JP2017047277A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of enhancing an attention degree to a game.SOLUTION: A pachinko machine comprises a pattern display device 41 having a display screen. The pattern display device 41 includes: a liquid crystal panel; and a backlight substrate mounted on the back face of the liquid crystal panel. Here, between the liquid crystal panel and the backlight substrate, there are disposed: a light control panel divided into a plurality of dot regions and capable of changing the quantify of light to transmit through the display screen, variably for the individual dot regions; and a driver circuit for driving and controlling the light control panel. By controlling the light control panel, therefore, for example, it is possible to perform such a light performance in a portion of the display screen as to make light brighter than those of the other portions visible.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

  For example, some gaming machines such as pachinko machines are provided with a symbol display device having a display screen. For example, on the display screen in a pachinko machine, the symbols are displayed in a variable manner on the condition that the game ball passes through the operation port provided in the game area, and the specific symbols are stopped and displayed when the predetermined condition is established, There is one that teaches a special gaming state advantageous to a player (for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2001-218895 A

  Here, in the gaming machine, it is necessary to increase the degree of attention to the game. In order to increase the degree of attention to such a game, in recent years, a display effect has been performed in which an image of an effect character or the like is displayed on the display screen in addition to the symbols variably displayed for each game time. However, there is still room for improvement with regard to the degree of attention to the game even in the configuration in which the display effect is performed.

  The present invention has been made in view of the circumstances exemplified above, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of favorably increasing the degree of attention to a game.

The present invention
Liquid crystal display means having a display screen on which an image is displayed;
A light source means disposed on the back side of the liquid crystal display means for irradiating the liquid crystal display means with light;
Display control means for performing display control of the image;
In a gaming machine equipped with
Grant determination means for executing grant determination as to whether or not to grant a privilege to the player;
Based on the fact that the result of the grant determination by the grant determination means was a grant response result corresponding to granting a privilege to the player, privilege granting means capable of granting a privilege to the player;
Based on the determination of the grant by the grant determination means, the game times control means starts the game times effect on the display screen and ends the game times effect as a display result according to the result of the grant determination. When,
With
As an effect mode of the game times effect by the game time control means, a reach effect that makes the expectation that the result of the grant determination is the grant correspondence result is set,
A light amount changing unit that is arranged between the liquid crystal display unit and the light source unit, and is divided into a plurality of unit regions and can change the amount of light transmitted through the display screen for each unit region;
A light quantity change control means for individually controlling the light quantity change means for each unit region;
With
The light quantity changing means is
A switching liquid crystal layer that switches between a high transmittance state and a low transmittance state in which the light transmittance is relatively high and low by applying a voltage;
A plurality of first liquid crystals arranged on the surface side of the switching liquid crystal layer, formed in a linear shape extending in the left-right direction in a front view of the switching liquid crystal layer, and arranged substantially in parallel at a predetermined interval. A transparent electrode;
A plurality of second transparent layers disposed on the back surface side of the switching liquid crystal layer, formed in a linear shape extending in a direction intersecting the first transparent electrode, and arranged in a plurality of substantially parallel spaces at a predetermined interval Electrodes,
With
The unit region is a dot region between one first transparent electrode and one second transparent electrode in the switching liquid crystal layer, and is formed in a one-to-one correspondence with the pixels of the liquid crystal display means. And
The effect performed on the display screen is a specific effect in which a predetermined light-emitting target pattern including a predetermined light-emitting portion is displayed on the display screen, and light brighter than an area other than the light-emitting portion is visually recognized in the light-emitting portion. Is included,
The display control means variably displays the light emitting target pattern when executing the specific effect,
The light quantity change control means controls the light quantity change means in units of the dot area by individually controlling the voltage applied to each first transparent electrode and each second transparent electrode. When executing a specific effect, the dot corresponding to the light emitting portion is moved so that the portion where the light emitting portion visually recognizes light brighter than the region other than the light emitting portion is moved according to the variation display of the light emitting target pattern. Control to apply a voltage to the region,
The display control means is characterized in that the specific effect can be executed when the effect mode of the game time effect by the game time control means is a predetermined reach effect.

  According to the present invention, the degree of attention to a game can be increased.

The front view which shows the pachinko machine in 1st Embodiment. The perspective view which expand | deploys and shows the main structures of a pachinko machine. The perspective view which expand | deploys and shows the main structures of a pachinko machine. The front view which shows the structure of a game board. The disassembled perspective view of a symbol display apparatus. The schematic diagram for demonstrating the cross-section of a liquid crystal display unit. (A) The schematic diagram at the time of seeing from the front of a liquid crystal panel, (b) The schematic diagram for demonstrating the internal structure of 1 pixel. Sectional drawing for demonstrating a thin-film transistor. (A) The schematic diagram at the time of seeing a backlight board | substrate from the front, (b) Sectional drawing which shows the cross-section of a light emission unit. (A) The front view which looked at the light control panel from the front, (b) Explanatory drawing which shows the cross-section of a light control panel. Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the light which permeate | transmits a liquid crystal display unit. The block diagram which shows the electrical constitution of a pachinko machine. The block diagram which shows the electrical constitution of a symbol display apparatus. (A)-(j) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the display content in the display screen of a symbol display apparatus. (A), (b) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the display content in the display screen of a symbol display apparatus. Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the content of the various counters used for a lottery lottery etc. The flowchart which shows the timer interruption process performed in MPU of a main controller. The flowchart which shows the normal process performed in MPU of a main controller. The flowchart which shows the game times control process performed in MPU of a main controller. The flowchart which shows the fluctuation | variation start process performed in MPU of a main controller. The flowchart which shows the command process for a fluctuation | variation performed by MPU of an audio lamp control apparatus. The flowchart which shows the process for specific light emission effects performed with a display control apparatus. (A) Explanatory drawing explaining the state of the light control panel when performing the specific light emission effect for detachment, (b) Explanatory drawing explaining the effect image for detachment, (c) Display screen when performing the specific light emission effect for detachment Explanatory drawing explaining the mode. (A) Explanatory drawing explaining the state of the light control panel when performing the specific light emission effect for reach, (b) Explanatory drawing explaining the effect image for the first reach, (c) In the situation of performing the specific light emission effect for reach. Explanatory drawing explaining the mode of the display screen before a reach display is started. (A) Explanatory drawing explaining the state of the light control panel when performing the specific light emission effect for reach, (b) Explanatory drawing explaining the effect image for the second reach, (c) In the situation of performing the specific light emission effect for reach. Explanatory drawing explaining the state of the display screen after a reach display is started. The front view of the light control panel in 2nd Embodiment, (b) The schematic diagram which shows the cross-section of a light control panel, (c) The schematic diagram which shows the equivalent circuit of a light control panel. Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the control system of the light control panel in this embodiment. The timing chart for demonstrating the timing which applies a voltage with respect to each 1st transparent electrode. (A) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating 1st lightning pattern data PD1, (b) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating 2nd lightning pattern data PD2. The flowchart which shows the process for the lightning effect performed with a display control apparatus. (A) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating a 1st lightning image, (b) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating a 2nd lightning image. The flowchart which shows the process for an angle effect performed in a display control apparatus. (A) Explanatory diagram for explaining an image displayed on the display screen when an angler effect is performed, (b) Explanatory diagram for explaining the angler pattern data, (c) Light emission target displayed on the display screen Explanatory drawing explaining a design. (A) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the pixel structure in 3rd Embodiment, (b) BB sectional drawing. (A) Explanatory drawing which shows the image displayed on the display screen G, (b) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating 1 pixel of a character image, (c) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating 1 pixel of a specific light emission area | region. (A) Explanatory drawing which shows the 1st lightning image in 4th Embodiment, (b) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the pixel structure of the boundary part of a lightning part and a background part in a lightning effect. The block diagram which shows the electrical constitution of the symbol display apparatus in 5th Embodiment. The front view which shows the structure of the game board for demonstrating the modification of a specific light emission effect.

<First Embodiment>
Hereinafter, a first embodiment of a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter referred to as a “pachinko machine”), which is a type of gaming machine, will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a front view of the pachinko machine 10, and FIGS. 2 and 3 are perspective views showing an unfolded main configuration of the pachinko machine 10. In FIG. 2, the configuration in the game area of the pachinko machine 10 is omitted for convenience.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko machine 10 includes an outer frame 11 that forms an outer shell of the pachinko machine 10, and a gaming machine body 12 that is rotatably attached to the outer frame 11. . The outer frame 11 is configured by connecting a wooden plate or the like to four sides and has a rectangular frame shape. The pachinko machine 10 is installed in the game hall by attaching and fixing the outer frame 11 to the island facility.

  The gaming machine main body 12 includes an inner frame 13, a front door frame 14 disposed in front of the inner frame 13, and a back pack unit 15 disposed behind the inner frame 13. The inner frame 13 of the gaming machine main body 12 is supported so as to be rotatable with respect to the outer frame 11. Specifically, the inner frame 13 can be rotated forward with the left side as a rotation base end side and the right side as a rotation front end side in front view.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the front door frame 14 is rotatably supported on the inner frame 13, and can be rotated forward with the left side as a rotation base end side and the right side as a rotation front end side in a front view. It is said that. Further, as shown in FIG. 3, a backpack unit 15 is rotatably supported on the inner frame 13, and when viewed from the front, the left side is the rotation base end side and the right side is the rotation front end side. It is possible to move.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the gaming machine main body 12 is provided with a locking device 16 at its rotating tip, and the gaming machine main body 12 is locked to the outer frame 11 so that it cannot be opened. And has a function of locking the front door frame 14 to the inner frame 13 so that the front door frame 14 cannot be opened. Each of these locked states is released by performing an unlocking operation using the unlocking key on the cylinder lock 17 that is exposed on the front surface of the pachinko machine 10.

  Next, the configuration of the front side of the gaming machine body 12 will be described.

  The inner frame 13 is mainly composed of a resin base 21 whose outer shape is substantially the same as that of the outer frame 11. A substantially elliptical window hole 23 is formed at the center of the resin base 21. A game board 24 is detachably attached to the resin base 21. The game board 24 is made of plywood, and a game area formed on the front surface of the game board 24 is exposed to the front side of the inner frame 13 through the window hole 23 of the resin base 21.

  Here, the structure of the game board 24 is demonstrated based on FIG. The game board 24 is formed with a plurality of large and small openings penetrating in the front-rear direction by being subjected to router processing. Each opening has a general winning port 31, a variable winning device 32, an upper working port (first starting ball entering portion) 33, a lower working port (second starting ball entering portion) 34, a through gate 35, a variable display unit 36, A main display unit 43, an accessory display unit 44, and the like are provided.

  When a ball enters the general winning port 31, the variable winning device 32, the upper operating port 33, and the lower operating port 34, it is detected by a detection sensor (not shown) disposed on the back side of the game board 24, Based on the detection result, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out. In this case, 10 game balls are paid out when the general winning opening 31 is entered, and 15 game balls are paid out when the variable winning device 32 is entered. Is executed, three game balls are paid out when a ball enters the upper working port 33, and four game balls are paid out when a ball enters the lower working port 34. Is executed. The number of game balls to be paid out is not limited to the above.

  In addition, an out port 37 is provided at the lowermost part of the game board 24, and game balls that have not entered various winning ports etc. are discharged from the game area through the out port 37. The game board 24 is provided with a large number of nails 38 in order to disperse and adjust the falling direction of the game ball as appropriate, and various members (functions) such as a windmill.

  Here, the entry ball means that the game ball passes through a predetermined opening, and is not only a mode of being discharged from the game area after passing through the opening, but is discharged from the game area after passing through the opening. Embodiments that are not included are also included. However, in the following description, in order to clearly distinguish the game ball from entering the out port 37, the game ball enters the variable winning device 32, the upper operation port 33, the lower operation port 34, or the through gate 35. Is also expressed as a prize.

  The upper operating port 33 and the lower operating port 34 are unitized as an operating port device and are installed in the game board 24. Both the upper working port 33 and the lower working port 34 are opened upward. Further, both the operation ports 33 and 34 are arranged in the vertical direction, more specifically in the vertical direction, with the upper operation port 33 facing upward. The lower working port 34 is provided with an electric accessory 34a as a guide piece made up of a pair of left and right movable pieces. When the electric accessory 34a is in the closed state, winning in the lower working port 34 is impossible, and winning in the lower operating port 34 is possible when the electric accessory 34a is in the open state.

  The variable winning device 32 includes a large winning opening 32a that leads to the back side of the game board 24, and an open / close door 32b that opens and closes the large winning opening 32a. The open / close door 32b is normally in a closed state in which a game ball cannot be won or difficult to win, and a predetermined game ball is likely to win when winning the transition to the open / close execution mode (open / close execution state) in the internal lottery. It can be switched to the open state. Here, the opening / closing execution mode is a mode to be shifted to when a big win is won. As an opening mode of the variable winning device 32, the variable winning device 32 is repeatedly opened with a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) or a predetermined number (for example, 10) of winnings as one round and a plurality of rounds (for example, 15 rounds) as an upper limit. There is an embodiment.

  The main display portion 43 and the accessory display portion 44 are provided on a decorative member 39 disposed along the outer edge on the lower side of the game area. The decorative member 39 extends from the board surface of the game board 24 to the front of the pachinko machine 10. More specifically, the front surface of the decorative member 39 faces the window panel 62 provided on the front door frame 14 so that the game area can be viewed from the front of the pachinko machine 10. The distance between them is narrower than that of one game ball. This prevents the game ball from falling in front of the front surface of the decorative member 39.

  A main display unit 43 and an accessory display unit 44 are provided so as to be exposed from the front surface of the decorative member 39. That is, the main display unit 43 and the accessory display unit 44 are visible from the front of the pachinko machine 10 through the window panel 62 of the front door frame 14, and a game ball is in front of both the display units 43 and 44. It is prevented from falling.

  In the main display unit 43, the display of the variation of the picture is performed with the winning at the upper working port 33 or the lower working port 34 as a trigger, and as a result of stopping the variation display, the winning to the upper working port 33 or the lower working port 34 is achieved. The result of the internal lottery performed based on the display is clearly shown. In other words, in this pachinko machine 10, the winning to the upper working port 33 and the winning to the lower working port 34 are not distinguished in the internal lottery, and are performed based on the winning to the upper working port 33 or the lower working port 34. The result of the internal lottery is displayed on the main display unit 43 which is a common display area. When the result of the internal lottery based on the winning to the upper operating port 33 or the lower operating port 34 is a winning result corresponding to the shift to the opening / closing execution mode, a predetermined stop result is displayed on the main display unit 43. After the display and the change display are stopped, the mode shifts to the opening / closing execution mode.

  By the way, based on the winning of one of the operating ports 33, 34, the display of variation is started on the main display unit 43, a predetermined stop result is displayed, and the variation display is stopped once. It corresponds to. In addition, as a pattern variably displayed on the main display unit 43, a configuration in which a plurality of types of characters are variably displayed, a configuration in which a plurality of types of symbols are variably displayed, a configuration in which a plurality of types of characters are variably displayed, or a plurality A configuration in which the color of the seed is switched and displayed can be considered.

  The accessory display unit 44 displays a variation of the picture triggered by a winning to the through gate 35. As a result of stopping the variation display, the result of the internal lottery performed based on the winning to the through gate 35 is displayed. Explicit by display. If the result of the internal lottery based on the winning to the through gate 35 is a winning result corresponding to the transition to the state where the electric role is opened, a predetermined stop result is displayed on the accessory display unit 44 and displayed in a variable manner. After is stopped, it shifts to the electric utility open state. In the electric combination open state, the electric combination 34a provided in the lower working port 34 is opened in a predetermined manner.

  The variable display unit 36 is provided with a symbol display device 41 for variably displaying (or variably displaying or switching display) a symbol with a number as a symbol. The variable display unit 36 is provided with a center frame 42 so as to surround the symbol display device 41. The center frame 42 has an upper portion extending forward of the pachinko machine 10. As a result, the game ball is prevented from dropping in front of the display screen of the symbol display device 41, and the inconvenience that the visibility of the display screen is lowered due to the fall of the game ball does not occur. .

  The symbol display device 41 is configured as a liquid crystal display device including a liquid crystal display, and display contents are controlled by a display control device described later. The internal structure of the symbol display device 41 will be described in detail later. On the display screen of the symbol display device 41, a plurality of variable display areas in which a plurality of types of symbols are variably displayed are set. Is displayed. For example, a symbol sequence in which a plurality of types of symbols are arranged in a predetermined order is set side by side in the top, middle, and bottom, and a plurality of types of symbols are displayed in each symbol column, and these symbols are scrolled in the horizontal direction. In this way, it is displayed in a variable manner. In this case, the change display on the symbol display device 41 is started based on winning in the upper working port 33 or the lower working port 34. That is, when variable display is performed on the main display unit 43, variable display is performed on the symbol display device 41 accordingly. Then, for example, the symbol display device 41 is set in advance as a game time for shifting to the opening / closing execution mode corresponding to 15 rounds, in which the large winning opening 32a of the variable winning device 32 is opened 15 times as the opening / closing execution mode. A predetermined combination of symbols is stopped and displayed on the active line.

  A first holding lamp portion 45 corresponding to the main display portion 43 and the symbol display device 41 is provided in the upper left portion on the front side of the center frame 42. A maximum of four game balls won in the upper operation port 33 or the lower operation port 34 are reserved, and the number of reservations is displayed when the first reservation lamp unit 45 is turned on. As described above, the upper portion of the center frame 42 extends forward of the pachinko machine 10, so that the visibility of the first holding ramp portion 45 is not hindered by the fall of the game ball.

  In the upper right portion of the center frame 42, a second holding lamp portion 46 corresponding to the accessory display portion 44 is provided. The number of times that the game ball has passed through the through gate 35 is held up to a maximum of 4 times, and the number of held balls is displayed when the second holding lamp unit 46 is turned on. In addition, it is good also as a structure by which the function of each holding | maintenance lamp | ramp part 45 and 46 is fulfill | performed by the display in a partial area | region of the symbol display apparatus 41.

  An inner rail portion 51 and an outer rail portion 52 are attached to the game board 24, and a guide rail is constituted by the inner rail portion 51 and the outer rail portion 52, and a game launched from the game ball launching mechanism 53. A ball is guided to the upper part of the game area. As shown in FIG. 2, the game ball launching mechanism 53 is attached below the window hole 23 in the resin base 21. The game ball launching mechanism 53 is operated by operating a firing handle 54 provided on the front door frame 14. Operation is performed.

  A front door frame 14 is provided so as to cover the entire front side of the inner frame 13. As shown in FIG. 1, the front door frame 14 is formed with a window portion 61 so that almost the entire game area can be viewed from the front. The window portion 61 has a substantially elliptical shape, and the window panel 62 described above is fitted therein. Although the window panel 62 is colorless and transparent with glass, the window panel 62 is not limited to this and may be colorless and transparent with synthetic resin.

  Around the window portion 61, light emitting means such as various lamp portions are provided. A display lamp part 63 is provided above the window part 61 as a part of the various lamp parts. In addition, on both the left and right sides of the display lamp unit 63, speaker units 64 are provided for outputting sound effects corresponding to the gaming state.

  Below the window portion 61 in the front door frame 14, an upper bulging portion 65 and a lower bulging portion 66 that bulge to the near side are provided side by side. An upper pan 71 that opens upward is provided inside the upper bulging portion 65, and a lower pan 72 that also opens upward is provided inside the lower bulging portion 66. The upper plate 71 has a function of temporarily storing game balls paid out from a payout device described later and guiding them to the game ball launching mechanism 53 side while aligning them in a line. In addition, the lower tray 72 has a function of storing game balls that are surplus in the upper tray 71. The game balls paid out from the payout device 96 of the back pack unit 15 are discharged to the upper plate 71 and the lower plate 72 through a passage forming unit 73 provided on the back surface of the front door frame 14.

  Next, the configuration on the back side of the gaming machine main body 12 will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 3, a main controller 81 and an audio lamp controller 82 are mounted on the back of the inner frame 13 (specifically, the game board 24).

  The main control device 81 includes a main control board that controls the main control of the game and a power interruption monitoring board that monitors the power supply. The main control board and the power interruption monitoring board are made of a transparent resin material or the like. It is housed and configured. The board box 83 includes a substantially rectangular parallelepiped box base (front case body) and a box cover (back case body) that covers an opening of the box base. The box base and the box cover are connected to each other in a non-separable manner by a box coupling portion 85 as a separation preventing means (or a coupling means), thereby sealing the substrate box 83. And by being connected inseparably by these box coupling | bond parts 85, when the internal space of the board | substrate box 83 is open | released, it has the structure which needs destruction of the said board | substrate box 83 or a part of excision. A plurality of box coupling portions 85 are provided on the long side portion of the substrate box 83, and at least one of them is used for the coupling process.

  The box coupling portion 85 can be applied to any configuration as long as the box base and the box cover are coupled so as not to be opened, but by inserting a locking claw into the long hole constituting the box coupling portion 85, The box cover is connected to the box cover so that it cannot be opened. The coupling process by the box coupling unit 85 prevents unauthorized opening after the coupling, and makes it possible to detect such a situation early and easily even if unauthorized opening is performed. Even after the opening, it is possible to perform the opening process again. That is, the coupling process is performed by inserting a locking claw into at least one of the plurality of box coupling portions 85. When the board box 83 is opened, such as when a failure occurs in the accommodated main control board or when the main control board is inspected, the box coupling portion 85 into which the locking claw is inserted and the other box coupling portion 85 The connecting part of the box and the connecting part with the box body are cut. Thereby, the box base and the box cover of the board box 83 are separated, and the internal main control board can be taken out. Thereafter, when the coupling process is performed again, the locking claw is inserted into the long hole of the other box coupling portion 85. If the history of opening the board box 83 is left in the board box 83, it can be easily found that the illegal opening has been performed by looking at the board box 83.

  A plurality of coupling pieces 86 are provided on one short side of the substrate box 83 so as to protrude laterally. These coupling pieces 86 have a one-to-one correspondence with a plurality of coupled pieces 87 formed on the mounting base of the main control device 81, and the board box 83 and the mounting base are formed by the coupling pieces 86 and the coupled pieces 87. Between them.

  In addition, as a trace means for discovering unauthorized opening of the substrate box 83, a seal seal may be attached so as to straddle the boundary between the box base and the box cover. In this case, when the seal seal is peeled off from the pasted portion, the adhesive layer of the seal seal remains on the substrate box 83 side, and the trace remains. Further, an IC tag that transmits a response wave including identification information to the ringing wave having a predetermined frequency is provided on the seal sticker. When the seal sticker is peeled off, the antenna of the IC tag is cut and the response It is good also as a structure which cannot transmit a wave.

  The sound lamp control device 82 includes a sound lamp control board that controls sound and lamp display and control of a display control device (not shown) according to an instruction from the main control device 81. The sound lamp control board is made of a transparent resin material or the like. The board box 84 is configured to be accommodated.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the back pack unit 15 includes a back pack 91, and a payout mechanism 92 and a control device assembly unit 93 are attached to the back pack 91. The back pack 91 is formed of a transparent synthetic resin, and has a protective cover portion 94 that protrudes rearward and has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape so as to cover the main control device 81, the sound lamp control device 82, and the like from the rear. doing.

  The payout mechanism portion 92 is disposed so as to bypass the protective cover portion 94, and a tank 95 to which game balls supplied from island facilities in the game hall are sequentially replenished, and a game stored in the tank 95. A payout device 96 for paying out balls. The game balls paid out from the payout device 96 are discharged to the upper plate 71 or the lower plate 72 through a payout passage (not shown) provided on the downstream side of the payout device 96. Further, the payout mechanism 92 is mounted with a back pack substrate on which a main power supply of, for example, 24 volts AC is supplied and a power switch for turning on and off the power is provided.

  The control device assembly unit 93 includes a payout control device 97 and a power source and launch control device 98. The payout control device 97 and the power supply / launch control device 98 are arranged so as to overlap each other so that the payout control device 97 is located behind the pachinko machine 10.

  The payout control device 97 is configured such that a payout control board for controlling the payout device 96 is accommodated in a substrate box. In this case, fraud suppression means similar to the substrate box 83 of the main control device 81 may be applied to the substrate box of the payout control device 97.

  The power source and launch control device 98 is configured such that a power source and launch control board is accommodated in a board box, and predetermined power required by various control devices and the like is generated and output by the board, and further by the player Control of the launch of the game ball accompanying the operation of the firing handle 54 is performed. In addition, the pachinko machine 10 has a function of storing and storing various data, and even if a power interruption occurs, the state of the power interruption is maintained, and when returning from the power interruption, It is possible to return to the state.

  The symbol display device 41 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the symbol display device 41.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the symbol display device 41 includes a liquid crystal display unit 101 that constitutes a display screen G, and a case body 102 that houses the liquid crystal display unit 101. The liquid crystal display unit 101 has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape as a whole, and is configured by overlapping a plurality of members.

  The case body 102 includes a front frame 111 having a size that allows the liquid crystal display unit 101 to enter, and a base member 112 that forms a space in which the liquid crystal display unit 101 can be accommodated in cooperation with the front frame 111. . The front frame 111 is provided with a first peripheral wall portion 111a erected toward the rear (base member 112 side). The base member 112 has a front (front frame 111 side) corresponding to the first peripheral wall portion 111a. ) Is provided with a second peripheral wall portion 112a. The first peripheral wall portion 111a and the second peripheral wall portion 112a are formed so as to abut each other when the front frame 111 and the base member 112 are overlapped. As a result, the front frame 111 and the base member 112 are overlapped, so that the first peripheral wall portion 111a and the second peripheral wall portion 112a are brought into contact with each other, thereby forming a space in which the liquid crystal display unit 101 can be accommodated. Both are fixed with screws in a state where the liquid crystal display unit 101 is accommodated in the space.

  The first peripheral wall portion 111 a and the second peripheral wall portion 112 a are formed so as to correspond to the liquid crystal display unit 101. Specifically, the inner wall surfaces of the peripheral wall portions 111 a and 112 a are in contact with the edge portion of the liquid crystal display unit 101. Is formed. Thereby, since the liquid crystal display unit 101 is accommodated in a state surrounded by the peripheral wall portions 111a and 112a in a state where no gap is generated, the displacement of the liquid crystal display unit 101 with respect to the case body 102 is suppressed. .

  The symbol display device 41 is arranged so that the front frame 111 side is the front surface, and is formed so that the liquid crystal display unit 101 can be seen from the front side. Specifically, on the front side of the front frame 111, an opening 113 that opens an internal space formed by the front frame 111 and the base member 112 overlapping is formed. The opening 113 has a rectangular shape corresponding to the size of the display screen, and the liquid crystal display unit 101 is visible through the opening 113.

  Here, the size of the opening 113 is formed to be smaller than that of the liquid crystal display unit 101. As a result, the liquid crystal display unit 101 comes into contact with the periphery of the opening 113, and movement of the liquid crystal display unit 101 to the front side is restricted.

  The liquid crystal display unit 101 includes a transmissive liquid crystal panel 121 that displays an image by transmitting light, a backlight substrate 122 that is disposed behind the liquid crystal panel 121 and supplies light to the liquid crystal panel 121, And a light control panel 123 that controls light from the backlight substrate 122 to the liquid crystal panel 121. These are arranged in the order of the liquid crystal panel 121, the light control panel 123, and the backlight substrate 122 from the front side (front side when viewed from the front of the gaming machine) to the back side (back side when viewed from the front of the gaming machine). It is integrated with.

  Specifically, a first seal member 124 is formed between the backlight substrate 122 and the light control panel 123 to bond them, and between the liquid crystal panel 121 and the light control panel 123, both are bonded. A second seal member 125 is provided. Each of the sealing members 124 and 125 is a thermosetting epoxy resin, and is formed in a rectangular frame shape corresponding to the outer edges of the liquid crystal panel 121, the light control panel 123, and the backlight substrate 122, as shown in FIG. Yes.

  The bonding method using the first seal member 124 will be described. A part of the first seal member 124 is drawn on the outer edge of the liquid crystal panel 121 and a part of the first seal member 124 is drawn on the outer edge of the light control panel 123. The drawing may be performed by patterning, or may be formed by setting a screen plate in advance, applying a liquid seal member on the plate, and extruding it with a squeegee.

  When the drawing is completed, the two are pasted together while aligning the two. After the bonding is completed, the first seal member 124 is cured by performing a heat treatment. Thereby, they are integrated in a state where the relative positional relationship between the two is defined. Since the second seal member 125 is the same as the first seal member 124 except that the object to be bonded is different, description thereof is omitted.

  The liquid crystal panel 121 is configured to display an image when irradiated with light from the backlight substrate 122 via the light control panel 123.

  Details of each component relating to the display of the image will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7. 6A and 6B are schematic views for explaining a cross-sectional structure of a portion where an image is displayed in the liquid crystal display unit 101, FIG. 7A is a front view of the liquid crystal panel 121, and FIG. 7B is a liquid crystal panel. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the pixel structure of 121, and is a schematic diagram which shows the patterning structure of the glass substrate 131 arrange | positioned in detail, seeing from the front of a game machine in detail. For convenience of explanation, the dimensions are changed in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the liquid crystal panel 121 includes a pair of glass substrates 131 and 132 as a substrate having transparency. The two glass substrates 131 and 132 are arranged to face each other with a predetermined interval, and an image display liquid crystal layer 133 is provided between the two glass substrates 131 and 132 so as to be sandwiched between the two glass substrates 131 and 132. The image display liquid crystal layer 133 is sealed by a seal member (not shown). In the liquid crystal panel 121, a region where the image display liquid crystal layer 133 exists in a front view is a display region 134. The display area 134 is formed in the same size as the opening 113, and is provided at a position where almost the entire area can be seen through the opening 113. The display area 134 corresponds to the display screen G. The transparent substrate is not limited to a glass substrate, and may be an organic polymer such as an acrylic resin or a flexible substrate that can be bent and deformed.

  In the display area 134, a plurality of pixels are formed in a matrix. Specifically, electrodes are stretched in a matrix on the surface of the glass substrate 131, and are formed along the X direction (the left and right direction of the gaming machine) as shown in FIG. A plurality of gate lines 141 arranged at equal intervals in the machine vertical direction) are provided, and a source line 142 formed along a direction orthogonal to the gate lines 141 is provided. One pixel is defined by the gate line 141 and the source line 142. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 7B, one pixel is composed of a plurality of (specifically, three) sub-pixels, and an area partitioned by the gate line 141 and the source line 142 is defined. Three are one pixel. The structure of each subpixel is the same except for the structure of a color filter described later.

  Note that a source line 142 and a gate line 141 are formed so that 800 × 480 pixels are formed in the display region 134. For this reason, the liquid crystal panel 121 has a resolution of 800 × 480 pixels.

  Polarizers 151 and 152 are provided outside the pair of glass substrates 131 and 132, respectively, and a predetermined gap is provided between the front glass substrate 132 and the image display liquid crystal layer 133 when viewed from the front of the gaming machine. A color filter 153 that transmits light in a wavelength range and absorbs light in other wavelengths is provided. By controlling the voltage applied (applied) to the image display liquid crystal layer 133 for each pixel, the light transmittance in each pixel is adjusted (changed) and the transmitted light is colored by the color filter 153. A color image is displayed in the display area 134 (display screen).

  Each configuration will be specifically described. The image display liquid crystal layer 133 includes nematic liquid crystal molecules 161 and a pair of alignment films 162 and 163 for arranging the liquid crystal molecules 161. . Both alignment films 162 and 163 are made of polyimide resin, and are opposed to each other with the image display liquid crystal layer 133 interposed therebetween. Each alignment film 162, 163 has a groove in which liquid crystal molecules 161 are arranged in a line. The grooves are formed so that their directions are 90 degrees with respect to each other.

  When a liquid crystal material containing liquid crystal molecules 161 is sealed between the alignment films 162 and 163 having such a configuration, the liquid crystal molecules 161 are aligned along the grooves of the alignment films 162 and 163. Thereby, the liquid crystal molecules 161 are horizontally aligned with respect to the display region 134 (with respect to the direction along the plate surfaces of the glass substrates 131 and 132). In this case, since the directions of the grooves formed in the alignment films 162 and 163 are orthogonal to each other, the liquid crystal molecules 161 are twisted 90 degrees between the alignment films 162 and 163. When a voltage is applied to the image display liquid crystal layer 133 in the vertical direction (in the direction in which the glass substrates 131 and 132 face each other), the liquid crystal molecules 161 are polarized and vertically aligned.

  A columnar spacer 164 having a columnar shape is provided between the alignment films 162 and 163. The columnar spacers 164 are formed in a columnar shape, and a plurality of columnar spacers 164 are formed at predetermined intervals so as to overlap the source line 142. The height of the columnar spacer 164 is set to be constant, and the alignment films 162 and 163 are arranged through the columnar spacer 164. Thus, the thickness dimension of the image display liquid crystal layer 133 is set to be constant by the columnar spacer 164. That is, the columnar spacer 164 makes the thickness of the image display liquid crystal layer 133 uniform.

  Further, the columnar spacer 164 is formed of a resin film that is easy to perform patterning shaping and that is relatively less affected by dirt. In this case, the size (outer diameter) and installation interval of the columnar spacers 164 are set so that when a game ball collides against the liquid crystal display unit 101, the columnar spacer 164 can withstand the impact. Thereby, even if a game ball is hit against the liquid crystal display unit 101 when a game is being performed, the liquid crystal display unit 101 is not broken. That is, the columnar spacer 164 is formed to function as a reinforcement for the liquid crystal display unit 101. In this case, the luminance of the display screen can be increased by the amount of light loss caused by the reinforcing member, compared to a configuration in which a reinforcing member such as an impact protection sheet is separately provided.

  The shape of the columnar spacer 164 is not limited to the columnar shape, and may be a spherical shape or a rectangular parallelepiped shape, for example. Further, instead of the resin film, other materials may be used. The point is that the thickness of the image display liquid crystal layer 133 is made uniform and the strength capable of withstanding the impact of the game ball is ensured.

  Both polarizing plates 151 and 152 are configured to transmit only light that vibrates in one predetermined direction and to block other light. Specifically, both polarizing plates 151 and 152 are formed by adding an iodine compound (iodine molecule) to a polymer film (polyvinyl alcohol) and applying a tensile force in one direction to the film. The Thereby, iodine molecules are regularly arranged in the tensile direction. In this case, when light enters the polarizing plates 151 and 152, light parallel to the major axis of the iodine molecule is absorbed, while light in a direction orthogonal to the major axis of the iodine molecule passes through the iodine molecule. To do. Each polarizing plate 151,152 is affixed with respect to a pair of glass substrate 131,132 so that a mutual transmission axis may orthogonally cross.

  According to such a configuration, in a situation where no voltage is applied to the image display liquid crystal layer 133, the liquid crystal molecules 161 of the image display liquid crystal layer 133 are horizontally aligned in a state of being twisted by 90 degrees. Of the light traveling from the side toward the front side, the light that has passed through the back polarizing plate 151 is rotated by 90 degrees when passing through the image display liquid crystal layer 133 (optical rotation phenomenon). Thereby, since the transmitted light coincides with the transmission axis of the polarizing plate 152 on the near side, the transmitted light passes through the polarizing plate 152 and white display is performed in the pixel (transmission state). In this case, when light having a specific wavelength is absorbed by the color filter 153, light having a wavelength that has not been absorbed is visually recognized in the pixel. Thereby, color display (color display) corresponding to the wavelength is performed in the pixel.

  On the other hand, when a voltage is applied in a direction perpendicular to the image display liquid crystal layer 133 (in a direction in which both glass substrates 131 and 132 face each other), the liquid crystal molecules 161 of the image display liquid crystal layer 133 are along the voltage application direction. To align vertically. Thereby, the transmitted light that has passed through the polarizing plate 151 out of the light traveling from the back side toward the near side reaches the polarizing plate 152 as it is, and is absorbed by the polarizing plate 152. Therefore, the pixel is displayed in black (shielded state).

  From the above, as the voltage is applied to the image display liquid crystal layer 133, the liquid crystal molecules 161 change from the horizontal alignment to the vertical alignment, thereby switching from white display (bright) to black display (dark). In other words, the transmittance changes from a high state to a low state.

  This method is easy to ensure a large aperture ratio (ratio of the area through which light is transmitted in one pixel and the area of the entire pixel) and is inexpensive compared with other methods in liquid crystal display, but has a narrow viewing angle. . However, generally, the player sits in front of the pachinko machine 10 and looks at the display screen G from the front. For this reason, since it is rare to see the display screen G from an oblique direction, inconvenience due to a narrow viewing angle is unlikely to occur in games. Therefore, it is possible to ensure high-luminance light while avoiding inconveniences that may be caused by using such a method.

  Further, in order to improve the reliability of each polarizing plate 151, 152, a substrate film made of an acetate resin may be attached to each polarizing plate 151, 152. In this case, it is preferable to perform a flattening process so that unevenness is not formed on the surface of the substrate film. As a result, it is possible to suppress unevenness in the density of the image that can be caused by the respective polarizing plates 151 and 152. Furthermore, the substrate film is preferably UV-absorbing. Thereby, the ultraviolet deterioration of the iodine compound contained in each polarizing plate 151,152 can be suppressed.

  In addition to the substrate film, a protective film may be provided to cover the surface irregularities of the polarizing plates 151 and 152 and the surface irregularities of the substrate film.

  Note that although the color filter 153 and the glass substrate 132 are separated from each other for the sake of illustration, the color filter 153 is actually deposited on the image display liquid crystal layer 133 side of the glass substrate 132.

  Next, a configuration for applying a voltage to the image display liquid crystal layer 133 will be described.

  As a configuration for applying a voltage to the image display liquid crystal layer 133, a common electrode 171 formed of a transparent conductive material is provided on the front glass substrate 132 as viewed from the front of the gaming machine. The common electrode 171 is made of indium tin oxide (ITO) and has the same size as the display region 134. The common electrode 171 is formed so as to cover the color filter 153.

  Corresponding to the common electrode 171, a pixel electrode 172 is formed on the glass substrate 131 on the back side as viewed from the front of the gaming machine, as shown in FIGS. The pixel electrode 172 is made of a transparent conductive material like the common electrode 171, and is specifically made of indium tin oxide (ITO). The pixel electrode 172 is formed in a size corresponding to the sub-pixel, and specifically, is formed in a rectangular shape slightly smaller than the sub-pixel. For convenience of description, in the following description, the glass substrate 131 on the side where the pixel electrode 172 is provided is referred to as the array substrate 131, and the glass substrate 132 on the side where the color filter 153 and the common electrode 171 are provided is referred to as the CF substrate 132. . The array substrate 131 is disposed on the back side when viewed from the front of the gaming machine, and the CF substrate 132 is disposed on the front side when viewed from the front of the gaming machine. In other words, the array substrate 131 is disposed on the backlight substrate 122 side.

  By controlling the voltage with respect to the pixel electrode 172, the orientation of the image display liquid crystal layer 133 disposed between the pixel electrode 172 and the common electrode 171 is controlled. The voltage control to the pixel electrode 172 is performed by a thin film transistor 173 provided in a region formed by cutting off a corner portion of the pixel electrode 172 (see FIG. 7B).

  A structure of the thin film transistor 173 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the structure of the thin film transistor 173. For convenience of explanation, the thickness dimension of each layer is changed and shown.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the thin film transistor 173 includes a base film 181 formed on the array substrate 131. A polysilicon layer 182 as a channel is formed on the base film 181. The polysilicon layer 182 is formed by depositing amorphous silicon on the base film 181 and annealing the amorphous silicon. Since the polysilicon layer 182 has higher carrier mobility than that of amorphous silicon, the thin film transistor 173 can be switched at high speed by using the polysilicon layer 182 as a channel.

  An insulating film 183 is formed on the polysilicon layer 182, and a gate electrode 184 is formed so as to sandwich the insulating film 183 in cooperation with the polysilicon layer 182. The insulating film 183 is made of a material having a higher dielectric constant than that of the silicon oxide film, and is made of SiN, for example. The width dimension of the gate electrode 184 (the length dimension in the direction orthogonal to the direction in which the gate electrode 184 and the polysilicon layer 182 face each other) is set smaller than that of the polysilicon layer 182. The gate electrode 184 is connected to a gate line 141 that partitions and forms a pixel. When a voltage is applied to the gate line 141, an electric field is applied from the gate electrode 184 to the polysilicon layer 182. .

  Further, a first protective film 185 is formed so as to cover the insulating film 183 and the gate electrode 184. The first protective film 185 is a silicon oxide film, and the first protective film 185 prevents impurities from being mixed into the gate electrode 184 and the insulating film 183.

  A source electrode 186 and a drain electrode 187 are formed on the first protective film 185, respectively. The source electrode 186 and the drain electrode 187 are connected to the polysilicon layer 182. Specifically, n-type high concentration regions 188 and 189 are formed by impurity doping in a region of the polysilicon layer 182 that is not covered with the gate electrode 184, and contacts with these high concentration regions 188 and 189 are formed. In order to ensure the above, a pair of contact holes 190 and 191 are formed in each insulating film 183 and first protective film 185. The source electrode 186 is formed so as to fill the contact hole 190, and is connected to the high concentration region 188 through the contact hole 190, and the drain electrode 187 is connected to the high concentration region 189 through the contact hole 191. Has been.

  The source electrode 186 is electrically connected to the source line 142, and the drain electrode 187 is connected to the pixel electrode 172. Specifically, for the connection between the drain electrode 187 and the pixel electrode 172, a second protective film 192 is formed on the source electrode 186 and the drain electrode 187 to protect and flatten the electrodes 186 and 187. ing. The second protective film 192 is made of an insulating material, specifically a silicon oxide film. A contact hole 193 is formed at a portion of the second protective film 192 that covers the drain electrode 187, and a pixel electrode 172 is formed so as to be connected to the drain electrode 187 through the contact hole 193.

  According to such a structure, when a voltage equal to or higher than the threshold voltage is applied to the gate electrode 184 in a situation where a voltage is applied between the source electrode 186 and the drain electrode 187, the thin film transistor 173 is turned on, and the polycrystal as a channel layer A current flows between the source electrode 186 and the drain electrode 187 through the silicon layer 182 (hereinafter simply referred to as a drain current). A predetermined voltage is applied between the pixel electrode 172 and the common electrode 171 by the drain current, and an electric field in a direction in which the electrodes 171 and 172 face each other is applied to the liquid crystal molecules 161. As a result, the alignment of the liquid crystal molecules 161 changes and the light transmittance changes.

  In particular, the transmittance of light passing through the pixel (specifically, the orientation angle of the liquid crystal molecules 161) depends on the strength of the electric field applied to the liquid crystal molecules 161. The strength of the electric field depends on the magnitude of the drain current, and the drain current depends on the gate voltage and the source-drain voltage. Therefore, by controlling the gate voltage and the source-drain voltage of the thin film transistor 173, the transmittance of light passing through the pixel can be controlled. This makes it possible to express the color shade.

  In addition, since the polysilicon layer 182 having higher carrier mobility than amorphous silicon is used as the channel layer, the responsiveness of the thin film transistor 173 is improved. As a result, when high-speed screen display switching is performed in a game, the switching can be easily handled. Therefore, it is possible to suitably execute a display effect of switching the display screen at high speed in the game.

  Further, since the insulating film 183 and the gate electrode 184 are provided after the polysilicon layer 182 is provided, impurity doping can be performed at the stage where the polysilicon layer 182 is formed. Accordingly, the threshold voltage of the thin film transistor 173 can be controlled by adjusting the doping concentration of the polysilicon layer 182. Therefore, the thin film transistor 173 can be used not only as a pixel switching element but also as a CMOS circuit. Therefore, various driver circuits described later can be formed on the array substrate 131.

  Furthermore, a pair of high concentration regions 188 and 189 can be formed by impurity doping. By forming these high-concentration regions 188 and 189, the channel length can be shortened, and good contact with the source electrode 186 and the drain electrode 187 can be ensured. Accordingly, the amount of heat generated in the thin film transistor 173 can be reduced and the switching speed can be improved. Therefore, even in the situation where the pachinko machines 10 are arranged side by side in the game hall, the occurrence of a failure due to heat generation can be suppressed.

  In general, in a game hall, a plurality of pachinko machines 10 are arranged side by side and arranged so that the back sides face each other. In this case, if heat is generated from the symbol display device 41 provided on the back side of the pachinko machine 10, the temperature of the space on the back side becomes high and normal display is not performed, and various devices are adversely affected. There is a fear. The fear increases as the display screen G of the symbol display device 41 becomes larger. On the other hand, according to the present embodiment, the amount of heat generated in the thin film transistor 173 is suppressed, and the total amount of reduction in the amount of generated heat increases as the number of thin film transistors 173 increases (as the display screen G increases). Thereby, the inconvenience which may arise by heat_generation | fever can be suppressed.

  In particular, a main control device 81 that performs main control relating to games such as jackpot determination is disposed on the back side of the symbol display device 41. For this reason, a malfunction may occur in the main controller 81 due to the influence of heat generated by the symbol display device 41. On the other hand, according to this embodiment, since the heat generation of the symbol display device 41 is suppressed, the malfunction of the main control device 81 is suppressed.

  For example, in the slot machine, since various devices are housed in the housing, the temperature rise due to heat generation is more significant than in the pachinko machine 10. For this reason, the malfunction of the various apparatuses accommodated in the housing | casing can be suppressed by suppressing the said emitted-heat amount.

  The structure of the thin film transistor 173 is not limited to this, and a structure in which a gate electrode is formed first and then an oxide film, a channel layer, and a contact are formed may be employed. In this case, impurity doping is difficult because the oxide film may be damaged when impurity doping is performed on the channel layer. In view of this point, the configuration in which the channel layer is formed first is superior.

  The channel layer is not limited to the polysilicon layer 182 and may be amorphous silicon. In this case, the channel layer can be easily formed.

  Next, the peripheral configuration of the display area 134 will be described. As shown in FIG. 7A, the area of the array substrate 131 is set larger than that of the CF substrate 132. Therefore, a space is formed around the display area 134 in the array substrate 131. In this space, a source driver circuit 201 for applying a voltage between the source and drain of the thin film transistor 173 provided in each pixel through the source line 142 is provided, and provided in each pixel through the gate line 141. A gate driver circuit 202 for applying a voltage to the gate electrode 184 of the thin film transistor 173 is provided. These are composed of a CMOS circuit using the thin film transistor 173 described above and are constructed on the array substrate 131. A p-type thin film transistor used in the CMOS circuit can be easily formed by changing a material for doping the high concentration regions 188 and 189. Since the driver circuits 201 and 202 are formed on the array substrate 131, wiring for connecting the driver circuits 201 and 202 and the lines 141 and 142 is not necessary. Reduction can be achieved, and the symbol display device 41 can be downsized.

  Note that the configurations of the source driver circuit 201 and the gate driver circuit 202 are not limited to this, and for example, a packaged chip may be connected through a flexible wiring as a connection means, or a silver paste as a connection means The chip may be directly mounted on the array substrate 131 using, for example.

  Next, the color filter 153 will be described. The color filter 153 includes a black matrix 211 (hereinafter simply referred to as BM 211) that partitions and forms an area corresponding to the size of each pixel. The BM 211 is made of a light-shielding material that absorbs and blocks light, and is formed so as not to overlap the pixel electrode 172. Specifically, the BM 211 is provided so as to overlap the source line 142 and the gate line 141, and is formed in a matrix.

  A region corresponding to one pixel is formed by the BM 211, and a color region that transmits only light of a specific range of wavelengths and absorbs light of other wavelengths is formed in the region. Specifically, an R region 212 that transmits light having a wavelength corresponding to R (red) (from about 600 nm) and a G region that transmits light having a wavelength corresponding to G (green) (from about 500 nm to about 600 nm). 213 and a B region 214 that transmits light having a wavelength (about 400 nm to about 500 nm) corresponding to B (blue). In this case, it can be said that the BM 211 is formed so as to fill the gaps between the regions 212, 213, and 214.

  The regions 212, 213, and 214 are formed to be approximately the same size as the pixel electrode 172, and the light transmitted through the pixel electrode 172, the image display liquid crystal layer 133, and the common electrode 171 is the regions 212, It is visually recognized through 213 and 214. In this case, only light having a wavelength corresponding to each of the regions 212, 213, and 214 is transmitted, and a color display is realized by mixing them. For example, when the transmittance of a sub pixel in which the R region 212 is formed is set higher than the transmittance of other sub pixels, a red color is displayed in the pixel.

  Here, when the transmittance of each of the regions 212, 213, and 214 is maximized, white display in which three colors are mixed is performed, while when the transmittance of each of the regions 212, 213, and 214 is minimized, black display is performed. In other words, white display is displayed when the sub-pixel within one pixel is set to a completely transmissive state in which the light transmittance is maximum, and black display is the one within one pixel. It can also be said that it is displayed when each subpixel is set to a complete shielding state in which the light transmittance is minimized. Further, the color display is displayed by adjusting the transmittance of each sub-pixel within one pixel, and the transmittance of the entire pixel in the situation where the color display is performed is the case where white display is performed. Lower than the pixel.

  The pattern shape of the BM 211 will be described in detail. Since the BM 211 is formed so as to fill the gaps between the regions 212, 213, and 214, light leaked from the gaps between the pixels is absorbed by the BM 211. Thereby, a reduction in contrast due to light leakage is suppressed.

  In this case, since the columnar spacer 164 in the image display liquid crystal layer 133 is formed along the source line 142 as described above, the BM 211 is formed on the columnar spacer 164. That is, the columnar spacer 164 and the BM 211 are formed on the source line 142. Thereby, these columnar spacers 164 and BM211 are unlikely to block light from the pixels. Therefore, the effect obtained by providing the columnar spacers 164 and the BM 211 can be obtained without reducing the aperture ratio of the pixels.

  The BM 211 is formed so as to partially protrude from the source line 142 so as to cover the thin film transistor 173. Thereby, light incident on the thin film transistor 173 from the front side (the polarizing plate 152 side) is absorbed by the BM 211. Accordingly, it is possible to suppress the disadvantage that the leakage current of the thin film transistor 173 increases due to the light being irradiated to the thin film transistor 173 and the contrast is lowered.

  Next, the backlight substrate 122 that irradiates the liquid crystal panel 121 with light will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 9A is a front view of the backlight substrate 122, and FIG. 9B is a schematic view schematically showing a cross-sectional structure of the light emitting unit 221.

  As shown in FIG. 9A, the backlight substrate 122 includes a light emitting region 222 in which a plurality of light emitting units 221 are provided. The light emitting area 222 is formed to have the same size as the display area 134, and the light emitting area 222 and the display area 134 are set in a positional relationship so as to overlap when the liquid crystal display unit 101 is integrated. Yes.

  The light emitting units 221 are arranged at equal intervals in the light emitting region 222. Each light emitting unit 221 is connected to an LED driver circuit 223 provided in a region different from the light emitting region 222. The LED driver circuit 223 is configured to supply a driving voltage at which the light emitting unit 221 can operate to each light emitting unit 221, and the light emitting unit 221 receives the driving voltage from the LED driver circuit 223. Are configured to emit white light.

  A detailed configuration of the light emitting unit 221 will be described with reference to FIG. Since each light emitting unit 221 has the same configuration, only one light emitting unit 221 will be described. Also, the wiring is omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 9B, the light-emitting unit 221 includes a blue LED chip 224 that has higher light straightness than that of other lighting fixtures such as a fluorescent lamp. The blue LED chip 224 includes a sapphire substrate as a base substrate and a light emitting layer formed on the sapphire substrate. The light emitting layer has a quantum well structure of a p-GaN layer, an InGaN layer, and an n-GaN layer, and when voltage is applied to the light emitting layer, carriers confined in the quantum well Are recombined, and light having an energy corresponding to the discretized band gap is emitted. Thereby, blue light emission is performed from the interface of the light emitting layer.

  Note that a reflective layer may be formed between the light emitting layer and the sapphire substrate. Thereby, the light emitted toward the sapphire substrate side out of the light emitted from the light emitting layer is reflected by the reflective layer, so that the light extraction efficiency on the light emitting layer side can be improved.

  Here, as a specific configuration for providing the reflective layer, a light emitting layer is provided on a sapphire substrate, and a reflective layer such as Al or Ag is provided on the light emitting layer. Then, a Ga substrate is further attached as a base substrate on the reflective layer, and the sapphire substrate is removed. Thereby, the LED chip in which the reflective layer and the light emitting layer are formed on the Ga substrate can be obtained. In this case, it is possible to avoid the difficulty of providing a reflective layer on a light-transmitting sapphire substrate, and to use the sapphire substrate.

  Further, the structure of the light emitting layer is not limited to the above structure, and may be, for example, a simple PN junction. In short, any configuration that can emit blue light is optional. However, it is preferable to use a structure with high emission efficiency such as a quantum well structure.

  The light emitting unit 221 includes an LED case 225 that houses the blue LED chip 224. The LED case 225 is made of a transparent silicon resin and has a spherical shape as a whole. The LED case 225 has an internal space 226 that can accommodate the blue LED chip 224, and the blue LED chip 224 is accommodated in the internal space 226. The internal space 226 is a completely closed space.

  Here, since the LED case 225 has a spherical shape, the light extraction efficiency from the blue LED chip 224 is enhanced. That is, if the LED case 225 is formed in a flat plate shape so as to cover the blue LED chip 224, total reflection occurs on the inner wall surface of the LED case 225 depending on the angle of light emitted from the blue LED chip 224. obtain. Thereby, a part of the light from the blue LED chip 224 may not be able to go out of the LED case 225.

  On the other hand, in this embodiment, since the LED case 225 has a spherical shape, the incident angle of light passing through the LED case 225 can be reduced. Thereby, generation | occurrence | production of the said total reflection can be suppressed. Thereby, since the loss lost by total reflection can be reduced, the light extraction efficiency can be improved.

  A yellow phosphor 227 is enclosed in the internal space 226. The phosphor 227 is formed so as to emit yellow light when irradiated with blue light. Thereby, the light emitting unit 221 emits white light which is a color in which blue and yellow are mixed.

  In the case of such a configuration, the light amounts of the red wavelength and the green wavelength are small compared to blue. For this reason, when displaying an image on the display screen G through the color filter 153, it is difficult to display the red and green colors suitably. In contrast, the red phosphor 228 that emits red light when irradiated with blue and the green phosphor 229 that emits green light when irradiated with blue light are internally within a range in which the entire emitted color is white. It is mixed in the space 226. Thereby, since the red component and the green component are included in the white light emission, these colors can be suitably displayed on the display screen G. Therefore, it is possible to avoid inconvenience that may occur in the light emitting unit 221 that emits white light by combining blue and yellow.

  The configuration that emits white light is not limited to this, and for example, LEDs corresponding to R, G, and B may be provided to emit light simultaneously, or LEDs that emit ultraviolet light may be provided, and the internal space 226 may be provided. It is good also as a structure which each encloses the fluorescent substance which light-emits the color of R, G, B by irradiating the said ultraviolet light inside. Further, the configuration of the light emitting unit 221 is not limited to this, and a known LED may be used.

  The backlight substrate 122 is attached to the liquid crystal panel 121 via the light control panel 123 at a predetermined interval, and the white light emitted from the light emitting unit 221 passes through the light control panel 123. Then, the liquid crystal panel 121 is irradiated.

  The light control panel 123 will be described with reference to FIG. 10A is a front view of the light control panel 123, and FIG. 10B is a cross-sectional view of the light control panel 123 taken along the line AA.

  As shown in FIG. 10A, the light control panel 123 has a light control region 241 formed in a region corresponding to the display region 134. The light control area 241 is formed in the same size as the display area 134. That is, the display area 134 of the liquid crystal panel 121, the light emitting area 222 of the backlight substrate 122, and the light control area 241 of the light control panel 123 are formed to have the same size. And three members are integrated so that these area | regions 134,222,241 may overlap. In this case, in a situation where the liquid crystal panel 121, the light control panel 123, and the backlight substrate 122 are integrated, the display areas 134, the light control area 241, and the light emitting area 222 are overlapped with each other. The positional relationship is set. Thus, the regions 134, 241, and 222 overlap each other in a state where the liquid crystal panel 121, the light control panel 123, and the backlight substrate 122 are integrated.

  Next, the internal structure of the light control region 241 will be described in detail. As shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, the light control region 241 is provided with a pair of glass substrates 251 and 252. These glass substrates 251 and 252 are arranged at positions separated from each other via a spacer (not shown), and a predetermined gap is formed between them. A switching liquid crystal layer 253 is formed in the predetermined gap. The switching liquid crystal layer 253 is in a scattering state in which incident light is scattered in a normal state where no voltage is applied, and is transmitted through the light incident from the scattering state as it is when a voltage is applied. Configured to transition to a state.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 10B, the switching liquid crystal layer 253 includes a transparent polymer layer 254 and a liquid crystal aggregate 255 phase-separated from the polymer layer 254. It has been. The liquid crystal aggregate 255 is formed to have a size capable of scattering visible light, and specifically, larger than about 1/10 of the wavelength of visible light.

  The liquid crystal aggregate 255 includes a plurality of liquid crystal molecules 255a, and the plurality of liquid crystal molecules 255a are randomly oriented. In this case, since the refractive index between the liquid crystal aggregate 255 and the polymer layer 254 is different, the light is included in the switching liquid crystal layer 253 when the switching liquid crystal layer 253 is irradiated with light. Rayleigh scattering is caused by the liquid crystal aggregate 255.

  On the other hand, when an electric field is applied to the switching liquid crystal layer 253, the liquid crystal molecules 255a included in the liquid crystal aggregate 255 are aligned along the electric field direction. Thereby, the refractive indexes of the liquid crystal aggregate 255 and the polymer layer 254 become equal. Therefore, when light is applied to the switching liquid crystal layer 253, the light passes through the switching liquid crystal layer 253 without being scattered.

  Here, in the present embodiment, an electric field can be applied only to the switching liquid crystal layer 253 corresponding to a specific region in the light control region 241. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 10A, a voltage is applied to the pair of glass substrates 251 and 252 in a direction perpendicular to the switching liquid crystal layer 253 (a direction in which the glass substrates 251 and 252 face each other). As a thing, the 1st electrode 271, the 2nd electrode 272, the 3rd electrode 273, the 4th electrode 274, and the 5th electrode 275 are provided. The first electrode 271 to the fifth electrode 275 are made of a conductive material having transparency, and specifically made of indium tin oxide (ITO). The first electrode 271 to the fifth electrode 275 are formed apart from each other by a predetermined interval so as not to contact each other. The first electrode 271 to the fifth electrode 275 are individually electrically connected to a driver circuit 276 provided in a region different from the light control region 241 in the light control panel 123 via a transparent wiring (ITO). ing. The driver circuit 276 is configured to be able to individually apply a driving voltage to the first electrode 271 to the fifth electrode 275, and the first electrode 271 to the fifth electrode 275 are driven from the driver circuit 276. Is applied so that an electric field is applied to a region where the electrode is formed.

  The configuration of the first electrode 271 to the fifth electrode 275 will be specifically described. Here, since the first electrode 271 to the fifth electrode 275 have the same configuration except that the outer shapes (regions to which the electric field is applied) are different, the first electrode 271 will be described, and the other electrodes will be described. Omitted.

  The first electrode 271 includes a pair of transparent electrodes 271a and 271b formed on the pair of glass substrates 251 and 252, respectively. The transparent electrodes 271a and 271b are formed to have the same size and are arranged so as to sandwich the switching liquid crystal layer 253 in the vertical direction. The transparent electrodes 271a and 271b are electrically connected to the driver circuit 276 via ITO wiring.

  According to such a configuration, in a situation where no voltage is applied between the transparent electrodes 271a and 271b, the liquid crystal molecules 255a in the region sandwiched between the transparent electrodes 271a and 271b are not provided with the transparent electrodes 271a and 271b. Similarly, the orientation is random, and the sandwiched region is in a scattering state in which light is scattered.

  When a voltage is applied from the driver circuit 276 to the transparent electrodes 271a and 271b, an electric field is applied in a direction (vertical direction) where the transparent electrodes 271a and 271b face each other. Thereby, the liquid crystal molecules 255a of the liquid crystal aggregate 255 in the region sandwiched between the transparent electrodes 271a and 271b are aligned in the vertical direction, and the sandwiched region is in a transmissive state that transmits light.

  From the above, when a voltage is applied to the first electrode 271 to the fifth electrode 275, the switching liquid crystal layer 253 corresponding to the region where the first electrode 271 to the fifth electrode 275 are formed. Will shift from the scattering state to the transmission state. In this case, it can be said that the first electrode 271 to the fifth electrode 275 define a region to be in a transmissive state.

  Here, the 1st electrode 271-the 5th electrode 275 are formed corresponding to the production performed in a game. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 10A, the first electrode 271 to the fifth electrode 275 are formed in a cross shape as a whole, and the first electrode 271 to the third electrode 273 form one direction ( A first line region 281 in the horizontal direction is formed, and a second line region 282 orthogonal to the above line is formed by the third electrode 273 to the fifth electrode 275. In this case, a region where the first line region 281 and the second line region 282 intersect is a region of the third electrode 273. In other words, the third electrode 273 is formed in association with a region common to both the first line region 281 and the second line region 282.

  The relationship between the first electrode 271 to the fifth electrode 275 and the backlight substrate 122 will be described. The first electrode 271 to the fifth electrode 275 are formed corresponding to the arrangement of the light emitting units 221 on the backlight substrate 122. ing. Specifically, the first electrode 271 to the fifth electrode 275 are formed so that the line regions 281 and 282 overlap the light emitting unit 221.

  According to this configuration, for example, when a voltage is applied to the first electrode 271 to the third electrode 273, the first line region 281 shifts from the scattering state to the transmission state. Thereby, the white light from the light emitting unit 221 arranged on the back side of the first line region 281 is irradiated to the liquid crystal panel 121 as it is through the first line region 281. On the other hand, since the other areas in the light control area 241 are in a scattered state, the liquid crystal panel 121 is irradiated with the scattered white light from the other areas. In this case, the region to which the voltage is applied by the first electrode 271 to the fifth electrode 275 is the transmission region, and the other region to which no voltage is applied can be referred to as the scattering region.

  Here, the glass substrate 252 arranged on the liquid crystal panel 121 side is formed in a frosted glass shape except for the places where the electrodes 271 to 275 are formed. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 10B and a partially enlarged view thereof, a refractive uneven portion 283 that refracts light randomly on the surface side of the glass substrate 252 where the electrodes 271 to 275 are not provided. Is provided. Thereby, the light scattered in the switching liquid crystal layer 253 is refracted by the refracting uneven portion 283, and the light is further diffused. Therefore, the light diffusion range is increased.

  Next, the relationship between the light irradiated through the light control panel 123 and the liquid crystal panel 121 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram for explaining light transmitted through the liquid crystal display unit 101. For convenience of explanation, it is assumed that no voltage is applied to the first electrode 271 and a voltage is applied to the third electrode 273.

  When white light is irradiated from the backlight substrate 122 in a state where no voltage is applied to the first electrode 271, the white light is scattered by the liquid crystal aggregate 255 in the region where the first electrode 271 is formed. The As a result, the scattered white light is irradiated to the first electrode corresponding region D1 that overlaps the first electrode 271 in the display region 134. In this case, when the orientation of the image display liquid crystal layer 133 is set so that a predetermined color display is performed in each pixel of the first electrode corresponding region D1, a color image is displayed in the first electrode corresponding region D1. It will be.

  Here, as already described, since the light of the light emitting unit 221 is the light of the LED, the straightness of the light is higher than that of other luminaires such as a cold cathode tube. For this reason, when the light of the light emitting unit 221 is used as it is as the backlight of the liquid crystal panel 121, a luminance distribution is generated on the display region 134 (display screen), and so-called luminance unevenness occurs. Specifically, the area arranged on the front side of the light emitting unit 221 in the display area 134 is displayed brighter than the other areas. On the other hand, according to this embodiment, the light scattered by the light control panel 123 is irradiated to the liquid crystal panel 121. Thereby, it is possible to display an image in which luminance unevenness is suppressed.

  On the other hand, when white light is irradiated from the backlight substrate 122 in a state where a voltage is applied to the third electrode 273, the white light passes through the switching liquid crystal layer 253. As a result, the light of the light emitting unit 221 is directly applied to the third electrode corresponding region D2 overlapping the third electrode 273 in the liquid crystal panel 121. In this case, the orientation of the image display liquid crystal layer 133 of each pixel is set so that the light incident on each pixel of the third electrode corresponding region D2 is transmitted as it is, specifically, in a completely transmissive state. Then, the white light of the light emitting unit 221 is displayed on the display screen G as it is in the third electrode corresponding region D2. The brightness of the white light is higher than that of the color image displayed in the other area of the display screen G by the amount not scattered, and the straightness is ensured. Thereby, the light which has an impact with respect to a player will be visually recognized.

  That is, when displaying a color image, the white light emitted from the light emitting unit 221 is scattered and the light transmittance in the image display liquid crystal layer 133 so that a predetermined color is displayed in each pixel of the liquid crystal panel 121. Adjust. For this reason, the brightness of the light displayed (viewed) on the display screen G is smaller than the light emission brightness of the light emitting unit 221, and the straightness of the light is reduced. Therefore, it is difficult for the player to visually recognize the light of the light emitting unit 221 directly.

  On the other hand, in the present embodiment, by making a part of the switching liquid crystal layer 253 in a transmissive state, a decrease in light transmittance and a decrease in straightness due to scattering are reduced. Thereby, a player can visually recognize the direct light of the light emitting unit 221. In other words, the light visually recognized in the display area 134 can be brought close to the light of the light emitter itself. As a result, it is possible to produce a light with impact in the display area 134. In the following description, the light visually recognized in the display region 134 through the switching liquid crystal layer 253 in the scattering state is referred to as indirect light for convenience, and the display region 134 through the switching liquid crystal layer 253 in the transmission state. The light that is visible at is called direct light. Direct light is light that has higher luminous intensity and superior straightness than indirect light. The position and range where the direct light is visually recognized change when the electrode to which the voltage is applied is changed.

  Here, as already described, the light control panel 123 and the liquid crystal panel 121 are disposed via the first seal member 124, and a predetermined gap is provided between the two by the amount of the first seal member 124. Is formed. Accordingly, the electrodes 271 to 275 provided on the light control panel 123 are less likely to adversely affect the pixel electrode 172 and the thin film transistor 173 of the liquid crystal panel 121.

  That is, if the light control panel 123 and the liquid crystal panel 121 are in contact with each other without forming a gap, there is a parasitic capacitance between the pixel electrode 172 and the electrodes 271 to 275 (specifically, the transparent electrode 271a). The state in which a voltage is applied to the image display liquid crystal layer 133 by the generated electric charge and stored in the parasitic capacitance is maintained, the switching speed of the orientation of the image display liquid crystal layer 133 is lowered, and the image response speed May decrease. In addition, the switching liquid crystal layer 253 may be in a transmissive state due to the charge accumulated in the parasitic capacitance, regardless of the situation where no voltage is applied to the first electrode 271 to the fifth electrode 275.

  On the other hand, in this embodiment, since the gap is formed between the light control panel 123 and the liquid crystal panel 121, the influence caused by the parasitic capacitance can be reduced. Thereby, the said inconvenience can be suppressed. Further, in this case, since it is difficult for light interference to occur between the liquid crystal panel 121 and the light control panel 123, the occurrence of moire in the display screen G can be suppressed. Note that nitrogen is sealed in the gap between the light control panel 123 and the liquid crystal panel 121 as an air layer having a relative dielectric constant smaller than that of the glass substrate 252.

  As shown in FIG. 11, the first electrode 271 and the third electrode 273 are formed through a predetermined gap 291. The gap 291 is the same as the distance between pixels (the width dimension of the source line 142). Is set to about. Accordingly, even if a voltage is applied to the first electrode 271 and the third electrode 273, the gap 291 between the first electrode 271 and the third electrode 273 is less noticeable. Further, the first electrode 271 and the third electrode 273 are formed such that the gap 291 is disposed on the line where the source line 142, the columnar spacer 164, and the BM 211 are formed. As a result, the gap 291 is less noticeable.

<About the electrical configuration of the pachinko machine 10>
Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko machine 10 will be described based on the block diagram of FIG.

  An MPU 302 is mounted on the main control board 301 provided in the main control device 81. The MPU 302 is a ROM 303 that stores various control programs executed by the MPU 302 and fixed value data, and a memory for temporarily storing various data when the control program stored in the ROM 303 is executed. The RAM 304 is an element incorporating an interrupt circuit, a timer circuit, a data input / output circuit, various counter circuits as a random number generator, and the like. Note that a part of the functions of the MPU 302, such as the function of the ROM 303 and the function of the RAM 304, may be included as another element.

  The MPU 302 is provided with an input port and an output port. Connected to the input side of the MPU 302 are a power failure monitoring board 305 provided in the main controller 81, a payout controller 97, various winning detection sensors 311a to 311e, and the like. In this case, a power supply and launch control device 98 is connected to the power failure monitoring board 305, and power is supplied to the MPU 302 via the power failure monitoring board 305. Further, as a part of the various winning detection sensors 311a to 311e, it is provided in a winning-corresponding winning portion (payout-corresponding entering portion) such as a general winning port 31, a variable winning device 32, operating ports 33, 34, and a through gate 35. A plurality of detection sensors are connected to each other, and the MPU 302 of the main control device 81 performs winning determination (entrance determination) for each winning portion. In addition, the MPU 302 executes a lottery generation lottery based on the winnings to the operation ports 33 and 34 and also performs a support generation lottery based on the winnings to the through gate 35.

  The main display unit 43 and the accessory display unit 44 are connected to the output side of the MPU 302, and display control of the main display unit 43 and the accessory display unit 44 is directly performed by the MPU 302. That is, display control of the main display unit 43 is executed in the MPU 302 at each game round. In addition, when the lottery result indicating whether or not the electric accessory 34a is to be opened is clearly indicated, display control of the accessory display unit 44 is executed in the MPU 302.

  Further, the power failure monitoring board 305, the payout control device 97, and the sound lamp control device 82 are connected to the output side of the MPU 302. For example, the payout control device 97 outputs a winning ball command based on the winning determination result to the winning corresponding winning portion. In this case, when outputting the prize ball command, the command information storage area 303a of the ROM 303 is referred to. When a winning to the general winning opening 31 is specified, a winning ball command corresponding to payout of 10 game balls is output, and when a winning to the variable winning device 32 is specified, 15 winning balls are output. When a winning ball command corresponding to the payout of game balls is output and a winning to the lower operation port 34 is specified, a winning ball command corresponding to paying out four game balls is output.

  Various commands such as a change command, a type command, a change end command, an opening command, and an ending command are output to the sound lamp control device 82. In this case, the command information storage area 303a of the ROM 303 is referred to when these various commands are output. Details of these various commands will be described later. Each command is configured as information of a predetermined number of bytes, and various information is included as information of the predetermined number of bytes.

  Further, on the output side of the MPU 302, a variable winning drive unit 32c that opens and closes the open / close door 32b of the variable winning device 32, an electric combination drive unit 34b that opens and closes the electric combination 34a of the lower working port 34, and a main display. The unit 43 is connected. The main control board 301 is provided with various driver circuits, and the MPU 302 performs drive control of various drive units through the driver circuits.

  That is, in the opening / closing execution mode, the MPU 302 performs drive control of the variable winning drive unit 32c so that the variable winning device 32 is opened and closed. In addition, when the electric combination 34a is won, the MPU 302 performs drive control of the electric combination drive unit 54b so that the electric combination 34a is opened and closed. In addition, display control of the main display unit 43 is executed by the MPU 302.

  The power failure monitoring board 305 relays between the main control board 301 and the power supply and launch control device 98, and monitors the voltage of DC stable + 24V, which is the maximum voltage output from the power supply and launch control device 98. The payout control device 97 performs payout control of prize balls and rental balls by the payout device 96 based on the prize ball command input from the main control device 81.

  The power source and launch control device 98 is connected to, for example, a commercial power source (external power source) in a game hall or the like. Based on the external power supplied from the commercial power supply, necessary operating power is generated for each of the main control board 301 and the payout control device 97, and the generated operating power is supplied through a predetermined power path. To do. Here, since the main control board 301 and the payout control device 97 are designed to operate at + 24V DC, the power supply and launch control device 98 supplies a DC 24V voltage. The power source and launch control device 98 is responsible for launch control of the game ball launch mechanism 53, and the game ball launch mechanism 53 is driven when predetermined launch conditions are met.

  The sound lamp control device 82 is configured to operate when a DC + 24V voltage is applied from the power supply and launch control device 98. The audio lamp control device 82 is equipped with an MPU 321. The MPU 321 is a ROM 322 storing various control programs executed by the MPU 321 and fixed value data, and a memory for temporarily storing various data when executing the control program stored in the ROM 322. A RAM 323. The MPU 321 drives and controls each of the lamp units 45, 46, 63 and the speaker unit 64 that are electrically connected to the audio lamp control device 82 based on various commands input from the main control device 81, and a display control device. 331 is controlled. The lamp units 45, 46, 63 and the speaker unit 64 are supplied with a DC voltage for operating power from the sound lamp control device 82. The display control device 331 executes display control of the symbol display device 41 based on the command input from the sound lamp control device 82. In this case, the sound lamp control device 82 determines the symbol combination display time on the symbol display device 41 and finally the combination of symbols to be stopped and displayed based on various commands input from the main control device 81. The lottery of the presence / absence of reach and the contents of reach production is executed.

  The display control device 331 is equipped with a video display processor (VDP). The VDP creates a drawing signal for drawing the symbol display device 41 based on the determined contents and the like, and draws the drawing signal. A signal is output to the symbol display device 41. Based on the input of the drawing signal, the symbol display device 41 displays an image in the display area 134 and controls the voltage of the first electrode 271 to the fifth electrode 275 of the light control panel 123.

  Next, the electrical configuration of the symbol display device 41 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the symbol display device 41.

  As shown in FIG. 13, the symbol display device 41 is provided with an image signal processing circuit 341. When a drawing signal is input from the display control device 331, the image signal processing circuit 341 outputs an LCD data signal for controlling each pixel of the liquid crystal panel 121 and outputs a light control signal for controlling the light control panel 123. Is configured to do.

  The relationship between the LCD data signal and the liquid crystal panel 121 will be described in detail. The symbol display device 41 is provided with an LCD controller 342. The LCD controller 342 is connected to the image signal processing circuit 341 and is supplied with operating power from the image signal processing circuit 341.

  Further, the symbol display device 41 is provided with a timing controller 343 and a DC-DC converter 344, and the LCD controller 342 is connected to the source driver circuit 201 and the gate driver circuit 202 of the liquid crystal panel 121 through the timing controller 343. And connected to the driver circuits 201 and 202 via the DC-DC converter 344. The LCD controller 342 is configured to supply operating power to the DC-DC converter 344. When the operating power is supplied, the DC-DC converter 344 supplies the driver circuits 201 and 202 with each other. Thus, the driver circuits 201 and 202 are configured to supply operable power.

  In such a situation (a situation in which the driver circuits 201 and 202 can operate), the LCD controller 342 receives the LCD data signal from the image signal processing circuit 341 and then receives each driver circuit 201, via the timing controller 343. The drive control of 202 is performed.

Specifically, the LCD controller 342 outputs a signal corresponding to the input LCD data signal to the timing controller 343 when an LCD data signal is input. The timing controller 343 generates a pixel control signal for controlling the driver circuits 201 and 202 based on the signal input from the LCD controller 342 and outputs the pixel control signal to the driver circuits 201 and 202. The pixel control signal includes, for example, image display data corresponding to each sub-pixel, a reference clock signal, an enable signal for adjusting the writing timing, and the like. Each of the driver circuits 201 and 202 applies a voltage (graded voltage) corresponding to the pixel control signal to the thin film transistor 173 of each sub-pixel by receiving the pixel control signal. As a result, the thin film transistor 173 of each sub-pixel is turned on, and the liquid crystal molecules 161 of each pixel are aligned at an angle corresponding to the applied voltage. The light transmittance is adjusted by the orientation, a predetermined color display is performed in each pixel, and a color image is displayed in the display area 134.
Next, the relationship between the light control signal and the light control panel 123 will be described in detail. The symbol display device 41 is provided with a light control panel controller 351 that performs drive control of the light control panel 123. The light control panel controller 351 is connected to the image signal processing circuit 341 and also connected to the driver circuit 276 of the light control panel 123. Based on the input of the light control signal from the image signal processing circuit 341, the light control panel controller 351 switches and controls the driver circuit 276 so that the region corresponding to the light control signal is in a transmissive state. Output a signal.

  The driver circuit 276 performs voltage control of the first electrode 271 to the fifth electrode 275 based on the switching control signal input from the light control panel controller 351. As a result, the brightness of the display area 134 can be associated with the image displayed in the display area 134.

  From the above, based on the image signal from the display control device 331, display control of the image displayed in the display area 134 and area control in which the light control panel 123 enters a transmission state can be performed. In the following description, the display area 134 is also referred to as a display screen G.

  The display content of the symbol display device 41 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 14 and 15. FIG. 14 is a diagram individually showing symbols that are variably displayed on the symbol display device 41, and FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a display screen G of the symbol display device 41.

  As shown in FIGS. 14 (a) to 14 (j), a design which is a kind of design is composed of nine main designs with numbers "1" to "9", respectively, and a shell-shaped design. It consists of sub-designs. More specifically, the main symbols are configured by attaching numbers “1” to “9” to nine types of character symbols such as octopus.

  As shown in FIG. 15A, on the display screen G of the symbol display device 41, three symbol rows Z1, Z2, and Z3 of an upper stage, a middle stage, and a lower stage are set as a plurality of display areas. Each of the symbol rows Z1 to Z3 includes a main symbol and a sub symbol arranged in a predetermined order. Specifically, nine types of main symbols “1” to “9” are arranged in descending order of numbers in the upper symbol row Z1, and one sub symbol is arranged between each main symbol. . In the lower symbol row Z3, nine types of main symbols “1” to “9” are arranged in ascending numerical order, and one sub symbol is arranged between the main symbols.

  That is, the upper symbol row Z1 and the lower symbol row Z3 are composed of 18 symbols. On the other hand, in the middle symbol row Z2, nine types of main symbols “1” to “9” are arranged in ascending numerical order, and then between the main symbol “9” and the main symbol “1”. In addition, a main symbol “4” is additionally arranged, and one sub symbol is arranged between each main symbol. In other words, only the middle symbol row Z2 is composed of 20 symbols by arranging 10 main symbols. On the display screen G, the symbols in the symbol rows Z1 to Z3 are displayed in a variable manner so as to scroll in a predetermined direction with periodicity.

  As shown in FIG. 15B, on the display screen G, 3 symbols are stopped and displayed for each symbol row, and as a result, a total of 9 symbols of 3 × 3 are stopped and displayed. It is like that. The display screen G has five effective lines, that is, a left line L1, a middle line L2, a right line L3, a right lowering line L4, and a right uppering line L5. Then, the variable display stops in the order of the upper symbol row Z1 → the lower symbol row Z3 → the middle symbol row Z2, and all the symbol rows Z1 are formed in a state in which a combination of symbols having the same number attached to any one of the effective lines is formed. When the fluctuation display of .about.Z3 is completed, the jackpot moving image is displayed as a normal jackpot result or a 15R probability variable jackpot result which will be described later.

  In this pachinko machine 10, the main symbols with odd numbers (1, 3, 5, 7, 9) correspond to “specific symbols”, and when a 15R probability variation jackpot result is generated, The combination is stopped. The main symbols with even numbers (2, 4, 6, 8) correspond to “non-specific symbols”. When a normal jackpot result occurs, the combination of the same non-specific symbols is stopped and displayed. The

  In addition, the mode of the display of the symbol variation in the symbol display device 41 is not limited to the above, and is arbitrary. The number of symbol columns, the direction of the symbol variation display in the symbol sequence, the number of symbols in each symbol column, etc. Can be appropriately changed. Also, the pattern that is variably displayed on the symbol display device 41 is not limited to the above-described pattern, and for example, only numbers may be variably displayed as the pattern.

<About various counters and reserved ball storage area>
Next, the operation of the pachinko machine 10 configured as described above will be described.

  The MPU 302 uses lots of counter information in the game to perform jackpot occurrence lottery, display setting of the main display unit 43, setting of symbol display of the symbol display device 41, and the like. Specifically, as shown in FIG. In addition, the jackpot random number counter C1 used for the jackpot occurrence lottery, the jackpot type counter C2 used for determining the jackpot type such as the probability variation jackpot result or the normal jackpot result, and the reach occurrence when the symbol display device 41 is changed The reach random number counter C3 used for the lottery, the random number initial value counter CINI used for setting the initial value of the jackpot random number counter C1, and the variation type counter CS for determining the variation display time in the main display unit 43 and the symbol display device 41. I am going to use it. Furthermore, the electric accessory release counter C4 used for the lottery to determine whether or not the electric accessory 34a of the lower working port 34 is in the electric utility open state is used.

  Each of the counters C1 to C3, CINI, CS, and C4 is a loop counter that adds 1 to the previous value every time it is updated and returns to 0 after reaching the maximum value. Each counter is updated at short time intervals, and the updated value is appropriately stored in a lottery counter buffer 304 a set in a predetermined area of the RAM 304. Of these, in the lottery counter buffer 304a, the information corresponding to the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2 and the reach random number counter C3 is held as an acquisition information storage means when a winning is made to the operation ports 33 and 34. It is stored in the sphere storage area 304b.

  The holding ball storage area 304b includes a holding area RE and an execution area AE. The holding area RE includes a first holding area RE1, a second holding area RE2, a third holding area RE3, and a fourth holding area RE4, and is used for a lottery counter in accordance with a winning history to the operation ports 33 and 34. Each numerical information of the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2 and the reach random number counter C3 stored in the buffer 304a is stored in one of the holding areas RE1 to RE4 as holding information.

  In this case, in the first reservation area RE1 to the fourth reservation area RE4, when winnings to the operation ports 33 and 34 occur continuously a plurality of times, the first reservation area RE1 → second reservation area RE2 → third Each numerical information is stored in time series in the order of the reserved area RE3 → the fourth reserved area RE4. Thus, by providing the four holding areas RE1 to RE4, up to four game balls winning histories to the operation ports 33 and 34 are held and stored. The holding area RE includes a holding number storage area NA. The holding number storage area NA stores information for specifying the number of payout histories stored in the operation ports 33 and 34. Is done.

  Note that the number that can be reserved and stored is not limited to four, but may be any other number such as two, three, or five or more.

  The execution area AE is an area for moving each value stored in the first holding area RE1 of the holding area RE when starting the variable display on the main display unit 43, and at the start of one game round. Based on various numerical information stored in the execution area AE, determination of whether or not is made is performed.

  Each of the counters will be described in detail.

  For details of each counter, the jackpot random number counter C1 is configured such that, for example, 1 is sequentially added within a range of 0 to 599, and after reaching the maximum value, it returns to 0. In particular, when the jackpot random number counter C1 makes one round, the value of the random number initial value counter CINI at that time is read as the initial value of the jackpot random number counter C1. The random number initial value counter CINI is a loop counter similar to the jackpot random number counter C1 (value = 0 to 599). The jackpot random number counter C1 is periodically updated and stored in the reserved ball storage area 304b at the timing when the game ball is won in the operation ports 33 and 34.

  The value of the random number for winning the jackpot is stored as a success / failure table (availability information group) in a success / failure table storage area 303b as a success / failure information group storage means in the ROM 303. As the success / failure table, a success / failure table for the low probability mode (low probability success / failure information group) and a high probability mode's success / failure table (high probability success / failure information group) are set. That is, in the present pachinko machine 10, a low probability mode (low probability state) and a high probability mode (high probability state) are set as the lottery mode in the winning lottery means.

  In the gaming state in which the winning / failing table for the low probability mode is referred to at the time of the lottery, the number of random numbers that win the jackpot is two. On the other hand, in the gaming state in which the winning / failing table for the high probability mode is referred to at the time of the lottery, the number of random numbers that will win the jackpot is 20. If the winning probability in the high probability mode is higher than that in the low probability mode, the number of random numbers to be won is arbitrary.

  The jackpot type counter C2 is configured so that 1 is added in order within a range of 0 to 29, and after reaching the maximum value, it returns to 0. The big hit type counter C2 is periodically updated, and stored in the holding ball storage area 304b at the timing when the game ball wins the operation port 33, 34.

  In this pachinko machine 10, a normal jackpot result and a probable variation jackpot result are set, and the jackpot result is determined using the jackpot type counter C2.

  Specifically, the ROM 303 stores an allocation table (allocation information group) in an allocation table storage area 303c serving as an allocation information group storage unit. Then, a normal jackpot result (low probability special game result) and a probability variable jackpot result (high probability special game result) are set as the distribution destinations. In the distribution table, among the values of the jackpot type counter C2 of 0 to 29, 0 to 9 correspond to the normal jackpot result, and 10 to 29 correspond to the probability variation jackpot result.

  The normal jackpot result is a jackpot result in which the success / failure lottery mode becomes the low probability mode after the opening / closing execution mode is shifted to the open / close execution mode. In other words, the normal jackpot result is a jackpot result for shifting the gaming state to the normal jackpot state (special gaming state corresponding to low probability).

  The probability variation jackpot result is a jackpot result in which the success / failure lottery mode becomes the high probability mode after the opening / closing execution mode is shifted to the opening / closing execution mode. The high-probability mode continues until the lottery result in the success / failure lottery becomes a big hit state win and shifts to the big hit state by that. In other words, the probability variation jackpot result is a jackpot result in which the gaming state is shifted to the probability variation jackpot state (the special gaming state corresponding to high probability).

  On the other hand, the normal jackpot result is a jackpot result in which the success / failure lottery mode becomes the low-probability mode after the opening / closing execution mode is shifted to the opening / closing execution mode.

  Note that the normal gaming state in relation to each of the above gaming states refers to a state where the winning lottery mode is a low probability mode.

  For example, the reach random number counter C3 is incremented one by one within a range of 0 to 238, for example, and reaches a maximum value and then returns to 0. The reach random number counter C3 is periodically updated and stored in the holding ball storage area 304b at the timing when the game ball is won in the operation ports 33 and 34.

  Here, in the pachinko machine 10, an expected effect is set as a kind of display effect in the symbol display device 41. Expected production means that in the game machine corresponding to the jackpot winning, in the gaming machine in which the stop display result after the variable display is a special display result, the variable display (or variable display) of the symbol (picture) on the symbol display device 41 is started. This is a display state for making the player think that the display state is a variable display state that is likely to become the special display result before the stop display result is derived and displayed.

  In the expected effect, two types of reach display and a notice display for expecting generation of reach display or generation of a special display result at a stage before the reach display occurs are set.

  In the reach display, a combination of reach symbols that may be a combination of jackpot symbols is displayed by stopping and displaying some symbols among a plurality of symbol strings displayed on the display screen G of the symbol display device 41. A display state is displayed in which the symbols are displayed in the state of the remaining symbols in that state. In addition, in the state where the combination of the reach symbols is displayed as described above, the variation display of the symbols is performed in the remaining symbol rows, and the reach effect is performed by displaying a predetermined character or the like in the background. In other words, a combination of the above-described combinations is displayed in a reduced size or is not displayed, and a predetermined character or the like is displayed on substantially the entire display screen G to perform a reach effect.

  Specifically, for the reach display related to the symbol variation display, a combination of jackpot symbols is established on the preset effective line in the display screen G of the symbol display device 41 as a stage before the symbol variation display is terminated. A reach line is formed by stopping and displaying a combination of reach symbols that may possibly be displayed, and a symbol change display is performed by a final stop symbol row in a situation where the reach line is formed.

  The display contents of FIG. 15 will be described in detail. First, in the state in which the variable display of the symbol is ended in the upper symbol row Z1 in the upper stage and the variable display of the symbol is ended in the lower symbol row Z3 in the lower stage. A reach line is formed by stopping and displaying the main symbols having the same numbers on the lines L1 to L5, and in the middle symbol row Z2 in the state where the reach line is formed, the variable display of symbols Will be displayed as a result. Then, when the high-frequency winning mode occurs, the middle symbol row Z2 in the middle stage is set so that the main symbol having the same number as the main symbol forming the reach line is stopped and displayed on the reach line. The symbol variation display at is terminated.

  In the notice display, in a situation where the symbols are variably displayed in all the symbol columns Z1 to Z3 after the symbol variation display is started on the display screen G of the symbol display device 41, or in some symbol columns. In a situation where symbols are variably displayed in a plurality of symbol rows, a mode in which a character is displayed separately from the symbols on the symbol rows Z1 to Z3 is included. Moreover, what makes a background image the predetermined aspect different from the previous aspect, and what makes the symbol on the symbol sequence Z1-Z3 the predetermined aspect different from the previous aspect are also included. Such a notice display can occur in any game times when reach display is performed and when reach display is not performed, but the case where reach display is performed is higher than the case where reach display is not performed. It is set to occur with probability.

  The reach display is executed regardless of the value of the reach random number counter C3 in the game times that shift to the opening / closing execution mode. In game times that do not shift to the opening / closing execution mode, the reach random number counter C3 acquired at a predetermined timing with reference to the reach table stored in the reach table storage area 303d of the ROM 303 corresponds to the occurrence of reach display. Will be executed if. On the other hand, whether or not to perform the notice display is determined not by the main controller 81 but by the sound lamp controller 82.

  The variation type counter CS is, for example, incremented by 1 within a range of 0 to 198, and returns to 0 after reaching the maximum value. The variation type counter CS is used when the MPU 302 determines the variation display time (display duration) in the main display unit 43 and the symbol variation display time (display duration) in the symbol display device 41. The variation type counter CS is updated once every time a normal process to be described later is executed once, and is repeatedly updated even within the remaining time in the normal process. Then, the buffer value of the variation type counter CS is acquired when the variation display is determined at the start of variation display in the main display unit 43 and at the time of symbol variation start by the symbol display device 41. When determining the variable display time, a variable display time table (variable display time information group) stored in advance in the variable display time table storage area 303e (variable display time information storage means) of the ROM 303 is referred to.

  The electric accessory release counter C4 is, for example, configured to increment one by one within a range of 0 to 250 and return to 0 after reaching the maximum value. The electric accessory release counter C4 is periodically updated and stored in the electric utility reservation area 304c at the timing when a game ball wins the through gate 35. Then, at a predetermined timing, a lottery is performed as to whether or not to control the electric accessory 34a to the open state based on the value of the stored electric accessory release counter C4.

<Processing Configuration in MPU 302 of Main Control Board 301>
Next, each control process executed by the MPU 302 of the main control board 301 will be described. In the MPU 302, a read process, a game time control process, and a game state transition process, which are a part of processes necessary for advancing a game, are distributed and executed in a timer interrupt process and a normal process. First, after describing timer interrupt processing, normal processing will be described.

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing timer interrupt processing. Note that this process is started periodically by the MPU 302 (for example, at a cycle of 2 msec).

  In step S101, a reading process is executed. In the reading process, the states of the various winning detection sensors are read, the states of the various winning detection sensors are determined, and the winning detection information is stored. Further, when a winning of game balls is detected by the winning detection sensors 311a to 311e corresponding to the generation of the winning ball, a winning ball command for instructing the payout control device 97 to pay out the winning ball is set. To do.

  In the subsequent step S102, the random number initial value counter CINI is updated. Specifically, the random number initial value counter CINI is incremented by 1 and cleared to 0 when the counter value reaches the maximum value.

  In subsequent step S103, the big hit random number counter C1, the big hit type counter C2, the reach random number counter C3, and the electric accessory release counter C4 are updated. Specifically, the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2, the reach random number counter C3 and the electric accessory release counter C4 are each incremented by 1 and cleared to 0 when the counter values reach the maximum value.

  In a succeeding step S104, a through winning process associated with winning through the through gate 35 is executed. In the through-winning process, the value of the electric accessory release counter C4 updated in step S104 is used as an electric utility on the condition that the number of extra characters stored in the electric utility reservation area 304c is less than four. Store in the reserved area 304c.

  After that, in step S105, a winning process for the operating port accompanying the winning of the operating ports 33 and 34 is executed. In the winning process for the operating port, when a winning is made to the operating ports 33 and 34, the number of reserved starting storages stored in the holding ball storage area 304b is less than the upper limit number (for example, “4”). As a condition, the numerical information of the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2 and the reach random number counter C3 updated in step S103 is stored in the holding area RE of the holding ball storage area 304b. In this case, the data is stored in the first reserved area among the empty reserved areas RE1 to RE4 of the reserved area RE, that is, the reserved area corresponding to the current start reserved memory number. After executing the process of step S105, the timer interrupt process is terminated.

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing normal processing. The normal process is a process that is started after a main process that is started when the power is turned on is executed. As its outline, the processing from step S201 to step S209 is executed as a 4 msec cycle processing, and the counter update processing of step S210 and step S211 is executed in the remaining time.

  In step S201, output data such as a command set in the timer interruption process or the previous normal process is transmitted to each control device on the sub side. Specifically, the presence / absence of a prize ball command is determined, and if a prize ball command is set, it is transmitted to the payout control device 97. If a predetermined effect command such as a change command is set, the command is transmitted to the sound lamp control device 82.

  In the subsequent step S202, the variation type counter CS is updated. Specifically, the variation type counter CS is incremented by 1, and the counter value is cleared to 0 when the counter value reaches the maximum value.

  In subsequent step S203, a game number control process for controlling a game in each game time is executed. In this game times control process, jackpot determination, setting of symbol variation display by the symbol display device 41, display control of the main display unit 43, and the like are performed.

  Thereafter, in step S204, a game state transition process for shifting the game state is executed. In the gaming state transition process, when the game round corresponding to the big win is completed, the transition process to the opening / closing execution mode is executed, and the opening / closing process of the variable winning device 32 is started. Note that various commands for the opening / closing execution mode are transmitted to the voice lamp control device 82 when starting the opening / closing execution mode, during the opening / closing execution mode, and when ending the opening / closing execution mode. Further, when the opening / closing execution mode ends, the success / failure lottery mode transition is executed in correspondence with the jackpot type related to the game times that triggered the start of the mode.

  In the subsequent step S205, a demonstration display process is executed. In the demonstration display process, a predetermined demonstration start waiting period (for example, 0.1 sec) has elapsed without starting a new game time after the game time has ended in a state where the opening / closing execution mode is not in progress. A process for determining whether or not the process has been performed is executed. In addition, since the start of power supply to the MPU 302 or after the pachinko machine 10 is reset, a predetermined demonstration start waiting period (for example, 3 sec) has elapsed without newly starting game play. A process for determining whether or not the process has been performed is executed. If it is determined that the time has elapsed, a demonstration display command is transmitted to the sound lamp control device 82.

  In a succeeding step S206, an electric combination support process for driving and controlling the electric combination 34a provided in the lower operation port 34 is executed. In this electric combination support process, the information stored in the electric combination holding area 304c of the RAM 304 is used to determine whether or not to open the electric combination 34a, and to open / close the electric combination 34a.

  Thereafter, in step S207, a game ball launch control process is executed. In the game ball launch control process, the solenoid of the game ball launch mechanism 53 is excited once in a predetermined period (for example, 0.6 sec) on condition that a launch permission signal is input from the power supply and launch control device 98. . Thereby, the game ball is launched toward the game area.

  In a succeeding step S208, it is determined whether or not the power interruption flag is stored in the RAM 304. The power interruption flag is a flag that is stored when the occurrence of power interruption is confirmed, and is deleted in the next main processing.

  If the power interruption flag is not stored, the last process of the plurality of processes that are repeatedly executed is completed. Therefore, whether or not the execution timing of the next normal process is reached in step S209, that is, the previous process It is determined whether or not a predetermined time (4 msec in the present embodiment) has elapsed since the start of normal processing. Then, the random number initial value counter CINI and the variation type counter CS are repeatedly updated within the remaining time until the next normal processing execution timing.

  That is, in step S210, the random number initial value counter CINI is updated. Specifically, the random number initial value counter CINI is incremented by 1 and cleared to 0 when the counter value reaches the maximum value. In step S211, the variation type counter CS is updated. Specifically, the variation type counter CS is incremented by 1 and cleared to 0 when the counter values reach the maximum value.

  Here, since the execution time of each process of steps S201 to S207 changes according to the state of the game, the remaining time until the execution timing of the next normal process is not constant and varies. Therefore, by repeatedly updating the random number initial value counter CINI using the remaining time, the random number initial value counter CINI (that is, the initial value of the big hit random number counter C1) can be updated at random. Similarly, The variation type counter CS can also be updated at random.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S208 that the power interruption flag is stored, the power interruption has occurred, so the power interruption processing from step S212 is executed. That is, in step S212, the generation of the timer interrupt process is prohibited, and then the RAM determination value is calculated and stored in step S213. After the access to the RAM 304 is prohibited in step S214, the power supply is completely shut down and processed. Continue infinite loop until no longer runs.

  Next, the game times control process of step S203 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In the game times control process, first, in step S301, it is determined whether or not the opening / closing execution mode is in effect. If it is in the opening / closing execution mode, the game turn control process is terminated without executing the processes after step S302. In other words, in the open / close execution mode, the game times are not started regardless of whether or not a winning for the operation ports 33 and 34 has occurred.

  If it is not in the opening / closing execution mode, it is determined in step S302 whether or not the main display unit 43 is in a variable display. When the main display unit 43 is not in a variable display, the process proceeds to the game turn starting process in steps S303 to S305.

  In the game turn starting process, first, in step S303, it is determined whether or not the number N of starting reserved balls is “0”. The case where the starting reserved ball number N is “0” means that the hold information is not stored in the hold ball storage area 304b. Accordingly, the game turn control process is terminated as it is.

  If the number N of starting reserved balls is not “0”, a data setting process for setting the data stored in the holding area RE of the holding ball storage area 304b for variable display in step S304 is executed. Specifically, the data stored in the first holding area RE1 of the holding area RE is shifted to the execution area AE. Thereafter, the data stored in the first reservation area RE1 to the fourth reservation area RE4 is shifted in order to the lower area side. Then, after executing the variation start process in step S305, the game times control process is terminated.

  Here, the variation start process of step S305 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In step S401, a success / failure determination process for determining whether or not the hold information corresponding to the current variation start process corresponds to the jackpot winning is executed. Specifically, with reference to the numerical information related to the jackpot random number counter C1 among the hold information shifted to the execution area AE and the winning / failing table corresponding to the current winning / losing lottery mode, it is determined whether or not to win the jackpot. judge.

  In a succeeding step S402, it is determined whether or not the jackpot is won. If it is a big win, a type determination process is executed in step S403. In the type determination process, the jackpot type is specified with reference to the numerical information related to the jackpot type counter C2 and the distribution table among the hold information shifted to the execution area AE.

  In subsequent step S404, stop result setting processing corresponding to the jackpot result is executed. Specifically, information on the pattern mode that is finally stopped and displayed on the main display unit 43 in the game round related to the start of the current change is for the jackpot result stored in advance in the stop result table storage area 303f of the ROM 303. The information is specified from the stop result table, and the specified information is stored in the RAM 304. In the jackpot result stop result table, the types of patterns stopped and displayed on the main display unit 43 are set differently for each jackpot result type. In step S404, the type of pattern is specified in step S403. Information on the pattern mode according to the type of the jackpot result is stored in the RAM 304.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S402 that it is not a big win, a stop result setting process for losing is executed in step S405. Specifically, the information on the pattern mode that is finally stopped and displayed on the main display unit 43 in the game round related to the start of the current fluctuation is stored in advance in the stop result table storage area 303f of the ROM 303 for use in the off time. The information is specified from the stop result table, and the specified information is stored in the RAM 304. The information on the pattern mode selected in this case is different from the information on the pattern mode selected in the case of the jackpot result.

  After executing the process of step S404 or step S405, the process for setting the variable display time is executed in step S406.

  In this process, the value of the variation type counter CS stored in the variation type counter buffer in the lottery counter buffer 304a of the RAM 304 is acquired. In addition, it is determined whether or not reach display occurs in the symbol display device 41 in the current game round. Specifically, when the game times related to the start of the current variation is a jackpot result, it is determined that reach display occurs. Even if it is not a jackpot result, if the numerical information related to the reach random number counter C3 stored in the execution area AE is the numerical information corresponding to the occurrence of reach, it is determined that reach display occurs.

  When it is determined that the reach display occurs, the fluctuation display time information corresponding to the value of the current fluctuation type counter CS is acquired with reference to the reach generation fluctuation display time table stored in the ROM 303, and the fluctuation Display time information is set in a variable display time counter provided in the RAM 304. On the other hand, when it is determined that the reach display does not occur, the variable display time information corresponding to the value of the current variation type counter CS is acquired by referring to the reach non-occurrence variable display time table stored in the ROM 303. Then, the variation display time information is set in the variation display time counter. Incidentally, the variable display time that can be acquired with reference to the non-reach generation variable display time table is different from the variable display time that can be acquired with reference to the reach generation variable display time table.

  Note that the variable display time information when no reach occurs is set so that the variable display time is shortened as the number N of starting reserved balls increases.

  After executing the variable display time setting process in step S406, a variable command and a type command are set in step S407. The change command includes information on the change display time. Here, as described above, the fluctuation display time obtained by referring to the non-reach occurrence fluctuation display time table is different from the fluctuation display time obtained by referring to the reach occurrence fluctuation display time table. Even if the information on the presence / absence of reach has not been included in the command, the audio lamp control device 82 as the sub-side control device can identify the presence / absence of reach from the information of the variable display time. In this regard, it can be said that the change command includes information indicating whether or not reach has occurred. Note that the change command may include information that directly indicates whether or not reach has occurred.

  The type command includes game result information. That is, the type command includes, as game result information, any one of normal jackpot result information, probability variation jackpot result information, and outlier result information.

  The variation command and the type command set in step S407 are transmitted to the sound lamp control device 82 in step S201 in the normal process (FIG. 18). After performing the process of step S407, the display of the variation of the pattern is started on the main display unit 43 in step S408. Then, this variation start process is terminated.

  Returning to the description of the game times control process (FIG. 19), when the main display unit 43 is in a variable display, the processes of steps S306 to S309 are executed. In this process, first, in step S306, it is determined whether or not the current game time variation display time has elapsed.

  If the variable display time has not elapsed, the variable display process is executed in step S307. In the variable display process, the display mode in the main display unit 43 is changed. Then, this game times control process is complete | finished.

  If the change display time has elapsed, change end processing is executed in step S308. In the variation end process, the information stored in the RAM 304 in the process of step S404 or step S405 is specified, and the main display unit 43 is displayed so that the pattern form corresponding to the information is displayed on the main display unit 43. Control display.

  In the subsequent step S309, a change end command is set. The change end command set here is transmitted to the sound lamp control device 82 in step S201 in the normal process (FIG. 18). The sound lamp control device 82 ends the effect in the game round based on the received variation end command. In addition, a command corresponding to the command is transmitted from the sound lamp control device 82 to the display control device 331, and the display control device 331 displays the final stop symbol combination in the game times in a definite display (final stop display). Then, this game times control process is complete | finished.

<About processing executed by the MPU 321 of the sound lamp control device 82>
Next, variation command response processing executed by the MPU 321 of the audio lamp control device 82 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The corresponding process is repeatedly activated at a predetermined cycle (for example, 2 msec cycle). The change command handling process is performed when the change command and the type command transmitted by the main control device 81 are received, and corresponds to the information included in the received change command and type command. Execute the process.

  First, in step S501, based on the change command and the type command, it is determined whether or not the jackpot is won, and if the jackpot is won, the type and the change display time are grasped. In this case, the presence / absence of reach is also determined based on the variable display time.

  Thereafter, in step S502, it is determined whether or not the game result of the current game round is a big hit based on the grasping result in step S501. If it is not a big win, the process proceeds to step S503, and it is determined whether or not reach display is to be performed in the current game round. If it is not a game time in which reach display is performed, in step S504, a specific light-emitting effect lottery process for determining whether or not to perform a specific light-emitting effect in which direct light having a higher luminance than the normal image display state is visually recognized on the display screen G is performed. Execute. Specifically, an effect lottery counter area 323a is provided in the RAM 323 of the sound lamp control device 82, and an effect lottery counter that is updated at a predetermined cycle is stored in the area. In step S504, the current value of the effect lottery counter is acquired, and it is determined whether or not the value of the counter corresponds to a predetermined winning value.

  In step S505, based on the result of the lottery process, a process of determining whether or not the specific light emission effect is won is executed. If it is determined that the specific light emission effect has not been won, the process proceeds to step S506, and a deviation variation pattern determination process is executed. In this process, the display mode of the symbol display device 41 corresponding to the detachment result is determined.

  Specifically, the ROM 322 of the sound lamp control device 82 is provided with a variation pattern table storage area 322a, and the variation pattern table is stored in the variation pattern table storage area 322a. In the variation pattern table, a plurality of variation patterns executed in the symbol display device 41 are set. Each variation pattern differs depending on the game result, the variation display time, the presence or absence of jackpot, and the presence or absence of reach. In step S506, based on the grasp result of step S501, a process of selecting a variation pattern for detachment corresponding to the detachment result from the plurality of variation patterns is executed.

  The variation pattern includes a combination of symbols that is finally stopped in the symbol display device 41, and the variation pattern for detachment is set with a combination of symbols corresponding to the detachment result. The combination of symbols corresponding to the result of detachment is set so as not to be a combination of symbols corresponding to reach display.

  After determining the variation pattern of the current game time in step S506, the process proceeds to step S507 to execute a process of transmitting a variation pattern command corresponding to the current variation pattern to the display control device 331. The corresponding process is terminated. Based on receiving the variation pattern command, the display control device 331 creates a drawing signal corresponding to the variation pattern command, and executes a process of outputting the drawing signal to the symbol display device 41. A process of starting the variable display of the symbols displayed on the display device 41 and maintaining the variable display over a predetermined period is executed. And when the said predetermined period passes, the process which displays the stop result corresponding to a fluctuation pattern command, ie, the stop result corresponding to a detachment result, is performed. As a result, an image of a pattern corresponding to the result of dislocation is displayed on the display screen G.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the specific light emission effect is won (when it is determined that the value of the effect lottery counter matches the winning value), the variation pattern of the specific light emission effect corresponding to the result of losing is determined in step S508. The process to determine is executed. Specifically, a plurality of specific light emission effect variation patterns for detachment are set in the variation pattern table, and one variation pattern is selected from the plurality of specific light emission effect variation patterns for detachment. It should be noted that a combination of symbols corresponding to the detachment result is set for each detachment specific emission effect variation pattern.

  Then, a variation pattern command corresponding to the specific emission effect variation pattern for detachment determined in step S508 is output to the display control device 331, and the corresponding processing is terminated. The variation pattern command includes specific information for specifying to perform the specific light emission effect for detachment.

  When such processing is performed, the display control device 331 creates a drawing signal including the image information to be displayed on the display screen G and the mode information of the light control panel 123 based on the command, and uses the drawing signal as a design. By executing processing to be output to the display device 41, the display of the symbols and the like displayed on the display screen G is displayed, and the drive control of the light control panel 123 is performed.

  When the result of the current game round is a big hit (step S502: YES), or when reach display is performed (step S503: YES), the variation pattern corresponding to the specific light effect for reach that is a kind of reach effect in step S509. Execute the process to determine. Specifically, a plurality of reach specific light emission fluctuation patterns corresponding to a specific light emission effect in the case of reach display are set in the fluctuation pattern table, and one of the plurality of reach specific light emission fluctuation patterns is changed. Select a pattern. In this case, the combination of symbols to be finally stopped is the case of the jackpot result (step S502: YES) and the case of the unreached reach result in which the reach display is performed (step S502: NO, step S503: YES). Specifically, the combination of the same numbers is set in the jackpot result, and in the case of the outlier reach result, the stop result in which one of the jackpot symbols is set is different. Yes. Further, among the jackpot results, a combination of odd numbers is set when the result is a probabilistic jackpot result, and a combination of even numbers is set when the result is a normal jackpot result.

  Then, a variation pattern command corresponding to the reach specific light emission variation pattern determined in step S509 is output to the display control device 331, and the corresponding processing is terminated. The change pattern command includes specific information for specifying that the specific light emission effect for reach is to be performed.

  Next, the specific light emission effect process performed in the display control device 331 and the light control panel 123 and the image contents when the specific light emission effect process is performed are described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 22 and FIGS. 23 to 25. explain. FIG. 23A is an explanatory diagram for explaining the state of the light control panel 123 when performing a specific light emission effect for detachment, FIG. 23B is an explanatory diagram for explaining an effect image for detachment, and FIG. FIG. 24A is an explanatory diagram for explaining the state of the display screen G when performing the specific light emitting effect for use, and FIG. 24A is an explanatory diagram for explaining the state of the light control panel 123 when performing the specific light emitting effect for reach. ) Is an explanatory diagram for explaining the first reach effect image, and FIG. 24C is an explanatory diagram for explaining the state of the display screen G before the reach display is started in a situation where the reach specific light emission effect is performed. FIG. 25A is an explanatory diagram for explaining the state of the light control panel 123 when performing the specific light emission effect for reach, FIG. 25B is an explanatory diagram for explaining the second reach effect image, and FIG. Is a situation where a specific light emitting effect for reach is performed, and the reach display is It is an explanatory view for explaining a state of the display screen G after being started.

  When the display control device 331 receives a variation pattern command from the sound lamp control device 82, the display control device 331 periodically executes an interrupt process for displaying an image corresponding to the variation pattern command on the display screen G. The specific light emission effect process is performed when the received variation pattern command corresponds to the specific light emission effect, specifically, when the variation pattern command includes specific information for specifying the specific light emission effect. In the interrupt process.

  First, in step S601, the type of specific light emission effect is grasped based on the received variation pattern command. Specifically, whether the specific light emission effect for detachment or the specific light emission effect for reach is specified based on the received variation pattern command.

  In the subsequent step S602, it is determined whether or not the current specific light emission effect is an outlier specific light emission effect based on the grasping result. If it is a specific light emission effect for detachment, the process proceeds to step S603, and a process of determining whether or not it is an effect start timing is executed. Specifically, the received variation pattern command (variation pattern corresponding to the off-specific illumination effect) includes identification information that identifies the specific emission effect start timing. Refer to the identification information. By doing so, it is determined whether or not the current game time is the production start timing. The specific information is set so that the specific light-emitting effect is performed during the display of the variation of the symbol, but is not limited thereto, and may be set before, for example, the variation display of the symbol is started.

  If it is the specific light emission effect start timing, the process proceeds to step S604, and processing for setting the aspect of the light control panel 123 is executed. Specifically, specific information for specifying that a voltage is applied to the first electrode 271, the second electrode 272, and the third electrode 273 of the light control panel 123 is transmitted to the symbol display device 41. Set to drawing signal. Thereby, as shown to Fig.23 (a), the 1st line area | region 281 of the light control area | region 241 will be in a permeation | transmission state. Note that, for the sake of the drawing, the region in the transmission state is indicated by hatching, and the region in the scattering state is indicated by plain color.

  In a succeeding step S605, processing for setting a drawing signal is executed so that the off-stage effect image is displayed. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 23B, the off-stage effect image is obtained when the pixels of the first specific light emitting region 361 disposed on the front side of the first line region 281 are in a completely transmissive state (white display). And the first character image CH1 in which the girl is waving in an area other than the first specific light emitting area 361 is displayed. Further, at the boundary portion between the first specific light emitting region 361 and other regions, the white light is partially transmitted so that the luminance of the white light gradually decreases as the distance from the first specific light emitting region 361 increases. A first partial transmission region 362 and a second partial transmission region 363 are set. The transmittance of the second partial transmission region 363 is set to be smaller than that of the first partial transmission region 362.

  The drawing signal set by performing the above processing is output to the image signal processing circuit 341 of the symbol display device 41. Thus, an LCD data signal and a light control signal corresponding to the drawing signal are generated, and each signal is output to the LCD controller 342 of the liquid crystal panel 121 and the light control panel controller 351 of the light control panel 123, respectively. . Each controller 342, 351 drives and controls each driver circuit 201, 202, 276 based on the input of each signal. Accordingly, as illustrated in FIG. 23C, the light emitting unit 221 is visually recognized in the first specific light emitting region 361 of the display screen G, and the direct light of the light emitting unit 221 is visually recognized. That is, in the first specific light emitting region 361, direct light in a light emitting mode having high brightness and high straightness compared to the light of the image is visually recognized.

  In this case, since the white light whose luminance gradually decreases from the first specific light emitting region 361 is visually recognized around the first specific light emitting region 361, the luminance of the white light gradually increases in the entire display screen G. It has become. As a result, the white light in the first specific light emitting area 361 is displayed in a state in which it is familiar with the display screen G.

  In addition, the first character image CH1 in which the girl is waving in another area of the display screen G is displayed. Although illustration is omitted, a symbol is displayed on the display screen G in addition to the first character image CH1, and the variation of the symbol is displayed. The symbol variation display is performed for a predetermined period, after which the combination of symbols as a result of detachment is stopped and displayed, and the symbol variation display ends.

  On the other hand, if it is not the start timing of the specific light emission effect (step S603: NO), the process proceeds to step S606, and processing for determining whether or not it is the effect end timing is executed. Specifically, processing is performed for determining whether or not the received variation pattern command includes specific information for specifying that the specific light emission effect is to be ended in this processing round.

  If it is not the effect end timing, the present process is terminated as it is, while if it is the effect end timing, the specific light emission effect end process is executed in step S607. In the specific light emission effect end process, information for specifying that the voltage application to the first electrode 271 to the fifth electrode 275 of the light control panel 123 is stopped is set in the drawing signal and corresponds to the end timing of the specific light emission effect. The drawn signal is set, and the effect processing is terminated. As a result, the entire light control region 241 is in a scattering state, and an image corresponding to the end timing is displayed on the entire display screen G.

  When it is determined in step S602 that the light emission effect for detachment is not reached, it means that the specific light emission effect for reach is performed. In this case, a process of setting a display mode corresponding to the specific light emission effect for reach is executed. The display mode of the specific light emission effect for reach is different from the display mode of the specific light effect for detachment described above.

  Specifically, first, in step S608, based on the received variation pattern data, a process of determining whether or not it is the start timing of the specific light emission effect is executed. Here, the start timing of the specific light emission effect is set to be performed while the symbol variation display is being performed in all symbol sequences. For this reason, after the specific light emission effect is started, the variable display of the symbols of the two symbol rows (upper symbol row Z1, lower symbol row Z3) is stopped, and reach display is performed.

  When it is the start timing of the specific light emission effect, specific information for specifying that a voltage is applied to the third electrode 273, the fourth electrode 274, and the fifth electrode 275 of the light control panel 123 in step S609. Execute processing for setting to the drawing signal. Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 24A, the second line region 282 of the light control region 241 is in the transmission state, and the other regions are maintained in the scattering state.

  In subsequent step S610, the drawing signal is set so that the first reach effect image is displayed on the display screen G. Specifically, in the first reach effect image, as shown in FIG. 24B, the pixels of the second specific light emitting region 371 arranged on the front side of the second line region 282 are in a completely transmissive state (white display). ) And a first partial transmission region 372 and a second partial transmission region 373 are set at the boundary between the second specific light emitting region 371 and another region. The first partial transmission region 372 and the second partial transmission region 373 are the same except for the differences in shape from the first partial transmission region 362 and the second partial transmission region 363, and thus description thereof is omitted. Further, the second character image CH2 of the girl is displayed so as not to overlap with the second specific light emitting region 371. The second character image CH2 of the girl is different from the case of the above-described specific light emission effect for detachment, and specifically shows a state in which the hand is raised.

  When the above processing is performed, as shown in FIG. 24C, the specific light emission is visually recognized in the second specific light emission region 371, specifically, the light of the light emitting unit 221 is directly visually recognized. In the outer edge portion of the second specific light emitting region 371, light whose luminance gradually decreases as it moves away from the second specific light emitting region 371 is visually recognized. In addition, the second character image CH2 is displayed in an area other than the second specific light emitting area 371.

  Here, the first specific light-emitting region 361 and the second specific light-emitting region 371 are different, and the region corresponding to the third electrode 273 (the region that is transmitted by the third electrode 273) is common to both the regions 361 and 371. It is a common area. Thereby, it becomes possible to control each area | region 361,371 separately.

  That is, for example, when a transparent electrode is provided across the common area of both the areas 361 and 371 and the area corresponding only to the first specific light emitting area 361, the voltage is applied to the transparent electrode so as to attempt specific light emission in the common area. Is applied, the specific light emission is visually recognized in the common region and the region straddling the first specific light emission region 361. For this reason, only the second specific light emission region 371 cannot be set as the specific light emission. On the other hand, according to the present embodiment, since the common electrode corresponding to the common area is provided on the light control panel 123, it is possible to avoid the disadvantage that the specific light emission is performed in an unexpected area.

  On the other hand, when it is not the specific light emission effect start timing (step S608: NO), the process proceeds to step S611 to determine whether it is the reach display start timing. Specifically, the variation pattern corresponding to the specific light emission effect for reach includes specific information for specifying the reach display start timing, and whether or not the specific information is set in this determination process. judge.

  If it is determined that it is the reach display start timing, the process proceeds to step S612, and processing for changing the mode of the light control panel 123 is executed. Specifically, the drawing signal is set so that a voltage is applied to the first electrode 271 to the fifth electrode 275. Thereby, as shown to Fig.25 (a), the area | region used as a permeation | transmission state is formed in a cross.

  In subsequent step S613, processing for setting a drawing signal is performed so that the second reach effect image is displayed. As shown in FIG. 25 (b), the second reach effect image has the first specific light-emitting area 361 and the second specific light-emitting area 371 in a completely transmissive state, and a first portion on the periphery of both areas 361 and 371. The image is set such that the transmissive region 382 and the second partial transmissive region 383 having a smaller transmittance than the first partial transmissive region 382 are formed. Further, the second character image CH2 is set to be displayed with the same coordinates.

  When the above processing is performed, the light emitting unit 221 is visually recognized in the first specific light emitting region 361 and the second specific light emitting region 371 as shown in FIG. That is, in the case where the specific light emission effect is executed in the game times where the reach display is performed, first, in the situation where the variable display of the symbols of all the symbol rows Z1 to Z3 is started, the light emitting unit 221 in the second specific light emitting region 371 is started. A specific light emission effect in which light is visually recognized is performed (see FIG. 24C). The direct light of the light emitting unit 221 is also visually recognized in the first specific light emitting area 361 at the timing when the variable display of the symbols in the symbol rows Z1 and Z3 other than the middle symbol row Z2 is stopped and the reach display is started. Is done. In other words, the region where the specific light emission is visually recognized on the display screen G is expanded step by step. Thereby, the player is attracted to the development of the display mode, and the degree of attention to the game is increased.

  If it is not the start timing of reach display (step S: NO), it is determined in step S614 whether or not it is the end timing of the specific light emission effect based on the received variation pattern command. If it is not the end timing of the specific light emission effect, the process is terminated as it is, whereas if it is the end timing of the specific light emission effect, the specific light emission effect end process is executed, and the main effect process is ended. In the specific light emission end process, the application of voltage to the first electrode 271 to the fifth electrode 275 of the light control panel 123 is stopped and an image corresponding to the end of the specific light emission effect is displayed on the display screen G.

  According to the embodiment described in detail above, the following excellent effects are obtained.

  A light control panel 123 that can be switched between a transmission state and a scattering state is provided between the liquid crystal panel 121 and the light emitting unit 221. Thereby, by performing the switching control of the light control panel 123, it is possible to perform a specific light emission effect in which the light of the light emitting unit 221 is directly visually recognized on the display screen G, and increase the degree of attention to the game through the specific light emission effect. be able to.

  In particular, when the light control panel 123 is in a scattering state, light emitted to the liquid crystal panel 121 is diffused, so that light unevenness on the display screen G can be reduced. On the other hand, since the light from the light emitting unit 221 cannot be directly viewed by the player, there may be a disadvantage that the impact through vision is reduced. On the other hand, the above inconvenience can be avoided by providing a switching means capable of switching between the transmission state and the diffusion state instead of the diffusion plate as in this feature.

  Moreover, when performing reach display, it was set as the structure which performs a specific light emission effect, and the start timing of the said specific light emission effect was set before the start timing of reach display. Thereby, since the expectation for reach display is increased by visually recognizing the specific light emission effect, it is possible to increase the player's attention to the game.

  Further, when reach display is started, specific light emission is performed in the second specific light emission region 371 in addition to the first specific light emission region 361. Thereby, the specific light emission effect develops and the degree of attention to the display screen G is increased.

  The light control panel 123 and the liquid crystal panel 121 were unitized with a predetermined gap therebetween. Thereby, the bad influence by the capacitor | condenser which may arise between the light control panel 123 and the liquid crystal panel 121 can be reduced. Thereby, the inconvenience which may arise by providing the light control panel 123 can be avoided.

  In the present embodiment, the specific light emitting areas 361 and 371 are configured to perform white display. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a predetermined color may be displayed. Even in this case, since the areas corresponding to the specific light emitting areas 361 and 371 in the light control panel 123 are in the transmissive state, specific light emission is performed in the specific light emitting areas 361 and 371. However, in view of the fact that the white display that transmits light in each sub-pixel has higher light transmittance than the structure that performs color display by absorbing light of a specific wavelength, The display structure can make the impact light visible.

  Alternatively, the electrodes to which voltage is applied in the light control panel 123 may be sequentially switched every time a predetermined update timing is reached, and the white display area in the display screen G may be sequentially switched in response to the change. Thereby, since the area | region which emits specific light switches sequentially, the attention degree to the display screen G can be raised.

  In the present embodiment, the first electrode 271 to the fifth electrode 275 are formed to have a “+” shape. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, is formed to have a “x” shape. The specific shape may be arbitrary.

  Furthermore, for example, an electrode may be formed in a circular shape, and specific light emission may be performed in a region corresponding to the electrode, and an image imitating the periphery of the sun may be displayed around the electrode. As a result, it is possible to produce an effect that makes the sun appear to shine. That is, when a light emitter is displayed on the display screen G, it is possible to make it appear as if the light emitter is emitting light by forming electrodes according to the shape of the light emitter.

  Further, for example, when a sword having a sword is displayed on the display screen G, the electrode may be formed corresponding to the shape of the sword, and the specific light emitting region may be set to the shape of the sword. Thereby, an image of a spear having a sword that emits outstanding light can be displayed.

Second Embodiment
In 1st Embodiment, the light control panel 123 in which the 1st electrode 271-the 5th electrode 275 were formed corresponding to the production | presentation aspect of a specific light emission effect was provided. In contrast, in the present embodiment, a light control panel 401 having a different electrode configuration is provided.

  The light control panel 401 in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 26A is a front view of the light control panel 401 as viewed from the front, FIG. 26B is a schematic diagram showing a cross-sectional structure of the light control panel 401, and FIG. 26C is an equivalent circuit of the light control panel 401. It is a schematic diagram shown. The same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 26A, the light control panel 401 of this embodiment is formed with a light control region 402. In the light control region 402, linear transparent electrodes are formed in a matrix. ing.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 26 (b), the light control panel 401 includes a pair of glass substrates 411 and 412 arranged to face each other at a predetermined interval, as in the first embodiment, and these glasses. And a switching liquid crystal layer 413 formed between the substrates 411 and 412. Since these are the same as the corresponding members of the first embodiment, description thereof is omitted.

  A plurality of linear first transparent electrodes 421 are provided on the switching liquid crystal layer 413 side of the front glass substrate 412 of the pair of glass substrates 411 and 412. The first transparent electrodes 421 are formed so as to correspond to the source lines 142, and specifically, 800 are formed. The first transparent electrodes 421 are arranged at equal intervals so as not to contact each other, and more specifically, are spaced apart from the source lines 142 at the same pitch.

  Corresponding to the first transparent electrode 421, a plurality of second transparent electrodes 422 extending in a direction intersecting the first transparent electrode 421, specifically, a direction orthogonal to the first transparent electrode 421 are provided on the back glass substrate 411 at equal intervals. Is formed. The second transparent electrodes 422 are formed so as to correspond to the gate lines 141, and specifically, 480 lines are formed. The second transparent electrodes 422 are arranged at equal intervals so as not to contact each other. Specifically, the second transparent electrodes 422 are arranged at the same pitch as the gate lines 141. In this case, the first transparent electrode 421 and the second transparent electrode 422 are stretched in a lattice shape, and the switching liquid crystal layer 413 is sandwiched between the first transparent electrode 421 and the second transparent electrode 422.

  According to this configuration, when a voltage is applied to one first transparent electrode 421 and one second transparent electrode 422, an electric field is applied to a region where the two intersect, and a switching liquid crystal layer in the region is applied. 413 shifts from the scattering state to the transmission state. That is, as shown in the schematic diagram of FIG. 26C, a region where the first transparent electrode 421 and the second transparent electrode 422 intersect in the switching liquid crystal layer 413 is a unit region 423, and switching is performed for each unit region 423. It is possible to switch the liquid crystal layer 413 to a transmission state or a scattering state. That is, the unit area is set to 1 dot, and the switching liquid crystal layer 413 can be controlled in units of the dot. In the following description, the unit region 423 is also referred to as a dot region 423.

  Here, the dot region 423 is formed corresponding to the pixel of the liquid crystal panel 121. Specifically, the first transparent electrode 421 is disposed at the same pitch as the source line 142 and the second transparent electrode 422 is disposed at the same pitch as the gate line 141. The size of the region 423 is the same as the size of the pixel. When the light control panel 401 and the liquid crystal panel 121 are combined, the dot region 423 and the pixel overlap each other. That is, the dot region 423 is formed in a one-to-one correspondence with the pixel. Light from the light emitting unit 221 reaches the pixel via the dot region 423.

  Each transparent electrode 421 and 422 is connected to a first driver circuit 431 and a second driver circuit 432 provided on the light control panel 401. The driver circuits 431 and 432 are connected to the light control panel controller 351, and perform voltage control of the transparent electrodes 421 and 422 based on a signal from the light control panel controller 351.

  In the present embodiment, a timing controller is mounted on the light control panel controller 351 in order to synchronize the first transparent electrode 421 and the second transparent electrode 422.

  Next, a control system of the light control panel 401 having the above configuration will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 27 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a control system of the light control panel 401, and FIG. 28 is a timing chart for explaining timings at which a voltage is applied to each first transparent electrode 421.

  As shown in FIG. 27, the light control region 241 includes a plurality of dot regions 423 arranged in a matrix between the first transparent electrode 421 and the second transparent electrode 422. Here, for convenience of explanation, in FIG. 27, the dot region 423 at the corner of 1 is F (1,1), and F (2 in the direction along the second transparent electrode 422 with F (1,1) as a reference. , 1), ..., F (9, 1), and F (1, 2), ..., F (1, 8) in the direction along the first transparent electrode 421 with F (1, 1) as a reference. And Note that these dot regions 423 are collectively referred to simply as F (x, y). In addition, the first transparent electrode 421 constituting F (x, y) is first transparent electrodes 421a, 421b,..., 421i in order from F (1, 1), and the second transparent electrode 422 is the second transparent electrode 422. The transparent electrodes 422a, 422b,.

  F (x, y) is in a scattering state in a normal state where no voltage is applied. In the description of the drawings, F (x, y) in a scattering state is indicated by a plain color. On the other hand, when a voltage is applied to F (x, y), specifically, a voltage is applied to the first transparent electrode 421 and the second transparent electrode 422 corresponding to F (x, y). F (x, y) is in the transmission state. For example, when a voltage is applied to the first transparent electrode 421e and the second transparent electrode 422e, F (5, 5) enters a transmission state. For the convenience of the drawing, F (x, y) in a transparent state is indicated by hatching.

  Here, when a plurality of F (x, y) are in a transmission state, voltage is not applied simultaneously to F (x, y) to be applied with voltage, but is applied with voltage. F (x, y) is sequentially switched. Specifically, voltage control is performed on the second transparent electrode 422 for each first transparent electrode 421.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 28, at a timing t1, F (1, y) is selected by applying a predetermined voltage (potential) to the first transparent electrode 421 (y = 1 to 8). ). Then, a voltage is generated such that a potential difference with F (1, k) (k: any combination of 1 to 8) of F (1, y) is generated with respect to the first transparent electrode 421. (Potential) is applied (for example, grounded). As a result, F (1, k) enters a transmission state.

  Thereafter, at the timing of t2, F (2, y) is selected by applying a voltage to the first transparent electrode 421b instead of the first transparent electrode 421a. And a voltage is applied with respect to what becomes a voltage application object among F (2, y), for example, the 2nd transparent electrode 422e. As a result, F (2,5) is in a transmissive state. Thereafter, whenever the timing of t3 → timing of t4 → timing of t5, the first transparent electrode 421 to which the voltage is applied is switched from the first transparent electrode 421c → the first transparent electrode 421d → the first transparent electrode 421e, and the voltage The second transparent electrode 422 to be applied is sequentially switched.

  In this way, the first transparent electrode 421 to which the voltage is applied is sequentially switched (first transparent electrode 421a → first transparent electrode 421b →...) And the second transparent electrode 422 corresponding to each first transparent electrode 421 is applied. Thus, a voltage is applied to F (x, y) as a voltage application target, and no voltage is applied to the other F (x, y). Thereby, as shown in FIG. 27, it becomes possible to set F (x, y) which will be in a permeation | transmission state so that a specific shape (upward arrow) may be made.

  Here, if a voltage is simultaneously applied to a plurality of transparent electrodes so that a plurality of F (x, y) is in a transmissive state, a voltage may be applied to an unexpected F (x, y). is there. Specifically, for example, a voltage is applied to the first transparent electrode 421c and the second transparent electrode 422d in order to make F (3,4) and F (4,3) transparent, and the first transparent electrode 421d. When a voltage is applied to the second transparent electrode 422c, F (3,4) and F (4,3) are in a transmissive state, and are configured by the first transparent electrode 421c and the second transparent electrode 422c. F (4, 4) composed of F (3, 3) and the first transparent electrode 421d and the second transparent electrode 422d is in a transmissive state. As a result, unexpected F (x, y) enters a transmissive state, and light with high luminance is visually recognized in an unexpected region on the display screen G, which may give the player a sense of discomfort.

  On the other hand, by selecting the second transparent electrode 422 to which a voltage is applied for each first transparent electrode 421 and repeatedly performing the process of sequentially switching the first transparent electrode 421, it is unexpected. There is no fear that a voltage is applied to F (x, y). Thereby, the said inconvenience can be avoided. In other words, when there are a plurality of F (x, y) to be applied with voltage, the F (x, y) applied simultaneously is restricted to a predetermined number, and the voltage is applied by the predetermined number. Therefore, it can be said that unexpected F (x, y) does not become a transmission state.

  In the case of such a configuration, the process of applying the voltage in this period is repeatedly executed with the process for the number of first transparent electrodes 421 (800) as one period. Thereby, it is visually recognized that F (x, y) is in a transmissive state as a whole, and a corresponding portion on the display screen G looks bright.

  In this case, the period is preferably set in correspondence with the frame rate, which is the image update interval, and specifically, it is preferably set to be the same as the frame rate of the image. In other words, the period required to complete the voltage application setting for all F (x, y) may be set to be the same as the frame rate of the image. As a result, the transition of the transmissive region can follow the change in the content of the image.

  Specifically, the period T1 required for the state setting per first transparent electrode 421 is determined so that the period required for completing the voltage application setting for all F (x, y) is the same as the frame rate of the image. . And the voltage applied with respect to each transparent electrode 421,422 is set so that F (x, y) may be in a permeation | transmission state in the said period T1. As a result, the transmissive region 452 can follow the change in the content of the image.

  A display process performed using the light control panel 401 having the above configuration will be described. In the present embodiment, a lightning effect is performed instead of the specific light emission effect. In addition, it is set to perform an angle effect in the reach display.

<About lightning production>
In the lightning effect, a plurality (specifically, two) of lightning pattern data are prepared as data for controlling a region in the light control panel 401 that is in a transmission state. The lightning pattern data will be described with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIGS. 29 (a) to 29 (b), the pachinko machine 10 is set with first lightning pattern data PD1 and second lightning pattern data PD2 simulating different forms of lightning discharge paths. Each lightning pattern data PD1, PD2 includes a plurality of dot information in a one-to-one correspondence with each F (x, y), and the dot information includes a voltage for each F (x, y). Information on whether or not to apply, specifically, information of “1” or “0” is included. In the lightning pattern data PD1 and PD2, lightning patterns P1 and P2 are set by continuing F (x, y) to be applied with voltage in a polygonal line. The lightning pattern data PD1 and PD2 are output to the image signal processing circuit 341 together with the drawing signal, converted into a light control signal by the image signal processing circuit 341, and input to the light control panel controller 351. The light control panel controller 351 controls the driver circuits 431 and 432 based on the light control signal to apply a voltage to F (x, y) at locations corresponding to the lightning patterns P1 and P2. To do. In this case, the driver circuits 431 and 432 perform voltage control of each F (x, y) in the order of F (1, y), F (2, y),. Thereby, the area | region which comprises each lightning pattern P1, P2 will be in a transmissive state, and the direct light which is not scattered in the said area | region is visually recognized.

  Each lightning pattern P1 and P2 will be described individually. As shown in FIG. 29A, each dot information is set so that the first lightning pattern P1 is a single broken line with no branches. .

  On the other hand, in the second lightning pattern P2, as shown in FIG. 29B, each dot information is set so that one discharge path branches in the middle. Compared with the first lightning pattern P1, the lightning bolt pattern P2 The discharge path is complicated and the area is large.

  The lightning effect processing in this embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 29 and FIG. FIG. 30A is an explanatory diagram for explaining the first lightning image IM1, and FIG. 30B is an explanatory diagram for explaining the second lightning image IM2.

  Here, in the present embodiment, a lightning effect process is executed in place of the specific light emission effect process in the variation command response process (FIG. 21). Specifically, in FIG. 21, the process of changing “specific light emission effect” to “lightning effect” is executed. By executing this processing, when the reach display is performed or when the lightning effect is won, the voice lamp control device 82 outputs a variation pattern command corresponding to the lightning effect to the display control device 331. Specifically, when the reach display is performed, a variation pattern command corresponding to the reach lightning effect is output to the display control device 331. When the reach display is not performed, the variation pattern command corresponding to the release lightning effect is performed. Is output to the display control device 331. The lightning effect processing is started when the variation pattern command transmitted from the sound lamp control device 82 corresponds to the lightning effect.

  First, in step S701, the type of lightning effect is determined. Specifically, based on the received variation pattern command, it is determined whether the current lightning effect is an off lightning effect or a reach lightning effect.

  After that, in step S702, it is determined whether or not the current lightning effect is an off lightning effect based on the grasp result. If the lightning effect is for detachment, the process advances to step S703 to execute a process for determining whether or not it is the start timing of the lightning effect. If it is the start timing of the lightning effect, the process proceeds to step S704, and the lightning effect for detachment is set.

  Specifically, in step S704, processing for setting the first lightning pattern data PD1 in the drawing signal is executed. In step S705, the first lightning image is set, and the lightning effect production process is terminated.

  When such processing is performed, the first lightning image IM1 is displayed on the display screen G as shown in FIG. The first lightning image IM1 is an image set in correspondence with the first lightning pattern data PD1, and specifically, the first lightning region 441 disposed in front of the first lightning pattern P1 is completely transmitted. The image is set to be in a state (white display) and is set so that other regions are in a completely shielded state (black display). Thereby, direct light from the light emitting unit 221 is visually recognized in the first lightning region 441 with a black background as a base. In this case, it looks as if the light emitter formed corresponding to the first lightning region 441 emits light.

  On the other hand, if it is not the start timing of the lightning effect (step S703: NO), it is determined in step S706 whether it is the end timing of the lightning effect. If it is not the end timing of the lightning effect, the present lightning effect processing is ended as it is. If it is the end timing of the lightning effect, the lightning effect end processing is executed in step S707, and this processing is ended. In the lightning effect end processing, pattern data to which no voltage is applied to all F (x, y) is set as a drawing signal, and an image corresponding to the end timing is set. As a result, the entire light control region 241 is in a scattering state, and an image corresponding to the end timing is displayed on the entire display screen G.

  If it is not a lightning bolt effect for detachment (step S702: NO), it means performing a lightning bolt effect for reach. In this case, a process of setting a display mode corresponding to the specific light emission effect for reach is executed.

  Specifically, first, in step S708, it is determined whether or not it is the start timing of the lightning effect. The start timing is set to a timing before the reach display start timing, as in the first embodiment.

  If it is the start timing of the lightning effect, a process of setting the second lightning pattern data PD2 as a drawing signal is executed in step S709, and the second lightning image is set in step S710, and this lightning effect is used. The process ends.

  When such processing is performed, the second lightning image IM2 is displayed on the display screen G as shown in FIG. 31 (b). The second lightning image IM2 is an image set so as to correspond to the second lightning pattern P2. Specifically, the second lightning region 442 disposed in front of the second lightning pattern P2 is a completely transparent white. The image is set to be displayed and the other area is set to be black. Accordingly, direct light from the light emitting unit 221 is visually recognized in the second lightning region 442 with the black background as a base.

  On the other hand, if it is not the start timing of the lightning effect in step S708, the process proceeds to step S711 to determine whether it is the end timing of the lightning effect. If it is not the end timing of the lightning effect, the present process is ended as it is. If it is the end timing, the lightning effect end process is executed in step S712. Thereby, the lightning effect ends. Since this process is the same as step S707, the description thereof is omitted. In this embodiment, the lightning effect end timing is set before the reach display start timing.

<Regarding the angler production>
Next, an angle effect will be described. The angle effect is executed when reach display is performed, and direct light is visually recognized at a specific portion of a predetermined light emission target symbol, and direct light is visually recognized in accordance with the variation display of the light emission target symbol. This is an effect of variably displaying the location to be performed. In the present angler effect, a symbol indicating “6” is used as the light emitting symbol. As shown in FIG. 14 (b), the symbol indicating “6” has a character imitating a butterfly anglerfish, and the light is directly visible at the light emitting portion of the butterfly anglerfish.

  An angle effect processing for performing the angle effect will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The angler effect processing is set to be executed while the reach display is performed, and is executed after the reach symbol display processing for performing the variable display of the symbols in the reach display. Is set to In the reach symbol display process, the upper symbol row Z1 and the lower symbol row Z3 stop and display the reach symbols corresponding to the current variation pattern command, and in the middle symbol row Z2, each symbol is scrolled to the left. Execute processing to update coordinates.

  First, in step S801, based on the contents set in the reach symbol display process, the symbol to be displayed in the middle symbol row Z2 is grasped. In the subsequent step S802, it is determined based on the grasp result in step S801 whether or not the symbol to be displayed is included in the symbol to be displayed this time. If the light emission target symbol is not included, the effect processing is terminated as it is. If the light emission target symbol exists, the process proceeds to step S803.

  In step S803, a process for grasping the coordinates of the light emission target symbol is executed, and in a subsequent step S804, the light emission portion of the light emission target symbol is specified from the grasped coordinates. Specifically, the butterfly portion of the butterfly angler is identified in the “6” symbol.

  Thereafter, in step S805, in detail, a voltage is applied to F (x, y) included in the region so that a region located behind the specified portion in the light control region 402 is in a transmission state. Create angler pattern data as shown. Then, the angle pattern data is set as a drawing signal, and the process for the angle effect production is completed.

  According to such a configuration, the transmissive region 452 is formed corresponding to the shape of the light emitting portion of the light emitting target symbol. Since the position of the transmission region 452 is specified by grasping the coordinates of the light emitting target symbol displayed on the display screen G and specifying the coordinates from the coordinates, the transmission region 452 is transparent when the coordinates of the light emitting target symbol are updated. The coordinates of the area 452 are also updated.

  A display mode displayed on the display screen G when the above processing is performed will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 33A is an explanatory diagram for explaining an image displayed on the display screen G when an angler effect is performed, FIG. 33B is an explanatory diagram for explaining an angler pattern data, and FIG. ) Is an explanatory diagram for explaining a light emission target symbol displayed on the display screen G. FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 33A, in the reach display, the variable display of symbols is stopped in the upper symbol row Z1 and the lower symbol row Z3. In this case, the symbol combination “2” is stopped and displayed as a combination of reach symbols on the right line L3. In this state, the symbols are scrolled to the left in the middle symbol row Z2.

  Here, when the light emission target symbol 451 is displayed in the middle symbol row Z2, as shown in FIG. 33 (b), the light control region 402 of the light control panel 401 is overlapped with the light emission portion of the light emission target symbol 451. A transmission region 452 is formed in the other region, and the other regions are in a scattering state. The transmissive region 452 moves with the movement of the light emission target symbol 451, and specifically moves to the left as the light emission target symbol 451 scrolls to the left. Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 33C, the light emission target symbol 451 moves in a state where the light emission portion of the light emission target symbol 451, specifically, the butterfly portion 453 of the butterfly anglerfish is displayed brighter than other portions. . In this case, since the light of the light emitting unit 221 is directly visually recognized in the butterfly portion 453, it looks as if the light emitter is moving.

  According to the embodiment described in detail above, the following excellent effects are obtained.

  The first transparent electrode 421 and the second transparent electrode 422 are formed so that F (x, y) is arranged in a matrix, and a voltage can be individually applied to each F (x, y). Are provided with driver circuits 431 and 432. Thus, by performing voltage control on each F (x, y), it is possible to control the region that is in the transmissive state with high definition, and the degree of freedom of the region that is in the transmissive state is increased. Therefore, the display modes displayed on the display screen G can be diversified, and the degree of attention to the game can be improved through the diversification.

  By performing voltage control on the first transparent electrode 421 and the second transparent electrode 422 so that F (x, y) that is a voltage application target sequentially changes, F (x, y) that is not a voltage application target. ) To prevent voltage from being applied. Specifically, in a state where a voltage is applied to a certain first transparent electrode 421, a voltage is applied to the second transparent electrode 422 corresponding to the first transparent electrode 421. Then, at the predetermined update timing, the first transparent electrode 421 to which the voltage is applied is updated, and the voltage is applied to the second transparent electrode 422 corresponding to the updated first transparent electrode 421. The configuration. As a result, the areas set in the various pattern data are in the transmission state, and the other areas are in the scattering state. Therefore, it is possible to avoid the inconvenience that the unexpected region in the display screen G has high luminance by causing the unexpected region to be in the transmissive state. Therefore, inconveniences that may be caused by forming transparent electrodes used for applying a voltage to the switching liquid crystal layer 413 in a matrix can be avoided.

  In a situation where the symbol is scrolled, a transmissive region 452 that is in a transmissive state in the light control region 241 is set corresponding to a part of the shape of the symbol, and the transmissive region 452 is moved in accordance with the variation display of the symbol. It was set as the structure made to do. As a result, it is possible to produce an effect in which a pattern in which direct light is visually recognized in part is scrolled. Such an effect is an effect in which the movement of the luminous body and the movement of the symbol appear to be fused, unlike the effect of simply displaying the image of the symbol displayed on the display screen G. Therefore, the degree of attention to the game can be increased more suitably compared to normal image display.

  In addition, although it was set as the structure which moves the transmissive area | region 452 without changing the shape and magnitude | size of the transmissive area | region 452, it is not restricted to this, The shape or magnitude | size of the transmissive area | region 452 is changed at every predetermined update timing. May be. Specifically, a process of updating the pattern data is performed so that the transparent area 452 gradually extends in a predetermined specific direction, and a process of updating the content of the image displayed on the display screen G corresponding to the process is performed. By executing, for example, it is possible to suitably express a state in which light is inserted. In addition, for example, by performing a process of updating the pattern data so that the transmissive area 452 gradually increases correspondingly to the enlarged display of the luminescent object on the display screen G, the luminescent object gradually approaches. You can express the coming direction.

  In addition, in the lightning effect, an image based on black may be displayed instead of the black background. Further, the border portion of the lightning image may be displayed in black, and a character image or the like may be displayed in other areas. In this case, the character image can be displayed while making the lightning stand out.

  Further, as in the first embodiment, a partial transmission region where the light transmittance varies stepwise may be formed at the boundary between the lightning regions 441 and 442 and the background.

  In the present embodiment, a voltage is applied to the first transparent electrode 421 of one, and a voltage is applied to the second transparent electrode 422 corresponding to the first transparent electrode 421, thereby corresponding to the effect. While applying a voltage to the dot region 423 and updating the first transparent electrode 421 when the voltage application is completed, the dot region 423 to which the voltage is applied is sequentially shifted. For example, a plurality of combinations of dot areas 423 to which no voltage is applied may be set for the dot areas 423 that do not correspond to effects, and a voltage may be sequentially applied to each combination of the dot areas 423.

  In the present embodiment, the dot region 423 is formed so as to correspond to the size of the pixel. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the dot region 423 may be formed smaller than the pixel size or larger than the pixel size. Good.

  Further, the structure of the dot region 423 may be applied to the pixel structure of the liquid crystal panel 121. That is, for example, a common electrode is formed over the entire light control region 241 as the second transparent electrode 422. Then, a pixel electrode is formed as the first transparent electrode 421 for each dot region 423, and a thin film transistor that performs on / off control of voltage application to the pixel electrode is formed. Then, gate lines and source lines for applying a voltage to the thin film transistor are formed in a matrix. This configuration also allows voltage application for each dot region 423. In this case, the holding electrode may be formed so as to sandwich the glass substrate 412 in cooperation with the pixel electrode. As a result, a capacitor is formed by the holding electrode and the pixel electrode, and the voltage applied to F (x, y) by the driver circuits 431 and 432 is stopped by a charge accumulated in the capacitor in a predetermined period. The state where a voltage is applied to F (x, y) is maintained. As a result, flicker that may occur due to a configuration in which F (x, y) that is a voltage application target sequentially changes can be suppressed.

  That is, for example, when the common electrode and the holding electrode are grounded, and a potential different from the ground is set for the common electrode, a voltage is applied to the dot region 423 (specifically, the switching liquid crystal layer 413). In addition, a voltage is applied between the pixel electrode and the holding electrode. Thereby, electric charge is accumulated in the capacitor. The accumulated charge is released when the application of the potential to the pixel electrode is stopped. Due to the discharge of the electric charge, a state in which a voltage is applied in the dot region 423 is maintained even when no potential is applied to the pixel electrode. Thereby, the transmission state of the dot region 423 is maintained.

  In the case of such a configuration, the capacitance of the capacitor is preferably set in correspondence with the cycle in which the setting of all F (x, y) is completed. Specifically, the capacitance with respect to the dot region 423 only during the period of the voltage application cycle with respect to the pixel electrode. It is preferable that the voltage application state be maintained. Thereby, even if it is the structure where a voltage application is performed periodically, it becomes possible to maintain F (x, y) in a transmissive state, and the problem that the brightness | luminance of light flickers can be avoided.

<Third Embodiment>
In the present embodiment, the internal configuration of the pixel is different from that of the first embodiment, and the difference will be described in detail with reference to FIG. FIG. 34A is an explanatory diagram for explaining the pixel structure in the present embodiment, and FIG. 34B is a cross-sectional view taken along the line BB.

  In the first embodiment, the color filter 153 is provided in almost the entire area of the pixel, but this is changed. Specifically, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 34, a color area 501 for performing color display and a non-color area 502 for not performing color display are formed in one pixel.

  Specifically, a sub gate line 503 that newly forms a sub pixel is provided in one pixel. The sub gate line 503 extends in the horizontal direction like the other gate lines 141 and is formed over the display region 134. The sub gate line 503 is connected to the gate driver circuit 202, and the gate driver circuit 202 is formed so that a voltage can be applied to the sub gate line 503. By forming the sub gate line 503, six regions are formed in one pixel. Of these six regions, an R region 212, a G region 213, and a B region 214 are formed as color regions 501 in three regions, and the remaining three regions are non-color regions 502. Here, among the subpixels included in the color region 501, the subpixel in which the R region 212 is formed is the R pixel 504, the subpixel in which the G region 213 is formed is the G pixel 505, and the B region 214 is formed. The sub pixel is referred to as a B pixel 506. Since these pixels are the same as those in the first embodiment, description thereof will be omitted.

  In the non-color region 502, pixel electrodes 511, 512, and 513 are formed in each of the three regions, and thin film transistors 511a, 512a, and 513a for controlling voltages to the pixel electrodes 511, 512, and 513 are formed. Yes. The pixel electrodes 511, 512, and 513 are formed to have a large area within a range where they do not contact the source line 142, the gate line 141, and the sub-gate line 503 that form a region.

  Here, as shown in FIG. 34B, the color filter 153, specifically, any of the R region 212, the G region 213, and the B region 214 is not formed in the non-color region 502. As a result, it is possible to visually recognize light having a high luminance by the amount of light loss caused by the color filter 153.

  That is, since the color filter 153 has a function of transmitting light of a specific range of wavelengths and absorbing light of other wavelengths, loss occurs when light passes through the color filter 153. In other words, the light transmittance of the color filter 153 is lower than that of other members constituting the liquid crystal panel 121 (such as the glass substrate 131 and the pixel electrode 511). For example, in the case of the R region 212, since the colors G and B are absorbed, the luminance is simply reduced to 1/3 or less. In general, a pigment is used for the color filter 153. Since the pigment has a property of scattering light, when light passes through the color filter 153, the straightness (directivity) of the light may be reduced.

  On the other hand, since the color filter 153 is not formed in the non-color region 502, the light from the light emitting unit 221 is led out on the display screen G without being absorbed by the color filter 153, and the light is visually recognized. Is done. Thereby, high brightness light can be visually recognized with respect to a player. In other words, the transmittance of the non-color region 502 where the color filter 153 is not formed in a situation where the liquid crystal orientation of the image display liquid crystal layer 133 is the same (the light transmittance of the image display liquid crystal layer 133 is the same). Can be said to be set higher than the color area 501.

  Here, the area of the color region 501 is set to be larger than the area of the non-color region 502 in one pixel. Specifically, the position of the sub-gate line 503 is adjusted so that the total area of the pixel electrodes 521, 522, and 523 in the color region 501 is larger than the area of the pixel electrodes 511, 512, and 513 in the non-color region 502. ing. As a result, even when color display is not performed in the non-color region 502, the fact is hardly visible. As a result, it is difficult to grasp the deterioration in image quality that may occur due to the formation of the non-color region 502. Therefore, it is possible to reduce a sense of incongruity for a player who can be generated by forming the non-color region 502.

  As a procedure for creating the non-color region 502, for example, a negative color resist is applied, and low temperature overheating is performed (pre-baking). Then, an exposure process is performed using a mask that has been patterned so that the non-color region 502 is not exposed in advance. Then, by performing a development process, the unexposed part is melted and removed. The color region 501 and the non-color region 502 can be formed by performing the above steps for each of R, G, and B.

  The thin film transistors 511 a, 512 a, and 513 a control voltages for the pixel electrodes 511, 512, and 513 based on signals from the source driver circuit 201 and the gate driver circuit 202. Since this is the same as that described in the first embodiment, a detailed description thereof is omitted. However, when the thin film transistors 511a, 512a, and 513a are turned on / off, the pixel electrodes 511 and 511 in the image display liquid crystal layer 133 are switched. A region corresponding to 512 and 513 is switched between a transmission state in which light is transmitted and a shielding state in which light is blocked. Thus, by performing on / off control of the thin film transistors 511a, 512a, and 513a, regions corresponding to the pixel electrodes 511, 512, and 513 in the image display liquid crystal layer 133 can be switched between a transmission state and a shielding state. In this case, since the light transmittance in the transmission state is higher than that in the shielding state, the transmission state can be referred to as a high transmittance state, and the shielding state can be referred to as a low transmittance state.

  Note that when the non-color region 502 is in a transmissive state, the light from the light emitting unit 221 is visually recognized in the non-color region 502 as it is. That is, white display is performed in the non-color region 502. On the other hand, when the non-color area 502 is in the shielding state, black display is performed.

  A display region 134 is formed by arranging a plurality of pixels configured as described above in a matrix. In this case, the color regions 501 and the non-color regions 502 are alternately arranged in the vertical direction (the direction along the source line 142). However, the pixel scale is set sufficiently small so that it is difficult for the player to identify the color area 501 and the non-color area 502 individually.

  Note that a drawing signal is formed in correspondence with the formation of the thin film transistors 511a, 512a, and 513a for controlling the sub-gate line 503 and the non-color region 502. Specifically, the drawing signal of this embodiment corresponds to twice the number of pixels as compared to the first embodiment.

  Next, the specific light emission effect of this embodiment will be described. In the specific light emission effect of this embodiment, the content of the image displayed by forming the non-color area 502 is different from that of the first embodiment. The different points will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 35A is an explanatory diagram showing an image displayed on the display screen G, and FIG. 35B is one pixel of the character image displayed on the display screen G (a part indicated by A in FIG. 35A). FIG. 35C is an explanatory diagram for explaining one pixel (a part indicated by B in FIG. 35A) of the first specific light emitting region 361. For convenience of explanation, an image displayed at the time of the off-specific lighting effect will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 35A, in the specific light emission effect, the first character image CH1 is displayed and white display is performed in the first specific light emission region 361. In this case, the pixels constituting the first character image CH1 are displayed in color corresponding to the pixels of the first character image CH1, as shown in FIG. Specifically, for example, when the thin film transistor 504a of the R pixel 504 in the pixel is turned off and the thin film transistors 505a and 506a of the G pixel 505 and the B pixel 506 are turned on based on the LCD data signal, the R pixel 504 is in a transmission state. The G pixel 505 and the B pixel 506 are in a shielding state. As a result, red is displayed in the color region 501.

  Here, in the pixel on which the character image is displayed, the thin film transistors 511a, 512a, and 513a in the non-color region 502 are set to ON. As a result, the non-color region 502 is in a shielding state. Therefore, the non-color area 502 is displayed darkly.

  On the other hand, the pixels constituting the first specific light emitting region 361 are displayed in white in the color region 501 as shown in FIG. Specifically, the thin film transistors 511a, 512a, and 513a in the color region 501 are set to be turned off. As a result, white display is performed in the color region 501. In this case, if attention is paid to transmitting the three primary colors as they are in the color area 501, the state in which the white display is performed can be referred to as a complete transmission state in the color area 501. Further, since the light transmittance when displaying white display is higher than when displaying other colors, it can be said that the state where white display is performed is a high transmittance state.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 35C, the non-color region 502 of the pixel of the first specific light emitting region 361 is set to be in a transmissive state. Specifically, the thin film transistors 511a, 512a, and 513a in the non-color region 502 are set off. Accordingly, the light transmittance of the non-color region 502 is increased, and the light from the light emitting unit 221 is directly visually recognized through the non-color region 502.

  Here, when the pixel of the first character image CH1 and the pixel of the first specific light emitting region 361 are compared, the luminance of the pixel differs by the amount of light transmittance of the non-color region 502. Specifically, since the non-color region 502 of the pixel included in the first specific light emitting region 361 is set to a transmissive state with a relatively high transmittance, the luminance of the pixel in the first specific light emitting region 361 is first. It is higher than the luminance of the pixel of the character image CH1. Thereby, the effect of the light by which the 1st specific light emission area | region 361 is displayed brighter than another area | region is performed.

  That is, when a normal image is displayed, the light transmittance in one pixel is set low by setting the non-color region 502 to the shielding state. In this case, color display is performed in the color area 501. In the case of performing the specific light emission effect, the non-color area 502 of the pixels included in the first specific light emission area 361 of the target area of the specific light emission is set to the transmissive state, so that a normal image is displayed. Increase pixel brightness. Thereby, it becomes possible to visually recognize light brighter than normal image display, and the degree of attention to the game can be increased by performing an effect using the light. In particular, light that passes through the non-color region 502 has high light straightness because it is not affected by scattering by the color filter 153. Thereby, direct light can be visually recognized with respect to a player.

  In this case, when displaying an image, the non-color region 502 is in a shielded state, so that the brightness of color display is lower than that of the pixel of the first embodiment. For this reason, the light intensity of the light emitting unit 221 is increased so that the same luminance as the luminance of the pixel of the first embodiment can be ensured even in the situation where the non-color region 502 is in the shielding state. Specifically, the current flowing through the blue LED chip 224 of the light emitting unit 221 is increased. Thereby, a decrease in luminance that can be caused by providing the non-color region 502 can be reduced. In this case, since the light intensity of the light emitting unit 221 is high, when the non-color region 502 is in a transmissive state, light with higher luminance (direct light) is visually recognized. The degree of attention to the display screen G can be increased.

  According to the embodiment described in detail above, the following excellent effects are obtained.

  A color region 501 for performing color display and a non-color region 502 in which the light transmittance can be higher than the color region 501 due to the absence of the color filter 153 are provided in one pixel. The non-color region 502 is formed to be switchable between a transmissive state and a shielded state in which the light transmittance is relatively high or low by controlling the orientation of the corresponding image display liquid crystal layer 133. Thereby, by making the non-colored region 502 of some pixels in the display screen G in a transmissive state, it is possible to produce a light effect for visually recognizing high-brightness light locally. You can increase your attention to.

  Further, when displaying a normal image, the non-color region 502 is set in a shielding state with a relatively low light transmittance. As a result, the difference between the luminance of the light that is visually recognized during the production of the light and the luminance of the normal image is increased, and thus it is easy to attract attention to the production of the light. Therefore, the degree of attention to the light effect can be increased.

  In particular, since the color area 501 and the non-color area 502 are formed in one pixel, it is difficult to perceive a decrease in image quality as compared with a configuration in which both are formed for each pixel. Thereby, when performing a light effect, displaying a normal image suitably, high-intensity light can be visually recognized.

  In addition, the color areas 501 and the non-color areas 502 are alternately arranged. Accordingly, even when the non-color area 502 is displayed in black in a shielded state, the black display is not easily noticeable by the color display of the surrounding color area 501. Therefore, inconveniences that can be caused by not performing color display in the non-color region 502 can be avoided.

  Further, the light emission intensity (luminous intensity) of the light emitting unit 221 is increased in response to a decrease in transmittance that can be caused by setting the non-color region 502 to the shielding state. Thereby, it becomes possible to visually recognize high-luminance light locally while appropriately displaying a normal image.

  In the present embodiment, the light control panel 123 may not be provided. Even in this case, by setting the non-color region 502 included in the first specific light emitting region 361 to the transmissive state, the luminance of the first specific light emitting region 361 can be made higher than the luminance of other regions. However, when the light control panel 123 is combined with a configuration in which the region corresponding to the first specific light emitting region 361 is in a transmissive state, light with higher brightness and strong straightness is visually recognized, and thus more impactful light Production can be performed.

  Note that in the case where the light control panel 123 is not provided, a diffusion plate may be provided instead of the light control panel 123. Thereby, since the light from the light emitting unit 221 is diffused, unevenness in luminance is unlikely to occur on the display screen G.

  In the present embodiment, the three pixel electrodes 511, 512, and 513 are formed in the non-color region 502 in one pixel, and the thin film transistors 511a, 512a, and 513a are formed corresponding to the three pixel electrodes 511a, 512a, and 513a. A pixel electrode may be provided so as to straddle three regions, and a thin film transistor corresponding to the pixel electrode may be provided. In this case, an insulating film such as an oxide film may be formed between the pixel electrode and the source line 142 so as not to contact each other. Thereby, the short circuit by both contact can be suppressed.

  Further, a pixel electrode may be formed so as to extend over a plurality of pixels, and a thin film transistor that performs voltage control on the pixel electrode may be provided. In this case, the non-color region formed across the plurality of pixels can be switched between the transmission state and the scattering state by the on / off control of one thin film transistor. Accordingly, the processing load related to the control of the non-color area 502 can be reduced as compared with the configuration in which the non-color area 502 is controlled for each pixel. However, if attention is paid to the fact that the non-color area 502 can be controlled with high definition, the configuration in which the non-color area 502 is controlled for each pixel is superior.

  Further, although the color area 501 and the non-color area 502 are provided in one pixel, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the color area 501 and the non-color area 502 may be provided for each pixel. In this case, since the substantial number of pixels decreases, there is a concern that the image quality will deteriorate. On the other hand, in the configuration in which both are provided in one pixel, the above-described deterioration in image quality is not conspicuous, and therefore, the configuration in which both are formed in one pixel is preferable from the viewpoint of image quality deterioration.

  Further, although the high transmittance region is formed by removing the color filter 153, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the high transmittance region may be formed by removing the polarizing plate. However, in this case, it is difficult to control the light transmittance by controlling the orientation of the image display liquid crystal layer 133 in the region where the polarizing plate is not formed. If attention is paid to this point, the structure formed by removing the color filter 153 is superior.

  In this embodiment, the sub-gate line 503 is connected to the gate driver circuit 202 and the control signal for the non-color area 502 is included in the LCD data signal to control the non-color area 502. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the non-color area 502 may be separately controlled. Specifically, a dedicated driver circuit capable of collecting the sub-gate lines 503 and applying individual voltages to the sub-gate lines 503 is provided. Then, a dedicated non-color area control signal is set in the drawing signal and transmitted to the image signal processing circuit 341. The image signal processing circuit 341 generates an LCD data signal and a light control signal including a non-color area control signal based on the drawing signal and transmits them to the LCD controller 342 and the light control panel controller 351, respectively. To do. The LCD controller 342 displays an image by driving and controlling the driver circuits 201 and 202 via the timing controller 343, and controls the non-color region 502 by driving and controlling the dedicated driver circuit and the source driver circuit 201. I do.

<Fourth embodiment>
In the present embodiment, the third embodiment is different from the light control panel, and different points will be described.

  In the present embodiment, the light control panel 401 of the second embodiment is applied instead of the light control panel 123. Specifically, when the light control panel 401 and the liquid crystal panel 121 are combined, the dot region 423 and the pixel overlap each other. The light from the light emitting unit 221 reaches the pixel through the dot region 423 and is visually recognized through the pixel.

  The lightning effect in such a configuration will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 36A is an explanatory diagram for explaining an image of a lightning effect, and FIG. 36B is an explanatory diagram for explaining a pixel structure of a boundary portion between a lightning part and a background part in the lightning effect. . Note that in FIG. 36B, a part of the light control panel 401 is shown by breaking a part of the pixel.

  As shown in FIGS. 36A and 36B, when the first lightning region 441 is displayed with the black display background as a background, the background pixels 601 constituting the background and the lightning pixels constituting the first lightning region 441 are displayed. The mode is different from that of 602, and the mode is different between the background dot region 603 and the lightning dot region 604 corresponding to the pixels 601 and 602.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 36B, black display is performed in the color region 601a of the background pixel 601 and white display is performed in the color region 602a of the lightning pixel 602. In this case, the non-color region 602b of the lightning pixel 602 is in a transmissive state. The transmittance of the non-color region 602b is higher than the transmittance of the color region 602a. As a result, it is possible to directly recognize high-luminance light as compared with a configuration in which white display is simply performed in the color region 602a. Note that since the non-color region 601b of the background pixel 601 is in a shielded state, the contrast between the first lightning region 441 and the background is large. Thereby, the 1st lightning area | region 441 is recognized visually.

  In the light control panel 401, the background dot region 603 is in a scattering state, while the lightning dot region 604 is in a transmissive state. As a result, light emitted from the light emitting unit 221 to the lightning dot region 604 passes through the lightning dot region 604 without being scattered and passes through the lightning pixel 602. Therefore, the light of the light emitting unit 221 is directly recognized on the display screen G, and the degree of attention to the display screen G can be increased.

  Here, a color region 501 and a non-color region 502 are formed in one pixel, and thin film transistors 511a, 512a, and 513a are formed so that the non-color region 502 of each pixel can be individually controlled. Accordingly, since the non-color region 502 can be controlled in units of pixels, a range in which high luminance is achieved can be controlled in units of pixels. Therefore, it is possible to diversify the effects of light that is locally high in brightness, and it is also possible to deal with effects in which the illuminant moves as if, for example, an angler effect.

<Fifth Embodiment>
In the present embodiment, the configuration of the backlight substrate 122 is different and the electrical configuration is different compared to the first embodiment. These different points will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 37 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the symbol display device 41 in the present embodiment.

  In the first embodiment, the light intensity of the light emitting unit 221 is the same, but this is changed. As shown in FIG. 37, the backlight substrate 122 is provided with an individual LED driver circuit 701 capable of individual control for each light emitting unit 221. The individual LED driver circuit 701 is configured so that each light emitting unit 221 can be individually controlled. For example, the individual LED driver circuit 701 is connected in parallel to each light emitting unit 221. The individual LED driver circuit 701 is formed so that the current (voltage) for each light emitting unit 221 can be controlled. Thus, by controlling the individual LED driver circuit 701, the light emission intensity (luminous intensity) of each light emitting unit 221 can be changed.

  In the present embodiment, the image signal processing circuit 341 and the individual LED driver circuit 701 of the backlight substrate 122 are connected via the LED controller 702. When the image signal processing circuit 341 receives a drawing signal, the image signal processing circuit 341 creates LED data for individually controlling each light emitting unit 221, and transmits the LED data to the LED controller 702. The LED controller 702 controls the light emission intensity of each light emitting unit 221 by transmitting a control signal for each light emitting unit 221 to the individual LED driver circuit 701 based on the LED data.

  According to such a configuration, for example, when performing a specific light emission effect, the light emission intensity of the light emission unit 221 disposed on the back side of the specific light emission regions 361 and 371 is made higher than that of the other light emission units 221. As a result, it is possible to produce light in which high-intensity light is visually recognized in the specific light emitting region.

  For example, when performing lightning effects, the luminous intensity of the light emitting unit 221 corresponding to the lightning images IM1 and IM2 is set high, and the luminous intensity of the light emitting unit 221 corresponding to the black display background is set low. Thereby, the lightning images IM1 and IM2 can be made more prominent.

  According to the embodiment described above in detail, the individual LED driver circuit 701 capable of individual control is provided for each light emitting unit 221 and the LED controller 702 for controlling the individual LED driver circuit 701 is provided. When the image signal processing circuit 341 receives a drawing signal, the image signal processing circuit 341 transmits LED data for individually controlling each light emitting unit 221 to the LED controller 702, and the LED controller 702 sends the LED data to each light emitting unit 221 based on the LED data. The light intensity of each light emitting unit 221 is controlled by transmitting a control signal to the individual LED driver circuit 701. As a result, it is possible to produce light in which high brightness light is visually recognized locally on the display screen G, and to increase the degree of attention to the display screen G through the light production.

  Note that the LED controller 702 may be provided with a function of performing feedback control of the light emitting unit 221. Specifically, a detection sensor that detects the temperature or the like of the light emitting unit 221 may be provided, and a current that flows through the light emitting unit 221 may be controlled based on a detection result of the detection sensor. Thereby, it can respond suitably to temperature variation and luminous intensity variation.

<Other embodiments>
In addition, it is not limited to the description content of embodiment mentioned above, A various deformation | transformation improvement is possible within the range which does not deviate from the meaning of this invention. For example, you may change as follows. Incidentally, the configuration of another embodiment described below may be applied individually or in combination to the configuration of the above embodiment.

  (1) In each of the above embodiments, the light emitting unit 221 includes the blue LED chip 224. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, a cold cathode tube may be used. However, a light emitting element using an LED element such as the blue LED chip 224 is superior in terms of straightness of light, and therefore, it is easy to visually recognize light with impact.

  (2) In each of the above embodiments, the light emitting unit 221 serving as a backlight is a so-called direct type in which the backlight unit is disposed on the back side of the liquid crystal panel 121. However, the present invention is not limited to this. An edge light type may be formed. In the case of the edge light type, a light guide plate that diffuses light is provided between the light control panel 123 and the backlight substrate 122. Thereby, various light effects such as a specific light emission effect can be performed. However, in the case of the edge light type, the light reflected, scattered and averaged by the light guide plate is visible to the player, whereas in the case of the direct type, the light goes straight from the light emitting unit 221. The coming light is directly visible. As a result, it is possible to make the direct type visually recognizable light having a strong straight traveling performance. Therefore, the direct type configuration is superior in that it can produce an impact.

  (3) In the above embodiment, when an illumination device is provided around the symbol display device 41 in the game board 24 to produce various light effects, the display mode of the display screen G and the illumination device may be associated with each other. Good. For example, as shown in FIG. 38, a first light emitting element 801 (for example, an LED) is provided at a position on the extended line of the first specific light emitting area 361 in the center frame 42, and a second light emitting element 802 (for example, on the board surface of the game board 24). LED) may be provided. In this case, the light emitting elements 801 and 802 are configured to emit light at the start timing of the specific light emission effect for detachment. As a result, it appears as if a single LED illuminant group that emits light through the first specific light emitting region 361 emits light, and an impact can be given to the player.

  In the case of such a configuration, in the normal symbol display device 41, the luminance of the light in the first specific light emitting region 361 is likely to be smaller than the luminance of both the light emitting elements 801 and 802 of the decoration device, and is not easily recognized as an integral one. There was a case. On the other hand, by setting the light control panel 123 in the transmissive state, the luminance of the light in the first specific light emitting region 361 can be increased and the straightness of the light emitted by the light emitting unit 221 can be ensured. it can. Thereby, since the light visually recognized in the 1st specific light emission area | region 361 can be closely approached to the light of both light emitting elements 801 and 802, the 1st specific light emission area | region 361 and an illumination device are made to recognize as integral. Can do.

  In addition, the effect of the light interlock | cooperated with an electrical decoration apparatus is not limited to a specific light emission effect, It can apply also to the lightning effect and the angler effect of 2nd Embodiment.

  (4) The object visually recognized by direct light is not limited to lightning, a pattern, etc. For example, a headlight of a car, sunlight, a blade such as a Japanese sword, or the like may be used. In short, it is sufficient that light is directly visually recognized at a place where it is desired to differentiate from other parts in the effect image displayed on the display screen G.

  (5) Electrodes for applying a voltage to the switching liquid crystal layers 253 and 413 in each embodiment (the first electrode 271 to the fifth electrode 275 in the first embodiment and the first transparent in the second embodiment) The electrode 421 and the second transparent electrode 422) are formed so as to be in direct contact with the switching liquid crystal layers 253 and 413. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, an electrode is formed outside the alignment film and the alignment film is interposed therebetween. Thus, a voltage may be applied to the switching liquid crystal layers 253 and 413. In this case, an alternating voltage may be applied to the switching liquid crystal layers 253 and 413. Thereby, each liquid crystal molecule 255a can be aligned without causing dielectric breakdown.

  (6) In each of the above embodiments, the symbol display device 41 uses the dot matrix type liquid crystal panel 121, but is not limited to this, and may be, for example, a 7-segment display device. In this case, it is preferable that the switching electrode is formed in accordance with the display area of 7 segments, and the voltage is applied to the switching electrode at a predetermined effect start timing. Thus, the present invention can be applied to a 7-segment display device.

  (7) In each of the above-described embodiments, the light control panel 123 and the liquid crystal panel 121 are arranged with a predetermined distance therebetween. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, the light control panel 123 and the liquid crystal panel 121 are arranged so as to be in contact with each other. Also good. Thereby, thickness reduction of the symbol display apparatus 41 can be achieved. However, in view of the influence of parasitic capacitance generated by the first electrode 271 to the fifth electrode 275 of the light control panel 123 and the pixel electrode 172 of the liquid crystal panel 121, a configuration in which both are separated is preferable.

  (8) In each of the embodiments described above, the image signal processing circuit 341 of the symbol display device 41 outputs an LCD data signal for controlling the driving of each pixel of the liquid crystal panel 121 and also outputs a light control signal for controlling the light control panel 123. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the sound lamp control device 82 may output a light control signal to the light control panel controller 351. In this case, the images on the display screen G and the light control panels 123 and 401 may be synchronized with each other so as to correspond to each other.

  (9) In the above embodiment, the display control device 331 determines the symbol stop result. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the stop result may be determined by the main control device 81. In this case, the main control device 81 determines whether or not to perform a light effect such as a specific light emission effect. If the conditions for executing the light effect are satisfied, the main control device 81 determines the effect. It is good also as a structure which determines the aspect corresponding to.

  (10) In the above embodiment, the effect of the light effect such as the specific light emission effect is the same in the case of the big hit and the case of the off, but is not limited to this, for example, the reach display in the case of the big win and the case of the loss The display mode may be different from the reach display.

  Moreover, although it was set as the structure which always produces a light when performing reach display, it is not restricted to this, It is good also as a structure which performs a lottery process and performs a light when winning the said lottery. In this case, the winning probability may be set to be different depending on whether or not the reach display is performed.

  (11) The method of measuring each time in each of the above embodiments is arbitrary, and the method of counting a predetermined value using the counter area may be an addition type or a subtraction type. In the first embodiment, the number of rounds in each opening / closing execution mode is also arbitrary.

  Further, in each of the above embodiments, the configuration of the game ball giving to the winning of the game ball to the variable winning device 32 or the like is not limited to the configuration of paying out the game ball directly, and has a function of storing virtual game media. In the structure which has, it is good also as a structure which provides the said virtual game medium.

  (12) In each of the above embodiments, the effective line is not limited to a straight line, and may be set as a line having a bend. Moreover, the aspect of a design is not limited to the thing of said each embodiment, but is arbitrary.

  Further, in each of the above embodiments, a state corresponding to the probability variation jackpot result is set as a relatively advantageous predetermined gaming state, and a state corresponding to the normal jackpot result is set as a relatively disadvantageous predetermined gaming state. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a relatively advantageous predetermined gaming state and an unfavorable predetermined gaming state may be set depending on the opening period of the electric accessory 34a after the opening / closing execution mode. Also, a relatively advantageous predetermined game state and an unfavorable predetermined game state may be set depending on the number of games in which the high probability mode after the opening / closing execution mode is continued.

  (13) The hold information related to winning in the upper working port 33 and the hold information related to winning in the lower working port 34 are stored separately, and the hold information related to winning in the lower working port 34 has priority. The structure digested may be applied, and conversely, the structure in which the hold information related to winning in the upper working port 33 is preferentially digested may be applied. In this case, among the hold information acquired based on the winning to the upper working port 33 and the hold information acquired based on the winning to the lower working port 34, the former hold information is set as an opportunity to execute the light effect. The latter hold information may be set as a trigger for the execution of the light effect. In addition, when a lottery process for determining whether or not to produce a light is performed and the lottery is won, the lottery based on the former hold information and the latter hold information are performed. The winning probability may be set differently for the lottery based on.

  Further, in the above configuration, the plurality of operation ports are not arranged vertically, but the first operation port corresponding to the upper operation port 33 and the second operation port corresponding to the lower operation port 34 are arranged on the left and right. It is good also as a structure arranged in parallel, It is good also as a structure in which these both operation ports were arranged in parallel diagonally. Furthermore, it is good also as a structure which arrange | positions both operation openings apart so that only the winning to the 1st operation opening or the winning to the 2nd operation opening can be aimed according to the operation mode of the launching handle 54.

  Further, in the above configuration, the main display unit 43 is acquired based on the first display area for displaying the result of the determination of whether or not the hold information is acquired based on the winning of the upper operating port 33 and the winning of the lower operating port 34. A second display area for displaying the result of the determination of whether or not the held information is correct may be provided. In this case, the change display of the pattern in the first display area is based on whether or not the hold information acquired based on the winning to the upper working port 33 is the target of the determination of the success or failure. Is started and a stop result corresponding to the determination of the success / failure is displayed, and the change display for one game time is ended. In addition, the change display of the pattern is displayed in the second display area based on whether the hold information acquired based on the winning to the lower working port 34 is the target of the determination of the success or failure. At the same time, the stop result corresponding to the determination of success / failure is displayed, and the display of the variation of one game time is ended.

  (14) A player in the case where the hold information related to winning in the upper operating port 33 becomes a target of the determination of the success / failure, and in the case where the hold information related to winning a prize in the lower operating port 34 becomes the target of the determination of the success / failure It is good also as a structure from which the profit which is obtained differs. For example, in the configuration in which the hold information related to the winning to the lower working port 34 is preferentially digested as in (13) above, the holding information related to the winning to the lower working port 34 has become the target of the success / failure determination. The case may be configured to be more advantageous to the player than the case where the hold information related to winning in the upper operating port 33 where the execution of the determination is not prioritized is the target of the determination.

  (15) In each of the above embodiments, the hold information is acquired based on the winning to the upper working port 33 or the lower working port 34. However, the present invention is not limited to this, for example, a start lever is provided, The hold information may be acquired based on the operation of the start lever. In short, the condition for obtaining the hold information is arbitrary.

  (16) The liquid crystal display format may be a so-called VA type in addition to each of the above-described embodiments, and may be an MVA type (ASV type) using a divided orientation having a different orientation for each predetermined unit region in the VA type. Furthermore, a so-called IPS type may be used. In short, it is sufficient that the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules is changed by applying a voltage, and the transmittance of light passing through the pixel is changed by the change.

  (17) In each of the above embodiments, the polymer dispersed liquid crystal is used as the switching liquid crystal layers 253 and 413. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and other transmission scattering liquid crystal may be used. Further, the liquid crystal is not limited to the transmission / scattering type liquid crystal, and may be a birefringence type liquid crystal, a TN (twisted nematic) type liquid crystal, or a ferroelectric liquid crystal. In short, it is sufficient that the light transmittance is changed by applying a voltage, and the specific liquid crystal characteristics are arbitrary. However, the configuration using the transmission scattering liquid crystal is superior in that the light control panel 123 can be used as a diffusion plate.

  (18) In each of the above embodiments, effects using various direct lights (specific light emission effects in the first embodiment, lightning effects, angler effects in the second embodiment, etc.) are performed while the symbols are displayed in a variable manner. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the display may be performed before the symbol variation display is started, or may be performed during the opening / closing execution mode.

  (19) In each of the above-described embodiments, a part of the display screen G is made to have high brightness by setting a part of the light control areas 241 and 402 of the light control panels 123 and 401 to the transmissive state. For example, the entire display screen G may be configured to have high luminance by causing the light control regions 241 and 402 to be in a transmissive state.

  (20) In each of the above embodiments, an operation button that can be operated by the player may be provided, and the light control panels 123 and 401 may be controlled based on the operation of the operation button. In addition, a transmission mode in which the light control areas 241 and 402 of the light control panels 123 and 401 are in a transmission state and a scattering mode in which the light control areas 241 and 402 are in a scattering state are set, and the operation buttons are operated. The mode may be switched by the above. Thereby, according to a player's liking, the production using impact light and the production using soft light can be selected.

  (21) Other types of pachinko machines different from the above-described embodiments, such as pachinko machines that release a predetermined number of times when a game ball enters a specific area of a special device, or game balls in a specific area of a special device The present invention can also be applied to a pachinko machine that generates a right if a player enters, a pachinko machine equipped with other objects, an arrangement ball machine, a sparrow ball, and the like.

  Also, a non-ball-type gaming machine, for example, a plurality of reels with a plurality of types of symbols attached in the circumferential direction, starts rotation of the reel by inserting a medal and operating a start lever, and a stop switch is operated. Or, if a specific symbol or a combination of specific symbols is established on an active line visible from the display window after the reel has stopped after a predetermined period of time, a privilege such as paying out medals is given to the player The present invention can also be applied to a slot machine.

  In addition, a pachinko machine and a slot machine that have a take-in device and start rotation of a reel by operating a start lever after a predetermined number of game balls stored in the storage unit are taken in by the take-in device The present invention can also be applied to a gaming machine in which is integrated.

<Invention Group Extracted from the Embodiments>
Hereinafter, the features of the invention group extracted from the above-described embodiments will be described while showing effects and the like as necessary. In the following, for easy understanding, the corresponding configuration in the above embodiment is appropriately shown in parentheses and the like, but is not limited to the specific configuration shown in parentheses and the like.

Feature A1. Liquid crystal display means (liquid crystal panel 121) having a display screen (display screen G) on which an image is displayed;
Light source means (light emitting unit 221) disposed on the back side of the liquid crystal display means for irradiating the liquid crystal display means with light;
Display control means (display control device 331) for controlling display of the image;
In a gaming machine equipped with
Light quantity changing means (first and first) provided between the liquid crystal display means and the light source means, for changing the light quantity transmitted through predetermined display areas (specific light emission areas 361 and 371) of the display screen. A light control panel 123) in the third embodiment;
A light amount change control means for controlling the light amount change means (driver circuit 276 and light control panel controller 351 in the first and third embodiments);
A gaming machine characterized by comprising:

  According to the feature A1, the brightness of the light visually recognized in the specific display area can be changed by controlling the light amount changing means. As a result, for example, by displaying the specific display area brighter than the other areas on the display screen, it is possible to produce a light effect that causes the player to visually recognize the impact light in the specific display area. The degree of attention to the game can be increased through the production of.

Feature A2. The light amount changing means includes switching means (liquid crystal aggregate 255) that can be switched between a high transmittance state in which the light transmittance is relatively high and low and a low transmittance state,
The game according to Feature A1, wherein the light quantity change control means sets the specific switching area (line areas 281 and 282) corresponding to the specific display area to the high transmittance state in the switching means. Machine.

  According to the feature A2, when the switching unit is in the high transmittance state, the loss of light irradiated from the light source unit to the liquid crystal display unit is compared with that in the low transmittance state. And few. Thereby, bright light is irradiated with respect to the specific display area of a liquid crystal display means compared with the case where the switching means is in the low transmittance state. Therefore, it is possible to make the player visually recognize the impact light in the specific display area.

Feature A3. The high transmittance state is a transmissive state that transmits light,
The gaming machine according to Feature A2, wherein the low transmittance state is a scattering state in which light is scattered.

  According to the feature A3, in a situation where the switching unit is in the scattering state, the light scattered by the switching unit is irradiated to the liquid crystal display unit. Thereby, the brightness nonuniformity of the light irradiated with respect to a liquid crystal display means is reduced. Therefore, an easy-to-see image with reduced luminance unevenness can be displayed on the display screen.

  On the other hand, by switching the specific switching area from the scattering state to the transmission state, the light source means arranged on the back side of the specific display area in the specific display area can be directly recognized. In this case, since the light visually recognized in the specific display area is not scattered, a decrease in luminance due to scattering is suppressed and straightness is ensured. Thereby, it becomes possible to visually recognize the direct light from the light source means in the specific display area, and it is possible to produce light as if the light emitter is emitting light on the display screen. Therefore, it is possible to execute an effect of light for visually recognizing impactful light while displaying an image with reduced luminance unevenness in the specific display area.

  Feature A4. The switching means is provided with an uneven portion (refractive uneven portion 283) for diffusing light by refracting light from the light source means on the surface of the region other than the specific switching region. The gaming machine described in 1.

  According to the feature A4, since the uneven portion is formed, the light from the light source means is easily diffused by refraction. As a result, the luminance unevenness of the display screen can be further reduced, and a more easily viewable image can be displayed.

Feature A5. For the effect displayed on the display screen, a specific effect (first and third embodiments) for visually recognizing brighter light in the specific display area than the other area other than the specific display area in the display screen. Specific lighting effects) are included,
The light amount change control means is for making the specific switching region in the high transmittance state when executing the specific effect,
When the specific effect is executed, the display control means displays an effect-corresponding image corresponding to the light emission mode of the specific display area in the other area. The gaming machine according to any one of the above.

  According to the feature A5, it is possible to execute an effect in which an effect-corresponding image corresponding to the light emission mode of the specific display area is displayed in the other area while the impact light is visually recognized in the specific display area.

  Feature A6. The gaming machine according to Feature A5, wherein the effect-corresponding image is an image that is set such that the luminance decreases stepwise as the distance from the specific display area increases.

  According to the feature A6, an image whose luminance gradually decreases from the specific display area is displayed on the display screen. As a result, the luminance distribution on the display screen becomes stepwise, and the specific effect of the display mode in which the specific display area and the other areas are integrated as a whole is executed while making the impact light visible in the specific display area. can do.

Feature A7. In the specific effect, a predetermined light emission target is displayed on the display screen,
The gaming machine according to Feature A5 or Feature A6, wherein the specific switching area is formed in association with the shape of the light emission target.

  According to the feature A7, for example, when performing an effect in which an image of the sun is displayed as a light emission target on the display screen, a specific switching region formed in association with the sun in the switching unit is in a high transmittance state. The sun can be displayed brighter than other characters. Thereby, it is possible to express the sun likeness on the display screen, and it is possible to suitably display the light emission target such as the sun.

Feature A8. The specific effect is a display of a character image having the predetermined light emission target.
The game machine according to Feature A7, wherein the display control means displays the character image in the other area when the specific effect is executed.

  According to the feature A8, for example, the specific switching area is formed so as to correspond to the shape of the sword, and the specific switching area is set to the high transmittance state, and the image of the eyelid is displayed in other areas, thereby emitting outstanding light. It is possible to display an image of a spear having a sword. Thereby, the effect which the light visually recognized in a specific display area and the image displayed in another area | region matched can be performed.

Feature A9. For the effect displayed on the display screen, a specific effect (first and third embodiments) for visually recognizing brighter light in the specific display area than the other area other than the specific display area in the display screen. Specific lighting effects) are included,
The light amount change control means is for making the specific switching region in the high transmittance state when executing the specific effect,
The display control means, when executing the specific effect, displays an image based on black at least in a boundary portion with the specific display area in the other area. The gaming machine according to any one of A4 to A4.

  According to the feature A9, since the contrast between the specific display area and the boundary portion between the other areas is increased, the light visually recognized in the specific display area stands out. Thereby, it becomes possible to make the light visually recognized in the specific display area stand out in the specific effect. Therefore, for example, when a lightning image is to be displayed as a specific effect, the lightning area is set to a high transmittance state, and the boundary between the lightning area and the lightning area in other areas is displayed in black. Can express the light of a lightning bolt.

Feature A10. The switching means is
A switching liquid crystal layer (switching liquid crystal layer 253) that switches between the high transmittance state and the low transmittance state by applying a voltage;
A transparent electrode (first electrode 271 to fifth electrode 275) having a shape corresponding to the specific switching region and applying a voltage to the switching liquid crystal layer;
With
The light quantity change control means switches the switching liquid crystal layer between the high transmittance state and the low transmittance state by performing voltage control on the transparent electrode. The gaming machine according to any one of the above.

  According to the feature A10, when a voltage is applied to the transparent electrode, a region to which an electric field based on the voltage is applied is in a high transmittance state. The transparent electrode has a shape corresponding to the specific display area. Thereby, a specific switching area | region can be made into a high transmittance state by voltage control with respect to a transparent electrode. Therefore, it is possible to make the light of the light source means directly visible in the specific display area, and it is possible to produce light as if the light emitter is emitting light on the display screen.

  As the switching liquid crystal layer, for example, when a voltage is applied, a polymer dispersed type that switches from a scattering state (low transmittance state) that scatters light to a transmissive state (high transmittance state) that transmits light. A polymer layer with a liquid crystal is conceivable.

Feature A11. The specific display area includes a first specific display area (first specific light emission area 361) and a second specific display area (second specific light emission area 371) which is an area different from the first specific display area. And
The transparent electrode is
A first transparent electrode (first electrode 271 to third electrode 273) associated with the first specific display region;
A second transparent electrode (third electrode 273 to fifth electrode 275) associated with the second specific display area;
With
The gaming machine according to Feature A10, wherein the light amount change control means individually controls a voltage applied to each transparent electrode.

  According to the feature A11, by individually controlling the first transparent electrode and the second transparent electrode, a region where the light of the light source means is directly visually recognized is changed, or the light of the light source means is gradually directly The area visually recognized can be enlarged. As a result, it is possible to diversify the production of light that directly recognizes the light from the light source means.

Feature A12. A part of the first specific display area and the second specific display area is a common area,
The transparent electrode is
A common electrode (third electrode 273) associated with the common region;
A first individual electrode (first electrode 271 and second electrode 272) associated with a region other than the common region in the first specific display region;
A second individual electrode (fourth electrode 274 and fifth electrode 275) associated with a region other than the common region in the second specific display region;
With
The game machine according to Feature A11, wherein the light quantity change control unit individually controls a voltage applied to each of the common electrode and each individual electrode.

  According to the feature A12, since a part of the first specific display area and the second specific display area is a common area, each area can be freely compared with the case where the common area is not formed. The degree can be increased. Thereby, the area | region which directly recognizes the light of a light source means can be set more freely, and the diversification of the display mode of the production of the light which visually recognizes light with impact can be aimed at more suitably.

  In such a configuration, when the electrode for applying a voltage to the common area is continuous with the electrode for applying a voltage to an individual area of each specific display area, the light of the light source means directly in only one specific display area. It is impossible to set the state to be visually recognized. On the other hand, according to this feature, a common electrode common to each specific display region and an individual electrode associated with a region other than the common region among the specific display regions are provided. For example, by applying a voltage to the common electrode and the first individual electrode, an image is displayed in the second specific display area while only the first specific display area is in a state where the light of the light source means is directly visible. Can be made. Thereby, the said inconvenience can be avoided.

Feature A13. Based on a predetermined opportunity, provided with a mode determining means (a function for executing the command processing for variation in the MPU 321) for determining the variation display mode of the pattern displayed on the display screen,
The display control means is for displaying the pattern on the display screen in a variable display mode determined by the mode determination means,
The game according to Feature A11 or Feature A12, wherein the light amount change control unit individually controls a voltage to be applied to each transparent electrode according to the variation display mode determined by the mode determination unit. Machine.

  According to the feature A13, by controlling the voltage with respect to each transparent electrode in correspondence with the display mode of the pattern displayed on the display screen, the light of the light source means in the specific display area corresponds to the variation display mode of the pattern. It is possible to change the area to be visually recognized directly. Therefore, it is possible to diversify the production of visually recognizing impact light.

Feature A14. The transparent electrode includes a plurality of divided electrodes formed to divide the specific switching region,
The light amount change control means sequentially changes the region that is in the high transmittance state in the specific switching region by sequentially changing the divided electrodes to be applied with voltage in a predetermined order. The gaming machine according to any one of features A11 to A13.

  According to the feature A14, by sequentially changing the divided electrodes to be applied with voltage in a predetermined order, the area where the light of the light source means is directly visually recognized in the specific display area is sequentially changed. As a result, it is possible to produce an effect in which the region in which the light from the light source means is directly visually recognized changes sequentially. Therefore, diversification of light effects using the light source means can be achieved.

  According to the relationship with the feature A13, “the light amount change control unit sequentially changes the divided electrodes to be applied with voltage in a predetermined order according to the variable display mode determined by the mode determination unit. It is good to have a configuration of “Yes”. Thereby, the effect of light using the light source means can be associated with the variation display mode of the pattern.

Feature A15. Based on a predetermined opportunity, provided with a mode determining means (a function for executing the command processing for variation in the MPU 321) for determining the variation display mode of the pattern displayed on the display screen,
The display control means is for displaying the pattern on the display screen in a variable display mode determined by the mode determination means,
The variable display mode determined by the mode determination means includes reach display,
The light quantity change control means is configured such that when the picture variation display is the reach display or when a specific reach display among a plurality of types of reach display is performed, the amount of light transmitted through the specific display area is different. The gaming machine according to any one of features A1 to A14, wherein the light amount changing means is controlled to be higher than a region.

  According to the feature A15, when reach display is performed, it is possible to perform an effect of visually recognizing light having impact in the specific display area, and it is possible to increase the degree of attention to the reach display.

  According to the relationship with the feature A11, “the reach display includes a first reach display that applies a voltage to the first transparent electrode and a second reach display that applies a voltage to the second transparent electrode. And is included. " Accordingly, the reach display can be diversified, and the reach display and the light effect for visually recognizing the impacted light in the specific display area can be more correlated.

  As the reach display, for example, “In the display screen, the display of the variation of the pattern is performed by a plurality of pattern sequences, and the variation display of the design is stopped for some of the pattern sequences before the display of the variation of the pattern is finished. , A reach pattern combination that may stop displaying a predetermined combination of specific patterns is displayed, and under the situation that the reach pattern combination is displayed, the pattern variation display is performed for the remaining pattern rows. Is considered "configuration.

  Feature A16. The gaming machine according to any one of features A1 to A15, wherein the light quantity changing unit and the liquid crystal display unit are unitized so as not to change a relative positional relationship with each other.

  According to the feature A16, it is possible to avoid the inconvenience that the position of the specific display area is shifted due to the positional shift of the light amount changing unit with respect to the liquid crystal display unit.

  Feature A17. The gaming machine according to any one of features A1 to A16, wherein the light source means is an LED.

  According to the feature A17, an LED that has higher light straightness than a fluorescent lamp or the like is used as the light source means, so that the light that has more impact on the player can be visually recognized than the configuration using the fluorescent lamp or the like. Can be made.

  In this case, uneven brightness tends to occur on the display screen due to the high linearity of the light. On the other hand, by applying the configuration of the feature A3, it is possible to make visible light with impact using light having high straightness when necessary, while suppressing occurrence of luminance unevenness.

  Further, by using an LED as the light source means, the light source means can be downsized as compared with a configuration using a fluorescent lamp. Thereby, the enlargement which may arise by providing a switching means can be suppressed.

Feature A18. A plurality of the LEDs are arranged on the back side of the display screen,
The gaming machine according to Feature A17, wherein the light quantity changing means includes LED control means (individual LED driver circuit 701) that can variably control the light quantity of each LED individually.

  According to the feature A18, the brightness of the specific display region is controlled by controlling each LED so that the light amount of the light source unit that irradiates the specific display region is different from the light amount of the other light source units. It is possible to produce a light that visually recognizes light that has an impact on the area.

Feature A19. Liquid crystal display means (symbol display device 41) having a display screen (display screen G) on which an image is displayed;
Display control means (display control device 331) for controlling display of the image;
In a gaming machine equipped with
Brightness changing means for changing the brightness of the display screen (the light control panel 123 in the first and third embodiments, the light control panel 401 in the second and fourth embodiments);
Luminance change control means for controlling the brightness changing means (the driver circuit 276 and the light control panel in the first and third embodiments) so that the brightness of the specific display area predetermined on the display screen is different from the brightness of other areas. Controller 351, first driver circuit 431, second driver circuit 432, and light control panel controller 351 in the second and fourth embodiments,
A gaming machine characterized by comprising:

  According to the feature A19, since the luminance changing unit is provided, the luminance of the specific display area can be made different from that of the other areas by controlling the luminance changing unit. As a result, it is possible to execute an effect in which the brightness of the specific display area is different from the brightness of other areas, and the degree of attention to the game can be increased through the effect.

  In addition, the configuration limited by any one of the features B1 to B15 and the features C1 to C13 may be applied to the configurations of the features A1 to A19. Thereby, there is a further synergistic effect.

Feature B1. Liquid crystal display means (liquid crystal panel 121) having a display screen on which an image is displayed;
Light source means (light emitting unit 221) disposed on the back side of the liquid crystal display means for irradiating the liquid crystal display means with light;
Display control means (display control device 331) for controlling display of the image;
In a gaming machine equipped with
A light quantity change that is arranged between the liquid crystal display means and the light source means and is divided into a plurality of unit areas (dot areas 423) and the quantity of light transmitted through the display screen can be changed for each unit area. Means (light control panel 401 in the second and fourth embodiments);
A light amount change control means (first driver circuit 431, second driver circuit 432 and light control panel controller 351 in the second and fourth embodiments) for individually controlling the light amount change means for each unit area;
A gaming machine characterized by comprising:

  According to the feature B1, by individually controlling the light amount changing means for each divided unit region, for example, it is possible to execute a light effect that makes light brighter than other parts visible in part of the display screen, The degree of attention to the game can be increased through the performance.

  Further, by individually controlling the light amount changing means for each divided unit region, for example, a portion where relatively bright light is visually recognized can be freely selected. Thereby, the freedom degree of the said effect can be raised when performing the said light effect.

Feature B2. The light quantity changing means is
A switching liquid crystal layer (switching liquid crystal layer 413) that switches between a high transmittance state and a low transmittance state in which the light transmittance is relatively high and low by applying a voltage;
A plurality of first transparent electrodes (first transparent electrodes 421) disposed on the surface side of the switching liquid crystal layer, formed in a linear shape and arranged substantially in parallel at a predetermined interval;
A plurality of second transparent layers disposed on the back surface side of the switching liquid crystal layer, formed in a linear shape extending in a direction intersecting the first transparent electrode, and arranged in a plurality of substantially parallel spaces at a predetermined interval An electrode (second transparent electrode 422);
With
The unit region is a dot region between one first transparent electrode and one second transparent electrode in the switching liquid crystal layer,
The light quantity change control means controls the light quantity change means in units of the dot areas by individually controlling the voltage applied to each first transparent electrode and each second transparent electrode. The gaming machine according to Feature B1, which is characterized.

  According to the feature B2, when a voltage is applied between the first transparent electrode and the second transparent electrode that intersects the first transparent electrode, the switching liquid crystal layer is disposed between the two transparent electrodes. The dot area is shifted from the low transmittance state to the high transmittance state. Thereby, a desired dot area | region can be set to a high transmittance state by changing the combination of the 1st transparent electrode and 2nd transparent electrode which provide a voltage. That is, it is possible to individually control the switching liquid crystal layer in a high transmittance state and a low transmittance state in units of dots by setting a dot region where the first transparent electrode and the second transparent electrode intersect as one dot. It becomes. Therefore, it becomes possible to control the region in a high transmittance state with high definition, and it is possible to produce more various light effects.

  Moreover, according to the said structure, it is not necessary to provide the transparent electrode of the shape corresponding to the production content, and the area | region used as a high transmittance state can be controlled by software control. Thereby, since it is not necessary to form a transparent electrode pattern according to the content of the production, it is not necessary to newly create a mask for the electrode pattern when the content of the production is changed. Therefore, it is possible to easily cope with a change in the production contents.

  When the liquid crystal display means has a plurality of pixels, the dot area is formed corresponding to the size of the pixel, and the dot area and the pixel may be arranged so as to overlap each other. Thereby, since it becomes possible to make a dot area and a pixel correspond, it is possible to control the amount of light for each pixel by controlling the dot area.

  Feature B3. The feature B2 is characterized in that the light quantity change control means regulates the dot area as a voltage application target at the same time so that the voltage is not applied to the dot areas other than the dot area as the voltage application target. The gaming machine described.

  For example, in a situation where the first dot region and the second dot region are included as the voltage application target dot regions, the transparent electrodes (the first transparent electrode A, the first transparent electrode B, and the second transparent electrode) constituting each dot region A, when a voltage is applied to the second transparent electrode B), in addition to the first dot region and the second dot region, a dot region constituted by the first transparent electrode A and the second transparent electrode B, and the first The dot region constituted by the transparent electrode B and the second transparent electrode A is in a high transmittance state. For this reason, if an attempt is made to simultaneously bring a plurality of dot regions into a high transmittance state, an unexpected region may be in a high transmittance state.

  On the other hand, according to this feature, the dot area that is the voltage application target is simultaneously restricted so that the voltage is not applied to the dot areas other than the voltage application target dot area. Accordingly, various effects using light with impact can be performed while avoiding the above inconvenience.

Feature B4. The light quantity change control means includes:
When there are a plurality of dot areas to be applied with voltage, a voltage is applied to a part of the plurality of dot areas, and a voltage is applied to the plurality of dot areas each time a predetermined update timing is reached. By performing voltage control on each transparent electrode so that the dot areas to which the voltage is applied sequentially changes, the voltage is not applied to the dot areas other than the voltage application target dot areas, and The gaming machine according to Feature B3, wherein a voltage is applied to the dot area.

  According to the feature B4, the dot region that is in the high transmittance state is sequentially shifted at each update timing, so that the region composed of the dot regions to be applied with voltage functions as a high transmittance state as a whole. Thus, it is possible to visually recognize light having impact on a part of the display screen. In this case, since the number of dot areas to which voltage is applied simultaneously can be reduced, it is possible to avoid a situation where voltage is applied to dot areas that are not subject to voltage application. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the impact light from being visually recognized in an unexpected region while visually recognizing the impact light in a desired region of the display screen.

  Feature B5. The light quantity change control unit is provided corresponding to each dot region, and includes a holding unit that temporarily holds a state in which voltage is applied to the dot region when voltage application to the dot region is stopped. The gaming machine according to Feature B4, wherein:

  According to the feature B5, since the holding unit is provided, in the configuration in which the voltage is controlled so that the dot regions that are in the high transmittance state sequentially transition, from the timing of stopping the voltage application to the timing of starting the next voltage application. Meanwhile, the dot region can be maintained in a high transmittance state. Thereby, it is possible to suppress flickering of light that may be caused by sequentially transitioning the dot regions that are in the high transmittance state.

  Feature B6. The light amount change control means performs voltage control of each dot region so that the region in the high transmittance state corresponds to the shape of the light emitting target when displaying a predetermined light emitting target on the display screen. The gaming machine according to any one of features B2 to B5, wherein:

  According to the feature B6, for example, when performing an effect in which an image of the sun is displayed as a light emission target on the display screen, the sun is set to another character by setting the dot region associated with the shape of the sun to a high transmittance state. Etc. can be displayed brighter than the above. Thereby, it is possible to express the sun likeness on the display screen, and it is possible to suitably display the light emission target such as the sun.

  Feature B7. The light quantity change control means performs voltage control on each dot area, thereby displacing the area in the high transmittance state in a predetermined specific direction every time a predetermined update timing is reached. The gaming machine according to any one of features B2 to B6.

  According to the feature B7, by performing voltage control of each dot region, it is possible to displace a region in a high transmittance state in a specific direction. Thereby, for example, as the light emitting target scrolls in a specific direction, a region that is in a high transmittance state can be displaced in the specific direction. In this case, since a region in a high transmittance state can be controlled in dot units, smooth displacement is realized. Thereby, it is possible to suitably perform an effect that the light emitting object displayed brighter than the other characters moves in a specific direction, and the degree of attention to the game can be increased.

  Feature B8. The light quantity changing unit performs voltage control on each dot region so that the region in the high transmittance state is expanded stepwise, according to any one of features B2 to B7 Gaming machine.

  According to the feature B8, by performing voltage control on each dot region so that the region in which the high transmittance state is expanded stepwise, the region displayed brighter than other regions on the display screen is increased stepwise. An effect can be performed, and attention to the game can be increased through the effect.

Feature B9. For the effect performed on the display screen, a specific effect (lightning effect in the second embodiment) for visually recognizing light brighter than the brightness of other regions other than the predetermined region in the predetermined region of the display screen. , Ankou production, lightning production in the fourth embodiment),
The light amount change control means individually controls each transparent electrode so that a voltage is applied to a dot area corresponding to the predetermined area when executing the specific effect,
When the specific effect is executed, the display control means displays an effect-corresponding image corresponding to the light emission mode of the predetermined area in the other area. The gaming machine according to any one of the above.

  According to the feature B9, the effect-corresponding image corresponding to the light emission mode of the predetermined area is displayed on the display screen while the impact light is visually recognized in the predetermined area. This makes it possible to associate the light effect with the image display.

  Feature B10. The game machine according to Feature B9, wherein the effect-corresponding image is an image that is set so that the luminance decreases stepwise as the distance from the predetermined region increases.

  According to the feature B10, an image whose luminance gradually decreases from a predetermined area is displayed on the display screen. As a result, the luminance distribution on the display screen becomes stepwise, so that the specific effect of the display mode in which the predetermined area and the other area are integrated as a whole is performed while making the impact light visible in the predetermined area. can do.

Feature B11. The specific effect is a display of a character image having a predetermined light emission target on the display screen,
The light amount change control means individually controls the transparent electrode so that a voltage is applied to a dot region corresponding to the light emission target when executing the specific effect.
The game machine according to Feature B9 or Feature B10, wherein the display control means is configured to display the character image in the other area when the specific effect is executed.

  According to the feature B11, for example, the sword is displayed in a predetermined area in a state where the area that is in the high transmittance state is set corresponding to the shape of the sword, and the image of the heel is displayed in other areas. It is possible to display an image of a spear having a sword that emits outstanding light. As a result, it is possible to execute an effect in which the light visually recognized in the predetermined area matches the image displayed in the other area.

Feature B12. For the effect displayed on the display screen, a specific effect (second and fourth embodiments) for visually recognizing brighter light in the predetermined area of the display screen than other areas other than the predetermined area. Lightning)
The light amount change control means individually controls each transparent electrode so that a voltage is applied to a dot area corresponding to the predetermined area when executing the specific effect,
The display control means, when executing the specific effect, displays an image based on black at least in a boundary portion with the predetermined area in the other area. A gaming machine according to any one of B8.

  According to the feature B12, since the contrast between the predetermined region and the boundary portion between the other regions is increased, the light that is visually recognized in the predetermined region is conspicuous. Thereby, it becomes possible to make the light visually recognized in the predetermined area conspicuous in the specific effect. Therefore, for example, when a lightning image is to be displayed as a specific effect, the lightning area is set to a high transmittance state, and the boundary between the lightning area and the lightning area in other areas is displayed in black. Can express the light of a lightning bolt.

Feature B13. Based on a predetermined opportunity, provided with a mode determining means (a function for executing the command processing for variation in the MPU 321) for determining the variation display mode of the pattern displayed on the display screen,
The display control means is for displaying the pattern on the display screen in a variable display mode determined by the mode determination means,
The variable display mode determined by the mode determination means includes reach display,
The light quantity change control unit performs individual control of the light quantity change unit when the variation display of the pattern is the reach display or when a specific reach display among a plurality of set reach displays is performed. The gaming machine according to any one of features B1 to B12, wherein:

  According to the feature B13, it is possible to increase the degree of attention to the reach display by performing an effect using light when the reach display is performed.

  As the reach display, for example, “In the display screen, the display of the variation of the pattern is performed by a plurality of pattern sequences, and the variation display of the design is stopped for some of the pattern sequences before the display of the variation of the pattern is finished. , A reach pattern combination that may stop displaying a predetermined combination of specific patterns is displayed, and under the situation that the reach pattern combination is displayed, the pattern variation display is performed for the remaining pattern rows. Is considered "configuration.

  Feature B14. The gaming machine according to any one of features B1 to B13, wherein the light quantity changing unit and the liquid crystal display unit are unitized so as not to change a relative positional relationship with each other.

  According to the feature B14, it is possible to avoid the inconvenience of causing the positional deviation between the region in the high transmittance state due to the positional deviation of the light amount changing unit with respect to the liquid crystal display unit and the region where the impacted light is desired to be visually recognized. .

  Feature B15. The gaming machine according to any one of features B1 to B14, wherein the light source means is an LED.

  According to the feature B15, an LED having a high light straightness as compared with a fluorescent lamp or the like is used as the light source means. Therefore, the light quantity changing means is set to a high transmittance state, thereby comparing with a configuration using a fluorescent lamp or the like. , It is possible to make the player visually recognize more impactful light.

  Further, the configuration limited by any one of the features C1 to C13 may be applied to the configurations of the features B1 to B15. Thereby, there is a further synergistic effect.

Feature C1. Liquid crystal display means (liquid crystal panel 121) having a display screen (display screen G) on which an image is displayed;
Light source means (light emitting unit 221) for irradiating the liquid crystal display means with light;
Display control means (display control device 331) for controlling display of the image;
In a gaming machine equipped with
The liquid crystal display means is provided with a display liquid crystal layer (image display liquid crystal layer 133) having a different transmittance depending on the orientation of the liquid crystal, and the light transmittance is relatively high in a situation where the orientation of the liquid crystal is the same. The high transmittance region (non-color region 502) and the low transmittance region (color region 501) are arranged side by side so as to be high and low.
The display control means controls the light transmitted through the low transmittance region by controlling the orientation of the liquid crystal corresponding to the low transmittance region, and displays an image on the display screen.
Specific control means for controlling the light transmittance in the high transmittance region by controlling the orientation of the liquid crystal corresponding to the high transmittance region (each driver circuit 201, 202, LCD controller 342, etc. in the third embodiment) ).

  According to the feature C1, the high transmittance region and the low transmittance region, which have relatively different transmittances in a situation where the alignment directions of the liquid crystals are the same, are arranged side by side, and light transmitted through the low transmittance region is used. The image is displayed on the display screen.

  In such a configuration, the transmittance of the high transmittance region is controlled by controlling the orientation of the liquid crystal corresponding to the high transmittance region, and for example, a light effect that makes the light brighter than the image display light on the display screen is produced. be able to. Thereby, the attention degree to a game can be raised through the production of the light.

Feature C2. The low transmittance region is a color region (color region 501) provided with a color filter (color filter 153),
The color area displays a color image by transmitting light from the light source means through the color filter,
The gaming machine according to C1, wherein the high transmittance region is a non-color region (non-color region 502) that transmits light from the light source means without passing through the color filter.

  According to the feature C2, a color image is displayed by transmitting light from the light source means through the color filter. In this case, the luminance of the color image is lost by passing through the color filter. For this reason, it is difficult for the player to visually recognize the impact light.

  On the other hand, according to the present feature, in the non-color area, the player can visually recognize the light from the light source means without going through the color filter.

  In general, a pigment is used for the color filter. Light that passes through the color filter is scattered by the pigment, and the straightness tends to decrease. On the other hand, according to this feature, the straightness of light can be ensured as much as there is no scattering by the color filter.

  From the above, the light of the light source means can be directly recognized, and the impact light can be visually recognized by the player.

  Feature C3. The gaming machine according to Feature C2, wherein the color areas and the non-color areas are alternately arranged.

  According to the feature C3, since the color area and the non-color area are alternately arranged, even if color display is not performed in the non-color area, it is difficult to recognize the fact. As a result, inconveniences that may occur due to the provision of the non-color region can be avoided.

Feature C4. The liquid crystal display means has a plurality of pixels,
The gaming machine according to Feature C2 or Feature C3, wherein the color region and the non-color region are formed in each pixel.

  According to the feature C4, since the color area and the non-color area are formed in one pixel, the transmittance of the non-color area can be controlled in units of pixels. Thereby, since the transmittance of the non-colored region can be controlled in association with the display mode of the pixel, the image displayed on the display screen is preferably associated with the region where the impact light is visually recognized. be able to.

  Further, by forming the color area and the non-color area in the pixel, the non-color area is less noticeable as compared with the configuration in which the color area pixel and the non-color area pixel are formed. As a result, it is possible to make the deterioration in image quality that may be caused by not performing color display in the non-color region less noticeable.

  Feature C5. The gaming machine according to Feature C4, wherein an area of the region where the non-color region is formed is set smaller than an area of the region where the color region is formed.

  According to the feature C5, since the area of the region where color display is performed is set larger than the area of the region where color display is not performed, it is visually recognized that color display is performed as a whole pixel. The As a result, inconveniences that may occur due to the provision of the non-color region can be avoided.

  Feature C6. Any one of the characteristics C1 to C5, wherein the specific control unit controls the light transmittance of the high transmittance region to make light of a predetermined region on the display screen brighter than other regions. A gaming machine according to claim 1.

  According to the feature C6, light that is brighter than other regions can be visually recognized in a predetermined region. Thereby, it is possible to produce a light effect for visually recognizing impact light in a predetermined region, and to increase the degree of attention to the game through the light effect.

  Feature C7. The specific control means controls the light transmittance of the high transmittance region so that the predetermined region has the shape of the light emitting target when a predetermined light emitting target is displayed on the display screen. The gaming machine according to Feature C6, wherein:

  According to the feature C7, for example, when performing an effect in which an image of the sun is displayed as a light emission target on the display screen, the sun can be changed by setting an area where impact light is visually recognized in association with the shape of the sun. Can be displayed brighter than other characters. Thereby, it is possible to express the sun likeness on the display screen, and it is possible to suitably display the light emission target such as the sun.

  Feature C8. The specific control means controls the light transmittance of the high transmittance region, thereby displacing the predetermined region in a predetermined specific direction every time a predetermined update timing is reached. A gaming machine according to Feature C6 or Feature C7 characterized by

  According to the feature C8, for example, as the light emission target scrolls in a specific direction on the display screen, an effect that the light emission target moves in the specific direction can be performed by scrolling a predetermined area in the specific direction. The degree of attention to the game can be increased through the performance.

  In this case, by applying the configuration of the feature C4, the displacement of the predetermined region can be controlled in units of pixels, and thus the predetermined region can be smoothly displaced.

  Feature C9. Any one of the features C6 to C8, wherein the specific control unit controls the light transmittance of the high transmittance region so that the predetermined region is expanded stepwise. A gaming machine according to claim 1.

  According to the feature C9, it is possible to perform an effect in which, for example, the light emission target gradually approaches by expanding the predetermined area in stages.

  In this case, by applying the configuration of the feature C4, the expansion of the predetermined area can be controlled in units of pixels, so that the predetermined area can be smoothly expanded.

  Feature C10. The gaming machine according to any one of features C6 to C9, wherein the display control means is configured to display an effect corresponding image corresponding to the light emission mode of the predetermined area in the other area.

  According to the feature C10, the impact-corresponding image corresponding to the light emission mode of the predetermined area is displayed on the display screen while the impact light is visually recognized in the predetermined area. This makes it possible to associate the light effect with the image display.

Feature C11. The light source means is disposed on the back side of the liquid crystal display means,
The gaming machine according to any one of features C1 to C10, wherein the liquid crystal display means displays an image on the display screen by transmitting light irradiated from the back side.

  According to the feature C11, since the light source means is disposed on the back side of the liquid crystal display means, the light source means is provided on the peripheral edge of the display screen, and is directly compared with the configuration in which the light source plate is refracted by a light guide plate or the like. Light can be visually recognized by the player. Thereby, it is possible to make the player more visually recognize the impact light.

  Feature C12. The gaming machine according to any one of features C1 to C11, wherein the light source means is an LED.

  According to the feature C9, by using an LED with high light straightness as the light source means, it is possible to visually recognize light with impact as compared with a configuration using a fluorescent tube or the like.

  According to the relationship with the feature C11, if the light source means is arranged on the back surface of the liquid crystal panel from the viewpoint of visually recognizing the impact light, there is a concern that the liquid crystal display means is enlarged. On the other hand, according to this feature, the use of the LED as the light source means can suppress an increase in the size of the liquid crystal display means. Thereby, the inconvenience which may arise by applying the structure of the characteristic C11 can be avoided.

Feature C13. The liquid crystal display means includes a pair of polarizing means (polarizing plates 151 and 152) that are provided so as to sandwich the liquid crystal layer for display and polarize light from the light source means,
The pair of polarizing means is formed in the low transmittance region, while at least one of the pair of polarizing means is not formed in the high transmittance region. Gaming machine.

  According to the feature C13, an image can be displayed on the display screen by arranging a pair of polarization means so that the transmission axes are different from each other and switching light transmission / shielding by the optical rotation phenomenon of the liquid crystal.

  In such a configuration, since at least one of the pair of polarizing means is not provided in the high transmittance region, loss of light by the polarizing means can be suppressed. Thereby, a high transmittance region and a low transmittance region can be easily formed.

  Further, the configuration of any one of the features A1 to A19 and the features B1 to B15 may be applied to the configurations of the features C1 to C13. Thereby, there is a further synergistic effect.

Feature D1. Liquid crystal display means (liquid crystal panel 121) having a display screen (display screen G) on which an image is displayed;
Light source means (light emitting unit 221) disposed on the back side of the liquid crystal display means for irradiating the liquid crystal display means with light;
Display control means (display control device 331) for controlling display of the image;
In a gaming machine equipped with
The liquid crystal display means is provided with a display liquid crystal layer (image display liquid crystal layer 133) having a different transmittance depending on the orientation of the liquid crystal, and the light transmittance is relatively high in a situation where the orientation of the liquid crystal is the same. The high transmittance region (the non-color region 502 in the third and fourth embodiments) and the low transmittance region (the color region 501 in the third and fourth embodiments) are arranged side by side so as to be high and low. ,
The display control means controls the light transmitted through the low transmittance region by controlling the orientation of the liquid crystal corresponding to the low transmittance region, and displays an image on the display screen.
Specific control means for controlling the light transmittance in the high transmittance region by controlling the orientation of the liquid crystal corresponding to the high transmittance region (each driver circuit 201, 202, LCD controller 342, etc. in the third embodiment) )When,
Switching means provided between the liquid crystal display means and the light source means and capable of switching between a high transmittance state where the light transmittance is relatively high and a low transmittance state (light in the third embodiment) Control panel 123, light control panel 401 in the fourth embodiment),
Switching control means for controlling the switching means (driver circuit 276 and light control panel controller 351 in the first and third embodiments);
A gaming machine characterized by comprising:

  According to the feature D1, a high-transmittance region and a low-transmittance region, which have relatively different transmittances in a situation where the liquid crystal alignment direction is the same, are arranged side by side, and light transmitted through the low-transmittance region is used. The image is displayed on the display screen.

  In such a configuration, by controlling the light transmittance in the high transmittance region and controlling the switching means, it is possible to produce a light effect that makes the light from the light source means directly visible on the display screen, for example. As a result, it is possible to produce an effect of visually recognizing light that has more impact than the light of image display, and to increase the degree of attention to the game through the effect of the light.

  In particular, a high transmittance area is formed in the liquid crystal display means, and a switching means is formed between the liquid crystal display means and the light source means. Can be formed. Thereby, it is possible to visually recognize light having impact as compared with a case where an image is displayed.

Feature D2. The specific control means controls the light transmittance of the high transmittance region so that the luminance of the predetermined region on the display screen is higher than that of other regions,
The switching control means sets a corresponding area corresponding to the predetermined area to the high transmittance state so that light from the light source means reaches the predetermined area via the high transmittance state area. The gaming machine according to Feature D1, characterized in that:

  According to the feature D2, the luminance of the predetermined region is higher than that of the other regions by controlling the light transmittance of the high transmittance region. In such a situation, the light from the light source means passes through a predetermined area through the area that is in the high transmittance state in the switching means. Thereby, the loss of the light at the time of permeate | transmitting a switching means can be reduced, and the light of a light source means can be directly visually recognized in a predetermined area | region. In other words, by controlling the high transmittance region, the transmittance of the predetermined region itself is controlled, and by controlling the light irradiated to the predetermined region, light having impact in the predetermined region is visually recognized. be able to.

Feature D3. A plurality of the high transmittance regions are formed,
The specific control means is configured to variably control the predetermined region by individually controlling light transmittance of the plurality of high transmittance regions.
The switching means has a plurality of unit regions (dot regions 423), and is configured to be switchable between the high transmittance state and the low transmittance state for each unit region.
The switching control means individually controls the switching means for each unit area,
The gaming machine according to Feature D1 or Feature D2, wherein the unit region and the high transmittance region are formed in association with each other.

  According to the feature D3, the predetermined region can be variably controlled by individually controlling the plurality of high transmittance regions. Accordingly, it is possible to diversify the production in which the light of the light source means is directly visually recognized by displacing the predetermined area in a predetermined direction or gradually increasing the predetermined area.

  In this configuration, since the unit area of the switching means and the high transmittance area of the liquid crystal display means are formed in association with each other, the individual unit areas of the switching means are individually associated with the individual control of the high transmittance area of the liquid crystal display means. By performing the control, it is possible to change the region in the high transmittance state in the switching unit in accordance with the change in the predetermined region. Thereby, for example, it is possible to make it appear as if the light emitter moves on the display screen.

  In addition, as a specific configuration of “the unit region and the high transmittance region are formed in association with each other”, “the liquid crystal display unit includes a plurality of pixels, and the unit region and the high transmittance region are formed. The rate area is formed corresponding to the size of the pixel ”.

  Further, a configuration limited by any one of the features A1 to A19, the features B1 to B15, and the features C1 to C13 may be applied to the configurations of the features D1 to D3. Thereby, there is a further synergistic effect.

  The basic configuration of the gaming machine to which the above features can be applied is shown below.

  Pachinko gaming machine: operation means operated by a player, game ball launching means for launching a game ball based on the operation of the operation means, a ball path for guiding the launched game ball to a predetermined game area, and a game A gaming machine that includes each gaming component arranged in an area, and gives a bonus to a player when a gaming ball passes through a predetermined passing portion of each gaming component.

  Revolving type gaming machine such as a slot machine: equipped with a picture display device for variably displaying a plurality of pictures, variably starting display of the plurality of pictures due to the operation of the start operation means, and due to the operation of the stop operation means Then, the variable display of the plurality of pictures is stopped, and a gaming machine that gives a privilege to the player according to the picture after the stop.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Pachinko machine as a gaming machine, 41 ... Symbol display device, 43 ... Main display unit, 81 ... Main control device, 82 ... Audio lamp control device, 101 ... Liquid crystal display unit, 102 ... Case body, 121 ... Liquid crystal panel, 122 ... Backlight substrate, 123 ... Light control panel, 131 ... Array substrate, 132 ... CF substrate, 133 ... Image display liquid crystal layer, 134 ... Display region, 141 ... Gate line, 142 ... Source line, 153 ... Color filter, 171 ... Common electrode, 172 ... Pixel electrode, 173 ... Thin film transistor, 201 ... Source driver circuit, 202 ... Gate driver circuit, 221 ... Light emitting unit, 222 ... Light emitting region, 241 ... Light control region, 253 ... Switching liquid crystal layer, 255 ... Liquid crystal assembly, 271 to 275 ... electrodes, 276 ... driver circuit, 281 ... first line region, 82 ... second line area, 283 ... refracting uneven part, 331 ... display control device, 341 ... image signal processing circuit, 342 ... LCD controller, 351 ... controller for light control panel, 361 ... first specific light emitting area, 362 ... First partial transmission region, 363 ... second partial transmission region, 371 ... second specific light emission region, 401 ... light control panel, 421 ... first transparent electrode, 422 ... second transparent electrode, 423 ... dot region (unit region) 431 ... first driver circuit, 432 ... second driver circuit, 441 ... first lightning region, 442 ... second lightning region, 451 ... light emitting target pattern, 452 ... transmission region, 501 ... color region, 502 ... non-color region 503, sub-gate lines, 601, background pixels, 602, lightning pixels, 701, individual LED driver circuits, 702, LED controllers.

Claims (1)

Liquid crystal display means having a display screen on which an image is displayed;
A light source means disposed on the back side of the liquid crystal display means for irradiating the liquid crystal display means with light;
Display control means for performing display control of the image;
In a gaming machine equipped with
Grant determination means for executing grant determination as to whether or not to grant a privilege to the player;
Based on the fact that the result of the grant determination by the grant determination means was a grant response result corresponding to granting a privilege to the player, privilege granting means capable of granting a privilege to the player;
Based on the determination of the grant by the grant determination means, the game times control means starts the game times effect on the display screen and ends the game times effect as a display result according to the result of the grant determination. When,
With
As an effect mode of the game times effect by the game time control means, a reach effect that makes the expectation that the result of the grant determination is the grant correspondence result is set,
A light amount changing unit that is arranged between the liquid crystal display unit and the light source unit, and is divided into a plurality of unit regions and can change the amount of light transmitted through the display screen for each unit region;
A light quantity change control means for individually controlling the light quantity change means for each unit region;
With
The light quantity changing means is
A switching liquid crystal layer that switches between a high transmittance state and a low transmittance state in which the light transmittance is relatively high and low by applying a voltage;
A plurality of first liquid crystals arranged on the surface side of the switching liquid crystal layer, formed in a linear shape extending in the left-right direction in a front view of the switching liquid crystal layer, and arranged substantially in parallel at a predetermined interval. A transparent electrode;
A plurality of second transparent layers disposed on the back surface side of the switching liquid crystal layer, formed in a linear shape extending in a direction intersecting the first transparent electrode, and arranged in a plurality of substantially parallel spaces at a predetermined interval Electrodes,
With
The unit region is a dot region between one first transparent electrode and one second transparent electrode in the switching liquid crystal layer, and is formed in a one-to-one correspondence with the pixels of the liquid crystal display means. And
The effect performed on the display screen is a specific effect in which a predetermined light-emitting target pattern including a predetermined light-emitting portion is displayed on the display screen, and light brighter than an area other than the light-emitting portion is visually recognized in the light-emitting portion. Is included,
The display control means variably displays the light emitting target pattern when executing the specific effect,
The light quantity change control means controls the light quantity change means in units of the dot area by individually controlling the voltage applied to each first transparent electrode and each second transparent electrode. When executing a specific effect, the dot corresponding to the light emitting portion is moved so that the portion where the light emitting portion visually recognizes light brighter than the region other than the light emitting portion is moved according to the variation display of the light emitting target pattern. Control to apply a voltage to the region,
The gaming machine, wherein the display control means is capable of executing the specific effect when the effect mode of the game time effect by the game time control means is a predetermined reach effect.

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