execution of the launch control process in the control means is restricted. As a result, the game is not allowed to continue thereafter, and the game is restricted from progressing. Therefore, it is possible to prevent an act of trying to gain profits illegally by performing a special abnormal act.

Feature 11. The control means includes
As part of the plurality of types of progress processing, lottery process execution means (function to execute the start winning process and the first specific lamp unit control process in the main MPU 211) that executes a lottery process;
As a part of the plurality of types of progress processing, update processing execution means for executing update processing for updating predetermined random number information used in executing the lottery processing (steps S104 and S105 in the main MPU 211) , A function of executing each processing of step S713 and step S714),
With
The restricting means restricts the execution of the lottery process by the lottery process executing means when the occurrence of the special abnormal action is specified by the abnormality specifying means, while the special abnormal action is controlled by the abnormality specifying means. 11. The gaming machine according to any one of features 7 to 10, wherein even if the occurrence of the occurrence is identified, execution of the update process by the update process execution unit is not restricted.

  According to the feature 11, even if the execution of the lottery process is restricted, the predetermined random number information update process used to execute the lottery process is executed. The update process of the predetermined random number information used for executing the lottery process is preferably continued, and according to this configuration, the update process can be continued.

Feature 12. A predetermined action detecting means (front door frame opening switch 22 and inner frame opening switch 134) for detecting occurrence of a predetermined action different from the special abnormal action as an action for the gaming machine;
The control means includes
Based on the detection result of the predetermined action detecting means, predetermined action specifying means for specifying the occurrence of the predetermined action (function for executing the processing of step S802 and step S807 in the main MPU 211);
Special processing execution means for executing a predetermined special process based on the occurrence of the predetermined action specified by the predetermined action specifying means (function for executing the processes of steps S803 and S808 in the main MPU 211) )When,
With
The restricting means restricts execution of the predetermined action specifying process by the predetermined action specifying means and execution of the special process by the special process executing means even if the occurrence of the special abnormal action is specified by the abnormality specifying means. The gaming machine according to any one of features 7 to 11, wherein the gaming machine is not.

  According to the feature 12, a special action that is different from the special abnormal action occurs even in a situation where a special abnormal action is performed and execution of at least some of the plural types of processing is restricted. Whether or not a specific action is performed is determined, and special processing is executed when a predetermined action occurs. For example, assuming a configuration in which the occurrence of a predetermined action or special processing is not executed in a regulated state, even if the predetermined action is performed after a special abnormal action is performed, it cannot be dealt with. If it does so, we are anxious about the fraudulent act to a control means etc. being performed in the said situation. On the other hand, according to the configuration of the present means, it is possible to prevent such inconvenience.

  In addition, you may make it perform the process for alerting | reporting as a special process, In this case, when a predetermined action is performed, that will be alert | reported.

  Further, in a configuration in which an opening / closing body supported to be openable / closable with respect to a support target is provided and the control means is mounted on the back side or the rear of the opening / closing body, the opening / closing body is in an open state for the predetermined action. It is good as well.

  In addition, a gaming machine main body on which the control means and the game execution device are mounted, and supported so as to be openable and closable with respect to the gaming machine main body, the state of the game in the game execution device can be viewed from the front of the gaming machine. In a configuration including a gaming machine front body having a display unit, the predetermined action may be that the gaming machine front body is in an open state.

Feature 13. The control means is main control means for outputting payout command information based on the fact that the game content has become the privilege game content,
Further, a payout control means (payout side MPU 231) that inputs the payout command information and drives and controls the payout means so that the number of game media corresponding to the payout command information is paid out;
A power supply means during power interruption (power supply unit for power interruption 221c) for supplying power during power interruption in a situation where power supply from the power supply means is interrupted;
With
The main control means is a game content specifying means for specifying that the game content has become a payout game content (a function of monitoring signals from the ball detection sensors of various winning ports 31 to 34 in the reading process in the main MPU 211) )
The storage means stores award information corresponding to the specified payout game content when the game content specifying means specifies the payout game content, and further power is supplied to itself. Is a main storage means for enabling storage of information while receiving power during power interruption in the power interruption state,
The main control means executes payout command information output means for outputting the payout command information to the payout control means based on award information stored in the main storage means (perform payout output processing in the main MPU 211) Function)
The payout control means includes
Information on the number of payouts corresponding to the payout command information input from the main control means or prize payout number information specifying means for specifying information corresponding to the information (function for executing the processing of step S1802 in the payout side MPU 231);
The prize payout number information is stored as information on the number of payouts specified by the prize payout number information specifying means or information corresponding to the information, and the information can be stored and held while power is supplied to itself. A payout-side storage means (payout-side RAM 233) that does not receive power during the power interruption in the power-off state;
A payout drive control means for driving and controlling the payout means so as to pay out the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means (function for executing payout state setting processing in the payout side MPU 231) When,
When the game medium is paid out by the payout means, the award payout number is reflected in the award payout number information stored in the payout-side storage means. A payout update means for updating information (a function of executing the process of step S2106 in the payout side MPU 231);
In accordance with the award payout number information stored in the payout side storage means, the main control means can specify whether the payout command information is in an output permission state or an output disapproval state. Permission specifying information output means for outputting permission specifying information to the control means (function for executing a prize ball permission signal setting process in the payout side MPU 231);
With
The payout command information output means includes an output permission state specifying means (function for executing the processing of step S1205 in the main MPU 211) for specifying that the payout command information is in an output permission state based on the permission specifying information. The output command information can be output when it is specified by the output permission status specifying means that the output permission status is specified,
Further, the permission specifying information output means can be specified by the main control means to be in the output permission state based on the occurrence of the special abnormal action specified by the abnormality specifying means. Any one of the features 7 to 12, further comprising output state setting means (a function for executing the processing of step S2401 and step S2408 in the payout side MPU 231) for setting the output state of the permission specifying information. The gaming machine described in 1.

  According to the feature 13, the payout command information is output from the main control means to the payout control means based on the fact that the game content becomes the payout game content. The payout control means drives and controls the payout means so that the number of game media corresponding to the input payout command information is paid out. As a result, the game medium is paid out in response to the game content becoming the payout game content.

  In this configuration, power during interruption is supplied to the main storage means of the main control means, whereas power during interruption is not supplied to the payout storage means of the payout control means. As a result, compared to a configuration in which power during interruption is supplied to both the main storage unit and the payout side storage unit, the cost of the storage retention function during interruption can be reduced.

  However, in the configuration in which power is not supplied to the payout-side storage unit as described above, information cannot be stored in the payout-side storage unit when the gaming machine is in a power-off state. In this case, if the information on the number of payouts for the payout game contents until the power interruption state is reached and all the unpaid information is erased, it may cause a great disadvantage to the player.

  On the other hand, the award information that the game content has become the payout game content is stored in the main storage means, and the award payout number information that is referred to in actually executing the payout is stored in the payout storage means. Remembered. The payout control means outputs permission specifying information to the main control means, and based on the permission specifying information, the main control means specifies whether or not the payout control means is in an output permission state. This permission specifying information is output according to the award payout number information stored in the payout side storage means. Then, when the main control means specifies that the payout control means is in the output permission state, payout command information is output from the main control means to the payout control means. With this configuration, it is possible to pay out the game medium based on the output of the payout command information, and information on the number of payouts with respect to the payout game content, and a part of the unpaid information is stored in the payout side storage means. The rest can be stored in the main storage means. Therefore, in the configuration in which power is not supplied to the payout-side storage unit as described above, information on the number of payouts for payout game contents until the power-off state is reached, and all unpaid information is erased. Can be prevented.

  Incidentally, a configuration is also conceivable in which the number of game media corresponding to the prize information stored in the main storage means is subtracted every time the game medium is paid out by the payout means without storing the prize payout number information in the payout storage means. However, in this configuration, the processing load of the main control means is increased more than necessary, and the effect of reducing the processing load of the main control means disappears by providing the payout control means separately from the main control means. . On the other hand, according to the configuration of the present feature 13, while obtaining the effect of providing the payout control means separately from the main control means, the above excellent effect can be obtained in addition thereto.

  From the above, in a gaming machine in which payout of game media is executed by outputting payout command information from the main control means to the payout control means, even if the storage control function during power interruption is not provided for the payout control means, The game media can be paid out favorably.

  Moreover, since the output state of the permission specifying information is set so that the main control means can specify that the output is permitted based on the occurrence of the special abnormal action, the special abnormal action is When it occurs, it becomes possible to restrict the subsequent payout of game media. In addition, since the power is not supplied to the payout control means as described above, the state where the payout of the game medium is restricted can be canceled by restoring the power after the gaming machine is turned off. Is possible.

  In addition, in the game machine having a game area in which a game ball flows down and a game ball where a game ball can be inserted is installed, the “payout game content” It is good also as entering a ball. Further, in a gaming machine having a pattern display means for executing variable display of a pattern, and a game medium is paid out according to the stop picture of the pattern display means, the stop picture of the pattern display means corresponds to the payout of the game medium. It may be a stop picture.

  Further, the “permission specifying information” may be information that is turned ON and OFF, or may be information that is output as a HI level signal and a LOW level signal. In the former case, it may be ON in the output permission state and OFF in the output non-permission state. Conversely, it may be OFF in the output permission state and ON in the output non-permission state. In the latter case, the HI level signal may be used when the output is permitted, and the LOW level signal may be used when the output is not permitted. Conversely, the LOW level signal may be used when the output is permitted, and the HI level signal may be used when the output is not permitted. In other words, if the main control means can specify whether the payout control means is in the output permission state or the output non-permission state by the permission specifying information, the specific configuration of the permission specifying information is as follows. Is optional.

  Further, the “payout side storage means” may be all or a part of the information storage function of the payout control means, and in such a case, the payout side storage means has at least a function of storing prize payout number information. There may be. Further, in this case, the payout control means may have a function of storing information related to security, and power that is interrupted may be supplied to the means having the function. The same applies to the following.

Feature 14. Control means (main MPU 211) for controlling the progress of the game;
Power supply means (power-on power supply unit 221a) connected to an external power supply and supplying power to at least the control means;
Monitoring means (power failure monitoring board 203) for monitoring the power supply status by the power supply means, and starting output of reduction confirmation information (power failure signal) when the power supply status becomes a power reduction status; ,
With
The control means includes
Confirmation processing execution means (a function for executing a power interruption signal reading process in the main MPU 211) for performing confirmation processing for confirming whether or not the lowering confirmation information is output at a predetermined confirmation timing;
Based on the confirmation processing that the lowering confirmation information is output from the monitoring unit, a power interruption processing execution unit (step in the main MPU 211 that starts predetermined power interruption processing) is started. A function of executing the processing of S708 and a function of executing the processing of steps S715 to S717),
With
The confirmation processing execution means, as the confirmation processing, is a predetermined storage means (when the state where the decrease confirmation information is output over the confirmation timing of the power interruption confirmation reference times set as a plurality of times continues. The main-side RAM 213) executes a process of storing power interruption occurrence information (power interruption flag),
The power interruption process execution means performs a determination process for determining whether or not the power interruption occurrence information is stored in the storage means (the process of step S708 in the main MPU 211) at a predetermined determination timing. And when it is determined that the power interruption occurrence information is stored in the determination processing, the power interruption processing (steps S715 to S717 in the main MPU 211) is started. A featured gaming machine.

  According to the feature 14, when it is confirmed that the drop confirmation information is output from the monitoring unit, the power failure process is not immediately executed, but the decrease check information is output in plural. The process at the time of power interruption is executed based on the continuous confirmation over the confirmation timing of the power interruption confirmation reference time set as the time. As a result, even if the drop confirmation information or information corresponding thereto is input to the control means due to electrical noise or the like, the possibility that the power interruption process will be performed on the information is reduced.

  In addition, when continuously confirming that the lowering confirmation information is output over the confirmation timing of the power interruption confirmation reference time, the power interruption occurrence information is stored, and the power interruption occurrence information is stored. When it is specified in the determination process executed when the predetermined determination timing is reached, the power interruption process is started. Thereby, even if it does not memorize the contents of the process that was executed before the power interruption at the time of power interruption, by performing a predetermined process that is executed after the determination timing at the time of power recovery, It is possible to return to the processing execution status at the time of power interruption. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the amount of information to be stored at the time of power interruption, and to reduce the number of processes at the time of power interruption.

  The configuration limited in any one of the above features 2 to 13 may be applied to the feature 14. In this case, the configuration of the feature 14 is good.

  In addition, according to each said characteristic, it is possible to solve the following subjects.

  For example, in a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine, a control device is provided. The control device operates based on electric power supplied from an external power source to the gaming machine, and executes processing for advancing the game. In this configuration, the power supplied to the control device may be cut off due to the power interruption of the external power supply. At that time, if the process in the control device is suddenly interrupted, it may be disadvantageous to the player, which is not preferable.

  In view of this, a monitoring device that monitors the power supplied to the control device is provided, and a predetermined signal is output from the monitoring device to the control device. In this configuration, occurrence of power interruption is confirmed in the control device based on the predetermined signal, power interruption processing is executed before interrupting all processing, and when power is restored, the state before power interruption occurs is started. It has become so. As a result, the above-described inconvenience caused by sudden interruption of various processes is prevented.

  As an example of the configuration related to the input of the predetermined signal in the control device, there is the following configuration. That is, the predetermined signal from the monitoring device is input to the NMI terminal in the MPU of the control device. The predetermined signal is, for example, a HI level signal in a normal time, and a LOW level signal after the occurrence of power interruption. In the control device, the NMI terminal is monitored regardless of the contents of the processing being executed, and the process at power interruption is executed by confirming the switching of the signal from the HI level signal to the LOW level signal.

  Here, it is conceivable that a signal corresponding to the occurrence of power interruption is input to the control device due to electrical noise or the like. Then, although the power interruption state does not actually occur, the power interruption process is executed, which is not preferable.

  In addition, for example, as a power failure process, the processing contents executed when a power interruption occurs are stored in a backup area provided in a RAM or the like as information at the time of the power interruption. Based on the information, a configuration for resuming the processing that was being performed when the power interruption occurred is known. In such a configuration, the following cheating is assumed.

  That is, a signal corresponding to the occurrence of a power interruption is repeatedly input to the control device in a short time period in which the information at the time of the power interruption is not erased so that the information at the time of the power interruption is continuously written in the backup area. This will exceed the storage capacity of the backup area. Then, initialization of the RAM is executed. In this case, in a configuration in which a counter that generates a random number for performing a big hit lottery is initialized in accordance with the initialization of the RAM, by performing an action of repeatedly inputting a signal corresponding to the occurrence of the power interruption, Random initialization can be generated. And since the value of the random number for winning the jackpot is determined in advance for each gaming machine, the winning of the lottery information acquisition opportunity at the timing when the value of the random number for winning the jackpot is acquired as the lottery information, etc. By illegally generating, you will be able to get a jackpot winning illegally.

  The basic configuration of various gaming machines to which the above features can be applied is shown below.

  Pachinko gaming machine: operation means operated by a player, game ball launching means for launching a game ball based on the operation of the operation means, a ball path for guiding the launched game ball to a predetermined game area, and a game A gaming machine that includes each gaming component arranged in an area, and gives a bonus to a player when a gaming ball passes through a predetermined passing portion of each gaming component.

  Revolving type gaming machine such as a slot machine: equipped with a picture display device for variably displaying a plurality of pictures, variably displaying the plurality of pictures based on the operation of the start operation means, and based on the operation of the stop operation means A gaming machine in which variable display of the plurality of patterns is stopped and a privilege is given to a player according to the pattern after the stop.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Pachinko machine as a gaming machine, 22 ... Front door frame opening switch, 31 ... General winning opening, 32 ... Variable winning device, 33 ... Upper operating opening, 34 ... Lower operating opening, 53 ... Game ball launching mechanism, 54 ... Launch handle, 105 ... Magnetic detection sensor, 106 ... Photo sensor, 107 ... Vibration detection sensor, 134 ... Inner frame opening switch, 203 ... Power supply monitoring board, 211 ... Main side MPU, 211a ... Input port, 213 ... Main side RAM, 221a ... Power supply unit at power-on, 221c ... Power supply unit at power-off, 231 ... Pay-out MPU, 233 ... Pay-out RAM.

Claims (1)

Control means for controlling the progress of the game by executing a plurality of processes for progression;
Power supply means connected to an external power source and supplying power to at least the control means;
Monitoring means for monitoring the power supply status by the power supply means, and starting output of reduction information when the power supply status becomes a power reduction status;
A power supply means during power interruption for supplying power to at least a predetermined storage means in a situation where power supply from the power supply means is interrupted;
An abnormality detection means for detecting the occurrence of a special abnormality predetermined as an abnormality for the gaming machine;
With
The control means includes
A confirmation process for confirming whether or not the lowering information has been output is performed at a predetermined confirmation timing, and when it is confirmed that the lowering information has been output, power interruption occurrence information is stored in the predetermined storage means. Confirmation processing execution means for executing processing to be stored;
A determination process for determining whether or not the power interruption occurrence information is stored in the predetermined storage means is executed at a predetermined determination timing, and it is determined that the power interruption occurrence information is stored in the determination process. Power interruption processing execution means for starting the power interruption processing when
Means for returning the state of the control means to the state before the power interruption when the power supply is started from the situation where the power supply is interrupted;
Means for storing special abnormality information in the predetermined storage means based on a detection result of the abnormality detection means;
While the special abnormality information is stored, the execution of at least some of the plurality of progress processes is restricted, and even if the special abnormality information is stored, at least Means for not restricting execution of the confirmation processing by the confirmation processing execution means and execution of the determination processing and power interruption processing by the power interruption processing execution means;
A gaming machine characterized by comprising:

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