JP2019208937A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a game machine and game system in which management load of a game value can be suppressed in an external device of the game machine and the game value can be managed appropriately.SOLUTION: A slot machine 1 includes a management CPU of a token management control board 83 that manages token count data, and a possession token display device 26 that displays the token count of the count data managed by the token management control board 83 on a plurality of 7-segment displays. A management CPU outputs each segment of 7-segment display and each lighting data of DP to the possession token display device 26 based on the managed count data, and outputs the lighting data to a token lending unit 200, and when a return switch 230b is pressed, output return data relating to the number of returned tokens to the token lending unit 200 based on the managed count data.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine installed in a game hall such as a pachinko hall.

  In a slot machine that is one of gaming machines, as described in Patent Document 1, a CR sand (game media rental machine) is connected to the slot machine through a communication line. When a prepaid card is inserted into the CR sand and a lending switch provided on the CR sand is operated, coins are lent and the card frequency is subtracted accordingly. When the return switch provided on the CR sand is operated, the inserted prepaid card is returned.

  The CR sand calculates the number of coins to be lent according to the player's operation, and the slot machine calculates the number of coins to be inserted according to the coins lent by the CR sand, depending on the game result. The number of coins to be returned is calculated. The CR sand performs a calculation process related to increase / decrease of game media based on the number of loans, the number of inputs, and the number of returns, and manages the increase / decrease number of game media based on the calculation result.

JP 2004-97685 A (Claim 1 etc.)

  However, the CR sand needs to perform arithmetic processing related to increase / decrease in game media every time it is lent, thrown in, and returned, and there is a problem that the load of the arithmetic processing is large. In addition, since the management of the increase / decrease number of game media is performed only on the CR sand side, there is a problem that the increase / decrease number of game media managed is lost when an abnormality occurs on the CR sand side, for example. .

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and a game that can suppress the processing load for managing the game value in a device external to the gaming machine and can appropriately manage the game value. An object is to provide a machine and a game system.

  In order to achieve the above object, a gaming machine according to the present invention includes a display unit having a plurality of variable display columns for variably displaying a plurality of types of symbols, and a stop operation unit for stopping variable display of each of the variable display columns. A gaming machine that gives a player a gaming value according to a combination of symbols when all the variable display columns are stopped, and a main control means for controlling the progress of the game, and the gaming value by lending, winning or returning Game value management control means for managing game value information related to the game value, and game value display means for displaying the game value information managed by the game value management control means on a plurality of 7-segment displays, the plurality of 7 segments Each display has a plurality of segments used for displaying the gaming value information, and the gaming value management control means manages Based on the gaming value information, the lighting value of each of the plurality of segments of the plurality of 7-segment displays is output to the gaming value display means, the lighting data is output outside the gaming machine, and the gaming value of the gaming value is displayed. In response to a return operation, return data relating to the gaming value is output to the outside of the gaming machine based on the managed gaming value information.

  According to this configuration, the lighting data of each of the plurality of segments of each of the plurality of seven-segment displays is output from the gaming machine to the outside of the gaming machine, and the gaming value information managed by the gaming machine is triggered by the returning operation of the gaming value. Based on this, return data relating to the gaming value is output from the gaming machine to the outside of the gaming machine. For this reason, for example, when a device outside the gaming machine receives the return data, the game value based on the return data is compared with the game value based on the lighting data, and the game value is returned based on the matching result. In such a case, processing for grasping the game value possessed by the player for each game is not required, and the processing load is reduced.

  The gaming machine manages game value information related to the game value. For example, it is assumed that a device outside the gaming machine manages lighting data of each of a plurality of segments of each of a plurality of 7-segment displays. Since the game value can be grasped based on the lighting data of each of the plurality of segments of each of the plurality of seven-segment displays, it is equivalent to managing the game value information in each of the gaming machine and the device outside the gaming machine. . For this reason, even if an abnormality occurs in one of the gaming machine and the device outside the gaming machine, the gaming value information is not completely lost, and the resistance to the loss of the gaming value information is strengthened.

  In addition, the gaming machine outputs the lighting data of each of the plurality of segments of each of the plurality of 7-segment displays to the outside of the gaming machine. The gaming machine also outputs return data related to the gaming value based on the managed gaming value information to the outside of the gaming machine. The gaming value information managed by the gaming machine can be grasped from the lighting data of each of the plurality of segments of the plurality of seven-segment displays. This is equivalent to the fact that the game value information is output from the gaming machine to the outside of the gaming machine with two systems of output (one is an output system for lighting data and the other is an output system for return data). For this reason, for example, there is a high possibility that the game value can be correctly returned.

  In addition, since the lighting data of each of the plurality of segments of each of the plurality of 7-segment displays is output from the gaming machine to the outside of the gaming machine, the number of output data from the gaming machine to the outside of the gaming machine increases. Since it becomes difficult to understand which segment the lighting data corresponds to, it becomes difficult to perform fraud.

  Further, the gaming value management control means performs an output process of outputting the lighting data at the gaming value return operation timing to the outside of the gaming machine under a predetermined condition, triggered by the gaming value return operation. It may be.

  According to this configuration, the lighting data at the return operation timing is output outside the gaming machine while the predetermined condition is satisfied. For example, the device outside the gaming machine uses each lighting data at the return operation timing. Game value return processing can be performed, and game value can be returned correctly.

  The gaming system according to the present invention includes display means having a plurality of variable display columns for variably displaying a plurality of types of symbols, and stop operation means for stopping the variable display of each of the variable display columns, all of the variable In a gaming system including a gaming machine that gives a gaming value to a player according to a combination of symbols when the display sequence is stopped, and a gaming value management unit outside the gaming machine, the gaming machine controls the progress of the gaming. Control means, game value management control means for managing game value information related to the game value by lending, winning or returning, and the game value information managed by the game value management control means are displayed on a plurality of 7-segment displays. A plurality of 7-segment displays, each of which is used for displaying the game value information. And the gaming value management control means outputs lighting data of each of the plurality of segments of each of the plurality of seven-segment displays to the gaming value display means based on the managed gaming value information. The lighting value is output to the gaming value management unit, and the return value data related to the gaming value is output to the gaming value management unit based on the managed gaming value information, triggered by a return operation of the gaming value. The gaming value management unit receives the lighting data output from the gaming value management control means and manages the lighting data, and the gaming value is triggered by a return operation of the gaming value. The return data output from the management control means is received, and the game value and the lighting data based on the return data are received. Collating the said game value based on the lighting data managed by data management unit, to return the game value on the basis of the collation result, is characterized in that it comprises a return means for performing the return processing.

  According to this configuration, the lighting value information of each of the plurality of segments of the plurality of 7-segment displays is output from the gaming machine to the gaming value management unit, and the gaming value information managed by the gaming machine in response to the gaming value return operation Based on this, return data relating to the gaming value is output from the gaming machine to the gaming value management unit. When the game value management unit receives the return data, the game value management unit compares the game value based on the return data with the game value based on the lighting data, and returns the game value based on the comparison result. For this reason, the game value management unit does not require processing for grasping the game value owned by the player for each game, thereby reducing the processing load.

  Further, the gaming machine manages game value information related to the game value, and the game value management unit manages lighting data of each of the plurality of segments of the plurality of seven-segment displays. Since the game value can be grasped based on the lighting data of each of the plurality of segments of the plurality of seven-segment displays, this is equivalent to managing the game value information by the gaming machine and the game value management unit. For this reason, even if an abnormality occurs in one of the gaming machine and the gaming value management unit, the gaming value information is not completely lost, and resistance to the loss of gaming value information is strengthened.

  The gaming machine also outputs lighting data for each of the plurality of segments of the plurality of seven-segment displays to the gaming value management unit. The gaming machine also outputs return data related to the gaming value based on the managed gaming value information to the gaming value management unit. The gaming value information managed by the gaming machine can be grasped from the lighting data of each of the plurality of segments of the plurality of seven-segment displays. This is equivalent to the fact that the gaming value information is performed from the gaming machine to the gaming value management unit with two systems of output (one is an output system for lighting data and the other is an output system for return data). . For this reason, there is a high possibility that the game value management unit can correctly return the game value.

  In addition, the number of output data from the gaming machine to the gaming value management unit is increased by allowing the lighting data of each of the plurality of segments of the plurality of 7-segment displays to be output from the gaming machine to the gaming value management unit. Since it becomes difficult to know which segment each lighting data corresponds to, it becomes difficult to perform fraud.

  Further, the lighting data management means may maintain the lighting data at the game value return operation timing from the game value return operation to the end of the verification in the return process.

  According to this configuration, the lighting data at the return operation timing is maintained from the game value return operation until the verification in the return process is completed, so that the gaming value management unit uses each lighting data at the return operation timing. The game value that has been returned can be returned, and the game value can be returned correctly.

FIG. 3 is a front view of a slot machine and a medal renting unit as an example of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the slot machine. It is a functional block diagram which shows the function of the main control board of FIG. 2, a sub control board, and a medal management control board. It is a block diagram which shows the communication system of a slot machine. It is a figure which shows the payout indicator. It is a figure which shows the error display list by a payout display. It is a figure which shows a possession medal indicator and an error display lamp. It is a figure which shows the error display list by an error display lamp. It is a flowchart which shows a main process.

<Embodiment>
An embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

(Slot machine system)
First, the slot machine system will be described with reference to FIG. 1 and FIG. FIG. 1 is a front view of a slot machine and a medal lending unit according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a slot machine system.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the slot machine system includes a slot machine 1, a medal lending unit 200, and a hall computer HP. In the slot machine 1, the medal lending unit 200 sends it to the medal display device (medal management control board 83) in the form of the number data, and the game is executed by the number data management by the medal management control board 83. The medal lending unit 200 corresponds to the “game value management unit” of the present invention, and the system including the slot machine 1 and the medal lending unit 200 corresponds to the “game system” of the present invention.

  In the present embodiment, in the slot machine system, the number data relating to the number of medals that can be used in the game is stored in the memory 85 (see FIG. 2) of the medal management control board 83. Then, as will be described in detail later, when a predetermined number of bets are set by pressing the bet switch 7 or the maximum bet switch 8 of the slot machine 1, it is stored in the memory 85 of the medal management control board 83. The predetermined number of sheets, which is the number of bets, is subtracted from the existing number data. When a predetermined payout number of medals is given as a predetermined profit from the slot machine 1 to the player by winning, in this embodiment, instead of paying out medals, the medal management control board By adding the number data corresponding to a predetermined payout number to the number data stored in the memory 85 (see FIG. 2) 83, medals are virtually paid out to the player. That is, in this slot machine 1, a medal is not used as a game medium, but a game is played using the game value of the number data instead of inserting and paying out medals.

  Various game information is transmitted from the main control board 63 to the hall computer HP via the external terminal board 91. The various game information includes, for example, the open state of the front panel 2, information on the pseudo inserted number of medals, information on the pseudo payout number, error occurrence information, information indicating that the setting is being changed, information indicating that the setting is being confirmed, For example, information indicating that the bonus state is in effect, information indicating that the winning combination / replaying combination / bonus combination has been won, information indicating that each reel 6L, 6M, 6R has been stopped.

  Note that some or all of the various game information may be transmitted to the medal lending unit 200 via the lending terminal board 90. In this case, the information may be transmitted from the medal lending unit 200 to the hall computer HP. Further, the information may be transmitted from the main control board 63 to the medal lending unit 200 via the medal management control board 83 and the lending terminal board 90. When all the various game information is transmitted to the medal lending unit 200 via the lending terminal board 90, the external terminal board 91 can be eliminated. In addition, when part of the information is transmitted to the medal lending unit 200 via the lending terminal board 90, wiring for transmitting the part of information to the external terminal board 91 is not necessary. The degree of freedom in designing the substrate 63 is improved.

  In addition, the medal management control board 83 and the medal lending unit 200 exchange information bidirectionally via the lending terminal board 90.

  In addition, the main control board 63 performs control when displaying the pseudo payout number of medals or displaying error type information on the payout display 46. Further, the medal management control board 83 is based on the number data (the number data of the player's possessed medals) related to the number of medals that can be used for the game stored in the possessed medal number storage area 851 of the memory 85. Control when displaying the number of possessed medals on the possessed medal indicator 26 and control when displaying errors related to the medal management control board 83 with the error display lamps 30a, 30b, 30c are performed. In the following, first, the medal lending unit 200 will be described in detail, and then the slot machine 1 will be described in detail.

(Medal rental unit)
As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 4, the medal lending unit 200 lends medals that can be used for games to the player in the form of number data, and includes a unit information display device 210, a cash insertion unit (not shown), A card insertion / ejection device 220, a lending switch 230a, a return switch 230b, a leaving switch 230c, and a unit control device 240 are provided.

  The unit information display device 210 stores the cash balance (frequency) stored in the unit control device 240, the number of possessed medals based on the number data transmitted from the medal management control board 83, and the possessed memorized in the inserted medal card. The number of medals is displayed. The unit information display device 210 is composed of, for example, a plurality of 7-segment LEDs (not shown) or a liquid crystal display (not shown). Here, the cash balance is the balance of the inserted cash. The number of possessed medals based on the number of pieces of data transmitted from the medal management control board 83 is, for example, the number of pieces of data (the player's data) held in the memory 85 of the medal management control board 83 based on an operation of a return switch 230b described later. This is the number of medals according to the number data when the possessed medal data is transmitted to the unit control device 240.

  The cash insertion unit is for inserting cash such as banknotes in order to borrow a medal from the medal lending unit 200, and detects the cash inserted by the player. When cash is inserted into the cash input unit to start the game, the amount inserted into the data holding means 241 of the unit control device 240 is stored as balance data, so that the medal can be lent out. Become. When medals are lent out, the amount of the lent medal number is subtracted from the amount recorded in the data holding means 241 and the balance data is updated. Thereafter, when further cash is inserted into the cash input unit, the amount is added to the amount stored in the data holding means 241 and the balance data is updated. When cash is inserted, the amount inserted is directly recorded on one of a plurality of unrecorded medal cards stored in the card insertion / ejection device 220, and the subsequent cash balance is recorded You may make it manage with a card | curd.

  The unit control device 240 controls the medal lending unit 200 as a whole, and the amount of money and number of data that can be used for borrowing medals in the card insertion / discharge device 220 when cash is inserted into the cash insertion unit. When a medal card on which is recorded is inserted, medals are lent out to the player in the form of number data. Further, the unit control device 240 returns the medal card to the player by the player's operation or the like when ending the game. At this time, the medal number storage area in the memory 85 of the medal management control board 83 A plurality of segments A to G and DP (refer to FIG. 7) of each of five 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B constituting the possession medal display 26 stored in the data holding means 241 and the number data stored in 851. The number of medals to be returned is determined based on the lighting data of, and the determined number of returned medals is added to the number of medals indicated by the number data stored in the medal card stored in the card insertion / ejection device 220. The number data is updated. The process of returning medals to the medal card stored in the card insertion / ejection device 220 in the form of the number data is performed by the return means 246 described later, and details thereof will be described later. The unit control device 240 includes a data holding unit 241, a lending unit 242, a subtracting unit 243, an adding unit 244, a lighting data managing unit 245, a returning unit 246, and a transmitting / receiving unit 247.

  The data holding means 241 includes the number data based on return data (to be described later) transmitted from the medal management control board 83, and the five 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B constituting the possessed medal display 26 output from the medal management control board 83. Each of the plurality of segments A to G and DP (see FIG. 7) holds lighting data, balance data relating to the balance of the inserted cash, and the like.

  When the lending switch 230a is pressed, the lending unit 242 uses the medal management control board 83 to store the number of lending data (for example, 50 sheets) based on the balance data stored in the data holding unit 241. Is sent to the player in the form of the number data. In addition, when the number switch data is transmitted to the medal management control board 83 by the lending unit 242 when the lending switch 230a is pressed, a subtracting unit 243, which will be described later, determines a lending fee for a predetermined lending number as a data holding unit. The balance data is updated by subtracting from the cash balance indicated by the balance data stored in 241.

  In addition, when a medal card in which a possessed medal remains is inserted into the card insertion / ejection device 220, the lending unit 242 transmits the number data corresponding to the number to the medal management control board 83, thereby playing the game The medals that can be used in the game are lent out to the player in the form of the number data. Further, when the lending switch 230a is pressed, the lending unit 242 clears the number data (owned medal) of the medal card when the number data is transmitted to the medal management control board 83.

  In the present embodiment, data transmission from the lending unit 242 to the medal management control board 83 is performed via the lending terminal board 90 (see FIG. 4). In this way, medals are lent out to the player in the form of the number data. Further, in this embodiment, when a medal card storing possessed medals is inserted, the number data for the total number is automatically transmitted to the medal management control board 83, but the lending switch 230a You may make it transmit to the medal management control board 83 by pressing down. Alternatively, the number data of some medals (for example, the number data for 50 medals) may be transmitted to the medal management control board 83 each time the lending switch 230a is pressed.

  Based on the transmission of the number data to the medal management control board 83, the subtraction means 243 subtracts the loan fee corresponding to the loan number data from the cash balance indicated by the balance data stored in the data holding means 241, and the balance The data is updated.

  When the cash is inserted into the cash input unit, the adding means 244 adds the input amount to the cash balance indicated by the balance data stored in the data holding means 241 and updates the balance data.

  The lighting data management means 245 includes a plurality of segments A to G and DP of the five 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B constituting the possessed medal display 26 output from the medal management control board 83 by the transmission / reception means 247 (FIG. 7). (Refer to) When each lighting data is received, each of the lighting data of the plurality of segments A to G and DP of each of the five 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B of the possession medal indicator 26 stored in the data holding unit 241 It is rewritten to the lighting data of the corresponding segment received.

  In this embodiment, the timing at which the display content of the possessed medal indicator 26 changes, that is, the five medal indicators 26 that constitute the possessed medal indicator 26 output from the management CPU 81 (medal display control means 301) of the medal management control board 83. The timing when the lighting data of each of the segments A to G and DP of each of the seven segment displays SEG1B to SEG5G changes is as follows: (1) When the lending switch 230a is pressed or the number of pieces of data is not zero at the insertion / discharge port 220a. When a stored medal card is inserted (lending number data), (2) when a pseudo medal is inserted, (3) when a pseudo medal is paid out, (4) the return switch 230b is pressed This is the case (return of the number data). At this time, each of a plurality of segments A to G and DP of each of the five 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5G constituting the possessed medal display 26 outputted from the management CPU 81 (medal display control means 301) of the medal management control board 83. Is also supplied to the medal lending unit 200.

  In the cases (1) to (3) above, it is a period in which the update of the lighting data stored in the data holding unit 241 is not prohibited by the return unit 246 described later. For this reason, the lighting data management means 245 constitutes the possessed medal indicator 26 output from the management CPU 81 (medal display control means 301) of the medal management control board 83, for example, every predetermined time (for example, time interval of interrupt processing). The lighting data stored in the data holding unit 241 is updated by storing the lighting data of each of the plurality of segments A to G and DP of the five seven-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5G. In this manner, the lighting data of each segment stored in the data holding unit 241 is updated and stored with the lighting data that has not changed at a predetermined timing when the display content of the possessed medal indicator 26 has not changed. When the display content changes, it changes at almost the same timing as the change timing.

  On the other hand, in the case of (4), the update of lighting data stored in the data holding unit 241 is not prohibited by the return unit 246 described later during the period from when the return operation is accepted until the collation in the return process is completed. It is a period. For this reason, the lighting data management means 245 constitutes the possessed medal indicator 26 output from the management CPU 81 (medal display control means 301) of the medal management control board 83, for example, every predetermined time (for example, time interval of interrupt processing). The lighting data stored in the data holding unit 241 is updated without storing the lighting data of each of the plurality of segments A to G and DP of the five 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5G. Absent. Therefore, the lighting data of each segment stored in the data holding means 241 will maintain the lighting data of each segment at the return operation timing, and the return means 246 described later is used for collation described later at the return operation timing. The lighting data of each segment can be used. And after collation is complete | finished, it becomes a period when the update of the lighting data memorize | stored in the data holding means 241 is not prohibited by the return means 246 mentioned later. For this reason, the lighting data management means 245 constitutes the possessed medal indicator 26 output from the management CPU 81 (medal display control means 301) of the medal management control board 83, for example, every predetermined time (for example, time interval of interrupt processing). The lighting data stored in the data holding unit 241 is updated by storing the lighting data of each of the plurality of segments A to G and DP of the five seven-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5G. In this manner, the lighting data of each segment stored in the data holding unit 241 is updated and stored with the lighting data that has not changed at a predetermined timing when the display content of the possessed medal indicator 26 has not changed. When the display content changes, the display content changes at a timing different from the change timing.

  Note that the lighting data of each segment stored in the data holding unit 241 may be updated only when the display content of the possessed medal indicator 26 changes.

  In this embodiment, from the management CPU 81 (medal display control means 301) of the medal management control board 83, each of the plurality of segments A to G and DP of each of the five 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B constituting the possessed medal display 26 is provided. In addition, signal lines for supplying lighting data (the number of signal lines is 5 (number of 7-segment displays) × 8 (number of segments constituting one 7-segment display) = 40) are provided. . For example, the lighting data when the segment is turned on is “1 (High)”, and the lighting data when the segment is turned off is “0 (Low)”.

  Then, each of the 40 signal lines from the management CPU 81 (medal display control means 301) of the medal management control board 83 to the possessed medal indicator 26 is branched in the middle, and each of the branched signal lines is lent to the rental terminal board 90. To the medal lending unit 200. Thereby, the lighting data of each of the plurality of segments A to G and DP of each of the five seven-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B constituting the possessed medal display 26 are stored in the management CPU 81 (medal display control means 301 of the medal management control board 83). ) To the medal lending unit 200 in parallel. In the medal lending unit 200, the lighting data management means 245 causes the lighting data of the plurality of segments A to G and DP of each of the five 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B of the possessed medal display 26 stored in the data holding means 241. Each is rewritten to the supplied lighting data of the corresponding segment.

  The management CPU 81 (medal display control means 301) of the medal management control board 83 for the lighting data of each of the plurality of segments A to G and DP of the five 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B constituting the possessed medal display 26. The supply to the medal lending unit 200 is not limited to the above, and may be as follows, for example. The medal management control board 83 or the management CPU 81 (medal display control means 301) of the medal management control board 83 has a plurality of segments A to G and DP of the five 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B constituting the possessed medal display 26. Each time, two output terminals for outputting lighting data are provided, one output terminal is connected to the possessed medal indicator 26, and the other terminal is connected to the medal lending unit 200 via the lending terminal plate 90. May be.

  The storage format of the lighting data of the plurality of segments A to G and DP of each of the five 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B of the possessed medal indicator 26 stored in the data holding means 241 is not limited, and any segment display Any format can be used as long as it can be understood which segment is turned on or off.

  When the return unit 246 accepts a return operation for pressing the return switch 230b, the return unit 246 configures the possessed medal indicator 26 stored in the data holding unit 241 for a period from when the return operation is received until the collation in the return process is completed. The updating of the lighting data of each of the plurality of segments A to G and DP of the five 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B is prohibited. The return means 246 permits the update of each lighting data after the period has elapsed. However, the collation here is based on the number of medals based on each lighting data stored in the data holding means 241 and medals based on return data described later from the management CPU 81 (medal display control means 301) of the medal management control board 83. This is a comparison with the number of sheets.

  After the update of each lighting data is prohibited in response to the return operation, information indicating that the return switch 230b has been operated is transmitted to the medal management control board 83 by the transmission / reception means 247 described later. In the medal management control board 83, the management CPU 81 creates return data regarding the number of return medals based on the number data stored in the possessed medal number storage area 851 of the memory 85, and returns the return data to the lending terminal board 90. Is output to the medal lending unit 200. This return data is received by the transmission / reception means 247 described later. However, in this embodiment, the return data is a signal composed of pulses corresponding to the number of sheets indicated by the number data stored in the possessed medal number storage area 851. Note that the transmission is not limited to a signal for one pulse per sheet, and data corresponding to the number of sheets may be transmitted in a batch.

  Upon receiving the return data from the medal management control board 83, the return means 246 calculates the number of medals (return medals) returned from the medal management control board 83 based on the return data, and indicates the calculated number of return medals. The number data is stored in the data holding unit 241. For example, the return means 246 can be realized by counting the number of pulses of the return data and using the counted number of pulses as the number of return medals. Further, the return means 246 is based on the lighting data of each of the plurality of segments A to G and DP of the five 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B constituting the possessed medal indicator 26 stored in the data holding means 241. The number of medals displayed on the possessed medal indicator 26 (hereinafter referred to as “displayed possessed medals”) is calculated, and the calculated number of displayed possessed medals is stored in the data holding unit 241. However, the lighting data of each of the plurality of segments A to G and DP of the five 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B constituting the possessed medal indicator 26 stored in the data holding unit 241 is as described above. The data is prohibited from being updated for the period from when the return operation is accepted until the end of the verification in the return process. Accordingly, the calculated number of displayed possessed medals is the number of medals displayed on the possessed medal display 26 at the return operation timing. Note that the return operation timing includes the timing from the last update of the number of possessed medals displayed on the possessed medal indicator 26 to the return operation by pseudo insertion, pseudo payout, and lending. Further, for example, the return means 246 determines which of the lighting data of each of the plurality of segments A to G and DP of each of the five 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B constituting the possessed medal indicator 26 stored in the data holding means 241. It is possible to identify whether the segment is lit and calculate the number of displayed possessed medals from the position of the lit segment.

  The return means 246 collates the number data of returned medals stored in the data holding means 241 and the number data of displayed possessed medals stored in the data holding means 241, and determines the number of pieces of data based on the collation result. Return the medal in the format and perform the return process.

  However, when the number of returned medals matches the number of displayed possessed medals, the return means 246 stores the number of medals indicated by the number of returned medals in the medal card. A return process is performed in which the number of medals indicated by the number data is added to the number of medals to update the number of pieces of data.

  On the other hand, as a result of the collation, when the number data of the returned medals does not match the number data of the displayed possessed medals, the return means 246 performs an error process in the return process. As error processing, for example, error notification may be performed without returning medals in the form of number data to a medal card. Further, the number of displayed medals may be added to the number indicated by the number data stored in the medal card to update the number data (returning only the number of displayed medals). In some cases, error notification may be performed, or error notification may not be performed. Further, the return process may not be completed.

  When the return means 246 returns the medal to the medal card in the form of the number data, the return means 246 initializes the number data held in the data holding means 241 (number data of returned medals, number data of displayed possessed medals). To do.

  The transmission / reception means 247 receives various information from the medal management control board 83 and transmits various information to the medal management control board 83. Information received from the medal management control board 83 includes return data based on the number data stored in the possessed medal number storage area 851, error information, and the like. The information transmitted to the medal management control board 83 includes information on the operation state of each switch 230a to 230c.

  The card insertion / ejection device 220 stores the card when a medal card is inserted from the insertion / discharge port 220a, and records predetermined information when the return switch 230b or the away switch 230c is operated. The medal card is discharged from the insertion / discharge port 220a.

(Slot machine)
Next, an outline of the configuration of the slot machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In the slot machine 1 in the present embodiment, the pseudo insertion of medals is performed in order to establish a predetermined condition for starting the game by operating the bet switch 7 or the maximum bet switch 8. Further, when the player operates the start switch 9 on condition that a predetermined number of bets are set by pseudo insertion of medals and a predetermined condition is satisfied, a plurality of symbols each having a plurality of symbols arranged therein are arranged. The rotating reels 6L, 6M, 6R start to rotate. In addition, the rotary reels 6L, 6M, and 6R are stopped by operating the stop switches 10L, 10M, and 10R. If the stop symbol display result at this time is a predetermined winning mode, one game is completed by performing a pseudo payout of medals for a predetermined predetermined number of payouts. Here, the pseudo insertion of medals means that the number data stored in the memory 85 of the medal management control board 83 is rewritten to the number data obtained by subtracting the number of medals according to the number of bets on the game. In addition, the pseudo payout of medals is the number data obtained by adding the number of medals set according to the winning combination to the number data stored in the memory 85 of the medal management control board 83 when winning in the game. It means to rewrite.

  Even if pseudo insertion is performed and the number data is reduced, the set bet number can be changed until the start switch 9 is operated, and the bet number and the number of sheets can be changed accordingly. The data is updated as appropriate, and when the start switch 9 is operated, the amount set as the number of bets is provided to the game. For example, when the betting number is set in the gaming state in which “3” or “1” is set as the prescribed number, “3” is set as the betting number by operating the maximum bet switch 8 and the number data Will be decremented by “3”. Thereafter, when the bet number is changed to “1”, by operating the bet switch 7, “1” is set as the bet number, and “2” is returned (added) to the number data. .

  The slot machine 1 is configured, for example, as shown in FIG. That is, in this slot machine 1, the front surface of the box-shaped housing whose front surface is opened is closed by the front panel 2 so that it can be opened and closed, and the operation plate 3 is disposed at a substantially central height position of the front panel 2. In addition, a front plate 4 is disposed above the operation plate 3. The front plate 4 is provided with a horizontally-long rectangular display window 5. Inside the display window 5, left, middle and right rotating reels 6L, 6M and 6R for variably displaying a plurality of kinds of symbols in a predetermined order are arranged.

  A predetermined number of symbols are provided in a predetermined arrangement on the peripheral surfaces of the left, middle and right rotating reels 6L, 6M, 6R. The plurality of symbols provided on the peripheral surfaces of the left, middle, and right rotating reels 6L, 6M, and 6R include a plurality of different types of symbols. Each rotary reel 6L, 6M, 6R is formed by affixing a reel tape on which a plurality of types of symbols are printed on the peripheral surface of the rotary reel. When each rotating reel 6L, 6M, 6R rotates, a plurality of types of symbols provided on the peripheral surfaces of each rotating reel 6L, 6M, 6R are variably displayed on the display window 5 in a predetermined order. Further, when the rotation of each of the rotating reels 6L, 6M, 6R is stopped, a total of three symbols, one for each of the upper, middle, and lower stages of the display window 5, are provided for each of the rotating reels 6L, 6M, 6R. It is set to be displayed. That is, when all the rotating reels 6L, 6M, 6R are stopped, a total of nine symbols arranged in three columns and three rows are stopped and displayed on the display window 5.

  In addition, each of the rotating reels 6L, 6M, and 6R is provided with left, middle, and right reel motors 27L, 27M, and 27R configured by stepping motors so that the rotating reels 6L, 6M, and 6R can be independently rotated. 27R (see FIG. 2) is connected. In addition, a support frame that supports each of the rotating reels 6L, 6M, and 6R is fixed to a rear wall in the housing, and each of the rotating reels 6L, 6M, and 6R is supported by the support frame and is installed in the housing. It is arranged.

  The operation plate 3 is provided with a bet switch 7, a maximum bet switch 8, a lever-shaped start switch 9, and left / middle / right stop switches 10L, 10M, and 10R. The bet switch 7 is used for the player to perform an operation to instruct the pseudo insertion of medals one by one from the number data stored in the memory 85 of the medal management control board 83 described later. The maximum bet switch 8 is the number of medals of the maximum number of medals per game (game) set by the player based on the number data stored in the memory 85 of the medal management control board 83. This is for performing an operation for instructing pseudo-injection. The bet switch 7 and the maximum bet switch 8 are set to be activated when the number of medals indicated by the number data stored in the memory 85 of the medal management control board 83 is one or more. . Further, when the maximum bet switch 8 is operated, if the number of medals indicated by the number data stored in the memory 85 of the medal management control board 83 is less than a prescribed number (for example, 3), the medal lending is performed. The player may be informed of the game, or may be able to play with a predetermined number less than a prescribed number (for example, three). In the first place, the operations of the bet switch 7 and the maximum bet switch 8 may not be accepted.

  The start switch 9 is for a player to perform an operation of rotating the rotary reels 6L, 6M, 6R to start variable display of the symbols. The left / middle / right stop switches 10L, 10M, 10R are used by the player to stop the variable display of each symbol by stopping the rotation of the left / middle / right rotating reels 6L, 6M, 6R. It is. The start switch 9 performs pseudo insertion of a predetermined number of medals from the number data stored in the memory 85 of the medal management control board 83 (rewriting to the number data obtained by subtracting the predetermined number), It is set to be enabled. Further, the left / middle / right stop switches 10L, 10M, and 10R are configured to rotate at a constant speed after a predetermined acceleration period has elapsed in the respective reels 6L, 6M, and 6R that have started rotating by the operation of the start switch 9. It is set to be activated later.

  In the present embodiment, three types of betting numbers (predetermined number) necessary for one game (one game) are set to 1, 2, and 3. In addition, a variable display row for variably displaying a plurality of types of symbols is formed by each of the rotary reels 6L, 6M, 6R, and each stop switch 10L, 10M, 10R is provided on each of the rotary reels 6L, 6M, 6R. Correspondingly provided.

  In addition, a video or the like is displayed at substantially the center above the front plate 4 to notify the player of winning or winning, or to give an effect of notifying the operation mode of each stop switch 10L, 10M, 10R. A liquid crystal display 14 is provided.

  In addition, on the left and right above the front plate 4 are provided upper speakers 15 for performing effects such as music and voice. In addition, a lower panel 18 on which a decorative image or the like is displayed is provided below the operation panel 3, and lower speakers 16 are provided on the left and right of the lower panel 18 for performing effects such as music and voice. Yes.

  Further, an upper lamp portion 21 is provided on the upper peripheral portion of the front panel 2, and lower lamp portions 22 are provided on the left and right sides of the lower panel 18 of the front panel 2. Each of the lamp units 21 and 22 includes light emitting elements such as a light emitting diode and an organic EL, and a general light bulb, and performs effects such as notifying a player of winning and winning.

  Also, a possessed medal indicator 26 for displaying the number of medals according to the game value (number data) owned by the player is disposed at the lower right of the display window 5. As shown in FIG. 7, the possessed medal indicator 26 includes five 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B, and can display the number of 5-digit medals. Each of the five 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B is formed in a bar shape, and is combined with seven segments A to G arranged in a character of “8” and one small round segment DP as a decimal point. A total of eight segments A to G and DP are provided, and each segment is formed of a light emitting diode. The possessed medal indicator 26 corresponds to the “game value display means” of the present invention.

  As described above, the lighting data is supplied from the management CPU 81 (medal display control unit 301) of the memory management control board 83 to each of the plurality of segments A to G and DP of each of the five 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B. Signal lines (the number of signal lines is 40).

  Then, each of the 40 signal lines from the management CPU 81 (medal display control means 301) of the medal management control board 83 to the possessed medal indicator 26 is branched in the middle, and each of the branched signal lines is lent to the rental terminal board 90. To the medal lending unit 200. Thereby, the lighting data of each of the plurality of segments A to G and DP of each of the five seven-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B constituting the possessed medal display 26 are stored in the management CPU 81 (medal display control means 301 of the medal management control board 83). ) To the medal lending unit 200 in parallel. In the medal lending unit 200, the lighting data management means 245 causes the lighting data of the plurality of segments A to G and DP of each of the five 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B of the possessed medal display 26 stored in the data holding means 241. Each is rewritten to the supplied lighting data of the corresponding segment.

  Next to the possessed medal indicator 26, three error display lamps 30a, 30b, 30c for displaying an error related to the medal management control board 83 are arranged.

  Further, a payout indicator 46 for displaying the number of payout medals is disposed at the lower left of the display window 5. As shown in FIG. 5, the payout display unit 46 is composed of two 7-segment displays SEG1A to SEG2A, and can display a 2-digit payout number. Each of the two 7-segment displays SEG1A to SEG2A is formed in a bar shape, and is combined with 7 segments A to G arranged in the shape of "8" and one small round segment DP as the decimal point. A total of eight segments A to G and DP are provided, and each segment is formed of a light emitting diode.

  Signal lines (signals) for supplying lighting data from the main CPU 61 (dispensing display control means 107) of the main control board 63 to each of the plurality of segments A to G and DP of the two seven-segment displays SEG1A to SEG2A The number of lines is 2 (the number of 7-segment displays) × 8 (the number of segments constituting one 7-segment display) = 16). For example, the lighting data when the segment is turned on is “1 (High)”, and the lighting data when the segment is turned off is “0 (Low)”.

(Outline of electrical configuration of slot machine)
An outline of the electrical configuration of the slot machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 2 while also referring to FIG. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the slot machine.

  The left / middle / right position sensors 55L, 55M, and 55R are for detecting the rotational positions of the left / middle / right reels 6L, 6M, and 6R, respectively. For example, the left / middle / right reels 6L, 6M, and 6R Each of the photointerrupters for detecting the protrusions provided is detected. When the left, middle, and right reels 6L, 6M, and 6R rotate, the protrusions are detected every round and a detection signal is output to the main control board 63. In this slot machine 1, for example, when the left / middle / right position sensors 55L, 55M, and 55R detect the protrusions, the frame numbers of symbols 0 to 20 set on the reels 6L, 6M, and 6R, respectively. Among them, the symbol of frame number 20 is configured to be positioned in the middle of the display window 5.

  The change process start switch 56 is provided inside the key cylinder of the operation box 49, and is turned on and off by inserting and rotating a setting change key (not shown) into the key cylinder. The reset switch 52 is provided in the operation box 49, and is temporarily set to a setting value one higher each time it is pressed during setting change. The power switch 50 is used to switch the power on and off, and is provided in the operation box 49.

  Further, in this slot machine 1, a main control board 63 on which a main CPU 61 that performs control relating to the progress of the game is mounted, and a sub that performs control of effects in accordance with the progress of the game based on information transmitted from the main control board 63. A sub control board 73 on which the CPU 71 is mounted and a medal management control board 83 on which a management CPU 81 for managing the number of medals possessed for performing pseudo insertion and pseudo payout in games are provided separately, and the main control Various game information is transmitted from the board 63 to the sub-control board 73 in one direction. Various information is transmitted bidirectionally between the main control board 63 and the medal management control board 83. The main CPU 61 corresponds to “main control means” of the present invention, and the management CPU 81 corresponds to “game value management control means” of the present invention.

  The RAM 65 of the main control board 63 temporarily stores data relating to the game such as the game state of the slot machine 1, and various storage areas for storing various data are formed.

  The ROM 67 of the main control board 63 stores a game machine program (a program for the slot machine 1) including preset data (such as a role lottery table 671 in FIG. 3).

  Further, the main CPU 61 of the main control board 63 has an interrupt function such as a timer interrupt, and executes a game machine program stored in the ROM 67 to perform processing related to the progress of the game. The main CPU 61 also provides information on the result of lottery by the lottery means 102 (see FIG. 3) (including information necessary for winning a winning combination to be described later), players such as the stop switches 10L, 10M, 10R, and the start switch 9. Various game information such as information related to the operation of the operating tool operated by the command is transmitted to the sub control board 73 (sub CPU 71) in a command format.

  The memory 75 of the sub-control board 73 includes a RAM unit that temporarily stores various data and a ROM unit that stores various programs for effects. The sub CPU 71 of the sub control board 73 has an interrupt function such as a timer interrupt, and the sub CPU 71 is stored in the memory 75 based on various game information regarding the slot machine 1 transmitted from the main CPU 61. By executing the program, the contents of the production related to the game for the player are determined. In addition, the sub CPU 71 of the sub control board 73 controls the effect devices such as the liquid crystal display 14 and the speakers 15 and 16 via the I / O port of the sub control board 73 based on the determined contents of the effect. I do.

  The memory 85 of the medal management control board 83 includes a RAM unit that temporarily stores various data and a ROM unit that stores various programs. Further, the management CPU 81 of the medal management control board 83 has an interrupt function such as a timer interrupt, and is pseudo-inserted in a game based on information transmitted from the main CPU 61 or medal information transmitted from the medal lending unit 200. / Manages the number of medals to be paid out (held medal data). In addition, the management CPU 81 performs control to display the medal number (owned medal) on the possessed medal indicator 26 according to the number data stored in the memory 85. Further, lighting control of the error display lamps 30a, 30b, and 30c is performed based on information transmitted from the main CPU 61.

  When the management CPU 81 receives a signal indicating that the return switch 230b of the medal lending unit 200 has been pressed, the management CPU 81 transmits return data regarding the number of returned medals based on the number of data stored in the memory 85 to the medal lending unit 200. To do. At this time, the management CPU 81 clears the number data stored in the memory 85.

  In addition, when the management CPU 81 receives a signal indicating that the away switch 230c of the medal lending unit 200 has been pressed, regardless of whether or not the bet switch 7 and the maximum bet switch 8 are operated, the medal pseudo insertion is performed. Prohibit control. That is, when the away switch 230c is pressed, the game is temporarily disabled. Note that when the away switch 230c is pressed, one medal card is discharged from the insertion / discharge port 220a. When the player returns from his / her seat and inserts the medal card into the insertion / eject port 220a, a signal to that effect is transmitted to the management CPU 81. The management CPU 81 controls pseudo-injection of medals based on this signal. Is released. In this case, ID information is stored in the medal card, and when the away switch 230 c is operated, the ID information is stored in, for example, the data holding unit 241. Then, when the player returns and the medal card is inserted, ID information is collated, and if they match, the information to that effect is transmitted to the medal management control board 83, thereby prohibiting pseudo insertion of medals. Control is released.

  The main control board 63, the sub control board 73, the medal management control board 83, and the lending terminal board 90 are sealed in individual board cases having a caulking mechanism so that they cannot be easily accessed from the outside. As a method of connecting each board to prevent fraud, in addition to a method of connecting directly between boards (BtoB connection) with a connector mounted on each board, physical access, a wire cover that suppresses the influence of electromagnetic noise A method of connecting using a covered signal line, a method of routing a signal line from a place where it is difficult for a player to visually recognize, a method of encrypting communication signals between boards, and ID information provided on each board periodically or error There are ways to communicate when they occur. In addition, when connecting both boards with connectors mounted on each board, it is difficult to access by connecting side by side and covering as a board unit including the connection place, instead of the laminated connection that lowers the visibility of the board. It is good to.

(Main control board)
The function of the main control board 63 will be described with reference to FIG.

(1) Game control means 100
The game control means 100 is for controlling a game executed in the medalless slot machine 1. In the game of the slot machine 1, when the bet switch 7 or the maximum bet switch 8 is operated and a medal pseudo-instruction is instructed, the medal management control board 83 stores the medal number in the possessed medal number storage area 851. The number data is rewritten to the number data reduced by the number of the pseudo-inserts. At this time, information that can be specified to be rewritten is transmitted from the medal management control board 83 to the main control board 63, whereby the bet number is set. Further, the number of bets can be changed until the start switch 9 is operated, and the number data stored in the possessed medal number storage area 851 of the memory 85 of the medal management control board 83 is updated accordingly. Will be. When the start switch 9 is operated after a predetermined number of bets are set, first, a random number lottery is performed by the lottery means 102 for determining whether or not to win, almost simultaneously, all three rotating reels 6L , 6M, 6R starts to rotate.

  Thereafter, when one of the three stop switches 10L, 10M, 10R is operated, one of the rotating reels 6L, 6M, 6R corresponding to the operated stop switch 10L, 10M, 10R. Stops rotating. Then, when the operation on all three stop switches 10L, 10M, and 10R is completed, the rotation of all three rotary reels 6L, 6M, and 6R is stopped. At this time, when a predetermined symbol stops at a predetermined position, a prize is awarded, and a pseudo-payout of a predetermined number of medals, the number data stored in the possessed medal number storage area 851 of the memory 85 of the medal management control board 83 (owned medals) A predetermined benefit such as a replay that can execute the next game without subtracting (data) is given to the player.

(2) Input control means 101
When the bet switch 7 or the maximum bet switch 8 is operated, the insertion control unit 101 sets a bet number by performing a pseudo insertion of a predetermined number of medals and establishes a predetermined condition for starting a game. Is. At this time, when the bet switch 7 or the maximum bet switch 8 is operated, the insertion control unit 101 transmits information that can specify the fact to the medal management control board 83. Receiving the information, the medal management control board 83 rewrites the number data stored in the possessed medal number storage area 851 to the number data in which the number corresponding to the number of bets is reduced, and information that can specify that fact is rewritten. Transmit to the main control board 63. When receiving information from the medal management control board 83, the insertion control unit 101 validates the operation of the start switch 9.

(3) Lottery means 102
In the present embodiment, the lottery means 102 is for performing a lottery for winning or losing a plurality of roles including a small role, a replaying role, and a bonus role in response to an operation of the start switch 9. It is. The lottery means 102 includes a random number generation means, a random number extraction means, a lottery table, and a lottery determination means. The random number generation means generates a random number for lottery within a predetermined range (in this embodiment, for example, 0 to 65535 in decimal number). The random number generating means is constituted by an oscillation circuit and a counter circuit that counts clock signals generated by the oscillation circuit. The random number extraction means extracts the random number generated by the random number generation means, and extracts the random number generated by the random number generation means in response to the operation of the start switch 9. Since the random number generating means is constituted by a counter circuit or the like, the numerical value generated by the random number generating means is not strictly a random number. However, since the timing at which the start switch 9 is operated is considered to be random, the numerical value extracted by the random number extraction means can be practically handled as a random number. A random number may be generated by a random number generator.

  In the combination lottery table 671, it is determined in advance whether each random number within the range generated by the random number generator corresponds to one of the lottery results set in advance. The lottery determination unit is configured to collate the random number extracted by the random number extraction unit with the lottery table and determine which of the plurality of lottery results the extracted random number corresponds to.

(4) Stop control means 103
The stop control means 103 performs stop control of the rotating reels 6L, 6M, 6R based on the operation mode for the stop switches 10L, 10M, 10R by the player and the lottery result of the lottery means 102. In the present embodiment, when the lottery result by the lottery means 102 is a winning of any of a plurality of roles, the stop control means 103 has an appropriate timing when the player operates the stop switches 10L, 10M, 10R. Then, stop control of the rotating reels 6L, 6M, and 6R is performed so that it is determined that the winning combination is won by the determination means 104 described later. The operation mode of the stop switches 10L, 10M, and 10R by the player is not limited to the above-described operation timing, and may be an operation order such as which stop switch 10L, 10M, or 10R is operated first. . Further, depending on the type of winning combination, no matter what timing the stop switch 10L, 10M, 10R is operated by the player, each rotation is performed so that the stop symbol is displayed in a winning manner corresponding to the winning combination. The arrangement positions of the symbols on the reels 6L, 6M, 6R are set.

(5) Determination means 104
The determination means 104 determines the display pattern of the stop symbol when all the rotary reels 6L, 6M, 6R are stopped by operating the stop switches 10L, 10M, 10R. In the present embodiment, the determination means 104 determines whether the symbol display result when each of the rotating reels 6L, 6M, 6R is in a predetermined winning mode. In addition, the display mode determined as winning is determined in advance for a different display mode for each winning combination.

(6) Dispensing control means 105
The payout control means 105 performs pseudo payout of a predetermined payout number of medals when the determination means 104 determines that the stop symbol display result is a predetermined winning. Specifically, the payout control unit 105 transmits information related to the number data for the number of medals virtually paid out from the slot machine 1 to the medal management control board 83. When the medal management control board 83 receives the information, the medal management control board 83 rewrites the number data stored in the possessed medal number storage area 851 to the number data obtained by adding the number of pseudo-paid medals. Note that some or all of these processes may be performed by the medal management control board 83.

(7) Error detection means 106
The error detection means 106 detects whether an abnormal state different from the normal state has occurred, that is, whether a so-called error has occurred. The errors detected by the error detection unit 106 include, for example, an RWM error, a reel error, a main control / medal management control communication error, a medal management control error, a unit communication error, a medal number upper limit error, and the like. When these errors occur, the process proceeds to error processing based on the occurrence of the error, and the game is stopped.

  For each error, an error code (E0, E1, E2, EA, EC, EF in the above order) for classifying the type is set. These errors will be described later with reference to FIG.

(8) Dispensing indicator control means 107
The payout display controller 107 controls the display on the payout display 46. Specifically, the payout display control means 107 controls the payout display 46 so that when the winning combination is won, the payout display 46 displays the payout number of medals set for the winning combination.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the payout indicator 46 has two 7-segment displays SEG1A and SEG2A. Each of the two 7-segment displays SEG1A and SEG2A is composed of eight segments A to G and DP that can be lit, and some numbers (0 to 9), A, C, E, F, etc. Can be displayed. Therefore, for example, when a winning combination is obtained in which one payout is obtained, the payout display controller 107 lights up the segments A, B, C, D, E, and F of the 7-segment display SEG1A (“0”). And the payout display 46 is controlled so that the segments B and C of the 7-segment display SEG2A are lit (displays “1”).

  Further, in the payout display 46, when an error occurs, an error display capable of identifying the error type is also performed. In this case, an error display may be performed at the time of occurrence of an error, or an error display may be performed when the process is shifted to error processing based on the occurrence of the error and the game is stopped. The payout display controller 107 also controls error display. The error display is performed based on the error type detected by the error detection means 106. Hereinafter, the contents of each error and the display mode by the payout display 46 will be described with reference to FIG.

  An RWM error (error code: E0) is a state in which a backup failure or the like of an RWM ((Read Write Memory) read / write memory, also referred to as a RAM (Random Access Memory) occasional write / read memory) has occurred. In this case, the payout display control means 107 turns on the segments A, D, E, F, and G of the 7-segment display SEG1A (displays “E”), and segments A, B, C, and 7 of the 7-segment display SEG2A. The payout indicator 46 is controlled so that D, E, and F are lit (display “0”). Further, when the error is canceled, the payout display control means 107 performs the extinction control of all the segments of the seven-segment displays SEG1A and SEG2A. The error can be canceled by re-entering the setting value of the slot machine 1.

  The reel error (error code: E1) is a rotation (reel) position detection error (position detection error by the left / middle / right position sensors 55L, 55M, 55R), and the left / middle / right reels 6L, 6M, Position detection of left / middle / right reels 6L, 6M, 6R when the power is cut off during 6R stop processing or due to a failure of the reel unit during stop processing of left / middle / right reels 6L, 6M, 6R An error related to is occurring. In this case, the payout display control means 107 lights up the segments A, D, E, F, and G of the 7-segment display SEG1A (displays “E”) and lights up the segments B and C of the 7-segment display SEG2A ( The payout display 46 is controlled to display “1”. Further, when the error is canceled, the payout display control means 107 performs the extinction control of all the segments of the seven-segment displays SEG1A and SEG2A. The error can be canceled by pressing the reset switch 52.

  The main control / medal management control communication error (error code: E2) is a state in which an abnormality has occurred in communication between the main control board 63 and the medal management control board 83. As the cause of occurrence, for example, breakage of a signal line connecting both substrates, disconnection of a connector, and the like can be mentioned. In this case, the payout display control means 107 turns on the segments A, D, E, F, and G of the 7-segment display SEG1A (displays “E”), and segments A, B, D, and 7 of the 7-segment display SEG2A. The payout indicator 46 is controlled so that E and G are lit (display “2”). Further, when the error is canceled, the payout display control means 107 performs the extinction control of all the segments of the seven-segment displays SEG1A and SEG2A. The error can be canceled by performing a setting change operation of the slot machine 1 after the cause of the error is resolved. In addition, the configuration may be such that the error can be canceled by pressing the reset switch 52 after the cause of the error is resolved.

  The medal management control error (error code: EA) is a state in which a defect or the like has occurred in the medal management control board 83, specifically, a data defect in the memory 85 of the medal management control board 83, This is a state in which an abnormality has occurred in the signal transmitted to the main control board 63. In this case, the payout display control means 107 turns on the segments A, D, E, F, and G of the 7-segment display SEG1A (displays “E”), and segments A, B, C, and 7 of the 7-segment display SEG2A. The payout indicator 46 is controlled so that E, F, and G are lit (display “A”). Further, when the error is canceled, the payout display control means 107 performs the extinction control of all the segments of the seven-segment displays SEG1A and SEG2A. The error can be canceled by performing a setting change operation of the slot machine 1.

  The unit communication error (error code: EC) is a state in which an abnormality has occurred in communication between the medal management control board 83 and the medal lending unit 200. As the cause of occurrence, for example, the signal line between the medal management control board 83 and the lending terminal board 90 is broken, the signal line between the lending terminal board 90 and the medal lending unit 200 is broken, and the connector is disconnected. . In this case, the payout display control means 107 lights up the segments A, D, E, F, and G of the 7-segment display SEG1A (displays “E”), and segments A, D, E, and 7 of the 7-segment display SEG2A. The payout indicator 46 is controlled so that F lights up (displays “C”). Further, when the error is canceled, the payout display control means 107 performs the extinction control of all the segments of the seven-segment displays SEG1A and SEG2A. The error can be canceled by performing a setting change operation of the slot machine 1 after the cause of the error is resolved. In addition, the configuration may be such that the error can be canceled by pressing the reset switch 52 after the cause of the error is resolved.

  The medal number upper limit error (error code: EF) is a state in which the upper limit of the medal number that can be counted by the medal management control board 83 has been reached. In this embodiment, the upper limit value of medals that can be counted is set to 60000, and when this is exceeded, the error occurs. In this case, the payout display control means 107 turns on the segments A, D, E, F, and G of the 7-segment display SEG1A (displays “E”), and segments A, E, F, and G of the 7-segment display SEG2A. The payout indicator 46 is controlled so that G lights up (displays “F”). Further, when the error is canceled, the payout display control means 107 performs the extinction control of all the segments of the seven-segment displays SEG1A and SEG2A. In the case of the error, the return switch 230b of the medal lending unit 200 is pushed, the number data stored in the medal number storage area 851 of the medal management control board 83 is transferred to the medal card, and the medal number storage area 851 is stored. It can be canceled by clearing. The payout control means 105, when a situation where the upper limit is exceeded at the time of pseudo payout of medals, temporarily pays up to the upper limit, and after the error is released, pays out the remaining amount.

  Further, regarding the medal number upper limit error, for example, when the storage area of the possessed medal number storage area 851 is set with a capacity of 60000 sheets, the number of possessed medal number data reaches the data amount of 59999 sheets. Such an error may be generated. Further, for example, when the maximum number of medals obtained in one game is 15, the error may be generated when the number of possessed medals exceeds the data amount of 60000-15 = 59985. . Further, when the number of possessed medals stored in the medal card exceeds a predetermined data amount (for example, 59985), the error also occurs when the card is inserted into the insertion / ejection slot 220a. You may make it do.

  In addition, when the reels 6L, 6M, and 6R are rotating, for example, when a medal card storing number data (owned medal) exceeding the data amount for 59985 is inserted into the insertion / discharge slot 220a, After the game is over, the medal number upper limit error is displayed on the payout display 46. Furthermore, when a winning combination relating to the pseudo-payout of medals is won in the game, the payout control means 105 interrupts the pseudo payout process until the error is cleared.

  Other errors include a sub-communication error, a liquid crystal communication error, and a wrong prize error. The sub communication error is a state where there is an abnormality in communication between the main control board 63 and the sub control board 73. The liquid crystal communication error is a state in which a signal from the sub control board 73 is not input to the liquid crystal display 14, and the erroneous winning error is a state in which the symbol combination of the winning combination is stopped on the winning line. is there. Regarding these errors, an error code is displayed on the payout display 46, but a description thereof will be omitted.

(9) Command creation means 108
The command creating means 108 transmits various information such as information related to the result lottery result of the lottery means 102 and information related to the type of gaming state such as the normal gaming state and bonus gaming state to the sub control board 73 (sub CPU 71). Generate commands. Then, the command generated by the command creation unit 108 is transmitted to the sub control board 73 by the command transmission unit 109 described later. The sub control board 73 selects an effect to be executed based on the command sent from the main control board 63. In other words, the command creation means 108 creates a command that indicates the content of the effect executed on the sub control board 73.

(10) Command transmission means 109
The command transmission unit 109 transmits the command including various information created by the command creation unit 108 from the main control board 63 to the sub control board 73 in one way. In this case, the sub-control includes a command including information indicating the state of the slot machine 1 such as the result of the lottery by the lottery means 102, the rotation / stop state of each reel 6L, 6M, 6R, and the pseudo payout state of medals by the payout control means 105. Transmit to the board 73.

(11) Medal management transmission / reception means 110
The medal management transmission / reception means 110 transmits various information to the medal management control board 83 and receives various information from the medal management control board 83. The medal management transmission / reception means 110 transmits various information such as information relating to a winning combination and information relating to operations of the bet switch 7 and the maximum bet switch 8 to the medal management control board 83. On the other hand, from the medal management control board 83, for example, information on pseudo payout, information on operation of the lending switch 230a, return switch 230b, and away switch 230c of the medal lending unit 200, information on errors of the medal management control board 83, etc. Receive various information. In this embodiment, the game control means 100, the lottery means 102, the stop control means 103, the determination means 104, the command creation means 108, the command handling means 109, etc. The component placement area on the main control board 63 is separated from components handling pseudo insertion and pseudo payout control of medals by the payout control means 105, the payout display control means 107, the medal management transmission / reception means 110, and the like. .

(Sub control board)
Next, the sub control board 73 will be described with reference to FIG. The sub-control board 73 in FIG. 3 receives the command transmitted from the main control board 63 and gives an effect according to the operation and state of the main control board 63, various error notifications, notification that the return processing is being performed, and the like. Is what you do. The sub-control board 73 has various functions realized by executing a program stored in the memory 75 (see FIG. 2) and various functions realized by controlling hardware.

(1) Command receiving means 150
The command receiving unit 150 in FIG. 3 receives commands including various information transmitted by the command transmitting unit 109 of the main control board 63. When receiving a command transmitted from the main control board 63, the command receiving means 150 notifies each function provided in the sub-control board 73 according to the type of the command.

(2) Production content determination means 151
The effect content determining means 151 of FIG. 3 is for determining the contents of the effect according to the command received by the command receiving means 150. Specifically, a moving image to be displayed on the liquid crystal display 14 is determined from an effect pattern set in advance corresponding to the progress of the game, the winning lottery result of the lottery means 102, or the like and flows from the speakers 15 and 16. Effects such as determining music and voice, and flashing the light sources of the upper lamp unit 21 and the lower lamp unit 22 all at once or individually are determined.

  Then, the effect content determination unit 151 transmits a signal including data regarding the determined effect content to the liquid crystal display control unit 152 and the sound control unit 153.

(3) Liquid crystal display control means 152
The liquid crystal display control unit 152 in FIG. 3 displays a moving image (image) on the liquid crystal display 14 based on the data included in the signal transmitted from the effect content determination unit 151, or displays the upper lamp unit 21 and the lower lamp unit. Control is performed such as flashing light sources such as 22 simultaneously or individually. For example, the liquid crystal display control unit 152 flashes light sources such as the upper lamp unit 21 and the lower lamp unit 22 all at once or individually based on the data transmitted from the effect content determination unit 151.

(4) Voice control means 153
The voice control unit 153 in FIG. 3 performs control such as playing music from the speakers 15 and 16 and outputting voice based on data included in the signal transmitted from the production content determination unit 151. . For example, the sound control unit 153 sounds a re-game winning prize sound from the speaker 16 based on the data transmitted from the effect content determination unit 151 or sounds a medal insertion sound from the speaker 16.

(Medal management control board)
Next, the medal management control board 83 will be described with reference to FIG. The medal management control board 83 in FIG. 3 receives various information transmitted from the main control board 63 and the like, and performs processing related to pseudo payout of medals and processing related to pseudo insertion. The medal management control board 83 has various functions realized by executing a program stored in the memory 85 (see FIG. 2) and various functions realized by controlling hardware. .

(1) Receiving means 300
The receiving means 300 receives various types of information, such as a pseudo medal insertion instruction and information related to the pseudo payout number related to the winning combination, transmitted from the main control board 63, and is also transmitted from the medal lending unit 200. , 230b, 230c and the like. When receiving the information transmitted from the main control board 63 or the information transmitted from the medal lending unit 200, the receiving unit 300 notifies each function provided in the medal management control board 83 according to the type of information. Regarding the receiving means 300, the means for receiving information from the main control board 63 and the means for receiving information from the medal lending unit 200 may be separate means.

  In this embodiment, information on the pseudo number of medals and the number of pseudo payouts for winning a prize is transmitted as a signal for one pulse for each one, but data corresponding to the number is collectively transmitted. You may do it.

(2) Medal display control means 301
The medal display control means 301 is based on information from the main control board 63 and information from the medal lending unit 200, and the player possesses the medal number indicated by the number data stored in the possessed medal number storage area 851. The possessed medal indicator 26 is controlled so as to be displayed as the number of medals to be displayed. The medal display control unit 301 includes a storage area rewriting unit 301a.

  When the storage area rewriting means 301a receives information indicating that the lending switch 230a of the medal lending unit 200 has been operated, the storage area rewriting means 301a stores the number data stored in the possessed medal number storage area 851 with a predetermined number (50 in this embodiment). (Number of sheets) is rewritten to the number of sheets data added. The medal management control board 83 is provided with a backup power supply (not shown) and a memory for backing up the data in the possessed medal number storage area 851. Even if a defect or the like occurs, the data stored in the possessed medal number storage area 851 can be restored. Further, if it is determined that the state in which the data in the possessed medal number storage area 851 and the data in the backup memory are different from each other continues several times, an error notification (described above) Main control / medal management control communication error, etc.) may be performed.

  The storage area rewriting unit 301a receives a medal number stored in the medal card when a medal card storing a predetermined number of medals is inserted into the insertion / ejecting port 220a of the medal lending unit 200. The number data stored in the possessed medal number storage area 851 is rewritten to the number data added with the number of medals stored in the medal card.

  Further, when the information regarding the pseudo insertion instruction is received from the main control board 63 by the operation of the bet switch 7 or the maximum bet switch 8, the storage area rewriting means 301a stores the number data stored in the possessed medal number storage area 851. Is rewritten to the number-of-sheets data obtained by subtracting medals according to the types of the bet switches 7 and 8. After the rewriting, a message to that effect is transmitted to the main control board 63, whereby the operation of the start switch 9 becomes effective.

  In addition, when the information regarding the pseudo payout instruction is received from the main control board 63 due to winning of the winning combination, the storage area rewriting means 301a uses the number data stored in the possessed medal number storage area 851 as the type of winning combination. The number of payouts set according to is rewritten to the added number data. However, even if a re-game is won, the storage area rewriting means 301a does not rewrite the number data in the possessed medal number storage area 851. Note that, when a re-game is won, a predetermined number of pulse signals are transmitted from the main control board 63 to the hall computer HP via the external terminal board 91. For example, when a re-game player is won in a game with three bets, a pulse signal having a predetermined width is transmitted three times to the hall computer HP. On the other hand, also when winning a small combination where three payouts can be obtained, a pulse signal having a specific width is transmitted three times to the hall computer HP. In this embodiment, a signal with a different pulse width is used when the small winning combination is won and when the re-playing winning combination is won. Therefore, on the hall computer HP side, it is possible to identify whether the pulse signal is based on the small winning combination winning or the pulse signal based on the re-game winning winning.

  When the receiving unit 300 receives information indicating that the return switch 230b has been operated from the medal lending unit 200, the transmitting unit 303 described later returns the return medal based on the number data stored in the possessed medal number storage area 851. Return data relating to the number of cards is created, and the created return data is transmitted to the medal lending unit 200 via the lending terminal board 90. In the medal lending unit 200, the return processing described above is performed by the return means 246. The storage area rewriting unit 301 a rewrites the number data stored in the possessed medal number storage area 851 to the number data of 0 after the transmission of the return data by the transmission unit 303 is completed. Thereby, the lighting data of each of the five 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B constituting the possessed medal indicator 26, which are output from the medal display control means 301, are updated. Here, before the above-mentioned collation by the return means 246, the lighting data of each of the five 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B constituting the possessed medal display 26 outputted from the medal display control means 301 is updated. However, since the return means 246 prohibits the update of the lighting data of each segment held in the data holding means 241 during the period from when the return operation is accepted until the collation is completed as described above, the return means 246 can use the lighting data of each segment at the return operation timing held in the data holding unit 241 for the above collation.

  The update of the number data stored in the possessed medal number storage area 851 by the storage area rewriting means 301a when the medal is returned is not limited to the above, and may be as follows, for example. When the medal lending unit 200 finishes receiving the return data, the medal lending unit 200 transmits information indicating that the return data has been received to the medal management control board 83, and the storage area rewriting unit 301 a receives the receiving unit 300. When the information is received, the number of pieces of data stored in the possessed medal number storage area 851 may be rewritten to zero number data. Thereby, the lighting data of each of the five 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B constituting the possessed medal indicator 26, which are output from the medal display control means 301, are updated. Further, when transmitting the return data to the medal lending unit 200, the area rewriting means 301a subtracts 1 from the medal number indicated by the number data stored in the possessed medal number storage area 851 for each pulse. May be updated. In this case, as the number data stored in the possessed medal number storage area 851 is updated for each pulse, the lighting data of each of the five 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B constituting the possessed medal display 26 are displayed. Will be updated.

  The medal display control means 301 has five seven-segment displays so that the medal number indicated by the number data is displayed on the possessed medal display 26 based on the number data stored in the possessed medal number storage area 851. Lighting data for each of the plurality of segments A to G and DP of SEG1B to SEG5B is created. The medal display control means 301 supplies the created lighting data to each segment using the 40 signal lines provided from the management CPU 81 (medal display control means 301) to the possessed medal display 26. To do. As a result, the possessed medal indicator 26 displays the medal number indicated by the number data stored in the possessed medal number storage area 851. At this time, the created lighting data is also supplied to the medal management unit 200 using the signal lines branched from the 40 signal lines. In the medal management unit 200, the lighting data management means 245 causes the lighting data of the plurality of segments A to G and DP of each of the five 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B of the possessed medal display 26 stored in the data holding means 241. Each is rewritten to the supplied lighting data of the corresponding segment. In this embodiment, the lighting data supplied to each of the plurality of segments A to G and DP of each of the five 7-segment displays SEG1B to 5B constituting the possessed medal indicator 26 is a return operation for the return switch 230b. Irrespective of this, the management CPU 81 (medal display control means 301) of the memory management control board 83 is supplied to the medal lending unit 200.

  When the number data is 0, “0” may be displayed, or the light may be turned off.

  In this embodiment, the return switch 230b is operated at any timing except when there is an abnormality in communication between the medal lending unit 200 and the medal management control board 83 or when there is an abnormality in the medal management control board 83. Also, the medal card is discharged from the insertion / discharge port 220a. For example, when the reels 6L, 6M, and 6R are rotating, the medals that are pseudo inserted in the game are not returned, but the number of medals stored during rotation is stored, that is, the number of medals held during rotation. Return data regarding the number of returned medals based on the number data stored in the area 851 is transmitted to the medal lending unit 200. Even if an error other than the above-described abnormality has occurred, the same medal return process is performed when the return switch 230b is operated.

  In addition, when the return switch 230b is operated while the pseudo payout process is being performed, or when the lending switch 230a is operated and the medal lending process is being performed, the return switch 230b is operated. If the return process overlaps with another process, as in the case, etc., (i) wait for the other process until one process started earlier ends (ii) the other process is performed (Iii) Any one of (i) to (iii) in which the operation of the return switch 230b is invalidated while (iii) a priority is given to the return process and other processes, and the process having a higher priority is given priority. This method can be adopted.

(3) Error display lamp control means 302
The error display lamp control means 302 notifies the error related to the medal management control board 83 by controlling the three error display lamps 30a, 30b, 30c to be turned on / off. The type of error can be determined by the combination of lighting / extinguishing of the three error display lamps 30a, 30b, 30c. Even when an error that can be detected by the medal management control board 83 occurs, information to that effect is transmitted to the main control board 63 and the game is stopped.

  The three error display lamps 30a, 30b, and 30c are arranged next to the possessed medal indicator 26 and arranged in one vertical row. Hereinafter, the upper error display lamp 30a may be referred to as a first error display lamp 30a, the middle error display lamp 30b as a second error display lamp 30b, and the lower error display lamp 30c as a third error display lamp 30c.

  Errors related to the medal management control board 83 include a medal management control error, unit communication error, medal number upper limit error, main control / medal management control communication error, main control board error, and the like. Hereinafter, each error will be described with reference to FIG.

  The medal management control error is a state in which a defect or the like has occurred from the medal management control board 83 to the main control board 63. Specifically, the medal management control error is a data defect in the memory 85 of the medal management control board 83, The signal transmitted to the control board 63 is in an abnormal state. In this case, the error display lamp control means 302 performs lighting control of the first error display lamp 30a and the second error display lamp 30b. Further, when the error is canceled, the error display lamp control means 302 controls the turn-off of all the error display lamps 30a, 30b, 30c. The error can be canceled by performing a setting change operation of the slot machine 1.

  The unit communication error is a state in which an abnormality has occurred in communication between the medal management control board 83 and the medal lending unit 200. As the cause of occurrence, for example, the signal line between the medal management control board 83 and the lending terminal board 90 is broken, the signal line between the lending terminal board 90 and the medal lending unit 200 is broken, and the connector is disconnected. . In this case, the error display lamp control means 302 controls the lighting of the first error display lamp 30a. Further, when the error is canceled, the error display lamp control means 302 controls the turn-off of all the error display lamps 30a, 30b, 30c. The error can be canceled by performing a setting change operation of the slot machine 1 after the cause of the error is resolved. In addition, the configuration may be such that the error can be canceled by pressing the reset switch 52 after the cause of the error is resolved.

  The medal number upper limit error is a state in which the upper limit of the medal number that can be counted by the medal management control board 83 has been reached. In this case, the error display lamp control means 302 controls the lighting of the second error display lamp 30b. Further, when the error is canceled, the error display lamp control means 302 controls the turn-off of all the error display lamps 30a, 30b, 30c. In the case of the error, the return switch 230b of the medal lending unit 200 is pushed, the number data stored in the medal number storage area 851 of the medal management control board 83 is transferred to the medal card, and the medal number storage area 851 is stored. It can be canceled by clearing.

  The main control / medal management control communication error is a state in which an abnormality has occurred in communication between the main control board 63 and the medal management control board 83. As the cause of occurrence, for example, breakage of a signal line connecting both substrates, disconnection of a connector, and the like can be mentioned. In this case, the error display lamp control means 302 controls the lighting of the first error display lamp 30a and the third error display lamp 30c. Further, when the error is canceled, the error display lamp control means 302 controls the turn-off of all the error display lamps 30a, 30b, 30c. The error can be canceled by performing a setting change operation of the slot machine 1 after the cause of the error is resolved.

  The main control board error is a state in which an error has occurred on the main control board 63 side. In this case, the error display lamp control means 302 controls the lighting of the third error display lamp 30c. Further, when the error is canceled, the error display lamp control means 302 controls the turn-off of all the error display lamps 30a, 30b, 30c. The error is canceled when the error of the main control board 63 is canceled. As described above, in this embodiment, when any error occurs, the error display lamp control means 302 controlled by the medal management control board 83 and the payout display 46 controlled by the main control board 63 are notified of the error. It becomes.

(4) Transmission means 303
The transmission unit 303 includes information on the operation state of various switches of the medal lending unit 200 and information on completion of rewriting of the number data in the possessed medal number storage area 851 by the storage area rewriting means 301a (information indicating that pseudo insertion or pseudo payout has been completed). ) And various information such as information relating to error states that can be detected by the medal management control board 83 are transmitted to the main control board 63, and the return is related to the number of return medals based on the number data stored in the possession medal number storage area 851. Various information such as data is transmitted to the medal lending unit 200.

(Operation)
Next, an example of main processing in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing main processing when a game is played in the slot machine.

  First, it is determined by the storage area rewriting means 301a of the medal management control board 83 whether or not the bet switch 7 or the maximum bet switch 8 has been operated (step S1). This determination is made based on the operation information of the bet switch 7 and the maximum bet switch 8 transmitted from the main control board 63. The process waits until it is determined by the storage area rewriting means 301a that the bet switch 7 or the maximum bet switch 8 has been operated (NO in step S1).

  When it is determined that the bet switch 7 or the maximum bet switch 8 has been operated (YES in step S1), the storage area rewriting means 301a uses the number data in the possessed medal number storage area 851 as the number corresponding to the operated bet switch 7. Pseudo-insertion processing is performed to rewrite the data by the reduced number (step S2). After the possession medal number update process is performed, information to that effect is transmitted to the main control board 63.

  Subsequently, in the main control board 63, it is determined whether or not a predetermined number of medals according to the gaming state have been pseudo inserted (step S3), and the system waits until a predetermined number of medals are inserted (NO in step S3). . On the other hand, if a prescribed number of medals are virtually inserted (YES in step S3), the process waits until the start switch 9 is operated (NO in step S4), and if the start switch 9 is operated (YES in step S4). The lottery means 102 executes a role lottery process (step S5).

  Subsequently, the reels 6L, 6M, and 6R start to rotate (step S6), and wait until any of the stop switches 10L, 10M, and 10R corresponding to the rotating reels 6L, 6M, and 6R is operated. If any one of the stop switches 10L, 10M, 10R is operated (YES in step S7), the stop switch 10L, The rotation of the reels corresponding to 10M and 10R is stopped (step S8).

  Thereafter, the processes in steps S7 and S8 are repeatedly executed until the rotation of all the reels 6L, 6M and 6R is stopped (NO in step S9). If the rotation of all the reels 6L, 6M and 6R is stopped ( The determination means 104 determines the symbol (YES in step S9) (step S10).

  In step S 10, if it is determined by the determination means 104 that a winning combination relating to the medal is paid out, information relating to the winning combination or information relating to the pseudo payout instruction is transmitted to the medal management control board 83. When this information is received, the storage area rewriting means 301a performs a pseudo payout process for rewriting the number data in the possessed medal number storage area 851 to the number data obtained by adding the number corresponding to the winning combination (step S11). Thereafter, the processing of step S1 to step S11 is repeatedly executed.

  Therefore, according to this embodiment, the lighting data of each of the plurality of segments A to G and DP of each of the plurality of 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B constituting the possessed medal indicator 26 is stored in the medal management control board 83 of the slot machine 1. Return data relating to the number of return medals is output from the management CPU 81 to the medal lending unit 200 and based on the number data stored in the medal number storage area 851 of the medal management control board 83 triggered by a return operation to the return switch 230b. The data is output from the management CPU 81 of the medal management control board 83 of the slot machine 1 to the medal lending unit 200. In the medal lending unit 200, when the return data is received, the return means 246 compares the number data based on the return data with the number data based on the lighting data, and returns the number data based on the comparison result. Thus, since the return means 246 performs the return process only when the return data is received, the process for grasping the game value possessed by the player for each game is unnecessary, and the processing load is reduced. Figured.

  In the slot machine 1, the medal management control board 83 stores the number data in the possessed medal number storage area 851 of the memory 85, and in the medal lending unit 200, the data holding unit 241 uses the 5 medal display unit 26 for the five 7 segments. The lighting data of each of the segments A to G and DP of the displays SEG1B to SEG5B are stored. It is possible to grasp the number data stored in the possessed medal number storage area 851 based on the lighting data of each of the plurality of segments A to G and DP of the five 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B of the possessed medal indicator 26. it can. This is equivalent to storing the number data in each of the medal management control board 83 and the medal lending unit 200 of the slot machine 1. For this reason, even if an abnormality occurs in one of the medal management control board 83 and the medal lending unit 200 of the slot machine 1, the number data is not lost completely, and the resistance to the loss of the number data is increased.

  Further, in the slot machine 1, the management CPU 81 (medal display control means 301) of the medal management control board 83 has a plurality of segments A to G, DP of a plurality of 7 segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B constituting the possessed medal display 26. Each lighting data is output to the medal lending unit 200. In the slot machine 1, the management CPU 81 (transmission unit 303) of the medal management control board 83 sends return data regarding the number of return medals based on the number data stored in the possessed medal number storage area 851 to the medal lending unit 200. Output. The number data stored in the possession medal number storage area 851 can be grasped from the lighting data of each of the plurality of segments A to G and DP of the five 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B of the possession medal display 26. . This is equivalent to the fact that the number data stored in the possessed medal number storage area 851 is output to the medal lending unit 200 from the management CPU 81 of the medal management control board 83 of the slot machine 1 with the output of two systems. There is one (one is an output system for lighting data, and the other is an output system for return data). For this reason, there is a high possibility that the return means 246 can correctly return the medal number data.

  In addition, the management CPU 81 (medal display control means 301) of the medal management control board 83 of the slot machine 1 provides the medal lending unit 200 with a plurality of segments of each of the five 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B constituting the possessed medal display 26. The lighting data of A to G and DP are output in parallel. For this reason, since the number of lighting data output in parallel increases and it becomes difficult to know which segment each lighting data corresponds to, it becomes difficult to perform fraud.

  Further, the lighting data at the return operation timing is maintained from the return operation until the comparison in the return processing is completed, so that the return unit 246 performs the return processing of the number data using each lighting data at the return operation timing. And the number data can be returned correctly.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications other than those described above can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

  For example, in the above-described embodiment, the possessed medal indicator 26 is composed of five 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and is composed of 7-segment displays other than five. It may be.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, as a mechanism in which the lighting data of each segment stored in the data holding unit 241 is not changed (maintained) in a period from when the return operation is accepted until the collation in the return process is completed. In this period, the update of the lighting data of each segment stored in the data holding unit 241 is prohibited, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the following may be used, for example. For example, in the medal lending unit 200, the lighting operation of each of the plurality of segments A to G and DP of each of the five 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B constituting the possessed medal display 26 is held by the holding circuit, and the return operation is performed. A signal for holding the state in the holding circuit is supplied in the period from the receipt of the check to the completion of the verification in the return process (the lighting data of each segment is latched), and the state is held in the holding circuit in the other periods. It is also possible not to supply a signal for making it happen (the state of the holding circuit can be changed). However, the holding circuit may be arranged to hold at least the lighting data of each segment supplied to the medal lending unit 200, and the lighting data of each segment supplied to the possessed medal indicator 26 is held. It does not have to be. For example, a flip-flop circuit can be given as an example of the holding circuit, but other circuits may be used.

  In addition, in the above-described embodiment, the period during which the update of the lighting data of each segment is prohibited includes at least the period from when the return operation is accepted until the collation in the return process is completed, for example, after the return operation is accepted, It may be a period until the end or the like, and the number of medals based on the lighting data of each segment at the return operation timing may be a period that can be used for verification. Similarly, the period during which the lighting data of each segment in the above-described modification is latched includes at least the period from when the return operation is accepted until the collation in the return process is completed. For example, after the return operation is accepted, the return process is completed. It may be a period until it is done, etc., and the number of medals based on the lighting data of each segment at the return operation timing may be a period that can be used for collation.

  In the above-described embodiment, the medal lending unit 200 side is provided with a mechanism that can use the lighting data of each segment at the timing when the return operation is performed for the above-described collation by the return means 246. For example, it may be provided on the medal management control board 83 side of the slot machine 1 as follows.

  For example, when the management CPU 81 receives information indicating that the return switch 230b has been operated from the medal lending unit 200, the possession medal indicator is based on the number data stored in the possession medal number storage area 851 for a predetermined time. The creation of lighting data for each of the plurality of segments A to G and DP of each of the five seven-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B constituting the H.26 is made, and lighting data for each segment is created after the predetermined time has elapsed. To allow. Alternatively, when the management CPU 81 receives information indicating that the return switch 230b has been operated from the medal lending unit 200, the management CPU 81 prohibits updating the number data stored in the possessed medal number storage area 851 for a predetermined time. Thus, the update of the number data stored in the possessed medal number storage area 851 may be permitted after a predetermined time has elapsed. In this case, the storage area rewriting unit 301a stores the number data stored in the possessed medal number storage area 851 when, for example, the transmission of the return data is completed or when the information indicating that the return process is completed is received from the return unit 246. Is rewritten to the number data of 0 sheets. By doing so, the lighting data of each segment at the return operation timing continues to be output to the medal lending unit 200 until a predetermined time elapses. Here, for example, the predetermined time is required from when the management CPU 81 receives information indicating that the return switch 230b is operated from the medal lending unit 200 to when the above collation by the return means 246 of the medal lending unit 200 is completed. It is better to make a decision based on time.

  Further, for example, when the above collation is completed, the medal lending unit 200 transmits information indicating that the collation is completed to the medal management control board 83. When the management CPU 81 receives information indicating that the return switch 230b has been operated from the medal lending unit 200, the management CPU 81 configures the possessed medal indicator 26 based on the number data stored in the possessed medal number storage area 851. When it is prohibited to create lighting data for each of the plurality of segments A to G and DP of each of the 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B, Allow to create lighting data of. Alternatively, when the management CPU 81 receives information indicating that the return switch 230b has been operated from the medal lending unit 200, the management CPU 81 prohibits updating the number data stored in the possessed medal number storage area 851 and allows medal lending. When information indicating that the collation is completed is received from the unit 200, updating of the number data stored in the possessed medal number storage area 851 may be permitted. In this case, the storage area rewriting unit 301a stores the number data stored in the possessed medal number storage area 851 when, for example, the transmission of the return data is completed or when the information indicating that the return process is completed is received from the return unit 246. Is rewritten to the number data of 0 sheets. By doing so, the lighting of each segment at the return operation timing after the management CPU 81 receives the information indicating that the return switch 230b has been operated until receiving the information indicating that the verification has been completed. Data continues to be output to the medal lending unit 200.

  Further, for example, on the medal management control board 83 among the signal lines for transmitting the lighting data of the respective segments A to G and DP of the five seven-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B constituting the possessed medal display 26, for example. A holding circuit is provided in the provided portion to hold the lighting data. When the management CPU 81 receives information indicating that the return switch 230b has been operated from the medal lending unit 200, the management CPU 81 supplies a signal for holding the state in the holding circuit for a predetermined time (the lighting data of each segment is stored). (Latch), a signal for holding the state in the holding circuit is not supplied in other periods (the state of the holding circuit can be changed). By doing so, the lighting data of each segment at the return operation timing continues to be output to the medal lending unit 200 until a predetermined time elapses. Here, for example, the predetermined time is required from when the management CPU 81 receives information indicating that the return switch 230b is operated from the medal lending unit 200 to when the above collation by the return means 246 of the medal lending unit 200 is completed. It is better to make a decision based on time. However, the holding circuit may be arranged to hold at least the lighting data of each segment supplied to the medal lending unit 200, and the lighting data of each segment supplied to the possessed medal indicator 26 is held. It does not have to be. For example, a flip-flop circuit can be given as an example of the holding circuit, but other circuits may be used.

  Further, for example, on the medal management control board 83 among the signal lines for transmitting the lighting data of the respective segments A to G and DP of the five seven-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B constituting the possessed medal display 26, for example. A holding circuit is provided in the provided portion to hold the lighting data. Further, when the above collation is completed, the medal lending unit 200 transmits information indicating that the collation is completed to the medal management control board 83. When the management CPU 81 receives information indicating that the return switch 230b has been operated from the medal lending unit 200, the management CPU 81 supplies a signal for holding the state in the holding circuit (latch the lighting data of each segment), and the medal lending When information indicating that the collation is completed is received from the unit 200, the supply of a signal for holding the state to the holding circuit may be stopped (the state of the holding circuit can be changed). By doing so, the lighting of each segment at the return operation timing after the management CPU 81 receives the information indicating that the return switch 230b has been operated until receiving the information indicating that the verification has been completed. Data continues to be output to the medal lending unit 200. However, the holding circuit may be arranged to hold at least the lighting data of each segment supplied to the medal lending unit 200, and the lighting data of each segment supplied to the possessed medal indicator 26 is held. It may or may not be done. For example, a flip-flop circuit can be given as an example of the holding circuit, but other circuits may be used.

  In addition, the medal management control board 83 or the management CPU 81 (medal display control means 301) of the medal management control board 83 has a plurality of segments AG of the five seven-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B constituting the possessed medal display 26. For each DP, two output terminals for outputting lighting data are provided, one of the output terminals is connected to the possessed medal indicator 26, and the other terminal is connected to the medal lending unit 200 via the lending terminal board 90. In this case, for example, the following may be used. For example, the lighting data of each segment supplied to the medal lending unit 200 may be held for a predetermined time after receiving information indicating that the return operation has been performed. The lighting data of each segment to be supplied to may or may not be retained. Here, for example, the predetermined time is required from when the management CPU 81 receives information indicating that the return switch 230b is operated from the medal lending unit 200 to when the above collation by the return means 246 of the medal lending unit 200 is completed. It is better to make a decision based on time.

  The management CPU 81 returns the medal lending unit 200 from the medal lending unit 200 in each case where a mechanism is provided on the medal lending unit 200 side that can use the lighting data of each segment at the timing when the return operation is performed for the above-described verification in the return means 246. Receiving the information indicating that the switch 230b has been operated corresponds to the “triggered by the game value return operation” of the present invention, and the management CPU 81 indicates that the return switch 230b has been operated for a predetermined time. The period from the time when the information is received until the information indicating that the collation is completed corresponds to “during the predetermined condition” of the present invention.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, a mechanism in which the lighting data of each segment at the timing when the return operation is performed can be used for the above-described collation in the return unit 246 is the lighting of each segment stored in the data holding unit 241. The mechanism is maintained (not changed) during the period from when the data is returned to the end of the above collation in the return means 246, but is not limited to this. For example, the following mechanism is used. There may be.

  For example, when the return switch 230 b is pressed and a return operation is performed, the return unit 246 transmits the information indicating that the return switch 230 b is operated to the management CPU 81 of the medal management control board 83 before the data holding unit 241. Is calculated based on the lighting data of each of the plurality of segments A to G and DP of the five 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B constituting the possessed medal indicator 26 stored in The data holding means 241 stores the number data indicating the number of displayed possessed medals. Accordingly, the number data indicating the number of displayed medal held in the data holding unit 241 at the time of the above collation is the number data indicating the number displayed on the possessed medal indicator 26 at the return operation timing. Become.

  Further, in the above embodiment, the lighting data of each of the plurality of segments A to G and DP of each of the five seven-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B constituting the possessed medal indicator 26 are parallel from the management CPU 81 of the medal management control board 83. The tokens are supplied to the medal lending unit 200, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the following may be used. The lighting data of each of the plurality of segments A to G of the five 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B constituting the possessed medal indicator 26 is supplied in parallel from the management CPU 81 of the medal management control board 83 to the medal lending unit 200. Alternatively, the lighting data of the segment DP of each of the 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B is not supplied from the management CPU 81 of the medal management control board 83 to the medal lending unit 200. In this case, the lighting data of the segment DP of each of the 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B may be supplied from the management CPU 81 to the possessed medal indicator 26 or may not be supplied.

  In the above-described embodiment and the above-described modified examples, the segments used for displaying the number of possessed medals are the plurality of segments AG of the plurality of 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B constituting the possessed medal display 26. , DP is a segment excluding segment DP. For this reason, among the plurality of segments A to G and DP of the plurality of 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B constituting the possessed medal indicator 26, at least the lighting data of the segments excluding the segment DP is the possessed medal indicator 26 and the medal. It is made to supply to the rental unit 200.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the lighting data of each of the plurality of segments A to G and DP of each of the five seven-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B constituting the possessed medal indicator 26 is independent of the return operation for the return switch 230b. The management CPU 81 (medal display control means 301) of the memory management control board 83 is supplied to the medal lending unit 200. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Also good. When there is a return operation for the return switch 230b, information indicating that there has been a return operation for the return switch 230b is transmitted from the medal lending unit 200 to the management CPU 81 of the medal management control board 83, and possessed when the management CPU 81 receives the information. The lighting data of each of the plurality of segments A to G and DP of the five seven-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B constituting the medal indicator 26 may be transmitted to the medal lending unit 200. In this case, although the number data stored in the medal number storage area 851 cannot be backed up on the medal lending unit 200 side, the effects of the embodiments other than this can be achieved.

  In the above-described embodiment, a plurality of 7-segment displays SEG1B to SEG5B constituting the possessed medal display 260 stored in the data holding unit 241 triggered by an error in the slot machine 1 or an error in the medal lending unit 200 You may make it prohibit the update of each lighting data of several segments AG, DP.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the medal management is performed by the medal management control board 83. For example, the functions of the medal management control board 83 such as mounting the management CPU 81 and the memory 85 on the main control board 63 are provided. The structure mounted in the main control board 63 may be sufficient.

  In the above-described embodiment, the configuration in which the lending switch 230a, the return switch 230b, and the leaving switch 230c are provided in the medal lending unit 200 has been described, but some or all of them may be provided on the slot machine 1 side. Good.

  In the above-described embodiment, the main control board 63 and the medal management control board 83 are sealed in separate cases, but may be sealed in the same case.

  Moreover, you may combine suitably the content of above-described embodiment, and the content of the above-mentioned modification.

  And, comprising a display means having a plurality of variable display columns for variably displaying a plurality of types of symbols, and a stop operation means for stopping the variable display of each variable display column, the symbol combination when all the variable display columns are stopped Accordingly, the present invention can be widely applied to gaming machines that give gaming value to players.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Slot machine, 6L, 6M, 6R ... Rotary reel, 10L, 10M, 10R ... Stop switch, 26 ... Holding medal indicator, 27L, 27M, 27R ... Reel motor, 61 ... Main CPU, 81 ... Management CPU

Claims (4)

A display unit having a plurality of variable display columns for variably displaying a plurality of types of symbols, and a stop operation unit for stopping variable display of each of the variable display columns, the symbol combination when all the variable display columns are stopped In a gaming machine that gives gaming value to the player accordingly,
Main control means for controlling the progress of the game;
Game value management control means for managing game value information related to the game value by lending, winning or returning; and
Game value display means for displaying the game value information managed by the game value management control means on a plurality of 7-segment displays;
Each of the plurality of 7-segment displays has a plurality of segments used for displaying the game value information,
The gaming value management control means includes
Based on the managed gaming value information, the lighting value of each of the plurality of segments of the plurality of 7-segment displays is output to the gaming value display means, and the lighting data is output outside the gaming machine,
A game machine characterized in that the game value return data is output to the outside of the gaming machine based on the managed gaming value information, triggered by the gaming value return operation.   The gaming value management control means performs an output process of outputting the lighting data at the gaming value return operation timing outside the gaming machine under a predetermined condition, triggered by the gaming value return operation. The gaming machine according to claim 1. A display unit having a plurality of variable display columns for variably displaying a plurality of types of symbols, and a stop operation unit for stopping variable display of each of the variable display columns, the symbol combination when all the variable display columns are stopped In a gaming system comprising a gaming machine that gives a gaming value to a player according to the gaming value management unit outside the gaming machine,
The gaming machine is
Main control means for controlling the progress of the game;
Game value management control means for managing game value information related to the game value by lending, winning or returning; and
Game value display means for displaying the game value information managed by the game value management control means on a plurality of 7-segment displays;
Each of the plurality of 7-segment displays has a plurality of segments used for displaying the game value information,
The gaming value management control means includes
Based on the gaming value information being managed, the lighting value of each of the plurality of segments of the plurality of 7-segment displays is output to the gaming value display means, and the lighting data is output to the gaming value management unit. ,
Based on the gaming value information that has been managed, the game value is returned to the gaming value management unit based on the gaming value return operation,
The gaming value management unit is:
Lighting data management means for receiving the lighting data output from the gaming value management control means and managing the lighting data;
The return value output from the gaming value management control means upon receiving the gaming value return operation is received, and based on the gaming value based on the return data and the lighting data managed by the lighting data management means A game system comprising: return means for performing a return process for checking the game value and returning the game value based on a check result.   The lighting data management means maintains the lighting data at the game value return operation timing from the game value return operation to the end of the verification in the return process. Gaming system.

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