JP2014128479A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of synchronizing output timing according to a performance image to be outputted.SOLUTION: In reception of a drawing instruction based on first performance information where a main liquid crystal has been designated as an output destination of a first performance image to be displayed in a performance in a game using a game medium, and second performance information where a sub-liquid crystal has been designated as an output destination of a second performance image in an image size differing from the image size of the first performance image, the first performance image is drawn by the first performance information and the second performance image is drawn by the second performance information. Output timing of a performance image of which processing has been completed later is synchronized with output timing of which processing has been completed earlier from among the drawing processing.

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

  In a game machine such as a pachinko machine, a lottery process for a bonus (big hit) started by a game ball entering a winning opening called a start opening is performed in a game performed using a game medium. In this gaming machine, when an announcement is made based on an effect based on the lottery result of the lottery process, the effect image of the effect is displayed on the display device, so that the player is visually entertained and a higher interest is provided.

  The display device at this time displays an effect image based on the effect, and provides a higher interest to the player by linking the effect image with the decoration device that decorates the gaming machine called the accessory doing.

  In Patent Document 1 shown below, a configuration including a sub display device (sub liquid crystal) in addition to the main display device (main liquid crystal) serving as the first symbol display device is shown. It is described that the player can feel interesting by displaying the display device (sub liquid crystal) in conjunction with the display device. Further, this Patent Document 1 describes that information relating to a game is provided to a player in various variations by changing the display modes of the first symbol display device and the sub display device.

JP 2005-245510 A

  As shown in Patent Document 1, when a plurality of display devices are provided, the interest provided to the player is improved in comparison with a configuration in which only a single display device is provided. Compared to the case where only the display device is provided, the image processing of the effect image to be displayed on the newly provided display device is newly required.

  Usually, for the newly provided display device, it is rare to provide an image processing unit different from the image processing unit in the case of having only a single display device from the viewpoint of cost, technology, etc. In this case, the existing image processing unit (the image processing unit in the case of having only one display device) performs the image processing of the effect image displayed on each display device.

  The display devices at this time generally have different screen sizes, and the sub display device (sub liquid crystal) is often smaller in screen size than the main display device (main liquid crystal), and image data to be output to the main liquid crystal. The data size of the image data output to the sub liquid crystal tends to be smaller than the data size.

  For this reason, since the image size of the effect image to display is different, the time and processing timing which a drawing process requires differ, and it is necessary to arrange the output timing output to a display apparatus. For this reason, a process of synchronizing the output timing is performed.

  However, since the conventional synchronization processing is synchronized by setting to output at the output timing designated in advance, the image size is not considered.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can synchronize the output timing according to the output effect image.

  In order to achieve the above object, the invention of claim 1 is directed to first effect information in which a first display device is designated as an output destination of a first effect image displayed at the time of an effect in a game using a game medium, Drawing that has an image size different from the image size of the first effect image and accepts a drawing instruction based on the second effect information specified by the second display device as the output destination of the second effect image displayed at the time of the effect Instruction receiving means, first drawing means for drawing the first effect image using the first effect information specified by the drawing instruction received by the drawing instruction receiving means, and drawing received by the drawing instruction receiving means Second drawing means for drawing the second effect image using the second effect information designated by the instruction, drawing processing of the first effect image by the first drawing means, and the second drawing Of the drawing process of the second effect image by the means, the first effect image or the second effect image that is output at the output timing of the first effect image or the second effect image that has been previously completed. Synchronizing means for synchronizing the output timing of the second effect image or the first effect image different from the second effect image.

  The invention according to claim 2 is the invention according to claim 1, wherein either the second effect image or the first effect image output to the output destination at the output timing synchronized by the synchronization means is stored in the first storage area. Storage means for storing the first effect image or the second effect image from the second storage area storing the first effect image or the second effect image to be synchronized. The output timing to the corresponding output destination, and the output timing to take out either the second effect image or the first effect image stored in the first storage area by the storage means and output to the corresponding output destination Synchronize

  The invention according to claim 3 is the invention according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first effect image or the second effect image synchronized by the synchronization means is output to an output destination corresponding to the first effect image. Output means for outputting to the output destination corresponding to the first effect image or the second effect image different from the effect image or the second effect image is provided.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to synchronize the output timing according to the effect image to be output.

The front view of the gaming machine in the embodiment of the present invention. The perspective view of the state which open | released the glass frame provided in the front surface of the game machine in embodiment of this invention. The perspective view of the back surface side of the gaming machine in the embodiment of the present invention. The block diagram which shows the whole structure of the game machine in embodiment of this invention. The figure which shows an example of the determination table which performs the hit determination for every special symbol and normal symbol performed in the gaming machine in the embodiment of the present invention. The figure which shows an example of the symbol determination table which determines the stop symbol of the special symbol in the gaming machine in the embodiment of the present invention. The figure which shows an example of the big hit game completion | finish setting data table for determining the game state after the big hit game performed with the game machine in embodiment of this invention is complete | finished. The figure which shows an example of the special electric accessory act | action mode determination table for determining a big prize opening release mode table. The figure which shows the structure of the special winning opening release mode table determined using the special electric accessory act | operation mode determination table shown in FIG. The figure which shows the fluctuation pattern determination table which determines the fluctuation pattern of a special symbol. The figure which shows an example of the effect pattern determination table for determining the fluctuation | variation aspect of the effect symbol displayed in a 1st liquid crystal display device and a 2nd liquid crystal display device. The figure which shows an example of the animation information determination table which determines animation information in the image control board of the game machine in embodiment of this invention. The figure which shows an example of the operation | movement information designation | designated table which designated the operation | movement information designation | designated table which designated the operation | movement information of the interlocking decoration apparatus which interlock | cooperates the effect image and decoration apparatus which were drawn with the image control board of the game machine in embodiment of this invention. . The figure which shows the animation information used in the image control board of the game machine in embodiment of this invention. An example of a display list including drawing control commands used on an image control board of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. The figure which shows an example of the separation determination table used in the image control board of the gaming machine in the embodiment of the present invention. The figure which shows an example of the isolation | separation information table used in the image control board of the game machine in embodiment of this invention. The flowchart which shows the detailed flow of the main process performed with the main control board of the game machine in embodiment of this invention. The flowchart which shows the detailed flow of the timer interruption process performed with the main control board of the game machine in embodiment of this invention. The flowchart which shows the detailed flow of the special figure special electric control process performed with the main control board of the game machine in embodiment of this invention. The flowchart which shows the detailed flow of the special symbol memory | storage determination process performed with the main control board of the game machine in embodiment of this invention. The flowchart which shows the detailed flow of the main process performed with the presentation control board of the gaming machine in the embodiment of the present invention. The flowchart which shows the detailed flow of the timer interruption process performed with the presentation control board of the gaming machine in the embodiment of the present invention. The flowchart which shows the detailed flow of the command analysis process performed with the presentation control board of the gaming machine in the embodiment of the present invention. The flowchart which shows the continuation of the flowchart which shows the detailed flow of the command analysis process performed with the presentation control board of the gaming machine in the embodiment of the present invention. The flowchart which shows the detailed flow of the main process performed in the image control board of the game machine in embodiment of this invention. The flowchart which shows the detailed flow of the interruption process performed in the image control board of the game machine in embodiment of this invention. The block diagram which shows the structure of the frame buffer used in the image control board of the game machine in embodiment of this invention. The flowchart which shows the flow of the process performed by the relay board | substrate which comprises the game machine in embodiment of this invention. The flowchart which shows the flow of the separation process performed by the relay board | substrate which comprises the game machine in embodiment of this invention. The flowchart which shows the flow of the synchronous process performed by the relay board | substrate which comprises the game machine in embodiment of this invention. The flowchart which shows the flow of the output process performed by the relay board | substrate which comprises the game machine in embodiment of this invention. The figure which shows the form of the 2nd liquid crystal display device and the 3rd liquid crystal display device which were mounted in the game machine in embodiment of this invention. The figure which shows the change process of the form of the 2nd liquid crystal display device mounted in the game machine in embodiment of this invention, and a 3rd liquid crystal display device.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of a gaming machine according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

  FIG. 1 is an example of a device configuration diagram of a gaming machine 1 configured by applying the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 shows the gaming machine 1 in a state where the glass frame of the present invention is opened. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the back side of one gaming machine 1.

  The gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame 60 attached to an island facility of a game store, and a glass frame 50 that is rotatably supported by the outer frame 60 (see FIGS. 1 and 2). Further, the outer frame 60 is provided with a game board 2 in which a game area 6 in which game balls flow down is formed. In the glass frame 50, an operation handle 3 for launching a game ball toward the game area 6 by being rotated, an audio output device 32 including a speaker, an effect lighting device 34 having a plurality of lamps, An effect button 35 for changing the effect mode by pressing operation and a cross key 36 capable of pressing operation in at least two directions (usually four directions) are provided.

  Further, the glass frame 50 is provided with a tray 40 for storing a plurality of game balls, and the tray 40 has a downward slope so that the game balls flow down toward the operation handle 3. (See FIG. 2). A receiving opening for receiving a game ball is provided at the end of the downward slope of the tray 40, and the game ball received in the receiving opening is driven by the ball feed solenoid 4b, so that the glass frame 50 One game ball is sent to the ball feed opening 41 provided on the back surface one by one.

  Then, the game ball sent out to the ball feed opening 41 is guided to the end of the downward slope of the launch rail 42 by the launch rail 42 having a downward slope toward the launching member 4c. A stopper 43 for stopping and stopping the game ball is provided above the end of the firing rail 42 that is inclined downward, and the game ball sent out from the ball feed opening 41 is the end of the downward inclination of the launch rail 42. One game ball is stopped at the section (see FIG. 2).

  Then, when the player rotates the operation handle 3, the launch volume 3b directly connected to the operation handle 3 also rotates, and the launch intensity of the game ball is adjusted by the launch volume 3b, and the launch is performed with the adjusted launch intensity. The launch member 4c directly connected to the solenoid 4a for rotation rotates. As the launch member 4c rotates, the launch ball 4c launches the game ball stored at the end of the downward slope of the launch rail 42, and the game ball is launched into the game area 6.

  When the game ball fired as described above rises between the rails 5a and 5b from the launch rail 42 and exceeds the ball return prevention piece 5c, the game ball reaches the game area 6 and then freely falls within the game area 6. . At this time, the game ball falls unpredictably by a plurality of nails and windmills provided in the game area 6.

  The game area 6 is provided with a plurality of general winning awards 12.

  Each of these general winning ports 12 is provided with a general winning port detecting switch 12a. When the general winning port detecting switch 12a detects a winning of a game ball, a predetermined winning ball (for example, ten game balls) is provided. To be paid out.

  Further, a first start port 14 and a second start port 15 constituting a start region where a game ball can enter are provided at the lower center of the game region 6. A second big winning opening 17 is provided through which a game ball can enter.

  The second start port 15 includes a second start port movable piece 15b, and the second start port movable piece 15b is moved around one of the second start port movable pieces 15b as a fulcrum to win a prize to the second big prize port 17. A "first mode" that is maintained in a closed state that makes it difficult, and an open state that facilitates winning to the second big winning port 17 by moving one of the second starting port movable pieces 15b as a fulcrum. It is controlled to move to the “second mode”.

  At this time, when the second start port 15 is controlled in the second mode, the second start port movable piece 15b functions as a tray, and it is easy to win a game ball in the second start port 15. Become. That is, when the second start port 15 is in the first mode, there is no game ball winning opportunity, and when it is in the second mode, the game ball winning opportunity is increased as compared to the first mode.

  Here, the first start port 14 is provided with a first start port detection switch 14a for detecting the entrance of a game ball, and the second start port 15 is provided with a second start port detection switch for detecting the entrance of a game ball. 15a is provided. When the first start port detection switch 14a or the second start port detection switch 15a detects the entry of a game ball, a special symbol determination random number value is acquired, and a right acquisition lottery (to be described later) Hereinafter, “Lottery for jackpot” is performed.

  In addition, when the first start port detection switch 14a or the second start port detection switch 15a detects the entry of a game ball, the predetermined start port detection switch 12a is set in a predetermined manner in the same manner as when the general winning port detection switch 12a detects the winning of a game ball. Prize balls (for example, three game balls) are paid out.

  In addition, the second grand prize winning port 17 is configured by an opening formed in the game board 2.

  A movable piece 17b for the second big prize opening is provided at the right end of the second big prize opening 17, and the second big prize prize is moved by moving one of the movable pieces 17b for the second big prize opening as a fulcrum. An open state that makes it easy to win the mouth 17 and a closed state that cannot win a prize are controlled.

  When the movable piece 17b for the second big prize opening is opened, the movable piece 17b for the second big prize opening functions as a tray for guiding the game ball into the second big prize opening 17, and the game ball is the second. It is possible to enter the big winning opening 17. The second big prize opening 17 is provided with a second big prize opening detection switch 17a. When the second big prize opening detection switch 17a detects the entry of a game ball, a predetermined prize ball ( For example, 15 game balls) are paid out.

  Furthermore, on the right side of the game area 6, there is provided a first grand prize opening 16 into which a game ball can enter. Further, on the left and right sides of the game area 6, a normal area through which the game ball can pass. Are provided with ordinary symbol gates 13.

  For this reason, if the operation handle 3 is greatly rotated and the game ball is not launched with a greater force than the game ball is launched into the left area of the game area 6, the game ball passes or wins in the first big prize opening 16. It is configured not to.

  In particular, when shifting to the short-time game state described later, the game balls are passed through the normal symbol gates 13 provided on both the left and right sides of the game area 6 to be used for the pair of second start ports at the second start port 15. By making the movable piece 15b open, it is possible to win a game ball in the second starting port 15.

  These normal symbol gates 13 are provided with a gate detection switch 13a for detecting the passage of the game ball. When the gate detection switch 13a detects the passage of the game ball, the normal symbol determination random number value is acquired, The “ordinary symbol lottery” to be described later is performed.

  The first grand prize opening 16 is normally kept closed by the first big prize opening opening / closing door 16b, and it is impossible to enter a game ball. In contrast, when a special game, which will be described later, is started, the first grand prize opening opening / closing door 16b is opened, and the first big prize opening opening / closing door 16b puts the game ball in the first big winning opening 16; It functions as a receiving tray that guides the game ball and can enter the first grand prize opening 16. The first grand prize opening 16 is provided with a first big prize opening detection switch 16a. When the first big prize opening detection switch 16a detects the entry of a game ball, a predetermined prize ball (for example, 15 Game balls).

  Furthermore, at the bottom of the game area 6, the player does not enter any of the general winning opening 12, the first starting opening 14, the second starting opening 15, the first major winning opening 16 and the second major winning opening 17. An out port 11 is provided for discharging the game balls.

  In addition, a decoration member 7 that affects the flow of the game ball is provided in the center of the game area 6. A first liquid crystal display device 31 (hereinafter also referred to as “main liquid crystal”) configured by an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or the like is provided at a substantially central portion of the decorative member 7. Above 31, a decoration device 33 a having a mask shape is provided.

  The second liquid crystal display device 37a (33b) (hereinafter referred to as the “second liquid crystal display device 37a”) having a smaller size than the first liquid crystal display device 31 is referred to as the “first liquid crystal display device 37a”. A sub liquid crystal 37a ”is also provided, and a third liquid crystal display device 37b (33c) (hereinafter referred to as“ third liquid crystal display device 37b ”) is provided on the right side of the first liquid crystal display device 31. 2 sub liquid crystal 37b ").

  The “first sub liquid crystal 37a” and the “second sub liquid crystal 37b” at this time are collectively referred to simply as “sub liquid crystal 37”.

  The decoration device 33a, the second liquid crystal display device 37a (33b), and the third liquid crystal display device 37b (33c) are driven by the effect drive device 33, that is, the second liquid crystal display device 37a (33b). The third liquid crystal display device 37b (33c) has a function of displaying an effect image (hereinafter also referred to as “image data”) and a function of driving. The second liquid crystal display device 37a (33b) and the third liquid crystal display device 37b (33c) display an effect image by a signal from the image control board 150 and are driven by the effect driving device 33.

  As an example, the second liquid crystal display device 37a (33b) and the third liquid crystal display device 37b (33c) shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 are smaller than the size (19 inches) of the first liquid crystal display device 31 (see FIG. 4.3 inch) is shown as an example, but the display device is not limited to this, and may be a display device of the same size. Furthermore, the second liquid crystal display device 37a (33b) and the third liquid crystal display device may be used. The size of 37b (33c) may be larger than that of the first liquid crystal display device 31.

  The first liquid crystal display device 31 displays a demo image during standby when no effects are being performed, or displays an image according to the progress of the game. Among them, three effect symbols 38 for informing a lottery lottery result to be described later are displayed, and a combination of specific effect symbols 38 (for example, 777) is stopped and displayed as a result of the jackpot lottery. A big hit is announced.

  More specifically, when a game ball enters the first start port 14 or the second start port 15, the three effect symbols 38 are displayed in a variable manner by scroll display (rotation display), and a predetermined time has elapsed. Later, the scrolling is stopped, and the effect design 38 is stopped and displayed. Further, by displaying an effect image composed of characters or the like during the variation display of the effect symbol 38, a high expectation that the player may win a big hit is given to the player.

  The decoration device 33a or the like driven by the effect drive device 33 gives a player a sense of expectation by an operation mode using the effect image.

  The decoration device 33a driven by the effect drive device 33 can move in the vertical direction (of course, it is not limited to the vertical direction and can be moved in the vertical and horizontal directions), and the first liquid crystal is moved by this vertical movement. It will move to the front surface of the display device 31. The decoration device 33a is equipped with an effect lighting device 34 and lights up in conjunction with the movement of the decoration device 33a or independently.

  Similarly to the decoration device 33a, the second liquid crystal display device 37a (33b) and the third liquid crystal display device 37b can be driven by the effect driving device 33, and the second liquid crystal display device 37a shown in FIG. And the 3rd liquid crystal display device 37b has shown the initial state of the vertical aspect which made the short side the up-down direction. From the initial state, the second liquid crystal display device 37a is rotated rightward so as to face the game board surface, so that it is possible to adopt a horizontal mode in which the long side is in the vertical direction. Further, the third liquid crystal display device 37b is rotated counterclockwise from the initial state so as to face the game board surface, so that it is possible to adopt a horizontal orientation in which the long side is in the vertical direction.

  Further, the relationship between the positions of the second liquid crystal display device 37a and the third liquid crystal display device 37b in the horizontal orientation and the position when the decoration device 33a moves downward is the second liquid crystal display device on the front surface of the decoration device 33a. 37a and the third liquid crystal display device 37b may be arranged, or conversely, the decoration device 33a may be arranged in front of the second liquid crystal display device 37a and the third liquid crystal display device 37b. Of course, the decoration device 33a, the second liquid crystal display device 37a, and the third liquid crystal display device 37b are disposed on the same plane and may be disposed without overlapping each other.

  Furthermore, in addition to the above-described various production devices, the audio output device 32 outputs BGM (background music), SE (sound effects), etc., and produces productions using sound. The illumination direction and the emission color of the light are changed to produce effects by illumination, and are provided at a plurality of positions.

  In the lower right of the game area 6, a first special symbol display device 20, a second special symbol display device 21, a normal symbol display device 22, a first special symbol hold indicator 23, a second special symbol hold indicator 24, a normal A symbol hold indicator 25 is provided.

  The first special symbol display device 20 informs the result of the jackpot lottery performed when a game ball has entered the first start port 14, and is a plurality of lighting composed of LEDs or the like. It is comprised by the member. One or more predetermined lighting members blink according to the result of the lottery lottery, and the lighting members in the blinking state are lit simultaneously with the stop display of the effect symbol 38.

  The first special symbol display device 20 can also be configured by a 7-segment LED. That is, a plurality of special symbols corresponding to the jackpot lottery result are provided, and the lottery result is notified to the player by displaying the special symbol corresponding to the jackpot lottery result on the first special symbol display device 20. I am doing so. For example, “7” is displayed when the jackpot is won, and “−” is displayed when the player wins. “7” and “−” displayed in this way are special symbols, but these special symbols are not displayed immediately, but are displayed in a stopped state after being displayed for a predetermined time. .

  Here, the “successful lottery” means that when a game ball enters the first starting port 14 or the second starting port 15, a special symbol determining random number value is acquired, and the acquired special symbol determining random value is acquired. Is a random number value corresponding to “big hit” or a random number value corresponding to “small hit”. The jackpot lottery result is not immediately notified to the player, and the first special symbol display device 20 displays a variation such as blinking of the special symbol, and when the predetermined variation time has passed, the jackpot lottery result The special symbol corresponding to is stopped and displayed so that the player is notified of the lottery result.

  The second special symbol display device 21 is for notifying a lottery result of a jackpot that is performed when a game ball enters the second start port 15, and the display mode is the above-described first display mode. This is the same as the special symbol display mode in the special symbol display device 20.

  Further, in this embodiment, “big hit” means that a right to win a big hit game is obtained in a big win lottery performed on condition that a game ball has entered the first start port 14 or the second start port 15 Say what you did. In the “hit game”, a round game in which the first big prize opening 16 or the second big prize opening 17 is opened is performed a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 times). A predetermined time is set for the maximum opening time of the first grand prize port 16 or the second grand prize port 17 in each round game, and during this time, the first grand prize port 16 or the second grand prize port 17 is set. When a predetermined number of game balls (for example, nine) enter, one round game is completed.

  In other words, the “big hit game” is a game in which a game ball can enter the first grand prize winning opening 16 or the second big winning prize opening 17 and the player can acquire a winning ball according to the winning prize.

  The normal symbol display device 22 is for notifying the lottery result of the normal symbol that is performed when the game ball passes through the normal symbol gate 13. As will be described in detail later, when the winning symbol is won by the normal symbol lottery, the normal symbol display device 22 is turned on, and then the second start port 15 is controlled to the second mode for a predetermined time.

  Here, “normal symbol lottery” means that when a game ball passes through the normal symbol gate 13, the normal symbol determination random number value is acquired, and the acquired normal symbol determination random value corresponds to “winning”. This is a process for determining whether or not a random value. The lottery result of the normal symbol is not always notified immediately after the game ball passes through the normal symbol gate 13, but the normal symbol display device 22 displays a variation such as blinking of the normal symbol. When the fluctuation time elapses, the normal symbol corresponding to the lottery result of the normal symbol is stopped and displayed so that the player is notified of the lottery result.

  Furthermore, if a game ball enters the first start port 14 or the second start port 15 during special symbol fluctuation display or a special game to be described later, and if a big win lottery cannot be performed immediately, a certain condition The right to win a jackpot will be withheld.

  More specifically, the random number value for special symbol determination acquired when the game ball enters the first start port 14 is stored as the first hold, and when the game ball enters the second start port 15 The acquired special symbol determination random number value is stored as the second hold.

  For both of these holds (first hold and second hold), the upper limit hold number is set to four, and the hold numbers are respectively set to the first special symbol hold indicator 23 and the second special symbol hold indicator 24. Is displayed.

  When there is one first hold, the leftmost LED of the first special symbol hold indicator 23 lights up, and when there are two first holds, the leftmost end of the first special symbol hold indicator 23 The two LEDs turn on. When there are three first holds, three LEDs blink from the leftmost end of the first special symbol hold indicator 23 and the right LED is lit. When there are four first holds, the first Four LEDs blink from the leftmost end of the special symbol hold indicator 23.

  The second special symbol hold indicator 24 also displays the number of second hold on hold in the same manner as described above.

  The upper limit reserved number of normal symbols is also set to four, and the reserved number of normal symbols is displayed in the same manner as the first special symbol hold indicator 23 and the second special symbol hold indicator 24. Displayed on the instrument 25.

  The glass frame 50 supports a glass plate 52 that covers the game area 6 so as to be visible in front of the game board 2 (player side). The glass plate 52 is detachably fixed to the glass frame 50.

  The glass frame 50 is connected to the outer frame 60 via a hinge mechanism 51 on one end side in the left-right direction (for example, the left side facing the gaming machine 1). The end side (for example, the right side facing the gaming machine 1) can be rotated in a direction to release from the outer frame 60. The glass frame 50 covers the game board 2 together with the glass plate 52, and can be opened like a door with the hinge mechanism 51 as a fulcrum to open the inner part of the outer frame 60 including the game board 2.

  On the other end side of the glass frame 50, a lock mechanism for fixing the other end side of the glass frame 50 to the outer frame 60 is provided. The fixing by the lock mechanism can be released by a dedicated key. The glass frame 50 is also provided with a door opening switch 133 that detects whether or not the glass frame 50 is opened from the outer frame 60.

  On the back surface of the gaming machine 1, as shown in FIG. 3, a main control board 110, an effect control board 120, a payout control board 130, a power supply board 170, a game information output terminal board 30, and the like are provided. The power supply board 170 is provided with a power plug 171 for supplying power to the gaming machine 1 and a power switch (not shown).

  Next, control means for controlling the progress of the game will be described using the block diagram of the entire gaming machine 1 in the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG.

  The main control board 110 is a main control means for controlling the basic operation of the game, and receives various detection signals from the first start port detection switch 14a, etc., and the first special symbol display device 20 and the first big winning port opening / closing solenoid. The game is controlled by driving 16c and the like.

  The main control board 110 includes at least a one-chip microcomputer 110m including a main CPU 110a, a main ROM 110b, and a main RAM 110c, an input port for main control, and an output port (not shown).

  The main control input port includes a payout control board 130, a general winning port detection switch 12a for detecting that a game ball has entered the general winning port 12, and a game ball having entered the normal symbol gate 13. Gate detection switch 13a to detect, first start port detection switch 14a to detect that a game ball has entered the first start port 14, and second start to detect that a game ball has entered the second start port 15 The mouth detection switch 15a, the first grand prize opening detection switch 16a that detects that a game ball has entered the first grand prize opening 16, and the second that detects that a game ball has entered the second grand prize opening 17 A big prize opening detection switch 17a is connected. Various signals are input to the main control board 110 through the main control input port.

  The output port for main control includes a payout control board 130, a start port opening / closing solenoid 15c for opening / closing the pair of second start port movable pieces 15b of the second start port 15, and a first big prize opening opening / closing door 16b. The first large winning opening / closing solenoid 16c for operating the second large winning opening / closing solenoid 17c for operating the movable piece 17b for the second large winning opening, the first special symbol display device 20 for displaying special symbols, and the second special symbol. Display device 21, normal symbol display device 22 for displaying normal symbols, first special symbol hold indicator 23 and second special symbol hold indicator 24 for displaying the number of reserved symbols for special symbols, and the number of reserved balls for normal symbols The normal symbol hold display 25 and the game information output terminal board 30 for outputting an external information signal are connected. Various signals are output from the main control output port.

  The main CPU 110a reads out a program stored in the main ROM 110b based on an input signal from each detection switch or timer, performs arithmetic processing, directly controls each device or display, or determines the result of the arithmetic processing. In response, a command is transmitted to another board.

  The main CPU 110a can perform a jackpot lottery on the holding ball before the lottery processing on the holding ball and pre-acquire (pre-read) the lottery result. At this time, the pre-acquired lottery result is produced. The image is sent to the image control board 150 via the control board 120.

  The main ROM 110b of the main control board 110 stores a game control program and data and tables necessary for determining various games. For example, (1) a jackpot determination table referred to in the jackpot lottery, (2) a hit determination table referred to in the normal symbol lottery, (3) a symbol determination table for determining a special symbol stop symbol, and (4) a jackpot end Big hit game end setting data table for determining the subsequent gaming state, (5) Special electric accessory actuating mode determination table for determining the opening / closing conditions of the opening / closing doors of the first big winning opening 16 and the second big winning opening 17 , (6) a big prize opening opening mode table for designating an opening mode of the first big winning opening 16 and the second big winning opening 17, (6) a variation pattern determining table for determining a variation pattern of special symbols, and the like. Yes.

  Note that the above-described table is merely an example of characteristic tables among the tables in the present embodiment, and a number of other tables and programs (not shown) are provided for the progress of the game. ing.

  Next, details of various tables stored in the main ROM 110b of the main control board 110 will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a determination table for performing a hit determination for each special symbol and normal symbol performed in the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  FIG. 5 (a-1) and FIG. 5 (a-2) are diagrams showing a jackpot determination table used for the “big winner lottery”.

  FIG. 5A-1 is a jackpot determination table (a jackpot determination table for the first special symbol display device) referred to in the first special symbol display device 20, and FIG. It is a jackpot determination table (a jackpot determination table for the second special symbol display device) referred to in the special symbol display device 21. In the tables of FIG. 5 (a-1) and FIG. 5 (a-2), although the winning probabilities for small hits are different, the jackpot probabilities are the same.

  Specifically, the big hit determination table is for determining “big hit”, “small hit”, or “losing” based on the current probability gaming state and the acquired random numbers for determining special symbols.

  For example, according to the jackpot determination table for the first special symbol display device shown in FIG. 5 (a-1), in the low probability gaming state, all the special symbol determinations “7” and “8” are performed. On the other hand, when the random number value is determined to be a jackpot, all the 20 special symbol determination random numbers “7” to “26” are determined to be a jackpot when the gaming state is a high probability game state.

  Further, according to the jackpot determination table for the first special symbol display device shown in FIG. 5 (a-1), the special symbol determination for either the low probability gaming state or the high probability gaming state. When the random number values are all four special symbol determination random values of “50”, “100”, “150”, and “200”, it is determined as “small hit”. Although not shown, when the random number is other than the special symbol determination random number shown above, it is determined as “lost”.

  Accordingly, since the random number range of the special symbol determination random number value is “0” to “598”, the probability of being determined as “big hit” in the low-probability gaming state is “1 / 299.5” and high The probability of being determined as “big hit” in the probability gaming state is “1 / 29.9”, which is approximately 10 times.

  Further, in the first special symbol display device 20, the probability of being determined as “small hit” is “1 / 149.75” regardless of whether the gaming state is the low probability gaming state or the high probability gaming state.

  Next, FIG. 5B is a diagram showing a hit determination table used for “ordinary symbol lottery”.

  Specifically, the winning determination table is for determining “winning” or “losing” based on the presence / absence of the short-time gaming state and the acquired random number for normal symbol determination.

  For example, according to the hit determination table shown in FIG. 5B, in the non-short-time gaming state, one normal symbol determination random value of “0” is determined to be a win, while in the short-time gaming state. In some cases, it is determined that all 65535 normal symbol determining random numbers from “0” to “65534” are hits. Although not shown, if the random number is other than the normal symbol determining random number shown above, it is determined as “lost”.

  Accordingly, since the random number range of the normal symbol determination random number value is “0” to “65535”, the probability of being determined as “winning” in the non-time saving gaming state is “1/65536”, and the time saving gaming state The probability of being determined as “winning” at the time of is “65535/65536”.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a symbol determination table for determining a special symbol stop symbol.

  FIG. 6A is a symbol determination table that is referred to in order to determine a stop symbol at the time of a big hit, and FIG. 6B is a symbol that is referred to in order to determine a stop symbol at the time of a big hit. FIG. 6C is a symbol determination table that is referred to in order to determine a symbol to be stopped when a loss occurs.

  Specifically, according to the symbol determination table shown in FIG. 6, a special ball display device type (a type of a start opening in which a game ball has won) and a game ball at the first start port 14 or the second start port 15. The special symbol type (stop symbol data) is determined based on the jackpot symbol random number value or the small bonus symbol random number value acquired when the ball is entered.

  For example, the first special symbol display device 20 refers to the symbol determination table shown in FIG. 6A in the case of “big hit”, and if the acquired big hit symbol random number value is “55”, the stopped symbol data As “03” (special symbol 3 (first probability variation 3)).

  Further, in the first special symbol display device 20, when “small hit”, the symbol determination table shown in FIG. 6B is referred to, and if the acquired random number value for small hit symbol is “50”, it is stopped. The symbol data is determined as “08” (special symbol B (small hit B)).

  In the case of “losing”, the symbol determination table shown in FIG. 6C is referred to, and “00” (special symbol 0 (losing)) is determined as stop symbol data. That is, in the case of “losing”, any random number value is determined as stop symbol data of “00”.

  Then, at the time of starting the change of the special symbol, an effect designating command is generated as special symbol information based on the determined special symbol type (stop symbol data). Here, the production symbol designation command is composed of data of “2 bytes” as a unit command, and includes “1 byte” of MODE data for identifying the control command and the contents of the control command to be executed. It consists of “1 byte” worth of DATA data. The same applies to a variation pattern designation command described later.

  As will be described later, the game state after the jackpot game (see FIG. 7) and the type of jackpot game (see FIG. 8) are determined by the type of special symbol (stop symbol data). It can be said that the type determines the gaming state after the jackpot game ends and the type of jackpot game.

  FIG. 7 is a jackpot game end setting data table for determining the gaming state after the jackpot game ends.

  Based on the special symbol type (stop symbol data) and the state stored in the game state buffer, the high probability game flag setting, the number of high probability games (X ), A short-time game flag, and a short-time count (J) are set.

  Here, the “gaming state buffer” is information indicating the gaming state at the time of winning the big hit. The gaming state is composed of a combination of a short-time gaming state (or a non-short-time gaming state) and a high probability gaming state (or low probability gaming state).

  Specifically, if the gaming state buffer is “00H”, it indicates the gaming state information of the low-probability gaming state and the non-short-time gaming state in which both the short-time gaming flag and the high-probability gaming flag are not set. If the gaming state buffer is “01H”, the short-time gaming flag is not set, but the high-probability gaming flag indicates gaming state information of the high-probability gaming state and the non-short-time gaming state that are set. If the gaming state buffer is “02H”, it indicates gaming state information of a low-probability gaming state and a short-time gaming state in which the short-time gaming flag is set but the high-probability gaming flag is not set. If the game state buffer is “03H”, it indicates the game state information of the high-probability gaming state and the short-time gaming state in which both the short-time gaming flag and the high-probability gaming flag are set.

  In the jackpot game end setting data table shown in FIG. 7, even if the type of the same special symbol, the setting of the short-time game flag and the number of short-time games (J) are made different based on the information stored in the game state buffer. Is possible.

  Specifically, when the type of the special symbol is special symbol 3 (corresponding to stop symbol data 03, first probability variation jackpot “3”), regarding the high probability game flag and the high probability game number (X), Regardless of the information stored in the state buffer, the high probability game flag is set after the jackpot game ends, and the high probability game count (X) is set to “10000 times”.

  On the other hand, regarding the short-time game flag and the short-time number of times (J), if information (“00H” or “01H”) indicating a game state in which the short-time game flag is not set is stored in the game state buffer, Does not set the short-time game flag, and sets the short-time number (J) to “0”. On the other hand, if information (“02H” or “03H”) indicating the gaming state in which the short-time gaming flag is set is stored in the gaming state buffer, the short-time gaming flag is set after the big hit game is finished. , The number of time reduction (J) is set to “10000 times”.

  Thereby, the number of time reductions (J) can be changed according to the gaming state at the time of winning the jackpot, and the player can be interested in the gaming state at the time of winning the jackpot.

  FIG. 8 is a special electric accessory actuating mode determination table for determining the special winning opening opening mode table.

  With reference to the special electric accessory operating mode determination table shown in FIG. 8, the special winning opening opening mode table is determined based on the type of special symbol (stop symbol data).

  As will be described later, since the jackpot game is executed on the basis of the big prize opening manner table, it can be said that the big prize opening manner table indicates the type of the big prize game.

  Further, the special electric accessory actuating mode determination table shown in FIG. 8 is characterized in that, in the second special symbol display device 21 that is actuated when a game ball enters the second starting port 15, the “short hit table” is used. "Is not determined.

  This is because, in the non-short-time gaming state, almost no gaming ball enters the second starting port 15, but “short hit” is determined when a gaming ball enters the second starting port 15. This is because even if the short-time gaming state is provided, the player's willingness to play may be reduced.

  In the present embodiment, the second special symbol display device 21 is configured not to determine the “short hit table”. Of course, the second special symbol display device 21 also determines the “short hit table”. You may comprise. However, in the case of determining the “short hit table” in the second special symbol display device 21, compared with the first special symbol display device 20 that is activated when a game ball enters the first start port 14, By configuring the “short hit table” to be difficult to determine for the reasons described above, it is possible to prevent a decrease in game motivation.

  FIG. 9 is a view showing the configuration of the big prize opening opening mode table determined in FIG. 8, and the first big winning opening opening / closing door 16b or the movable piece for the second big winning opening is determined by this big winning opening opening mode table. The open / close condition of 17b is determined.

  FIG. 9A shows a big winning opening opening determination table group for jackpots that is referred to in the jackpot game, and is composed of a long winning table, a short winning table, and an advanced winning table.

  FIG. 9B shows a big winning opening releasing mode determination table group for small hits determined at the small hit game.

  Then, a long hit game is executed based on the long hit table, a short hit game is executed based on the short hit table, a development game as described later is executed based on the developed hit table, The small hit game is executed based on the winning opening opening determination table.

  In the big winning opening opening determination table for jackpot shown in FIG. 9 (a), the type of the big winning opening to be opened (the first big winning opening 16 or the second big winning opening 17) and the one big win game The maximum number of round games (R), the specified number indicating the maximum number of winnings in the big winning opening in one round, the start interval time from the start of the big hit game to the execution of the first round game, and in each round game Maximum number of times of opening of the grand prize opening (K), opening time of the big winning opening for one opening of each round game, and closing time of the big winning opening for one opening of each round game And the closing interval time of the big prize opening from the end of one round game to the execution of the next round game, and the end interval time from the end of the last round game to the end of the jackpot game Are 憶.

  On the other hand, in the large winning opening opening determination table for small hits shown in FIG. 9B, the type of the large winning opening to be opened (the first large winning opening 16 or the second large winning opening 17), The maximum number of times of opening (K) in a single small hit game, a specified number indicating the maximum number of winning points in a single winning game, and the first large winning opening is opened from the start of the small hit game Until the end of the small hit game from the end of the closing time of the last prize winning opening and the closing time of the last prize winning opening The interval time is stored.

  Here, according to the long winning table of the big winning prize opening opening determination table for jackpot shown in FIG. 9A, the first big winning opening opening / closing door 16b is operated, and the first winning prize opening / closing door 16b is located on the right side of the game area 6. The grand prize winning opening 16 can be opened up to a maximum of “approximately 29 seconds” per round.

  However, when the specified number (9) of game balls have won the first grand prize opening 16 before the opening time has passed “approximately 29 seconds”, the operation of the first grand prize opening opening / closing door 16b is terminated. The game for one round will end.

  Here, the short win table of the big winning prize opening manner determination table for jackpots shown in FIG. 9A and the big winning opening release mode determination table for small hits shown in FIG. 9B are the maximum number of round games ( R), the maximum number of times of opening (K), the closing interval time, and the closing time of the big winning opening at each opening number, there are data differences, but the same second big winning opening 17 performs the same opening / closing operation (second large) The winning opening 17 repeats “opening for 0.052 seconds” and closing for “2.0 seconds” for “15 times”), and the player is “short win game” or “small hit game” from the appearance. Cannot be determined.

  Thereby, it is possible to cause the player to guess whether the game is “short hit game” or “small hit game”.

  In this embodiment, the opening time in the “short hit game” and the opening time in the “small hit game” are set to the same opening time (“0.052 seconds”), and the closing time in the “short hit game” An example is shown in which the closing time in the “small hit game” is set to the same closing time (“2 seconds”).

  Of course, the present invention is not limited to this, and a configuration in which a time difference that the player cannot discriminate between “short win game” and “small hit game” may be provided.

  In addition, the per-development table of the big winning prize opening mode determination table for jackpot shown in FIG. 9A is also the above-described short winning game and small winning game until the third big winning opening is opened (K = 3). The second grand prize opening 17 performs the same opening / closing operation (the second big prize opening 17 repeats an opening time of “0.052 seconds” and a closing time of “2.0 seconds”), and the player looks Therefore, it is not possible to determine whether the game is “game per development, game per short, or game per short”.

  However, from the opening of the fourth grand prize opening (maximum number of round games (R) = "2", maximum number of big winning openings (K) = "1"), the opening of the big prize opening for games per development The time becomes longer ("approximately 29 seconds"), and the game per development can be discriminated from the short win game and the small hit game.

  For this reason, a game that first causes the player to recognize that the game is a short hit game or a small hit game, and then causes the player to recognize that the game ball is a jackpot game that can be acquired (this game is referred to as “game per development”). It can be performed.

  In this embodiment, until the opening of the big prize opening where the game per development becomes indistinguishable from the short hit game and the small hit game, the opening time of the big prize opening of the game per development is reduced to the short win game and the small hit game. The opening time is set to the same opening time ("0.052 seconds") and the closing time of the big winning opening for games per development is the closing time of the big winning opening for short win games and small hit games And the same closing time ("2 seconds"). However, even if the game is not set at the same time, a difference in time in which the player cannot determine whether the game per development, the game per short hit, or the game per small hit may be provided.

  In addition, the short opening time (“0.052 seconds”) of “short win game” and “small hit game” and the short opening time (“0.052 seconds”) of the first half of “game per development” are as described above. Thus, even if the movable piece 17b for the second big prize opening is actuated, it is necessary to win the second big prize opening 17 because it is shorter than the time for which one game ball is fired ("approximately 0.6 seconds"). Is difficult.

  For this reason, it can be said that the opening mode of “short hit game” and “small hit game” and the opening mode of the first half of “game per development” are “unfavorable opening mode” for the player.

  On the other hand, the long release time of “game per long” (“approximately 29 seconds”) and the long release time of the latter half of “game per development” (“approximately 29 seconds”) are the time (one game ball is fired) ( It is longer than “approximately 0.6 seconds”), and can be said to be an “advantageous release mode” for the player.

  Further, according to the jackpot big winning opening opening determination table shown in FIG. 9A, the maximum number of round games (R) at the time of all jackpots regardless of the long win game, the short win game, or the development game. ) Is set to the same number of times. For this reason, there is no need to provide a display device for identifying the number of round games as in the prior art.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a variation pattern determination table for determining a variation pattern of special symbols as will be described later.

  Specifically, according to the special symbol variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 10, the special symbol display device that operates (the type of the starting opening that the game ball won), the jackpot determination result, the special symbol to stop, and the short-time gaming state Based on the presence / absence, the number of special symbol hold (U1 or U2), the reach determination random number value, and the special symbol variation random value, the variation pattern of the special symbol is determined.

  Then, based on the determined special symbol variation pattern, the special symbol variation time is determined, and the special symbol variation pattern designation command for transmitting the special symbol information to the effect control board 120 is specified. An example of this variation pattern designation command is shown in FIG.

  Therefore, it can be said that the “special symbol variation pattern” defines at least the jackpot determination result and the special symbol variation time. Further, since the reach effect is always performed when the big hit or the small hit, the random number value for reach determination is not referred to when the big hit or the small hit. That is, in FIG. 10, in the case of a big hit or a small win, the items of the gaming state, the number of holdings, and the reach determination random value are indicated by “−”. Note that the reach determination random number value is a random value used to determine whether or not to perform reach production, and is associated with the probability of performing reach production. The random number values to be determined are set to 100 (0 to 99).

  Here, the special symbol variation pattern designation command is composed of “1 byte” of MODE data for identifying the command classification and “1 byte” of DATA data indicating the content (function) of the command. Yes.

  When the MODE data is “E6H”, a special symbol variation pattern designation command (of the first special symbol display device 20) corresponding to the winning of the game ball at the first start port 14 is shown. "E7H" indicates a special symbol variation pattern designation command corresponding to the winning of a game ball in the second start port 15 (second special symbol display device 21).

  Further, the special symbol variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 10 is set so that the variation time of the special symbol is shortened when the jackpot determination result is lost and the game is in the short-time gaming state. For example, when the jackpot determination result is a loss and the number of held balls is “2”, if the game is in the short-time game state, the variation time is “3000 ms” with a probability of “95%” based on the reach determination random value. Pattern “9” (shortening variation) is determined.

  On the other hand, when in the non-time saving gaming state, a variation pattern in which the variation time exceeds “3000 ms” is determined.

  In this manner, the variation time is set to be short when the time-saving gaming state is entered.

  The table as described above is stored in the main ROM 110b of the main control board 110.

  Subsequently, the main RAM 110c of the main control board 110 functions as a data work area during the arithmetic processing of the main CPU 110a and has a plurality of storage areas.

  As an example of the storage area at this time, for example, in the main RAM 110c, the normal symbol hold number (G) storage area, the normal symbol hold storage area, the normal symbol data storage area, the first special symbol hold number (U1) storage area, Second special symbol holding number (U2) storage area, first special symbol random value storage area, second special symbol random value storage area, round game number (R) storage area, number of times released (K) storage area, first large Number of balls (C) storage area, game state storage area (high probability game flag storage area and time-short game flag storage area), high probability game number (X) counter of the winning opening 16 and the second grand prize opening 17 Various timer counters are provided, such as a short time (J) counter, a game state buffer, a stop symbol data storage area, a transmission data storage area for effects, a special symbol time counter, and a special game timer counter. That. Note that the above-described storage area is merely an example, and many other storage areas are provided.

  The game information output terminal board 30 is a board for outputting an external information signal generated in the main control board 110 to a hall computer or the like of the game shop. The game information output terminal board 30 is connected to the main control board 110 by wiring, and is provided with a connector for connecting external information to a hall computer or the like of a game store.

  The power supply board 170 includes a backup power supply made of a capacitor, supplies a power supply voltage to the gaming machine 1, and monitors a power supply voltage supplied to the gaming machine 1, and when the power supply voltage becomes a predetermined value or less, An interruption detection signal is output to the main control board 110. More specifically, when the power interruption detection signal becomes high level, the main CPU 110a enters an operable state, and when the power interruption detection signal becomes low level, the main CPU 110a enters an operation stop state. The backup power source is not limited to a capacitor, and for example, a battery may be used, and a capacitor and a battery may be used in combination.

  The effect control board 120 mainly controls each effect such as during a game or standby.

  The effect control board 120 includes a sub CPU 120a, a sub ROM 120b, a sub RAM 120c, and an information control unit 200, and can communicate with the main control board 110 in one direction from the main control board 110 to the effect control board 120. It is connected to the. The information control unit 200 performs information control in a history recording game and a special history recording game described later. Details of the information control unit 200 will be described later.

  The sub CPU 120a reads out a program stored in the sub ROM 120b based on a command transmitted from the main control board 110 or an input signal from the effect button detection switch 35a, the cross key detection switch 36a, and the timer, and performs arithmetic processing. And corresponding data (such as an effect pattern designation command to be described later) is transmitted to the lamp control board 140 or the image control board 150 based on this processing.

  The sub RAM 120c functions as a data work area during the arithmetic processing of the sub CPU 120a.

  For example, when the sub CPU 120a in the effect control board 120 receives the “fluctuation pattern designation command” indicating the fluctuation pattern of the special symbol from the main control board 110, the sub CPU 120a analyzes the content of the received fluctuation pattern designation command and displays the first liquid crystal display. Data for causing the device 31, the audio output device 32, the effect driving device 33, the effect lighting device 34, the second liquid crystal display device 37 a, and the third liquid crystal display device 37 b to perform processing in a predetermined effect (an effect pattern described later) Specify the specified command.

  Then, the specified data (effect pattern designation command or the like) is transmitted to the image control board 150 or the lamp control board 140. FIG. 11 shows an example of a table used when specifying an “effect pattern specification command”, which is an example of data to be specified based on this variation pattern specification command. The variation effect pattern determination table shown in FIG. 11 is stored in the sub ROM 120b.

  The sub ROM 120b of the effect control board 120 stores a program for effect control, data necessary for determining various games, and a table.

  For example, a sub-ROM 120b includes a sub-ROM 120b, a sub-ROM 120b, a sub-ROM 120b, a sub-ROM 120b, a sub-ROM 120b, etc. Is remembered.

  In the variation effect pattern determination table at this time, after the jackpot lottery is in the reach state and the reach effect in the reach state indicates that the jackpot lottery result is “losing”, it is revived and the jackpot lottery result is displayed. In addition to storing an effect pattern (revival jackpot effect pattern) for effecting “big hit”, an effect effect pattern for switching the game state (game mode) is stored. Note that the above-described table is merely an example of characteristic tables among the tables in the present embodiment, and a number of other tables and programs (not shown) are provided for the progress of the game. ing.

  The effect control board 120 uses the change effect pattern determination table as shown in FIG. 11 to specify an effect pattern designation command based on the change pattern designation command and sends it to the lamp control board 140 and the image control board 150.

  The sub RAM 120c of the effect control board 120 functions as a data work area when the sub CPU 120a performs arithmetic processing, and has a plurality of storage areas.

  The sub RAM 120c is provided with a game state storage area, an effect mode storage area, an effect pattern storage area, an effect symbol storage area, and the like. Note that the above-described storage area is merely an example, and many other storage areas are provided.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a variation effect pattern determination table for determining the variation mode of the effect symbol 38 displayed on the first liquid crystal display device 31, the second liquid crystal display device 37a, and the third liquid crystal display device 37b.

  The change pattern designation command and the effect random number 1 (0 to 89) in the change effect pattern determination table shown in FIG. 11 are information received from the main control board 110, and based on this information, the sub CPU 120a changes the change effect. The pattern is determined.

  In FIG. 11, even when the sub CPU 120 a receives the variation pattern designation command of the same special symbol, the variation control pattern can be determined based on the rendering random number value 1. The number of special pattern variation pattern designation commands stored in the main control board 110 is reduced as compared with the variation effect patterns stored in the above.

  As a result, the storage capacity of the main control board 110 can be reduced, and a variety of effects can be achieved.

  The “variation effect pattern” refers to the contents of the effect (first liquid crystal display device 31, audio output device 32, effect drive device 33, effect illumination device 34, second liquid crystal display device 37a) performed during the change of the special symbol. , A specific rendering mode in the third liquid crystal display device 37b). For example, in the first liquid crystal display device 31, the second liquid crystal display device 37 a, and the third liquid crystal display device 37 b, the background display mode, the character display mode, and the variation mode of the design pattern 38 displayed by this variation effect pattern are different. It is determined.

  In addition, the “reach” in the present embodiment refers to a state in which a part of the combination of the effect symbols 38 that informs the transition to the special game is stopped and the other effect symbols 38 are performing the variable display. . For example, when a combination of three effect symbols 38 of “777” is set as a combination of the effect symbols 38 informing that a transition to a jackpot game is made, the two effect symbols 38 are stopped and displayed at “7”. The state in which the remaining effect symbols 38 are variably displayed is called “reach”.

  Thus, when the sub CPU 120a determines the variation effect pattern based on the variation pattern designation command and the effect random number 1, the sub CPU 120a specifies an effect pattern designation command corresponding to the variation effect pattern and will be described later. The image is transmitted to the liquid crystal control CPU 150a of the image control board 150.

  Further, as the effect pattern designation command corresponding to the change effect pattern, “MODE” is set to “A1H” in the case of the change effect pattern based on the change pattern of the special symbol in the first special symbol display device 20, and the second special When the variation effect pattern is based on the variation pattern of the special symbol in the symbol display device 21, “MODE” is set as “B1H”, and “DATA” is set according to the identification number of the variation effect pattern.

  In this effect pattern designation command, “1 command” is composed of 2-byte data, and “1 byte” of MODE data for identifying the control command classification and the contents of the control command to be executed are displayed. 1 byte "of DATA data.

  Although illustration is omitted, in addition to the effect pattern specifying command corresponding to the variable effect pattern, the MODE setting value is changed, and “effect pattern specifying command corresponding to the demo effect pattern (MODE = 01H)”, "Effect pattern designation command corresponding to hit start effect pattern (MODE = 0H)", "Effect pattern designation command corresponding to jackpot effect pattern (MODE = 03H)", "Effect pattern designation command corresponding to hit end effect pattern ( MODE = 04H) ”and the like, and the sub CPU 120a transmits the various effect pattern designation commands to the image control board 150.

  From the above, the sub CPU 120a transmits to the image control board 150 the effect pattern designation command determined in the variation effect pattern determination table shown in FIG.

  At this time, the image control board 150 performs image control processing as described later based on the effect pattern designation command.

  Subsequently, the payout control board 130 shown in FIG. 4 performs payout control of the game ball. The payout control board 130 includes a one-chip microcomputer including a payout CPU, a payout ROM, and a payout RAM (not shown), and is connected to the main control board 110 so as to be capable of bidirectional communication.

  The payout CPU reads out the program stored in the payout ROM based on the input signals from the payout ball count detection switch 132, the door opening switch 133, and the timer for detecting whether or not the game ball has been paid out, and performs arithmetic processing. At the same time, based on the processing, the corresponding data is transmitted to the main control board 110.

  Further, a payout motor 131 of a payout device for paying out a predetermined number of game balls from the game ball storage unit is connected to the output side of the payout control board 130. The payout CPU reads out a predetermined program from the payout ROM based on the payout number designation command transmitted from the main control board 110, performs arithmetic processing, and controls the payout motor 131 of the payout device to give a predetermined game ball. Pay out.

  At this time, the payout RAM functions as a data work area during the calculation processing of the payout CPU.

  The lamp control board 140 controls the lighting of the effect lighting device 34 provided on the game board 2 and controls the driving of the motor for changing the light irradiation direction. Further, energization control is performed on a drive source such as a solenoid or a motor that operates the decoration device 33a. The lamp control board 140 is connected to the effect control board 120 and performs the above-described controls based on various commands transmitted from the effect control board 120.

  The image control board 150 is connected directly or indirectly to the first liquid crystal display device 31, the audio output device 32, the second liquid crystal display device 37a, and the third liquid crystal display device 37b described above. The second liquid crystal display device 37a and the third liquid crystal display device 37b are connected via a relay substrate 45 that is a data relay device, and the relay substrate 45 and the first liquid crystal display device 31 are connected via a general-purpose substrate. ing. Based on various commands transmitted from the effect control board 120, the image control board 150 performs image control in the first liquid crystal display device 31, the second liquid crystal display device 37a, and the third liquid crystal display device 37b and in the audio output device 32. Performs audio output control.

  At this time, between the image control board 150 and the first liquid crystal display device 31 and the relay board 45, as shown above, when displaying the effect image, the bridge function is output after being converted into a predetermined image format. A general-purpose substrate 39 is provided.

  The general-purpose substrate 39 has a bridge function for converting into an image format corresponding to the performance of the first liquid crystal display device 31 and the second liquid crystal display device 37a for displaying the effect image. For example, SXGA (1280 dots × 1080) Dot) 19-inch main liquid crystal connected as the first liquid crystal display device 31, and XGA (1024 dots × 768 dots) 17-inch main liquid crystal connected as the first liquid crystal display device 31. Absorb differences.

  The image control board 150 performs liquid crystal control CPU 150a, liquid crystal control RAM 150b, and liquid crystal control ROM 150c for performing image display control of effect images displayed on the first liquid crystal display device 31, the second liquid crystal display device 37a, and the third liquid crystal display device 37b. , CGROM 151, crystal oscillator 152, VRAM 153, image control unit (VDP (Video Display Processor) 2000) (hereinafter referred to as “VDP2000”), and sound control circuit 3000 that performs control to output sound information from the sound output device 32 It has.

  Based on the “effect pattern designation command” received from the effect control board 120, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a creates a display list as described later using an animation information determination table as shown in FIG. At this time, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a creates a display list as shown in FIG. 15 based on the “effect pattern designation command” received from the effect control board 120.

  The liquid crystal control CPU 150a transmits the created display list to the VDP 2000.

  As a result, the VDP 2000 draws image data using information stored in the CGROM 151 based on the display list received from the liquid crystal control CPU 150a, and the image data is displayed on the first liquid crystal display device 31 and / or the relay board 45. Send it out.

  Further, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a moves the decoration device 33a, the second liquid crystal display device 37a, and the third liquid crystal display device 37b by using the accessory interlocking table as shown in FIG. The second liquid crystal display device 37a and the third liquid crystal display device 37b are linked with the effect image displayed on at least two of the first liquid crystal display device 31, the second liquid crystal display device 37a, or the third liquid crystal display device 37b. Do.

  FIG. 13 shows an accessory interlocking table that links the effect image drawn on the image control board of the gaming machine and the decoration device according to the embodiment of the present invention, and an operation information specification table that specifies the operation information of the interlocking decoration device. It is a figure which shows an example.

  In FIG. 13A, the decorations 33a, the second liquid crystal display device 37a, and the third liquid crystal display device 37b are interlocked with an accessory used when interlocking with the effect image displayed on the other device and the first liquid crystal display device 31. Shows the table. FIG. 13B shows operation information of the decoration device 33a at the movement destination moved when interlocking.

  The accessory interlocking table shown in FIG. 13A is stored in the liquid crystal control ROM 150c, similarly to the animation information determination table shown in FIG. The accessory interlocking table includes effect images displayed on the first liquid crystal display device 31, the second liquid crystal display device 37a, and the third liquid crystal display device 37b in the effect contents based on the effect pattern designation command received from the effect control board 120, and decorations. This is information used when the device 33a, the second liquid crystal display device 37a, and the third liquid crystal display device 37b are linked.

  In the accessory interlocking table of FIG. 13A, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a of the image control board 150 is linked to the decoration device that links the decoration device 33a with the effect image in response to the effect pattern designation command received from the effect control board 120. In addition to the information, the second liquid crystal display device interlock information used when the second liquid crystal display device 37a is interlocked with the effect pattern designation command and the interlock information used when the third liquid crystal display device 37b is interlocked. The third liquid crystal display device interlocking information is associated.

  As the decoration device link information at this time, “decoration device type”, “movement destination name”, “movement destination position”, and “operation information ID” are set.

  The “decoration device type” indicates the type of the decoration device to be operated, and is information for designating the decoration device to be linked with the effect image when a plurality of decoration devices are required. The “destination name” indicates the name of the destination to which the decoration device designated by the “decoration device type” has been moved, and the name of the destination indicated by this “destination name” is the coordinate information. The information indicated by is shown in “movement destination position”. The “operation information ID” is information for identifying operation information for operating the decoration device 33a at the “movement destination position”.

  The operation content in the operation information identified by this “operation information ID” is shown in the operation information designation table shown in FIG.

  The motion information designation table shown in FIG. 13B is a table in which “motion information ID” and “motion content” are associated with “motion information ID”.

  At this time, “flashing the lamp mounted on the decoration device” is shown as the operation content with the operation information ID “operation 001”, and “specified” as the operation content with the operation information ID “operation 001”. After moving to the moving position, “High-speed vertical movement (5 reciprocations)” is shown at the moving position, and the movement information is “Moved to the specified moving position” as the operation content whose operation information ID is “Operation 003”. "Oscillation (vibration for 3 seconds)" is shown.

  Further, “post-drive configuration” and “configuration description” are set as the second liquid crystal display device interlocking information and the third liquid crystal display device interlocking information.

  The “post-drive configuration” indicates a configuration (post-drive configuration) formed by driving the second liquid crystal display device 37a and the third liquid crystal display device 37b. It is description regarding the form shown by. An example of the post drive mode is shown in FIG.

  FIG. 33 shows the mutual relationship between the first liquid crystal display device 31, the second liquid crystal display device 37a, and the third liquid crystal display device 37b, and the form of the second liquid crystal display device 37a and the third liquid crystal display device 37b. .

  FIG. 33A shows “form 1” of the second liquid crystal display device 37a and the third liquid crystal display device 37b, and FIG. 33B shows the second liquid crystal display device 37a and the third liquid crystal display. FIG. 33 (c) shows “form 3” of the second liquid crystal display device 37a and the third liquid crystal display device 37b, and FIG. 33 (d) shows “form 2” of the device 37b. , “Mode 4” of the second liquid crystal display device 37a and the third liquid crystal display device 37b is shown.

  The form 1 in the second liquid crystal display device 37a in FIG. 33A at this time is referred to as “form 1-1”, and the form 1 in the third liquid crystal display device 37b is referred to as “form 1-2”. In addition, Form 2 in the second liquid crystal display device 37a in FIG. 33B is referred to as “Mode 2-1”, and Form 2 in the third liquid crystal display device 37b is referred to as “Form 2-2”. In addition, Form 3 in the second liquid crystal display device 37a in FIG. 33C is referred to as “Mode 3-1”, and Form 3 in the third liquid crystal display device 37b is referred to as “Form 3-2”. In addition, form 4 in the second liquid crystal display device 37a in FIG. 33D is referred to as “form 4-1”, and form 4 in the third liquid crystal display device 37b is referred to as “form 4-2”.

  The “form 1-1” of the second liquid crystal display device 37a and the “form 1-2” of the third liquid crystal display device 37b are in the initial state of the vertically oriented mode with the short sides in the vertical direction. "Form 2-1" of 37a and "Form 2-2" of the third liquid crystal display device 37b are vertically oriented with the short sides in the vertical direction, similar to "Form 1-1" and "Form 1-2". The first liquid crystal display device 31, the second liquid crystal display device 37 a, and the third liquid crystal display than the “form 1-1” and the “form 1-2” when facing the first liquid crystal display device 31. In this configuration, the area where the device 37b overlaps is large.

  In addition, “Mode 3-1” of the second liquid crystal display device 37a and “Mode 3-2” of the third liquid crystal display device 37b are horizontal modes in which the long sides are in the vertical direction. "Form 4-1" and "Form 4-2" of the third liquid crystal display device 37b are horizontal modes with the long sides in the vertical direction, similar to "Form 3-1" and "Form 3-2" When facing the first liquid crystal display device 31, the first liquid crystal display device 31, the second liquid crystal display device 37a, and the third liquid crystal display device 37b rather than the “form 3-1” and the “form 3-2”. This is a form in which the overlapping area is at a large position.

  In addition, “form 1-1” and “form 1-2” are separated by a distance “K1”, and “form 1-1” and “form 1-2” are alternately configured by a vibration operation. The “form 2-1” and the “form 2-2” are separated by the distance “K1” as in the case of the “form 1-1” and the “form 1-2”. The vibration operation is performed by alternately changing “1” and “Mode 2-2”.

  In addition, the “form 3-1” and the “form 3-2” are separated by a distance “K2”, and the “form 3-1” and the “form 3-2” are alternately configured by a vibration operation. The “form 4-1” and the “form 4-2” are separated by the distance “K2” as in the case of the “form 3-1” and the “form 3-2”. The vibration operation is performed by alternately changing “1” and “Mode 3-2”.

  This vibration operation can be specified as operation information of an operation performed by changing the second liquid crystal display device 37a and the third liquid crystal display device 37b.

  These forms are changed as follows. The changing process at this time is shown in FIG.

  FIG. 34 (a) shows a changing process of the second liquid crystal display device 37a, and FIG. 34 (b) shows a changing process of the third liquid crystal display device 37b. These changing processes are changing processes from “form 1” to “form 4” through “form 2” and “form 3”.

  FIG. 34A shows a state in which the second liquid crystal display device 37a is changed from the “form 1-1”, which is the initial state, to the “form 2-1” by being translated in the right direction. At this time, “form 1-1” and “form 2-1” are separated by a distance “K1” in FIGS. 33A and 33B, and are parallel to the right by this distance “K1”. The moved state is “form 2-1”.

  The second liquid crystal display device 37a is changed to “form 3-1” by rotating rightward (90 degrees counterclockwise) from this “form 2-1”. By moving to the right from this “form 3-1”, it is changed to “form 4-1”. At this time, “form 3-1” and “form 4-1” are separated by a distance “K2” in FIGS. 33 (c) and 33 (d), and are parallel to the right by this distance “K2”. The moved state is “form 4-1”.

  And by changing these in reverse order, it is made to change to the "form 1-1" which is an initial state.

  FIG. 34B shows a state in which the third liquid crystal display device 37b is changed from the “form 1-2”, which is the initial state, to the “form 2-2” by being translated in the left direction. At this time, “form 1-2” and “form 2-2” are separated from each other by a distance “K1” in FIGS. 33A and 33B, and are parallel to the left by this distance “K1”. The moved state is “form 2-2”.

  The third liquid crystal display device 37b is changed to “Mode 3-2” by rotating leftward (90 degrees clockwise) from “Mode 2-2”. By moving to the left from this “form 3-2”, it is changed to “form 4-2”. At this time, “form 3-2” and “form 4-2” are separated by a distance “K2” in FIGS. 33 (c) and 33 (d), and parallel to the left by this distance “K2”. The moved state is “Mode 4-2”.

  And by changing these in reverse order, it is changed to the “form 1-2” which is the initial state.

  In addition, in the second liquid crystal display device 37a shown in FIG. 33 (a), the first liquid crystal display device 31 shows a state in which the three effect symbols 38 of the left effect symbol, the right effect symbol, and the middle effect symbol are variably displayed. Yes.

  The second liquid crystal display device 37a shown in FIG. 33 (b) and FIG. 33 (c) displays the effect symbol 38 of the left effect symbol variably, and the effect effect of the right effect symbol is displayed on the third liquid crystal display device 37b. A state in which the pattern 38 is variably displayed is shown.

  The first liquid crystal display device 31 shown in FIG. 33 (d) displays the entire background image in the production as well as the three production symbols 38 in a varied state, and the second liquid crystal display device 37a and the third liquid crystal display device. In 37b, a character image used for production and a background image are displayed. At this time, when the background image displayed on the second liquid crystal display device 37a shown in FIG. 33 (d) faces the first liquid crystal display device 31, the first liquid crystal display device 31 and the second liquid crystal display device. The image in the part which 37a overlaps is shown. The background image displayed on the third liquid crystal display device 37b shown in FIG. 33 (d) is displayed on the first liquid crystal display device 31 and the third liquid crystal display device 37b when facing the first liquid crystal display device 31. The image in the overlapping part is shown.

  The images shown in the first liquid crystal display device 31, the second liquid crystal display device 37a, and the third liquid crystal display device 37b at this time are effect images displayed in the respective forms in the second liquid crystal display device 37a and the third liquid crystal display device 37b. An example is shown.

  The liquid crystal control CPU 150a performs a process of specifying the decoration device interlocking information, the second liquid crystal display device interlocking information, and the third liquid crystal display device interlocking information specified in response to the effect pattern designating command received from the effect control board 120. When the device interlocking information, the second liquid crystal display device interlocking information, and the third liquid crystal display device interlocking information are specified, drive instruction information for driving the decoration device 33a is created based on these information.

  In this drive instruction information, the decoration device 33a designated by the “decoration device type” in the accessory linkage table shown in FIG. 13A is designated as the decoration device to be driven, and this decoration device 33a is designated as the “destination name”. Instructed to move to the coordinate position specified by “movement destination position” and move based on the operation information identified by “operation information ID” at the coordinate position specified by “movement destination position”. In addition, it is instructed to change to the form shown in the post-driving form of the second liquid crystal display device interlocking information and the form shown in the post-driving form of the third liquid crystal display device interlocking information.

  Then, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a sends the drive instruction information to the effect drive device 33.

  Thereby, the effect drive device 33 drives the decoration device 33a, the second liquid crystal display device 37a, and the third liquid crystal display device 37b specified by the drive instruction information received from the liquid crystal control CPU 150a based on the drive instruction information. .

  Further, upon receiving a V blank interrupt signal or a drawing end signal from the VDP 2000, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a appropriately performs an interrupt process.

  Further, the liquid crystal control CPU 150 a instructs the sound control circuit 3000 to output predetermined sound data to the sound output device 32 based on the effect pattern designation command received from the effect control board 120.

  The liquid crystal control RAM 150b is built in the liquid crystal control CPU 150a, functions as a data work area when the liquid crystal control CPU 150a performs arithmetic processing, and temporarily stores data read from the liquid crystal control ROM 150c.

  The liquid crystal control ROM 150c is configured by a mask ROM or the like, and displays a control processing program of the liquid crystal control CPU 150a, an animation information determination table used to generate a display list, a display list generation program, and an animation of an effect pattern. Anime pattern and animation scene information are stored.

  This animation pattern is referred to when displaying the animation of the production pattern, and stores the combination of animation scene information included in the production pattern, the display order of each animation scene information, and the like. In the animation scene information, a wait frame (display time), target data (sprite identification number, transfer source address, etc.), parameters (sprite display position, transfer destination address, etc.), drawing method, and effect image are displayed. Information such as information specifying a display device is stored.

  An example of this animation information is shown in FIG. 14 and will be described below.

  Subsequently, the CGROM 151 is composed of a flash memory, an EEPROM, an EPROM, a mask ROM, and the like, and compresses image data (sprite, movie), etc. composed of a collection of pixel information in a predetermined range of pixels (for example, 32 pixels × 32 pixels). And remember. The pixel information is composed of color number information for designating a color number for each pixel and an α value indicating the transparency of the image.

  The CGROM 151 is read out in units of data by the VDP 2000, and image processing is performed in units of image data of this frame.

  Further, the CGROM 151 stores palette data in which color number information for designating color numbers and display color information for actually displaying colors are associated with each other without being compressed.

  Note that the CGROM 151 may have a configuration in which only a part of the image data is compressed without being compressed. As a movie compression method, various known compression methods such as MPEG4 can be used.

  The crystal oscillator 152 outputs a pulse signal to the VDP 2000 and divides the pulse signal to generate a system clock or the like for the VDP 2000 to control.

  The VRAM 153 is composed of an SRAM that can write or read image data at high speed. The VRAM 153 is configured by a memory map as shown in FIG.

  FIG. 28 is an example of a configuration diagram illustrating a configuration of a frame buffer used in the image control board 150 of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  FIG. 28A shows a case where image data is displayed using any one of the first liquid crystal display device 31, the second liquid crystal display device 37a, and the third liquid crystal display device 37b, and in particular, the first liquid crystal display device. 31 is configured to display the effect image received from the image control board 150, that is, as shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, the first liquid crystal display device 31, the second liquid crystal display device 37a, and the first liquid crystal display device 37a. This is a memory map when only the first liquid crystal display device 31 is configured, not the configuration where the three liquid crystal display devices 37b are connected.

  The memory map shown in FIG. 28A includes an image data development area 153b consisting of arbitrary areas, a display list storage area 153a, a main liquid crystal first frame buffer area 153c, a main liquid crystal second frame buffer area 153d, and other areas. It is configured.

  The image data development area 153b is an area for storing image data expanded by an expansion circuit (described later) included in the VDP 2000. The display list storage area 153a temporarily stores the display list output from the liquid crystal control CPU 150a. This is the area to be stored in

  The main liquid crystal first frame buffer area 153c and the main liquid crystal second frame buffer area 153d display effect images to be displayed on the first liquid crystal display device 31 based on the display list stored in the display list storage area 153a. This is a work area for drawing.

  Incidentally, pallet data etc. are memorize | stored in other area | regions, for example.

  The two frame buffers of the main liquid crystal first frame buffer area 153c and the main liquid crystal second frame buffer area 153d have a “drawing frame buffer” and a “display frame buffer” each time drawing is started. It switches alternately. That is, when one frame buffer functions as a drawing frame buffer, the other frame buffer functions as a display frame buffer.

  FIG. 28B shows a configuration in which the image data received from the image control board 150 is displayed on the three display devices of the first liquid crystal display device 31, the second liquid crystal display device 37a, and the third liquid crystal display device 37b. 1 is a memory map in a configuration in which a first liquid crystal display device 31, a second liquid crystal display device 37a, and a third liquid crystal display device 37b are connected as shown in FIGS.

  Also in FIG. 28 (b), as in the memory map shown in FIG. 28 (a), image data expansion regions 153b and 153a consisting of arbitrary regions, a main liquid crystal first frame buffer region 153c, and a main liquid crystal second frame buffer. In FIG. 28B, in addition to these regions, a first frame buffer 153e for the first sub liquid crystal, a second frame buffer 153f for the first sub liquid crystal, and a second sub liquid crystal are provided. The first frame buffer 153g and the second sub-liquid crystal second frame buffer 153h are provided.

  At this time, the image data development area 153b, the display list storage area 153a, the main liquid crystal first frame buffer area 153c, the main liquid crystal second frame buffer area 153d, and other areas correspond to the corresponding areas in FIG. It is the same.

  The first sub-liquid crystal first frame buffer 153e and the first sub-liquid crystal second frame buffer 153f display an effect image to be displayed on the second liquid crystal display device 37a based on the display list stored in the display list storage area 153a. This is a work area for drawing. The second sub-liquid crystal first frame buffer 153g and the second sub-liquid crystal second frame buffer 153h display an effect image to be displayed on the third liquid crystal display device 37b based on the display list stored in the display list storage area 153a. This is a work area for drawing.

  Two frame buffers, a first sub-liquid crystal first frame buffer 153e and a first sub-liquid crystal second frame buffer 153f, are called a “drawing frame buffer” and a “display frame buffer” each time drawing is started. Are alternately switched. That is, when one frame buffer functions as a drawing frame buffer, the other frame buffer functions as a display frame buffer. The same applies to the two frame buffers, the first sub-liquid crystal first frame buffer 153g and the second sub-liquid crystal second frame buffer 153h.

  Further, the first sub-liquid crystal first frame buffer 153e and the first sub-liquid crystal first frame buffer 153g and the second sub-liquid crystal second frame buffer 153h are also used for the two frame buffers. The same as the two-frame buffer 153f.

  In addition to the above, even a configuration without the second liquid crystal display device 37a and / or the third liquid crystal display device 37b, that is, a configuration with only the first liquid crystal display device 31, is shown in FIG. It is also possible to use a memory map having a frame buffer of the first liquid crystal display device 31, the second liquid crystal display device 37a and the third liquid crystal display device 37b as shown.

  In this case, the first sub liquid crystal first frame buffer 153e, the first sub liquid crystal second frame buffer 153f, the second sub liquid crystal first frame buffer 153g, and the second sub liquid crystal second frame buffer 153h are used as frame buffers. The processing is performed using the main liquid crystal first frame buffer area 153c and the main liquid crystal second frame buffer area 153d corresponding to the first liquid crystal display device 31 without using them.

  Subsequently, the VDP 2000 is a so-called image processor. Based on an instruction from the liquid crystal control CPU 150a, for the first liquid crystal display device 31, a main liquid crystal first frame buffer area 153c and a main liquid crystal second frame buffer area 153d The second liquid crystal display device 37a is either the first sub-liquid crystal frame buffer 153e or the second sub-liquid crystal frame buffer 153f, and the third liquid crystal display device 37b is the second sub-liquid crystal first frame buffer. Image data is read from the “display frame buffer” out of the frame buffers 153g and the second sub-liquid crystal second frame buffer 153h.

  The VDP 2000 generates a video signal (such as an LVDS signal (differential signal) or an RGB signal (single line signal)) based on the read image data.

  The VDP 2000 is equipped with a storage area (not shown), and this storage area is used for output to the first liquid crystal display device 31, the second liquid crystal display device 37a, and the third liquid crystal display device 37b as output destinations. The output format information in which the signal format is set is stored. In VDP2000, a video signal having a signal format corresponding to the output destination specified by the output format information is generated.

  The VDP 2000 outputs the generated video signal to the first liquid crystal display device 31 and / or the relay substrate 45 and outputs image data (effect image) based on the video signal to the first liquid crystal display device 31 and the second liquid crystal display device. 37a is displayed on the third liquid crystal display device 37b.

  The VDP 2000 includes a control register (not shown), a CG bus I / F, a CPU I / F, a clock generation circuit, an expansion circuit, a drawing circuit, a display circuit, and a memory controller, which are connected by a bus.

  The control register is a register for the VDP 2000 to control drawing and display, and drawing control and display control are performed by writing and reading data to and from the control register. The liquid crystal control CPU 150a can write and read data to and from the control register via the CPU I / F.

  This control register is a "system control register" that performs basic settings necessary for the operation of the VDP2000, a "data transfer register" that performs settings necessary for data transfer, and a setting for controlling drawing "Drawing register" for performing the settings, "Bus interface register" for performing settings necessary for bus access, "Decompression register" for performing settings necessary for decompressing compressed image data, and for controlling display Six types of registers, “display registers” for setting, are provided.

  The CG bus I / F is an interface circuit for communication with the CGROM 151, and image data from the CGROM 151 is input to the VDP 2000 via the CG bus I / F.

  The CPU I / F is an interface circuit for communication with the liquid crystal control CPU 150a. The liquid crystal control CPU 150a outputs a display list to the VDP 2000, accesses a control register, and accesses the VDP 2000 via the CPU I / F. Various interrupt signals from are input to the liquid crystal control CPU 150a.

  The data transfer circuit performs data transfer between various devices. Specifically, data transfer between the liquid crystal control CPU 150a and the VRAM 153, data transfer between the CGROM 151 and the VRAM 153, and data transfer between various storage areas (including the frame buffer) of the VRAM 153 are performed.

  The clock generation circuit receives a pulse signal from the crystal oscillator 152 and generates a system clock that determines the operation processing speed of the VDP2000.

  The decompression circuit is a circuit for decompressing the image data compressed in the CGROM 151, and stores the decompressed image data in the image data development area 153b.

  The drawing circuit is a circuit that performs sequence control based on a display list composed of drawing control commands.

  The display circuit includes a main display liquid crystal first frame buffer region 153c, a main liquid crystal second frame buffer region 153d, a sub liquid crystal first frame buffer 153e, and a sub liquid crystal second frame buffer 153f in the VRAM 153. From the image data (digital signal) stored in the frame buffer functioning as a “frame buffer”, a video signal indicating the color data of the image is generated as a video signal.

  The display circuit is a circuit that outputs the generated video signal to the first liquid crystal display device 31 and the relay substrate 45.

  This display circuit is either the main liquid crystal first frame buffer 153c and the main liquid crystal second frame buffer 153d, or the first sub liquid crystal first frame buffer 153e and the first sub liquid crystal second frame buffer 153f. Alternatively, when image data is stored in either the first sub-liquid crystal first frame buffer 153g or the second sub-liquid crystal second frame buffer 153h, this is detected. The image data generated by the detection corresponding to the output destination is converted into a signal format corresponding to the output destination. Further, the display circuit continuously detects that image data synchronized with a frame buffer other than the stored frame buffer is stored. When the detection is similarly converted to a signal format corresponding to the output destination of the image data, the display circuit sets the end time in the subsequent conversion processing as the output timing. Then, the display circuit outputs the image data converted into the signal format of the output destination at this output timing.

  Of course, instead of using the end time in the subsequent conversion process as the output timing, the time after a certain time has elapsed from this end time may be used as the output timing.

  Information on the signal format corresponding to the output destination at this time is stored as screen information in the second liquid crystal display device 37a or the third liquid crystal display device 37b as the output destination, and this screen information is stored in the VDP2000. It is stored in an area (not shown). The screen information at this time is information having a display format and a screen size of each output destination second liquid crystal display device 37a and third liquid crystal display device 37b, and a signal format of image data.

  The display circuit converts the image data into a signal format corresponding to the output destination using this screen information, and outputs the image data at the output timing.

  At this time, when the first liquid crystal display device 31 is designated as the output destination, the display circuit outputs the output to the first liquid crystal display device 31 and the second liquid crystal display device 37a or the third liquid crystal display device 37b designates it. If it is, the signal is output to the relay board 45.

  In the above example, synchronization processing is performed in which the output timing of image data with different output destinations is the same timing. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the synchronization processing is performed with different output timings. There may be. When the different output timings are used, the output timing may be set in consideration of the time set based on the time required for the relay processing in the relay board 45.

  When there is an instruction to switch the frame buffer from the liquid crystal control CPU 150a, the memory controller performs control to switch roles between the “drawing frame buffer” and the “display frame buffer”.

  The sound control circuit 3000 is provided with an audio ROM (not shown) in which a large number of audio data is stored. The sound control circuit 3000 is based on an audio output instruction command transmitted from the effect control board 120. While reading a predetermined program, the audio output control in the audio output device 32 is performed.

  When the relay board 45 receives image data whose output destination is designated from the image control board 150, the relay board 45 performs separation processing as described below to the second liquid crystal display device 37a and the third liquid crystal display device 37b which are output destinations. Output image data.

  In the relay substrate 45, when the second liquid crystal display device 37a and / or the third liquid crystal display device 37b receives the image data designated as the output destination from the image control substrate 150, the image format for determining the image format of the image data is received. Perform discrimination processing. This image format discrimination processing can be discriminated by header information other than the actual image data to be output and image format designation information designated in the trailer information, and the image format is discriminated by the format of the actual image data itself. Also good. In the latter case, the image format is determined based on the data structure of the actual image data (such as the order of data to be configured and the presence or absence of specific information).

  In the relay board 45, when the image format is determined by the image format determination process, it is determined whether or not the image data is separated based on the image format. In this determination process, a determination is made based on whether separation information is specified for the image format with reference to a separation determination table as shown in FIG.

  The separation determination table shown in FIG. 16 designates information specifying an image format for an image format ID for identifying the image format and separation information used when image data separation processing is performed.

  The image format ID “format_001” is information for identifying the case where the determined image format is “− (none)” or “0000”, and “− (none)” as the separation information ID. Is set, it indicates that the separation processing is not performed on the image data whose image format is determined. On the other hand, the image format ID “format_002” is information for identifying the case where the determined image format is “0001”, and the image data identified as this image format is identified by “separation information 001”. It is specified that separation processing is performed using separation information.

  Similarly, “format_003” of the image format ID is information for identifying the case where the determined image format is “0002”, and the image data identified as the image format is identified by “separation information 002”. It is specified that separation processing is performed using separation information.

  In this way, when the separation information is designated by the determination in the relay board 45, the image data received from the image control board 150 is separated based on the separation information.

  The separation process at this time is performed based on the separation method specified by the separation information associated with the separation information ID. Details of the separation information at this time are shown in FIG.

  In the separation information table shown in FIG. 17, “separation method”, “mask information”, “image data after separation”, and “output destination information” are associated with the separation information ID.

  “Separation method” specifies how to separate image data. “Mask information” is information used when “perform separation processing using mask information” is specified by the separation method, and is information specifying a bit string to be masked.

  “Post-separation image data” describes the image data after separation. “Output destination information” indicates the output destination of each separated image data.

  As the “separation method” in the separation information table shown in FIG. 17, “Separate image data in the front and rear half in the order of reception” is shown. In this case, the relay board 45 receives the image data received from the image control board 150. The bit string of the image data is separated into the first half and the second half.

  In addition, as the “separation method”, “separation into two equal parts by even bits and odd bits” is shown. In this case, the relay board 45 receives the image data received from the image control board 150 and the bit string of the image data. Extract and separate alternately.

  Further, “separation method” indicates “separation by masking each predetermined bit position”. In this case, the relay board 45 reads the mask information from the image data received from the image control board 150, and this mask. The image data consists of a bit string other than the bit specified by the information and the image data consisting of the bit string of the bit specified by the mask information.

  In the relay board 45, when the image data is separated using the separation information of the separation information table as shown in FIG. 17, the output destination is determined from the output destination information for outputting each image data after separation specified by the separation information. Identify. That is, an output destination is specified for each separated image data.

  The relay board 45 is provided with a frame buffer for each output destination. When the output destination is specified, the image data separated by the separation process is stored in the frame buffer provided for each output destination.

  When the image data is stored in each frame buffer, the relay board 45 performs a process of synchronizing the output timing of the image data, and the second liquid crystal display device 37a and the third liquid crystal display device 37b that are output destinations at the output timing. Output to.

  The synchronization process at this time is an output timing set based on the output timing specified by the image control board 150. The output timing designated by the image control board 150 is an output timing designated based on the image data, and specifically, an output timing designated by the display resolution, image size, etc. of the image data.

  FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of an animation information determination table for determining animation information on the image control board 150 of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  The animation information determination table shown in FIG. 12 is stored in the liquid crystal control ROM 150c and designates animation information as a production source of the production image in response to the production pattern designation command. This is table information that specifies the output destination.

  In this animation information determination table, the animation patterns forming the effect image are grouped for each role of the animation patterns, and the animation patterns used in each group are designated for each output destination. In this example, the output destination at this time indicates either the first liquid crystal display device 31, the second liquid crystal display device 37a, or the third liquid crystal display device 37b.

  For example, when “MODE = A01H” and “DATA = 07H” are received from the effect control board 120 as the effect pattern designation command, “animation pattern 1” is selected from “background group” as animation information, and “notice A group” "Animation pattern 11" is selected from "Announcement B group", and "Anime pattern 21" is selected from "Notice B group", indicating that an effect image based on this animation information is displayed on "first liquid crystal display device 31". .

  When an effect pattern designation command of “MODE = A01H” and “DATA = 0H” is received, “animation pattern 1” is selected from “background group” as animation information, and “effect pattern group” is selected. “Anime pattern 501” is selected, and an effect image based on this animation information is displayed on “second liquid crystal display device 37a”. Furthermore, when an effect pattern designation command of “MODE = A01H” and “DATA = 0H” is received, “animation pattern 1” is selected from “background group” as animation information, and an effect based on this animation information is selected. The image is displayed on the “third liquid crystal display device 37b”.

  FIG. 14 is a diagram showing animation information used on the image control board 150 of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  The animation pattern shown in FIG. 14 (a) includes the timing of displaying the effect image in addition to the object that is the configuration information constituting the effect image displayed on the first liquid crystal display device 31 and the second liquid crystal display device 37 a. This is information specifying a scene as a scene, and is image forming information for forming an effect image to be displayed at the time of effect.

  A group (hereinafter also referred to as “animation group”) is formed by bundling one or more of these animation patterns. For example, in FIG. 14A, a background group for displaying a background animation, a notice A notice group A for displaying the animation of the character used for A, a notice group B for displaying the animation of the character used for notice B, a reach group for displaying the animation of the reach character, and an animation of the big hit effect are displayed. The effect symbol group for displaying the animation of the big hit effect group for the effect symbol 38 is shown.

  Of course, these are merely examples of groups, and many other groups are provided.

  This animation group is stored in the liquid crystal control ROM 150c.

  The liquid crystal control CPU 150a receives an effect pattern designation command from the sub CPU 120a in the effect control board 120, and displays one or more animation groups and animation patterns to be executed based on the effect pattern designation command as animation information as shown in FIG. Determine based on the decision table.

  FIG. 14B to FIG. 14D and FIG. 14E show the animation pattern determined when the effect pattern designation command “A1H07H” specified in the variable effect mode determination table shown in FIG. 11 is received. An example is shown.

  The effect pattern designation command “A1H07H” is a command for instructing to perform the normal variation effect by the variation effect pattern of the “variation effect pattern 7”. For example, the component used when the normal variation effect is performed is It is an animation group to which the user belongs, and specifies at least one of the animation groups separated for each role used for the change production.

  That is, the liquid crystal control ROM 150c determines an animation group using an animation information determination table in which an effect pattern designation command and an animation group used for the effect pattern of the effect pattern designation command are associated with each other as shown in FIG. Determine the anime pattern in the anime group.

  For example, when “A1H07H” is received as the effect pattern designation command corresponding to the variable effect pattern “7”, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a receives “background group, notice A” from the animation information determination table shown in FIG. Four groups of “group, notice B group, production design group” are determined, and further, an animation pattern can be determined from each of these animation groups.

  As an example, “animation pattern 1” is determined from the background group, “anime pattern 11” is determined from the notice A group, and “anime pattern 21” is determined from the notice B group.

  As shown in FIGS. 14 (b) to 14 (d) and FIG. 14 (e), this animation pattern includes a combination of animation scene information, a display order of each animation scene information, and a display device (first display). Information specifying the liquid crystal display device 31 and the second liquid crystal display device 37a) is stored.

  For example, in the animation pattern of the effect symbol group as shown in FIG. 14E created based on the animation information when the effect pattern designation command of FIG. 12 is “A01H07H”, the output destination is “second liquid crystal display”. Since the “device 37a (sub liquid crystal)” is designated, the animation scene 501 is executed first, the animation scene 511 is executed second after the animation scene 501, and the second liquid crystal display device 37a ( The effect image of the animation pattern is displayed on the sub liquid crystal.

  The liquid crystal control RAM 150 b has a “scene switching counter” that counts and updates every frame, and this “scene switching counter” counts 540 while the first animation scene 501 is being executed. As a result, the animation scene is switched to the second animation scene 511.

  When “60” (for 60 frames) is counted by the “scene switching counter” while the second animation scene 511 is being executed, the animation scene of the animation pattern of the effect symbol group ends.

  Note that “one frame” is the update timing of the display device (update timing of the vertical synchronization signal). For example, when the first liquid crystal display device 31 displays 60 frames per second, “1/60”. One frame is updated every second (about 16.6 ms).

  In the above example, one frame is updated every "1/60 seconds (about 16.6 ms)". However, the present invention is not limited to this, and "1/30 seconds (about 33. The configuration may be such that one frame is updated every 3 ms). In this case, the display device displays 30 frames per second.

  Each animation scene stores animation scene information. As animation information, a weight frame (display time) updated for each frame, target data (sprite identification number, transfer source address, etc.), parameters, and the like. (Sprite display position, transfer destination address, etc.), a drawing method, information for designating a display device for displaying the effect image, and the like are stored.

  For example, in the animation scene shown in FIG. 14 (e), first, the first symbol, the second symbol, the third symbol, and the fourth symbol are predetermined coordinates (the first symbol is coordinates (x30, y30), the second symbol. Is displayed at coordinates (x40, y40), the third symbol at coordinates (x50, y50), and the fourth symbol at coordinates (x60, y60) for 20 frames (approximately 0.33 seconds).

  Then, the first symbol, the second symbol, the third symbol, and the fourth symbol are different coordinates (the first symbol is coordinates (x31, y31), the second symbol is coordinates (x41, y41), the third symbol is coordinates ( x51, y51), the 4th symbol continues to be displayed for 15 frames (about 0.25 seconds) at coordinates (x61, y61)).

  Similarly, when the first symbol, the second symbol, the third symbol, and the fourth symbol continue to be displayed at the designated coordinates for the predetermined frame, the first symbol, the second symbol, the third symbol, The animation is such that the symbol and the fourth symbol are moved and displayed.

  In addition, in each of the animation patterns “background group, notice A group, notice B group” shown in FIG. 14B to FIG. 14D, “main liquid crystal (first liquid crystal display) Device 31) "is designated, and in the background group, animation scene 1 is executed for" 600 "frames as shown in FIG. 14 (b), and in the notice A group, animation-scene 0 is shown in FIG. 14 (c). After the “120” frame is executed, the animation scene 11 is executed for the “180” frame. In the notice group B, as shown in FIG. 14D, the animation scene 21 is executed after the “180” frame is executed. The 240 "frame is executed, and the effect image of the animation pattern is displayed on the main liquid crystal (first liquid crystal display device 31).

  As described above, as shown in FIGS. 14B to 14D, “animation pattern 1 of the background group, animation pattern 11 from the notice A group, animation pattern 21 from the notice B group, and Are determined and the animations of these animation patterns are executed in parallel in time series, whereby an effect image based on the animation pattern is displayed on the main liquid crystal (first liquid crystal display device 31). As shown in FIG. 14 (e), an animation pattern of “animation pattern 501 from the effect design group” is determined, and the animation pattern is executed to execute the animation pattern on the sub liquid crystal (second liquid crystal display device 37a). An effect image based on is displayed.

  As a result, images of BG1 (mountains) and BG2 (clouds) continue to be displayed in the display area of the first liquid crystal display device 31 from the start to the end of the animation pattern, and 2 seconds from the start of the animation pattern. An image that performs animation for displaying the notice of character A after (120 frames) is displayed for 3 seconds (180 frames), and 4 images that perform animation for displaying the notice of character B after 3 seconds (180 frames) from the start of the animation pattern. Seconds (240 frames) are displayed.

  These images are displayed in an overlapping manner in the display area of the first liquid crystal display device 31, and the first drawn image is overwritten by an image drawn later and cannot be visually recognized as an image. Become.

  Further, in the display area of the second liquid crystal display device 37a, an image for performing animation of normal variation display of the effect symbol is performed for 9 seconds (540 frames), and then temporarily stopped for 1 second (60 frames) (stop time). The image that performs the animation is displayed. In addition, although the example which displays only an effect design is shown on the 2nd liquid crystal display device 37a, it does not limit to this, For example, the animation pattern 1 which consists of the background group displayed in the 1st liquid crystal display device 31, and an effect The animation pattern 501 may be displayed in parallel in time series from the symbol group.

  FIG. 15 is an example of a display list composed of a group of drawing control commands, and shows an example of a display list for each display device to be displayed.

  FIG. 15A is an example of a first display list that is image forming information for forming an effect image to be displayed on the first liquid crystal display device 31, and FIG. 15B shows a second liquid crystal display device 37a. It is an example of the 2nd display list which is the image formation information for forming the production image displayed in.

  When the liquid crystal control CPU 150a determines the animation pattern based on the animation information as shown in FIG. 14 described above, it displays on the first liquid crystal display device 31, the second liquid crystal display device 37a, and the third liquid crystal display device 37b, respectively. A display list is generated for each predetermined frame (one frame). That is, a display list is generated for each unit frame according to the number of display devices.

  The liquid crystal control CPU 150a outputs each display list generated in this way to the VDP 2000.

  Here, the display list generation method is such that the liquid crystal control CPU 150a changes the contents of the animation scene at the current number of frames based on the “frame counter” indicating the current frame and the determined animation pattern (animation scene). The display list for the current number of frames is generated by generating the drawing control command according to the priority (drawing order) of each animation group.

  Below, the example of the display list which comprises the effect image displayed in the 1st liquid crystal display device 31 is shown.

  In FIG. 15A, as the priority of the animation group shown in FIG. 14A, the background group is associated with the lowest “priority 9” data, and the notice A group has “priority 8”. ”, The priority B data is associated with the notice B group, and the highest priority data is associated with the jackpot presentation group. Shall.

  In FIG. 15 (b), as the priority order of the animation group shown in FIG. 14 (a), data of “priority order 2” having a low priority order is associated with the background group, It is assumed that “priority 1” data having a high priority is associated. In the example shown in FIG. 15B, in the above case, the animation pattern 1 consisting of the background group and the animation pattern 501 from the effect design group are displayed on the second liquid crystal display device 37a in parallel in time series. An example of a display list is shown. Of course, when only the animation pattern 1 consisting of the background group is displayed, the display list designating only the animation scene 501 of the effect design group, that is, “background group” in the animation group column of FIG. The display list does not include the specified record.

  In FIG. 15 (a), as shown in FIGS. 14 (b) to 14 (d), the background group anime pattern 1, the notice A group from the anime pattern 11, and the notice B group It is assumed that a plurality of anime patterns with the anime pattern 21 have been determined, and in FIG. 15B, as shown in FIG. 14E, the anime pattern 1 of the background group and the animation pattern from the effect design group are displayed. Assume that a plurality of animation patterns 501 are determined.

  Next, as a display list corresponding to the effect image displayed on the first liquid crystal display device 31, the animation in the current frame counter (current number of frames) is selected from the animation pattern 1 of the lowest priority animation group (background group). Drawing control commands are generated sequentially according to the contents of the scene, and when drawing control commands are generated up to the highest priority anime group (big hit effect group) among the determined anime groups, drawing ends at the end. A display list as shown in FIG. 15A is completed by generating a command.

  Next, as a display list corresponding to the effect image displayed on the second liquid crystal display device 37a, the animation pattern 1 of the animation group (background group) with the lower priority and the animation scene in the current frame counter (current number of frames). When the drawing control command for the animation group with higher priority (direction design group) is generated among the determined anime groups, the drawing end command is finally sent. By generating, a display list as shown in FIG. 15B is completed.

  Display lists as shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B are generated while the liquid crystal control CPU 150a refers to necessary data.

  In this way, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a outputs to the VDP 2000 the display lists (first display list and second display list) for each display device in which the drawing control command group is grouped for each predetermined frame (one frame). The drawing circuit constituting the VDP 2000 performs a drawing process for drawing the effect image for each display list, and the display device (the first liquid crystal display device 31 or the second liquid crystal display device 37a or the third liquid crystal display device 37a) corresponding to the effect image subjected to the drawing process. Displayed on the liquid crystal display device 37b).

  Subsequently, various processes performed in the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described below using all 10 diagrams from FIG. 18 to FIG. 27.

  FIG. 18 is an example of a flowchart showing a detailed flow of the main process performed on the main control board 110 of the gaming machine in the embodiment of the present invention.

  When power is supplied from the power supply board 170, a system reset occurs in the main CPU 110a, and the main CPU 110a performs the following main processing.

  First, the main CPU 110a performs an initialization process (S1801). In this initialization process, the main CPU 110a reads a startup program from the main ROM 110b in response to power-on, and performs a process of initializing flags and the like stored in the main RAM 110c.

  Subsequently, the main CPU 110a performs an effect random number value update process for updating the reach determination random value and the special figure variation random value for determining the variation mode (variation time) of the special symbol (S1802).

  Then, the main CPU 110a updates the initial symbol value for special symbol determination, the initial random number value for jackpot symbol, the initial value random number value for small bonus symbol, and the initial random number value for normal symbol determination (S1803).

  When such a process is performed, it is determined whether or not a power-off process for cutting off the power is performed (S1804). The random number value update process (S1802) and subsequent steps are repeated. If the power interruption process is performed (YES in S1804), the process is terminated.

  FIG. 19 is an example of a flowchart showing a detailed flow of a timer interrupt process performed on the main control board 110 of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  A clock pulse is generated every predetermined period (4 milliseconds) by the reset clock pulse generation circuit provided on the main control board 110, thereby executing a timer interrupt process described below.

  First, the main CPU 110a saves information stored in the register of the main CPU 110a to the stack area (S1901).

  The main CPU 110a has various timers such as a special symbol time counter update process, a special game timer counter update process such as a special electric accessory release time, a normal symbol time counter update process, and a general electric release time counter update process. A time control process for updating the counter is performed. Specifically, a process of subtracting 1 from the special symbol time counter, the special game timer counter, the normal symbol time counter, and the general electricity open time counter is performed (S1902).

  The main CPU 110a performs random number update processing for the special symbol determination random number value, the big hit symbol random number value, the small bonus symbol random number value, and the normal symbol determination random number value (S1903).

  Specifically, each random number value and random number counter are incremented (unit number addition) and updated. When the added random number counter exceeds the maximum value of the random number range (when the random number counter makes one round), the random number counter is returned to “0 (zero)” and the initial random number “0 (zero) at that time” ”To update each random value.

  Subsequently, as in S1803, the main CPU 110a updates the initial random number value for updating the initial random number value for special symbol determination, the initial random number value for big hit symbol, the initial random number value for small hit symbol, and the initial random number value for normal symbol determination. Processing is performed (S1904).

  The main CPU 110a performs input control processing (S1905).

  In this input control process, the main CPU 110a includes the general winning opening detecting switch 12a, the first large winning opening detecting switch 16a, the second large winning opening detecting switch 17a, the first starting opening detecting switch 14a, and the second starting opening detecting switch 15a. Then, it is determined whether or not there is an input to each switch of the gate detection switch 13a.

  Specifically, various detection signals from the general winning opening detecting switch 12a, the first big winning opening detecting switch 16a, the second large winning opening detecting switch 17a, the first starting opening detecting switch 14a, and the second starting opening detecting switch 15a. Is inputted, predetermined data is added to the prize ball counter used for the prize ball provided for each prize opening and updated.

  Furthermore, when a detection signal is input from the first start port detection switch 14a, if the data set in the first special symbol hold number (U1) storage area is less than 4, the first special symbol hold number ( U1) Add 1 to the storage area to obtain special symbol determination random number value, jackpot symbol random number value, small hit symbol random number value, reach determination random value, and special symbol variation random value The random number value is stored in a predetermined storage unit (0th storage unit to 4th storage unit) in the first special symbol random value storage area.

  Similarly, when a detection signal is input from the second start port detection switch 15a, if the data set in the second special symbol hold number (U2) storage area is less than 4, the second special symbol hold number (U2) 1 is added to the storage area, and a special symbol determination random number value, a big hit symbol random number value, a small hit symbol random number value, a reach determination random number value, and a special symbol variation random value are acquired. Various random numbers are stored in a predetermined storage unit (0th storage unit to 4th storage unit) in the second special symbol random number value storage area.

  When a detection signal is input from the gate detection switch 13a, if the data set in the normal symbol hold number (G) storage area is less than 4, the normal symbol hold number (G) storage area is set to 1. It adds, acquires the random number value for normal symbol determination, and memorize | stores the acquired random number value for normal symbol determination in the predetermined memory | storage part (0th memory | storage part-4th memory | storage part) in a normal symbol holding | maintenance storage area.

  Further, when a detection signal is input from the first grand prize opening detection switch 16a or the second big prize opening detection switch 17a, the number of game balls won in the first big prize opening 16 or the second big prize opening 17 is counted. 1 is added to the number of entries (C) storage area for the big winning opening to update.

  Next, the main CPU 110a performs special figure special electric power control processing for controlling the jackpot lottery, the special electric accessory, and the gaming state (S1906). Subsequently, the main CPU 110a performs a general-purpose normal power control process for controlling the normal symbol lottery and the normal electric accessory (S1907).

  Specifically, it is first determined whether or not 1 or more data is set in the normal symbol hold count (G) storage area, and 1 or more data must be set in the normal symbol hold count (G) storage area. If this is the case, the current ordinary power transmission control process is terminated.

  If 1 or more data is set in the normal symbol holding number (G) storage area, after subtracting 1 from the value stored in the normal symbol holding number (G) storage area, the data is in the normal symbol holding storage area. The normal symbol determination random numbers stored in the first storage unit to the fourth storage unit are shifted to the previous storage unit. At this time, the normal symbol determination random value already written in the 0th storage unit is overwritten and erased.

  Then, a process of determining whether or not the normal symbol determination random number value stored in the 0th storage unit of the normal symbol hold storage area is a random value corresponding to “win” is performed. Thereafter, the normal symbol display device 22 displays the fluctuation of the normal symbol. When the fluctuation time of the normal symbol elapses, the normal symbol corresponding to the result of the normal symbol lottery is stopped and displayed. If the random number for normal symbol determination referred to is “winning”, the start opening / closing solenoid 15c is driven to control the second start opening 15 to the second mode for a predetermined opening time.

  Here, in the non-short-time gaming state, the variation time of the normal symbol is set to 29 seconds, and if it is “winning”, the second start port 15 is controlled to the second mode for 0.2 seconds. On the other hand, in the short-time gaming state, the normal symbol variation time is set to 0.2 seconds, and if it is “winning”, the second start port 15 is controlled to the second mode for 3.5 seconds. .

  Then, the main CPU 110a performs a payout control process (S1908).

  In this payout control process, the main CPU 110a refers to each prize ball counter, generates payout number designation commands corresponding to various winning ports, and transmits the generated payout number designation commands to the payout control board 130. To do.

  The main CPU 110a includes external information data, start opening / closing solenoid data, first big prize opening / closing solenoid data, second big prize opening / closing solenoid data, special symbol display device data, normal symbol display device data, and memory number designation command data. Creation processing is performed (S1909).

  The main CPU 110a performs output control processing. In this process, a port output process is performed for outputting signals of the external information data, the start opening / closing solenoid data, the first big prize opening / closing solenoid data, and the second big prize opening / closing solenoid data created in S600 (S1910).

  Further, the special symbol display device data and the normal symbol display device data created in S600 are used to turn on the LEDs of the first special symbol display device 20, the second special symbol display device 21 and the normal symbol display device 22. Display device output processing is performed.

  Further, command transmission processing for transmitting the command set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c to the effect control board 120 is also performed.

  The main CPU 110a restores the information saved in S1901 to the register of the main CPU 110a (S1911).

  FIG. 20 is an example of a flowchart showing a detailed flow of the special figure special electric control process performed on the main control board 110 of the gaming machine in the embodiment of the present invention.

  First, the value of special figure special processing data is loaded (S2001), and the branch address is referenced from the loaded special figure special processing data (S2002).

  At this time, if the special symbol special electricity processing data is “0 (zero)”, the special symbol memory determination processing is performed (S2003). If the special symbol special electricity processing data is “1”, the special symbol variation processing is performed. (S2004), and if the special figure special electricity processing data is “2”, special symbol stop processing is carried out (S2005).

  Also, if the special figure special power processing data is “3”, the big hit game processing is performed (S2006), and if the special figure special electric processing data is “4”, the big hit game end processing is performed (S2007). If the process data is “5”, a small hit game process is performed (S2008).

  This “special drawing special electricity processing data” is set as necessary in each subroutine of the special figure special electricity control processing, so that the subroutine necessary for the game is appropriately processed.

  As the special symbol memory determination process at this time, the main CPU 110a performs a jackpot determination process, a special symbol determination process for determining a special symbol to be stopped and displayed, a variation time determination process for determining a variation time of the special symbol, and the like. The detailed flow of this special symbol memory determination process will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 21 is an example of a flowchart showing a detailed flow of the special symbol memory determination process performed on the main control board 110 of the gaming machine in the embodiment of the present invention.

  First, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not one or more data is set in the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area or the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area (S2101).

  If one or more data is not set in any storage area of the first special symbol hold number (U1) storage area or the second special symbol hold number (U2) storage area (NO in S2101), the special figure The special symbol variation process of this time is terminated while the special electric processing data is kept at “0 (zero)”.

  On the other hand, if one or more data is set in the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area or the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area (YES in S2101), the main CPU 110a performs the jackpot determination process. This is performed (S12102).

  Specifically, when one or more data is set in the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area, 1 is calculated from the value stored in the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area. After the subtraction, the various random numbers stored in the first to fourth storage units in the second special symbol random number storage area are shifted to the previous storage unit. At this time, various random values already written in the 0th storage unit are overwritten and deleted. Whether the special symbol determination random number value stored in the 0th storage unit of the second special symbol random value storage area is a random value corresponding to “big hit” or a random value corresponding to “small hit” Judgment is made.

  In addition, when one or more data is not set in the second special symbol hold number (U2) storage area and one or more data is set in the first special symbol hold number (U1) storage area, Various random numbers stored in the first to fourth storage units in the first special symbol random number storage area after subtracting 1 from the value stored in the first special symbol hold number (U1) storage area Is shifted to the previous storage unit. Also at this time, various random numbers already written in the 0th storage unit are overwritten and deleted. Whether the special symbol determination random number value stored in the 0th storage unit of the first special symbol random value storage area is a random value corresponding to “big hit” or a random value corresponding to “small hit” Judgment is made.

  In the present embodiment, the random number value stored in the second special symbol random value storage area is shifted (digested) with priority over the first special symbol random value storage area.

  Without being limited thereto, the first special symbol storage area or the second special symbol storage area may be shifted in the order of winning in the start opening, or the first special symbol storage area may be shifted to the second special symbol storage area. The shift may be performed with priority over.

  Next, the main CPU 110a performs a special symbol determination process for determining the type of special symbol to be stopped and displayed (S2103).

  In this special symbol determination process, if it is determined as “big hit” in the jackpot determination process (S2102), the jackpot symbol random number value stored in the 0th storage unit of the first special symbol random number value storage area is set. The jackpot symbol is determined based on this.

  Also, in the big hit determination process (S2102), if it is determined as “small hit”, the small hit symbol random number value stored in the 0th storage unit of the first special symbol random number value storage area is small. The winning symbol is determined.

  Furthermore, in the big hit determination process (S2102), when it is determined as “lost”, a lost symbol is determined.

  Stop symbol data corresponding to the special symbol determined as described above is stored in the stop symbol data storage area.

  Next, the main CPU 110a performs special symbol variation time determination processing (S2104).

  Specifically, the variation pattern of the special symbol is determined based on the reach determination random number value and the special diagram variation random value stored in the 0th storage unit of the first special symbol random value storage area. Thereafter, the variation time of the special symbol corresponding to the determined variation pattern of the special symbol is determined. Then, a process of setting a counter corresponding to the determined variation time of the special symbol in the special symbol time counter is performed.

  The main CPU 110a sets variation display data for causing the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21 to perform variation display of the special symbol (LED blinking) in a predetermined processing area.

  As a result, when variable display data is set in a predetermined processing area, LED lighting or extinguishing data is appropriately created by the above processing, and the created data is output, whereby the first special symbol display The variable display of the device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21 is performed.

  Furthermore, when the special symbol variation display is started (S2105), the main CPU 110a changes the special symbol variation pattern designation command corresponding to the determined special symbol variation pattern (the first special symbol variation pattern designation command or The second special symbol variation pattern designation command) is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c.

  The main CPU 110a sets “Special Figure Special Electric Processing Data = 0” to “Special Figure Special Electric Processing Data = 1” (S2106), prepares to move to a special symbol variation processing subroutine, and ends the special symbol memory determination processing. To do.

  FIG. 22 is an example of a flowchart showing a detailed flow of the main process performed on the effect control board 120 of the gaming machine in the embodiment of the present invention.

  First, the sub CPU 120a performs initialization processing (S2201).

  In this initialization process, the sub CPU 120a reads a main processing program from the sub ROM 120b and initializes and sets a flag and the like stored in the sub RAM 120c in response to power-on.

  Next, the sub CPU 120a performs an effect random number update process (S2202).

  In this effect random number update process, the sub CPU 120a updates the random numbers (the effect random number value 1, the effect random number value 2, the effect design determining random value, the effect mode determining random value, etc.) stored in the sub RAM 120c. Process.

  Subsequently, it is determined whether or not a power interruption process for shutting off the power is performed (S2203). Until the power interruption process is performed (NO in S2203), the effect random number update process and the subsequent processes are performed until a predetermined interrupt process is performed. Repeat. If the power interruption process has been performed (YES in S2203), the process ends.

  FIG. 23 is an example of a flowchart showing a detailed flow of a timer interrupt process performed on the effect control board 120 of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  Although not shown in the figure, a clock pulse is generated every predetermined period (2 milliseconds) by a reset clock pulse generation circuit provided on the effect control board 120, a timer interrupt processing program is read, and the timer of the effect control board is read. Interrupt processing is executed.

  First, the sub CPU 120a saves the information stored in the register of the sub CPU 120a in the stack area (S2301), and updates various timer counters used in the effect control board 120 (S2302).

  Next, the sub CPU 120a performs command analysis processing (S2303).

  In this command analysis processing, the sub CPU 120a performs processing for analyzing a command stored in the reception buffer of the sub RAM 120c. Specific description of the command analysis processing will be described later with reference to FIGS. 21 and 22. When the effect control board 120 receives a command transmitted from the main control board 110, a command reception interrupt process of the effect control board 120 (not shown) occurs, and the received command is stored in the reception buffer. Thereafter, the received command is analyzed.

  The sub CPU 120a checks the signals of the effect button detection switch 35a and the cross key detection switch 36a, performs effect input control processing related to the effect button 35 (S2304), and receives various commands set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 120c. Data output processing to be transmitted to the lamp control board 140 and the image control board 150 is performed (S2305).

  Then, the sub CPU 120a restores the information saved in S2301 to the register of the sub CPU 120a (S2306).

  FIG. 24 is an example of a flowchart showing a detailed flow of the command analysis processing performed on the effect control board 120 of the gaming machine in the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 25 is a continuation of the command analysis processing shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows.

  The sub CPU 120a confirms whether or not the command is received in the reception buffer, and confirms whether or not the command is received (S2401).

  If there is no command in the reception buffer (NO in S2401), the sub CPU 120a ends the command analysis process. If there is a command in the reception buffer (YES in S2401), it is subsequently confirmed whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a demo designation command (S2402).

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is a demonstration designation command (YES in S2402), the sub CPU 120a performs a demonstration effect pattern determination process for determining a demonstration effect pattern (S2403).

  Specifically, the demonstration effect pattern is determined, the determined demonstration effect pattern is set in the effect pattern storage area, and information on the determined demonstration effect pattern is transmitted to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140. An effect pattern designation command based on the demo effect pattern is set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 120c.

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is not a demo designation command (NO in S2402), the sub CPU 120a confirms whether the command stored in the reception buffer is a special symbol storage designation command. (S2404).

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is a special symbol memory designation command (YES in S2404), the special symbol memory designation command is analyzed to analyze the first liquid crystal display device 31, the second liquid crystal display device 37a, and the third liquid crystal. A special figure display number designation command corresponding to the determined display number of the special figure hold image to be displayed on the display device 37b is transmitted to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140. A symbol memory number determination process is performed (S2405).

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is not a special symbol storage designation command (NO in S2404), the sub CPU 120a then determines whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is an effect symbol designation command. Confirmation is made (S2406).

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is an effect designating command (YES in S2406), the sub CPU 120a determines the first liquid crystal display device 31 and the second liquid crystal display device based on the contents of the received effect designating command. An effect symbol determination process for determining an effect symbol 38 to be stopped and displayed on the third liquid crystal display device 37b is performed (S2407).

  Specifically, the effect symbol determination process analyzes the effect symbol designation command, determines the effect symbol data constituting the combination of the effect symbols 38 according to the presence or absence of the jackpot and the type of jackpot, and the determined effect In addition to setting the symbol data in the effect symbol storage area and transmitting the effect symbol data to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140, a stop symbol designating command indicating the effect symbol data is set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 120c. .

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is not an effect designating command (NO in S2406), the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the command stored in the receiving buffer is a variation pattern specifying command (S2408). ).

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is a variation pattern designation command (YES in S2408), the sub CPU 120a further acquires one random value from the effect mode determination random value updated as described above. To do.

  Then, the sub CPU 120a determines one effect mode from a plurality of effect modes (for example, the normal effect mode and the chance effect mode) based on the acquired effect mode determination random value and the received effect designating command. An effect mode determination process is performed (S2409). Further, the determined effect mode is set in the effect mode storage area.

  Further, the sub CPU 120a acquires one random number value from the updated effect random number 1, and the acquired effect random number 1, the received variation pattern designation command, and the effect mode set in the effect mode storage area Based on, a variation effect pattern determination process for determining one variation effect pattern from a plurality of variation effect patterns is performed (S2410).

  Thereafter, based on the effect pattern, the first liquid crystal display device 31, the audio output device 32, the decoration device 33a, the effect illumination device 34, the second liquid crystal display device 37a, and the third liquid crystal display device 37b are controlled. Become. Note that the variation mode of the effect design 38 is determined based on the variation effect pattern determined here.

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is not a variation pattern designation command (NO in S2408), the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a symbol determination command (S2411). .

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is a symbol confirmation command (YES in S2411), the sub CPU 120a transmits a stop designation command for stopping and displaying the effect symbol to stop the effect symbol 38 to be transmitted to the sub RAM 120c. An effect symbol stop display process to be set in the buffer is performed (S2412).

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is not a symbol determination command (NO in S2411), the sub CPU 120a determines whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a gaming state designation command (S2413). .

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is a gaming state designation command (YES in S2413), the sub CPU 120a stores data indicating the gaming state based on the received gaming state designation command in the gaming state storage area in the sub RAM 120c. It sets (S2414).

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is not a gaming state designation command (NO in S2413), the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is an opening command (S2415).

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is an opening command (YES in S2415), the sub CPU 120a performs a hit start effect pattern determination process for determining a hit start effect pattern (S2416).

  Specifically, the hit start effect pattern is determined based on the opening command, the determined hit start effect pattern is set in the effect pattern storage area, and information on the determined hit start effect pattern is controlled by the image control board 150 and the lamp control. In order to transmit to the board 140, an effect pattern designation command based on the determined hit start effect pattern is set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 120c.

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is not an opening command (NO in S2415), the sub CPU 120a determines that the command stored in the reception buffer is the first grand prize winning port 16 and / or the second big winning prize port 17. It is confirmed whether or not it is a special winning opening opening designation command for instructing opening (S2417).

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is a big winning opening opening designation command (YES in S2417), the sub CPU 120a performs a big hit effect pattern determination process for determining a big hit effect pattern (S2418).

  Specifically, the jackpot effect pattern is determined based on the big prize opening opening designation command, the determined jackpot effect pattern is set in the effect pattern storage area, and information on the determined jackpot effect pattern is stored in the image control board 150 and the lamp. In order to transmit to the control board 140, an effect pattern designation command based on the determined jackpot effect pattern is set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 120c.

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is not a special winning opening opening designation command (NO in S2417), the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is an ending command (S2419). ).

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is an ending command (YES in S2419), the sub CPU 120a performs a hit end effect pattern determination process for determining a hit end effect pattern (S2420).

  Specifically, the winning end effect pattern is determined based on the ending command, the determined winning end effect pattern is set in the effect pattern storage area, and information on the determined hit end effect pattern is controlled by the image control board 150 and the lamp control. In order to transmit to the board 140, an effect pattern designation command based on the determined hit end effect pattern is set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 120c.

  If it is not any command (NO in S2419), the command analysis process is terminated by terminating this process.

  Next, FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing a detailed flow of main processing performed in the image control board 150 of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  When power is supplied from the power supply board 170, a system reset occurs in the liquid crystal control CPU 150a, and the liquid crystal control CPU 150a performs main processing as described below.

  The liquid crystal control CPU 150a performs an initialization process (S2601).

  In this initialization process, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a reads the main processing program from the liquid crystal control ROM 150c and instructs the initial settings of the various modules of the liquid crystal control CPU 150a and the VDP 2000 when the power is turned on.

  Here, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a, as an instruction for initial setting of the VDP 2000, (1) instructs the display circuit constituting the VDP 2000 to create and output a video signal, and therefore instructs the display of the video signal (display). (“1” is set to 0 bit of the register), or (2) image data that is frequently used in the decompression circuit constituting the VDP2000 (image data such as production symbol 38) is decompressed to the image data development area 153b of the VRAM 153 In order to set the initial value data in the expansion register, or (3) the initial value image data (such as a character image “power-on”) is drawn in the drawing circuit constituting the VDP 2000. Output value display list.

  Subsequently, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a performs a drawing execution start process (S2602).

  In this drawing execution start process, drawing execution start data is set in the drawing register in order to instruct VDP 2000 to execute drawing on the display list that has already been output.

  That is, at the start of power-on, execution of drawing is instructed for the initial value display list output in the above step, and during normal routine processing, execution of drawing is instructed for the display list output in S2050 described later. .

  Next, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a performs an effect pattern designation command analysis control process for analyzing the effect pattern designation command (command stored in the reception buffer of the liquid crystal control RAM 150b) transmitted from the effect control board 120 (S2603).

  When the image control board 150 receives a command transmitted from the effect control board 120, a command reception interrupt process of the image control board 150 (not shown) occurs, and the received command is stored in the reception buffer. Thereafter, the received command is analyzed.

  The effect pattern designation command analysis control process confirms whether or not an effect pattern designation command is stored in the reception buffer. If an effect pattern designation command is not stored in the reception buffer, the command is continued.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the effect pattern designation command is stored in the reception buffer by the effect pattern designation command analysis control process, a process of reading a new effect pattern designation command is performed.

  When the effect pattern designation command is read, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a determines one or more animation groups to be executed based on the read effect pattern designation command, and also determines an animation pattern from each animation group.

  When the animation pattern is determined, the read effect pattern designation command is deleted from the transmission buffer.

  Next, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a performs animation control processing (S2604).

  In this animation control process, based on the above-described “scene switching counter”, “weight frame”, “frame counter” to be updated, and the animation pattern determined by the process as described above, Update the scene address.

  Thereby, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a determines the display list from the display information (sprite identification number, display position, etc.) of one frame of the animation scene at the updated address according to the priority order (drawing order) of the animation group to which the animation scene belongs. When the generation of the display list is completed, the display list is output to the VDP 2000 (S2605). The display list output here is stored in the display list storage area 153a of the VRAM 153 via the CPU I / F 2030 in the VDP 2000.

  Then, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a determines whether or not the FB switching flag = 01 (S2606).

  Here, as will be described later with reference to FIG. 27B, the FB switching flag indicates that if the previous display list has been drawn in the V blank interruption every “1/60 seconds (about 16.6 ms)”. , FB switching flag = 01. That is, it is determined whether or not the previous drawing has been completed.

  If the FB switching flag is “01” (YES in S2606), the liquid crystal control CPU 150a sets the FB switching flag to “00” (sets the FB switching flag to off) (S2607).

  On the other hand, if the FB switching flag is “00” (NO in S2606), the process waits until the FB switching flag becomes “01”.

  When the FB switching flag is set to “00”, the VDP 2000 performs the rendering process of the effect image based on the display list output in accordance with the rendering instruction from the liquid crystal control CPU 150a (S2608).

  Then, the effect image drawn by this drawing processing is used as a frame buffer (memory map as shown in FIG. 28) for the first liquid crystal display device 31 (main liquid crystal) designated as the output destination provided by the VDP 2000 in the VRAM 153 or the sub liquid crystal. (Frame buffer) consisting of (S2609).

  The sub liquid crystal designated as the output destination at this time is a generic term for the second liquid crystal display device 37a and the third liquid crystal display device 37b as described above.

  When the image data is stored in the frame buffer, the VDP 2000 performs synchronization processing based on the communication signal format (output format) between the output destination main liquid crystal and sub liquid crystal and the image control board 150 (S2610).

  The VDP 2000 performs a process of outputting the image data stored in the frame buffer to the main liquid crystal or sub liquid crystal serving as the output destination at the timing set by the synchronization process (S2611).

  Next, FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing a detailed flow of an interrupt process performed on the image control board 150 of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  In the interrupt processing of the image control board 150, a drawing end interrupt process performed by inputting a drawing end interrupt signal, a V blank interrupt process performed by inputting a V blank interrupt signal, and a command are received. And at least a command reception interrupt process performed.

  The drawing end interrupt process and the V blank interrupt process will be described with reference to FIG. 27, but the command reception interrupt process has been described above, and is not illustrated.

  FIG. 27A is a flowchart showing a detailed flow of a drawing end interrupt process performed on the image control board 150 of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  When the drawing of a predetermined unit frame (one frame) is completed, the VDP 2000 outputs a drawing end interrupt signal to the liquid crystal control CPU 150a.

  When the liquid crystal control CPU 150a receives a drawing end interrupt signal from the VDP 2000, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a executes a drawing end interrupt process.

  In the drawing end interrupt process, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a sets the drawing end flag = 01 (turns on the drawing end flag) and ends the current drawing end interrupt process (S2701). That is, the drawing end flag is turned on every time drawing ends.

  FIG. 27B is a flowchart showing a detailed flow of the V blank interrupt process performed on the image control board 150 of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  The VDP 2000 outputs a V blank interrupt signal (vertical synchronization signal) to the liquid crystal control CPU 150a every 1/60 seconds (about 16.6 ms).

  When the liquid crystal control CPU 150a receives a V blank interrupt signal from the VDP 2000, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a executes a V blank interrupt process.

  Further, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a performs processing for updating various counters such as “scene switching counter”, “wait frame”, and “frame counter” (S2702), and determines whether or not the drawing end flag = 01 (S2703). ).

  That is, it is determined whether or not drawing of a predetermined unit frame has been completed.

  When determining that the “drawing end flag” is “01” (YES in S2703), the liquid crystal control CPU 150a sets “00” in the “drawing end flag” (that is, turns off the drawing end flag). ) (S2704).

  If the “drawing end flag” is not “01” (NO in S2703), the current V blank interrupt process is terminated. That is, even if a V blank interrupt signal is input, the subsequent processing is not performed unless drawing is completed.

  Subsequently, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a gives an instruction to switch between the “display frame buffer” and the “drawing frame buffer” to the memory controller configuring the VDP 2000 (S2705).

  Specifically, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a performs a process of incrementing to the first bit of the display register (a process of adding “1”).

  Then, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a sets “01” to the “FB switching flag” (turns on the FB switching flag) (S2706), cancels the standby state, and ends the V blank interrupt processing.

  FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing performed by the relay board constituting the gaming machine in the embodiment of the present invention.

  In FIG. 29, the relay board determines whether or not the image data to be output to the sub liquid crystal is received from the image control board 150 (S2901), and the process is performed until it is determined that the image data is received (NO in S2901). However, if image data is received (YES in S2901), an image format determination process is performed to determine the format of the image data received from the image control board 150 (S2902).

  In this image format discrimination process, the image format is discriminated based on the format of the image data itself in addition to the information related to the image format specified as the header information of the received image data, and the image format designation information in the separation determination table shown in FIG. Identify one.

  It is determined whether the format of the image data received from the image control board 150 has been determined by this image format determination process (S2903). If it is determined by this determination processing that the format of the image data has been determined (YES in S2903), it is then determined whether separation information has been set for the determined image format (S2904). The process for determining whether or not the separation information is set at this time is a process for determining whether or not the separation information is set for the image format designation information based on the separation determination table shown in FIG.

  When it is determined that the separation information is set for the image format designation information based on the separation determination table shown in FIG. 16 (YES in S2904), the separation information is specified (S2905). Then, image data separation processing is performed using the specified separation information (S2906). A detailed flow of this separation processing is shown in FIG. 30 and will be described below.

  Subsequently, the output destinations of the plurality of separated image data subjected to the separation process based on the separation information are output for the separated image data designated in the separation determination table shown in FIG. 1 used in the separation process. It discriminate | determines from prior information (S2907).

  Each separated image data is stored in the frame buffer corresponding to the determined output destination (S2908). For example, when the output destination is determined to be the second liquid crystal display device 37a, the first sub liquid crystal first frame buffer 153e or the first sub liquid crystal second frame in the memory map as shown in FIG. Image data is stored in the buffer 153f. If the third liquid crystal display device 37b is determined as the output destination, the second sub liquid crystal first frame buffer 153g or the second sub liquid crystal second frame in the memory map as shown in FIG. Image data is stored in the buffer 153h.

  Further, when it is determined that the image format cannot be determined in the determination processing (S2903) by determining whether the image format is determined by performing the image format determination processing (NO in S2903), an output designated in advance as the output destination of the image data. The destination is specified (S2909). Then, the image data is stored in the frame buffer for the specified output destination (S2910).

  In this way, when the image data is registered in the frame buffer for the output destination, a synchronization process is performed to synchronize the output timing between the image data stored in each frame buffer (S2911). A detailed flow of the synchronization processing at this time is shown in FIG. 31 and will be described below. The output timing between the image data stored in each frame buffer is set by this synchronization processing.

  By this synchronization processing, output processing is performed to output the image data stored in each frame buffer at the output timing of the image data to the second liquid crystal display device 37a or the third liquid crystal display device 37b serving as each output destination (S2912). A detailed flow of the output process at this time is shown in FIG. 32 and will be described below.

  FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing the flow of separation processing performed by the relay board constituting the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  In FIG. 30, the relay board determines whether the identification information of the separation information is “separation information 001” based on the separation information associated with the determined image format (S3001). When it is determined that the information is “separation information 001” (YES in S3001), the bit position (hereinafter also referred to as “separation bit position”) at which the image data that is a digital signal is separated is specified (S3002).

  This is to identify the separated bit positions separated from the head by a predetermined number of bits by aligning the bit strings of the actual image data (image data excluding the header and trailer) among the bit strings constituting the image data that is a digital signal. is there.

  When the separation bit position is specified in this way, the image data is separated into two image data at this separation bit position (S3003). The separated image data at this time, which is composed of a bit string from the first bit rather than the separation bit position, is referred to as “first half image data” for convenience, and this “first half image data” For the sake of convenience, image data composed of bit strings other than the bit string in FIG.

  That is, the above-described separation processing separates the “first half image data” and the “second half image data”.

  Subsequently, when it is not determined that the identification information of the separation information is “separation information 001” (NO in S3001), it is subsequently determined whether the identification information of the separation information is “separation information 002” (S3004). . If it is determined by this determination processing that the identification information of the separation information is “separation information 002” (YES in S3004), the bit sequence of the actual image data is aligned among the bit sequences constituting the image data that is a digital signal. Thus, image data is extracted at intervals of 1 bit from the first bit (S3005). The image data extracted at this time is odd bits or even bits in the bit string of the original image data.

  Subsequently, image data based on bits other than the bits of the image data extracted in step S3005 is extracted (S3006). That is, in the processing in step S3006, if the image data extracted in step S3005 is image data consisting of an odd bit string, image data consisting of an even bit string is extracted, and the image extracted in step S3005 is extracted. When the data is image data composed of an even bit string, image data composed of an odd bit string is extracted.

  Of the image data obtained by separating the image data in this way, the image data constituted by the odd bit string is referred to as “odd image data” for convenience, and the image data constituted by the even bit string is referred to as “even image data for convenience. ".

  In other words, the above-described separation processing separates into “odd image data” and “even image data”.

  Subsequently, when the identification information of the separation information is not determined to be “separation information 001” (NO in S3001), and the identification information of the separation information is not determined to be “separation information 002” (S3004). In the case of NO), it is determined whether or not the identification information of the separation information is “separation information 003” (S3007).

  If it is determined by this determination processing that the identification information of the separation information is “separation information 003” (YES in S3007), the information is stored in association with “separation information 003” in the separation information table as shown in FIG. The mask information being read is read (S3008).

  Image data composed of bits at bit positions other than those designated by the read mask information is extracted (S3009). Further, image data composed of bits at bit positions specified by the mask information is extracted (S3010). At this time, image data constituted by bits at bit positions other than those designated by mask information is referred to as “masked image data” for convenience, and is constituted by bits at bit positions designated by mask information. This image data is referred to as “mask image data” for convenience.

  Note that the separation information identification information is not determined to be “separation information 001” (NO in S3001), and the separation information identification information is not determined to be “separation information 002” (S3004). NO, and when the identification information of the separation information is not determined to be “separation information 003” (NO in S3007), the processing is ended in the flowchart shown in FIG. This is for convenience of explanation, and indicates that determination processing is performed only for the type of separation information ID set in the separation information table shown in FIG.

  FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing the flow of synchronization processing performed by the relay board constituting the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  In FIG. 31, when the image data is separated by the process as shown in FIG. 30, the process is started when each separated image data is stored in the frame buffer corresponding to the output destination of the image data. .

  This synchronization process is a part of the main process of the image control board shown in FIG. 26 and a part of the process of the relay board shown in FIG. That is, the former synchronization processing is synchronization processing of image data displayed on the first liquid crystal display device 31 and the sub liquid crystal 37, and the latter synchronization processing is performed with the second liquid crystal display device 37a constituting the sub liquid crystal 37. This is synchronization processing of image data displayed on the third liquid crystal display device 37b.

  When it is detected that image data is stored in a specific frame buffer (S3101), the image data is output to a frame buffer corresponding to an output destination that outputs image data synchronized with the image data stored in the frame buffer. (S3102).

  Until it is determined that image data has been output to the frame buffer corresponding to the output destination (NO in S3102), the standby state is maintained. On the other hand, when image data is output to this frame buffer (YES in S3102), the time point when it is stored in the frame buffer is set as the output timing (S3103). Of course, the output timing may be set after a certain time has elapsed from the time when it was stored in the frame buffer.

  FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing the flow of output processing performed by the relay board constituting the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  In FIG. 32, when the output timing set by the synchronization processing as shown in FIG. 31 is reached, the format of the image data stored in the frame buffer is converted based on the output format information set for each output destination. (S3201). Then, the image data having the converted image format is output to the output destination (S3202).

  In the output format information at this time, when the output destination is the main liquid crystal of the “first liquid crystal display device”, the LVDS format that is a differential signal is specified, and the output destination is “second liquid crystal display device” or In the case of the sub liquid crystal of the “third liquid crystal display device”, the RGB format which is a single line signal is designated.

  The embodiment described above is one embodiment of the present invention, and is not limited to these examples, and can be implemented with appropriate modifications within a range not changing the gist thereof.

1 gaming machine 31 first liquid crystal display device (main liquid crystal)
32 Audio output device 33 Production drive device 33a Decoration device 34 Production illumination device 35 Production button 36 Cross key 37a Second liquid crystal display device (first sub liquid crystal)
37b Third liquid crystal display device (second sub liquid crystal)
38 Production Design 39 General Board 41 Relay Board 110 Main Control Board 120 Production Control Board 130 Discharge Control Board 140 Lamp Control Board 150 Image Control Board 150a Liquid Crystal Control CPU
150b Liquid crystal control RAM
150c LCD control ROM
160 Launch control board 170 Power supply board 2000 VDP

Claims (3)

The first effect information in which the first display device is designated as the output destination of the first effect image displayed at the time of the effect in the game using the game medium, and the image size of the first effect image is different. A drawing instruction receiving means for receiving a drawing instruction based on the second effect information designated by the second display device as an output destination of the second effect image displayed at the time of the effect;
First drawing means for drawing the first effect image using the first effect information specified by the drawing instruction received by the drawing instruction receiving means;
Second drawing means for drawing the second effect image using the second effect information specified by the drawing instruction received by the drawing instruction receiving means;
Of the drawing process of the first effect image by the first drawing unit and the drawing process of the second effect image by the second drawing unit, the first effect image or the second effect in which the drawing process is completed first. A game comprising synchronization means for synchronizing the output timing of the second effect image or the first effect image different from the first effect image or the second effect image output at the output timing with the output timing of the image. Machine. Storage means for storing in the first storage area either the second effect image or the first effect image output to the output destination at the output timing synchronized by the synchronization means;
The synchronization means includes
The output timing from the second storage area storing the first effect image or the second effect image to be synchronized to the output destination corresponding to the first effect image or the second effect image, and the storage means The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein either the second effect image or the first effect image stored in the first storage area is extracted and synchronized with an output timing for output to a corresponding output destination. The first effect image or the second effect image different from the first effect image or the second effect image at an output timing output to an output destination corresponding to the first effect image or the second effect image synchronized by the synchronization means. The gaming machine according to claim 1, further comprising an output unit configured to output to an output destination corresponding to the second effect image.