JP2016168464A - Slot machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To prevent a generated command from overflowing from a command transmission buffer area even if memory capacity used for the command transmission buffer area is not increased.SOLUTION: Main processing includes a command concentration section in the beginning. In the command concentration section, a setting value command is generated (S41), then a game state command 1 is generated (S42), thereafter a game state command 2 is generated (S43), and then a game state command 3 is generated (S44). Further, the main processing has waiting time after the command concentration section passes (S45). For the waiting time, a command stored in a buffer area is transmitted without generating any commands.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

  The present invention relates to a slot machine that includes a main control unit that controls the progress of a game and a sub-control unit that controls the output of an effect, and transmits a command from the main control unit to the sub-control unit.

  In a conventional slot machine, a main control means for controlling the progress of the game and a sub-control means for controlling the output of the effect are provided, the main control means transmits a command to the sub-control means, and the sub-control means receives There is known a slot machine that controls the output of an effect in response to a command (see Patent Document 1).

JP 2009-077952 A

  The problem to be solved by the present invention is to prevent a generated command from overflowing the command transmission buffer area without increasing the capacity of the memory used for the command transmission buffer area.

The present invention solves the above-described problems by the following means. Note that the corresponding embodiment is shown in parentheses.
The invention of claim 1
Main control means (50) for controlling the progress of the game;
Sub-control means (80) for controlling the output of the production,
The main control means includes
Command generation means (73) for generating a command;
A buffer area (74) for storing the generated command;
Command sending means (75) for sending the command stored in the buffer area to the sub-control means,
As the command generated by the command generating means, at least a setting value command indicating a setting value for determining an advantage for the player,
The main control means includes
The main process for the progress of the game can be repeatedly executed according to the player's operation, and the interrupt process is executed every predetermined time (2.235 ms)
In the main process, the command generation unit generates a plurality of commands including setting value commands, and the command generation unit does not generate a command during or after the command concentration period. A waiting time for the command transmission means to transmit the command stored in the buffer area;
In the interrupt processing, the command generation unit may generate a command regardless of whether or not the waiting time is being performed.

  According to the present invention, a waiting time is provided during or after the command concentration section, and during the waiting time, a command stored in the buffer area is transmitted without generating a command. Even if the memory capacity is not increased, the generated command can be prevented from overflowing from the buffer area.

It is a block diagram which shows the outline of control of a slot machine. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the process at the time of power activation. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of an interruption process. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the main process. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of an error handling process. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a game progress process. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of light emission control processing. It is a block diagram which shows the outline of control of the slot machine in 3rd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the process at the time of power activation in 3rd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the main process in 3rd Embodiment.

(First embodiment)
Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
In the slot machine 10 of the following embodiment, medals are used as game media. However, the present invention is not limited to medals and may be game balls or the like.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an outline of control of the slot machine 10 in the present embodiment. The slot machine 10 includes a main control unit 50 and a sub control unit 80.

  The main control means 50 controls the progress of games such as winning lottery, reel 31 drive (rotation and stop) control, and payout when winning. The main control means 50 is provided on a main control board (not shown), and a CPU for performing calculations, a ROM for storing programs necessary for the progress of games, etc., and the CPU perform various controls. A RAM or the like is provided for temporarily storing data that is sometimes captured.

  The sub-control means 80 controls the selection / output of effects during the game and during the game standby. The sub-control means 80 is provided on a sub-control board (not shown). The CPU that performs calculations, the ROM that stores data for effects (such as effect patterns), and the CPU perform various effects. A RAM or the like for temporarily storing data taken in when outputting is provided.

  The sub control board is a control board belonging to a lower level of the main control board. The main control means 50 and the sub control means 80 are electrically connected, and transmit signals and information (commands) necessary for production output in one direction from the main control means 50 to the sub control means 80. It is formed as follows.

As shown in FIG. 1, on the input side (left side in FIG. 1) of the main control means 50, a bet switch 40, a start switch 41, and three operation switches that are operated by the player to advance the game. (Left, middle, right) stop switches 42 are electrically connected.
Further, on the input side of the main control means 50, a medal selector 43a, a first insertion detection sensor 43b, a second insertion detection sensor 43c, a payout detection sensor 44, a setting key switch 45, a setting change switch 46, a reset switch 47, a door An open / close detection sensor 48 and a cover open / close detection sensor 49 are electrically connected.

  The bet switch 40 is a switch operated when the player inserts a stored medal for the game. In this embodiment, in any gaming state, it is set to play a game by inserting three medals. Therefore, when the bet switch 40 is operated, three stored medals are electrically inserted, and a process of subtracting “3” from the number of stored medals (number of credits) is performed. The number of medals inserted is not limited to this, and may be one or two. A bet switch for one bet or two bets may be provided.

The medal slot 43 is a part where the player inserts an actual medal, and is provided on the front side (player side) of the front mask portion (front door).
A medal selector 43 a for selecting medals inserted from the medal insertion slot 43 is provided on the rear side (back side) of the front mask portion.
The medal inserted from the medal slot 43 reaches the medal selector 43a. The medal selector 43a switches the path of medals depending on whether or not the inserted medals are genuine and whether or not the medal insertion operation is in a valid state.

Specifically, the medal selector 43a guides the medal to the hopper 33a if the medal insertion operation is valid and the inserted medal is a regular one.
On the other hand, if the medal insertion operation is invalid, the medal selector 43a returns the medal to the player regardless of whether the inserted medal is genuine or not. Guide to the saucer.
Further, if the inserted medal is not genuine, the medal selector 43a guides the medal to the medal tray in order to return the medal to the player regardless of whether or not the medal inserting operation is in a valid state. .

Furthermore, a first insertion detection sensor 43b and a second insertion detection sensor 43c are provided in order from the upstream side in the middle of a medal path that passes through the medal selector 43a toward the hopper 33a.
Each of the first input detection sensor 43b and the second input detection sensor 43c has a light emitting element and a light receiving element, and detects light emitted from the light emitting element by the light receiving element. The medal passing through the passage passes between the light emitting element and the light receiving element. At this time, light incident on the light receiving element is blocked for a moment, thereby detecting the passage of the medal.

When the passage of medals is detected in the order of the first insertion detection sensor 43b and the second insertion detection sensor 43c, it is determined that a medal has been inserted.
On the other hand, when the passage of medals is detected in the order of the second insertion detection sensor 43c and the first insertion detection sensor 43b, it is determined that an error (a reverse flow of medals) has occurred.
Further, if the light blocking of the first insertion detection sensor 43b and / or the second insertion detection sensor 43c continues for a certain time or more, it is determined that an error (medal clogging) has occurred.

Then, inserting a medal from the medal insertion slot 43 plays the same role as operating the bet switch 40.
Further, in this specification, “inserting a medal” is used to include both putting an actual medal into the medal slot 43 and operating the bet switch 40.

Furthermore, the start switch 41 is a switch operated by the player when starting the reels 31 (all of left, middle, and right).
Further, three (left, middle, right) stop switches 42 are provided corresponding to the three (left, middle, right) reels 31, and are switches that the player operates when stopping the corresponding reels 31. It is.

The power supply unit is provided inside the housing of the slot machine 10 and includes a power supply board that supplies power to a main control board, a sub control board, and the like, and a power supply box that houses the power supply board.
The front of the power supply box is provided with a power switch for switching on / off of the power supply and a setting key insertion slot into which a setting key is inserted, and an openable / closable switch cover for covering these. It has been.

When the switch cover is opened, the power switch can be operated and the setting key can be inserted into the setting key insertion slot.
Further, when the setting key is inserted into the setting key insertion slot and the setting key is rotated 90 degrees clockwise, the setting key switch 45 is turned on, and when the setting key is rotated 90 degrees counterclockwise from this state. The setting key switch 45 is turned off.

Furthermore, when the setting key switch 45 is turned on in a state where the power is off, and the power is turned on in this state, a setting change mode in which the setting value can be changed is entered.
Further, when the setting key switch 45 is turned on while the power is on, a setting confirmation mode is entered in which the setting value can be confirmed.

  The cover opening / closing detection sensor 49 is a sensor that detects opening / closing of the switch cover. For example, the switch cover is arranged to be turned on when the switch cover is opened, and is turned off when the switch cover is closed.

The setting change switch 46 is a switch operated when changing / setting the setting value of the slot machine 10. In the present embodiment, six levels from setting 1 to setting 6 are provided as setting values. The higher the set value, the more advantageous for the player.
The setting change switch 46 is not operated by the player but is operated on the store (hall) side of the slot machine 10. For this reason, the setting change switch 46 is arranged inside the housing of the slot machine 10 so that the player cannot operate it.

  The reset switch 47 is a switch that is operated when canceling an error or the like. Similarly to the setting change switch 46, the reset switch 47 is not operated by the player but operated by the store where the slot machine 10 is installed. For this reason, a reset switch 47 is arranged inside the housing of the slot machine 10 so that the player cannot operate it.

  The reset switch 47 may be provided with a dedicated switch, or may be shared with other switches. For example, one switch can be shared by the setting change switch 46 and the reset switch 47. In this case, for example, one switch can function as the setting change switch 46 during the setting change mode, and can function as the reset switch 47 at other times.

  The door opening / closing detection sensor 48 is a sensor that detects opening / closing of the front mask portion (front door). For example, it is arranged so that it is on when the front mask portion is open and off when the front mask portion is closed.

Three motors 32 and a payout driving unit 33b of the medal payout device 33 are electrically connected to the output side (right side in FIG. 1) of the main control means 50.
The motor 32 is for rotating the reels 31, is connected to the center of rotation of each reel 31, and is controlled by a reel control means 64 described later.
Here, the reel 31 includes a left reel 31, a middle reel 31, and a right reel 31, and a stop switch 42 that is operated when the left reel 31 is stopped is the left stop switch 42, and when the middle reel 31 is stopped. The stop switch 42 to be operated is the middle stop switch 42, and the stop switch 42 to be operated when stopping the right reel 31 is the right stop switch 42.

  The reel 31 is ring-shaped, and a reel tape on which a plurality of types of symbols (designs constituting a combination of symbols corresponding to the combination) is attached is attached to the outer peripheral surface thereof. In the present embodiment, for each reel 31, 21 symbol display areas (frames) are arranged at equal intervals, and predetermined symbols are displayed in the respective symbol display areas (frames).

The medal payout device 33 is provided inside the housing of the slot machine 10, and a hopper 33a for storing medals, a payout driving unit 33b for paying out medals stored in the hopper 33a, and a payout from the payout driving unit 33b. A payout detection sensor 44 that detects the medals that have been put out is provided.
The payout detection sensor 44 includes a light emitting element and a light receiving element, and the light emitted from the light emitting element is detected by the light receiving element. The medal paid out from the payout driving unit 33b passes between the light emitting element and the light receiving element of the payout detection sensor 44. At this time, the light incident on the light receiving element is blocked for a moment, thereby detecting that the medal has been paid out.

In addition, if the shading of the payout detection sensor 44 continues for a certain time or more, it is determined that an error (medal clogging) has occurred.
Furthermore, if the payout detection sensor 44 does not detect that a medal has been paid out even though the payout driving unit 33b is driven, it is determined that an error (the medal in the hopper 33a has been lost) has occurred. To do.

The slot machine 10 includes a housing having an opening on the front surface, and a front mask portion (front door) attached so as to be openable and closable so as to cover the front surface of the housing.
A display window (transparent window) is provided substantially at the center of the front mask portion. In this embodiment, three reels 31 (left reel 31, middle reel 31, and right reel 31) are provided in parallel in the horizontal direction in this embodiment. Furthermore, each reel 31 is arranged so that three symbols that are continuous in the vertical direction can be seen from the display window. Therefore, 3 × 3 = 9 symbols in total are displayed from the display window of the slot machine 10. A combination (arrangement) of 3 × 3 = 9 symbols visible from the display window is referred to as a “stop outcome”.

In addition, a symbol combination line is provided in a portion including the display window of the slot machine 10.
Here, the “symbol combination line” is a line of symbols when the reel 31 is stopped, and is a line that forms a combination of symbols.
The symbol combination line has an effective line and an invalid line.

Here, the “effective line” is a line for winning a winning combination when a combination of symbols corresponding to any of the winning combinations is stopped on that line.
On the other hand, an “invalid line” is a line that is not set as an effective line among symbol combination lines, and even if a combination of symbols corresponding to any combination stops on that line, This is a line that does not give profits (medal payout etc.). In other words, the invalid line is a line that is not a target of combination of symbols in the first place.

In the present embodiment, five symbol combination lines are provided. The game is performed by always inserting three medals, and five symbol combination lines are always set as effective lines.
The valid line and the invalid line may be set according to the number of inserted medals, the game state, and the like.

  As shown in FIG. 1, on the output side (right side in FIG. 1) of the sub-control means 80, there are an effect lamp 21, a speaker 22, an image display device 23, and a bet LED 24 and a stop LED 25 as light emitters. Electrically connected.

  The effect lamps 21 are effect lamps of the slot machine 10 and light up in a predetermined pattern when a predetermined condition is satisfied. The effect lamp 21 is arranged on the inner peripheral side of each reel 31, and a back lamp (not shown) for illuminating from behind the symbols displayed on the reel 31 (three symbols that are continuous in the vertical direction visible from the display window). And an upper lamp and a side lamp (not shown) which are arranged on the front surface of the housing of the slot machine 10 and blink when a winning combination is made.

The speaker 22 outputs a predetermined sound when a predetermined condition is satisfied in order to perform various effects during the game.
Furthermore, the image display device 23 provides effect images, game information (for example, the number of medals stored, the number of medals paid out, the number of remaining games and the number of remaining payouts for special games, the order of pressing the stop switch 42, etc.), game results, etc. Is displayed. Examples of the image display device 23 include a liquid crystal display (LCD), a plasma display, an organic electroluminescence (organic EL) display, a dot display, and the like. In the present embodiment, the image display device 23 is configured by a liquid crystal display.

Furthermore, the light emitter is provided corresponding to each operation switch, and indicates to the player whether the operation of each operation switch is valid or invalid.
In the present embodiment, the light emitter is constituted by a color LED.
Further, as the light emitters, the bet LEDs 24 provided corresponding to the bet switches 40 and the three (left, middle, and right) stop switches 42 provided correspondingly (left, middle, and right) respectively. , Right) stop LED 25.

  Furthermore, the betting LED 24 emits red light when the operation of the bet switch 40 is valid, and turns off when the operation of the bet switch 40 is invalid. Thus, the player is shown whether the operation of the bet switch 40 is valid or invalid.

  Further, the stop LED 25 emits blue light when the operation of the stop switch 42 is valid, and emits red light when the operation of the stop switch 42 is invalid. Thus, the player is shown whether the operation of the stop switch 42 is valid or invalid.

In the present embodiment, special roles, replays, and small roles are provided roughly as roles.
A combination of symbols corresponding to each combination and the number of payouts at the time of winning are determined. As a result, when all the reels 31 are stopped, if a combination of symbols corresponding to any of the combinations stops on the active line, the combination is won, and the number of medals corresponding to the combination is paid out or automatically inserted. (However, special roles are excluded.)
In the present specification, for convenience of explanation, “the combination of symbols corresponding to any combination stops at any valid line” is referred to as “the combination“ wins ””.

In the combination, first, the special combination is a combination that shifts from the normal game to the special game.
In the present embodiment, 1BB (first type big bonus) and RB (regular bonus) are provided as special combinations.
When 1BB wins, no medal is paid out in the game, but the next game shifts to 1BB game which is one of the special games. The case where RB wins is the same as the case where 1BB wins.

In addition, the replay is a re-game player who can perform a re-game while maintaining the number of medals inserted in the game (automatically inserting medals).
Furthermore, the small combination is a combination in which a predetermined number of medals are paid out.

Here, an outline of the progress of the game in the slot machine 10 is shown.
At the start of the game, the player operates the bet switch 40 to insert a previously stored medal, or inserts a medal from the medal insertion slot 43, and operates (turns on) the start switch 41.
When the start switch 41 is operated, a signal generated at that time is input to the main control means 50.

When receiving this signal, the main control means 50 (specifically, the reel control means 64 described later) controls to drive all the motors 32 and rotate all the reels 31.
As the reel 31 is rotated by the motor 32 in this way, the symbols on the reel 31 are moved and displayed in the vertical direction in the display window at a predetermined speed.

Then, the player presses the stop switch 42 to stop the rotation of the reel 31 corresponding to the stop switch 42 (for example, the left reel 31 corresponding to the left stop switch 42).
When the stop switch 42 is operated, a signal generated at that time is input to the main control means 50.

When the main control unit 50 (specifically, a reel control unit 64 described later) receives this signal, the main control unit 50 controls the drive of the motor 32 corresponding to the stop switch 42 and controls the stop of the reel 31 related to the motor 32. I do.
When all the reels 31 are stopped, when the symbol combination corresponding to any of the combinations stops on the active line (that is, when the winning combination of the combination is awarded), the medal corresponding to the winning combination is paid out. Etc. are performed.

In this way, the game in the slot machine 10 proceeds.
Further, the main control means 50 repeatedly executes a main process for the progress of the game and executes an interrupt process at a predetermined time shorter than the time required for one main process in parallel with the main process.

Here, the main process starts with the start of the game and ends with the end of the game. For this reason, the main process is executed once per game.
In this embodiment, the timer interruption is set every 2.235 ms. Therefore, the interrupt process is executed every 2.235 ms.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, 1 is added to the count value every interrupt, the first interrupt counter 51 in which the count value makes a round by 8 interrupts, and 1 is added to the count value every interrupt, and 10 interrupts. And a second interrupt counter 52 in which the count value makes a round.
Specifically, the first interrupt counter 51 starts counting from 0, adds 1 to the count value every time the timer interrupt is performed, and when the count value reaches 7, the count value is set to 0 next. It is something to return.

The second interrupt counter 52 starts counting from 0, adds 1 to the count value every time the timer interrupt is performed, and when the count value reaches 9, the count value is reset to 0 next time. is there.
The main control means 50 makes various decisions in the main process and the interrupt process based on the count values of the first interrupt counter 51 and the second interrupt counter 52.

  The main control means 50 controls whether the operation of the operation switches, that is, the bet switch 44, the start switch 41, and the stop switch 42 is enabled or disabled according to the progress of the game.

  Specifically, the main control means 50 enables the operation of the bet switch 40 or the medal insertion operation from the medal insertion slot 43 before the game is started (when all the reels 31 are stopped), Control is performed so as to invalidate the operation of the start switch 41 and the operation of the stop switch 42.

  When the bet switch 40 is operated or three medals are inserted from the medal insertion slot 43, the main control means 50 operates the bet switch 40 and the medals from the medal insertion slot 43 thereafter. Control to disable the input operation.

For example, even if the bet switch 40 is operated with three medals inserted, the main control means 50 does not permit any more medals to be inserted, and the operation of the bet switch 40 is invalid.
However, when one or two medals can be inserted, a bet switch for one bet or two bets can be changed even after three medals are inserted. Continue to enable the operation.

  When the medal is inserted from the medal insertion slot 43 in a state where three medals are inserted, the main control means 50 selects the inserted medals as the medal selector 43a if the number of stored medals is less than 50. The medals are guided to the hopper 33a and stored inside, and if the number of stored medals reaches 50, the inserted medals are guided to the medal tray by the medal selector 43a and returned to the player.

  In addition, when a medal is inserted, the main control means 50 enables the operation of the start switch 41, and operates the bet switch 40, the medal insertion operation from the medal insertion port 43, and the operation of the stop switch 42. Control to disable.

  When the start switch 41 is operated and the reel 31 rotates, the main control unit 50 enables the operation of the stop switch 42, operates the bet switch 40, inserts a medal from the medal slot 43, and Control is performed so as to invalidate the operation of the start switch 41.

  At this time, even if the start switch 41 is operated again, the main control means 50 invalidates the operation of the start switch 41. Even if the bet switch 40 is operated while the reel 31 is rotating, the main control means 50 invalidates the operation of the bet switch 40. Furthermore, even if a medal is inserted from the medal slot 43 while the reel 31 is rotating, the main control means 50 invalidates the insertion of the medal and guides the inserted medal to the medal tray by the medal selector 43a. And return it to the player.

  Further, when the stop switch 42 is operated while the operation of the stop switch 42 is enabled, the reel control means 64 described later controls the reel 31 corresponding to the stop switch 42 to stop, and the main control means 50 controls to disable the operation of the stop switch 42. Accordingly, even if the stop switch 42 once operated is operated again during the game, the operation is invalidated.

When all the reels 31 are stopped and medals are paid out at the time of winning a winning combination, the main control means 50 enables the operation of the bet switch 40 or the medal insertion operation from the medal insertion slot 43. To control.
At the time of replay winning, the main control means 50 performs control so as to enable the operation of the start switch 41 without enabling the operation of the bet switch 40 or the operation of inserting a medal from the medal insertion slot 43.

  Further, the main control unit 50 performs control so that only one operation switch operation is accepted regardless of whether the operation is valid or invalid. In other words, the main control means 50 performs control so that when a plurality of operation switches are operated simultaneously, it is not accepted regardless of whether the operation is valid or invalid.

  Specifically, for example, when the operation of the start switch 41 is disabled and the operation of the stop switch 42 is enabled, the main control unit 50 operates the stop switch 42 while the start switch 41 is operated. When it is done, control is performed so that the operation of the stop switch 42 is not accepted.

  The main control unit 50 operates the middle stop switch 42 in a state where the left stop switch 42 is operated, for example, when the operation of the three (left, middle, right) stop switches 42 is enabled. In such a case, control is performed so that the operation of the left stop switch 42 is accepted but the operation of the middle stop switch 42 is not accepted.

  When the freeze is executed, the main control means 50 operates the bet switch 40, the medal insertion operation from the medal insertion slot 43, the operation of the start switch 41, and the stop switch 42 until the freeze ends. Control to disable the operation.

  When the freeze is executed after all the reels 31 are stopped, the main control means 50 operates the bet switch 40 or the medal insertion operation from the medal insertion slot 43 even when the freeze is being executed. When the operation of the bet switch 40 or the insertion operation of the medal from the medal insertion slot 43 is performed, control may be performed so as to cancel the freeze during execution. .

As described above, the main control unit 50 controls the operation switch to be effective when the freeze during execution can be canceled, and cancels the freeze during execution when the operation switch is operated at this time. May be.
Further, for example, the main control unit 50 enables the operation of the operation switch during the execution of the freeze, and when the operation switch is operated at this time, the current freeze is terminated and another freeze is executed. You may control. That is, the freeze may be changed.

In the present embodiment, the main game state controlled by the main control means 50 side includes normal games and special games, normal games include RT games and non-RT games, and special games include 1BB games and RB games. Is provided.
Furthermore, AT gaming and non-AT gaming are provided as sub gaming states controlled on the sub control means 80 side.

  The “RT (replay time) game” refers to a main game state in which the difference in number per game is greater than that in the non-RT game by setting the winning probability of replay higher than that in the non-RT game. In other words, if the player wins / wins the replay, the number of medals in the game is automatically inserted and the re-game can be performed, so that the number of medals consumed is reduced accordingly. Therefore, the RT game is a game that is more advantageous for the player than the non-RT game.

In addition, the main game state in which the winning probability of replay is different from the non-RT game may be referred to as an RT game. In addition, for “replay winning probabilities differ”, the combined value of the winning probabilities for multiple types of replays is the same, but the method for distributing the winning probabilities for each replay is different, or the types of replays to be drawn are different. Including cases. Furthermore, the winning probability of replay in a non-RT game may be set higher than that in an RT game. In this case, the non-RT game is more advantageous to the player than the RT game.
Thus, RT game means, in a narrow sense, a main game state in which a winning probability of replay is set higher than that of non-RT games, and in a broad sense, a main game in which the winning probability of replay is different from that of non-RT games. Means state.

In addition, “AT (assist time) game” includes a case where a game result advantageous to the player is displayed depending on an operation content (push order and / or operation timing) of the stop switch 42, and a case where the game result is not displayed. During AT games, game results that are advantageous to the player are displayed only by chance, but during AT games, the operation content of the stop switch 42 for displaying the game results that are advantageous to the player is notified. The player can obtain the most advantageous game result by operating the stop switch 42 in accordance with the notification (for example, the most advantageous symbol combination can be stopped on the active line, or the winning role Can be surely stopped at the active line).
If an AT game is executed during an RT game, the game becomes an RT game and an AT game (ART game).

Next, a specific configuration of the main control unit 50 will be described.
As shown in FIG. 1, the main control means 50 includes the following set value changing means 60 and the like.
The following units in the present embodiment are examples, and the main control unit 50 is not limited to the units shown in the present embodiment.

The setting value changing means 60 is for changing and determining a setting value that determines the degree of advantage for the player.
In the present embodiment, six levels of setting 1 to setting 6 are provided as setting values.
The higher the set value, the higher the winning probability of the combination (particularly the special combination), and the higher the advantage for the player.
Further, the higher the set value is, the higher the probability of shifting to the AT game, and the higher the advantage for the player is set.

In addition, instead of increasing the probability of shifting to AT games, or increasing the probability of shifting to AT games, for example, increasing the probability of adding the number of games or payouts during AT games, The probability of continuing the process may be increased.
Further, the higher the set value, the higher the expected value of the number of acquisitions (the number of payouts) for the number of bets (inserted number) of medals, and the higher the advantage for the player may be.

In this embodiment, with the front mask (front door) and the switch cover of the power supply unit opened, turn off the power, insert the setting key into the setting key insertion slot, and rotate it 90 degrees clockwise. When the setting key switch 45 is turned on and then the power is turned on again, the setting change mode in which the setting value can be changed is entered. In this case, the startup process is not performed.
The setting key may be inserted into the setting key insertion slot, rotated 90 degrees clockwise to turn on the setting key switch 45, and in this state, the power may be turned off and then turned on again.

In the setting change mode, the setting value changing means 60 displays the current setting value on a predetermined display unit (for example, a 7-segment display (not shown)).
The set value change means 60 displays the set value every time the setting change switch 46 is operated... → “1” → “2” → “3” → “4” → “5” ”→“ 6 ”→“ 1 ”→“ 2 ”→...

Further, when the start switch 41 is turned on, the set value changing means 60 confirms the set value with the numerical value displayed on the display unit at this time and sets “0” indicating that the set value has been confirmed. Display on the display.
The set value changing unit 60 includes a set value storage unit 60a (memory such as a RAM) for storing the set value, and stores the determined set value in the set value storage unit 60a.

Next, when the setting key is rotated 90 degrees counterclockwise and the setting key switch 45 is turned off, the setting change mode is terminated, and a start-up process is performed with the changed set value.
If the power is turned on with the setting key switch 45 turned off, the start-up process may be performed with the changed set value.

As described above, when the setting value is changed, the setting change switch 46 is operated after the setting change mode is set. Then, with the desired set value displayed on the display unit, the start switch 41 is turned on to confirm the set value. Thereafter, when the setting key switch 45 is turned off, the setting change mode is ended, and the start-up process is performed with the changed set value.
On the main control unit 50 side, when the setting change mode ends, a set value command indicating the set value stored in the set value storage unit 60a is generated and transmitted to the sub control unit 80.
Then, on the side of the sub-control means 80, a set value is set based on the received set value command, and the AT game is executed with a probability corresponding to this.

  The role lottery means 61 performs lottery for a role (the special role, the small role, and the replay described above). The role lottery means 61 is based on, for example, a random number generator for hardware lottery (hardware random number, etc.), a random number extractor for extracting a random number generated by the random number generator, and a random value extracted by the random number extractor. And determining means for determining the presence / absence of a winning combination and the winning combination.

  The random number generation means generates random numbers in a predetermined area (for example, 0 to 65535 in decimal notation). The random number is a random number in which a counter that performs 1 count at 200 n (nano) sec continues to count as a cycle in the range of 0 to 65535, and continues to count the random number while the slot machine 10 is powered on. .

  The random number extraction means extracts the random number generated by the random number generation means at a predetermined time, in the present embodiment, when the start switch 41 is operated (turned on) by the player. The determination unit determines the combination corresponding to the region to which the random number value belongs by comparing the random number value extracted by the random number extraction unit with a combination lottery table 62 described later. For example, if the extracted random number value belongs to the 1BB winning area, it is determined to be 1BB winning, and if it belongs to the non-winning area, it is determined to be non-winning.

The role lottery table 62 defines the types of winning combinations (ratio lottery results) and the winning probabilities for each winning combination.
Here, in the combination lottery table 62, a plurality of combinations may be assigned to one winning area. When the extracted random number value belongs to a winning area to which a plurality of roles are assigned, it is determined that a plurality of roles are overlapped. That is, a plurality of winning combinations are simultaneously won in the game.
In the present embodiment, it is set to have a case where a plurality of small roles are won simultaneously and a case where a plurality of replays are won simultaneously.

  The role lottery table 62 is provided for each main game state. Each of the winning lottery tables 62 has a lottery area within a predetermined range. The lottery area is divided into a winning area and a non-winning area for each winning combination, and the winning combinations are set in advance. It is set to a predetermined ratio so as to be a winning probability.

The winning flag control means 63 controls the on / off of the winning flag 63a corresponding to each winning, based on the winning lottery result by the winning lottery means 61.
In the present embodiment, each of the special combination, small combination, and replay winning flags 63a is provided. When winning in the lottery of the combination by the combination lottery means 61, the winning flag 63a of the corresponding combination is turned on (the winning flag 63a is set).
Further, the winning flag control means 63 simultaneously turns on the winning flags 63a of a plurality of corresponding combinations when a plurality of winning combinations are simultaneously won in the game.

  When the reel control means 64 receives a rotation start command for the reel 31, especially in this embodiment, when the start switch 41 is operated (when a signal indicating that the start switch 41 is operated) is received ( The three reels 31 are controlled to start rotating.

  If the time from the start of rotation of the reel 31 in the previous game to the time when the start switch 41 is operated in the game has not passed 4.1 seconds, the start switch 41 can be used for operation. Although the lottery is performed, the rotation of the reel 31 does not start at the moment (immediately after) the start switch 41 is operated, and the rotation of the reel 31 starts after 4.1 seconds. Thus, the time from when the start switch 41 is operated until the rotation of the reel 31 is referred to as “wait time”.

  Further, the reel control means 64 refers to the ON / OFF of the winning flag 63a in the game after the winning lottery is performed by the winning lottery means 61, and the stop position determination table corresponding to ON / OFF of the winning flag 63a. 65, and when the stop switch 42 is operated, the stop position of the reel 31 corresponding to the stop switch 42 is determined based on the timing when the stop switch 42 is operated, and the motor 32 is turned on. Drive control is performed to stop the reel 31 at the determined position.

  For example, in a game in which at least one winning flag 63a is on, the reel control means 64 has a symbol corresponding to the winning combination (the combination for which the winning flag 63a is on) within the range of stop control of the reel 31. The reel 31 is controlled so that the combination can be stopped on the effective line, and the reel 31 is controlled so that the combination of symbols corresponding to a combination other than the winning combination (the combination in which the winning flag 63a is off) is not stopped on the effective line. Stop control.

  Here, “within the range of stop control of the reel 31” means the time from the moment when the stop switch 42 is operated until the reel 31 actually stops or the amount of rotation of the reel 31 (the number of moving frames (symbols)). Means within range.

  In the present embodiment, the time from when the stop switch 42 is operated until the reel 31 is stopped is set within 190 ms. Thereby, in this embodiment, the maximum number of moving frames from the design at the moment when the stop switch 42 is operated to the stop of the reel 31 is 4 (5 frames including the design at the moment when the stop switch 42 is operated). It becomes.

  At the moment when the operation of the stop switch 42 is detected, when any of the symbols within the range of the stop control of the reel 31 is a symbol to be stopped at a predetermined effective line, when the stop switch 42 is operated In addition, the design is controlled to stop at a predetermined effective line.

  That is, if the reel 31 is stopped immediately at the moment when the stop switch 42 is operated at the time of winning the winning combination, when the symbol related to the winning winning combination does not stop at a predetermined effective line, the reel 31 is stopped before stopping. By controlling the rotational movement of the reel 31 within the range of the stop control of the reel 31, the symbol related to the winning combination is controlled so as to be stopped on a predetermined effective line as much as possible (retraction stop control).

  On the other hand, if the reel 31 is stopped immediately at the moment when the stop switch 42 is operated, the combination of symbols corresponding to the winning combination that has not been won stops on any of the effective lines, the reel 31 is stopped. Sometimes, the reel 31 is controlled to rotate and move within the range of stop control of the reel 31 so that the combination of symbols corresponding to the winning combination is not stopped on the effective line (kicking stop control).

Further, the reel control means 64 includes a push order detection means 64a for detecting the push order (operation order) of the stop switch 42. The push order detection means 64a detects which one of the left, middle and right stop switches 42 is operated when the stop switch 42 is operated by the player.
When the stop switch 42 is operated, a signal indicating that the stop switch 42 has been operated is input to the push order detecting means 64a. By determining this signal, the push order detecting means 64a detects which stop switch 42 has been operated.

Here, in the present embodiment, the pressing order of the stop switch 42 includes the left middle right, left and right middle, middle left and right, middle right left, right left middle, and right middle left.
The left / right / right / left push order is called “forward push”, the left / right / middle push order is called “order pinch”, the right / left / left push order is called “reverse push”, and the right / left / right push order is “ This is called “reverse pinching”.

The pushing order (left middle right and left / right middle) in which the left stop switch 42 is operated first is referred to as “first left stop”, and the pushing order (middle left / right, and (Middle right / left) is referred to as “middle first stop”, and the push order (right middle left and right middle left) in which the right stop switch 42 is operated first is referred to as “right first stop”.
Further, the pressing order (middle left / right, middle right / left, right / left middle, and right / middle left) operated first except for the left stop switch 42 is referred to as “anomalous push”.

  The stop position determination table 65 is provided for each on / off state of the winning flag 63a, that is, for each lottery result of the combination by the combination lottery means 61, and the reel 31 at the moment when the stop switch 42 is operated. The stop position of the reel 31 with respect to the position is determined. For example, when the stop switch 42 is operated at the moment when the first symbol passes through the upper stage (middle stage or lower stage), each stop position determination table 65 controls how many symbols are moved, The stop position is determined in advance so that the symbol is stopped at the upper stage.

  The stop position determination table 65 used at the time of independent winning of any of the combinations stops the combination of symbols corresponding to the winning combination within the effective line within the range of stop control of the reel 31, and also corresponds to the symbol corresponding to the winning combination When the combination cannot be stopped on the effective line, the stop position of the reel 31 is determined so that the combination of symbols corresponding to any combination is not stopped on the effective line.

In addition, even if the stop switch 42 is operated at any position where the reel 31 is located, the target symbol can be stopped on a desired effective line within the range of the stop control of the reel 31 (the player can always win a prize). ) Is referred to as “retraction ratio (PB) = 1”.
On the other hand, the fact that the target symbol cannot be stopped on the active line (not necessarily awarded) is not “PB ≠ 1” unless it is based on the player's intention.

The stop position determination table 65 used when a plurality of replays are overlapped wins, for example, when replay A (PB = 1) is always awarded at the left or middle first stop, and replay B (PB = 1) is at the first right stop. The stop position of the reel 31 is determined so as to always win.
As described above, when a plurality of replays are overlapped, the types of replays to be awarded differ depending on the pressing order of the stop switch 42.
In addition, when a plurality of replays are won simultaneously, replay can be performed when any replay wins.

For example, the stop position determination table 65 used when a plurality of small combinations are won simultaneously, for example, allows a small combination A (PB = 1, 9 medals to be paid out at the time of winning) at the first left stop, Within the range of the reel 31 stop control, the stop position of the reel 31 is determined so that the small combination B (PB ≠ 1, the payout of 3 medals at the time of winning a prize) is won.
As described above, when a plurality of small combinations are won simultaneously, the type of small combination to be drawn into the active line, the pull-in rate, and the number of medals to be paid out are different depending on the pressing order of the stop switch 42. That is, according to the operation of the stop switch 42, game results having different profits to be given to the player are displayed.

In addition, the push order in which a game result with a large profit to be given to the player is displayed (winning a winning combination with a large number of payouts) is called “correct answer push order”, and any push order other than the correct answer push order is “incorrect answer”. "Push order".
In the case of multiple winning replays, for example, a push order in which a replay that shifts (promotes) to a gaming state advantageous to the player wins, or a replay that grants a bonus (sub bonus) to the player is won. The pushing order to perform is referred to as “correct answer pushing order”, and the pushing order in which a replay that shifts (falls) to a gaming state unfavorable for the player wins is referred to as “illegal answer pushing order”.

Further, operating the stop switch 42 in the correct answer pressing order is referred to as “push order correct answer” or “correct answer in order of pressing”, and operating the stop switch 42 in the incorrect answer pressing order is referred to as “push order incorrect answer”.
Then, the reel control means 64 controls to stop the reel 31 so that a game result having a larger profit to be given to the player is displayed when the correct answer is in the pressing order than when the incorrect answer is in the pressing order.

When all the winning flags 63a are off, the non-winning table is used.
The non-winning table is used when all the winning flags 63a are off, and determines the symbol combination when the reel 31 is stopped so that the symbol combination corresponding to any combination does not stop on the active line. .

The stop symbol determination means 66 determines whether or not the symbol combination of the reel 31 stopped on the effective line matches the symbol combination corresponding to any combination when the reel 31 is stopped. The stop symbol determining means 66 determines a symbol on the active line by detecting, for example, the angle at which the motor 32 is stopped or the number of steps.
However, when the stop switch 42 is operated and the stop position is determined using the stop position determination table 65, the stop symbol determination means 66 determines the stop symbol regardless of whether or not the reel 31 has stopped. It is possible.

  The payout means 67 determines that the combination of symbols stopped on the active line when the reel 31 is stopped matches the combination of symbols corresponding to any of the combinations by the stop symbol determination unit 66 and the winning combination is won. In addition, a predetermined number of medals are paid out to the player in accordance with the winning combination, or processing such as credit addition is performed. Also, when winning a replay, control is performed so that the number of medals inserted in the game (three) is automatically inserted without paying out medals.

The special game control means 68 controls the start of the special game, the progress of the game during the special game, and the end of the special game.
When the combination of symbols corresponding to 1BB is stopped on the active line, 1BB is won and the special game control means 68 controls to start 1BB game from the next game.
In 1BB games, the winning probability of a small role is greatly increased.

The end condition for the 1BB game is set such that the number of medals paid out during the 1BB game is equal to or greater than a predetermined number (for example, 300).
For this reason, in the 1BB game, the special game control means 68 continues to count the number of medals paid out, and when it is determined that the count value has reached the above value, the special game control means 68 controls to end the 1BB game with the game.

Similarly, when the combination of symbols corresponding to the RB stops on the active line, an RB win is made, and the special game control means 68 controls to start the RB game from the next game.
In RB games, the probability of winning a small role is greatly increased.

The RB game end condition is set to have consumed a predetermined number of games (for example, 8 games) during the RB game.
For this reason, in the RB game, the special game control means 68 continues to count the number of digestion games, and when it is determined that the count value has reached the above value, the special game control means 68 controls to end the RB game with the game.

In the present embodiment, the main game state includes a normal game and a special game, the normal game includes an RT game and a non-RT game, and the special game includes a 1BB game and an RB game.
Then, the main game state control means 69 displays a predetermined stop appearance, a predetermined replay prize, a predetermined number of games, a special role winning, a special role winning, a payout number of medals during a special game or a game Based on the number of times and the like, control is performed to shift the main game state.

The main control means 50 includes freeze control means 70.
The freeze control means 70 controls the execution and termination of the freeze that does not accept the operation of the operation switch (including the reception of the medal inserted from the medal insertion slot 43) for a predetermined time, and also controls the execution of the pseudo game during the freeze. To do. That is, the freeze control means 70 includes control during the pseudo game.

Here, “freeze” (also referred to as “freeze production” or “freeze operation”) generally means that a function of an operation switch of a gaming machine (slot machine 10) is temporarily stopped (or controlled as such). Period).
Furthermore, “putting the function of the operation switch to a pause state” means “the function of at least one operation switch is not effective for obtaining a game result by proceeding with the game” or “operation When the switch is operated, the detection processing of the operation or the processing based on the operation is not started for a predetermined time, that is, the processing corresponding to the operation is delayed for a predetermined time (after the predetermined time has elapsed). Etc.

“Proceeding with the game” means operating the bet switch 40 to insert medals, operating the start switch 41 to perform a lottery of the combination and starting the rotation of the reel 31, operating the stop switch 42. This means that the game operation of stopping the rotating reel 31 is advanced by the player's intention.
Therefore, the operations of the bet switch 40, the start switch 41, and the stop switch 42 are operations necessary for progressing the game.

The “game result” refers to a combination of a stop appearance when all reels 31 are stopped, a combination of symbols stopped on an active line (whether or not a winning combination of a winning combination and a type of winning combination).
Since the game result is determined by the combination of the lottery result of the combination, the operation of the stop switch 42, and the symbol when the reel 31 is stopped, the operation of the bet switch 40 and the start switch 41 for obtaining the lottery result of the combination, The operation of the stop switch 42 for obtaining a combination of symbols when the reel 31 is stopped is an operation necessary for obtaining a game result.

Therefore, as an aspect of freezing, for example,
a) accepting game media inserted from the medal slot 43, or setting the operation of the bet switch 40 for determining the number of inserted (betting) game media credited in advance to a pause state;
b) Suspending the operation of the start switch 41 for starting the game;
c) The operation of the stop switch 42 (stop operation of the reel 31) is temporarily stopped.

  Further, as a mode in which the function of the operation switch is temporarily stopped, a signal based on the player's operation (for example, a signal from a sensor that detects the insertion of a game medium, the bet switch 40, the start switch 41, or the stop switch 42) For example, not receiving a signal transmitted from the operation switch based on the operation for a predetermined period. In this case, when a signal transmitted based on the player's operation within a predetermined period is received, control processing for invalidating the received signal is performed, or transmission based on the player's operation is performed within the predetermined period. Even when the received signal is detected, the receiving process itself is not performed.

Furthermore, when a signal transmitted based on the player's operation is received within a predetermined period, the signal is received based on the player's operation, but the operation switch control process is performed based on the received signal. May be executed without starting for a predetermined period, and starting control processing based on a signal received after the predetermined period has elapsed.
Further, regarding the freeze of the start switch 41, even if the start switch 41 is operated, the reel 31 is not started to rotate based on the reception of the operation of the start switch 41 for a predetermined period, or the role lottery is not started for the predetermined period. Can be mentioned.

In addition, the freeze termination condition is that a predetermined time elapses, but even before the predetermined time elapses, the freeze is canceled in the middle by various operation signals input to the main control means 50. It is also possible to do.
In this case, the freeze can be canceled simply by accepting an operation input of the start switch 41, or a predetermined operation procedure (for example, “operating the start switch 41 five times”, “stop switch 42”). It is also possible to cancel the freeze on the condition that “operating in the order of middle, right, left”, “operating the bet switch 40 in accordance with a predetermined timing”, and the like are detected.

  In the present embodiment, when the start switch 41 is operated, the part lottery means 61 performs a part lottery. Next, the freeze control means 70 performs a lottery to determine whether to execute the freeze and the pseudo game. The lottery of the freeze and the pseudo game may be executed regardless of the lottery result of the combination, but in the present embodiment, at the time of winning the rare small role in which the winning probability is set lower than other small roles, Perform a lottery of pseudo games.

Here, “one game” and types of games will be described.
First, “one game” means a combination of symbols in which all the reels 31 are stopped (displaying the game result) from the time when the start switch 41 is operated, and the combination of symbols stopped on the active line corresponds to one of the roles. Is the time until payout corresponding to the combination of symbols is completed.

Note that when a replay is won, one game is performed until it is determined that the replay is won, and medals based on the replay winning are automatically inserted after the one game. Whether or not to include in the next game the time when the medal is automatically inserted or the time from when the medal is automatically inserted until the start switch 41 is operated is arbitrary.
Further, when the replay is not won in the previous game, it may or may not be included in “one game” from the time when the bet switch 40 is operated until the start switch 41 is operated.

In addition, the game types include a main game and a pseudo game.
The “main game” is the original function of the operation switch (the bet switch 40 is a function for inserting a medal to start the game, the start switch 41 is a function for starting the rotation of the reel 31 to start the game, stop The switch 42 is a game in which the function of stopping the rotating reel 31 within the range of the maximum number of moving frames based on the lottery result of the winning combination is effective as a game to obtain a game result. Point to.

  In this game, a medal is inserted when the bet switch 40 is operated, the rotation of the reel 31 is started when the start switch 41 is operated, and a combination lottery means described later when the stop switch 42 is operated. The reel 31 is stopped based on the lottery result of the combination by 61, and the game result in the game is displayed by the combination of symbols when the reel 31 is stopped.

  Specifically, the bet switch 40 is a switch operated by the player when inserting a medal, the start switch 41 is a switch operated by the player when starting the rotation of the reel 31, and the stop switch Reference numeral 42 denotes a switch operated by the player when the rotating reel 31 is stopped. The game result is obtained by a combination of symbols when the reel 31 is stopped (stopped on the active line). In order to stop the reel 31, it is necessary to stop the reel 31 by operating the stop switch 42. is there.

  Further, in order to stop the reel 31, it is necessary to start the rotation of the reel 31 as a precondition. Therefore, the operation of the start switch 41 is a player's operation necessary for obtaining a game result. Furthermore, the operation of the bet switch 40 is an operation necessary when a medal (game medium) is inserted in order to start a game as a premise for obtaining a game result, except when a replay is won in the previous game.

On the other hand, operating the bet switch 40 to insert a medal, operating the start switch 41 to start the rotation of the reel 31, and operating the stop switch 42 to stop the rotating reel 31 Is an operation necessary for proceeding with this game.
Therefore, any of the above operations is an operation necessary for proceeding with the game and obtaining a game result.

  Therefore, no medal is inserted even if the bet switch 40 is operated, the reel 31 does not start rotating even if the start switch 41 is operated, and the reel 31 does not display the game result even if the stop switch 42 is operated (reel). 31 does not stop) means that the function of the operation switch is not frozen as a function for proceeding with the game and obtaining a game result in the game.

  The “pseudo game” is a game that is executed during the freeze. Unlike the main game, the function of at least one operation switch is to advance the main game and obtain a game result. Refers to games that are not valid.

Pseudo games always run during the freeze. Therefore, it is always frozen during the pseudo game. On the other hand, during freezing, it is not always in a pseudo game. There are a case where a part of the period during the freeze is a pseudo game and a case where the time is “freezing = in the pseudo game”.
When a pseudo game is executed in one game, the game is executed before obtaining the game result of the main game, and after completing the pseudo game, the main game for obtaining the game result is resumed.

  More specifically, the winning lottery means 61 performs lottery at the moment when the start switch 41 is operated, but at this point in time, the game is still in progress. After the role lottery, it is decided whether or not to execute the pseudo game (during this game), and when it is decided to execute the pseudo game, this game is interrupted at this moment (at this time) Start playing. From the moment when the start switch 41 is operated (at the start of this game), it is decided to perform a lottery of the combination and execute the pseudo game, and until the rotation of the reel 31 for starting the pseudo game is started. The interval is about several ms to several tens of ms.

Similarly, when it is decided to execute a pseudo game by the previous game, similarly, when determining whether or not to execute a pseudo game in the game, lottery of a combination accompanying the operation of the start switch 41 The game is played until the time of the determination, and then the game is interrupted and the pseudo game is started based on the determination up to the previous game.
Then, the rotation of the reel 31 is started. Therefore, at the time of starting the rotation of the reel 31 when executing the pseudo game, it is in the pseudo game.

Further, in the pseudo game, for example, the reel 31 can be reversely rotated.
Further, in the pseudo game, there is no restriction that the time from when the stop switch 42 is operated until the reel 31 is stopped is set within 190 ms. Therefore, in the pseudo game, for example, even if the left stop switch 42 is operated first during rotation of the three (left, middle, right) reels 31 and the middle stop switch 42 is operated later, The middle reel 31 can be stopped and the left reel 31 can be stopped later.

  Moreover, when the end condition of the pseudo game is satisfied, the freeze control means 70 ends the pseudo game and ends the freeze. Thereafter, the main control means 50 starts the main game, and the reel control means 64 starts the rotation of the three (left, middle and right) reels 31 as the main game. When the rotation of the three reels 31 reaches a constant speed state, the main control unit 50 enables the operation of the operation switches (left, middle, and right stop switch 42).

The main-side error detecting means 71 detects an error on the main control means 50 side.
In this specification, “abnormal” means not normal or different from normal (different), and “injustice” means incorrect or contrary to justice. The term “error” is used to mean both abnormal and illegal.

  The main-side error detection means 71 detects the opening / closing of the front mask portion according to the on / off state of the door opening / closing detection sensor 48. Specifically, when the door opening / closing detection sensor 48 is on, it is detected that the front mask portion is open, and when the door opening / closing detection sensor 48 is off, the front mask portion is closed. Is detected.

  Further, the main-side error detection means 71 detects opening / closing of the switch cover according to the ON / OFF state of the cover opening / closing detection sensor 49. Specifically, when the cover open / close detection sensor 49 is on, it is detected that the switch cover is open, and when the cover open / close detection sensor 49 is off, it is detected that the switch cover is closed. To do.

Further, the main-side error detection means 71 detects an error (insertion) if the first insertion detection sensor 43b and / or the second insertion detection sensor 43c are shielded from light when the medal insertion operation from the medal insertion slot 43 is invalid. It is determined that a sensor abnormality) has been detected.
Furthermore, the main-side error detection means 71 determines that an error (medal backflow) has occurred when the passage of medals is detected in the order of the second insertion detection sensor 43c and the first insertion detection sensor 43b.

Further, the main-side error detection means 71 determines that an error (medal clogging) has been detected when the first insertion detection sensor 43b and / or the second insertion detection sensor 43c continues to be shielded for a certain period of time. Hereinafter, a medal clogging detected by the first insertion detection sensor 43b and / or the second insertion detection sensor 43c is referred to as “insertion medal clogging”.
The main-side error detecting means 71 detects an error (payout sensor abnormality) when the payout detection sensor 44 is shielded when the medal payout process is not being performed (the payout driving unit 33b is not driven). Judge that

Furthermore, the main-side error detection means 71 determines that an error (medal clogging) has been detected when the payout detection sensor 44 has been shielded from light for a certain period of time. Hereinafter, a clogged medal detected by the payout detection sensor 44 is referred to as “paid out medal clogged”.
Further, when the payout detection sensor 44 does not detect that the medal has been paid out even though the payout driving unit 33b is driven, the main-side error detecting means 71 detects an error (the medal in the hopper 33a is It is determined that the error occurred. Hereinafter, the lack of medals in the hopper 33a is referred to as “medal out of service”.

  Further, the error canceling means 72 is to turn off the power of the slot machine 10 and then turn it on again or to operate the reset switch 47. When an error is detected, the error canceling means 72 Clear the error, subject to what has been done.

  Further, in the present embodiment, a main-side error detection unit 71 that detects abnormality or fraud on the main control unit 50 side and a sub-side error detection unit 86 that detects abnormality or fraud on the sub-control unit 80 side are provided. . Then, both when the error is detected by the main-side error detection unit 71 and when the error is detected by the sub-side error detection unit 86, the error release unit 72 releases the error. The sub-side error detection means 86 will be described later.

As shown in FIG. 1, the main control means 50 transmits a command generation means 73 for generating a command, a buffer area 74 for storing the generated command, and a command stored in the buffer area 74 to the sub-control means 80. And a sub-control unit 80 includes a command receiving unit 84 for receiving the transmitted command.
Various information is transmitted from the main control unit 50 to the sub-control unit 80 by the command generation unit 73, the buffer area 74, the command transmission unit 75, and the command reception unit 84.

Here, when the command generation unit 73 determines to generate a command in the main process or the interrupt process, the command generation unit 73 generates a command according to the determination.
The buffer area 74 stores the commands generated by the command generation unit 73 in the order of generation.

Further, the command transmission unit 75 transmits the commands stored in the buffer area 74 to the sub-control unit 80 in the stored order.
In this way, the generated commands are stored in the buffer area 74 in the order of generation, and the commands stored in the buffer area 74 are transmitted to the sub-control means 80 in the stored order. For this reason, the generated commands are transmitted to the sub-control means 80 in the order of generation.

  Further, the command transmission unit 75 transmits the command stored in the buffer area 74 to the sub-control unit 80 by serial communication. Therefore, in order to ensure the transmission of the command from the main control means 50 to the sub control means 80, the command transmission means 75 sends the same command stored in the buffer area 74 to the sub control means 80 twice. Send.

  Specifically, the command transmission unit 75 transmits the command stored in the buffer area 74 to the sub-control unit 80 once every time a timer interruption is performed. That is, the command transmission means 75 transmits a command once per interrupt (2.235 ms).

  Further, when the command transmission means 75 transmits the same command stored in the buffer area 74 twice, the command transmission means 75 determines that the transmission of the command has been completed and deletes the command from the buffer area 74. For this reason, the command transmission means 75 requires 2 interrupts (4.47 ms) to transmit one command stored in the buffer area 74. Therefore, one command is deleted from the buffer area 74 every two interrupts.

Further, when receiving the same command twice within 50 ms, the command receiving means 84 determines that the command has been received correctly. In this case, the sub-control unit 80 controls to perform processing according to the command.
On the other hand, if the command receiving means 84 does not receive the same command twice within 50 ms, it determines that the command has not been received correctly. In this case, the sub-control unit 80 performs control so as not to perform processing according to the command.

The buffer area 74 is provided on the RAM of the main control board, and can store a maximum of 32 commands.
Specifically, the buffer area 74 has 32 storage areas from the first storage area to the 32nd storage area as command storage areas. When the command is generated by the command generation means 73, the buffer area 74 stores the generated commands in order from the first storage area, and the first storage area is empty after the 32nd storage area. Then, control is performed so that the data is stored in the first storage area again.

  For example, when the command transmission means 75 transmits a command stored in the first storage area of the buffer area 74 twice, the command transmission means 75 deletes the command from the first storage area of the buffer area 74. At this time, even if there is a command stored in the second storage area, it is not moved to the first storage area. That is, the command stored in the 32nd storage area from the 1st storage area is not moved or rewritten. For this reason, all the storage areas from the first storage area to the 32nd storage area are repeatedly used sequentially.

  Here, as commands generated by the command generating unit 73, for example, a set value command indicating a set value of settings 1 to 6, a game state command 1 to 3 indicating a main game state, and a stop reel command indicating a stopped reel 31 A stop symbol command indicating a combination of symbols when all the reels 31 are stopped, an error display command indicating that an error has occurred and the type of error that has occurred, and turning on / off various sensors connected to the input side of the main control means 50 A first state command indicating an off state or the like, a second state command indicating a valid / invalid state of operation of various switches connected to the input side of the main control unit 50, and the input side of the main control unit 50 And a third state command indicating the on / off state of various switches.

  Of these, the set value command, the gaming state commands 1 to 3, the stop reel command, the stop symbol command, and the error display command are determined to be generated in the main process, and the first state command, The two-state command and the third state command are determined to be generated in the interrupt process.

  In addition, a command concentration section is provided at the beginning of the main process, and each time a game is performed in the command concentration section, including the set value command and the game state commands 1 to 3, the main control means 50 It is decided to generate a plurality of commands to be transmitted to the sub-control means 80. Then, the command generation unit 73 generates a plurality of commands including the set value command and the gaming state commands 1 to 3 in this command concentration section.

  Further, after the command concentration section has elapsed, there is a waiting time for transmitting the command stored in the buffer area 74 without determining whether or not to generate a command in the main process. This waiting time prevents the buffer area 74 from overflowing with commands.

Specifically, a waiting time of 32 interrupts (71.52 ms) is provided after the lapse of the command concentration section, and during that time, generation of commands is not determined in the main process.
Since the command transmission means 75 transmits one command with two interrupts (4.47 ms), it can transmit a maximum of 16 commands during the waiting time of 32 interrupts (71.52 ms). Is possible.

In the present embodiment, it is determined whether or not an error is detected by the main-side error detection unit 71 during the main process, and during the interruption process, the main-side error detection unit 71 separates from the main process. Determine whether an error has been detected.
Furthermore, in the interrupt process, it is determined whether to generate a command regardless of whether the main process is waiting.

  Further, regarding the first status command and the second status command, whether or not the information included in the first status command and the second status command has changed every time the count value of the first interrupt counter 51 becomes “7” (every 8 interrupts). When it is determined that there has been any change, it is determined to generate both the first state command and the second state command.

Here, the command transmission means 75 requires two interrupts (4.47 ms) to transmit one command.
Also, various switches connected to the input side of the main control means 50 usually require at least 25 ms to return from the off state to the on state when operated by a person. Similarly, for various sensors connected to the input side of the main control means 50, normally, when a person operates a detection target, it takes at least 25 ms from the OFF state to the ON state to return to the OFF state. .

For this reason, in the interrupt processing, it is determined every 8 interrupts (17.88 ms) whether or not there is a change in the information included in the first state command and the second state command. Decide to generate.
Thus, the command generation cycle is set to be longer than the command transmission cycle while preventing the detection of changes in the on / off states of various sensors and switches connected to the input side of the main control means 50. This is made longer to prevent the buffer area 74 from overflowing with commands.

  The information included in the first state command is not changed, but the information included in the second state command is not changed when the information included in the second state command is changed, but the information included in the first state command is not changed. When there is a change in both, it is decided to generate both the first state command and the second state command.

  Specifically, for example, it is determined whether the operation of the bet switch 40 is valid or invalid, and the result is different from the previous determination result (before 8 interrupts). In this case, both the first state command and the second state command are included in the information included in the first state command and the second state command, regardless of the determination result about information other than the validity / invalidity of the operation of the bet switch 40. Decide to generate.

  As described above, when it is determined in the interrupt processing that any of the information included in the first state command and the second state command has changed, it is determined to generate both the first state command and the second state command. To do. In this case, the command generation means 73 generates two commands in the order of the first state command and the second state command.

Further, the command generation means 73 does not generate only one of the first state command and the second state command, but always sets one command in the order of the first state command and the second state command. Generate as
On the other hand, when it is determined in the interrupt processing that there is no change in any of the information included in the first state command and the second state command, it is determined that neither the first state command nor the second state command is generated. To do. In this case, the command generation means 73 generates neither the first state command nor the second state command.

  As for the third status command, every time the count value of the second interrupt counter 52 becomes “9” (every 10 interrupts) in the interrupt processing, it is determined whether or not the information included therein has changed. If it is determined that there has been, it is determined to generate a third state command.

As described above, the command transmission unit 75 requires two interrupts (4.47 ms) to transmit one command, and various sensors and switches connected to the input side of the main control unit 50 are It takes at least 25 ms to return from the off state to the off state via the on state.
Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the information included in the first state command and the second state command is more important for controlling the slot machine 10 than the information included in the third state command. Yes.

  For this reason, in the interrupt processing, it is determined every 10 interrupts (22.35 ms) whether or not there is a change in the information included in the third state command, and when it is determined that there is a change, the third state command is generated. Decide on.

  As a result, priority is given to the generation of the first state command and the second state command, and it is detected that various sensors and switches connected to the input side of the main control means 50 have changed on / off states. The command generation cycle is made longer than the command transmission cycle so that the buffer area 74 is not overflowed with commands while preventing the failure.

Specifically, for example, it is determined whether the bet switch 40 is on or off, and the result is different from the previous determination result (before 10 interruptions). In this case, it is determined to generate the third state command regardless of the determination result regarding information other than the on / off of the bet switch 40 among the information included in the third state command.
As described above, when it is determined in the interrupt processing that the information included in the third state command has changed, it is determined to generate the third state command. Then, the command generation unit 73 generates a third state command.

  In the present embodiment, each command generated by the command generation unit 73 is composed of information of 2 bytes (16 bits), and the upper 1 byte (8 bits) indicates the type of command, and the lower 1 byte ( (8 bits) indicates command contents such as ON / OFF states of various sensors and switches.

  Furthermore, in this embodiment, the 7th bit of the upper 1 byte of each command is always set to “1”, and the 7th bit of the lower 1 byte of each command is always set to “0”. Thereby, even if a command is transmitted from the main control unit 50 to the sub-control unit 80 by serial communication, the upper 1 byte and the lower 1 byte of each command can be reliably distinguished.

The upper 1 byte of the first status command is set to “10011010” in binary (“9A” in hexadecimal).
Furthermore, in the lower 1 byte of the first state command, the 0th bit indicates the on / off state of the door open / close detection sensor 48, and the 1st bit indicates the on / off state of the cover open / close detection sensor 49. The bit indicates the on / off state of the setting key switch 45, and the third bit indicates the on / off state of the setting change switch 46 (also used as the reset switch 47). The fourth to sixth bits also indicate the on / off state of a predetermined sensor or switch, respectively. The seventh bit is always set to “0” for distinction from the upper 1 byte.

Further, when the 0th bit of the lower 1 byte of the first status command is “1”, this indicates that the door open / close detection sensor 48 is on (the front mask portion is opened), and “0”. In the case of, it indicates an off state (a state where the front mask portion is closed).
Further, when the first bit of the lower 1 byte of the first status command is “1”, it indicates that the cover open / close detection sensor 49 is on (the switch cover is opened) and is “0”. Indicates that the switch is off (the switch cover is closed).

Furthermore, when the second bit of the lower 1 byte of the first status command is “1”, it indicates that the setting key switch 45 is on, and when it is “0”, it indicates that it is off. Show.
Furthermore, when the third bit of the lower 1 byte of the first status command is “1”, it indicates that the setting change switch 46 (also used as the reset switch 47) is on, and when it is “0”, it is off. It shows that it is the state of.

The upper 1 byte of the second status command is set to “10011011” in binary (“9B” in hexadecimal).
Furthermore, in the lower 1 byte of the second status command, the 0th bit indicates the valid / invalid status of the operation of the bet switch 40. The first bit indicates the validity / invalidity of the operation of the left stop switch 42, the second bit indicates the validity / invalidity of the operation of the middle stop switch 42, and the third bit indicates the validity of the operation of the right stop switch 42 / Indicates invalid status. The fourth bit indicates whether or not an insertion sensor abnormality is detected, the fifth bit indicates whether or not a payout sensor abnormality is detected, and the sixth bit indicates whether or not an insertion medal clogging is detected. The seventh bit is always set to “0” for distinction from the upper 1 byte.

Further, when the 0th bit of the lower 1 byte of the second status command is “1”, it indicates that the operation of the bet switch 40 is valid, and when it is “0”, it indicates that the operation is invalid. Show.
Further, when the first bit of the lower 1 byte of the second status command is “1”, it indicates that the operation of the left stop switch 42 is valid, and when it is “0”, it is invalid. Indicates.

Furthermore, when the second bit of the lower 1 byte of the second status command is “1”, it indicates that the operation of the middle stop switch 42 is valid, and when it is “0”, it is invalid. It shows that.
Furthermore, when the third bit of the lower 1 byte of the second status command is “1”, it indicates that the operation of the right stop switch 42 is valid, and when it is “0”, it is invalid. Indicates.

Further, when the fourth bit of the lower 1 byte of the second status command is “1”, it indicates that a closing sensor abnormality has been detected, and when it is “0”, it has not been detected.
Furthermore, when the fifth bit of the lower 1 byte of the second status command is “1”, it indicates that a payout sensor abnormality has been detected, and when it is “0”, it has not been detected.

  Further, when the sixth bit of the lower 1 byte of the second status command is “1”, it indicates that a inserted medal clogging has been detected, and when it is “0”, it has not been detected.

For example, the operation of the bet switch 40 is invalid, and the operation of the three (left, middle, and right) stop switches 42 is valid, and the insertion sensor abnormality, the dispensing sensor abnormality, and the insertion medal clogging. It is assumed that none of these are detected.
In this case, the second status command is “1001101100001110” in binary and “9B0E” in hexadecimal.

The upper 1 byte of the third status command is set to “10011100” or “10011101” (“9C” or “9D” in hexadecimal) in binary.
Furthermore, for the lower 1 byte of the third state command, the 0th bit indicates the on / off state of the bet switch 40, and the 1st bit indicates the on / off state of the start switch 41. The second bit indicates the on / off state of the left stop switch 42, the third bit indicates the on / off state of the middle stop switch 42, and the fourth bit indicates the on / off state of the right stop switch 42. . The fifth to sixth bits also indicate the on / off state of a predetermined switch. The seventh bit is always set to “0” for distinction from the upper 1 byte.

Further, when the 0th bit of the lower 1 byte of the third state command is “1”, it indicates that the bet switch 40 is in an on state, and when it is “0”, it indicates that it is in an off state.
Further, when the first bit of the lower 1 byte of the third state command is “1”, it indicates that the start switch 41 is on, and when it is “0”, it indicates that it is off.

Furthermore, when the second bit of the lower 1 byte of the third state command is “1”, it indicates that the left stop switch 42 is on, and when it is “0”, it indicates that it is off. Show.
Further, when the third bit of the lower 1 byte of the third state command is “1”, it indicates that the middle stop switch 42 is on, and when it is “0”, it indicates that it is off. .
Further, when the fourth bit of the lower 1 byte of the third state command is “1”, it indicates that the right stop switch 42 is on, and when it is “0”, it indicates that it is off. .

  Here, the command transmission means 75 transmits the same command stored in the buffer area 74 to the sub-control means 80 twice. Further, when the command receiving means 84 receives the same command twice within 50 ms, the command receiving means 84 determines that the command has been correctly received. When the command receiving means 84 does not receive the same command twice within 50 ms, the command receiving means 84 Is not received correctly.

Here, the command generation means 73 always generates the first state command and the second state command as one set. And the command transmission means 75 always transmits a 2nd status command twice, after transmitting a 1st status command twice.
For this reason, for example, it is assumed that the bits constituting the command are broken by noise during the transmission of the first status command, and the command receiving unit 84 receives the first status command only once. In this case, the command receiving means 84 can determine that the reception of the first status command has failed when the second status command is received.

On the other hand, the command generating means 73 does not generate the third state command as a set with other commands.
For this reason, for example, it is assumed that the command generation unit 73 generates the third state command twice in succession and the command transmission unit 75 transmits them twice each. Then, it is assumed that the previous third state command is broken during transmission, and the command receiving means 84 has received the previous third state command only once. In this case, if the upper 1 byte of the previous third status command is the same as the upper 1 byte of the subsequent third status command, the command receiving means 84 has failed to receive the previous third status command. Cannot be determined when a subsequent third state command is received.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, as the upper 1 byte of the third state command, two numbers of “10011100” in binary (“9C” in hexadecimal) and “10011101” in binary (“9D” in hexadecimal) are used. Each time the command generation means 73 generates a third state command, the command generation means 73 switches between the two types of upper 1 bytes alternately.

For example, if the command generation unit 73 previously generated the third state command “10011100 *******” (hexadecimal “9C ##”) in binary, this time in binary A third state command “10011101 *******” (hexadecimal “9D ##”) is generated, and the next time again, “10011100 *******” (16 A third state command “9C ##”) is generated in decimal.
“*” Means an arbitrary value of “0” or “1”, and “#” means an arbitrary value of “0” to “F”.

  As a result, when the command generation unit 73 generates the third state command twice in succession, and the command transmission unit 75 transmits them twice each, the command reception unit 84 performs the previous third state. When the command is received only once, it can be determined that the reception of the previous third state command has failed when the subsequent third state command is received.

The upper 1 byte of the error display command is set to “10011110” in binary (“9E” in hexadecimal).
Furthermore, the lower 1 byte of the error display command is set to include information indicating that an error such as an insertion sensor error, a inserted medal jam, a medal backflow, a payout sensor error, a payout medal jam, or a medal expired is detected. Has been.

As described above, the main control means 50 executes the main process and executes the interrupt process in parallel with the main process.
Further, in the main process, it is determined whether or not an error has been detected by the main-side error detection means 71, and a specific error (insertion sensor abnormality, payout sensor abnormality, or inserted medal clogging) among a plurality of types of errors, In the interrupt process, separately from the main process, it is determined whether or not an error is detected by the main-side error detection means 71.
Even when it is determined whether an error has been detected in the interrupt process, the process corresponding to the error detection is executed in the main process.

Here, in the main process, during the waiting time or during rotation of the reel 31, it is not determined whether or not an error has been detected by the main-side error detection means 71. Then, it is determined whether or not an error is detected by the main-side error detection means 71.
In the main process, when it is determined that the error is detected by the main-side error detection means 71, it is determined to execute a process corresponding to the error detection and generate an error display command. Specifically, when it is determined that the insertion sensor abnormality is detected, the progress of the game is stopped, an error code corresponding to the insertion sensor abnormality is displayed on the 7-segment display, and the insertion sensor abnormality is detected. It is decided to generate an error display command including the information.

On the other hand, in the interrupt processing, regardless of whether the waiting time or the reel 31 is rotating or not, the main value every time the count value of the first interrupt counter 51 becomes “7” (every 8 interrupts). It is determined whether or not an error is detected by the side error detection means 71.
In the interrupt process, when it is determined that the main-side error detection unit 71 has detected an error, it is determined to generate a first status command and a second status command including information indicating that a specific error has been detected. Specifically, when it is determined that the making sensor abnormality is detected, it is determined to generate the first state command and the second state command including information indicating that the making sensor abnormality has been detected.

  For this reason, an error display command is first generated for a specific error in relation to the timing of error detection by the main-side error detection means 71 and the timing when the count value of the first interrupt counter 51 becomes “7”. There is a possibility that the case where the first state command and the second state command are generated later and the case where the first state command and the second state command are generated first and the error display command is generated later are mixed. is there. This confuses the processing on the sub-control means 80 side.

  Therefore, in this embodiment, when it is determined in the interrupt processing that the main-side error detection means 71 has detected an error, the first status command and the second status command including information indicating that the specific error has been detected are immediately displayed. In the main process, when it is determined that an error has been detected by the main-side error detection means 71, an error display command is generated after waiting for the generation of the first state command and the second state command. Decide on.

Specifically, in the interrupt processing, every time the count value of the first interrupt counter 51 becomes “7”, it is determined whether or not an error has been detected by the main-side error detection means 71, and it is determined that an error has been detected. If so, it is immediately decided to generate the first status command and the second status command including information indicating that the specific error has been detected.
On the other hand, in the main process, when it is determined that the error is detected by the main-side error detection means 71, the error detection is supported when the count value of the first interrupt counter 51 becomes “0”. While executing the processing, it is determined to generate an error display command.

As described above, the first interrupt counter 51 starts counting from 0, adds 1 to the count value every time the timer interrupt is performed, and when the count value reaches 7, the count value is set to 0 next time. It is something to return.
For this reason, when an error is detected by the main-side error detection means 71, it is decided to generate a first status command and a second status command including information indicating that a specific error has been detected in the interrupt processing. In addition, in the main process, it is determined to execute a process corresponding to the error detection and generate an error display command.

Thereby, when an error is detected by the main-side error detection means 71, the command generation means 73 always generates commands in the order of the first status command, the second status command, and the error display command, and the command transmission means 75 Commands are always transmitted to the sub-control means 80 in the order of the first status command, the second status command, and the error display command.
Therefore, the sub control means 80 always receives the commands in the order of the first status command, the second status command, and the error display command, so that the processing can be prevented from being confused.

  Also, in the main process, when an error is detected by the main-side error detection means 71 at the start of the game, it is decided to generate an error display command, and the progress of the game is stopped until the error is released. In addition, control is performed so that the main control means 50 continuously reports that an error has occurred (for example, an error code is displayed on a 7-segment display not shown).

  Furthermore, in the main process, during the waiting time or while the reel 31 is rotating, even if an error is detected by the main-side error detection means 71, it is not determined to generate an error display command, and the game progresses. Control is performed so as not to stop and not to notify that an error has occurred. That is, control is performed so that processing corresponding to error detection is not executed.

  Further, in the main process, when an error is detected by the main-side error detecting means 71 after the elapse of the waiting time or after all the reels 31 are stopped, an error display command is generated in the same manner as at the start of the game. Control is performed so that the progress of the game is stopped until the error is canceled, and the main control means 50 continuously notifies that the error has occurred.

  If it is decided to generate an error display command in the main process, the command generation means 73 generates an error display command and stores it in the buffer area 74, and the command transmission means 75 stores it in the buffer area 74. The error display command is transmitted to the sub-control means 80.

  On the other hand, in the interrupt processing, regardless of whether or not the waiting time or the reel 31 is rotating, when an error is detected by the main-side error detection means 71, information indicating that a specific error has been detected is included. Decide to generate a first status command and a second status command. Further, in response to this determination, the command generation means 73 generates the first state command and the second state command and stores them in the buffer area 74, and the command transmission means 75 stores them in the buffer area 74. The first status command and the second status command are transmitted to the sub-control means 80.

  When the sub-control unit 80 receives the first status command and the second status command including information indicating that the specific error has been detected, it depends on whether the reel 31 is rotating or not. Notify that an error has been detected. Thereafter, when an error display command is received, the notification that an error has been detected is switched to the notification that an error has occurred.

  In particular, when an error is detected by the main-side error detection means 71 while the reel 31 is rotating, the first status command and the second status command including information indicating that a specific error has been detected are immediately generated. The error display command is generated and transmitted after all the reels 31 are stopped. For this reason, the sub-control unit 80 side notifies that an error has been detected while the reel 31 is rotating, and notifies that an error has occurred from the notification that an error has been detected after all the reels 31 have stopped. Will be switched to.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the reel 31 is stopped in both the main game and the pseudo game, the command generating means 73 generates a stop reel command indicating which reel 31 is stopped. Is stored in the buffer area 74, and the command transmission means 75 transmits the stop reel command stored in the buffer area 74 to the sub-control means 80.

  As described above, in the pseudo game, there is no restriction that the time from when the stop switch 42 is operated until the reel 31 is stopped is set within 190 ms. Therefore, in the pseudo game, for example, even if the left stop switch 42 is operated first during rotation of the three (left, middle, right) reels 31 and the middle stop switch 42 is operated later, The middle reel 31 may be stopped and the left reel 31 may be stopped later.

  For this reason, in this embodiment, when the reel 31 is stopped, not only the reel 31 is stopped, but also a stop reel command indicating which reel 31 is stopped is generated, and this is used as the sub-control means 80. Send to. As a result, the sub-control unit 80 can determine which reel 31 has stopped, and can output an appropriate effect according to the stopped reel 31.

Next, the flow of processing when the power is turned on will be described based on the flowchart shown in FIG.
In step S <b> 11 of FIG. 2, the main control unit 50 sets “0” in the first interrupt counter 51. Then, the process proceeds to next Step S12.

In step S <b> 12, the command generation unit 73 generates a first state command and stores it in the buffer area 74. Then, the process proceeds to the next step S13.
In step S <b> 13, the command generation unit 73 generates a second state command and stores it in the buffer area 74. And the process by this flowchart is complete | finished.
When the power is turned on, the first state command and the second state command are sequentially generated regardless of whether the information included in the first state command and the second state command has changed.

Next, the flow of interrupt processing will be described based on the flowchart shown in FIG.
In step S21 of FIG. 3, the main control means 50 determines whether or not the count value of the first interrupt counter 51 ("0" to "7" is looped) is less than "7".
If it is determined that the value is less than “7”, the process proceeds to step S 22, and the main control unit 50 adds “1” to the first interrupt counter 51. Then, the process proceeds to step S27.
On the other hand, when it is determined that the value is “7”, the process proceeds to step S 23, and the main control unit 50 sets “0” to the first interrupt counter 51. Then, the process proceeds to step S24.

In step S24, the main control means 50 determines whether or not the information included in the first state command and the second state command has changed. For example, it is determined whether the valid / invalid state of the operation of the bet switch 40 is different from the previous time (before 8 interrupts).
If it is determined that there is a change (different from the previous time), the process proceeds to step S25. On the other hand, when it is determined that there is no change (same as the previous time), the process proceeds to step S27.

In step S <b> 25, the command generation unit 73 generates a first state command and stores it in the buffer area 74. Then, the process proceeds to step S26.
In step S <b> 26, the command generation unit 73 generates a second state command and stores it in the buffer area 74. Then, the process proceeds to step S27.

  Thus, the information included in the first status command and the second status command every time the count value of the first interrupt counter 51 becomes “7” (every 8 interrupts) in the interrupt processing by the processing of steps S21 to S26. It is determined whether or not there has been a change, and if it is determined that there has been any change, both the first state command and the second state command are generated.

In step S27, the main control means 50 determines whether or not the count value of the second interrupt counter 52 ("0" to "9" is looped) is less than "9".
If it is determined that the value is less than “9”, the process proceeds to step S 28, and the main control unit 50 adds “1” to the second interrupt counter 52. And the process by this flowchart is complete | finished.
On the other hand, when it is determined that it is “9”, the process proceeds to step S 29, and the main control means 50 sets “0” in the second interrupt counter 52. Then, the process proceeds to step S30.

In step S30, the main control means 50 determines whether or not the information included in the third state command has changed. For example, it is determined whether or not the on / off state of the bet switch 40 is different from the previous time (before 10 interrupts).
If it is determined that there is a change (different from the previous time), the process proceeds to step S31. On the other hand, when it is determined that there is no change (same as the previous time), the processing according to this flowchart is terminated.

In step S31, the main control means 50 determines whether or not the upper byte switching flag (“0” or “1”) is “0”.
Here, when it is determined that the upper byte switching flag is “0”, the process proceeds to step S 32, and the command generation means 73 generates a third state command in which the upper 1 byte is “9C” in hexadecimal. Is stored in the buffer area 74. In step S33, the main control unit 50 sets “1” in the upper byte switching flag. And the process by this flowchart is complete | finished.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the upper byte switching flag is not “0” (“1”), the process proceeds to step S34, and the command generation unit 73 sets the third higher byte of “9D” in hexadecimal. A status command is generated and stored in the buffer area 74. In step S35, the main control unit 50 sets “0” in the upper byte switching flag. And the process by this flowchart is complete | finished.

  As described above, whether or not the information included in the third state command has changed every time the count value of the second interrupt counter 52 becomes “9” (every 10 interrupts) in the interrupt processing by the processing of steps S27 to S35. If it is determined that there is a change, a third state command is generated. Each time the third state command is generated, the upper 1 byte is alternately switched.

Next, the flow of the main process will be described based on the flowchart shown in FIG.
Steps S41 to S44 in FIG. 4 are command concentration sections, and the command generating means 73 receives a set value command in step S41, a gaming state command 1 in the next step S42, a gaming state command 2 in the next step S43, In the next step S44, the game state commands 3 are sequentially generated and stored in the buffer area 74 in the order of generation. Then, the process proceeds to next Step S45.

In step S45, the main control means 50 continues to determine whether or not a waiting time of 32 interrupts (71.52 ms) has elapsed. If it is determined that the waiting time has elapsed, the process proceeds to the next step S46.
In step S46, the main control means 50 determines whether or not an error has been detected by the main-side error detection means 71.

If it is determined that an error has been detected, the process proceeds to step S47, and the main control means 50 executes an error handling process. The error handling process will be described later. When the error handling process ends, the process proceeds to step S48.
On the other hand, if it is determined that no error has been detected, the process proceeds to step S48 without executing the error handling process.

In step S48, the main control means 50 determines whether or not the start switch 41 has been operated.
Here, when it is determined that the start switch 41 has been operated, the process proceeds to step S49, and the main control means 50 executes a game progress process. The game progress process will be described later. When the game progress process ends, the process proceeds to step S50.
On the other hand, when it is determined that the start switch 41 is not operated, the process returns to step S46.

In step S <b> 50, the main control unit 50 determines whether an error is detected by the main-side error detection unit 71.
If it is determined that an error has been detected, the process proceeds to step S51, and the main control unit 50 executes an error handling process. When the error handling process ends, the process proceeds to step S52.
On the other hand, when it is determined that no error has been detected, the process proceeds to step S52 without executing the error handling process.

In step S52, the main control means 50 determines whether or not a winning combination has been won.
If it is determined that the winning combination has been won, the process proceeds to step S53, and the main control means 50 pays out medals according to the winning combination. And the process by this flowchart is complete | finished.
On the other hand, when it is determined that the winning combination has not been won, the processing according to this flowchart is terminated without paying out medals or the like.

Next, the flow of error handling processing will be described based on the flowchart shown in FIG.
In step S61 of FIG. 5, the main control means 50 determines whether or not a specific error (payout sensor abnormality, inserted medal clogging, or insertion sensor abnormality) has been detected. If it is determined that no specific error has been detected, the process proceeds to step S62. On the other hand, when it is determined that the specific error is detected, the process proceeds to step S64.

  In step S62, the main control unit 50 displays an error code corresponding to the detected error on the 7-segment display, and in the next step S63, the command generation unit 73 generates an error display command corresponding to the detected error. Then, this is stored in the buffer area 74. Then, the process proceeds to step S73.

  In step S64, the main control means 50 continues to determine whether or not the first interrupt counter 51 is “0”. When the first interrupt counter 51 becomes “0”, the process proceeds to step S65, and the main control means 50 determines whether or not a payout sensor abnormality is detected.

If it is determined that a payout sensor abnormality has been detected, the process proceeds to step S66, where the main control means 50 displays an error code indicating that a payout sensor abnormality has been detected on the 7-segment display, and in the next step S67. The command generation means 73 generates an error display command including information indicating that the payout sensor abnormality is detected, and stores this in the buffer area 74. Then, the process proceeds to step S73.
On the other hand, when it is determined that the payout sensor abnormality is not detected, the process proceeds to step S68.

In step S68, the main control means 50 determines whether a inserted medal clogging is detected.
Here, when it is determined that the inserted medal clogging is detected, the process proceeds to step S69, where the main control means 50 displays an error code indicating that the inserted medal clogging is detected on the 7-segment display, and in the next step S70. The command generation means 73 generates an error display command including information indicating that the inserted medal clogging is detected, and stores this in the buffer area 74. Then, the process proceeds to step S73.
On the other hand, when it is determined that the inserted medal clogging is not detected, the process proceeds to step S71.

  In step S71, the main control means 50 displays an error code indicating that the making sensor abnormality is detected on the 7-segment display. In the next step 72, the command generating means 73 indicates that the making sensor abnormality has been detected. An error display command including information is generated and stored in the buffer area 74. Then, the process proceeds to step S73.

  In step S73, the main control means 50 continues to determine whether or not a release operation has been performed. Thereby, the progress of the game is stopped and the notification that the error has occurred is continued until the error is cleared. If it is determined that the canceling operation has been performed, the process proceeds to the next step S74, and the main control unit 50 cancels the error. And the process by this flowchart is complete | finished.

  Thus, by generating an error display command when the first interrupt counter 51 becomes “0” in step S64, the first status command and the second status command including information indicating that a specific error has been detected are obtained. After the generation, an error display command is generated. As a result, the commands are always generated in the order of the first state command, the second state command, and the error display command.

  For errors other than the specific error (medal backflow, payout medal clogged, or medal out), the corresponding information is not included in the first status command and the second status command. Therefore, when an error other than the specific error is detected, an error display command is generated without determining whether or not the first interrupt counter 51 has become “0”.

Next, the flow of the game progress process will be described based on the flowchart shown in FIG.
In step S81 of FIG. 6, the part lottery means 61 performs a part lottery. Then, the process proceeds to next Step S82.
In step S82, the reel control means 64 starts to rotate all the reels 31. Then, the process proceeds to next Step S83.

  In step S83, the main control means 50 continues to determine whether or not the stop switch 42 is turned on. When the stop switch 42 is turned on, the process proceeds to the next step S84, and the reel control means 64 controls to stop the reel 31 corresponding to the turned on stop switch 42. Then, the process proceeds to next Step S85.

In step S85, the command generation means 73 generates a stop reel command indicating the stopped reel 31, and stores this in the buffer area 74. Then, the process proceeds to next Step S86.
In step S86, the main control means 50 determines whether all the reels 31 have stopped.

If it is determined that all the reels 31 are stopped, the process proceeds to the next step S87, where the command generating means 73 generates a stop symbol command indicating a combination of symbols when all the reels 31 are stopped. Store in the buffer area 74. And a process is complete | finished by this flowchart.
On the other hand, if it is determined that there is a rotating reel 31, the process returns to step S83.

  As described above, in the game progress process during the main process, even if an error is detected while the reel 31 is rotating, the progress of the game is not stopped and the fact that an error has occurred is not notified. That is, the process corresponding to the error detection is not executed. Then, after all the reels 31 are stopped, the process proceeds to step S50 in FIG. 4. When an error is detected at this time, the progress of the game is stopped and a notification that an error has occurred is given.

As shown in FIG. 1, the sub control unit 80 includes a sub gaming state control unit 81 and a notification control unit 82.
As described above, the present embodiment includes AT games (notification games) and non-AT games (non-notification games) as sub game states.
Here, the AT game is a stop switch for displaying a game result advantageous to the player in a game in which a plurality of small roles are won simultaneously (to stop a combination of symbols having a large profit received by the player). This refers to a game in which the pressing order of 42 (correct answer pressing order) is notified.

On the other hand, the non-AT game means that the stop switch 42 is pressed in order to display a game result that is advantageous to the player even if it is a game in which a plurality of small roles are won simultaneously. A game that is not informed.
Then, the sub gaming state control unit 81 controls transition between sub gaming states (between the AT game and the non-AT game), and the notification control unit 82 controls notification of the pressing order of the stop switch 42.

  In the present embodiment, the sub game state control means 81 executes an AT game with a predetermined number of games (50 games) as one set. Further, when the predetermined additional condition is satisfied, the predetermined number of games is added (added) to the remaining number of AT games, and when the predetermined continuation condition is satisfied, the next AT Continue playing the game. When it is determined that the end condition of the AT game is satisfied, control is performed so as to shift from the next game to the non-AT game.

  Here, the sub-gaming state control means 81 is a rare small combination (a small combination whose winning probability is set lower than other small combinations) or rare replay (the winning probability is other in the non-AT game). When a replay set lower than the replay of (1) is won, an AT lottery for determining whether or not to grant an AT game execution right is performed. And when winning by AT lottery, the sub game state control means 81 grants the right to execute AT games.

  Further, when the sub game state control means 81 grants the AT game execution right, the sub game state control means 81 determines that the AT game execution condition is satisfied, and starts the AT game after the predetermined number of games (10 games) is consumed. When the predetermined number of games (50 games) are consumed during the AT game, the sub game state control means 81 determines that the AT game end condition is satisfied, and shifts from the next game to the non-AT game. To control.

Further, in the present embodiment, the sub gaming state control means 81 is provided with an execution right counter for counting the number of AT game execution rights, and when the AT game execution right is granted, the AT game execution right is determined. A numerical value corresponding to the grant is added to the count value of the execution right counter.
Then, when the AT game is executed, the sub game state control means 81 subtracts a numerical value corresponding to the execution of the AT game from the count value of the execution right counter.

Specifically, for example, when the sub game state control means 81 grants one AT game execution right, the sub game state control means 81 adds “1” to the count value of the execution right counter and gives three AT game execution rights. When granted, “3” is added to the count value of the execution right counter.
As a result, the AT game execution right can be stored (stocked), and when the AT game execution right is granted, if there is an AT game execution right already stored, the AT game execution right is stored. The number (stock number) can be added (added).

Further, when the count value of the execution right counter is “1” or more, the sub gaming state control means 81 executes the AT game and subtracts “1” from the count value of the execution right counter at the start of the AT game. To do.
Then, the sub game state control means 81 repeatedly executes the AT game until the count value of the execution right counter becomes “0”.
That is, when the AT game execution right is stored (stock), the AT game is continued (continuous) until the storage number (stock number) becomes zero. At this time, the sub game state control means 81 once ends one AT game and then starts the next AT game.

  In addition, the sub game state control means 81, when winning a rare small role or rare replay by the winning lottery means 61 during an AT game, determines whether or not to add the remaining number of games of the AT game and an additional number for determining the additional number. Make a lottery. Then, when winning in the extra lottery, the sub game state control means 81 adds (adds) the extra number determined in the extra lottery to the remaining number of games in the AT game.

  Furthermore, the sub game state control means 81 performs a continuous lottery to determine whether or not to continue the AT game when the remaining number of games of the AT game reaches a predetermined number of games (5 games). When it is decided to continue the AT game, the next AT game is continuously executed immediately after the remaining number of games of the AT game is digested. On the other hand, when it is decided not to continue the AT game, the AT game is ended when the remaining number of games of the AT game is consumed.

Further, the sub gaming state control means 81 has three stages of 10%, 30% and 50% as the winning probability of the AT lottery, and three stages of 30%, 50% and 70% as the winning probability of the extra lottery. The winning probability of the continuous lottery has three stages of 50%, 70%, and 90%.
Further, when the sub game state control means 81 wins a rare small role or rare replay by the winning lottery means 61, it determines whether or not to increase the winning probability of the AT lottery, the extra lottery, or the continuous lottery. I do.

On the other hand, the sub game state control means 81 performs a mode-down lottery to determine whether or not to lower the winning probability of the AT lottery, the extra lottery, or the continuous lottery when the winning combination lottery means 61 wins the replay.
Then, the sub gaming state control means 81 sets the winning probability of the AT lottery, the extra lottery, or the continuous lottery according to the result of the mode up lottery or the mode down lottery.

As shown in FIG. 1, the sub control unit 80 includes an effect control unit 83.
The production control unit 83 controls production output from the production lamp 21, the speaker 22, and the image display device 23 described above.

The effect control unit 83 controls the output of the effect according to the received command (for example, a third state command including information indicating whether the operation switch is in the on state or the off state).
In addition, for each game, the production control unit 83 selects the production by lottery using software random numbers based on the lottery result of the combination by the combination lottery unit 61 at the start of the game.
Specifically, as the game progresses, at what timing (when the start switch 41 is operated, when each stop switch 42 is operated, etc.), what kind of effect is output (the lamp 21 for the effect is displayed) The sound is turned on, blinked, or turned off, what kind of sound is output from the speaker 22, what kind of image is displayed on the image display device 23, and the like. Then, an effect is output according to this selection.

Further, as shown in FIG. 1, an effect switch 20 used for effects is electrically connected to the input side of the sub-control means 80.
Then, when the production control unit 83 satisfies a predetermined condition (for example, the number of additions is determined), when the production switch 20 is operated, a predetermined image (for example, an image showing the determined number of additions). Is displayed on the image display device 23.

As shown in FIG. 1, the sub control unit 80 includes a light emission control unit 85.
The light emission control means 85 controls the output of the betting LED 24 and three (left, middle, right) stop LEDs 25 as light emitters in accordance with commands received from the main control means 50 side.

Specifically, when the light emission control means 85 receives a command (second state command) including information indicating that the operation of the bet switch 40 is valid, the betting LED 24 emits light in red. When a command (second state command) including information indicating that the operation of the bet switch 40 is invalid is received, the bet LED 24 is controlled to be turned off.
Thus, the player is shown whether the operation of the bet switch 40 is valid or invalid.

  In addition, when the light emission control unit 85 receives a command (first state command) including information indicating that the setting key switch 45 is in the on state, the operation of the bet switch 40 is in a valid state or a invalid state. The bet LED 24 is controlled to emit blue light regardless of whether or not a command (second state command) including information indicating such is received.

  That is, when the light emission control unit 85 receives a command (first state command) including information indicating that the setting key switch 45 is in the on state, it indicates that the operation of the bet switch 40 is in a valid state. Even when a command including information (second state command) is received, the bet LED 24 is controlled not to emit red light but to emit blue light.

That is, the operation of the bet switch 40 is in an effective state, and when the bet LED 24 emits red light, it emits blue light. Further, when the bet switch 40 is operated in this state, three stored medals are electrically inserted and “3” is subtracted from the number of credits.
Thereafter, since the operation of the bet switch 40 becomes invalid, the second state command including information to that effect is transmitted from the main control means 50 side. Even if this is received by the sub control means 80 side, the setting key If the switch 45 remains in the ON state, the light emission control means 85 does not turn off the betting LED 24 but controls to continuously emit blue light.

Further, when the light emission control unit 85 receives a command (first state command) including information indicating that the setting key switch 45 is in the on state, it indicates that the operation of the bet switch 40 is in an invalid state. Even when a command including information (second state command) is received, the bet LED 24 is not turned off, but is controlled to emit blue light.
For this reason, when the setting key switch 45 is in the on state, the betting LED 24 always emits blue light, which indicates that the setting key switch 45 is in the on state. (Hall) side can be notified.

  In addition, the light emission control means 85 is information indicating whether the operation of the bet switch 40 is valid or invalid when a rare replay (replay whose winning probability is set lower than other replays) wins. Regardless of whether or not a command (second state command) is received, the bet LED 24 is controlled to emit light in rainbow color.

Here, at the time of replay winning, since the number of medals inserted in the game is automatically inserted, the bet switch 40 is normally turned off.
However, as described above, in the present embodiment, at the time of rare play winning, an AT lottery is performed. For this reason, when the rare replay is won, the betting LED 24 emits light in a rainbow color to increase the player's expectation for the AT game.

  It should be noted that an AT lottery is performed at the time of the rare replay win, and when the AT lottery is won, the light emission control means 85 has a command (second display) including information indicating whether the operation of the bet switch 40 is in a valid state or invalid state. Regardless of whether or not the status command is received, the betting LED 24 may be controlled to emit light in a rainbow color.

Further, the light emission control means 85 may control the bet LED 24 to be extinguished and returned to the original state when a certain time has elapsed since the bet LED 24 was made to emit light in rainbow color.
Further, when the light emission control means 85 receives the third state command including information indicating that the bet switch 40 or the start switch 41 is on after the betting LED 24 emits light in rainbow color, The LED 24 may be turned off and returned to the original state.

  However, when the light emission control means 85 receives a command (first state command) that includes information indicating that the setting key switch 45 is in the on state, the light emission control means 85, regardless of whether or not the rare replay wins, The bet LED 24 is controlled to emit blue light regardless of whether or not the AT lottery is won.

  That is, the light emission control means 85 gives the highest priority to the blue light emission of the betting LED 24 when the setting key switch 45 is in the on state, and then turns on the betting LED 24 at the time of rare replay winning or AT lottery winning. Give priority to the rainbow color. Then, the lowest priority is set for the betting LED 24 to emit light in red or turn off in accordance with whether the operation of the bet switch 40 is valid / invalid.

  Further, the light emission control means 85 controls the stop LED 25 to emit light blue when receiving a command (second state command) including information indicating that the operation of the stop switch 42 is in an effective state. When a command (second state command) including information indicating that the operation of the stop switch 42 is invalid is received, the stop LED 25 is controlled to emit red light.

  In the present embodiment, three (left, middle, and right) stop switches 42 are provided, and three (left, middle, and right) stop LEDs 25 are provided corresponding to these, respectively. Generates a second status command for each of the three stop switches 42 so as to include information indicating whether the operation is valid or invalid.

Then, the light emission control means 85 controls each of the three stop LEDs 25 to emit light in blue or red according to the received second state command.
Thereby, each of the three stop switches 42 is shown to the player as to whether the operation is valid or invalid.

Next, the flow of light emission control processing will be described based on the flowchart shown in FIG.
In step S91 of FIG. 7, the light emission control means 85 determines whether or not the setting key switch 45 is in an on state.
If it is determined that the setting key switch 45 is in the ON state, the process proceeds to step S92, and the light emission control unit 85 causes the betting LED 24 to emit blue light. And the process by this flowchart is complete | finished.
On the other hand, when it is determined that the setting key switch 45 is not in the on state (is in the off state), the process proceeds to step S93.

In step S93, the light emission control means 85 determines whether or not the rare replay has been won.
If it is determined that the rare replay has been won, the process proceeds to step S94, and the light emission control means 85 causes the betting LED 24 to emit light in a rainbow color. And the process by this flowchart is complete | finished.
On the other hand, when it is determined that the rare play has not won, the process proceeds to step S95.

In step S95, the light emission control means 85 determines whether or not the operation of the bet switch 40 is in a valid state.
If it is determined that the operation of the bet switch 40 is in an effective state, the process proceeds to step S96, and the light emission control unit 85 causes the bet LED 24 to emit red light. And the process by this flowchart is complete | finished.
On the other hand, when it is determined that the operation of the bet switch 40 is not in a valid state (invalid state), the process proceeds to step S97, and the light emission control means 85 turns off the bet LED 24. And the process by this flowchart is complete | finished.

Further, as shown in FIG. 1, the sub-control unit 80 includes a sub-side error detection unit 86 and an error notification unit 87.
The sub-side error detection means 86 detects an error on the sub-control means 80 side based on the command received from the main control means 50 side, and the error notification means 87 indicates that when an error is detected. It is to inform.

In the present embodiment, the sub-side error detection unit 86 detects an error based on information included in the received first state command.
As described above, in the lower 1 byte of the first state command, the 0th bit indicates the on / off state of the door open / close detection sensor 48, and the 1st bit indicates the on / off state of the cover open / close detection sensor 49. The second bit indicates the on / off state of the setting key switch 45, and the third bit indicates the on / off state of the setting change switch 46.

When the 0th bit is “1”, it indicates that the door open / close detection sensor 48 is on (the front mask portion is opened), and when it is “0”, the door open / close detection sensor 48 is off (front mask). Part is closed).
Further, when the first bit is “1”, it indicates that the cover open / close detection sensor 49 is on (switch cover is opened), and when it is “0”, it is off (switch cover). Indicates a closed state).

Further, when the second bit is “1”, it indicates that the setting key switch 45 is in an on state, and when it is “0”, it indicates that it is in an off state.
When the third bit is “1”, it indicates that the setting change switch 46 is on, and when it is “0”, it indicates that it is off.

Here, the front mask portion is open (the first bit is “1”), the switch cover is open (the first bit is “1”), and the setting key switch 45 is turned on. (2nd bit is “1”), it is normal.
However, the front mask is closed (the 0th bit is “0”), the switch cover is opened (the first bit is “1”), and the setting key switch 45 is on. When the second bit is “1”, it is not normal (abnormal).

In addition, the front mask portion is open (the 0th bit is “1”), the switch cover is closed (the first bit is “0”), and the setting key switch 45 is on. Even when (the second bit is “1”), it is not normal.
Further, the front mask portion is closed (the 0th bit is “0”), the switch cover is closed (the first bit is “0”), and the setting key switch 45 is turned on ( Even when the second bit is “1”), it is not normal.

Therefore, the sub-side error detection means 86 determines that an error occurs when the 0th bit is “0”, the 1st bit is “1”, and the 2nd bit is “1” in the lower 1 byte of the received first status command. Is detected. Similarly, when the 0th bit is “1”, the 1st bit is “0”, the 2nd bit is “1”, and the 0th bit is “0”, the 1st bit is “0”, and the 2nd bit is Even when “1”, it is determined that an error has been detected.
When an error is detected by the sub-side error detection means 86, the error notification means 87 notifies the display by displaying that fact on the image display device 23.

  Further, when the error notification means 87 receives the first state command and the second state command including information indicating that the specific error has been detected, the error notification means 87 detects an error regardless of whether or not the reel 31 is rotating. Notify that it has been done. Thereafter, when an error display command is received, the error notification means 87 switches from notification that an error has been detected to notification that an error has occurred.

Here, it is assumed that an error is detected by the main-side error detection means 71 while the reel 31 is rotating. In this case, the first status command and the second status command including information indicating that the specific error has been detected are immediately generated and transmitted by the interrupt process even while the reel 31 is rotating. However, the error display command is generated and transmitted by the main process, and the progress of the game is stopped after all the reels 31 are stopped.
For this reason, the error notification means 87 notifies that an error has been detected while the reels 31 are rotating, and after notifying all the reels 31 that the error has been detected, notifies the fact that an error has occurred. Will be switched.

(Second Embodiment)
In the first embodiment, the betting LED 24 as a light emitter is electrically connected to the output side of the sub-control means 80, and the light emission control means 85 for controlling the output of the light emitter is provided on the sub-control means 80 side. .
On the other hand, in the second embodiment, the bet LED 24 as a light emitter is electrically connected to the output side of the main control means 50, and the light emission control means 85 for controlling the output of the light emitter is the main control means 50. On the side.

Then, the light emission control means 85 determines whether the operation of the bet switch 40 is in an effective state or an invalid state, and when it is determined that the operation is in an effective state, controls the bet LED 24 to emit light in red. If it is determined that the state is invalid, the bet LED 24 is controlled to be turned off.
Thus, the player is shown whether the operation of the bet switch 40 is valid or invalid.

  Further, the light emission control means 85 determines whether the setting key switch 45 is in an on state or an off state. When it is determined that the setting key switch 45 is in an on state, the operation of the bet switch 40 is in a valid state or The bet LED 24 is controlled to emit blue light regardless of the invalid state.

That is, when it is determined that the setting key switch 45 is in the on state, the light emission control means 85 causes the bet LED 24 to emit red light even if it is determined that the operation of the bet switch 40 is in an effective state. Instead, control is performed to emit blue light.
Further, when the light emission control means 85 determines that the setting key switch 45 is in the on state, the light emission control means 85 does not turn off the betting LED 24 even if the operation of the bet switch 40 is determined to be invalid. Control to emit blue light.

That is, when the setting key switch 45 is in the on state, the light emission control means 85 gives priority to emitting the bet LED 24 in blue, and when the setting key switch 45 is in the off state, the bet switch 40 The bet LED 24 is controlled to emit red light or to be turned off according to the valid / invalid state of the operation.
For this reason, when the setting key switch 45 is in the on state, the betting LED 24 always emits blue light, which indicates that the setting key switch 45 is in the on state. (Hall) side can be notified.

Also, if the setting key switch 45 is turned on while the operation of the bet switch 40 is enabled, the operation of the bet switch 40 is disabled, the setting confirmation mode is entered, and the betting LED 24 emits blue light. To do.
Furthermore, when the setting key switch 45 is turned on and the power is turned on, the operation of the bet switch 40 becomes invalid, the mode is changed to the setting change mode, and the betting LED 24 emits blue light.

  Further, when the setting key switch 45 is turned on while the operation of the bet switch 40 is invalid, the operation of the bet switch 40 is maintained in an invalid state, and neither the setting change mode nor the setting confirmation mode is entered. The betting LED 24 emits blue light.

(Third embodiment)
Hereinafter, the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.
As shown in FIG. 8, in the third embodiment, in addition to the components shown in the first embodiment, the main control means 50 includes a timer 64b, a wait means 64c, a write pointer 74a, and a read pointer 74b. The sub control unit 80 includes a sub-side set value storage unit 88. These will be described later.

In the third embodiment, the command generator 73 sets the setting key on the condition that the ON / OFF state of the setting key switch 45 changes every predetermined time regardless of whether or not the setting change mode is in effect. A first state command including information indicating the on / off state of the switch 45 is generated. Also, when the setting change mode ends, after waiting for the generation of the first state command, a setting change end command including information indicating that the setting change mode has ended is generated.
As a result, the sub-control unit 80 can detect an error related to the setting change while avoiding confusion in the process related to the setting change on the sub-control unit 80 side.

In the third embodiment, a waiting time during which no command is generated is provided before the rotation of the reel 31 is started. During this waiting time, all uncompleted commands stored in the buffer area 74 are sub-control means. To 80. Thereafter, the rotation of the reel 31 is started, and a rotation start command including information indicating the rotation start of the reel 31 is generated. The rotation start command is temporarily stored in the buffer area 74 and then transmitted to the sub-control means 80. When the sub control means 80 receives the rotation start command, the sub control means 80 outputs an effect corresponding to the rotation start command.
Thus, when an effect is output in accordance with the start of rotation of the reel 31, the time lag that occurs between the start of rotation of the reel 31 and the output of the effect is reduced.

As shown in the first embodiment, the setting key switch 45 (mode change switch), the setting change switch 46, and the start switch 41 are used when changing the setting. All of these switches are electrically connected to the input side of the main control means 50.
The setting key switch 45 is a switch that is operated when a setting change mode in which a setting value can be changed and when the setting change mode is ended.
When the setting key is inserted into the setting key insertion slot and the setting key is rotated 90 degrees clockwise, the setting key switch 45 is turned on, and when the setting key is rotated 90 degrees counterclockwise from this state. Then, the setting key switch 45 is turned off.

Furthermore, the setting change switch 46 is a switch operated when changing the set value during the setting change mode.
The setting change switch 46 is a button type switch. When the finger is released from the button, the setting change switch 46 is turned off. When the button is pressed with a finger, the setting change switch 46 is turned on, and when the finger is released from the button, the setting change switch 46 is returned to an off state.
Further, the start switch 41 functions as a switch operated by the player when starting the reel 31 in a normal state, but functions as a switch operated when determining the set value during the setting change mode.

Further, the set value changing means 60 shifts to the setting change mode when the power is turned on (when the power is turned on) on condition that the setting key switch 45 is on.
Specifically, the set value changing means 60 is in a state where the door open / close detection sensor 48 is on (the front mask portion is opened) and the cover open / close detection sensor 49 is on (switch) when the power is turned on. When the cover is opened) and the setting key switch 45 is on, the mode is changed to the setting change mode.

For example, when the setting key switch 45 is turned on in a state where the front mask portion and the switch cover are opened and the power is turned off, and the power is turned on in this state, the mode can be shifted to the setting change mode.
In addition, for example, the setting key switch 45 is turned on in a state where the front mask portion and the switch cover are opened and the power is turned on, and even if the power is turned off and then turned on again in this state, the setting change mode Can be migrated to.

  On the other hand, when the setting key switch 45 is on when the power is turned on, the set value changing unit 60 is in a state where either the door open / close detection sensor 48 or the cover open / close detection sensor 49 is off. In addition, when both the door open / close detection sensor 48 and the cover open / close detection sensor 49 are in the off state, the mode is not shifted to the setting change mode.

Further, the setting value changing means 60 displays the current setting value on a predetermined display unit (for example, a 7-segment display) in the setting change mode.
Furthermore, the set value changing means 60 sequentially changes the set value every time the setting change switch 46 is operated during the setting change mode.

Specifically, in the setting change mode, the setting value changing unit 60 is in a state in which the setting change switch 46 is in an off state on condition that both the door open / close detection sensor 48 and the cover open / close detection sensor 49 are in an on state. The set value is sequentially changed every time the device is once turned on and then turned off again. At this time, the set value changing means 60 displays the set value on the display unit as follows: →→ “3” → “4” → “5” → “6” → “1” → “2” →. Change sequentially as follows.
Note that each time the setting change switch 46 is switched from the off state to the on state, the set value may be sequentially changed.

On the other hand, the set value changing means 60 does not change the set value even when the setting change switch 46 is operated when the setting change mode is not in effect.
Further, the setting value changing means 60 is in the state where either the door opening / closing detection sensor 48 or the cover opening / closing detection sensor 49 is in an off state, or the door opening / closing detection sensor 48 and the cover opening / closing are in the setting change mode. When both of the detection sensors 49 are in an off state, the set value is not changed even if the setting change switch 46 is operated.

  Furthermore, when the start switch 41 is turned on during the setting change mode, the set value changing means 60 does not depend on whether the door open / close detection sensor 48 and the cover open / close detection sensor 49 are on / off. At this time, the set value is confirmed with the numerical value displayed on the display unit, and “0” indicating that the set value has been confirmed is displayed on the display unit. Then, the set value changing unit 60 stores the determined set value in the set value storage unit 60a.

  That is, the setting value changing means 60 is configured so that both the door open / close detection sensor 48 and the cover open / close detection sensor 49 are off even when either the door open / close detection sensor 48 or the cover open / close detection sensor 49 is off. Even in this state, when the start switch 41 is turned on during the setting change mode, the set value is always confirmed with the numerical value displayed on the display unit at this time.

Further, the setting value changing means 60 ends the setting change mode on condition that the setting key switch 45 is turned off during the setting change mode.
Specifically, the setting value changing means 60 is in the setting changing mode, and after the setting value is confirmed (after the start switch 41 is turned on), the setting key switch 45 is turned off. Then, the setting change mode is terminated. When the setting change mode ends, the start-up process is performed with the changed set value.

On the other hand, the setting value changing means 60 is in the setting changing mode, and the setting key switch 45 is turned off before the setting value is determined (before the start switch 41 is turned on). Continues without exiting the setting change mode.
The setting value changing means 60 determines the setting value and sets the setting value when the setting key switch 45 is turned off first and the start switch 41 is turned on after that in the setting changing mode. Exit change mode.

  The setting value changing means 60 shifts to a setting confirmation mode in which the setting value can be confirmed when the setting key switch 45 is turned on while the power is on. In this setting confirmation mode, the set value changing unit 60 displays the current set value (the set value stored in the set value storage unit 60a) on a predetermined display unit (7-segment display).

Further, when the command generation unit 73 determines to generate a command in the main process or the interrupt process, the command generation unit 73 generates a command according to the determination.
Furthermore, the buffer area 74 stores the commands generated by the command generation unit 73 in the order of generation.
Further, the command transmission unit 75 transmits the commands stored in the buffer area 74 to the sub-control unit 80 in the stored order.
The storage of commands in the buffer area 74 and the transmission of commands to the sub-control means 80 are the same as in the first embodiment.

In the present embodiment, the command generation unit 73 indicates that the first state command including information indicating the on / off states of various sensors and switches connected to the main control unit 50 and the setting change mode have ended. A setting change end command including information is generated.
Similarly to the first embodiment, the first state command includes information indicating the on / off state of the door opening / closing detection sensor 48, information indicating the on / off state of the cover opening / closing detection sensor 49, and the setting key switch 45. Information indicating the on / off state of the device, and information indicating the on / off state of the setting change switch 46.
Furthermore, the setting change end command includes information indicating a setting value at the end of the setting change mode.

In the main process, when the power is turned on, it is determined to generate the first state command regardless of whether or not the information included in the first state command has changed.
That is, in the main process, when the power is turned on, information indicating the on / off state at the time of power-on of each of the door open / close detection sensor 48, the cover open / close detection sensor 49, the setting key switch 45, and the setting change switch 46 is always displayed. To generate a first state command including
Furthermore, in the main process, when the setting change mode ends, it is determined to generate a setting change end command.

Furthermore, in the interrupt processing, regardless of whether the setting change mode is being performed, the first state command is generated on condition that information included in the first state command has changed every predetermined time. decide.
Specifically, in the interrupt process, regardless of whether or not the setting change mode is in effect, every time the count value of the first interrupt counter 51 becomes “7” (every 8 interrupts), it is included in the first status command. It is determined whether or not the information has changed, and when it is determined that any of the information has changed, it is determined to generate the first state command.

Note that, as described above, the setting value changing means 60 is in the setting change switch 46 when at least one of the door opening / closing detection sensor 48 or the cover opening / closing detection sensor 49 is in an OFF state even in the setting change mode. The setting value is not changed even if is operated.
For this reason, even in the interrupt processing, when at least one of the door opening / closing detection sensor 48 or the cover opening / closing detection sensor 49 is in an off state during the setting change mode, the first state is not changed even if the setting change switch 46 is operated. Does not determine command generation.

  In the main process and the interrupt process, if it is decided to generate the first state command, the command generating unit 73 generates the first state command. In the main process, when it is determined to generate a setting change end command, the command generation unit 73 generates a setting change end command.

Here, if the door open / close detection sensor 48, the cover open / close detection sensor 49, and the setting key switch 45 are in an ON state when the power is turned on, the setting change mode is entered.
When the power is turned on, the main process decides to generate the first state command regardless of whether or not the information included in the first state command has changed.

Furthermore, the first state command is generated on condition that the information included in the first state command is changed every predetermined time by the interrupt process regardless of whether the setting change mode is in effect. To decide.
Furthermore, at the end of the setting change mode, the main process determines to generate a setting change end command.

  For this reason, for example, when the setting change mode ends, if it is decided to immediately generate a setting change end command in the main process, the relationship with the generation timing of the first state command repeated every predetermined time (8 interrupts) Thus, the case where the first state command is generated first and the setting change end command is generated later is mixed with the case where the setting change end command is generated first and the first state command is generated later. there is a possibility. This confuses the processing on the sub-control means side.

  Therefore, in the interrupt process, regardless of whether or not the setting change mode is in effect, the first state command is generated on condition that information included in the first state command has changed every predetermined time. decide. Further, in the main process, when the setting change mode is finished, it is determined that the setting change end command is generated after waiting for the generation of the first state command.

Specifically, in the interrupt processing, whether the information included in the first status command has changed every time the count value of the first interrupt counter 51 becomes “7”, regardless of whether the setting change mode is in effect. If it is determined that there has been a change, it is determined to generate a first status command.
On the other hand, in the main process, when the setting change mode ends, the process waits until the count value of the first interrupt counter 51 becomes “0”, and the count value of the first interrupt counter 51 becomes “0”. Then, it decides to generate a setting change end command.

When the start switch 41 is turned on during the setting change mode, the set value is determined, and when the setting key switch 45 is turned off thereafter, the setting change mode is terminated.
Further, when the setting key switch 45 is first turned off during the setting change mode and then the start switch 41 is turned on, the set value is confirmed and the setting change mode is ended.

Here, the count value of the first interrupt counter 51 is incremented by “1” for each timer interrupt, and when it reaches “7”, it returns to “0” next.
For this reason, after the setting value is confirmed, the setting key switch 45 changes from the on state to the off state, and when the setting change mode ends, information indicating that the setting key switch 45 is in the off state is obtained by interrupt processing. It is determined to generate the first status command including, and after one interruption, it is determined to generate a setting change end command by the main process.

Thereby, at the end of the setting change mode, the command generation means 73 always generates commands in the order of the first state command and the setting change end command. The command transmission means always transmits commands to the sub-control means in the order of the first state command and the setting change end command.
Therefore, the sub control means always receives the commands in the order of the first state command and the setting change end command, so that the process can be prevented from being confused.

Note that, as in the first embodiment, the two commands of the first state command and the second state command may be generated as one set.
In this case, when the power is turned on, the command generation unit 73 performs two commands in the order of the first state command and the second state command regardless of whether or not the information included in the first state command and the second state command has changed. Is generated.
At the end of the setting change mode, the command generation unit 73 generates three commands in the order of the first state command, the second state command, and the setting change command.

The sub-control unit 80 includes a sub-side setting value storage unit 88 that stores setting values, and controls the output of the effect according to the setting values stored in the sub-side setting value storage unit 88.
Specifically, the sub-control unit 80 is configured such that the higher the set value stored in the sub-side set value storage unit 88, the higher the AT game execution probability and the higher the advantage for the player. It is set.

On the main control means 50 side, the higher the set value stored in the set value storage means 60a, the higher the winning probability of the combination (particularly the special combination) and the higher the advantage for the player. It is set.
As described above, the advantage for the player is a concept including the winning probability of the role on the main control means 50 side and the execution probability of the AT game on the sub control means 80 side.

Further, when the sub control unit 80 receives the setting change end command, the sub control unit 80 stores the setting value stored in the sub-side setting value storage unit 88 based on the information indicating the setting value included in the received setting change end command. Update.
For example, when the setting value “3” is stored in the sub-side setting value storage unit 88 and a setting change end command including information indicating the setting value “6” is received at this time, the sub-control unit 80 The setting value stored in the setting value storage unit 88 is rewritten from “3” to “6”.

As described above, in the interrupt process, regardless of whether or not the setting change mode is in effect, the ON / OFF state of the setting change switch 46 changes every predetermined time (eight interrupts). The condition is determined to generate the first state command.
For this reason, the sub-control unit 80 determines whether the sub-side set value storage unit 88 is based on the information indicating the on / off state of the setting change switch 46 included in the received first state command during the setting change mode. It is also possible to update the stored set value.

However, in the present embodiment, the sub-control unit 80 stores the setting stored in the sub-side set value storage unit 88 depending on information indicating the on / off state of the setting change switch 46 included in the received first state command. Without updating the value, the setting value stored in the sub-side setting value storage unit 88 is updated based on the information indicating the setting value included in the received setting change end command.
This prevents the setting value stored in the sub-side setting value storage unit 88 from being illegally updated due to an unauthorized operation of the setting change switch 46.

Further, as described above, in the interrupt process, regardless of whether or not the setting change mode is in effect, the setting is made on the condition that the on / off state of the setting key switch 45 has changed every predetermined time. It is determined to generate a first state command including information indicating the on / off state of the key switch 45.
When the sub-control unit 80 receives the first state command including information indicating that the setting key switch 45 is in the ON state, the sub-control unit 80 sets the setting key switch regardless of whether the setting change mode is in effect. Informs that 45 is in an ON state.

  Specifically, when the light emission control means 85 of the sub-control means 80 receives the first state command including information indicating that the setting key switch 45 is in the on state, it is determined whether the setting change mode is in effect. Regardless of this, the betting LED 24 emits blue light to notify that the setting key switch 45 is on. Thereby, it is possible to notify the installation store side of the slot machine 10 that the setting key switch 45 is in the ON state.

Further, as described above, in the interrupt process, regardless of whether or not the setting change mode is in effect, the setting is performed on the condition that the on / off state of the setting change switch 46 has changed every predetermined time. It is determined to generate a first state command including information indicating the on / off state of the change switch 46.
When the sub-control unit 80 receives the first status command including information indicating that the setting change switch 46 is in the ON state, the sub-control unit 80 sets the setting change switch regardless of whether or not it is in the setting change mode. Informs that 46 is in an ON state.

  Specifically, when the sub control unit 80 receives the first state command including information indicating that the setting change switch 46 is in the ON state, the sub control unit 80 regardless of whether or not the setting change mode is in the setting change mode. The image display device 23 is notified by displaying that the setting change switch 46 is on. As a result, it is possible to inform the store where the slot machine 10 is installed that the setting change switch 46 is on.

The sub control unit 80 includes a sub-side error detection unit 86 and an error notification unit 87. The sub-side error detection means 86 detects an error (incorrect or abnormal) based on information included in the received first state command.
For example, the sub-side error detection means 86 determines that the front mask portion and the switch cover are closed and the setting key switch 45 is on based on the information included in the received first state command. If so, it is determined that an error has been detected. When an error is detected, the error notification unit 87 notifies the display by displaying the fact on the image display device 23. This is the same as in the first embodiment.

  As described above, the sub-control unit 80 side can determine whether the setting key switch 45 is in the on state or the off state regardless of whether the setting change mode is in effect. Can be detected.

Next, the flow of processing when the power is turned on in the third embodiment will be described based on the flowchart shown in FIG.
In step S <b> 101 of FIG. 9, the main control unit 50 sets “0” to the first interrupt counter 51. Then, the process proceeds to the next step S102.

In step S <b> 102, the command generation unit 73 generates a first state command and stores it in the buffer area 74. Then, the process proceeds to the next step S103.
In step S <b> 103, the command generation unit 73 generates a second state command and stores it in the buffer area 74. Then, the process proceeds to the next step S104.
Thus, when the power is turned on, the first state command and the second state command are sequentially generated regardless of whether or not the information included in the first state command and the second state command has changed.

  In step S104, the set value changing means 60 is in a state where the door opening / closing detection sensor 48 is on (the front mask portion is opened) and the cover opening / closing detection sensor 49 is on (the switch cover is opened). Whether or not the setting key switch 45 is in the ON state.

Here, when it is determined that the door opening / closing detection sensor 48, the cover opening / closing detection sensor 49, and the setting key switch 45 are all in the ON state, the mode is shifted to the setting change mode, and the process proceeds to the next step S105.
On the other hand, when it is determined that at least one of the door opening / closing detection sensor 48, the cover opening / closing detection sensor 49, and the setting key switch 45 is in an off state, the process proceeds to the flowchart without shifting to the setting change mode. The process ends.

In step S105, the set value changing means 60 determines whether or not the setting change switch 46 has been operated (from the off state to the on state and then to the off state again).
If it is determined that the setting change switch 46 has been operated, the process proceeds to the next step S106, and the setting value changing means 60 changes the numerical value indicating the setting value displayed on the display unit. Then, the process proceeds to next Step S107.
On the other hand, when it is determined that the setting change switch 46 is not operated, the process proceeds to step S107 without changing the numerical value indicating the setting value displayed on the display unit.

In step S107, the set value changing means 60 determines whether or not the start switch 41 has been operated (turned on).
Here, when it is determined that the start switch 41 has been operated, the process proceeds to the next step S108, and the set value changing means 60 confirms the set value with the numerical value displayed on the display unit at this time, and the confirmed setting. The value is stored in the set value storage means 60a. Then, the process proceeds to next Step S109.
On the other hand, when it is determined that the start switch 41 is not operated, the process returns to step S105.

  In step S109, the setting value changing means 60 continues to determine whether or not the setting key switch 45 has been turned off. That is, it waits until the setting key switch 45 is turned off. When the setting key switch 45 is turned off, the setting change mode is terminated, and the process proceeds to the next step S110.

  In step S110, the command generation unit 73 continues to determine whether or not the count value of the first interrupt counter 51 is “0”. That is, it waits until the count value of the first interrupt counter 51 becomes “0”. Then, when the first interrupt counter 51 becomes “0”, the process proceeds to the next step S111, where the command generating means 73 is information indicating that the setting change mode has ended, and information indicating the setting value at the end of the setting change mode. Is generated and stored in the buffer area 74. And the process by this flowchart is complete | finished.

Similarly to the first embodiment, the main control means 50 executes the main process for the progress of the game once per game, and in parallel with the main process, the time required for one main process. Interrupt processing is executed every short predetermined time (2.235 ms).
Further, when it is decided to generate a command in the main process or the interruption process, the command generation means 73 generates a command according to the determination and sequentially stores it in a predetermined storage area in the buffer area 74. I will let you.

  Furthermore, in the interrupt processing, it is determined whether or not an uncompleted command is stored in the buffer area 74. If it is determined that an uncompleted command is stored, the command transmitting means 75 The incompletely transmitted commands stored in the area 74 are transmitted to the sub-control means 80 once per interrupt in the order stored (in order from the oldest).

Further, when the command transmission means 75 transmits the same command stored in the buffer area 74 twice, the command transmission means 75 determines that the transmission of the command has been completed and deletes the command from the buffer area 74.
Therefore, two interrupts are required until transmission of one command stored in the buffer area 74 is completed, and one command is deleted from the buffer area 74 for every two interrupts.

  In the main process, during the period from the start of the main process to the start of rotation of the reel 31, a plurality of commands, specifically, for example, a set value command indicating a set value, a game state command indicating the main game state, It is determined to generate a combination lottery result command indicating a combination lottery result, an effect related command used for controlling the effect, and the like. In particular, the combination lottery result command and the production related command are determined to be generated between the operation of the start switch 41 and the start of rotation of the reel 31.

Furthermore, in the interrupt process, it is determined whether or not the generation condition of the first state command, the second state command, or the third state command is satisfied between the start of the main process and the start of rotation of the reel 31. If it is determined that they have been determined, they are determined to be generated.
Further, in the main process, after the rotation of the reel 31 is started, it is determined to generate a rotation start command including information indicating that the rotation of the reel 31 has started.

  Then, the command generation means 73 generates a command in accordance with the determination in the main process or the interrupt process, and stores it in the buffer area 74 sequentially. The command transmission means 75 performs the buffer area 74 by the interrupt process. Are transmitted to the sub-control means 80 sequentially.

Here, when a command that has not been transmitted is stored in the buffer area 74 at the start of rotation of the reel 31, the rotation start command is stored in the buffer area until transmission of all commands generated before that is completed. At 74, the transmission is awaited. That is, a large time lag occurs between generation of the rotation start command and transmission.
In particular, when an effect is output on the sub-control unit 80 side in accordance with the start of rotation of the reel 31 on the main control unit 50 side, the rotation of the reel 31 increases as the time lag from generation to transmission of the rotation start command increases. The time lag that occurs between the start and the output of the effect increases.

Therefore, in the main process, a waiting time during which no command is generated is provided before the rotation of the reel 31 is started. During this waiting time, the command transmission means 75 transmits all uncompleted commands stored in the buffer area 74 to the sub-control means 80 by interrupt processing.
In the main process, it is determined whether or not an uncompleted command is stored in the buffer area 74 during the standby time. If it is determined that an uncompleted command is not stored, the standby time is set. finish. That is, in the main process, the standby time is continued until transmission of all the commands stored in the buffer area 74 is completed.

Further, in the main process, it is determined that the rotation of the reel 31 is started after the standby time has elapsed, and the rotation start command is generated after the rotation of the reel 31 is started. In response to this determination, the command generation means 73 generates a rotation start command and stores it in the buffer area 74. Thereafter, the command transmission means 75 transmits the rotation start command stored in the buffer area 74 to the sub-control means 80 by interrupt processing.
When receiving the rotation start command, the sub-control unit 80 controls to output an effect corresponding to the rotation start command so as to synchronize with the rotation start of the reel 31.

  As a result, when the rotation start command is generated, an uncompleted command is not stored in the buffer area 74, so the time lag from the generation of the rotation start command to the transmission can be reduced, and the rotation of the reel 31 is started. And the time lag that occurs between the output of the production and the production can be reduced.

Here, as an effect output in accordance with the start of rotation of the reel 31, for example, an effect of lighting the effect lamp 21 in a predetermined pattern, an effect of outputting a predetermined sound from the speaker 22, or a predetermined effect on the image display device 23. The effect which displays the image of this, and the effect which act | operates a predetermined movable thing (act) are mentioned.
That is, when receiving the rotation start command, the sub-control unit 80 lights the effect lamp 21 in a predetermined pattern or outputs a predetermined sound from the speaker 22 so as to synchronize with the rotation start of the reel 31. Or a predetermined image is displayed on the image display device 23 or a predetermined movable object is operated.

Further, for example, in addition to the reel 31 that controls rotation and stop on the main control means 50 side, a sub reel that controls rotation and stop on the sub control means 80 side is provided, and the sub control means 80 side receives a rotation start command. When this happens, the sub reel may start to rotate. That is, the rotation of the sub reels may be started when the rotation of the reels 31 starts.
In this case, by reducing the time lag from the generation of the rotation start command to the transmission, the time lag generated between the start of rotation of the reel 31 and the start of rotation of the sub reel can be reduced.

Further, for example, during the period from the operation of the start switch 41 to the start of rotation of the reel 31, a push order command including information indicating the push order of the stop switch 31 for shifting to the freeze execution mode is generated and You may transmit to the control means 80.
Here, for example, on the main control means 50 side, a plurality of types of freeze execution modes with different freeze execution probabilities are provided, and a stop switch 31 for shifting the freeze execution mode in a game having a specific combination lottery result. Determine the order of pressing.

In addition, as a specific combination lottery result, for example, a replay winning in which the benefits to be given to the player are the same regardless of the pressing order of the stop switch 42 is cited.
When the pressing order of the stop switch 31 for shifting to the freeze execution mode is determined, a pressing order command is generated and transmitted to the sub-control means 80.

Further, the sub-control unit 80 side determines, for example, whether or not to shift to the predetermined freeze execution mode, and when it is determined to shift to the predetermined freeze execution mode, the information included in the received push order command Based on the above, the pressing order of the stop switch 31 for shifting the freeze execution mode is notified.
Furthermore, on the main control means 50 side, when the stop switch 31 is operated in the pushing order determined as the pushing order for shifting the freeze execution mode, the main control means 50 controls to shift to the predetermined freeze execution mode.

Furthermore, the freeze control means 70 executes the freeze with a probability corresponding to the freeze execution mode. Then, according to the execution of the freeze, the player is given a privilege such as shifting to the AT game or adding the number of games or the number of payouts during the AT game.
As described above, during the period from the operation of the start switch 41 to the start of rotation of the reel 31, various commands are generated on the main control means 50 side and transmitted to the sub control means 80 side. By providing a standby time and transmitting a command during this standby time, the time lag between the start of rotation of the reel 31 and the output of the effect can be reduced.

Further, the main control means 50 determines that the timer 64b that measures the elapsed time from the start of rotation of the reel 31 in the previous game and the measurement time by the timer 64b has not passed the specified time (4.1 seconds). In this case, weight means 64c for delaying the start of rotation of the reel 31 until a specified time elapses is provided.
Then, in the main process, it is determined whether the time measured by the timer 64b has passed the specified time after the standby time has elapsed and before the rotation of the reel 31 has started. That is, in the main process, it is determined whether or not the measurement time by the timer 64b has passed the specified time after the standby time has elapsed. When it is determined that the time has elapsed, the reel 31 starts to rotate.

  As described above, since the standby time is provided before determining whether or not the measurement time by the timer 64b has passed the specified time, when the measurement time is less than the specified time, the specified time elapses. In the meantime, it is possible to transmit an untransmitted command stored in the buffer area 74.

Similarly to the first embodiment, each command generated by the command generation unit 73 is composed of 2 bytes (16 bits) of information, and the upper 1 byte (8 bits) indicates the type of command, and the lower order. One byte (8 bits) indicates the contents of the command.
Furthermore, in this embodiment, the buffer area 74 has 64 1-byte storage areas from the first storage area to the 64th storage area as command storage areas.

  Here, one command is composed of 2-byte information, whereas one storage area in the buffer area 74 is 1 byte. For this reason, in one command, the upper 1 byte and the lower 1 byte are stored in different storage areas. For example, the upper 1 byte is stored in the first storage area, and the lower 1 byte is stored in the second storage area. Thus, one command is divided into two storage areas in the buffer area 74 and stored. Therefore, the buffer area 74 can store a maximum of 32 commands.

Further, when the command generation unit 73 generates a command, the command generation unit 73 sequentially stores the command from the first storage area and the second storage area in the buffer area 74, and stores them up to the 63rd storage area and the 64th storage area. Next, it is stored again in the first storage area and the second storage area.
Furthermore, when the command transmission means 75 transmits the command stored in the buffer area 74 twice, the command transmission means 75 determines that the transmission of the command has been completed and deletes the command from the buffer area 74.

For example, when the command stored in the first storage area and the second storage area in the buffer area 74 is transmitted twice, it is determined that the transmission of the command is completed, and the command is stored in the buffer area 74. Erasing from the first storage area and the second storage area.
At this time, even if there is a command stored in the third storage area and the fourth storage area, the command is not moved to the first storage area and the second storage area. That is, the command is not moved or rewritten. For this reason, all the storage areas from the first storage area to the 64th storage area are sequentially and repeatedly used.

The main control means 50 includes a write pointer 74a and a read pointer 74b.
The write pointer 74a designates a write position indicating in which storage area in the buffer area 74 the command is stored, and updates the write position every time the command is stored.

The read pointer 74b designates a read position indicating in which storage area in the buffer area 74 the command stored is transmitted, and updates the read position every time a command is transmitted. is there.
In the present embodiment, the writing position and the reading position are indicated by numerical values corresponding to the first to 64th storage areas.

  Specifically, when it is determined to generate a command, the command generating unit 73 determines whether or not the command is stored in the storage area corresponding to the write position (numerical value) indicated by the write pointer 74a. When it is determined that the command is not stored, the upper 1 byte and the lower order of the generated command are stored in two storage areas, the storage area corresponding to the write position indicated by the write pointer 74a and the next storage area. One byte is stored. Then, by adding “2” to the write pointer 74a, the write position of the write pointer 74a is updated.

  For example, when the write pointer 74a is “5”, it is determined whether or not a command is stored in the fifth storage area corresponding to “5”. If it is determined that the command is not stored, the upper 1 byte of the command is stored in the fifth storage area corresponding to “5”, and the lower 1 byte of the command is stored in the next sixth storage area. Let Then, “2” is added to the write pointer 74a to make “7”. If “2” is added to the write pointer 74a at “63”, the write pointer 74a returns to “1” instead of “65”.

  Further, when transmitting a command, the command transmission means 75 acquires the reading position (numerical value) indicated by the reading pointer 74b, and determines whether or not the acquired numerical value is an odd number. Here, when the obtained numerical value is an odd number, the information stored in the storage area corresponding to the numerical value is acquired as the upper 1 byte of the command, and the information stored in the next storage area is It is acquired as the lower 1 byte, and these 2-byte information is transmitted to the sub-control means 80 as one command. Then, by adding “1” to the reading pointer 74b, the reading position of the reading pointer 74b is updated.

  For example, when the read pointer 74b is “3”, the information stored in the third storage area corresponding to “3” is acquired as the upper 1 byte of the command and stored in the next fourth storage area. Information is acquired as the lower 1 byte of the command, and the 2-byte information is transmitted to the sub-control means 80 as one command. Then, “1” is added to the read pointer 74b to make “4”.

  When the numerical value acquired from the read pointer 74b is an even number, the information stored in the storage area corresponding to the numerical value obtained by subtracting “1” from the numerical value is acquired as the upper 1 byte of the command, and the next The information stored in the storage area is acquired as the lower 1 byte of the command. Then, these 2-byte information is transmitted to the sub-control means 80 as one command. When the read pointer 74b is an even number, the same command is transmitted for the second time. For this reason, when a command is transmitted, the information constituting the command is deleted from the storage area. Then, “1” is added to the read pointer 74b to update the read pointer 74b.

For example, when the read pointer 74b is “4”, the information stored in the third storage area corresponding to “3” obtained by subtracting “1” from “4” is acquired as the upper 1 byte of the command. The information stored in the next fourth storage area is acquired as the lower 1 byte of the command, and the 2-byte information is transmitted to the sub-control means 80 as one command.
When the read pointer 74b is “4”, the same command as that when the read pointer 74b is “3” is transmitted. For this reason, when the command is transmitted, the information stored in the third storage area and the fourth storage area is deleted. As a result, the command for which transmission has been completed is erased from the buffer area 74. Then, “1” is added to the read pointer 74b to make “5”. If “1” is added to the read pointer 74b at “64”, the read pointer 74b returns to “1” instead of “65”.

  As described above, the read position of the read pointer 74b is updated by adding “1”. When the read pointer 74b is an odd number, the information stored in the storage area corresponding to the read pointer 74b is the upper 1 byte, the information stored in the next storage area is the lower 1 byte, and 2 bytes. Send the command. Further, when the read pointer 74b is an even number, the same command as the previous one is transmitted. In this way, the same command is transmitted twice. When the same command is transmitted twice, it is determined that transmission of the command is completed, and the command is deleted from the buffer area 74.

The command generation means 73 has a time for generating a command in accordance with the determination in the main process and a time for generating a command in accordance with the determination in the interrupt process. For this reason, the write pointer 74a has a time when it is updated by the main process and a time when it is updated by the interrupt process.
On the other hand, the command transmission means 75 transmits the command stored in the buffer area 74 by the interrupt process, and does not transmit the command stored in the buffer area 74 by the main process. For this reason, the read pointer 74b is updated only by interrupt processing.

Further, after acquiring the reading position indicated by the reading pointer 74 b, the writing position indicated by the writing pointer 74 a is acquired, and the acquired reading position is compared with the writing position, so that an untransmitted command is stored in the buffer area 74. It is judged whether it is done.
Here, when the numerical value of the read pointer 74b matches the numerical value of the write pointer 74a, all the commands stored in the buffer area 74 have been transmitted (commands not yet transmitted are not stored in the buffer area 74). ) Means.
On the other hand, when the numerical value of the read pointer 74 b does not match the numerical value of the write pointer 74 a, it means that an uncompleted command is stored in the buffer area 74.

  For this reason, during the standby time, the main control means 50 first acquires the numerical value of the read pointer 74b, and then acquires the numerical value of the write pointer 74a, and determines whether these numerical values match. If it is determined that these numerical values do not match, the numerical value of the read pointer 74b is acquired again, and then the numerical value of the write pointer 74a is acquired to determine whether or not these numerical values match. . That is, during the standby time, the acquisition of these numerical values and the determination of whether or not they match are repeated until it is determined that they match. When it is determined that these numerical values match, the waiting time is ended.

  It is also conceivable that the numerical value of the write pointer 74a is acquired first, and then the numerical value of the read pointer 74b is acquired to determine whether or not these numerical values match. However, a new command may be stored in the buffer area 74 after the numerical value of the write pointer 74a is acquired and before the numerical value of the read pointer 74b is acquired. In this case, although the incomplete transmission command is stored in the buffer area 74, the acquired numerical value of the write pointer 74a matches the acquired numerical value of the read pointer 74b. Cannot be correctly determined that is stored in the buffer area 74.

  Therefore, the numerical value of the read pointer 74b is acquired first, and then the numerical value of the write pointer 74a is acquired, and it is determined whether or not these numerical values match. Here, it is assumed that a new command is stored in the buffer area 74 after the numerical value of the read pointer 74b is acquired and before the numerical value of the write pointer 74a is acquired. In this case, since the numerical value of the acquired read pointer 74b does not match the numerical value of the acquired write pointer 74a, it can be correctly determined that a command that has not been transmitted is stored in the buffer area 74.

Next, the flow of the game progress process in the third embodiment will be described based on the flowchart shown in FIG.
In step S121 of FIG. 10, when the winning lottery is performed by the winning lottery means 61, the command generating means 73 generates a winning lottery result command in step S122, and in the next step 123 generates an effect-related command. These are stored in predetermined storage areas in the buffer area 74, respectively. Then, the process proceeds to next Step S124.

  The main control means 50 acquires the numerical value of the read pointer 74b in step S124, acquires the numerical value of the write pointer 74a in the next step S125, and whether or not the two numerical values acquired in the next step S126 match. Determine whether. Here, when it is determined that the acquired two numerical values match, the process proceeds to the next step S127. On the other hand, when it is determined that the acquired two numerical values do not match, the process returns to step S124.

  That is, the acquisition of the numerical value of the read pointer 74b, the acquisition of the numerical value of the write pointer 74a, and the determination of whether or not the two acquired numerical values match are repeated until it is determined that they match. In addition, a period in which this process is repeated is a standby time. Then, when it is determined that the acquired two numerical values match, the standby time ends.

For this reason, the length of the waiting time varies depending on the number of uncompleted commands stored in the buffer area 74.
At the end of the waiting time, transmission of all commands stored in the buffer area 74 is completed.

  In step S127, the main control means 50 determines whether or not the time measured by the timer 64b (elapsed time from the start of rotation of the reel 31 in the previous game) has passed a specified time (4.1 seconds). . Further, the main control means 50 repeats step S127 until it is determined that the specified time has elapsed. While this process is repeated, the weight unit 64c delays the start of rotation of the reel 31. When it is determined that the specified time has elapsed, the process proceeds to the next step S128.

  Since the standby time is provided before step S127, when the measurement time is less than the specified time, the transmission incomplete stored in the buffer area 74 until the measurement time passes the specified time. Can send commands.

  When the reel control means 64 starts rotation of all the reels 31 in step S128, the process proceeds to the next step S129, where the command generation means 73 generates a rotation start command and stores it in a predetermined area in the buffer area 74. Store in the storage area. Then, the process proceeds to next Step S130.

  In step S130, the main control means 50 continues to determine whether or not the stop switch 42 is turned on. When the stop switch 42 is turned on, the process proceeds to the next step S131, and the reel control means 64 controls to stop the reel 31 corresponding to the turned on stop switch 42. Then, the process proceeds to next Step S132.

In step S 132, the command generation unit 73 generates a stop reel command indicating the stopped reel 31 and stores it in a predetermined storage area in the buffer area 74. Then, the process proceeds to next Step S133.
In step S133, the main control means 50 determines whether all the reels 31 have stopped.

If it is determined that all the reels 31 are stopped, the process proceeds to the next step S134, and the command generating means 73 generates a stop symbol command indicating a combination of symbols when all the reels 31 are stopped. The data is stored in a predetermined storage area in the buffer area 74. And a process is complete | finished by this flowchart.
On the other hand, when it is determined that there is a rotating reel 31, the process returns to step S130.

  As mentioned above, although one Embodiment of this invention was described, this invention is not limited to embodiment mentioned above, The following various deformation | transformation are possible.

(1) In the above embodiment, the main-side error detection means 71 and the sub-side error detection means 86 are provided. That is, an error detection unit is provided separately on the main control unit 50 side and the sub control unit 80 side.
However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the error detection means may be provided only on the main control means 50 side, or may be provided only on the sub control means 80 side, for example.

(2) In the above embodiment, the error canceling means 72 is provided only on the main control means 50 side.
However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the error canceling means may be provided only on the sub control means 80 side, for example, as with the error detection means, and separately on the main control means 50 side and the sub control means 80 side. You may prepare for.
However, since a command is transmitted from the main control means 50 to the sub-control means 80 in one direction, for example, when an error detection means is provided on the main control means 50 side, an error release means must also be provided on the main control means 50 side. There is.

(3) In the above-described embodiment, the main-side error detection means 71 and the sub-side error detection means 86 detect errors based on various sensors, switch ON / OFF combinations, ON / OFF state durations, and the like. That is, the error detection means is configured by software.
However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the error detection means may be configured by hardware, for example.

(4) In the above embodiment, the timer interruption is set every 2.235 ms. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the timer interruption period can be set as appropriate.
In the above embodiment, the first status command and the second status command are generated every 8 interrupts, and the third status command is generated every 10 interrupts. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and how many interrupts these commands are generated should be set as appropriate within the range where the buffer area 74 does not overflow without losing the on / off detection of various sensors and switches. Can do.

  (5) In the above embodiment, the first to third state commands are generated every 8 interrupts or 10 interrupts on the condition that the information included in these commands has changed. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the first to third status commands may always be generated every predetermined time (for example, 8 interrupts or 10 interrupts) regardless of whether or not the information included therein has changed. .

(6) In the above embodiment, the command generating means 73 transmits the same command twice, and the command receiving means 84 correctly receives the command when it does not receive the same command twice within a predetermined time. Judged that it was not received. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and how many times the same command is transmitted can be appropriately set as long as it is twice or more. Similarly, the number of times the same command is received can be determined as appropriate as long as it is determined that the command has been correctly received.
In addition, the number of command transmissions may be only once.

  (7) In the above embodiment, the information indicating whether the setting key switch 45 is on or off is included in the first state command, and the operation of the bet switch 40 (operation switch) is valid or invalid. The information indicating whether the state is the second state command is included.

  However, the present invention is not limited to this, and information indicating whether the setting key switch 45 is on or off and information indicating whether the operation of the operation switch is valid or invalid are included in one command. You may make it. Then, according to the information included in this one command, the betting LED 24 (light emitting body) is controlled to emit blue light, emit red light, or turn off, and the operation switch is in an active state. Alternatively, an invalid state may be indicated, or the setting key switch 45 may be indicated as being on.

  (8) In the above embodiment, a color LED is provided as a light emitter, and this is made to emit light in red, blue or rainbow colors. However, if it is possible to indicate whether the operation of the operation switch is enabled or disabled or indicate that the setting key switch 45 is turned on according to the output of the light emitter, the light emitter is a color LED. The emission color is not limited to red, blue and rainbow colors.

  (9) In the embodiment described above, the output of the light emitter (blue light emission) indicates that the setting key switch 45 is on. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, whether the front mask portion is open, the switch cover is open, or the setting change switch 45 is on, It may be indicated by output.

(10) In the above embodiment, the waiting time for transmitting the command stored in the buffer area 74 is provided after the command concentration section elapses. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a waiting time may be provided in the middle of the command concentration section.
In the above embodiment, the waiting time is set to 32 interrupts (71.52 ms), but is not limited thereto and can be set as appropriate.
Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the set value command and the gaming state commands 1 to 3 are generated in the command concentration section. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the type and number of commands generated in the command concentration section can be appropriately set according to the model of the slot machine 10.

  (11) In the above embodiment, the waiting time is set longer than the time required to transmit a command generated between the start of the command concentration interval and the start of the waiting time. May be set to be shorter than the time required to transmit the command generated between the waiting time and the start of the waiting time.

Alternatively, the waiting time may be controlled until all commands stored in the buffer area 74 are transmitted (erased), that is, until the buffer area 74 becomes empty.
Further, the waiting time may be controlled to continue until the number of commands stored in the buffer area 74 becomes a predetermined number or less.
That is, the waiting time is not limited to a fixed time, but may be varied according to the number of commands stored in the buffer area 74.

  (12) For example, a light emitter (for example, a start LED) corresponding to the start switch 41 may be provided, and this may be electrically connected to the output side of the sub-control means 80. Further, the command transmitted from the main control unit 50 side to the sub control unit 80 side may include information indicating the valid / invalid state of the operation of the start switch 41. Then, on the side of the sub-control means 80, the output of the start LED may be controlled based on the information indicating the valid / invalid state of the operation of the start switch 41 included in the received command.

(13) In the above embodiment, in the interrupt processing, every time the count value of the first interrupt counter 51 becomes “7” (every 8 interrupts) regardless of whether the waiting time or the reel 31 is rotating or not, It was determined whether an error was detected by the main-side error detection means 71.
However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, in the interrupt processing, whether or not an error is detected by the main-side error detection means 71 is determined for each interrupt regardless of whether the waiting time or the reel 31 is rotating. May be. Then, on condition that an error has been detected, the generation of the first and second status commands including the information indicating that the specific error has been detected (determination to generate) may be performed every 8 interrupts.
Even in this case, in the interrupt processing, the first and second status commands can be generated every 8 interrupts on the condition that the information included therein has changed.

  (14) The commands shown in the above embodiment are merely examples, and the type and number of commands to be generated and the information included in each command can be set as appropriate according to the model of the slot machine 10.

  (15) In the third embodiment, the command generation means 73 has changed the on / off state of the setting key switch 45, the setting change switch 46, etc. regardless of whether or not the setting change mode is in effect. The first state command including information indicating the on / off state of the setting key switch 45, the setting change switch 46, etc. is generated every 8 interrupts.

  However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the command generation means 73 determines whether there is a change in the on / off state of the setting key switch 45, the setting change switch 46, etc., regardless of whether the setting change mode is in effect. Regardless, the first state command including information indicating the on / off state of the setting key switch 45, the setting change switch 46, etc. may be generated every predetermined time (for example, 8 interrupts).

(16) In the third embodiment, the main control means 50 first acquires the numerical value of the read pointer 74b during the standby time, and then acquires the numerical value of the write pointer 74a, and the acquired two numerical values match. By determining whether or not the command has not been transmitted, it is possible to correctly determine whether or not an uncompleted command is stored in the buffer area 74.
However, the determination of whether or not an uncompleted command is stored in the buffer area 74 is not limited to this.

  For example, the main control means 50 acquires the numerical value of the write pointer 74a first during the standby time, and then acquires the numerical value of the read pointer 74b, and determines whether or not the acquired two numerical values match. Even if the generation of the command by the interrupt processing is prohibited after the numerical value of the write pointer 74a is acquired and the numerical value of the read pointer 74b is acquired and it is determined whether or not the acquired two numerical values match. Good.

  Further, for example, during the standby time, the main control means 50 obtains the numerical value of the read pointer 74b first, then obtains the numerical value of the write pointer 74a, and determines whether or not the two obtained numerical values match. In addition, the generation of a command by interrupt processing is prohibited until the numerical value of the read pointer 74b is acquired and then the numerical value of the write pointer 74a is acquired and it is determined whether or not the acquired two numerical values match. May be.

That is, the main control unit 50 may prohibit the generation of a command by an interrupt process when determining whether or not an uncompleted command is stored in the buffer area 74 during the standby time.
Even in this case, it is possible to correctly determine whether or not an uncompleted command is stored in the buffer area 74.

(17) In the third embodiment, the standby time is continued until the transmission of all the commands stored in the buffer area 74 is completed. When it is determined that the command that has not been transmitted is not stored, the standby is performed. The time is over.
For this reason, the length of the waiting time differs depending on the number of uncompleted commands stored in the buffer area 74.
However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the waiting time may be always fixed to a certain length as long as it is long enough to complete transmission of all commands stored in the buffer area 74.

  (18) In the third embodiment, the main control means 50 determines whether the time measured by the timer 64b (the elapsed time from the start of rotation of the reel 31 in the previous game) has passed the specified time (4.1 seconds). The rotation start of the reel 31 was delayed until the measurement time passed the specified time, and when the measurement time passed the specified time, the reel 31 was started to rotate.

Then, a standby time for transmitting the command stored in the buffer area 74 is provided before determining whether the measurement time by the timer 64b has passed the specified time.
However, the relationship between the delay processing for starting the rotation of the reel 31 and the standby time is not limited to this.

  For example, when the start switch 41 is operated, the main control unit 50 starts the rotation of the reel 31 regardless of whether the measurement time by the timer 64b has passed the specified time, and the measurement time is the specified time. Until the time elapses, the operation of the stop switch 42 may be disabled, and when the measurement time has passed the specified time, the operation of the stop switch 42 may be enabled.

In this case, the standby time is preferably provided before the reel 31 starts to rotate.
Accordingly, when an effect is output in accordance with the start of rotation of the reel 31, a time lag generated between the start of rotation of the reel 31 and the output of the effect can be reduced.
In addition, when the rotation of the reel 31 is started before the measurement time passes the specified time, for example, the rotation of the three reels 31 may be sequentially started in the order of left, middle, and right.

  In addition, for example, when the start switch 41 is operated, a lottery of a combination is performed, whether or not to execute freeze and pseudo game, and when it is determined to execute freeze and pseudo game, The progress of the game may be temporarily stopped (the game is interrupted) to start the pseudo game.

Here, the freeze (also referred to as a freeze effect) is to make the function of the operation switch pause, and is one of the effects controlled on the main control means 50 side.
Further, the pseudo game is a game that is executed during freezing, and is a game in which the function of the operation switch is not effective for obtaining a game result. For this reason, even if the reel 31 is stopped (temporarily stopped or temporarily stopped) in the pseudo game, this does not indicate a game result.
In the pseudo game, for example, the reel 31 may be changed in a manner different from normal, such as reverse rotation of the reel 31.

In this case, a standby time is provided by the main process before the start of fluctuation of the reel 31, and during this standby time, all uncompleted commands stored in the buffer area 74 by the interrupt process are sub-control means 80. Send to.
In addition, after the standby time has elapsed, the main process starts the fluctuation of the reel 31 and generates a fluctuation start command indicating that the fluctuation of the reel 31 has started, and stores this in the buffer area 74. The change start command stored in the buffer area 74 is transmitted to the sub-control means 80 by the interrupt process.

Then, when receiving the change start command, the sub-control means 80 outputs an effect corresponding to the change start command so as to synchronize with the start of change of the reel 31.
Thus, when the pseudo game is executed during the freeze and the reel 31 is changed during the pseudo game (the freeze accompanied by the change of the reel 31 is executed), the effect is output in accordance with the start of the change of the reel 31. In addition, the time lag that occurs between the start of fluctuation of the reel 31 and the output of the effect can be reduced.

  In addition, during the freeze, the operation of the reel 31 may be switched, for example, by performing fluctuation fluctuation that moves the reel 31 so that the symbol repeats vertical movement with a constant fluctuation width, and then rotating the reel 31 in reverse.

In this case, before the operation of the reel 31 is switched, a standby time is provided by the main process, and during this standby time, all uncompleted commands stored in the buffer area 74 are sub-controlled by the interrupt process. To 80.
In addition, after the standby time has elapsed, the operation of the reel 31 is switched by the main processing, and an operation switching command indicating that the operation of the reel 31 has been switched is generated and stored in the buffer area 74. By the processing, the operation switching command stored in the buffer area 74 is transmitted to the sub-control means 80.

When receiving the operation switching command, the sub control means 80 outputs an effect corresponding to the operation switching command so as to be synchronized with the operation switching timing of the reel 31.
Thereby, when an effect is output in synchronization with the operation switching timing of the reel 31 during the freeze, a time lag generated between the operation switching timing of the reel 31 and the output of the effect can be reduced.

(19) In the third embodiment, when the command transmission means 75 transmits the same command stored in the buffer area 74 twice, the command transmission means 75 determines that the transmission of the command has been completed and buffers the command. Erased from area 74.
However, the present invention is not limited to this, and when the command transmission means 75 transmits the command stored in the buffer area 74 once, it may determine that the transmission of the command has been completed.

That is, in the third embodiment, transmission is not completed in one transmission, and transmission is completed in two transmissions, but transmission may be completed in one transmission.
Further, even if the command transmission means 75 completes the transmission of the command, the command may be left without being erased from the buffer area 74.
Then, the command generation unit 73 may overwrite the newly generated command in the storage area in which the transmitted command is stored.

In addition, each modification of said (1)-(19) is not restricted to the case where each is applied independently, It can also apply combining these suitably.
Moreover, these can be combined suitably also about 1st-3rd embodiment.

<Appendix>
Problems to be solved by the invention (original invention) according to the original claims of the original application of the present application, means for solving the problems related to the original invention, and effects of the original invention are as follows.
(A) Problems to be solved by the original invention The initial invention comprises a main control means for controlling the progress of the game and a sub-control means for controlling the output of the performance, and transmits a command from the main control means to the sub-control means. It relates to a gaming machine that performs.

As a conventional gaming machine, it is provided with a main control means for controlling the progress of the game and a sub-control means for controlling the output of the effect, and a command is transmitted from the main control means to the sub-control means. There is known a slot machine that controls the output of an effect according to a command (see Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2011-182839).
In this slot machine, a command indicating a set value is transmitted from the main control means to the sub-control means, and the sub-control means side changes the execution probability of the AT game according to the received command indicating the set value, thereby The advantage for the person is different.

For this reason, the main control means detects an error (incorrect or abnormal) related to the setting change so that the setting value is not changed illegally, and when an error is detected, a command indicating that is sent to the sub-control means. Thus, notification is made on the sub-control means side.
Here, in the slot machine, the memory capacity on the main control means side has a certain limitation due to security.
For this reason, it is conceivable that detection of an error relating to a setting change that is not directly related to control of the progress of the game is executed on the sub-control means side.

However, if detection of errors related to setting changes is attempted on the sub-control means side, the number of commands sent from the main control means side to the sub-control means side at the time of setting change will increase. There is a risk of confusion in processing related to the change.
Therefore, the problem to be solved by the original invention is to enable the sub-control means to detect an error relating to the setting change while preventing the confusion in the process related to the setting change on the sub-control means side. .

(B) Means for Solving the Problems Related to the Initial Invention (Note that the corresponding embodiment is shown in parentheses)
The first solution is
Main control means (50) for controlling the progress of the game;
Sub-control means (80) for controlling the output of the production;
A mode changeover switch (setting) that is electrically connected to the main control means and that is operated when the setting change mode in which the setting value that determines the advantage for the player can be changed and when the setting change mode is ended. Key switch 45) and
The main control means includes
The setting change mode is set on condition that the mode change switch is on at a predetermined time (when power is turned on), and the mode change switch is turned off during the setting change mode. A set value changing means (60) for ending the setting change mode;
Command generation means (73) for generating a command;
Command transmitting means (75) for transmitting the generated commands to the sub-control means in the order of generation;
The command generation means includes
Regardless of whether or not the setting change mode is in effect, the mode change switch is switched on / off at every predetermined time (8 interrupts (17.88 ms)). A command C1 (first state command) including information indicating the on / off state of the changeover switch is generated,
When the setting change mode is finished, after waiting for the generation of the command C1, a command C2 (setting change end command) including information indicating that the setting change mode is finished is generated.

The second solving means is the first solving means,
The command generation means generates the command C1 when the power is turned on, regardless of whether the on / off state of the mode change switch has changed.

The third solution means in the first or second solution means,
The command C2 includes information indicating the setting value at the end of the setting change mode,
The sub-control means includes sub-side setting value storage means (88) for storing the setting value, and controls the output of the effect according to the setting value stored in the sub-side setting value storage means. At the same time, when the command C2 is received, the setting value stored in the sub-side setting value storage means is updated based on the information indicating the setting value included in the received command C2.

The fourth solving means is the first to third solving means,
When the sub-control unit receives the command C1 including information indicating that the mode change switch is in the ON state, the sub control unit turns on the mode change switch regardless of whether the setting change mode is in effect. It is characterized by notifying that it is in the state.

The fifth solving means is the first to fourth solving means,
A setting change switch (46) electrically connected to the main control means and operated when changing the set value;
The setting change switch is formed so that an on / off state is changed by an operation,
The set value changing means controls to sequentially change the set value every time the setting change switch is operated during the setting change mode.
The command C1 includes information indicating the on / off state of the setting change switch,
The command generation means generates the command C1 on the condition that there is a change in the ON / OFF state of the setting change switch at every predetermined time regardless of whether the setting change mode is in effect. And
When the sub-control unit receives a command C1 including information indicating that the setting change switch is in an ON state, the setting change switch is turned on regardless of whether the setting change mode is in effect. It is characterized by notifying that it is in the state.

The sixth solution is
Main control means for controlling the progress of the game;
Sub-control means for controlling the output of the production;
A mode changeover switch that is electrically connected to the main control means and that is operated when a setting change mode in which a setting value that determines an advantage for a player can be changed and when the setting change mode is ended; Prepared,
The main control means includes
The setting change mode is set on condition that the mode change switch is on at a predetermined time, and the setting change mode is set on condition that the mode change switch is turned off during the setting change mode. A setting value changing means for ending,
Command generation means for generating a command;
Command transmitting means for transmitting the generated commands to the sub-control means in the order of generation, and
The command generation means includes
Regardless of whether or not the setting change mode is in effect, a command C1 including information indicating the on / off state of the mode changeover switch is generated every predetermined time;
When the setting change mode is ended, the command C2 including information indicating that the setting change mode is ended is generated after waiting for generation of the command C1.

(Function)
In the initial invention, the set value changing means is set to the setting change mode on condition that the mode change switch is on at a predetermined time, and the mode change switch is turned off from the on state during the setting change mode. The setting change mode is terminated on the condition that it has been set.
Further, the command generation means turns on / off the mode change switch on the condition that the on / off state of the mode change switch changes every predetermined time regardless of whether or not it is in the setting change mode. A command C1 including information indicating an off state is generated.

Furthermore, when the setting change mode ends, the command generation means generates a command C2 including information indicating that the setting change mode has ended.
Then, the command transmission unit transmits the generated commands to the sub-control unit in the order of generation.
For this reason, the sub-control means can determine whether the mode changeover switch is on or off regardless of whether or not it is in the setting change mode. It can be determined whether or not (abnormal) has occurred.

  If the command C2 is generated immediately after the mode change switch is changed from the ON state to the OFF state and the setting change mode is ended, the command is first issued in relation to the generation timing of the command C1 repeated every predetermined time. There is a possibility that the case where C1 is generated and the command C2 is generated later is mixed with the case where the command C2 is generated first and the command C1 is generated later. This confuses the processing on the sub-control means side.

Therefore, in the initial invention, when the setting change mode ends, the command generation means waits for the generation of the command C1, and then generates the command C2.
Therefore, at the end of the setting change mode, the command transmission means always sends commands to the sub-control means in the order of command C1 and command C2, and the sub-control means side always always follows the order of command C1 and command C2. Since the command is received, the process on the sub-control means side can be prevented from being confused.

(C) Effects of the Initial Invention According to the initial invention, it is possible to detect the error related to the setting change on the side of the sub-control means while avoiding confusion in the processing related to the setting change on the side of the sub-control means. it can.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Slot machine 11 Display window 20 Production switch 21 Production lamp 22 Speaker 23 Image display device 24 Bet LED
25 Stop LED
31 reel 32 motor 33 medal payout device 33a hopper 33b payout drive unit 40 bet switch 41 start switch 42 stop switch 43 medal insertion port 43a medal selector 43b first input detection sensor 43c second input detection sensor 44 payout detection sensor 45 setting key switch 46 Setting change switch 47 Reset switch 48 Door open / close detection sensor 49 Cover open / close detection sensor 50 Main control means 51 First interrupt counter 52 Second interrupt counter 60 Set value change means 60a Set value storage means 61 Role lottery means 62 Role lottery table 63 Winning flag control means 63a Winning flag 64 Reel control means 64a Push order detection means 64b Timer 64c Weight means 65 Stop position determination table 66 Stop symbol determination hand 67 payout means 68 special game control means 69 main game state control means 70 freeze control means 71 main error detection means 72 error release means 73 command generation means 74 buffer area 74a write pointer 74b read pointer 75 command transmission means 80 sub control means 81 Sub gaming state control means 82 Notification control means 83 Production control means 84 Command reception means 85 Light emission control means 86 Sub side error detection means 87 Error notification means 88 Sub side set value storage means

Claims (1)

Main control means for controlling the progress of the game;
Sub-control means for controlling the output of the production,
The main control means includes
Command generation means for generating a command;
A buffer area to store the generated commands;
Command transmitting means for transmitting the command stored in the buffer area to the sub-control means,
As the command generated by the command generating means, at least a setting value command indicating a setting value for determining an advantage for the player,
The main control means includes
The main process for the progress of the game can be repeatedly executed according to the player's operation, and the interrupt process is executed every predetermined time,
In the main process, the command generation unit generates a plurality of commands including setting value commands, and the command generation unit does not generate a command during or after the command concentration period. A waiting time for the command transmission means to transmit the command stored in the buffer area;
The slot machine, wherein the command generation means generates a command regardless of whether or not the waiting time is in progress.

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