JP2014100365A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To prevent sharpshooting of a prescribed random number value and secure fairness of a game in a game machine including random number generation means for generating a random number to be used for game control.SOLUTION: A game machine includes: game control means (110) for controlling progress of a game; random number generation means (111D) for cyclically updating a counter value within an update range not exceeding a prescribed number; and shooting means (72) for shooting a game ball into a game area of a game board. The game control means (110) acquires the counter value to be updated by the random number generation means (111D), at the arbitrary timing, and uses the acquired counter value for the game control as a random number. The shooting means includes: oscillation means for generating an oscillation signal of a prescribed frequency, determines a game ball shooting cycle corresponding to an oscillation frequency and shoots the game ball in the shooting cycle based on the oscillation frequency. A synchronization interval between the shooting cycle and a cycle of updating the random number by the random number generation means is set to be longer than maximum variable time of a variable display game.

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that includes a random number generation unit that circulates and updates a counter value and uses the counter value generated by the random number generation unit as a random number for game control.

Conventionally, in a pachinko machine as a gaming machine using a game ball, a winning opening called a starting winning opening is provided in a gaming area on the game board, and random numbers are obtained based on winning of a hitting ball into the starting winning opening. A gaming machine that makes a determination of winning and provides a predetermined profit (for example, so-called jackpot game) to a player based on the winning result is widely spread.
This type of gaming machine that uses random numbers for game control includes a plurality of random number counters that perform a counting operation at a predetermined cycle as means for generating random numbers, and these random number counters are counting at arbitrary timings. Some of them obtain values and use those counter values as random numbers.

By the way, in a gaming machine equipped with a random number counter as described above, a gaming control device (CPU) acquires a random number at a timing when the value of the random number counter becomes a big hit random number using an unauthorized device called a sensory device. For example, illegal acts relating to random number acquisition are known, and various countermeasures against such illegal acts have been considered.
For example, as in Patent Document 1, the supply of power is started by suppressing the launch of a game ball until at least the initial random number initial value (the value at the start of counting in the random number counter) is updated after the power is supplied. An invention that prevents the launching of the big hit timing by deliberately aiming at the big hit timing even if it tries to operate the launching means by predicting the timing when the value of the random number counter becomes the big hit judgment value with reference to Proposed.

JP 2009-207868 A

  However, even if the launch prohibition time is provided on condition that power is supplied as in the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, the update timing that becomes a predetermined random number value and the continuous launch time by the launching means There will always be moments when the firing timing is synchronized. Therefore, by continuing the continuous firing, the random number value at the time of launching appears again after a predetermined time, and the sequence of random number values for each launch until synchronization is always constant. As a result, there is a problem that it becomes impossible to aim at a predetermined random value using such synchronization, which is not fair.

  The present invention has been made in view of the circumstances as described above. In a gaming machine equipped with a counter-type random number generation means for generating random numbers used for game control, a predetermined random number value can be prevented from being shot, The purpose is to ensure fairness.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention described in claim 1
Random number generating means for circulating and updating the counter value with a predetermined number as an update range;
Launching means for launching a game ball into the game area of the game board;
Game control means for comprehensively controlling the game,
In a gaming machine that generates a special gaming state advantageous to a player when the execution result of a variable display game that displays a plurality of identification information in a variable manner in accordance with the establishment of a start condition is a predetermined special result,
The game control means includes
The counter value updated by the random number generation means is acquired at an arbitrary timing, and the acquired counter value is used as a random number for game control,
The firing means includes
Comprising oscillation means for generating an oscillation signal of a predetermined oscillation frequency;
Determine the launch period of the game ball corresponding to the oscillation frequency,
A game ball is launched at a launch cycle based on the oscillation frequency,
The synchronization interval between the firing cycle and the counter value update cycle by the random number generation means is set to be longer than the maximum variation time of the variation display game.

Here, the “synchronization interval” is synonymous with the synchronization cycle. The “maximum variation time of the variation display game” means the variation time of the variation display game having the maximum variation time when there are a plurality of types of variation display games having different variation times. The “variable display game” includes both the special map variable display game and the general map variable display game in the embodiment. “Oscillating means” means, for example, an oscillator (also referred to as a vibrator) such as a crystal oscillator or a ceramic oscillator, or an oscillator and its drive circuit.
According to the first aspect of the present invention, since the variation time of the variable display game is determined for each effect, when there is a player who recognizes the synchronization interval, the synchronization interval is known based on the time. There is a risk that a specific random number based on the fluctuation of the specific fluctuation display game will be targeted, but as shown above, the synchronization interval between the firing period and the counter value update period (random number update period) is variablely displayed. By making it longer than the maximum time of the game, it is possible to prevent the shooting of a predetermined random number value based on the fluctuation of a specific fluctuation display game, and to ensure the fairness of the game.

Also, the firing period of the launching means is determined corresponding to the oscillation frequency unique to the oscillation means to be used, and the synchronization interval between the determined firing period and the random number update period is greater than the maximum variation time of the variation display game. Since the length is set to be longer, the burden on the designer is lighter than the method of simultaneously determining both the firing period and the random number update period.
Furthermore, since the update range of the counter value of the random number generation means can be set by software, even if you want to change the fluctuation time of the fluctuation display game etc., you can change the setting to prevent the random number from being shot by simply rewriting the program It can be done easily.

The invention according to claim 2 is the gaming machine according to claim 1,
Launch adjustment means for adjusting the launch force of the game ball launched by the launch means;
Launch control means for controlling launch based on the oscillation signal and the signal from the launch adjustment means;
A drive source that performs a unit operation by applying a drive signal of a predetermined number of pulses and drives a ball launcher for launching a game ball by the launch control means;
A frequency dividing circuit that adjusts the oscillation frequency according to a predetermined frequency dividing ratio;
The firing period is determined according to the number of pulses, the oscillation frequency, and the division ratio,
The random number updated by the random number generation means is set to a value that is an integral multiple of m, the update frequency of the random number is a value that is an integral multiple of M, and a multiple is set so that the random number update cycle can be expressed in m / M. When the m value constituting the numerator of the m / M and the M value constituting the denominator are integers that are relatively prime,
When the firing cycle obtained by dividing the product of the number of drive pulses required for one firing by the drive source and the frequency division ratio by the frequency divider circuit by the oscillation frequency of the oscillation means is represented by n / N, The n value constituting the numerator of n / N and the N value constituting the denominator are integers that are relatively prime,
The product value mn of the m value and the n value is divided by the greatest common divisor Gcd (Nm, Mn) of the product value Nm of the N value and the m value and the product value Mn of the M value and the n value. The value D is longer than the maximum variation time of the variation display game,
A synchronization interval between the firing cycle and the random number update cycle is set to be longer than the maximum variation time of the variation display game and shorter than the value D.

Here, the “drive source” includes a solenoid in addition to the pulse motor, and the “unit operation” means one rotation in the case of the pulse motor and one reciprocation in the case of the solenoid.
According to the second aspect of the present invention, the frequency division circuit for adjusting the oscillation frequency is provided, and the firing period is determined by the number of drive pulses of the drive source for driving the ball launcher, the oscillation frequency of the oscillation means, and the frequency division circuit. Since it is determined according to the frequency division ratio, it is possible to select an oscillator to be used from among commercially available crystal oscillators of multiple types of oscillation frequencies, thereby avoiding an increase in cost and setting the firing cycle appropriately. Thus, it is possible to easily prevent the shooting of a predetermined random number value based on the fluctuation of a specific fluctuation display game.
According to the second aspect of the present invention, the synchronization interval between the firing period and the random number update period is made longer than the maximum time of the variable display game without extremely increasing the range of the random number generated by the random number generation means. And the burden on the game control means can be reduced.

A third aspect of the present invention is the gaming machine according to the second aspect,
The m value is a value including “2” as a prime factor, and the M value is a value including “5” as a prime factor.
According to the third aspect of the present invention, the m value of the numerator in the expression “random number size / frequency = m / M” that gives the random number update period is a value including “2” as a prime factor, When the random number generation means is constituted by a general binary counter circuit or the like, the scale of the random number generation circuit can be reduced. In addition, the M value of the denominator in the expression “number of random numbers / frequency = m / M” is a value including “5” as a prime factor, so that the operation frequency is 10 when the game control means is configured by a CPU. Since a CPU that is a power, that is, a power of 5, can be easily obtained, a system that satisfies a desired condition can be easily configured.

The invention according to claim 4 is the gaming machine according to claim 3,
The greatest common divisor of the m value and the n value includes “2” or “power of 2”.
According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, when the greatest common divisor of the m value and the n value includes “2” or “a power of 2”, the product value mN of the m value and the N value , The product value Mn of the M value and the n value, and the greatest common divisor Gcd (Nm, Mn) also includes “2” or “a power of 2”. The value D obtained by dividing the product value mn of N by the product value Nm of the N value and m value and the product value Mn of the M value and n value is reduced to a small value. It can be handled easily, and when the value of the synchronization period is determined, m / M and n / N can take more values, and the options can be expanded.

The invention according to claim 5 is the gaming machine according to claim 4,
The greatest common divisor Gcd (Nm, Mn) includes “2” and “5”.
According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the product value mn of the m value and the n value is the greatest common divisor Gcd of the product value Nm of the N value and the m value, the product value Mn of the M value and the n value. The value D divided by (Nm, Mn) can be made even smaller, and handling becomes easy, and when the value of the synchronization period is determined, values that m / M and n / N can take are The number of choices can be expanded, and it becomes easy to obtain a vibrator or CPU that satisfies a desired condition.

  According to the present invention, in a gaming machine equipped with a counter-type random number generating means for generating random numbers used for game control, it is possible to prevent the aiming of a predetermined random number value and to ensure the fairness of the game. There is.

It is a perspective view showing one embodiment of a gaming machine provided with a pachinko gaming machine to which a gaming machine according to the present invention is applied. It is a perspective view which shows the state which open | released the glass frame of the front surface of the game machine of embodiment of 1st invention. It is a front view showing an example of a game board in the gaming machine of the embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the control system provided in the back surface of the game machine of embodiment, and the game control apparatus which comprises this control system. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the presentation control apparatus which comprises the control system of FIG. It is a system block diagram which shows the relationship between the game control apparatus which comprises the control system of FIG. 4, a payout control apparatus, and a launch control apparatus. It is a circuit block diagram which shows the specific example of the discharge control apparatus shown by FIG. It is a block block diagram which shows the specific example of the discharge control circuit shown by FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the first half part of the specific procedure of a main process among the game control performed by the game microcomputer of the game control apparatus of embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the latter half part (continuation of FIG. 9) of the specific procedure of a main process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the specific procedure of a timer interruption process among the game controls performed by the game microcomputer of the game control apparatus of embodiment. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of a specific procedure of special figure game processing executed during the timer interrupt processing of FIG. 11; It is a flowchart which shows an example of the procedure of the main process by 1stCPU among the presentation control performed by the presentation control apparatus of embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the procedure of the scene control process performed during the 1st main process of FIG. It is a timing chart which shows an example of the relationship between the random number update timing in the random number generation circuit of the game control apparatus of embodiment, and a hitting ball firing timing. It is a timing chart which shows an example of the relationship between random number update timing and hitting ball | bowl launch timing, and a timing chart which shows the relationship with the jackpot random number acquired at a launch timing. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the synchronization of the random number update period and hitting ball | bowl launch period in the game control apparatus of embodiment. (A) is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the calculation formula of the hitting ball | bowl firing period and the hit | ball hitting frequency | count in the game control apparatus of embodiment, (B) is description which shows the specific example of the oscillation period of a crystal oscillator, a firing period, and the frequency | count of discharge FIG. (A) is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the magnitude | size of random number, update time, and an update period, (B) is description which shows the example of the calculation formula of the update period of a random number. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the synchronous range of a random number update period and a hit ball discharge period. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the synchronous range of the magnitude | size of a random number, a random number update period, and a hit ball | bowl launch period. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the oscillation period of a crystal oscillator to be used, a discharge period, the frequency | count of discharge, and a synchronization interval. It is explanatory drawing which shows the progress example of the production | presentation of a fluctuation | variation display game, and the relationship between the fluctuation | variation period, the random number update period, and the synchronous space | interval of a hitting ball | bowl firing period. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example which shows the part of distribution of the time of the first half fluctuation | variation of the fluctuation display game in the game control apparatus of an Example, and the latter half fluctuation | variation.

DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.
The gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment includes a front frame 12, and the front frame 12 is assembled to a main body frame (outer frame) 11 via a hinge 13 so as to be openable and closable. A game board having a game area on the front surface is stored in a storage portion (not shown) formed on the front side of the front frame 12. Further, a glass frame 15 having a cover glass (transparent member) 14 covering the front surface of the game board is attached to the front frame (inner frame) 12.

Further, an illuminating device (moving light) 16 having a built-in lamp and motor and a lamp (LED) 17 for paying out abnormality notification are provided in the upper part of the glass frame 15. Further, on the left and right sides of the glass frame 15, there are provided a frame decoration device 18 with a built-in lamp and the like for emitting light for decoration and production, and a speaker (upper speaker) 19a for emitting sound (for example, sound effects). Yes. Further, a speaker (lower speaker) 19 b is also provided below the front frame 12.
In addition, on the lower part of the front frame 12, an upper plate 21 that supplies game balls to a hitting ball launching device, which will be described later, and game balls paid out from a ball payout device provided on the back side of the gaming machine 10 flow out. There are provided a lower tray unit 25 having a lower tray 23a for storing game balls paid out in a state where the tray ball outlet 22, the upper tray 21 is full, an operation handle 24 of the ball hitting device, and the like. Further, an effect button 25 having a built-in operation switch for receiving an operation input from the player is provided on the upper edge of the upper plate 21.

In the gaming machine 10 of this embodiment, when the player turns the operation handle 24, the hitting ball launching device launches the game ball supplied from the upper plate 21 toward the game area on the front surface of the game board. To do. In addition, when the player operates the effect button 25, an effect in which the player's operation is intervened in the variable display game (decoration special map variable display game) in the display device (not shown) provided in the game area. Etc. can be performed.
Further, on the front surface of the glass frame 15 above the upper plate 21, a ball lending button 27 that is operated when a player receives a ball lending from an adjacent ball lending machine, and a prepaid card to be discharged from the card unit of the ball lending machine. A discharge button 28 for operating the balance, a balance display section (not shown) for displaying the balance of the prepaid card, and the like are provided.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a state in which the glass frame of the gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment is opened. In FIG. 2, the parts and members shown in FIG.
As shown in FIG. 2, a ball payout outlet for paying out the game balls paid out from the ball payout device 46 to the upper plate 21 at a position corresponding to the front of the front frame 12 and behind the glass frame 15. 47 is provided, and on the back surface of the glass frame 15, an upper plate communication path 48 that guides the game ball paid out from the ball payout outlet 47 to the upper plate 21 is provided.
A launch unit 72 as a hitting ball launcher having a ball launcher and a drive source for driving the ball launcher is disposed below the front handle 12 and above the operation handle 24. On the left side of the launch unit 72, a launch rail 73 inclined downward to the right is provided, and the launch unit 72 and the launch rail 73 constitute a game ball launch device. Further, a lower tray ball outlet 23 a through which game balls discharged from the ball dispensing device 46 and overflowed from the upper plate 21 flows out is provided at the back of the lower plate 23.

Next, the game board 30 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a front view of the game board 30 of the present embodiment.
On the surface of the game board 30, a substantially circular game area 32 surrounded by the guide rail 31 is formed. The game area 32 is surrounded by resin side cases 33 and guide rails 31 provided at the four corners of the game board 30.
In the game board of this embodiment, a center case 40 provided with a display device 41 is disposed substantially at the center of the game area 32. The display device 41 is attached to a recess provided in the center case 40 at a position deeper than the front surface of the center case 40 so that the display portion of the display device 41 faces through an opening window formed in the center of the center case 40. Is arranged. That is, a decorative member is formed on the periphery of the center case 40 so as to surround the display area of the display device 41 and to protrude forward from the display surface of the display device 41.

  The display device 41 is configured by a device having a display screen such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or a CRT (CRT). A plurality of pieces of identification information (special symbols), a character that produces a special figure variation display game, a background image that enhances the effect, and the like are displayed in an area (display area) in which an image of the display screen can be displayed. On the display screen of the display device 41, a plurality of special symbols assigned as identification information are variably displayed (variably displayed), and a decorative special figure variation display game corresponding to the special diagram variation display game is played. In addition, an image for an effect based on the progress of the game (for example, a jackpot display image, a fanfare display image, an ending display image, etc.) is displayed on the display screen.

Furthermore, in the present embodiment, a normal symbol start gate (ordinary start gate) 34 is provided on the left side of the center case 40 in the game area 32. Three general winning openings 35 are arranged on the lower left side of the center case 40, and one general winning opening 35 is arranged on the lower right side of the center case 40.
In each of the general winning ports 35,..., Winning port switches 35a to 35n (see FIG. 4) for detecting the game balls that have entered the general winning ports 35 are arranged.
A start winning opening 36 is provided below the center case 40 for giving a start condition for the special figure variation display game, and a game ball easily flows into the upper portion by opening a reverse “C” shape at the top. An ordinary variable winning device (general power) 37 having a pair of movable members 37b for converting into a state and having a second start winning opening is disposed therein.

The pair of opening / closing members 37b of the normal variation winning device 37 always maintains a closed state (a disadvantageous state for the player) with an interval of about the diameter of the game ball. However, since the start winning port 36 is provided above the normal variation winning device 37, the game ball cannot be won in the closed state.
Then, when the result of the normal variation display game becomes a predetermined stop display mode, it is opened in a reverse “C” shape by a general electric solenoid 37c (see FIG. 4) as a drive device, and a normal variation prize is won. The device 37 can be changed to an open state (a state advantageous to the player) in which a game ball easily flows.
Further, below the normal symbol starting gate 34, a special variable winning device (large winning port) 38 that can be converted into a state in which a game ball is not accepted and a state in which it is easy to accept depending on the result of the special figure variation display game is disposed. Yes.

The special variable winning device 38 has an attacker-type opening / closing door that can be opened by rotating in a direction in which the upper end side is tilted toward the front side. The winning opening is closed (blocked state unfavorable for the player) to the open state (state advantageous to the player).
That is, the special variable prize winning device 38 includes a big prize opening that is opened and closed by an open / close door that is driven by a big prize opening solenoid 38b (see FIG. 4) as a driving device, for example. Is converted from a closed state to an open state, thereby facilitating the inflow of game balls into the special winning opening, and a predetermined game value (prize ball) is given to the player.

In addition, a count switch 38a (see FIG. 4) as a detecting means for detecting a game ball that has entered the big prize opening is disposed inside the big prize opening (winning area).
Further, below the special variable winning device 38, there is provided an out port 39 for collecting game balls that have not won a winning port or the like.
In addition, on the outside of the game area 32 (for example, in the lower right part of the game board 30), the first special figure fluctuation display game, the second special figure fluctuation display game, and the general figure start gate 34 that form the special figure fluctuation display game are displayed. There is provided a collective display device 50 for executing a common figure variable display game triggered by winning a prize at one place.

  The collective display device 50 includes a first special figure fluctuation display section (special figure 1 display) 51 for a first special figure fluctuation display game and a second special figure fluctuation display game, which are configured by a 7-segment display or the like The second special figure fluctuation display section (special figure 2 display) 52, a fluctuation display section for a normal figure fluctuation display game constituted by LED lamps, and a memory display section for informing the start memory number of each fluctuation display game The LED display part 53 which has. Also, the LED display 53 of the collective display device 50 is lit when a big hit occurs, and is turned on when the short game state is displayed. A second game state display unit (second game state display unit) for notifying the occurrence of a state, and an error display unit (third game state) for displaying an error in which the jackpot probability state is in a high probability state when the gaming machine 10 is turned on. A status display), and a round display section for displaying the number of rounds at the time of big hit (the number of times of opening and closing of the special variable winning device 38).

The special figure fluctuation display game in the special figure 1 display 51 and the special figure 2 display 52 is, for example, during the execution of the fluctuation display game, that is, while the decoration special figure fluctuation display game is being performed on the display device 41, The segment is blinked to indicate that it is changing. When the result of the game is “out of”, for example, the central segment is turned on as a result mode of out of game, and when the result of the game is “win”, the result of out of game (special result mode) is not. A game result is displayed with a result mode other than the result mode (for example, numbers such as “3” and “7”) in a lit state.
Thus, since the special figure 1 display 51 and the special figure 2 display 52 for executing the special figure variation display game are provided separately from the display device 41, the display apparatus 41 has a variation display game for the gaming machine. Even if an effect linked to an effect of another gaming machine is performed instead of an effect relating to the game machine, the original variation display game of the gaming machine can be executed properly.

The normal display on the LED display unit 53 blinks the lamp during the change and displays that the change is in progress. When the game result is “out of”, for example, the lamp is turned off, and when the game result is “hit”, the lamp is turned on to display the game result.
The special figure 1 holding indicator displays the number of undigested balls (starting memory number = holding number) among the number of winning balls to the start winning opening 36 which is the variation start condition of the special figure 1 indicator 51. Specifically, when the number of hold is “0”, all four lamps are turned off, and when the number of hold is “1”, only lamp 1 is turned on. Further, when the number of holdings is “2”, the lamps 1 and 2 are turned on, when the number of holdings is “3”, the lamps 1, 2 and 3 are turned on, and when the number of holdings is “4”, 4 is set. All the lamps 1 to 4 are turned on.

The special figure 2 hold indicator of the LED display unit 53 displays the start memory number (= holding number) of the second start prize opening (ordinary variable prize device 37) as the fluctuation start condition of the special figure 2 indicator 52. 1 Displayed in the same way as the hold indicator.
The general map hold indicator displays the start memory number (= hold number) of the general map start gate 34 which is the variation start condition of the general map indicator. For example, when the hold number is “0”, the lamps 1 and 2 are turned off, and when the hold number is “1”, only the lamp 1 is turned on. When the number of hold is “2”, lamps 1 and 2 are turned on. When the number of hold is “3”, lamp 1 is blinked, lamp 2 is turned on, and when the number of hold is “4”. Lamps 1 and 2 are blinked.

For example, the first game state indicator turns off the lamp in a normal gaming state and turns on the lamp when a big hit has occurred. For example, the second gaming state indicator turns off the lamp in the normal gaming state, and turns on the lamp when the time-short state occurs. For example, the third gaming state indicator turns off the lamp when the jackpot probability state is low when the gaming machine 10 is turned on, and the jackpot probability state is high when the gaming machine 10 is turned on. In this case, the lamp is turned on.
For example, the round display unit turns off the lamp in the normal gaming state, and turns on the lamp corresponding to the number of rounds (2 rounds or 15 rounds) when the big hit occurs. Note that the round display unit may be a seven-segment display.

  In the gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment, a game is played by launching a game ball (pachinko ball) from a launcher (not shown) toward the game area 32. The launched game balls flow down the game area 32 while changing the rolling direction by means of direction change members such as obstacle nails and windmills arranged at various locations in the game area 32, and the normal start gate 34 and the general winning opening 35 The winning prize opening 36, the normal variable prize winning device 37 or the special variable prize winning device 38 is won, or it flows into the out port 39 provided at the bottom of the game area 32 and is discharged from the game area. When a game ball wins the general winning opening 35, the start winning opening 36, the normal variation winning apparatus 37, or the special variable winning apparatus 38, the number of winning balls corresponding to the type of the winning opening is awarded by the payout control apparatus 200. It is discharged from the controlled dispensing unit to the upper plate or lower plate of the front frame.

On the other hand, a gate switch 34a (see FIG. 4) including a non-contact type switch for detecting a game ball that has passed through the general diagram start gate 34 is provided in the general diagram start gate 34. When a game ball that has been driven into the area 32 passes through the usual figure start gate 34, it is detected by the gate switch 34a and a usual figure change display game is played.
In addition, the normal variation display game cannot be started, for example, the normal variation display game has already been played and the normal variation display game has not been completed, When 37 is converted to the open state and the game ball passes through the general figure start gate 34, if it is less than the upper limit of the normal figure start memory number, the general figure start memory number is added (+1) and the general figure start memory number is increased. One figure start memory is stored. The number of memorized start prizes is displayed on the memory display unit for notifying the number of start prizes in the LED display unit 53 of the collective display device 50.

In addition, in the normal chart start memory, a random number value for hit determination for determining a hit error of the normal figure fluctuation display game is stored, and when the random number value for hit determination coincides with the determination value In addition, a specific result mode (specific result) is derived by hitting the common map fluctuation display game.
The general-purpose variable display game is executed by a variable display unit (standard map display) of the LED display unit 53 provided in the collective display device 50. The general-purpose indicator is composed of LEDs indicating normal identification information (normal diagrams, normal symbols) in the lit state, and indicating a shift in the unlit state, and the normal identification information is displayed by blinking this LED. Fluctuation display is performed, and after a predetermined fluctuation display time has elapsed, the LED is turned on or off to display the result.

Note that, for example, numbers, symbols, character designs, and the like may be used as the normal identification information, which is displayed by variably displaying for a predetermined time and then stopped. If the stop display of the usual figure change display game is a specific result, the pair of movable members 37b of the normal fluctuation winning device 37 is opened for a predetermined time (for example, 0.3 seconds). It becomes a state. This makes it easier for the game ball to win the second start winning opening inside the normal fluctuation winning device 37, and the number of times the second special figure changing display game is executed increases.
When the common random number value extracted at the time of detecting passage to the general figure start gate 34 is a winning value, the normal symbol displayed on the normal figure display of the LED display unit 53 stops in the winning state and enters the winning state. At this time, the normal variation winning device 37 is in a state in which the movable member 37b is opened for a predetermined time (for example, 0.3 seconds) by driving the built-in general-purpose solenoid 37c (see FIG. 4). It is converted and the winning of the game ball is allowed.

The winning ball to the starting winning port 36 and the winning ball to the normal variation winning device 37 are respectively detected by the starting port 1 switch 36a and the starting port 2 switch 37a provided inside. The game ball that has won the start winning opening 36 is detected as the start winning ball of the first special figure variable display game, is stored up to a predetermined upper limit number (for example, 4), and is awarded to the normal variable winning device 37. The played game balls are detected as start winning balls for the second special figure variation display game, and stored with a predetermined upper limit number (for example, four) as a limit.
In addition, when the starting winning ball is detected, a big hit random number value, a big hit symbol random number value, and each variation pattern random number value are extracted, and the extracted random number value is stored in a special figure memory in the game control device 100 (see FIG. 4). Each area (a part of the RAM) is stored as a special figure start memory for a predetermined number of times (for example, a maximum of four times). The number stored in the special chart start memory is displayed on the memory display section for notifying the start winning number of the collective display device 50 and also displayed on the display device 41 of the center case 40.

The game control device 100 has a special figure 1 display 51 or a special figure 2 display 52 provided in the collective display device 50 based on a winning at the start winning opening 36 or the normal variable winning device 37, or their start memory. The first or second special figure variable display game is played with the variable display device.
The first special figure fluctuation display game and the second special figure fluctuation display game are performed by variably displaying a plurality of special symbols (special figures, identification information) and then stopping and displaying a predetermined result form. In addition, a decorative special figure fluctuation display game in which a plurality of types of identification information (for example, numbers, symbols, character designs, etc.) are variably displayed on the display device 41 corresponding to each special figure fluctuation display game is executed. ing.
As a result of the special figure fluctuation display game, when the display mode of the special figure 1 display 51 or the special figure 2 display 52 becomes a special result mode, a special game state (so-called big hit state) ) Correspondingly, the display mode of the display device 41 is also a special result mode. In this embodiment, when the stop result mode becomes the special result mode in the second variation display game of the special figure 2 display, the stop result mode is special in the first variation display game of the special figure 1 display unit. The profit (for example, the number of rounds) to be given to the player is set to be larger than that in the case where the result mode is obtained.

In the decorative special symbol variation display game on the display device 41, for example, the decorative special symbol (identification information) composed of the above-described numbers is left (first special symbol), right (second special symbol), middle (third special symbol). The variation display is started in the order of symbols), the symbols that have been varied after a predetermined time are sequentially stopped, and the result of the special symbol variation display game is displayed. In addition, the display device 41 performs a variable display game with a decorative special symbol corresponding to the number of special figure starting memories, and various effect displays such as the appearance of a character are performed to improve interest.
The special figure 1 display 51 and the special figure 2 display 52 may be separate displays or the same display, but each special figure variation display is performed so as not to be executed independently or simultaneously. The game is displayed. In addition, the display device 41 may use different display devices and different display areas in the first special map variable display game and the second special map variable display game, or use the same display device and display area. However, the decoration special figure variation display game is displayed so as not to be executed independently or simultaneously.

Further, the second special figure variation display game is executed with priority over the first special figure variation display game. That is, if there is a start memory of the first special figure fluctuation display game and the second special figure fluctuation display game, and the execution of the special figure fluctuation display game becomes possible, the second special figure fluctuation display game is It is supposed to be executed.
In addition, in the state where the first special figure fluctuation display game (second special figure fluctuation display game) can be started and the number of start memories is zero, the start winning opening 36 (or the normal fluctuation prize winning device 37) is entered. When the game ball wins, the start memory is stored as the start right is generated, the start memory number is incremented by 1, and the first special figure variation display game (second special figure) is immediately added based on the start memory. (Variable display game) is started, and at this time, the start memory number is decremented by one.

On the other hand, a state in which the first special figure fluctuation display game (second special figure fluctuation display game) cannot be started immediately, for example, the first or second special figure fluctuation display game has already been performed, and the special figure fluctuation display game has ended. When the game ball is won in the start winning opening 36 (or the normal variable prize winning device 37) in a state that is not in a special state or in a special game state, the start memory number is 1 if the start memory number is less than the upper limit number. By adding, one start memory is stored. Then, in a state where the starting memory number becomes 1 or more, a state in which the first special figure fluctuation display game (second special figure fluctuation display game) can be started (the end of the previous special figure fluctuation display game or the special game state) (End), the start memory number is decremented by 1, and the first special figure fluctuation display game (second special figure fluctuation display game) is started based on the stored start memory.
In the following description, when the first special figure fluctuation display game and the second special figure fluctuation display game are not distinguished, they are simply referred to as a special figure fluctuation display game.

  Although not particularly limited, the starting port 1 switch 36a in the starting winning port 36, the starting port 2 switch 37a in the normal variable winning device 37, the gate switch 34a, the general winning port switches 35a to 35n, the count The switch 38a is a non-contact type magnetic proximity sensor (hereinafter referred to as a proximity switch) that includes a magnetic detection coil and detects a game ball using a phenomenon in which a magnetic field changes when a metal approaches the coil. Has been. For the front frame opening detection switch 63 provided on the glass frame or the like of the gaming machine 10 or the game frame opening detection switch 64 provided on the front frame (game frame) or the like, a micro switch having a mechanical contact may be used. it can.

FIG. 4 shows a configuration example of the control system of the pachinko gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment.
The gaming machine 10 includes a game control device 100. The game control device 100 is a main control device (main board) for comprehensively controlling games, and a gaming microcomputer (hereinafter referred to as a gaming microcomputer) 111 is provided. The CPU unit 110 includes an input unit 120 having an input port, an output unit 130 having an output port, a driver, and the like, and a data bus 140 connecting the CPU unit 110, the input unit 120, and the output unit 130.
The CPU section 110 receives signals (starting winning detection signals) from a gaming microcomputer (CPU) 111 called an amusement chip (IC) and a proximity switch interface chip (proximity I / F) 121 in the input section 120. An inversion circuit 112 composed of an inverter or the like that is logically inverted and input to the gaming microcomputer 111 and an oscillator such as a crystal oscillator are provided to generate a clock for a CPU operation clock, a timer interrupt, and a random number generation circuit. An oscillation circuit (crystal oscillator) 113 is included. The game control device 100 and electronic components such as a solenoid and a motor driven by the game control device 100 are supplied with a predetermined level of DC voltage such as DC32V, DC12V, and DC5V generated by the power supply device 400 so as to be operable. Is done.

The power supply apparatus 400 includes a normal power supply including an AC-DC converter that generates the DC 32V DC voltage from a 24V AC power source, a DC-DC converter that generates a lower level DC voltage such as DC 12V and DC 5V from the DC 32V voltage, and the like. Unit 410, backup power supply unit 420 for supplying power supply voltage to the internal RAM of gaming microcomputer 111 in the event of a power failure, and a power failure monitoring circuit and an initialization switch to inform gaming control device 100 of the occurrence and recovery of power failure A control signal generation unit 430 that generates and outputs control signals such as a power failure monitoring signal, an initialization switch signal, and a reset signal is provided.
In this embodiment, the power supply device 400 is configured separately from the game control device 100, but the backup power supply unit 420 and the control signal generation unit 430 are integrated on a separate board or the game control device 100, that is, the main control device 100. You may comprise so that it may provide on a board | substrate. Since the game board 30 and the game control device 100 are to be replaced when the model is changed, the backup power supply unit 420 and the control signal generation unit 430 are provided on a board different from the power supply apparatus 400 or the main board as in the embodiment. By providing, it can remove from the object of replacement | exchange and can aim at cost reduction.

The backup power supply unit 420 can be composed of one large-capacity capacitor such as an electrolytic capacitor. The backup power is supplied to the game microcomputer 111 (particularly, the built-in RAM) of the game control device 100, and the data stored in the RAM is held even during a power failure or after the power is shut off. The control signal generation unit 430 monitors the voltage of 32V generated by the normal power supply unit 410, for example, detects the occurrence of a power failure when the voltage drops below 17V, for example, changes the power failure monitoring signal, and resets the signal after a predetermined time. Is output. In addition, a reset signal is output after a predetermined time has elapsed from the time when the power is turned on or the power is restored.
The initialization switch signal is a signal generated when the initialization switch is turned on, and forcibly initializes information stored in the RAM 111C in the gaming microcomputer 111 and the RAM in the payout control device 200. . Although not particularly limited, the initialization switch signal is read when the power is turned on, and the power failure monitoring signal is repeatedly read in the main loop of the main program executed by the gaming microcomputer 111. The reset signal is a kind of forced interrupt signal and resets the entire control system.

The game microcomputer 111 constitutes a game control means for comprehensively controlling the game. Specifically, the gaming microcomputer 111 includes a CPU (central processing unit: microprocessor) 111A, a read-only ROM (read only memory) 111B, a read / write RAM (random access memory) 111C, and a variable display game. A random number generation circuit 111D that generates a random number used to control a game such as a big hit is provided.
The ROM 111B stores invariant information (programs, fixed data, various random number judgment values, etc.) for game control in a nonvolatile manner, and the RAM 111C stores a work area for the CPU 111A and various signals and random number values during game control. Used as As the ROM 111B or the RAM 111C, an electrically rewritable nonvolatile memory such as an EEPROM may be used. Instead of using a CPU including the random number generation circuit 111D, a random number may be generated by a program.

In addition, the ROM 111B stores a variation pattern table for determining a variation pattern that defines, for example, the execution time of the special figure variation display game, the production contents, and the presence or absence of the reach state.
The variation pattern table is a table for the CPU 111A to determine the variation pattern by referring to the variation pattern random numbers 1 to 3 stored as the start memory. Further, the fluctuation pattern table includes a loss fluctuation pattern table selected when the result is lost, a big hit fluctuation pattern table selected when the result is per 15R or 2R, and the like. Further, these pattern tables include a second half variation pattern table and a first half variation pattern table.

  Reach (reach state) has a display device whose display state can change, and the display device derives and displays a plurality of display results at different times, and the plurality of display results are predetermined. In the gaming machine 10 in which the gaming state becomes a gaming state advantageous to the player (special gaming state) when the special result mode is entered, the game is already derived at the stage where some of the plurality of display results are not yet derived and displayed. This means a display state in which the displayed display result satisfies the condition for the special result mode. In other words, the reach state is deviated from the display condition that is the special result mode even when the display device's variable display control progresses and reaches the stage before the display result is derived and displayed. There is no display mode. For example, a state where so-called full-rotation reach is performed in a variable display region while maintaining a state in which special result modes are aligned (so-called full rotation reach) is also included in the reach state. The reach state is a display state at the time when the display control of the display device has progressed to reach a stage before the display result is derived and displayed, and is determined before the display result is derived and displayed. The display state in the case where at least a part of the display results of the plurality of variable display areas satisfies the condition for the special result mode.

  Thus, for example, a decorative special figure fluctuation display game displayed on a display device corresponding to a special figure fluctuation display game fluctuates a plurality of identification information for a predetermined time in each of the left, middle, and right fluctuation display areas on the display device. After displaying, when the display of the result mode is stopped in the order of left, right, and middle, the condition that becomes the special result mode is satisfied in the left and right variable display areas (for example, The state in which the variable display is stopped with the same identification information) is the reach state. In addition to this, when the variable display of all the variable display areas is temporarily stopped, the condition that the special result mode is satisfied in any two of the left, middle, and right variable display areas (for example, the same The state in which the identification information is obtained (except for the special result mode) may be set as the reach state, and the remaining one variable display area may be variably displayed from the reach state.

  This reach state includes a plurality of reach productions, and the possibility that a special result mode is derived (different reliability) includes normal reach, special 1 reach, special 2 reach, special 3 reach, Premier reach etc. are set. The reliability increases in the order of no reach <normal reach <special 1 reach <special 2 reach <special 3 reach <premier reach. In addition, this reach state is included in a variable display mode at least in a case where a special result mode is derived in a special figure variable display game (when a big hit is achieved). That is, when it is determined that the special result mode is not derived in the special figure variable display game (when it is out of date), it may be included in the variable display mode. Therefore, the state in which the reach state has occurred is a state that is more likely to be a big hit than the case in which the reach state does not occur.

The CPU 111A executes a game control program in the ROM 111B, generates control signals (commands) for the payout control device 200 and the effect control device 300, and generates and outputs drive signals for the solenoid and the display device, thereby playing the gaming machine. 10 overall control is performed.
In addition, the gaming microcomputer 111 is a jackpot determination random number for the special figure variation display game, a random number for the big hit symbol for determining the big hit symbol, a variation pattern in the special figure variation display game (various display without various reach and no reach) A random number generating circuit 111D for generating a random number for determining a fluctuation pattern, a random number for determining a hit of a normal variable display game, and an oscillation signal (from the oscillation circuit 113). Based on the original clock signal), a clock generator (not shown) is provided that generates a timer interrupt signal for a predetermined period (for example, 4 milliseconds) for the CPU 111A and a clock that gives the update timing of the random number generation circuit 111D.

  In addition, the CPU 111A stores a plurality of variation pattern tables stored in the ROM 111B in a start port switch monitoring process (step A1) and a special figure routine process (step A9) in a special figure game process (see FIG. 12) described later. Any one variation pattern table is acquired from the inside. Specifically, the CPU 111A determines the game result (big hit or miss) of the special figure fluctuation display game, the probability state (normal probability state or high probability state) of the special figure fluctuation display game as the current game state, and the current game. Based on the operation state (normal operation state or short-time operation state) of the normal variation winning device 37 as a state, the number of start memories, etc., one of the variation pattern tables is selected and acquired. To do.

  Although not shown, the payout control device 200 includes a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, an input interface, an output interface, and the like, and in accordance with a prize ball payout command (command or data) from the game control device 100, a payout unit 46 (see FIG. 2). The payout motor is driven to perform control for paying out the prize balls. In addition, the payout control device 200 drives the payout motor of the payout unit based on the ball rental request signal from the card unit, and performs control for paying out the ball. Furthermore, the game control device 100 detects a launch permission signal and a power failure through the payout control device 200 to the launch control device 210 that controls the launch motor 721 (see FIG. 6) that constitutes the hit ball launch device 72 (see FIG. 2). Send a signal to indirectly control the launch of the ball.

  The input unit 120 of the gaming microcomputer 111 includes a start port 1 switch 36a in the start winning port 36, a start port 2 switch 37a in the normal variation winning device 37, a gate switch 34a in the usual start gate 34, and a general winning port. An interface which is connected to the switches 35a to 35n and the count switch 38a and receives a negative logic signal such as a high level of 11V and a low level of 7V supplied from these switches, and converts it into a positive logic signal of 0V-5V. A chip (proximity I / F) 121 is provided. Proximity I / F 121 seems to be floating because the input range is 7V-11V, the lead wire of the proximity switch is improperly shorted, the switch is disconnected from the connector, or the lead wire is disconnected. An abnormal state can be detected, and an abnormality detection signal is output.

  All the outputs of the proximity I / F 121 are supplied to the second input port 122 and read into the gaming microcomputer 111 via the data bus 140, and also supplied from the main board 100 to the test firing test apparatus (not shown) via the relay board 70. It is like that. In addition, the detection signals of the start port 1 switch 36a and the start port 2 switch 37a among the outputs of the proximity I / F 121 are input to the gaming microcomputer 111 via the inverting circuit 112 in addition to the second input port 122. It is configured. The inversion circuit 112 is provided because the signal input terminal of the gaming microcomputer 111 detects that a signal from a micro switch or the like is input, and detects negative logic, that is, low level (0 V) as an effective level. Because it is designed to do.

  Therefore, when a micro switch is used as the start port 1 switch 36a and the start port 2 switch 37a, the detection signal can be directly input to the gaming microcomputer 111 without providing the inverting circuit 112. That is, when it is desired to directly input negative logic signals from the start port 1 switch 36a and the start port 2 switch 37a to the gaming microcomputer 111, the proximity switch cannot be used. As described above, the proximity I / F 121 has a signal level conversion function. In order to enable such a level conversion function, the proximity I / F 121 is supplied with a voltage of 12 V from the power supply device 400 in addition to a voltage such as 5 V required for normal IC operation. It has become.

  Further, the input unit 120 includes a signal from the fraud detection magnetic sensor switch 61 and the vibration sensor switch 62 provided on the front frame of the gaming machine 10 and the start winning opening 36 converted by the proximity I / F 121. Start port 1 switch 36a, start port 2 switch 37a in the normal variable winning device 37, gate switch 34a, general winning port switches 35a to 35n, and signals from the count switch 38a and the microcomputer for gaming via the data bus 140 A second input port 122 for supplying to 111 is provided. The data held by the second input port 122 is read by asserting the enable signal CE1 (changing to an effective level) by the gaming microcomputer 111 decoding the address assigned to the second input port 122. be able to. The same applies to other ports described later.

  Further, the input unit 120 includes signals from the front frame opening detection switch 63 provided on the glass frame 15 of the gaming machine 10 and the game frame opening detection switch 64 provided on the front frame (game frame) and the payout control. A first status signal indicating a payout abnormality from the device 200, a shot ball break switch signal indicating a shortage of game balls before payout, and an overflow switch signal indicating overflow are fetched and supplied to the game microcomputer 111 via the data bus 140. An input port 123 is provided. The overflow switch signal is a signal that is output when it is detected that a predetermined amount or more of game balls are stored in the lower plate 23 (full).

  Further, the input unit 120 is provided with a Schmitt trigger circuit 124 for inputting signals such as a power failure monitoring signal, an initialization switch signal, and a reset signal from the power supply device 400 to the gaming microcomputer 111 and the like. The circuit 124 has a function of removing noise from these input signals. Of the signals from the power supply device 400, the power failure monitoring signal and the initialization switch signal are once inputted to the first input port 123 and taken into the gaming microcomputer 111 via the data bus 140. That is, it is treated as a signal equivalent to the signal from the various switches described above. This is because the number of terminals receiving external signals provided in the gaming microcomputer 111 is limited.

On the other hand, the reset signal RST from which noise has been removed by the Schmitt trigger circuit 124 is directly input to a reset terminal provided in the gaming microcomputer 111 and is supplied to each port of the output unit 130. Further, the reset signal RST is directly output to the relay board 70 without going through the output unit 130, thereby turning off the test test signal held in the port (not shown) of the relay board 70 for output to the test board. It is configured as follows. Further, the reset signal RST may be configured to be output to the test firing test apparatus via the relay board 70.
The reset signal RST is not supplied to the ports 122 and 123 of the input unit 120. Data set to each port of the output unit 130 by the gaming microcomputer 111 immediately before the reset signal RST is input needs to be reset to prevent malfunction of the system, but each data of the input unit 120 is input immediately before the reset signal RST is input. This is because the data read by the gaming microcomputer 111 from the port is discarded when the gaming microcomputer 111 is reset.

The output unit 130 is connected to the data bus 140 and outputs a 4-bit data signal output to the payout control device 200, a control signal (data strobe signal) indicating validity / invalidity of the data, and a data strobe signal SSTB output to the effect control device 300. 1 and a second output port 132 that generates an 8-bit data signal to be output to the effect control device 300. Data is transmitted from the game control device 100 to the payout control device 200 and the effect control device 300 by parallel communication.
In addition, the data strobe signal from the first output port 131 is input to the output unit 130 in order to prevent a signal from being input to the game control apparatus 100 from the side of the effect control apparatus 300, that is, in order to guarantee one-way communication. A unidirectional buffer 133 that outputs an 8-bit data signal from the SSTB and the second output port 132 is provided. A buffer may be provided for a signal output from the first output port 131 to the payout control device 200.

  In addition, the output unit 130 is connected to the data bus 140 via a relay board 70 for data indicating special pattern stop symbol information of the variable display game to a test firing test apparatus of an accredited organization (not shown) and a signal indicating a probability of jackpot. The output buffer 134 is configured to be mountable. This buffer 134 is a component that is not mounted on a game control device (main board) of a pachinko gaming machine as an actual machine (mass production product) installed in the game store. A detection signal output from the proximity I / F 121, such as a start port switch, that is not required to be processed is supplied to the test firing test apparatus via the relay board 70 without passing through the buffer 134.

  On the other hand, detection signals such as the magnetic sensor switch 61 and the vibration sensor switch 62 that cannot be supplied to the test fire testing device as they are are once taken into the gaming microcomputer 111 and processed into other signals or information. An error signal indicating that the control is not possible is supplied from the data bus 140 to the trial test apparatus via the buffer 134 and the relay board 70. The relay board 70 is provided with a port that takes in the signal output from the buffer 134 and supplies it to the test test apparatus, a connector that relays and transmits a signal line of a switch detection signal that does not pass through the buffer, and the like. ing. A chip enable signal CE output from the gaming microcomputer 111 is also supplied to the port on the relay board 70, and the signal of the port selected and controlled by the signal CE is supplied to the test firing test apparatus.

  In addition, the output unit 130 is connected to the data bus 140 and is connected to the data bus 140 to open a special variation winning device 38 (a large winning opening solenoid) 38b and a solenoid (normal electric solenoid) 37c to open a movable member 37b of the normal variation winning device 37. The third output port 135 for outputting the opening / closing data of the LED and the ON / OFF data of the digit line to which the cathode terminal of the LED of the collective display device 50 is connected. A fourth output port 136 for outputting ON / OFF data of the segment line connected to the anode terminal, and a fifth output port 137 for outputting information related to the gaming machine 10 such as jackpot information to the external information terminal 71 are provided. It has been. Information relating to the gaming machine 10 output from the external information terminal 71 is supplied to, for example, an information collection terminal installed in a game store or a game hall internal management device (not shown).

  Further, the output unit 130 receives the opening / closing data signal of the big prize opening solenoid 38b output from the third output port 135, and receives the solenoid driving signal and the opening / closing data signal of the power solenoid 37c to generate the solenoid driving signal. A first driver (drive circuit) 138a for outputting, a second driver 138b for outputting an on / off drive signal for a digit line on the current drawing side of the collective display device 50 outputted from the third output port 135, and a fourth output port 136 The external information signal supplied to the external device such as the management device from the third driver 138c and the fifth output port 137 for outputting the ON / OFF drive signal of the segment line on the current supply side of the collective display device 50 output from the external information A fourth driver 138d for outputting to the terminal 71 is provided.

  The first driver 138a is supplied with DC32V from the power supply device 400 as a power supply voltage so that a solenoid operating at 32V can be driven. Also, DC12V is supplied to the third driver 138c that drives the segment lines of the collective display device 50. Since the second driver 138b for driving the digit line is for extracting the digit line corresponding to the display data with a current, the power supply voltage may be either 12V or 5V. A dynamic drive method is achieved by flowing current to the anode terminal of the LED through the segment line by the third driver 138c that outputs 12 V, and drawing the current from the cathode terminal through the segment line by the second driver 138b that outputs the ground potential. The power supply voltage flows through the LEDs sequentially selected in step 1 so that the LEDs are lit. The fourth driver 138d that outputs the external information signal to the external information terminal 71 is supplied with DC12V in order to give the external information signal a level of 12V. Note that the buffer 134, the third output port 135, the first driver 138a, and the like may be provided on the output board 130 of the game control device 100, that is, on the relay board 70 side instead of the main board.

  Further, the output unit 130 is provided with a photocoupler 139 for transmitting information such as an identification code and a program of each gaming machine to the external inspection device 500. The photocoupler 139 is configured to be capable of bidirectional communication so that the gaming microcomputer 111 can transmit and receive data to and from the inspection device 500 through serial communication. Note that such data transmission / reception is performed using a serial communication terminal of the gaming microcomputer 111 as in the case of a general general-purpose microprocessor, and therefore, ports such as the input ports 122 and 123 are not provided.

Next, the configuration of the effect control device 300 as effect control means will be described with reference to FIG.
The effect control device 300 includes a main control microcomputer (1stCPU) 311, a video control microcomputer (2ndCPU) 312 that performs video control exclusively under the control of the 1stCPU 311, and the display device 41 according to commands and data from the 2ndCPU 312. A VDP (Video Display Processor) 313 as a graphic processor that performs image processing for video display, a sound source LSI 314 that controls output of sound to reproduce various melody and sound effects from the speakers 19a and 19b, and a current time A real-time clock circuit 316 that counts the time. The real-time clock circuit 316 includes a built-in power source such as a battery, and is configured to continue the time measuring operation even while the power is shut off.

The main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 311 and the video control microcomputer (2nd CPU) 312 are connected to program ROMs 321 and 322 each composed of a PROM (programmable read only memory) storing a program executed by each CPU. Is connected to an image ROM 323 storing character images, video data, and command lists, and the sound source LSI 314 stores compressed audio data, sequences necessary for phrase reproduction processing, command sequences for simple access, and the like. A ROM 324 is connected.
The main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 311 analyzes the command from the game microcomputer 111, decides the contents of the presentation, instructs the video control microcomputer 312 about the contents of the output video, and instructs the sound source LSI 314 about the reproduced sound. Then, processing such as lighting of the decoration lamp, motor drive control, and production time management is executed. The RAMs 311a and 312a that provide work areas for the main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 311 and the video control microcomputer (2nd CPU) 312 are provided inside each chip, but may be provided outside the chip.

  Although not particularly limited, a serial system is used between the main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 311 and the video control microcomputer (2nd CPU) 312 and between the main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 311 and the sound source LSI 314. Data transmission / reception is performed, and data transmission / reception is performed in parallel with the video control microcomputer (2ndCPU) 312 and between the main control microcomputer (1stCPU) 311 and the VDP 313. By transmitting and receiving data in parallel, commands and data can be transmitted in a shorter time than in the case of serial. The VDP 313 includes an ultra-high speed VRAM (video RAM) 313a used for developing and processing image data such as characters read from the image ROM 323, and a scaler for enlarging and reducing images. 313b, a signal conversion circuit 313c that generates a video signal to be transmitted to the display device 41 by an LVDS (small amplitude signal transmission) method, and the like are provided.

  A vertical synchronization signal VSYNC is input from the VDP 313 to the main control microcomputer 311 in order to synchronize the image of the display device 41 and the lighting of the decorative lamp provided on the front frame and the game board 30. In addition, the VDP 313 notifies the video control microcomputer 312 that it is waiting to receive an interrupt signal INT0-n and a command or data from the video control microcomputer 312 in order to notify the processing status such as the end of drawing in the VRAM. A wait signal WAIT is input. Further, the video control microcomputer 312 receives from the main control microcomputer 311 a synchronization signal SYNC that informs that the video control microcomputer 312 is operating normally and gives command transmission timing. A call signal CTS and a response signal RTS are exchanged between the main control microcomputer 311 and the tone generator LSI 314 in order to transmit and receive commands and data in the handshake method.

  Note that the video control microcomputer (2ndCPU) 312 uses a CPU that is faster or more expensive than the main control microcomputer (1stCPU) 311. By providing a video control microcomputer (2ndCPU) 312 separately from the main control microcomputer (1stCPU) 311 and sharing the processing, it is possible to display a fast moving image on a large screen that is difficult to achieve with the main control microcomputer (1stCPU) 311 alone. It is possible to display on the display device 41, and it is possible to suppress an increase in cost compared to the case where two CPUs having processing capabilities equivalent to the video control microcomputer (2nd CPU) 312 are used. Also, by providing two CPUs, it becomes possible to separately develop the control programs for the two CPUs in parallel, thereby shortening the development period of the new model.

In addition, the effect control device 300 is provided with an interface chip (command I / F) 331 that receives the effect control command transmitted from the game control device 100. A variation start command, a customer waiting demo command, a fanfare command, a probability information command, an error designation command, and the like transmitted from the game control device 100 to the effect control device 300 via the command I / F 331 are used as an effect control command signal. Receive. Since the game microcomputer 111 of the game control device 100 operates at DC 5V and the main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 311 of the effect control device 300 operates at DC 3.3V, the command I / F 331 has a signal level conversion function. Is provided.
In the present embodiment, the effect control command is composed of 16 bits, and the 16-bit effect control command is transmitted as the 8-bit data bus and the strobe signal SSBT. ) And the latter half command (ACTION), the strobe signal SSBT is transmitted by rising twice, and the receiving side takes in the command in synchronization with the rising edge of the SSB.

  The effect control device 300 is provided with a panel decoration LED control circuit 332 for driving and controlling a panel decoration device 42 having LEDs (light emitting diodes) provided on the game board 30 (including the center case 40), and provided on the front frame. Frame decoration LED control circuit 333 for driving and controlling a frame decoration device (for example, frame decoration device 18) having LEDs (light emitting diodes), and a board effect device provided in the game board 30 (including the center case 40) A board effect motor / SOL control circuit 334 for driving and controlling a frame 43, and a frame effect motor control circuit 335 for driving and controlling a frame effect device 45 (for example, a motor of the moving light 16) 45 such as an LED and a motor provided on the front frame. Is provided. These control circuits 332 to 335 for driving and controlling lamps, motors and solenoids are connected to a main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 311 via an address / data bus 340.

  Furthermore, the effect control device 300 includes an effect switch 25a provided in the effect button 25 provided on the front frame 12 of the gaming machine and operable by the player, and an effect of detecting the initial position of the motor in the board effect device 43. An amplifier comprising a switch input circuit 336 for detecting the on / off state of the motor switch 43a and inputting a detection signal to the main control microcomputer (1stCPU) 311; an audio power amplifier for driving the upper speaker 19a provided on the front frame; An amplifier circuit 337b for driving the circuit 337a and the lower speaker 19b provided on the front frame is provided.

  The normal power supply unit 410 of the power supply apparatus 400 drives a motor or a solenoid to supply a desired level of DC voltage to the effect control apparatus 300 having the above-described configuration and electronic components controlled thereby. DC32V for driving the display device 41 composed of a liquid crystal panel, DC5V serving as the power supply voltage for the command I / F 331, DC18V for driving the LED and speaker, and a reference for these DC voltages It is configured to generate a voltage of NDC 24V used to turn on the monitor lamp. Further, when an LSI that operates at a low voltage such as 3.3 V or 1.2 V is used as the main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 311 or the video control microcomputer (2nd CPU) 312, DC 3. The effect control device 300 is provided with a DC-DC converter for generating 3V or DC 1.2V. The DC-DC converter may be provided in the normal power supply unit 410.

  The reset signal RST generated by the control signal generation unit 430 of the power supply apparatus 400 includes a main control microcomputer 311, a video control microcomputer 312, a VDP 313, a sound source LSI 314, control circuits 332 to 335 for driving and controlling lamps and motors, speakers, and the like. Are supplied to the amplifier circuits 337a and 337b, which are in a reset state. In this embodiment, the general-purpose port of the video control microcomputer 312 is used to generate and supply a reset signal to the VDP 313. Thereby, the cooperation of the operations of the video control microcomputer 312 and the VDP 313 can be improved.

Next, rough game control performed in the game control device 100 and the effect control device 300 will be described.
The CPU 111A of the game microcomputer 111 of the game control device 100 extracts the random number value for hit determination of the normal figure based on the input of the detection signal of the game ball from the gate switch 34a provided to the normal figure start gate 34, and reads the ROM 111B. Is compared with the determination value stored in, and a process for determining whether or not the normal-game fluctuation display game is hit is performed. Then, in the LED display unit 53, after the identification symbol is variably displayed for a predetermined time, a process for displaying a general symbol variation display game to be stopped is performed. When the result of this general-purpose fluctuation display game is a win, a special result mode is displayed on the LED display unit 53, the general-purpose solenoid 37c is operated, and the pair of movable members 37b of the normal fluctuation prize-winning device 37 is held for a predetermined time. The opening control is performed as described above (for example, for 0.3 seconds).

In the present embodiment, when the result of the normal fluctuation display game is out of order, control is performed to display the outage result mode on the LED display unit 53.
The start winning (starting memory) is stored in the RAM 111C based on the input of the game ball detection signal from the start opening 1 switch 36a provided in the starting winning opening 36, and the first special figure variation display is based on the start storage. A game jackpot determination random number value is extracted and compared with a determination value stored in the ROM 111B, and a process of determining whether or not the first special figure variation display game is missed is performed.
More specifically, the value of the random number generation circuit (random number counter) is latched in a random number latch register (not shown) every time a start winning is detected. Then, the value of the random number generation circuit is not latched at the timing when the start winning is detected, but the value is latched in the random number latch register at the rising edge of the clock signal immediately after the start winning is detected. Note that the latched value is a random value at the timing when the start winning is detected, and the random value is extracted as a jackpot determination random value for the first special figure variation display game. Therefore, the RAM 111C functions as a start winning storage unit.

In addition, the start memory is stored based on the input of the detection signal of the game ball from the start port 2 switch 37a provided in the normal variation winning device 37, and based on this start memory, for the big hit determination of the second special figure variable display game A random number value is extracted and compared with a determination value stored in the ROM 111B, and a process of determining whether or not the second special figure variation display game is missed is performed. The extraction of the random number for jackpot determination based on the detection of the start port 2 switch 37a is the same as the start port 1 described above.
Then, the CPU 111 </ b> A of the game control device 100 outputs control information (production control command) including the determination results of the first special figure fluctuation display game and the second special figure fluctuation display game to the presentation control device 300. Then, after the identification symbol is variably displayed for a predetermined time on the special figure 1 display 51 or the special figure 2 display 52 of the collective display device 50, a process for displaying a special figure variation display game to be stopped is performed.

On the other hand, the effect control device 300 performs a process of displaying a decoration special figure fluctuation display game corresponding to the special figure fluctuation display game on the display device 41 based on a control signal from the game control apparatus 100. In addition, in the production control device 300, based on the control signal from the game control device 100, the sound output from the speakers 19a and 19b, the process of controlling the emission of various LEDs, and the like are performed.
Then, the CPU 111A of the game control device 100 displays the special result mode on the special figure 1 display 51 and the special figure 2 display 52 and generates a special game state when the result of the special figure variation display game is successful. To perform the process. In the process of generating the special game state, the CPU 111A performs control for allowing the game ball to flow into the special winning opening by, for example, opening the open / close door of the special variable winning apparatus 38 by the special winning opening solenoid 38b. .

Then, a condition that either a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls wins the grand prize opening or a predetermined time (for example, 25 seconds or 1 second) elapses from the opening of the big prize opening is achieved. Opening the grand prize opening until one is made is defined as one round, and control (cycle game) is performed to continue (repeat) this for a predetermined number of rounds (for example, 15 times or 2 times).
Further, when the result of the special figure variation display game is out of order, the special figure 1 display 51 and the special figure 2 display 52 are controlled to display the result form of the deviation.
In addition, the game control device 100 can generate a probability change state as a game state after the special game state ends based on the result mode of the special figure variation display game.
This probability variation state is a state (high probability state) in which the probability of a hit result in the special figure variation display game is higher than the normal probability state. In addition, the first special figure variation display game and the second special figure variation display game, regardless of which one of the first special figure variation display game and the second special figure variation display game results in a certain variation state. Both display games are in a probable state.

In addition, the game control device 100 can generate a short time state as a game state after the special game state is ended based on the result mode of the special figure variation display game.
In this time-short state, control is performed so that the normal-variation display game and the normal variation winning device 37 are in the time-short operation state. Specifically, in the short-time state, the execution time of the above-described usual-variable display game is controlled to be a second variable display time shorter than the first variable display time (for example, 10 seconds is 1 second). Thus, the number of times of opening of the normal variation winning device 37 per unit time is controlled to be substantially increased.
Further, in the short time state, when the normal variation winning device 37 is released as a result of the normal variation display game being won, the release time becomes a second release time longer than the first release time in the normal state. (For example, 0.3 seconds is 1.7 seconds). In the short-time state, the number of times of opening of the normal variation winning device 37 is not the first opening number of one time but the number of opening times of the normal variable winning game device 37 for two or more times (for example, (3 times) the second number of times of opening. Hereinafter, such a control mode is referred to as ordinary power support.

It should be noted that the execution time of the normal variation display game is set to the second variation display time (for example, 1 second), and the release mode of the normal variation winning device 37 is the second release time (for example, 1.7). Second), and the number of times of opening with respect to one hit result of the normal variation display game is the second number of times of opening (for example, 3 times), either one or both may be performed. May be. In the short-time operation state, control may be performed so that the probability of a hit result of the normal-variable display game is higher than that in the normal operation state.
As a result, the game ball can easily win the normal variation winning device 37, and the second special figure variation display game can be easily started.
In addition, the time variation operation state of the probability variation state, the normal variation display game, and the normal variation prize winning device 37 can be generated independently, and both can be generated at the same time, or only one can be generated. Is possible.

FIG. 6 shows the relationship between the game control device 100, the payout control device 200, and the launch control device 210 that constitute the control system of FIG.
As shown in FIG. 6, the payout control device 200 is connected to the power supply device 400 via a cable 81 and is connected to the game control device 100 via a cable 82, and the payout control device 200 is connected to the payout control device 200 from the power supply device 400. The power supply voltage Vmot for the firing motor, the power supply voltage Vsw for the touch sensor of the firing operation handle 24, the ground potential GND, the power failure detection signal POD, the RAM initialization signal RIN, and the like are supplied. Further, the payout control device 200 is supplied with payout command data DCD0 to DCD3, a payout control signal DCS, and the like from the game control device 100. A payout abnormality signal is supplied from the payout control device 200 to the game control device 100.

  Further, the payout control device 200 is connected to the launch control device 210 via the cable 83, and the power supply voltage Vmot for the launch motor, the ground potential GND, and the power supply voltage Vsw for the touch sensor from the payout control device 200 to the launch control device 210. The launch permission signal LPS, the power failure detection signal POD, and the like are supplied. Furthermore, a launch motor 721 is connected to the launch control device 210 via a cable 84, and launch motor control signals MCS1 to MCS4 and a power supply voltage Vmot for generating a drive pulse are transmitted from the launch control device 210 to the launch motor 721. Have been supplied. In addition, a launch stop switch 722 and a touch sensor 723 of the launch operation handle 24 (see FIG. 2) are connected to the launch control device 210 via a cable 85, and a power supply voltage is supplied from the launch control device 210 to the touch sensor 723. Vsw is supplied. The cable 85 is provided with a harness 86 for connecting the connector at the end to the gaming machine body.

FIG. 7 shows a configuration example of the launch control device 210.
The launch control device 210 includes a launch control circuit 211 configured as a semiconductor integrated circuit, and a crystal resonator 212 that is connected to the launch control circuit 211 and generates an oscillation signal that is a source of a clock signal for launch control. , A Darlington type driver circuit 216 that outputs firing motor control signals MCS1 to MCS4 to the firing motor 721 based on the output signal of the firing control circuit 211 is provided. Further, the launch control device 210 is coupled with the cable 83 for connecting between the connector 215 to which the cable 85 for connecting the launch stop switch 722 and the touch sensor 723 is coupled and the payout control device 200. And a connector 214 to which the cable 84 for connecting the firing motor 721 is coupled.

FIG. 8 shows a configuration example of the launch control circuit 211.
The launch control circuit 211 is an IC such as a model number W2RF001WP manufactured by OMRON Corporation, for example, and an input circuit to which a signal from the payout control device 200 and a signal from the launch stop switch 722 and the touch sensor 723 are input. 221; a frequency dividing circuit 222 that divides the oscillation signal from the crystal oscillator 212 to generate low-frequency clock signals CLK0 to CLK3; a motor control signal generation circuit 223 that generates a motor control signal; and a solenoid control signal A solenoid control signal generation circuit 224 for generating the output signal, and an output control circuit 225 for outputting these control signals to the outside.
The output control circuit 225 is either one of two types of motor control signals or two modes of solenoid control signals depending on the pulse motor (stepping motor) to be used, depending on the setting signals SET1 and SET2 input from the outside. It has a function to generate and output one. In this embodiment, the setting signals SET1 and SET2 are set so that one of two types of motor control signals is generated according to the pulse motor (stepping motor) to be used and no solenoid control signal is generated.

Hereinafter, processing executed by the gaming microcomputer (gaming microcomputer) 111 of the gaming control apparatus 100 that executes gaming control as described above will be described. Control processing by the gaming microcomputer 111 mainly includes main processing shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 and timer interrupt processing shown in FIG. 11 performed at a predetermined time period (for example, 4 msec).
First, the main process will be described. The main process is started when the power is turned on. In this main process, as shown in FIG. 9, first, an interrupt prohibition process (step S1) is performed, and then an interrupt vector setting process (step S1) for setting a jump destination vector address to be executed when an interrupt occurs. S2), a stack pointer setting process (step S3) for setting a stack pointer that is the start address of an area in which a value of a register or the like is saved when an interrupt occurs, and an interrupt mode setting process (step S4) for setting an interrupt processing mode. )I do.

  Next, in order to wait for the program of the payout control device (payout board) 200 to start up normally, for example, a time of 4 msec is waited (step S5). As a result, when the power is turned on, the game control device 100 rises first and sends the command to the payout control device 200 before the payout control device 200 starts up, thereby avoiding the payout control device 200 from losing the command. be able to. Thereafter, access to a readable / writable RWM (read / write memory: RAM 111C) such as a RAM or EEPROM is permitted, and all output ports are set to OFF (no output) (steps S6 and S7). In addition, the serial port ((port previously installed in the gaming microcomputer 111) is not used in this embodiment because it is in parallel communication with the payout control device 200 and the effect control device 300). Processing is performed (step S8).

  Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the initialization switch in the power supply device 400 is turned on (step S9). If it is determined that the initialization switch is off (step S9; No), it is checked whether the value of the power failure inspection area 1 in the RWM is normal power interruption inspection area check data (step S10). (Step S11; Yes), it is checked whether the value of the power failure inspection area 2 in the RWM is normal power interruption inspection area check data (Step S12). Next, if the value of the power failure inspection area 2 is normal (step S13; Yes), the checksum of the predetermined area in the RWM is calculated (step S14), and the calculated checksum and the checksum at the time of power interruption are calculated. Compare (step S15) and determine whether they match (step S16). And when it corresponds (step S16; Yes), it transfers to step S17 of FIG. 10, and performs the process at the time of recovering normally from a power failure.

When the initialization switch is determined to be on (step S9; Yes), or when it is determined that the check data in the power failure inspection area is not normal data (step S11; No or step S13; No), the checksum Is determined to be not normal (step S16; No), the process proceeds to step S24 in FIG. 10 to perform initialization processing.
In step S17 of FIG. 10, all the power failure inspection areas are cleared, the checksum area is cleared (step S18), and the area related to error and fraud monitoring is reset (step S19). Next, an area for storing the gaming state in the RWM is examined to determine whether or not the gaming state is a high probability state (step S20). If it is determined that the probability is not high (step S20; No), steps S21 and S22 are skipped and the process proceeds to step S23.

  If it is determined in step S20 that the probability is high (step S20; Yes), the ON information is saved in the high probability notification flag area (step S21), and the high probability notification LED (for example, provided in the batch display device 50) The ON (lighted) data of the error indicator is saved in the segment area (step S22). And the process (step S23) which transmits the command at the time of the power recovery corresponding to the process number prepared in order to rationally perform the below-mentioned special figure game process is performed (step S23), and it progresses to step S29 .

  On the other hand, when jumping from step S9, S11, S13, S16 to step S24, all work areas before the access prohibited area are cleared (step S24), and all stack areas after the access prohibited area are cleared. (Step S25), the initial value at power-on is saved in the area to be initialized (Step S26). And the time value of the period which outputs the external information regarding RWM clear is set (step S27), the command at the time of power-on is transmitted to the effect control apparatus 300 (step S28), and it progresses to step S29. In step S29, a process of starting a CTC (Counter / Timer Circuit) circuit that generates a timer interrupt signal and a random number update trigger signal (CTC) in the gaming microcomputer 111 (clock generator) is performed.

  The CTC circuit is provided in a clock generator in the gaming microcomputer 111. The clock generator divides an oscillation signal (original clock signal) from the crystal oscillator 113, and a timer interrupt signal having a predetermined period (for example, 4 milliseconds) for the CPU 111A based on the divided signal. And a CTC circuit for generating a signal CTC for giving a trigger for updating a random number supplied to the random number generation circuit 111D.

After the CTC activation process in step S29, a process for activating and setting the random number generation circuit 111D is performed (step S30). Specifically, the CPU 111A performs setting of a code (specified value) for starting the random number generation circuit 111D to a predetermined register (CTC update permission register) in the random number generation circuit. Then, the values of the predetermined registers (soft random number registers 1 to n) in the random number generation circuit at the time of power-on are changed to various initial value random numbers (random numbers for determining the big hit symbol (big hit symbol random number 1, big hit symbol random number 2) Then, after saving the initial value (start value) of a random number (winning random number) for determining the normal hit in a predetermined area of the RWM (step S31), the interruption is permitted (step S32). The random number generation circuit 111D in the CPU 111A used in the present embodiment is configured such that the initial value of the soft random number register changes every time the power is turned on. Therefore, this value is used as the initial value (start value) of various initial value random numbers. By doing so, it is possible to break the regularity of random numbers generated by software, making it difficult for a player to obtain illegal random numbers.
Subsequently, an initial value random number update process (step S33) is performed to update the values of various initial value random numbers to break the regularity of the random numbers.

  After the initial value random number update process in step S33, the number of times the power failure monitoring signal input from the power supply 400 is read and checked via the port and the data bus is set (step S34), and the power failure monitoring signal is ON. It is determined whether or not there is (step S35). If the power failure monitoring signal is not ON (step S35; No), the process returns to the initial value random number update process (step S33). That is, when no power failure has occurred, the initial value random number update processing and the power failure monitoring signal check (loop processing) are repeated. By permitting an interrupt before the initial value random number update process (step S33) (step S32), if a timer interrupt occurs during the initial value random number update process, the interrupt process is executed with priority, and the timer interrupt Can be prevented from being interrupted by waiting for the initial value random number update process.

  Note that the initial value random number update process in step S33 includes a method of performing an initial value random number update process in the timer interrupt process in addition to the main process. In order to avoid execution of the value random number update process, when performing the initial value random number update process in the main process, it is necessary to disable the interrupt and then update to cancel the interrupt. If the initial value random number update process in the timer interrupt process is not performed in the main process and only the main process is performed, there is no problem even if the interrupt is canceled before the initial value random number update process. There is an advantage that it is simplified.

  If the power failure monitoring signal is ON (step S35; Yes), it is determined whether or not the power failure monitoring signal is in the ON state for the number of checks set in step S34 (step S36). And when the ON state of the power failure monitoring signal is not continued for the number of checks (step S36; No), the process returns to the determination of whether the power failure monitoring signal is ON (step S35; Yes). Further, when the power failure monitoring signal is ON for the number of checks (step S36; Yes), that is, when it is determined that a power failure has occurred, processing for temporarily prohibiting interruption (step S37), all A process of outputting OFF data to the output port (step S38) is performed.

  Thereafter, the power failure recovery inspection region check data 1 is saved in the power failure recovery inspection region 1 (step S39), and the power failure recovery inspection region check data 2 is saved in the power failure recovery inspection region 2 (step S40). Further, after performing the process of calculating the checksum when the RWM is turned off (step S41) and the process of saving the checksum (step S42), the process of prohibiting access to the RWM (step S43) is performed. Wait until the gaming machine is powered off. In this way, the check data is saved in the power failure recovery inspection area and the checksum at the time of power shutdown is calculated, so that whether or not the information stored in the RWM before the power shutdown is correctly backed up can be checked. This can be determined when the power is turned on again.

Next, timer interrupt processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
The timer interrupt process shown in FIG. 11 is started when a periodic timer interrupt signal generated by the CTC circuit in the clock generator is input to the CPU 111A.
When the timer interrupt process is started, a register saving process (step S51) is performed in which a value held in a predetermined register is first transferred to the RWM. In the Z80 microcomputer used as the gaming microcomputer in this embodiment, the processing can be replaced by saving the value held in the front register to the back register. Next, an input process (step S52) for taking in inputs from various sensors (start port 1 switch 36a, start port 2 switch 37a, usual gate switch 34a, count switch 38a, etc.), that is, reading the state of each input port. )I do. Then, based on the output data set in various processes, an output process (step S53) for performing drive control of an actuator such as a solenoid (large winning opening SOL38b, general electric power SOL37c) and the like is performed.

  Next, a command transmission process (step S54), a random number update process 1 (step S55), and a random number update process 2 (steps) for outputting commands set in the transmission buffer in various processes to the effect control device 300, the payout control device 200, and the like. S56) is performed. Thereafter, it is monitored whether a normal signal is input from the start port 1 switch 36a, the start port 2 switch 37a, the usual gate switch 34a, the winning port switch 35a... 35n, and the count switch 38a. A prize opening switch / error monitoring process (step S57) is performed to determine whether the front frame or the glass frame is open. Also, a special figure game process (step S58) for performing a process related to the special figure variable display game and a general figure game process (step S59) for performing a process related to the general map variable display game are performed.

  Next, a segment LED editing process (step S60) that is provided in the gaming machine 10 and that drives a segment LED that displays special information variation game and various information related to the game to display a desired content, magnetic sensor switch 61 And the magnet fraud monitoring process (step S61) which checks the detection signal from the vibration sensor switch 62 and determines whether there is any abnormality is performed. Then, external information editing processing (step S62) is performed in which signals to be output to various external devices are set in the output buffer. Subsequently, a process of clearing the interrupt request and declaring the end of the interrupt (step S63), a process of restoring the register data saved in step S51 (step S64), and a process of permitting the interrupt (step S64) Step S65) is performed, and the timer interrupt process is terminated.

Next, details of the special game process (step S58) in the timer interrupt process described above will be described with reference to FIG.
In the special figure game process, the input of the start port 1 switch 36a and the start port 2 switch 37a is monitored, the entire process related to the special figure variation display game is controlled, and the special figure display is set.
As shown in FIG. 12, in the special figure game process, first, a start switch monitoring process (step A1) for monitoring winning of the start port 1 switch 36a and the start port 2 switch 37a is performed.
In this start port switch monitoring process, if a game ball wins in the normal variable winning device 37 that forms the start winning port 36 and the second start winning port, various random numbers (such as big hit random numbers) are extracted and based on the winnings. Prior to the start of the special figure variation display game, a game result preliminary determination is performed in which a game result based on a winning is determined in advance.
In the present embodiment, the value of the random number generation circuit (random number counter) is latched in a random number latch register (not shown) every time a start winning is detected by the start port 1 switch 36a or the start port 2 switch 37a. Then, the value of the random number generation circuit is not latched at the timing when the start winning is detected, but the value is latched in the random number latch register at the rising edge of the clock signal immediately after the start winning is detected. Further, the latched value is a random value at the timing when the start winning is detected, and the random value is extracted as a random number value for determination of big hit in the first special figure fluctuation display game or the second special figure fluctuation display game. Yes.

Following the start switch monitoring process (step A1), a count switch monitoring process (step A2) is performed. In this count switch monitoring process, a process of monitoring the count number of the count switch 38a provided in the special variation winning device 38 is performed.
Next, the special figure game process timer is updated (-1) to check whether or not the game process timer has expired (step A3), and the special figure game process timer has expired (step A4; If the determination is Yes), a special figure game sequence branch table to be referred to for branching to a process corresponding to the special figure game process number is set in the register (step A5), and the special figure game is used using the table. A process (step A6) of acquiring a branch destination address of the process corresponding to the process number is performed.

Then, after performing the process of saving the return address after the branch process to the stack area (step A7), the game branch process (step A8) is performed according to the game process number.
If the game process number is “0” in step A8, the fluctuation start of the special figure fluctuation display game is monitored, the fluctuation start setting of the special figure fluctuation display game, the setting of the effect, and the special figure fluctuation processing are performed. A special figure routine process (step A9) for setting information necessary for the execution is performed.
If the game process number is “1” in step A8, the special figure changing process for setting the stop display time of the special figure and setting the information necessary for performing the special figure display process is performed. (Step A10) is performed.
Furthermore, if the game processing number is “2” in step A8, if the game result of the special figure variation display game is a big hit, a fanfare command setting corresponding to the type of big hit (2R big hit or 15R big hit) Special chart display processing (step A11) for setting the fanfare time according to the big winning opening opening pattern of each jackpot (2R jackpot or 15R jackpot), setting information necessary for performing the fanfare / interval processing, etc. Do.

In step A8, when the game process number is “3”, setting of the opening time of the big prize opening, updating of the number of times of opening, setting of information necessary for performing the processing during opening of the big prize opening, etc. are performed. Processing during fanfare / interval (step A12) is performed.
In step A8, if the game process number is “4”, an interval command is set if the big hit round is not the final round, while a big hit end screen command is set if the big round is the final round, A large winning opening opening process (step A13) for setting information necessary for performing the winning opening remaining ball processing is performed.

In step A8, if the game process number is “5”, if the big hit round is the final round, a process for setting a time for discharging the remaining balls in the big prize opening and a big hit end process are performed. A big winning opening remaining ball process (step A14) for setting information necessary for the execution is performed.
If the game process number is “6” at step A8, a big hit end process (step A15) for setting information necessary for shifting to the special figure routine process (step A9) is performed.

And after preparing the table for controlling the fluctuation | variation of the special figure 1 display 51 or the special figure 2 display 52 (step A16), the design fluctuation control concerning the special figure 1 display 51 or the special figure 2 display 52 is performed. A process (step A17) is performed and the special figure game process is terminated.
On the other hand, if it is determined in step A4 that the special figure game process timer has not expired (step A4; No), the process proceeds to step A16, and the subsequent processes are performed.
As described above, in the present embodiment, the game control device 100 functions as a variable display game execution unit and a special game state control unit.

Next, the control executed by the main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 311 of the effect control device 300 will be described.
The control process by the main control microcomputer 311 includes a 1st main process shown in FIG. 13 and a command reception interrupt process performed every predetermined time (for example, every 2 msec). In the first main process, the entire program is controlled.
[1st main processing of production control device]
As shown in FIG. 13, in the 1st main process, first, a process for prohibiting interruption (step B1) is performed, then a process for clearing the RAM to 0 (step B2) is performed, and an initialization process for the 1st CPU 311 (step B3). )I do.
Next, processing for setting an initial value in the RAM (step B4) is performed, and random number initialization processing (step B5) is performed. Thereafter, processing for starting various interrupt timers (step B6) is performed, and interrupts are permitted (step B7). Thereafter, the main control microcomputer 311 performs main loop processing steps B8 to B18.

In this main loop process, first, a process (step B8) for clearing the watch dog timer (WDT) is performed. Then, input processing (step B9) from the effect operation button SW25a is performed, and game control command analysis processing (step B10) is performed.
In this game control command analysis process, it is determined whether or not a command related to a game transmitted from the game control apparatus 100 has been correctly received. If the command has been correctly received, a process for determining the command is performed. One command transmitted from the game control device 100 is composed of a pair of data of a first command (MODE) and a second command (ACTION).

Then, when the combination of the received first command (MODE) and the second command (ACTION) is not inconsistent (for example, when received in the order of MODE → ACTION), it is determined that the command is correctly received, and the first command (MODE) ) And the second command (ACTION) are inconsistent (for example, when received in the order of ACTION → ACTION or in the order of MODE → MODE → MODE), it is determined that the command reception is abnormal. .
Subsequently, after performing a test mode process (step B11), a scene control process (step B12) for performing a process related to the special figure variation display game is performed. This scene control process (step B12) will be described in detail later.

  Thereafter, a gaming machine error monitoring process (step B13) for monitoring the occurrence of errors such as opening of the front frame (inner frame) 12 and the glass frame 15, an effect command editing process (step B14) related to effects in the special figure variation display game, Sound control processing (step B15), which is processing related to audio output (speaker 19a, 19b driving processing), and decoration control processing (step B16), which is processing related to control of the frame decoration device 18 provided on the front frame, are performed. Then, a motor / SOL control process (step B17) related to the control of the board effect motor / SOL control circuit 334 for driving an accessory provided in the center case 40, a variation mode (variation pattern) of the decoration special figure variation display game, etc. The random number update process (step B18) for updating the random number for determining the details is performed, and the process returns to the process (step B8) for clearing the watchdog timer.

  FIG. 14 shows an example of a specific procedure of the scene control process (step B12) in the 1st main process shown in FIG. In this scene control process, it is first determined whether or not the test mode is in effect (step B61). If the test mode is in effect (step B61; Yes), the scene control process is terminated. When the test mode is not being executed (step B61; No), it is determined whether a scene change command has been received (step B62).

  The scene change commands are various commands relating to games transmitted from the game control device 100 to the effect control device 300. If this scene change command is received (step B62; Yes), the game state to be updated (current game state) is acquired (step B63), and it is determined whether the command is a valid command (step B64). In determining whether the command is valid (step B64), it is determined whether the received scene change command is valid for the acquired current game state. If the command is valid (step B64; Yes), the received command is saved (step B65), an effect request flag is set (step B66), and a branch process based on the command identifier of the received command (step B67). )I do.

On the other hand, when the scene change command has not been received (step B62; No) or when it is not a valid command (step B64; No), branch processing (step B67) is performed based on the command identifier of the received command. In this case, a branch is performed based on the identifier of the command that was most recently valid.
In the branch process based on the command identifier (step B67), a process to be executed based on the received command is selected. When a power-on command is received, a power-on process (step B68) is performed to perform a process necessary when the power is turned on. Further, when a power failure recovery command is received, a power failure recovery (other than customer waiting) processing (step B69) for performing processing necessary at the time of power failure recovery is performed. When a customer waiting demo command is received, a customer waiting process (step B70) for performing processing related to display of the customer waiting demo is performed.

  In addition, when a variation pattern command is received, a variation processing (step B71) for performing processing related to the execution of the decoration special figure variation display game is performed. In the process during change (step B71), information necessary for playing the decoration special figure change display game is set. In the setting of information necessary for playing this decoration special figure variation display game, for example, information included in the variation pattern command transmitted from the game control device 100 (whether it is a big hit, mode information, variation pattern information, etc.) Based on this, the production (variation pattern, variation time, etc.) is set. In addition, when a symbol stop command is received, symbol stop processing (step B72), which is processing for stopping the variation display of the identification information in the decorative special symbol variation display game and displaying the result mode, is performed. In the symbol stop process (step B72), the result stop display time and the like in the decorative special symbol variation display game are set.

  When a fanfare command is received, a fanfare process (step B73), which is a process related to the start of the special game state, is performed. In addition, when the large entry / release n-th command is received, an in-round process (step B74), which is a process related to a round game, is performed. When an interval command is received, an interval process (step B75) that is a process related to an interval between rounds is performed. When an ending command is received, an ending process (step B76), which is a process related to the end of the special gaming state, is performed.

After performing each of the above-described processes selected by the branch process based on the command identifier (step B67), a process based on a command that is not immediately reflected in the video is performed. As this process, first, a symbol command reception process (step B77) for performing a process based on a decoration special command including information relating to a stop symbol of the special symbol variation display game is performed, and a pending number command including information relating to increase / decrease in the start memory ( A hold number command reception process (step B78) is performed for performing processing based on the special figure 1 hold number command and the special figure 2 hold number command.
Further, a prefetch effect command (start opening prize effect command transmitted by a prefetch effect determination process (FIG. 16) for determining in advance the result of the special map variation display game based on the start memory and the like before the execution of the special map variation display game. , A pre-reading effect command reception process (step B79) for performing processing based on the start opening winning effect symbol command) is performed. Thereafter, a probability information command reception process (step B80) is performed in which a process based on a probability information command (probability information command (low probability, high probability)) including information on the probability state is performed.
In the prefetch effect command reception process in step B79, a process of changing the display mode (holding symbol) of the start memory according to the prefetch result is performed.

Next, the update timing of the random number generated by the random number generation circuit 111D built in the gaming microcomputer 111 (see FIG. 3), which is a feature of the control system of the gaming machine of the present embodiment, and the launch of the ball hitting device The relationship with the output timing (ball striking timing) of the firing control signal generated by the control circuit 211 (see FIG. 8) will be described. In the embodiment described below, the random number generation circuit 111D updates the random number by +1 at a predetermined update timing by a counter method. Note that -1 may be updated instead of +1.
In conventional control systems for gaming machines, no consideration has been given to the relationship between the hitting random number update timing and the hitting ball firing timing. For this reason, there may occur a moment when the update timing of the random number and the launch timing of the hit ball are synchronized within a relatively short period. By continuing to fire continuously, the random number value at the time of reappearance appears again after a predetermined time. The sequence of random number values for each shot until the time is always constant, and there is a disadvantage that it is possible to aim at the big hit timing using synchronization.

Specifically, for example, as shown in FIG. 15A, the update range of the random number generation circuit for the jackpot random numbers (special map variation display game and ordinary diagram variation display game) is set to 0 to 9 and 1 ms (millisecond) On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 15B, when the hitting period of the hit ball is set to 12 ms (pattern 1) or 11 ms (pattern 2), the big hit random number makes a round in 10 ms. It will be. In other words, the random number update cycle is 10 ms.
Therefore, as shown in FIG. 16, in the case of pattern 1 (firing period 12 ms), the firing timing coincides with the appearance timing of the big hit random number once in five firings (the number of updates is 60). That is, it synchronizes every 60 ms. In the case of pattern 2 (firing cycle 11 ms), the firing timing coincides with the appearance timing of the jackpot random number once in 10 firings (the number of updates is 110). That is, it synchronizes every 110 ms.

FIG. 17 shows a table showing the relationship between the random number update period and the firing period under the above-described conditions. Here, “12” when the unit time is 1 ms of the firing period 12 ms of pattern 1 is “2 × 2 × 3” when expressed using a prime number, and 1 ms of the random number update period 10 ms is the unit time. In this case, “10” is “2 × 5” when expressed using prime numbers. And the multiple of this unit time is compared. Note that the unit time may not be 1 ms. From FIG. 17, it can be seen that the synchronization interval between the launch and the random number is represented by the least common multiple of the random number update cycle and the launch cycle. That is, in order to increase the synchronization interval between the launch and the random number, the least common multiple of the random number update cycle and the launch cycle may be increased.
By the way, if the daily business hours at a game store is 12 hours, random numbers appearing at a certain launch timing even if the player plays a game all day if the synchronization interval between launches and random numbers is 12 hours or more. Will never appear again on the same day, so you can reliably prevent hitting the jackpot using the synchronization of launch and random numbers. However, since it is necessary to update the random number at least once every several milliseconds in order to prevent the same random number from being acquired continuously, the synchronization interval between the launch and the random number is set to 12 hours or more. Therefore, it is necessary to extremely increase the update range of the random number, which causes a problem that the random number generation circuit increases in scale and RAM usage efficiency decreases.

  Therefore, the present inventor examined the minimum time between the launch and random number synchronization intervals. As a result, in order to reduce the random number update range while reliably preventing big hits using firing and random number synchronization, the interval between firing and random number synchronization is slightly longer than the longest fluctuation time of the variable display game. I came to the conclusion that it should be long. Since the variation time of the variable display game is determined for each production, if there is a player who recognizes the synchronization interval, there is a possibility that the synchronization interval will be known based on that time, and synchronization of launch and random number If the interval is set shorter than the fluctuation time of the fluctuation display game, the same big hit random number is generated again during the fluctuation time of the fluctuation display game in which the big hit has occurred. This is because the probability of acquiring a big hit random number can be increased.

  In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the oscillation used for the launch control device for determining the firing cycle is set so that the synchronization interval between the launch and the random number can be set longer than the longest variation time of the variation display game. The oscillation frequency of the crystal oscillator 212 (see FIG. 7) as a means is selected according to the random number update period. A specific selection method will be described below. 7 includes a drive circuit that oscillates by applying a voltage to the crystal oscillator, the one including the crystal oscillator and the drive circuit can also be regarded as an oscillation means.

FIG. 18A shows an expression of the firing period of the launch control device and the number of firings per minute (the number of revolutions of the firing motor 721 rpm) in the gaming machine of this embodiment. Here, it is assumed that the oscillation frequency of the crystal oscillator 212 is PF, and the frequency dividing ratio of the frequency dividing circuit 222 in the oscillation control circuit 220 (see FIG. 8) for dividing the oscillation signal generated by the oscillator is PC. The firing motor used in the present embodiment is a pulse motor, and the number of pulses necessary to rotate the pulse motor once is PN. In addition, the launch control device 210 is configured to launch one game ball when the launch motor 721 is rotated once. Then, the firing cycle is represented by firing cycle = PN × PC / PF, and the number of revolutions of the firing motor (rpm), that is, the number of firings per minute is represented by the number of firings (per minute) = T × PF / PN × PC. Is done. T is 1 minute, that is, 60 seconds.
Accordingly, the launch motor as the launch means performs a unit operation of launching one game ball by applying a drive signal of a predetermined number of pulses, and the launch period of the launch means includes the number of pulses and the crystal used. It is determined in correspondence with the oscillation frequency inherent to the oscillator (oscillating means) and the frequency division ratio of the frequency divider circuit.

The number of firings per minute of the launch control device in a pachinko gaming machine is normally within 100 times. Therefore, when the frequency dividing ratio PC of the frequency dividing circuit 222 is set to 12296, for example, the number of firings is within 100 times from among the crystal oscillators 212 having a plurality of types of oscillation frequencies that are commercially available. As shown in FIG. 18 (B), when the frequency is selected from 4.086407 (MHz), 4.084101 (MHz), 3.842500 (MHz), 4.034625 (MHz), 4.098666 (MHz) The firing cycle and the number of firings per minute are values as shown in the middle and right columns of the table in FIG. Note that the values shown in the middle column and the right column of the table of FIG. 18B are approximate values. For example, the value in the middle column of (1) is exactly 200 × 12296 / 4.086407≈601.50. It becomes. The same applies to other values.
On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 19A, the random number update range (random number magnitude) in the random number generation circuit 111D in the gaming CPU 111 constituting the gaming control device 100 is set to, for example, “0 to 655535 (= 2 to 16). Power)) and the update time is set to once every 100 ns (nanoseconds) using a frequency of 10 MHz that is 1/2 of the system clock of 20 MHz, for example, as shown in FIG. Since it is represented by the size / frequency of the random number, the random number update period is 6.5536 ms from this equation.

The present inventor considered quantifying the optimum range of the firing timing and the random number synchronization period TL. However, when the oscillation frequency or the random number update time as described above is selected, the firing period and the update period are values with decimal points as shown in FIG. 18 (B) and FIG. 19 (B). End up. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 20A, the denominator and the numerator can be handled as integers by expressing the firing period and the random number update period as fractions, which are integer ratios.
Specifically, the random number update cycle is represented by m / M, and the firing cycle is represented by n / N. Here, m and M are integers that are prime to each other. Similarly, n and N are integers that are relatively prime to each other. If 1 / MN (seconds) is handled as a unit time, the synchronization period TL can be expressed by a multiple of the unit time as shown in FIG. 20B. If m / M and n / N are irreducible fractions, m and M are inevitably “integer integers”.

Next, integers Nm and Mn are obtained by multiplying m / M and n / N by numerical values of MN, respectively. When the least common multiple Lcm (Nm, Mn) of the integers Nm and Mn is taken, it can be seen that Lcm (Nm, Mn) is MN times the firing period and the random number synchronization period TL. Therefore, by dividing Lcm (Nm, Mn) by the MN value, the original value of the synchronization period TL can be obtained as shown in FIG. Further, the upper equation can be modified into the middle and lower using the function Gcd representing the greatest common divisor.
Therefore, under the condition that m and M and n and N are mutually prime integers, the maximum value X (for example, the variation time of the variation display game among the values of TL obtained as described above) If a value larger than 65 seconds) is selected, it is possible to prevent hitting a big hit using the synchronization of the launch and the random number. Note that the synchronization period TL of the launch timing and the random number may be a relatively long time such as 1 hour or 12 hours as long as it is larger than the value of the equation shown in FIG. When the optimum range of the period TL is digitized, an inequality as shown in FIG. 20C is obtained.

Next, a specific setting example that satisfies the above inequality will be described with reference to FIG.
Here, although not particularly limited, the random number generation circuit 111D is operated in a counter mode that counts up one by one from “0”, the size of the random number m is set to 65536 (= 2 ¹⁶ ), and 0 to 65535 ( = 2 ¹⁶ −1) (Note that the random number generation circuit 111D may count up from “1” to 65536 one by one instead of “0”). Further, the frequency M of the clock for operating the random number generation circuit 111D is set to 10 MHz. In FIG. 21, 2 ^{^} 16 means 2 to the 16th power (= 2 ¹⁶ ), and 10 ^{^} 7 means 10 to the 7th power (= 10 ⁷ ).

On the other hand, with respect to the hitting ball launcher, a pulse motor that rotates once with 200 pulses was used as the launch motor. Further, the frequency N of the quartz crystal for firing control is set to 4.098666 MHz so that the firing cycle is 60 ms (the number of firings is 100 times per minute), and the frequency dividing circuit 222 in the oscillation control circuit 220 (see FIG. 8). Was set to 12296. As a result, 19673600 seconds were obtained as the synchronization period. Since this value is sufficiently longer than 12 hours (43200 seconds) as well as the maximum variation time of the variable display game, the value satisfies the inequality shown in FIG. It is possible to reliably prevent a big hit using the sniper. Also, 65536 (= 2 ¹⁶ ), which is a random number update range, is a range that has been implemented conventionally, and thus does not increase the burden on the game control CPU.
Note that mn / Gcd (mN, nM) in the right term of the inequality shown in FIG. 20C is an integer in which m and n are relatively prime, and M and N are also integers in which both are prime. Since the greatest common divisor of the product value mN and the product value nM is only “1”, it can be simply expressed as mn. That is, the inequality in FIG. 20C showing the condition of the synchronization period TL is X ≦ TL ≦ mn (X is the maximum variation time of the variation display game).

  Further, the present inventor has five types of values (4.086407 MHz, 4.084101 MHz, 3.842500 MHz, 4.842) as shown in the left column of FIG. (0346625 MHz, 4.098666 MHz) under the same conditions as described above, the synchronization interval TL between the random number update timing and the launch timing, the number of random number updates and the number of shots fired within the synchronization interval were calculated. As a result, a calculated value as shown in FIG. 22 was obtained. In Fig. 22, the formulas (2 ^ 2 * 5 * 7 * 19 * 29 * 53, etc.) in the columns below the frequency, synchronization interval, random number update count, and launch count are the formulas obtained by factorizing each value. It is a representation.

As shown in FIG. 22, the two from the top (when 4.086407 MHz and 4.084101 MHz are used as the frequency N of the crystal resonator) and the bottom are sufficiently longer than the maximum fluctuation time of the fluctuation display game. It turns out that it is applicable. Further, the third from the top (when the frequency N of 3.842500 MHz is used as the crystal resonator frequency) is not applicable because the synchronization interval is about 20 seconds and is shorter than the maximum variation time of the variation display game.
Furthermore, the fourth from the top (when 4.034625 MHz is used as the frequency N of the crystal resonator) is applicable if the maximum variation time of the variation display game is 65 seconds because the synchronization interval is about 102 seconds. However, it is not applicable to a gaming machine that wants to execute a variable display game whose maximum fluctuation time exceeds 100 seconds.

  FIG. 23 shows the relationship between the progress example of the variable display game and the synchronization interval between the maximum change time and random number update timing of the variable display game and the firing timing when the above embodiment is applied. The variation display game shown in FIG. 23A shows the progress of the game accompanied by the occurrence of reach, and the variation time is set long in order to execute the reach effect. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 23 (B), the frequency of the crystal resonator is set so that the synchronization interval TL between the update and launch of the random number is longer than the maximum variation time X of the variation display game. Is selected.

FIG. 24 shows an example of distribution of the variable display game. In this embodiment, when the variation time of the variation display game is lengthened, the variation times are set for the first half variation and the second half variation. In addition, a variation time in the time reduction mode and a variation time in the case of executing the prefetching effect are also set. Further, when the time is short, the variation time is set to be different values such as “3.8 s” and “12.8 s” depending on whether the number of holdings (starting memory number) is large or small.
As shown in FIG. 24, when the result is out of place, the normal variation game without reach is only the first half variation. The fluctuation display game with the largest fluctuation time is a special reach that is a big hit of 15 rounds. This fluctuation is a fluctuation time of 35 s (seconds) of the first half fluctuation, a fluctuation time of the second half fluctuation is 30 s, and a fluctuation of 65 s in total. . In the present invention, the fluctuation time of the fluctuation display game means the total fluctuation time unless specifically limited.

  In the above specific setting example, the random number update cycle is first determined, and the synchronization interval between the random number update and the launch becomes longer than the maximum variation time of the variation display game with respect to the determined random number update cycle. The frequency of the crystal unit is determined as described above. On the contrary, the frequency of the crystal unit (launching period) is first determined, and the random number is updated and launched with respect to the determined frequency. The random number update cycle may be determined so that the synchronization interval becomes longer than the maximum variation time of the variation display game.

Next, an optimum method of taking the value of m and the value of M, which are variables of the above formula “random number size / frequency = m / M” defined as the big hit random number update cycle, will be described.
First, for the value of m, an integer including “2” as a prime factor, preferably a number expressed by a power of 2 (for example, 2 ⁹ as shown in FIG. 19), and more preferably m = 2 ⁿ Let n be a multiple of 4 (so-called multiple of bytes).
As described above, when a number expressed by a power of 2 is set as the m value, a means (circuit) for defining a range of random numbers to be counted is provided in a random number generation circuit constituted by a binary counter circuit or the like. Therefore, since the random number having a desired size can be generated, the scale of the random number generation circuit can be reduced. In addition, when ⁿ is expressed as m = ²ⁿ as an m value and is a multiple of 4, the CPU (microcomputer) normally used in the game control device handles a data size that is an integer multiple of bytes. Therefore, it is very easy to perform random number generation, random number data transfer, processing, and the like by the CPU, and program development is facilitated.

Next, the value of M is an integer including “5” as a prime factor, preferably a number represented by a power of 5 (for example, 5 ⁷ as shown in FIG. 19). By selecting an integer including “2” or a power of 2 as the value of m and selecting an integer including “5” or a power of 5 as the value of M, m And M can be mutually prime integers. In addition, commercially available CPUs are provided with a relatively large number of operating frequencies that are powers of 10 such as 10 MHz, 100 MHz, and 1 GHz. Such operating frequencies can be represented by 10 ^{n. Since n} can be transformed to 2 ⁿ × 5 ⁿ , it is clear that it is expressed as a power of 5, because a system that satisfies the above conditions can be easily configured.

From the above explanation, this application includes
Random number generating means for circulating and updating the counter value with a predetermined number as an update range;
Launching means for launching a game ball into the game area of the game board;
Game control means for comprehensively controlling the game,
In a gaming machine that generates a special gaming state advantageous to a player when the execution result of a variable display game that displays a plurality of identification information in a variable manner in accordance with the establishment of a start condition is a predetermined special result,
The game control means includes
The counter value updated by the random number generation means is acquired at an arbitrary timing, and the acquired counter value is used as a random number for game control,
The firing means includes
Comprising oscillation means for generating an oscillation signal of a predetermined oscillation frequency;
Determine the launch period of the game ball corresponding to the oscillation frequency,
A game ball is launched at a launch cycle based on the oscillation frequency,
It can be seen that the present invention includes an invention in which the synchronization interval between the firing cycle and the counter value update cycle by the random number generation means is set to be longer than the maximum variation time of the variation display game.

Here, the “synchronization interval” is synonymous with the synchronization cycle. The “maximum variation time of the variation display game” means the variation time of the variation display game having the maximum variation time when there are a plurality of types of variation display games having different variation times. The “variable display game” includes both the special map variable display game and the general map variable display game in the embodiment. “Oscillating means” means, for example, an oscillator (also referred to as a vibrator) such as a crystal oscillator or a ceramic oscillator, or an oscillator and its drive circuit.
According to the invention as described above, since the variation time of the variation display game is determined for each effect, when there is a player who recognizes the synchronization interval, the synchronization interval is known based on that time. However, there is a risk that a specific random number based on the fluctuation of a specific fluctuation display game may be aimed at, but, as in the above configuration, the firing period and the update period of the counter value (random number update period) updated by the random number generation means By making the synchronization interval longer than the maximum time of the variable display game, it is possible to prevent the shooting of a predetermined random number value based on the fluctuation of a specific variable display game and to ensure the fairness of the game.

Also, the firing period of the firing unit as the launching means is determined corresponding to the oscillation frequency specific to the oscillating means decided to be used, and the synchronization interval between the determined firing period and the random number update period is determined by the variation display game. Therefore, the burden on the designer is reduced compared to the method of determining both the firing period and the random number update period at the same time.
Furthermore, since the update range of the counter value of the random number generation means can be set by software, even if you want to change the fluctuation time of the fluctuation display game etc., you can change the setting to prevent the random number from being shot by simply rewriting the program It can be done easily.

In addition, in this application,
Launch adjustment means for adjusting the launch force of the game ball launched by the launch means;
Launch control means for controlling launch based on the oscillation signal and the signal from the launch adjustment means;
A drive source that performs a unit operation by applying a drive signal of a predetermined number of pulses and drives a ball launcher for launching a game ball by the launch control means;
A frequency dividing circuit that adjusts the oscillation frequency according to a predetermined frequency dividing ratio;
The firing period is determined according to the number of pulses, the oscillation frequency, and the division ratio,
The random number updated by the random number generation means is set to a value that is an integral multiple of m, the update frequency of the random number is a value that is an integral multiple of M, and a multiple is set so that the random number update cycle can be expressed in m / M. When the m value constituting the numerator of the m / M and the M value constituting the denominator are integers that are relatively prime,
When the firing cycle obtained by dividing the product of the number of drive pulses required for one firing by the drive source and the frequency division ratio by the frequency divider circuit by the oscillation frequency of the oscillation means is represented by n / N, The n value constituting the numerator of n / N and the N value constituting the denominator are integers that are relatively prime,
The product value mn of the m value and the n value is divided by the greatest common divisor Gcd (Nm, Mn) of the product value Nm of the N value and the m value and the product value Mn of the M value and the n value. The value D is longer than the maximum variation time of the variation display game,
The present invention includes an invention in which the synchronization interval between the firing cycle and the random number update cycle is set to be longer than the maximum variation time of the variation display game and shorter than the value D.

Here, the “drive source” includes a solenoid in addition to the pulse motor, and the “unit operation” means one rotation in the case of the pulse motor and one reciprocation in the case of the solenoid.
According to this invention, the frequency dividing circuit for adjusting the oscillation frequency is provided, and the firing period is set to the number of drive pulses of the driving source for driving the ball launcher, the oscillation frequency of the oscillation means, and the frequency division ratio of the frequency divider Since it is determined correspondingly, it is possible to select the resonator to be used from among commercially available crystal resonators of multiple types of oscillation frequencies, so that it is possible to avoid an increase in cost and to set specific fluctuations by setting the firing cycle appropriately It is possible to easily prevent the shooting of a predetermined random number value based on the fluctuation of the display game.
In addition, without greatly increasing the range of random numbers generated by the random number generation means, the synchronization interval between the firing period and the random number update period can be made longer than the maximum time of the variable display game, and the burden on the game control means is reduced. Can be reduced.

Further, the present application includes an invention in which the m value is a value including “2” as a prime factor, and the M value is a value including “5” as a prime factor.
According to this invention, the m value of the numerator in the expression “random number size / frequency = m / M” that gives the update period of the random number is a value including “2” as a prime factor, so that In the case of using a typical binary counter circuit or the like, the scale of the random number generation circuit can be reduced. In addition, the M value of the denominator in the expression “number of random numbers / frequency = m / M” is a value including “5” as a prime factor, so that the operation frequency is 10 when the game control means is configured by a CPU. Since a CPU that is a power, that is, a power of 5, can be easily obtained, a system that satisfies a desired condition can be easily configured.

Further, the present application includes an invention in which the greatest common divisor of the m value and the n value includes “2” or “a power of 2”.
According to this invention, when the greatest common divisor of the m value and the n value includes “2” or “a power of 2”, the product value mN of the m value and the N value, the M value, and the n value Since the product value Mn of the value and the greatest common divisor Gcd (Nm, Mn) of the value also includes “2” or “power of 2”, the product value mn of the m value and the n value is The value D divided by the greatest common divisor Gcd (Nm, Mn) of the product value Nm, M value, and n value Mn of the N value and m value can be made small and easy to handle. In addition, when the value of the synchronization period is determined, m / M and n / N can take more values, and the options can be expanded.

Further, the present application includes an invention in which “2” and “5” are included in the greatest common divisor Gcd (Nm, Mn).
According to this invention, the product value mn of the m value and the n value is changed to the greatest common divisor Gcd (Nm, Mn) of the product value Nm of the N value and the m value, and the product value Mn of the M value and the n value. The value D divided by can be made even smaller, making it easier to handle, and when the value of the synchronization period is determined, more values can be taken by m / M and n / N. This makes it easy to obtain a vibrator or CPU that satisfies a desired condition.

Although the invention made by the present inventor has been specifically described based on the embodiments, the embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative and non-restrictive in every respect. The scope of the present invention is shown not by the above description of the invention but by the scope of claims, and is intended to include all modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the scope of claims.
For example, in the above-described embodiment, the case where the update of the big hit random number and the launch of the game ball is avoided to synchronize in a short time has been described. The present invention can also be applied to avoiding the synchronization of the launch of the game ball and the game ball during a short time.

10 gaming machine 24 operation handle (launch adjustment means)
30 game board 36 start opening (start winning area)
37 Ordinary variable prize device (start prize area)
41 Display device (variable display device)
46 ball ejector 72 launch unit (launcher, launcher)
110 Game control device (game control means)
111 Microcomputer for game (game control means)
111C RAM (data storage means)
111D random number generation circuit (random number generation means)
200 Dispensing control device 210 Launch control device (launch control means)
211 Launch control circuit 212 Crystal oscillator (oscillation means)
222 Divider circuit 300 Production control device 721 Launch motor (drive source)

Claims (5)

Random number generating means for circulating and updating the counter value with a predetermined number as an update range;
Launching means for launching a game ball into the game area of the game board;
Game control means for comprehensively controlling the game,
In a gaming machine that generates a special gaming state advantageous to a player when the execution result of a variable display game that displays a plurality of identification information in a variable manner in accordance with the establishment of a start condition is a predetermined special result,
The game control means includes
The counter value updated by the random number generation means is acquired at an arbitrary timing, and the acquired counter value is used as a random number for game control,
The firing means includes
Comprising oscillation means for generating an oscillation signal of a predetermined oscillation frequency;
Determine the launch period of the game ball corresponding to the oscillation frequency,
A game ball is launched at a launch cycle based on the oscillation frequency,
A gaming machine, wherein a synchronization interval between the firing cycle and a counter value update cycle by the random number generation means is set to be longer than a maximum variation time of the variation display game. Launch adjustment means for adjusting the launch force of the game ball launched by the launch means;
Launch control means for controlling launch based on the oscillation signal and the signal from the launch adjustment means;
A drive source for performing a unit operation by applying a drive signal of a predetermined number of pulses and driving a ball launcher for launching a game ball by the launch control means;
A frequency dividing circuit that adjusts the oscillation frequency according to a predetermined frequency dividing ratio;
The firing period is determined according to the number of pulses, the oscillation frequency, and the division ratio,
The random number updated by the random number generation means is set to a value that is an integral multiple of m, the update frequency of the random number is a value that is an integral multiple of M, and a multiple is set so that the random number update cycle can be expressed in m / M. When the m value constituting the numerator of the m / M and the M value constituting the denominator are integers that are relatively prime,
When the firing cycle obtained by dividing the product of the number of drive pulses required for one firing by the drive source and the frequency division ratio by the frequency divider circuit by the oscillation frequency of the oscillation means is represented by n / N, The n value constituting the numerator of n / N and the N value constituting the denominator are integers that are relatively prime,
The product value mn of the m value and the n value is divided by the greatest common divisor Gcd (Nm, Mn) of the product value Nm of the N value and the m value and the product value Mn of the M value and the n value. The value D is longer than the maximum variation time of the variation display game,
2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein a synchronization interval between the firing cycle and the random number update cycle is set to be longer than a maximum variation time of the variation display game and shorter than the value D. 3. .   The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein the m value is a value including "2" as a prime factor, and the M value is a value including "5" as a prime factor.   The gaming machine according to claim 3, wherein the greatest common divisor of the m value and the n value includes “2” or “a power of 2”.   The gaming machine according to claim 4, wherein the greatest common divisor Gcd (Nm, Mn) includes "2" and "5".