JP2016032761A - Management device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To enable a presentation of information useful to managers and the like in game halls to correctly understand operation information outputted from each game machine.SOLUTION: A management device 600 is provided for receiving operation signals outputted from slot machines 100 installed in a game hall in a plurality of numbers, and managing the operation states related to the slot machines 100. The management device 600 is configured to have control means for specifying, on the basis of the operation signals, whether a game state in the slot machine 100 is at a start time or at an end time of a period being in an ART state.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

The present invention relates to a management device that manages a plurality of gaming machines installed in a game arcade.

Conventionally, as shown in Patent Document 1, an information management apparatus that manages operation data of gaming machines installed in a game arcade is well known.

For example, if the gaming machine is a revolving type gaming machine (slot machine), such an information management device is the number of medals inserted (= IN number), the number of medals paid out (= OUT number), winning (big bonus, regular bonus) The operation signal related to the game machine is acquired from the gaming machine side, and operation data is created based on the operation signal and provided to the manager of the game hall.

JP-A-1-250284

By the way, in recent years, the slot machine has been devised so that a long time game can be enjoyed with as little money as possible.

For example, on the condition that a specific symbol is confirmed, it becomes easy to align with replay roles, and assist replay time (hereinafter referred to as “lighting of a lamp” etc. assists the order of pressing a push button for stopping a rotating reel). In many cases, a period of “ART” is provided.

In this ART state, as described above, since there are many replays, the player's handful of game media is rarely reduced. On the other hand, since the player may play a small role, the player's handful of game media actually increases slightly. I often go.

Since this ART state is a mixture of the assist time (hereinafter referred to as “AT”) and the RT state, there are some gaming machines that output an RT signal to the outside, but in reality the ART state operates as the same as the normal state. In many cases, information is managed, and it is not possible to provide useful information for game hall managers.

It is an object to provide useful information for game hall managers and the like.

In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 1 is a management device that receives an operation signal output from a plurality of gaming machines installed in a game arcade and manages an operation status of the gaming machine. ,
The management apparatus includes a control unit that identifies a start time or an end time of a period in which the gaming state of the gaming machine is an ART state based on the operation signal.

In the invention according to claim 2, the operation signal includes at least a medal payout signal indicating that a game medium has been paid out from the gaming machine and a medal insertion signal indicating that a game medium has been inserted into the gaming machine.
It further has a storage means for storing a reference payout rate to be compared,
The control means calculates a payout rate in a predetermined game range determined in advance based on the medal payout signal and the medal insertion signal, and based on a comparison result between the calculated payout rate and the reference payout rate. The management device according to claim 1, wherein the management device identifies at the start or end of a period in which the gaming state of the gaming machine is an ART state.

In the invention according to claim 3, the operation signal includes at least an RT signal indicating that the gaming state of the gaming machine is an ART state,
2. The management device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit performs identification at a start or end of a period in which the gaming state of the gaming machine is an ART state based on the RT signal.

In the invention according to claim 4, the operation signal includes at least a bonus signal indicating that the gaming state of the gaming machine is a bonus gaming state,
The management device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit performs identification at the end of a period in which the gaming state of the gaming machine is an ART state based on the bonus signal.

In the invention according to claim 5, the operation signal includes at least a start signal indicating that a rotating device provided in the gaming machine has rotated,
A storage means for storing the number of games in a period in which the gaming state of the gaming machine is an ART state;
The control means calculates the number of games based on the start signal, specifying the end of the period when the gaming state of the gaming machine is in the ART state, and calculates the number of games and the number of games in the period of the ART state The management apparatus according to claim 1, which is performed based on a comparison with.

In the invention according to claim 6, the operating signal includes at least an RT signal indicating that the gaming state of the gaming machine is an ART state,
It further has a time measuring means for measuring time,
The control means starts timing using the timing means when receiving the RT signal, and based on whether or not the RT signal is received when a predetermined time has elapsed, a period in which the gaming state in the gaming machine is in the ART state The management device according to claim 1, wherein the management device is identified at the time of termination.

In the invention according to claim 7, the operation signal includes at least an RT signal indicating that the gaming state of the gaming machine is an ART state and a start signal indicating that the rotating device provided in the gaming machine has rotated. Including
The RT signal is output from the gaming machine together with the start signal during the ART state period,
2. The management device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit identifies at the end of a period in which a gaming state of the gaming machine is an ART state based on whether or not the RT signal is received.

In the invention according to claim 8, the operation signal includes at least an RT signal indicating that the gaming state of the gaming machine is the ART state,
A storage means for storing an RT signal delay time indicating a difference between when the gaming state of the gaming machine becomes an ART state and when an RT signal is output from the gaming machine;
When the control means receives the RT signal, the time point that corresponds to the RT signal delay time from the time when the RT signal is received is taken as the start of the period in which the gaming state of the gaming machine is in the ART state. The management apparatus according to claim 1 is specified.

In the invention according to claim 9, the operation signal includes at least an RT signal indicating that the gaming state of the gaming machine is the ART state and a start signal indicating that the rotating device provided in the gaming machine has rotated. Including
The storage device further stores a start signal output when the gaming state of the gaming machine becomes an ART state and an RT signal delay game number indicating a difference between the RT signal output from the gaming machine. ,
When the control means receives the RT signal, the gaming state in the gaming machine is the ART state at a time point that is the number of games corresponding to the RT signal delayed game number from the game related to the reception of the RT signal. The management apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the management apparatus is specified as a start time of a period.

With the configuration of the present invention, useful information can be provided to users such as game hall managers and employees.

It is a conceptual diagram which shows the whole structure in one Example of this invention exemplarily. It is a conceptual diagram which shows the whole structure in one Example of this invention exemplarily. FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram exemplarily showing an overall configuration of a slot machine in one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a circuit block diagram showing a main control unit of the slot machine in one embodiment of the present invention. It is explanatory drawing which showed the flow of the operation signal in one Example of this invention. It is a time chart which shows the output pattern of RT signal of the slot machine in one Example of this invention. It is a figure showing the symbol arrangement given to each reel of the slot machine in one example of the present invention. 12 is a flowchart showing a flow of main processing of the main control unit of the slot machine in one embodiment of the present invention. It is a conceptual diagram which shows illustartively the hardware constitutions of the management apparatus in one Example of this invention. It is a conceptual diagram which shows illustartively the structure of the storage area of the management apparatus in one Example of this invention. It is the figure which showed typically the structure of the ceiling ART setting information storage area of the management apparatus in one Example of this invention. It is the figure which showed exemplarily the ceiling ART setting information input screen of the management apparatus in one Example of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the process which the management apparatus in one Example of this invention performs. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the process which the management apparatus in one Example of this invention performs. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the process which the management apparatus in one Example of this invention performs. It is a flowchart which shows the process which the management apparatus in one Example of this invention performs. It is a flowchart which shows the process which the management apparatus in one Example of this invention performs. It is a flowchart which shows the process which the management apparatus in one Example of this invention performs. It is a flowchart which shows the process which the management apparatus in one Example of this invention performs. It is a flowchart which shows the process which the management apparatus in one Example of this invention performs. It is a flowchart which shows the process which the management apparatus in one Example of this invention performs. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the process which the management apparatus in one Example of this invention performs.

A management device that receives an operation signal output from a plurality of gaming machines installed in a game arcade and manages an operation status of the gaming machine, wherein the gaming state in the gaming machine is ART based on the operation signal Use of the control means for specifying the start time or end time of the period of the state makes it possible to provide useful information to users such as game hall managers and employees.

Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the components described in this embodiment are merely examples, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention only to them.

<Amusement center management system configuration>
FIG. 1 is a block diagram exemplarily showing the system configuration of the game hall management system according to the present embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 1, the game hall management system includes a slot machine 100 (an example of a gaming machine), an inter-machine 800, a repeater 900, a base terminal device 400, an island terminal device 500, a management device 600, and these The network 701 connects devices. Each device will be described in detail below. The operation signal output from the slot machine 100 is sent to the management device 600 via the repeater 900, the base terminal device 400, and the island terminal device 500. The management device 600 performs various operations based on the signals received from the slot machine 100. Calculate the operation information.

The configuration of the game hall management system illustrated in FIG. 1 is a basic one for explaining the configuration according to the present embodiment. When operating the game hall management system in an actual game hall, if the management device 600 can acquire an operation signal from the slot machine 100, various operations can be performed on the basis of restrictions such as usage and purpose, or equipment arrangement. Can take the configuration. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the configuration may be such that the slot machine 100 and the inter-vehicle machine 800 are connected to the management apparatus 600 via the repeater 900. In that case, the management apparatus 600 acquires an operation signal regarding the operation status directly from the slot machine 100.

<Configuration of slot machine 100>
FIG. 3 is an external perspective view of the slot machine 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. In the slot machine 100, a game is started when a medal is inserted as a game medium, and a medal is paid out according to the result of the game.

A slot machine 100 shown in FIG. 3 includes a substantially box-shaped main body 101 and a front door 102 that is attached to the front opening portion of the main body 101 and can be opened and closed with respect to the main body 101. Inside the center of the main body 101 of the slot machine 100, three reels (left reel 110, middle reel 111, right reel 112) having a plurality of types of symbols arranged on the outer peripheral surface are stored and rotated inside the slot machine 100. It is configured to be able to. These reels 110 to 112 are rotationally driven by a driving device such as a stepping motor.

Each of the symbols is printed on the belt-like member at an appropriate interval, and the reels 110 to 112 are configured by affixing the belt-like member to a predetermined circular cylindrical frame member. When viewed from a user such as a player, the symbols on the reels 110 to 112 are displayed approximately three in the vertical direction from the symbol display window 113 so that a total of nine symbols can be seen. Then, by rotating each of the reels 110 to 112, the combination of symbols that can be seen by the user varies. That is, each of the reels 110 to 112 functions as a display device that displays a plurality of combinations of symbols in a variable manner. In addition to the reel, an electronic image display device such as a liquid crystal display device can also be used as such a display device. In this embodiment, three reels are provided in the center of the slot machine 100. However, the number of reels and the installation position of the reels are not limited to this.

Further, the outer frame of the symbol display window 113 may be configured such that a line display LED (not shown) for notifying an effective line and a winning line, which will be described later, is arranged by lighting control such as blinking and lighting.

Backlights (not shown) for illuminating individual symbols displayed on the symbol display window 113 are arranged on the rear surfaces of the reels 110 to 112. It is desirable that the backlight is shielded for each symbol so that the individual symbols can be illuminated evenly. Further, in the slot machine 100, an optical sensor (index sensor) (not shown) including a light projecting unit and a light receiving unit is provided in the vicinity of each of the reels 110 to 112, and the light projecting unit of this index sensor. A light shielding piece (not shown) of a certain length provided on each reel passes between the light receiving portion and the light receiving portion. Based on the detection result of this sensor, the control unit of the slot machine 100 determines the position of the symbol in the rotation direction on the reel, and stops the reels 110 to 112 so that the target symbol is displayed on the winning line. .

The winning line display lamp 120 is a lamp indicating the winning line 114 that is valid. The effective pay line is determined in advance by the number of medals bet. There are five pay lines 114. For example, when one medal is bet, the middle horizontal pay line is valid, and when two medals are betted, the upper horizontal win line and the lower horizontal pay line are added. If three are valid and three medals are bet, five lines including a right-down winning line and an upper-right winning line are valid as winning lines. The number of winning lines 114 is not limited to five. For example, when one medal is bet, the middle horizontal winning line, the upper horizontal winning line, the lower horizontal winning line, the right The down line and the upper right line may be set as valid pay lines, and the same number of pay lines may be set as valid pay lines regardless of the number of bets.

The start lamp 121 is a lamp that informs the player that the reels 110 to 112 are in a state of being able to rotate. The replay lamp 122 indicates that the player can replay the current game (the medal does not need to be inserted) when the player has won a replay that is one of the winning combinations in the previous game. This is a lamp to inform the user. The notification lamp 123 is, for example, a lamp that informs the player that a specific winning combination (specifically, a bonus) has been won internally in an internal lottery to be described later or that a bonus game is in progress. The medal insertion possible lamp 124 is a lamp for notifying that the player can insert a medal into the slot machine 100. The stored number display 125 is a display for displaying the number of medals stored electronically in the slot machine 100. The game information display 126 is a display for displaying various types of internal information (for example, the number of medals paid out during a bonus game) as numerical values. The payout number display 127 is a display for displaying the number of medals to be paid out to the player as a result of winning a winning combination. In the present embodiment, the stored number display 125, the game information display 126, and the payout number display 127 are 7-segment (SEG) displays. The reel panel lamp 128 is an effect lamp.

The bet buttons (medal insertion buttons) 130 to 132 are buttons for inserting a predetermined number of medals (referred to as credits) stored electronically in the slot machine 100. In this embodiment, each time the bet button 130 is pressed, a maximum of 3 cards are inserted, 2 when the bet button 131 is pressed, and 3 when the bet button 132 is pressed. It has become so. Hereinafter, the bet button 132 is also referred to as a MAX bet button. Note that the game medal insertion lamp 129 lights up a number of lamps corresponding to the number of inserted medals. When a prescribed number of medals are inserted, a start lamp 121 is lit to notify that the game can be started.

The medal slot 141 is an slot for a player to insert a medal when starting a game. That is, the medal can be inserted electronically by the bet buttons 130 to 132, or an actual medal can be inserted (insertion operation) from the medal insertion slot 141. is there.

The start lever 135 is a lever type switch for starting the rotation of the reels 110 to 112. That is, when a desired medal number is inserted into the medal insertion slot 141 or when the bet buttons 130 to 132 are operated and the start lever 135 is operated, the reels 110 to 112 start to rotate. The operation on the start lever 135 is referred to as a game start operation.

The stop button unit 136 is provided with stop buttons 137 to 139. The stop buttons 137 to 139 are button-type switches for individually stopping the reels 110 to 112 that have started rotating by operating the start lever 135, and are associated with the reels 110 to 112. Hereinafter, the operation on the stop buttons 137 to 139 is referred to as a stop operation, the first stop operation is referred to as a first stop operation, the next stop operation is referred to as a second stop operation, and the last stop operation is referred to as a third stop operation. It should be noted that a light emitter (not shown) may be provided inside each stop button 137 to 139. In that case, when the stop button 137 to 139 can be operated, the light emitter is turned on and the player is turned on. You can also let them know.

The medal return button 133 is a button that is pressed to remove a medal when the inserted medal is jammed. The payment button 134 is a button for adjusting the medals electronically stored in the slot machine 100 and the bet medals and discharging them from the medal payout exit 155. The door key hole 140 is a hole into which a key for unlocking the front door 102 of the slot machine 100 is inserted.

Below the stop button unit 136 is provided a title panel 162 for displaying the model name and pasting various types of certificate. At the lower part of the title panel 162, a medal payout opening 155 and a medal tray 161 are provided. The medal payout exit 155 is a payout exit for paying out medals. The medal tray 161 is a container for collecting medals paid out from the medal payout opening 155.

The sound hole 180 is a hole for outputting the sound of a speaker provided inside the slot machine 100 to the outside. The side lamps 144 provided on the left and right portions of the front door 102 are decorative lamps for exciting games. An effect device 160 is disposed above the front door 102, and a sound hole 143 is provided above the effect device 160. The effect device 160 includes a shutter (shielding device) 163 including two right shutters 163a and a left shutter 163b that can be opened and closed in a horizontal direction, and a liquid crystal display device 157 (effect image) disposed on the back side of the shutter 163. And a display screen of the liquid crystal display device 157 appears on the front side (player side) of the slot machine 100 when the right shutter 163a and the left shutter 163b are opened horizontally outward in front of the liquid crystal display device 157. It has become. It should be noted that the display device is not limited to a liquid crystal display device, but may be any display device capable of displaying various effect images and various game information. For example, a multi-segment display (7-segment display), a dot matrix display, an organic EL display, a plasma display , A reel (drum), or a display device including a projector and a screen. Further, the display screen has a rectangular shape and is configured so that the player can visually recognize the entire display screen. In the case of the present embodiment, the display screen is rectangular, but it may have a square configuration. Further, a decorative object (not shown) may be provided on the peripheral edge of the display screen so that a part of the peripheral edge of the display screen is hidden by the decorative object so that the display screen looks irregular. In the present embodiment, the display screen is a flat surface, but may be configured to have a curved surface.

<Control unit>
Next, the circuit configuration of the control unit of the slot machine 100 will be described in detail.

The control unit of the slot machine 100 can be broadly divided into a main control unit 300 that performs control of the central part of the game, that is, a process related to the game progress of the slot machine 100, and a command signal (hereinafter, referred to as the main control unit 300). A first sub-control unit (not shown) that controls the main performance according to the command and a second sub-control that controls various devices based on the command transmitted from the first sub-control unit. And a control unit (not shown).

<Main control unit 300>
The main control unit 300 of the slot machine 100 will be described with reference to FIG. The figure shows a circuit block diagram of the main control unit 300.

The main control unit 300 includes a basic circuit 302 that controls the entire main control unit 300. The basic circuit 302 includes a CPU 304, control program data, lottery data used in the internal lottery of a winning combination, and reel stop. ROM 306 for storing position, RAM 308 for temporarily storing data, I / O 310 for controlling input / output of various devices, counter timer 312 for measuring time, number of times, and the like WDT (watchdog timer) 314 is mounted. Note that other storage devices may be used for the ROM 306 and the RAM 308.

The CPU 304 of the basic circuit 302 operates by inputting a clock signal of a predetermined period output from the crystal oscillator 315b as a system clock. Further, when the power is turned on, the CPU 304 transmits the frequency division data stored in the predetermined area of the ROM 306 to the counter timer 312. The counter timer 312 sets the interrupt time based on the received frequency division data. An interrupt request is transmitted to the CPU 304 at every interrupt time. In response to this interrupt request, the CPU 304 monitors each sensor and transmits a drive pulse. For example, when the clock signal output from the crystal oscillator 315b is set to 8 MHz, the frequency division value of the counter timer 312 is set to 1/256, and the data for frequency division of the ROM 306 is set to 47, the interrupt reference time is 256 × 47 ÷ 8 MHz. = 1.504 ms.

The main control unit 300 derives a numerical value in the range of 0 to 65535 every time it receives a clock signal output from the crystal oscillator 315a (this circuit incorporates two random value generation circuits). And an activation signal output circuit 338 that outputs an activation signal (reset signal) when the power is turned on. When the activation signal is input from the activation signal output circuit 338, the CPU 304 Game control is started (main control section main processing described later is started).

The random value generation circuit 316 generates a random value used in the basic circuit 302. Random value generation in the random value generation circuit 316 can be broadly divided into two types of methods: counter mode and random number mode. In the counter mode, a numerical value that is counted up (down) at a predetermined time interval is acquired, and the numerical value is derived as a random value. There are two more methods in the random number mode. The first method in the random number mode performs a calculation by a predetermined function (for example, a modulus function) using the seed of the random number value, and derives the calculation result as a random value. In the second method, a numerical value is read from a random number table in which numerical values in the range of 0 to 65535 are randomly arranged, and the read numerical value is derived as a random value. The random value generation circuit 316 acquires irregular values using white noise superimposed on signals input from the various sensors 318 to the sensor circuit 320. The random number generation circuit 316 uses the acquired value as an initial value of a counter that counts up (down) in the counter mode, uses it as a seed for a random value, or determines a read start position of a random number table. Use.

In addition, the main control unit 300 includes a sensor circuit 320, and the CPU 304 is inserted from various sensors 318 (a bet button 130 sensor, a bet button 131 sensor, a bet button 132 sensor, and a medal slot 141 at every interruption time. Medal reception sensor, start lever 135 sensor, stop button 137 sensor, stop button 138 sensor, stop button 139 sensor, settlement button 134 sensor, medal payout sensor for medals paid out from a medal payout device (not shown), left reel 110 index sensors, an index sensor of the middle reel 111, an index sensor of the right reel 112, and the like). The medal payout device is a mechanism for paying out medals accumulated in a bucket (not shown) provided in the slot machine 100 from the medal payout outlet 155. The sensor circuit 320 is connected to the basic circuit 302 as shown in FIG.

When the sensor circuit 320 detects the H (= high) level of the start lever 135 sensor, a signal indicating this detection is output to the random value generation circuit 316. Receiving this signal, the random value generation circuit 316 latches the value at that timing and stores it in a register that stores the random value used for the lottery.

Two medal acceptance sensors are installed in the internal passage of the medal insertion slot 141 and detect whether or not a medal has passed. Two start lever 135 sensors are installed inside the start lever 135 and detect a start operation by the player. The stop button 137 sensor, the stop button 138 sensor, and the stop button 139 are installed in each of the stop buttons 137 to 139, and detect the operation of the stop button by the player.

The bet button 130 sensor, the bet button 131 sensor, and the bet button 132 sensor are installed in the bet buttons 130 to 132, respectively, and a medal stored electronically in the RAM 308 is inserted as an inserted medal into the game. Detecting the case input operation. The settlement button 134 sensor is provided on the settlement button 134. When the settlement button 134 is pressed once, the medals stored electronically are settled. The medal payout sensor is a sensor for detecting a medal paid out by the medal payout device. Each of the above sensors may be a non-contact type sensor or a contact type sensor.

The index sensor of the left reel 110, the index sensor of the middle reel 111, and the index sensor of the right reel 112 are installed at predetermined positions on the mounting bases (not shown) of the respective reels 110 to 112, and are provided on the reel frame. Each time the light shielding piece passes, it becomes L level. When detecting this signal, the CPU 304 determines that the reel has made one rotation, and resets the rotational position information of the reel to zero.

The main control unit 300 includes a drive circuit 322 for driving stepping motors provided on the reels 110 to 112, a drive circuit 324 for driving solenoids provided on the medal selector 170 for selecting inserted medals, and a motor provided for the medal payout device. A driving circuit 326 that drives the driving circuit 326, and various driving lamps 336 (a winning line display lamp 120, an announcement lamp 123, a medal insertion enable lamp 124, a re-playing lamp 122, a gaming medal insertion lamp 129, a start lamp 121, etc.) I have.

In addition, an information output circuit 334 is connected to the basic circuit 302, and the main control unit 300 outputs various signals of the slot machine 100 to the external terminal device 400 and the like via the information output circuit 334. .

Further, the main control unit 300 includes a voltage monitoring circuit 330 that monitors the voltage value of the power source supplied from the power management unit (not shown) to the main control unit 300. The voltage monitoring circuit 330 is a voltage of the power source. When the value is less than a predetermined value (9v in this embodiment), a low voltage signal indicating that the voltage has decreased is output to the basic circuit 302.

The main control unit 300 includes an output interface for transmitting a command to the first sub control unit, and enables communication with the first sub control unit. The information communication between the main control unit 300 and the first sub control unit is a one-way communication, and the main control unit 300 is configured to transmit a signal such as a command to the first sub control unit. The first sub-control unit is configured not to transmit a signal such as a command to the main control unit 300.

<Connection with external device>
FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing a circuit provided in the slot machine 100 and a flow of an operation signal transmitted to the management apparatus 600 through the circuit.

Various signals output from the slot machine 100 to the outside are transmitted from the basic circuit 302 to the management apparatus 600 via the information output circuit 334. In this embodiment, a “medal insertion signal” indicating the number of medals inserted, a “medal payout signal” indicating the number of medals paid out, a “start signal” indicating the start of the game, and a regular bonus (= RB) period A signal line for transmitting an “RB signal” (an example of a bonus signal) indicating that the signal is a big bonus period, and an assist replay time (ART). A configuration in which the “RT signal” indicating that the period is in progress is transmitted from the slot machine 100 is illustrated. Needless to say, the names of the signals are examples.

<Operation signal>
The medal insertion signal is a signal indicating the number of inserted medals. When the operation of the start lever 135 is accepted, the medal insertion signal is generated by the number corresponding to the number of medal insertions (for example, 3) stored in the medal insertion information. Is output. The medal payout signal is a signal indicating the payout number of medals, and when all the reels 110 to 112 are stopped, the medal payout signal is output by the number corresponding to the medal payout number (for example, 3) stored in the medal payout information. Is done. When a re-game is won, a medal payout signal is output assuming that there is a payout number corresponding to the number of medals inserted (that is, a signal for three cards). The start signal is a signal indicating that the game has started, and is output when an operation of the start lever 135 is accepted. The RB signal is a signal indicating that the regular bonus (= RB) period is in progress. The state signal as the RB signal rises when the RB period is entered due to winning the regular bonus, and the RB signal as the RB signal ends when the RB period ends. The status signal falls. The BB signal is a signal indicating that a big bonus (= BB) period is in progress. When the BB signal shifts to the BB period due to winning the big bonus, the status signal as the BB signal rises, and when the BB period ends, the BB signal is The status signal falls. The RT signal is a signal indicating that it is during the ART period. For example, there are six output patterns as shown in FIG. In the present embodiment, when there is a signal output from the slot machine 100 during the ART period, the signal is expressed as an “RT signal”.

First, in the first pattern, when the game state of the slot machine 100 shifts to the ART period by winning a replay (replay) as shown in FIG. 6A, RT indicating that the period has shifted to the ART period. A signal is output for a relatively short time at the beginning of the ART period. Next, in the second pattern, the RT signal continues to be output while the gaming state of the slot machine 100 is in the ART period by winning a replay (replay) as shown in FIG. 6B. Next, in the third pattern, as shown in FIG. 6C, when the ART period ends, an RT signal indicating that the ART period has ended is output for a relatively short time at the end of the ART period. Next, in the fourth pattern, an RT signal is output every time an operation of the start lever 135 is accepted during the ART period as shown in FIG. Next, in the fifth pattern, as shown in FIG. 6E, an RT signal is output in response to acceptance of the operation of the start lever 135 during the ART period, but the RT signal is delayed by several games. Is output. On the other hand, when the ART period ends, the RT signal is not output even if the operation of the start lever 135 is accepted thereafter. Furthermore, in the sixth pattern, as shown in FIG. 6 (f), an RT signal is output in response to acceptance of the operation of the start lever 135 during the ART period, but the RT signal is output with a delay of several games. Is done. Then, the remaining RT signal that is output after the end of the ART period is output. In the patterns of FIGS. 6A to 6F, the output RT signal may be a contact signal or a voltage signal.

<Pattern arrangement>
Next, the symbol arrangement applied to each of the reels 110 to 112 will be described with reference to FIG. This figure is a diagram in which the arrangement of symbols applied to each reel (left reel 110, middle reel 111, right reel 112) is developed in a plane.

In each reel 110 to 112, a plurality of types (eight types in this embodiment) of symbols shown on the right side of the figure are arranged in a predetermined number of frames (21 frames of numbers 0 to 20 in this embodiment). Also, numbers 0 to 20 shown at the left end of the figure are numbers indicating the arrangement positions of symbols on the reels 110 to 112. For example, in the present embodiment, the “replay” symbol for the number 1 frame on the left reel 110, the “bell” symbol for the number 0 frame on the middle reel 111, and the “number 2” frame on the right reel 112 “ "Watermelon" design is arranged respectively.

<Type of winning prize>
Next, the types of winning combinations of the slot machine 100 will be described with reference to FIG. This figure shows the types of winning combinations (including actuating combinations), symbol combinations corresponding to each winning combination, and the operation or payout of each winning combination. Among the winning combinations in the present embodiment, the big bonuses (BB1, BB2) and the regular bonus (RB) are used for shifting to the bonus game, and the replay (replay) is a replay without newly inserting a medal. Each winning combination is sometimes distinguished from a winning combination and is sometimes called an “acting combination”. In this example, the “winning combination” includes a big bonus, a regular bonus, and a replay that are operating combinations. included. In addition, “winning” in the present embodiment includes a case where a symbol combination of an actuator not accompanied by a medal payout (without medal payout) is displayed on an active line, for example, a big bonus, regular Includes bonuses and replay wins.

The winning combination of the slot machine 100 includes a big bonus (BB1, BB2), a regular bonus (RB), a small combination (cherry, watermelon, bell), and replay (replay). Needless to say, the type of winning combination is not limited to this and can be arbitrarily adopted.

“Big Bonus (BB1, BB2)” (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as “BB”) is a special combination (operating combination) in which a big bonus game (BB game), which is a special game, is started by winning a prize. . Corresponding symbol combinations are “white 7-white 7-white 7” for BB1, and “blue 7-blue 7-blue 7” for BB2. Further, flag carryover is performed for BB1 and BB2. That is, when BB1 and BB2 are won internally, a flag indicating this is set (stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 308 of the main control unit 300), but even if BB1 and BB2 are not won in the game, a prize is won. Until then, the flag indicating the internal winning is maintained, and even after the next game, BB1 and BB2 are being internally selected, and the symbol combination corresponding to BB1 “white 7-white 7-white 7”, the symbol corresponding to BB2 The combination “blue 7-blue 7-blue 7” is in a state of winning a prize.

The “regular bonus (RB)” is a special combination (operating combination) in which a regular bonus game (RB game) is started by winning. The corresponding symbol combination is “bonus-bonus-bonus”. Note that the RB carries over the flag as well as the above-mentioned BB. However, in big bonus games (BB games), regardless of whether or not the internal bonus is won or the regular regular bonus starting conditions such as the combination of symbols displayed on the winning line is satisfied, The regular bonus game may be set to automatically start so that the next regular bonus game is started immediately when the regular bonus game is started after the start and one regular bonus game is ended.

“Short (cherry, watermelon, bell)” (hereinafter, simply referred to as “cherry”, “watermelon”, “bell”) is a winning combination in which a predetermined number of medals are paid out by winning. The symbol combinations are “cherry-ANY-ANY” for cherry, “watermelon-watermelon-watermelon” for watermelon, and “bell-bell-bell” for bell. The corresponding payout number is as shown in FIG. In the case of “cherry-ANY-ANY”, the symbol of the left reel 110 may be “cherry”, and the symbol of the middle reel 111 and the right reel 112 may be any symbol.

“Replay” is a winning combination (operating combination) in which a game can be performed without inserting a medal (game medium) in the next game by winning, and no medal is paid out. The corresponding symbol combination is “replay-replay-replay” for replay.

<Type of gaming state>
Next, the types of gaming state of the slot machine 100 will be described. The gaming state is information for identifying the type of lottery data selected in a lottery or the like. In this embodiment, the gaming state of the slot machine 100 is roughly divided into a normal game, a BB game, an RB game, an ART game, and a ceiling ART game. However, the internal winning game of the big bonus (BB) and the regular bonus (RB) may be classified as not included in the normal game.

<Normal game>
In the normal game, the internal lottery result is almost lost (big bonus (BB), regular bonus (RB), replay (replay) and small role won), or any stop display result It is set so that the stop display result of losing that does not correspond to the symbol combination of the combination is generally derived, and the total number of medals to be paid out is less than the total number of inserted medals. Therefore, it is a gaming state that is disadvantageous for the player. However, in the normal game, when another predetermined condition is satisfied (for example, when a specific symbol combination is displayed), the operation method of the stop buttons 137 to 139 is in advance to the player by lighting the lamp or the like. This is a gaming state that may be transferred to an assist time (AT) that makes it easier to win a small role. Furthermore, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, the game state may be shifted to ART (assist replay time) that shifts simultaneously to replay time (RT) and AT. In this ART, the player has a higher probability of winning a replay (replay) than the normal game, so the consumption of medals used in the game is reduced, and the player is selected for a small role with assistance. Since it becomes easy, it is generally a gaming state that can be more profitable for the player than in a normal game. Note that RT is a gaming state in which, when a predetermined condition is satisfied (for example, when a specific symbol combination is displayed), the game state may be changed to increase the probability of internal winning of replay. This indicates a gaming state in which the probability of internal winning of this re-game is increasing.

In addition, the normal game includes an internal winning game of a big bonus (BB) and a regular bonus (RB). The winning combination that is internally won for the internal winning game of the big bonus (BB) and the regular bonus (RB) includes a replay and a small role. It is a gaming state that does not directly win the big bonus (BB) or the regular bonus (RB) directly, and can win a symbol combination corresponding to the big bonus (BB) or the regular bonus (RB). .

<BB game>
The BB game is set to be in a gaming state that is beneficial to the player. That is, the BB game is in a gaming state in which the total number of medals to be paid out exceeds the total number of medals inserted. In this embodiment, the BB game is started by winning a big bonus (BB), and is configured to continuously and repeatedly execute RB games (details will be described later). A predetermined number ( For example, the process ends when more than 465 medals are paid out. However, the BB game only needs to be configured to execute the RB game a plurality of times. For example, when a combination (for example, replay-replay-replay) for starting the RB game is set and this combination is won internally, Alternatively, it may be set to start the RB game when winning. Furthermore, in the BB game, when the BB general game excluding the RB game during the BB game is executed a predetermined number of times (for example, 30 times), or the number of the RB games executed during the BB game is a predetermined number of times. You may comprise so that it may be complete | finished when it reaches (for example, 3 times).

<RB game>
The RB game is set so as to be in a gaming state that is beneficial to the player. That is, the RB game is in a gaming state in which the total number of medals to be paid out exceeds the total number of medals inserted. In this embodiment, the RB game is started by winning a regular bonus (RB), and a predetermined predetermined combination fluctuates to increase the probability of internal winning, and a predetermined number (for example, eight times) is determined. It ends when there is a prize. The RB game is ended when a predetermined number of times (at least twice) is won or when the number of RB games executed during the RB game reaches a predetermined number (for example, 8 times). You may do it. Since the BB game described above is configured to execute the RB game a plurality of times, in one RB game, fewer medals are paid out than the total number of medals paid out in the BB game.

It should be noted that BB game and RB game are both game states that are beneficial to the player, and may be generally referred to as bonus games or special games.

<ART game>
As described above, the ART game is a game state in which the game is shifted to RT and AT at the same time, and there is a higher probability of winning a replay than a normal game, and the operation method of the stop buttons 137 to 139 can be changed by lighting the lamp. It is a gaming state that informs the player in advance and makes it easier to win a small role. The activation conditions are determined in advance for each model of the slot machine 100. For example, it may be a case where a predetermined symbol is fixed during an AT game.

<Ceiling ART game>
The ceiling ART game is an ART game that is activated when a predetermined condition regarding the ceiling ART is satisfied. The predetermined condition is, for example, a case where a predetermined number of games such as 1000 games have not been won since the end of the previous BB game, or a case where a predetermined number of games have been played and a normal ART game has not been won. is there. When the predetermined condition is satisfied, the game shifts to an AT game, and when a predetermined symbol is confirmed in the AT game, the game shifts to an ART state. In this embodiment, an ART game that is won by satisfying a condition different from that of a normal ART game is called a ceiling ART game. Ceiling ART games generally have a higher ART continuation rate indicating the possibility of continuing ART games than ordinary ART games, or the number of ART sets in which ART games are repeated is a normal ART game. For example, it is often more than in the case of games. In short, in the case of a ceiling ART game, the game is often more advantageous for the player than the normal ART game. This ceiling ART game has the meaning of relieving the so-called hook-up of the game, such as the normal game state continues.

<Main control unit 300 main processing>
A main control unit main process executed by the CPU 304 of the main control unit 300 will be described with reference to FIG. This figure is a flowchart showing the flow of main processing of the main controller 300.

As described above, the main control unit 300 is provided with the start signal output circuit (reset signal output circuit) 338 that outputs the start signal (reset signal) when the power is turned on. The CPU 304 of the basic circuit 302 to which this activation signal has been input resets by a reset interrupt and executes main processing of the main control unit 300 shown in FIG. 8 in accordance with a control program stored in advance in the ROM 306.

When the power is turned on, first, various initial settings are made in step S801. In this initial setting, setting of a stack initial value to the stack pointer (SP) of the CPU 304, setting of interrupt prohibition, initial setting of the I / O 310, initial setting of various variables stored in the RAM 308, operation permission to the WDT 314, and initial setting Set the value. In step S802, medal insertion / start operation acceptance processing is executed. Here, it is checked whether or not a medal has been inserted, and the winning line display lamp 120 is turned on according to the insertion of the medal. Note that when a re-win is won in the previous game, a process of inserting the same number of medals as the number of medals inserted in the previous game is performed, so that it is not necessary for the player to insert medals. Also, it is checked whether or not the start lever 135 has been operated. If there is an operation of the start lever 135, the process proceeds to step S803.

In step S803, the number of inserted medals is determined, and an effective winning line is determined. In step S804, the random value generated by the random value generation circuit 316 is acquired. In step S805, the winning combination lottery table stored in the ROM 306 is read according to the current gaming state, and an internal lottery is performed using this and the random value acquired in step S804. As a result of the internal lottery, when any winning combination (including an operating combination) is won internally, the flag of the winning combination is turned ON. In step S806, reel control stop data is selected based on the internal lottery result.

In step S807, rotation of all reels 110 to 112 is started. In step S808, the stop buttons 137 to 139 can be received. When any one of the stop buttons is pressed, the reel stop control in which one of the reels 110 to 112 corresponding to the pressed stop button is selected in step S806. Stop based on data. When all the reels 110 to 112 are stopped, the process proceeds to step S809. In step S809, a winning determination is performed. Here, when a picture combination corresponding to some winning combination is displayed on the activated winning line 114, it is determined that the winning combination is won. For example, if “bell-bell-bell” is aligned on the activated winning line, it is determined that the player has won the bell. In step S810, if any winning combination with a payout has been won, the number of medals corresponding to the winning combination is paid out according to the number of winning lines. In step S811, game state control processing is performed. In the game state control process, a process related to transition of each game state of normal game, BB game, RB game, and internal winning game is performed, and the game state is shifted when those start conditions and end conditions are satisfied. Thus, one game is completed. Thereafter, returning to step S802 and repeating the above-described processing, the game proceeds.

<Configuration of inter-station machine 800>
The inter-machine 800 is a medal lending machine in the present embodiment, and is provided corresponding to the slot machine 100. This intermediary machine 800 accepts a prepaid card or the like in which a player inserts cash or stores a valuable value that can be used for a game, pays out a predetermined amount of medals, and allows the player to play in the slot machine 100 To.

In addition, the number of stored medals (game media deposited by the members of the game hall to the game hall) from the management device 600 is received from the management device 600 by the player, and based on the received number of stored medals, A predetermined amount of medals is paid back to the player in response to the replay operation.

In addition, the inter-machine 800 is connected to the management device 600 and can be used to identify a sales signal that can identify the number of game media lent to the player, and a reusable that can identify the number of medals that have been paid back to the player from the stored medals. The play signal is output to the management device 600. For example, a 1-pulse sales signal is output every time 10 medals are lent out, and a 1-pulse replay signal is output every time 10 medals are paid out.

Note that display means (not shown) may be further provided to display various game-related information generated in association with the game in the slot machine 100. Of course, the intermediary machine 800 may be a so-called CR unit that can instruct the slot machine 100 to pay out medals when medals are lent.

<Configuration of repeater 900>
The repeater 900 is arranged corresponding to each slot machine 100 in the present embodiment, and displays various information related to the corresponding slot machine 100 and a call from the player. In other words, the repeater 900 indicates that when a trouble or the like occurs during a game and the player presses a call button (not shown), or when a big hit occurs, an employee of the game hall and surrounding players To inform. Further, the repeater 900 displays information related to the slot machine 100 such as the number of BBs, the number of RBs, the number of games, etc. of the corresponding slot machine 100 today, the previous day, and the day before. The repeater 900 receives an operation signal from the slot machine 100 and sends it to the terminal device 400 or the like. Accordingly, the repeater 900 includes a relay board (not shown) that receives the operation signal and transmits the signal.

<Configuration of the stand terminal device 400>
The stand terminal device 400 is an information processing device that acquires an operation signal related to the operation status from the connected slot machine 100 via the repeater 900 and transmits the operation signal to the island terminal device 500, the management device 600, and the like. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, four slot machines 100 are connected to a single terminal device 400. However, in other embodiments, the present invention is not limited to this, and a configuration may be adopted in which more slot machines 100 are connected to one stand terminal device 400, or the stand terminal device 400 and the slot machine 100 have a one-to-one relationship. It is good also as a structure connected by. In the present embodiment, when the base terminal device 400 obtains an operation signal from the connected slot machine 100, the port number set in advance corresponding to the connection port with each slot machine 100 and the base terminal device 400 itself The terminal terminal device specifying information set by a rotary switch or the like provided in the terminal is added, and the operation signal is sent to the island terminal device 500.

<Configuration of Island Terminal Device 500>
The island terminal device 500 is an information processing device that mediates the connection between the base terminal device 400 and the management device 600. In the game hall management system of the present embodiment, the plurality of terminal devices 400 are classified into one or more groups, and the island terminal device 500 manages the terminal device 400 for each group. That is, as shown in FIG. 1, the island terminal device 500 is configured to be connected to a plurality of table terminal devices 400. However, it is a matter of course that other embodiments are not limited to this. In this embodiment, when the island terminal device 500 acquires the operation signal transmitted from the connected terminal device 400, the island terminal device identification information set by a rotary switch or the like provided in the island terminal device 500 itself. And the operation signal is transmitted to the management apparatus 600.

<Configuration of Management Device 600>
The management device 600 manages the entire game hall management system, and collects and manages operation information such as the number of starts (number of games), the number of BBs, the number of RBs, the number of medals paid out, the number of medals inserted, etc. of each slot machine 100. It is a processing device. The management device 600 is realized by, for example, a personal computer (PC) or a workstation (WS).

Next, the hardware configuration of the management apparatus 600 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 9 is a block diagram schematically illustrating the hardware configuration of the management apparatus 600.

The management apparatus 600 includes a time measuring means 602 such as a real time clock for measuring the current time and a timer for measuring the elapsed time. This time measuring means 602 operates based on, for example, a crystal resonator.

The external recording medium connection unit 603 is for realizing access to a medium, and can load a program or the like recorded on the medium (recording medium) 604 into the management apparatus 600. The medium 604 includes, for example, a flexible disk (FD), a CD-ROM, a CD-R, a CD-RW, a PC card, a DVD, an IC memory card, an MO, a memory stick, and the like.

The storage unit 605 has, for example, an HDD (= hard disk drive) that functions as a large-capacity memory, and the storage unit 605 stores application programs, OS, control programs, related programs, and the like.

As shown in FIG. 10, the storage means 605 includes a base calculation basic information storage area 651, a reference base value storage area 652, a judgment result storage area 653, an ART game time storage area 654, and a medal payout signal reception history storage area 655. , Medal insertion signal reception history storage area 656, start signal reception history storage area 657, ART period game number storage area 658, RT signal delay storage area 659, BB game time storage area 660, RB game time storage area 661, ceiling ART A setting information storage area 662, a ceiling ART number storage area 663, a start number storage area 664, a correspondence identification information storage area 665, and a correspondence determination condition storage area 666 are provided. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration. For example, the base calculation basic information storage area 651, the reference base value storage area 652, the judgment result storage area 653, the ART game time storage area 654, the medal payout signal reception history storage area 655, Medal insertion signal reception history storage area 656, start signal reception history storage area 657, ART period game number storage area 658, RT signal delay time storage area 659, BB game time storage area 660, RB game time storage area 661, and ceiling ART setting The information storage area 662, the ceiling ART count storage area 663, the start count storage area 664, the correspondence identification information storage area 665, and the correspondence determination condition storage area 666 may be provided in the medium 604.

The base calculation basic information storage area 651 stores basic calculation basic information necessary for calculating a payout rate (hereinafter referred to as “base”) (= medal payout number ÷ medal insertion number). The base calculation basic information is information for specifying a game for calculating a base. For example, information such as 10 games immediately before an arbitrary game, arbitrary games and 5 games before and after this game, and information specified by a user such as a game hall employee using the input means 606. . In the present embodiment, the term “base” refers to the ratio of the number of INs per game number stored in the base calculation basic information storage area 651 in a gaming state that is not a bonus game. For example, using the above example, assuming that the number of INs per game is 3, and 15 payouts have been made for 10 games, 15 ÷ 30 = 0.5.

The reference base value storage area 652 stores a reference base value for comparison with the calculated base value. For example, 0.8 or the like is stored as the reference base value, and compared with the calculated base value. If the reference base value is exceeded, it is determined that the ART game has been started or the ART game has been continued. .

The determination result storage area 653 stores a previous determination result such as a normal game state or an ART game state for each slot machine 100.

The ART game time storage area 654 stores the start time and end time of each ART game period for each slot machine 100.

The medal payout signal reception history storage area 655 stores a medal payout signal reception history (an example of operation information) for each slot machine 100.

The medal insertion signal reception history storage area 656 stores a medal insertion signal reception history (an example of operation information) for each slot machine 100.

The start signal reception history storage area 657 stores a start signal reception history (an example of operation information) for each slot machine 100.

The number of games in one ART period such as “50 games” is stored in the ART period game number storage area 658.

In the RT signal delay storage area 659, the RT signal output pattern indicating the ART period is output in response to acceptance of the operation of the start lever 135 during the ART period. The delay time of the RT signal or the number of delayed games in the case where the pattern is output several games later than the starting game of the ART game is stored. The delay time of the RT signal is, for example, information that the RT signal is output with a delay of 1 minute after the ART game is started. The number of delayed games of the RT signal is, for example, information that the RT signal is output with a delay of three games after the ART game is started.

The BB game time storage area 660 stores the start time and end time of the BB game. The RB game time storage area 661 stores the start time and end time of the RB game.

In the ceiling ART setting information storage area 662, as shown in FIG. 11, “ceiling ART game determination opportunity”, “game number count” are set as the ceiling ART game determination conditions for each model identification information for identifying the model of the slot machine 100. “Start condition” and “number of determination games” are stored. In the present embodiment, the slot machine 100 transitions to a ceiling ART game as “a bonus game” (between BB game or RB game and the next BB game or RB game), “bonus game or ART. “Between games” (between BB game or RB game or ART game and the next BB game or RB game or ART game), “Between ART game” (between ART game and next ART game) Is assumed. Therefore, when it exists in addition to these, it is natural that it may be configured so that it can be appropriately set as a trigger for determining the ceiling ART game.

As a trigger for determining the ceiling ART game, for example, “between bonus game” (between BB game or RB game and next BB game or RB game), “between bonus game or ART game” (BB game or RB game or ART) Any of the judgment events for the ceiling ART game such as “between game and next BB game or RB game or ART game”, “between ART game” (between ART game and next ART game) is selected. Is remembered. For example, for model A, “BB / RB-BB / RB” (between bonus games) is stored (see FIG. 11).

In addition, as a game number count start condition, a bonus game (BB game or RB game) end, an ART game end, or the like is stored. This game count start condition is stored in advance in the correspondence determination condition storage area 666 described later in correspondence with the determination timing of the ceiling ART game. For example, when a bonus game interval is selected as the determination timing of the ceiling ART game, In addition, the bonus game end time is selected as the game count counting start condition. For example, the model A is stored as “at the end of BB / RB game” (counting of the number of games starts from the next game determined to have ended BB game or RB game) (see FIG. 11).

The number of determination games can be arbitrarily set, and is stored in advance by referring to the specifications of the model of the slot machine 100. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11, if the model is A, it is fixedly stored as 1000 games, but a range such as “1000 games ± 20 games” or “1000-1020 games” is stored. Also good. In this case, during the number of games included in the range or exceeding the range, the event selected by the ceiling ART game determination trigger is not shifted, and the shifted ART is determined as the ceiling ART.

Referring to the ceiling ART game determination conditions stored as described above, for example, for the slot machine 100 of model A, the next BB game or RB game even if the player exceeds 1000 games after finishing the BB game. If the game is not won, it is determined that the ART game that has been transferred first after exceeding 1000 games is the ceiling ART game.

The ceiling ART number storage area 663 stores the number of times determined to be a ceiling ART game. The start count storage area 664 stores the start count based on the start signal received after satisfying the game count start condition such as “end of BB game or RB game”. Note that in the model of the slot machine 100 that does not output the start signal, the medal insertion signal reception history storage area 656 may be referenced to count and store the number of start times.

The correspondence identification information storage area 665 stores identification information of the slot machine 100 and model identification information corresponding to the identification information. The correspondence determination condition storage area 666 stores a determination trigger for the ceiling ART game and a game count start condition corresponding thereto.

The storage unit 605 may have a configuration in which a program such as a basic I / O program and various data used in basic processing are stored therein, for example, a ROM (= Read Only Memory). Further, the storage unit 605 may have, for example, a RAM (= Random Access Memory) functioning as a main memory, a work area, or the like of the control unit 610 for temporarily storing various data.

The input unit 606 is, for example, a keyboard, a pointing device (such as a mouse), or a touch panel. Using the input means 606, an employee of the game hall etc. instructs the management apparatus 600 to input a command or the like for controlling the management apparatus 600. For example, a user such as a game hall employee can use the input means 606 to obtain basic calculation basic information necessary for calculating a base, a base value serving as a reference for comparison with the calculated base value, and 1 ART. The number of games in the period is input and stored in each storage area such as the base calculation basic information storage area 651.

A user such as a game hall employee displays a ceiling ART setting information input screen as shown in FIG. 12 on the display means 607 and inputs ceiling ART setting information using the input means 606 such as a keyboard. In this embodiment, a user such as an amusement hall employee inputs model identification information, ceiling ART game determination timing (determination condition), and number of determination games determined to be a ceiling ART game as ceiling ART setting information. The configuration is shown.

In the present embodiment, a configuration is shown in which model identification information, ceiling ART game determination timing, and number of determination games are input as ceiling ART setting information. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration. For example, ceiling ART setting information The identification information of the slot machine 100, the game number counting start condition, and the determined number of games may be input. Also, it is possible to set a plurality of ceiling ART game determination conditions for one model. For example, the transition condition to the ceiling ART game after the end of the BB game is “not to win 1000 game bonus game”, and the transition condition to the ceiling ART game after the end of the RB game is “winning 600 game bonus game”. This is because one model may have a condition for shifting to a plurality of ceiling ART games.

The display unit 607 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, or a CRT, and displays a command input from the input unit 606, a response output of the management apparatus 600 for the command, and the like.

The bus 609 controls the flow of data in the management apparatus 600 and is a signal line that connects each device such as the control unit 610 and the storage unit 605 in the management apparatus 600. Reference numeral 608 denotes a communication unit, which exchanges data with an external device via the communication unit 608.

The control unit 610 is a CPU (= Central Processing Unit), for example, and executes an application program, an operating system (OS), a control program, and the like stored in the storage unit 605, and is necessary for executing the program in the storage unit 605. Control to temporarily store information, files, etc.

When receiving the medal payout signal from each slot machine 100 installed in the game arcade, the control means 610 refers to the current time using the time measuring means 602, and receives the medal payout signal using the time as the reception time of the medal payout signal. Stored in the history storage area 655. Further, when a medal insertion signal is received from each slot machine 100 installed in the game hall, the current time is referred to using the time measuring means 602, and the medal insertion signal reception history storage area with the time as the reception time of the medal insertion signal. It memorize | stores in 656. When a start signal is received from each slot machine 100 installed in the game arcade, the current time is referred to using the time measuring means 602, and the time is stored in the start signal reception history storage area 657 as the reception time of the start signal. Let

<Calculation of base>
As shown in FIG. 13, the control means 610 first calculates a base (safe / out) value for a plurality of games (step S1301). That is, the control unit 610 refers to the base calculation basic information stored in the base calculation basic information storage area 651 and specifies the game period to be calculated. Then, based on the medal payout signal and the medal insertion signal received during the game period for each of the specified game periods, the medal payout number and the medal input number are calculated, and the calculated medal payout number is used as the medal input number. Divide by to calculate the base value. Note that the number of medals inserted may be calculated as three in one game. The game period is specified with reference to the start signal reception history stored in the start signal reception history storage area 657.

The control means 610 calls the reference base value from the reference base value storage area 652 and compares it with the calculated base value. As a result, if the calculated base value is greater than the reference base value (YES in step S1302), it is determined that the state is an ART game (step S1303). Then, referring to the previous determination result stored in the determination result storage area 653, if the stored determination result is the normal game state (YES in step S1304), it is determined that the game has shifted to the ART game. Then, the control means 610 refers to the current time using the time measuring means 602, and stores the time in the ART game time storage area 654 as the ART game start time (step S1306). Further, the fact that the state is the ART game state is overwritten and stored in the determination result storage area 653 as the previous determination result.

On the other hand, if the calculated base value is less than or equal to the reference base value (NO in step S1302), it is determined that the game is in the normal game state (step S1307). Then, referring to the previous determination result stored in the determination result storage area 653, if the stored determination result is the state of the ART game (YES in step S1308), it is determined that the ART game has ended. Then, the control means 610 refers to the current time using the time measuring means 602, and stores the time in the ART game time storage area 654 as the ART game end time (step S1310). In addition, the determination result storage area 653 is overwritten and stored as the previous determination result indicating that the state is the normal game state. These processes are performed at predetermined intervals (for example, every game). As a result, the movement base in which the game for which the base is calculated varies is calculated.

That is, in general, when the slot machine 100 is a normal game, the number of medals inserted is large, so the base value is small. On the other hand, during the ART game, the base value tends to be larger than the normal game of the slot machine 100 by winning a small role. Therefore, the control means 610 compares the calculated base value with the reference base value, and if the calculated base value is larger than the reference base value and the previous game was determined to be a normal game, the control means 610 It is determined that the game has shifted to ART games. On the other hand, the control means 610 determines that the ART game has ended when the calculated base value does not change or is smaller than the reference base value and was previously determined to be an ART game.

In this way, by calculating the base value and comparing it with the reference base value, the method of specifying the start and / or end of the ART period is based on whether the start and / or end of the ART period is based on the RT signal. It is effective when it cannot be determined. Even after determining that the game has shifted to ART game, the base value may be continuously calculated and compared with the reference base value.

<When RT signal is continuously output during ART period>
When the RT signal is continuously output from the slot machine 100 during the ART period, when the control means 610 recognizes that the RT signal has been received, the control means 610 determines that it has shifted to the ART game and uses the time measuring means 602. The current time is referred to, and the time is stored in the ART game time storage area 654 as the ART game start time. On the other hand, when it is recognized that the reception of the RT signal is finished, it is determined that the ART game is finished, the current time is referred to using the time measuring means 602, and the ART game time storage area is set with the time as the end time of the ART game. It memorize | stores in 654.

<When RT signal is output at the start or end of ART period>
When the RT signal indicating the transition to the ART period is a pattern output from the slot machine 100 when the ART period transitions, the control means 610 determines that the transition to the ART game has occurred due to the reception of the RT signal. Then, the current time is referred to using the time measuring means 602, and the time is stored in the ART game time storage area 654 as the start time of the ART game. When the RT signal output pattern is a pattern in which the RT signal indicating that the ART period has ended is output from the slot machine 100 at the end of the ART period, the control means 610 receives the RT signal. Then, it is determined that the ART game has ended, the current time is referred to using the time measuring means 602, and the time is stored in the ART game time storage area 654 as the end time of the ART game.

<Calculate the number of games>
As shown in FIG. 14, when it is determined that the game has shifted to the ART game (step S1401), the control means 610, based on the start signal reception history stored in the start signal reception history storage area 657, The number of starts (number of games) after shifting to the ART game is calculated (step S1402), and the predetermined number of games in one ART period stored in the ART period game number storage area 658 is called and compared with the calculated number of starts. .

As a result, if the calculated start count has not reached the predetermined number of games (NO in step S1403), the control means 610 determines that the ART game has not ended (step S1404). Then, every time the reception history of the start signal is updated, the control means 610 calculates the start number (game number) after the transition to the ART game (step S1402) and is stored in the ART period game number storage area 658. The predetermined number of games in one ART period is called and compared with the start count calculated.

On the other hand, as a result of the comparison, if the calculated start count has reached the predetermined number of games (YES in step S1403), it is determined that the ART game has ended (step S1405), and the current time is measured using the time measuring means 602. With reference to the time, the time is stored in the ART game time storage area 654 as the end time of the ART game (step S1406).

Thus, the method of specifying the start or end of one ART period by the number of games is effective for a model in which the number of games in one ART period is fixed. For example, the start of one ART period can be specified by the RT signal, but the end cannot be specified by the RT signal and the number of games in the one ART period is fixed, or the end of the one ART period can be specified by the RT signal. For example, the start time cannot be specified by the RT signal, and the number of games in one ART period is fixed. In the latter case, for example, after the end of one ART period is specified, the number of games is specified with reference to the start signal reception history storage area 657 and the medal insertion signal reception history storage area 656, and the time point retroactive by the fixed game number It is good also as a structure which makes it the beginning of 1ART period.

<When receiving a BB signal or an RB signal>
When the BB signal or the RB signal is received during the ART game period, the control means 610 determines that the ART game has ended, refers to the current time using the time measuring means 602, and uses the time as the ART game. It is stored in the ART game time storage area 654 as the end time.

<When receiving an RT signal at each start>
When the RT signal is output every time the operation of the start lever 135 is accepted, the control unit 610 determines that the game has shifted to the ART game by receiving the RT signal, and uses the timing unit 602. The current time is referred to, and the time is stored in the ART game time storage area 654 as the ART game start time.

<Elapsed time from RT signal>
When the RT signal is output every time the operation of the start lever 135 is accepted, the control means 610 receives the RT signal (step S1501) and uses the time measuring means 602 as a timer as shown in FIG. Time measurement is started (step S1502). Thereafter, when the RT signal is received (NO in step S1503), the time measuring means 602 is reset (step S1504), and the time is measured again (step S1502). On the other hand, if the RT signal is not received even after a predetermined time has elapsed (YES in step S1503), it is determined that the ART game has ended (step S1505), and the current time is measured using the time measuring means 602. The time is stored in the ART game time storage area 654 as the ART game end time (step S1506).

<Receive only start signal>
Further, when the RT signal is output every time the operation of the start lever 135 is received, the control means 610 receives the start signal without receiving the RT signal. It is determined that the game has ended, the current time is referred to using the time measuring means 602, and the time is stored in the ART game time storage area 654 as the ART game end time.

Such a method is effective when the end of one ART period cannot be specified based on the RT signal.

<Calculation based on delay of RT signal output>
An RT signal is output in response to the acceptance of the operation of the start lever 135 during the ART period. When the RT signal has a pattern that is delayed by several games, the control means 610 determines the first RT signal. Upon reception, the current time is referred to using the time measuring means 602, and the delay time of the RT signal stored in the RT signal delay storage area 659 is referred to and subtracted from the current time. It is stored in the ART game time storage area 654 as the game start time. Alternatively, the control means 610 refers to the RT signal delay game number stored in the RT signal delay storage area 659 and the start signal reception history storage area 657 to determine a predetermined delay game from the game that received the first RT signal. The reception time of the start signal that goes back several minutes is stored in the ART game time storage area 654 as the start time of the ART game.

Further, when the control means 610 receives input of model identification information and ceiling ART game judgment conditions (ceiling ART game judgment timing, number of judgment games) from a user such as a game hall employee through the input means 606, the corresponding judgment is made. Referring to condition storage area 666, game number count start condition corresponding to the input determination timing of ceiling ART game, the number of determination games, and the input model identification information are stored in ceiling ART setting information storage area 662 Let

<Detection of ceiling ART game 1>
A description will be given of the control performed by the control means 610 when the ceiling ART game is detected in real time in the game hall business hours. The control means 610 counts the start signal received for each slot machine 100 with reference to the correspondence identification information storage area 665 based on the game count counting start condition set for each model.

Specifically, the count of the start signal is to call and increment the start count stored in the start count storage area 664 every time the start signal is received, and to overwrite and store the incremented count.

The counting of the start signal continues until the control means 610 determines that the game has shifted to the ART game by receiving the RT signal or the like. Note that, for example, when the determination trigger of the ceiling ART game is between bonus games, the count of the start signal is reset when the control means 610 recognizes the reception of the RB signal or the BB signal before shifting to the ART game. That is, the start number stored in the start number storage area 664 is called and cleared to “0” (= zero), and the number after clearing is overwritten and stored.

When the control means 610 determines that the game has shifted to the ART game after starting the counting of the start signal, the number of games calculated by counting the start signal and the determination stored in the ceiling ART setting information storage area 662 are determined. Compare the number of games. As a result, when the calculated number of games is equal to or greater than the determined number of games, the control unit 610 determines that the ART game is a ceiling ART game. Then, the ceiling ART count information stored in the ceiling ART count storage area 663 is called and incremented, and the incremented count is overwritten and stored. On the other hand, as a result of comparing the calculated number of games with the determined number of games, if the calculated number of games is less than the determined number of games, the control means 610 determines that the ART game is not a ceiling ART game.

When the determination is completed, the start count stored in the start count storage area 664 is cleared to “0” (= zero), and the cleared count is overwritten and stored.

In addition to the counting of the start signal, when the control means 610 receives a start signal from each slot machine 100 installed in the game hall, the current time is referred to using the time measuring means 602, and the time is designated as the start signal. As described above, the control is performed to store the start signal reception history storage area 657 as the reception time.

In addition, when the control means 610 counts the received start signal based on the start signal count start condition and the store is closed and the game hall is closed, it is stored in the start count storage area 664. The stored start count is not cleared to “0”, but the start count at that time is held in the start count storage area 664. The next day's start signal is counted from the start count stored in the start count storage area 664. That is, when the start signal is received, the start number of the previous day stored in the start number storage area 664 is called and incremented.

It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to this configuration. For the start count of the previous day, a separate storage area (not shown) is provided in the storage means 605 and the like, and the start count of the previous day is stored in the storage area. It is also possible to add to the number of starts after counting. Further, when the setting is changed for the slot machine 100 (the setting values of a plurality of stages with different bonus game winning probabilities are changed), the start count of the previous day may be cleared.

<Detection of ceiling ART game 2>
The control performed by the control means 610 when the detection of the ceiling ART game is performed by the closing process of the management device 600 during the closing time of the game hall will be described. When the reception of the BB signal is recognized, the control unit 610 refers to the current time using the time measuring unit 602 and stores the time in the BB game time storage area 660 as the start time of the BB game. Let Further, when the control means 610 recognizes the end of reception of the BB signal, it refers to the current time using the time measuring means 602 and stores the time in the BB game time storage area 660 as the end time of the BB game. In addition, when the control unit 610 recognizes the reception of the RB signal, it uses the time measuring unit 602 to refer to the current time and stores the time in the RB game time storage area 661 as the start time of the RB game. In addition, when the control unit 610 recognizes the end of reception of the RB signal, it uses the time measuring unit 602 to refer to the current time and stores the time in the RB game time storage area 661 as the RB game end time.

Then, in the closing time zone of the game hall, the control means 610 stores the ceiling ART setting information such as the game count start condition stored in the ceiling ART setting information storage area 662 and the BB gaming time storage area 660 for each slot machine 100. End time of stored BB game or end time of RB game stored in RB game time storage area 661, reception history of start signal stored in start signal reception history storage area 657, ART game time storage area Based on the start time and end time of the ART game stored in 654, the start signal received after satisfying the game count start condition is counted. The calculation of the number of games is not limited to the configuration of the present embodiment performed based on the reception history of the start signal. For example, the reception of the medal insertion signal stored in the medal insertion signal reception history storage area 656 is received. Based on the history, it is possible to calculate the cumulative medal insertion number before the transition to the ceiling ART game, and divide this cumulative medal insertion number by “3” to calculate the number of games, or receive the medal insertion signal. Based on the history, the medal insertion signal reception time may be distinguished within a predetermined time (for example, 1 second), and the number of the distinction may be counted. That is, in the latter case, the medal insertion signal that is normally sent in one game from the slot machine 100 is continuous in milliseconds, so that the medal insertion signal within a predetermined time is the medal insertion signal output in one game. By determining, the number of games is calculated.

In addition, it can also comprise as a substitute of a hardware apparatus with the software which implement | achieves a function equivalent to the above each means.

In the present embodiment, an example is shown in which the program and related data according to the present embodiment are directly loaded from the medium 604 into the RAM or the like of the storage unit 605 and executed, but in addition to this, the program according to the present embodiment is also executed. Each time the operation is performed, the program may be loaded from the HDD or the like of the storage unit 605 in which the program is already installed into the RAM or the like of the storage unit 605. It is also possible to store the program according to the present embodiment in the ROM or the like of the storage unit 605, configure the program so as to form a part of the memory map, and execute it directly by the control unit 610.

In this embodiment, for convenience of explanation, a configuration in which the management device 600 is realized by one device will be described. However, the management device 600 may be realized by a configuration in which resources are distributed to a plurality of devices. For example, storage and calculation resources may be distributed in a plurality of devices. Alternatively, resources may be distributed for each component virtually realized on the management apparatus 600 and parallel processing may be performed.

<Network configuration>
The network 701 is typically a LAN (Local Area Network), but may have any configuration as long as it can transmit and receive data regardless of wired / wireless. For example, a public line (analog line, ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network, etc.)), WAN (Wide Area Network), wireless LAN, etc. may be used. As a communication protocol on the network 701, for example, TCP / IP (Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol) can be adopted.

<Identification of ART game period>
Next, in order to identify the start time and end time of 1ART game of each slot machine 100 installed in the game hall, the processing executed by the game hall management system in this embodiment is performed for each RT signal output pattern described above. Explained. The following processing is executed independently for each slot machine 100 installed in the game hall.

<Example of use of amusement hall management system 1>
First, a case where the RT signal output pattern is configured to output the RT signal only when the gaming state of the slot machine 100 has shifted to the ART period will be described.

In this usage example, since the RT signal is output only when the gaming state of the slot machine 100 shifts to the ART period, the control unit 610 of the management apparatus 600 receives the RT signal as shown in FIG. (Step S1601), it is determined that the game has shifted to the ART game (Step S1602), the current time is referred to using the time measuring means 602, and the time is stored in the ART game time storage area 654 as the start time of the ART game.

For specifying at the end of the ART game, the control means 610 calculates a base value for a plurality of games (step S1603) and compares it with a reference base value. As a result, if the calculated base value is not different from the reference base value or smaller than the reference base value (YES in step S1604), it is determined that the game is in the normal game state. Then, referring to the previous determination result stored in the determination result storage area 653, if the stored determination result is the state of the ART game, the control means 610 determines that the ART game has ended. (Step S1605) The current time is referred to by using the time measuring means 602, and the time is stored in the ART game time storage area 654 as the ART game end time. The determination of the end of the ART game is made after a predetermined number of games have elapsed since it was determined that the ART game was entered. The number of games can be arbitrarily set, and can be 10 games, for example. The set game number information is stored in a predetermined area of the storage unit 605.

Further, the specification at the end of the ART game may be specified based on the number of games (start count) as shown in FIG. In other words, when the control means 610 determines that the game has shifted to the ART game upon receipt of the RT signal (step S1602), the control means 610 determines the number of starts (number of games) after the transition to the ART game based on the reception history of the start signal. Calculate (step S1701) and compare the predetermined number of games in one ART period with the calculated number of starts. As a result of the comparison, if the calculated start count has reached the predetermined number of games (YES in step S1702), the control means 610 determines that the ART game has ended (step S1703), and sets the timing means 602. The current time is referred to, and the time is stored in the ART game time storage area 654 as the ART game end time. This determination method at the end of the ART game is particularly effective when, for example, the model has a fixed ART period of 50 games or the like.

Alternatively, the end of the ART game may be specified by receiving a BB signal or an RB signal. That is, generally, when the slot machine 100 wins the BB game and the RB game, the ART game is ended. Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 18, when the BB signal or the RB signal is received (step S1801), the control means 610 determines that the ART game has ended (step S1802) and refers to the current time using the time measuring means 602. Then, the time is stored in the ART game time storage area 654 as the end time of the ART game.

<Use example 2 of amusement hall management system>
Next, the case where the gaming state of the slot machine 100 is configured to continuously output the RT signal during the ART period will be described.

In this usage example, when the gaming state of the slot machine 100 shifts to the ART period, an RT signal indicating that the slot period has shifted to the ART period is output, so that the control means 610 of the management apparatus 600 as shown in FIG. When the reception of the RT signal is recognized (step S1901), it is determined that the game has shifted to the ART game (step S1902), the current time is referred to using the time measuring means 602, and the ART game is used as the start time of the ART game. It is stored in the game time storage area 654.

Further, in this usage example, when the ART game is completed, the output of the RT signal is terminated. Therefore, when it is recognized that the reception of the RT signal is terminated (step S1903), it is determined that the ART game is terminated ( In step S1904), the current time is referenced using the time measuring means 602, and the time is stored in the ART game time storage area 654 as the ART game end time.

<Example 3 of use of amusement hall management system>
Next, a case where the RT signal indicating that the ART period has ended is output when the ART period ends will be described.

For specifying at the start of an ART game, the control means 610 calculates a base value for a plurality of games and compares it with a reference base value (see FIG. 13). As a result, if the calculated base value is larger than the reference base value, it is determined that the state is an ART game. Then, referring to the previous determination result stored in the determination result storage area 653, if the stored determination result is in the normal game state, the control means 610 determines that the game has shifted to the ART game. The current time is referred to using the time measuring means 602, and the time is stored in the ART game time storage area 654 as the start time of the ART game.

Regarding the specification at the end of the ART game, in this usage example, when the gaming state of the slot machine 100 ends the ART game, an RT signal indicating that the ART game has ended is output. Upon receiving the RT signal, the control means 610 determines that the ART game has ended, refers to the current time using the time measuring means 602, and uses the time as the ART game end time in the ART game time storage area 654. Remember.

Further, in the case of a model in which the period of the ART game is a fixed number of games, when the RT signal is received, it is determined that the ART game has ended as described above, and at the start of the ART game period, the RT signal You may specify that it is the time of a predetermined number of games retroactively received.

That is, when the RT signal is received, it is determined that the ART game has ended, and further, a predetermined number of games are determined from the game determined that the ART game has ended with reference to the ART period game number storage area 658 and the start signal reception history storage area 657. The start signal reception history is retrieved retroactively, and the reception time of the start signal is stored in the ART game time storage area 654 as the start time of the ART game.

<Example 4 of use of amusement hall management system>
Next, a case will be described in which an RT signal is output every time an operation of the start lever 135 is accepted during the ART period.

For specifying the start time of the ART game, the control means 610 determines that it has shifted to the ART game by receiving the RT signal, refers to the current time using the time measuring means 602, and uses the time as the ART game. Is stored in the ART game time storage area 654 as the start time of the game.

For specifying at the end of the ART game, the control means 610 calculates a base value for a plurality of games (see FIG. 16) and compares it with a reference base value. As a result, when the calculated base value is equal to or less than the reference base value, it is determined that the game is in the normal game state. Then, referring to the previous determination result stored in the determination result storage area 653, if the stored determination result is the state of the ART game, the control means 610 determines that the ART game has ended. Then, the current time is referred to by using the time measuring means 602, and the time is stored in the ART game time storage area 654 as the ART game end time.

Further, regarding the specification at the end of the ART game, when the control means 610 determines that the ART game has been shifted to by receiving the RT signal, the control means 610 starts after the ART game transition based on the reception history of the start signal. The number of times (number of games) may be calculated, and a predetermined number of games in one ART period may be compared with the calculated start number. As a result of the comparison, if the calculated start count has reached the predetermined number of games, the control means 610 determines that the ART game has ended, refers to the current time using the time measuring means 602, and determines the time Are stored in the ART game time storage area 654 as the end time of the ART game. In this usage example, the number of games after the transition to the ART game may be calculated based on the reception history of the RT signal instead of the start signal.

Alternatively, the end of the ART game may be specified by receiving a BB signal or an RB signal. That is, when the BB signal or the RB signal is received, the control means 610 determines that the ART game has ended, refers to the current time using the clock means 602, and uses the time as the end time of the ART game. The data is stored in the storage area 654.

Alternatively, the end of the ART game may be specified by not receiving the RT signal even if a predetermined time has elapsed since the last RT signal was received. That is, as shown in FIG. 20, when the RT means receives the RT signal, the control means 610 measures time using the time measuring means 602 as a timer (step S2003). Thereafter, when the RT signal is received (NO in step S2004), the time measuring means 602 is reset and time is measured again (step S2003). On the other hand, if the RT signal is not received after a predetermined time has elapsed (YES in step S2004), it is determined that the ART game has ended (step S2005), and the current time is measured using the time measuring means 602. , The time is stored in the ART game time storage area 654 as the end time of the ART game.

Alternatively, the end of the ART game may be specified by receiving only the start signal without receiving the RT signal. That is, when the control means 610 receives only the start signal without receiving the RT signal, the control means 610 determines that the ART game has ended, refers to the current time using the time measuring means 602, and determines the time. It is stored in the ART game time storage area 654 as the end time of the ART game.

<Example 5 of use of game hall management system>
Next, a case where the RT signal is output in response to acceptance of the operation of the start lever 135 during the ART period, the RT signal is output with a delay of several games will be described. In this usage example, when the ART period ends, the output of the RT signal also ends at that time.

For specifying at the start of an ART game, the control means 610 calculates a base value for a plurality of games and compares it with a reference base value (see FIG. 13). As a result, if the calculated base value is larger than the reference base value, it is determined that the state is an ART game. Then, referring to the previous determination result stored in the determination result storage area 653, if the stored determination result is in the normal game state, the control means 610 determines that the game has shifted to the ART game. The current time is referred to using the time measuring means 602, and the time is stored in the ART game time storage area 654 as the start time of the ART game.

In addition, when it is known how much the number of games is different from the actual start of the ART game until the RT signal is output, the start of the ART game is performed according to the known difference in the number of games. The time may be corrected from the first reception of the RT signal.

The specification at the start of the ART game may be calculated based on the delay time of the RT signal. That is, as shown in FIG. 21, the control means 610 receives the first RT signal (step S2101), refers to the current time using the time measuring means 602, and calls the delay time of the RT signal (step S2102). Then, the current time is subtracted (step S2103), and the time after the subtraction is stored in the ART game time storage area 654 as the ART game start time.

The identification at the end of the ART game may be performed by the following configuration. That is, the control means 610 calculates a base value for a plurality of games (step S2104) and compares it with the reference base value. As a result, if the calculated base value is less than or equal to the reference base value (YES in step S2105), it is determined that the game is in the normal game state. Then, referring to the previous determination result stored in the determination result storage area 653, if the stored determination result is the state of the ART game, the control means 610 determines that the ART game has ended. (Step S2106) The current time is referenced using the time measuring means 602, and the time is stored in the ART game time storage area 654 as the ART game end time. This base value is calculated by, for example, calculating the base for the previous 10 games from a certain game, and calculating the base for the previous 10 games from the next game. To do.

Regarding the determination at the end of the ART game, the control means 610 determines that the ART game has ended when it receives only the start signal without receiving the RT signal, and uses the time measuring means 602 to determine the current time. The time is referred to and stored in the ART game time storage area 654 as the end time of the ART game.

Further, regarding the specification at the end of the ART game, when the control means 610 determines that the ART game has been shifted to by receiving the RT signal, the control means 610 starts after the ART game transition based on the reception history of the start signal. The number of times (number of games) may be calculated, and a predetermined number of games in one ART period may be compared with the calculated start number. As a result of the comparison, if the calculated start count has reached the predetermined number of games, the control means 610 determines that the ART game has ended, refers to the current time using the time measuring means 602, and determines the time Are stored in the ART game time storage area 654 as the end time of the ART game.

Alternatively, the end of the ART game may be specified by receiving a BB signal or an RB signal. That is, when the BB signal or the RB signal is received, the control means 610 determines that the ART game has ended, refers to the current time using the clock means 602, and uses the time as the end time of the ART game. The data is stored in the storage area 654.

Alternatively, the end of the ART game may be specified by not receiving the RT signal even if a predetermined time has elapsed since the last RT signal was received. That is, when receiving the RT signal, the control means 610 measures time using the time measuring means 602 as a timer. Thereafter, when the RT signal is received, the time measuring means 602 is reset and the time is measured again. On the other hand, if the RT signal is not received even after a predetermined time has elapsed, it is determined that the ART game has ended, the current time is referred to using the time measuring means 602, and the time is determined based on the ART game. It is stored in the ART game time storage area 654 as the end time.

<Example 6 of use of amusement hall management system>
Next, a case where the RT signal is output in response to acceptance of the operation of the start lever 135 during the ART period, the RT signal is output with a delay of several games will be described. In this usage example, the remaining RT signals are output even when the actual ART period ends. In other words, the output period of the RT signal is sent for several games and output from the start and end of the actual ART period.

For specifying at the start of an ART game, the control means 610 calculates a base value for a plurality of games and compares it with a reference base value (see FIG. 13). As a result, if the calculated base value is larger than the reference base value, it is determined that the state is an ART game. Then, referring to the previous determination result stored in the determination result storage area 653, if the stored determination result is in the normal game state, the control means 610 determines that the game has shifted to the ART game. The current time is referred to using the time measuring means 602, and the time is stored in the ART game time storage area 654 as the start time of the ART game.

The specification at the start of the ART game may be calculated based on the delay time of the RT signal. That is, when the control means 610 receives the first RT signal, it uses the time measuring means 602 to refer to the current time, calls the RT signal delay time, subtracts it from the current time, and subtracts the time after subtraction from the ART game. Is stored in the ART game time storage area 654 as the start time of the game.

In addition, when it is known how much the number of games is different from the actual start of the ART game until the RT signal is output, the start of the ART game is performed according to the known difference in the number of games. The time may be corrected from the first reception of the RT signal.

For specifying at the end of the ART game, the control means 610 calculates a base value for a plurality of games (see FIG. 16) and compares it with a reference base value. As a result, when the calculated base value is equal to or less than the reference base value, it is determined that the game is in the normal game state. Then, referring to the previous determination result stored in the determination result storage area 653, if the stored determination result is the state of the ART game, the control means 610 determines that the ART game has ended. Then, the current time is referred to by using the time measuring means 602, and the time is stored in the ART game time storage area 654 as the ART game end time.

Alternatively, the end of the ART game may be specified by receiving a BB signal or an RB signal. That is, when the BB signal or the RB signal is received, the control means 610 determines that the ART game has ended, refers to the current time using the clock means 602, and uses the time as the end time of the ART game. The data is stored in the storage area 654.

Further, regarding the specification at the end of the ART game, when the control means 610 determines that the ART game has been shifted to by receiving the RT signal, the control means 610 starts after the ART game transition based on the reception history of the start signal. The number of times (number of games) may be calculated, and a predetermined number of games in one ART period may be compared with the calculated start number. As a result of the comparison, if the calculated start count has reached the predetermined number of games, the control means 610 determines that the ART game has ended, refers to the current time using the time measuring means 602, and determines the time Are stored in the ART game time storage area 654 as the end time of the ART game.

If it is known how much the number of games is different from the actual start of the ART game until the RT signal is output, the ART game is ended according to the known difference in the number of games. The time may be corrected to the time corresponding to the number of games retroactive from the time of the last reception of the RT signal.

<Other usage examples>
In the case of a slot machine 100 model that does not output an RT signal, as shown in FIG. 13, a base value is calculated and compared with a reference base to specify the start and end of an ART game. be able to.

In addition, if the RT signal is not output but the number of games in one ART period is fixed and the number of games is known, the number of games in one ART period is stored in advance in the ART period game number storage area 658. Remember it. Then, the start or end of the ART game based on the base value is specified by the method shown in FIG. Further, the reception time of the start signal at the time when the number of games stored in the ART period game number storage area 658 has elapsed from the start of the ART game, or stored in the ART period game number storage area 658 from the end of the ART game. The reception time of the start signal that is traced back by the number of games may be determined to be the start or end of the ART period.

In the case of a slot machine 100 model that does not output a start signal, processing may be performed based on a medal insertion signal instead of the start signal.

Further, depending on the model of the slot machine 100, the next ART game (ART period) may be started immediately after one ART game (ART period) ends. In such a case, instead of discriminating each individual ART period, it may be configured to discriminate the start and end of a plurality of successive ART periods as substantially one ART period. In that case, the start time and end time of the ART period are determined by the same configuration as that described in the first to sixth use examples.

Next, in order to identify the appearance of the ceiling ART game of each slot machine 100 installed in the game hall, the flow of processing executed by the game hall management system in the present embodiment and the business hours of the game hall are performed in real time. The description will be made in the order of batch processing outside. The following processing is executed independently for each slot machine 100 installed in the game hall.

<When performing in real time>
As shown in FIG. 22, when the management device 600 determines that a preset game number count start condition such as the end of the BB game is satisfied, the management device 600 starts counting the received start signal thereafter (step S2201).

When the management device 600 determines that the game has shifted to the ART game by the above-described specific method at the start of the ART game, such as receiving an RT signal (YES in step S2202), the counting ends (step S2203). On the other hand, if it is determined that the BB game or RB game has been entered by recognizing the reception of the BB signal or RB signal before the transition to the ART game (NO in step S2202), the start signal count is reset (step S2202). S2204). When it is determined that the BB game or the RB game has ended, the start signal counting is started.

Control means 610 compares the number of games calculated by counting the start signal with a predetermined number of games stored in ceiling ART setting information storage area 662. As a result, when the calculated number of games is equal to or greater than the determined number of games (YES in step S2205), the control means 610 determines that the game is a ceiling ART game (step S2206). Further, the ceiling ART number information stored in the ceiling ART number storage area 663 is called and incremented, and the number after the increment is overwritten and stored (step S2207). On the other hand, as a result of comparing the calculated number of games with the determined number of games, if the calculated number of games is less than the determined number of games (eg, NO in step S2205), the control means 610 determines that the ceiling ART It is determined that the game is not a game (step S2208).

When the determination is completed, the start number stored in the start number storage area 664 is decremented to “0” (= zero), and the number after the decrement is overwritten and stored (step S2209).

<When performing all at once>
The management device 600 refers to the ceiling ART setting information such as the start signal count start condition stored in the ceiling ART setting information storage area 662, or the end time of the BB game stored in the BB game time storage area 660 or The end time of the RB game stored in the RB game time storage area 661, the reception history of the start signal stored in the start signal reception history storage area 657, and the start of the ART game stored in the ART game time storage area 654 The received start signal is counted after satisfying a start condition for counting the number of games such as the end of the BB game using the time and the end time. And since it is the same as that of the case of the real time mentioned above after that, description is abbreviate | omitted.

The calculation of the number of games is not limited to the configuration of the present embodiment performed based on the reception history of the start signal. For example, the reception of the medal insertion signal stored in the medal insertion signal reception history storage area 656 is received. It may be performed based on the history. That is, the cumulative medal insertion number from the start signal counting start condition to the ceiling ART game is calculated, and the cumulative medal insertion number is divided by “3” to calculate the number of games. It is also good. Further, based on the reception time of the medal insertion signal stored in the medal insertion signal reception history storage area 656, the medal insertion signals received within a predetermined time (for example, within one second) are collectively determined as one game, thereby It may be configured to calculate the number of games.

Further, the method for determining that the ART game has started or that the ART game has ended may be based on a combination of the above-described methods. For example, it is determined that the ART game is started when both the method based on the start signal and the method based on the base value calculation are started. By combining a plurality of methods in this way, it is possible to determine the start or end of the ART game more accurately.

By configuring the game hall management system as described above, it becomes possible to specify the ceiling ART period of each slot machine installed in the game hall. Therefore, for example, by managing the normal state and the ART period (ART state) separately, it is possible to provide useful information to users such as game hall employees when checking whether there is an abnormality in the slot machine It becomes. That is, for example, even if the user can guess that the user is in the state of ART game by referring to the slump graph, the period continues to exceed the user's assumption, and the user such as a game hall employee does not assume Although a situation may occur, it is possible to determine whether or not a ceiling ART game that may contribute to the occurrence of the situation.

Moreover, although the management apparatus 600 showed the structure which performs each calculation in a present Example, it is not limited to this, In the other Example, each above-mentioned calculation is performed in the stand terminal apparatus 400 or the island terminal apparatus 500. It is good also as a structure to perform. In this case, necessary storage means and control means are provided in each terminal device 400 and island terminal device 500, and calculation and storage are performed for the slot machines 100 managed by each device. When the management device 600 receives an instruction from the user to display predetermined information on the display unit 607, the management device 600 acquires necessary information from each of the terminal devices 400 and the island terminal device 500 according to the instruction. The display unit 607 displays the information.

For example, together with the number of ceiling ARTs stored in the ceiling ART number storage area 663, game information in the ceiling ART is displayed for a player (for example, a display device (not shown) provided corresponding to each slot machine 100) or It is good also as a structure displayed on the big screen display apparatus (illustration omitted) etc. which are installed in a game hall. Even in this case, the calculation for determining the ceiling ART and the calculation for totaling the game information in the ceiling ART may be performed by any of the terminal device 400, the island terminal device 500, and the management device 600.

Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, the present invention can take an embodiment as a system, apparatus, method, program, storage medium, or the like.

The present invention can also be achieved by supplying a program for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments directly or remotely to a system or apparatus, and reading and executing the program code supplied by the computer of the system or apparatus. Including the case.

Therefore, in order to implement the functional processing of the present invention on a computer, the program itself installed in this computer is also included in the technical scope of the present invention. That is, the present invention includes a computer program itself for realizing the functional processing of the present invention. In this case, the program providing method includes a method of providing using a storage medium such as a CD-ROM and a DVD, a method of providing via a telecommunication line, and the like.

100: Slot machine, 101: Main body, 102: Front door, 110: Left reel, 111: Middle reel, 112: Right reel, 113: Symbol display window, 114: Winning line, 120: Winning line display lamp, 121: Start Lamp: 122: Re-playing lamp, 123: Notification lamp, 124: Medal insertion possible lamp, 125: Stored number display, 126: Game information display, 127: Discharged number display, 128: Reel panel lamp, 129: Game Medals insertion lamp, 130: bet button, 131: bet button, 132: bet button, 133: medal return button, 134: settlement button, 135: start lever, 136: stop button unit, 137: stop button, 138: stop button 139: Stop button, 140: Door key hole, 1 1: medal slot, 143: sound hole, 144: side lamp, 155: medal payout port, 157: liquid crystal display device, 160: production device, 161: medal tray, 162: title panel, 163: shutter, 163a: right Shutter, 163b: left shutter, 180: sound hole,
300: main control unit, 302: basic circuit, 304: CPU, 306: ROM, 308: RAM, 310: I / O, 312: counter timer, 314: WDT, 315a: crystal oscillator, 315b: crystal oscillator, 316: Random value generation circuit, 318: various sensors, 320: sensor circuit, 322: drive circuit, 324: drive circuit, 326: drive circuit, 328: drive circuit, 330: voltage monitoring circuit, 334: information output circuit, 336: various Lamp: 338: Activation signal output circuit, 400: Stand terminal device, 500: Island terminal device, 600: Management device, 602: Time measuring means, 603: External recording medium connecting means, 604: Media, 605: Storage means, 606: Input means, 607: display means, 608: communication means, 609: bus, 610: control means, 651: base calculation basic information storage area , 652: reference base value storage area, 653: determination result storage area, 654: ART game time storage area, 655: medal payout signal reception history storage area, 656: medal insertion signal reception history storage area, 657: start signal reception history Storage area, 658: ART period game number storage area, 659: RT signal delay storage area, 660: BB game time storage area, 661: RB game time storage area, 662: Ceiling ART setting information storage area, 663: Ceiling ART Number storage area, 664: Start number storage area, 665: Correspondence identification information storage area, 666: Correspondence judgment condition storage area, 701: Network, 800: Inter-table machine, 900: Repeater

Claims (9)

A management device that receives an operation signal output from a plurality of gaming machines installed in a game arcade and manages an operation status related to the gaming machine,
A management device comprising control means for specifying a start time or an end time of a period in which the gaming state of the gaming machine is an ART state based on the operation signal. The operation signal includes at least a medal payout signal indicating that a game medium has been paid out from the gaming machine and a medal insertion signal indicating that a game medium has been inserted into the gaming machine,
It further has a storage means for storing a reference payout rate to be compared,
The control means calculates a payout rate in a predetermined game range determined in advance based on the medal payout signal and the medal insertion signal, and based on a comparison result between the calculated payout rate and the reference payout rate. 2. The management device according to claim 1, wherein the management device identifies at the start or end of a period in which the gaming state of the gaming machine is an ART state. The operation signal includes at least an RT signal indicating that the gaming state of the gaming machine is an ART state,
2. The management apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control means performs identification at the start or end of a period in which the gaming state of the gaming machine is an ART state based on the RT signal. The operating signal includes at least a bonus signal indicating that the gaming state of the gaming machine is a bonus gaming state,
2. The management device according to claim 1, wherein the control means performs identification at the end of a period in which the gaming state of the gaming machine is an ART state based on the bonus signal. The operation signal includes at least a start signal indicating that the spinning device provided in the gaming machine has rotated,
A storage means for storing the number of games in a period in which the gaming state of the gaming machine is an ART state;
The control means calculates the number of games based on the start signal, specifying the end of the period when the gaming state of the gaming machine is in the ART state, and calculates the number of games and the number of games in the period of the ART state The management apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the management apparatus is based on a comparison with the management apparatus. The operation signal includes at least an RT signal indicating that the gaming state of the gaming machine is an ART state,
It further has a time measuring means for measuring time,
The control means starts timing using the timing means when receiving the RT signal, and based on whether or not the RT signal is received when a predetermined time has elapsed, a period in which the gaming state in the gaming machine is in the ART state The management apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the management apparatus identifies at the time of termination. The operation signal includes at least an RT signal indicating that the gaming state of the gaming machine is an ART state and a start signal indicating that a spinning device provided in the gaming machine has rotated,
The RT signal is output from the gaming machine together with the start signal during the ART state period,
The management device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit performs identification at the end of a period in which the gaming state of the gaming machine is an ART state based on whether or not the RT signal is received. The operation signal includes at least an RT signal indicating that the gaming state of the gaming machine is an ART state,
A storage means for storing an RT signal delay time indicating a difference between when the gaming state of the gaming machine becomes an ART state and when an RT signal is output from the gaming machine;
When the control means receives the RT signal, the time point that corresponds to the RT signal delay time from the time when the RT signal is received is taken as the start of the period in which the gaming state of the gaming machine is in the ART state. The management apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the management apparatus is specified. The operation signal includes at least an RT signal indicating that the gaming state of the gaming machine is an ART state and a start signal indicating that a spinning device provided in the gaming machine has rotated,
The storage device further stores a start signal output when the gaming state of the gaming machine becomes an ART state and an RT signal delay game number indicating a difference between the RT signal output from the gaming machine. ,
When the control means receives the RT signal, the gaming state in the gaming machine is the ART state at a time point that is the number of games corresponding to the RT signal delayed game number from the game related to the reception of the RT signal. The management device according to claim 1, wherein the management device is specified as a start time of a period.

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