JP2014155787A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of causing another device connected with an output terminal, to recognize the state of the game machine accurately.SOLUTION: A main control board C is connected, for an analytical test of a game state, through first and second connectors 16 and 17 with a test machine 19. Signals outputted from the first and second connectors 16 and 17 are individually classified for the connectors. Specifically, signals corresponding to the output signals of individual switches 20a to 20f are individually outputted from the individual output terminals of the first connector 16, and signals varying on the basis of the control of the game by the main control substrate C are individually outputted from the individual output terminals of the second connector 17. Thus in parallel to the advancement of the game of a pachinko machine P, not only a signal indicating the state of the game but also a signal indicating the state of the game machine are outputted from the individual output terminals of the first and second connectors 16 and 17 of the main control board C, so that a test for analyzing the state of the pachinko machine P can be efficiently performed by connecting the test machine 19 or the like with those output terminals.

Description

  The present invention relates to gaming machines represented by pachinko machines and slot machines.

  In general, before a product is sold, the pachinko machine is actually operated to perform various tests in order to check whether the pachinko machine operates as designed. For example, when testing the probability of hitting a ball to a normal winning slot in the game area, the switch provided in the normal winning slot is replaced with another switch connected to the testing machine, and the winning of the other switch is awarded. The signal is detected by a testing machine, and the test is performed by calculating the winning probability of the hit ball from the number of wins with respect to the hit ball number. In such a system, the preparation for the test becomes very complicated and the test cannot be performed efficiently. Therefore, a signal indicating a game state is output in advance from the main control board, and the output signal is Attempts have been made to perform such tests by inputting them into a testing machine.

However, there is a problem that the test machine cannot accurately recognize the state of the pachinko machine only with the signal indicating the game state output from the main control board. For example, if a hit ball enters a regular winning opening, the award ball should be paid out immediately, but even if the award ball is not paid out or the award ball is paid out, the payout is delayed. In such a case, the testing machine cannot recognize why this happened.
The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object thereof is to provide a gaming machine that allows other devices connected to output terminals to accurately recognize the state of the gaming machine. Yes.

In order to achieve this object, a gaming machine according to claim 1 is connected to the main control board for controlling the game, and executes operations related to the game based on instructions from the main control board. The main control board includes an output terminal for outputting a signal indicating a game state to another device other than the operation device, and the game is output from the output terminal. The signal indicating the state includes a signal indicating the state of the gaming machine.
According to the gaming machine of the first aspect, the game is controlled by the main control board, the operation is instructed from the main control board to each operation device, and the operation is executed by each operation device. To do. In parallel with the progress of the game, a signal indicating the game state is output from the output terminal of the main control board to a device other than the operating device together with a signal indicating the state of the gaming machine.

  According to the gaming machine of the present invention, in parallel with the progress of the game, a signal indicating the state of the gaming machine and a signal indicating the state of the gaming machine are output from the output terminal of the main control board. For example, by connecting a testing machine or the like as the device, there is an effect that the testing machine can accurately recognize the state of the gaming machine.

It is a front view of the game board of the pachinko machine which is one Example of this invention. It is the block diagram which showed the electrical structure of the pachinko machine. It is the figure which each showed the name of the signal output from each pin of a 1st connector, and the description of the signal in a table format. It is the figure which each showed the name of the signal output from each pin of a 2nd connector, and the description of the signal in a tabular form. It is the flowchart which showed the reset interruption process performed with the main control board. 7 is a flowchart showing a prize ball over / under error check process executed in a switch read process of a reset interrupt process. It is the flowchart which showed the empty lower pan full container error check process performed within the switch reading process of a reset interruption process.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this embodiment, a pachinko machine that is a kind of a ball game machine, in particular, a first type pachinko game machine will be described as an example of the game machine. Of course, it is possible to use the present invention for other gaming machines such as third-class pachinko gaming machines and slot machines.

  FIG. 1 is a front view of a game board of a pachinko machine P according to the present embodiment. A plurality of lamps 22 that are turned on or off depending on the game state of the pachinko machine P are provided in and around the game board 1, and a hit ball is awarded below the game board 1. Accordingly, there are provided four winning openings 2 through which 15 prize balls are paid out. At the center of the game board 1, a liquid crystal (LCD) display 3 is provided as a special symbol display device for displaying symbols as a plurality of types of identification information. The display screen of the LCD display 3 is divided into three in the horizontal direction, and in each of the three divided display areas, a variable display (dynamic display) of symbols is performed while scrolling from right to left in the horizontal direction. Below the LCD display 3, a special symbol operating port (first type starting port) 4 is provided, and when the hitting ball wins the special symbol operating port 4, the payout of five prize balls, The variation display on the LCD display 3 is started.

  Below the special symbol operation port 4, a specific winning port (large winning port) 5 is provided. The specific winning opening 5 is a big hit when the display result after the fluctuation of the LCD display 3 coincides with one of the predetermined symbol combinations, so that the hitting ball is easy to win for a predetermined time (for example, 30 It is a winning opening that is opened (until the second elapses or 10 hitting balls are won). A V zone 5a is provided in the specific winning opening 5, and when the hit ball passes through the V zone 5a while the specific winning opening 5 is opened, a continuation right is established and the specific winning opening 5 is closed. Thereafter, the specific winning opening 5 is opened again for a predetermined time (or until a predetermined number of hit balls win the specific winning opening 5). The opening / closing operation of the specific winning opening 5 can be repeated up to 16 times (16 rounds), and a state in which the opening / closing operation can be performed is a state in which a predetermined game value is given (special game state). It is.

  Below the big prize opening 5, a normal symbol display device 6 composed of 7-segment LEDs is provided, and a normal symbol operation gate 7 is provided on both sides of the LCD display 3. When the hit ball passes through the normal symbol operation gate 7, the variation display of the normal symbol display device 6 is started, and when the variation display stops at "7", the special symbol operation port 4 is opened for a predetermined time. .

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the pachinko machine P. As shown in FIG. On the main control board C of the pachinko machine P, an MPU 11 that is an arithmetic unit, a ROM 12 that stores various control programs executed by the MPU 11 and fixed value data, and various types of data are temporarily stored. A RAM 13 as a memory is mounted. The programs of the flowcharts shown in FIGS. 5 to 7 are stored in the ROM 12 as a part of the control program.

  The RAM 13 includes a prize ball over error flag 13a, a prize ball under error flag 13b, a run-out error flag 13c, and a lower pan full error flag 13d.

  The prize ball over error flag 13a is a flag that is turned on when a prize ball over error occurs. The prize ball over error is an error that occurs when the number of prize balls paid out by the payout control board H exceeds the number instructed by the main control board C. Once the prize ball over error has occurred, it will not be resolved until the power of the pachinko machine P is turned off. Similarly, the prize ball over error flag 13a once turned on is not turned off until the power of the pachinko machine P is turned off. When a prize ball over error occurs, a prize ball over error signal is output from the 31st pin (see FIG. 4) of the second connector 17 of the main control board C, and a prize ball over error indicating the occurrence of a prize ball over error. Commands are transmitted from the main control board C to the payout control board H and the lamp control board L, respectively. When the payout control board H receives the prize ball over error command, the payout control board H clears the value of the remaining prize ball counter Ha, which stores the prize ball payout remaining number, and stops the prize ball payout operation. In addition, the lamp control board L performs error display of a winning ball over error by blinking each lamp 22 or the like.

  The prize ball under error flag 13b is a flag that is turned on when a prize ball under error occurs. The prize ball under error is an error that occurs when the number of prize balls paid out by the payout control board H is less than the number instructed by the main control board C. When a prize ball under error occurs, a prize ball under error signal is output from the 32nd pin (see FIG. 4) of the second connector 17 of the main control board C, and a prize ball under error indicates the occurrence of a prize ball under error. Commands are transmitted from the main control board C to the payout control board H and the lamp control board L, respectively. Upon receiving the prize ball under error command, the payout control board H writes the number of unpaid prize balls instructed by the prize ball under error command to the remaining prize ball number counter Ha that stores the number of prize balls to be paid out, Unpaid prize balls are paid out. Further, the lamp control board L performs error display of a prize ball under error by blinking each lamp 22 or the like.

  When the payout control board H that has received the winning ball under error command pays out unpaid winning balls, the winning ball under error is eliminated. When the prize ball under error is eliminated, the prize ball under error flag 13b is turned off, and the prize ball under error signal output from the 32nd pin (see FIG. 4) of the second connector 17 of the main control board C is turned off. Is done. Further, a prize ball under error cancel command indicating elimination of the prize ball under error is transmitted from the main control board C to the payout control board H and the lamp control board L, respectively, so that the payout control board H and the lamp control board L are in a normal state. Return.

  The empty error flag 13c is a flag that is turned on when an empty error occurs. An out-of-run error occurs when the storage amount of a storage tank (not shown) for storing award balls and rental balls to be paid out in the future becomes less than a predetermined amount, that is, an empty space provided near the discharge port of the storage tank balls. This is an error that occurs when the switch 20g is turned on due to a shortage of balls. When an empty error occurs, an empty (bulb) error signal is output from the 33rd pin (see FIG. 4) of the second connector 17 of the main control board C, and an empty error indicating the occurrence of an empty error Commands are transmitted from the main control board C to the payout control board H and the lamp control board L, respectively. When the payout control board H receives the empty error command, the payout control board H stops paying out the winning balls and the lending balls after the end of one payout unit. In addition, the lamp control board L performs an error display of an out-of-run error by blinking each lamp 22 or the like.

  When the storage tank is filled with a ball and the empty switch 20g is turned off, the empty error is eliminated. When the idle error is resolved, the idle error flag 13c is turned off, and the idle error signal output from the 33rd pin (see FIG. 4) of the second connector 17 of the main control board C is turned off. Further, an empty error cancel command indicating the elimination of the empty error is transmitted from the main control board C to the payout control board H and the lamp control board L, respectively, and the payout control board H and the lamp control board L are returned to the normal state. . In other words, the payout control board H resumes the stopped payout operation of the award and rental balls, and the lamp control board L returns the lamp display of the empty error to the normal display.

  The lower plate full tank error flag 13d is a flag that is turned on when a lower plate full tank error occurs. The lower plate full tank error is an error that occurs when a lower plate (not shown) provided below the game board 1 becomes full due to the payout of prize balls or rental balls. That is, a lower tray full switch 20h is provided in the middle of the payout path (not shown) for winning balls and rental balls, but the lower plate is filled with the paid-out prize balls or rental balls and the payout is made. This is an error that occurs when the position of the ball that stops in the flow path reaches the detection point of the lower pan full tank switch 20h and the lower pan full switch 20h is turned on. When a lower pan full tank error occurs, a lower pan full tank error signal is output from the 34th pin (see FIG. 4) of the second connector 17 of the main control board C, and the lower pan full tank error is generated. An error command is transmitted from the main control board C to the payout control board H. When the payout control board H receives the lower plate full tank error command, the payout of the winning ball and the lending ball is stopped after the end of one payout unit.

  When the ball stored in the lower plate is discharged and the lower plate full tank switch 20h is turned off, the lower plate full tank error is eliminated. When the lower pan full error is resolved, the lower pan full error flag 13d is turned off, and the lower pan full error signal output from the 34th pin (see FIG. 4) of the second connector 17 of the main control board C is displayed. Turned off. Further, a lower plate full tank error cancel command indicating cancellation of the lower plate full tank error is transmitted from the main control board C to the dispensing control board H. As a result, the payout control board H resumes the paid-out operation of the awarded ball and the lending ball that have been stopped, and returns to a normal state.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the MPU 11, ROM 12, and RAM 13 are connected to each other via a bus line 14, and the bus line 14 is also connected to an input / output port 15. A first connector 16 and a second connector 17 are connected to the input / output port 15. The first connector 16 and the second connector 17 are for connecting the testing machine 19 to the main control board C, and both are directly attached to the main control board C. The first and second connectors 16 and 17 and the testing machine 19 will be described later with reference to FIGS.

  The input / output port 15 is also connected to the display control board D, the sound effect control board S, the lamp control board L, and the payout control board H, respectively. The display control board D is for controlling the fluctuation display of the LCD display 3 based on the control command transmitted from the main control board C. The sound effect control board S is for outputting sound effects from the speaker 21 in accordance with the progress of the game based on the control command transmitted from the main control board C, and the lamp control board L is used for the main control board L. This is for controlling lighting and extinguishing of each lamp 22 based on a control command transmitted from the substrate C. The payout control board H drives the payout motor 23 based on a signal output from the prize ball count switch 20a, a control command sent from the main control board C, and a signal sent from a card reading unit (not shown). Then, payout control of prize balls and rental balls is performed.

  The main control board C transmits various control commands to the control boards D, S, L, and H via the input / output port 15 and controls them. Thereby, the game of the pachinko machine P proceeds. The main control board C and the control boards D, S, L, and H are connected to each other via buffers 18d, 18s, 18l, and 18h whose inputs and outputs are fixed. Therefore, transmission / reception of control commands between the main control board C and each control board D, S, L, H is performed only in one direction from the main control board C to each control board D, S, L, H. However, a control command or the like cannot be transmitted from each control board D, S, L, H to the main control board C.

  In addition, the input / output port 15 of the main control board C includes, as various switches 20, a prize ball count switch 20a, four normal prize opening switches 20b, a first type start opening switch 20c, and a 10 count switch 20d, A V count switch 20e, two normal symbol display device start switches 20f, an empty switch 20g, and a lower pan full switch 20h are connected to each other and output various signals to the main control board C. . The prize ball count switch 20a is connected not only to the main control board C but also to the payout control board H.

  The prize ball count switch 20a is a switch for counting the number of prize balls to be paid out by the payout control board H. The output of the switch 20a is input to the main control board C and the payout control board H. Based on the output signal of the prize ball count switch 20a, the main control board C pays out the prize balls exceeding the original number of prize balls (occurrence of prize ball over error) or the prize less than the original number of prize balls. Ball payout (prize ball under error occurrence) is checked.

  The normal winning opening switch 20b is a switch for detecting a ball that has won a prize in each of the normal winning openings 2, and is provided in the vicinity of the entrance of each of the four normal winning openings 2. The first type starting port switch 20 c is a switch for detecting a ball that has won a special symbol operating port (first type starting port) 4, and is provided in the vicinity of the special symbol operating port 4. The 10-count switch 20d is a switch for detecting a ball that has passed through a place other than the V zone 5a among the balls that have won the grand prize opening 5, and the V-count switch 20e is a ball that has won the big prize opening 5 , A switch for detecting a sphere that has passed through the V zone 5a in the special winning opening 5. When a ball is detected by any of the normal winning opening switch 20b, the 10 count switch 20d and the V count switch 20e, 15 prize balls are paid out. Further, when a ball is detected by the first type start port switch 20c, the LCD display 3 starts displaying the symbols in a variable manner and pays out five prize balls.

  The normal symbol display device operation switch 20f is a switch for detecting a sphere that has passed through each of the normal symbol operation gates 7, and is provided near the entrance of each of the two normal symbol operation gates 7. When a sphere is detected by any of the normal symbol display device operation switches 20f, the normal symbol display device 6 composed of the 7-segment LED starts the variable display.

  As described above, the idle switch 20g is turned on when the storage amount of the storage tank for storing the prize balls and the rental balls to be paid out in the future becomes less than a predetermined amount. It is a switch that is turned off when the amount exceeds the specified value. This idle switch 20g is provided in the vicinity of the discharge port of the ball of the storage tank. When the empty switch 20g is turned on, an empty error occurs, and the payout of the winning ball and the lending ball is stopped after the end of one payout unit, and the error indication of the empty error is displayed by each lamp 22. Further, as described above, the lower tray full tank switch 20h is a switch that is turned on when the lower tray provided below the game board 1 is full due to the payout of the prize ball or the rental ball. And it is provided in the middle of the lending ball payout passage. When the lower plate full tank switch 20h is turned on, a lower plate full tank error occurs, and the payout of prize balls and rental balls is stopped after the end of one payout unit. Display is performed.

  Next, the first connector 16 and the second connector 17 provided on the main control board C in order to connect the testing machine 19 to the main control board C will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4. First, the testing machine 19 (see FIG. 2) will be described. The test machine 19 is used to check whether or not the pachinko machine P operates as designed before the production and sale of the pachinko machine P or in the pachinko hall after production and sale, that is, the game of the pachinko machine P. It is for analyzing the state. The testing machine 19 is connected to the main control board C and tests the winning probability of hitting balls and the probability of occurrence of jackpots.

  The main control board C is connected to the testing machine 19 via the first and second connectors 16 and 17 for the game state analysis test. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the names of signals output from the pins and descriptions of the signals in the form of a table for the first connector 16 and FIG. 4 for the second connector 17. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, signals output from the first and second connectors 16 and 17 are classified for each connector.

  Specifically, signals corresponding to the output signals of the switches 20a to 20f are output from the respective output terminals of the first connector 16 as they are without being processed by the main control board C. . That is, from the output terminal of pin number 3 of the first connector 16, one pulse of “prize ball signal 1” is output when the ball passes the prize ball count switch 20a, and from the output terminals of pin numbers 9 to 12 When one of the four normal ball opening switches 20b is passed, one pulse of the “normal winning port 1-4 winning signal” is output, and the ball starts the first type from the output terminal of pin number 19. By passing through the mouth switch 20c, one pulse of the “ordinary electric accessory winning signal” is output. From the output terminal of the pin number 20, the ball passes through the 10-count switch 20d, and the “special electric accessory winning signal” "1" is output by 1 pulse, and from the output terminal of pin number 21, when the ball passes through the V count switch 20e, "special electric accessory prize signal 2" is output by 1 pulse, and pin number From the output terminal of the 2 to 33, "gate 1-2 pass signal according to the normal symbol" is output 1 pulse by the ball passes through one of the two is normal symbol display device operating switch 20f.

  On the other hand, from each output terminal of the 2nd connector 17, the signal which changes based on the control of the game by the main control board C is each output. For example, from the output terminal of pin number 1 of the second connector 17, a “special electric accessory release signal” is output during the opening of the big prize opening 5, and from the output terminal of the pin number 2 of the big prize opening 5. During the opening / closing operation, a “special electric agent operating signal” is output. In addition, a “gaming machine error status signal” is output from the output terminal of pin number 30 during the occurrence of any error, and a “prize ball over error signal” is output from the output terminal of pin number 31 during the occurrence of a prize ball over error. Is output from the output terminal of the pin number 32 during the occurrence of a prize ball under error, and from the output terminal of the pin number 33 during the occurrence of a run-out error. The “out of pan error signal” is output, and the “bottom pan full error signal” is output from the output terminal of the pin number 34 during the occurrence of the full pan full error.

  Thus, since the signals output from the first connector 16 and the second connector 17 are classified for each connector, it is not always necessary to connect all the connectors 16 and 17 at the time of the test. In other words, since only the necessary connectors 16 and 17 can be connected and the test can be performed, connection of useless connectors can be omitted and the work efficiency of the test can be improved. The arrangement of the signal lines of the first and second connectors 16 and 17 is not necessarily limited to the examples of FIGS. That is, if the output signals are classified for each connector, the arrangement can be variously changed.

  Next, each process executed by the pachinko machine P configured as described above will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a reset interrupt process executed every 4 ms in the main control board C of the pachinko machine P. The main control of the pachinko machine P is executed by this reset interrupt process.

  In the reset interrupt process, first, a stack pointer is set (S1), and a pattern written in a predetermined area of the RAM 13 is checked (S2). If the predetermined pattern is written in the predetermined area as a result of the check, the RAM 13 is normal and normal (S2: normal), and the process proceeds to S3. On the other hand, if the predetermined pattern is not written in the predetermined area as a result of the check in S2, it is the reset interrupt process executed first after the power is turned on, or there is an abnormality in the RAM 13 (S2: abnormal) In this case, the process proceeds to S23, the contents of the RAM 13 are once cleared, the initial value is written into the RAM 13 (S23), and the next reset interrupt process is awaited. Note that the initial value written in the RAM 13 in the process of S23 includes a predetermined pattern checked in the process of S2.

  In the process of S3, a timer interrupt is set (S3). Examples of the timer interrupt set here include a timer interrupt that generates a strobe signal for transmitting a control command for controlling the fluctuation display of the LCD display 3 to the display control board D. After setting the timer interrupt, each interrupt is permitted (S4). After the interruption is permitted, the output data updated in the previous reset interruption process is processed at a time by the special symbol variation process (S16), the display data creation process (S19), the ramp / information processing (S20), etc. A port output process for outputting to the port is executed (S5).

  Further, a random number update process (S6) for updating the value of the random number counter for determining the jackpot is performed by “+1”, and a storage timer subtraction process is executed (S7). The storage timer subtraction process shortens the time for symbol variation display when there are a predetermined number or more of reserve balls for jackpot determination and the symbol display is being varied on the LCD display 3.

  In the switch reading process (S8), the value of each switch is read, and the winning in the normal winning port 2 and the big winning port 5 (including the V zone 5a) and the special symbol operating port 4 of the hit ball that has been driven into the game area, This is a process for detecting the passing of the normal symbol operating gate 7 and the payout ball of the winning ball or the lending ball. The count abnormality monitoring process (S9) is a process for monitoring whether there is an abnormality in the switch data read by the switch reading process of S8. For example, in the case where one prize ball is not paid out even though the payout of the prize ball is instructed, some abnormality has occurred in the prize ball payout device. As described above, in the count abnormality monitoring process (S9), the presence / absence of the abnormality as described above is monitored based on the switch data read by the switch reading process (S8).

  In the symbol counter update process (S10), a counter update process for determining a symbol to be stopped and displayed as a result of the variable display performed on the LCD display 3 is performed. In the symbol check process (S11), based on the counter value updated in the symbol counter update process (S10), the jackpot symbol, the off symbol, and the reach symbol used in the special symbol variation process (S16). Etc. are determined.

  If no error has occurred in the processing from S3 to S11 (S12: normal), the “gaming machine error status signal” output from the output terminal of pin number 30 of the second connector 17 is turned off (S13). , It outputs that no error has occurred in the game control. Then, the normal symbol variation process (S14) displays the variation of the normal symbol display device 6 composed of 7-segment LEDs, and when the variation display results in a win, a special electric accessory is displayed. A hit process for opening the symbol operating port 4 for a predetermined time is executed. Thereafter, the state flag is checked (S15), and if the symbol change start or change display is being performed on the LCD display 3 (S15: symbol changing), the hitting ball is moved to the special symbol operating port 4 by the special symbol changing process (S16). Based on the value of the random number counter read at the timing of passing through, it is determined whether or not it is a big hit, and the symbol variation process is executed on the LCD display 3. On the other hand, if the result of checking the status flag is a big hit (S15: big hit), a big hit process (S17) such as opening the big prize opening 5 is executed.

  Further, as a result of checking the status flag, if the pattern is neither fluctuating nor big hit (S15: Other), the process of S16 and S17 is skipped and the process proceeds to the display data creation process of S19. If any error is confirmed in the process of S12 (S12: error), the “gaming machine error status signal” output from the output terminal of the pin number 30 of the second connector 17 is turned on (S18). ), Outputting that there is no error in the game control, skipping each process of S13 to S17, and proceeding to the display data creation process of S19.

  In the display data creation process (S19), demo data displayed on the LCD display 3, display data of the normal symbol display device (7 segment LED) 6 and the like are created in addition to the symbol variation display, and the lamp / information processing (S20). ), Various types of ramp data are generated, including ramp data for the holding ball. In the sound effect process (S21), sound effect data corresponding to the game situation is created. These display data and sound effect data are output as control commands to the display control board D and the sound effect control board S by the port output process (S5) and the timer interrupt process, respectively.

  After the sound effect process (S21) ends, the symbol counter update process (S22), which is the same process as S10, is repeatedly executed for the remaining time until the next reset interrupt process occurs. Since the execution time of each process of S1-S21 changes according to the state of the game, the remaining time until the next reset interrupt process occurs is not a fixed time. Therefore, the stop symbol can be changed at random by repeatedly executing the symbol counter update process (S22) using the remaining time.

  In addition, each signal output from each output terminal of the 1st and 2nd connectors 16 and 17 is each in each process of reset interruption processes, such as switch reading process (S8) and jackpot process (S17). Output according to the state of the game.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a prize ball over / under error check process executed in the switch read process (S8) of the reset interrupt process in FIG. This prize ball over / under error check process checks the occurrence of prize ball over error or prize ball under error based on the input signal of the prize ball count switch 20a, and performs processing corresponding to each error when the error occurs. It is something to execute.

  In the prize ball over / under error check process, first, occurrence of a prize ball over error is checked. Based on the input signal from the prize ball count switch 20a, it is checked whether or not the number of prize balls to be paid out exceeds the designated number (S31), and if it exceeds the designated number (S31: Yes), the prize ball An over error has occurred. Therefore, in such a case, the “prize ball over error signal” output from the output terminal of the pin number 31 of the second connector 17 is turned on (S32), and the prize ball is sent to the testing machine 19 connected to the second connector 17. Report the occurrence of an over error. Subsequently, a prize ball over error command is transmitted to the payout control board H and the lamp control board L (S33, S34), the occurrence of the prize ball over error is reported to both control boards H, L, and the prize ball over error flag is further displayed. 13a is turned on (S35), and the occurrence of a prize ball over error is stored.

  If the prize ball over error flag 13a is turned on, it is determined that an error has occurred in S12 of the reset interrupt process (S12: error), and the output terminal of pin number 30 of the second connector 17 is output. Is turned ON (S18). The prize ball over error command in each process of S33 and S34 is transmitted to both control boards H and L by the port output process (S5) of the reset interrupt process described above. When the payout control board H receives the prize ball over error command, the payout control board H clears the value of the remaining prize ball counter Ha, which stores the number of prize balls to be paid out, and stops the prize ball payout. In addition, the lamp control board L blinks each lamp 22 to display an error indication of a prize ball over error, and informs the player and a pachinko hall clerk of the occurrence of the prize ball over error.

  On the other hand, in the process of S31, if the number of prize balls to be paid out does not exceed the designated number (S31: No), each process of S32 to S35 is skipped, the process proceeds to S36, and a prize ball under error is detected. Check for occurrence.

  Based on the input signal from the prize ball count switch 20a, it is checked whether or not the number of prize balls to be paid out is less than the designated number (S36), and if not less than the designated number (S36: Yes), the prize ball An under error has occurred. Therefore, in such a case, the “prize ball under error signal” output from the output terminal of the pin number 32 of the second connector 17 is turned on (S37), and the prize ball is sent to the testing machine 19 connected to the second connector 17. Reports the occurrence of an under error. Subsequently, a prize ball under error command is transmitted to the payout control board H and the lamp control board L (S38, S39), the occurrence of the prize ball under error is reported to both control boards H, L, and the prize ball under error flag is further displayed. 13b is turned on (S40), and the occurrence of a prize ball under error is stored.

  If the prize ball under error flag 13b is turned on, it is determined that an error has occurred in S12 of the reset interrupt process (S12: error), as in the case of the prize ball over error flag 13a. Then, the “gaming machine error state signal” output from the output terminal of the pin number 30 of the second connector 17 is turned on (S18). The prize ball under error command in each process of S38 and S39 is transmitted to both control boards H and L by the port output process (S5) of the reset interrupt process described above. When the payout control board H receives the prize ball under error command, the payout control board H writes the number of unpaid prize balls designated by the prize ball under error command to the remaining prize ball number counter Ha that stores the number of prize balls to be paid out. , Payout the unpaid prize balls. In addition, the lamp control board L blinks each lamp 22, etc., to display an error indication of a prize ball under error, and report the occurrence of the prize ball under error to a player and a pachinko hall clerk.

  On the other hand, in the process of S36, if the number of prize balls paid out satisfies the designated number (S36: No), no prize ball under error has occurred. Therefore, in such a case, the state of the prize ball under error flag 13b is checked (S41), and if the prize ball under error flag 13b is not turned on (S41: No), the processes from S42 to S45 are skipped. The prize ball over / under error check process is terminated.

  In the process of S41, if the prize ball under error flag 13b is turned on (S41: Yes), it means that the prize ball under error once generated is subsequently eliminated. Therefore, in such a case, a winning ball under error elimination process is executed by the subsequent processes of S42 to S45. First, the “prize ball under error signal” output from the output terminal of the pin number 32 of the second connector 17 is turned off (S42), and the test ball 19 connected to the second connector 17 is cleared of the prize ball under error. I can tell you. Subsequently, a prize ball under error cancel command is transmitted to the payout control board H and the lamp control board L (S43, S44), the elimination of the prize ball under error is reported to both control boards H, L, and the prize ball under error is further reported. The flag 13b is turned off (S45), and this prize ball over / under error check process is terminated.

  When the prize ball under error flag 13b is turned off and no other error flag is turned on, it is determined that no error has occurred in the process of S12 of the reset interrupt process (S12: normal). The “gaming machine error state signal” output from the output terminal of pin number 30 of the two connector 17 is turned off (S13). Also, the award ball under error cancel command in each process of S43 and S44 is transmitted to both control boards H and L by the port output process (S5) of the reset interrupt process described above. When the winning ball under error cancel command is received, the payout control board H and the lamp control board L each return to a normal state. As a result, the player and the pachinko hall clerk are informed of the elimination of the prize ball under error.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the empty bottom pan full tank error check process executed in the switch read process (S8) of the reset interrupt process in FIG. This empty lower pan full tank error check process checks the occurrence of an empty empty error or a lower full pan error based on the input signals of the empty switch 20g and the lower pan full switch 20h, and the occurrence of the error. Sometimes processing corresponding to each error is executed.

  In the empty plate full error check process, first, the occurrence of an empty error is checked. It is checked whether or not the idle switch 20g is turned on (S51). If it is turned on (S51: Yes), an idle error has occurred. Therefore, in such a case, the “empty error signal” output from the output terminal of the pin number 33 of the second connector 17 is turned on (S52), and the empty error is sent to the testing machine 19 connected to the second connector 17. Report the occurrence of Subsequently, an empty error command is transmitted to the dispensing control board H and the lamp control board L (S53, S54), the occurrence of the empty error is reported to both control boards H, L, and the empty error flag 13c is turned on. (S55), the occurrence of the empty error is stored.

  If the out-of-run error flag 13c is turned on, it is determined that an error has occurred in the process of S12 of the reset interrupt process described above (S12: error), and from the output terminal of pin number 30 of the second connector 17 The output “gaming machine error status signal” is turned on (S18). Further, the empty error command in each process of S53 and S54 is transmitted to both control boards H and L by the port output process (S5) of the reset interrupt process described above. When the payout control board H receives the empty error command, the payout control board H stops paying out the winning balls and the lending balls after the end of one payout unit. In addition, the lamp control board L blinks each lamp 22, etc., and displays an error error message, and notifies the player and pachinko hall clerk of the occurrence of the error error.

  On the other hand, if the idle switch 20g is turned off in the processing of S51 (S51: No), no idle error has occurred. Therefore, in such a case, the state of the empty error flag 13c is checked (S56). If the empty error flag 13c is not turned on (S56: No), each process from S57 to S60 is skipped, The empty plate full tank error check process ends.

  In the process of S56, if the idle error flag 13c is turned on (S56: Yes), it means that the idle error has been solved once. Therefore, in such a case, the empty error elimination process is executed by the subsequent processes of S57 to S60. First, the “empty error signal” output from the output terminal of the pin number 33 of the second connector 17 is turned off (S57), and the elimination of the empty error is reported to the testing machine 19 connected to the second connector 17. . Subsequently, an idle error cancel command is transmitted to the payout control board H and the lamp control board L (S58, S59), the elimination of the idle error is reported to both control boards H and L, and the idle error flag 13c is set. It is turned off (S60), and this empty bottom pan full error check process is terminated.

  When the empty error flag 13c is turned off, if no other error flag is turned on, it is determined that no error has occurred in S12 of the reset interrupt processing (S12: normal), and the second The “gaming machine error state signal” output from the output terminal of the pin number 30 of the connector 17 is turned off (S13). Further, the empty error cancel command in each process of S58 and S59 is transmitted to both control boards H and L by the port output process (S5) of the reset interrupt process described above. When the empty error cancel command is received, the payout control board H and the lamp control board L each return to a normal state. In other words, the payout control board H resumes the stopped payout operation of the award and rental balls, and the lamp control board L returns the lamp display of the empty error to the normal display. This informs the player and pachinko hall clerk about the elimination of the empty error.

  In the process of S61, the occurrence of a lower pan full tank error is checked. It is checked whether or not the lower plate full tank switch 20h is turned on (S61). If it is turned on (S61: Yes), a lower plate full tank error has occurred. Therefore, in such a case, the “lower pan full error signal” output from the output terminal of the pin number 34 of the second connector 17 is turned on (S62), and the lower pan is sent to the testing machine 19 connected to the second connector 17. Reports the occurrence of a full tank error. Subsequently, a lower pan full tank error command is transmitted to the dispensing control board H (S63), the occurrence of the lower pan full tank error is reported to the dispensing control board H, and the lower pan full tank error flag 13d is turned on (S64). ), Memorize the occurrence of the bottom pan full error.

  If the lower plate full tank error flag 13d is turned on, it is determined that an error has occurred in the process of S12 of the reset interrupt process (S12: error), and the output of the pin number 30 of the second connector 17 is performed. The “gaming machine error status signal” output from the terminal is turned on (S18). Further, the lower pan full error command in the process of S63 is transmitted to the payout control board H by the port output process (S5) of the reset interrupt process described above. When the payout control board H receives the lower plate full tank error command, the payout control board H stops paying out the prize balls and the lending balls after the end of one payout unit.

  On the other hand, in the process of S61, if the lower pan full tank switch 20h is turned off (S61: No), the lower pan full tank error has not occurred. Therefore, in such a case, the state of the lower plate full tank error flag 13d is checked (S65), and if the lower plate full tank error flag 13d is not turned on (S65: No), the processes from S66 to S68 are skipped. Then, the empty full plate error check process is completed.

  In the process of S65, if the lower plate full tank error flag 13d is turned on (S65: Yes), it means that the lower plate full tank error has been solved once. Therefore, in such a case, the lower pan full tank error elimination process is executed by the subsequent processes of S66 to S68. First, the “bottom pan full error signal” output from the output terminal of pin number 34 of the second connector 17 is turned off (S66), and the test pan 19 connected to the second connector 17 is cleared of the bottom pan full tank error. I can tell you. Subsequently, a lower pan full tank error cancel command is transmitted to the dispensing control board H (S67), the cancellation of the lower pan full tank error is reported to the dispensing control board H, and the lower pan full tank error flag 13d is turned off (S68). Then, the empty full plate error check process is terminated.

  When the lower tray full tank error flag 13d is turned off, if no other error flag is turned on, it is determined that no error has occurred in the processing of S12 of the reset interrupt processing described above (S12: normal), The “gaming machine error state signal” output from the output terminal of the pin number 30 of the second connector 17 is turned off (S13). Further, the lower plate full tank error cancel command in each process of S67 is transmitted to the payout control board H by the port output process (S5) of the reset interrupt process described above. When the payout control board H receives the lower pan full tank error cancel command, if there is a payout operation of the stopped prize balls and lending balls, it resumes this and returns to the normal state.

  As described above, according to the pachinko machine P of the present embodiment, in parallel with the progress of the game of the pachinko machine P, the game is transmitted from the output terminals of the first and second connectors 16 and 17 of the main control board C. Since the signal indicating the state is output together with the signal indicating the state of the pachinko machine P (for example, an error signal), the state of the pachinko machine P is analyzed by connecting, for example, the test machine 19 to the output terminal. Can be efficiently tested. Further, in such a case, it is not necessary to replace an existing switch previously attached to the pachinko machine P. Therefore, the test can be performed also in the pachinko hall where the pachinko machine P is installed.

  Further, instead of the testing machine 19, a storage device capable of writing data to a small memory stick or the like is connected to the first and second connectors 16 and 17, so that the gaming state (game) Information) can be stored in the memory stick. According to such a configuration, the player can take the memory stick home, analyze his game data, and improve his game level. The game information stored in the memory stick or the like not only stores the signals (game information) output from the output terminals of the first and second connectors 16 and 17 as they are, but also allows the user to understand the game information. It may be stored after being converted into a format that is easy to do. For example, based on the signals output from the output terminals, the probability of jackpot occurrence, the winning probability to the normal winning slot 2 or the special symbol operating slot 4 is calculated, and the calculation result is stored in a storage medium such as a memory stick. You may make it memorize.

  In addition, in the said Example, each signal output from each terminal of the 1st and 2nd connectors 16 and 17 shown in FIG.3 and FIG.4 corresponds as a "signal which shows the state of a game" of Claim 1 To do. Further, the “signal indicating the state of the gaming machine” corresponds to each error signal output from each terminal of the second connector 17 shown in FIG.

  The present invention has been described based on the embodiments. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various improvements and modifications can be easily made without departing from the spirit of the present invention. It can be guessed.

  For example, the present invention may be implemented in a pachinko machine of a type different from the above embodiment. For example, once a big hit, a pachinko machine that raises the expected value of the big hit until a big hit state occurs (for example, two times or three times) including that (for example, a two-time right item, a three-time right item) May also be implemented. Moreover, after a jackpot symbol is displayed, it may be implemented as a pachinko machine that enters a special game state on the condition that a ball is awarded in a predetermined area. Further, in addition to the pachinko machine, the game machine may be implemented as various game machines such as an alepatchi, a sparrow ball, a slot machine, a game machine in which a so-called pachinko machine and a slot machine are integrated.

  In the slot machine, for example, a symbol is changed by operating a control lever in a state where a symbol effective line is determined by inserting coins, and a symbol is stopped and confirmed by operating a stop button. Is. Therefore, the basic concept of the slot machine is that it is provided with variable display means for confirming and displaying the identification information after variably displaying the identification information string composed of a plurality of identification information, and resulting from the operation of the starting operation means (for example, the operation lever). Then, the change of the identification information is started, and the change of the identification information is stopped due to the operation of the operation means for stop (for example, the stop button) or after the lapse of a predetermined time, and the fixed identification information at the time of the stop Is a slot machine provided with special game state generating means for generating a special game state advantageous to the player on the condition that the specific identification information is a necessary condition. In this case, coins, medals, etc. are representative examples of game media As mentioned.

  As a specific example of a gaming machine in which a pachinko machine and a slot machine are merged, variable display means for confirming and displaying a symbol row after a symbol row composed of a plurality of symbols is provided, and a ball launching handle is provided. There is no one. In this case, after throwing a predetermined amount of spheres based on a predetermined operation (button operation), for example, the change of the symbol is started due to the operation of the operation lever, for example, due to the operation of the stop button, or With the passage of time, the fluctuation of the symbol is stopped, and a jackpot state advantageous to the player is generated on the condition that the confirmed symbol at the time of stoppage is a so-called jackpot symbol. A lot of balls are paid out.

  The modification of this invention is shown below. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the signal indicating the gaming state output from the output terminal of the main control board includes a signal indicating an error state of the gaming machine. 1.

  2. The gaming machine or gaming machine 1 according to claim 1, wherein the signal indicating the game state output from the output terminal of the main control board includes a signal generated in a predetermined series of game flows. A gaming machine 2 characterized by For example, a special symbol jackpot signal that is output when the special symbol jackpot is determined, or a special symbol high probability state signal that is output while the special symbol jackpot probability is high is exemplified.

  2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the signal indicating the state of the game output from the output terminal of the main control board includes a signal generated by an external factor or trouble. A gaming machine 3 characterized by For example, as a signal generated by an external factor or trouble, a lower pan full tank error signal that is output when the lower pan is filled with balls, or when the balls stored in the storage tank are less than a predetermined amount. An example of an output error signal is shown.

  2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the signal indicating the state of the game output from the output terminal of the main control board has a cause of stopping a predetermined operation by the operating device. A gaming machine 4 including a signal output when it is generated. For example, a prize ball over error signal output when a prize ball is paid out beyond the number of prize balls and a prize ball over error occurs is exemplified. When a prize ball over error occurs, the prize ball payout operation by the payout control board as the operation device is stopped.

  2. The gaming machine according to claim 1 or any one of the gaming machines 1 to 4, wherein a signal indicating a gaming state output from an output terminal of the main control board is related to a series of gaming flows in the operating device. A gaming machine 5 characterized in that it includes a signal that is output when a cause for executing a predetermined operation with no error occurs. For example, a prize ball under error signal output when a prize ball payout is less than the number of prize balls and a prize ball under error occurs is exemplified. When a prize ball under error occurs, an error is displayed by the lamp control board regardless of a series of game flows.

  The gaming machine according to claim 1 or any one of the gaming machines 1 to 5, further comprising a signal output device that outputs various signals, wherein the main control board is based on a signal output from the signal output device. A gaming machine 6 for controlling a game, wherein an output signal from the signal output device is outputted as it is from the output terminal. Since the output signal from the signal output device that is the basis for the game control is output as it is from the output terminal, the state of the gaming machine can be more accurately determined by other devices such as a testing machine connected to the output terminal. Can be analyzed.

  The gaming machine according to claim 1 or any one of the gaming machines 1 to 6, wherein the signal indicating the state of the game output from the output terminal of the main control board includes a winning of a hit ball at a winning opening (or starting opening). A signal, a prize ball signal for detecting a prize ball instructed by the main control board that has received the prize signal, and an output from the main control board to the prize control board for stopping the prize ball delivery. A gaming machine 7 characterized by including an error signal. If the winning ball is not paid out even if the hit ball is won, the cause can be reported to another device connected to the output terminal. In this case, examples of the error signal include a winning ball over error signal, a run-out error signal, and a lower pan full error signal.

  The gaming machine according to claim 1 or any one of the gaming machines 1 to 7, wherein the signal indicating the state of the game output from the output terminal of the main control board includes a big prize opening (special electric combination or ordinary electric combination) A release signal indicating that the object is being opened, a big winning signal for detecting the winning of the hit ball to the big winning opening, and an error signal output when the hit ball cannot be fired. A gaming machine 8 characterized by that. When a winning of a hit ball is not detected even though the big winning opening is open, the cause can be reported to another device connected to the output terminal. In this case, examples of the big winning signal include a detection signal for hitting a ball by a 10-count switch or a V-count switch provided in the big winning opening, and the error signal is a hitting signal when the signal is output. A lower pan full error signal or the like for stopping the firing is exemplified.

  2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the output terminal of the main control board is connected to a testing machine for testing the state of the gaming machine as the other device. A gaming machine 9 characterized. With this testing machine, it is possible to easily test the state of the gaming machine in the hall where the gaming machine is installed or in the hall where the gaming machine is installed.

  4. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the output terminal of the main control board stores a signal output from the output terminal in a portable (portable) storage medium. A game machine 10 characterized in that a storage device capable of being connected is connected as the other device. As this storage device, for example, by using a storage device that can store game information in a small storage medium such as a memo stick, the player carries the memo stick etc. and takes his game data home, By analyzing this, the player's own game level can be improved. In addition, the storage device not only stores the signal (game information) output from the output terminal as it is, but also converts the game information into a format that is easy for the user of the game information to understand, It may be stored in a storage medium. For example, based on a signal output from the output terminal, a jackpot occurrence probability, a winning probability for a normal winning opening or a special symbol operating opening, and the like may be calculated, and the calculation result may be stored.

  The gaming machine according to claim 1 or any one of the gaming machines 1 to 10, wherein the main control board is provided with a plurality of connectors for outputting a signal of the output terminal to the other device. The gaming machine 11 is characterized in that signals output from a plurality of connectors are classified for each connector. Since the output signals are classified for each connector, it is not always necessary to connect all the connectors during a test or the like. That is, since only necessary connectors can be connected to perform testing and storage in a storage medium, the work efficiency can be improved.

  The gaming machine 12 according to claim 1, wherein the gaming machine is a pachinko machine. Above all, the basic configuration of a pachinko machine is equipped with an operation handle, and in response to the operation of the operation handle, a ball is launched into a predetermined game area, and the ball is awarded to an operating port arranged at a predetermined position in the game area. As a necessary condition (or passing through the working port), the identification information that is dynamically displayed on the display device is confirmed and stopped after a predetermined time. In addition, when a special gaming state occurs, a variable winning device (specific winning opening) disposed at a predetermined position in the gaming area is opened in a predetermined manner so that a ball can be won, and a value corresponding to the number of winnings is obtained. Examples include those to which values (including data written on magnetic cards as well as premium balls) are given.

  The gaming machine 13 according to claim 1, wherein the gaming machine is a slot machine. Above all, the basic configuration of the slot machine is “equipped with variable display means for confirming and displaying the identification information after dynamically displaying an identification information string composed of a plurality of identification information, and for operating the starting operation means (for example, an operation lever). Due to or after a predetermined time has passed, the dynamic display of the identification information is stopped, and the special gaming state advantageous to the player is required on the condition that the fixed identification information at the time of the stop is the specific identification information. A gaming machine having special gaming state generating means for generating In this case, examples of the game media include coins and medals.

  The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the gaming machine is a fusion of a pachinko machine and a slot machine. Among them, the basic configuration of the merged gaming machine includes “a variable display means for confirming and displaying the identification information after dynamically displaying an identification information string composed of a plurality of identification information, and a starting operation means (for example, an operation lever). The dynamic display of the identification information is started due to the operation of, and the dynamic display of the identification information is stopped due to the operation of the operation means for stop (for example, the stop button) or when a predetermined time elapses. And a special game state generating means for generating a special game state advantageous to the player on the condition that the confirmed identification information at the time of stoppage is specific identification information, and using a ball as a game medium, The game machine is configured to require a predetermined number of balls when starting the dynamic display of the identification information, and to pay out many balls when a special gaming state occurs.

16 First connector (output terminal)
17 Second connector (output terminal)
19 Testing machine (other equipment)
20 Various switches 20a Prize ball count switch 20b Ordinary winning hole switch 20c First type start port switch 20d 10 count switch 20e V count switch 20f Normal symbol display switch 20g Empty switch 20h Lower plate full switch C Main control Substrate D Display control board (operation device)
H Discharge control board (operation device)
L Lamp control board (operation device)
P Pachinko machine (game machine)
S sound effect control board (operation device)

Claims (1)

In a gaming machine comprising a main control board that controls a game, and an operation device that is connected to the main control board and that performs an operation related to a game based on an instruction from the main control board.
The main control board includes an output terminal for outputting a signal indicating a game state to another device other than the operating device, and the signal indicating the game state output from the output terminal includes a game A gaming machine characterized by including a signal indicating the state of the machine.

Images