JP2015006534A - Enclosed type pinball game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an enclosed type Pachinko game machine capable of executing initialization without inflicting a loss on a player.SOLUTION: When a RAM clear switch is operated in power activation, if the Pachinko machine is connected to a card unit (Yes in S124), the Pachinko machine clears a RAM of a main control device (S126) and, if not connected thereto (No in S124), clears RAMs of the main control device and a putout control device. Therefore, in a step before shipping the Pachinko machine, it is easy to clear the RAMs of the main control device and the putout control device. When the Pachinko machine is installed in a Pachinko parlor and connected to the card unit, the Pachinko machine can clear the RAM of the main control device, while holding held ball information stored in the RAM of the putout control device, so as to execute the initialization without inflicting a loss on the player.

Description

  The present invention relates to an enclosed ball game machine.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, an encapsulated bullet ball game machine that plays a game using circulation of game balls is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In an enclosed ball game machine, the number of balls that are game balls that a player can use in the game is stored in the RAM as ball information, and ball rental, launch of game balls, and grant of prize balls Etc., the ball holding information stored in the RAM is updated.

  Also, generally, the ball game machine is provided with a RAM clear switch for clearing the RAM mounted on the own device when the power is turned on, and at the time of inspection at the time of shipment of the ball game machine, The power is turned on with the RAM clear switch turned on, and the ball game machine is initialized.

  In addition to this, when a game is disturbed due to a malfunction of a ball game machine or the like during a game, it may be possible to initialize the ball game machine with a RAM clear switch. As a result, the game information related to the game in progress disappears, and if it is in a state advantageous to the player, such as a probable change state, this will be eliminated, which will give a disadvantage to the player. The game can be resumed in a normal state.

JP 2007-283000 A

  Here, if a similar RAM clear switch is provided in an encapsulated ball game machine, when the power is turned on with the RAM clear switch turned on, not only the game information but also the ball holding information disappears. End up. As a result, the possessed ball obtained by the player by lending the ball or the possessed ball acquired by the game disappears, resulting in a loss to the player. However, the ball game machine cannot be initialized during the game.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide an encapsulated bullet ball game machine that can be initialized without losing a player.

  The invention according to claim 1 made in view of the above problems is to collect a game ball that has been launched onto the game board by the launch unit, and to fire the collected game ball again by using the launch unit, so that the predetermined encapsulated inside The present invention relates to an enclosed ball game machine that uses a number of game balls in a circulating manner to play a game.

  This ball game machine is configured to be connectable to a main control device having a main RAM for storing game-related information and a card unit capable of accessing a game card while controlling the progress of the game. A payout control device having a payout side RAM for managing the number of holding balls as game balls used in a game on a ball gaming machine and storing ball holding information indicating the number of held balls, and the bullet A RAM clear switch for accepting a RAM clear instruction for instructing the clearing of the RAM provided in the gaming machine.

The main control device, when a game ball enters the winning opening provided on the game board, notifies the payout control device of the number of prize balls given to the player, and activates the ball game machine. In addition, when a RAM clear instruction is received, main side clearing means for clearing the main side RAM is further provided.

  Further, the payout control device displays the ball holding information stored in the payout side RAM according to the information acquired from the card unit, the launch of the game ball by the launch unit, and the number of prize balls acquired from the main control device. Update means for updating, and storage means for notifying the card unit of the ball-holding information stored in the payout-side RAM via a predetermined operation. Further, when the RAM clear instruction is received together with the activation of the ball game machine, if the payout control device is not connected to the card unit, the payout side RAM is cleared and the payout control device is connected to the card unit. A payout side clearing means for notifying the card unit of the ball holding information stored in the payout side RAM and clearing the payout side RAM after the card unit stores the ball holding information; Have.

  The payout control device may acquire the ball holding information stored in the card unit from the card unit after clearing the payout side RAM, and store it again in the payout side RAM. By doing so, the player can resume the game smoothly after the RAM clear is completed. Further, the ball holding information stored in the card unit may be stored in the game card inserted in the card unit. In this way, the ball holding information can be stored more reliably.

  According to such a configuration, in a state where the ball game machine is not connected to the card unit, the RAM of the main control device or the payout control device is cleared when a RAM clear instruction is issued via the RAM clear switch at the time of startup. Is done. For this reason, the RAM can be cleared without delay at the time of shipment of the ball game machine.

  On the other hand, when the ball game machine is connected to the card unit (installed in a pachinko parlor or the like), the RAM of the main control device is cleared when a RAM clear instruction is issued at the time of activation. At the same time, the RAM of the payout control device is cleared after the ball holding information is saved in the card unit.

  For this reason, the main control device and the RAM of the payout control device can be cleared without erasing the ball holding information stored in the RAM of the payout control device. A ball game machine can be initialized.

  In addition, as described below, the game balls launched on the game board by the launch unit are collected, and the collected game balls are fired again by the launch unit, thereby circulating a predetermined number of game balls enclosed therein. An enclosed ball game machine that is used for playing games may be configured.

  This ball game machine is configured to be connectable to a main control device having a main RAM for storing game-related information and a card unit capable of accessing a game card while controlling the progress of the game. A payout control device having a payout side RAM for managing the number of holding balls, which are game balls used for games in a ball game machine, and storing ball holding information indicating the number of held balls, and a main control device And a RAM clear switch for receiving a RAM clear instruction for instructing the clearing of the RAM provided in the ball game machine.

The main control device, when a game ball enters the winning opening provided on the game board, notifies the payout control device of the number of prize balls given to the player, and activates the ball game machine. When the RAM clear instruction is received, the inquiry means for inquiring whether or not to clear the holding ball information, the receiving means for receiving a response to the inquiry, and the receiving means clear the holding ball information via the notification device. When receiving a response to the effect, the main side clearing unit that clears the main side RAM and the receiving unit receive a response that clears the ball-holding information, and instructs the payout control device to clear the payout side RAM. A clear all instruction means for performing a clear all instruction.

  Further, the payout control device displays the ball holding information stored in the payout side RAM according to the information acquired from the card unit, the launch of the game ball by the launch unit, and the number of prize balls acquired from the main control device. Updating means for updating, storing means for notifying the card unit of the ball information stored in the game card in order to store the ball information stored in the payout side RAM, and clearing the payout side RAM in response to all clear instructions And a payout side clearing means.

  Then, the holding ball information that has not been notified to the card unit by the saving means is set as unsaved holding ball information. When the inquiry means receives the RAM clear instruction together with the activation of the ball game machine, If the stored ball information is stored and the card unit is connected to the payout control device, an inquiry is made.

  If a response to clear the ball holding information is not received, the main RAM is cleared, or the main RAM and other areas other than the ball holding information storage area in the payout RAM It is good also as a structure which clears.

  According to such a configuration, when the ball game machine is connected to the card unit (installed in a pachinko store), if a RAM clear instruction is given at the time of activation, the payout side RAM is If the ball holding information is stored, an inquiry is made as to whether to clear the ball holding information. For this reason, it is possible to select whether or not to perform RAM clear with clearing the ball holding information.

  Therefore, during the game, it is possible to prevent the ball information from disappearing due to the RAM clear against the player's intention, and to initialize the enclosed ball game machine without losing the player. be able to.

  Also, after the ball holding information is provided from the payout control device to the card unit and the ball holding information is stored in the game card, there is no problem even if the payout control device RAM is cleared. Can clear the main-side RAM and the payout-side RAM according to the RAM clear instruction without making the above inquiry. Thereby, the trouble of inputting a response to the inquiry can be saved, and the RAM can be cleared more smoothly.

  Also, in the state where the ball game machine is not connected to the card unit, if the RAM clear instruction is issued via the RAM clear switch at the time of activation, the RAM of the main control device or the payout control device is not made without making the above inquiry. It becomes possible to clear. For this reason, it is possible to clear the RAM without any delay when the ball game machine is shipped.

  In addition, as described below, the game balls launched on the game board by the launch unit are collected, and the collected game balls are fired again by the launch unit, thereby circulating a predetermined number of game balls enclosed therein. An enclosed ball game machine that is used for playing games may be configured.

The ball game machine controls a game progress, and has a main control device having a main RAM for storing information related to the game, a main RAM clear switch for receiving an instruction to clear the RAM, and a game card. It is configured to be connectable to a card unit that can access the card, and manages the number of possessed balls that are used for games in the ball game machine, and stores the possessed ball information indicating the number of possessed balls A payout control device having a payout side RAM and a payout side RAM clear switch for receiving an instruction to clear the RAM.

  The main control device, when a game ball enters the winning opening provided on the game board, notifies the payout control device of the number of prize balls given to the player, and activates the ball game machine. In addition, it further includes a main-side clear unit that clears the main-side RAM when an instruction to clear the RAM is received via the main-side RAM clear switch or the payout-side RAM clear switch.

  Further, the payout control device displays the ball holding information stored in the payout side RAM according to the information acquired from the card unit, the launch of the game ball by the launch unit, and the number of prize balls acquired from the main control device. Update means for updating, storage means for notifying the card unit of the ball information stored in the payout-side RAM, saving means for notifying the card unit of the ball-ball information, When an instruction to clear the RAM is received via the RAM clear switch, the payout side clearing means for clearing the payout side RAM is further provided.

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to clear the RAM of the main control device by operating the main side RAM clear switch at the time of starting the ball game machine, and to operate the payout side RAM clear switch at the time of starting. Thus, the RAM of the main control device and the payout control device can be cleared.

For this reason, by using the payout side RAM clear switch, it is possible to clear the RAM without any delay at the time of shipment of the ball game machine.
Also, if a ball game machine is installed in a pachinko parlor or the like, when issuing a RAM clear instruction, select whether or not to clear the payout side RAM depending on whether or not the game is in progress. can do.

  Therefore, during the game, it is possible to prevent the ball information from disappearing due to the RAM clear against the player's intention, and to initialize the enclosed ball game machine without losing the player. be able to.

  The payout-side clearing unit further receives an instruction to clear the RAM via the main-side RAM clear switch when the ball game machine is activated, and when the card unit is connected to the payout control device. An area other than the storage area for the ball holding information in the payout side RAM may be cleared.

  According to such a configuration, when a RAM clear instruction is issued via the main-side RAM clear switch at the time of startup, the main control device and the payout control device can be initialized while retaining the ball holding information. For this reason, it is possible to initialize the enclosed ball game machine without causing any loss to the player.

  Further, when the payout side clearing unit further receives an instruction to clear the RAM via the main side RAM clear switch together with the activation of the ball game machine, when the card unit is not connected to the payout control device, The payout side RAM may be cleared.

  According to such a configuration, the RAM of the main control device and the payout control device can be used when the main side RAM clear switch or the payout side RAM clear switch is used when not connected to the card unit. It can be cleared. For this reason, the RAM can be cleared more smoothly when the ball game machine is shipped.

In addition, as described below, the game balls launched on the game board by the launch unit are collected, and the collected game balls are fired again by the launch unit, thereby circulating a predetermined number of game balls enclosed therein. An enclosed ball game machine that is used for playing games may be configured.

  This ball game machine is configured to be connectable to a main control device having a main RAM for storing game-related information and a card unit capable of accessing a game card while controlling the progress of the game. A payout control device having a payout side RAM for managing the number of holding balls, which are game balls used for games in a ball game machine, and storing ball holding information indicating the number of held balls, and a main control device And a RAM clear switch for receiving a RAM clear instruction for instructing the clearing of the RAM provided in the ball game machine.

  The main control device, when a game ball enters the winning opening provided on the game board, notifies the payout control device of the number of prize balls given to the player, and activates the ball game machine. When a RAM clear instruction is received, inquiry means for making an inquiry as to whether or not to clear the RAM accompanied by clearing the ball holding information and an acceptance means for receiving a response to the inquiry are provided. Further, when the accepting unit accepts a response to clear the RAM with clearing the ball holding information or a response to clear the RAM without clearing the ball holding information, Main clearing means for clearing and all clear instruction means for instructing the payout control device to clear the payout side RAM upon receiving a response to clear the RAM accompanied by clearing the ball holding information And.

  Further, the payout control device displays the ball holding information stored in the payout side RAM according to the information acquired from the card unit, the launch of the game ball by the launch unit, and the number of prize balls acquired from the main control device. Updating means for updating, storing means for notifying the card unit of the ball information stored in the game card in order to store the ball information stored in the payout side RAM, and clearing the payout side RAM in response to all clear instructions And a payout side clearing means.

  According to such a configuration, when a RAM clear instruction is issued via the RAM clear switch at the time of activation, an inquiry is made as to whether or not to perform RAM clear with clearing of the ball holding information. When a response to clear the RAM with clearing the ball holding information is received, the RAMs of both the main control device and the payout control device are cleared, and the RAM is cleared without clearing the ball holding information. When a response to this effect is received, the RAM of the main control device is cleared.

  Therefore, during the game, it is possible to prevent the ball information from disappearing due to the RAM clear against the player's intention, and to initialize the enclosed ball game machine without losing the player. be able to.

  When the accepting unit accepts a response for clearing the RAM without clearing the ball holding information, the main control device sends a response to the payout control device other than the ball holding information storage area in the payout side RAM. The system further includes a partial clear instruction means for instructing a clear of another area, and a partial clear instruction means for issuing a partial clear instruction. The payout side clear means further clears another area in the payout side RAM in response to the partial clear instruction. You may do it.

  According to such a configuration, when a response is made to clear the RAM without clearing the ball holding information, the main controller and the payout controller can be initialized while holding the ball holding information. it can. For this reason, it is possible to initialize the enclosed ball game machine without causing any loss to the player.

Also, generally, when ending a game in an encapsulated ball game machine, the ball holding information stored in the RAM of the payout control device is stored in a game card inserted in the card unit. It is considered that there is no problem even if the RAM of the payout control device is cleared after the ball holding information is stored in the game card.

  Therefore, the holding ball information that has not been notified to the card unit by the saving means is set as unsaved holding ball information. When the stored ball information is stored, an inquiry is made.

  Further, when the main side clearing unit further receives a RAM clear instruction together with the activation of the ball game machine, the main side RAM is cleared when the unsaved ball information is not stored in the payout side RAM, The payout-side clearing means further clears the payout-side RAM when the uncleared ball information is not stored in the payout-side RAM when a RAM clear instruction is received together with the activation of the ball game machine.

  According to such a configuration, after notifying the card unit of the ball holding information for storage in the game card, the main control is performed without inquiring whether or not to clear the RAM with clearing of the ball holding information. The RAM of the device and the payout control device are cleared. Therefore, the trouble of inputting a response to the inquiry can be saved, and the RAM can be cleared more smoothly.

  Further, when the inquiry means accepts the RAM clear instruction as the ball game machine is activated, the inquiry means makes an inquiry when the card unit is connected to the payout control device, and the main side clearing means further When the RAM clear instruction is received together with the activation of the ball game machine, the main RAM may be cleared if the card unit is not connected to the payout control device.

  Further, the payout-side clearing unit may clear the payout-side RAM when the card unit is not connected to the payout control device when a RAM clear instruction is received together with the activation of the ball game machine.

  According to such a configuration, in the state where the card unit is not connected, if the RAM clear instruction is issued at the time of activation, the RAMs of the main control device and the payout control device are cleared without making an inquiry. For this reason, the RAM can be cleared more smoothly when the ball game machine is shipped.

It is a block diagram which shows the electrical structure of the pachinko machine in 1st embodiment. It is a flowchart of the process at the time of power activation in 1st embodiment. It is a flowchart of the process at the time of power activation in 1st embodiment. It is a flowchart of the process at the time of power activation in 2nd embodiment. It is a flowchart of the process at the time of power activation in 2nd embodiment. It is an example of the inquiry screen regarding clearing of the payout side RAM in the third embodiment. It is a flowchart of the process at the time of power activation in 3rd embodiment. It is a flowchart of the process at the time of power activation in 3rd embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the electrical structure of the pachinko machine in 4th embodiment. It is a flowchart of the process at the time of power activation in 4th embodiment. It is a flowchart of the process at the time of power activation in 4th embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the electrical structure of the pachinko machine in 5th embodiment. It is an example of the screen displayed during the initialization mode in 5th embodiment. It is a flowchart of the process at the time of power activation in 5th embodiment. It is a flowchart of the process at the time of power activation in 5th embodiment. It is a flowchart of the process at the time of power activation in 5th embodiment.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The embodiment of the present invention is not limited to the following embodiment, and can take various forms as long as they belong to the technical scope of the present invention.

[First embodiment]
[Description of configuration]
The pachinko machine of the first embodiment is an enclosed pachinko machine that is used for a game by circulating a predetermined number of game balls enclosed therein. Therefore, a player who plays a game with this pachinko machine does not directly get a game ball, but based on the number of held balls (game balls that can be used for games) held as data in the pachinko machine. Play a game.

  This pachinko machine has a structure in which each component is held by an outer frame forming a vertically long fixed outer frame holding frame. Hinges are provided on the left and upper sides of the outer frame, and the hinge holds the front frame (glass frame) into which the plate glass is fitted and an inner frame described later so as to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame. In addition, a game board held on the inner frame is provided behind the plate glass of the front frame.

  The pachinko machine is also equipped with a card unit, and the card information (for example, balance) stored in the IC card (game card) inserted in the card unit is displayed below the front frame. A balance display device for displaying the number of balls held by the player and a number display device for displaying the number of balls held by the player.

  When the game card is inserted into the card unit, the card information stored in the game card is read out. The read card information is transmitted to the hall computer installed in the pachinko parlor, and the collation result of the information is returned from the hall computer. If the collation contents match, the card information is displayed on the balance display device. The

  Then, when the lending button provided on the balance display device is operated, ball lending is performed, the preset withdrawal amount is reduced from the balance of the game card, and the balance after reduction is displayed Displayed on the device. In addition, the number of balls lent to the player in exchange for the withdrawal amount is output to the pachinko machine, and the pachinko machine that has received this updates the number of balls and displays the latest number of balls To display.

  In addition, in the case where the number of game balls acquired by the player by the game (the number of count balls described later) is stored in the game card, the number of count balls according to an instruction from the player You may provide a predetermined number of them to a pachinko machine as a ball. Further, the number of stored balls stored in the pachinko parlor by the player may be stored in the game card as card information, and the stored ball may be provided to the pachinko machine as a ball in response to an instruction from the player.

Further, when a return button provided on the balance display device is operated, the inserted game card is discharged.
The game board of the pachinko machine has a substantially circular game area, and a launch unit for launching a game ball is provided at the upper left side of the game board. In addition, a large number of game nails are planted in the game area, and an out port is provided at the bottom.

  A center case is mounted at the center of the game area, and a normal symbol operation gate is installed on the left side of the center case. When the game ball passes through the normal symbol actuating gate, a plurality of types of random numbers for the normal symbol win / fail lottery are extracted, and whether or not to win (normal symbol lottery) based on the extracted random numbers is performed.

  Directly below the center case are a first start port and a second start port where a big hit lottery with a variation display of a special symbol (also described as a special diagram) is performed vertically due to the entry of game balls. It is arranged. The pachinko machine includes one special symbol that varies depending on the ball entering the first start port and the ball entering the second start port. In addition, the first starting port is configured so that a game ball can always enter, but the second starting port is configured as a normal electric accessory that is opened by winning in the normal symbol lottery. Only be allowed to enter.

  When a game ball enters the first start port and the second start port, a plurality of types of random numbers corresponding to the special drawing are extracted and stored as reserved storage. Then, a big hit lottery is performed with the stored random numbers, and when the big hit lottery is won, a big hit game is performed and a large amount of prize balls can be obtained.

  Below the second start opening, a special winning opening made of a special electric accessory that is opened during a big hit game is arranged. In the game area, a right winning opening and a left winning opening are provided in the lower right and lower left areas.

  In the lower right area of the game board, there are a 7-segment special figure display device, a special figure holding number display device consisting of four LEDs, a normal symbol display device consisting of two LEDs, and four pieces. A general-purpose hold number display device composed of LEDs is installed.

  In the center case of the game board, the LCD panel of the production symbol display device is arranged in the center, and the result of the big hit lottery corresponding to the special figure is displayed on the LCD panel screen by displaying the variation of the production symbol. The symbol effect to notify is performed. In addition, the center case is provided with a warp inlet, a warp rod, a stage, and the like, as is well known.

  In addition, a circulation path for circulating the game ball is formed in the inner frame, and a power supply board for supplying power to each part of the pachinko machine is provided. In addition, the game board is provided with a main control device, an effect symbol control device, a sub integrated control device, and the like.

  Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko machine according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to the block diagram shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko machine 1 is configured with a main controller 10 as a center. Note that the power supply board and the like are not shown in this block diagram. Although not shown in detail, the main control device 10, the payout control device 50, the production symbol control device 35, the sub integrated control device 30 and the like are provided with a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, an input port, an output port, and the like. However, the power supply board or the like is not provided with a CPU, ROM, or RAM. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a CPU, ROM, RAM, or the like may be provided on a power supply board or the like.

  The main controller 10 includes a first start port SW12 that detects a game ball that has entered the first start port, a second start port SW13 that detects a game ball that has entered the second start port, and normal symbol operation. The normal symbol operation SW 14 for detecting a game ball that has entered the gate, the left winning port SW 15 for detecting a gaming ball that has entered the left winning port, the right winning port SW 16 for detecting the gaming ball that has entered the right winning port, Detecting by a count SW 17 for counting game balls that have entered the big winning opening that is released in the case of a big hit game, a magnet sensor 18 for detecting abnormal magnetic force, a radio wave sensor 19 for detecting abnormal radio waves, etc. A signal is input via the game board relay terminal board 11.

  The main control device 10 operates in accordance with the installed program to control the progress of the game, detects winnings at each winning mouth based on the above-described detection signals and the like, and sub-games according to the progress of the game. A command for controlling the production contents is transmitted to the integrated control device 30. Further, the number of prize balls given to the player in accordance with the winning is counted, the number of prize balls is displayed on the prize ball number display device 22, and the number of prize balls is notified to the payout control device 50 (claims). Equivalent to notification means).

  In addition, the main control device 10 displays the special symbol display device 41 and the normal symbol display device 43 connected via the symbol display device relay terminal board 40, the special symbol hold number display device 42, and the universal figure hold number display. The lighting of the device 44 is controlled.

The main controller 10 controls the opening / closing of the special winning opening by controlling the special winning opening solenoid 20, and controls the opening / closing of the second starting opening by controlling the universal utility solenoid 21.
Further, main controller 10 detects the opening of the front frame (glass frame) from the detection signal from glass frame opening SW23, and detects the opening of the inner frame from the detection signal from inner frame opening SW24.

  Needless to say, processing in the main control device 10 is performed using a RAM (also referred to as a main-side RAM) provided in the main control device 10, and the main-side RAM has game information that is information about a game. Etc. are saved.

  The main control device 10 is connected to a RAM clear switch 25 that instructs to clear the RAM mounted on the main control device 10 or the payout control device 50 when the pachinko machine 1 is powered on. Note that the RAM clear switch 25 may be connected not only to the main control device 10 but also to the payout control device 50 and the power supply board.

  The sub integrated control device 30 corresponds to a so-called sub control device and receives commands and data from the main control device 10 and distributes them for effect display control, sound control, and lamp control, and the commands and the like. Various performances are performed based on this.

  Then, a command for effect display control or the like is transmitted to the effect symbol control device 35. Further, by operating the sound LSI based on the sound control command or the like, the sound output from the speaker 31 is controlled, and by operating the lamp driver based on the lamp control command or the like, various LEDs, The lamp 32 is controlled. The sub-integrated control device 30 is connected with an effect button 34 and a jog dial 33, and performs effects reflecting these operations.

Further, the sub integrated control device 30 and the production symbol control device 35 are capable of bidirectional communication.
The effect symbol control device 35 displays the effect symbol display based on the data and commands received from the sub integrated control device 30 (some are transmitted from the main control device 10 and some are generated by the sub integrated control device 30). The device 36 is controlled to display effect images such as effect symbols.

Data transmission from the sub integrated control device 30 to the main control device 10 is not performed.
Next, the payout control device 50 will be described. The payout control device 50 is configured to manage the number of balls held, and the card unit 2 provided in the pachinko machine 1 and the game card inserted into the card unit 2 via the card unit terminal board 51 are arranged. A balance display device 52 for displaying stored card information is connected. Further, a counting SW 60a for detecting the operation of the counting button and a ball count display device 60b are connected via the operation unit relay terminal plate 60 and the firing operation unit relay terminal plate 61.

  The payout control device 50, the card unit 2, and the balance display device 52 are capable of bidirectional communication with each other. Further, the balance display device 52 is provided with a return SW 52a for detecting the operation of the return button and a lending SW 52b for detecting the operation of the lending button, and the operation information of the return button and the lending button is paid out with the card unit 2. It is output to the control device 50.

When a game card is inserted into the card unit 2, the card information stored in the game card is displayed on the balance display device 52 according to an instruction from the card unit 2.
Further, when the operation information of the lending button is output to the card unit 2, the card unit 2 lends the ball, deducts a predetermined amount from the balance of the inserted gaming card, and lends to the payout control device 50 The number of game balls (number of rented balls) to be performed is notified. The payout control device 50 that has received the number of lent balls adds the number of rented balls to the number of balls held (corresponding to the updating means in the claims), and displays the number of balls held after addition on the number of balls held display device 60b. .

At this time, the balance display device 52 displays the number of balls lent, the amount paid for ball lending, the balance remaining after ball lending, and the like in accordance with an instruction from the card unit 2.
On the other hand, when the return button operation information is output to the card unit 2, the card unit 2 ejects the inserted game card and causes the balance display device 52 to display the fact.

  Note that the number of balls held may be stored in the game card as card information, and the number of balls held may be displayed on the card unit 2 when the game card is inserted into the card unit 2. Then, a predetermined number is notified to the payout control device 50 from the number of balls stored as card information by operating a payout button or a lending button (not shown) provided in the card unit 2, and the predetermined number is received. The payout control device 50 may add the predetermined number to the number of balls held and display the number of balls after the addition on the ball number display device 60b.

  When the number of prize balls is received from the main controller 10 during the game, the payout controller 50 adds the number of prize balls received to the number of balls held (corresponding to the update means in the claims), The number of balls held is displayed on the ball number display device 60b. Further, when the launch of the game ball is detected one by one based on a detection signal from a ball feed sensor 62a described later, the number of possessed balls is decremented by 1 (corresponding to the update means in the claims), and after the subtraction The number of held balls is displayed on the held ball number display device 60b.

  Further, when the operation of the counting button is detected by the counting SW 60a, the payout control device 50 subtracts a predetermined counting ball number from the number of balls held, and the number of balls held after the subtraction is displayed. In addition to the display on 60b, the number of counted balls is output to the card unit 2, and the number of counted balls is instructed to be stored in the game card (corresponding to storage means in the claims). On the other hand, the card unit 2 stores the received counting ball number in the game card.

  Needless to say, processing in the payout control device 50 is performed using a RAM (also referred to as payout side RAM) provided in the payout control device 50, and the payout side RAM indicates at least the number of balls. Stored ball information is stored.

The payout control device 50 is configured to perform a process for circulating the game ball enclosed in the pachinko machine 1 and to control the launch of the game ball.
That is, to the payout control device 50, the hand volume 61a, the touch SW 61b, and the firing stop SW 61c are connected via the firing operation unit relay terminal board 61. Further, a ball feed sensor 62a, a launch inlet sensor 62b, a launch motor 62c, and a ball feed solenoid 62d are connected via a launcher relay terminal plate 62. Further, a lifting motor 64a, a lifting inlet sensor 64b, and a lifting motor monitoring sensor 64c are connected via a lifting relay terminal plate 64. Further, a winning ball sensor 53d, an out ball sensor 53e, an appropriate amount sensor 53a, a full sensor 53b, and a night monitoring switch 53c are connected via an inner frame relay terminal plate 53.

In the pachinko machine 1, a launch unit for launching a game ball is arranged on the upper left side toward the game board, and a lifting path for guiding the game ball to the launch unit is provided.
Then, the game balls that have entered the winning opening or the out opening provided on the game board are collected below the game board, and then guided to the lifting path toward the launch unit. The lifting path is provided with a lifting inlet sensor 64b that detects a game ball that has reached the entrance of the lifting path, and a launch inlet sensor 62b that detects a gaming ball that has passed through the lifting path.

  When a detection signal is output from the lifting / lowering entrance sensor 64b to the payout control device 50, the payout control device 50 operates the lifting motor 64a to lift the game ball along the lifting path to the launching unit. Lead.

  When a detection signal is output from the launch inlet sensor 62b to the payout control device 50, if there is no game ball passing through the lift path, the payout control device 50 stops the lift motor 64a. Further, the payout control device 50 monitors whether the lifting motor 64a is operating normally based on a signal from the lifting motor monitoring sensor 64c.

  Further, the payout control device 50 determines whether or not the player is touching the hand volume 61a based on the detection signal from the touch SW 61b, and the firing stop button is pressed based on the detection signal from the firing stop SW 61c. Determine whether or not. Then, when the hand volume 61a is operated while the firing stop button is not pressed and the player is touching the hand volume 61a, the game ball is fired according to the operation amount of the hand volume 61a. Let

  Specifically, when the hand volume 61a is operated in the above state, the payout control device 50 sends one game ball that has passed through the lifting path to the launch position by the ball feed solenoid 62d. When it is detected by the detection signal from the ball feed sensor 62a that the game ball has been sent to the launch position, the payout control device 50 controls the launch motor 62c to perform the game at a speed according to the operation amount. The ball is fired and the number of balls held is decremented by one.

  Further, the payout control device 50 counts the number of game balls that have entered each winning opening based on the detection signal from the winning ball sensor 53d, and the game ball that has entered the out opening based on the detection signal from the out ball sensor 53e. And the sum of these game balls is calculated as an out ball. Further, the number of game balls fired by the detection signal from the ball feed sensor 62a is counted, and the circulation of the game balls is monitored based on the number of out balls and the number of game balls fired.

  Further, the payout control device 50 manages the number of game balls necessary for circulation based on the detection signals from the appropriate amount sensor 53a and the full tank sensor 53b, and notifies this when there is an excess or deficiency of the necessary game balls. It is configured as follows.

Further, the payout control device 50 detects that the inner frame is opened at night (while power is not supplied to the pachinko machine 1) by a detection signal from the night monitoring switch 53c.
In addition, the payout control device 50 is configured to polish a game ball in which the game ball enclosed in the pachinko machine 1 circulates using a polishing cloth built in the cassette. That is, a cassette switch 63a, a polishing motor sensor 63b, a cassette motor 63c, and a polishing motor 63d are connected to the dispensing control device 50 via the polishing device relay terminal plate 63.

  The cassette is provided with two rotating bodies that are rotated by a cassette motor 63c. Also, the polishing cloth built in the cassette is formed in a band shape, and both ends are connected to each rotating body and are wound around one or both rollers, and only a part of the polishing cloth is in the cassette. It is in a state exposed to the outside.

Further, the cassette is configured to be replaceable, and the payout control device 50 determines whether or not the cassette is mounted based on a detection signal from the cassette switch 63a. Process.

  Specifically, by operating the polishing motor 63d and moving the game ball passing through any point on the circulation path inside the pachinko machine 1 while pressed against the polishing cloth exposed from the cassette, Perform ball polishing. At this time, the operation state of the polishing motor 63d is detected by the polishing motor sensor 63b, and the rotational speed or the like of the polishing motor 63d is adjusted according to the operation state.

  Further, whenever a certain period of time elapses, the cassette motor 63c rotates the rotating body of the cassette to wind up the polishing cloth for a predetermined length, and changes the portion of the polishing cloth used for ball polishing.

[Description of operation]
Next, processing at power-on performed in the pachinko machine 1 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS. In the pachinko machine 1, when the RAM clear switch 25 is ON when the power is turned on, depending on the connection state between the card unit 2 and the payout control device 50, the main side RAM provided in the main control device 10, The payout side RAM provided in the payout control device 50 is cleared (as described above, the game information is stored in the main side RAM, and the ball holding information is stored in the payout side RAM. ing).

  That is, when the power of the pachinko machine 1 is turned on, the main controller 10 performs the initial processing (S100) when the power is turned on, and then the RAM clear switch 25 is turned on based on the detection signal from the RAM clear switch 25. It is determined whether or not. If an affirmative determination is obtained (S102: Yes), the process proceeds to S122. If a negative determination is obtained (S102: No), the process proceeds to S104.

  In S <b> 104, the main control device 10 determines whether or not the information generated when the power is turned off in the main control device 10 is normal. Also, the payout control device 50 is inquired about whether or not the occurrence information when the power supply in the payout control device 50 is normal, and the occurrence information when the power supply is cut off in the payout control device 50 is normal according to the response from the payout control device 50. It is determined whether or not.

  If an affirmative determination is obtained in both determinations (S104: Yes), the occurrence information at the time of power-off in the main control device 10 and the payout control device 50 is regarded as normal, and the process proceeds to S106. If a negative determination is obtained in at least one of the determinations (S104: No), the process proceeds to S114.

  In S106, the main control device 10 calculates a determination value (checksum) of the main RAM, instructs the payout control device 50 to calculate a determination value of the payout RAM, and performs payout control on the calculated determination value. Obtained from the device 50.

  Further, the determination value of the main RAM calculated by the main control device 10 when the power is turned off and stored in a non-volatile storage means (not shown) is also calculated by the payout control device 50 when the power is turned off. The stored determination value of the payout side RAM is read, and the process proceeds to S108.

In S108, the main controller 10 determines whether or not the newly calculated main RAM determination value matches the read main RAM determination value, and the newly calculated payout RAM determination. It is determined whether or not the value matches the read determination value of the payout side RAM. If an affirmative determination is obtained in both determinations (S108: Yes), the determination values of the main side RAM and the payout side RAM are both regarded as normal, and the process proceeds to S110 and at least one of the determinations is made. If a negative determination is obtained (S108: No), the process proceeds to S114.

  In S110, the main control device 10 performs processing at the time of power recovery (for example, clearing information generated when the power is turned off, sending a command for returning the sub integrated control device 30 to the power-off state, etc.). , The process proceeds to S112.

In S112, main controller 10 sets various interrupts, and proceeds to the main routine.
On the other hand, in S114, when the occurrence information at the time of power-off in the main control device 10 or the payout control device 50 is abnormal, or when the judgment value of the main side RAM or the payout side RAM does not match, the main control device 10 clears all areas of the main RAM and instructs the payout control device 50 to clear all areas of the payout RAM (all clear instruction), and shifts the processing to S116 (the payout control apparatus 50). The payout side RAM is cleared according to the instruction).

  Note that a specific area of the main RAM and a specific area of the payout RAM may be excluded from being cleared. At this time, the main control device 10 may instruct other devices other than the payout control device 50, such as the sub integrated control device 30, to clear the RAM mounted on the device.

In S116, main controller 10 performs an initial value random number setting process for setting initial value random numbers used for various lotteries in the game, and the process proceeds to S118.
In S118, the main controller 10 performs initial setting of the main RAM, and instructs the payout controller 50 to perform initial setting of the payout RAM, and the process proceeds to S120.

In S120, main controller 10 sets various interrupts, and proceeds to the main routine.
Further, in S122 that is shifted when the RAM clear switch 25 is ON, the main controller 10 waits until the RAM clear switch 25 is turned OFF. That is, it is determined whether or not the RAM clear switch 25 is OFF. If it is OFF (S122: Yes), the process proceeds to S124 (FIG. 3), and if it is not OFF (S122: No). Again, the process proceeds to S122.

  In S <b> 124, the main control device 10 determines whether or not the card unit 2 is connected to the payout control device 50. Specifically, for example, the main control device 10 may monitor the state of the communication line connecting the payout control device 50 and the card unit 2 and determine whether the card unit 2 is connected based on the state. . In addition to this, the payout control device 50 determines whether or not the card unit 2 is connected, and the payout control device 50 displays the determination result when the power is turned on or in response to an inquiry from the main control device 10. A configuration for notifying the main control device 10 may also be adopted.

  If the card unit 2 is connected (S124: Yes), the process proceeds to S126. If the card unit 2 is not connected (S124: No), the process proceeds to S114 (FIG. 2).

In S126, the main controller 10 clears the entire area of the main RAM (a specific area of the main RAM may be excluded from being cleared).
At this time, the main control device 10 instructs the payout control device 50 to clear other areas (non-storage areas) other than the area where the ball holding information is stored in the payout side RAM (partially clear). Instruction), the payout control device 50 may clear the non-storage area in response to a partial clear instruction.

Further, other devices other than the payout control device 50 such as the sub integrated control device 30 may be instructed to clear the RAM mounted on the device.
Thereafter, main controller 10 performs initial value random number setting processing (S128) and initial setting of main RAM (S130), and proceeds to S132.

  In S132, the main control apparatus 10 inquires of the payout control apparatus 50 whether or not the information generated when the power supply is cut off in the payout control apparatus 50 is normal, and obtains a response. If a response indicating that the occurrence information is normal is obtained (S132: Yes), the process proceeds to S134, and if the response is not obtained (S132: No), S142 is obtained. The process is transferred to.

  In S <b> 134, the main control device 10 instructs the payout control device 50 to calculate the determination value of the payout side RAM, and acquires the calculated determination value from the payout control device 50. Further, the determination value of the payout RAM calculated by the payout control device 50 when the power is turned off and stored in the non-volatile storage means is read, and the process proceeds to S136.

  In S136, main controller 10 determines whether or not the newly calculated determination value of payout-side RAM matches the read determination value of payout-side RAM. When an affirmative determination is obtained (S136: Yes), the process proceeds to S138, and when a negative determination is obtained (S136: No), the process proceeds to S142.

In S138, the main control device 10 performs processing at the time of power recovery and sets various interrupts (S140), and proceeds to the main routine.
On the other hand, the main control device 10 sends the payout control device 50 to the payout control device 50 in S142 which is shifted when the information generated when the power supply is cut off in the payout control device 50 is abnormal or when the determination values of the payout side RAM do not match. In addition to giving a clear all instruction, the payout control device 50 clears the payout side RAM in response to the clear all instruction. Note that a specific area of the payout-side RAM may be excluded from being cleared.

  Then, main controller 10 performs initial value random number setting processing (S144), instructions for initial setting of payout-side RAM to payout control device 50 (S146), and various interrupt settings (S148), and proceeds to the main routine. To do.

[effect]
According to the pachinko machine 1 of the first embodiment, when not connected to the card unit 2, when the RAM clear switch 25 is operated at startup, the main side RAM and the payout side RAM are cleared. For this reason, the RAM can be cleared without delay at the time of shipment of the pachinko machine 1 or the like.

  On the other hand, when the pachinko machine 1 is connected to the card unit 2 (when installed in a pachinko store or the like), when a RAM clear instruction is issued via the RAM clear switch 25, the main RAM is cleared. However, the payout RAM is not cleared.

  Therefore, it is possible to erase only the game information by clearing the RAM of the main control device 10 while initializing only the game while retaining the ball holding information stored in the RAM of the payout control device 50. It is possible to initialize the enclosed ball game machine without giving a loss.

[Modification]
In the first embodiment, the RAM clear switch 25 is provided in the main control device 10, but instead, for example, the payout control device 50 may be provided with the RAM clear switch 25.

  In such a case, the main control device 10 may determine the operation state of the RAM clear switch 25 by communicating with the payout control device 50, and similarly perform the process when the power is turned on.

  In addition to this, the dispensing control device 50 determines whether or not the RAM clear switch 25 is ON when the power is turned on. If it is ON, the main control device 10 is instructed to clear the main RAM. You may do it. The payout control device 50 determines whether or not the card unit 2 is connected. If the card unit 2 is connected, the payout side RAM is cleared, and if not connected, the payout side RAM is not stored. The area may be cleared, or the payout side RAM may not be cleared.

  Even with such a configuration, the RAM can be cleared while retaining the ball holding information stored in the payout side RAM, and initialization can be performed without losing the player. it can.

  Further, the RAM clear switch 25 may be provided on the power supply board or the like. In such a case, the main controller 10 can determine the state of the RAM clear switch 25 by outputting a detection signal of the RAM clear switch 25 from the power supply board or the like to the main controller 10 or the payout controller 50. In the same manner, processing at power-on may be performed.

  The detection signal of the RAM clear switch 25 is output only to the main control device 10, and the main control device 10 determines the operation state of the RAM clear switch 25 and determines whether the card unit 2 is connected or not. The RAM or the payout side RAM may be cleared.

  In addition, the detection signal of the RAM clear switch 25 is output only to the payout control device 50, and the payout control device 50 determines the operation state of the RAM clear switch 25, and determines whether the card unit 2 is connected or not. The RAM or the payout side RAM may be cleared.

  In this way, the same effect can be exhibited regardless of whether the RAM clear switch 25 is provided in any of the main control device 10, the payout control device 50, and the power supply board (or other part).

[Second Embodiment]
Next, the pachinko machine 1 of the second embodiment will be described. The pachinko machine 1 of the second embodiment is configured in the same manner as in the first embodiment, but the RAM clearing process at power-on is different.

  Specifically, if the RAM clear switch 25 is ON when the power is turned on, both the main RAM and the payout RAM are cleared when the card unit 2 is not connected. On the other hand, when the card unit 2 is connected, the main side RAM is cleared and the payout side RAM is cleared after the ball holding information stored in the payout side RAM is saved to the card unit 2. The

Below, the process at the time of power-on performed with the pachinko machine 1 of 2nd embodiment is demonstrated using the flowchart as described in FIG.
Since the process of S200-S222 (FIG. 4) is the same as that of S100-S122 (FIG. 2) in 1st embodiment, description is abbreviate | omitted.

  In S224 (FIG. 5) that is shifted to when it is determined in S222 that the RAM clear switch 25 has changed from ON to OFF, the main controller 10 controls the payout controller 50 by the same method as in the first embodiment. It is determined whether or not the card unit 2 is connected. If the card unit 2 is connected (S224: Yes), the process proceeds to S226. If the card unit 2 is not connected (S224: No), the process proceeds to S214 (FIG. 4).

  In S <b> 226, the main control device 10 inquires of the payout control device 50 whether or not the information generated when the power supply is cut off in the payout control device 50 is normal. If a response indicating that the occurrence information is normal is obtained (S226: Yes), the process proceeds to S228, and if the response is not obtained (S226: No), S214 The process is transferred to.

  In S <b> 228, the main control device 10 instructs the payout control device 50 to calculate the determination value of the payout side RAM, and acquires the calculated determination value from the payout control device 50. Further, the determination value of the payout side RAM calculated by the payout control device 50 when the power is turned off and stored in the non-volatile storage means is read, and the process proceeds to S230.

  In S230, main controller 10 determines whether or not the newly calculated payout side RAM determination value matches the read out payout side RAM determination value. When an affirmative determination is obtained (S230: Yes), the process proceeds to S232, and when a negative determination is obtained (S230: No), the process proceeds to S214.

  In S232, the main control device 10 provides the payout control device 50 with the ball information that has not been output to the card unit 2 for storage in the game card in the payout side RAM (also described as unstored ball information). ) Is saved and a response is obtained. If the unsaved holding ball information is stored (S232: Yes), the process proceeds to S234. If the unsaved holding ball information is not stored (S232: No), the process proceeds to S214. To migrate.

  In S234, the main controller 10 instructs the payout controller 50 to save the ball holding information stored in the payout RAM to the card unit 2. The payout control device 50 transmits the ball holding information to the card unit 2 in accordance with the instruction, and stores the ball holding information in the RAM of the card unit 2. Then, when the saving of the ball holding information is completed, the main controller 10 shifts the process to S214.

  Note that the payout control device 50 moves the ball from the card unit 2 in response to an operation of a payout button (not shown) provided in the card unit 2 (which may be provided in the pachinko machine 1) after the payout side RAM is cleared. Information is acquired and the acquired ball information is stored in the payout side RAM. Moreover, it is good also as a structure which preserve | saves the ball-holding information evacuated to the card unit in the game card inserted in the card unit.

[effect]
According to the pachinko machine 1 of the second embodiment, when not connected to the card unit 2, when the RAM clear switch 25 is operated at startup, the main side RAM and the payout side RAM are cleared. For this reason, the RAM can be cleared without delay at the time of shipment of the pachinko machine 1 or the like.

  On the other hand, when the pachinko machine 1 is connected to the card unit 2 (when installed in a pachinko store or the like), when a RAM clear instruction is issued via the RAM clear switch 25, the main RAM is cleared. At the same time, the payout side RAM is cleared after the ball holding information is evacuated to the card unit 2.

  For this reason, it is possible to clear the RAM of the main control device 10 and the payout control device 50 without erasing the ball holding information stored in the RAM of the payout control device 50, and the initial without causing loss to the player. Can be made.

[Modification]
In the second embodiment, the RAM clear switch 25 is provided in the main control device 10, but instead, the RAM clear switch 25 may be provided in the payout control device 50.

  In such a case, the main control device 10 may determine the operation state of the RAM clear switch 25 by communicating with the payout control device 50, and similarly perform the process when the power is turned on.

  In addition to this, the dispensing control device 50 determines whether or not the RAM clear switch 25 is ON when the power is turned on. If it is ON, the main control device 10 is instructed to clear the main RAM. You may do it. In addition, it is determined whether or not the card unit 2 is connected to the payout control device 50. If the card unit 2 is connected, the payout side RAM is cleared after the ball holding information is saved in the card unit 2, and the clearing is performed. May be obtained from the card unit 2 and stored in the payout RAM. Of course, if the card unit 2 is not connected, the payout side RAM may be cleared.

  Even with such a configuration, the RAM can be cleared without losing the ball information stored in the payout side RAM, and initialization can be performed without losing the player. Can do.

  Further, the RAM clear switch 25 may be provided on the power supply board or the like. In such a case, the main controller 10 can determine the state of the RAM clear switch 25 by outputting a detection signal of the RAM clear switch 25 from the power supply board or the like to the main controller 10 or the payout controller 50. In the same manner, processing at power-on may be performed.

  The detection signal of the RAM clear switch 25 is output only to the main control device 10, and the main control device 10 discriminates the operation state of the RAM clear switch 25, depending on the presence / absence of unsaved holding ball information in the payout side RAM. Thus, the main RAM or the payout RAM may be cleared.

  In addition, the detection signal of the RAM clear switch 25 is output only to the payout control device 50, and the payout control device 50 determines the operation state of the RAM clear switch 25, depending on the presence / absence of unsaved holding ball information in the payout side RAM. Thus, the main RAM or the payout RAM may be cleared.

  In this way, the same effect can be exhibited regardless of whether the RAM clear switch 25 is provided in any of the main control device 10, the payout control device 50, and the power supply board (or other part).

[Third embodiment]
Next, the pachinko machine 1 of the third embodiment will be described. The pachinko machine 1 according to the third embodiment is different from the first and second embodiments in the RAM clearing process when the power is turned on.

Specifically, if the RAM clear switch 25 is ON when the power is turned on, both the main RAM and the payout RAM are cleared when the card unit 2 is not connected. On the other hand, when the card unit 2 is connected, an inquiry is made as to whether or not the ball holding information is cleared through the effect symbol display device 36, and a response to the inquiry received via the RAM clear switch 25 or the like. Thus, it is determined whether or not to clear the payout side RAM.

  FIG. 6 shows, as an example, an inquiry screen 250 displayed on the effect symbol display device 36 at the time of the inquiry. On the inquiry screen 250, the animal character Tatsuyoshi Kuma is displayed, the above inquiry is made, and whether or not to clear the ball holding information is selected by operating the RAM clear switch 25. Further, not only the RAM clear switch 25 but also a response to an inquiry may be received via a dedicated operation unit provided in the main control device 10.

Below, the process at the time of power-on performed in the pachinko machine 1 of 3rd embodiment is demonstrated using the flowchart as described in FIG.
Since the process of S300-S322 (FIG. 7) is the same as that of S100-S122 (FIG. 2) in 1st embodiment, description is abbreviate | omitted.

  In S324 (FIG. 8) that shifts when it is determined in S322 that the RAM clear switch 25 has changed from ON to OFF, the main controller 10 controls the payout controller 50 in the same manner as in the first embodiment. It is determined whether or not the card unit 2 is connected. If the card unit 2 is connected (S324: Yes), the process proceeds to S326. If the card unit 2 is not connected (S324: No), the process proceeds to S314 (FIG. 7).

  In S326, the main control device 10 inquires of the payout control device 50 whether or not the occurrence information at the time of power-off in the payout control device 50 is normal. If a response indicating that the occurrence information is normal is obtained (S326: Yes), the process proceeds to S328, and if the response is not obtained (S326: No), S314 The process is transferred to.

  In S <b> 328, the main control device 10 instructs the payout control device 50 to calculate the determination value of the payout side RAM, and acquires the calculated determination value from the payout control device 50. Also, the determination value of the payout side RAM calculated by the payout control device 50 when the power is turned off and stored in the nonvolatile storage means is read, and the process proceeds to S330.

  In S330, main controller 10 determines whether or not the newly calculated determination value of payout side RAM matches the read determination value of payout side RAM. When an affirmative determination is obtained (S330: Yes), the process proceeds to S332, and when a negative determination is obtained (S330: No), the process proceeds to S314.

  In S332, the main control apparatus 10 inquires of the payout control apparatus 50 whether or not the unsaved ball information is stored in the payout side RAM, and obtains a response. If the unsaved holding ball information is stored (S332: Yes), the process proceeds to S334. If the unsaved holding ball information is not stored (S332: No), the process proceeds to S314. To migrate.

  In S334, main controller 10 transmits a command to sub-integrated controller 30 and displays inquiry screen 250 as to whether or not to clear the ball-holding information (clear the payout side RAM) on effect symbol display device 36. Then, the process proceeds to S336.

Of course, the inquiry is not limited to the inquiry through the sub-integrated control device 30 and the production symbol display device 36, and for example, the same as that through the display device connected to the main control device 10, the speaker connected to the main control device 10, or the like. You may make an inquiry.

  In S336, main controller 10 determines whether or not an operation for permitting clearing of the ball holding information has been performed via RAM clear switch 25. When an affirmative determination is obtained (S336: Yes), the process proceeds to S314, and when a negative determination is obtained (S336: No), the process proceeds to S338.

  In S338, the main control apparatus 10 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed after the display of the inquiry screen is started, and an operation for not permitting clearing of the ball holding information is performed via the RAM clear switch 25. It is determined whether or not. If an affirmative determination is obtained in either determination (S338: Yes), the process proceeds to S304, and if a negative determination is obtained in both determinations (S338: No), The process proceeds to S336.

[effect]
According to the pachinko machine 1 of the third embodiment, when not connected to the card unit 2, when the RAM clear switch 25 is operated at startup, the main side RAM and the payout side RAM are cleared. For this reason, the RAM can be cleared without delay at the time of shipment of the pachinko machine 1 or the like.

  On the other hand, when the pachinko machine 1 is connected to the card unit 2 (when installed in a pachinko store or the like), the ball holding information is cleared when a RAM clear instruction is issued via the RAM clear switch 25. An inquiry is made as to whether or not. When a response to clear the holding ball information is obtained, the main side RAM and the payout side RAM are cleared, and when the response is not obtained, the main side RAM is cleared. .

For this reason, it is possible to prevent the lost ball information from disappearing against the player's intention, and initialization can be performed without causing any loss to the player.
[Modification]
In response to an inquiry as to whether or not to clear the ball-holding information (clearing the payout-side RAM) during the process of turning on the power, an operation that does not permit clearing of the ball-holding information via the RAM clear switch 25. In a case where the main controller 10 clears the main RAM, the main controller 10 may clear the main RAM.

  Further, at this time, the main control device 10 may instruct other devices other than the payout control device 50 to clear the RAM mounted on the device, or the payout control device 50 described above. Some clear instructions may be given. By doing so, the RAM can be cleared while the disappearance of the holding ball information is prevented.

  In the third embodiment, the RAM clear switch 25 is provided in the main control device 10, but instead, for example, the payout control device 50 may be provided with the RAM clear switch 25. Then, main controller 10 may determine the state of RAM clear switch 25 by communicating with payout controller 50, the power supply board, and the like, and may perform similar processing based on the determination result. By doing so, the same effect can be obtained.

  Further, a RAM clear switch 25 may be provided on a power supply board or the like, and a detection signal of the RAM clear switch 25 may be output to the main control device 10 so that the main control device 10 can determine the state of the RAM clear switch 25. . Even in such a case, the main control device 10 can similarly perform the process when the power is turned on, and can obtain the same effect.

[Fourth embodiment]
Next, a pachinko machine 1 according to a fourth embodiment will be described. The pachinko machine 1 of the fourth embodiment is the first in that the main side RAM clear switch 26 is connected to the main control device 10 and the payout side RAM clear switch 54 is connected to the payout control device 50. -It is different from 3rd embodiment (refer FIG. 9).

  Then, the RAM to be cleared changes depending on whether the main RAM clear switch 26 is ON when the power is turned on or the payout RAM clear switch 54 is ON.

  Specifically, when the main RAM clear switch 26 is ON when the power is turned on, the main RAM is cleared if the card unit 2 is connected, and if the card unit 2 is not connected, The main side RAM and the payout side RAM are cleared. When the payout-side RAM clear switch 54 is turned on when the power is turned on, the main-side RAM and the payout-side RAM are cleared regardless of whether the card unit 2 is connected.

Below, the process at the time of power-on performed in the pachinko machine 1 of 4th embodiment is demonstrated using the flowchart as described in FIG.
When the power of the pachinko machine 1 is turned on, the main controller 10 performs an initial process (S400) at the time of turning on the power, and then, based on the signal from the main RAM clear switch 26, the main RAM clear switch 26 It is determined whether or not it is ON. When an affirmative determination is obtained (S402: Yes), the process proceeds to S404, and when a negative determination is obtained (S402: No), the process proceeds to S406.

  In S404, main controller 10 determines whether or not main RAM clear switch 26 is OFF. If an affirmative determination is obtained (S404: Yes), the process proceeds to S428 (FIG. 11). If a negative determination is obtained (S404: No), the process proceeds to S404 again (that is, waits until the main RAM clear switch 26 is turned off).

  In S406, the main control device 10 inquires the payout control device 50 about the ON / OFF state of the payout side RAM clear switch 54, and determines whether or not the payout side RAM clear switch 54 is ON based on a response to the inquiry. . When an affirmative determination is obtained (S406: Yes), the process proceeds to S408, and when a negative determination is obtained (S406: No), the process proceeds to S410.

  In S408, the main control device 10 inquires of the payout control device 50 whether or not the payout side RAM clear switch 54 is OFF, and if a response indicating that it is OFF is obtained (S408: Yes), S420. If a response indicating ON is obtained (S408: No), the process proceeds to S408 again (that is, waits until the payout-side RAM clear switch 54 is turned OFF). .

  The detection signal from the payout-side RAM clear switch 54 may also be input to the main control device 10, and the main control device 10 may determine the operation state of the payout-side RAM clear switch 54 based on the detection signal. .

  Subsequent S410 to S426 are the same as S104 to S120 (FIG. 2) in the first embodiment, and S428 to S452 (FIG. 11) are the same as S124 to S148 (FIG. 3) in the first embodiment. Therefore, the description is omitted.

[effect]
According to the pachinko machine 1 of the fourth embodiment, when not connected to the card unit 2, when the main RAM clear switch 26 or the payout RAM clear switch 54 is operated at startup, the main RAM and the payout The side RAM is cleared. For this reason, the RAM can be cleared without delay at the time of shipment of the pachinko machine 1 or the like.

  On the other hand, when the pachinko machine 1 is connected to the card unit 2 (when installed in a pachinko store or the like), when the main RAM clear switch 26 is operated at the time of activation, the main RAM is cleared, When the payout side RAM clear switch 54 is operated, the main side RAM and the payout side RAM are cleared. For this reason, it is possible to select whether or not to clear the RAM that accompanies clearing of the ball-holding information, depending on whether or not the game is in progress.

Therefore, it is possible to prevent the possession ball information from disappearing due to the RAM clear against the player's intention during the game, and the initialization can be performed without losing the player.
[Modification]
In the fourth embodiment, the main control device 10 is provided with a main RAM clear switch 26, and the payout control device 50 is provided with a payout RAM clear switch 54. However, instead of this, for example, the main controller 10 may be provided with a main RAM clear switch 26 and a payout RAM clear switch. Even in such a case, the process at the time of power-on can be similarly performed.

Further, for example, the payout control device 50 may be provided with a main side RAM clear switch and a payout side RAM clear switch 54.
In such a case, the payout control device 50 determines whether or not the main side RAM clear switch is ON when the power is turned on, and if it is ON, the main control device 10 is cleared of the main side RAM. May be instructed.

  At this time, the payout control device 50 determines whether or not the card unit 2 is connected to its own device, and in the case of an affirmative determination, clears the non-storage area in the payout side RAM (or the payout side). In the case of a negative determination, the entire area of the payout side RAM may be cleared.

  The payout control device 50 determines whether or not the payout side RAM clear switch 54 is ON when the power is turned on. If the payout control device 50 is ON, the main control device 10 is instructed to clear the main side RAM, and The payout side RAM may be cleared.

  Even with such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the ball holding information from disappearing due to the RAM clear against the player's intention, and to perform initialization without losing the player. Can do.

  Further, the main-side RAM clear switch 26 and the payout-side RAM clear switch 54 may be provided on the power supply board and the like, and the detection signals of these switches may be output to the main control device 10 or the payout control device 50. Even in such a case, the main control device 10 and the payout control device 50 can determine the state of the main RAM clear switch 26 and the payout RAM clear switch 54. Processing can be performed, and similar effects can be obtained.

[Fifth embodiment]
Next, a pachinko machine 1 according to a fifth embodiment will be described. The pachinko machine 1 of the fifth embodiment is different from the first to fourth embodiments in that the operation unit 27 is connected to the main controller 10 and the RAM clearing process at power-on (FIG. 12). reference).

Specifically, if the RAM clear switch 25 is ON when the power is turned on, both the main RAM and the payout RAM are cleared when the card unit 2 is not connected. On the other hand, when the card unit 2 is connected, the process shifts to an initialization mode for inquiring whether to perform RAM clear with clearing of ball holding information (in other words, selecting a RAM to be cleared). .

  During the initialization mode, the effect symbol display device 36 displays an initialization menu screen 260 (see FIG. 13) on which the animal character Tatsuyoshi Bear is drawn. On the initialization menu screen 260, a left button 261 for selecting clear of the main RAM (initializing only game information) and clearing of the main RAM and the payout RAM (initialization of all information including ball holding information) And a right button 263 for selecting cancel of RAM clear (cancel initialization), and any button can be selected via the operation unit 27.

  When clearing the main RAM or the main RAM and the payout RAM is selected, an initialization screen 270 is displayed on the effect symbol display device 36, and the RAM is cleared according to the selection result.

  Note that the above selection may be accepted via the RAM clear switch 25 instead of the operation unit 27. Further, for example, a detection signal from a switch provided on the payout control device 50 or a power supply board may be input to the main control device 10, and the selection may be received via the switch.

Below, the process at the time of power-on performed with the pachinko machine 1 of 5th embodiment is demonstrated using the flowchart as described in FIG.
Since the process of S500-S522 (FIG. 14) is the same as that of S100-S122 (FIG. 2) in 1st embodiment, description is abbreviate | omitted.

  In S524 (FIG. 15) that proceeds when it is determined in S522 that the RAM clear switch 25 has changed from ON to OFF, the main controller 10 controls the payout controller 50 in the same manner as in the first embodiment. It is determined whether or not the card unit 2 is connected. If the card unit 2 is connected (S524: Yes), the process proceeds to S526. If not connected (S526: No), the process proceeds to S514 (FIG. 14).

  In S526, the main control device 10 inquires of the payout control device 50 whether or not the information generated when the power supply in the payout control device 50 is turned off is normal. If a response indicating that the occurrence information is normal is obtained (S526: Yes), the process proceeds to S528, and if the response is not obtained (S526: No), S514 The process is transferred to.

  In S <b> 528, the main control device 10 calculates the determination value of the main RAM, instructs the payout control device 50 to calculate the determination value of the payout RAM, and acquires the calculated determination value from the payout control device 50. To do. Further, the determination value of the main RAM calculated by the main control device 10 when the power is turned off and stored in the non-volatile storage means, and the payout calculated by the payout control device 50 when the power is turned off and stored in the storage means. The determination value of the side RAM is read, and the process proceeds to S530.

In S530, the main control apparatus 10 determines whether or not the newly calculated main RAM determination value matches the read main RAM determination value, and the newly calculated payout side RAM. It is determined whether or not the determination value matches the read determination value of the payout side RAM. If a positive determination is obtained in both determinations (S530: Yes), the process proceeds to S532, and if a negative determination is obtained in at least one determination (S530: No),
The process proceeds to S514.

  In S532, main controller 10 shifts to the initialization mode. That is, a command is transmitted to the sub-integrated control device 30 to display the initialization screen 260 on the effect symbol display device 36, and reception of selection of a RAM to be cleared is started via the operation unit 27.

  A configuration is also possible in which the initialization screen 260 is not displayed on the effect symbol display device 36 but is displayed on a dedicated display device directly controlled by the main control device 10 or the payout control device 50. As a result, the main RAM and the payout RAM can be cleared without transmitting a command to the sub integrated control device 30.

  In addition, when making an inquiry in the initialization mode by displaying the initialization screen 260, in order to smoothly respond to the inquiry, a display device that displays the initialization screen 260 and an operation unit for receiving the response It is desirable to arrange 27 so that it can be seen simultaneously.

  On the other hand, it is also conceivable to make an inquiry in the initialization mode by voice without using the initialization screen 260. In such a case, the operation unit 27 can be freely arranged as compared with the case where the initialization screen 260 is used.

  In subsequent S534, main controller 10 determines whether or not clearing of main RAM and payout RAM has been selected (medium button 262 in initialization screen 260 has been selected). If an affirmative determination is obtained (S534: Yes), the process proceeds to S514. If a negative determination is obtained (S534: No), the process proceeds to S536.

  In S536, main controller 10 determines whether or not clearing of main RAM is selected (left button 261 in initialization screen 260 is selected). When an affirmative determination is obtained (S536: Yes), the process proceeds to S542, and when a negative determination is obtained (S536: No), the process proceeds to S538.

  In S538, main controller 10 determines whether or not RAM clear cancellation has been selected (right button 263 in initialization screen 260 has been selected). When an affirmative determination is obtained (S538: Yes), the process proceeds to S510, and when a negative determination is obtained (S538: No), the process proceeds to S540.

  In S540, main controller 10 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed after the start of the initialization mode. When an affirmative determination is obtained (S540: Yes), the process proceeds to S510, and when a negative determination is obtained (S540: No), the process proceeds to S534.

  In S542, the main controller 10 clears the entire area of the main RAM. At this time, the main control device 10 may issue a partial clear instruction to the payout control device 50, and the payout control device 50 may clear the non-storage area in response to the partial clear instruction. Further, other devices other than the payout control device 50 such as the sub integrated control device 30 may be instructed to clear the RAM mounted on the device.

Thereafter, main controller 10 performs initial value random number setting processing (S544), initial setting of main RAM (S546), and proceeds to S510.
[effect]
According to the pachinko machine 1 of the fifth embodiment, when not connected to the card unit 2, when the RAM clear switch 25 is operated at startup, the main side RAM and the payout side RAM are cleared. For this reason, the RAM can be cleared without delay at the time of shipment of the pachinko machine 1 or the like.

  On the other hand, when the pachinko machine 1 is connected to the card unit 2 (when installed in a pachinko store or the like), if a RAM clear instruction is issued via the RAM clear switch 25, the ball holding information is cleared. An inquiry is made as to whether or not to perform the RAM clear (in other words, the RAM to be cleared is selected), and the mode shifts to an initialization mode. Then, according to the operation received during the initialization mode, it is determined whether the main side RAM and the payout side RAM are cleared or the main side RAM is cleared.

For this reason, it is possible to prevent the lost ball information from disappearing against the player's intention, and initialization can be performed without causing any loss to the player.
[Modification 1]
In the fifth embodiment, when the RAM clear switch 25 is ON when the power is turned on, the card unit 2 is connected to the initialization mode when the card unit 2 is connected, but the card unit 2 is connected and When the unsaved ball information is stored in the payout side RAM, the configuration may be such that the mode is shifted to the initialization mode.

  That is, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 16, in S530 in the power-on process performed in the pachinko machine 1 of the fifth embodiment, an affirmative determination is made in the determination for both the main RAM and the payout RAM. If obtained, the main controller 10 proceeds to S531.

  In S531, the main control apparatus 10 inquires of the payout control apparatus 50 whether or not the unsaved ball information is stored in the payout side RAM, and obtains a response. If the unsaved holding ball information is stored (S531: Yes), the process proceeds to S532. If the unsaved holding ball information is not stored (S531: No), the process proceeds to S514. To migrate.

  If the RAM clear switch 25 is ON when the power is turned on, it is not determined whether or not the card unit 2 is connected, and it is determined whether or not unsaved holding ball information is stored in the payout side RAM. good. And when unsaved holding ball information is preserve | saved, it transfers to initialization mode, and when the unsaved holding ball information is not preserve | saved, it is the structure which clears main side RAM and payout side RAM. Also good.

  As a result, when the unsaved ball information is not stored in the payout side RAM and the payout side RAM is cleared, there is no problem, and the initialization mode is not entered. For this reason, there is no need to select a RAM to be cleared in such a case, and unnecessary labor can be saved.

[Modification 2]
In the fifth embodiment, the RAM clear switch 25 is provided in the main control device 10, but instead, for example, the payout control device 50 may be provided with the RAM clear switch 25. The main control device 10 may determine the state of the payout-side RAM clear switch by communicating with the payout control device 50 and perform the same processing.

Even in such a case, it is possible to prevent the lost ball information from disappearing against the player's intention, and the initialization can be performed without losing the player.
Further, a RAM clear switch 25 may be provided on a power supply board or the like, and a detection signal of the RAM clear switch 25 may be output to the main control device 10 so that the main control device 10 can determine the state of the RAM clear switch 25. . Even in such a case, the main control device 10 can similarly perform the process when the power is turned on, and can obtain the same effect.

[Other Embodiments]
(1) The pachinko machine 1 according to the first to fifth embodiments has, as an example, a so-called digi-pachi type that has first and second start ports and performs a lottery lottery due to entering the start ports. It is configured as a pachinko machine. However, without being limited to this, the present invention can be applied to the pachinko machine 1 configured as a sealed type.

  Moreover, in the pachinko machine 1 according to the first to fifth embodiments, as an example, the launch unit is provided at the upper left of the game board, but the present invention is not limited thereto. A launch unit may be provided below the game board. Even in such a case, the same effect can be obtained.

  (2) Also in the pachinko machine 1 of the first and fourth embodiments, when the RAM clear switch 25 is operated at the time of activation, if the unsaved holding ball information is not saved in the payout side RAM, the main side The RAM and the payout side RAM may be cleared. Even in such a case, the RAM can be cleared without losing the player.

[Correspondence with Claims]
The correspondence between the terms used in the description of the above embodiment and the terms used in the description of the claims is shown.

The pachinko machine 1 corresponds to a ball game machine, and the sub integrated control device 30 corresponds to a notification device.
Moreover, S114 and S126 of the process at the time of power-on in the first embodiment correspond to the main side clearing means and the payout side clearing means.

  In the second embodiment, S214 of the process at the time of power-on corresponds to the main side clearing means, and S214 and S234 correspond to the payout side clearing means.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Pachinko machine, 2 ... Card unit, 10 ... Main controller, 11 ... Game board relay terminal board, 12 ... 1st starting port SW, 13 ... 2nd starting port SW, 14 ... Normal symbol action | operation SW, 15 ... Left Winning mouth SW, 16 ... Right winning mouth SW, 17 ... Count SW, 18 ... Magnet sensor, 19 ... Radio wave sensor, 20 ... Large winning mouth solenoid, 21 ... Electric utility solenoid, 22 ... Prize ball number display device, 23 ... Glass frame opening SW, 24 ... Inner frame opening SW, 25 ... RAM clear switch, 26 ... Main side RAM clear switch, 27 ... Operation unit, 30 ... Sub integrated control device, 31 ... Speaker, 33 ... Jog dial, 34 ... Production Button, 35. Design symbol control device, 36 ... Design symbol display device, 40 ... Symbol display device relay terminal board, 41 ... Special figure display device, 42 ... Special figure reservation number display device, 43 ... Normal symbol display device, 44 Multi-purpose hold number display device, 50 ... Payment control device, 51 ... Card unit terminal plate, 52 ... Balance display device, 52a ... Return SW, 52b ... Lending SW, 53 ... Inner frame relay terminal plate, 53a ... Suitable amount sensor, 53b ... Full sensor, 53c ... Night monitoring switch, 53d ... Winning ball sensor, 53e ... Out ball sensor, 54 ... Payout side RAM clear switch, 60 ... Operation unit relay terminal plate, 60a ... Count SW, 60b ... Number of balls held Device 61... Launch operation unit relay terminal plate 61 a. Hand volume 61 b touch touch 61 c fire stop SW 62 launch device relay terminal 62 a ball feed sensor 62 b launch inlet sensor 62 c launch Motor 62d ... Ball feed solenoid 63 ... Polishing device relay terminal board 63a ... Cassette switch 63b Polishing motor sensor 63c ... Ttomota, 63d ... polishing motor, 64 ... elevating relay terminal plate, 64a ... elevating motor, 64b ... elevating inlet sensor, 64c ... elevating motor monitoring sensors.

Claims (1)

The game balls launched on the game board by the launch unit are collected, and the collected game balls are fired again by the launch unit, so that a predetermined number of game balls enclosed in the inside are cyclically used to play the game. It is an enclosed ball game machine,
The ball game machine controls the progress of the game and has a main control device having a main RAM for storing information related to the game;
A ball unit that is configured to be connectable to a card unit that can access a game card, manages the number of balls that are the game balls used in the game on the ball game machine, and indicates the number of balls held A payout control device having a payout side RAM for storing
A RAM clear switch for accepting a RAM clear instruction for instructing clearing of the RAM provided in the ball game machine;
The main control device is a notification means for notifying the payout control device of the number of prize balls given to a player when a game ball enters the prize opening provided in the game board;
When the RAM clear instruction is received together with the start of the ball game machine, the main side clear means for clearing the main side RAM is further included,
The payout control device is stored in the payout side RAM according to the information acquired from the card unit, the launch of game balls by the launch unit, and the number of prize balls acquired from the main control device. Updating means for updating the ball information;
Storage means for notifying the card unit of the ball information stored in the payout-side RAM via a predetermined operation;
When the RAM clear instruction is received together with the start of the ball game machine, the payout side RAM is cleared when the payout control device is not connected to the card unit, and the payout control device Is connected to the card unit, the ball holding information stored in the payout side RAM is notified to the card unit, and after the card unit stores the ball holding information, the payout side RAM is cleared. Further having a payout side clearing means,
Enclosed ball game machine characterized by