JP2015097627A - Game recorder, electronic device, pinball game machine, and game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game recorder, or the like capable of reliably detecting an abnormal putout ball rate of a pinball game machine.SOLUTION: A game recorder 200 mounted to a pinball game machine is configured to output an abnormal signal when detecting an abnormal putout ball rate of the pinball game machine. The game recorder 200 comprises, for example, a board 210 for mounting an output part 280 for outputting an abnormal signal, a microcomputer 260, and the like, and a metallic board box 220 surrounding the board 210 in a state, where the output part 280 is forced out to the outside, and in a state, where opening is difficult or disabled. The board box 220 is composed of a side part 222, an upper face part 221, and a bottom face part 223, and is configured by bonding the parts using a method, such as welding and press-bonding.

Description

  The present invention relates to a game recorder and an electronic device installed in a ball game machine, a ball game machine equipped with the game recorder, and a game machine equipped with the electronic device.

In recent years, various rules have been provided to keep the game play rate of gaming machines within a limited range, and this tends to make the game content on gaming machines uniform.
Moreover, even if the game machine has passed the test of the payout rate, if it is operated for a long period of time, the payout rate may temporarily exceed the limit range.

  Here, Patent Document 1 describes an outgoing ball abnormality management device that monitors the state of outgoing balls in a plurality of gaming machines.

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-85418

  If the ball exit abnormality management device described in Patent Document 1 is used, it can be detected that the game play rate of the gaming machine exceeds the limit range. However, there is a possibility that unauthorized modification of the ball exit abnormality management device or data may be tampered with, which may make it impossible to detect an abnormality in the ball withdrawal rate.

  This invention is made | formed in view of the said subject, and it aims at providing the game recorder etc. which can detect reliably the abnormality of the payout rate of a ball game machine.

  The invention according to claim 1 made in view of the above problems is a game recorder mounted on a ball game machine, and is based on information acquired from a device mounted on a ball game machine. The number of fired balls, which is the number of game balls launched in the game, and the number of prize balls, which is the number of game balls given to the player in the game, are calculated. Based on the number of balls, a calculating means for calculating a payout rate, which is the degree to which a player has given a game ball, and whether the payout rate calculated by the calculating means is abnormal is abnormal. In some cases, the apparatus includes an output unit that outputs an abnormal signal to the outside, and a cover unit that covers the calculation unit and the output unit in a manner that is difficult or impossible to open.

  According to such a configuration, the calculating means for calculating the payout rate and the output means for outputting an abnormal signal indicating that the payout rate has become abnormal are covered by the cover means. Unauthorized remodeling and data tampering can be prevented, and abnormality in the payout rate can be reliably detected.

  In addition, even a ball game machine that has passed the test of the payout rate may temporarily exceed the limit range. Is output.

  For this reason, it is possible to warn or stop the game in response to an abnormal signal on a ball game machine, etc. Business can be stopped.

  In addition, since the game can be stopped when the payout rate exceeds the limit range, it is not necessary to provide a complicated rule, and a variety of games can be provided without being bound by the rule. The configuration of the ball game machine can be simplified.

Moreover, it is not necessary to calculate the estimated value of the payout rate by complicated calculation, and the inspection related to the payout rate can be simplified.
In addition, as described in claim 2, the game recorder is connected to a main control device that controls the progress of the game in the ball game machine, and the calculation means uses the information acquired from the main control device. Based on this, the number of shot balls and the number of prize balls may be calculated.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, the game recorder is connected to a payout control device that controls a ball held in a game in a ball game machine, and the calculation means is obtained from the payout control device. Based on the obtained information, the number of shot balls and the number of prize balls may be calculated.

By doing so, the payout rate can be calculated reliably.
In addition, as described in claim 4, the ball game machine is mounted on an enclosed ball game machine that plays a game by circulating a predetermined number of game balls enclosed therein. A game recorder connected to a main control device that controls the progress of the game, and the degree to which a player has given a game ball based on a change in the number of balls of the player specified by information acquired from the main control device A calculating means for estimating a payout rate, an output means for determining whether or not the payout rate estimated by the calculating means is abnormal, and outputting an abnormal signal to the outside if abnormal, and a calculation And a cover means that covers the means and the output means in a manner that makes it difficult or impossible to open.

  According to such a configuration, the calculating means for calculating the payout rate and the output means for outputting an abnormal signal indicating that the payout rate has become abnormal are covered by the cover means. Unauthorized remodeling and data tampering can be prevented, and abnormality in the payout rate can be reliably detected.

  In addition, even a ball game machine that has passed the test of the payout rate may temporarily exceed the limit range. Is output.

  For this reason, it is possible to warn or stop the game in response to an abnormal signal on a ball game machine, etc. Business can be stopped.

  In addition, since the game can be stopped when the payout rate exceeds the limit range, it is not necessary to provide a complicated rule, and a variety of games can be provided without being bound by the rule. The configuration of the ball game machine can be simplified.

Moreover, it is not necessary to calculate the estimated value of the payout rate by complicated calculation, and the inspection related to the payout rate can be simplified.
In addition, as described in claim 5, it is mounted on an enclosed ball game machine that plays a game by circulating a predetermined number of game balls enclosed therein, A game recorder connected to a payout control device that performs control for managing a ball in a game, based on a change in the number of balls held by the player specified by information acquired from the payout control device. And calculating means for estimating a payout rate, which is the degree to which a game ball has been given to the player, and determining whether or not the payout rate estimated by the calculating means is abnormal. Output means for outputting, and cover means for covering the calculation means and the output means in a manner that is difficult or impossible to open may be provided.

  According to such a configuration, the calculating means for calculating the payout rate and the output means for outputting an abnormal signal indicating that the payout rate has become abnormal are covered by the cover means. Unauthorized remodeling and data tampering can be prevented, and abnormality in the payout rate can be reliably detected.

  In addition, even a ball game machine that has passed the test of the payout rate may temporarily exceed the limit range. Is output.

  For this reason, it is possible to warn or stop the game in response to an abnormal signal on a ball game machine, etc. Business can be stopped.

  In addition, since the game can be stopped when the payout rate exceeds the limit range, it is not necessary to provide a complicated rule, and a variety of games can be provided without being bound by the rule. The configuration of the ball game machine can be simplified.

Moreover, it is not necessary to calculate the estimated value of the payout rate by complicated calculation, and the inspection related to the payout rate can be simplified.
In addition, as described in claim 6, a power supply circuit for supplying power to each part of the device itself may be further provided, and the power supply circuit may not be covered by the cover means.

  According to such a configuration, the heat generated by the power supply circuit does not spread into the space covered by the cover means, and it is possible to prevent abnormal processing or failure from occurring due to the heat. Can do.

In addition, as described in claim 7, the apparatus may further include a backup power source that supplies power to each part of the device itself, and the cover unit may further cover the backup power source.
According to such a configuration, even when power supply to the game recorder is stopped, power can be supplied from the backup power source, and data necessary for calculating the payout rate can be retained. Become.

  Further, as described in claim 8, the information used by the calculation means is obtained from a device mounted on a ball game machine through a wiring connected to the game recorder, and covers The means may further cover the connection portion of the wiring.

According to such a configuration, an illegal act of causing the game recorder to acquire illegal information through the connection portion of the wiring is not possible, and it is possible to detect an abnormality in the payout rate more reliably.
Further, as described in claim 9, an electronic device mounted on a gaming machine, an electronic circuit having a predetermined function, and a cover means for covering the electronic circuit in a manner that is difficult or impossible to open And a power supply circuit that supplies electric power to each part of the device itself and is not covered by the cover means.

According to such a configuration, since the electronic circuit is covered by the cover means, unauthorized modification and data tampering can be prevented, and security can be improved.
Further, as described in claim 10, the cover means may further cover a connection portion of a wiring that connects the electronic circuit and another device mounted on the ball game machine.

According to such a configuration, it is not possible to perform an illegal act such as causing the electronic circuit to acquire illegal information via the connection portion of the wiring, and security can be further improved.
Further, as described in claim 11, the electronic circuit may have a function as a calculation unit and an output unit described in any one of claims 1 to 8. .

  According to such a configuration, the calculating means for calculating the payout rate and the output means for outputting an abnormal signal indicating that the payout rate has become abnormal are covered by the cover means. Unauthorized remodeling and data tampering can be prevented, and abnormality in the payout rate can be reliably detected.

  In addition, even a ball game machine that has passed the test of the payout rate may temporarily exceed the limit range. Is output.

  For this reason, it is possible to warn or stop the game in response to an abnormal signal on a ball game machine, etc. Business can be stopped.

  In addition, since the game can be stopped when the payout rate exceeds the limit range, it is not necessary to provide a complicated rule, and a variety of games can be provided without being bound by the rule. The configuration of the ball game machine can be simplified.

Moreover, it is not necessary to calculate the estimated value of the payout rate by complicated calculation, and the inspection related to the payout rate can be simplified.
Further, as described in claim 12, a ball game machine equipped with the game recorder described in any one of claims 1 to 8 may be configured.

  According to such a configuration, since the calculating means for calculating the payout rate and the output means for outputting an abnormal signal indicating that the payout rate has become abnormal are covered by the cover means, Data falsification can be prevented, and an abnormality in the payout rate can be reliably detected.

  In addition, even a ball game machine that has passed the test of the payout rate may temporarily exceed the limit range. Is output.

  For this reason, it is possible to warn or stop the game in response to an abnormal signal on a ball game machine, etc. Business can be stopped.

  In addition, since it is possible to reliably keep the payout rate within the limit range without providing complicated rules, it is possible to provide a variety of games without being restricted by the rules, and The configuration of the gaming machine can be simplified.

Moreover, it is not necessary to calculate the estimated value of the payout rate by complicated calculation, and the inspection related to the payout rate can be simplified.
Further, as described in claim 13, a gaming machine equipped with the electronic device described in any one of claims 9 to 12 may be configured.

  According to such a configuration, since the electronic circuit mounted on the electronic device is covered by the cover means, unauthorized modification to the electronic circuit and data tampering can be prevented, and security can be improved. it can.

It is the front view which represented typically the enclosure type game machine in 1st Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which showed typically the mechanism of circulation of the game ball in the enclosure type game machine of 1st Embodiment from the back. It is a block diagram which shows the electric constitution of the enclosure type game machine of 1st Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the electric constitution of the enclosure type game machine of 1st Embodiment. It is typical sectional drawing of the game recorder of 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart about the unit processing 1 of the first embodiment. It is a flowchart about the unit process 2 of 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart about the unit process 3 of 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart about the insertion signal reception process of 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart about the ball lending request signal reception process of 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart about the holding ball addition / subtraction process of 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart about the IN / OUT management process of 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart about the adjustment process of 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart about the start winning process of 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart about the success / failure determination processing of the first embodiment. It is a flowchart about the card | curd discharge alerting | reporting process of 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart about the discharge confirmation signal reception process of 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart about the discharge signal reception process of 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart about the insertion confirmation signal reception process of 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart about a ball counter increase / decrease confirmation process of 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart about the discharge | release state cancellation | release process of 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart about the adjustment alerting | reporting process of 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart about the payout rate calculation process of 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart about the payout rate calculation process of 3rd 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]
(1) Overall Configuration FIG. 1 is a front view of an encapsulated ball game machine 50 (hereinafter also referred to as an encapsulated game machine 50) according to a first embodiment in which a game ball is enclosed in the machine to play a game. . As shown in FIG. 1, the enclosed gaming machine 50 is arranged in a gaming facility next to the inter-unit unit 100. The inter-unit unit 100 is provided with a card insertion slot 100a and a cash insertion slot 100b. By inserting an IC card into the card insertion slot 100a or inserting cash into the cash insertion slot 100b, an enclosed game The ball lending button 102a provided on the machine 50 can be operated (ball lending is possible).

  The enclosed game machine 50 has a structure in which each part is held by an outer frame 51 that forms a vertically long fixed outer frame holding frame. A hinge 53 is provided on the upper left and right sides of the outer frame 51, and an inner frame 70 is attached to the hinge 53. The inner frame 70 can be opened and closed with respect to the outer frame 51. .

  A front frame 52 is attached to the inner frame 70 by a hinge 53 or the like so that it can be opened and closed. A plate glass 61 is detachably provided on the front frame 52. A game board 1 attached to the inner frame 70 is arranged. Therefore, when the front frame 52 is opened, it is possible to directly enter the game ball into the winning opening. In addition, even when the plate glass 61 is removed from the front frame 52, it is possible to directly enter the game ball into the winning opening, and in this state or the state in which the front frame 52 is opened during the test before shipping from the manufacturer. Tests are performed.

  Speakers (not shown) are provided on the upper left and right of the front frame 52, and the game sound generated from the enclosed game machine 50 is output to improve the player's preference. Further, in order to improve the player's preference, a plurality of frame side decorative lamps (not shown) that emit light according to the gaming state are provided in the front frame 52. In addition, a winning display device 20 is arranged at the lower right portion of the front frame 52, and when a game ball wins a winning opening described later, the number of winning balls set for each winning opening is displayed.

  On the lower right side of the front frame 52, a launch operation unit 107 for launching a game ball is disposed, and a handstand 71 is attached below the launch operation unit 107. The hand table 71 is a table on which a player's hand performing a constant launch operation is placed. The firing operation unit 107 includes a firing strength adjustment switch 108, a sliding operation unit 107a that a player operates to launch a game ball, a firing stop switch 111 disposed on the upper portion of the sliding operation unit 107a, and a firing strength. Is configured by a firing intensity fixing switch 110 that is operated when the player is fixed, a firing intensity display unit 107b that indicates a numerical value of the firing intensity, and a touch sensor 112 (not shown) that senses a player's operation. The firing intensity increases as the sliding operation unit 107a is operated in the right direction. In the first embodiment, the firing strength is adjusted using the slide switch, but the invention is not limited to this, and a configuration in which the firing strength is adjusted according to the rotation amount of the so-called launching handle may be used.

  A cylinder lock 36 for operating a slide lock that can regulate the opening of both the inner frame 70 and the front frame 52 is arranged on the upper right of the firing operation unit 107 (the right end of the enclosed game machine 50), and a key can be inserted. It has become. The cylinder lock 36 is a variable lock that can freely change the type of key for unlocking. By using such a variable lock in the enclosed game machine 50, the game store can All the gaming machines arranged in the store can be set as a store-specific key (one type).

  On the left side of the firing operation unit 107, a control unit 8 serving as an interface with the player is provided. The control unit 8 includes an operation unit device 102 (touch panel type liquid crystal display) serving as a touch panel type liquid crystal display, a count switch 105, a game ball number display device 106, a mode changeover switch 151, and a game mode end. A switch 152 and a test hit mode selection switch 153 are arranged. On the touch panel of the operation unit device 102, a ball lending button 102a, a return button 102b, a screen switching button 102c, and an operation result display unit 102d indicating operation results of the ball lending button 102a and the return button 102b are provided. Yes.

  It should be noted that buttons (ball lending button 102a, counting switch 105, return button 102b) for lending a ball from an IC card, paying a ball and returning the IC card, etc. may be arranged in the inter-unit unit 100. Thus, by combining operations such as ball lending and settlement in the inter-unit unit 100, it is possible to clearly distinguish the operations related to the effects related to the game. In the first embodiment, the ball lending button 102a, the return button 102b, and the screen switching button 102c are arranged on the touch panel type liquid crystal display. However, even if these operation buttons are changed to mechanical operation buttons. There is no problem.

  The front plate portion provided with the control unit 8 can also be opened and closed from the inner frame 70 by the hinge 53 or the like, but since the front frame 52 is installed so as to cover the front plate portion, only when the front frame 52 is opened. The front plate part can be opened.

  FIG. 1 schematically shows the state of the game area 3 of the game board 1 located in the back of the glass plate 61. The game area 3 is a substantially circular area surrounded by the guide rails 16, and a large number of game nails are planted. A game ball launched from the launching device 87 arranged at the upper left of the game board 1 is The game area 3 flows down immediately after launch.

  A center case and a window in which a warp passage, a stage, and the like are formed are provided in a substantially central portion of the game area 3, and a liquid crystal screen of the effect symbol display device 6 is disposed behind the window. In addition to these, in the game area 3, the normal symbol operating gate 17 that can always win, the first starting port 11, the second starting port 12 configured as an ordinary electric accessory, and the general winning port 13 are provided. , An attacker-type large winning opening 14 and the like (winning opening) and an out opening 15 are provided, and the first special figure display device, the second special figure display device, and the normal symbol display are provided at the lower right of the game area 3. A device, a first special figure reservation number display device, a second special figure reservation number display device, a general figure reservation number display device, and the like are provided. In this way, the first and second special symbols are both displayed small in the corners of the game area, and the lottery results corresponding to the special symbols are notified by the effect symbol display device 6 provided in the center of the game area. In addition to performing a special design pseudo-effect, the pseudo-effect gives the player a sense of expectation for the lottery result.

  By configuring the game board 1 as described above, when a game ball enters the normal symbol operation gate 17 (the normal symbol operation switch 17a (see FIG. 3) detects the game ball), the normal symbol display device displays the normal symbol. Starts a variable display and drives a normal electric solenoid 12b (see FIG. 3), which will be described later, according to the mode of the normal symbol stopped after a predetermined time. When the normal electric combination solenoid 12b is driven, the blade member of the normal electric combination opens almost synchronously, and the ball enters the second start port 12 (detection of the second start port switch 12a (see FIG. 3)). It is configured to be possible. In the pachinko machine according to the first embodiment, the opening time during which the blade member of the ordinary electric accessory is driven is normally 0.2 seconds (once), and in the short time state (open extended state) is 1.8 seconds ( 2 times). In addition, the second start port 12 has a configuration in which a game ball cannot enter unless the blade member of the ordinary electric accessory is driven, but is not limited to this configuration.

  When the game ball enters the first start port 11 (the first start port switch 11a (see FIG. 3) detects the game ball), the first special symbol starts changing in the first special symbol display device, and the predetermined time is reached. Stop later. In addition, when a game ball enters the ordinary electric accessory that is the second start port 12 (the second start switch 12a (see FIG. 3) detects the game ball), the second special symbol display device displays the second special symbol. The variable display starts and stops after a predetermined time.

  During the variation of the first special symbol and the second special symbol, the effect symbol display device 6 displays the effect mode linked to the change of each special symbol. In addition, the first special symbol and the second special symbol are executed with priority on the suspension of the second special symbol regardless of the order of entering the first starting port and the second starting port. Specifically, when there is a reserved memory of the first special symbol, the variation of the second special symbol is stopped and there is no second special symbol reserved memory, and the variation for the first special symbol reserved memory is started. Yes (priority storage of the second special symbol is implemented).

  A special prize opening solenoid 14b (see FIG. 3), which will be described later, is driven according to the final display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. When the big prize opening solenoid 14b is driven, the door member of the big prize opening 14 is opened almost synchronously, and a game ball enters the big prize opening 14 (the count switch 14a (see FIG. 3) detects the game ball). Is configured to be possible.

  In addition, the pachinko machine in 1st Embodiment is comprised as a probability fluctuation machine. More specifically, the games by the pachinko machine according to the first embodiment are broadly divided into games in which the big prize opening 14 is closed and jackpot games in which the big prize opening 14 is opened, and games in which the big prize opening 14 is closed. Are broadly classified into the normal gaming state and the probability variation state (high probability gaming state) that is advantageous to the player compared to the normal gaming state (the probability of being a big hit is weak and easy to hit) To do.

  The special symbol consists of a probability variation symbol and a non-probability variation symbol, and the probability variation state is set so as to be able to transition after the jackpot game in the probability variation symbol, and the probability variation in either the normal gaming state or the probability variation state. If a big hit is made with a symbol, after the big hit game is over, it shifts to a probability change state. Similarly, the normal gaming state is set to be able to transition after the jackpot game with the non-stochastic variation symbol is finished, and if the big game hits with the non-stochastic variation symbol in any of the normal gaming state or the probability variation state, after the jackpot game ends , Transition to the normal gaming state.

  After the transition to the normal gaming state, the variation time of the special symbol and the normal symbol may be shortened by a specified number of times (for example, 100 times), and the normal electric accessory may be in a short state when the opening extension function is activated. If the variation time of special symbols and normal symbols (the time from the start of variation until the result is displayed) is shortened, the number of times the variation display is performed within a certain time is increased.

  Specifically, in the time-short state of the first embodiment, the special symbol variation time is shortened and the normal symbol time displayed on the normal symbol display device is also shortened. However, the normal symbol variation display is shortened. Thus, the fixed display of the normal symbol is performed many times within a certain time. Therefore, the number of times that the normal symbol hits within a certain time increases, and the number of times of operation of the ordinary electric accessory also increases. Further, in the short time state, it is set so that the opening time of the ordinary electric accessory is lengthened (opening extension function is activated), so that it becomes easy to win a large number of game balls. By making it easier for a large number of game balls to win in this way, the number of times of display of the second special symbol variation is further increased, and the player's possession balls are less likely to be reduced by the award balls obtained by winning the ordinary electric game winnings. , Can play an advantageous game.

  In the probability variation state, the variation time of the special symbol and the normal symbol may be shortened similarly to the time-short state, and the opening extension function of the ordinary electric accessory may be activated. The settings related to the shortening of various symbols and the function to open and extend the normal electric utility are the same as the short-time state, but in addition to the probability variation state, the probability of hitting a special symbol is high (a state where it is easy to hit a big hit). It becomes an advantageous gaming state.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 2, a mechanism for circulating the game balls of the enclosed game machine 50 in the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing the circulation mechanism from the back. FIG. 2 shows a main device for circulating the game ball, a path for lifting the game ball, and a main control device. The flow that circulates after the game ball is fired will be explained in order.

  When the sliding operation unit 107a is operated in a state where the enclosing game machine 50 manages (stores) the game balls that can be fired, the ball feed solenoid 130 disposed in the launch device 87 is activated, and the game balls To the launch position. At that time, in the enclosed game machine 50 according to the first embodiment, the game ball sent to the launch position always rolls in the game area 3 (the game ball sent to the launch position is always fired, and Therefore, the subtraction sensor 131 provided in the launching device 87 detects the sent game ball as a launching ball, and a holding ball counter (payout launch control device 84). 1 is subtracted from the device that stores the number of game balls that can be launched. The number of game balls that can be fired is displayed on the game ball number display device 106, and is displayed by subtracting 1 in accordance with the detection of the game ball by the subtraction sensor 131.

  The game ball sent out to the launch position is launched into the game area 3 by the actuation of the launch solenoid 129 with a launch intensity corresponding to the position of the sliding operation unit 107a. In the enclosed gaming machine 50 according to the first embodiment, the position of the launching device 87 (position where the game ball is launched) is the upper left part when viewing the game area 3 from the front (the figure is the upper part because it is the back), Unlike the conventional machine, the launched game ball is not launched by the launch path formed by the guide rail, and the game ball bulleted by the launch solenoid 129 reaches the game area 3 immediately after the bullet ball.

  The game ball that has reached the game area 3 flows down the game area 3 and enters a winning opening such as the first start port 11 and the second start port 12 or enters the out port 15. A game ball that has won a prize opening is detected by a winning detection sensor 124 that flows down the back surface of the game board 1 and is arranged in the guidance path, and a game ball that has entered the out slot 15 is detected by a non-winning detection sensor 125. Detected.

  As with the conventional machine, a guide rail is provided along the edge located on the left side of the game board 1, and a game ball is fired from below the game board 1 along a launch path formed by the guide rail. It is also good.

  When the winning detection sensor 124 or the non-winning detection sensor 125 detects a game ball, it is added as the number of out balls. Management of the game ball circulation is performed by the number of out balls and the number of shot balls (the number of balls detected by the subtraction sensor 131). In the first embodiment, each of the sensors described above is connected to the payout launch control device 84, and the circulation of the enclosed game ball is managed by the payout launch control device 84. However, mutual communication with the payout launch control device 84 is possible. It is good also as a structure managed by the connected main controller 80. FIG.

  The game balls detected by the winning detection sensor 124 and the non-winning detection sensor 125 flow down the guiding path connected to the ball polishing device 85. The ball polishing device 85 includes a cassette motor 114, a polishing motor 115, a cassette switch 116, and a polishing motor sensor 117, and uses a cassette equipped with a polishing cloth to polish a game ball. Also, the cassette loaded with the polishing cloth is detected.

  The polishing of the game ball is performed by operating the polishing motor 115 and moving the game ball to press against the polishing cloth. The polishing cloth can be replaced by a structure mounted on the cassette, and is operated so as to wind up the cloth at a constant cycle by using the cassette motor 114. Further, the cassette switch 116 detects the presence / absence of a cassette equipped with a polishing pad.

  The ground game ball is guided from the ball polishing device 85 to the lifting device 86 through a guide path. The lifting device 86 includes a lifting and launching motor 119, a lifting and launching motor monitoring sensor 121, and a lifting and lowering entrance sensor 120. Raise to launch ball tank 40).

  In the enclosed game machine 50 according to the first embodiment, the game ball guided to the lifting device 86 is moved to the launching ball tank 40 disposed on the upper part of the enclosed game machine 50 using the lifting launch motor 119. It is configured to launch. In the lifting device 86, whether or not a game ball exists at the game ball launch position of the lift launch motor 119 and the exit of the lift path (the entrance of the launch ball tank 40) by the lift inlet sensor 120 and the launch inlet sensor 132. Whether or not is detected, the lifting and firing motor 119 is driven in accordance with the detection result. The game ball launched by driving the lifting and launching motor 119 changes the flying ball path by contacting the uppermost curved surface of the encapsulated ball launching and lifting path shown in the figure, and the flying ball speed is reduced and the launched ball Reach tank 40. The uplift motor monitoring sensor 121 detects whether the uplift motor 119 is performing a normal launch operation.

  With the above-described configuration, in the encapsulated gaming machine 50 of the first embodiment, the game ball guided to the lifting device 86 is the launch ball immediately after the lifting operation (launching the ball by the lifting launch motor 119). Move to the waiting ball tank 40. Therefore, since there are not a plurality of game balls on the lifting path unlike a spiral lifting device or a belt lifting device, the number of game balls that have to wait for the game is reduced. As a result, it is possible to reduce the number of enclosed balls to be circulated in the enclosed game machine 50.

  The game ball that has been lifted up to the launch ball tank 40 rolls to the launch device 87, and an appropriate amount sensor 123 and a full tank sensor 126 that are arranged in the enclosing ball number counting path that also serves as a guide to the launch device 87, The game ball is detected, and the number of game balls necessary for circulation is managed to notify when an excess or deficiency is detected. The notification in this case outputs a signal to the management device (hall computer 87) outside the machine via the inter-unit unit 100, and the display device (the effect symbol display device 6 and the touch panel type liquid crystal display) provided in the enclosed game machine 50. The game 102) displays the excess or deficiency of the game balls.

  Next, the inter-unit unit 100 will be described. When a player plays a game with the enclosed game machine 50, the player inserts an IC card (or membership card) or cash into the inter-unit unit 100 connected to the enclosed game machine 50 in a one-to-one relationship, By performing a lending operation (operation of the ball lending button 102a), a game ball that can be launched by the enclosed game machine 50 is paid out, and a game becomes possible. The payout in this case is performed by adding the number of game balls that can be fired to a ball counter that stores the number of game balls that can be fired.

  The game balls consumed (rented) by paying in the game and the payout ball information acquired by winning such as jackpots (acquired ball information for each player on the day) are linked to the IC card. Is stored once in the management device (hall computer 87) in the store, and then managed by a third-party management data management center provided outside, the number of incoming balls and the number of outgoing balls can be obtained. Strictly managed. Furthermore, the stored balls are stored in an external third-party storage server management server, which is a system that guarantees the player's storage.

  When the player finishes the game, he / she takes out the card from the inter-unit unit 100 (if there is a ball remaining, the player moves the ball to the inter-unit unit 100 and then removes the card) and settles the balance. At that time, the data is stored and managed by the POS management computer.

  In addition to the function of the conventional CR unit, the inter-unit unit 100 connected to the enclosed game machine 50 receives information such as the number of game balls emitted by the enclosed game machine 50, the number of game balls dispensed, and the game state. It is equipped with a function for monitoring fraud, a function for monitoring illegal boards, and a function for collecting various game information. In order to realize these additional functions, the inter-unit unit 100 and the enclosed game machine 50 are connected by a new interface cable different from the conventional one.

  Furthermore, in order to share security information and prevent unauthorized modification, the game machine management center (machine history management center) directly connected to the pachinko machine manufacturer manufactures it by checking it against the unauthorized monitoring function of the inter-unit unit 100. It is possible to constantly monitor the unique ID of the board of the gaming machine installed in the office and notify when an abnormality is detected.

(2) Electrical configuration Next, the electrical configuration of the enclosed gaming machine 50 will be described with reference to the block diagrams shown in FIGS. Although detailed illustration is omitted, the main control device 80, the payout launch control device 84, the production symbol control device 82, the sub integrated control device 83, and the game recorder 200 are all CPU, ROM, RAM, input port, output port, etc. It has.

  In the block centering on the main controller 80 shown in FIG. 3, the main controller 80 has a first start port for detecting a game ball that has entered the first start port 11 via the game board relay terminal plate 74. A switch 11a, a second start port switch 12a for detecting a game ball that has entered the second start port 12, a normal symbol operation switch 17a for detecting a game ball that has entered the normal symbol operation gate 17, and a ball entering the big winning port 14 A count switch 14a for detecting a game ball, a general prize port switch 13a for detecting a game ball that has entered the general prize slot 13, a magnetic sensor 91 for detecting a magnetic force that affects the flow direction of the game ball, and the like A vibration sensor 92 that detects vibration affecting the flow direction of the game ball, a detection signal of a radio wave sensor 93 that detects a radio wave that causes the detection switch of the above-described prize opening to malfunction, and a mode switching switch Chi 151, test shot mode end switch 152, the operation detection signal corresponding to the operation of the test hitting the mode selection switch 153 is input. As described with reference to FIG. 1, the mode changeover switch 151, the trial hit mode end switch 152, and the trial hit mode selection switch 153 are switches that can be operated by the player because they are arranged on the front side of the gaming machine.

  The main controller 80 operates in accordance with the installed program, generates various commands related to the progress of the game based on the above-described detection signals, and outputs them to the sub integrated controller 83. Further, the main controller 80 displays the first special symbol display device 9, the second special symbol display device 10 and the normal symbol display device 7 connected via the symbol display device relay terminal board 90. The lighting of the figure hold number display device 9a, the second special figure hold number display device 10a, and the universal figure hold number display device 8 is controlled.

  Further, the main controller 80 controls the opening / closing of the special winning opening 14 by controlling the special winning opening solenoid 14b, and controls the opening / closing of the second starting opening 12 by controlling the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 12b, When the winning at the winning opening is detected, the number of winning balls set for each winning opening is displayed on the winning display device 20. In addition, a prize ball number instruction signal is transmitted to the payout and launch control device 84 in response to winning in each winning opening.

  Also, the output signal from the main controller 80 is a management signal such as symbol variation, gaming state, jackpot (also referred to as special game), etc., sent to the hall computer via the payout launch controller 84 and the inter-unit unit 100. It is done. However, the management signal is not output outside the machine only during the trial hit mode period.

  The sub-integrated control device 83 receives data and commands transmitted from the main control device 80, distributes them to data for effect display control, sound control, and lamp control, and so on. Is transmitted to the production symbol control device 82, and the sound control and lamp control are distributed to each control part (function unit as a sound control device and a lamp control device) included in itself. The function unit as the sound control device controls the sound output from the speaker 66 by operating the sound LSI based on the data for sound control, and the function unit as the lamp control device is the data for lamp control. Various LEDs and the lamp 26 are controlled by operating the lamp driver based on the above.

  The effect symbol control device 82 receives the data and commands received from the sub integrated control device 83 (both of which are transmitted from the main control device 80 or the payout / discharge control device 84 via the main control device 80 and the sub integrated control device 83). Is generated based on an input from the main control device 80), and an effect image such as a pseudo symbol is displayed on the screen of the effect symbol display device 6. The sub integrated control device 83 and the main control device 80 are configured as a one-way communication circuit from the main control device 80 to the sub integrated control device 83 via the production relay terminal board 65 between them. The effect symbol control device 82 is configured as a one-way communication circuit from the sub integrated control device 83 to the effect symbol control device 82.

  The game recorder 200 is connected to the main controller 80 and can perform bidirectional communication with the main controller 80. The game recorder 200 operates in accordance with the installed program using the electric power supplied from the external power supply 300 provided outside the enclosed game machine 50, and calculates the payout rate based on the information acquired from the main controller 80. In addition, an abnormal signal is output to the outside when the payout rate becomes an abnormal value.

  Next, referring to FIG. 4, a block centering on the dispensing control device 84 connected to the main control device 80 so as to be capable of bidirectional communication will be described. The payout launch control device 84 operates in accordance with the installed program, and receives the above-mentioned command indicating the number of prize balls from the main control device 80. And the added value is displayed on the game ball number display device 106. Further, based on a signal according to an operation to be described later or a signal according to the detection of the sensor, the addition of a rental ball, the launch of a game ball, the polishing of the game ball, the circulation of the game ball (encapsulated ball), etc. .

  As described above, the touch panel type liquid crystal display serving as the operation unit device 102 connected to the pay-out and launch control device 84 via the inter-unit unit 100 and the operation unit connection board 101 includes a ball lending button 102a and a return button 102b. A screen switching button 102c, and an operation result display section 102d indicating the operation results of the ball lending button 102a and the return button 102b. The power source of the touch panel type liquid crystal display provided in the enclosed game machine 50 is supplied from the inter-unit unit 100.

  Further, the touch panel type liquid crystal display has a function of displaying card information recorded on an IC card (or membership card) inserted in the inter-unit unit 100 and game information (game history, etc.) of the enclosed game machine 50. It also has.

  When the ball lending button 102a of the operation unit device 102 is operated, a signal requesting addition of the number of balls to be lapped as touch panel operation information is input to the payout launch control device 84 via the inter-unit unit 100, and the payout launch control device 84 is If a predetermined condition is satisfied for the input, the requested number of balls is added to the ball counter, and the value of the ball counter after the addition is displayed on the game ball display device 106. At this time, the result of the lending operation is displayed on the operation result display unit 102d according to the addition status of the game ball number display device 106. For a single operation of the lending button 102a, the number of lending balls (for example, 125) corresponding to a predetermined amount (for example, 500 yen) is requested.

  When the return button 102b of the operation unit device 102 is operated, a signal for requesting a return operation of the IC card is input to the inter-unit unit 100 as touch panel operation information, and is input from the inter-unit unit 100 to the payout and emission control device 84. Depending on whether the state of the enclosed gaming machine 50 at that time is a state where the IC card can be returned or not, the return result and the return result are displayed on the operation result display unit 102d. If it can be returned, it is displayed on the operation result display unit 102d that it can be returned, and the IC card is ejected from the inter-unit unit 100.

  When the screen switching button 102c of the operation unit device 102 is operated, the switching circuit 101a is activated, and the information to be displayed on the touch panel type liquid crystal display is changed from the information received from the inter-unit unit 100 to the effect symbol control device 82 of the enclosed game machine 50. Switch to information (including images) received from. In response to this switching, information from the inter-unit unit 100 is displayed on the effect symbol display device 6.

  The inter-unit unit 100 and the operation unit connection board 101 are connected so as to be able to communicate with each other, and the effect symbol control device 82 and the operation unit apparatus 102 are connected to each other so as to be capable of mutual communication with the operation unit connection board 101. Since all output from the enclosed game machine 50 to the hall computer 87 is performed via the inter-unit unit 100, the inter-unit unit 100 can also manage the enclosed game machine 50. Yes. However, not only this structure but the structure which outputs to the hall computer 87 not via the inter-unit unit 100 is also considered, and the control content of the inter-unit unit 100 may be limited to management of game media.

  In the enclosed game machine 50, the operation unit relay board 103 is connected to the payout launch control device 84 so as to be capable of mutual communication, and the game ball number display board 104 is connected to the operation unit relay board 103 so as to be capable of mutual communication. Yes. The game ball number display board 104 is provided with a count switch 105 and a game ball number display device 106, and an operation signal of the count switch 105 is input to the payout and firing control device 84. Further, the number of game balls that can be fired is displayed on the game ball number display device 106 according to the output of the payout launch control device 84.

  When the counting switch 105 is operated, all values stored in the ball holding counter are subtracted from the ball holding counter, and the subtracted value is transmitted to the inter-unit unit 100. Therefore, the numerical value of the game ball number display device 106 that displays the value of the ball holding counter is zero. When the number of game balls that can be launched by the operation of the counting switch 105 becomes 0, the IC card inserted in the inter-unit unit 100 can be returned. In addition, in the enclosed game machine of the first embodiment, even if the value of the ball counter does not become zero, the IC card can be returned if the ball counter value reaches 1000 or more, and details thereof will be described later. To do.

  A detection signal from the front frame closing switch 18 and the inner frame closing switch 19 is input to the payout and firing control device 84 via the back wiring relay terminal plate 75, and the firing operation unit 107 is connected via the operation unit relay board 103. Are connected so as to be able to communicate with each other, and in the launch operation unit 107, as described above, signals from the launch intensity adjustment switch 108, the launch intensity fixing switch 110, the launch stop switch 111, and the touch sensor 112 are sent to the payout launch control device 84. The display of the firing intensity display device 109 is controlled by the payout launch control device 84.

  Further, detection signals of the cassette switch 116 and the polishing motor sensor 117 are input to the dispensing launch control device 84 via the polishing relay substrate 113 connected so as to be able to communicate with each other. The driving of the cassette motor 114 and the polishing motor 115 is controlled via

  Further, detection signals from the lift inlet sensor 120 and the lift launch motor monitoring sensor 121 are input to the dispensing launch control device 84 via the lift relay substrate 118 connected to the polishing relay substrate 113 so as to be able to communicate with each other. Then, the dispensing launch control device 84 controls the drive of the above-described lifting launch motor 119.

  The inner frame relay board 122 is connected to the inner frame relay board 122 from the inner frame relay board 122 so as to enable one-way communication. The inner frame relay board 122 is connected to the appropriate amount sensor 123, the winning detection sensor 124, The non-winning detection sensor 125, the full sensor 126, and the night monitoring switch 127 are connected, and a signal from each sensor or switch is input to the payout launch control device 84.

  The night monitoring switch 127 is a device for judging fraud that involves opening the door at night (out of business hours). The backup power supply mounted on the power supply board is used to turn off the inner frame 70 even when the power is off. It is possible to monitor the opening, and the payout / release control device 84 stores the number-of-opening information of the inner frame 70 at night, and outputs the number-of-opening information to the outside through the main control device 80 when the power is turned on. Yes.

  Further, detection signals from the subtraction sensor 131 and the launch inlet sensor 132 are input to the dispensing launch control device 84 via the launch relay substrate 128 connected to the polishing relay substrate 113 so as to be able to communicate with each other. The payout and firing control device 84 controls the driving of the ball feed solenoid 130 and the firing solenoid 129 via the substrate 128.

(3) About structure of game recorder Next, the structure of the game recorder 200 is demonstrated using schematic sectional drawing of the game recorder 200 described in FIG.

  The game recorder 200 includes a substrate 210, a metal substrate box 220 surrounding the substrate 210 in a state where opening is difficult or impossible, an input connector 230 connected to the main controller 80, etc., and the input connector 230 and the substrate 210. And a power supply circuit 250 for supplying power supplied from the external power supply 300 to each part of the game recorder 200.

  The board 210 includes a microcomputer 260 for overall control of the game recorder 200, a backup power source 270 including, for example, a capacitor and a battery, and an output unit 280 including a connector for outputting an abnormal signal described later to the outside. Etc. are installed.

  Note that, for example, the output unit 280 may be connected to a wiring or the like connected to the payout and launch control device 84, the inter-unit unit 100, the sub integrated control device 83, and the like. Alternatively, an abnormality signal may be output to the outside via the wiring 240 and the input connector 230.

  Further, the backup power supply 270 is configured to supply power to the microcomputer 260 and the like when the power supply from the external power supply 300 is stopped. The data stored in the file is retained.

The substrate 210 is covered with the substrate box 220 with the end portion of the substrate 210 on which the output unit 280 is mounted protruding outside.
The substrate box 220 includes a side portion 222 that surrounds the side of the substrate 210, a plate-like upper surface portion 221 that covers the surface of the substrate 210 (the surface on which the microcomputer 260 and the like are mounted), and a bottom surface that covers the back surface of the substrate 210. Part 223, and these are made of metal.

  The substrate 210 is surrounded by the side portion 222, the upper surface portion 221, and the bottom surface portion 223 in a state where the portion where the output portion 280 is mounted is protruded, and these portions are bonded to each other by a method such as welding or pressure bonding. A substrate box 220 is configured.

  In addition, a hole is formed in the side portion 222 of the board box 220, and the wiring 240 connected to the input connector 230 is arranged in a state of being inserted through the hole, and the wiring 240 formed in the board 210 is connected to the wiring box 240. The connecting portion 241 is covered with the substrate box 220.

The board box 220 is not limited to metal, and may be made of a material such as reinforced plastic.
Moreover, the board | substrate box 220 may cover only the part in which the microcomputer 260, the backup power supply 270, and the connection part 241 were arrange | positioned on the surface of the board | substrate 210 in the aspect which is hard to open or impossible.

[Description of operation]
(1) Unit Processing 1 Next, unit processing 1 executed by the CPU included in the inter-unit unit 100 will be described with reference to FIG. When this process is started, it is determined whether or not the IC card is not inserted (S15). If the determination is affirmative (S15: yes), it is determined whether or not the IC card is being inserted into the inter-unit unit 100 (S20). ). If the determination is negative (S20: no), the process returns. If the determination is affirmative (S20: yes), it is determined whether or not the insertion of the IC card is completed (S25). If S25 is a negative determination (S25: no), the determination of S25 is repeated. If the determination is affirmative (S25: yes), a lamp indicating that a card has been inserted is turned on (S30), and an insertion signal is sent out and controlled by discharge control device 84. (S35). The enclosed game machine 50 (payout launch control device 84) determines that the IC card is inserted into the connected inter-unit unit 100 based on the reception of the insertion signal.

  Subsequent to S35, it is determined whether or not the temporary discharge flag is 1 (S40). The temporary ejection flag is a value stored in the inter-unit unit 100. If the value is 1, the value 0 indicates that the IC card has been ejected in a state where a ball that can be fired by the connected enclosed gaming machine 50 is stored. If this is the case, the inter-unit unit 100 determines that the IC card has been ejected in a state where there is no value of the holding counter of the connected enclosed gaming machine 50.

  If S40 is affirmative (S40: yes), a comparison process is performed between the IC card stored in the inter-unit unit 100 and the IC card that has detected completion of insertion in the process (S45). It is determined whether the two IC cards are the same (S50). The processing from S40 to S50 is performed on the IC card ejected with the ball remaining in the enclosed game machine 50 to be connected to the inter-unit unit 100 connected to the enclosed game machine 50 storing the ball. This is a process for determining whether or not the newly inserted IC card is the same.

  If S50 is affirmative (S50: yes), the temporary ejection flag is set to 0 (S55), whether the inserted IC card itself is normal (S60), and if affirmative (S60: yes), Return to return. If S40 is negative (S40: no), the comparison process with the stored IC card is skipped and the determination of S60 is performed. If S60 is negative (S60: no), the card insertion lamp is turned off, the IC card is ejected (S65), a process of outputting a ejection signal to the payout and emission control device 84 is executed (S70), and the process returns. Based on the reception of the discharge signal, the payout / release control device 84 determines that the IC card has been discharged from the connected inter-unit unit 100. If S60 performed subsequent to S55 is negative, the temporary discharge flag is set to 1 again.

  If S15 is negative, that is, if an IC card is inserted in the inter-unit unit 100 (S15: no), it is determined whether or not the discharge permission signal 1 has been received from the enclosed game machine 50 (S75). The discharge permission signal 1 is based on the reception of the discharge confirmation signal output from the inter-unit unit 100 in response to the operation of the return button 102b. It becomes a signal output from the payout launch control device 84), and will be described in detail later.

  If S75 is affirmative (S75: yes), the process proceeds to S65, and if negative (S75: no), it is determined whether the discharge permission signal 2 has been received (S80). Based on the receipt of the discharge confirmation signal output from the inter-unit unit 100 in response to the operation of the return button 102b, the enclosed gaming machine 50 issues a card discharge notification (the value of the holding ball counter is 1000 or more) Or a signal output from the enclosed gaming machine 50 (specifically, the payout launch control device 84) on the condition that the card discharge notification has been made due to the occurrence of a predetermined jackpot game, which will be described in detail later. .

  If S80 is affirmative (S80: yes), a process for storing the inserted IC card information is performed (S85), the temporary ejection flag is set to 1 (S90), and the process proceeds to S65 to eject the IC card. If S80 is negative (S80: no), it is determined whether a temporary discharge end signal has been received (S95). The provisional discharge end signal is sent to the enclosed gaming machine 50 (specifically, the payout and launch control device 84) when the value of the ball counter is 0 in a game performed with the IC card being discharged from the inter-unit unit 100. Will be described later in detail.

  If S95 is negative (S95: no), the process returns. If the determination is affirmative (S95: yes), the temporary discharge flag is set to 0 and the process returns. The above is unit processing 1 executed by the inter-unit unit 100, and processing for transmitting an insertion signal or an exhaust signal to the enclosed game machine 50 according to insertion and ejection of the IC card into the inter-unit unit 100 is performed. . Further, when the IC card is discharged while leaving the ball in the enclosed game machine 50, the temporary discharge flag is set so that the state of the enclosed game machine 50 can be determined by the inter-unit unit 100 itself. ing.

(2) Unit Processing 2 Next, the unit processing 2 executed by the CPU included in the inter-unit unit 100 will be described with reference to FIG. When this process is started, it is determined whether an operation signal output when the return button 102b is operated is received (S100). If the determination is negative (S100: no), the process returns. If the determination is affirmative (S100: yes), it is determined whether or not the IC card is inserted in the inter-unit unit 100 (S105). If the determination is affirmative (S105: yes), a discharge confirmation signal is output to the enclosed game machine 50 (specifically, the payout launch control device 84) (S110) and the process returns.

  If S105 is negative (S105: no), it is determined whether or not the temporary discharge flag is 1 (S115). If it is negative (S115: no), the process returns. If it is positive (S115: yes), an insertion confirmation signal is enclosed. It outputs to the type game machine 50 (specifically, the payout launch control device 84) (S120) and returns. The insertion confirmation signal is a signal instructing notification for prompting re-insertion of the IC card ejected in a state where the ball is stored in the enclosed game machine 50.

(3) Unit Processing 3 Next, the unit processing 3 executed by the CPU of the inter-unit unit 100 will be described with reference to FIG. When this process is started, it is determined whether or not an operation signal output when the ball lending button 102a is operated is received (S150). If the determination is negative (S150: no), the process returns. If the determination is affirmative (S150: yes), it is determined whether the IC card is inserted in the inter-unit unit 100 (S155). If the determination is negative (S155: no), the process returns. If the determination is affirmative (S155: yes), it is determined whether the inserted IC card stores valuable value information necessary for ball rental (S160). If so (S160: no), the process returns. If the determination is affirmative (S160: yes), a ball rental request signal is output to the enclosed game machine 50 (specifically, the payout launch control device 84) (S165), and the process returns.

(4) Insertion signal reception processing Next, the insertion signal reception processing executed by the payout / release control device 84 of the enclosed game machine 50 will be described with reference to FIG. When this process is started, it is determined whether or not an insertion signal (FIG. 6, S35) is received from the inter-unit unit 100 (S200). If the determination is negative (S200: no), the process returns. If the determination is affirmative (S200: yes), it is determined whether or not the value of the holding ball counter that stores the number of game balls that can be fired is 0 (S205). : Yes), 1 is set in the card insertion flag (S210), and the process returns.

  The card insertion flag is a value stored in the payout / release control device 84. If the value is 1, it indicates that the IC card is inserted in the connected inter-unit unit 100. If the value is 0, the inter-unit unit 100 is in the state. The dispensing launch control device 84 determines that the IC card is not inserted.

  If S205 is negative (S205: no), it is determined whether or not the abnormality notification flag is 1 (S215). If the determination is affirmative (S215: yes), the abnormality notification flag is set to 0 (S220). The abnormality notification flag is a value stored in the payout / release control device 84. If the value is 1, the value indicating that the abnormality notification that prompts the player to launch the game ball is being executed in the game with the IC card returned is set. If it is 0, the dispensing launch control device 84 determines that the abnormality notification is not being implemented. Details of the abnormality notification will be described later.

  Following the negative determination in S220 or S215 (S215: no), it is determined whether or not the value of the ball holding counter is equal to or greater than a predetermined value (1000 or greater in the first embodiment) (S225). If a negative determination is made (S225: no), the process proceeds to S210. If an affirmative determination is made (S225: yes), a signal instructing execution of the settlement notification that prompts the operation of the counting switch 105 is sent to the sub integrated control device 83 via the main control device 80. Transmit (S230), set the settlement notification flag to 1 (S225), and proceed to S210. The situation in which the IC card is inserted again while storing more than 1000 balls in the enclosed game machine 50 can be determined that the IC card has been inserted for the purpose of paying the ball, and the game can be continued. Since the return of the IC card tends to be forgotten, in the process from the affirmative determination in S215, a notification for urging settlement is performed by operating the counting switch 105.

  The settlement notification flag is a value stored in the payout / release control device 84. If the value is 1, the settlement notification prompting the operation of the counting switch 105 is performed. If the value is 0, the settlement notification is not performed. Is determined.

(5) Ball rental request signal reception processing Next, the ball rental request signal reception processing executed by the payout / release control device 84 of the enclosed gaming machine 50 will be described with reference to FIG. When this process is started, it is determined whether or not a ball lending request signal (FIG. 7, S165) has been received from the inter-unit unit 100 (S250). If the determination is negative (S250: no), the process returns. If the determination is affirmative (S250: yes), it is determined whether the card insertion flag is 1 (S255). If the determination is affirmative (S255: yes), a predetermined number ( In the first embodiment, an instruction to add 125) is performed, and a ball lending execution signal indicating that ball lending has been executed is transmitted to the inter-unit unit 100 (S260), and the process returns. If S225 is negative, that is, if a ball rental request signal is received when no IC card is inserted in the inter-unit unit 100, it is determined that an illegal signal has been received, error processing is performed, and the progress of the game is interrupted. Then, error notification is performed, and a signal indicating an error state is transmitted to the hall computer 87 via the inter-unit unit 100 (S265). The inter-unit unit 100 that has received the ball lending execution signal performs a process of subtracting the valuable value corresponding to the rented game ball from the IC card. Note that the error state executed in S265 is canceled by the operation of the hall staff (switch operation on the back of the gaming machine is necessary).

When a ball rental request signal is received in a state where no IC card is inserted in the inter-unit unit 100, an instruction to add a ball holding counter is not performed, and error processing is performed.
(6) Ball-ball adding / subtracting process Next, the ball-ball adding / subtracting process executed by the payout and launch control device 84 of the enclosed game machine 50 will be described with reference to FIG. This process is a process for managing the number of game balls that can be fired stored in the enclosed game machine 50. When this process is started, it is determined whether or not the subtraction sensor 131 has detected a game ball, that is, whether or not a game ball has been fired (S300). If the determination is affirmative (S300: yes), 1 is subtracted from the ball holding counter (S305). The ball counter is a device that stores the number of game balls that can be fired. The value of the ball counter (the number of game balls that can be fired) is displayed on the game ball number display device 106, and the value of the ball counter is changed. The display content (numerical value) changes accordingly.

  In S305, the payout launch control device 84 transmits to the main control device 80 launch information indicating that one game ball has been launched, and the main control device 80 that has received the launch information The launch information may be transmitted to 200.

  In addition to this, the payout launch control device 84 counts the number of game balls fired in a predetermined period, and each time the predetermined period elapses, the main control device 80 displays launch information indicating the counted number of game balls. In addition, the main control device 80 that has received the launch information may transmit the launch information to the game recorder 200.

  Following the negative determination of S305 or S300 (S300: no), the main control device 80 detects the game ball of the first start port switch 11a, the second start port switch 12a, the count switch 14a, or the general winning port switch 13a. It is determined whether or not there is an addition instruction to the ball-holding counter according to or an addition instruction according to the ball rental request at S260 (S310). If the determination is negative (S310), the process returns. If the determination is affirmative (S310: yes), the value indicated by the addition instruction is added to the holding ball counter (S315), and the process returns.

  In the first embodiment, the main control device 80 is configured to transmit an instruction signal indicating the number of prize balls to the payout and launch control device 84. However, only the signal indicating how many winning holes are won is only sent to the main control device 80. To the payout launch control device 84, and the payout launch control device 84 may determine the number of prize balls corresponding to each winning opening.

  In addition, every time the value of the ball holding counter is decremented by 10 in the process of S305, the payout / release control device 84 sends a shot ball count signal (100 ms Hi signal) to the hall computer 87 outside the machine via the inter-unit 100. , And every time 10 times the value of the ball holding counter added by the processing of S315 is added, the prize ball number signal (100 ms Hi signal) is output to the hall computer 87 outside the apparatus via the inter-unit unit 100. (In the case of continuous output, since the output is made after passing through 100 ms Low, the number of outputs is stored according to the addition speed of the holding counter).

  In the first embodiment, the winning ball number signal is output to the outside every time the value of the holding ball counter increases by ten. However, every time the addition processing to the holding ball counter (S315) is performed. The signal (command) indicating the added value may be transmitted to the inter-unit unit 100. Further, every time a predetermined time elapses, the value of the ball holding counter increased during that time may be transmitted to the inter-unit 100, and any value may be transmitted at any timing. The format according to the specifications of the main hall computer installed in the is preferable.

(7) About IN / OUT Management Processing Next, the IN / OUT management processing executed by the payout / discharge control device 84 will be described with reference to FIG. This process is a process for managing the number of game balls enclosed in the enclosed game machine 50. When this process is started, it is determined whether or not the subtraction sensor 131 has detected a game ball (S350). If the determination is affirmative (S350: yes), the management counter is incremented by 1 (S355), and the negative determination of S350 (S350: no), or following S355, it is determined whether the winning detection sensor 124 has detected a game ball. (S360). If the determination is affirmative (S360: yes), the management counter is decremented by 1 (S365), and the negative determination of S360 (S360: no), or following S365, whether or not the non-winning detection sensor 125 has detected a game ball. Determination is made (S370). If the determination is affirmative (S370: yes), the management counter is decremented by 1 (S375), the negative determination of S370 (S370: no), or following S375, it is determined whether the value of the management counter is 0 (S380). . If the determination is affirmative (S380: yes), the management flag is set to 0 (S385) and the process returns. If the determination is negative (S380: no), the management flag is set to 1 (S390) and the process returns.

  The management counter is a device provided in the payout launch control device 84, and manages the status of game ball launch and collection according to the value of the management counter. If the value of the management counter is 0, the game balls that have been launched are all collected.

  The management flag is also a value stored by the payout launch control device 84. If the value is 0, it is determined that all of the launched game balls have been collected. Is determined to be in a state where all the items are not collected. Therefore, if the management flag is 0, it takes at least a time from when the game ball is stopped to the end of the flow of the game area 3 to the end of the flow of the game area 3. The payout and launch control device 84 can determine that there is no ball, and if the management flag is 1, it can be determined that all of the launched game balls have not been collected.

  Each time the payout launch control device 84 detects one game ball (IN ball) by the subtraction sensor 131, the payout launch control device 84 transmits to the main control device 80 launch information indicating that one game ball has been launched. Then, the main controller 80 that has received the launch information may transmit the launch information to the game recorder 200.

  In addition to this, the payout launch control device 84 counts the number of IN spheres generated during a predetermined period by the subtraction sensor 131, and each time the predetermined period elapses, main control is performed on the launch information indicating the counted number of IN spheres. The main controller 80 that has transmitted the launch information to the device 80 may transmit the launch information to the game recorder 200.

  In addition, every time the payout launch control device 84 detects one game ball (OUT ball) by the winning detection sensor 124 or the non-winning detection sensor 125, one game ball is launched at the main control device 80. The main control device 80 that has transmitted the launch information indicating the effect and has received the launch information may transmit the launch information to the game recorder 200.

  In addition, the payout launch control device 84 counts the number of OUT balls generated during a predetermined period by the winning detection sensor 124 or the non-winning detection sensor 125, and the number of OUT balls counted every time the predetermined period elapses. The main control device 80 that receives the launch information may transmit the launch information to the game recorder 200.

(8) Checkout Process Next, the checkout process executed by the payout / discharge control device 84 will be described with reference to FIG. This process is a process that is performed in response to the operation of the counting switch 105 that is performed for the player to settle the ball (transfer to the IC card) at the end of the game.

  When the checkout process is started, it is determined whether an operation signal output when the counting switch 105 is operated is received (S400). If the determination is negative (S400: no), the process returns. If the determination is affirmative (S400: yes), it is determined whether or not the value of the ball holding counter is greater than 0 (S405). If the determination is negative (S405: no), the process returns. If the determination is affirmative (S405: yes), it is determined whether the card insertion flag is 1 (S410). If the determination is affirmative (S410: yes), By subtracting all counter values from the ball counter, the value of the ball counter is set to 0 (S415), the subtracted value is transferred to the inter-unit unit 100 (S420), and the number of game balls transferred to the inter-unit unit 100 And a signal indicating the end of the game are transmitted to the hall computer via the inter-unit unit 100 (S425), and the process returns.

Note that the inter-unit unit 100 that has received a signal indicating the number of game balls that have been transferred stores the number of game balls in the inserted IC card.
If S410 is negative, that is, if there is a ball stored in the enclosed game machine 50 but no IC card is inserted in the inter-unit unit 100 (S410: no), re-insertion of the returned IC card is prompted. A signal instructing execution of the insertion prompting notification 1 is transmitted to the sub integrated control device 83 via the main control device 80 (S430), and the process returns.

(9) Start Winning Process Next, the start winning process executed by the main controller 80 will be described with reference to FIG. In the start winning process, various random numbers such as a big hit determination random number acquired when a game ball enters the first start port 11 and the second start port 12, or when the game ball passes through the normal symbol operating gate 17 A random number such as a hit determination random number acquired at the time is stored (stored) in the main control device 80 as a reserved storage, and checked before performing a determination of whether or not the stored random number is a preset value. In this process, various commands resulting from entering the first start port 11 and the second start port 12 are transmitted to the sub integrated control device 83. Thereafter, the hold memory stored when the game ball enters the first start port 11 is the first hold memory, and the hold memory stored when the game ball enters the second start port 12 is the second hold. The reserved memory stored when the game ball has passed through the memory and normal symbol operating gate 17 will be described as the normal figure reserved memory.

  In the first embodiment, the maximum storage numbers of the usual hold storage, the first hold storage, and the second hold storage are all 4 (the maximum hold storage number is 4). Also, even if the number of stored memories is 0, it is extracted when a game ball enters the first start port 11 and the second start port 12, or when the game ball passes through the normal symbol operating gate 17. Various random numbers such as the big hit determination random number are stored in the main controller 80 in the same manner as when there is a stored number less than the maximum value.

  When the start winning process is started, it is determined whether or not the first start port switch 11a has detected a game ball (S450). If a negative determination is made (S450: no), the process proceeds to S480, and if an affirmative determination is made (S450: yes), it is determined whether or not the number of first reserved memories stored in the main controller 80 is less than the upper limit value (= 4). (S455). If the determination is negative (S455: no), the process proceeds to S480. If the determination is affirmative (S455: yes), the extracted big hit determination random number, big hit symbol determination random number, small hit symbol determination random number, reach determination random number, fluctuation pattern The determination random number is stored as the first reserved memory, and 1 is added to the first reserved memory counter indicating the first reserved memory number (S460).

  Subsequent to S460, the prefetch determination of the stored first hold memory is performed (S465). Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the big hit determination random number is a value that causes a big hit, and if it is a value that causes a big hit, the type of the big hit symbol is confirmed from the random number for determining the big hit symbol. If the big hit determination is lost, it is confirmed whether or not the reach determination random number is a value that becomes super reach. If it is not a super reach, it is confirmed whether or not it is a reach value, and the variation time is confirmed from the value of the random number for determining the variation pattern. By making the above determination, if the random number stored on hold determines whether or not a big hit game is generated, or if it is not possible to produce an effect that can be expected of a big hit, and if the big hit game is generated Check the types of jackpot symbols. In the first embodiment, the sub-integrated control device 83 that controls the effect device based on the type of jackpot symbol determines the type of jackpot, so the confirmation of the type of jackpot symbol becomes the confirmation of the type of jackpot game.

  Subsequently, a first prefetch determination command is generated from the confirmation result of S465 and transmitted to the sub integrated control device 53 (S470), and a first hold number instruction command indicating the value of the first hold storage counter added in S460 is issued. The data is transmitted to the sub integrated control device 83 (S475). In the first embodiment, the prefetch determination command is transmitted to the sub integrated control device 83 regardless of the gaming state. However, the prefetch determination command is provided on the condition that it is in a high probability state or a normal gaming state. The prefetch determination process itself may be implemented on condition that it is in a predetermined gaming state.

  Following the processing of S447 and the negative determinations of S450 and S455 (S450: no, S455: no), it is determined whether or not the second start port switch 12a has detected a game ball (S480). If a negative determination is made (S480: no), the process proceeds to S510. If an affirmative determination is made (S480: yes), it is determined whether the number of second reserved memories stored in the main controller 80 is less than the upper limit value (= 4). (S485). If the determination is negative (S485: no), the process proceeds to S510. If the determination is affirmative (S485: yes), the extracted big hit determination random number, the big hit symbol determination random number, the small hit symbol determination random number, the reach determination random number, and the fluctuation pattern The determination random number is stored as the second reserved memory, and 1 is added to the second reserved memory counter indicating the second reserved memory number (S490).

  Subsequent to S490, the pre-reading determination of the second pending storage stored as the same processing as S465 described above is performed (S495), and the second pre-reading determination command is generated from the confirmation result of S495, and is sent to the sub integrated control device 83. The second hold number instruction command indicating the value of the second hold storage counter added in S490 is transmitted to the sub integrated control device 83 (S505), and the process proceeds to S510. The prefetch determination command transmission process in S500 may be configured to transmit a command under the same conditions as in S470 or perform the determination in S495.

  In S510, it is determined whether or not the normal symbol operation switch 17a has detected a game ball (S510). If a negative determination is made (S510: no), the process returns to a return. If an affirmative determination is made (S510: yes), it is determined whether the number of stored customary drawings stored in the main controller 80 is less than the upper limit (= 4) ( S515). If the determination is negative (S515: no), the process returns to the return. If the determination is affirmative (S515: yes), the extracted winning determination random number and the winning symbol determination random number are stored as a general-purpose reserved memory, 1 is added to the general-purpose hold storage counter indicating (S520), and a general-purpose hold storage number instruction command indicating the value of the added general-purpose hold storage counter is transmitted to the sub integrated control device 53 (S525), and the process returns.

  When the sub integrated control device 83 receives the first and second reserved memory number instruction commands, it performs control to change each reserved memory number displayed on the effect symbol display device 6 in accordance with the reserved memory number indicated by the received command. . In the first embodiment, the reserved symbol number of the normal symbol is not displayed on the effect symbol display device 6, but may be displayed in response to the reception of the universal symbol reserved memory number instruction command. The storage number instruction command itself may not be transmitted. A configuration is also conceivable in which normal prefetch determination is performed and the determination result is transmitted to the sub-integrated control device 83. Note that it may be configured to check the type of jackpot game instead of the type of jackpot symbol during the prefetch determination process, and transmit a prefetch determination command indicating the type of jackpot game to the sub-integrated control device 83.

(10) About the go / no-go determination process Next, the go / no-go determination process executed by the main controller 80 will be described with reference to FIG. When this process is started, it is determined whether or not a special symbol start condition is satisfied (S550). In this determination process, it is confirmed that the big hit game is not being played, and that the first special symbol and the second special symbol are not changing or being displayed in a fixed manner. If the determination is negative (S550: no), the process returns to the return. If the determination is affirmative (S550: yes), it is determined whether there is a second reserved memory (S555). If the determination is affirmative (S555: yes), the process proceeds to S565. If the determination is negative (S555: no), it is determined whether there is a first reserved memory (S560). If the determination is negative (S560: no), the process returns to the return and the determination is positive. If so (S560: yes), the process proceeds to S565. According to the determination order of S555 and S560, the determination of whether or not the second reserved storage is appropriate is performed with priority. In the first embodiment, there are a plurality of special symbols (a first special symbol and a second special symbol). However, the effect of the present invention is not changed even when the number of special symbols is one. .

  In S565, it is determined whether or not the value of the probability variation flag is 0 (S565). The probability variation flag is a value stored in the main controller 80. When the value is “0”, the big hit probability is the normal probability gaming state (low probability state), and when the value is “1”, the probability is high. This is a value for the main controller 50 to determine that it is a gaming state (high probability state). If the determination is affirmative (S565: yes), the process proceeds to S570. If the determination is negative (S565: no), the process proceeds to a process with a high probability. The processing with a high probability is a processing in which only the big hit probability is different (the number of hit values in the determination table for comparison is large), and therefore the description is omitted.

  In S570, shift processing of the hold memory is performed (S570), thereby making the oldest hold memory a subject of the determination of success / failure, and subtracting 1 from the hold memory counter indicating the number of hold memories. In response to this subtraction, the first or second hold number instruction command may be transmitted to the sub integrated control device 83.

  In the subsequent big hit determination random number comparison process (S575), the random number value for the big hit determination in the hold storage that is the target of the determination is compared with a preset determination table, and the random number is determined in the determination table. Compare if value matches. Two types of tables for normal probability (low probability 1/300) and high probability (1/30) are set as the success / failure determination table, and the gaming state at the time of determination is normal probability gaming state (probability change flag “0”). ]), Comparison is made using a normal probability use determination table, and a high probability game state (probability variation flag “1”) is compared using a high probability use determination table.

  In the subsequent processing of S580, it is determined whether or not the comparison result of the big hit determination random number comparison processing (S575) is a big hit (1/300 in the first embodiment). If the determination is affirmative (S580: yes), the jackpot symbol selection processing is performed based on the value of the random number for determining the jackpot symbol in the pending storage that is the target of the success / failure determination (S585), and the content of the jackpot game is determined based on the selected jackpot symbol. The special winning opening opening pattern setting process is performed (S590), and the first special symbol display device or the second special symbol display is performed based on the reach-determined reach determination random number and the variation pattern determination random number that are the targets of the determination. A variation pattern that becomes a variation time of the symbol displayed on the device and the effect symbol display device 6 is selected from the variation pattern selection table (S595).

  In the first embodiment, the random number for determining the variation pattern is extracted by the start winning process that is performed when the game ball enters the first start port 11 or the second start port 12. It may be configured to extract a random number for pattern determination.

  Next, a variation instruction command for instructing information on the selected jackpot symbol and variation pattern is generated and transmitted to the sub integrated control device 53 (S600). On the basis of the instruction from the sub integrated control device 83 that has received this information, the effect symbol control device 82 controls the effect symbol display device 6 to start the variable symbol display corresponding to the information on the big hit symbol and the fluctuation pattern. . At substantially the same time as the transmission to the sub integrated control device 83, the main control device 80 directly controls the first special figure display device 9 or the second special figure display device 10 to start the change of the special symbol.

  If S580 is negative, that is, loses (S580: no), it is determined whether or not the result of the big hit determination random number comparison process (S575) is a small hit (1/150) (S605), and if it is positive (S605). :)), a small hit symbol is selected (S610), then a small hit game release pattern setting process is performed (S590), and a variation pattern selection process corresponding to the small hit symbol is performed (S595). A change instruction command serving as change pattern information is transmitted to the sub-integrated control device 53 (S600). The effect symbol control device 82 controls the effect symbol display device 6 based on an instruction from the sub-integrated control device 83 that has received this information, and starts variable display of the pseudo symbol corresponding to the information of the small hit symbol and the variation pattern. At substantially the same time as the transmission to the sub integrated control device 83, the main control device 80 directly controls the first special figure display device 9 or the second special figure display device 10 to start the change of the special symbol.

  If S605 is negative (S605: no), a lost symbol is selected (S615), then a variation pattern selection process corresponding to the lost symbol is performed (S595), and a variation instruction command that becomes information on the symbols and variation patterns related to the loss. Is transmitted to the sub integrated control device 53 (S600). The effect symbol control device 82 controls the effect symbol display device 6 based on an instruction from the sub-integrated control device 83 that has received this information, and starts the variable symbol variable display corresponding to the information of the lost symbol and the fluctuation pattern. At substantially the same time as the transmission to the sub integrated control device 83, the main control device 80 directly controls the first special figure display device 9 or the second special figure display device 10 to start the change of the special symbol.

  In the first embodiment, there are seven types of jackpot games corresponding to the jackpot symbol and the jackpot symbol, from one jackpot to seven jackpots, and the number of game balls that can be acquired for each type of jackpot game is different. It has become. The first special symbol and the second special symbol both have seven types of big hits, but the second special symbol has a higher ratio of big hits of 4, 5, 6, 7 . Therefore, the second special symbol is advantageous to the player.

Each type of jackpot game has a preset number of rounds, and each round has the special winning opening 14 opened and closed in a unique pattern, and the number of winning balls that can be obtained is different.
(11) Card Discharge Notification Process Next, the card discharge notification process executed by the payout / discharge control device 84 will be described with reference to FIG. When this process is started, it is determined whether or not the card insertion flag is 1 (S650). If the determination is negative (S650: no), the process returns. If the determination is affirmative (S650: yes), it is determined whether or not the discharge notification flag is 0 (S655).

  The discharge notification flag is a value stored in the payout / release control device 84. If the value is 1, a notification prompting the user to return the IC card from the inter-unit unit 100 is being implemented to prevent the IC card from being forgotten. If the value is 0, the payout launch control device 84 determines that the notification prompting the user to return the IC card has not been executed.

  If the determination in S655 is affirmative, that is, if the notification that prompts the user to return the IC card is not performed (S655: yes), it is determined whether or not the value of the holding ball counter is equal to or greater than a predetermined number (1000 in the first embodiment) (S660). ). If the determination is negative (S660: no), it is determined whether the condition device that will start the big hit game has started operation (S675). If the determination is positive (S675: yes), the started big hit game is a predetermined value. It is determined whether or not a big hit (in the first embodiment, a big hit 4, 5, 6, 7) (S680).

  If S660 is affirmative or S680 is affirmative (S660: yes, S680: yes), forgetting to return the IC card by acquiring a large number of game balls to the sub integrated control device 83 via the main control device 80 In order to prevent the card from being released, it is instructed to carry out a card discharge notification that prompts the user to return the card at the present time (when the value of the holding ball counter is 1000 or more, or when a jackpot game where 1000 or more prize balls can be acquired occurs) Is transmitted (S665), the discharge notification flag is set to 1 (S670), and the process returns. If S675 or S680 is negative (S675: no, S680: no), the process returns.

  If S655 makes a negative determination, that is, if a notification that prompts the user to return the IC card is being implemented (S655: no), it is determined whether the value of the holding counter is smaller than a predetermined number (S685). S685: no) Return, and if the determination is affirmative (S685: yes), the notification that prompts the user to return the IC card by setting the discharge notification flag to 0 is terminated (S690), and the process returns.

  The above is the card discharge notification process executed by the payout launch control device 84. For the big hit games 4, 5, 6, 7 in which the value of the holding ball counter becomes a predetermined number or more, or the number of game balls that can be acquired becomes 1000 or more. When any of them occurs, a notification that prompts the user to return (discharge) the IC card from the inter-unit unit 100 is started.

  Further, the notification from the negative determination in S655 terminates the notification prompting the discharge when the value of the holding counter becomes smaller than 1000 during the notification that prompts the user to return the IC card (discharge notification flag 1). It has become.

(12) Discharge Confirmation Signal Receiving Process Next, the discharge confirmation signal receiving process executed by the dispensing launch control device 84 will be described with reference to FIG. When this process receives a signal based on the operation of the return button 102b from the inter-unit unit 100, the inter-unit unit depends on the value of the ball counter of the enclosed game machine 50 at the time of reception and the state of discharge notification. 100 is a process of transmitting a different discharge permission signal (discharge permission signal 1 or discharge permission signal 2) to 100.

  When this process is started, it is determined whether or not a discharge confirmation signal (FIG. 6, S110) is received from the inter-unit unit 100 (S700). If the determination is negative (S700: no), the process returns. If the determination is affirmative (S700: yes), it is determined whether the value of the ball counter is 0 (S705). If the determination is affirmative (S705: yes), the discharge permission signal 1 is output. It outputs to the unit between units 100 (S710), and returns. The output discharge permission signal 1 is processed according to signal reception in unit processing 1 (FIG. 5, S75).

  If S705 is negative, that is, if there is a value that can be fired in the ball counter when a signal based on the operation of the return button 102b is received from the inter-unit unit 100 (S705: no), is the discharge notification flag set to 1? It is determined whether or not (S715), and if the determination is affirmative (S715: yes), the discharge permission signal 2 is output to the inter-unit unit 100 (S720) and the process returns. The output discharge permission signal 2 is processed according to signal reception in unit processing 1 (FIG. 5, S80).

  If S715 is negative (S715: no), that is, when a signal based on the operation of the return button 102b is received from the inter-unit unit 100, there is a value that can be fired in the holding counter, and the IC card is prompted to return. If the notification is not performed, the inter-unit unit 100 does not output a signal for permitting the IC card to be ejected, and it is necessary to adjust the count switch 105 in order to eject the IC card. And an instruction signal for notifying the conditions for discharging the IC card in a state where the ball that can be fired is stored in the enclosed game machine 50 is transmitted to the sub integrated control device 83 via the main control device 80 ( S725) Return.

  In the first embodiment, the notification performed in response to the instruction in S725 shows two contents (a notification that prompts the settlement and a notification that the IC card can be returned), but the situation of the enclosed gaming machine 50 The content of notification may be changed according to (only one of them may be notified).

  Specifically, if the IC card is returned once in response to the card discharge notification (S665) and then S725 is performed in a state where the IC card is inserted into the inter-unit unit 100 again, only the notification that prompts the settlement is issued. Otherwise, the game is started from the state where the ball counter is 0 or has never exceeded 1000, or the ball counter is 0, and a big hit 4, 5, 6, 7 has occurred once. In such a case, the same two contents as in the first embodiment may be notified. Thereby, the notification content displayed on the effect symbol display device 6 may be simplified, and the player can easily understand. In the first embodiment, the payout control device 84 receives a signal corresponding to the operation of the return button 102b via the inter-unit 100, but the return button 102b is directly connected to the payout control device 84. When the payout / release control device 84 receives an operation signal for the return button 102b, the process of shifting to S705 is performed after determining whether the card insertion flag is 1 (discharge permission signal 1, 2 output).

(13) Discharge Signal Reception Processing Next, the discharge signal reception processing executed by the payout / discharge control device 84 will be described with reference to FIG. This process is a process executed in response to the discharge signal (S70) output when the inter-unit unit 100 returns (when discharging) the IC card. When this process is started, it is determined whether a discharge signal output from the inter-unit unit 100 has been received (S750). If the determination is negative (S750), the process returns. If the determination is affirmative (S750: yes), it is determined whether or not the discharge notification flag is 0 (S755). If an affirmative determination, that is, if the card discharge notification has not been executed (S755: yes), the card insertion flag is set to 0 (S760) and the process returns.

  If S755 is negative, that is, if the card discharge notification is being executed in S665 (S755: no), the notification for prompting the discharge of the IC card is ended by setting the discharge notification flag to 0 (S765). ), The discharging flag is set to 1 (S780), and the process proceeds to S760 described above.

  The discharging flag is a value stored by the payout launch control device 84. If the value is 1, an IC card is inserted from the inter-unit unit 100 in a state in which 1000 or more game balls that can be launched into the enclosed game machine 50 are stored. If the value is 0, the payout and launch control device 84 determines that the IC card has not been returned.

  The above is the explanation of the discharge signal reception processing. This processing ends the notification by the storage medium return notification means due to the storage medium being returned from the inter-unit unit 100, and the ball holding at this time If the value of the counter is not 0 (the counting SW 105 has been operated or all the balls have been fired), the processing is to set 1 to F during discharge indicating that the card has been removed and the game is being played.

(14) Insertion Confirmation Signal Receiving Process Next, the insertion confirmation signal receiving process executed by the payout / emission control device 84 will be described with reference to FIG. The insertion confirmation signal is returned to the IC card to prevent forgetting it when the ball counter of the enclosing game machine 50 reaches 1000 or more (or one of the big hit games 4, 5, 6, 7 occurs) This is a signal that the inter-unit unit 100 outputs in S120 of FIG. 7 when the return button 102b is operated in the ejected state (the state in which no IC card is inserted).

  When this process is started, it is determined whether or not an insertion confirmation signal has been received (S800). If the determination is negative (S800: no), the process returns, and if the determination is affirmative (S800: yes), an insertion prompting signal for instructing execution of a notification that prompts the user to insert the IC card that is temporarily returned into the inter-unit unit 100 again. 2 is transmitted to the sub integrated control device 83 via the main control device 80 (S805), and the process returns.

  The sub integrated control device 83 that has received the insertion prompting signal 2 performs a control to execute notification in the effect symbol display device 6 for a predetermined time (10 seconds) prompting the IC card being returned to be inserted into the inter-unit unit 100 again. .

(15) Regarding Ball Holding Counter Increase / Decrease Confirmation Processing Next, with reference to FIG. 20, the ball holding counter increase / decrease confirmation processing executed by the payout launch control device 84 will be described. When this process is started, it is determined whether or not the value of the ball holding counter is greater than 0 (S850). If the determination is negative (S850: no), the process returns. If the determination is affirmative (S850: yes), it is determined whether the card insertion flag is 0 (S855). If the determination is negative (S855: no), the process returns. If the determination is affirmative (S855: yes), it is determined whether the value of the holding ball counter has changed (S860).

  If S860 is negative, that is, if the value has not changed (S860: no), it is determined whether or not the timer for measuring the unchanged time of the ball holding counter is operating (S885). In the first embodiment, it is determined that no game is played when 10 minutes have passed without the ball counter being changed, but during this time, another game machine is secured using the returned IC card. Therefore, it may be a time when it can be determined that the gaming machine is left, and is not limited to 10 minutes. In addition, the timer may be activated when the management flag changes from 1 to 0, and the measurement may be performed when the game is clearly stopped.

  If S885 is negative (S885: no), the timer is started (S895). After S895, or if S885 is positive (S885: yes), incrementing processing to increment the counter constituting the timer by +1 is performed. Perform (S890). Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the value of the timer counter is a predetermined value (S900). If the determination is negative (S900: no), the process returns. If the determination is affirmative, that is, if 10 minutes have elapsed from the start of the timer operation (S900: yes). ), An instruction signal for performing abnormality notification is transmitted to the sub-integrated control device 83 via the main controller 80 (S905), the abnormality notification flag is set to 1 (S910), and the process returns.

  As described above, the abnormality notification flag is a value stored in the payout / release control device 84. If the value is 1, the abnormality notification that prompts the game ball to be launched is being executed. If the value is 0, the abnormality notification is performed. Is determined not to be performed by the payout launch control device 84.

  If the determination of S860 is affirmative, that is, if the value of the ball holding counter has changed (S860: yes), it is determined whether or not the abnormality notification flag is 0 (S865), and if it is negative (S865: no), a return is made and an affirmative determination is made. That is, if the abnormality notification is being performed (S865: yes), the abnormality notification flag is set to 0 to end the abnormality notification (S870), the operation of the timer started in S895 is stopped (S875), The value of the timer counter is cleared (S880) and the process returns.

(16) About discharge state cancellation | release process Next, the discharge state cancellation | release process which the discharge | emission discharge control apparatus 84 performs is demonstrated using FIG. In the first embodiment, it is possible to return the IC card while storing a value that can be fired in the holding ball counter in response to the establishment of the predetermined condition in the enclosed game machine 50, and that the returned state is in the returned state. Each of the enclosed game machine 50 and the inter-unit unit 100 stores data (the enclosed game machine 50 has a discharging flag and the inter-unit unit 100 has a temporary discharge flag). When the value of the holding ball counter becomes 0 with the enclosed game machine 50 in the state in which the discharging flag is raised, it is not necessary to insert the IC card again and make adjustments, so that the discharging flag is lowered.

  When this process is started, it is determined whether or not the discharge flag is 1 (S950). If the determination is negative (S950: no), the process returns. If the determination is affirmative (S950: yes), it is determined whether the ball holding counter is 0 (S955). If a negative determination is made (S955: no), a return is made. If an affirmative determination is made (S955: yes), the discharging flag is set to 0 (S960), a temporary discharge end signal is output to the inter-unit 100, and the process returns (S965). .

  The above is the discharge state release processing, and the temporary discharge end signal output in S965 is set to 0 in the temporary discharge flag stored in the inter-unit unit 100 when reception determination is performed in S95 of FIG. The setting process is performed, and the temporary ejection state of the IC card between the enclosed game machine 50 and the inter-unit unit 100 is released.

(17) About adjustment notification processing Next, with reference to FIG. 22, the adjustment notification processing executed by the payout launch control device 84 will be described. This process is a situation in which it is highly likely that the return of the card is forgotten if the payment is not performed even after a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the payment notification started by S220 in FIG. It is determined that there is a card discharge notification (same as S665).

  When this process is started, it is determined whether or not the settlement notification flag is 1 (S1000). If the determination is negative (S1000: no), the process returns. If the determination is affirmative (S1000: yes), it is determined whether the operation signal of the counting switch 105 has not been received (S1005). If the determination is affirmative (S1005: yes), the settlement timer counter. (S1010), it is determined whether the settlement timer counter has reached a predetermined value (S1015). The predetermined value of the settlement timer counter in the first embodiment is 2 minutes, but is not limited to this.

  If S1015 is a negative determination (S1015: no), the process returns. If an affirmative determination is made (S1015: yes), a card discharge notification instruction (the same content as S665 in FIG. 16) is issued (S1020), and the discharge notification flag is set to 1. Subsequent to the negative determination in S1025 or S1005 (S1005: no), the settlement notification flag is set to 0, the settlement notification is terminated (S1030), and the process returns.

(18) Roll-out rate calculation process Next, the roll-out rate calculation process executed by the game recorder 200 will be described with reference to FIG. This process is periodically executed by a microcomputer that performs overall control of the game recorder 200 while the enclosed game machine 50 is in operation.

  In S1100, the game recorder 200 generates a launch generated from the main control device 80 due to any of the launch of the game ball, the detection of the IN ball, and the detection of the OUT ball after execution of the previous payout rate calculation process. Receive information. Then, based on the launch information, the number of game balls (number of shot balls) that have been fired between the execution of the previous play rate calculation process and the present time is calculated, and the number of shot balls is determined in advance. This is added to the total number of game balls (total number of shot balls) fired during the monitoring period (details will be described later).

  In S1105, the game recorder 200 gives to the player between the execution of the previous payout rate calculation process and the current time based on the addition instruction received from the main control device 80 after the execution of the previous payout rate calculation process. The number of awarded balls is calculated. Then, the calculated number of prize balls is added to the total number of prize balls given to the player during the monitoring period.

  The addition instruction means that the main controller 80 detects the game ball by the first start port switch 11a, the second start port switch 12a, the count switch 14a, and the general winning port switch 13a for updating the ball counter. It is the same signal as that transmitted to the payout launch control device 84.

  Alternatively, the main controller 80 may be configured to transmit only a winning opening where a winning has occurred or the number of winning game balls to the gaming recorder 200, and the gaming recorder 200 may calculate the number of winning balls based on them.

In S1110, the game recorder 200 calculates the payout rate in the monitoring period by dividing the total number of winning balls by the total number of shot balls.
Here, the monitoring period may be a period retroactive to a predetermined time from the current time (for example, a period from the current time to one hour before).

  In such a case, the total number of fired balls and the total number of prize balls are calculated every unit time (for example, 1 minute), and the monitoring period including the latest unit time for which the calculation of the total number of shot balls and the like has been completed is completed. The payout rate may be calculated based on the total number of shot balls in a predetermined number of unit times.

  If the monitoring period is long, each time the unit time elapses, the number of shot balls in the unit time is stored in a nonvolatile storage medium such as an EEPROM, and each read out from the storage medium It is conceivable to calculate the payout rate based on the total number of shot balls in a unit time.

  In addition to this, for example, a period after power-on of the enclosed game machine 50 may be set as the monitoring period. Further, the total number of shot balls and the like are stored in a non-volatile storage medium, and the period from the time when the storage area of the total number of shot balls and the total number of prize balls in the storage medium is initialized is also a monitoring period. good.

In S1115, the game recorder 200 determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the payout rate by determining whether or not the payout rate is a value within a predetermined normal range.
At this time, the upper limit value and the lower limit value of the normal range of the payout rate may be set according to the length of the monitoring period. Specifically, for example, if the period from the current time to 1 hour before is set as the monitoring period, the normal range is set to 1 to 3 and the period from the current time to 10 hours before is set as the monitoring period. If there is, the normal range may be 1 / 2-2.

  In addition, for example, the payout rate in the monitoring periods of a plurality of lengths is calculated, and it is determined whether the payout rate in each monitoring period is within the normal range, and all of the payout rates are in the normal range. In this case, it may be considered that the payout rate is normal.

When an affirmative determination is obtained (S1115: Yes), the process proceeds to S1120, and when a negative determination is obtained (S1115: No), this process ends.
In S1120, game recorder 200 outputs an abnormal signal indicating that the payout rate is abnormal to the outside.

  Specifically, the game recorder 200 may transmit an abnormal signal to the payout and launch control device 84 via the output unit 280, for example, to stop the progress of the game or the launch of the game ball, or the sub-integration It is good also as a structure which transmits the abnormal signal to the control apparatus 83, and alert | reports that the abnormality of the payout rate has arisen.

In addition, the game recorder 200 may stop the progress of the game by transmitting an abnormal signal to the main control device 80 via the wiring 240 and the input connector 230, for example.
In addition, the game recorder 200 transmits an abnormal signal to the hall computer 87 via the payout and launch control device 84 and the inter-unit unit 100, and notifies that an abnormality in the payout rate has occurred via the hall computer 87. The hall computer 87 may store the fact that an abnormality in the payout rate has occurred.

Note that in S1120, the game recorder 200 may output a different abnormality signal depending on the value of the payout rate outside the normal range.
Specifically, for example, if the upper limit value of the normal range is X, X1 and X2 are provided as threshold values exceeding the upper limit value, and the abnormal signal 1 when the payout rate is in the range of X to X1. , The abnormal signal 2 may be output when the payout rate is in the range of X1 to X2, and the abnormal signal 3 may be output when the payout rate exceeds X2.

  Then, for example, when the abnormal signal 1 is output, the sub-integrated control device 83 or the like notifies the abnormality of the payout rate, and when the abnormal signal 2 is output, the output rate is abnormal. When the abnormal signal 3 is output in the hall computer 87 and the abnormal signal 3 is output, different processes may be performed step by step depending on the value of the payout rate.

By doing so, it is possible to more flexibly cope with an abnormality in the payout rate.
[Second Embodiment]
Next, the enclosed game machine 50 of the second embodiment will be described.

  The enclosed game machine 50 of the second embodiment has substantially the same configuration as that of the first embodiment, but in the first embodiment, the game recorder 200 is connected to the main controller 80. In the second embodiment, the game recorder 200 is connected to the payout launch control device 84, and this is different from the first embodiment.

  For this reason, in the second embodiment, the game recorder 200 acquires the launch information from the payout launch control device 84. In addition, the game recorder 200 is made from the main control device 80 to the payout launch control device 84 in response to the detection of the game ball of the first start port switch 11a, the second start port switch 12a, the count switch 14a, or the general winning port switch 13a. The addition instruction is acquired from the payout / release control device 84.

In addition, the game recorder 200 performs the same payout rate calculation process as in the first embodiment, but is different from the first embodiment in the following points.
Specifically, in S1100 of the payout rate calculation process, the game recorder 200 performs the previous payout rate calculation process based on the launch information received from the payout launch control device 84 after the execution of the previous payout rate calculation process. The number of shot balls from the execution to the present time is calculated, and the number of shot balls is added to the total number of shot balls in the monitoring period.

  Also, in S1105, the game recorder 200 plays the game between the execution of the previous payout rate calculation process and the current time based on the addition instruction received from the payout launch control device 84 after the execution of the previous payout rate calculation process. The number of prize balls given to the person is calculated. Then, the calculated number of prize balls is added to the total number of prize balls given to the player during the monitoring period.

[Third Embodiment]
Next, the enclosed game machine 50 of the third embodiment will be described.
The enclosed game machine 50 of the third embodiment has the same configuration as that of the first embodiment, but part of the processing is different from that of the first embodiment.

  Specifically, in the third embodiment, when the payout launch control device 84 adds the ball counter in accordance with the addition instruction according to the ball rental request in the ball addition / subtraction process (S315), the fact that the ball counter has been added (S315). Addition notification) and the value of the ball holding counter after the addition are transmitted to the main controller 80.

  In addition to this, the payout launch control device 84, for example, receives a predetermined number of game balls stored in an IC card inserted into the inter-unit unit 100 in response to an operation from the player. May be transmitted to the main controller 80. The addition notification and the value of the ball counter after the addition may be transmitted to the main controller 80.

In addition, the payout launch control device 84 transmits the value of the holding ball counter to the main control device 80 in response to an instruction from the main control device 80.
Moreover, in 3rd Embodiment, the content of the payout rate calculation process is different from 1st Embodiment. Below, the payout rate calculation process of 3rd Embodiment is demonstrated using the flowchart of FIG. This process is periodically executed by a microcomputer that performs overall control of the game recorder 200 while the enclosed game machine 50 is in operation.

  In S1200, the game recorder 200 determines whether or not it is the reference timing for specifying the reference number of balls for estimating the payout rate. Specifically, for example, the game recorder 200 inquires of the main control device 80 whether or not an addition notification or the like has been received from the payout and launch control device 84, and when the main control device 80 receives the addition notification or the like. Is regarded as a reference timing.

  When the affirmative determination is obtained (S1200: Yes), the game recorder 200 shifts the process to S1205, and when the negative determination is obtained (S1200: No), the game recorder 200 shifts the process to S1215. To do.

  In S1205, the game recorder 200 acquires the value of the ball holding counter transmitted from the main control device 80 by the payout and discharge control device 84 together with the addition notification, and the value of the ball holding counter (the current number of balls held). The reference number of balls is stored, and the process proceeds to S1210.

In S1210, the game recorder 200 initializes the value of the reference counter for calculating the payout rate, and ends this process.
In S1215, which is shifted when it is not the reference timing, the game recorder 200 updates the value of the reference counter, and shifts the processing to S1220.

  In S1220, the game recorder 200 determines whether or not a predetermined reference time (for example, 1 hour) has elapsed based on the value of the reference counter. If an affirmative determination is obtained (S1220: Yes), the process proceeds to S1225. If a negative determination is obtained (S1220: No), this process ends.

  In S1225, the game recorder 200 requests the main controller 80 to transmit the current value of the ball holding counter (the number of balls held). The main controller 80 that has received the request acquires the number of balls from the payout and launch controller 84 and transmits it to the game recorder 200.

  In the subsequent S1230, the game recorder 200 is based on the current number of balls and the reference number of balls until the reference time elapses from the reference timing (or until the reference time elapses from the timing at which the last payout rate is calculated). ) And the estimated value of the payout rate during the period (monitoring period), and the process proceeds to S1235. Specifically, the value X obtained by the following equation is estimated as the total number of winning balls in the monitoring period.

X = current number of balls-reference number of balls + estimated value of the total number of shots in the monitoring period In general, the maximum number of shots per minute is 100 shots or less in a ball game machine. Therefore, as an example, it is conceivable to calculate an estimated value of the total number of shot balls in the monitoring period with the number of shot balls per minute being 100.

Then, a value obtained by dividing X by the estimated value of the total number of shot balls in the monitoring period is set as an estimated value of the payout rate in the monitoring period.
In S1235, the game recorder 200 initializes the reference counter, and proceeds to S1240.

In S1240, the game recorder 200 stores the current number of balls as the reference number of balls, and proceeds to S1245.
In S1245, the game recorder 200 determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the payout rate by determining whether or not the estimated value of the payout rate exceeds a predetermined upper limit value. As in the first embodiment, it is conceivable to set an upper limit value according to the length of the reference time.

When an affirmative determination is obtained (S1245: Yes), the process proceeds to S1250, and when a negative determination is obtained (S1245: No), this process ends.
In S1250, the game recorder 200 outputs an abnormal signal in the same manner as S1120 in the payout rate calculation process of the first and second embodiments, and ends this process.

In S1250, the game recorder 200 may output a different abnormality signal according to the value of the payout rate exceeding the upper limit value.
Specifically, for example, when the upper limit value is X, X1 and X2 are provided as threshold values exceeding the upper limit value, and when the payout rate is in the range of X to X1, abnormal signal 1 is output. The abnormal signal 2 may be output when the yield rate is in the range of X1 to X2, and the abnormal signal 3 may be output when the yield rate exceeds X2.

  Then, for example, when the abnormal signal 1 is output, the sub-integrated control device 83 or the like notifies the abnormality of the payout rate, and when the abnormal signal 2 is output, the output rate is abnormal. When the abnormal signal 3 is output in the hall computer 87 and the abnormal signal 3 is output, different processing may be performed depending on the value of the payout rate.

By doing so, it is possible to more flexibly cope with an abnormality in the payout rate.
[Fourth Embodiment]
Next, the enclosed game machine 50 of the fourth embodiment will be described.

The enclosed game machine 50 of the fourth embodiment has the same configuration as the enclosed game machine 50 of the second embodiment, and the game recorder 200 is connected to the payout launch control device 84.
Further, the game recorder 200 of the fourth embodiment performs the same payout rate calculation processing as that of the third embodiment. However, the game recorder 200 replaces the main control device 80 with a ball throw counter from the payout launch control device 84. It differs in that it obtains the value of.

  Specifically, in S1200 of the payout rate calculation process, the game recorder 200 adds a ball counter to the payout launch control device 84 in accordance with an addition instruction corresponding to the ball rental request in S315 of the ball addition / subtraction process. Inquire whether or not. If a response indicating that the addition has been made is obtained, it is regarded as a reference timing.

  In addition to this, the game recorder 200 gives a predetermined number of saved to the IC card inserted in the inter-unit unit 100 in response to the operation from the player, for example, with respect to the payout launch control device 84. An inquiry may be made as to whether the game ball has been added to the ball counter. If a response indicating that the addition has been made is obtained, it may be regarded as a reference timing.

  Also, in S1205, the game recorder 200 acquires the value of the ball holding counter after the addition is made by the ball rental request or the like from the payout launch control device 84, and stores the value of the ball holding counter as the reference number of balls. To do.

  In S1225, the game recorder 200 requests the payout launch control device 84 to transmit the current value of the current ball counter (the number of balls held), and the payout launch control device 84 that has received the request receives the game recorder 200. Send the number of balls to.

[effect]
According to the game recorder 200 of the first to fourth embodiments, since the board 210 on which the microcomputer 260 or the like is mounted is covered with the board box 220, unauthorized modification or data alteration to the microcomputer 260 or the like is prevented. It is possible to reliably detect an abnormality in the payout rate.

  Moreover, even if the enclosed game machine 50 passes the test of the payout rate, the payout rate may temporarily exceed the limit range. In such a case, the game recorder An abnormal signal is output from 200.

  For this reason, the enclosed game machine 50 or the like can give a warning or stop the game according to the abnormal signal, and fortunately, with the enclosed game machine 50 that has passed the test of the payout rate. Can be stopped.

  In addition, since the game can be stopped when the payout rate exceeds the limit range, it is not necessary to provide a complicated rule, and a variety of games can be provided without being bound by the rule. The configuration of the enclosed game machine 50 can be simplified.

Moreover, it is not necessary to calculate the estimated value of the payout rate by complicated calculation, and the inspection related to the payout rate can be simplified.
[Other Embodiments]
(1) Although the game recorder 200 in the first and second embodiments is mounted on the enclosed game machine 50, the game recorder 200 is used as a non-encapsulated bullet ball game machine (non-enclosed game machine). Is also applicable.

  The non-enclosed game machine has a main control device that controls the progress of the game and controls the launching and lending of game balls, as well as paying out prize balls according to the winnings detected by the main control device. A payout control device that performs control and the like is mounted.

  When the game recorder 200 is applied to an unsealed game machine, the main control device and the payout control device are provided with sensors for detecting the occurrence of IN spheres and OUT spheres, and for detecting the launch of game spheres and foul balls. In the main control device and the payout control device, it is conceivable that the number of fired balls is counted based on signals from these sensors, and firing information indicating the number of fired balls is generated.

  If the game recorder 200 is connected to the main controller as in the first embodiment, the game recorder 200 acquires the launch information and the number of prize balls from the main controller, and is the same as in the first embodiment. It is conceivable to perform a payout rate calculation process.

  Further, if the game recorder 200 is connected to the payout control device as in the second embodiment, the game recorder 200 acquires the launch information and the number of prize balls from the payout control device, and is the same as in the second embodiment. It is conceivable to perform a payout rate calculation process.

Even in such a case, the same effect can be obtained.
(2) Further, in the enclosed gaming machine 50 of the first and second embodiments, the game recorder 200 is connected to either the main controller 80 or the payout launch controller 84, but the game recorder 200 is It may be connected to both the main controller 80 and the payout launch controller 84.

  In the number-of-balls calculating process, the game recorder 200 receives a similar addition instruction from the main control device 80 when the main control device 80 gives an addition instruction to the payout and launch control device 84 in accordance with winning. The launch information may be received from the payout launch control device 84 (of course, the addition instruction may be received from the payout launch control device 84 and the launch information may be received from the main control device 80).

Even in such a case, the same effect can be obtained.
(3) In the first to fourth embodiments, the game recorder 200 is supplied with power from the external power supply 300, but may be supplied with power from a power supply circuit provided in the enclosed game machine 50. . Even in such a case, the same effect can be obtained.

  (4) Further, in the payout rate calculation processing of the third and fourth embodiments, from the reference period when the reference time elapses from the reference timing at which the ball lending or the like was made, or from the time when the previous payout rate was calculated. The estimated value of the payout rate during the monitoring period until the reference time elapses is calculated based on the value of the ball holding counter, and the presence / absence of an error in the payout rate is determined.

  However, the game recorder 200 may acquire the value of the ball holding counter (the number of balls held) from the main control device 80 or the payout launch control device 84 at a periodic acquisition timing, for example. In addition, the game recorder 200 adds a ball counter by ball lending by the payout and launch control device 84 and uses a predetermined number of game balls stored in the IC card inserted in the inter-unit unit 100 as a ball counter. When the process of adding is performed, the number of ball counters added (number of loans) may be acquired.

  Then, when the game recorder 200 acquires the number of balls at the acquisition timing, the number of loans acquired in the period (monitoring period) from when the game recorder 200 and the enclosed gaming machine 50 are turned on until the acquisition timing, Based on the latest number of possessed balls acquired at the acquisition timing, an estimated value of the payout rate during the monitoring period may be calculated.

Specifically, first, it is conceivable to calculate the estimated value (X) of the total number of winning balls in the monitoring period by the following formula.
X = latest number of balls held−total number of loans in the monitoring period + estimated value of the total number of fired balls in the monitoring period Generally, in a ball game machine, the maximum number of shot balls per minute is 100 shots. Therefore, as an example, it is conceivable to calculate an estimated value of the total number of fired balls in the monitoring period by setting the number of fired balls per minute as 100.

  Then, a value obtained by dividing X by the estimated value of the total number of shot balls in the monitoring period is set as an estimated value of the payout rate in the monitoring period, and is similar to S1245 in the payout rate calculation process in the third and fourth embodiments. The presence / absence of a payout rate may be determined based on the estimated value.

Even in such a case, the presence / absence of an abnormality in the payout rate can be determined.
(5) In addition, an electronic device composed of a substrate 210, a substrate box 220, a connection unit 241, a power circuit 250, a microcomputer 260, a backup power source 270, etc., similar to the game recorder 200 in the first to fourth embodiments is enclosed. It may be mounted on a type or non-enclosed type ball game machine or a revolving game machine, and may be used, for example, for detection or prevention of fraud.

  According to such an electronic device, since the microcomputer or the like is covered with the board box, it is difficult to make unauthorized modification or tampering with internal data, and detection and prevention of fraud is more reliably performed. It can be carried out.

[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 enclosed game machine 50 corresponds to an example of a ball and ball game machine, a game machine, the game recorder 200 corresponds to an example of an electronic device, and the payout launch control device 84 corresponds to an example of a payout control device.
Further, the board box 220 in the game recorder 200 corresponds to an example of a cover unit, and the board 210 corresponds to an example of an electronic circuit.

Further, S1100 to S1110 in the payout rate calculation process in the first and second embodiments correspond to an example of a calculation unit, and S1120 corresponds to an example of an output unit.
In addition, S1205, S1225, and S1230 in the payout rate calculation process in the third and fourth embodiments correspond to an example of a calculation unit, and S1245 corresponds to an example of an output unit.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 50 ... Enclosed game machine, 80 ... Main control device, 83 ... Sub integrated control device, 84 ... Discharge launch control device, 100 ... Inter-unit unit, 200 ... Game recorder, 210 ... Board, 220 ... Board box, 230 ... Input Connector, 240 ... wiring, 241 ... connecting section, 250 ... power supply circuit, 260 ... microcomputer, 270 ... backup power supply, 280 ... output section, 300 ... external power supply.

Claims (13)

A game recorder mounted on a ball game machine,
Based on the information acquired from the device mounted on the ball game machine, the number of shot balls that are the number of game balls shot in the game on the ball game machine, and given to the player by the game And calculating means for calculating a payout rate which is a degree of giving a game ball to a player, based on the number of fired balls and the number of prize balls.
Determining whether or not the payout rate calculated by the calculating means is abnormal, and if abnormal, an output means for outputting an abnormal signal to the outside;
Cover means for covering the calculation means and the output means in a manner that is difficult or impossible to open;
A game recorder comprising: The game recorder according to claim 1,
The game recorder is connected to a main control device that controls the progress of the game in the ball game machine,
The calculating means calculates the number of fired balls and the number of prize balls based on the information acquired from the main control device;
A game recorder characterized by The game recorder according to claim 1,
The game recorder is connected to a payout control device that controls a ball held in a game in the ball game machine,
The calculating means calculates the number of fired balls and the number of prize balls based on the information acquired from the payout control device;
A game recorder characterized by It is mounted on an enclosed ball game machine that uses a predetermined number of game balls enclosed inside to play a game, and is connected to a main controller that controls the progress of the game in the ball game machine A game recorder,
A calculating means for estimating a payout rate, which is a degree of giving a game ball to a player, based on a change in the number of balls of the player specified by information acquired from the main control device;
It is determined whether or not the payout rate estimated by the calculating means is abnormal, and if abnormal, an output means for outputting an abnormal signal to the outside,
Cover means for covering the calculation means and the output means in a manner that is difficult or impossible to open;
A game recorder comprising: It is mounted on an enclosed ball game machine that plays a game using a predetermined number of game balls enclosed inside, and performs control to manage the ball possessed by the game in the ball game machine A game recorder connected to the payout control device,
Calculation means for estimating a payout rate, which is a degree of giving a game ball to a player, based on a change in the number of balls held by the player specified by information acquired from the payout control device;
It is determined whether or not the payout rate estimated by the calculating means is abnormal, and if abnormal, an output means for outputting an abnormal signal to the outside,
Cover means for covering the calculation means and the output means in a manner that is difficult or impossible to open;
A game recorder comprising: In the game recorder according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
It further includes a power supply circuit that supplies power to each part of its own device,
The power supply circuit is not covered by the cover means;
A game recorder characterized by The game recorder according to claim 6,
A backup power supply for supplying power to each part of the device itself is further provided.
The cover means further covers the backup power source;
A game recorder characterized by The game recorder according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
The information used by the calculation means is obtained from a device mounted on the ball game machine via a wiring connected to the game recorder,
The cover means further covers the connecting portion of the wiring;
A game recorder characterized by An electronic device mounted on a gaming machine,
An electronic circuit having a predetermined function;
Cover means for covering the electronic circuit in a manner that is difficult or impossible to open;
A power supply circuit that supplies power to each part of the device itself and is not covered by the cover means;
An electronic device comprising: The electronic device according to claim 9.
The cover means further covers a connecting portion of wiring for connecting the electronic circuit and another device mounted on the ball game machine;
An electronic device characterized by the above. The electronic device according to claim 9 or claim 10,
The electronic circuit has a function as a calculation unit and an output unit according to any one of claims 1 to 8,
An electronic device characterized by the above.   A ball game machine equipped with the game recorder according to any one of claims 1 to 8.   A gaming machine equipped with the electronic device according to any one of claims 9 to 12.

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