JP2014076344A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To externally recognize whether a game machine has been started by executing initialization processing or the game machine has been restarted after occurrence of differential abnormality when power supply to the game machine has been stopped during execution of the abnormality reporting and power has started to be supplied again.SOLUTION: If power supply to a game machine is stopped and the power supply is resumed when fault information is being outputted to the outside, power supply to the game machine is resumed and fault information is outputted to the outside over a different period depending on execution of initialization processing (for example, when the initialization processing is executed after power restoration, a security signal is outputted to the outside for only 30 seconds. When power failure recovery processing is executed without any execution of the initialization processing, external output of the security signal is continued until execution of the next initialization processing.).

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine having a winning area to which a game value can be given by winning a game medium.

  As a gaming machine, a game ball, which is a game medium, is launched into a game area by a launching device, and when a game ball wins a prize area such as a prize opening provided in the game area, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out to the player. There is something to be done. Further, a variable display device capable of variably displaying the identification information (also referred to as “fluctuation”) is provided, and when the display result of the variable display of the identification information becomes a specific display result in the variable display device, the game state (game There is a machine configured to give a predetermined game value to a player (specifically, a state in which a gaming machine is controlled).

  The game value is the right that the state of the variable winning ball apparatus provided in the gaming area of the gaming machine becomes advantageous for a player who is easy to win, and the right for becoming advantageous for a player. In other words, or a condition for winning a prize ball is easily established.

  In a pachinko machine, a specific display mode determined in advance is derived and displayed as a display result of variable display of special symbols (identification information) that is started in the variable display device based on the winning of a game ball at the start winning opening. If this happens, a “big hit” will occur. The derived display is to finally stop and display a symbol (final stop symbol). When the big hit occurs, for example, the big winning opening is opened a predetermined number of times, and the game shifts to a big hit gaming state where the hit ball is easy to win. And in each open period, if there is a prize for a predetermined number (for example, 10) of the big prize opening, the big prize opening is closed. And the number of times of opening the special winning opening is fixed to a predetermined number (for example, 15 rounds). An opening time (for example, 29 seconds) is determined for each opening, and even if the number of winnings does not reach a predetermined number, the big winning opening is closed when the opening time elapses. Hereinafter, the opening period of each special winning opening may be referred to as a round. A game in a round may be referred to as a round game.

  In the variable display device, the symbols other than the symbol that becomes the final stop symbol (for example, the middle symbol in the left, middle, and right symbols) continue for a predetermined period of time and stop and shake in a state that matches the specific display result. It can be a big hit before the final result is displayed because it is moving, scaling, or deforming, or multiple symbols change synchronously with the same symbol, or the position of the displayed symbol is switched. An effect performed in a state where the sex is continued (hereinafter, these states are referred to as reach states) is referred to as reach effect. Further, the reach state and its state are referred to as a reach mode. Furthermore, variable display including reach production is called reach variable display. Then, when the display result of the symbol variably displayed on the variable display device is not a specific display result, it becomes “out of” and the variability display state ends. A player plays a game while enjoying how to generate a big hit.

  Some of these gaming machines are configured to detect a difference abnormality of a game ball to a winning area (for example, a winning opening) provided in the gaming area and perform abnormality notification. For example, in Patent Document 1, a winning opening detector is provided at the guiding pole of each winning opening, and a winning confirmation detector is provided at the lower portion of the guiding pole. When a game ball is detected by the winning opening detector, 1 is added to the winning number counter. When the game ball is detected by the winning confirmation detector, the winning number counter is decremented by 1. When the count value becomes 6 which is a predetermined number or more, the notification lamp blinks red, and when the count value becomes −6 which is the predetermined number or less, the notification lamp Is blinking yellow.

JP 2000-262671 (paragraph 0022, paragraph 0025-0032, FIG. 6)

  However, in a gaming machine as described in Patent Document 1, even if a difference abnormality is detected and abnormality notification is started, the power of the gaming machine is restarted by a player who has performed an illegal act to end the abnormality notification. It may be thrown in. Therefore, it may be a case where the gaming machine power is normally turned on by a game store clerk and the initialization process is executed to start up, or the gaming machine power is illegally turned on again after the difference abnormality occurs and the initialization process is executed It is desirable to be able to recognize from the outside whether it is a case where the system has been started without being started.

  Therefore, the present invention is a case where when the abnormality notification is executed, when the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped and the power supply is started again, the initialization process is executed and the gaming machine is activated. It is an object to make it possible to recognize from the outside whether the gaming machine has been restarted after the occurrence of a difference abnormality.

(Means 1) A gaming machine according to the present invention is a gaming machine having a winning area (for example, a start winning opening 14, a big winning opening) to which a game value can be given by winning a game medium (for example, a game ball), A winning detection unit (for example, start port switch 14a, count switch 23) that can detect game media that has won a winning area, and a winning confirmation unit that can detect game media that has passed through the winning detection unit after winning the winning area ( For example, a winning confirmation 1 switch 14b and a winning confirmation 2 switch 23b) and a variable winning device (for example, a variable winning device) that can be changed between a closed state in which a game medium cannot be won in a winning area and an open state in which a game medium can be easily won. Ball device 15, special variable winning ball device 20), and abnormal winning determination for determining whether or not an abnormal winning in which a game medium wins in the winning area has occurred when the variable winning device is in a closed state. Stages (for example, the portions of the game control microcomputer 560 that execute steps S251 to S254 and S261 to S264), the number of game media detected by the winning detection unit, and the number of game media detected by the winning confirmation unit External output means (for example, game control) for externally outputting abnormality information (for example, security signal) based on the occurrence of a difference abnormality (for example, discharge abnormality) in which the difference between the two becomes a predetermined number (for example, 10) or more Portion of the microcomputer 560 for executing steps S1068A to S1068C, S1102, and S1103) and the abnormal winning determination means determines that an abnormal winning has occurred (for example, abnormal winning 1 notification, abnormal winning notification, etc.) 2 anomaly winning notification means (for example, a microcomputer for effect control) And a portion for executing steps S3005 to S3025 in the monitor 100) and an abnormality notification means (for example, step S3001 in the production control microcomputer 100) that performs abnormality notification (for example, discharge abnormality notification) based on the occurrence of the difference abnormality. ˜S3003) and storage means (for example, backup RAM) capable of holding a predetermined period of information (for example, a discharge abnormality flag) indicating that at least a difference abnormality has occurred even when power supply to the gaming machine is stopped And an initialization process for initializing the storage contents of the storage means based on the establishment of a predetermined condition (for example, turning on the clear switch) when power supply to the gaming machine is started Execute means (for example, step S10 in the game control microcomputer 560) And variable display executing means for executing variable display of identification information that can be identified based on the establishment of the start condition, and the external output means is a gaming machine when the abnormal information is output externally. When the power supply to the game machine is stopped and the power supply is resumed, the abnormality information over a different period after the power supply to the gaming machine is resumed depending on whether or not the initialization process is executed by the initialization means. (For example, the game control microcomputer 560 executes steps S1069 to S1074, S1102, and S1103 based on the fact that the security signal information timer is set in step S14a when the initialization process is executed. When the security signal is output for 30 seconds and the power failure recovery process in steps S91 and S92 is executed without executing the initialization process. (Step S1068A to S1068C, S1102, and S1103 are executed based on the fact that the discharge abnormality flag is backed up in the backup RAM, and the output of the security signal is continued until the next initialization process is executed.) The abnormal winning notification means performs the abnormal winning notification of the first mode when the first predetermined number (for example, 20) of game media has been won in the winning area when the variable winning device is in the closed state ( For example, the production control microcomputer 100 executes the abnormal winning 1 notification using only the lamp by executing step S3012), and when the variable winning device is in the closed state, the game medium is first predetermined in the winning area. When a second predetermined number (for example, 50) that is greater than the number is won, an abnormal winning notification in a second mode different from the first mode is executed. (For example, the production control microcomputer 100 executes the abnormal winning 2 notification using the lamp and the sound by executing steps S3022 and S3023), and the abnormality notification means performs the abnormality notification. If the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped and the power supply to the gaming machine is resumed without executing the initialization process by the initialization means, the abnormality notification is not executed (for example, the discharge abnormality notification is performed). Even if the power supply is stopped during execution, the game control microcomputer 560 does not perform processing such as resending the discharge abnormality notification designation command after restarting the power supply to the game machine, and the effect control microcomputer 100 The discharge abnormality notification is not resumed after the power supply is restored), and the variable display execution means is also capable of identifying information when the abnormality notification is being executed by the abnormality notification means. The variable display of information can be executed. With such a configuration, when abnormality notification is being executed, when the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped and the power supply is started again, the initialization process is executed and the gaming machine is activated. Alternatively, it can be recognized from the outside whether the gaming machine is restarted after the occurrence of the difference abnormality.

(Means 2) In the means 1, the abnormal winning notification means performs abnormal winning notification using the first effect means (for example, lamp) as the abnormal winning notification of the first mode (for example, the microcomputer 100 for effect control). By executing step S3012, the abnormal winning 1 notification using only the lamp is executed), and as the abnormal winning notification of the second mode, the first effect means (for example, lamp) and the second effect means (for example, speaker 27). (For example, the production control microcomputer 100 executes the abnormal winning 2 notification using the lamp and the sound by executing steps S3022 and S3023). Good. According to such a configuration, when the variable winning device is in a closed state, it is possible to notify in a more conspicuous manner a highly urgent abnormal winning that has detected more winnings in the winning area.

(Means 3) Another aspect of the gaming machine according to the present invention is a gaming machine having a winning area (for example, a start winning opening 14, a big winning opening) to which a game value can be given by winning a game medium (for example, a game ball). A winning detection unit (for example, start port switch 14a, count switch 23) that can detect a game medium that has won a winning area, and a game medium that has passed through the winning detection section after winning a winning area can be detected. The difference between the number of game media detected by the winning confirmation unit (for example, the winning confirmation 1 switch 14b and the winning confirmation 2 switch 23b) and the number of game media detected by the winning detection unit and the number of game media detected by the winning confirmation unit is a predetermined number ( For example, an external output means (for example, for game control) that outputs abnormality information (for example, a security signal) to the outside based on occurrence of a difference abnormality (for example, discharge abnormality) of 10 or more. Steps S1068A to S1068C, S1102 and S1103 in the microcomputer 560 and abnormality notification means (for example, production control micro) for performing abnormality notification (for example, discharge abnormality notification) based on the occurrence of the difference abnormality. A storage unit capable of holding a predetermined period of information (for example, a discharge abnormality flag) indicating that at least a difference abnormality has occurred even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, and a part for executing steps S3001 to S3003 in the computer 100 (For example, RAM 55 as a backup RAM) and initialization that initializes the storage contents of the storage means based on the establishment of a predetermined condition (for example, clear switch ON) when power supply to the gaming machine is started Initialization means for executing processing (for example, a game control micro And the external output means is initialized when the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped and the power supply is restarted while the abnormality information is being output to the outside. Depending on whether or not the initialization process has been executed by the means, abnormal information is externally output over a different period after the power supply to the gaming machine is resumed (for example, the game control microcomputer 560 performs the initialization process). If executed, based on the setting of the security signal information timer in step S14a, steps S1069 to S1074, S1102, and S1103 are executed, the security signal is output for 30 seconds, and the initialization process is not executed. When the power failure recovery process in steps S91 and S92 is executed, a discharge abnormality flag is stored in the backup RAM. On the basis of being backed up, steps S1068A to S1068C, S1102, and S1103 are executed, and the output of the security signal is continued until the next initialization process is executed), and the abnormality notification means executes abnormality notification When the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped while the power is being supplied to the gaming machine without restarting the initialization process by the initialization means, the abnormality notification is not executed (for example, Even if the power supply is stopped during the execution of the discharge abnormality notification, the game control microcomputer 560 does not perform processing such as resending the discharge abnormality notification designation command after restarting the power supply to the gaming machine, but for the effect control. The microcomputer 100 does not restart the discharge abnormality notification after the power is restored. With such a configuration, when abnormality notification is being executed, when the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped and the power supply is started again, the initialization process is executed and the gaming machine is activated. Alternatively, it can be recognized from the outside whether the gaming machine is restarted after the occurrence of the difference abnormality.

(Means 4) In the means 3, the external output means executes the initialization process by the initialization means when the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped and the power supply is restarted when the abnormality information is output to the outside. If it is, the abnormality information is output to the outside until a predetermined period (for example, 30 seconds) elapses (for example, the game control microcomputer 560 executes the initialization process, then the security signal information in step S14a). Based on the setting of the timer, steps S1069 to S1074, S1102, and S1103 are executed to output a security signal for 30 seconds). If the initialization process is not executed by the initialization unit, the initialization process is performed. Abnormal information is output to the outside until it is executed (for example, the game control microcomputer 560 executes initialization processing). When the power failure recovery process in steps S91 and S92 is executed, steps S1068A to S1068C, S1102 and S1103 are executed based on the fact that the abnormal discharge flag is backed up in the backup RAM, and then the initialization process is performed. May continue to be output until the security signal is executed). According to such a configuration, it is possible to easily recognize from the outside whether the gaming machine is activated by executing the initialization process or whether the gaming machine is restarted after the occurrence of the difference abnormality. Can do.

(Means 5) In the means 3 or means 4, a variable winning device (for example, a variable winning ball device 15, a special winning ball device 15, which can be changed between a closed state where game media cannot be won in the winning area and an open state where game media can be easily won). The variable winning ball apparatus 20) and abnormal winning determination means for determining whether or not an abnormal winning in which a game medium wins in the winning area has occurred when the variable winning apparatus is in a closed state (for example, a game control microcomputer 560). Steps S251 to S254 and S261 to S264 are executed), and the external output means is common to the case where an abnormal winning occurs even when the abnormal winning determining means determines that an abnormal winning has occurred. Abnormal information (for example, security signal) can be output externally using an output terminal (for example, common connector CN8 of terminal board 160). For example, in steps S255, S265, S1069 to S1074, S1102, and S1103 in the game control microcomputer 560, a difference abnormality occurs when abnormality information is output to the outside based on the occurrence of an abnormal winning. In such a case, the control is switched to the external output control of the abnormality information based on the occurrence of the difference abnormality (for example, the game control microcomputer 560 executes the processing of steps S1069 to S1074, S1102, and S1103 and outputs a security signal. If the abnormal discharge flag is set at this time, the process may thereafter be switched to control that executes the processing of steps S1068A to S1068C, S1102, and S1103 and outputs a security signal). According to such a configuration, not only the occurrence of a difference abnormality but also the occurrence of an abnormal prize can be recognized from the outside, and the mechanism for making it possible to recognize the occurrence of a difference abnormality and an abnormal prize by using a common output terminal. Increase in the number of parts and complication of wiring work can be prevented.

(Means 6) In any one of the means 3 to 5, a variable winning device (for example, a variable winning device) that can change between a closed state in which a game medium cannot be won and an open state in which a game medium can be easily won in a winning area. The ball device 15 and the special variable winning ball device 20) and abnormal winning determination means for determining whether or not an abnormal winning in which a game medium wins in the winning area has occurred when the variable winning device is in a closed state (for example, a game) The control microcomputer 560 includes steps S251 to S254 and S261 to S264), and the abnormality notification means also notifies the abnormality notification (for example, for example, when the abnormal winning determination means determines that an abnormal winning has occurred) Abnormal winning 1 notification, abnormal winning 2 notification) can be executed (for example, steps S3005 to S3 in the production control microcomputer 100). 25), when an abnormal winning occurs, the abnormality notification of the first mode is executed (for example, the production control microcomputer 100 executes step S3012 to perform an abnormal winning using only the lamp. When the difference abnormality occurs, the abnormality notification of the second aspect that is easier to recognize from the outside than the first aspect is executed (for example, the production control microcomputer 100 performs step S3022). , S3023 may be executed to execute the abnormal winning 2 notification using the lamp and the sound). According to such a configuration, it is possible to notify a differential abnormality with high urgency in a more conspicuous manner.

(Means 7) Still another aspect of the gaming machine according to the present invention is a game having a winning area (for example, a start winning opening 14, a big winning opening) to which a game value can be given by winning a game medium (for example, a game ball). A winning detection unit (for example, start port switch 14a, count switch 23) that can detect a game medium that has won a winning area and a game medium that has passed through the winning detection section after winning the winning area can be detected. A winning prize confirmation unit (for example, a prize confirmation 1 switch 14b, a prize confirmation 2 switch 23b), and a variable prize winning device capable of changing between a closed state in which a game medium cannot be won in a prize area and an open state in which a game medium can easily be won. (For example, the variable winning ball device 15 and the special variable winning ball device 20) and whether or not the abnormal winning that the game medium wins in the winning area occurs when the variable winning device is in the closed state is determined. Abnormal winning determination means (for example, the portion of steps S251 to S254 and S261 to S264 in the game control microcomputer 560), the number of game media detected by the winning detection unit, and the game detected by the winning confirmation unit External output means for outputting abnormality information (for example, security signal) to the outside based on the occurrence of a difference abnormality (for example, ejection abnormality) in which the difference from the number of media is a predetermined number (for example, 10) or more. For example, an abnormal winning notification (for example, abnormal winning 1) is performed based on the fact that the abnormal winning determination means has determined that the abnormal winning determination has occurred by the abnormal winning determination means in the game control microcomputer 560. Anomaly winning notification means (for example, for effect control) that executes notification, abnormal winning 2 notification) Steps S3005 to S3025 in the microcomputer 100) and abnormality notification means (for example, steps in the production control microcomputer 100) for performing abnormality notification (for example, discharge abnormality notification) based on the occurrence of the difference abnormality. A storage unit (for example, backup) that can hold a predetermined period of time (eg, a discharge abnormality flag) indicating that a difference abnormality has occurred even if power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, and a portion that executes S3001 to S3003 When the power supply to the RAM 55) and the gaming machine is started, an initialization process for initializing the storage contents of the storage means is executed based on the establishment of a predetermined condition (for example, clear switch ON). Initialization means (for example, step in the game control microcomputer 560) And the external output means, when the abnormality information is output to the outside, when the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped and the power supply is restarted, the external output means Depending on whether or not the initialization process has been executed, abnormal information is externally output over a different period after the power supply to the gaming machine is resumed (for example, the game control microcomputer 560 has executed the initialization process). In this case, based on the setting of the security signal information timer in step S14a, steps S1069 to S1074, S1102, and S1103 are executed to output the security signal for 30 seconds, and the initialization process is not executed, and step S91 is executed. , 92, the discharge abnormality flag is backed up in the backup RAM. Accordingly, the steps S1068A to S1068C, S1102, and S1103 are executed, and the output of the security signal is continued until the next initialization process is executed), and the abnormal winning notification means is when the variable winning device is in the closed state. When the first predetermined number (for example, 20) of game media has been won in the winning area, the abnormal winning notification is terminated after a predetermined period (for example, 31 seconds) has elapsed since it was determined that an abnormal winning has occurred. (For example, the production control microcomputer 100 executes the abnormal winning 1 notification for 31 seconds by executing steps S3005 to S3014), and when the variable winning device is in the closed state, the game medium is first in the winning area. When a second predetermined number (for example, 50) that is greater than the predetermined number is won, it is longer than the predetermined period after it is determined that an abnormal winning has occurred. After the elapse of a specific period (for example, 300 seconds), the abnormal winning notification is terminated (for example, the production control microcomputer 100 executes abnormal winning 2 notification for 300 seconds by executing steps S3015 to S3025) The informing means stops the power supply to the gaming machine when executing the abnormality notice, and when the power supply to the gaming machine is resumed without executing the initialization process by the initializing means, Abnormality notification is not performed (for example, even if the power supply is stopped during the execution of the discharge abnormality notification, the gaming control microcomputer 560 retransmits the discharge abnormality notification designation command after restarting the power supply to the gaming machine, etc. The processing control microcomputer 100 does not perform the process, and does not restart the discharge abnormality notification after the power is restored. With such a configuration, when abnormality notification is being executed, when the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped and the power supply is started again, the initialization process is executed and the gaming machine is activated. Alternatively, it can be recognized from the outside whether the gaming machine is restarted after the occurrence of the difference abnormality.

(Means 8) In the means 7, when the abnormal winning notification means executes the abnormal winning notification until a predetermined period elapses, the abnormal winning notification means executes abnormal winning notification using the first effect means (for example, a lamp) (for example, The execution control microcomputer 100 executes step S3012 to execute the abnormal winning 1 notification using only the lamp), and when executing the abnormal winning notification until the specific period elapses, the first effect means (For example, a lamp) and an abnormal winning notification using the second effect means (for example, the speaker 27) are executed (for example, the effect control microcomputer 100 uses the lamp and sound by executing steps S3022 and S3023. May be configured to execute the abnormal winning 2 notification). According to such a configuration, when the variable winning device is in a closed state, it is possible to notify in a more conspicuous manner a highly urgent abnormal winning that has detected more winnings in the winning area.

(Means 9) Still another aspect of the gaming machine according to the present invention is a gaming machine capable of executing a predetermined game, and is a movable member that performs a predetermined operation (for example, the movable member 78 in the second embodiment or the like (Director blades 79a, 79b, etc.) and variable data storage that can store stored data for a predetermined period even when the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, and stores variable data generated during control When the power supply to the means (for example, the RAM 55 as the backup RAM) and the gaming machine is started, the stored contents of the variation data storage means are initialized based on the establishment of a predetermined condition (for example, the clear switch is turned on). The initialization process is executed by the initialization means (for example, the part that executes step S10 in the game control microcomputer 560) and the initialization means. Based on the above, initialization notification means for executing initialization notification (for example, in the second embodiment, the portion executing steps S3101 to S3111 in the production control microcomputer 100) and the power to the gaming machine Initial operation execution means for executing an initial operation of the movable member based on the start of supply (for example, in the second embodiment, the portion for executing step S708 in the production control microcomputer 100). The initial operation execution means executes the initial operation of the movable member after finishing the initialization process by the initialization means (for example, in the second embodiment, the production control microcomputer 100 performs step S3502). The process moves to the processing after step S3503 on the condition that it is determined as Y in the initial movement of the accessory The run) that characterized. With such a configuration, it is possible to disperse the power consumption required for the initialization notification and the initial operation of the movable member when the initialization process is executed.

(Means 10) In the means 9, an effect execution means (for example, a change display of effect symbols accompanied by sound output) that can execute an effect by sound output using at least sound output means (for example, the speaker 27) during the game (for example, , A part for executing steps S801 to S803 in the production control microcomputer 100), and the initialization notification means executes initialization notification with sound output using the sound output means (for example, the second embodiment). In the embodiment, the production control microcomputer 100 executes step S3108 to execute initialization notification using sound.) The production execution means uses the sound output means when the initialization notification is executed. The production by the sound output is not executed (for example, in the second embodiment, the production control microcomputer 100 performs step S8. 61, by executing steps S8262, S8482 when Y in S8481, continues the sound output of the initialization notification even when performing the variable display of performance symbols) may be configured so. According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the initialization notification and the production by the sound output using the sound output means from being performed at the same timing, and to prevent the power consumption from being concentrated. .

(Means 11) In the means 9 or 10, the effect execution means (for example, the effect symbol change display accompanied by the lamp display) that can execute the effect by the light emission display using at least the light emitting means (for example, the lamp) during the game ( For example, the production control microcomputer 100 includes a portion for executing steps S801 to S803, and the initialization notification unit executes initialization notification with light emission display using the light emission unit (for example, the second embodiment). In the embodiment, the effect control microcomputer 100 executes step S3109 to execute initialization notification using a lamp), and the effect execution means uses the light emitting means when the initialization notification is executed. The effect by the light emission display is not executed (for example, the effect control microcomputer 100 in the second embodiment). When step S8261 and S8481 are Y, steps S8262 and S8482 are executed, so that the lamp display of the initialization notification is continued even when the effect symbol variation display is executed. . According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the initialization notification and the effect by the light emission display using the light emitting means from being executed at the same timing, and it is possible to prevent the power consumption from being concentrated.

(Means 12) According to still another aspect of the gaming machine according to the present invention, a plurality of types of identification information (for example, effect symbols) that can be distinguished from each other are variably displayed, a display result is derived and displayed, and the display result is predetermined. When a specific display result (for example, a big hit symbol) is derived and displayed, the gaming machine controls to a specific gaming state (for example, a big hit gaming state) advantageous to the player, and a movable member (for example, a predetermined operation) In addition, the stored contents can be held for a predetermined period even when the power supply to the game machine and the movable member 78 and the directing blades 79a and 79b in the second embodiment is stopped, and control is performed. When the power supply to the fluctuation data storage means (for example, the RAM 55 as the backup RAM) for storing the fluctuation data generated at the time and the gaming machine is started (for example, Initialization means for executing an initialization process for initializing the storage contents of the variation data storage means based on the clear switch being turned on (for example, a part for executing step S10 in the game control microcomputer 560), and an initialization means. Initialization notifying means for executing initialization notification based on the fact that the initialization processing has been executed by (for example, the portion in steps S3101 to S3111 in the production control microcomputer 100 in the second embodiment). Then, based on the start of power supply to the gaming machine, initial operation execution means for executing the initial operation of the movable member (for example, in step S708 in the production control microcomputer 100 in the second embodiment) The initialization notification means is executing the initialization notification. When the variable display of the identification information is started, the initialization notification is executed together with the variable display of the identification information (for example, in the second embodiment, the production control microcomputer 100 determines Y in steps S8261 and S8481). When the steps S8262 and S8482 are executed, the initialization notification lamp display and sound output are continued even if the effect symbol variation display is executed.) The initial operation execution means is initialized by the initialization means. After the execution of the process is completed, the initial operation of the movable member is executed (for example, in the second embodiment, the production control microcomputer 100 determines that Y is determined in step S3502 and the steps after step S3503. The initial operation of the accessory is executed and the initial operation of the movable member is started. When the variable display of the different information is being executed, the initial operation of the movable member is executed together with the variable display of the identification information (for example, in the second embodiment, the effect control microcomputer 100 performs the accessory initial operation. In the process, when the answer is N in step S3503, the process proceeds to the process after step S3504 regardless of whether or not the effect symbol is being displayed, and the initial operation of the accessory is started). With such a configuration, it is possible to disperse the power consumption required for the initialization notification and the initial operation of the movable member when the initialization process is executed. Even when variable display of identification information is executed, initialization notification and initial operation of the movable member can be executed.

(Means 13) In still another aspect of the gaming machine according to the present invention, a plurality of types of identification information (for example, effect symbols) that can be distinguished from each other are variably displayed, a display result is derived and displayed, and the display result is predetermined. When a specific display result (for example, a big hit symbol) is derived and displayed, the gaming machine controls to a specific gaming state (for example, a big hit gaming state) advantageous to the player, and a movable member (for example, a predetermined operation) In the second embodiment and the third embodiment, the movable member 78 and the stage blades 79a and 79b) and the stored contents are retained for a predetermined period even when the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped. When the supply of power to the fluctuation data storage means (for example, the RAM 55 as the backup RAM) for storing the fluctuation data generated when the control is performed and the gaming machine is started, An initialization unit (for example, step S10 in the game control microcomputer 560 is executed) that executes an initialization process for initializing the stored contents of the variation data storage unit based on the establishment of a fixed condition (for example, turning on the clear switch). Part) and initialization notification means for performing initialization notification based on the initialization process executed by the initialization means (for example, in the second embodiment and the third embodiment, effect control) Portion for executing steps S3101 to S3111 in the microcomputer 100 and the initial operation execution means for executing the initial operation of the movable member based on the start of power supply to the gaming machine (for example, the second implementation) In the third embodiment and the third embodiment, step S7 in the production control microcomputer 100 is performed. The initial operation executing means executes the initial operation of the movable member after finishing the initialization process by the initializing means (for example, the second embodiment and the third embodiment). In the embodiment, the production control microcomputer 100 proceeds to the processing after step S3503 and executes the initial operation of the accessory on the condition that it is determined as Y in step S3502), and performs the initial operation of the movable member. When the variable display of the identification information is executed at the start, the execution of the initial operation of the movable member is restricted (for example, in the third embodiment, the production control microcomputer 100 performs the action initial operation process). When Y is determined in step S3503A, the process does not proceed to step S3504 and subsequent steps, and the initial operation of the accessory is not started). With such a configuration, it is possible to disperse the power consumption required for the initialization notification and the initial operation of the movable member when the initialization process is executed. Further, even when variable display of identification information is executed, the initial operation of the movable member can be executed.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko game machine from the front. It is a front view which shows the front of a game board. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the cross-sectional structure in a normal winning opening. It is the rear view which looked at the gaming machine from the back. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the cross-sectional structure in a start winning opening. It is a circuit diagram for demonstrating the system of the detection means which can detect a game ball. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of a game control board (main board). It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a relay board | substrate, an effect control board | substrate, a lamp driver board | substrate, and an audio | voice output board | substrate. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of bit allocation of the output port in a game control means. It is explanatory drawing which shows the bit allocation example of the input port in a game control means. It is a circuit diagram which shows the internal structure of a terminal board | substrate. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which the microcomputer for game control performs. It is a flowchart which shows the process example of a hot start process. It is a flowchart which shows a 4 ms timer interruption process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the program of a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows a starting port switch passage process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol stop process. It is a flowchart which shows a normal symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a normal symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a normal symbol fluctuation | variation process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a normal symbol stop process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the open pattern of the change time of a normal symbol, and a variable winning ball apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a normal electric accessory operating process. It is explanatory drawing which shows each 2 byte buffer formed in RAM used by switch processing. It is a flowchart which shows the process example of a switch process. It is a flowchart which shows a switch normal / abnormality check process. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating a switch normal / abnormality check process. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating a switch normal / abnormality check process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the case where a game ball raise | generates the ball clogged state in the start winning opening. It is a flowchart which shows an abnormal winning notification process. It is a block diagram which shows the various signals output to a terminal board. It is a flowchart which shows an information output process. It is a flowchart which shows an information output process. It is a flowchart which shows an information output process. It is a flowchart which shows an information output process. It is a flowchart which shows an information output process. It is a flowchart which shows a winning timer set process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the output timing of a security signal. It is explanatory drawing which shows the output timing of a security signal when the power supply is restored after the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped when the security signal is output based on the discharge abnormality. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which the microcomputer for production control performs. It is a flowchart which shows production control process processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of an effect design change start process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a process during effect design change. It is a flowchart which shows alerting | reporting control processing. It is a flowchart which shows alerting | reporting control processing. It is the front view which looked at the pachinko game machine in a 2nd embodiment from the front. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of the game control board (main board | substrate) in 2nd Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of the presentation control board in the 2nd Embodiment, a lamp driver board | substrate, and an audio | voice output board | substrate. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which the microcomputer for presentation control in 2nd Embodiment performs. It is a flowchart which shows the production | presentation symbol fluctuation start process in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the effect symbol variation process in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the alerting | reporting control process in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the accessory initial stage operation process in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the accessory initial stage operation process in 3rd Embodiment.

Embodiment 1 FIG.
Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
First, the overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine that is an example of a gaming machine will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine as viewed from the front, and FIG. 2 is a front view showing the front of the game board.

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame (not shown) formed in a vertically long rectangular shape, and a game frame attached to the inside of the outer frame so as to be opened and closed. Further, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape that is provided in the game frame so as to be opened and closed. The game frame includes a front frame (not shown) installed to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame, a mechanism plate to which mechanism parts and the like are attached, and various parts attached to them (excluding a game board described later). Is a structure including

  As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape. On the lower surface of the glass door frame 2 is a hitting ball supply tray (upper plate) 3. Under the hitting ball supply tray 3, an extra ball receiving tray 4 for storing game balls that cannot be accommodated in the hit ball supply tray 3 and a hitting operation handle (operation knob) 5 for launching the game balls are provided. A game board 6 is detachably attached to the back surface of the glass door frame 2. The game board 6 is a structure including a plate-like body constituting the game board 6 and various components attached to the plate-like body. A game area 7 is formed on the front surface of the game board 6.

  In the vicinity of the center of the game area 7, there is provided an effect display device (decorative symbol display device) 9 including a plurality of variable display portions each variably displaying an effect decorative symbol (effect symbol). The effect display device 9 includes, for example, three variable display portions (symbol display areas) of “left”, “middle”, and “right”. The effect display device 9 performs variable display of the effect symbol as a symbol for decoration (for effect) during the variable display period of the special symbol by the special symbol indicator 8. The effect display device 9 that performs variable display of effect symbols is controlled by an effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board.

  Below the effect display device 9, four special symbol hold memory indicators 18 are provided for displaying the number of effective winning balls that have entered the start winning opening 14, that is, the number of hold memories (also referred to as start memory or start prize memory). ing. The special symbol reservation storage display 18 displays up to four reservation storage numbers in the order of winning. The special symbol hold storage display 18 increases the number of LEDs in the lit state by 1 each time there is a start winning in the start winning opening 14. Then, each time the special symbol display 8 starts variable display, the special symbol hold storage indicator 18 reduces the number of LEDs in the lit state by 1 (that is, turns off one LED). Specifically, the special symbol hold storage display 18 shifts the lighting state each time variable display is started on the special symbol display 8. In this example, the upper limit number (up to 4) is provided for the number of starting memories by winning to the start winning opening 14, but the upper limit number may be four or more.

  A special symbol display (special symbol display device) 8 that variably displays a special symbol as identification information is provided on the top of the effect display device 9. In this embodiment, the special symbol display 8 is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9, for example. The special symbol display 8 may be configured to variably display a larger number of numbers such as 0 to 99 in order to make it difficult for the player to grasp a specific stop symbol. Further, the effect display device 9 performs variable display of the effect symbol as a symbol for decoration (for effect) during the variable display period of the special symbol by the special symbol indicator 8.

  Below the effect display device 9, a variable winning ball device 15 that forms a start winning opening 14 is provided. The variable winning ball device 15 is configured to be able to open and close the wings, and when the wings are open, the game ball is likely to win a prize (open state), and when the wings are not open (closed). The game ball becomes difficult to win (closed state). The winning ball that has entered the starting winning opening 14 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the starting opening switch 14a (for example, a proximity switch) and detected by the winning confirmation switch 14b (for example, a photo sensor). (Conversely, the start port switch 14a may be configured using a photo sensor, and the winning confirmation switch 14b may be configured using a proximity switch, or a mechanical type such as a micro switch instead of the proximity switch or the photo sensor. May be used). In this embodiment, the random number is extracted from the random number circuit based on the detection of the game ball by the start switch 14a, and the special symbol variation display is started. Further, as will be described later, whether or not a discharge abnormality has occurred is determined based on the detection result of the winning check switch 14b in addition to the detection result by the start port switch 14a, and the security signal is detected based on the detection of the discharge abnormality. Is output externally. Further, based on the detection result of the winning confirmation switch 14b in addition to the detection result of the start opening switch 14a, a winning signal to be described later is output to the outside, and a winning ball number command is transmitted to the payout control microcomputer 370 for paying out a winning ball. Is executed. The variable winning ball device 15 is opened by a solenoid 16.

  The first winning prize opening may be provided directly above the variable winning ball apparatus 15, and the variable winning ball apparatus 15 may be used as the second starting prize opening. In this case, for each of the first start winning opening and the second starting winning opening, a start opening switch (for example, a proximity switch) and a winning confirmation switch (for example, a photo sensor) may be provided. Then, for each of the first start winning opening and the second starting winning opening, the random number is extracted from the random number circuit based on the detection of the game ball by the start opening switch as in this embodiment. The special symbol variation display may be started. Further, for each of the first start winning opening and the second starting winning opening, whether or not there is a discharge abnormality based on the detection result of the winning confirmation switch in addition to the detection result by the start opening switch as in this embodiment. The security signal may be externally output based on the determination and the occurrence of the discharge abnormality. Further, for each of the first start winning opening and the second starting winning opening, a winning signal to be described later is generated based on the detection result of the winning confirmation switch in addition to the detection result by the starting opening switch, as in this embodiment. The prize ball number command may be output and sent to the payout control microcomputer 370 to execute the prize ball payout.

  Below the variable winning ball apparatus 15, a special variable winning ball apparatus 20 using an opening / closing plate that is controlled to be opened by a solenoid 21 in a specific gaming state (big hit state) is provided. The special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is a means for opening and closing the big winning opening. The winning ball that has won the special variable winning ball device 20 and led to the back of the game board 6 is detected by a count switch 23 (for example, a proximity switch) and also by a winning confirmation switch 23b (for example, a photo sensor). (Conversely, the count switch 23 may be configured using a photo sensor, the winning confirmation switch 23b may be configured using a proximity switch, or a mechanical type such as a micro switch instead of the proximity switch or the photo sensor. May be used). In this embodiment, it is detected that a game ball has been won in the big winning opening during the big hit game based on the fact that the game ball has been detected by the count switch 23, and the round winning prize is entered in each round. The number of winning prizes is determined to be a predetermined number (whether it has reached 10 in this example). Further, as will be described later, the presence / absence of the discharge abnormality is determined based on the detection result of the winning confirmation switch 23b in addition to the detection result by the count switch 23, and the security signal is generated based on the detection of the occurrence of the discharge abnormality. Output externally. Further, based on the result of detection by the winning confirmation switch 23b in addition to the result of detection by the count switch 23, a winning signal, which will be described later, is output to the outside, and a winning ball number command is transmitted to the payout control microcomputer 370 for winning ball payout. Executed.

  When the game ball passes through the gate 32 and is detected by the gate switch 32a, variable display of the normal symbol display 10 is started. In this embodiment, variable display is performed by alternately lighting left and right lamps (designs can be visually recognized when lit). For example, if the left lamp is lit at the end of variable display, it is a hit. When the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times. In the vicinity of the normal symbol display 10, a normal symbol start memory display 41 having a display unit with four LEDs for displaying the number of winning balls that have passed through the gate 32 is provided. Each time there is a game ball passing through the gate 32, the normal symbol start memory display 41 increases the number of LEDs to be turned on by one. Each time the variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of LEDs to be lit is reduced by one.

  The game board 6 is provided with a plurality of winning holes 29 and 30, and winning of game balls to the winning holes 29 and 30 is detected by winning hole switches 29a and 30a (for example, proximity switches), respectively, and winning is also achieved. Detected by the confirmation switches 29b and 30b (for example, photo sensors) (in contrast, the winning opening switches 29a and 30a are configured using photo sensors, and the winning confirmation switches 29b and 30b are configured using proximity switches. Alternatively, a mechanical switch such as a micro switch may be used instead of the proximity switch or the photo sensor). In this embodiment, as will be described later, a winning signal is output to the outside based on the detection result of the winning check switches 29b and 30b in addition to the detection result of the winning port switches 29a and 30a, and a winning ball number command is issued. It is transmitted to the payout control microcomputer 370 and the prize ball payout is executed.

  As shown in FIG. 3, among the winning confirmation switches 14b, 23b, 29b, 30b, at least the winning confirmation switches 29b, 30b for detecting winning in the winning openings 29, 30 are attached to the game frame side. ing. With this configuration, when the game board 6 is configured to be exchangeable as in this embodiment, the winning confirmation switches 29b and 30b provided on the game frame side are related to the game board 6. It can be used in common, reducing the cost of gaming machines.

  In this embodiment, hereinafter, when the winning confirmation switches 14b, 23b, 29b, 30b are distinguished from each other, the winning confirmation 1 switch 14b, the winning confirmation 2 switch 23b, the winning confirmation 3 switch 29b, and the winning confirmation, respectively. Also referred to as a 4 switch 30b.

  Each of the winning ports 29 and 30 constitutes a winning area provided on the game board 6 as an area for accepting game media and allowing winning. The start winning opening 14 and the big winning opening also constitute a winning area that accepts game media and allows winning. In addition, it may be configured to detect with a detection switch that a game ball has passed a predetermined area (for example, a gate), instead of the configuration in which the game ball won in each winning opening 29, 30 is detected with a prize switch. Around the left and right of the game area 7, there are provided decorative lamps 25 blinking and displayed during the game, and at the lower part there is an outlet 26 for absorbing a game ball that has not won a prize. Two speakers 27 that emit sound effects are provided on the left and right upper portions outside the game area 7. On the outer periphery of the game area 7, a top frame lamp 28a, a left frame lamp 28b, and a right frame lamp 28c are provided. Further, a decoration LED is installed around each structure (such as a big prize opening) in the game area 7. The top frame lamp 28a, the left frame lamp 28b, the right frame lamp 28c, and the decoration LED are examples of a decorative light emitter provided in the gaming machine. In this embodiment, the case where the light emitter provided in the gaming machine is configured by using a lamp or an LED is shown. However, the present invention is not limited to the mode shown in this embodiment. You may make it comprise all the provided light-emitting bodies using LED.

  Although not shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, a prize ball lamp that is turned on during the prize ball payout is provided in the vicinity of the left frame lamp 28b, and a supply ball is provided in the vicinity of the top frame lamp 28a. There is a ball-out lamp that illuminates when it runs out. Note that the award ball lamp and the out-of-ball lamp are controlled to be turned on by the effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board when the award ball is being paid out or when the out-of-ball is detected. Further, a prepaid card unit (hereinafter referred to as “card unit”) 50 that enables lending a ball by inserting a prepaid card is installed adjacent to the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  The card unit 50 includes, for example, a usable display lamp that indicates whether or not the card unit 50 is in a usable state, a connection table direction indicator that indicates which side of the pachinko gaming machine 1 corresponds to the card unit, and a card unit. When checking the card insertion indicator lamp indicating that a card is inserted in the card, the card insertion slot into which the card as a recording medium is inserted, and the card reader / writer mechanism provided on the back of the card insertion slot A card unit lock for releasing the card unit is provided.

  A game ball launched from the ball striking device by the player's operation enters the game area 7 through the hit ball rail, and then descends the game area 7. When the game ball enters the start winning opening 14 and is detected by the start opening switch 14a, the special symbol on the special symbol display 8 starts variable display (variation) if the variable display of the symbol can be started. If the variable display of the symbol cannot be started, the number of reserved memories is increased by one.

  The variable display of the special symbol on the special symbol display device 8 stops when a certain time has elapsed. If the special symbol (stop symbol) at the time of stoppage is a jackpot symbol (specific display result), the game shifts to a jackpot gaming state. That is, the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is released until a predetermined time elapses or a predetermined number (for example, 10) of gaming balls wins. The opening of the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is allowed until the last round of the determined number of rounds (for example, up to 15 rounds).

  When the special symbol on the special symbol display 8 at the time of stoppage is a jackpot symbol (probability variation symbol) with a probability variation, the probability of the next jackpot increases. That is, it becomes a more advantageous state for the player in the probability variation state.

  When the game ball passes through the gate 32, the normal symbol display unit 10 enters a state in which the normal symbol is variably displayed. Further, when the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined time.

  Next, the structure of the back surface of the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a rear view of the gaming machine as seen from the back side. As shown in FIG. 4, on the back side of the pachinko gaming machine 1, there are a variable display control unit including an effect control board 80 on which an effect control microcomputer 100 for controlling the effect display device 9 is mounted, a game control microcomputer, and the like. Various boards such as a mounted game control board (main board) 31, an audio output board 70, a lamp driver board 35, and a payout control board 37 mounted with a payout control microcomputer for performing ball payout control are installed. Yes. The game control board 31 is stored in the board storage case 200.

  Further, on the back side of the pachinko gaming machine 1, a power supply substrate 910 and a touch sensor substrate 91 on which power supply circuits for generating various power supply voltages such as DC30V, DC21V, DC12V, and DC5V are mounted. The power supply board 910 is supplied with the game control board 31 and each electrical component control board (the effect control board 80 and the payout control board 37) in the pachinko gaming machine 1 and each electrical component (power is supplied) provided in the pachinko gaming machine 1. A power switch as a power supply permission means for executing or shutting off the power supply to the component), and a clear switch for clearing the RAM 55 of the game control microcomputer 560 of the game control board 31 are provided. ing. Further, a replaceable fuse is provided inside the power switch (inside the substrate).

  In this embodiment, the main board 31 is provided on the game board side, and the payout control board 37 is provided on the game frame side. Even in such a configuration, as will be described later, the communication between the main board 31 and the payout control board 37 is performed by serial communication, thereby facilitating the routing of the wiring when replacing the game board. .

  Each control board is equipped with control means including a control microcomputer. The control means is an electrical component (game device: ball payout device 97, effect display device 9, light emission from a lamp, LED, etc.) provided in the gaming machine according to a command signal (control signal) as a command from the game control means or the like. Body, speaker 27, etc.). Hereinafter, the main board 31 may be included in the control board for explanation. In that case, the control means mounted on the control board refers to each of the game control means and the means for controlling the electrical components provided in the gaming machine in accordance with a command signal from the game control means or the like. A substrate on which a microcomputer other than the main substrate 31 is mounted may be referred to as a sub-substrate. The ball payout device 97 is a device for paying out a game ball guided by a passage for guiding the game ball and a sprocket driven by a stepping motor or the like to an upper plate or a lower plate. A payout number counting switch for counting prize balls and rental balls is also configured as part of the unit. In this embodiment, the payout detection means is realized by the payout number count switch 301 and has a function of detecting that a winning ball or a lending ball is actually paid out from the ball payout device 97. In this case, the payout number count switch 301 outputs a detection signal every time one payout of prize balls or rental balls is detected.

  On the back side of the pachinko gaming machine 1, a terminal board 160 having terminals for outputting various information to the outside of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is installed above. The terminal board 160 includes, for example, an information output signal such as jackpot information indicating the occurrence of a jackpot gaming state (symbol determination number of times 1 signal shown in FIG. 32, start port signal, jackpot 1 signal, jackpot 2 signal, jackpot 3 signal, hour An information output terminal for externally outputting a short signal, a winning signal, a security signal, a high-accuracy signal, and winning ball information) is provided.

  The game ball stored in the storage tank 38 passes through a guide rail (not shown), and reaches a ball payout device 97 covered with a payout case 40A through a curve rod. Above the ball payout device 97, a ball break switch 187 is provided as a game medium break detection means. When the ball break switch 187 detects a ball break, the payout operation of the ball payout device 97 stops. The ball break switch 187 is a switch for detecting the presence or absence of a game ball in the game ball passage, but the ball break detection switch 167 for detecting the shortage of supply balls in the storage tank 38 is also an upstream portion of the guide rail (in the storage tank 38). (Proximate part). When the ball break detection switch 167 detects a shortage of game balls, the game balls are replenished to the pachinko gaming machine 1 from the replenishment mechanism provided on the gaming machine installation island.

  When a large number of game balls as prizes based on winning a prize or a game ball based on a ball lending request are paid out and the hitting ball supply tray 3 is full, the game balls are guided to the surplus ball receiving tray 4 through the surplus ball guiding path. Further, when the game ball is paid out, a sensing lever (not shown) presses the full tank switch as the storage state detection means, and the full tank switch as the storage state detection means is turned on. In this state, the rotation of the payout motor in the ball payout device is stopped, the operation of the ball payout device is stopped, and the driving of the ball hitting device is also stopped.

  Next, a specific example of the cross-sectional structure in the start winning port 14 will be described as an example of the cross-sectional structure of each winning port. In addition, although the cross-sectional structure in the start winning opening 14 will be described as an example, the count switch 23 and the winning opening switches 29a and 30a are arranged on the upstream side in the large winning opening and the winning openings 29 and 30 with substantially the same cross-sectional structure. The winning confirmation switches 23b, 29b, 30b are arranged on the downstream side. However, with respect to the winning ports 29 and 30, the processing that causes trouble even if the distance between the winning port switches 29a and 30a arranged on the upstream side and the winning check switches 29b and 30b arranged on the downstream side is slightly separated. Therefore, as already described with reference to FIG. 3, at least the winning confirmation switches 29b and 30b are arranged on the game frame side to reduce the cost of the gaming machine.

  FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a cross-sectional structure in the start winning opening 14. As shown in FIG. 5, the start winning opening 14 is provided with two switches (start opening switch 14a and winning confirmation switch 14b) capable of detecting a game ball won in the starting winning opening. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, the start opening switch 14a and the winning confirmation switch 14b are arranged vertically in the start winning opening 14 (in this example, the start opening switch 14a is arranged on the upper side). And a winning confirmation switch 14b is arranged on the lower side). Therefore, in this embodiment, the game ball won in the start winning opening 14 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and is first detected by the start opening switch 14a and then detected by the winning confirmation switch 14b. Regarding the arrangement of the downstream winning confirmation switch 14b, the game ball is arranged as close as possible to the discharging side opening part in the path where the game ball is discharged from the winning side opening part and then discharged from the discharging side opening part. If it is, the height of an arrangement position etc. does not ask | require.

  Also, different detection system switches are used as the start port switch 14a and the winning confirmation switch 14b. In this embodiment, a case where a proximity switch is used as the start port switch 14a and a photo sensor is used as the winning confirmation switch 14b is shown.

  In this embodiment, the random number is extracted from the random number circuit based on the detection of the game ball by the start port switch 14a, and the special symbol variation display is started. Further, as will be described later, whether or not a discharge abnormality has occurred is determined based on the detection result of the winning check switch 14b in addition to the detection result by the start port switch 14a, and the security signal is detected based on the detection of the discharge abnormality. Is output externally. Further, based on the detection result of the winning confirmation switch 14b in addition to the detection result of the start opening switch 14a, a winning signal to be described later is output to the outside, and a winning ball number command is transmitted to the payout control microcomputer 370 for paying out a winning ball. Is executed.

  The detection method of the start port switch 14a and the winning confirmation switch 14b is not limited to that shown in this embodiment. For example, if the detection method is different between the starting port switch 14a and the winning confirmation switch 14b, the detection method is reversed. A photo sensor may be used as the start port switch 14a, and a proximity switch may be used as the winning confirmation switch 14b. In this case, a random number is extracted from the random number circuit and a special symbol is displayed on the basis of the detection result of the start port switch 14a which is a photosensor, and the proximity switch is added to the detection result of the start port switch 14a which is a photosensor. On the basis of the detection result of the winning confirmation switch 14b, the determination of the discharge abnormality of the start winning opening 14, the external output of the winning signal, and the payout of the winning ball are executed. Further, for example, instead of a proximity switch or an optical photosensor that is an electromagnetic switch, a mechanical switch (such as a micro switch) may be used as the start port switch 14a or the winning confirmation switch 14b.

  FIG. 6 is a circuit diagram for explaining a method of detection means capable of detecting a game ball. FIG. 6A shows a start port switch 14a (proximity switch). The + 12V power supply voltage is supplied from the power supply board 910 to one terminal of the start port switch 14a. A detection signal that is the voltage level of the other terminal of the start port switch 14 a is input to the main board 31. In the main board 31, the detection signal is input from the input driver circuit to the input port of the game control microcomputer. A resistor R and a capacitor C, one end of which is grounded, are connected to the output side of the start port switch 14a.

  When a metal game ball passes through a hole provided in the start port switch 14a which is a proximity switch, a counter electromotive force is generated in the coil L, and the equivalent resistance value of the coil L becomes extremely large. Accordingly, the output of the start port switch 14a becomes a low level close to 0V. That is, the detection signal is at a low level. When the metal game ball does not pass through the hole provided in the start port switch 14a, the output of the start port switch 14a is a value obtained by dividing + 12V by the resistance value of the coil L and the resistance R. Exceed a threshold level, which is considered to be high. That is, the detection signal is at a high level. Therefore, in this embodiment, the game control microcomputer can determine that the start port switch 14a is in the OFF state if the output from the start port switch 14a is at a high level. If the output is at a low level, it can be determined that the start port switch 14a is in the ON state (that is, the output of the start port switch 14a is negative logic). The detection signal level may be logically inverted by the input driver circuit and then input to the game control microcomputer 560.

  In this embodiment, the level of the detection signal of the count switch 23 is input to the game control microcomputer 560 after the logic of the input signal is inverted by the input driver circuit for the special winning opening. Therefore, in this embodiment, the game control microcomputer can determine that the count switch 23 is in the OFF state if the output from the count switch 23 (output after logic inversion) is at a low level. If the output from the switch 23 (output after logic inversion) is at a high level, it can be determined that the count switch 23 is on.

  In this embodiment, the levels of the detection signals of the winning opening switches 29a and 30a are logically inverted by the input driver circuit and input to the game control microcomputer 560 for the winning openings 29 and 30. Therefore, in this embodiment, the game control microcomputer determines that the winning opening switches 29a and 30a are in the OFF state if the output from the winning opening switches 29a and 30a (output after logic inversion) is at a low level. If the outputs from the winning opening switches 29a and 30a (output after logic inversion) are at a high level, it can be determined that the winning opening switches 29a and 30a are in the ON state.

  FIG. 6B shows a winning confirmation switch 14b (photo sensor). The photosensor illustrated in FIG. 6B includes a light-emitting diode (LED) 341 that emits light and a phototransistor 342 that receives light and outputs current. When the game ball passes in the vicinity of the light-emitting diode 341 and the phototransistor 342, the phototransistor 342 receives light from the light-emitting diode 341 reflected by the game ball and causes a current to flow to the output side. In this case, since a current flows from the collector terminal of the phototransistor 342 toward the emitter terminal, the detection signal of the photosensor is negative logic as in the proximity switch. However, in this embodiment, the detection signal of the winning confirmation switch 14b is logically inverted by the input driver circuit and then input to the game control microcomputer 560. Therefore, in this embodiment, the game control microcomputer can determine that the winning confirmation switch 14b is in an OFF state if the output from the winning confirmation switch 14b (output after logic inversion) is at a low level. If the output from the winning confirmation switch 14b (output after logic inversion) is at a high level, it can be determined that the winning confirmation switch 14b is in the on state.

  In this embodiment, the detection signals of the winning confirmation switches 23b, 29b, and 30b are similarly logically inverted by the input driver circuit and then input to the game control microcomputer 560. Therefore, in this embodiment, the game control microcomputer is in the off state if the winning confirmation switches 23b, 29b, and 30b are in the OFF state if the outputs from the winning confirmation switches 23b, 29b, and 30b (output after logic inversion) are at a low level. If the output from the winning confirmation switches 23b, 29b, 30b (output after logic inversion) is at a high level, it is determined that the winning confirmation switches 23b, 29b, 30b are on. Can do.

  In this embodiment, a reflective photosensor is used as the photosensor. However, as shown in the upper part of FIG. 6C, a light-emitting element (LED 341) and a light-receiving element (phototransistor 342) are used as winning balls. The game balls that have been installed so as to face each other and the game ball blocks light from the light emitting element and the light receiving element does not detect the light, thereby detecting the game ball that has passed between the light emitting element and the light receiving element. A transmissive photosensor may be used. When a transmissive photosensor is used, as shown in the lower part of FIG. 6C, the optical axis of the light emitting element (illustrated by a black circle in FIG. 6C) is a game ball path (winning ball). It is preferable to install the light emitting element and the light receiving element so as to deviate from the center of the game ball passing through the route. Compared with the case where the optical axis corresponds to the central portion of the game ball, a portion where the interval between two game balls passing through is relatively wide (the “void” portion in FIG. 6C). This is because the game ball can be detected at, and the two game balls can be easily detected separately. For the same reason, when using the reflective photosensor illustrated in FIG. 6B, the light emitting element and the light receiving element are installed so that the reflection point of the light from the light emitting element is shifted from the center of the game ball. It is preferable to do.

  FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing an example of a circuit configuration in the main board (game control board) 31. FIG. 7 also shows the payout control board 37, the effect control board 80, and the like. On the main board 31, a game control microcomputer (corresponding to a game control means) 560 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program, a control clock generation circuit 111, and a random number clock generation circuit 112 are mounted. The game control microcomputer 560 includes a ROM 54 for storing a game control (game progress control) program and the like, a RAM 55 as storage means used as a work memory, a CPU 56 for performing control operations in accordance with the program, and an I / O port unit 57. including. In this embodiment, the ROM 54 and the RAM 55 are built in the game control microcomputer 560. That is, the game control microcomputer 560 is a one-chip microcomputer. The one-chip microcomputer only needs to include at least the RAM 55, and the ROM 54 may be external or internal. The I / O port unit 57 may be externally attached. Furthermore, a random number circuit 509 for generating hardware random numbers (random numbers generated by the hardware circuit) is incorporated.

  Here, the control clock generation circuit 111 generates a control clock CCLK that becomes an oscillation signal of a predetermined frequency outside the game control microcomputer 560. The control clock CCLK generated by the control clock generation circuit 111 is supplied to the clock circuit 502 via the control external clock terminal EXC of the game control microcomputer 560, for example. The random number clock generation circuit 112 generates a random number clock RCLK that is an oscillation signal having a predetermined frequency different from the oscillation frequency of the control clock CCLK, outside the game control microcomputer 560. The random number clock RCLK generated by the random number clock generation circuit 112 is supplied to the random number circuit 509 via the random number external clock terminal ERC of the game control microcomputer 560, for example. As an example, the oscillation frequency of the random number clock RCLK generated by the random number clock generation circuit 112 may be equal to or lower than the oscillation frequency of the control clock CCLK generated by the control clock generation circuit 111. Alternatively, the oscillation frequency of the random number clock RCLK generated by the random number clock generation circuit 112 may be higher than the oscillation frequency of the control clock CCLK generated by the control clock generation circuit 111.

  In the game control microcomputer 560, the CPU 56 executes control in accordance with the program stored in the ROM 54, so that the game control microcomputer 560 (or CPU 56) executes (or performs processing) hereinafter. Specifically, the CPU 56 executes control according to a program. The same applies to microcomputers mounted on substrates other than the main substrate 31.

  The game control microcomputer 560 reads numerical data from the random number circuit 509 as a random R when a start winning to the start port switch 14a occurs, and performs a specific display based on the random R at the start of the variation of the special symbol and the production symbol. It is determined whether or not to make a jackpot display result as a result, that is, whether or not to make a jackpot. Then, when it is determined to be a big hit, the gaming state is shifted to a big hit gaming state as a specific gaming state advantageous to the player.

  The game control microcomputer 560 has a built-in serial communication circuit 511 for inputting / outputting (transmitting / receiving) signals with the payout control board 37 (the payout control microcomputer 370) through serial communication. The payout control microcomputer 370 also includes a serial communication circuit for inputting / outputting signals through the game control microcomputer 560 through serial communication.

  In this embodiment, serial communication is performed between the game control microcomputer 560 and the payout control microcomputer 370, but a serial communication circuit is also mounted on the effect control board 80 side. In addition, the game control microcomputer 560 may be controlled to transmit the effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100 using a serial communication method.

  The RAM 55 is a backup RAM as a non-volatile storage means, part or all of which is backed up by a backup power supply created on the power supply board. That is, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, a part or all of the contents of the RAM 55 is stored for a predetermined period (until the capacitor as the backup power supply is discharged and the backup power supply cannot be supplied). In particular, at least data corresponding to the game state, that is, the control state of the game control means (a special symbol process flag, a value of a reserved memory number counter for counting the number of reserved memories) and data indicating the number of unpaid winning balls ( Specifically, a value of a prize ball command output counter (to be described later) is stored in the backup RAM. The data corresponding to the control state of the game control means is data necessary for resuming the game based on the data when the power is restored after a power failure or the like occurs. Further, data corresponding to the control state and data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls are defined as data indicating the progress state of the game. In this embodiment, when a discharge abnormality occurs, a discharge abnormality flag, which will be described later, is set. This discharge abnormality flag is also stored in the backup RAM and backed up. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the entire RAM 55 is backed up.

  A reset signal from the power supply board is input to the reset terminal of the game control microcomputer 560. A reset circuit for generating a reset signal supplied to the game control microcomputer 560 and the like is mounted on the power supply board. When the reset signal becomes high level, the game control microcomputer 560 and the like are in an operable state, and when the reset signal becomes low level, the game control microcomputer 560 and the like are in an operation stop state. Therefore, an allowable signal that allows the operation of the game control microcomputer 560 or the like is output during a period when the reset signal is at a high level, and a game control microcomputer is output when the reset signal is at a low level. An operation stop signal for stopping the operation of 560 or the like is output. Note that the reset circuit may be mounted on each electric component control board (a board on which a microcomputer for controlling the electric parts is mounted).

  Further, a power-off signal indicating that the power supply voltage from the power supply board has dropped below a predetermined value is input to the input port of the game control microcomputer 560. That is, the power supply board monitors the voltage value of a predetermined voltage (for example, DC30V or DC5V) used in the gaming machine, and when the voltage value decreases to a predetermined value (the power supply voltage is reduced). A power supply monitoring circuit that outputs a power-off signal indicating that). Instead of mounting the power monitoring circuit on the power supply board, it may be mounted on a board that is backed up by a backup power supply (for example, the main board 31). A clear signal (not shown) indicating that the clear switch for instructing to clear the contents of the RAM is operated is input to the input port of the game control microcomputer 560.

  Also, detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the start opening switch 14a, the winning confirmation 1 switch 14b, the count switch 23, the winning confirmation 2 switch 23b, each winning opening switch 29a, 30a, the winning confirmation 3 switch 29b and the winning confirmation 4 switch 30b. Is also mounted on the main board 31 to drive the solenoid 16 for opening and closing the variable winning ball apparatus 15 and the solenoid 21 for opening and closing the special variable winning ball apparatus in accordance with a command from the basic circuit 53. An output circuit 59 is also mounted on the main board 31 and provides an information output signal such as a system reset circuit (not shown) for resetting the game control microcomputer 560 when the power is turned on, and a jackpot information indicating the occurrence of a jackpot gaming state. The hall computer via the terminal board 160 Information output circuit 64 to be output to the external device is also mounted on the main substrate 31.

  In this embodiment, the effect control means (configured by the effect control microcomputer) mounted on the effect control board 80 receives the effect control command from the game control microcomputer 560 via the relay board 77. The display control of the effect display device 9 that receives and displays the effect symbol variably is performed.

  FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of the relay board 77, the effect control board 80, the lamp driver board 35, and the audio output board 70. In the example shown in FIG. 8, the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70 are not equipped with a microcomputer, but may be equipped with a microcomputer. Further, without providing the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70, only the effect control board 80 may be provided for effect control.

  The effect control board 80 includes an effect control CPU 101 and an effect control microcomputer 100 including a RAM for storing information related to effects such as effect symbol process flags. The RAM may be externally attached. In this embodiment, the RAM in the production control microcomputer 100 is not backed up. In the effect control board 80, the effect control CPU 101 operates in accordance with a program stored in a built-in or external ROM (not shown), and receives a capture signal from the main board 31 input via the relay board 77 ( In response to the (effect control INT signal), an effect control command is received via the input driver 102 and the input port 103. Further, the effect control CPU 101 causes the VDP (video display processor) 109 to perform display control of the effect display device 9 based on the effect control command.

  In this embodiment, a VDP 109 that performs display control of the effect display device 9 in cooperation with the effect control microcomputer 100 is mounted on the effect control board 80. The VDP 109 has an address space independent of the production control microcomputer 100, and maps a VRAM therein. VRAM is a buffer memory for developing image data. Then, the VDP 109 outputs the image data in the VRAM to the effect display device 9 via the frame memory.

  The effect control CPU 101 outputs to the VDP 109 a command for reading out necessary data from a CGROM (not shown) in accordance with the received effect control command. The CGROM stores character image data and moving image data displayed on the effect display device 9, specifically, a person, characters, figures, symbols (including effect symbols), and background image data in advance. ROM. The VDP 109 reads image data from the CGROM in response to the instruction from the effect control CPU 101. The VDP 109 executes display control based on the read image data.

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 outputs a signal for driving the lamp to the lamp driver board 35 via the output port 105. Further, the production control CPU 101 outputs sound number data to the audio output board 70 via the output port 104.

  In the lamp driver board 35, a signal for driving the lamp is input to the lamp driver 352 via the input driver 351. The lamp driver 352 supplies current to light emitters provided on the frame side such as the top frame lamp 28a, the left frame lamp 28b, and the right frame lamp 28c based on a signal for driving the lamp. In addition, a current is supplied to the decorative lamp 25 provided on the game board side.

  In the voice output board 70, the sound number data is input to the voice synthesis IC 703 via the input driver 702. The voice synthesizing IC 703 generates voice or sound effect according to the sound number data and outputs it to the amplifier circuit 705. The amplification circuit 705 outputs an audio signal obtained by amplifying the output level of the speech synthesis IC 703 to a level corresponding to the volume set by the volume 706 to the speaker 27. The voice data ROM 704 stores control data corresponding to the sound number data. The control data corresponding to the sound number data is a collection of data showing the output form of the sound effect or sound in a time series in a predetermined period (for example, the changing period of the effect design).

  FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of output port assignment in the game control means. As shown in FIG. 9, a payout control signal (in this example, a connection signal) transmitted to the payout control board 37 is output from the output port 0. Further, a solenoid (large winning port door solenoid) 21 for opening and closing the variable winning ball device 20 for opening and closing the big winning port, and a solenoid (normal electric accessory solenoid) 16 for opening and closing the variable winning ball device 15 are driven. The signal is also output from output port 0. In addition, a high-accuracy medium signal among signals output from the output port 0 to an external device (for example, a hall computer) via the terminal board 160 is also output.

  Note that the logic (for example, 0 is on) opposite to the “logic” (for example, 1 is on) shown in FIG. 9 may be used. In particular, for the connection signal, the main board 31 and the payout control board. The “logic” is determined so that the payout control microcomputer 370 always detects the off state when the signal line to the terminal 37 is disconnected or when the cable is disconnected (including no cable connection). . Specifically, generally, when a disconnection or disconnection of the cable occurs, a high level is detected on the signal receiving side, so the high level on the signal line between the main board 31 and the payout control board 37 is the game control means. The “logic” is determined to be in the off state at the output port at. Therefore, if necessary, an output buffer circuit for logically inverting the signal is provided outside the output port on the main board 31.

  Then, various information output signals, that is, information relating to control (for example, 1 symbol determination number signal, start port signal, jackpot, etc.) are output from the output port 1 to the external device (for example, hall computer) via the terminal board 160. 1 signal, 2 jackpots, 3 jackpots, time-short signal, winning signal, security signal) are output. However, as already described, the high-accuracy intermediate signal among the signals output externally is output from the output port 0. In this embodiment, prize ball information (a signal outputted every time ten prize ball payouts are detected) is also outputted to an external device via the terminal board 160. In this case, on the payout control board 37 side, a prize ball payout is detected, and prize ball information is input to the main board 31. The prize ball information input to the main board 31 is output to the outside via the terminal board 160 via the main board 31 as it is without passing through the game control microcomputer 560. The prize ball information input to the main board 31 may be output to the outside via the terminal board 160 after temporarily passing through the game control microcomputer 560.

  Note that signals output to the outside via the terminal board 160 are not limited to those shown in this embodiment. For example, a door opening signal indicating that the gaming frame is in an open state, a prize ball signal 1 (a signal output every time one prize ball payout is detected), a gaming machine error status signal (a gaming machine has an error) The state (in this example, a signal indicating that the ball is out of error state or full tank error state) may also be output to the external device via the terminal board 160. In this case, on the payout control board 37 side, it is also detected that the gaming frame is in an open state, a prize ball payout, and an error state of the gaming machine, and the door opening signal, the prize ball signal 1, and the gaming machine error status signal are the main board. 31. The door opening signal, the prize ball signal 1, and the gaming machine error state signal input to the main board 31 are not transmitted through the game control microcomputer 560 but directly passed through the main board 31 to the terminal board 160. Output externally. Also in this case, the door opening signal, the prize ball signal 1 and the gaming machine error state signal input to the main board 31 pass through the gaming control microcomputer 560 once and then externally output via the terminal board 160. You may be made to do.

  In addition, for example, when a gaming machine is configured to include two special symbol display devices, a symbol determination number 2 signal is also added in addition to a symbol determination number 1 signal as a symbol determination number signal for notifying the number of changes in the special symbol. Alternatively, an external output may be made via the terminal board 160. In this case, for example, the symbol determination frequency 2 signal is externally output as a signal for notifying only the number of changes in one of the special symbols, and the symbol is determined as a signal for notifying the number of variations in both special symbols. What is necessary is just to comprise so that the frequency 1 signal may be output outside. With such a configuration, on the side of an external device such as a hall computer, in addition to the number of fluctuations of only one of the special symbols, the total number of fluctuations of both special symbols can be grasped.

  FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of bit assignment of input ports in the game control means. As shown in FIG. 10, the bits 0 and 2 to 7 of the input port 0 include the detection signal of the count switch 23, the detection signals of the winning opening switches 29a and 30a, the winning confirmation 1 switch 14b, and the winning confirmation 2 switch 23b, respectively. The detection signals of the winning confirmation 3 switch 29b and the winning confirmation 4 switch 30b are input. In addition, a radio wave sensor signal, a magnet sensor signal, a door opening signal, and prize ball information are input to the bits 4 to 7 of the input port 1, respectively. In addition, bits 0 and 2 to 4 of the input port 2 are input with a detection signal of the start port switch 14a, a detection signal of the gate switch 32a, a detection signal of the clear switch from the power supply board 910, and a power-off signal, respectively. .

  FIG. 11 is a circuit diagram showing the internal configuration of the terminal board 160. In the terminal board 160 shown in FIG. 11, the connectors CN-1 and CN-2 on the upper left side are connectors for connecting cables that transmit signals from the main board 31, and the connector CN-3 on the lower left side is This is a connector for connecting a cable for transmitting a signal from the payout control board 37 via the main board 31. The right connectors CN1 to CN10 are connectors for connecting cables that transmit signals to an external device such as a hall computer. The terminal board 160 is mounted with semiconductor relays (PhotoMOS relays) PC1 to PC10 as driver circuits.

  When the cable from the main board 31 is connected to the connectors CN-1 and CN-2, various signals are input from the main board 31 (game control microcomputer 560) to the terminal board 160. Specifically, the symbol determination number 1 signal is input to the terminal “2” of the connector CN-1, the start port signal is input to the terminal “3” of the connector CN-1, and the terminal “4” of the connector CN-1 is input. 1 signal is input to the terminal “5” of the connector CN-1, 2 signals are input to the terminal “6” of the connector CN-1, and 3 signals of the jackpot are input to the terminal “7” of the connector CN-1. To the terminal “8” of the connector CN-1, a winning signal is input to the terminal “9” of the connector CN-1, and a terminal “9” of the connector CN-2 is input. A high-accuracy signal is input.

  Further, when the cable from the payout control board 37 is connected to the connector CN-3 via the main board 31, a signal from the payout control board 37 (the payout control microcomputer 370) is input to the terminal board 160. The Specifically, the prize ball information is input to the terminal “9” of the connector CN-3.

  As shown in FIG. 11, in the terminal board 160, the signal line of the reference potential is connected to the terminal “1” of the connector CN-1, the connector CN-2, and the connector CN-3, and the signal lines are branched. Are connected to the input terminal “1” of the semiconductor relays PC1 to PC10. The signal lines connected to the terminals “2” to “9” of the connector CN-1, the connector “9” of the connector CN-2, and the connector “9” of the connector CN-3 are each 1KΩ resistance R1. Are connected to the input terminal “2” of the semiconductor relays PC1 to PC10 via R10. The signal lines connected to the output terminals “4” of the semiconductor relays PC1 to PC10 are connected to the terminals “1” of the connectors CN1 to CN10, respectively. The signal lines connected to the output terminals “3” of the semiconductor relays PC1 to PC10 are connected to the terminals “2” of the connectors CN1 to CN10, respectively.

  In the semiconductor relays PC1 to PC10, when a signal current flows through the input terminal, the light emitting element (LED) on the input side emits light. The emitted light is applied to the photoelectric element (solar cell) provided opposite to the LED through the transparent silicon. The photoelectric element that has received the light exchanges a voltage according to the amount of light, and this voltage charges the MOSFET gate of the output section through the control circuit. When the MOSFET gate voltage supplied from the photoelectric element reaches the set voltage value, the MOSFET becomes conductive and turns on the load. When the signal current at the input terminal is cut off, the light emitting element (LED) stops emitting light. When the light emission of the LED stops, the voltage of the photoelectric element decreases, and when the voltage supplied from the photoelectric element decreases, the gate load of the MOSFET is rapidly discharged by the control circuit. With this control circuit, the MOSFET is turned off and the load is turned off.

  By the operation of the semiconductor relays PC1 to PC10 as described above, signals input from the input side connector CN-1, connector CN-2, and connector CN-3 are transmitted to the output side connectors CN1 to CN10, and a hall computer or the like. Output to an external device. Specifically, the design CN count 1 signal is output from the connector CN1, the start signal is output from the connector CN2, the jackpot signal is output from the connector CN3, the jackpot signal is output from the connector CN4, and the connector CN5 is output. Three jackpot signals are output, a time signal is output from the connector CN6, a winning signal is output from the connector CN7, a security signal is output from the connector CN8, a high-probability medium signal is output from the connector CN9, and a prize is output from the connector CN10. Sphere information is output. The assignment of connectors to each external output signal on terminal board 160 is not limited to that shown in this embodiment. For example, the security signal may be output from the end connector (for example, connector CN10) provided on the terminal board 160.

  The winning signal output from the connector CN7 indicates that a predetermined payout condition for paying out a predetermined number (in this embodiment, 10 balls) of winning balls is satisfied (start winning port 14, large winning prize). The winning prizes have been made to the mouths and the normal winning holes 29 and 30. The prize balls are not paid out. ) And a detection signal from the photo sensor (the winning confirmation switches 29b, 30b, 23b, 14b) are input, and it is determined that a predetermined payout condition has been established). It is a signal to show. By confirming the winning signal, the expected number of prize balls to be paid out can be recognized by an external device such as a hall computer.

  Also, the prize ball information output from the connector CN10 is that a specific number (10 balls in this embodiment) of prize balls has been paid out (the ball payout device 97 is driven and the prize balls are actually paid out). This is a signal indicating that By confirming the prize ball information, the number of prize balls actually paid out can be recognized by an external device such as a hall computer. Also, by confirming the planned number of prize balls indicated by the winning signal and the number of prize balls already paid out indicated by the prize ball information, whether or not the prize balls have been paid out normally and the number of excess or insufficient prize balls are determined. It can be recognized by an external device such as a hall computer.

  The security signal output from the connector CN8 is a signal indicating the security state of the gaming machine. Specifically, as will be described later, when it is determined that an abnormality in discharging to the start winning opening 14 has occurred based on the detection result of the start opening switch 14a and the detection result of the winning confirmation switch 14b, the security signal Is output to an external device such as a hall computer. In addition, when it is determined that an abnormal discharge to the special winning opening has occurred based on the detection result of the count switch 23 and the detection result of the winning confirmation switch 23b, a security signal is output to an external device such as a hall computer. The By having such a configuration, it is possible to confirm that an illegal act that causes the start winning opening 14 or the big winning opening to be recognized using radio waves or the like so as to be larger than the actual winning number is performed. It can be recognized by an external device such as a computer.

  In this embodiment, when the security signal is externally output based on the occurrence of the discharge abnormality, the security signal based on the occurrence of the discharge abnormality is not replayed until the gaming machine is turned on again and the initialization process is executed. External output continues. As will be described later, when the initialization process is performed, the security signal is externally output for a predetermined period (for example, 30 seconds), so more accurately, the power to the gaming machine is turned on again and the initialization is performed. When the process is executed, the external output of the security signal based on the occurrence of the discharge abnormality is terminated internally, and the external output of the security signal based on the initialization process is started, and a predetermined period (for example, 30 seconds) is reached. The security signal continues to be output until the time has elapsed. Therefore, when an external output of a security signal is started based on the occurrence of a discharge abnormality, it is apparent that after a predetermined period (for example, 30 seconds) after the power to the gaming machine is turned on again and the initialization process is executed. ), The security signal external output ends.

  Further, in this embodiment, when a winning of the game ball to the start winning port 14 is detected when the variable winning ball device 15 is not in the open state, or when the winning ball is not in the big hit game, It is determined that an abnormal winning has occurred, and when this abnormal winning is detected, a security signal is output to an external device such as a hall computer for a predetermined period (for example, 30 seconds). With such a configuration, it is possible to notify that an abnormal winning has occurred due to an illegal act with respect to the variable winning ball device 15 or the grand prize opening. It can be surely prevented.

  In this embodiment, even when the gaming machine is turned on and the initialization process is executed, the security signal is output to an external device such as a hall computer for a predetermined period (for example, 30 seconds). . By configuring as such, it is recognized that the initialization process has been executed at an unnatural timing (for example, even after all the gaming machine power reset operations have been completed when the amusement store is opened). By making it possible, the external device such as a hall computer can recognize the possibility that an unauthorized act of illegally resetting the power of the gaming machine and aiming for a big hit at the power reset timing is performed. it can.

  In this embodiment, as described above, when a discharge abnormality is detected, when an abnormal winning is detected, an initialization process (for example, when a power to the gaming machine is turned on, an operation by a clear switch is performed). A common security signal is externally output from the common connector CN8 of the terminal board 160 when a process such as clearing the stored contents of the RAM 55 based on what has been performed is executed. This is because the initialization process is usually performed only when the game machine power is reset when the amusement store is opened, so the terminal is used for a signal that is output only once a day. Providing a dedicated connector or semiconductor relay on the substrate 160 is not efficient and wasteful. In addition, since abnormal discharge and abnormal winnings do not occur unless some sort of fraud is performed, it is not efficient and wasteful to separately provide a dedicated connector or semiconductor relay for abnormal discharging or abnormal winnings. Therefore, in this embodiment, the configuration is such that a security signal is output from the common connector CN8 when a discharge abnormality is detected, when an abnormal winning is detected, and when an initialization process is executed. By doing so, waste of signal lines and circuit elements for external output is reduced. That is, it is possible to prevent an increase in the number of parts of a mechanism for outputting information to an external device such as a hall computer and complication of wiring work.

  The signal output from the common connector as a security signal is not limited to that shown in this embodiment. For example, not only abnormal discharge to the start winning port 14 or the big winning port, but also abnormal discharge to the normal winning ports 29 and 30 can be detected, and externally output as a security signal from the common connector CN8 of the terminal board 160. You may comprise. In this case, for example, the normal winning holes 29 and 30 are also two types of switches (proximity switch and photo) which are different detection methods as switches for detecting the winning of the game ball, similarly to the start winning hole 14 and the big winning hole. The presence / absence of the discharge abnormality may be determined using a sensor) according to the same determination method as that for the start winning opening 14 and the big winning opening. Further, for example, only the discharge abnormality of either the start winning opening 14 or the big winning opening may be detected, and the security signal may be output to the outside.

  Further, for example, in this embodiment, the abnormal winnings of both the start winning port 14 and the big winning port are detected and the security signal can be output to the outside, but the start winning port 14 and the big winning port Only one of the abnormal winnings may be detected and a security signal may be output to the outside.

  Further, for example, when abnormal magnetism is detected by a magnet sensor provided in a gaming machine or when abnormal radio waves are detected by a radio wave sensor provided in a gaming machine, a security signal is output from the common connector CN8 of the terminal board 160. You may comprise so that external output is possible. Further, for example, when an abnormality of various switches provided in the gaming machine is detected (for example, when occurrence of a short circuit is detected by determining that the input value exceeds the threshold value), a common terminal board 160 is used. The connector CN8 may be configured so that it can be externally output as a security signal.

  As described above, if the discharge to the normal winning openings 29 and 30, abnormal magnetic errors, and abnormal radio wave errors are also configured to be externally output as security signals from the common connector CN 8 of the terminal board 160, one line is provided. If only the signal line is connected, error detection can be performed by an external device such as a hall computer, and the work load related to error detection can be reduced.

  Further, for example, even when a communication error between the game control microcomputer 560 and the payout control microcomputer 370 is detected, it can be externally output as a security signal from the common connector CN8 of the terminal board 160. May be. In this case, for example, the game control microcomputer 560 determines that a communication error has occurred based on the failure to receive the payout control command from the payout control microcomputer 370, and from the common connector CN8 on the terminal board 160. It may be output externally as a security signal. Further, for example, the game control microcomputer 560 determines that a communication error has occurred based on the value of any error bit in the status register (not shown) of the serial communication circuit 511 being set. The security signal may be externally output from the common connector CN8 of the terminal board 160.

  In addition to the signal line and connector CN8 for the security signal, a signal line and connector dedicated to communication errors between the game control microcomputer 560 and the payout control microcomputer 370 may be provided on the terminal board 160. When a communication error between the game control microcomputer 560 and the payout control microcomputer 370 is detected, an external device such as a hall computer is transmitted via the terminal board 160 as a signal different from the security signal. May be output.

  In addition to the signal line for security signal output, detection of initialization processing, detection of abnormal discharge of the start winning port 14, detection of abnormal discharge of the big winning port, detection of abnormal winning to the start winning port 14 In addition, a separate signal line is provided for each of the detection of abnormal winning in the special winning opening, the detection of abnormal magnetic error, the detection of abnormal radio wave error, and the detection of communication error. An external output signal corresponding to the error may also be output to an external device such as a hall computer. With such a configuration, it is possible to recognize that an error has occurred by checking the security signal, and further, by checking the signal output for each type of error, the type of error can be determined on the amusement store side. Can be confirmed. Therefore, when an amusement store requires a confirmation of the type of error, an external output signal for each error type is provided separately from the security signal, so that an external output that better meets the needs of the amusement store can be provided. Can be done. On the other hand, in the case of a game shop that only requests confirmation that some kind of error has occurred, only the security signal out of the externally output signals is connected to an external device such as a hall computer. Check it.

  As described above, by providing the semiconductor relays PC1 to PC10 on the terminal board 160, signal input from the outside to the inside of the gaming machine can be prevented, and as a result, illegal acts can be reliably prevented. In the above example, the semiconductor relays PC1 to PC10 are provided on the terminal board 160. However, other relay elements such as a mechanical relay may be used instead of the semiconductor relays PC1 to PC10.

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by the CPU 56 of the game control microcomputer 560 in response to the start of power supply to the game machine and the reset signal to the game control microcomputer 560 becoming high level. It is. When the input level of the reset terminal to which the reset signal is input becomes high level, the CPU 56 of the game control microcomputer 560 confirms whether the contents of the program are valid according to the security check program 54A stored in the ROM 54. After executing the security check process, which is a process for this, the main process after step S1 is started. In the main process, the CPU 56 first performs necessary initial settings.

  In the initial setting process, the CPU 56 first sets the interrupt prohibition (step S1). Next, an interrupt mode for maskable interrupts is set (step S2), and a stack pointer designation address is set for the stack pointer (step S3). In step S2, the address synthesized from the value (1 byte) of the specific register (I register) of the game control microcomputer 560 and the interrupt vector (1 byte: least significant bit 0) output from the built-in device is Set to the mode indicating the interrupt address. When a maskable interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 automatically sets the interrupt disabled state and saves the contents of the program counter in the stack.

  Next, the CPU 56 starts outputting a connection signal to the payout control microcomputer 370 (step S4). When the CPU 56 starts outputting the connection signal in step S4, the CPU 56 sends a connection signal to the payout control microcomputer 370 unless the power supply of the gaming machine is stopped or the output becomes impossible due to some communication error. Output continuously.

  Next, the built-in device register is set (initialized) (step S5). By the processing in step S5, the CTC (counter / timer) and PIO (parallel input / output port) which are built-in devices (built-in peripheral circuits) are set (initialized).

  The game control microcomputer 560 used in this embodiment also incorporates an I / O port (PIO) and a timer / counter circuit (CTC) 504.

  Next, the CPU 56 sets the RAM 55 in an accessible state (step S6), and proceeds to a clear signal check process.

  Note that a software delay process for delaying the start timing of the game device control process (game control process) for controlling the progress of the game by software may be executed. By such software delay processing, the start timing of the game control processing can be delayed as compared with the case where the software delay processing is not executed. When the delay process is executed, a situation occurs in which the microcomputer of the other control board cannot receive the command transmitted from the game control board (main board 31) to the other control board (for example, the payout control board 37). Can be prevented.

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the clear switch is turned on (step S7). Note that the CPU 56 may confirm the state of the clear signal only once via the input port 0, but may confirm the state of the clear signal a plurality of times. For example, if it is confirmed that the state of the clear signal is an off state, a delay time of a predetermined time (for example, 0.1 seconds) is set, and then the state of the clear signal is reconfirmed. If it is confirmed that the clear signal is in the on state at that time, it is determined that the clear signal is in the on state. Further, at this time, if it is confirmed that the state of the clear signal is the off state, after a delay time of a predetermined time, the state of the clear signal may be confirmed again. Here, the number of reconfirmations is not limited to once or twice, but may be three or more times. It is also possible to check twice and check again when the check results do not match.

  If the clear switch is not turned on in step S7, whether or not data protection processing of the backup RAM area (for example, power supply stop processing such as addition of parity data) has been performed when power supply to the gaming machine is stopped Confirm (step S8). In this embodiment, when power supply is stopped, a process for protecting data in the backup RAM area is performed. When it is confirmed that such power supply stop processing has been performed, the CPU 56 determines that the power supply stop processing has been performed, that is, the control state at the time of power supply stop is stored. . When it is confirmed that the power supply stop process is not performed, the CPU 56 executes an initialization process.

  Whether or not the power supply stop process has been performed is determined by the value of the backup monitoring timer stored in the backup RAM area in the power supply stop process corresponding to the execution of the power supply stop process (for example, 2). ) Is confirmed by whether or not. Note that such a confirmation method is an example. For example, a flag indicating that the power supply stop process has been executed is set in the backup flag area in the power supply stop process, and the flag is set in step S8. If it is confirmed that the power supply is stopped, it may be determined that the power supply stop process has been performed.

  If it is determined that the control state at the time of stopping power supply is stored, the CPU 56 performs data check (parity check in this example) in the backup RAM area (step S9). In this embodiment, clear data (00) is set in the checksum data area, and the checksum calculation start address is set in the pointer. Also, the number of checksum calculations corresponding to the number of data to be checksum is set. Then, the exclusive OR of the contents of the checksum data area and the contents of the RAM area pointed to by the pointer is calculated. The calculation result is stored in the checksum data area, the pointer value is incremented by 1, and the checksum calculation count value is decremented by 1. The above processing is repeated until the value of the checksum calculation count becomes zero. When the value of the checksum calculation count becomes 0, the CPU 56 inverts the value of each bit of the contents of the checksum data area and uses the inverted data as the checksum.

  In the power supply stop process, a checksum is calculated by the same process as described above, and the checksum is stored in the backup RAM area. In step S9, the calculated checksum is compared with the stored checksum. When the power supply is stopped after an unexpected power failure or the like, the data in the backup RAM area should be saved, so the check result (comparison result) is normal (matched). That the check result is not normal means that the data in the backup RAM area may be different from the data when the power supply is stopped. In such a case, since the internal state cannot be returned to the state when the power supply is stopped, the initialization process (the process of steps S10 to S14) executed when the power is turned on, not when the power supply is stopped is stopped. Run.

  If the check result is normal, the CPU 56 performs a hot start process for resuming the game using the data stored in the RAM 55 that has been backed up (step S91). Further, the CPU 56 sets the head address of the backup command transmission table stored in the ROM 54 as a pointer (step S92), and proceeds to step S15. In addition, after setting in step S92, a backup command is transmitted after serial communication circuit setting processing in step S15a described later is performed.

  In the initialization process, the CPU 56 first performs a RAM clear process (step S10). Note that the predetermined data may be left as it is without initializing the entire area of the RAM 55. Further, the start address of the initialization setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer (step S11), and the contents of the initialization setting table are sequentially set in the work area (step S12).

  Depending on the control state such as a normal symbol determining random number counter, a normal symbol determining buffer, a special symbol buffer, a special symbol process flag, a winning ball flag, a ball runout flag, a discharge abnormality flag, etc. An initial value is set in a flag for selectively performing processing. In addition, initial values (clear data) are also set in timers (start port information storage timer, winning information storage timer, security signal information timer, etc.) used to output external output signals described later.

  Further, the CPU 56 sets the start address of the initialization command transmission table stored in the ROM 54 as a pointer (step S13), and transmits an initialization command for initializing the sub board according to the contents to the sub board. Processing is executed (step S14). As an initialization command, a command indicating an initial symbol displayed on the effect display device 9, an initialization command to the payout control board 37, or the like can be used. After setting in step S13, an initialization command is transmitted after serial communication circuit setting processing in step S15a described later is performed.

  The CPU 56 sets a predetermined time (in this example, 30 seconds) in the security signal information timer (step S14a). The security signal information timer is a timer for measuring the ON time of the security signal output from the terminal board 160. In this embodiment, an initialization process is performed when the gaming machine is turned on by executing an information output process (see S31), which will be described later, based on the fact that a predetermined time is set in the security signal information timer in step S14a. Is executed, a security signal is externally output for a predetermined time (in this example, 30 seconds).

  Further, the CPU 56 executes a random number circuit setting process for initially setting the random number circuit 509 (step S15). In this case, the CPU 56 performs settings according to the random number circuit setting program stored in the ROM 54 in advance, thereby setting the random number circuit 509 to update the random R value.

  Further, the CPU 56 executes a serial communication circuit setting process for initial setting of the serial communication circuit 511 (step S15a). In this case, the CPU 56 sets the data stored in the predetermined area of the ROM 54 in the serial communication circuit 511 according to the serial communication circuit setting program, so that the serial communication circuit 511 performs serial communication with the payout control microcomputer. I do.

  When the serial communication circuit 511 is initialized, the CPU 56 initializes the priority of interrupt processing executed in response to the interrupt request from the serial communication circuit 511 (step S15b). In this case, the CPU 56 initializes the priority of interrupt processing by executing processing according to the interrupt priority setting program 557.

  For example, the CPU 56 initializes the priority of each interrupt process according to a predetermined interrupt process priority table including the default priority of each interrupt process. In this embodiment, the CPU 56 performs initialization according to the interrupt processing priority table so as to preferentially execute an interrupt process that causes an interrupt to occur in the serial communication circuit 511. In this case, for example, the CPU 56 sets an interrupt priority execution flag at the time of communication error indicating that priority is given to an interrupt process whose cause is an interrupt.

  In this embodiment, when a timer interrupt and an interrupt request from the serial communication circuit 511 occur at the same time, the CPU 56 preferentially performs an interrupt process by the timer interrupt.

  In addition, the default priority of each interrupt process can be changed by the user. For example, the game control microcomputer 560 stores specification information for specifying an interrupt process set by a user (for example, a game machine manufacturer) in a predetermined storage area of the ROM 54 in advance. Then, the CPU 56 sets the priority of interrupt processing according to the designation information stored in a predetermined storage area of the ROM 54.

  In addition to steps S15 to S15b, a part of the setting process of the random number circuit 509 and the serial communication circuit 511 is also executed in the process of step S5. For example, in step S5, processing for setting initial values in the baud rate register, communication setting register, interrupt control register, and status register of the serial communication circuit 511 is executed as the built-in device register.

  Then, the CPU 56 executes a timer interrupt setting process for setting a CTC register built in the game control microcomputer 560 so that a timer interrupt is periodically taken every predetermined time (for example, 4 ms) ( Step S16). That is, a value corresponding to, for example, 4 ms is set in a predetermined register (time constant register) as an initial value. In this embodiment, it is assumed that a timer interrupt is periodically taken every 4 ms.

  When the timer interrupt setting is completed, the CPU 56 first disables the interrupt (step S17), executes the initial value random number update process (step S18a) and the display random number update process (step S18b), The interrupt is permitted again (step S19). That is, the CPU 56 sets the interrupt disabled state when the initial value random number update process and the display random number update process are executed, and interrupts enable state when the initial value random number update process and the display random number update process are finished. To.

  The initial value random number update process is a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number. The initial value random number is a random number for determining the type of jackpot (for example, a jackpot symbol determining random number for determining a special symbol for generating a jackpot or whether to shift the gaming state to a probable state) Initial value of the count value such as a counter (determination random number generation counter) for generating a probability variation determining random number for generating, a normal random number for determining whether or not to generate a hit based on a normal symbol It is a random number for determining the value. A game control process described later (a process in which a game control microcomputer controls itself a game device such as an effect display device 9, a variable winning ball device 15, a ball payout device 97 provided in the gaming machine, or When the count value of the determination random number generation counter makes one round in a process of transmitting a command signal to cause another microcomputer to control, or a gaming apparatus control process), an initial value is set in the counter.

  The display random number is a random number for determining the display of the special symbol display 8. In this embodiment, as a display random number, a random number for determining a variation pattern for determining a variation pattern of a special symbol, or a random number for determining a reach for determining whether or not to reach when a big hit is not generated, is used. Used. The display random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number.

  In addition, when the display random number update process is executed, the interrupt disabled state is executed by the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process also in the timer interrupt process described later (that is, the timer This is because the same processing is also executed in steps S26 and S27 of the interrupt processing), so as to avoid competing with the processing in the timer interrupt processing. That is, if a timer interrupt is generated during the processing of steps S18a and S18b and the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number and the display random number is updated during the timer interrupt processing, The continuity of values may be impaired. However, such an inconvenience does not occur if the interrupt is prohibited during the processing of steps S18a and S18b.

  When the interrupt enabled state is set in step S19, the timer interrupt or the interrupt request from the serial communication circuit 511 is permitted until the processing in step S17 is executed and the interrupt disabled state is set next time. . When a timer interrupt occurs while the interrupt permission state is set, the CPU 56 of the game control microcomputer 560 executes a timer interrupt process to be described later. When an interrupt request is generated from the serial communication circuit 511 while the interrupt permission state is set, the CPU 56 of the game control microcomputer 560 causes each interrupt process (communication error interrupt process, reception time interrupt, Load processing, transmission completion interrupt processing). In this embodiment, priority is given to the interrupt process before the timer interrupt or the interrupt request is set to be permitted by executing step S15b before the loop process from step S17 to step S19. Processing for setting or changing the order is performed.

  Next, the hot start process in step S91 will be described. FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of hot start processing. In the hot start process, the CPU 56 first sets the start address of the backup setting table stored in the ROM 54 as a pointer (step S9101), and sequentially stores the contents of the backup setting table in the work area (area in the RAM 55). Setting is performed (step S9102). The work area is backed up by a backup power source. Initialization data (for example, a prize ball process code, a prize ball process timer, a frame status display buffer, and a previous frame status display buffer) for an area that may be initialized in the work area is set in the backup setting table. Yes. As a result of the processing in steps S9101 and S9102, the saved contents remain as they are in the portion of the work area that should not be initialized. The part that should not be initialized is, for example, data indicating a gaming state before the power supply is stopped (special symbol process flag, discharge abnormality flag, etc.), an area where the output state of the output port is saved (output port buffer), This is a portion where data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls is set.

  In this embodiment, when a discharge abnormality is detected and the discharge abnormality flag is set, the content of the discharge abnormality flag remains in the backup RAM as it is even if the process of step S9102 is executed. On the other hand, the value of the security signal information timer is cleared.

  The CPU 56 also outputs a high-probability output permission flag for permitting external output via the terminal board 160 of a high-probability signal indicating that the gaming state is controlled to a high probability state (probability change state). Is set (step S9103). Instead of unconditionally setting the high-accuracy medium output permission flag, it is first checked whether or not it is in a high-probability state (probability variation state) (specifically, the probability variation flag stored in the backup RAM). It is also possible to set the high-accuracy output permission flag on the condition that it is in a high-probability state (probability variation state). As such, at the start of power supply, the high-accuracy output permission flag may be set unconditionally, or the high-accuracy output flag may be set on the condition that it is in a high probability state (probability variation state). .

  In addition, the CPU 56 clears a prize information storage timer for measuring a prize signal output time, which will be described later (step S9104). In other words, in this embodiment, the value of the winning information storage timer is stored in the power-backed RAM 55 and is maintained for a predetermined time even when the power supply is stopped, but the process of step S9104 is executed. Cleared when power is restored. As described above, in this embodiment, in the common hot start process, the setting process of the high-accuracy output permission flag and the clearing process of the winning information storage timer can be executed, and the process routine is shared. The control burden on the game control microcomputer 560 is reduced.

  For example, in the backup setting table, a value for setting the high-accuracy output permission flag (for example, logical value “1”) or a value for clearing the winning information storage timer (for example, clear data “ 0 ") may also be set and step S9102 may be executed to turn on the high-accuracy output permission flag and clear the winning information storage timer. In this case, for example, based on the backup time setting table, the value of the high-accuracy medium output permission flag in the work area is set to the on state (for example, a logical value “1” is written), or a prize is awarded in the work area. Clear data may be written to the value of the information storage timer. By doing so, it is possible to use a single data table (setting table at the time of backup) to share the setting processing of the high-accuracy output permission flag and the clearing processing of the winning information storage timer, and the game control micro The control burden on the computer 560 can be further reduced.

  Next, the timer interrupt process will be described. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the timer interrupt process. When a timer interrupt occurs during execution of the main process, specifically, in a period during which interruption is permitted during execution of the loop process of steps S17 to S19, the CPU 56 of the game control microcomputer 560 A timer interrupt process that is activated in response to the occurrence of a timer interrupt is executed. In the timer interrupt process, the CPU 56 first executes a power-off process (power-off detection process) for detecting whether or not a power-off signal is output (whether the power-on signal is turned on) (step S20). Then, the CPU 56, via the switch circuit 58, receives the gate switch 32a, the start opening switch 14a, the winning confirmation 1 switch 14b, the count switch 23, the winning confirmation 2 switch 23b, the winning opening switches 29a and 30a, the winning confirmation 3 switch 29b, And the detection signal of the switch of the winning confirmation 4 switch 30b is inputted, and the input of each switch is detected (switch processing: step S21). Specifically, if the state of the input port for inputting the detection signal of each switch is ON, the value of the switch timer provided corresponding to each switch is incremented by one.

  Next, the CPU 56 executes display control processing for performing display control of the special symbol display 8, the normal symbol display 10, the special symbol hold storage display 18, and the normal symbol hold storage display 41 (step S22). For the special symbol display 8 and the normal symbol display 10, control for outputting a drive signal to each display is executed according to the contents of the output buffer set in steps S36 and S37.

  Next, when the CPU 56 detects that the game ball has won the big winning opening at a time other than the regular time, or when it detects that the game ball has won the start winning opening 14 at a time other than the regular time Then, an abnormal winning notification process for notifying the abnormal winning is performed (step S23).

  Next, the CPU 56 executes magnet sensor error notification processing for performing magnet sensor error notification based on the detection signal input from the magnet sensor (step S24).

  Next, the CPU 56 performs a process of updating the count value of each counter for generating a random number for determination such as a random number for determination per ordinary symbol used for game control (determination random number update process: step S25). Further, the CPU 56 performs a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number (initial value random number update process: step S26). Further, the CPU 56 performs a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number (display random number update process: step S27).

  Next, the CPU 56 performs special symbol process processing (step S28). In the special symbol process, the corresponding process is selected and executed according to a special symbol process flag for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 in a predetermined order according to the gaming state. The value of the special symbol process flag is updated during each process according to the gaming state. Further, normal symbol process processing is performed (step S29). In the normal symbol process, the corresponding process is selected and executed according to the normal symbol process flag for controlling the display state of the normal symbol display 10 in a predetermined order. The value of the normal symbol process flag is updated during each process according to the gaming state.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs a process of sending an effect control command related to the effect symbol synchronized with the variation of the special symbol to the effect control microcomputer 100 (effect symbol command control process: step S30). It should be noted that the fact that the variation of the effect symbol is synchronized with the variation of the special symbol means that the variation time (variable display period) is the same.

  Next, the CPU 56 outputs, for example, data such as a symbol determination number 1 signal, a start opening signal, a jackpot signal 1-3, a time reduction signal, a winning signal, a security signal, and a high accuracy signal supplied to the hall management computer. Information output processing is performed (step S31).

  Next, the CPU 56 executes a process of transmitting / receiving (input / output) signals to / from the payout control microcomputer 370 via the serial communication circuit 511. When a winning occurs, the start port switch 14a and the count switch 23 are processed. Then, a winning ball process is performed for setting the number of winning balls based on the detection signals from the winning opening switches 29a, 30a, the winning confirmation switches 14b, 23b, 29b, 30b, etc. (step S32). In this embodiment, both the proximity switch (start port switch 14a, count switch 23, winning port switches 29a, 30a) and the photo sensor (winning confirmation switches 14b, 23b, 29b, 30b) are turned on. In response to detection of the winning prize, data indicating the number of winning balls is set in the winning ball number command by changing the lower 4 bits of the winning ball number command, and the set winning ball number command is set via the serial communication circuit 511. The data is output to the payout control microcomputer 370. The payout control microcomputer 370 mounted on the payout control board 37 drives the ball payout device 97 in response to receiving a prize ball number command in which data indicating the number of prize balls is set.

  In addition, a test terminal process, which is a process for outputting a test signal for enabling the control state of the gaming machine to be confirmed outside the gaming machine, is executed (step S33). In this embodiment, a RAM area (output port buffer) corresponding to the output state of the output port is provided. However, the CPU 56 relates to the connection signal and the contents related to the solenoid in the RAM area of the output port 0. Is output to the output port (step S34: output processing). And CPU56 performs the memory | storage process which checks the increase / decrease in a pending | holding memory | storage number (step S35).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol display control processing for setting special symbol display control data for effect display of the special symbol in the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data according to the value of the special symbol process flag ( Step S36). Further, the CPU 56 performs a normal symbol display control process for setting normal symbol display control data for effect display of the normal symbol in an output buffer for setting the normal symbol display control data according to the value of the normal symbol process flag ( Step S37).

  Next, the CPU 56 performs a status display lamp display process for setting status display control data for displaying each status display lamp in an output buffer for setting the status display control data (step S38). In this case, when the gaming state is the short time state, the state display control data for displaying the state indicator lamp indicating the short time state is set in the output buffer. When the gaming state is also controlled to a high probability state (for example, a probability variation state), state display control data for displaying a state indicator lamp indicating the high probability state is set in the output buffer. You may do it.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs a frame state output process for transmitting a frame state display command in which information indicating the error state of the gaming machine is set to the effect control microcomputer 100 in order to display the error state of the gaming machine. Execute (Step S39).

  Thereafter, the interrupt permission state is set (step S40), and the process ends.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of a special symbol process (step S26) program executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) mounted on the main board 31. As described above, in the special symbol process, the special symbol display 8 or the special symbol display 8 and a process for controlling the special winning opening are executed. In the special symbol process, the CPU 56 turns on the start opening switch 14a for detecting that a game ball has won the start winning opening 14, that is, if the start winning to the start winning opening 14 has occurred. Then, the start port switch passing process is executed (steps S311 and S312). Then, any one of steps S300 to S310 is performed. If the start port switch 14a is not turned on, any one of steps S300 to S310 is performed according to the internal state.

  In this embodiment, the processing for performing the external output of the winning signal and the payout of the winning ball is executed based on the detection of the ON state of both the start port switch 14a and the winning check 1 switch 14b. On the other hand, in step S311, it is determined only whether or not the start port switch 14a arranged on the upstream side is turned on. That is, since there is a considerable time difference from when the upstream start port switch 14a is turned on to when the downstream winning confirmation 1 switch 14b is turned on, the winning confirmation 1 switch 14b is turned on. When the start-port switch passing process in step S312 is executed after waiting until it is confirmed, even when the game ball has won a start at the same timing, for example, a ball clogging or starting in the start-up winning port 14 A random number extraction timing for jackpot determination or the like may fluctuate due to an external factor such as a difference in detection time between the mouth switch 14a and the winning confirmation 1 switch 14b, which may cause a situation in which the fairness of the game is obstructed. Therefore, in this embodiment, on the basis of detecting only the ON state of the start port switch 14a, the start port switch passing process in step S312 is immediately executed, and a random number extraction process such as for jackpot determination is performed, This prevents situations where the fairness of games is disturbed.

  The processes in steps S300 to S310 are as follows.

  Special symbol normal processing (step S300): Executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is zero. When the game control microcomputer 560 is in a state where variable display of the special symbol can be started, the game control microcomputer 560 confirms the number of numerical data stored in the reserved storage number buffer (the number of reserved memories). The number of numerical data stored in the reserved memory number buffer can be confirmed by the count value of the reserved memory number counter. If the count value of the pending storage number counter is not 0, the game control microcomputer 560 executes a jackpot determination process to determine whether or not to display the special symbol variable display result as a jackpot. In the case of a big hit, a big hit flag is set. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (1 in this example) according to step S301. The jackpot flag is reset when the jackpot game ends.

  Fluctuation pattern setting process (step S301): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 1. Also, the variation pattern is determined, and the variation time in the variation pattern (variable display time: the time from the start of variable display until the display result is derived and displayed (stop display)) is defined as the variation display variation time of the special symbol. Decide to do. Also, a variable time timer for measuring the special symbol variable time is started. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (2 in this example) corresponding to step S302.

  Display result designation command transmission process (step S302): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 2. Control for transmitting a display result designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (3 in this example) corresponding to step S303.

  Special symbol changing process (step S303): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 3. When the variation time of the variation pattern selected in the variation pattern setting process elapses (the variation time timer set in step S301 times out, that is, the variation time timer value becomes 0), the design control microcomputer 100 determines the symbol. Control to transmit the specified command is performed, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (4 in this example) corresponding to step S304. The effect control microcomputer 100 controls the effect display device 9 to stop the fourth symbol when receiving the symbol confirmation designation command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560.

  Special symbol stop process (step S304): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 4. When the big hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (5 in this example) corresponding to step S305. If the small hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (8 in this example) corresponding to step S308. If neither the big hit flag nor the small hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S300 (in this example, 0). In this embodiment, based on the value of the special symbol process flag being 4, special symbol display control data for stopping and displaying the special symbol stop symbol in the special symbol display control process of step S36 is provided. The special symbol display control data is set in the output buffer, and the special symbol stop symbol is actually stopped and displayed according to the setting contents of the output buffer in the display control processing in step S22.

  Preliminary winning opening opening process (step S305): This is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 5. In the pre-opening process for the big prize opening, control for opening the big prize opening is performed. Specifically, a counter (for example, a counter that counts the number of game balls that have entered the big prize opening) is initialized and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the big prize opening. Also, the execution time of the special prize opening opening process is set by the timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S306 (6 in this example). The pre-opening process for the big winning opening is executed for each round, but when the first round is started, the pre-opening process for the big winning opening is also a process for starting the big hit game.

  Large winning opening opening process (step S306): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 6. A control for transmitting an effect control command for round display during the big hit gaming state to the effect control microcomputer 100, a process for confirming the completion of the closing condition of the big prize opening, and the like are performed. Note that the “close condition of the big prize opening” is that the number of winning game balls to the big prize opening detected by the upstream count switch 23 in the big prize opening reaches a predetermined number (10 in this example). It is established based on what has been done. If the closing condition for the special prize opening is satisfied and there are still remaining rounds, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (5 in this example) corresponding to step S305. When all the rounds are completed, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S307 (7 in this example).

  Big hit end process (step S307): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 7. Control is performed to cause the microcomputer 100 for effect control to perform display control for notifying the player that the big hit gaming state has ended. In addition, a process for setting a flag indicating a gaming state (for example, a probability change flag or a time reduction flag) is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) corresponding to step S300.

  Small hit release pre-processing (step S308): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 8. In the pre-opening process for small hits, control is performed to open the big prize opening. Specifically, a counter (for example, a counter that counts the number of game balls that have entered the big prize opening) is initialized and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the big prize opening. Also, the execution time of the special winning opening opening process is set by the timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S309 (9 in this example). Note that the pre-opening process for small hits is executed every time the big winning opening during the small hit game is opened. It is also a process to start.

  Small hit release processing (step S309): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 9. Processing to confirm the establishment of the closing condition of the big prize opening is performed. Note that the “close condition of the big prize opening” is that the number of winning game balls to the big prize opening detected by the upstream count switch 23 in the big prize opening reaches a predetermined number (10 in this example). It is established based on what has been done. When the closing condition of the big prize opening is satisfied and the number of opening of the big prize opening still remains, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is set to a value (8 in this example) corresponding to step S308. Update. When all rounds are completed, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S310 (in this example, 10 (decimal number)).

  Small hit end process (step S310): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 10. Control is performed to cause the microcomputer 100 for effect control to perform display control for notifying the player that the small hit gaming state has ended. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) corresponding to step S300.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the start-port switch passing process in step S312. In the start port switch passing process, the CPU 56 first determines whether or not the number of reserved memories has reached the upper limit value (specifically, whether or not the value of the reserved memory number counter for counting the number of reserved memories is 4). ) Is confirmed (step S211). If the number of reserved memories has not reached the upper limit value, the CPU 56 specifies a random value register from which numerical data serving as a jackpot determination random number (random R) is read.

  In this embodiment, the start port switch passing process shown in FIG. 16 is performed based on the fact that only the upstream start port switch 14a in the start winning port 14 is detected in step S311 of the special symbol process. 16 is executed, based on the fact that the ON state of both the upstream side start port switch 14a and the downstream side winning confirmation switch 14b is detected in step S311, the start port switch passage shown in FIG. Processing may be executed. Even in such a configuration, as described above, the start winning latch signal is output based on the fact that only the start winning signal from the upstream start opening switch 14a in the start winning opening 14 is input, Since numerical data is latched in each random value register of the random number circuit 509, the timing of latching numerical data in each random value register does not shift.

  Next, the CPU 56 increases the value of the reserved storage number counter by 1 (step S212). Next, the CPU 56 extracts numerical data from the random number value register of the specified random number circuit 509 and extracts values from a counter for generating software random numbers, and stores them in the reserved storage buffer formed in the RAM 55. Processing to store in the area is executed (step S213). In the process of step S213, a random R (big hit determination random number) that is a hardware random number, a big hit type determination random number (random 1) that is a software random number, a variation pattern type determination random number (random 2), and a variation pattern A random number for determination (random 3) is extracted and stored in the storage area. In addition, the random number for variation pattern type determination (random 2) and the random number for variation pattern determination (random 3) are not extracted and stored in the storage area in advance in the start-port switch passing process (at the time of starting winning a prize). You may make it extract at the time of the change start of a symbol. For example, the game control microcomputer 560 directly extracts a value from a variation pattern type determination random number counter for generating a variation pattern type determination random number (random 2) in the variation pattern setting process (see step S301). Alternatively, a value may be directly extracted from a variation pattern determination random number counter for generating a variation pattern determination random number (random 3).

  Then, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a reserved memory number addition designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S214).

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the special symbol normal process (step S300) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol normal process, the CPU 56 checks the value of the number of reserved storage (step S51). Specifically, the count value of the pending storage number counter is confirmed. If the number of reserved memories is 0, if the customer waiting demonstration designation command has not been transmitted yet, control is performed to send the customer waiting demonstration designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 (step S52), and the process is terminated. To do. For example, when the CPU 56 transmits a customer waiting demonstration designation command in step S52, the CPU 56 sets a customer waiting demonstration designation command transmitted flag indicating that the customer waiting demonstration designation command has been transmitted. When the special symbol normal processing after the next timer interruption is executed after sending the customer waiting demo designation command, the customer waiting demonstration request command is repeatedly set based on the fact that the customer waiting demo designation command transmission completed flag is set. Control should be performed so that the demo designation command is not transmitted. In this case, the customer waiting demonstration designation command transmission completion flag may be reset when the next special symbol variation display is started.

  If the number of reserved memories is not 0, the CPU 56 reads out each random value stored in the storage area corresponding to the number of reserved memories = 1 in the RAM 55 and stores it in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55 (step S55). Then, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the count value of the reserved storage number counter, and shifts the contents of each storage area (step S56). That is, the CPU 56 corresponds to each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved storage number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the reserved storage buffer of the RAM 55 to the reserved storage number = n−1. Store in the save area. Therefore, the order in which the random number values stored in the respective storage areas corresponding to the number of reserved memories is extracted always matches the order of the number of reserved memories = 1, 2, 3 and 4. Yes.

  Moreover, CPU56 performs control which transmits a background designation | designated command to the microcomputer 100 for effect control according to the present game state (step S60). In this case, when the probability variation flag indicating the probability variation state is set, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a probability variation state background designation command. Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a time reduction state background designation command when the time variation flag indicating that the time reduction state is not set and the time reduction state is set. Further, when neither the probability change flag nor the time reduction flag is set, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a normal state background designation command.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads a random R (a jackpot determination random number) from the random number buffer area and executes a jackpot determination module. In this case, the CPU 56 reads the jackpot determination random number extracted in step S213 of the start-port switch passing process and stored in advance in the holding storage buffer, and performs the jackpot determination. The big hit determination module is a program that compares a big hit determination value or a small hit determination value determined in advance with a big hit determination random number, and executes a process of determining a big hit or a small hit if they match. That is, it is a program that executes a big hit determination or a small hit determination process.

  The jackpot determination process is configured such that when the gaming state is a probable change state (high probability state), the probability of a big hit is higher than when the gaming state is a non-probability change state (normal game state and short-time state). ing. Specifically, there are provided a probabilistic jackpot determination table in which a large number of jackpot determination values are set in advance and a normal jackpot determination table in which the number of jackpot determination values is set smaller than that in the probabilistic jackpot determination table. ing. Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the gaming state is a probability variation state. If the gaming state is a probability variation state, the jackpot determination process is performed using the probability variation jackpot determination table, and the gaming state is normal. When in the gaming state or the short-time state, the big hit determination process is performed using the normal big hit determination table. When it is determined to be a big hit (step S61), the process proceeds to step S71. Note that deciding whether to win or not is to decide whether or not to shift to the big hit gaming state, but to decide whether or not to stop the special symbol display as a big hit symbol. There is also.

  Note that whether or not the current gaming state is the probability variation state is determined by whether or not the probability variation flag is set. The probability variation flag is set when the gaming state is shifted to the probability variation state, and is reset when the probability variation state is terminated. Specifically, it is determined to be a probable big hit or suddenly probable big hit, and is set in the process of ending the big hit game. Reset at timing.

  If the value of the big-hit determination random number (random R) does not match any of the big-hit determination values (N in step S61), the CPU 56 performs a small-hit determination process using the small-hit determination table. That is, when the value of the big hit determination random number (random R) matches any of the small hit determination values, the CPU 56 determines that the special symbol is a small hit. If it is determined to be a small hit (step S62), the CPU 56 sets a small hit flag indicating a small hit (step S63), and proceeds to step S75.

  If the value of the random R does not match either the big hit determination value or the small hit determination value (N in step S62), that is, if it is out of place, the process proceeds to step S75 as it is.

  In step S71, the CPU 56 sets a big hit flag indicating that it is a big hit. Next, the CPU 56 uses the jackpot type determination table for determining the jackpot type to determine the type corresponding to the value corresponding to the value of the jackpot type determination random number (random 1) stored in the random number buffer area (“normal” "Big hit", "Probability change big hit", "Sudden probability change big hit") is determined as the type of big hit (step S73).

  Further, the CPU 56 sets data indicating the determined jackpot type in the jackpot type buffer in the RAM 55 (step S74). For example, when the big hit type is “normal big hit”, “01” is set as data indicating the big hit type, and when the big hit type is “probable big hit”, “02” is set as the data indicating the big hit type, When the big hit type is “suddenly probable big hit”, “03” is set as data indicating the big hit type.

  Next, the CPU 56 determines a special symbol stop symbol (step S75). Specifically, when neither the big hit flag nor the small hit flag is set, “−” which is a loss symbol is determined as a special symbol stop symbol. When the big hit flag is set, one of “1”, “3”, and “7”, which is a big hit symbol, is determined as a special symbol stop symbol according to the determination result of the big hit type. That is, when the big hit type is determined to be “suddenly promising big hit”, “1” is decided as a special symbol stop symbol, and when “normal big hit” is decided, “3” is decided as a special symbol stop symbol. If “probable big hit” is determined, “7” is determined as a special symbol stop symbol. When the small hit flag is set, “5” as the small hit symbol is determined as a special symbol stop symbol.

  Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern setting process (step S301) (step S76).

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the special symbol stop process (step S304) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol stop process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S1301). If the big hit flag is set, the CPU 56 resets the probability change flag indicating the probability change state and the time reduction flag indicating the time reduction state if set (step S1302). If it is set, the hourly number counter is also reset. If it is set, the CPU 56 resets the high-accuracy medium output permission flag (step S1303).

  Next, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a jackpot start designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S1304). Specifically, when the type of jackpot is a normal jackpot, a jackpot start 1 designation command for designating the start of the jackpot game and the normal jackpot is transmitted. When the type of jackpot is a probable change jackpot, a jackpot start 2 designation command for designating the start of jackpot game and the probability change jackpot is transmitted. When the type of the big hit is sudden probability change big hit, a small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit start designation command is transmitted to specify that the big hit game starts and small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit. Whether the big hit type is a normal big hit, a probable big hit or a sudden probable big hit is determined based on the data indicating the big hit type stored in the RAM 55 (data stored in the big hit type buffer). .

  In addition, the CPU 56 sets a value corresponding to the jackpot display time (time for notifying that the jackpot has occurred, for example, in the effect display device 9) in the timer before opening the big prize opening (step S1305). The timer before opening the big winning opening is a timer for measuring the time until the big winning opening is released during the big hit game or the small hit game. Specifically, at the start of the big hit game, in step S1305, the time required from the start of the variable display to the start of the first round (the variable display is stopped on the production control microcomputer 100 side and the jackpot symbol is displayed). The time before the first round is started until the start of the first round is set as the pre-opening timer. For the first and subsequent rounds, the interval time between the rounds (apparatus at the time of performing the interval effect between the rounds on the effect control microcomputer 100 side) is set as the timer before opening the big prize opening.

  Further, the CPU 56 sets the number of times of opening in a number-of-opening counter (a counter for counting the number of times of opening of the big winning opening during the big hit game or the small hit game) (step S1306). In this embodiment, it is assumed that the fixed number of times is set to 15 in the opening number counter without distinguishing the jackpot type. It should be noted that a different number of times may be set in the opening number counter according to the big hit type. For example, in the case of a normal big hit or a probable big hit, the open count counter may be set to 15 times, and in the case of a sudden probable big hit, the open count counter may be set to 2 times. Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special winning opening opening pre-processing (step S305) (step S1307).

  On the other hand, if the big hit flag is not set in step S1301, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the time-count counter for counting the number of fluctuations of the special symbol in the time-saving state is 0 (step S1308). . If the value of the time reduction counter is not 0 (in this case, the time reduction counter is set based on a normal big hit and the time reduction counter is set), the CPU 56 The value is decremented by 1 (step S1309). Then, when the value of the time reduction counter after subtraction becomes 0 (step S1310), the CPU 56 resets the time reduction flag (step S1311).

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the small hit flag is set (step S1312). If the small hit flag is set, the CPU 56 transmits a small hit / suddenly probable big hit start designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 (step S1313). In addition, a value corresponding to the small hit display time (time for notifying that the small hit has occurred, for example, in the effect display device 9) is set in the timer before opening the big prize opening (step S1314). In the case of a small hit game, at the start of the small hit game, in step S1314, the time required from the time when the variable display is stopped until the small hit game is started is set in the timer before opening the big prize opening. . Further, during the small hit game, the interval time between each opening of the big winning opening is set in the timer before the big winning opening.

  Further, the CPU 56 sets the number of times of opening in the number of times of opening counter (step S1315). In this embodiment, 15 times is set in the opening number counter in step S1315. If a different number of times is set according to the jackpot type in step S1306, for example, if the number of times of opening is set to 2 in the case of suddenly probable big hit, the number of times of opening is also set twice in step S1315. May be set. Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the small hit start pre-processing (step S308) (step S1316).

  If the small hit flag is not set (N in step S1312), the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S1317).

  Next, the normal symbol process (step S29) executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) will be described. FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing an example of the normal symbol process. In the normal symbol process, when detecting that the game ball has passed through the gate 32 and the gate switch 32a is turned on (step S111), the CPU 56 executes a gate switch passage process (step S112). Then, the CPU 56 executes any one of the processes shown in steps S100 to S103 according to the value of the normal symbol process flag.

  Gate switch passage processing (step S112): The CPU 56 checks whether or not the count value (gate passage storage number) of the gate passage storage counter has reached the maximum value ("4" in this example). If the maximum value has not been reached, the count value of the gate passage storage counter is incremented by one. Note that the LED of the normal symbol storage memory display 41 is turned on according to the value of the gate passage storage counter. Then, the CPU 56 performs processing for extracting the value of the random number for normal symbol determination (random 4) and storing it in the storage area (normal symbol determination buffer) corresponding to the value of the number of passages through the gate.

  Normal symbol normal processing (step S100): The CPU 56 is in a state where normal symbol variation can be started (for example, when the value of the normal symbol process flag is a value indicating step S100, specifically, the normal symbol process). When the display 10 does not display the change of the normal symbol, and the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is not in the open / close operation based on the normal symbol display 10 being hit and displayed, the gate pass memory is stored. Check the value of the number. Specifically, the count value of the gate passing memory number counter is confirmed. If the gate passing memory number is not 0, it is determined whether or not to win (whether or not to stop the normal symbol as a winning symbol). Then, the normal symbol variation time is set in the normal symbol process timer, and the timer is started. Then, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “1”) indicating the normal symbol variation process (step S101).

  Normal symbol variation processing (step S101): The CPU 56 checks whether or not the normal symbol process timer has timed out, and if it has timed out, stops the variation of the normal symbol on the normal symbol display 10 and sets the normal symbol process timer to normal. Set the symbol stop symbol display time and start the timer. Then, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “2”) indicating the normal symbol stop process (step S102).

  Normal symbol stop process (step S102): The CPU 56 checks whether or not the normal symbol process timer has timed out. If it has timed out, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the normal symbol stop symbol is a winning symbol. If it is not a winning symbol (if it is a missing symbol), the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically, “0”) indicating the normal symbol normal processing (step S100). On the other hand, if the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a winning symbol, the normal electric accessory operating time is set in the normal symbol process timer, and the timer is started. Further, it is confirmed whether or not the current gaming state is a high base state. If in the low base state, the release pattern of the ordinary electric accessory (variable winning ball apparatus 15) in the low base state is selected, and the selected release pattern is set. Then, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “3”) indicating the normal electric accessory operation processing (step S103).

  Normal electric accessory actuating process (step S103): The CPU 56 is based on the condition that the normal symbol process timer has not timed out, and the number of game balls to be awarded to the normal electric accessory (variable winning ball apparatus 15) (start winning prize opening). 14 is performed, and the ordinary electric accessory is counted with the set opening pattern (the opening / closing operation of the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is performed). The electric accessory release pattern process is executed. When the normal symbol process timer times out, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “0”) indicating the normal symbol normal process (step S100).

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing normal symbol normal processing (step S100). In the normal symbol normal process, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the gate passing memory number is 0 by confirming the count value of the gate passing memory number counter (step S121). If the gate passing memory number is 0 (Y in step S121), the process is terminated as it is. If the gate passing memory number is not 0 (N in Step S121), the CPU 56 reads the random number value for determination per ordinary symbol stored in the storage area corresponding to the gate passing memory number = 1, and the random number buffer area of the RAM 55 (Step S122). Then, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the gate passage storage number counter by 1 and shifts the contents of each storage area (step S123). That is, the random number value for normal symbol determination stored in the storage area corresponding to the number of gate passing memories = n (n = 2, 3, 4) is stored in the storage area corresponding to the number of gate passing memories = n−1. Store. Therefore, the order in which the random numbers for determination per ordinary symbol stored in the respective storage areas corresponding to the respective gate passing memory numbers are extracted is always the order of the gate passing memory number = 1, 2, 3, 4 It is supposed to match.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads a normal random number for symbol determination from the random number storage buffer (step S124), and determines whether to win or not based on the read random number value (step S125). Specifically, it is determined whether or not the value of the random number for normal symbol determination matches the hit determination value, and if there is a matching hit determination value, it is determined to be a hit. For example, when the hour / short flag is set, that is, when the base state is high (short time state, short state when probability change), the hit determination value is set to any one of 1 to 10, and when the low base state is set, the hit determination value is 3 or 7 and so on. If the random number for determination per normal symbol is updated in a numerical range of 0 to 10, the winning probability in the high base state is 10/11, and the winning probability in the low base state is 2/11. As described above, the hit is made with a high probability in the high base state, and the win is made only with a low probability in the low base state.

  Next, the CPU 56 sets the normal symbol change time in the normal symbol process timer (step S126), and starts the normal symbol change in the normal symbol display 10 (step S127). In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 23, the variation time of the normal symbol at low base is 30.0 seconds, and the variation time of the normal symbol at high base is 1.0 seconds. . Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the normal symbol process flag to a value (specifically “1”) indicating the normal symbol variation process (step S101) (step S128).

  FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the normal symbol variation process (step S101). In the normal symbol variation process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the normal symbol process timer has reached 0, that is, whether or not the normal symbol process timer has expired (step S131). If the normal symbol process timer has not expired (N in step S131), the CPU 56 decrements the value of the normal symbol process timer by -1 (step S135).

  When the normal symbol process timer expires, that is, when the variation time of the normal symbol has elapsed (Y in step S131), the CPU 56 stops the variation of the normal symbol in the normal symbol display 10 (step S132). Then, the CPU 56 sets the normal symbol stop symbol display time in the normal symbol process timer (step S133). Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the normal symbol process flag to a value (specifically “2”) indicating the normal symbol stop process (step S102) (step S134).

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the normal symbol stop process (step S102). In the normal symbol stop process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the normal symbol process timer has reached 0, that is, whether or not the normal symbol process timer has expired (step S141). If the normal symbol process timer has not expired (N in step S141), the CPU 56 decrements the value of the normal symbol process timer by -1 (step S142).

  When the normal symbol process timer expires, that is, when the normal symbol stop symbol display time has elapsed (Y in step S141), the CPU 56 determines whether or not the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a winning symbol (in step S125). (Whether or not it is determined to be a win) is confirmed (step S143). Note that whether or not the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a winning symbol is determined by, for example, setting the normal symbol per symbol determination flag when it is determined to be a winning symbol in step S125, and checking whether or not the flag is set. Can do.

  When the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a winning symbol (Y in step S143), the CPU 56 sets the normal electric accessory operating time in the normal symbol process timer (step S144). The ordinary electric accessory operating time is the maximum time during which the ordinary electric accessory (variable winning ball device 15) can operate. The normal electric accessory operating time is set to be longer in the high base state than in the low base state. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the normal electric accessory operating time is set to 7 seconds in the high base state, and the normal electric accessory operating time is set to 1.5 seconds in the low base state.

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether the gaming state is a high base state or a low base state (step S145). Whether the base state is the high base state or the low base state can be confirmed by checking whether or not the time reduction flag is set. When the time reduction flag is set, it can be determined that the high base state is set, and when the time reduction flag is not set, it can be determined that the low base state is set. In the high base state, a high base state flag indicating the high base state is set, and whether the base state is the high base state or the low base state is determined depending on whether or not the flag is set. You may do it.

  When in the high base state (Y in step S145), the CPU 56 selects the opening pattern set in the high base time table shown in FIG. 23 as the opening pattern of the ordinary electric accessory (step S146). On the other hand, when it is in the low base state (N in step S145), the CPU 56 selects the opening pattern set in the low base time table shown in FIG. In the example shown in FIG. 23, in the low base time table, opening pattern data is set in which the opening time is 0.5 seconds and the closing time is 1.0 seconds, and the number of times of opening is one. In this embodiment, in the low base state, as described above, the normal symbol process timer is set to 1.5 seconds as the normal electric accessory operating time, and the variable winning ball device 15 is once in 0.5 seconds. The symbol process timer normally times up when the closing time of 1.0 seconds elapses. In the example shown in FIG. 23, in the high base time table, an opening pattern data in which the opening time is 2.5 seconds, the closing time is 1.0 seconds, and the number of opening times is two is set. In this embodiment, in the high base state, as described above, the normal symbol process timer is set to 7 seconds as the normal electric accessory operating time, and after the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened for 2.5 seconds, After the closing time of 1.0 seconds, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened again. When the opening time of 2.5 seconds elapses, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is closed again, and when the closing time of 1.0 seconds elapses, the normal symbol process timer is timed up. The closing time (1.0 seconds in this example) corresponds to a predetermined interval period. Therefore, in this embodiment, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is between the state in which the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is physically opened according to the opening time shown in the opening pattern shown in FIG. 23 and the closing time shown in the opening pattern. The state where 15 is closed corresponds to the open state of the variable winning ball apparatus 15.

  Then, the CPU 56 sets the release pattern selected in step S146 or S147 in the release pattern buffer (step S148). When the opening pattern is set in the opening pattern buffer, the opening pattern time (in this case, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is set) is added to the ordinary electric accessory opening pattern timer (the timer for measuring the opening time and closing time of the ordinary electric accessory). The process of setting the closing time until the first opening is also performed. Thereafter, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “3”) indicating the normal electric accessory operation processing (step S103) (step S149).

  When it is determined in step S143 that the stop symbol of the normal symbol is not a winning symbol but a missing symbol (N in step S143), the CPU 56 sets the value of the normal symbol process flag to the normal symbol normal process (step S100). Is updated (specifically, “0”) (step S150).

  FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing the ordinary electric accessory operating process (step S103). In the normal electric actor operation process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the normal symbol process timer has reached 0, that is, whether or not the normal symbol process timer has expired (step S161). If the normal symbol process timer has not expired (N in step S161), the CPU 56 decrements the value of the normal symbol process timer by -1 (step S162).

  Then, the CPU 56 loads the switch-on buffer into the register (step S163). The switch-on buffer is a buffer in which 1 is set in the corresponding bit of the switch when switch-on is detected, and 0 is set in the corresponding bit of the switch when the switch-off is detected.

  The CPU 56 confirms whether or not the start opening switch 14a is turned on (whether or not a game ball has won the start winning opening 14). If the start port switch 14a is not turned on (N in step S164), the process proceeds to step S168. If the start port switch 14a is on (Y in step S164), the CPU 56 sets a normal electric bonus winning number counter that counts the number of game balls won in the normal electric bonus (variable winning ball device 15). +1 (step S165). Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the ordinary electric accessory winning number counter is less than 8 (step S166). If the value of the ordinary electric winning prize counter is not less than 8 (N in Step S166), that is, if it is 8 or more, the CPU 56 clears (sets to 0) the value of the normal symbol process timer (Step S167). With this process, the ordinary electric accessory actuating process is completed (see Y in step S161, S172). Thus, in this embodiment, when eight or more game balls win the variable winning ball device 15 within the normal electric accessory operating time, the normal electric accessory operating process is terminated.

  Next, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the ordinary electric accessory release pattern timer by -1 (step S168). Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the ordinary electric accessory release pattern timer is 0, that is, whether or not the ordinary electric accessory release pattern timer has expired (step S169). If not timed out (N in step S169), the process is terminated as it is. If time-out has occurred (Y in step S169), the CPU 56 sets the release pattern time in the ordinary electric accessory release pattern timer (step S170). Then, the CPU 56 drives the solenoid 16 to open or close the ordinary electric accessory (variable winning ball apparatus 15) (step S171).

  Specifically, when the ordinary electric accessory release pattern timer expires when the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is closed, the release time is set as the release pattern time in the ordinary electric accessory release pattern timer, and the output port buffer ( The variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened by inverting the solenoid output bit of the ordinary electric accessory of the solenoid buffer. If the normal electric accessory release pattern timer expires when the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is open, the normal electric accessory release pattern timer sets the closing time as the open pattern time, and the output port buffer (solenoid buffer) The variable winning ball apparatus 15 is closed by reversing the output bit of the normal electric accessory solenoid.

  Through the processes in steps S168 to S171 described above, an open pattern in the low base state and an open pattern in the high base state are realized. When the gaming state is the low base state, the opening time is 0.5 seconds and the number of times of opening is one. When the closing time elapses, the variable winning ball device 15 is opened and opened, and when the opening time of 0.5 seconds elapses thereafter, the variable winning ball device 15 is closed and closed. Further, when the gaming state is the high base state, the release time is 2.5 seconds and the number of times of opening is 2, so that, for example, 2.5 after the normal electric accessory actuating process is started. When the closing time of 2 seconds elapses, the variable winning ball device 15 is opened and opened, and when the opening time of 2.5 seconds elapses thereafter, the variable winning ball device 15 is closed and closed, and again When the closing time of 2.5 seconds elapses, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened and opened, and when the opening time of 2.5 seconds elapses, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is closed and closed. Become.

  In step S161, when the normal symbol process timer expires (Y in step S161), the CPU 56 sets the value of the normal symbol process flag to a value indicating the normal symbol normal process (step S100) (specifically “0”). (Step S172).

  Next, the switch process (step S21) in the timer interrupt process will be described. In this embodiment, when the ON state of the detection signal of each switch related to winning detection or gate passage continues for a predetermined time, it is determined that the switch is surely turned on, and processing corresponding to the switch on is started. FIG. 25 is an explanatory diagram showing each 2-byte buffer formed in the RAM 55 used in the switching process. The previous port buffer is a buffer in which the previous switch-on / off determination result (for example, 4 ms before) is stored. The port buffer is a buffer in which the contents of ports 0 and 2 input this time are stored. The switch-on buffer is a buffer in which the corresponding bit is set to 1 when switch on is detected and the corresponding bit is set to 0 when switch off is detected. The previous port buffer, port buffer, and switch-on buffer shown in FIG. 25 are prepared for each of the input ports 0 and 2. For example, in this embodiment, two switch-on buffers 1 and 2 are prepared, the switch state of the input port 0 is set to the switch-on buffer 1, and the switch state of the input port 2 is the switch-on buffer 2. Set to

  FIG. 26 is a flowchart illustrating a processing example of the switch processing in step S21 in the game control processing. In the switch process, the game control microcomputer 560 first inputs data input to the input ports 0 and 2 (see FIG. 10) (step S2101), and sets the input data in the port buffer (step S2102). ).

  Next, an initial value of the weight counter formed in the RAM 55 is set (step S2103), and the value of the weight counter is decremented by 1 until the value of the weight counter becomes 0 (steps S2104 and S2105).

  When the value of the wait counter reaches 0, the data of the input ports 0 and 2 are input again (step S2106), and a logical product is obtained for each bit between the input data and the data set in the port buffer. (Step S2107). Then, the operation result of the logical product is set in the port buffer (step S2108). Of the two input data input from the input ports 0 and 2 with a time interval of approximately [initial value of wait counter × (processing time of steps S2104 and S2105)], two times of the input data input by the processing of steps S2103 to S2108 Only the bits that are both “1” become “1” in the port buffer. In other words, if the ON state of the switch detection signal continues for a predetermined period [initial value of wait counter × (processing time of steps S2104 and S2105)], the corresponding bit in the port buffer becomes “1”.

  Further, the game control microcomputer 560 performs exclusive OR for each bit between the data previously set in the port buffer and the data set in the port buffer (step S2109). In the result of the exclusive OR operation, the bit corresponding to the switch for which the previous switch-on / off determination result (for example, 4 ms before) differs from the switch-on / off determination result determined to be on this time is “ 1 ”. The game control microcomputer 560 further performs a logical product for each bit between the result of the exclusive OR operation and the data set in the port buffer (step S2110). As a result, of the bits corresponding to the switches for which the previous switch on / off determination result and the switch on / off determination result determined to be on this time are different (according to the exclusive OR operation result), the current on Only the bit corresponding to the switch determined to be (by AND operation) remains as “1”.

  Then, the game control microcomputer 560 sets the logical product calculation result in step S110 in the switch-on buffer (step S2111), and sets the contents of the port buffer in which the calculation result in step S2108 is set in the previous port buffer. (Step S2112).

  Through the above processing, among the switches that have been on for a predetermined period of time, the switch on / off determination result of the previous time (for example, 4 ms before) is off, that is, the switch has changed from the off state to the on state. The bit corresponding to the switch is “1” in the switch-on buffer.

  Further, the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) performs a switch normality / abnormality check process (step S2113).

  FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing a switch normal / abnormal check process. In the switch normal / abnormal check process shown in FIG. 27, the CPU 56 reads the contents of the switch-on buffer corresponding to the input port 2 (step S2121). Then, it is confirmed whether or not the value of bit 0 corresponding to the start port switch 14a in the switch-on buffer corresponding to the input port 2 is 0 (step S2122). That is, it is confirmed whether or not the start port switch 14a (proximity switch) provided in the upper portion of the start winning port 14 is turned on (a game ball is detected).

  When the value of bit 0 corresponding to the start port switch 14a in the switch-on buffer corresponding to the input port 2 is 0 (that is, when the start port switch 14a is in the ON state), the switch formed in the RAM 55 The value of the counter 1 is increased by 1 (step S2123).

  Further, the CPU 56 reads the contents of the switch-on buffer corresponding to the input port 0 (step S2124). Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of bit 4 corresponding to the winning confirmation 1 switch 14b in the switch-on buffer corresponding to the input port 0 is 1 (step S2125). That is, it is confirmed whether or not the winning confirmation 1 switch 14b (photo sensor) provided at the lower portion of the start winning opening 14 is turned on (detects a game ball).

  When the value of bit 4 corresponding to the winning confirmation 1 switch 14b in the switch-on buffer corresponding to the input port 0 is 1 (that is, when the winning confirmation 1 switch 14b is in the ON state), it is formed in the RAM 55. The value of the switch counter 1 is decremented by 1 (step S2126).

  Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the switch counter 1 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value (step S2127). When the value of the switch counter 1 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the CPU 56 determines that a discharge abnormality to the start winning port 14 has occurred, and sets a discharge abnormality flag indicating that a discharge abnormality has occurred. (Step S2128A). Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a discharge abnormality notification designation command for designating notification that a discharge abnormality has occurred to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S2128B). In this embodiment, the CPU 56 sets the discharge abnormality flag based on the value of the switch counter 1 being 10 or more as a predetermined value, and sets the discharge abnormality flag in the information output process (see S31). A security signal is output to the outside based on what has been done. The security signal is continuously output to the outside until the gaming machine is turned on again, the initialization process is executed, and the discharge abnormality flag is reset.

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of bit 0 corresponding to the count switch 23 in the switch-on buffer corresponding to the input port 0 is 1 (step S2129). That is, it is confirmed whether or not the count switch 23 (proximity switch) provided in the upper part of the special winning opening is turned on (a game ball is detected).

  When the value of bit 0 corresponding to the count switch 23 in the switch-on buffer corresponding to the input port 0 is 1 (that is, when the count switch 23 is in the ON state), the switch counter formed in the RAM 55 The value of 2 is incremented by 1 (step S2130).

  Further, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the bit 5 corresponding to the winning confirmation 2 switch 23b in the switch-on buffer corresponding to the input port 0 is 1 (step S2131). That is, it is confirmed whether or not a winning confirmation 2 switch 23b (photo sensor) provided at the lower part of the big winning opening is turned on (a game ball is detected).

  When the value of bit 5 corresponding to the winning confirmation 2 switch 23b in the switch-on buffer corresponding to the input port 0 is 1 (that is, when the winning confirmation 2 switch 23b is in the ON state), it is formed in the RAM 55. The value of the switch counter 2 is decremented by 1 (step S2132).

  Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the switch counter 2 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value (step S2133). If the value of the switch counter 2 is equal to or greater than the predetermined value, the CPU 56 determines that a discharge abnormality to the special winning opening has occurred, and sets a discharge abnormality flag (step S2134A). Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a discharge abnormality notification designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S2134B). In this embodiment, the CPU 56 sets a discharge abnormality flag based on the fact that the value of the switch counter 2 becomes 10 or more as a predetermined value, and sets the discharge abnormality flag in the information output process (see S31). A security signal is externally output based on the setting. The security signal is continuously output to the outside until the gaming machine is turned on again, the initialization process is executed, and the discharge abnormality flag is reset.

  In the processing of steps S2127 and S2133, for example, the CPU 56 determines that a discharge abnormality to the start winning port 14 or the big winning port has occurred based on the value of the switch counters 1 and 2 being 10 or more. In addition to the determination, conversely, even if the values of the switch counters 1 and 2 are equal to or less than −10, it is determined that an abnormal discharge to the start winning opening 14 or the large winning opening has occurred. May be. In this case, if the switch counters 1 and 2 are configured not to recognize that the values are negative, for example, 10 is set as the default value of the switch counters 1 and 2. In this manner, based on the fact that the values of the switch counters 1 and 2 become 0 or 20 or more, it may be determined that an abnormal discharge to the start winning port 14 or the big winning port has occurred.

  In this embodiment, the case where the discharge abnormality to the start winning opening 14 or the big winning opening is detected by using only one switch counter 1 or 2 is shown. Different switch counters may be used for the number of detections and the number of detections of the winning confirmation switches 14b and 23b. In this case, for example, every time the start-up switch 14a or the count switch 23 is detected, the value of the first switch counter is incremented by one, and every time the winning confirmation switches 14b and 23b are detected as the on-state. The value of the second switch counter may be incremented by one. In steps S2127 and S2133, based on the determination that the difference between the value of the first switch counter and the value of the second switch counter is a predetermined value (for example, 10) or more, It may be determined that an abnormal discharge to the special winning opening has occurred, and the processing of steps S2128 and S2134 is executed to output the security signal to the outside.

  In addition, for example, in the case where a security signal is output even when an abnormal magnetic error, abnormal radio wave error, or communication error is detected in addition to the abnormal discharge to the start winning opening 14 or the big winning opening, Different error notification commands may be transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100 for each type of error. Then, on the effect control microcomputer 100 side, error notification may be performed by causing the effect display device 9 to display different error screens for each type of error.

  28 and 29 are explanatory diagrams for explaining the switch normal / abnormal check process. Of these, FIG. 28 shows an example of a switch normal / abnormality check process in a normal state, and FIG. 29 shows an example of a switch normal / abnormality check process when an illegal act leading to a discharge abnormality is performed. Show. FIGS. 28 (A) and 29 (A) show a case where the presence or absence of abnormal discharge to the start winning opening 14 is detected, and FIGS. 28 (B) and 29 (B) show the big winning opening. This shows a case where the presence or absence of abnormal discharge is detected.

  First, the case where the presence or absence of abnormal discharge to the start winning opening 14 is detected will be described. As shown in FIGS. 28A and 29A, the bit 0 of the switch-on buffer corresponding to the input port 2 is detected by the start switch 14a (proximity switch) corresponding to the bit 0. Then, it becomes “0”. The bit 4 of the switch-on buffer corresponding to the input port 0 becomes “1” when a game ball is detected by the winning confirmation 1 switch 14 b (photo sensor) corresponding to the bit 4. If the switch is operating normally and has not received any fraudulent activity (an act of improperly turning on the detection signal from the switch or improperly turning off the detection signal in the on state) Since the switch 14a is arranged on the upstream side of the winning confirmation 1 switch 14b, the start opening switch 14a (proximity switch) should be turned on first, and then the winning confirmation 1 switch 14b (photo sensor) should be turned on. is there. Accordingly, first, the value of the switch counter 1 is incremented by 1 based on the start port switch 14a being turned on to become 1 (see step S2123), and then the switch counter 1 based on the winning confirmation 1 switch 14b being turned on. The value of 1 is subtracted by 1 and returned to 0 (see step S2126). Therefore, when the game ball passes through the switch, bit 0 of the switch-on buffer corresponding to the input port 2 becomes “0”, and bit 4 of the switch-on buffer corresponding to the input port 0 becomes “1”. In the normal operation state, although there is a deviation in the count-up timing (corresponding to a deviation in the passing timing of the game ball), the value of the switch counter 1 is kept at 0 as shown in FIG. It should be.

  However, when a fraudulent act by radio waves is performed, as shown in FIG. 29 (A), the off state is illegally interrupted by radio waves during the period when the start port switch 14a is turned on once, and the kite also starts. There is a possibility that a fraudulent act of recognizing the mouth switch 14a as if it has been turned on twice is performed. For example, as shown in FIG. 29A, in the case of the start port switch 14a that is input with negative logic, when the signal is at a low level and in the on state, noise is improperly applied by radio waves or the like. There is a risk that an action that causes an off state as a high level may be performed. Accordingly, although the start port switch 14a is turned on only once, it is misrecognized that the start port switch 14a has been turned on twice, and the value of the switch counter 1 is added by 2 in total. (Step S2123 is executed twice). On the other hand, the winning confirmation 1 switch 14b arranged on the downstream side is different in detection method from the electromagnetic starter switch 14a and uses an optical photosensor, so that the influence of fraudulent acts caused by radio waves is affected. Not receive. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 29 (A), after one game ball is detected by the start switch 14a, when the game ball is detected on the side of the winning confirmation 1 switch 14b after a short delay, the winning confirmation 1 is normally completed. The switch 14b is turned on only once, and the value of the switch counter 1 is decremented by 1 to 1 (see step S2126). Therefore, when an illegal act by radio waves is performed, there is a difference in the number of detections between the start port switch 14a and the winning confirmation 1 switch 14b having different detection methods, and as shown in FIG. On the other hand, based on the fact that the value of the switch counter 1 is not maintained at 0 and the value of the switch counter 1 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value (10 in this example) (the start port switch 14a and the winning confirmation 1 switch 14b) Based on the fact that the accumulated value of the detection error during the period becomes a predetermined value (10 in this example) or more), it is possible to detect that an abnormality in discharging to the start winning opening 14 has occurred.

  Next, the case where the presence or absence of abnormal discharge to the special winning opening is detected will be described. As shown in FIGS. 28B and 29B, a game ball is detected by the count switch 23 (proximity switch) corresponding to bit 0 of bit 0 of the switch-on buffer corresponding to input port 0. And “1”. The bit 5 of the switch-on buffer corresponding to the input port 0 becomes “1” when a game ball is detected by the winning confirmation 2 switch 23b (photosensor) corresponding to the bit 5. If the switch is operating normally and has not received any fraudulent activity (an act of improperly turning on the detection signal from the switch or improperly turning off the detection signal in the on state), the count switch Since 23 is arranged upstream of the winning confirmation 2 switch 23b, first, the count switch 23 (proximity switch) should be turned on, and then the winning confirmation 2 switch 23b (photo sensor) should be turned on. Accordingly, first, the value of the switch counter 2 is incremented by 1 based on the count switch 23 being turned on to become 1 (see step S2130), and then the switch 2 of the switch counter 2 is activated based on the winning confirmation 2 switch 23b being turned on. The value is decremented by 1 and returned to 0 (see step S2132). Therefore, when the game ball passes the switch, bit 0 of the switch-on buffer corresponding to the input port 0 becomes “1”, and bit 5 of the switch-on buffer corresponding to the input port 0 becomes “1”. In the normal operation state, although there is a deviation in the count-up timing (corresponding to a deviation in the passing timing of the game ball), the value of the switch counter 2 is kept at 0 as shown in FIG. It should be.

  However, in the case where a fraudulent act by radio waves is performed, as shown in FIG. 29B, when the signal of the count switch 23 which is positive logic is at a low level and is in an off state, Therefore, there is a possibility that an illegal act of improperly putting noise and turning it on at a high level and recognizing it as if the count switch 23 was turned on may be performed. Therefore, for example, in the example shown in FIG. 29B, although the count switch 23 is turned on only once, it is misrecognized that the count switch 23 is turned on twice, and the switch counter The total value of 2 is added to 2 to be 2 (step S2130 is executed twice). On the other hand, the winning confirmation 2 switch 23b arranged on the downstream side differs from the electromagnetic count switch 23 in that the detection method is different and an optical photo sensor is used. I do not receive it. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 29 (B), when one game ball is detected by the count switch 23, when a game ball is detected on the side of the winning confirmation 2 switch 23b after a short delay, the winning confirmation 2 switch is normally operated. 23b is turned on only once, and the value of the switch counter 2 is decremented by 1 to 1 (see step S2132). Therefore, when an illegal act by radio waves is performed, a difference occurs in the number of detections between the count switch 23 and the winning confirmation 2 switch 23b having different detection methods, as shown in FIG. 29 (B). Based on the fact that the value of the switch counter 2 is not maintained at 0 and the value of the switch counter 2 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value (10 in this example) (between the count switch 23 and the winning confirmation 2 switch 23b) It is possible to detect that an abnormal discharge to the special winning opening has occurred, based on the accumulated value of the detection error of (1) being equal to or greater than a predetermined value (10 in this example).

  In addition, it is also conceivable that a similar illegal act is performed by an act of illegally irradiating light. In this case, during the period when the winning confirmation 1 switch 14b or the winning confirmation 2 switch 23b is turned on once, the off state is illegally interrupted by light, and the winning confirmation 1 switch 14b or the winning confirmation 2 switch 23b is turned on twice. There is a risk of fraudulent acts that make people recognize as if they did. However, in this case, on the contrary, since the electromagnetic start port switch 14a and the count switch 23 side can normally detect the game ball without being affected by the illegal act of light, the values of the switch counters 1 and 2 are similarly set. Is not maintained at 0, and the values of the switch counters 1 and 2 are equal to or greater than a predetermined value (10 in this example) (the detection error between the start switch 14a and the winning confirmation 1 switch 14b Based on the accumulated value or the accumulated value of the detection error between the count switch 23 and the winning confirmation 2 switch 23b being equal to or greater than a predetermined value (10 in this example), the start winning port 14 and the big winning port are entered. It is possible to detect that an abnormal discharge has occurred.

  In this embodiment, the values of the switch counters 1 and 2 are not maintained at 0 (a detection error has occurred between the start port switch 14a and the winning confirmation 1 switch 14b, or the count switch 23 And the winning confirmation 2 switch 23b), the value of the switch counters 1 and 2 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value (10 in this example). Based on the above, it is determined that an abnormal discharge has occurred. With such a configuration, for example, it is possible to prevent a case where a game ball is in a clogged state in the start winning opening 14 or the large winning opening from being determined as abnormal discharge due to fraud.

  FIG. 30 is an explanatory diagram showing a case where the game ball has a clogged state in the start winning opening 14. In addition, in FIG. 30, the case where a ball clogged state occurs in the start winning opening 14 is shown as an example, but the case where a ball clogged state occurs in the large winning opening can be considered similarly.

  As shown in FIG. 30, in the start winning opening 14, the start opening switch 14a and the winning confirmation 1 switch 14b are arranged at a certain distance in the vertical direction. Therefore, the game ball won in the start winning opening 14 is first detected by the start opening switch 14a and then detected by the downstream winning confirmation 1 switch 14b after a short time. As shown in FIG. 30, when a game ball is jammed in the start winning opening 14, the number of detections differs depending on the physical distance difference between the start opening switch 14 a and the winning confirmation 1 switch 14 b. Will occur. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 30, it is assumed that a maximum of three detection errors occur between the start port switch 14a and the winning confirmation 1 switch 14b. Therefore, in this embodiment, the value of the switch counter 1 is a predetermined value (in this example, a sufficient margin is provided for three detection errors between the start port switch 14a and the winning confirmation 1 switch 14b in the ball clogging state). 10) By determining that a discharge abnormality has occurred based on the above, it is possible to prevent a case where a game ball has become clogged in the start winning opening 14 from being determined as a discharge abnormality due to fraud. doing.

  In this embodiment, the predetermined value (10 in this example) with a sufficient margin for the three detection errors of the start opening switch 14a and the winning confirmation 1 switch 14b in the ball clogged state is greater than or equal to. Although the case where it is determined that a discharge abnormality has occurred based on the above is shown, the predetermined value used for the determination of the discharge abnormality is not limited to that shown in this embodiment. For example, if the number of detection errors between the start port switch 14a and the winning confirmation 1 switch 14b in the ball clogged state is more than three, it is possible to prevent erroneous determination of discharge abnormality. It may be determined that a discharge abnormality has occurred based on the value of the counter 1 being 4 or more (similarly, the value of the switch counter 2 is 4 or more for the big prize opening). Based on this, it may be determined that a discharge abnormality has occurred).

  In particular, when the gaming machine is configured to have two start winning ports, in addition to these two start winning ports, it is configured to detect the abnormal discharge of the large winning port, so that one winning port can be detected. If there are three detection errors in the ball clogging state in FIG. 3, the maximum number of detection errors is 3 × 3 = 9. May be caused by. Therefore, in such a case, if it is determined that a discharge abnormality has occurred based on the value of the switch counter being at least 10 or more, it is possible to prevent a discharge abnormality from being erroneously determined.

  FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing the abnormal winning notification process in step S23. In the abnormal winning notification process, the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) checks whether or not the value of the special symbol process flag is 5 or more (step S251). When the value of the special symbol process flag is 5 or more (Y in step S251), the game is in the big hit game or the small hit game. If it is in such a state, there is a possibility that a game ball will win the big prize opening, so the process proceeds to the process of step S261 without performing the process of confirming the abnormal winning to the big prize opening.

  The state where the value of the special symbol process flag is less than 5 is a state where neither a big hit game nor a small hit game is played. In this state, if there is a game ball winning at the big winning opening, it can be determined that the winning is an abnormal winning. Therefore, an abnormal winning confirmation process for the special winning opening shown below is performed.

  That is, if the value of the special symbol process flag is less than 5 (N in Step S251), the CPU 56 loads the contents of the switch-on buffer 1 (the switch-on buffer corresponding to the input port 0) into the register (Step S252). . Then, the CPU 56 calculates the logical product of the contents of the loaded switch-on buffer 1 and the count switch input bit determination value (01 (H), see FIG. 10) (step S253). When the content of the switch-on buffer 1 is 01 (H), that is, when the count switch 23 is on, the logical product operation result is 01 (H). When the count switch 23 is not turned on, the operation result of the logical product is 0 (00 (H)).

  If the result of the logical product is not 0 (N in step S254), that is, if the count switch 23 is on, the CPU 56 determines that an abnormal winning in the big winning opening has occurred, and the security signal information timer Is set to a predetermined time (in this example, 30 seconds) (step S255). In this embodiment, the abnormal output to the big prize opening is detected by executing the information output process (see S31) based on the predetermined time set in the security signal information timer in step S255. Sometimes, the security signal is externally output for a predetermined time (in this example, 30 seconds).

  Next, the CPU 56 adds 1 to the value of the winning cumulative number counter for counting the number of abnormal winning detections to the big winning opening (step S256). If the value of the cumulative winning number counter is 20 (step S257), the CPU 56 performs an effect control of an abnormal winning 1 notification designation command indicating that an abnormal winning is notified to the big winning opening in the first mode. Control to transmit to the microcomputer 100 is performed (step S258). If the value of the cumulative winning number counter is 50 (step S259), the CPU 56 performs an effect control on the abnormal winning 2 notification designation command indicating that the abnormal winning notification to the big winning opening is performed in the second mode. Control to transmit to the microcomputer 100 is performed (step S260). On the other hand, if the result of the logical product is 0 (Y in step S254), that is, if the count switch 23 is not turned on, the CPU 56 determines that no abnormal winning in the big prize opening has occurred. The process proceeds to step S261.

  In step S261, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the normal symbol process flag is 3 (step S261). The state where the value of the normal symbol process flag is 3 is a state where it is determined that the ordinary electric accessory (variable winning ball device 15) is in the open state (when the variable winning ball device 15 is physically open). And when the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is physically closed until a predetermined interval period elapses). If it is in such a state (Y in step S261), there is a possibility that a game ball may win the start winning opening 14, so that the abnormal winning notifying process is not performed without confirming the abnormal winning to the starting winning opening 14. finish.

  The state where the value of the normal symbol process flag is not 3 (N in step S261) is a state in which the normal electric accessory (variable winning ball device 15) is determined to be in a state other than the open state. If there is a game ball winning at the start winning opening 14 in such a state, there is a possibility that the winning is an abnormal winning. Accordingly, the abnormal winning confirmation process for the start winning opening 14 shown below is performed.

  That is, if the value of the normal symbol process flag is not 3 (N in step S261), the CPU 56 loads the contents of the switch-on buffer 2 (switch-on buffer corresponding to the input port 2) into the register (step S262). Then, the CPU 56 calculates the logical product of the contents of the loaded switch-on buffer 2 and the start port switch input bit determination value (01 (H), see FIG. 10) (step S263). When the content of the switch-on buffer 2 is 01 (H), that is, when the start port switch 14a is on, the logical product operation result is 01 (H). When the start port switch 14a is not turned on, the logical product operation result is 0 (00 (H)).

  If the result of the logical product is not 0 (N in step S264), that is, if the start port switch 14a is on, the CPU 56 determines that an abnormal winning has occurred in the start winning port 14, and the security signal A predetermined time (in this example, 30 seconds) is set in the information timer (step S265). In this embodiment, an abnormal winning at the start winning opening 14 is detected by executing the information output process (see S31) based on the fact that the predetermined time is set in the security signal information timer in step S265. The security signal is externally output for a predetermined time (in this example, 30 seconds).

  Next, the CPU 56 adds 1 to the value of the start winning cumulative number counter for counting the number of abnormal winning detections to the start winning opening 14 (step S266). If the value of the start winning cumulative number counter is 20 (step S267), the CPU 56 indicates a start abnormal winning 1 notification designation command indicating that the abnormal winning is notified to the starting winning port 14 in the first mode. Is transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100 (step S268). If the value of the start winning cumulative number counter is 50 (step S269), the CPU 56 indicates a start abnormal winning 2 notification designation command indicating that an abnormal winning is notified to the starting winning port 14 in the second mode. Is transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100 (step S270). On the other hand, if the result of the logical product is 0 (Y in step S264), that is, if the start port switch 14a is not turned on, the CPU 56 has determined that no abnormal winning has occurred in the start winning port 14. Determine and end the process.

  When the count switch 23 is turned on in the state where neither big hit game nor small hit game is performed by the above processing, it is determined that an abnormal winning is made to the big winning opening, and information output processing (step S31). The security signal is output to the outside in (see). Also, if the number of detected abnormal prizes at the big prize opening becomes 20, an abnormal prize 1 notification designation command is transmitted, and if the number of detected abnormal prizes at the big prize opening becomes 50, an abnormal prize 2 notice designation command is transmitted. Is done. In addition, when the start opening switch 14a is turned on when the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is not opened or closed (when the start winning opening 14 is in the state other than the open state), an abnormal winning to the starting winning opening 14 has occurred. The security signal is externally output in the information output process (see step S31). Also, if the number of detected abnormal winnings at the start winning port 14 is 20, a start abnormal winning 1 notification designation command is transmitted, and if the number of detected abnormal winnings at the starting winning port 14 is 50, a start abnormal winning 2 notification is notified. The specified command is sent.

  In the process of step S251, the CPU 56 determines whether or not an abnormal winning to the big winning opening has occurred based on the value of the special symbol process flag. Therefore, since it can be determined whether or not an abnormal winning has occurred based on one data, the determination process can be simplified. Further, as described above, since the big hit end process or the small hit end process is executed for a predetermined time after the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is closed, the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 has won a big winning opening immediately before closing. The game ball is prevented from being detected by the count switch 23 after the value of the special symbol process flag returns to 0, and a security signal is output to the outside or an error is notified in spite of the regular winning. There is no such thing.

  Further, in the process of step S261, the CPU 56 determines whether or not an abnormal winning has occurred at the start winning opening 14 based on the value of the normal symbol process flag. Therefore, since it can be determined whether or not an abnormal winning has occurred based on one data, the determination process can be simplified. In addition, as described above, as a method of delaying the timing for determining an abnormal prize from the timing for closing the variable winning ball apparatus 15, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is set a predetermined time before the value of the normal symbol process flag is switched from 3 to 0. Is closed, and when the value of the normal symbol process flag is switched from 3 to 0, the abnormal winning determination is made. Therefore, the game ball that won the start winning opening 14 immediately before the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is closed. However, it is prevented from being detected by the start switch 14a after the value of the normal symbol process flag returns to 0, and a security signal is output to the outside or an error is notified in spite of the regular winning. There is no such thing.

  At the same time that the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is closed, the value of the normal symbol process flag is switched from 3 to 0, and the abnormal winning determination is made after a predetermined time has elapsed since the value of the normal symbol process flag is switched from 3 to 0. May be. Also, in the determination of the abnormal winning to the big winning opening, the timing for determining the abnormal winning by the same method may be delayed from the timing for closing the big winning opening (special variable winning ball apparatus 20).

  FIG. 32 is a block diagram showing various signals output to the terminal board 160. As shown in FIG. 32, in this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 mounted on the main board 31 is connected to the terminal board 160 with one symbol determination number of signals, a start port signal, one jackpot signal, one jackpot. Two signals, three jackpot signals, a time reduction signal, a winning signal, a security signal, and a high probability signal are output by the information output process (see step S31) on the game control microcomputer 560 side. In this embodiment, the prize ball information is sent from the payout control microcomputer 370 mounted on the payout control board 37 to the terminal board 160 via the main board 31. It is output by the information output process on the 370 side.

  The symbol determination number 1 signal is a signal for notifying the number of changes in the special symbol. The start port signal is a signal for notifying the number of winnings to the start winning port 14. The jackpot 1 signal is a signal for notifying that the jackpot game (during the operation of the special variable winning ball apparatus) is in progress. The jackpot 2 signal is a signal for notifying that the jackpot game (during the operation of the special variable winning ball apparatus) or that the special symbol variation time shortening function is in operation (during the short-time state). The jackpot 3 signal is a signal for notifying that a 15-round jackpot game is in progress. The time reduction signal is a signal for notifying that the special symbol variation time reduction function is operating (in the time reduction state).

  In addition, as described above, the winning signal indicates that a predetermined payout condition for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls (10 balls in this embodiment) has been established (starting prize opening 14, large prize winning). The winning prizes have been made to the mouths and the normal winning holes 29 and 30. The prize balls are not paid out. ) And a detection signal from the photo sensor (the winning confirmation switches 29b, 30b, 23b, 14b) are input, and it is determined that a predetermined payout condition has been established). It is a signal to show.

  The security signal is a signal indicating the security state of the gaming machine. Specifically, when it is determined that a discharge abnormality to the start winning opening 14 has occurred based on the detection result of the starting opening switch 14a and the detection result of the winning confirmation 1 switch 14b, the security signal is re-supplied. It is output to an external device such as a hall computer until the initialization process is executed. In addition, when it is determined that an abnormal discharge to the big prize opening has occurred based on the detection result of the count switch 23 and the detection result of the winning confirmation 2 switch 23b, the security signal is re-powered and initialized. The data is output to an external device such as a hall computer until the process is executed. Also, when an abnormal prize is detected at the big prize opening or the start prize opening 14, a security signal is output to an external device such as a hall computer for a predetermined period (for example, 30 seconds). Also, when the gaming machine is turned on and the initialization process is executed, a security signal is output to an external device such as a hall computer for a predetermined period (for example, 30 seconds).

  It should be noted that the signal output externally as the security signal is not limited to that shown in this embodiment. For example, it may be configured so that the abnormal discharge to the normal winning ports 29 and 30 can be detected and output as a security signal to the outside without being limited to the abnormal discharge to the start winning port 14 or the big winning port. Also, for example, when abnormal magnetism is detected by a magnet sensor provided in a gaming machine, or when abnormal radio waves are detected by a radio wave sensor provided in a gaming machine, the security signal can be output externally. Also good. In addition, for example, when an abnormality of various switches provided in a gaming machine is detected (for example, when an occurrence of a short circuit is detected by determining that an input value exceeds a threshold value), it can be externally output as a security signal. You may comprise as follows. In this way, even if it is configured to be able to output a security signal from the common connector CN8 of the terminal board 160, it is possible to connect even one signal line for abnormal discharge to the normal prize opening, abnormal magnetic error, and abnormal radio wave error. In this case, error detection can be performed by an external device such as a hall computer, and the work load related to error detection can be reduced.

  Further, for example, even when a communication error between the game control microcomputer 560 and the payout control microcomputer 370 is detected, it can be externally output as a security signal from the common connector CN8 of the terminal board 160. May be. In this case, for example, the game control microcomputer 560 determines that a communication error has occurred based on the failure to receive the payout control command from the payout control microcomputer 370, and from the common connector CN8 on the terminal board 160. It may be output externally as a security signal. Also, for example, the game control microcomputer 560 determines that a communication error has occurred based on the value of any error bit in the status register of the serial communication circuit 511 being set, and the terminal board 160 has a common The connector CN8 may be externally output as a security signal.

  In addition to the signal line and connector CN8 for the security signal, a signal line and connector dedicated to communication errors between the game control microcomputer 560 and the payout control microcomputer 370 may be provided on the terminal board 160. When a communication error between the game control microcomputer 560 and the payout control microcomputer 370 is detected, an external device such as a hall computer is transmitted via the terminal board 160 as a signal different from the security signal. May be output.

  The high probability signal is a signal indicating that the gaming state is controlled to a high probability state (probability change state). In this embodiment, the high-accuracy signal is externally output through the terminal board 160 until a predetermined condition is satisfied after the power failure is restored (specifically, until the first big hit occurs).

  Further, as described above, the prize ball information is a signal that is output every time a specific number (10 in this example) of prize ball payouts is detected. In this embodiment, a predetermined payout condition for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls (10 balls in this embodiment) is satisfied (start winning opening 14, large winning opening, normal winning prize) A winning has occurred in the ports 29 and 30. Specifically, a detection signal from the proximity switch (winning port switches 29a and 30a, count switch 23, start port switch 14a) and a photo sensor (winning confirmation switches 29b and 30b). , 23b, 14b) on the condition that both of the detection signals are input, it is determined that a predetermined payout condition has been established.) The winning signal is output to the outside based on the winning signal, and the hall is based on the winning signal. The number of prize balls can be grasped on the side. Therefore, the prize ball information may be configured not to be output externally.

  33 to 37 are flowcharts showing the information output process in step S31. 33 to 37, steps S1002 to S1020 are processes for outputting a start port signal, steps S1021 to S1023 are processes for outputting a winning signal, and steps S1031 to S1036. Is a process for outputting one signal for the number of symbol determinations, and steps S1050 to S1068 are processes for outputting one signal for big hit, two signals for big hit, three signals for big hit, and a short time signal. Steps S1068A to S1068C and S1069 to S1074 are processes for outputting a security signal, and steps S1075 to S1077 are processes for outputting a high-accuracy signal.

  In the information output process, the CPU 56 first sets the address of the start port information setting table in the pointer (step S1002) and loads the number of processes pointed to by the pointer (step S1003). The number of processes (= 1) and the start port switch input bit (start port switch input bit determination value (01 (H))) are set in the start port information setting table. The start opening switch input bit determination value is a determination value for determining whether or not there is a start winning at the start winning opening 14. In step S1003, since the pointer points to the address of the number of processes in the start port information setting table, the data of the number of processes (= 1) in the start port information setting table is loaded. If the gaming machine has two start winning ports, 2 is set as the number of processes in the start port information setting table, and start port switch input bits for the two start winning ports are set. You can do so.

  Next, the CPU 56 loads the contents of the switch-on buffer into the register (step S1004), and sets the switch-on buffer as switch input data (step S1005). The pointer is incremented by 1 (step S1006), the start port switch input bit pointed to by the pointer is loaded into the register (step S1007), and the logical product of the start port switch input bit and the switch input data is obtained (step S1008). When the content of the switch-on buffer is 01 (H), that is, when the start port switch 14a is on, the logical product operation result is 01 (H). When the start port switch 14a is not turned on, the logical product operation result is 00 (H).

  If the logical operation result is 0 (Y in step S1009), the process proceeds to step S1015. If the result of the logical product is not 0 (N in step S1009), it is determined that a winning has been made for the starting winning port 14, and the starting port information storage counter is loaded into the register (step S1010). The start port information storage counter is a counter that counts the number of remaining outputs of the start port signal (that is, the remaining number of start winnings that have not been output from the start port signal). Next, the CPU 56 adds 1 to the start port information storage counter (step S1011). Then, it is confirmed whether the calculation result (added result) is not 0 (step S1012). When the calculation result is 0 (N in step S1012), 1 is subtracted from the calculation result (step S1013). Then, the calculation result is stored in the start port information storage counter (step S1014).

  In this embodiment, based on the fact that only the ON state of the upstream start port switch 14a in the start winning port 14 is detected, the processing after step S1010 is executed to output the start port signal. Although shown, the start port signal may be output based on the detection of the ON state of both the upstream start port switch 14a and the downstream winning confirmation switch 14b.

  Next, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the number of processes (step S1015), and determines whether the number of processes is not 0 (step S1016). When the number of processes is not 0 (Y in step S1016), the process proceeds to step S1004. In this embodiment, since the gaming machine has only the start winning opening 14, 1 is set as the initial value of the processing number, and it is always determined that the processing number is 0 in step S1016. Become.

  If it is determined in step S1016 that the number of processes is 0 (N in step S1016), the CPU 56 sets an initial value (00 (H)) in the information buffer formed in the RAM 55 (step S1017). Next, the CPU 56 sets the start port output bit position (bit 1 of the output port 1 in the example shown in FIG. 9) of the information output buffer formed in the RAM 55 (step S1018). Then, the CPU 56 sets the address of the start port information storage timer in the pointer (step S1019), and executes a winning timer setting process (step S1020).

  Next, the CPU 56 sets the winning output bit position of the information output buffer (bit 6 of the output port 1 in the example shown in FIG. 9) (step S1021). Then, the CPU 56 sets the address of the winning information storage timer in the pointer (step S1022), and executes a winning timer setting process (step S1023).

  In this embodiment, a common subroutine (winning timer set process) is executed when the start signal is output externally and when the winning signal is output externally, so that the start port output bit position of the information buffer is output. Is set and a start port signal is output, a winning output bit position of the information buffer is set, and a winning signal is output. Details of the winning timer setting process will be described later (see FIG. 38).

  Next, the CPU 56 loads the symbol determination number 1 information timer into the register (step S1031), reflects the state of the symbol determination number 1 information timer in the flag register (step S1032), and the symbol determination number 1 information timer times out. It is determined whether or not (step S1033). In this embodiment, in the special symbol variation processing (see step S303), when the variation time is timed out, when the variation of the special symbol is stopped, the symbol determination number 1 information timer outputs the symbol determination number output time (in this example, 0.500 seconds) is set, and when the symbol determination count output time has not elapsed, it is determined that the symbol determination count 1 information timer has not timed out, and when the symbol determination count output time has elapsed (symbol determination count) When the value 1 information timer value is 0), it is determined that the symbol determination time 1 information timer has timed out.

  If the symbol determination count 1 information timer has not timed out (N in step S1033), the symbol determination count 1 information timer is decremented by 1 (step S1034), and the calculation result is stored in the symbol determination count 1 information timer (step S1035). . Then, the design buffer count 1 output bit position of the information buffer (bit 0 of the output port 1 in the example shown in FIG. 9) is set (step S1036). When the symbol determination number 1 output bit position of the information buffer is set, the information buffer is set to the output value in the subsequent step S1102, and the output value is output to the output port 1 in step S1103. Is output from the output port 1 (becomes ON state). If the symbol determination number 1 information timer times out (Y in step S1033), the process of step S1036 is not executed, and as a result, the symbol determination number 1 signal is turned off.

  By the processing of steps S1031 to S1036 described above, every time the change of the special symbol is stopped (stopped symbol is fixed), the symbol determination number 1 signal is turned on in the symbol determination number output time (for example, 500 ms).

  Next, the CPU 56 loads the special symbol process flag (step S1050), compares the value of the special symbol process flag with the special winning opening opening pre-processing designation value (“5”) (step S1051), and the special symbol process flag. It is determined whether the value of is less than 5 (step S1052). When the value of the special symbol process flag is less than 5 (Y in step S1052), the process proceeds to step S1058. When the value of the special symbol process flag is 5 or more (N in step S1052), the value of the special symbol process flag is compared with the small hit release pre-processing specified value (“8”) (step S1053), and the special symbol is processed. It is determined whether or not the value of the process flag is 8 or more (step S1054). When the value of the special symbol process flag is 8 or more (Y in step S1054), the process proceeds to step S1058. When the value of the special symbol process flag is less than 8 (N in Step S1054), the output buffer position of one big hit in the information buffer is set (Step S1055). Further, the big output 2 output bit position of the information buffer is set (step S1056). When one output bit position of jackpot and two output bit positions of jackpot of the information buffer are set, the information buffer is set to an output value in the subsequent step S1102, and the output value is output to the output port 1 in step S1103. One signal and two jackpot signals are output from the output port 1 (become turned on).

  In this embodiment, a case where control is performed so that one big hit signal is not externally output in the case of a small hit by the processing in step S1054 is shown, but it is impossible to recognize whether or not the probability variation state is present. When the gaming machine is configured to be able to execute a common effect (so-called probability variation latent effect), even if it is a small hit, the process may proceed to step S1055 so that one signal for a big hit can be output externally.

  Further, the CPU 56 executes a time reduction check process for confirming whether or not it is in the time reduction state (step S1058), and determines whether or not it is in the time reduction state (step S1059). Specifically, the CPU 56 determines whether or not it is in the time reduction state by checking whether or not the time reduction flag that is set when shifting to the time reduction state is set. If the time-short state is set (Y in step S1059), the time-short output bit position of the information buffer is set (step S1060). When the time-short output bit position is set, the time buffer signal is output from the output port 1 by setting the information buffer to the output value in the subsequent step S1102 and outputting the output value to the output port 1 in step S1103. (Turns on) Also, the big output 2 output bit position of the information buffer is set (step S1061). When the jackpot 2 output bit position is set, the information buffer is set to the output value in the subsequent step S1102, and the output value is output to the output port 1 in step S1103, whereby the jackpot 2 signal is output from the output port 1. (Turns on).

  Further, the CPU 56 loads the special symbol process flag (step S1062), compares the value of the special symbol process flag with the special winning opening opening pre-processing designation value (“5”) (step S1063), and sets the special symbol process flag. It is determined whether or not the value is less than 5 (step S1064). When the value of the special symbol process flag is less than 5 (Y in step S1064), the process proceeds to step S1068A. When the value of the special symbol process flag is 5 or more (N in step S1064), the value of the special symbol process flag is compared with the small hit release pre-processing designation value (“8”) (step S1065). It is determined whether or not the value of the process flag is 8 or more (step S1066). When the value of the special symbol process flag is 8 or more (Y in step S1066), the process proceeds to step S1068A. When the value of the special symbol process flag is less than 8 (N in step S1066), the special symbol normal processing loads the contents of the big hit type buffer set based on the big hit type determination result, and the normal big hit or the probable big hit It is confirmed whether or not there is (step S1067). Whether or not a normal big hit or a probable big hit can be determined, for example, by checking the contents of the big hit type buffer set in the special symbol normal process. For example, the jackpot type buffer stores the contents of the jackpot type determined by the special symbol normal processing and the contents indicating the jackpot determination result. For example, “01” is a normal jackpot, “02” is a probable big hit, “ 03 ”is suddenly regarded as a promising big hit. If the contents of the big hit type buffer are “01” or “02”, it is determined that the big hit is a normal big hit or a probable big hit. In this case, the big output 3 output bit position of the information buffer is set (step S1068). When the jackpot 3 output bit position is set, the information buffer is set to the output value in the subsequent step S1102, and the output value is output to the output port 1 in step S1103, so that the jackpot 3 signal is output from the output port 1. (Turns on).

  By the processing of steps S1050 to S1068 described above, one big hit signal, two big hit signals, three big hit signals and a short time signal corresponding to the type of big hit and the gaming state are output (turned on).

  Next, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the discharge abnormality flag is set (step S1068A). If the discharge abnormality flag is set (that is, if the occurrence of a discharge abnormality is detected), the CPU 56 clears the value of the security signal information timer if it is set (step S1068B), and the security of the information buffer The signal output bit position (bit 7 of output port 1 in the example shown in FIG. 9) is set (step S1068C). When the security signal output bit position of the information buffer is set, the security signal is output from the output port 1 by setting the information buffer to the output value in the subsequent step S1102, and outputting the output value to the output port 1 in the step S1103. Is output (turns on).

  If a discharge abnormality to the start winning opening 14 or the big winning opening is detected by the processing of steps S1068A to S1068C described above, the discharging is performed until the power to the gaming machine is turned on again and the initialization process is executed. A security signal based on the abnormality is output.

  As described above, the abnormal discharge flag is stored in the backup RAM and is retained even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped. Therefore, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, the power failure is interrupted. When the recovery process (see steps S91 and S92) is executed, security based on the discharge abnormality again after the power failure recovery by executing the processes of steps S1068A to S1068C based on the fact that the discharge abnormality flag is held. The external output of the signal will be resumed. When the power supply to the gaming machine is started, the discharge abnormality flag is reset based on the execution of the initialization process (see step S10), and the external output of the security signal based on the discharge abnormality is terminated. (However, in this case, an external output of a security signal based on the execution of the initialization process is executed for a predetermined period (for example, 30 seconds) by executing the processes of steps S1069 to S1074 described later. become).

  If the discharge abnormality flag is not set (N in Step S1068A), the CPU 56 loads the security signal information timer (Step S1069), reflects the state of the security signal information timer in the flag register (Step S1070), and security. It is determined whether or not the signal information timer has timed out (step S1071). In this embodiment, when a winning game ball is detected at the start winning port 14 when the variable winning ball device 15 is not in the open state, or when a winning game ball is won at the big winning port when the big hit game is not being played. In this case, it is determined that an abnormal winning has occurred, and a predetermined time (30 seconds in this example) is set in the security signal information timer (see steps S255 and S265 in the abnormal winning notification process), and the predetermined time has not elapsed. When it is determined that the security signal information timer has not timed out, and when the predetermined time has elapsed (when the value of the security signal information timer is 0), it is determined that the security signal information timer has timed out.

  In this embodiment, when the power supply to the gaming machine is started and the initialization process is executed, a predetermined time (30 seconds in this example) is set in the security signal information timer (in the main process). When the predetermined time has not elapsed, it is determined that the security signal information timer has not timed out, and when the predetermined time has elapsed (when the value of the security signal information timer is 0), It is determined that the security signal information timer has timed out.

  If the security signal information timer has not timed out (N in step S1071), the security signal information timer is decremented by 1 (step S1072), and the calculation result is stored in the security signal information timer (step S1073). Then, the security signal output bit position of the information buffer (bit 7 of the output port 1 in the example shown in FIG. 9) is set (step S1074). When the security signal output bit position of the information buffer is set, the security signal is output from the output port 1 by setting the information buffer to the output value in the subsequent step S1102, and outputting the output value to the output port 1 in the step S1103. Is output (turns on). If the security signal information timer times out (Y in step S1071), the security signal is turned off as a result of not executing the process in step S1074.

  The initialization process is executed until 30 seconds have elapsed after the start winning opening 14 or the big winning opening is detected by the processing of steps S1069 to S1074 described above, or when power supply to the gaming machine is started. The security signal is output using the common connector CN8 of the terminal board 160 until 30 seconds elapses.

  When a new abnormal prize is detected during the output of the security signal, the output of the security signal is continued until 30 seconds have elapsed since the last abnormal prize was detected.

  In addition, after starting the output of a security signal based on the detection of an abnormal winning or the initialization process being executed, if an abnormal discharge is detected while the security signal is still being output, Can be switched from security signal output control based on detection and initialization processing to security signal output control based on discharge abnormality. Specifically, when the security signal information timer is set based on the detection of the abnormal winning or the execution of the initialization process, the processing of steps S1069 to S1074 is executed and the security signal is output to the outside. When a discharge abnormality is detected, a discharge abnormality flag is set in the switch normal / abnormality check process (see steps S2128A and S2134A). Thereafter, since the abnormal discharge flag is set, the process switches to steps S1068A to S1068C, the security signal information timer is cleared (see step S1068B), and the abnormal discharge flag is reset in the initialization process. The security signal is output to the outside based on the fact that the discharge abnormality flag is set (see step S1068C).

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the high-accuracy output permission flag is set (step S1075). Note that the high-accuracy output permission flag is set when the hot start process is executed at the start of power supply to the gaming machine (see step S9103). If the high-accuracy medium output permission flag is set, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the probability variation flag is set (step S1076). If the probability change flag is set, the CPU 56 sets the high-accuracy medium signal output bit position (bit 7 of the output port 0 in the example shown in FIG. 9) of the information buffer (step S1077). When the high-accuracy signal output bit position of the information buffer is set, the information buffer is set to the output value in the subsequent step S1102, and the output value is output to the output port 0 in step S1103. Output from output port 0 (becomes ON state). In this embodiment, after the power failure recovery, if the first big hit occurs, the high-accuracy output permission flag is reset (see step S1303), and as a result, the high-accuracy medium signal is turned off.

  In this embodiment, the case where the high-accuracy output permission flag is reset when the first big hit occurs is shown. However, the timing when the high-accuracy output permission flag is reset is shown in this embodiment. It is not limited to what is shown. For example, the high-accuracy medium output permission flag may be reset even when a small hit occurs. In addition, for example, when the probability variation state is configured to end based on the fact that the variation display is executed a predetermined number of times after being controlled to the probability variation state, the certain number of variations display is terminated and the probability variation state is changed. It may be configured to reset the high-accuracy medium output permission flag when the process ends.

  If the probability variation flag is set after the power failure is restored by the processing of steps S1075 to S1077 described above, the high-probability medium signal is maintained until a predetermined condition is satisfied (in this example, until the first big hit occurs). Is output (turns on). That is, in this embodiment, as already described, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, the probability variation flag is held in the backup RAM for a predetermined period. Therefore, if the probability change state was controlled before the occurrence of a power failure, the probability change flag should be retained in the backup RAM. Until then, the output of the high-accuracy signal is continued.

  In this embodiment, since the high-accuracy output permission flag is reset when the first big hit occurs (see step S1303), the high-accuracy intermediate signal is not output thereafter. Therefore, in this embodiment, if the predetermined condition is satisfied (in this example, if the first big hit occurs), the output of the high-accuracy signal is prohibited.

  In this embodiment, only the process of setting the high-accuracy medium output permission flag is performed at the time of executing the power failure recovery process of the main process, and it is confirmed whether or not the probability change flag is set in the information output process of step S31. However, the processing method for outputting the high-accuracy signal is not limited to that shown in this embodiment. For example, it is confirmed whether or not the probability change flag is set in the power failure recovery processing of the main processing, and if it is set, the high accuracy signal output bit position of the information buffer is set or A high accuracy signal may be output by performing processing such as setting a timer. Even when the probability variation flag is checked in the power failure recovery process and the output of the high-accuracy signal is started in this way, the high-level signal is output when a predetermined condition is satisfied, such as when the first big hit occurs. It may be configured to perform control so as to stop the output of the accuracy signal, and to control so as not to output the accuracy signal thereafter.

  In this embodiment, for each timer interrupt, the output bit position of the corresponding signal is set in the information output processing shown in FIGS. 33 to 37 (steps S1036, S1055, S1056, S1060, S1061, S1068, S1068C). , S1074, and S1077), and steps S1102 and S1103 are executed to externally output from the output ports 0 and 1, with regard to the output state of each signal, the value of the corresponding output bit is set to the previous setting. It will not change unless it changes. For example, if the value of the corresponding output bit is set to “1”, the signal continues to be output while it is set.

  FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing the winning timer setting process executed in steps S1020 and S1023 of the information output process. In the winning timer setting process, the CPU 56 first loads the information storage timer pointed to by the pointer (step S2001), reflects the state of the loaded information storage timer in the flag register (step S2002), and a signal is being output. Is determined (step S2003). In this case, when the winning timer set process is executed in step S1020 of the information output process, the start port information storage timer is loaded and the state is reflected in the flag register, and whether or not the start port signal is being output. It will be determined. When the winning timer set process is executed in step S1023 of the information output process, the winning information storage timer is loaded and the state is reflected in the flag register to determine whether or not the winning signal is being output. Will do.

  The start port information storage timer is a timer for measuring an on time and an off time (for example, an on time of 100 ms and an off time of 100 ms) of the start port signal. If the value of the start port information storage timer is not 0, it is determined that the start port signal is being output. If the value of the start port information storage timer is 0, it is determined that the start port signal is not being output. The winning information storage timer is a timer for measuring an on time and an off time (for example, an on time of 100 ms and an off time of 100 ms) of the winning signal. If the value of the winning information storage timer is not 0, it is determined that the winning signal is being output. If the value of the winning information storage timer is 0, it is determined that the winning signal is not being output.

  If the signal (start port signal or winning signal) is being output (Y in step S2003), the process proceeds to step S2012. If the signal (start port signal or winning signal) is not being output (N in step S2003), the CPU 56 adds 1 to the pointer value (step S2004). In this embodiment, in the ROM 54, the start port information storage counter is set in the area next to the area where the start port information storage timer is set, and the area next to the area where the winning information storage timer is set. Is set with a winning information storage counter. Therefore, by executing the process of step S2004, the pointer value indicates the address of the start port information storage counter or the winning information storage counter.

  Next, the CPU 56 loads the information storage counter (start port information storage counter or winning information storage counter) pointed to by the pointer (step S2005), and the state of the loaded information storage counter (start port information storage counter or winning information storage counter) Is reflected in the flag register (step S2006), and it is determined whether there is a remaining number of output times of the signal (start port signal or winning signal) (step S2007).

  When the start port switch 14a is turned on (N in step S1009), the start port information storage counter is added, so that it is determined that there is a remaining number of output times of the start port signal. In addition, a winning to one of the winning ports (starting winning port 14, large winning port, normal winning ports 29, 30) occurs, and proximity switches (starting port switch 14a, count switch 23, winning port switches 29a, 30a). Is turned on and the photo sensor (winning confirmation switches 14b, 23b, 29b, 30b) is turned on, the winning information storage counter is incremented every time 10 expected winning balls are accumulated (see step S5132). Therefore, it is determined that there is a remaining number of output times of the winning signal.

  If there is no remaining number of outputs of the signal (start port signal or winning signal) (Y in step S2007), the winning timer setting process is terminated. If there is a remaining number of output times of the signal (start port signal or winning signal) (N in step S2007), the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the upper storage counter (start port information storing counter or winning information storing counter) pointed to by the pointer. (Step S2008) The calculation result (the result obtained by subtracting 1) is stored in the information storage counter (start port information storage counter or winning information storage counter) (Step S2009). Then, the winning information operating time (50) is set in the register (step S2010). The winning information operating time (50) is a time for which a 4 ms timer interrupt is executed 50 times, that is, a time of 0.200 seconds (200 ms). In this embodiment, the case where the same value is set as the winning information operating time is shown when the start opening signal is output and when the winning signal is output. However, different values are set. Also good.

  Next, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the value of the pointer (step S2011). By executing the processing in step S2011, the pointer value returns to the state indicating the address of the start port information storage timer or the winning information storage timer again. Then, the process proceeds to step S2012.

  Next, if the winning information operating time is not set in step S2010, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the information storage timer (start port information storing timer or winning information storing timer) pointed to by the pointer, and the winning information operating time is determined in step S2010. If it is set, 1 is subtracted from the winning information operating time (step S2012). Then, the calculation result (the result obtained by subtracting 1) is stored in the information storage timer (start port information storage timer or winning information storage timer) pointed to by the pointer (step S2013).

  The CPU 56 compares the calculation result with the winning information on time (25) (step S2014), and determines whether the calculating result is shorter than the winning information on time (step S2015). The winning information on time (25) is a time for which a 4 ms timer interruption is executed 25 times, that is, a time of 0.100 seconds (100 ms).

  When the calculation result is not shorter than the winning information on time, that is, when the calculating result (remaining time of the starting information storing timer or the winning information storing timer) is longer than the winning information on time (100 ms) ( In step S2015 N), the CPU 56 loads the information buffer (step S2016), and obtains a logical sum of the loaded information buffer value and the information output buffer value (step S2017). Then, the CPU 56 stores the calculation result of step S2017 in the information buffer (step S2018).

  If the winning timer set process is executed in step S1020 of the information output process by executing the processes of steps S2016 to S2018, the value of the information output buffer in which the start port output bit is set in step S1018 Is obtained, the start port output bit position of the information buffer (bit 1 of output port 1 in the example shown in FIG. 9) is set. When the start port output bit position of the information buffer is set, the information buffer is set to the output value in step S1102 of the subsequent information output process, and the output value is output to the output port 1 in step S1103. The mouth signal is output from the output port 1.

  Further, when the winning timer set process is executed in step S1023 of the information output process by executing the processes of steps S2016 to S2018, the value of the information output buffer in which the winning output bit is set in step S1011 Is obtained, the winning output bit position of the information buffer (bit 6 of the output port 1 in the example shown in FIG. 9) is set. Then, when the winning output bit position of the information buffer is set, the information buffer is set to the output value in step S1102 of the subsequent information output processing, and the output value is output to the output port 1 in step S1103. Is output from the output port 1.

  When a winning to the start winning opening 14 (the start opening switch 14a is turned on) is generated by the information output processing steps S1002 to S1020 and the winning timer setting process shown in FIG. 38, a start opening signal is output. That is, after the start port signal is turned on for 100 ms, it is turned off for 100 ms. By inputting this starting port signal to the hall computer, the number of winnings to the starting winning port 14 can be recognized.

  Since the start port signal is turned on for 100 ms and then turned off for 100 ms, the next start port is turned on after the 100 ms off state even if a start winning is continuously generated in a short time. A signal is output. That is, the start port signals are output with an interval of at least 100 ms.

  Thus, since the start port signals are output at intervals of at least 100 ms, the hall computer can reliably grasp the total number of start winning prizes.

  In addition, by the steps S1021 to S1023 of the information output process and the winning timer setting process shown in FIG. 38, a winning to one of the winning ports (start winning port 14, large winning port, normal winning ports 29, 30) occurs ( Proximity switch (start port switch 14a, count switch 23, winning port switch 29a, 30a) is turned on and photo sensor (winning confirmation switch 14b, 23b, 29b, 30b) is turned on). Each time a winning signal is output. That is, after the winning signal is turned on for 100 ms, it is turned off for 100 ms. By inputting this winning signal to the hall computer, the expected number of winning balls can be recognized.

  Since the winning signal is turned on for 100 ms and then turned off for 100 ms, even if a start winning is continuously generated in a short time, the next winning signal is displayed after the off state for 100 ms. Is output. In other words, the winning signals are output with an interval of at least 100 ms.

  Thus, the winning signals are output at intervals of at least 100 ms, so that the hall computer can reliably grasp the total number of planned winning balls.

  In this embodiment, when the winning signal is output to the outside, first, the process of step S2012 is executed to subtract the value of the winning information storage timer, and then the steps S2018, S1102, and S1103 are executed to receive the winning signal. However, the processing order of the subtraction processing of the winning information storage timer and the external output processing of the winning signal is not limited to that shown in this embodiment. For example, first, the same processing as in steps S2018, S1102, and S1103 is executed to execute the external output processing of the winning signal, and then the same processing as in step S2012 is performed to subtract the value of the winning information storage timer. Also good.

  Next, the security signal output timing will be described. FIG. 39 is an explanatory diagram showing the output timing of the security signal. In this embodiment, when initialization processing is executed at the start of power supply to the gaming machine (see steps S10 to S14), a predetermined time (in this example, 30 seconds) is set in the security signal information timer. Based on the above (see step S14a), the processing of steps S1069 to S1074, S1102, and S1103 is executed in the information output process (see step S31), and the connector CN8 of the terminal board 160 is connected as shown in FIG. A security signal is output to an external device such as a hall computer for a predetermined time (in this example, 30 seconds).

  In addition, when it is determined that an abnormal winning at the big winning opening has occurred (see steps S251 to S254) or when it is determined that an abnormal winning at the starting winning opening 14 has occurred (see steps S261 to S264). In addition, based on the fact that a predetermined time (30 seconds in this example) is set in the security signal information timer (see steps S255 and S265), the information output process (see step S31) performs steps S1069 to S1074, S1102, and S1103. As shown in FIG. 39A, a security signal is output from the connector CN8 of the terminal board 160 to an external device such as a hall computer for a predetermined time (in this example, 30 seconds). .

  In addition, after the power supply to the gaming machine is started, the detection error between the detected number of the start opening switch 14a and the detected number of the winning confirmation 1 switch 14b becomes a predetermined value (10 in this example) or more. First, when it is determined that an abnormal discharge to the start winning opening 14 has occurred (see steps S2121 to S2127), the detection error between the number detected by the count switch 23 and the number detected by the winning confirmation 2 switch 23b is a predetermined value. (In this example, 10) or more, when it is determined that an abnormal discharge to the special winning opening has occurred (see steps S2129 to S2133), the abnormal discharge flag is set. Based on (see steps S2128A and S2134A), steps S1068A to S1068C, S1102, and S110 are performed in the information output process (see step S31). As shown in FIG. 39B, the terminal CN 160 has a connector CN8 connected to an external device such as a hall computer until the game machine is turned on again and the initialization process is executed. A security signal is output to the device.

  As described above, in this embodiment, when the initialization process is executed at the start of power supply to the gaming machine, when the abnormal winning at the starting winning port 14 or the big winning port is detected, and at the starting winning port 14 and when a discharge abnormality to the special winning opening is detected, a security signal is externally output from the common connector CN8 of the terminal board 160.

  Further, in this embodiment, when a security signal is being output to the outside and a discharge abnormality to the start winning opening 14 or the big winning opening is newly detected, the initialization process is executed or the abnormal winning is detected. The security signal output control based on the security signal is switched to the security signal output control based on the discharge abnormality detection. For example, when the output of the security signal is started based on the fact that the initialization process is executed when the power supply to the gaming machine is started, or based on the detection of the abnormal winning at the start winning opening 14 or the big winning opening. When the output of the security signal is started, as shown in FIG. 39A, the output of the security signal should be continued until 30 seconds elapse. However, as shown in FIG. 39 (C), even before 30 seconds have elapsed, the detection error between the number of detections of the start opening switch 14a and the number of detections of the winning confirmation 1 switch 14b is a predetermined value (this example). 10) or more, it is determined that an abnormal discharge to the start winning opening 14 has occurred, or the detection error between the number detected by the count switch 23 and the number detected by the winning confirmation 2 switch 23b is a predetermined value (in this example) 10) As described above, there is a possibility that it is determined that an abnormal discharge to the special winning opening has occurred. In this case, the occurrence of discharge abnormality is detected and the discharge abnormality flag is set (see steps S2121 to S2128A, S2129 to S2134A), so that in the information output process (see step S31), the processing from step S1069 to S1074 to step S1068A to Switching to the process of S1068C, as shown in FIG. 39C, the output of the security signal is continued until the game machine is next turned on again and the initialization process is executed.

  In this embodiment, when the initialization process is executed at the start of power supply to the gaming machine or when an abnormal winning at the start winning port 14 or the big winning port is detected, the security signal is applied for 30 seconds. However, the output time of the security signal is not limited to that shown in this embodiment. For example, the security signal is output for 30 seconds when the initialization process is executed, while the security signal is output for 1 minute when an abnormal winning at the start winning opening 14 or the big winning opening is detected. Different signal output times may be used so that it is possible to recognize whether the initialization process has been executed or whether an abnormal winning to the start winning opening 14 or the big winning opening has been detected.

  Further, the security signal output period may be different depending on whether an abnormal winning at the start winning opening 14 is detected or an abnormal winning at the large winning opening is detected. For example, a security signal may be output for 2 minutes when an abnormal winning at the start winning opening 14 is detected, and a security signal may be output for 1 minute when an abnormal winning at a large winning opening is detected.

  Next, the output timing of the security signal when the power supply is restored after the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped when the security signal is output based on the discharge abnormality will be described. FIG. 40 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the output timing of the security signal when the power supply is restored after the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped when the security signal is output based on the discharge abnormality.

  When the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped after the security signal is output based on the discharge abnormality and the power supply is restored, the initialization process is executed at the start of the power supply to the gaming machine (step (See S10 to S14), the discharge abnormality flag is reset (see Step S10), and the security signal output control based on the discharge abnormality ends. On the other hand, when the initialization process is executed, a predetermined time (in this example, 30 seconds) is set in the security signal information timer (see step S14a). Therefore, the processing of steps S1069 to S1074, S1102, and S1103 is executed in the information output processing (see step S31), and a predetermined time (in this example, from the connector CN8 of the terminal board 160 to an external device such as a hall computer). (30 seconds) A security signal is output. Therefore, when the initialization process is executed after the restoration of the power failure, as shown in FIG. 40 (A), a predetermined period (for example, 30 seconds) is applied after the game machine is turned on again. When the elapses, the security signal external output ends.

  On the other hand, when the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped when the security signal is output based on the discharge abnormality and then the power supply is restored, the power failure recovery process is executed based on the stored contents of the backup RAM. (Refer to Steps S91 and S92) Since the abnormal discharge flag is backed up in the backup RAM, the processing of Steps S1068A to S1068C, S1102, and S1103 is continued in the information output process (see Step S31) even after the power failure is restored. The Accordingly, when the power failure recovery process is executed without executing the initialization process after the power failure recovery, the security signal is not detected even after the power to the gaming machine is turned on again as shown in FIG. Output continues. Therefore, once the output of the security signal is started based on the abnormal discharge, the output of the security signal is continued until the game machine is turned on again until the initialization process is executed.

  Next, the operation of the effect control means will be described. FIG. 41 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) mounted on the effect control board 80. The production control microcomputer 100 starts executing the main process when the power is turned on. In the main processing, first, initialization processing is performed for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, and initializing a timer for determining the activation control activation interval (for example, 2 ms) (step S701). .

  Then, the production control microcomputer 100 proceeds to a loop process for monitoring the timer interrupt flag (step S702). When the timer interruption occurs, the production control microcomputer 100 sets a timer interruption flag in the timer interruption process. If the timer interrupt flag is set in the main process, the effect control microcomputer 100 clears the flag (step S703) and executes the effect control process.

  In the effect control process, the effect control microcomputer 100 first analyzes the received effect control command and executes a process of setting a flag according to the received effect control command (command analysis process: step S704). Next, the effect control microcomputer 100 executes effect control process processing (step S705). In the effect control process, a process corresponding to the current control state (effect control process flag) is selected from the processes corresponding to the control state, and display control of the variable display device 9 is executed. In addition, a random number update process for updating a counter value of a counter for generating a predetermined random number (for example, a random number for determining a stop symbol) is executed (step S706). Further, a notification control process for performing notification using an effect device such as the variable display device 9 is executed (step S707). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S702.

  FIG. 42 is a flowchart showing the effect control process (step S705) in the main process shown in FIG. In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 performs one of steps S800 to S807 according to the value of the effect control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed.

  Fluctuation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800): It is confirmed whether or not a variation pattern command has been received from the game control microcomputer 560. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the variation pattern command reception flag set in the command analysis process is set. If the change pattern command has been received, the value of the effect control process flag is changed to a value corresponding to the effect symbol change start process (step S801).

  Production symbol variation start processing (step S801): Control is performed so that the variation of the production symbol is started. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol changing process (step S802).

  Production symbol variation processing (step S802): Controls the switching timing of each variation state (variation speed) constituting the variation pattern and monitors the end of the variation time. When the variation time ends, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation stop process (step S803).

  Effect symbol variation stop processing (step S803): Control is performed to stop the variation of the effect symbol and derive and display the display result (stop symbol). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot display process (step S804) or the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800).

  Big hit display process (step S804): When the big hit is reached, after the variation time is over, the effect display device 9 is controlled to display a screen for notifying the occurrence of the big hit. In the case of a small hit, control is performed to display a screen for notifying the effect display device 9 of the occurrence of the small hit after the end of the variation time. For example, when a fanfare designation command designating the start of a big hit is received, a fanfare effect is executed. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the in-round processing (step S805).

  In-round processing (step S805): Display control during round is performed. For example, if a display command indicating that the special winning opening is open is received, the display control of the number of rounds is performed.

  Post-round processing (step S806): Display control between rounds is performed. For example, when a display command after opening the big prize opening indicating that the big prize opening is after being opened (closed), an interval display is performed.

  Big hit end effect processing (step S807): In the effect display device 9, display control is performed to notify the player that the big hit game state has ended. For example, when an ending designation command for designating the end of the big hit is received, an ending effect is executed. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800).

  FIG. 43 is a flowchart showing an effect symbol variation start process (step S801) in the effect control process. In the effect symbol variation start process, the effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) first selects a process table corresponding to the variation pattern (step S821). Then, the production control CPU 101 starts a process timer in the process data 1 of the selected process table (step S822).

  Next, the production control CPU 101 checks whether or not the abnormal winning 1 notification flag indicating that the abnormal winning notification (hereinafter referred to as abnormal winning 1 notification) is being performed in the first mode is set (step S1). S823). When the abnormal winning 1 notification flag is set (Y in step S823), the effect control CPU 101 controls the effect device according to the contents of only the display control execution data 1 and the sound number data 1 in the process data 1. Is executed (step S824). That is, when the abnormal winning 1 notification flag is set, when a new variable display of the effect symbol is started, the lamp display effect according to the variable display is not executed, The lamp display corresponding to the winning 1 notification is continued. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the variation display of the effect symbol is started during the execution of the abnormal winning 1 notification, the abnormal winning 1 notification is executed together with the variation display of the effect symbol.

  If the abnormal winning 1 notification flag is not set, the production control CPU 101 has an abnormal winning 2 notification flag indicating that abnormal notification is performed in the second mode (hereinafter referred to as abnormal winning 2 notification). It is confirmed whether it is set (step S825). When the abnormal winning 2 notification flag is set (Y in step S825), the effect control CPU 101 executes control of the effect device according to the contents of only the display control execution data 1 in the process data 1 (step S825). S826). That is, when the abnormal winning 2 notification flag is set, when a new variable display of the effect symbol is started, the lamp display effect or sound effect corresponding to the variable display is executed. The lamp display and sound output corresponding to the abnormal winning 2 notification are continued. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the variation display of the effect symbol is started during the execution of the abnormal winning 2 notification, the abnormal winning 2 notification is executed together with the variation display of the effect symbol.

  If the abnormal winning 2 notification flag is not set, the production control CPU 101 performs the production device (as production component according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1)). Control of the effect display device 9, various lamps as effect parts and speaker 27 as effect parts is executed (step S827). For example, a command is output to the VDP 109 in order to display an image according to the variation pattern on the effect display device 9. In addition, a control signal (lamp control execution data) is output to the lamp driver board 35 in order to perform on / off control of various lamps. In addition, a control signal (sound number data) is output to the sound output board 70 in order to output sound from the speaker 27.

  In this embodiment, the process of controlling the effect device is divided according to whether or not the abnormal winning is being notified, but the lamp display pattern according to the variable display and the sound effect sound effect and abnormality If the display pattern of the lamp and the alarm sound (notification sound) according to the winning notification are set in different channels, and the lamp display can be performed simultaneously and the sound can be output simultaneously, steps S824, S826 are performed. There is no need to separate the processing of S827.

  Although not particularly mentioned in this embodiment, the discharge abnormality notification is executed together with the effect symbol variation display even when the effect symbol variation display is started during the execution of the discharge abnormality notification. Therefore, it is desirable that the discharge abnormality notification is continued. For example, the discharge abnormality notification may be continued by reducing and displaying a character string such as “discharge abnormality” on a part of the display screen of the effect display device 9 even during the variation display of the effect symbol.

  Conversely, when the discharge abnormality notification is being executed, control may be performed so as not to execute the change display of the effect symbol. In this case, for example, it is confirmed whether or not the discharge abnormality flag is set before step S821 of the effect symbol variation start process or before step S841 of the effect symbol variation in-process described later, and the discharge abnormality flag is set. Then, the process may be terminated as it is, and the process after step S821 and the process after step S841 may not be shifted.

  Then, the effect control CPU 101 sets a value corresponding to the change time specified by the change pattern command in the change time timer (step S828), and the value of the effect control process flag is processed during the effect symbol change (step S802). Is updated to a value corresponding to (step S829).

  FIG. 44 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation process (step S802) in the effect control process. In the effect symbol changing process, the effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) subtracts 1 from the value of the process timer (step S841), and sets the value of the change time timer to −1 (1). Subtraction) (step S842). When the process timer times out (step S843), the process data is switched. That is, the process timer setting value set next in the process table is set in the process timer (step S844).

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the abnormal winning 1 notification flag is set (step S845). When the abnormal winning 1 notification flag is set (Y in step S845), the effect control CPU 101 displays the process data i (i is any one of 2 to n) set next. The rendering device is controlled according to the contents of only the control execution data i and the sound number data i (step S846). That is, when the abnormal winning 1 notification flag is set, when a new variable display of the effect symbol is started, the lamp display effect according to the variable display is not executed, The lamp display corresponding to the winning 1 notification is continued. Accordingly, when the abnormal winning 1 notification flag is set, the lamp display effect according to the variable display of the effect symbol is not executed, but the lamp display according to the abnormal winning 1 notification is continued. The Therefore, in this embodiment, when the display change of the effect symbol is executed during the execution of the abnormal winning 1 notification, the abnormal winning 1 notification is executed together with the change display of the effect symbol.

  If the abnormal winning 1 notification flag is not set, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the abnormal winning 2 notification flag is set (step S847). When the abnormal winning 2 notification flag is set (Y in step S847), the effect control CPU 101 displays the process data i (i is any one of 2 to n) set next. The control of the effect device is executed according to the content of only the control execution data i (step S848). That is, when the abnormal winning 2 notification flag is set, when a new variable display of the effect symbol is started, the lamp display effect or sound effect corresponding to the variable display is executed. The lamp display and sound output corresponding to the abnormal winning 2 notification are continued. Therefore, when the abnormal winning 2 notification flag is set, the lamp display effect or sound effect corresponding to the variable display of the effect symbol is not executed, but the lamp display corresponding to the abnormal winning 2 notification is performed. And sound output continues. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the variation display of the effect symbol is executed during the execution of the abnormal winning 2 notification, the abnormal winning 2 notification is executed together with the variation display of the effect symbol.

  If the abnormal winning 2 notification flag is not set, the CPU 101 for effect control is based on the process data i (display control execution data i, lamp control execution data i, and sound number data i) set next. The control state for the rendering device is changed (step S849).

  If the variation time timer has timed out (step S850), the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation stop process (step S803) (step S852). Even if the variable time timer has not timed out, if the confirmation command reception flag indicating that the symbol confirmation designation command has been received is set (step S851), the process proceeds to step S852. Even if the variation time timer has not timed out, if the symbol confirmation designation command is received, the process shifts to control to stop variation.For example, a variation pattern command indicating a long variation time due to noise between substrates is received. Even in such a case, it is possible to end the variation of the effect symbol when the regular variation time has elapsed (when the variation of the special symbol ends).

  45 and 46 are flowcharts showing the notification control process in step S707. In the notification control process, the production control CPU 101 first checks whether or not a discharge abnormality notification designation command has been received (step S3001). If the discharge abnormality notification designation command has been received (that is, when a discharge abnormality is detected), the effect control CPU 101 transmits lamp control execution data indicating lamp display corresponding to the discharge abnormality notification to the lamp driver board 35. (Step S3002). Further, the effect control CPU 101 superimposes and displays a discharge abnormality notification screen (for example, a screen displaying a character string such as “discharge abnormality”) on the screen displayed at that time in the effect display device 9. The command is output to the VDP 109 (step S3003). The VDP 109 superimposes and displays a discharge abnormality notification screen on the effect display device 9 according to the command. Therefore, the lamp display corresponding to the discharge abnormality notification is performed thereafter, and the discharge abnormality notification screen is superimposed on the effect display device 9.

  In this embodiment, when the discharge abnormality notification is started, the discharge abnormality notification is continued until the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped. Then, the discharge abnormality notification is terminated based on the stop of the power supply to the gaming machine, and the discharge abnormality notification is not executed after the power supply to the gaming machine is restored. Specifically, in this embodiment, even if the power supply is stopped during the execution of the discharge abnormality notification, the processing such as retransmitting the discharge abnormality notification designation command after the power supply to the gaming machine is resumed is not performed. Therefore, the discharge abnormality notification is not resumed after the power supply is restored.

  Moreover, in this embodiment, the case where the lamp display corresponding to the discharge abnormality notification and the display of the discharge abnormality notification screen are performed as the discharge abnormality notification is shown, but the notification mode of the discharge abnormality notification is in this embodiment. It is not limited to what is shown. For example, the discharge abnormality notification may be executed by outputting a sound corresponding to the discharge abnormality notification.

  If the discharge abnormality notification designation command has not been received, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the abnormal winning 1 notification flag is set (step S3005). If the abnormal winning 1 notification flag is set (if abnormal winning 1 notification is in progress), the production control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the abnormal winning 1 notification timer for measuring the execution period of the abnormal winning 1 notification ( In step S3006), it is confirmed whether or not the abnormal winning 1 notification timer after subtraction has timed out (step S3007). If the abnormal winning 1 notification timer has timed out, the production control CPU 101 stops the lamp display corresponding to the abnormal winning 1 notification and stops the abnormal winning 1 notification (step S3008). Then, the effect control CPU 101 resets the abnormal winning 1 notification flag (step S3009).

  When the abnormal winning 1 notification flag is not set (N in step S3005), or when the abnormal winning 1 notification timer has not timed out (N in step S3007), the effect control CPU 101 notifies the abnormal winning 1 notification. It is confirmed whether or not a designation command or a start abnormal winning 1 notification designation command has been received (steps S3010 and S3011). If the abnormal winning 1 notification designation command or the starting abnormal winning 1 notification designation command is received (Y in step S3010, Y in step S3011), that is, the abnormal winning to the big winning opening or the starting winning opening 14 is detected 20 times. In this case, the effect control CPU 101 outputs lamp control execution data indicating lamp display corresponding to the abnormal winning 1 notification to the lamp driver board 35 (step S3012). Therefore, the lamp display corresponding to the abnormal winning 1 notification is performed thereafter. Then, the production control CPU 101 sets the abnormal winning 1 notification flag (step S3013), and sets a value corresponding to 31 seconds in the abnormal winning 1 notification timer (step S3014).

  As described above, by executing the processes of steps S3005 to S3014, the abnormal winning 1 notification is executed for 31 seconds based on the reception of the abnormal winning 1 notification specifying command or the starting abnormal winning 1 notification specifying command. The

  In this embodiment, the case where the lamp display corresponding to the abnormal winning 1 notification is performed as the abnormal winning 1 notification is shown. However, the notification mode of the abnormal winning 1 notification is limited to that shown in this embodiment. I can't. For example, the abnormal winning 1 notification may be executed by performing screen display or sound output according to the abnormal winning 1 notification.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the abnormal winning 1 notification designation command is received and when the abnormal starting winning 1 notification designation command is received (that is, when the abnormal winning to the big winning opening is detected 20 times and when starting Although the case where the abnormal winning 1 notification is performed in a common manner is shown in the case where the abnormal winning to the winning opening 14 is detected 20 times, the manner of abnormal winning notification may be different. For example, when the abnormal winning 1 notification designation command is received, the lamp display and sound output are performed in response to the abnormal winning 1 notification, while when the abnormal start winning 1 notification designation command is received, the abnormal winning 1 notification is notified. Only lamp display according to the above may be performed.

  If neither the abnormal winning 1 notification designation command nor the start abnormal winning 1 notification designation command has been received, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the abnormal winning 2 notification flag is set (step S3015). If the abnormal winning 2 notification flag is set (if abnormal winning 2 notification is in progress), the production control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the abnormal winning 2 notification timer for measuring the execution period of the abnormal winning 2 notification ( In step S3016), it is confirmed whether or not the abnormal winning 2 notification timer after subtraction has timed out (step S3017). If the abnormal winning 2 notification timer has timed out, the production control CPU 101 stops the lamp display and sound output corresponding to the abnormal winning 2 notification and stops the abnormal winning 2 notification (step S3018). Then, the effect control CPU 101 resets the abnormal winning 2 notification flag (step S3019).

  When the abnormal winning 2 notification flag is not set (N in Step S3015), or when the abnormal winning 2 notification timer has not timed out (N in Step S3017), the effect control CPU 101 notifies the abnormal winning 2 notification. It is confirmed whether or not a designation command or a start abnormal winning 2 notification designation command has been received (steps S3020 and S3021). If the abnormal winning 2 notification designation command or the starting abnormal winning 2 notification designation command has been received (Y in step S3020, Y in step S3021), that is, the abnormal winning to the big winning opening or the starting winning opening 14 is detected 50 times. In this case, the production control CPU 101 outputs sound data indicating sound output in response to the abnormal winning 2 notification to the sound output board 70 (step S3022). The voice synthesis IC 703 mounted on the voice output board 70 reads data corresponding to the input sound data from the voice data ROM 704 and outputs a voice signal to the speaker 27 side according to the read data. In addition, the effect control CPU 101 outputs lamp control execution data indicating lamp display in response to the abnormal winning 2 notification to the lamp driver board 35 (step S3023). Therefore, lamp display and sound output corresponding to the abnormal winning 2 notification are performed thereafter. Then, the effect control CPU 101 sets the abnormal winning 2 notification flag (step S3024), and sets a value corresponding to 300 seconds to the abnormal winning 2 notification timer (step S3025).

  As described above, by executing the processes of steps S3015 to S3025, the abnormal winning 2 notification is executed for 300 seconds based on the reception of the abnormal winning 2 notification specifying command or the start abnormal winning 2 notification specifying command. The

  In this embodiment, the case where the lamp display and sound output corresponding to the abnormal winning 2 notification is performed as the abnormal winning 2 notification is shown, but the notification mode of the abnormal winning 2 notification is shown in this embodiment. It cannot be limited to things. For example, the abnormal winning 2 notification may be executed by displaying a screen corresponding to the abnormal winning 2 notification.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the abnormal winning 2 notification designation command is received and when the abnormal starting prize 2 notification specifying command is received (that is, when the abnormal winning to the big winning opening is detected 50 times and when starting Although the case where the abnormal winning 2 notification is performed in a common mode is shown in the case where the abnormal winning to the winning opening 14 is detected 50 times, the mode of the abnormal winning notification may be different. For example, when an abnormal winning 2 notification designation command is received, an image display, a lamp display and a sound output corresponding to the abnormal winning 2 notification are performed. Only lamp display and sound output corresponding to the winning 2 notification may be performed.

  In this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 counts the number of occurrences of abnormal winning in the big winning opening or the starting winning opening 14 and detects the abnormal winning 1 notification designation command or start at the timing detected 20 times. Although the abnormal winning 1 notification designation command is transmitted and the abnormal winning 2 notification designation command and the start abnormal winning 2 notification designation command are transmitted at the timing detected 50 times, the processing method shown in this embodiment is shown. Not limited to this, for example, the production control microcomputer 100 may be configured to count the number of occurrences of abnormal winning to the big winning opening or the starting winning opening 14. In this case, for example, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits an abnormal winning command indicating that an abnormal winning is detected each time an abnormal winning to the big winning opening or the start winning opening 14 is detected, and the effect control is performed. The number of times the abnormal winning command is received may be counted on the microcomputer 100 side. Then, the production control microcomputer 100 executes the abnormal winning 1 notification when the number of reception of the abnormal winning command is 20, and executes the abnormal winning 2 notification when the number of reception of the abnormal winning command is 50. You can do it.

  As described above, according to this embodiment, a winning detection unit (in this example, a start opening) that can detect a game ball that has won a winning area (in this example, a start winning opening 14, a large winning opening). A switch 14a, a count switch 23), and a winning confirmation unit (in this example, a winning confirmation 1 switch 14b, a winning confirmation 2 switch 23b) capable of detecting a game ball that has passed through the winning detection unit after winning the winning area. . Then, a difference abnormality (in this example, discharge) in which the difference between the number of game balls detected by the winning detection unit and the number of game balls detected by the winning confirmation unit is a predetermined number (10 in this example) or more. Abnormality information (in this example, a security signal) is externally output based on the occurrence of abnormality (abnormality), and abnormality notification (discharge abnormality notification in this example) is executed based on the occurrence of differential abnormality. In addition, when the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped and the power supply is restarted while the abnormality information is output to the outside, the power supply to the gaming machine is performed depending on whether or not the initialization process has been executed. Error information is output externally for a different period of time after restarting (in this example, if initialization processing is executed after power is restored, a security signal is output to the outside for only 30 seconds, and initialization processing is not executed. When the power failure recovery process is executed, the external output of the security signal is continued until the next initialization process is executed). In addition, when the abnormality notification is being executed, if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped and the power supply to the gaming machine is resumed without executing the initialization process, the abnormality notification is not performed. It is configured. Therefore, when the abnormality supply is being executed, when the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped and the power supply is started again, the initialization process is executed or the gaming machine is started, or the difference abnormality It is possible to recognize from the outside whether the gaming machine is restarted after the occurrence of.

  For example, as described with reference to FIGS. 28 and 29, when an illegal act using radio waves or the like is performed and a discharge abnormality notification is started, the gaming machine is turned on again in order to end the discharge abnormality notification. It can be considered. In this case, generally, when a game clerk or the like normally powers on the gaming machine, the power is usually turned on while the clear switch is pressed, and initialization is performed upon powering on the gaming machine. Processing is executed. On the other hand, if the gaming machine is turned on again illegally, it seems difficult to turn on the power while the clear switch is pressed, and the initialization process is not executed and the power failure recovery process is executed And the gaming machine is activated. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the initialization process is executed and the gaming machine is activated, the security signal is output to the outside only for 30 seconds, whereas the gaming machine is activated without performing the initialization process. In this case, since the external output of the security signal is continued until the next initialization process is executed, even if it appears to the unauthorized person that the discharge abnormality notification has ended, the hall side By confirming the output state of the security signal, it is possible to recognize whether or not a discharge abnormality has occurred. Therefore, even if the power is turned on again by an unauthorized person, it is possible to recognize whether or not there is a discharge abnormality, and it is possible to enhance the prevention of illegal acts.

  In this embodiment, the number of game balls detected by the winning detection unit (in this example, the start opening switch 14a and the count switch 23) and the winning confirmation unit (in this example, the winning confirmation 1 switch 14b, the winning combination). The case where the discharge abnormality is determined based on the difference from the number of game balls detected by the confirmation 2 switch 23b) is shown, but the method of determining the discharge abnormality is limited to that shown in this embodiment. Absent. For example, information indicating the detection timing at the winning detection unit and information indicating the detection timing at the winning confirmation unit are stored, and it is determined whether or not a discharge abnormality has occurred based on the order of the detection timing. You may comprise. That is, in this embodiment, since the winning detection unit is provided in front of the winning confirmation unit, the winning ball detecting unit should first detect the gaming ball and then detect the gaming ball by the winning confirmation unit. . Therefore, if a situation occurs in which a game ball is detected by the winning detection unit after the winning ball is detected by the winning confirmation unit, it is possible to assume that some kind of fraud has occurred, and a discharge abnormality has occurred. Can be determined. By configuring in this way, for example, it is possible to prevent an illegal act in which a game ball is hung with a thread or the like and inserted into the big winning opening or the starting winning opening 14 to make it appear as if a win has occurred. Can do.

  In this embodiment, when power supply to the gaming machine is started after the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped while the discharge abnormality notification is being executed, the discharge is uniformly performed after the power failure is restored. Although it is configured not to perform abnormality notification, it is sufficient to at least show to the unauthorized person that the discharge abnormality notification has disappeared, so the discharge abnormality notification is performed only when the power failure is restored without executing the initialization process. What is necessary is just not to perform, and when initialization processing is performed, you may perform discharge abnormality alert | report. For example, when the power supply to the gaming machine is started and the initialization process is executed, a discharge abnormality notification designation command is transmitted from the gaming control microcomputer 560 and discharged for a predetermined period (for example, 30 seconds). You may comprise so that abnormality alert | report may be performed.

  In addition, according to this embodiment, when the abnormality supply is externally output, when the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped and the power supply is restarted, the initialization process is executed for a predetermined period. Abnormal information is externally output until (in this example, 30 seconds), and when the initialization process is not executed, the abnormal information is externally output until the initialization process is executed. Therefore, it is possible to easily recognize from the outside whether the gaming machine is activated by executing the initialization process or whether the gaming machine is restarted after occurrence of a difference abnormality.

  Further, according to this embodiment, the variable winning device (in this example, the variable winning ball device 15, the variable winning ball device 15, which can be changed between a closed state in which the game ball cannot win in the winning area and an open state in which the game ball can be easily won). Special variable winning ball apparatus 20) is provided. Further, it is determined whether or not an abnormal winning in which a game ball wins in the winning area has occurred when the variable winning device is in a closed state. Even when it is determined that an abnormal winning has occurred, abnormality information can be externally output using a common output terminal (in this example, the common connector CN8 of the terminal board 160) as in the case where a differential abnormality has occurred. Yes, if a difference abnormality occurs while abnormality information is output to the outside based on the occurrence of an abnormal winning, the control is switched to the external output control of the abnormality information based on the occurrence of the difference abnormality (FIG. 39 (C )reference). Therefore, not only the occurrence of a difference abnormality (discharge abnormality in this example) but also the occurrence of an abnormal winning can be recognized from the outside, and the occurrence of a difference abnormality and an abnormal winning can be recognized by sharing the output terminal. It is possible to prevent an increase in the number of parts of the mechanism and complicated wiring work.

  Further, according to this embodiment, even when it is determined that an abnormal winning has occurred, an abnormality notification (in this example, abnormal winning 1 notification, abnormal winning 2 notification) can be executed. Further, when an abnormal winning occurs, the abnormality notification of the first mode is executed (in this example, the abnormal winning 1 notification is performed using only a lamp, and the abnormal winning 2 notification is performed using a lamp and a sound. When the difference abnormality occurs, the abnormality notification of the second mode that is easier to recognize from the outside than the first mode is executed (in this example, in addition to the notification using the lamp, the discharge is performed) Display the error notification screen). Therefore, the difference abnormality with high urgency can be notified in a more conspicuous manner.

  Note that the notification in the form of “easy to recognize from the outside” means that the notification is made in an aspect that can be easily recognized from an external player or game store clerk, for example, by displaying a notification screen on the display screen of the effect display device 9. It is. In addition, as long as it is an aspect that can be easily recognized by a player or a game store clerk, it is not limited to the one shown in this embodiment, for example, when it is displayed on the display screen of the same effect display device 9 for notification. Alternatively, the notification area may be displayed by widening the display area. In addition, for example, even when notification is performed using the same lamp, the number of lamps that are turned on or blinking is increased, or even when notification is performed using the same speaker 27, the notification sound is increased. If it is an aspect that can be easily recognized by a player or a game store clerk, it can be said that the notification is made in a manner that is easily recognized from the outside.

  Further, according to this embodiment, when the first predetermined number (20 in this example) of game balls are won in the winning area when the variable winning device is in the closed state, the abnormal winning of the first mode is achieved. Notification (in this example, abnormal winning 1 notification using only a lamp) is executed, and when the variable winning device is in a closed state, a second predetermined number (in this example) that the number of game balls in the winning area is greater than the first predetermined number. , 50) When winning, the abnormal winning notification of the second mode different from the first mode (in this example, the abnormal winning 2 notification using a lamp and sound) is executed. For this reason, when the variable winning device is in the closed state, it is possible to notify a highly urgent abnormal winning that has detected more winnings in the winning area in a more conspicuous manner.

  In this embodiment, the abnormal winning 1 notification is executed when the first predetermined number reaches 20, and the abnormal winning 2 notification is executed when the second predetermined number reaches 50. However, the first predetermined number and the second predetermined number are not limited to those shown in this embodiment. For example, when the first predetermined number reaches 30, the abnormal winning 1 notification is executed, and when the second predetermined number reaches 70, the abnormal winning 2 notification is executed. Various values can be selected as the predetermined number.

  Further, according to this embodiment, when the first predetermined number of game balls are won in the winning area when the variable winning device is in the closed state, it is determined that an abnormal winning has occurred and the predetermined period (this In the example, the execution of the abnormal winning notification is terminated after elapse of 31 seconds (in this example, the abnormal winning 1 notification using only the lamp is ended), and the game ball is placed in the winning area when the variable winning device is in the closed state. When the second predetermined number of winnings is greater than the first predetermined number, the abnormal winning notification is executed after the elapse of a specific period (300 seconds in this example) that is longer than the predetermined period since it is determined that the abnormal winning has occurred. End (in this example, the abnormal winning 2 notification using the lamp and sound ends). For this reason, when the variable winning device is in a closed state, it is possible to easily recognize and recognize an abnormal winning with a high urgency that detects more winnings in the winning area for a longer period.

  In this embodiment, the case where the abnormal winning 1 notification is executed for 31 seconds as the predetermined period and the abnormal winning 2 notification is executed for 300 seconds as the specific period is shown. It is not limited to what is shown in the form. For example, various periods can be selected as the predetermined period and the specific period, such as executing the abnormal prize 1 notification for 50 seconds as the predetermined period and executing the abnormal prize 2 notification for 500 seconds as the specific period.

  In addition, according to this embodiment, when the first predetermined number of game balls are won in the winning area when the variable winning device is in the closed state, the first effect means (in this example, the lamp) is used. An abnormal winning notification is executed (in this example, abnormal winning 1 notification is executed), and when the variable winning device is in a closed state, a game ball is won in the winning area by a second predetermined number greater than the first predetermined number. Performs an abnormal prize notification using the first effect means (in this example, the lamp) and the second effect means (in this example, the speaker 27) (in this example, the abnormal prize 2 notification is executed). For this reason, when the variable winning device is in the closed state, it is possible to notify a highly urgent abnormal winning that has detected more winnings in the winning area in a more conspicuous manner.

Embodiment 2. FIG.
The configuration in which the security signal is externally output based on the detection of the discharge abnormality or the abnormal winning and the execution of the initialization process shown in the first embodiment can be applied to gaming machines configured in various modes. For example, in a gaming machine equipped with an accessory such as a movable member, a security signal is externally output based on detection of abnormal discharge or abnormal winning and execution of initialization processing according to the same processing as in the first embodiment. You may comprise. Hereinafter, a second embodiment applied to a gaming machine equipped with an accessory such as a movable member will be described.

  Note that in this embodiment, detailed description of the parts having the same configuration and processing as those of the first embodiment will be omitted, and parts different from those of the first embodiment will be mainly described.

  First, the overall configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 1 in the second embodiment will be described. FIG. 47 is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the second embodiment as viewed from the front.

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame (not shown) formed in a vertically long rectangular shape, and a game frame attached to the inside of the outer frame so as to be opened and closed. Further, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape that is provided in the game frame so as to be opened and closed. The game frame includes a front frame (not shown) that can be opened and closed with respect to the outer frame, a mechanism plate (not shown) to which mechanism parts and the like are attached, and various parts (games to be described later) attached to them. A structure including the board 6).

  On the lower surface of the glass door frame 2 is a hitting ball supply tray (upper plate) 3. Under the hitting ball supply tray 3, there are provided a surplus ball receiving tray 4 for storing game balls that cannot be accommodated in the hitting ball supply tray 3, and a hitting operation handle (operation knob) 5 for firing the hitting ball. A game board 6 is detachably attached to the back surface of the glass door frame 2. The game board 6 is a structure including a plate-like body constituting the game board 6 and various components attached to the plate-like body. In addition, a game area 7 is formed on the front surface of the game board 6 in which a game ball that has been struck can flow down.

  An effect display device 9 composed of a liquid crystal display device (LCD) is provided near the center of the game area 7. The circular display screen of the effect display device 9 includes an effect symbol display area for performing variable display of the effect symbol in synchronization with the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol. Therefore, the effect display device 9 corresponds to a variable display device that performs variable display of effect symbols. The effect symbol display area includes a symbol display area for variably displaying, for example, three decorative (effect) effect symbols of “left”, “middle”, and “right”. The symbol display area includes “left”, “middle”, and “right” symbol display areas, but the position of the symbol display area does not have to be fixed on the display screen of the effect display device 9. Three areas of the display area may be separated. The effect display device 9 is controlled by an effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board. When the first special symbol display 8a is executing variable display of the first special symbol, the effect control microcomputer causes the effect display device 9 to execute the effect display along with the variable display, and the second special symbol display 8a executes the second special display. When the variable display of the second special symbol is executed on the symbol display 8b, the effect display is executed by the effect display device 9 along with the variable display, so that the progress of the game can be easily grasped. .

  On the left side of the lower part of the game board 6, a first special symbol display (first variable display portion) 8a for variably displaying the first special symbol as identification information is provided. In this embodiment, the first special symbol display 8a is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9. In other words, the first special symbol display 8a is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9. On the lower right side of the game board 6, a second special symbol display (second variable display portion) 8b for variably displaying the second special symbol as identification information is provided. The second special symbol display 8b is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9. That is, the second special symbol display 8b is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9.

  The small display is formed in a square shape, for example. In this embodiment, the type of the first special symbol and the type of the second special symbol are the same (for example, both 0 to 9), but the types may be different. Further, the first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol display 8b may be configured to variably display numbers (or two-digit symbols) of, for example, 00 to 99, for example.

  Hereinafter, the first special symbol and the second special symbol may be collectively referred to as a special symbol, and the first special symbol indicator 8a and the second special symbol indicator 8b are collectively referred to as a special symbol indicator (variable display unit). There are things to do.

  For the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, the first start condition or the second start condition, which is the variable display execution condition, is satisfied (for example, the game ball has the first start winning opening 13 or the second start winning opening) 14), a variable display start condition (for example, when the number of reserved memories is not 0 and the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is not executed) , A state where the big hit game is not executed) is established, and when the variable display time elapses, a display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed. Note that winning means that a game ball has passed through a predetermined area such as a winning opening. Deriving and displaying a display result is to stop and display a symbol (an example of identification information) (excluding stop before so-called re-variation). In this embodiment, the variable display start condition is established in the order in which the start prizes are generated regardless of the prizes in the first start prize slot 13 and the second start prize slot 14. The variable display start condition may be established by giving priority to one of winning in the winning opening 13 and winning in the second start winning opening 14. For example, when giving priority to winning in the first start winning opening 13, the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is not executed, and the big hit game is not executed. For example, even when the second reserved memory number is not zero, the variable display of the first special symbol is continuously executed until the first reserved memory number becomes zero.

  In the vicinity of the first special symbol display 8a, during the variable display time of the first special symbol by the first special symbol display 8a, the variable display of the first decorative symbol as a decorative (design) symbol is performed. A first decorative symbol display 9a is provided. In this embodiment, the first decorative symbol display 9a is composed of two LEDs. The first decorative symbol display 9a is controlled by an effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board. Further, in the vicinity of the second special symbol display 8b, during the variable display time of the second special symbol by the second special symbol display 8b, the variable display of the second decorative symbol as a symbol for decoration (for production) is performed. There is provided a second decorative symbol display 9b. The second decorative symbol display 9b is composed of two LEDs. The second decorative symbol display 9b is controlled by an effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board.

  The first decorative symbol and the second decorative symbol may be collectively referred to as a decorative symbol, and the first decorative symbol display 9a and the second decorative symbol display 9b may be collectively referred to as a decorative symbol display. .

  The variation of the decorative design (variable display) is realized by continuing the state where the two LEDs are alternately lit. The variable display of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a and the variable display of the first decorative symbol on the first decorative symbol display 9a are synchronized. The variable display of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b is synchronized with the variable display of the second decorative symbol on the second decorative symbol display 9b. Synchronous means that the variable display start time and end time are the same, and the variable display period is the same. In addition, when the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a, the LED on the side that recalls the big hit on the first decorative symbol display 9a remains lit. When the big-hit symbol is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display 8b, the LED on the side that recalls the big-hit on the second decorative symbol display 9b remains lit. The functions of the first decorative symbol display 9a and the second decorative symbol display 9b may be realized by the effect display device 9. That is, the first decorative symbol and the second decorative symbol may be controlled to be variably displayed as images on the display screen of the effect display device 9.

  A winning device having a first start winning port 13 is provided below the effect display device 9. The game ball won in the first start winning opening 13 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the first start opening switch 13a.

  A variable winning ball device 15 having a second starting winning port 14 through which a game ball can be won is provided below a winning device having a first starting winning port (first starting port) 13. The game ball that has won the second start winning opening (second start opening) 14 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the second start opening switch 14a. The variable winning ball device 15 is opened by a solenoid 16. When the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state, the game ball can be awarded to the second starting winning port 14 (it is easier to start winning), which is advantageous for the player. In the state where the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is in the open state, it is easier for the game ball to win the second start winning opening 14 than the first starting winning opening 13. In addition, in a state where the variable winning ball device 15 is in the closed state, the game ball does not win the second start winning opening 14. Therefore, in a state where the variable winning ball device 15 is in the closed state, it is easier for the game ball to win the first starting winning port 13 than the second starting winning port 14. In the state where the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is in the closed state, it may be configured that the winning is possible (that is, it is difficult for the gaming ball to win) although it is difficult to win a prize.

  Hereinafter, the first start winning opening 13 and the second start winning opening 14 may be collectively referred to as a start winning opening or a starting opening.

  When the variable winning ball device 15 is controlled to be in the open state, the game ball heading for the variable winning ball device 15 is very likely to win the second start winning port 14. The first start winning opening 13 is provided directly under the effect display device 9, but the interval between the lower end of the effect display device 9 and the first start winning opening 13 is further reduced, or the first start winning opening is set. The nail arrangement around the first start winning opening 13 is made difficult to guide the game balls to the first starting winning opening 13 so that the winning rate of the second starting winning opening 14 is increased. It is also possible to make the direction higher than the winning rate of the first start winning opening 13.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 47, there is provided a variable winning ball device 15 that opens and closes only with respect to the second starting winning opening 14, but the first starting winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 13 are provided. Any of the start winning ports 14 may be provided with a variable winning ball device that performs opening and closing operations.

  On the side of the first decorative symbol display 9a, the number of effective winning balls that have entered the first start winning opening 13, that is, the first reserved memory number (the reserved memory is also referred to as the start memory or the start prize memory) is displayed. A first special symbol storage memory display 18a comprising four displays is provided. The first special symbol storage memory indicator 18a increases the number of indicators to be lit by 1 each time there is an effective start winning. Then, each time the variable display on the first special symbol display 8a is started, the number of indicators to be turned on is reduced by one.

  On the side of the second decorative symbol display 9b is a second special symbol reserved memory display 18b comprising four indicators for displaying the number of effective winning balls that have entered the second start winning opening 14, that is, the second reserved memory number. Is provided. The second special symbol storage memory display 18b increases the number of indicators to be lit by 1 every time there is an effective start winning. Then, each time the variable display on the second special symbol display 8b is started, the number of indicators to be turned on is reduced by one.

  In addition, the display screen of the effect display device 9 displays an area (hereinafter referred to as a summed pending storage display unit 18c) that displays a total number (total number of pending pending memories) that is the sum of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number. .) Is provided. Since the summation pending storage display unit 18c for displaying the total number is provided, it is possible to easily grasp the total number of execution conditions that have not met the variable display start condition. In addition, since the 1st special symbol holding | maintenance memory | storage display 18a and the 2nd special symbol holding | maintenance memory | storage display 18b are provided, the total reservation memory | storage display part 18c does not necessarily need to be provided.

  The effect display device 9 is for decoration (for effects) during the variable display time of the first special symbol by the first special symbol display 8a and during the variable display time of the second special symbol by the second special symbol display 8b. A variable display of the effect symbol as the symbol is performed. The variable display of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a and the variable display of the effect symbol on the effect display device 9 are synchronized. Further, the variable display of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b and the variable display of the effect symbol on the effect display device 9 are synchronized. Further, when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a and when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display 8b, the effect display device 9 reminds the jackpot The combination of is stopped and displayed.

  On the left side of the decorative portion around the effect display device 9, a movable member 78 that is attached to the rotation shaft of the motor 86 and moves when the motor 86 rotates is provided. The movable member 78 operates, for example, when a pseudo-continuous effect or a notice effect is executed. Further, in the decorative portion around the effect display device 9, a blade-shaped movable member (hereinafter referred to as an effect blade accessory) that is attached to the rotating shaft of the motor 87 and moves when the motor 87 rotates is provided below the left and right. 79a and 79b are provided. The effect blades 79a and 79b operate, for example, when a notice effect is executed.

  As shown in FIG. 47, a special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is provided below the variable winning ball apparatus 15. The special variable winning ball apparatus 20 includes an opening / closing plate, and when the specific display result (big hit symbol) is derived and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a, and the specific display result (big hit symbol) on the second special symbol display 8b. When the open / close plate is controlled to be open by the solenoid 21 in the specific game state (big hit game state) that occurs when the symbol is derived and displayed, the big winning opening serving as the winning area is opened. The game ball that has won the big winning opening is detected by the count switch 23.

  The game area 6 is also provided with winning ports (ordinary winning ports) 29, 30, 33, and 39 for paying out a predetermined number of premium game balls determined in advance based on winning of the game balls. The game balls won in the winning openings 29, 30, 33, 39 are detected by the winning opening switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a.

  A normal symbol display 10 is provided on the right side of the game board 6. The normal symbol display 10 variably displays a plurality of types of identification information (for example, “◯” and “x”) called normal symbols.

  When the game ball passes through the gate 32 and is detected by the gate switch 32a, variable display of the normal symbol display 10 is started. In this embodiment, variable display is performed by alternately lighting the upper and lower lamps (the symbols can be visually recognized when turned on). For example, if the lower lamp is turned on at the end of the variable display, it is a hit. . When the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times. In other words, the state of the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is a state that is advantageous from a disadvantageous state for the player when the normal symbol is a stop symbol (a state in which a game ball can be awarded at the second start winning port 14). To change. In the vicinity of the normal symbol display 10, a normal symbol holding storage display 41 having a display unit with four LEDs for displaying the number of winning balls that have passed through the gate 32 is provided. Each time there is a game ball passing through the gate 32, that is, every time a game ball is detected by the gate switch 32a, the normal symbol storage memory display 41 increases the number of LEDs to be turned on by one. Each time variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of LEDs to be lit is reduced by one. Further, in the probability variation state where the probability of being determined to be a big hit as compared to the normal state is high, the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased, and the variable winning ball apparatus 15 Opening time and opening times are increased. Even in the short state (the game state in which the variable display time of the special symbol is shortened) when the symbol variation time is shortened although it is not the probability variation state, the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 are increased.

  On the left and right sides of the game area 7 of the game board 6, there are provided decorative LEDs 25 that are displayed blinking during the game, and at the lower part there is an outlet 26 for taking in a hit ball that has not won. In addition, two speakers 27 that utter sound effects and sounds as predetermined sound outputs are provided on the left and right upper portions outside the game area 7. On the outer periphery of the game area 7, a frame LED 28 provided on the front frame is provided.

  The members constituting the hitting ball supply tray 3 are provided with operation buttons 120 as operation means that can be operated by the player. The operation button 120 is provided with a push button switch that can be pressed by the player. The operation button 120 is provided not only with a push button switch that can be pressed by the player, but also with a dial that can be rotated by the player. The player can perform a predetermined selection (for example, selection of effects) by rotating the dial.

  In the gaming machine, a ball striking device (not shown) that drives a driving motor in response to a player operating the batting operation handle 5 and uses the rotational force of the driving motor to launch a gaming ball to the gaming area 7. ) Is provided. A game ball launched from the ball striking device enters the game area 7 through a ball striking rail formed in a circular shape so as to surround the game area 7, and then descends the game area 7. When the game ball enters the first start winning opening 13 and is detected by the first start opening switch 13a, if the variable display of the first special symbol can be started (for example, the variable display of the special symbol ends, 1), the first special symbol display 8a starts variable display (variation) of the first special symbol, and the first decorative symbol display 9a displays variable display of the first decorative symbol. The effect display device 9 starts variable display of effect symbols. In other words, the variable display of the first special symbol, the first decorative symbol, and the effect symbol corresponds to winning in the first start winning opening 13. If the variable display of the first special symbol cannot be started, the first reserved memory number is increased by 1 on the condition that the first reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value.

  When the game ball enters the second start winning opening 14 and is detected by the second start opening switch 14a, if the variable display of the second special symbol can be started (for example, the special symbol variable display ends, 2), the second special symbol display 8b starts variable display (variation) of the second special symbol, and the second decorative symbol display 9b displays variable display of the second decorative symbol. The effect display device 9 starts variable display of effect symbols. That is, the variable display of the second special symbol, the second decorative symbol, and the effect symbol corresponds to winning in the second start winning opening 14. If the variable display of the second special symbol cannot be started, the second reserved memory number is increased by 1 on condition that the second reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value.

  In this embodiment, when the gaming state is shifted to the probability changing state, the gaming state is shifted to the high probability state, and the game ball is likely to start and win (that is, the special symbol indicators 8a and 8b and the effect display device). 9 is shifted to the high base state, which is a gaming state controlled so that the variable display execution condition at 9 is easily established. In addition, when the gaming state is shifted to the short time state, the state is shifted to the high base state. In the high base state, for example, the frequency at which the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state is increased or the time in which the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state is extended compared to the case in which the high base state is not in the high base state. It becomes easier to win a start.

  Instead of extending the time during which the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is in the open state (also referred to as the open extended state), the normal symbol display unit 10 shifts to a normal symbol probability changing state in which the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display unit 10 will be a hit symbol is increased. Depending on the situation, the high base state may be entered. When the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times. In this case, by performing the transition control to the normal symbol probability changing state, the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased, and the frequency at which the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened is increased. Therefore, if the normal symbol probability changing state is entered, the opening time and the number of opening times of the variable winning ball device 15 are increased, and a state where it is easy to start a winning (high base state) is achieved. That is, the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 can be increased when the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a winning symbol or the stop symbol of the special symbol is a probabilistic symbol. It changes to an advantageous state (a state where it is easy to win a start). It should be noted that increasing the number of times of opening is a concept including changing from a closed state to an open state.

  Moreover, you may transfer to a high base state by shifting to the normal symbol time short state where the fluctuation time (variable display period) of the normal symbol in the normal symbol display 10 is shortened. In the normal symbol short-time state, the variation time of the normal symbol is shortened, so that the frequency of starting the variation of the normal symbol increases, and as a result, the frequency of hitting the normal symbol increases. Therefore, when the frequency that the normal symbol is hit increases, the frequency that the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened is increased, and the start winning state is easily set (high base state).

  In addition, the change time of special symbols and production symbols will be shortened by shifting to the short time state when the variation time (variable display period) of special symbols and production symbols is shortened. (In other words, the digestion of the stored memory becomes faster), and as a result, it is easier to start a winning and the possibility of playing a big hit game is increased.

  Furthermore, by making transitions to all the states shown above (open extended state, normal symbol probability change state, normal symbol short time state, and special symbol short time state), it will be easier to win a start (shift to a high base state). May be. In addition, it is easier to win a start (high base) by shifting to any one of the above states (open extended state, normal symbol probability changing state, normal symbol short time state, and special symbol short time state). Transition to a state).

  FIG. 48 is a block diagram showing an example of a circuit configuration of the main board (game control board) 31 in the second embodiment. FIG. 48 also shows a payout control board 37, an effect control board 80, and the like. A game control microcomputer (corresponding to game control means) 560 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program is mounted on the main board 31. The game control microcomputer 560 includes a ROM 54 for storing a game control (game progress control) program and the like, a RAM 55 as storage means used as a work memory, a CPU 56 for performing control operations in accordance with the program, and an I / O port unit 57. including. In this embodiment, the ROM 54 and the RAM 55 are built in the game control microcomputer 560. That is, the game control microcomputer 560 is a one-chip microcomputer. The one-chip microcomputer only needs to incorporate at least the CPU 56 and the RAM 55, and the ROM 54 may be external or built-in. The I / O port unit 57 may be externally attached. The game control microcomputer 560 further includes a random number circuit 503 that generates hardware random numbers (random numbers generated by the hardware circuit).

  The RAM 55 is a backup RAM as a non-volatile storage means, part or all of which is backed up by a backup power source created on the power supply substrate 910. That is, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, a part or all of the contents of the RAM 55 is stored for a predetermined period (until the capacitor as the backup power supply is discharged and the backup power supply cannot be supplied). In particular, at least data (a special symbol process flag or the like) corresponding to the game state, that is, the control state of the game control means, and data indicating the number of unpaid winning balls are stored in the backup RAM. The data corresponding to the control state of the game control means is data necessary for restoring the control state before the occurrence of a power failure or the like based on the data when the power is restored after a power failure or the like occurs. Further, data corresponding to the control state and data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls are defined as data indicating the progress state of the game. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the entire RAM 55 is backed up.

  In the game control microcomputer 560, the CPU 56 executes control in accordance with the program stored in the ROM 54, so that the game control microcomputer 560 (or CPU 56) executes (or performs processing) hereinafter. Specifically, the CPU 56 executes control according to a program. The same applies to microcomputers mounted on substrates other than the main substrate 31.

  The random number circuit 503 is a hardware circuit that is used to generate a random number for determination to determine whether or not to win a jackpot based on a display result of variable symbol special display. The random number circuit 503 updates numerical data in accordance with a set update rule within a numerical range in which an initial value (for example, 0) and an upper limit value (for example, 65535) are set, and starts at a random timing Based on the fact that the winning time is the reading (extraction) of the numerical data, it has a random number generation function in which the numerical data to be read becomes a random value.

  The random number circuit 503 includes a numeric data update range selection setting function (initial value selection setting function and upper limit value selection setting function), numeric data update rule selection setting function, and numeric data update rule selection. It has various functions such as a switching function. With such a function, the randomness of the generated random numbers can be improved.

  Further, the game control microcomputer 560 has a function of setting an initial value of numerical data updated by the random number circuit 503. For example, a predetermined calculation is performed using the ID number of the game control microcomputer 560 stored in a predetermined storage area such as the ROM 54 (an ID number assigned with a different value for each product of the game control microcomputer 560). The numerical data obtained by the execution is set as the initial value of the numerical data updated by the random number circuit 503. By performing such processing, the randomness of the random number generated by the random number circuit 503 can be further improved.

  Further, an input driver circuit 58 for supplying detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the start port switch 13a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a to the game control microcomputer 560 is also mounted on the main board 31. Yes. The main board also includes an output circuit 59 for driving the solenoid 16 for opening and closing the variable winning ball device 15 and the solenoid 21 for opening and closing the special variable winning ball device 20 that forms a big winning opening in accordance with a command from the game control microcomputer 560. 31.

  In addition, the game control microcomputer 560 includes a first special symbol display 8a, a second special symbol display 8b that variably displays special symbols, a normal symbol display 10 that variably displays normal symbols, and a first special symbol hold memory. Display control of the display 18a, the second special symbol storage memory display 18b, and the normal symbol storage memory display 41 is performed.

  An information output circuit (not shown) that outputs an information output signal such as jackpot information indicating the occurrence of a jackpot gaming state to an external device such as a hall computer is also mounted on the main board 31.

  In this embodiment, the effect control means (configured by the effect control microcomputer) mounted on the effect control board 80 instructs the effect contents from the game control microcomputer 560 via the relay board 77. Upon receiving the effect control command, display control is performed on the first decorative symbol display device 9a and the second decorative symbol display device 9b that variably display the decorative symbol, and the effect display device 9 that variably displays the effect symbol.

  In addition, the effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80 controls the display of the decoration LED 25 provided on the game board and the frame LED 28 provided on the frame side via the lamp driver board 35. The sound output from the speaker 27 is controlled via the sound output board 70.

  FIG. 49 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of the effect control board 80, the lamp driver board 35, and the audio output board 70 in the second embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 49, the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70 are not equipped with a microcomputer, but may be equipped with a microcomputer. Further, without providing the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70, only the effect control board 80 may be provided for effect control.

  The effect control board 80 includes an effect control CPU 101 and an effect control microcomputer 100 including a RAM for storing information related to effects such as effect symbol process flags. The RAM may be externally attached. In this embodiment, the RAM in the production control microcomputer 100 is not backed up. In the effect control board 80, the effect control CPU 101 operates in accordance with a program stored in a built-in or external ROM (not shown), and receives a capture signal from the main board 31 input via the relay board 77 ( In response to the (effect control INT signal), an effect control command is received via the input driver 102 and the input port 103. Further, the effect control CPU 101 causes the VDP (video display processor) 109 to perform display control of the effect display device 9 based on the effect control command.

  In this embodiment, a VDP 109 that performs display control of the effect display device 9 in cooperation with the effect control microcomputer 100 is mounted on the effect control board 80. The VDP 109 has an address space independent of the production control microcomputer 100, and maps a VRAM therein. VRAM is a buffer memory for developing image data. Then, the VDP 109 outputs the image data in the VRAM to the effect display device 9 via the frame memory.

  The effect control CPU 101 outputs to the VDP 109 a command for reading out necessary data from a CGROM (not shown) in accordance with the received effect control command. The CGROM stores character image data and moving image data displayed on the effect display device 9, specifically, a person, characters, figures, symbols (including effect symbols), and background image data in advance. ROM. The VDP 109 reads image data from the CGROM in response to the instruction from the effect control CPU 101. The VDP 109 executes display control based on the read image data.

  The effect control command and the effect control INT signal are first input to the input driver 102 on the effect control board 80. The input driver 102 passes the signal input from the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the inside of the effect control board 80 (does not pass the signal in the direction from the inside of the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). It is also a unidirectional circuit as a regulating means.

  As a signal direction regulating means, the signal inputted from the main board 31 is allowed to pass through the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the effect control board 80 (the signal is not passed in the direction from the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). The unidirectional circuit 74 is mounted. For example, a diode or a transistor is used as the unidirectional circuit. FIG. 49 illustrates a diode. A unidirectional circuit is provided for each signal. Furthermore, since the effect control command and the effect control INT signal are output from the main board 31 via the output port 571 that is a unidirectional circuit, the signal from the relay board 77 toward the inside of the main board 31 is restricted. That is, the signal from the relay board 77 does not enter the inside of the main board 31 (the game control microcomputer 560 side). The output port 571 is a part of the I / O port unit 57 shown in FIG. Further, a signal driver circuit that is a unidirectional circuit may be further provided outside the output port 571 (on the relay board 77 side).

  The effect control CPU 101 drives the motor 86 to operate the movable member 78 via the output port 106. Further, the effect control CPU 101 drives a motor 87 for operating the effect blades 79 a and 79 b via the output port 106.

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 inputs a signal from the operation button 120 via the input port 107 in response to a pressing operation of the operation button 120 by the player.

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 outputs a signal for driving the LED to the lamp driver board 35 via the output port 105. Further, the production control CPU 101 outputs sound number data to the audio output board 70 via the output port 104.

  In the lamp driver board 35, a signal for driving the LED is input to the LED driver 352 via the input driver 351. The LED driver 352 supplies a current to a light emitter provided on the frame side such as the frame LED 28 based on a signal for driving the LED. Further, an electric current is supplied to the decoration LED 25 provided on the game board side.

  In the voice output board 70, the sound number data is input to the voice synthesis IC 703 via the input driver 702. The voice synthesizing IC 703 generates voice or sound effect according to the sound number data and outputs it to the amplifier circuit 705. The amplification circuit 705 outputs an audio signal obtained by amplifying the output level of the speech synthesis IC 703 to a level corresponding to the volume set by the volume 706 to the speaker 27. The voice data ROM 704 stores control data corresponding to the sound number data. The control data corresponding to the sound number data is a collection of data showing the output form of the sound effect or sound in a time series in a predetermined period (for example, the changing period of the effect design).

  FIG. 50 is a flowchart showing main processing executed by the production control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the production control CPU 101) in the second embodiment. In this embodiment, the effect control CPU 101, in addition to the process shown in the first embodiment, in the main process, the movable member 78, the effect blade accessory 79a, 79b, etc. at the start of power supply to the gaming machine An accessory initial operation process for performing an initial operation of the accessory is executed (step S708). Then, when the accessory initial operation process is executed, the process proceeds to step S702.

  In this embodiment, in the notification control processing in step S707, in addition to the discharge abnormality notification and abnormal winning notification processing shown in the first embodiment, an initial notification that the initialization processing has been executed is performed. Conversion notification is also executed.

  FIG. 51 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation start process (step S801) in the second embodiment. In the effect symbol variation start process, the processes in steps S821 to S822 are the same as those processes described in the first embodiment.

  In this embodiment, when the abnormal winning 1 notification flag is set (Y in step S823), the effect control CPU 101 includes the display control execution data 1, the sound number data 1, and the process data 1 The rendering device is controlled according to the contents of only the movable member control data 1 (step S824A). That is, when the abnormal winning 1 notification flag is set, when a new variable display of the effect symbol is started, the lamp display effect according to the variable display is not executed, The lamp display corresponding to the winning 1 notification is continued. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the variation display of the effect symbol is started during the execution of the abnormal winning 1 notification, the abnormal winning 1 notification is executed together with the variation display of the effect symbol.

  If the abnormal winning 2 notification flag is set (Y in step S825), the presentation control CPU 101 produces presentation according to the contents of only the display control execution data 1 and the movable member control data 1 in the process data 1. Control of the apparatus is executed (step S826A). That is, when the abnormal winning 2 notification flag is set, when a new variable display of the effect symbol is started, the lamp display effect or sound effect corresponding to the variable display is executed. The lamp display and sound output corresponding to the abnormal winning 2 notification are continued. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the variation display of the effect symbol is started during the execution of the abnormal winning 2 notification, the abnormal winning 2 notification is executed together with the variation display of the effect symbol.

  If the abnormal winning 2 notification flag is not set, the production control CPU 101 checks whether or not the initialization notification flag indicating that the initialization notification is being executed is set (step S8261). When the initialization notification flag is set (Y in step S8261), the effect control CPU 101 controls the effect device according to the contents of only the display control execution data 1 and the movable member control data 1 in the process data 1. Is executed (step S8262). In other words, when the initialization notification flag is set, when a new variable display of the effect symbol is started, the lamp display effect or sound effect corresponding to the variable display is not executed. The lamp display and sound output corresponding to the initialization notification are continued. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the change display of the effect symbol is started during the execution of the initialization notification, the initialization notification is executed together with the change display of the effect symbol.

  If the initialization notification in-progress flag is not set, the effect control CPU 101 has an accessory initial operation in-operation flag indicating that an initial operation of an accessory such as the movable member 78 or the effect blade accessory 79a, 79b is being executed. It is confirmed whether it is set (step S8263). In the case where the accessory initial operation in-process flag is set (Y in step S8263), the effect control CPU 101 includes only the display control execution data 1, the lamp control execution data 1, and the sound number data 1 of the process data 1. Control of the effect device is executed according to the contents of (Step S8264). That is, when the character initial action flag is set, since the character, such as the movable member 78 and the effect blades 79a and 79b, are in the initial operation, the effect symbol variation display is started, The initial operation of the accessory such as the movable member 78 and the effect blades 79a and 79b is continued. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the change display of the effect symbol is started during the execution of the initial action of the accessory, the initial action of the accessory is executed together with the change display of the effect symbol.

  If the character initial operation flag is not set, the production control CPU 101 produces the production according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1, movable member control data 1). Control of the devices (effect display device 9 as effect parts, various lamps as effect parts, speaker 27 as effect parts, movable member 78 as effect parts and effect blades 79a and 79b, etc.) Is executed (step S827A). For example, a command is output to the VDP 109 in order to display an image according to the variation pattern on the effect display device 9. In addition, a control signal (lamp control execution data) is output to the lamp driver board 35 in order to perform on / off control of various lamps. In addition, a control signal (sound number data) is output to the sound output board 70 in order to output sound from the speaker 27. Further, a drive signal is output to the motors 86 and 87 in order to move the movable member 78 and the effect blades 79a and 79b.

  Note that the processes in steps S828 to S829 are the same as those described in the first embodiment.

  FIG. 52 is a flowchart showing the processing during effect design variation (step S802) in the second embodiment. In the effect symbol variation process, the processes of steps S841 to S844 are the same as those processes described in the first embodiment.

  In this embodiment, when the abnormal winning 1 notification flag is set (Y in step S845), the effect control CPU 101 determines the process data i (i is 2 to n) set next. The control of the effect device is executed according to the contents of only the display control execution data i, the sound number data i, and the movable member control data 1 (step S846A). That is, when the abnormal winning 1 notification flag is set, when a new variable display of the effect symbol is started, the lamp display effect according to the variable display is not executed, The lamp display corresponding to the winning 1 notification is continued. Accordingly, when the abnormal winning 1 notification flag is set, the lamp display effect according to the variable display of the effect symbol is not executed, but the lamp display according to the abnormal winning 1 notification is continued. The Therefore, in this embodiment, when the display change of the effect symbol is executed during the execution of the abnormal winning 1 notification, the abnormal winning 1 notification is executed together with the change display of the effect symbol.

  If the abnormal winning 2 notification flag is set (Y in step S847), the effect control CPU 101 determines that the process data i (i is any one of 2 to n) set next. Control of the effect device is executed according to the contents of only the display control execution data i and the movable member control data 1 (step S848A). That is, when the abnormal winning 2 notification flag is set, when a new variable display of the effect symbol is started, the lamp display effect or sound effect corresponding to the variable display is executed. The lamp display and sound output corresponding to the abnormal winning 2 notification are continued. Therefore, when the abnormal winning 2 notification flag is set, the lamp display effect or sound effect corresponding to the variable display of the effect symbol is not executed, but the lamp display corresponding to the abnormal winning 2 notification is performed. And sound output continues. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the variation display of the effect symbol is executed during the execution of the abnormal winning 2 notification, the abnormal winning 2 notification is executed together with the variation display of the effect symbol.

  If the abnormal winning 2 notification flag is not set, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the initialization notification flag is set (step S8481). When the initialization notification in-progress flag is set (Y in step S8481), the presentation control CPU 101 includes only the display control execution data i and the movable member control data i among the process data i set next. Control of the rendering device is executed according to the contents of (Step S8482). In other words, when the initialization notification flag is set, when a new variable display of the effect symbol is started, the lamp display effect or sound effect corresponding to the variable display is not executed. The lamp display and sound output corresponding to the initialization notification are continued. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the change display of the effect symbol is executed during the execution of the initialization notification, the initialization notification is executed together with the change display of the effect symbol.

  If the initialization notification flag is not set, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the accessory initial operation flag is set (step S8483). In the case where the accessory initial operation flag is set (Y in step S8483), the effect control CPU 101 displays the display control execution data i and the lamp control execution data i among the process data i set next. And the control of the effect device according to the contents of only the sound number data i (step S8484). In other words, when the character initial action flag is set, since the character, such as the movable member 78 and the effect blade accessory 79a, 79b, is in the initial operation, the effect symbol variation display is executed. The initial operation of the accessory such as the movable member 78 and the effect blades 79a and 79b is continued. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the effect symbol fluctuation display is executed during the execution of the initial action of the accessory, the initial action of the accessory is executed together with the effect symbol fluctuation display.

  If the accessory initial operation in-process flag is not set, the effect control CPU 101 determines the next set process data i (display control execution data i, lamp control execution data i, sound number data i, and movable member). Based on the control data i), the control state for the rendering device is changed (step S849A).

  Note that the processes in steps S850 to S852 are the same as those described in the first embodiment.

  FIG. 53 is a flowchart showing a notification control process in the second embodiment. In this embodiment, in the notification control process, the effect control CPU 101 first checks whether or not the initialization notification flag is set (step S3101). If the initialization notification flag is set (if initialization notification is being performed), the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from an initialization notification timer for measuring the execution period of initialization notification (step S3102). It is checked whether the initialization notification timer after subtraction has timed out (step S3103). If the initialization notification timer has timed out, the effect control CPU 101 stops the lamp display and sound output according to the initialization notification and stops the initialization notification (step S3104). Then, the production control CPU 101 resets the initialization notification flag (step S3105) and sets an initialization notification flag indicating that the initialization notification has been executed (step S3106).

  If the initialization notification flag is not set (N in step S3101), the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not an initialization command (see step S14 in FIG. 12) has been received (step S3107). ). If the initialization command has been received (Y in step S3107), the effect control CPU 101 outputs sound data indicating the sound output corresponding to the initialization notification to the audio output board 70 (step S3108). Further, the effect control CPU 101 outputs lamp control execution data indicating lamp display corresponding to the initialization notification to the lamp driver board 35 (step S3109). Therefore, lamp display and sound output corresponding to the initialization notification are performed thereafter. Then, the effect control CPU 101 sets the initialization notification flag (step S3110), and sets a value corresponding to 30 seconds in the initialization notification timer (step S3111).

  As described above, by executing the processing of steps S3101 to S3111, the initialization notification is executed for 30 seconds based on the fact that the initialization processing is executed on the game control microcomputer 560 side and the initialization command is received. Executed.

  In this embodiment, the case of performing lamp display and sound output according to the initialization notification is shown as the initialization notification. However, the notification manner of the initialization notification is limited to that shown in this embodiment. I can't. For example, the initialization notification may be executed by displaying a screen corresponding to the initialization notification.

  Then, the effect control CPU 101 proceeds to the processing after step S3001. Note that the processes in steps S3001 to S3025 of the notification control process are the same as those described in the first embodiment.

  FIG. 54 is a flowchart illustrating the accessory initial operation process (step S708) according to the second embodiment. In the accessory initial operation process, the effect control CPU 101 first sets an accessory initial operation completed flag indicating that the initial operation of the accessory such as the movable member 78 and the effect blade accessory 79a, 79b has been executed. It is confirmed whether or not (step S3501). If the accessory initial operation completed flag is set, the processing is ended as it is. If the accessory initial operation completed flag is not set, the production control CPU 101 checks whether or not the initialization notification completed flag is set (step S3502). If the initialization notification completion flag is not set, the process is terminated as it is. If the initialization notification completion flag is set, the production control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the accessory initial action flag is set (step S3503).

  If the combination initial action flag is not set (that is, if the initial operation of the combination such as the movable member 78 and the stage blades 79a and 79b is not yet being executed), the stage control CPU 101 performs the motor 86, The output of the drive signal to 87 is started, and the movable members such as the movable member 78 and the effect blades 79a and 79b start to move (step S3504). Then, the effect control CPU 101 sets a character initial action in-progress flag (step S3505).

  If the character initial action flag is set (that is, if the initial action of the accessory such as the movable member 78 or the effect blade accessory 79a, 79b is being executed), the effect control CPU 101 determines that the effect control CPU 101 It is confirmed whether or not it has been detected that an accessory such as the production blade accessory 79a, 79b has moved to the initial position (step S3506). For example, in this embodiment, an initial position sensor (for example, a photosensor) is provided at the initial position of the movable member 78 and the effect blades 79a and 79b in the game area, and a detection signal from the initial position sensor is input. Then, the effect control CPU 101 determines that the accessory such as the movable member 78 or the effect blade accessory 79a, 79b has moved to the initial position.

  When it is determined that the movable member 78 and the effect blades 79a and 79b have moved to the initial position, the effect control CPU 101 stops outputting the drive signals to the motors 86 and 87, and the movable member 78 and the effect blades. The movement of the accessory such as the blade accessory 79a, 79b is stopped (step S3507). Then, the effect control CPU 101 resets the character initial action flag (step S3508) and also indicates that the initial operation of the character such as the movable member 78 and the effect blade accessory 79a, 79b has been executed. An initial operation completion flag is set (step S3509). Hereinafter, based on the fact that the accessory initial operation completed flag is set, it is determined as Y in step S3501, and the processing after step S3502 is not executed. Accordingly, the process of performing the initial operation of the accessory after step S3502 is executed only once after the power supply to the gaming machine is started and the initialization process and the initialization notification are executed.

  In this embodiment, since a plurality of actors (movable member 78, effect blade actors 79a, 79b) are provided, more precisely, the effect control CPU 101 performs step S3506 for all the actors. , S3507 is executed to stop moving, and then the process proceeds to steps S3508 and S3509 to reset the accessory initial operation flag and set the accessory initial operation completed flag.

  By executing the above processing, when the power supply to the gaming machine is started and the initialization processing is executed, the initial operation of the accessory such as the movable member 78 and the effect blade accessories 79a and 79b is executed. . Further, in this embodiment, since the initialization notification completion flag is set in step S3502, the process proceeds to the processing after step S3503 and the initial operation of the accessory is executed. After completing the initialization notification and the execution of the initialization notification, the initial operation of the accessory is performed. Therefore, it is possible to disperse the power consumption required for the initialization notification and the initial operation of the accessory when the initialization process is executed.

  In addition, after power supply to the gaming machine is started, it takes a certain amount of time to execute the initialization process and the initialization notification and to finish the initial operation of the accessory. When the state is finished and the game control process can be executed, the game can be started even if the initialization process and the initial operation of the accessory are not finished. For this reason, there may be a case where the game has already started when the start timing of the initial operation of the accessory has been reached, and the effect symbol variation display is being executed. In this embodiment, when starting the initial operation of the accessory in the accessory initial operation process, the process proceeds to the process of step S3504 without distinguishing whether or not the effect symbol is being displayed in particular. It is comprised so that the initial operation | movement of an accessory may be started. That is, when the effect symbol variation display is executed when starting the initial operation of the accessory, the initial operation of the accessory is executed together with the variation display of the effect symbol. Therefore, the initial operation of the accessory can be executed even when the effect symbol variation display is executed.

  As described above, according to this embodiment, when power supply to the gaming machine is started, the fluctuation data storage means (in this example, the clear switch is turned on) based on the establishment of a predetermined condition (the clear switch is turned on). In this example, an initialization process for initializing the stored contents of the backup RAM) is executed, and an initialization notification is executed based on the execution of the initialization process. Further, based on the start of power supply to the gaming machine, the initial operation of the accessory such as the movable member 78 and the effect blade accessories 79a and 79b is executed. In this case, after completing the initialization process, the initial operation of the accessory is executed. Therefore, it is possible to disperse the power consumption required for the initialization notification and the initial operation of the accessory when the initialization process is executed.

  For example, in this embodiment, initialization notification is performed using the lamp and the speaker 27. Generally, in gaming machines, the power consumed by the speaker 27 is the largest and there is no alternative means, so there is a limit to labor saving. . Further, when the initial operation of the accessory is executed, the power consumption of the motors 86 and 87 is large. Furthermore, if the lamp or LED is turned on in initialization notification or the like, the power consumption is further increased. For this reason, if the initialization process and the initial operation of the accessory are executed at overlapping timings, there is a risk that the power consumption will be significantly increased temporarily and there will be a situation in which there is no room for the power supply of the amusement store or the like. There is a high risk that the gaming machine will fall into an instantaneous power failure state. In addition, when the power consumption temporarily increases, each circuit in the gaming machine may be damaged due to overcurrent or the like. Therefore, it becomes necessary to design the circuit so that the circuit is not easily damaged by an overcurrent or the like. Further, even in the gaming machine, if the power consumption by the speaker 27 and the motors 86 and 87 is temporarily concentrated, for example, the power supplied to the lamp and the effect display device 9 (liquid crystal display device) is insufficient, and the game effect is produced. There is also a risk that it may cause problems such as being unable to perform normally. Therefore, in this embodiment, since the initial operation of the accessory is executed after the execution of the initialization process is completed, the initialization process and the initial operation of the accessory are executed at overlapping timing. Power consumption can be distributed without costing circuit design.

  In addition, according to this embodiment, it is possible to perform an effect by sound output using at least sound output means (in this example, the speaker 27) during the game (in this example, in the variation display of the effect symbol, the variation is displayed. In addition, sound output according to display is possible), and initialization notification with sound output using sound output means is executed. Then, when the initialization notification is being executed, the effect by the sound output using the sound output means is not executed (in this example, the sound output corresponding to the initialization notification is generated even during the variation display of the effect symbol). Will continue). Therefore, it is possible to prevent the initialization notification and the production by the sound output using the sound output means from being executed at the overlapping timing, and to prevent the power consumption from being concentrated.

  In addition, according to this embodiment, during the game, it is possible to execute an effect by light emission display using at least the light emitting means (in this example, a lamp) (in this example, in the variable display of the effect symbol, the display is changed to the variable display). In response to the lamp display, an initialization notification with a light emission display using the light emission means is executed. Then, when the initialization notification is being executed, the effect by the light emission display using the light emitting means is not executed (in this example, the lamp display corresponding to the initialization notification is continued even during the change display of the effect symbol). ) Therefore, it is possible to prevent the initialization notification and the effect by the light emission display using the light emitting means from being executed at the same timing, and to prevent the power consumption from being concentrated.

  In addition, according to this embodiment, when the display change of the effect symbol is started during the execution of the initialization notification, the initialization notification is executed together with the variable display of the effect symbol. Further, when the effect symbol variation display is executed when starting the initial operation of the accessory, the initial operation of the accessory is executed together with the variation display of the effect symbol. Therefore, it is possible to execute the initialization notification and the initial operation of the accessory even if the effect symbol variation display is executed.

  In addition, as shown in this embodiment, if the change display of the effect symbol and the initial action of the accessory are configured to be executed in parallel, the movable member 78 and the effect blade accessory will be used for the initial action. Despite moving an accessory such as 79a and 79b, the movement of the accessory may be misunderstood as representing a warning such as a big hit or reach. Therefore, when the initial action of the accessory is executable together with the variation display of the effect symbol as in this embodiment, during the execution of the initial action of the accessory, for example, “In the initial action of the accessory” It is desirable to display a character string to notify that the initial action of the accessory is in progress. By doing so, it is possible to prevent the misunderstanding that the movement of the accessory represents an advance notice such as a big hit or reach even though the initial operation of the accessory is being executed. it can.

  Also, in order to prevent the above misunderstandings from occurring, for example, when starting the display of variation of the effect symbol during the execution of the initial action of the accessory, the announcement effect is executed in the variation display of the effect symbol You may comprise so that it may restrict | limit and to cancel a notice effect.

Embodiment 3 FIG.
In the second embodiment, even when the effect symbol variation display is executed when starting the initial action of the accessory, the initial operation of the accessory is executed together with the effect symbol variation display. However, you may comprise so that the initial operation | movement of an accessory may be restrict | limited. In the following, a third embodiment for limiting the initial operation of an accessory during a variation display of effect symbols will be described.

  In this embodiment, the detailed description of the parts having the same configurations and processes as those in the first and second embodiments is omitted, and the parts that are mainly different from the first embodiment are omitted. Will be described.

  FIG. 55 is a flowchart illustrating the accessory initial operation process (step S708) according to the third embodiment. In this embodiment, in the accessory initial operation process, if the accessory initial operation in-process flag is not set in step S3503 (that is, the initial operation of the accessory such as the movable member 78 and the effect blade accessory 79a, 79b is not yet performed). If it is not being executed, the CPU 101 for effect control confirms whether or not the effect symbol is being changed (step S3503A). Whether or not the variation of the effect symbol is being displayed is determined by checking whether or not the value of the variation time timer set in step S828 of the effect symbol variation start process is 0, for example. If is not 0, it can be determined that the variation of the effect symbol is being displayed. Further, for example, when the value of the effect symbol process flag is a value of 1 to 3 indicating that the effect symbol variation start process to the effect symbol variation stop process, it is determined that the effect symbol variation display is being performed. Also good.

  If the effect symbol variation display is not in progress (N in step S3503A), the effect control CPU 101 proceeds to step S3504 and starts executing the initial operation of the accessory. If the effect symbol variation display is in progress (Y in step S3503A), the effect control CPU 101 ends the process as it is. That is, when the effect symbols are being displayed in a variable manner, the initial operation of the accessory is not started, and the execution of the initial operation of the accessory is restricted.

  As described above, according to this embodiment, when the effect symbol variation display is executed when starting the initial operation of the accessory, the execution of the initial operation of the accessory is restricted. For this reason, even when the variation display of the effect symbol is executed, the initial operation of the accessory can be executed after the variation display of the effect symbol is finished. Moreover, since it is possible to prevent the variation display of the effect symbol and the initial operation of the accessory from being performed at the same timing, it is possible to prevent the power consumption from being concentrated more.

  In this embodiment, it is confirmed whether or not the effect symbol is being displayed in a variable manner only at the start timing of the initial operation of the accessory. If the effect symbol is being displayed in a variable manner, the initial operation of the accessory is not started. Although the case where the control is performed is shown, the restriction mode of the initial operation of the accessory is not limited to that shown in this embodiment. For example, it is also confirmed whether or not the effect symbol variation display is started from the middle of the execution of the initial action, and when the effect symbol variation display is started, the initial action of the accessory is interrupted. You may comprise as follows. If comprised in that way, it can prevent more reliably that the change display of a production | presentation symbol and the initial operation | movement of an accessory are performed at the overlapping timing.

  Further, for example, in the case where the variation display of the effect symbol is continuously executed a plurality of times, the variation display of the effect symbol cannot be started for a predetermined number of times (for example, three times) continuously. In such a case, it may be configured to forcibly execute the initial operation of the accessory even during the execution of the variation display of the effect symbol. With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the initial operation of the accessory cannot be performed at all.

  On the other hand, if it is important to prevent concentration of power consumption, the initial operation of the accessory may not be executed at all when the initial display of the accessory cannot be started continuously when the change display of the production symbol is continuously displayed. Good. In this case, for example, when the initial display of the accessory cannot be started for a predetermined number of times (for example, three times) with the variation display of the effect symbols continuously, the combination is not executed. It may be configured such that the initial action completed flag is set and thereafter the initial action of the accessory is not forcibly executed.

  In addition, a configuration for externally outputting a security signal based on the detection of discharge abnormality or abnormal winning and the execution of initialization processing described in each of the above embodiments, or a configuration for executing initialization notification and initial operation of an accessory The present invention can be applied to various types of gaming machines, not limited to pachinko gaming machines. For example, the configuration shown in each of the above embodiments may be applied to a sealed circulation pachinko machine. In the enclosed circulation type pachinko machine, a predetermined number (for example, 50) of game balls used in the pachinko machine are enclosed in an enclosed area (for example, in a pachinko machine), and the game area provided in the pachinko machine In order to fire game balls through the game area, collect the game balls via the collection unit (for example, each winning opening, out port, foul ball return opening), and fire the collected game balls again into the game area In the enclosed area. In addition, in such a sealed circulation pachinko machine, when there is a prize at each prize opening, points corresponding to the number of prize balls are added to the card inserted in the card unit instead of the prize balls. Processing is performed. In such a sealed circulation pachinko machine, the configuration of each of the above embodiments is applied to output a security signal externally based on detection of discharge abnormality or abnormal winning and execution of initialization processing, or initialization notification And an initial operation of the accessory may be executed.

  The present invention can be suitably applied to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 9 Production display device 14 Start winning opening 14a Start opening switch 14b Winning confirmation 1 switch 15 Variable winning ball apparatus 23 Count switch 23b Winning confirmation 2 switch 29 Winning opening (normal winning opening)
29a Winning mouth switch 29b Winning confirmation 3 switch 30 Winning mouth (ordinary winning mouth)
30a Winning mouth switch 30b Winning confirmation 4 switch 31 Game control board (main board)
37 Dispensing control board 56 CPU
80 Production control board 100 Production control microcomputer 101 Production control CPU
160 Terminal Board 370 Discharge Control Microcomputer 371 Discharge Control CPU
380 Serial communication circuit (withdrawal control side)
509 Random number circuit 511 Serial communication circuit (game control side)
560 Microcomputer for game control

Claims (1)

A gaming machine having a winning area to which a game value can be given by winning a game medium,
A winning detection unit capable of detecting game media won in the winning area;
A winning confirmation unit capable of detecting a game medium that has passed through the winning detection unit after winning in the winning area;
A variable winning device capable of changing between a closed state in which game media cannot be won in the winning area and an open state in which game media can be easily won;
An abnormal winning determination means for determining whether or not an abnormal winning in which a game medium wins in the winning area has occurred when the variable winning device is in the closed state;
Based on the occurrence of a difference abnormality in which the difference between the number of gaming media detected by the winning detection unit and the number of gaming media detected by the winning confirmation unit exceeds a predetermined number, abnormality information is output to the outside. An external output means;
Abnormal winning notification means for executing abnormal winning notification based on the fact that the abnormal winning determination means determines that the abnormal winning has occurred;
Abnormality notification means for performing abnormality notification based on the occurrence of the difference abnormality;
Storage means capable of holding at least information indicating that the difference abnormality has occurred for a predetermined period even when power supply to the gaming machine is stopped;
An initialization means for executing an initialization process for initializing the storage contents of the storage means based on establishment of a predetermined condition when power supply to the gaming machine is started;
Variable display execution means for executing variable display of identification information that can be identified based on the establishment of the start condition,
The external output means determines whether or not the initialization process has been executed by the initialization means when the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped and the power supply is restarted when the abnormality information is output to the outside. Accordingly, the abnormality information is output to the outside over a different period after the power supply to the gaming machine is resumed.
The abnormal winning notification means includes:
When the first predetermined number of game media are won in the winning area when the variable winning device is in the closed state, the abnormal winning notification in the first mode is executed,
When the variable winning device is in the closed state and the game medium has won a second predetermined number of game media greater than the first predetermined number in the winning area, the abnormal winning in a second mode different from the first mode. Run a notification,
The abnormality notifying means stops power supply to the gaming machine while executing the abnormality notification, and restarts the power supply to the gaming machine without executing the initialization process by the initialization means. If this happens, the abnormality notification is not executed,
The variable display execution means can execute variable display of identification information even when the abnormality notification is executed by the abnormality notification means.

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