JP2020130881A - Device for game and system for game - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a device for games and a system for games, when electromagnetically managing the number of game balls without executing bidirectional communication, capable of improving efficiency of initialization work in closing time.SOLUTION: A device (CU) for games is communicable with a playable game machine (P machine) using a game value, and can manage a value corresponding to the game value as a prescribed value. The device for games updates the stored prescribed value on the basis of reception of counting information, the information transmitted from the game machine, capable of specifying the size of the game value. In a case where the device for games stores the game value of the game machine when receiving the prescribed information relating to the close of business from the outside, the device for games can notify of the information that the game value is present in the game machine to the outside.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 36

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming device and a gaming system that are communicably connected to a gaming machine.

An enclosed game machine in which a game ball is enclosed (hereinafter, also simply referred to as a game machine) is closed (business) because it is bidirectionally connected to a game device as disclosed in Patent Document 1. If the number of game balls remained in the game machine at the time of the end), it was possible to automatically convert it to the number of balls held. Further, even if the game machine does not contain a game ball, as disclosed in Patent Document 2, each machine counter can automatically settle or clear the number of balls held when the store is closed. there were.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2014-223101 Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2017-20565

However, in a gaming device capable of one-way communication from a gaming machine, if the number of gaming balls remains in the gaming machine when the store is closed, it is not possible to instruct the gaming machine to perform counting processing, so the balls are automatically held. Cannot be converted to a number. Therefore, the game device has a problem that the work of initializing the number of game balls remaining in the game machine at the time of closing the store cannot be streamlined. Further, in the enclosed game machine, the number of game balls of the game machine is electromagnetically controlled, and the technique disclosed in Patent Document 2 cannot be applied as it is.

The present invention has been conceived in view of such circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to improve the efficiency of initialization work at the time of closing a store when the number of game balls is electromagnetically managed without bidirectional communication. It is to provide a game device and a game system that can be planned.

(1) It is possible to communicate with a game machine (for example, P machine 2) that can play using the game value (for example, a game ball), and the value corresponding to the game value is managed as a predetermined value (for example, a ball). A possible gaming device (eg, CU3)
A receiving means (for example, SC board 325) capable of receiving information transmitted from the game machine, and
A storage means (for example, a RAM provided in the CU control unit 323) capable of storing information on the game value and information on the predetermined value, and
The predetermined value stored in the storage means is updated based on the fact that the predetermined information transmitted from the game machine and capable of specifying the magnitude of the game value is received by the receiving means. It is provided with an update means (for example, CU control unit 323).
The storage means stores the game value based on the reception of the game machine information including the information on the game value from the game machine (for example, the game is based on the latest game machine information transmitted from the P unit 2 one by one. Manage the number of balls),
When the specific information regarding the closing of business (closed) is received from the outside, if the game value of the game machine is stored in the storage means, the information indicating that the game value exists in the game machine is transmitted to the outside. It is possible to notify (for example, the CU 3 transmits a store closing processing response including information on the remaining number of game balls = 500 balls to the management computer 802 as a response to the store closing processing notification).

According to such a configuration, it is possible to improve the efficiency of the work of initializing the game value of the game machine when the store is closed.

(2) A gaming machine (for example, P unit 2) that can be played using a game value (for example, a game ball) and a game value that can communicate with the game machine and can be managed as a predetermined value (for example, a ball). A gaming system including a game device (for example, CU3) and a management device (for example, management computer 802) capable of communicating with a plurality of the game devices.
The gaming device is
A receiving means (for example, SC board 325) capable of receiving information transmitted from the game machine, and
A storage means that can store information about the game value (for example, a RAM provided in the CU control unit 323) and
The predetermined value stored in the storage means is updated based on the fact that the predetermined information transmitted from the game machine and capable of specifying the magnitude of the game value is received by the receiving means. It is provided with an update means (for example, CU control unit 323).
The storage means stores the game value based on the reception of the game machine information including the information on the game value from the game machine (for example, the game ball by the latest game machine information transmitted one by one from the P unit 2). Manage numbers) and
When the specific information regarding the closing of business (closed) is received from the outside, if the game value of the game machine is stored in the storage means, the information indicating that the game value exists in the game machine is transmitted to the outside. It is possible to notify (for example, CU3 transmits a store closing processing response including information on the remaining number of game balls = 500 balls to the management computer 802 as a response to the store closing processing notification).
The management device can identify the game machine having a game value among the plurality of game machines based on the information transmitted from the plurality of game devices (for example, the management computer 802 can identify the game machine. When the store closing processing response is received, the P machine 2 in which the game ball remains is specified.).

According to such a configuration, it is possible to improve the efficiency of the work of initializing the game value of the game machine when the store is closed.

(3) In the gaming device of (1) above
When the specific information is received by the receiving means, the magnitude of the game value of the game machine stored in the storage means can be notified to the outside (for example, the management computer 802 can play the game of the P unit 2). Announce the rest of the number of balls and urge the clerk to count).

According to such a configuration, in the management device, it is possible to specify the game machine in which the game value remains, and also to specify the remaining game value.

(4) In the gaming device of (1) or (3) above
When the specific information is received by the receiving means, if the game value of the game machine is stored in the storage means, a display means for displaying corresponding to the existence of the game value in the game machine. (For example, display 54) and
Unlike the display means, it further includes a light emitting means (for example, an LED lamp on the upper part of the CU 3) that emits light in a special mode.

According to such a configuration, it becomes easy for the clerk to identify which game machine has the game value among the plurality of game machines on the game island, and the workability of the clerk can be improved.

(5) In the gaming devices (1), (3) to (4) above,
The updating means is a game that can be specified from the predetermined information without updating the predetermined value stored in the storage means based on the reception of the predetermined information after the specific information is received by the receiving means. The magnitude of the value is notified to the outside and erased (for example, the CU 3 performs a clear process of clearing the counting ball when the counting notification is received).

According to such a configuration, appropriate processing can be executed without leaving a game value in the game machine for the next day's business.

(6) In the gaming devices (1), (3) to (5) above,
When the predetermined information is received after the specific information is received by the receiving means, if the game value of the game machine is stored in the storage means, it means that the game value exists in the game machine. The information can be notified to the outside again (for example, the CU 3 notifies an error when the number of game balls of the previous day remains in the P unit 2).

According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the game value of the game machine from remaining on the next business day in the state where the counting is not completed after the counting operation on the game machine of the clerk.

(7) In the gaming devices (1), (3) to (6) above,
When the game value of the game machine is stored in the storage means during the opening of the store, and the stored game value does not fluctuate for a predetermined time, it is possible to notify the outside to that effect (for example, CU3). , Even if the number of game balls does not fluctuate for a predetermined period when the number of game balls exists in the P machine 2 during business, the number of games remaining in the P machine 2 is transmitted to the management computer 802).

According to such a configuration, even if a small number of game balls remain in the game machine, a new player may refrain from sitting in the game machine, and the non-operating period of the game machine in such a state Can be prevented from being prolonged, and the downtime can be shortened.

(8) In the gaming devices (1), (3) to (7) above,
Further provided with a transmission means for transmitting information on the game value used in the game machine to the management device for each predetermined unit (for example, when 10 launch balls are detected, an HC information notification is transmitted to the hall controller 810). ,
The storage means stores the cumulative game value used in the game machine based on the reception of the game machine information including the information about the game value used in the game machine (for example, transmitted from the P unit 2). Cumulative management of the number of launched balls included in the game machine information notification),
The transmission means corrects the timing of transmission to the management device for each predetermined unit based on the cumulative game value stored in the storage means (for example, the cumulative number of launching balls managed is 18). Since it is not in units of 10 balls, the HC information notification is not sent to the Hallcon 810).

According to such a configuration, it is possible to implement a function of pulse output to the hall controller or the hole controller output BOX in consideration of the occurrence of the number of launch balls counted as a minus.

(9) In the gaming devices (1), (3) to (7) above,
Further provided with a transmission means for transmitting information regarding the game value used in the game machine to the management device (for example, the CU 3 transmits an HC information notification to the Hallcon 810).
The transmission means returns to the information on the game value used in the game machine and transmits the information on the game value to the management device (for example, the HC information notification including the information on the number of shot balls = -2 balls). Send).

According to such a configuration, it is possible to implement a function of pulse output to the hall controller or the hole controller output BOX in consideration of the occurrence of the number of launch balls counted as a minus.

(10) In the gaming devices (1), (3) to (7) above,
Further provided with a transmission means for transmitting specific information (for example, lending information) and serial number (for example, lending serial number) regarding the game value to the game machine based on a specific operation by the player (for example, lending information including a telegram of the lending notification). To P stand 2),
The receiving means receives the response information including the reception result of the specific information and the serial number having the same number as the number transmitted by the transmitting means from the game machine (for example, a lending response including a telegram of the lending receipt result response). Receive information),
Based on the fact that the receiving means has not received the response information, the transmitting means transmits the specific information including the serial number of the number (for example, rental serial number = 0) that the gaming machine does not receive to the gaming machine. Send and
The status of the specific information is determined based on the response information from the game machine to the serial number (for example, if it matches the loan serial number, it is determined that the loan has been completed and there is a discrepancy (previous loan notification-1). In the case of, it is judged that the loan has not been completed).

According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the number of rented balls lent to the game machine from being double-added.

It is a front view which shows the card unit and the pachinko machine. It is a block diagram which shows the control circuit used for a card unit and a pachinko machine. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the structure of the PIF wiring which connects a card unit and a pachinko game machine. It is explanatory drawing explaining the outline of the information sent and received between a card unit and a pachinko gaming machine. It is a figure for demonstrating the outline of the game machine information notification transmitted from a pachinko game machine to a card unit. It is a figure for demonstrating the information of a game machine type. It is a figure for demonstrating the game machine performance information. It is a figure for demonstrating the game machine installation information. It is a figure for demonstrating hall control / fraud monitoring information. It is a figure for demonstrating hall control / fraud monitoring information. It is a figure which shows the communication sequence between a card unit and a pachinko machine. It is a figure which shows the timing of the information which is sent and received between a card unit and a pachinko machine. This is a timing chart of information sent and received between the card unit and the pachinko machine. It is a figure which shows the modification of the timing of the lending information and lending response information sent and received between a card unit and a pachinko gaming machine. It is a figure which shows the timing of the information when the connection between a card unit and a pachinko gaming machine occurs. It is a schematic diagram which shows the main thing among the various data stored in each of a card unit and a pachinko gaming machine, and the transmission / reception mode thereof. It is a figure which shows the count notification sequence between a card unit and a pachinko machine. It is a figure which shows the count notification sequence between a card unit and a pachinko machine. It is a figure which shows the communication abnormality sequence during counting between a card unit and a pachinko machine. It is a figure which shows the communication abnormality sequence by the PIF disconnection between a card unit and a pachinko gaming machine. It is a figure which shows the communication abnormality sequence by the power failure between a card unit and a pachinko gaming machine. It is a figure which shows the communication abnormality sequence at the time of lending between a card unit and a pachinko gaming machine. It is a figure which shows the communication abnormality sequence at the time of lending between a card unit and a pachinko gaming machine. It is a block diagram for demonstrating the structure of the game system including a card unit and a pachinko game machine. It is a figure which shows the connection sequence between a card unit and a hall control output BOX. It is a figure which shows the connection sequence between a card unit and a hall control output BOX. It is a figure for demonstrating communication between a card unit and a hall control output BOX. It is a figure for demonstrating the content which is notified to the inside of a card unit and the hall control output BOX. It is a block diagram for demonstrating the information output from a hall control output BOX to a hole control. It is a block diagram for demonstrating the standard port hall control output signal. It is a block diagram for demonstrating the hall control output signal of an expansion port. It is a sequence diagram for demonstrating the process of correcting the number of launching balls of a minus amount by CU. It is a sequence diagram for demonstrating the process of correcting the number of launching balls of a minus amount by CU. It is a sequence diagram for demonstrating the process of correcting the number of launching balls of a minus amount by a hall control. It is a sequence diagram for demonstrating the process of correcting the number of launching balls of a minus amount by a hall control. It is a sequence diagram for demonstrating the processing of the number of game balls remaining in P stand at the time of closing. It is a sequence diagram for demonstrating another process of the number of game balls remaining in P stand at the time of closing.

Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

<Composition of pachinko machine>
First, the configuration of the pachinko gaming machine according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. Each game island (not shown) arranged in a plurality of game halls (halls) may be abbreviated as an enclosed circulation pachinko machine (hereinafter, a game machine, a pachinko machine or a P machine) as an example of a game machine. ) 2 is attached. A card unit (hereinafter, also abbreviated as CU) 3 which is an example of a gaming device is installed one-to-one with respect to the P stand 2 at a predetermined side position of the P stand 2. There is. The card unit will be described below as an example of the gaming device according to the present embodiment, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the card unit can be connected to the P stand 2 to notify the jackpot or abnormality, collect game information such as the number of winnings, and the like. It may be a call lamp device to perform.

The P stand 2 contains a game ball (pachinko ball), which is an example of a game medium, inside (hereinafter, also referred to as an enclosed ball), and is provided on the upper left side by the player operating the ball striking operation handle 25. It is configured so that the launching solenoid of the launching mechanism 30 which is a launching device is driven to drive the enclosed balls one by one into the game area 27 on the front surface of the game board 26 so that the game can be played. The launching mechanism 30, which is a launching device, is not limited to the case where it is provided on the upper left side of the P stand 2, and may be provided on the lower left side. Further, the number of game balls that can be launched by the launch mechanism 30 is electromagnetically controlled by the P stand 2 and the CU 3. Specifically, a touch sensor is provided around the ball striking operation handle 25, and the player's hand touches the touch sensor while the player is operating the ball striking operation handle 25, and the player's hand The contact is detected by the touch sensor and the firing solenoid is driven. In this state, the hitting ball launching momentum is adjusted according to the amount of rotation of the hitting ball operating handle 25 by the player, and the enclosed ball is launched into the game area 27.

When the firing solenoid is driven to drive the enclosed balls into the game area 27 one by one, the subtraction mechanism 32 subtracts one ball from the number of game balls that can be played on the P stand 2. The firing strength of the game ball (hereinafter, also simply referred to as firing strength T) can be adjusted according to the rotation operation amount of the hitting ball operating handle 25 (hereinafter, also simply referred to as the handle operating amount), and the handle operating amount is increased. The firing intensity T increases accordingly. Therefore, the player can adjust the firing intensity T so that the game ball passes through the area aimed at by the player by adjusting the amount of steering wheel operation.

The P stand 2 shown in FIG. 1 is a so-called first-class pachinko gaming machine, and a variable display device (also referred to as a special symbol) 278 is provided in the center of the gaming area 27. Further, the game area 27 is provided with a plurality of types of winning openings in which the enclosed ball that has been driven can be won. In the game area 27 shown in FIG. 1, one large winning opening (variable winning ball device) 271, three ordinary winning openings 272, 273, 274, and three starting winning openings 275, 276, 277 are shown. ing. In particular, the start winning opening 276 is composed of an electric tulip that can be changed into a first state (for example, an open state) that is advantageous to the player and a second state (for example, a closed state) that is disadvantageous to the player. ..

The variable display device 278 includes a variable display unit capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information (designs), and based on the detection signals of the starting winning balls that have won each starting winning opening 275, 276, 277. Start variable display of multiple types of identification information. When the display result of the variable display device becomes a combination of specific identification information (for example, doublet), a big hit state (also referred to as a big hit game state) is set, and the big winning opening 271 is opened.

Further, the display result of the variable display device 278 is a combination of special identification information (for example, a combination of probabilistic symbols such as 777) among the combinations of jackpot symbols (doublets), so that the probabilistic jackpot state Occurs, and after the end of the jackpot state, a probability fluctuation state (probability variation state) in which the probability of occurrence of the jackpot is improved occurs.

The enclosed ball driven into the game area 27 wins in one of the winning openings or is collected in the out opening 154 without winning. The enclosed ball that has won a prize in any of the winning openings and the enclosed ball that has been collected in the out opening 154 are returned to the hitting ball launching position through the collection path in the P stand 2 again. Then, when the player operates the hitting ball operation handle 25, the enclosed ball at the hitting ball launching position is hit into the game area 27 again.

Further, a game ball number display for displaying the number of game balls is provided at a position above the ball striking operation handle 25 of the P stand 2. The game ball number display 29 is composed of a 7-segment type LED display, and is controlled by a frame control unit 171 (see FIG. 2). The game ball number display 29 displays the number of game balls, the error number of the error that has occurred, and the like. The game ball number display 29 is not limited to the 7-segment LED display, and may be composed of a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, or another display.

Further, a counting button 28 for counting from the game ball to the holding ball is provided at the left position of the game ball number display 29 on the P stand 2. In the present embodiment, the counting operation is repeatedly executed according to the time that the counting button 28 is continuously pressed (for example, the counting process of 250 balls is executed every time the pressing state for 0.3 seconds continues). It should be noted that, regardless of the duration of pressing, if the button is pressed once, a predetermined number (for example, 250 balls) may be counted from the game ball to the ball held, or when the counting button 28 is pressed once. May be such that all of the game balls currently owned by the player are counted regardless of the pressing time (whether or not they are pressed for a long time). In addition, the counting speed is further improved when the card return operation is performed, and smooth card return processing is realized.

In this way, since the counting button 28 is provided on the P stand 2 side, the operability of the player sitting facing the P stand 2 can be improved as compared with the case where the counting button 28 is provided on the CU3 side. .. Further, the P stand 2 is provided with speakers 270 at the upper right position and the upper left position of the game area 27 for outputting music data to be reproduced according to the effect displayed by the variable display device 278. The position and number of speakers are not limited to the configuration shown in FIG. 1, and the position and number may be changed as needed.

The P stand 2 according to the present embodiment can be divided into a game board 26 and other game machine frames (front frames) 5. In particular, the game board 26 is different for each model of the pachinko game machine developed by each company, while the game machine frame 5 is a common frame regardless of the model. For this reason, it is sufficient for the game store to replace only the game board 26 when replacing the new machine.

<Card unit configuration>
Next, the configuration of the CU 3 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. This CU3 is a visitor card (also called a general card) having a prepaid function, which is a storage medium for games issued to a general player who has not registered as a member, or a member player who has registered as a member at the game hall. Accepts membership cards, which are storage media for games issued to. Visitor cards and membership cards are composed of IC cards.

The CU3 that receives these cards has a function of converting the player-owned game value (for example, the prepaid balance, the number of balls held, or the number of balls stored) specified by the stored information of the card into "game ball data". .. On the P stand 2, it is possible to play a ball corresponding to the number of balls specified by the data of the game balls. That is, the "game ball data" is data indicating the number of remaining shots of balls that can be fired. In the following description, the "game ball data" is simply referred to as a "game ball" in the same way as a stored ball or a holding ball.

On the front side of the CU 3, a bill insertion slot 302 for inserting bills, a card insertion / discharge port 309 for inserting a membership card or a visitor card, and the like are provided. The membership card or visitor card inserted into the card insertion / ejection port 309 is accepted by the card reader / writer (not shown), and the information stored in the card is read.

A display 54 is provided at a portion extending from the CU 3 to the front surface side of the P stand 2. The display 54 displays the prepaid balance and the like stored in the inserted game storage medium (card), and can display the number of game balls and various other information, and has a transparent touch panel on the surface. It is configured so that various operations can be input by touching various display items displayed on the display unit of the display 54 with a finger. For example, in the display 54 shown in FIG. 1, a ball lending button 321 and a return button 319 and a replay button are displayed, and operation input can be performed by touching these display items with a finger. A replay button may be displayed on the display 54.

The ball lending button 321 is a button for performing an operation (conversion operation to a game ball) for withdrawing the remaining amount stored in the inserted card and using it for a game by the P stand 2. The return button 319 is operated when the player ends the game, and the fixed number of balls held at the end of the game (number of balls held when the card is inserted-number of conversions to game balls + counting operation) is inserted into the inserted card. It is a button for storing and discharging the number of balls held by the player.

When the replay button (not shown) is operated and the number of balls held by the player is stored in the inserted card, a part of the number of balls held is withdrawn and converted into a game ball. It is possible to play a game with the P stand 2 based on the game ball. On the other hand, if the inserted card is a membership card and the number of balls held is not stored and the stored balls are stored in the hall management computer or the like, a part of the stored balls is withdrawn and used as a game ball. It is converted and the game by the P stand 2 becomes possible. That is, when both the stored ball and the holding ball are stored in association with the inserted card, the holding ball is preferentially withdrawn. In addition to the replay button, a dedicated ball payout button for withdrawing the ball may be provided, and the replay button may be a button dedicated to withdrawing the stored balls.

Here, the "ball storage" is a ball that has been acquired before the previous day and is deposited in the hall, and becomes a game ball by paying out the ball storage. The ball storage is a game medium deposited in the game hall, and is generally managed by a hall management computer or other management computer installed in the game hall.

"Holding ball" is a ball acquired on the day, and becomes a game ball by paying out the holding ball. In addition, the number of balls held is the number of game balls owned by the player as a result of the player playing the game on the P stand 2, and is the number of balls that have not yet been deposited in the game hall. That is. Generally, the number of balls acquired by the player on the day of the game is called "possessed ball", and the number of balls acquired by the player before the previous day and deposited in the game field is called "stored ball". Say.

The "game ball" is a ball that can be launched by the P stand 2. The data on the number of game balls is generated in exchange for withdrawing the balance of the prepaid card, the balls held, or the stored balls, as described above.

The number of balls held may be managed by a management device for managing the number of balls held in the game hall. In short, the difference between "ball storage" and "holding ball" is the number of balls that have been stored in the game hall after the ball storage operation for depositing in the game hall, or they are still deposited in the game hall. It is the point whether it is the number of balls at the stage where it is not.

In the present embodiment, the ball storage data is not stored directly in the membership card, but is stored in a server installed in a game hall such as a hall management computer in association with the membership card number, and the corresponding ball storage is searched for based on the membership card number. It is configured so that it can be done. On the other hand, the holding ball is stored directly on the card. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and both may be stored in the hall server in association with the card number. Even in the case of a visitor card, the ball held is stored directly in the visitor card. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the ball may be stored in the hall server in association with the card number. When the hall server stores the data in correspondence with the card number, the data that can specify the time stored in the hall server may be written on the card (membership card, visitor card) and discharged. In addition, the prepaid balance is directly written on the card (membership card, visitor card) and discharged.

The timing of storing the ball in the card (membership card, visitor card) or hall server is stored at regular intervals, for example, in real time each time the counting button 28 is operated to perform counting processing. It is conceivable that the timing may be such that the cards are to be stored or stored in a batch when the cards are returned.

In addition, when the player finishes the game and returns the card from the CU3, the ball held in the CU3 is temporarily stored in the hall server as a stored ball, and the day when the player receives the card return. When the card is inserted into the same or another CU3 again on the same day, only the balls held for the day once stored as stored balls are stored in the CU3 again, and the game balls can be added and played within the range of the balls held. You may do so.

The bill inserted into the bill insertion slot 302 is taken in by a currency classifier (not shown) to identify its authenticity and bill type.

An IR (Infrared) photosensitive unit (also referred to as an IR light receiving unit) 320 is further provided on the front side of the CU3. The IR photosensitive unit 320 is an IR photosensitive unit 320 that receives an infrared signal from a remote controller (not shown) possessed by a staff member of the amusement park, converts it into an electronic signal, and outputs the infrared signal.

Although not shown, the P stand 2 is provided so that the game machine frame (hereinafter, also referred to as a cell) 5 and the glass door 6 can be opened and closed with the left side edge as the swing center with respect to the frame-shaped outer frame 4. Has been done.

The back mechanism portion release switch 13 shown in FIG. 2 is provided at a position in contact with the outer frame 4 in the lower portion of the game machine frame 5, and it is detected that the game machine frame 5 is opened. Further, the front decoration opening switch 12 shown in FIG. 2 is provided at the contact portion with the glass door 6 in the upper portion of the game machine frame 5, and the front decoration opening switch 12 detects that the glass door 6 has been opened. Will be done.

The number of times the front decoration opening switch 12 and the back mechanism opening switch 13 are opened is counted by a counting counter (not shown). The counting counter is equipped with a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), etc., and can be operated by the backup power supply even when the power supply of the P unit 2 is interrupted, such as at night. Even when the power is turned off, the number of times the glass door 6 and the game machine frame 5 are detected to be opened can be counted and the counted value can be transmitted to the frame control unit 171 (see FIG. 2). Here, the backup power source is, for example, a capacitor or a storage battery provided in the P unit 2.

The main control board 16 shown in FIG. 2 is provided on the back surface of the game board 26 (the surface opposite to the surface facing the glass door 6). Since the back surface of the outer frame 4 is closed, the main control board 16 becomes removable from the game board 26 by first opening the game machine frame 5 and removing the game board 26 from the game machine frame 5. That is, in order to remove the main control board 16 from the game board 26 or replace the semiconductor chip provided on the main control board 16, it is necessary to open the game machine frame 5, so that the back mechanism portion open switch 13 The work can always be detected with. Therefore, if the main control board 16 is illegally removed from the game board 26 or the semiconductor chip provided on the main control board 16 is illegally replaced, the detection can always be performed by the back mechanism opening switch 13.

Further, a frame control board 17 shown in FIG. 2 is provided on the back surface of the game machine frame 5. The frame control board 17 also needs to be removed from the back surface of the game machine frame 5 after the game machine frame 5 is first opened. Therefore, if the frame control board 17 is illegally removed from the back surface of the game machine frame 5 or the semiconductor chip provided on the frame control board 17 is illegally replaced, it can always be detected by the back mechanism portion opening switch 13.

<Composition of card unit and pachinko machine>
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a control circuit used for the CU 3 and the P stand 2. The outline of the control circuit between the CU 3 and the P stand 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

The CU 3 is provided with a CU control unit 323 composed of a microcomputer or the like. The CU control unit 323 is the main control function unit of the CU 3, and is a CPU as a control center, a ROM that stores programs and control data for operating the CPU, a RAM that functions as a work area of the CPU, and peripherals. Input / output interfaces are provided to maintain signal consistency with the equipment.

The CU control unit 323 is provided with an external output terminal 340 for communicating with a management computer, a hall controller, or the like. The CU 3 transmits the status of the CU 3 and the game machine status information (including the information displayed by the performance display monitor 40) received from the P unit 2 to the outside such as a management computer or a hall controller via the external output terminal 340. .. The CU control unit 323 communicates with the frame control board 17 of the P stand 2 via the SC board 325. The SC board 325 and the frame control board 17 are connected by, for example, a dedicated PIF wiring 322 (see FIG. 1). Communication between the CU control unit 323 and the frame control board 17 includes lending information (information on an operation for withdrawing the remaining amount stored in the inserted card and using it for a game by the P unit 2) and lending response information (lending information). (Response information to) is bidirectionally performed, and other counting information (information regarding counting processing from the game ball to the holding ball) and game machine information are transmitted in one direction from the frame control board 17 to the CU control unit 323. It is done by communication. Therefore, the P unit 2 side does not recognize whether or not the CU 3 has received the counting information and the game machine information. The CU 3 is provided with a connection portion (not shown) to the P stand 2 side, and the P stand 2 is provided with a connection portion (not shown) to the CU 3 side. These connection portions are composed of, for example, connectors. The SC board 325 is equipped with an SC microcomputer (SC) that executes various processes for ensuring security in communication between the P stand 2 and the CU 3.

The CU control unit 323 identifies the authenticity and type of banknotes by the above-mentioned money classifier, and inputs the identification result signal. Further, when the IR photosensitive unit 320 receives infrared rays emitted from a remote controller possessed by a staff member of the amusement park, the CU control unit 323 receives the received signal. The card reader / writer reads the stored information of the inserted card into the CU control unit 323, and the read information is input to the CU control unit 323, and at the same time, the CU control unit 323 writes the stored information of the inserted card into the inserted card to the card reader / writer. When the data is transmitted, the card reader / writer writes the data to the inserted card. The stored information of the card includes the card ID. The CU control unit 323 stores the card ID read by the card reader / writer until the end of the game.

The CU control unit 323 manages and stores the player's ball when the player is playing. Data such as the balance or the number of balls held is output from the CU control unit 323 to the display control unit 350, and is converted into display data by the display control unit 350. The display data converted by the display control unit 350 is transmitted to the display 54 extending from the CU 3 to the front side of the P stand 2. An image corresponding to the display data is displayed on the display 54. Further, when the player operates the touch panel provided on the surface of the display 54, the operation signal is input to the CU control unit 323 via the display control unit 350. For example, when the player operates the ball lending button 321 or the return button 319 displayed on the display 54, the operation signal is input to the CU control unit 323 via the display control unit 350. The ball lending button 321 and the return button 319 are not limited to the configuration provided on the CU 3, but may be provided on the front surface of the CU 3 or provided on the P stand 2 to input an operation signal to the CU control unit 323. There may be. When the player operates the replay button (not shown) displayed on the display 54, the operation signal is input to the CU control unit 323 via the display control unit 350. The replay button is not limited to the configuration provided on the CU 3, but may be provided on the front surface of the CU 3 or may be provided on the P stand 2 to input an operation signal to the CU control unit 323.

The P stand 2 has a main control board 16 that controls the progress of the game of the P stand 2, a frame control board 17 that manages and stores the game balls, and a launch solenoid 31a that is driven and controlled based on a command from the frame control board 17. A launch control board 31 for displaying, a variable display device 278, and an effect control board 15 for displaying and controlling the variable display device 278 based on a command transmitted from the main control board 16 are provided.

The main control board 16 and the effect control board 15 are provided on the game board 26. A game control microcomputer, which is a main control unit 161, is mounted on the main control board 16. The main control unit 161 is a main control function unit of the game machine. The microcomputer for controlling a game machine maintains the consistency of signals with a CPU as a control center, a ROM that stores programs and control data for operating the CPU, a RAM that functions as a work area of the CPU, and peripheral devices. An input / output interface for this is provided. The main control unit 161 is connected to a winning sensor 162 and a radio wave sensor 163 provided on the game board 26.

When a ball wins in each starting winning opening 275, 276, 277, the main control unit 161 draws a random number for determining a big hit (or further including a small hit) / loss, and stores the random number. This is called hold memory. The maximum value of the number of reserved memories is, for example, "4". When the main control unit 161 is in a state where a new variable display can be started by the variable display device 278, the main control unit 161 digests one hold memory, makes a jackpot determination based on the hold memory, and derives a display result from the variable start. The variable display time up to that point is determined from multiple types. In addition, when the jackpot is decided, it is also decided whether or not to cause a probability fluctuation. The main control unit 161 transmits the result of the jackpot determination (including whether or not to make a probability change) and information on the variable display time as commands to the effect control unit 151 mounted on the effect control board 15.

For the commands related to the variable display transmitted from the main control unit 161 to the effect control unit 151, the variable start command indicating the start of the variable display, the display result command (big hit / miss) indicating the result of the variable display, and the variable display pattern are specified. It includes a possible variable display time command, a variable stop command that indicates when to derive and display the variable display result, and so on. Further, the commands transmitted from the main control unit 161 to the effect control unit 151 include a command that can specify the progress of the big hit during the big hit, a command that indicates the occurrence of a new hold memory, and the occurrence of a game state error. There are commands to show.

The effect control unit 151 determines the variable display content of the variable display device 278 based on these commands transmitted from the main control unit 161. For example, the effect control unit 151 specifies the variable display result and the variable display time based on the command transmitted from the main control unit 161 to determine the stop symbol and the variable display pattern (presence / absence of reach, type of reach). And also decide the production pattern of the notice production regarding big hits and reach. The effect control unit 151 displays and controls the variable display device 278 according to the determined variable display content.

The frame control board 17 is provided on the game machine frame 5. A payout control microcomputer, which is a frame control unit 171, is mounted on the frame control board 17. The frame control unit 171 is a payout control function unit of the game machine. The payout control microcomputer maintains signal consistency with a CPU as a control center, a ROM that stores programs and control data for operating the CPU, a RAM that functions as a work area of the CPU, and peripheral devices. An input / output interface for this is provided.

Further, with respect to the frame control board 17, the counting button 28, the performance display monitor 40, the radio wave sensor 173, the subtraction solenoid 32a, the subtraction mechanism inlet sensor 32b, the subtraction mechanism outlet sensor 32c, the lifting mechanism outlet sensor 33, and the out ball detection switch 701 , The front decoration opening switch 12, and the back mechanism opening switch 13 are provided in a state of being electrically connected. An out-ball detection signal is input from the out-ball detection switch 701 to the frame control board 17. The main control board 16 calculates a base value (simply also referred to as a base) based on the out-ball detection signal as described later. The radio wave sensor 173 is for detecting fraudulent acts that illegally transmit radio waves and mainly keep the subtraction mechanism entrance sensor 32b on at all times. The detection signal of the radio wave sensor 173 is input to the frame control unit 171 via an input port (not shown) of the frame control board 17. The subtraction mechanism entrance sensor 32b detects the launch of the game ball by changing from off to on, and the frame control unit 171 subtracts the number of game balls by "1" based on the detection.

Therefore, when the subtraction mechanism inlet sensor 32b is constantly turned off due to an illegal radio wave, the number of game balls is not subtracted no matter how many balls are fired. The radio wave sensor 173 detects such fraud due to radio waves.

A performance display monitor 40 is provided on the frame control board 17. The performance display monitor 40 is a 7-segment LED display. The performance display monitor 40 displays predetermined information such as performance information regarding the given game value (for example, a prize ball) calculated by the frame control unit 171, a base, a bonus ratio, and a continuous bonus ratio. The information displayed on the performance display monitor 40 can be output to the hall server or the like via the CU 3, but the P stand 2 may be provided with an external output terminal and directly output to the hall server or the like.

Here, the base is the large winning opening 271, the normal winning opening 272 to 274, and the starting winning opening 275 to 277 provided in the game area 27 with respect to the number of game balls driven into the game area 27 of the P stand 2. It is the ratio of the number of game balls corresponding to the game value given according to the prize of the game ball to the winning opening such as. Further, the character ratio (also referred to as a character ratio) refers to the ratio of the game balls acquired by the game balls launched in 10 hours due to the operation of the character. In the present embodiment, the bonus ratio corresponds to the game value given by winning all the winning openings of the game balls fired in 10 hours (60,000 balls can be fired in 1 minute). Of the number of game balls to be played, the game is played in the starting winning opening 276 composed of the electric tulip which is one of the winning characters and the large winning opening 271 composed of the variable winning ball device which is one of the winning characters. The ratio of the number of game balls corresponding to the game value given by winning a ball. Further, the continuous bonus ratio (also referred to as the continuous ratio) is the ratio of the number of game balls acquired by the game balls fired in 10 hours due to the operation of the bonus when the bonus is continuously operated. Say. In the present embodiment, the continuous bonus ratio is the game value given by winning all the winning openings of the game balls fired in 10 hours (60,000 balls can be fired in 1 minute). Of the number of corresponding game balls, the ratio of the number of game balls corresponding to the game value given by winning the game ball to the large winning opening 271 provided with the variable winning ball device which is one of the winning characters. Say.

Information such as the main control chip ID, winning opening information, round information, winning detection signal, starting winning opening winning information, error information, symbol confirmation count, and jackpot information is transmitted from the main control board 16 to the frame control board 17.

The main control chip ID (also referred to as the main chip ID) is a chip ID stored in the main control board 16 of the P stand 2, and is transmitted to the frame control board 17 when the power of the P stand 2 is turned on. Information. The winning opening information is information including the type of winning opening (starting winning opening, normal winning opening, large winning opening) and the number of winning balls (the number of payout balls when a game ball enters the winning opening). It is transmitted to the frame control board 17 when the power of the stand 2 is turned on. The round information is information on the number of rounds when a big hit is made, and is transmitted to the frame control board 17 when the power of the P unit 2 is turned on.

The winning detection signal is a detection signal of a game ball that has won a prize in a winning opening other than the starting winning opening. The frame control board 17 that receives this detection signal controls to add the number of balls to be given to one winning ball to the number of game balls and the number of additional balls.

The starting winning opening winning information is information indicating that the game ball has won a prize in any of the starting winning openings. The error information is information for notifying the frame control board 17 when an error occurs while the main control board 16 is performing game control.

The symbol fixed number of times is information on the symbol confirmed as a display result of the variable display device for winning a prize in each starting winning opening.

The jackpot information is information indicating that a jackpot has occurred, and the breakdown thereof includes common jackpot information indicating a jackpot common to each manufacturer and manufacturer-specific jackpot information indicating a manufacturer-specific jackpot. The common jackpot information is a jackpot that is commonly adopted by each game machine maker, such as a 15-round jackpot, and if a probability change occurs due to the jackpot, the probability variation information is included, and the jackpot is accompanied by the probability variation information. When a time saving state (a control state that shortens the variable display time of the variable display device) occurs, the time saving information is included. The manufacturer-specific jackpot is a jackpot state adopted only by a certain gaming machine manufacturer, such as a sudden change (sudden probability).

A game machine installation information notification and a game machine information notification are transmitted from the main control board 16 to the frame control board 17. On the contrary, the game machine installation information response and the game machine information response are transmitted from the frame control board 17 to the main control board 16. The game machine installation information response and the game machine information response are commands for indicating that the game machine installation information notification and the game machine information notification have been received from the main control board 16.

The SC board 325 of the CU 3 and the frame control board 17 of the P stand 2 are electrically connected via the PIF wiring 22, and various commands are transmitted from the SC board 325 to the frame control board 17 as described later. (See FIG. 4). On the contrary, various responses are transmitted from the frame control board 17 to the SC board 325 as described later (see FIG. 4).

In addition to the frame control board 17, the game machine frame 5 is provided with a launch control board 31, a launch solenoid 31a, and a game ball number display 29. The game ball number display 29 may be directly attached to the game machine frame 5, but the game machine frame 5 is like an upper plate or a lower plate provided on the front side of a normal pachinko game machine on which balls are paid out. It may be provided so as to be rotatable with respect to the relative. This point is the same for the display 54. The frame control unit 171 of the frame control board 17 displays the number of game balls currently owned by the player on the game ball number display 29.

A launch permission signal is output from the frame control board 17 to the launch control board 31. Upon receiving this, the launch control board 31 outputs a signal for exciting the launch solenoid 31a of the launch mechanism 30. As a result, the game ball is in a state of being shot and fired into the game area 27. The launch control board 31 emits a launch solenoid excitation output when an input signal of a touch ring for detecting that the player is touching the ball striking handle 25 is input, and drives the launch solenoid 31a.

The RAM clear switch 293 is a switch for erasing the game machine information and the game information stored in the RAM of the P unit 2, and is initially operated by a store clerk after the P unit is in an error state. It is possible to return to the state. The RAM clear switch 293 is operated by a clerk, for example, after the card is ejected.

<Circulation route of game balls>
Here, with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the circulation path of the game ball in the P platform 2 will be outlined. When the player operates the ball striking operation handle 25, the firing solenoid 31a is driven. As a result, one game ball supplied to the launch position is repelled by the hitting hammer, and the game ball is hit into the game area 27.

A subtraction reference signal is output to the subtraction mechanism 32 in conjunction with the activation of the firing solenoid 31a and the firing of the game ball. In the subtraction mechanism 32, based on the output subtraction reference signal, the subtraction solenoid 32a is energized to move the movable piece to send the game ball to the launch mechanism 30, and the game ball passes through the subtraction mechanism inlet sensor 32b. Subtract the number of game balls.

Of the balls driven into the game area 27, the out balls that have entered the out port 154 (see FIG. 1) flow down the out ball flow path and are detected by the out ball detection switch 701 provided in the middle. ..

All the winning balls that have won the winning opening or the variable winning ball device are collected on the back of the game machine and guided to the collection ball passing path. Similarly, out balls and foul balls are also guided to the recovery ball passage path. A lifting mechanism outlet sensor 33 is provided in the collection ball passage path. Therefore, all of the winning ball, the out ball, and the foul ball are detected by the lifting mechanism exit sensor 33. That is, the lifting mechanism outlet sensor 33 is a switch that detects all of the bounced game balls. When the number of detections of this switch and the number of shots of the game balls repelled by the firing solenoid 31a become equal, it can be determined that all the hit game balls have been recovered.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, the difference between the number of detections of the lifting mechanism exit sensor 33 and the number of shots is calculated, and when this difference is not 0, the ball hit into the game area 27 is recovered. It is judged that it has not been completed. By making this determination, it can be determined whether or not the game area 27 is rolling, or whether or not there is a floating ball that is caught between nails or the like in the game area and does not fall.

<Connection between CU and P stand>
The CU 3 and the P stand 2 are connected by PIF wiring between the SC board 325 and the frame control board 17 shown in FIG. The configuration of the PIF wiring will be described in detail. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram for explaining the configuration of the PIF wiring that connects the card unit and the pachinko gaming machine. FIG. 3 (a) illustrates the wiring number and information name of the PIF wiring connecting the CU 3 and the P stand 2, and FIG. 3 (b) shows the direction of information and the explanation of the information for each information name. It is illustrated.

Specifically, the wiring number 1 has an information name of "insulation GND" and is assigned an isolation GND. The information name of the wiring number 2 is "insulation GND", and the wiring number 2 is used for the signal GND of the wiring number 6. The information name of the wiring number 3 is "insulation GND", and the wiring number 3 is used for the signal GND of the wiring number 7. The wiring number 4 has an information name of "PSI" and is used for transmitting connection confirmation information from the P unit 2 to the CU 3. The PSI wiring and the VL wiring are looped in the CU3, and when the VL wiring is connected, 5V of the voltage of the VL wiring is supplied as the voltage of the PSI wiring, and when the VL wiring is cut, the VL wiring. As the voltage of PSI changes from 5V to 0 (zero) V, the voltage of the PSI wiring also changes from 5V to 0 (zero) V. Therefore, the P stand 2 outputs a PSI signal (5V ON signal) to the CU 3 as a special signal for connection confirmation while detecting the connection with the CU 3 (VL = ON), and does not detect the connection with the CU 3 (V). The PSI signal is not output to the CU3 at VL = OFF).

The information name of the wiring number 5 is "insulation GND", and the isolation GND is assigned. The wiring number 6 has an information name of "rental response information, counting information, and game machine information", and is used for transmitting each information from the P unit 2 to the CU 3. The wiring number 7 has an information name of "rental information" and is used for transmitting rental information from the CU 3 to the P unit 2. The wiring numbers 8 and 9 have an information name of "insulation 5V (VL)" and are assigned as signal lines of 5V for isolation (power supply VL for connection confirmation), respectively.

<Communication between CU3 and P unit 2>
Next, the communication between the CU 3 and the P unit 2 according to the present embodiment will be described in more detail. The telegram used in the communication is composed of frames having a predetermined format. The transmission data (telegram) is always transmitted in units of one frame. That is, the telegram is not divided and transmitted. In addition, when transmitting telegrams continuously, leave an interval of 1 millisecond or more.

FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an outline of information transmitted and received between the CU 3 and the P unit 2. Hereinafter, the outline of the information (telegram) transmitted and received between the CU 3 and the P unit 2 will be described with reference to FIG. The frame control board 17 of the P stand 2 and the SC board 325 of the CU 3 are divided into (a) lending information, (b) lending response information, (c) counting information, and (d) gaming machine information. Telegrams are being communicated via a common asynchronous serial communication port. The four types of information (telegrams) (a) to (d) transmitted and received between the CU 3 and the P unit 2 have different telegram headers, and it is possible to distinguish the type of telegram by the header. It has become.

Even if (a) lending information and (b) lending response information are communicated on a common asynchronous serial communication port, (a) lending information and (c) counting information are used on a common asynchronous serial communication port. (A) Lending information and (d) Game machine information may be communicated via a common asynchronous serial communication port. Further, even if (b) lending response information and (c) counting information are communicated via a common asynchronous serial communication port, (b) lending response information and (d) gaming machine information are shared by common asynchronous serial communication. Communication may be performed on the port, or (c) counting information and (d) gaming machine information may be communicated on a common asynchronous serial communication port.

Lending information is shown in FIG. 4A. The lending information includes information on the number of lending balls and information on the lending serial number for communication management as information included in the telegram of the lending notification transmitted by the CU 3 to the P unit 2. The information on the number of rented balls is information on the number of game balls related to renting, and includes, for example, information on 125 balls as information on the number of game balls transmitted in one information. When the number of rented balls is 0 (zero), the loan information may be transmitted by including the information of 0 (zero) in the information on the number of rented balls.

FIG. 4B shows lending response information. The lending response information includes information on the number of rented balls received as information included in the telegram of the lending receipt result response transmitted by the P unit 2 to the CU 3, and information on the lending serial number for communication management. The information on the number of rented balls received is information that informs the CU3 of the result of receiving the information on the number of rented balls transmitted from the CU3.

FIG. 4 (c) shows the counting information. In the counting information, the P unit 2 transmits to the CU 3 as a telegram of the counting notification including the number of counting balls, the cumulative number of counting balls, and the counting serial number for communication management. Note that the P unit 2 does not receive information for confirming the transmission result from the CU 3. Therefore, the P unit 2 is a unidirectional output in which it cannot be confirmed whether or not the CU 3 has received the counting information. As a result, the P unit 2 can suppress excessive signal input and improve security, and can appropriately manage the number of counting balls of the player by such a counting notification. The number of counting balls, the cumulative number of counting balls, and the counting serial number are all information for the purpose of counting game balls. Further, the number of counting balls transmitted in one piece of information is, for example, 250 balls. When the number of counting balls is 0 (zero), the counting information may be transmitted by adding 0 (zero) information to the information on the number of counting balls.

FIG. 4D shows game machine information. In the game machine information, the P unit 2 transmits the game machine installation information, the game machine performance information, and the hall control / fraud monitoring information to the CU 3. Note that the P unit 2 does not receive information for confirming the transmission result from the CU 3. The game machine installation information is information for the purpose of managing the machine history, and is transmitted to the CU 3 as a telegram of the game machine installation information notification after the power is turned on. The game machine installation information includes information such as a maker code, a model code, and a chip ID number of the main / frame control CPU.

The game machine performance information is information for the purpose of totaling the performance information, and is transmitted to the CU 3 as a telegram of the game machine performance information notification. The game machine performance information outputs the result calculated based on the game, and includes the total number of launched game balls, the total number of acquired game balls, the ball output rate, the number of minute acquired game balls (low base), and the minute acquired game balls. Number (high base), total number of acquired game balls by special electric accessory, total number of acquired game balls by ordinary electric accessory, total acquired game ball by accessory continuous differential device, total number of acquired game balls by starting port, normal Total number of winning game balls, total number of operations of special electric accessory, total number of operation of ordinary electric accessory, total number of operation of special symbol display device, total number of operation of ordinary symbol display device, accessory ratio, continuous Includes information such as the accessory ratio. Further, as conditions for the frame control board 17 to notify the CU3 of the game machine performance information, for example, (1) notification is made 3 minutes after the power of the P stand 2 is turned on, and (2) the number of game balls to be launched is specified. Notification is given every minute (for example, 60,000 balls) is launched or every specified time (for example, 10 hours), (3) notification is given priority over game machine installation information notification, and (4) hall control / fraud monitoring information is notified. There are conditions such as notification in the next cycle (after 300 ms). It should be noted that these conditions are examples, and other conditions may be adopted, or only one of the above conditions may be adopted, or a plurality of conditions may be combined and adopted. Good.

Hallcon / fraud monitoring information is information for the purpose of information aggregation of hallcon / fraud monitoring by CU3. Hallcon / fraud monitoring information includes jackpot, probability fluctuation, time reduction, holecon information such as the number of winning balls in each winning opening, number of game balls (current number of balls held), number of game balls serial number, game machine error status, Includes fraud monitoring information such as fraud detection status.

<Notification of game machine information>
Next, the command for notifying game machine information will be described in detail. FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining the outline of the gaming machine information notification transmitted from the pachinko gaming machine to the card unit. The game machine information notification command shown in FIG. 5 is a command for the P unit 2 to notify the CU3 of the game machine information, and the game machine information includes the game machine installation information, the game machine performance information, and the hall controller. -Includes three types of fraud monitoring information. The type of game machine information included in the game machine information notification command is determined to be one of them according to the notification conditions of each information, and is notified to CU3.

The game machine information notification command includes telegram length information, command information, serial number information, game machine type information, game machine information type information, and game machine information. The telegram length information indicates the length of the telegram to be transmitted (telegram length to error detection code (CRC) of the communication frame). The command information indicates the command code of the telegram. The serial number information indicates the sequence number. The serial number is a sequence number that the primary station side (for example, the P unit side) counts up (+1) at the time of transmission with the initial value set to "0" and transmits. However, when the primary station side retransmits, the serial number is not counted up, and the secondary station side (for example, the CU side) also transmits the received serial number as it is. Note that the commands and responses used for communication commonly include telegram length information, command information, and serial number information, so explanations will be omitted in the following commands and responses.

The game machine type information is information for indicating the game machine type of the P unit 2. FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining information on the type of gaming machine. In FIG. 6, if the game machine type information is "10", it indicates that the P stand 2 connected to the CU 3 is the "pachinko" of the "pachinko game machine", and if it is "11", it indicates the "pachinko game". It indicates that it is a "parrot" of "machine". Further, if the game machine type information is "20", it means that the P stand 2 connected to the CU 3 is the "rotary body" of the "rotary body type game machine", and if it is "30", it means "arrange". It indicates that it is an "arranged ball" of "ball", and if it is "40", it indicates that it is a "jan ball game machine" of "jan ball game machine". In CU3, if the transmitted game machine type information is "10" or "11", the unit used for the game is displayed as "ball" as the number of game balls, for example, and the game machine type information is displayed. If is "20", the number of game medals is displayed, for example, the unit used for the game is displayed as "sheets".

Returning to FIG. 5, the information on the game machine information type is a type code indicating the type of information included in the game machine information. If the information of the game machine information type is "0x00", it means that the information included in the game machine information is the game machine performance information, and if it is "0x01", the information included in the game machine information is installed in the game machine. It indicates that it is information, and if it is "0x02", it indicates that the information included in the game machine information is hall control / fraud monitoring information. If the information of the game machine information type is a value other than the above, it is determined that the notified CU3 is abnormal.

The game machine information includes any one of game machine installation information, game machine performance information, and hall control / fraud monitoring information based on the type code set in the game machine information type information, and is notified to CU3. The game machine performance information is information such as the number of game balls acquired per minute (base), the accessory ratio, and the continuous accessory ratio, and the game machine installation information is the manufacturer code, model code, and chip ID of the main control CPU and frame control CPU. Information such as numbers, hall control / fraud monitoring information is information such as jackpot, probability fluctuation, time reduction, number of winning balls at each winning opening, and number of game balls.

Further, the game machine information will be described in detail. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining game machine performance information. In FIG. 7, when the information of the game machine information type is "0x00", the game machine performance information included in the game machine information is shown. For example, the game machine information includes the total number of launched game balls, the total number of acquired game balls, the ball output rate, ..., the number of times the normal symbol display device is operated, the bonus ratio, and the continuous bonus ratio. The total number of launched game balls is the information obtained by accumulating the number of launched balls, the total number of acquired game balls is the information obtained by accumulating the number of prize balls, and the ball output rate is the total number of acquired game balls divided by the total number of launched game balls. This is the information that was given. Further, the number of times the normal symbol display device is operated is the information obtained by accumulating the number of times the normal symbol is stopped, and the bonus ratio is the information of the cumulative value of the number of prize balls for the movement of the prize / the cumulative value of the number of prize balls x 100. The object ratio is information of the cumulative value of the number of continuous operation prize balls for the accessory / the cumulative value of the number of prize balls × 100.

FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining game machine installation information. In FIG. 8, when the information of the game machine information type is "0x01", the game machine installation information included in the game machine information is shown. For example, the game machine information includes a main control chip ID number, a main control CPU maker code, a main control CPU model code, a frame control chip ID number, a frame control CPU maker code, and a frame control CPU model code.

9 and 10 are diagrams for explaining hall control / fraud monitoring information. In FIGS. 9 and 10, when the information of the game machine information type is "0x02", the hall control / fraud monitoring information included in the game machine information is shown. For example, the game machine information includes "game ball number", "launch ball number", "total prize ball number", "main control state", "game machine error state", "illegal detection state", and "game information". ”Is included.

"Number of game balls" indicates the current number of game balls, for example, when the number of game balls is 10,000 balls, it is shown as "0x102700". "Number of launched balls" indicates the number of launched balls (-128 to 127), subtracted the number of back balls if there are back balls, and added up if there are multiple launched balls at the time of transmission. Indicates the number. The "total number of prize balls" indicates the total number of prize balls x the number of prizes.

The "main control state" is information on the gaming state of the P unit 2, and includes the "main control state 1" and the "main control state 2". The "main control state 1" includes information on jackpot 1 (all jackpots), jackpot 2 (specific jackpot), jackpot 3 (big hit with shortened fluctuation time), and information on game machine status signals 1 to 4. .. The game machine status signals 1 to 4 are used to output the status from the external output terminal 340 of the CU 3 to the outside of the hall controller or the like, and are output from the external output terminal of the CU 3 "external terminal plate status output signal terminals 1 to 4". 4 ”(see FIG. 31). The "main control state 1" includes information during the jackpot + time reduction (variation time reduction), high probability, and time reduction (variation time reduction).

The "game machine error state" includes information on an error code occurring in the game machine. Specifically, in the "game machine error state", Bits 0 to 5 represent error codes, and if Bit6 is "0", it is an error on the frame control side, if it is "1", it is an error on the main control side, and then Bit6. If is "0", only the alarm is issued, and if "1", the alarm + hall controller output.

The "fraud detection state" includes "fraud detection state 1" to "fraud detection state 3". The “fraud detection state 1” indicates a fraud detection state on the main control board 16, and includes information indicating that board frauds 1 to 6 have been detected. "Fraud detection state 2" indicates the fraud detection state on the frame control board 17, Bit0 opens the front decoration, Bit1 opens the back mechanism, Bit2 detects fraudulent radio waves, Bit3 detects the number of game balls, and Bit4 wins a prize. Includes information indicating that 1 detection of abnormal number of balls and 2 detection of abnormal number of winning balls 2 have been detected. Here, the winning ball number abnormality 1 detection detects that the difference between the winning number detected by the main control board 16 and the winning number detected by the frame control board 17 is 100 balls or more, and detects the winning ball number abnormality 2 Detects that the difference between the number of launched balls and the total number of returned balls (number of winning balls + number of non-winning balls) is 100 or more. The "fraud detection state 3" indicates a fraud detection state on the frame control board 17, and includes information indicating that Bit0 detects a small ball and Bit1 detects an iron ball.

The "game information" includes information for notifying the frame control board 17 of the starting opening winning, the large winning opening winning, the number of times the symbol is confirmed, and the like generated on the main control board 16. The "game information" is composed of a total of 2 bytes of type information (upper 1 byte) and count information (lower 1 byte). The type information is composed of a data type and a data number, and a data number is set for each data type.

The type information is set for each value of the data type (Bits 4 to 7). For example, when the value of the data type is 1, it is the information of the start opening winning. Further, a data number (Bit 0 to 3) is set for each data type, and if the data number is 1, the starting port 1 and the like and the starting port number are indicated.

As the count information, different number of times information is set for each data type. Data type is 1 = Start opening prize, 2 = Large winning opening prize, 3 = Winning opening prize, 9 = Starting opening prize by operating the character, 10 = Large winning opening winning by continuous operation of the character, 11 = By operating the character In the case of winning a prize, the count information is composed of the number of prize balls (top 4 bits) and the number of prizes (bottom 4 bits). For example, when two prizes are won in the starting port 1 of three prize balls, the data type (Bit4 to 7) is "1 = starting port 1", the data number (Bit0 to 3) is "1 = starting port 1", and the prize. The game information (0x1131) in which the number of balls (Bits 4 to 7) is "3 = 3 prize balls" and the number of prizes (Bits 0 to 3) is "1 = 1 prize" is 2 data.

Next, communication between the CU 3 and the P unit 2 using the telegram described with reference to FIGS. 4 to 10 will be described. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a communication sequence between the card unit and the pachinko gaming machine. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing the timing of information transmitted / received between the card unit and the pachinko gaming machine. In the sequence shown in FIG. 11, (b) the lending response information No. 1 shown in FIG. 4 is shown. 3 to No. The information of No. 4, (c) counting information, and (d) gaming machine information are transmitted from the P unit 2 to the CU 3 through a common asynchronous serial communication port. On the contrary, (a) the lending information No. 1 shown in FIG. 1-No. The information of 2 is transmitted from the CU 3 to the P unit 2 through a common asynchronous serial communication port.

The sequence shown in FIG. 11 is an example, and may be a sequence in which (c) counting information and (d) gaming machine information shown in FIG. 4 are transmitted from the P unit 2 to the CU 3 via a common asynchronous serial communication port. .. In the case of this sequence, (a) lending information No. 1 shown in FIG. 1-No. The information of 2 is transmitted from the CU 3 to the P unit 2 by another asynchronous serial communication port, and (b) No. of the rental information. 3 to No. The information of 4 is transmitted from the P unit 2 to the CU 3 through another asynchronous serial communication port. Further, (a) the loan information No. 1 shown in FIG. 1-No. The information of No. 2 is transmitted from the CU 3 to the P unit 2 through the common asynchronous serial communication port, and the No. 1 of the lending information shown in FIG. 3 to No. It may be a sequence in which the information of 4 and (c) the counting information are transmitted from the P unit 2 to the CU 3 on a common asynchronous serial communication port. In the case of this sequence, the sequence in which the game machine information (d) shown in FIG. 4 is transmitted from the P unit 2 to the CU 3 via another asynchronous serial communication port may be used.

Of the information transmitted from the P unit 2 to the CU 3, (d) game machine information is transmitted every specified period A as shown in FIG. That is, the period from the transmission of information from the P unit 2 to the CU 3 to the transmission of the next information is controlled to the specified period A (for example, 300 ms = 0.3 seconds). The P unit 2 can transmit the game machine information to the CU 3 every specified period A regardless of the reception status of the game machine information in the CU 3. Therefore, in the P unit 2, it is not necessary to retransmit the game machine information, it is not necessary to store the past game machine information, and the processing load can be reduced.

In this way, information is transmitted from the P unit 2 to the CU 3 at intervals of 300 ms. On the other hand, in the P stand 2, 100 game balls are hit into the game area 27 per minute by operating the hit ball operation handle 25, so that the hit ball launch time interval is 0.6 seconds. As a result, a plurality of pieces of information are transmitted and received during the firing of one ball.

The game machine information communicates with the counting information on the common asynchronous serial communication port. Therefore, if you try to send counting information at the timing of sending game machine information, there is a possibility that the information will be congested within the common asynchronous serial communication port, data collision will occur, and communication will not be performed correctly. is there. Therefore, in the P unit 2, when the game machine information is transmitted to the CU 3 for each specified period A, in order to optimize the information transmission, the specified period shorter than the specified period A after the game machine information is transmitted. (C) Counting information is transmitted to CU3 at a timing corresponding to B (for example, 100 ms). The counting information is transmitted to the CU 3 every specified period B regardless of the reception status in the CU 3. If the player operates the counting button 28 before transmitting the game machine information, the number of counting balls includes information on, for example, 250 balls, and the player operates the counting button 28 on the game machine information. If not done before sending, the number of counting balls contains information on 0 (zero) balls.

That is, in the communication between the CU 3 and the P unit 2, it is premised that the game machine information and the counting information (specific information) are both communicated by a common terminal as shown in FIG. Under this premise, by transmitting the counting information to the CU 3 at the timing corresponding to the specific period (specified period B) shorter than the predetermined period (specified period A) after the game machine information is transmitted, the game machine information and counting The information is transmitted at different timings, the information is not mixed, and the information having different properties can be more accurately distinguished outside the P unit 2. In particular, since the counting information regarding the game value corresponds to the game value possessed by the player, for the purpose of preventing the player from being disadvantaged, a predetermined period (specified period) after the game machine information is transmitted. By having a configuration in which the counting information is transmitted to the CU 3 at a timing corresponding to a specific period (specified period B) shorter than A), the CU 3 can receive various information more accurately. It should be noted that the transmission of the counting information is not limited to the case where the counting information is transmitted within the specified period B from the timing of transmitting the game machine information, as long as the timing does not cause congestion with the game machine information, and the next time after the specified period B elapses. It may be until the timing when the game machine information of is transmitted.

In FIG. 12, after the count information is transmitted to the CU 3, the loan information is received from the CU 3 during the reception valid time (for example, 170 ms). The lending information transmitted from the CU 3 to the P unit 2 includes information on the number of lending balls and the lending serial number. If the player operates the ball lending button 321 or the replay button before transmitting the game machine information, the number of rented balls includes, for example, information on 125 balls, and the player rents the ball button 321. Alternatively, if the replay button is not operated before the game machine information is transmitted, the number of rented balls includes the information of 0 (zero) balls.

The loan response information communicates with the game machine information on the common asynchronous serial communication port. Therefore, when the loan response information is transmitted from the CU3 at the timing of transmitting the game machine information, the information is congested within the common asynchronous serial communication port, data collision occurs, and communication is not performed correctly. there is a possibility.

Therefore, the CU 3 transmits the lending information to the P unit 2 during the reception valid time after receiving the counting information. That is, the P unit 2 receives the information on the number of rented balls and the rented serial number from the CU 3 at the timing within the reception valid time after transmitting the counting information, and within the response time, the rented ball number receipt result and the rented serial number The loan response information is transmitted to CU3. That is, it is a timing corresponding to a response time shorter than the specified period A after the P unit 2 transmits the game information every specified period A and further receives the loan information, and is different from the transmission timing of the CU3. , The response information of the loan information is transmitted to CU3. Further, the CU3 can receive the game information every specified period A, and is a timing corresponding to a response time shorter than the specified period A after transmitting the loan information, which is the timing of transmitting the game machine information. The response information of the loan information can be received from the P unit 2 at different timings. In the communication between the CU 3 and the P unit 2, in particular, since the lending information regarding the game value corresponds to the game value possessed by the player, the game machine information is used for the purpose of preventing the player from being disadvantaged. And the response information of the loan information are transmitted at different timings, which has the effect of avoiding congestion between the game machine information and the response information of the loan information.

In FIG. 12, communication between the CU 3 and the P unit 2 which determines the timing of transmitting the counting information based on the timing of transmitting the technical machine information and determines the timing of receiving the lending information based on the timing of transmitting the counting information. Although the above example has been described, the communication between the CU 3 and the P unit 2 may be performed at another timing such as determining the timing of transmitting / receiving the counting information and the lending information based on the timing of transmitting the game machine information.

The CU 3 will explain in more detail the timing of transmitting the lending information within the reception valid time after receiving the counting information. FIG. 13 is a timing chart of information transmitted and received between the card unit and the pachinko gaming machine.

First, in (i) shown in FIG. 13, when the game becomes possible, the frame control board 17 transmits the game machine information to the CU 3 at a cycle of 300 ms. In (ii), the frame control board 17 transmits the counting information 100 ms after the game machine information is transmitted, regardless of whether or not the player operates the counting button 28. Further, when the counting button 28 is pressed within the cycle of 300 ms, the counting information is transmitted with the number of counting balls set to 250. If the counting button 28 is not operated, the counting information is transmitted by inputting 0 (zero) information into the number of counting balls.

In (iii), the CU 3 transmits the lending information within 170 ms (reception valid time) from the completion of receiving the counting information. Further, when the ball lending button 321 or the replay button is pressed within the cycle of 300 ms, the lending information is transmitted with the number of lending balls set to 125. If there is no operation of the ball lending button 321 or the replay button, the lending information is transmitted by putting 0 (zero) information in the number of lending balls. The CU3 transmits the lending information within 170 ms from the completion of receiving the counting information, but the CU3 does not transmit the response information corresponding to the counting information. Therefore, the P unit 2 side does not recognize whether or not the CU 3 has received the counting information.

In (iv), when the frame control board 17 receives the information on the number of rented balls and the rented serial number from the CU3, the frame control board 17 receives the rented ball number receipt result and the rented serial number lending response information within 10 ms (response time) from the reception of the information. Send to CU3. (V) After that, the same operation is repeated in a cycle of 300 ms.

At the timing shown in FIG. 13, lending information and lending response information are transmitted and received between the CU 3 and the P unit 2 without the player operating the ball lending button 321 or the replay button. However, unless the player operates the ball lending button 321 or the replay button, the lending information and the lending response information may not be transmitted or received between the CU 3 and the P unit 2. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a modified example of the timing of lending information and lending response information transmitted and received between the card unit and the pachinko gaming machine.

First, in (i) shown in FIG. 14, when the game becomes possible, the frame control board 17 transmits the game machine information to the CU 3 at a cycle of 300 ms. In (ii), the frame control board 17 transmits the counting information 100 ms after the game machine information is transmitted, regardless of whether or not the player operates the counting button 28. Further, when the counting button 28 is pressed within the cycle of 300 ms, the counting information is transmitted with the number of counting balls set to 250. If the counting button 28 is not operated, the counting information is transmitted by inputting 0 (zero) information into the number of counting balls. After that, the same operation is repeated in a cycle of 300 ms.

In (iv), when the ball lending button 321 or the replay button is pressed, the CU 3 transmits the lending information with the number of lending balls set to 125 within 170 ms (reception valid time) from the completion of receiving the counting information. That is, the operation of the ball lending button 321 or the replay button by the player is performed before the counting information is transmitted, and after the operation, waiting for the timing of receiving the counting information from the P unit 2 within 170 ms. Lending information is sent at (valid reception time). On the other hand, when the ball lending button 321 or the replay button is not pressed, the CU 3 does not transmit the lending information even if the reception of the counting information is completed. In (v), when the frame control board 17 receives the information on the number of rented balls and the rented serial number from the CU3, the frame control board 17 receives the rented ball number receipt result and the rented serial number lending response information within 10 ms (response time) from the reception of the information. Send to CU3.

Next, when information is transmitted / received between the card unit and the pachinko gaming machine at the timing shown in FIG. 13, processing when a non-connection occurs between the card unit and the pachinko gaming machine will be described. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing the timing of information when a non-connection occurs between the card unit and the pachinko gaming machine. Since the processing at the timings (i) to (v) shown in FIG. 15 is the same as the processing at the timing shown in FIG. 13, the processing at the timing after (vi) will be described.

In (vi), when the PIF wiring is disconnected between the CU 3 and the P stand 2 and a disconnection occurs, the voltage of the connection confirmation power supply VL supplied to the wiring numbers 8 and 9 is changed from 5V to 0 (vi). It changes to (zero) V (change from VL = ON to OFF). Based on the change in the voltage of the power supply VL for connection confirmation supplied to the wiring numbers 8 and 9 from 5V to 0V, the frame control board 17 signals the launch control board 31 to stop firing the game ball. Is output. As described above, by performing the processing as shown in FIG. 15, the P unit 2 can stop the launch of the game ball with a simple configuration and processing without performing authentication with the CU3. Further, the operation of the counting button 28 on the counting switch board is invalidated based on the change in the voltage of the power supply VL for connection confirmation from 5V to 0V. When the P unit 2 is the primary station, when the player operates the counting button 28 and outputs the counting information to the CU3 when the connection occurs due to the PIF wiring being disconnected or the like, the CU3 to the P unit Since the reception of the counting information is not confirmed for 2, it may be difficult for the CU 3 to perform the recovery process using the game machine information. In order not to cause a disadvantage to the player due to such an event, when a disconnection occurs between the CU 3 and the P unit 2, the operation itself of the counting button 28 is invalidated, or the output of the counting information is invalidated. There is.

Even after the disconnection between the CU 3 and the P stand 2 occurs, in (vii), the frame control board 17 transmits the game machine information to the CU 3 at a cycle of 300 ms when the game becomes possible. In (viii), the frame control board 17 transmits the counting information 100 ms after the game machine information is transmitted, regardless of whether or not the counting button 28 is operated by the player.

<Transmission / reception mode between the card unit side and the pachinko machine side>
Next, FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram showing the main data stored in each of the CU3 side and the P stand 2 side and the transmission / reception mode thereof. With reference to FIG. 16, the main data stored in each of the CU3 side and the P stand 2 side and the transmission / reception mode thereof will be described.

In the present embodiment, the fluctuation of the number of game balls is calculated on the P stand 2 side, and the current latest number of game balls is stored and managed. The CU3 side also calculates and stores the current number of game balls, but the number of game balls is based on the information transmitted from the P unit 2 side. On the other hand, the number of balls held (the number of balls held on the card), the number of stored balls, and the prepaid balance (remaining amount) are managed and stored on the CU3 side.

FIG. 16 shows the stored data of the RAM provided in the CU control unit 323 on the CU3 side and the stored data of the RAM mounted on the frame control board 17 on the P stand 2 side. First, when the power supply is turned on in a state where the P stand 2 and the CU 3 are electrically connected for the first time after being installed in the amusement park, the frame control board 17 on the P stand 2 side is the main chip from the main control board 16. The ID (main control chip ID) is transmitted, the main chip ID is transmitted to the CU3 side, and the frame chip ID (frame control chip ID) stored in the frame control board 17 itself is transmitted to the CU3 side. ..

On the CU3 side, the transmitted main chip ID and frame chip ID are stored. In this state, the information of the main chip ID and the frame chip ID is stored in the CU3 side and the P stand 2 side. When the power is turned on after that, the two pieces of information, that is, the main chip ID and the frame chip ID, are transmitted from the P unit 2 side to the CU3 side.

On the CU3 side, the transmitted data is collated with the already stored data, and it is determined whether or not the same P unit 2 as the previous time is connected. On the other hand, in the P unit 2, after the power is turned on, information such as main chip ID and frame chip ID information, which are installation information, is transmitted to the CU 3, and then the game machine information is transmitted to the outside including the CU 3 at predetermined intervals. Is possible. Since the game machine information can be output on the P unit 2 without going through the authentication process, the processing load can be reduced.

Both the CU 3 and the P unit 2 transmit the telegram with a "serial number" added. Further, both the CU 3 and the P unit 2 store the "serial number" received from the other party. There are three types of "serial numbers": "game ball number serial numbers", "counting serial numbers", and "rental serial numbers". "Serial number" indicates the sequence number of the telegram. The "serial number" is transmitted by counting up (+1) the serial number received at the time of transmission by the transmitting side (primary station side) with the initial value set to "1". However, when resending, the "serial number" is not counted up. The receiving side (secondary station side) transmits the received serial number as it is. If the continuity of the serial numbers is not established, there is no response. The "game ball number serial number" is a serial number used when the P unit 2 notifies the CU 3 of the number of game balls. The "counting serial number" is a serial number used when the P stand 2 requests the CU 3 to count the game balls. The "rental serial number" is a serial number used when the CU 3 requests the P unit 2 to lend a game ball.

The latest game machine performance information, hall control information, and fraud monitoring information are transmitted from the P stand 2 side to the CU 3 side. The latest game machine performance information, hall control information, and fraud monitoring information are stored in the RAM of the frame control unit 171 (see FIG. 2) on the P unit 2 side. Specifically, the information of the counting ball counter is included. As for the number of game balls, the count value of the game ball counter is transmitted from the P unit 2 side to the CU3 side as fraud monitoring information. However, instead of this, or in addition to the game ball number counter, the game ball number may be included in the latest game machine performance information.

The information of these counters is collectively transmitted to the CU3 side as game machine information. In CU3, the change in the number of game balls is grasped from the latest game machine performance information and hall control information transmitted from the P unit 2. In CU3, for example, the number of game balls is added based on the "number of prize balls x number of winning balls" included in the hall control information, and the number of game balls is subtracted based on the "number of launched balls". Further, the counting ball number counter is a counter that counts the number of counting balls. The number of counting balls is "the number of balls converted from a game ball to a holding ball by a counting operation". The cumulative counting ball number counter is a counter that counts the cumulative counting ball number. The cumulative number of counting balls is the "cumulative number of balls converted from a game ball to a holding ball by a counting operation", and is the cumulative number of balls counted from the RAM clear (initialization operation) or the cumulative number counted on that day. The number of balls. It is assumed that the cumulative number of balls does not change even if the player changes. Further, a 2-byte data area is allocated to the cumulative counting ball number counter, and information on 0 balls to 65,535 balls can be stored. Therefore, when the cumulative counting ball number counter counts the cumulative counting ball number to "0xFFFF (65,535 balls)", the next value is updated to "0x0000 (0 balls)". If a counting operation is accepted during the launch of the game ball, the update process of the game point to be counted is prioritized, the launch of the game ball is stopped, and the update process of the game point corresponding to the launch is performed. Stops execution. As a result, it is possible to prevent the timing of the subtraction of the game points to be counted and the subtraction of the game points corresponding to the firing from overlapping, and the game point update process can be realized more accurately, which is erroneous. It is possible to prevent the occurrence of update processing. Further, the subtraction of the game points to be counted and the subtraction of the game points corresponding to the firing may be performed at the same time. As a result, the launch of the game ball is not stopped, so that a smooth game can be realized. Here, the "prize ball" is a ball that is paid out when the ball wins a prize in the winning opening, and is a safe ball. The "launched ball" is a ball launched by the game machine, and if there is a back ball, the number of balls obtained by subtracting the back ball is the number of launched balls.

By pressing the counting button 28, the frame control unit 171 counts the number of game balls as the number of counting balls, and transmits the value of the counting ball counter (the number of counting balls) from the P unit 2 side to the CU3 side. Further, the frame control unit 171 updates the value of the cumulative counting ball counter every time the value of the counting ball counter (counting ball number) is counted, and the value of the cumulative counting ball counter (cumulative counting ball number). Is transmitted from the P stand 2 side to the CU3 side.

On the P unit 2 side, each time the value of the counting ball counter is transmitted to the CU3 side, the count value is stored (rewritten) as backup data in the previous game machine information storage area (RAM of the frame control unit 171 or the like). After that, the value of the counting ball counter is cleared to 0 (excluding the game ball counter). In the present embodiment, "clear" has the same meaning as "initialization".

As a result, the data of the number of counting balls transmitted to the CU3 side immediately before is stored as backup data in the storage area of the previous game machine information (game machine information transmitted immediately before). This backup data is not only the value of each counter this time but also the value of each previous counter that was not transmitted at the time of the next transmission when the data of the number of counting balls was not transmitted from the P unit 2 side to the CU3 side. Is also intended to be able to be sent. The number of game balls transmitted immediately before may be further added to the previous game machine information and stored.

Further, the frame control board 17 updates the value of the game ball number counter according to the occurrence of winning, the firing of the ball, and the generation of the counting ball (conversion from the game ball to the possessed ball), and the game after the update. The value of the ball number counter is transmitted to the CU3 side as the number of game balls.

On the CU3 side, the number of game balls, the number of cards held (simply referred to as the number of balls held), the number of stored balls, the remaining amount, and the number of balls held when the card is inserted are stored in the cumulative data storage area in the RAM. The number of balls held by the card is the number of balls lent out (the number of balls converted from the number of balls held by the card into the number of game balls) added from the number of balls held when the card is inserted. That is, the number of balls held by the card is the number of balls held by the player at the present time.

The number of balls held by the card is added based on the value of the counting ball number counter transmitted from the P unit 2, and is subtracted from the number of game balls to update. In this way, the CU 3 can manage the latest information by updating the number of game balls and the number of cards held by the latest game machine information transmitted from the P unit 2 one by one.

As shown in the figure, the CU 3 has an area for storing the number of game balls, and also receives the count value of the game ball counter (also referred to as the number of game balls or the total number of game balls) from the P stand 2 side. .. The CU 3 updates the area for storing the number of game balls by the following procedure. That is, the CU 3 grasps the change in the number of game balls from the latest game machine performance information and the hall control information transmitted from the P unit 2 side, and is based on the value of the counting ball counter and the value of the number of rented balls. , The stored number of game balls is updated, and it is determined whether or not the count value of the game ball counter transmitted from the P unit 2 side and the updated number of game balls match. If they match, the game is allowed to continue, but if they do not match, control is performed to shift to an error state.

As a result, for example, an error notification is performed by the abnormality notification lamp or the display 54, or an error notification signal indicating that an error has occurred is transmitted to the hall management computer or the hall server (in this case, the hall management computer). Or error notification may be performed by the hall server). As a result, a predetermined notification is performed to encourage the staff to take an artificial response.

In addition, instead of shifting to the error state and stopping the game, even if the number of game balls stored on the CU3 side is replaced with the count value of the game ball counter transmitted from the P unit 2 side. Good. Alternatively, instead, the average value of the number of game balls managed on the CU3 side and the number of game balls stored on the P stand 2 side may be corrected.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the number of game balls is also stored on the CU3 side, but it is determined whether or not the number of game balls matches the number of game balls managed and stored on the P unit 2 side. (CU3 side function). Therefore, even if a situation occurs in which the number of game balls stored on the P unit 2 side does not match the number of game balls stored on the CU3 side due to fraudulent activity or other circumstances, it is possible to check that fact. Here, the determination function is provided on the CU3 side. For example, the number of game balls stored on the CU3 side and the number of game balls stored on the P unit 2 side are stored by the hall server or hall management computer connected to the CU3. It may be possible to receive the number of game balls and determine whether or not the two are consistent.

Further, when the CU3 cannot receive the counting information, the number of game balls stored on the CU3 side and the number of game balls managed and stored on the P unit 2 side do not match, so that a special process is executed. .. As the special process, in order to compensate the number of game balls based on the game machine information, a process of displaying the history information of the game machine information is performed, the number of game balls is compensated based on the history information, and an error notification is performed. Or.

Further, as shown in FIG. 16, the CU 3 has a storage area for storing the number of cards held and the number of stored balls, a storage area for storing the prepaid balance of the received (inserted) card, and a ball held when the card is inserted. It also has a storage area for storing. The CU control unit 323 (see FIG. 2) stores the stored balls in response to an input requesting the use of the stored balls (for example, a pressing input of a replay button provided on the CU 3 (however, when there is no ball)). Subtract a predetermined number of stored balls from the area.

The CU control unit 323 (see FIG. 2) stores the holding ball in response to an input requesting the use of the holding ball (for example, a pressing input of a replay button provided on the CU 3 when the holding ball is present). Subtract a predetermined number of balls from. Further, the CU control unit 323 (see FIG. 2) subtracts a predetermined value from the storage area for storing the prepaid balance in response to an input requesting the use of the prepaid balance (for example, a pressing input of the ball lending button 321).

When the player performs an operation of lending a value of a predetermined size from the possession value owned by the player (for example, the number of balls held, the number of stored balls, or the prepaid balance) and using it for the game, the number of balls to be withdrawn. The number of rented balls for adding to the game ball number counter is transmitted from the CU3 side to the P unit 2 side. In response to this, the P-unit 2 side adds and updates the game ball number counter.

<Counting notification sequence>
Next, among the communication sequences between the CU 3 and the P unit 2, a counting notification sequence in which a part of the game ball is counted and subtracted will be described. 17 and 18 are diagrams showing a counting notification sequence between the card unit and the pachinko gaming machine. 17 and 18 show a case where the counting button 28 is pressed without detecting the card return operation.

Further, in FIG. 17, the number of balls held by the inserted recording medium (membership card or visitor card) is "100", and the initial number of game balls is "1000". ..

Here, an example will be described in which counting continues in units of 250 balls while the operation of the counting button 28 is detected, and the counting operation ends when the operation of the counting button 28 is no longer detected. However, even if the number of game balls to be counted increases according to the time when the counting button 28 is long-pressed, or when the counting button 28 is long-pressed for a certain period of time, all the number of game balls held are all. You may count.

First, the P unit transmits a game machine information notification (hereinafter, simply referred to as a game machine information notification) including any one of the hall control / fraud monitoring information, the game machine installation information, and the game machine performance information to the CU3. .. Since the included information is hall control / fraud monitoring information, it includes information of serial number = n and number of game balls = 1000. Within 100 ms (within the specified period B shown in FIG. 12) after transmitting the game machine information notification to the CU3, the P unit transmits the counting information including the telegram of the counting notification to the CU3.

If the player presses the counting button 28 before transmitting the counting information to the CU3, the P unit has a counting serial number = m, a counting ball number = 250, and a cumulative counting ball number = 250 in the message of the counting notification. Notify the CU3 of the counting information including the information. When the P unit sends a telegram of the counting notification including the information of the number of counting balls = 250 to the CU3, the number of gaming balls = 750 is obtained by subtracting the counted 250 balls from the information of the number of gaming balls = 1000. Update to information. On the other hand, in the P unit, if the player does not press the counting button 28 by the time the counting information is transmitted to the CU 3, the counting serial number = m, the number of counting balls = 0, the cumulative number of counting balls = in the message of the counting notification. Notify CU3 that there is no count including the information of 0.

For example, when the player has not operated the counting button 28, the number of counting balls included in the telegram of the counting notification transmitted to the CU 3 is the counting data of 0 (zero) balls. Further, when a continuous operation of less than 0.5 seconds is detected according to the operation of the counting button 28 of the player, the number of counting balls included in the telegram of the counting notification transmitted to the CU 3 is the counting data of one ball. .. This is an operation used for adjusting the fraction of the holding ball. Further, when the continuous operation of 0.5 seconds or more and less than 0.8 seconds is detected, the number of counting balls included in the message of the counting notification transmitted to the CU 3 is the counting data of 250 balls. When a continuous operation of 0.8 seconds or more is detected, the number of counting balls included in the message of the counting notification first sent to CU3 becomes the counting data of 250 balls, and the counting notification sent to CU3 every 0.3 seconds thereafter. The number of counting balls included in the message is 250 counting data. That is, when the player continuously operates the counting button 28, the counting data for 250 balls is transmitted to the CU 3 every 0.3 seconds.

The CU 3 receives the counting information from the P unit 2, adds the number of counting balls to the number of balls held, and updates the number of balls held = 100 + 250 = 350. The CU 3 sends the lending information including the telegram of the lending notification to the P stand 2 within the reception valid period (see FIG. 12) after receiving the counting information from the P stand 2 regardless of whether or not the ball lending button 321 is pressed. Send. The telegram of the loan notification includes information on the loan serial number = k and the number of loan balls = 0.

The P unit 2 receives the loan information from the CU 3 and transmits the loan response information including the message of the loan receipt result response to the CU 3 within the response time (see FIG. 12). The telegram of the loan receipt result response includes information that the loan serial number = k and the number of loaned balls received = normal.

The P unit 2 transmits the game machine information notification to the CU 3 after the lapse of the specified period A (see FIG. 12) after the previous game machine information notification is transmitted to the CU 3. The new game machine information notification to be transmitted to the CU 3 includes information of the serial number = n + 1 updated to the hall control / fraud monitoring information and the subtracted number of game balls = 750.

When the player continues to press the counting button 28 when transmitting a new game machine information notification to the CU 3, the P unit 2 updates the counting serial number = m + 1, the number of counting balls = to the telegram of the counting notification. Notify the CU3 of the counting information including the information of 250 and the cumulative number of counting balls = 500. When the P unit sends a telegram of the counting notification including the information of the number of counting balls = 250 to the CU3, the number of gaming balls = 500 by subtracting the counted 250 balls from the information of the number of gaming balls = 750 possessed. Update to information. Further, the P unit 2 is updated to the information of the cumulative number of counting balls = 500 by adding the information of the current number of counting balls = 250 to the information of the previous cumulative number of counting balls = 250.

The CU 3 receives the counting information from the P unit 2, adds the number of counting balls to the number of balls held, and updates the number of balls held = 350 + 250 = 600. The CU 3 transmits the lending information including the telegram of the lending notification to the P stand 2 regardless of whether or not the ball lending button 321 is pressed within the reception valid period after receiving the counting information from the P stand 2. The telegram of the loan notification includes the updated information of the loan serial number = k + 1 and the number of loan balls = 0.

The P unit 2 receives the loan information from the CU 3 and transmits the loan response information including the telegram of the loan receipt result response to the CU 3 within the response time. The message of the loan receipt result response includes the updated loan serial number = k + 1, and the loan ball number receipt result = normal information.

In the sequence shown in FIG. 18, if the player stops pressing the count button 28 before transmitting the new game machine information notification to the CU 3, the P unit 2 is after the timing of transmitting the next game machine information notification to the CU 3. , Do not count. Specifically, in the P unit 2, when the player stops pressing the counting button 28 when transmitting a new game machine information notification to the CU 3, the counting serial number = m + 2, which is updated in the telegram of the counting notification, is counted. Notify CU3 of the counting information including the information of the number of balls = 0 and the cumulative number of counting balls = 500.

That is, the P unit sends a telegram of the counting notification including the information of the number of counting balls = 0 to the CU3 without counting, and keeps the information of the number of gaming balls held = 500 and outputs the information of the number of gaming balls. Do not update. Further, the P unit 2 does not update the information by keeping the information of the cumulative counting ball number as the information of the previous cumulative counting ball number = 500.

Even if the CU 3 receives the counting information from the P unit 2, the number of counting balls = 0, so the number of balls held = 600 is not updated. The CU 3 transmits the lending information including the telegram of the lending notification to the P stand 2 regardless of whether or not the ball lending button 321 is pressed within the reception valid period after receiving the counting information from the P stand 2. The message of the loan notification includes the updated information of the loan serial number = k + 2 and the number of loan balls = 0.

The P unit 2 receives the loan information from the CU 3 and transmits the loan response information including the telegram of the loan receipt result response to the CU 3 within the response time. The message of the loan receipt result response includes the updated loan serial number = k + 2, and the loan ball number receipt result = normal information. The P unit 2 transmits the game machine information notification to the CU 3 after the lapse of the specified period A after the previous transmission of the game machine information notification to the CU 3.

<Communication error sequence during counting>
Next, the communication abnormality sequence during counting will be described. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a communication abnormality sequence during counting between the card unit and the pachinko gaming machine. The communication abnormality includes a case where one message is lost due to noise or the like, and a case where communication between the CU 3 and the P unit 2 cannot be performed normally for some reason. FIG. 19 shows a case where the counting button 28 is pressed without detecting the card return operation.

Further, in FIG. 19, the number of balls held by the inserted recording medium (membership card or visitor card) is "0", and the initial number of game balls is "1000". ..

Here, when the pressing of the counting button 28 is detected, the counting operation of the game balls in a predetermined unit (for example, 250 ball units) is performed, and when the pressing of the counting button 28 is no longer detected, the counting operation is performed. An example of terminating will be described. However, even if the number of game balls to be counted increases according to the time when the counting button 28 is long-pressed, or when the counting button 28 is long-pressed for a certain period of time, all the number of game balls held are all. You may count.

First, the P unit transmits a game machine information notification to the CU3. The game machine information notification includes information on the number of game balls = 1000 balls. Within 100 ms (within the specified period B shown in FIG. 12) after transmitting the game machine information notification to the CU3, the P unit transmits the counting information including the telegram of the counting notification to the CU3.

Since the player has pressed the counting button 28 by the time the counting information is transmitted to the CU 3, the P stand 2 displays the information of the number of counting balls = 250 balls and the cumulative number of counting balls = 150 balls in the telegram of the counting notification. Including, notify CU3 of the counting information. When the telegram of the counting notification including the information of the number of counting balls = 250 balls is transmitted to the CU 3, the P stand 2 subtracts the counted 250 balls from the information of the number of gaming balls held = 1000 balls and the number of gaming balls. = Update to 750 ball information.

The CU 3 receives the counting information from the P stand 2, converts the number of counting balls into a holding ball, adds the number of counting balls to the number of holding balls, and updates the number of holding balls = 0 + 250 = 250 balls. .. Further, when the number of balls held is updated, the CU3 updates the stored cumulative number of counting balls = 0 + 250 = 250 balls.

Although not shown, the CU 3 subsequently receives the counting information from the P unit 2 and then within the reception valid period, the P unit receives the lending information including the telegram of the lending notification regardless of whether or not the ball lending button 321 is pressed. Send to 2. The P unit 2 receives the loan information from the CU 3 and transmits the loan response information including the telegram of the loan receipt result response to the CU 3 within the response time. The P unit 2 transmits the game machine information notification to the CU 3 after the lapse of the specified period A after the previous transmission of the game machine information notification to the CU 3.

When the P unit 2 detects that the player presses the counting button 28 when transmitting a new game machine information notification to the CU 3, the number of counting balls = 250 balls and the cumulative number of counting balls = 250 in the telegram of the counting notification. Notify CU3 of counting information including ball information. When the telegram of the counting notification including the information of the number of counting balls = 250 balls is transmitted to the CU3, the number of playing balls = 250 balls counted is subtracted from the information of the number of gaming balls held = 750 balls. Update to information on 500 balls. Further, the P unit 2 is updated to the information of the cumulative number of counting balls = 500 balls by adding the information of the current number of counting balls = 250 balls to the information of the previous cumulative counting balls = 250 balls.

However, the counting information transmitted from the P stand 2 has not reached the CU3 due to a communication error, and the CU3 has not received the counting information from the P stand 2, so that 250 counting balls are missing and the number of balls held. = 250 balls remain. That is, the number of counting balls included in the P unit 2 is different depending on whether or not the condition relating to the communication abnormality with the CU 3 is satisfied, the transmission is performed at a predetermined interval, and the pressing of the counting button 28 is accepted. .. Although not shown, the CU 3 subsequently transmits the lending information including the telegram of the lending notification to the P unit 2 regardless of whether or not the ball lending button 321 is pressed. Further, the P unit 2 transmits the game machine information notification to the CU 3 after the lapse of the specified period A after the previous transmission of the game machine information notification to the CU 3.

Since the player's pressing of the counting button 28 has not been detected when the game machine information notification is transmitted to the CU3, the information of the number of counting balls = 0 balls and the cumulative number of counting balls = 500 balls is added to the telegram of the counting notification. Including, the CU3 is notified of the counting information. However, since the telegram of the previous counting notification could not be received due to a communication abnormality, the cumulative number of counting balls stored in CU3 = 250 balls. Therefore, the CU3 determines that the message of the previous count notification could not be received due to a communication error and the count is lost, and the previous cumulative number of counting balls = 250 balls (the cumulative number of counting balls stored in the CU3) and the current cumulative number. Automatic correction is performed with a difference of 250 balls from the number of counting balls = 500 balls (cumulative number of counting balls newly received from the P unit 2). At this time, the CU 3 does not notify the error. The CU 3 updates the stored cumulative number of counting balls to 500 balls when the difference 250 balls are automatically corrected as holding balls.

When a counting loss occurs in the CU 3 and the automatic correction is performed, the error notification is not performed, but the hall controller or the ball holding management server may be notified that the automatic correction has been performed. Of course, even when a counting loss occurs in CU3 and it is automatically corrected, an error notification may be performed.

In the case of a gaming device that cannot be automatically corrected, a notification is sent to the clerk to urge recovery after an abnormality occurs. The clerk confirms the number of game balls of the game machine, confirms the number of balls held by the player and the reception history of the counting information on the screen of the game device, and determines the number of game balls of the game machine and the number of balls held by the player. It was necessary to calculate the difference and operate the POS terminal of the prize counter to add the difference to the player's card. In CU3, such complicated processing becomes unnecessary, a defect occurs, the number of counting balls can be automatically corrected and added to the number of balls held, and the correction work by the clerk can be eliminated to prevent work mistakes.

Of course, instead of automatically correcting the number of counting balls due to a defect in CU3 as described above, when a counting defect occurs, CU3 sets the cumulative number of counting balls of the previous time and the cumulative number of counting balls of this time in an error state. The missing value may be calculated in advance from the difference between the above, and a part of the correction work by the clerk may be reduced. The clerk who has confirmed the missing value calculated in advance by the CU 3 can add the number of counting balls to the number of balls by performing the correction work on the management server or the CU3. Even in such a case, it is possible to omit the work of checking the number of game balls of the game machine and checking the number of balls held by the player and the reception history of the counting information on the screen of the game device, so that a part of the correction work can be omitted. Can be reduced.

<Communication error sequence due to PIF disconnection>
Next, a communication abnormality sequence due to PIF disconnection will be described. FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a communication abnormality sequence due to a PIF disconnection between the card unit and the pachinko gaming machine. In FIG. 20, the voltage of the power supply VL for connection confirmation described with reference to FIG. 15 changes from 5V to 0V (off state: VL = OFF), or the output of the connection confirmation signal PSI changes to an off state (PSI = OFF). Then, the case of detecting the PIF disconnection will be described as an example. The PIF disconnection may be detected by a method other than that shown in FIG.

First, the P unit transmits a game machine information notification to the CU3. The game machine information notification includes information on the number of game balls = 1000 balls. Within 100 ms (within the specified period B shown in FIG. 12) after transmitting the game machine information notification to the CU3, the P unit transmits the counting information including the telegram of the counting notification to the CU3.

Since the player has pressed the counting button 28 by the time the counting information is transmitted to the CU3, the number of counting balls = 250 balls and the cumulative number of counting balls = 250 balls are included in the telegram of the counting notification. Notify CU3 of the counting information. When the telegram of the counting notification including the information of the number of counting balls = 250 balls is transmitted to the CU 3, the P stand 2 subtracts the counted 250 balls from the information of the number of gaming balls held = 1000 balls and the number of gaming balls. = Update to 750 ball information.

The CU 3 receives the counting information from the P stand 2, converts the number of counting balls into a holding ball, adds the number of counting balls to the number of holding balls, and updates the number of holding balls = 0 + 250 = 250 balls. .. Further, when the number of balls held is updated, the CU3 updates the stored cumulative number of counting balls = 0 + 250 = 250 balls.

Although not shown, the CU 3 subsequently includes a telegram of the loan notification regardless of whether or not the ball lending button 321 is pressed within the reception valid period (see FIG. 12) after receiving the counting information from the P unit 2. The rental information is transmitted to the P unit 2. The P unit 2 receives the loan information from the CU 3 and transmits the loan response information including the message of the loan receipt result response to the CU 3 within the response time (see FIG. 12). The P unit 2 transmits the game machine information notification to the CU 3 after the lapse of the specified period A (see FIG. 12) after the previous game machine information notification is transmitted to the CU 3.

After that, when the PIF disconnection occurs, the voltage of the power supply VL for connection confirmation changes from 5V to 0V (off state: VL = OFF), or the output of the connection confirmation signal PSI is off (PSI = OFF). ) Is detected, the PIF disconnection is detected, and the launch of the game ball is stopped. When the CU 3 detects a PIF disconnection, it displays an error and then turns off the connection confirmation power supply VL supplied to the wiring numbers 8 and 9 shown in FIG. 3 (VL = OFF). In the P stand 2, after the PIF disconnection occurs, the launch of the game ball is stopped and the operation of the counting button 28 is invalidated.

When the power supply VL for connection confirmation is turned off, the condition regarding the communication abnormality between the P stand 2 and the CU 3 is satisfied, and thereafter, the launch of the game ball is stopped and the operation of the counting button 28 is invalid. However, regardless of whether or not the condition regarding the communication abnormality is satisfied, the counting notification including the counting information is transmitted from the P unit 2 to the CU 3 at predetermined intervals. The counting information included in the counting notification has a different size of counting balls depending on whether or not the operation of the counting button 28 is accepted. As a result, the counting information (predetermined information) is information that is periodically transmitted, and when the counting information is not reached, it can be detected at an early stage.

If the player detects that the counting button 28 is pressed before the PIF disconnection occurs, the P stand 2 sends a new gaming machine information notification (not shown) to the CU 3, and then sends a counting ball to the counting notification telegram. Notify CU3 of the counting information including the information of the number = 250 balls and the cumulative counting number of balls = 500 balls. When the telegram of the counting notification including the information of the number of counting balls = 250 balls is transmitted to the CU3, the number of playing balls = 250 balls counted is subtracted from the information of the number of gaming balls held = 750 balls. Update to information on 500 balls. Further, the P unit 2 is updated to the information of the cumulative number of counting balls = 500 balls by adding the information of the current number of counting balls = 250 balls to the information of the previous cumulative counting balls = 250 balls.

However, the counting information transmitted from the P unit 2 has not reached the CU3 due to the occurrence of PIF disconnection, and the CU3 has not received the counting information from the P unit 2, so 250 counting balls are missing and possessed. The number of balls = 250 balls remains.

While the PIF disconnection is occurring, the P stand 2 transmits the SC board status notification to the CU 3. The SC board status notification includes information on a PIF disconnection error. When the CU 3 receives the SC board status notification including the information of the PIF disconnection error from the P stand 2, the CU 3 displays the PIF disconnection error on the display 54 or the like.

When the clerk performs an operation of canceling the PIF disconnection and canceling the error with the remote controller in response to the PIF disconnection error display, the CU 3 transmits the SC board status response to the P stand 2. The SC board status response includes information that the CU status is ready (game machine communication start OK).

After that, the P unit 2 transmits the game machine information notification to the CU 3. The game machine information notification includes information on the number of game balls = 700 balls. The previous number of game balls included in the game machine information notification received from the P unit 2 before the PIF disconnection occurs is the number of game balls = 750 balls. Therefore, the CU3 determines that the telegram of the previous count notification cannot be received due to the PIF disconnection and the count is lost, and the previous number of game balls = 750 balls (the number of game balls memorized in the CU3) and the current number of game balls. = The difference from 500 balls (the number of game balls newly received from P stand 2) is 250 balls, and automatic correction is performed. At this time, the CU 3 does not notify the error.

After that, since the player has not pressed the counting button 28 by the time the counting information is transmitted to the CU 3, the number of counting balls = 0 balls, the cumulative number of counting balls = 500 balls, or the total number of counting balls = 500 balls in the message of the counting notification. Notify CU3 of counting information including information on 0 balls. When a PIF disconnection occurs, it may be necessary to turn off the power of the P unit 2 in order to recover. When the power of the P stand 2 is turned off, the cumulative number of counting balls becomes 0, so that the cumulative number of counting balls cannot be used for automatic correction as shown in FIG. Therefore, when the PIF disconnection occurs, the CU 3 automatically corrects the difference in the number of game balls. The CU3 uses the cumulative number of counting balls first received after restoration as the initial value when the automatic correction is performed.

<Communication error sequence due to power failure>
Next, a communication abnormality sequence due to a power failure will be described. FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a communication abnormality sequence due to a power failure between the card unit and the pachinko gaming machine. In FIG. 21, a case where a power failure occurs and a power failure occurs in the card unit and the pachinko gaming machine will be described as an example.

First, the P unit transmits a game machine information notification to the CU3. The game machine information notification includes information on the number of game balls = 1000 balls. Within 100 ms (within the specified period B shown in FIG. 12) after transmitting the game machine information notification to the CU3, the P unit transmits the counting information including the telegram of the counting notification to the CU3.

Since the player has pressed the counting button 28 by the time the counting information is transmitted to the CU3, the number of counting balls = 250 balls and the cumulative number of counting balls = 250 balls are included in the telegram of the counting notification. Notify CU3 of the counting information. When the telegram of the counting notification including the information of the number of counting balls = 250 balls is transmitted to the CU 3, the P stand 2 subtracts the counted 250 balls from the information of the number of gaming balls held = 1000 balls and the number of gaming balls. = Update to 750 ball information.

The CU 3 receives the counting information from the P stand 2, converts the number of counting balls into a holding ball, adds the number of counting balls to the number of holding balls, and updates the number of holding balls = 0 + 250 = 250 balls. .. Further, when the number of balls held is updated, the CU3 updates the stored cumulative number of counting balls = 0 + 250 = 250 balls.

Although not shown, the CU 3 subsequently includes a telegram of the loan notification regardless of whether or not the ball lending button 321 is pressed within the reception valid period (see FIG. 12) after receiving the counting information from the P unit 2. The rental information is transmitted to the P unit 2. The P unit 2 receives the loan information from the CU 3 and transmits the loan response information including the message of the loan receipt result response to the CU 3 within the response time (see FIG. 12). The P unit 2 transmits the game machine information notification to the CU 3 after the lapse of the specified period A (see FIG. 12) after the previous game machine information notification is transmitted to the CU 3.

After that, the pressing of the counting button 28 by the player is further detected on the P stand 2. When the player detects the pressing of the counting button 28, the P stand 2 subtracts the counted 250 balls from the information on the number of game balls held = 750 and updates the information on the number of game balls = 500 balls. To do.

However, if a power failure occurs after the player detects the pressing of the counting button 28 on the P-unit 2, the P-unit 2 cannot notify the CU of the counting notification telegram. Since the power failure cannot notify the CU3 of the counting information including the information of the number of counting balls = 250 balls and the cumulative number of counting balls = 500 balls from the P stand 2, the counting information from the P stand 2 has not been received, so the number of counting balls. 250 balls are missing, and the number of balls held = 250 balls remains.

After that, the power supply is restored, the start-up process is performed by the P unit 2 and the CU 3, and when the P unit 2 and the CU 3 are restored, the P unit 2 transmits the game machine information notification to the CU 3. The game machine information notification includes information on the number of game balls = 500 balls. The previous number of game balls included in the game machine information notification received from the P unit 2 before the power failure occurs is the number of game balls = 750 balls. Therefore, the CU 3 determines that a communication interruption (electric disconnection) has occurred due to the occurrence of a power failure based on the difference in the number of game balls. Furthermore, the CU3 determines that the previous count notification telegram could not be received due to a power failure and the count was lost, and the previous number of game balls = 750 balls (the number of game balls stored in the CU3) and the current number of game balls = The difference from 500 balls (the number of game balls newly received from P stand 2) is 250 balls, and automatic correction is performed as a ball. At this time, the CU 3 does not notify the error.

After that, since the player has not pressed the counting button 28 by the time the counting information is transmitted to the CU 3, the number of counting balls = 0 and the cumulative number of counting balls = 0 in the message of the counting notification. Notify the CU3 of the counting information including the information. When a power failure occurs, the power of the P unit 2 is always turned off. When the power of the P stand 2 is turned off, the cumulative number of counting balls becomes 0, so that the cumulative number of counting balls cannot be used for automatic correction as shown in FIG. Therefore, when a power failure occurs, the CU 3 automatically corrects the difference in the number of game balls. The CU3 uses the cumulative number of counting balls first received after restoration as the initial value when the automatic correction is performed.

<Communication error sequence at the time of lending>
Next, a communication abnormality sequence at the time of lending will be described. 22 and 23 are diagrams showing a communication abnormality sequence at the time of lending between the card unit and the pachinko gaming machine. If a communication error occurs during lending, the number of lending balls may disappear or double addition may occur.

Specifically, as a case where the number of rented balls disappears, the unit notifies the number of rented balls and the rented serial number, but there is a case where a communication error occurs during renting and the number of rented balls is not received by the game machine. is there. In this case, if counting is performed by the game machine, the unit is subsequently notified of the previous rental serial number and the number of rental balls of 0, so that the unit has not counted the number of rental balls, assuming that the response from the game machine is normal. The number of rented balls is not retransmitted even though it is received. As a result, the number of rented balls that should have been lent to the game machine disappears.

In addition, as a case where double addition of the number of rented balls occurs, a communication error may occur during lending, but the unit may notify the number of rented balls and the rented serial number, and the game machine may have received the number of rented balls. .. In this case, if counting is performed by the game machine, the unit is subsequently notified of the previous rental serial number and the number of rental balls of 0, so that the unit receives the number of rental balls as the response is abnormal from the game machine. Despite this, the number of rented balls is retransmitted. As a result, the number of rented balls lent to the game machine is double-added.

Therefore, the CU 3 has a function of preparing a serial number for confirmation that the P unit 2 does not accept the loan and suspending the loan processing, thereby grasping the loan status of the P unit 2 and determining whether or not the loan is made. There is. With this function, it is possible to prevent the number of rented balls lent to the game machine from being double-added.

First, the P unit transmits a game machine information notification to the CU3. The game machine information notification includes information on the number of game balls = 1000 balls. After that, when the CU 3 detects that the player is pressing the ball lending button 321, the CU 3 starts a process of paying out 250 game balls to the P unit 2 in a divided manner. However, the P unit transmits the counting information including the telegram of the counting notification to the CU 3 within 100 ms after transmitting the game machine information notification to the CU 3.

Since the player has not pressed the counting button 28 by the time the counting information is transmitted to the CU3, the number of counting balls = 0 and the cumulative number of counting balls = 0 are included in the message of the counting notification. Notify CU3 of the counting information. Since the CU 3 gives priority to the reception of the counting notification over the transmission of the lending notification, the information of the number of counting balls = 0 balls included in the counting notification is confirmed. After confirming the information on the number of counting balls, the CU 3 transmits the lending information including the telegram of the lending notification to the P unit 2 within the reception valid period (for example, 170 ms) after receiving the counting information from the P unit 2. .. In CU3, since the player presses the ball lending button 321, the telegram of the lending notification includes the information of the lending serial number = 1 and the number of lending balls = 125 balls, and notifies the P unit 2 of the lending. The CU 3 transmits information on the number of rented balls to the P unit 2 in the range of 1 ball to 255 balls depending on the loan unit price and the loan amount. Therefore, when renting 250 game balls, the 250 balls are divided into 125 balls and paid out to the P unit 2.

Upon receiving the loan information transmitted from the CU 3, the P unit 2 updates the number of game balls to 1125 balls and transmits the loan response information including the message of the loan receipt result response to the CU 3 within the response time (for example, 10 ms). To do. The message of the loan receipt result response includes the information of the loan serial number = 1 and the loan number receipt result = OK (normal).

The P unit 2 transmits the game machine information notification to the CU 3 after the lapse of the specified period A (for example, 300 ms) after the previous transmission of the game machine information notification to the CU 3. The new game machine information notification transmitted to the CU 3 includes information on the number of game balls = 1125. Further, the P unit transmits the counting information including the telegram of the counting notification to the CU 3 within 100 ms after transmitting the game machine information notification to the CU 3.

Since the CU 3 gives priority to the reception of the counting notification over the transmission of the lending notification, the information of the number of counting balls = 0 balls included in the counting notification is confirmed. After confirming the information on the number of counting balls, the CU 3 transmits the lending information including the telegram of the lending notification to the P unit 2 within the reception valid period (for example, 170 ms) after receiving the counting information from the P unit 2. .. The CU 3 includes the information on the remaining number of rented balls divided as information on the rented serial number = 2 and the number of rented balls = 125 in the telegram of the loan notification, and notifies the P unit 2.

Upon receiving the loan information transmitted from the CU 3, the P unit 2 updates the number of game balls to 1250 and transmits the loan response information including the message of the loan receipt result response to the CU 3 within the response time (for example, 10 ms). To do. The message of the loan receipt result response includes the information of the loan serial number = 2 and the loan number receipt result = OK (normal).

However, an abnormality occurred in the communication between the P unit 2 and the CU3, and the telegram of the loan receipt result response sent from the P unit 2 did not reach the CU3, and the CU3 did not receive the loan receipt result response from the P unit 2. Due to the reception, the loan response information including the message of the loan receipt result response cannot be received within the response time (for example, 10 ms). In CU3, it is determined that the lending process is incomplete because the lending result is missing.

Regardless of whether or not the loan receipt result response by CU3 is received, P unit 2 sends the game machine information notification to CU3 after the lapse of the specified period A (for example, 300 ms) after the previous transmission of the game machine information notification to CU3. Send. The new game machine information notification transmitted to the CU 3 includes information on the number of game balls = 1250 balls. In CU3, it is conceivable to use the information on the number of game balls included in the game machine information notification as a loan confirmation as to whether or not the loan process is completed, but since the number of game balls may not be received, the loan confirmation Do not judge. Further, the P unit transmits the counting information including the telegram of the counting notification to the CU 3 within 100 ms after transmitting the game machine information notification to the CU 3.

Since the CU 3 gives priority to the reception of the counting notification over the transmission of the lending notification, the information of the number of counting balls = 0 balls included in the counting notification is confirmed. After confirming the information on the number of counting balls, the CU 3 transmits the lending information including the telegram of the lending notification to the P unit 2 within the reception valid period (for example, 170 ms) after receiving the counting information from the P unit 2. .. Since CU3 determines that the lending process is incomplete because the previous lending result is missing, the lending serial number is used in the telegram of the lending notification using the serial number 0 in which the P unit 2 does not receive the loan. = 0, number of rented balls = 0 balls are included as information and notified to P unit 2. That is, the CU 3 prepares a serial number for confirmation that the P unit 2 does not accept the loan, and suspends the loan process.

The P unit 2 that has received the lending information transmitted from the CU 3 does not perform the lending process and leaves the number of game balls as 1250 as a confirmation serial number that the lending serial number = 0, so the response time (for example). Within 10 ms), the loan response information including the telegram of the loan receipt result response is transmitted to the CU3. Since the loan is not accepted, the message of the loan receipt result response includes the information of the previous loan serial number = 2 and the loan ball number receipt result = NG (abnormal).

When the CU3 receives the loan receipt result response including the information of the loaned ball number receipt result = NG (abnormal), the CU3 determines the loan status by referring to the serial number in the result response. Specifically, if the lending serial number included in the telegram of the previous lending notification and the lending serial number of the telegram of the received lending receipt result response match, CU3 determines that the loan has been completed and does not match (previous lending). In the case of notification-1), it is judged that the loan has not been completed.

<Configuration of game system including card unit and pachinko machine>
The P stand 2 is connected to the CU 3 on a one-to-one basis. In the game hall (hall), there are a plurality of sets of the P stand 2 and the CU 3, and each set is connected to a management computer or a hall controller to form a game system. Hereinafter, a gaming system including the CU 3 and the P stand 2 will be described. FIG. 24 is a block diagram for explaining the configuration of a gaming system including a card unit and a pachinko gaming machine. In the gaming system shown in FIG. 24, an example in which a set of P units 2 and CU 3 are connected to a management computer 802 and a hall controller 810 is shown for simplification of explanation.

The P stand 2 and the CU 3 are connected to each other via the PIF wiring 322. The PIF wiring 322 connects the PIF-E circuit 171a connected to the frame control unit 171 of the P stand 2 and the PIF-E circuit 325a connected to the SC board 325 of the CU3. In the CU 3, the information transmitted from the P stand 2 is concealed by the SC board 325 as necessary, and is output to the outside (management computer 802 or hall controller 810) via the CU control unit 323. The SC board 325 is a security monitoring board for a gaming system. The SC board 325 and the CU control unit 323 may be integrated into one.

The management computer 802 is a computer connected to the external output terminal 340 of the CU3, the card company data center 801 is the center of the card company connected to the management computer 802, and the game machine information center 800 is output from the P unit 2. It is a center that collects various kinds of information.

The Hallcon 810 is a computer that collects game information output from the P unit 2, and the Hallcon output BOX811 can receive information output from the external output terminal 340 of the CU3 by the Hallcon 810, a data lamp, or the like. It is a device that converts to a signal and outputs it. Although FIG. 24 shows a configuration in which the hall control output BOX 811 is provided outside the CU 3, the hall control output BOX 811 may be provided inside the CU 3.

<Communication between Hallcon output BOX and card unit>
The Hallcon output BOX811 is a signal conversion unit for game information, and is a device that outputs game information to the outside (for example, Hallcon 810 or the like). Further, a plurality of hall control output boxes 811 may be connected to the hall control 810 via a repeater (not shown). The Hallcon output BOX811 and the CU3 are connected by serial communication, and it is necessary to ensure some security when connecting to the CU3. Specifically, if the Hallcon output BOX811 is illegally modified and inaccurate information is output to the Hallcon 810, the inaccurate information will be provided to the player, resulting in an inappropriate state. Further, if the possibility of outputting the game machine information differs depending on the specifications of the card unit, the output of the game machine information itself may be wasted. Therefore, while unifying the output from the Hallcon output BOX811 to the outside, the Hallcon output BOX811 performs an authentication process when connecting to the CU3. The CU 3 may have a built-in circuit unit corresponding to the Hallcon output BOX811. The CU3 with a built-in circuit unit corresponding to the Hallcon output BOX811 is connected to the Hallcon 810 by serial communication, and the circuit unit corresponding to the Hallcon output BOX811 performs authentication processing, and according to the result, the game machine information Output is disabled. The communication between the Hallcon output BOX811 and the CU3 will be described in detail below.

25 and 26 are diagrams showing a connection sequence between the card unit and the hall controller output BOX. FIG. 25 shows a connection sequence when the Hallcon output BOX811 is turned on before CU3, and FIG. 26 shows a connection sequence when the Hallcon output BOX811 is turned on after CU3. Shows the connection sequence. First, in the connection sequence of FIG. 25, the hall controller output BOX811 is in a state of waiting for connection with the CU control unit 323 until the power of the CU 3 is turned on and communication with the CU control unit 323 is possible.

When the power of the CU 3 is turned on and communication with the CU control unit 323 becomes possible, the CU control unit 323 confirms the connection destination with the hall controller output BOX811 and requests the issuance of authentication data. The Hallcon output BOX811 performs a connection destination confirmation response to the connection destination confirmation from the CU control unit 323, and issues authentication data to the CU control unit 323. The issued authentication data is stored in the CU control unit 323.

On the other hand, the SC board 325 transmits a command for the hall control output BOX authentication notification to the CU control unit 323. The CU control unit 323 includes the stored authentication data in the command of the Hallcon output BOX authentication response in response to the Hallcon output BOX authentication notification, and transmits the stored authentication data to the SC board 325. The SC board 325 authenticates the hall control output BOX 811 based on the hall control output BOX authentication response. After the authentication of the Hallcon output BOX811, communication between the Hallcon output BOX811 and the CU3 is started. When the communication was started, the SC board 325 transmitted the game machine information notification including the game machine information transmitted from the P stand 2, and the CU control unit 323 transmitted from the SC board 325. The game machine information is included in the command of the hall control information notification and transmitted to the hall control output BOX811. If the hall control output BOX 811 cannot be authenticated (NG), the CU 3 does not communicate with the hall control output BOX 811 and does not output information.

In the connection sequence of FIG. 26, when the power supply of the CU 3 is turned on, the CU control unit 323 requests the hall controller output BOX 811 to issue authentication data, but since the power supply of the hall controller output BOX 811 is still in the OFF state, the authentication data. Not issued. The CU control unit 323 requests the issuance of authentication data until the power of the hall control output BOX 811 is turned on, and waits for a connection with the hall control output BOX 811. Since the processing after the power of the Hallcon output BOX811 is turned on is the same as the processing in the connection sequence of FIG. 25, the description will not be repeated.

Next, the authentication process between the Hallcon output BOX811 and the CU control unit 323 will be described in detail. FIG. 27 is a diagram for explaining communication between the card unit and the hall controller output BOX. First, the CU control unit 323 requests the hall controller output BOX811 to issue authentication data. When requesting the issuance of authentication data, the CU control unit 323 transmits the information of the current date (October 0) and the information of the SC management number as the encryption source data to the Hallcon output BOX811.

In the Hallcon output BOX811, the information obtained by adding the pre-embedded fixed key, the received encryption source data and the expiration date (△ days), and the pre-embedded encryption key A are encrypted by block cipher. To carry out. The Hallcon output BOX811 issues the encrypted information as authentication data to the CU control unit 323. The issued authentication data is stored in the CU control unit 323 as the authentication data of the hall controller output BOX811.

Authentication is performed between the CU control unit 323 and the SC board 325, and communication is possible between the CU control unit 323 and the SC board 325. After that, the SC board 325 transmits a command of the hall control output BOX authentication notification to the CU control unit 323 in order to authenticate with the hall control output BOX 811. The CU control unit 323 halls the stored authentication data, the information on whether or not the hall controller output BOX 811 is connected, and the information on the current date of the encryption source data in response to the hall controller output BOX authentication notification. It is included in the command of the output BOX authentication response and transmitted to the SC board 325. On the SC board 325, the authentication data transmitted in the Hallcon output BOX authentication response is decrypted with the pre-embedded encryption key A, and the fixed key, the encryption source data, and the expiration date (△ days) are added. Get the combined information.

The SC board 325 confirms the expiration date of the authentication data from the obtained information. Specifically, the SC board 325 determines that it is valid until "current date XX day" + "expiration date Δday" = XX day + Δ day. Therefore, the SC board 325 notifies the hall control output BOX 811 of the game information if the hall control output BOX 811 is not connected but is within the expiration date. After that, the SC board 325 checks the authentication data of the Hallcon output BOX811 from the obtained information. Further, after confirming the state of the SC board 325 and the CU control unit 323, the CU 3 starts communication with the P unit 2. The information notified from the SC board 325 to the Hallcon output BOX811 via the CU control unit 323 is encrypted with, for example, a fixed key. When the SC board 325 determines from the obtained information that the authentication of the hall controller output BOX811 is NG, the SC board 325 notifies the abnormality on the display 54. Of course, the CU 3 may output an error signal to the management computer 802 or the like when the authentication of the hall controller output BOX811 is NG.

Here, the contents notified to the CU3 and the hall controller output BOX811 will be described. FIG. 28 is a diagram for explaining the contents notified in the card unit and to the hall controller output BOX. FIG. 28A illustrates the information notified from the SC board 325 to the CU control unit 323 among the information output to the hall controller output BOX811. As shown in FIG. 28A, when the expiration date of the authentication data has expired, the number of launched balls, the total number of prize balls, the main control state, and the game information are not notified from the SC board 325 to the CU control unit 323. However, even if the connection of the hall controller output BOX811 changes without connection, the information notified from the SC board 325 to the CU control unit 323 does not change. In addition to the case where the authentication data has expired, the SC board 325 does not notify the CU control unit 323 of the number of launched balls, the total number of prize balls, the main control state, and the game information even when the authentication fails. Further, in FIG. 28A, since various information such as the number of launched balls, the total number of prize balls, the main control state, and the game information is not notified from the SC board 325 to the CU control unit 323, these information are displayed on the CU3 side. Not done (same as the display limit on the data lamp side below).

FIG. 28B illustrates the information notified from the CU control unit 323 to the hall controller output BOX811. As shown in FIG. 28 (b), when the authentication data has expired, the number of launched balls, the total number of prize balls, the main control state, and the game information are controlled by CU as in FIG. 28 (a). The unit 323 does not notify the hall controller output BOX811. Therefore, in the Hallcon 810 connected to the Hallcon output BOX811, the display of the number of fired balls, the total number of prize balls, the main control state, and the game information is restricted. Further, when the connection of the hall control output BOX 811 changes without connection, the information notified from the SC board 325 to the CU control unit 323 does not change, but the information notified from the CU control unit 323 to the hall control output BOX 811 is not notified. Even if the hall controller output BOX811 cannot be authenticated (NG), the CU 3 can play a game on the P unit 2 as long as it can communicate with the P unit 2. Further, even if the authentication of the hall controller output BOX811 has expired, the CU 3 can play a game on the P unit 2 as long as it can communicate with the P unit 2. Further, the hall controller output BOX811 can be connected to a data lamp (call lamp), and when the notification is restricted due to the authentication failure, the update of the data lamp display is restricted. For example, on the data lamp side, the update of the display such as the number of starts, the number of big hits, and the big hit status display is restricted.

<Information output from the Hallcon output BOX to the Hallcon>
Next, the information output from the Hallcon output BOX811 to the Hallcon 810 will be described in detail. FIG. 29 is a block diagram for explaining information output from the Hallcon output BOX811 to the Hallcon 810. In FIG. 29, game machine information (hole control / fraud monitoring information) is output from the game board 26 (main control board 16) to the game machine frame 5 (frame control board 17) by serial communication.

The game machine information includes a pulse output that outputs information as a pulse signal and a state output that outputs information as a state signal. The pulse output includes the number of symbol determinations, the start port, and external terminal plate pulse output signals 1 to 4. For example, in the "number of times the symbol is confirmed", the signal is output as one pulse for each time the symbol is stopped. The status signals include a jackpot 1, a jackpot 2, and external terminal board status output signals 1 to 4. For example, in "big hit 1", a state signal (ON signal) is output at all big hits.

The pulse output and the state output are output from the game machine frame 5 (frame control board 17) to the hall controller output BOX811 via the CU 5. The Hallcon output BOX811 has 15 ports (terminals) for performing pulse output and 13 ports (terminals) for performing state output. By outputting the pulse output and state output information from these ports (terminals), the game machine information is output from the Hallcon output BOX811 to the Hallcon 810.

First, the signal output from the standard port (terminal) will be described. FIG. 30 is a block diagram for explaining a hall control output signal of a standard port. The standard port is provided with terminals 1 to 20. The first terminal is for information on "number of shots", the second terminal is for information on "prize ball", the third terminal is for information on "number of symbol fluctuations 1", and the fourth terminal is for "number of symbol fluctuations 2". Each piece of information is output as a pulse signal. The fifth terminal is for information about the "starting port 1", the sixth terminal is for information about the "starting port 2", the seventh terminal is for information about the "passing gate 1", and the eighth terminal is for the "passing gate 2". Is output as a pulse signal. For example, in the "number of shots", a signal of one pulse is output from the first terminal for a predetermined number of shot ball data (for example, 10 balls). The 9th terminal outputs information on the "number of bonuses", the 10th terminal outputs information on the "number of winning prizes", and the 11th terminal outputs information on "passing through a specific area" as pulse signals. For example, in the "number of accessory times", a signal of one pulse is output from the ninth terminal for each opening of the large winning opening when the continuous accessory actuating device is not operated.

Next, the 12th terminal is about "big hit 1", the 13th terminal is about "big hit 2", the 14th terminal is about "big hit 3", and the 15th terminal is about "big hit + time saving". Each information is output as a status signal. The 16th terminal is for information about "high probability medium", the 17th terminal is for information about "time saving and medium", the 18th terminal is for information about "door opening", and the 19th terminal is for information about "illegal". The 20 terminals output information about the "game machine error" as status signals. For example, in "high probability", a state signal (ON signal) is output from the 16th terminal when the probability is high.

Next, the signal output from the expansion port (terminal) will be described. FIG. 31 is a block diagram for explaining the Hallcon output signal of the expansion port. The expansion port is an external output terminal prepared in advance for expansion, and is provided with terminals 21 to 28. The expansion port can output necessary game machine information to the outside by using the terminal when it is added according to the specifications of a new game machine.

The 21st terminal outputs information about the "external terminal plate pulse output signal terminal 1" to the 24th terminal outputs information about the "external terminal plate pulse output signal terminal 4" as pulse signals. For example, in the "external terminal plate pulse output signal terminal 1", a signal of 1 pulse is output from the 21st terminal for each pulse output number of times based on the information newly set according to the specifications of the gaming machine.

The 25th terminal outputs information about the "external terminal plate state output signal terminal 1" to the 28th terminal outputs information about the "external terminal plate state output signal terminal 4" as a state signal. For example, in the "external terminal plate state output signal terminal 1", a state signal (ON signal) is output from the 25th terminal when the external terminal state signal 1 based on the information newly set by the specifications of the game machine is in the ON state. To.

In the Hallcon output BOX811, by unifying the output to the outside as shown in FIGS. 30 and 31, the possibility of outputting the game machine information differs depending on the specifications of the card unit, and the output of the game machine information itself becomes useless. It is preventing that.

<Processing when a negative number of launch balls occurs>
As shown in FIG. 29, the CU 3 is connected to the Hallcon 810 via the Hallcon output BOX811 by serial communication. The pulse output (0N / OFF output) to the Hallcon 810 is notified to the Hallcon output BOX811 by a command by serial communication (data output). Depending on the structure of the launch mechanism of the P stand 2, the number of launch balls may be negative. Specifically, when a launching device is provided on the lower side of the game board 26, a foul ball flows down through a foul ball return path, and is detected by a foul ball detection switch provided in the middle, the number of foul balls is negative. May be counted.

For example, a game ball launched by a launcher is launched into the game area 27 along the guide rail guide path, but the launch device is located between the opening on the lower end side of the guide rail guide path and the launch device. A foul rail is provided to collect the game ball (foul ball) that has flowed down without reaching the game area 27 among the game balls played in the above, and the foul ball is guided downward by the foul rail to the back side of the game board 26. It falls into the passage leading to. A foul ball detection switch for detecting a foul ball is provided in this drop-type passage, and a game ball passing while falling is detected by an annular detector of the foul ball detection switch. The number of foul balls detected by the foul ball detection switch is counted as the number of negatively launched balls.

However, in the pulse output to the Hallcon 810, as shown in FIG. 30, since it is output as a signal of one pulse for a predetermined number of launch ball data (for example, 10 balls), only a plus can be counted. Therefore, an error occurs in the number of launching balls on the Hallcon 810 side by the amount of the number of launching balls counted negatively on the P stand 2 side.

Specifically, when 10 balls are launched by the game machine, the unit outputs the number of launched balls to the hall controller in pulses (1 pulse / 10 balls). However, if one of the 10 balls fired by the game machine returns as a foul ball and is added to the number of game balls, the unit cannot handle the minus amount and does not process it. Next, when 10 balls are fired by the game machine, the unit outputs the number of fired balls as a pulse to the hall controller regardless of the presence or absence of the minus portion. Therefore, a minus error occurs between the number of balls launched by the game machine and the number of balls launched by the hall controller.

Therefore, in CU3, when the number of launching balls counted as minus occurs, a function of correcting it at the time of the next pulse output is implemented. As a process of correcting the number of shot balls for a minus amount, there are a process of correcting with CU3 and a process of correcting with Hallcon 810 or Hallcon output BOX811.

First, a process of correcting the number of shot balls for a minus amount with CU3 will be described. 32 and 33 are sequence diagrams for explaining a process of correcting the number of shot balls for a minus amount by the CU3. In the sequence shown in FIGS. 32 and 33, the hall controller 810 is described, but the hole controller output BOX811 may be used instead of the hole controller 810. The P unit 2 transmits a game machine information notification to the CU 3. The game machine information notification includes information on the number of game balls = 500 balls and the number of launch balls = 1. When 10 ball launches are completed in the P platform 2, the P platform 2 transmits to the CU 3 a game machine information notification including information of the number of game balls = 490 balls and the number of launch balls = 0.

In CU3, every time the game ball is launched by the P unit 2, the number of launched balls included in the game machine information notification transmitted from the P unit 2 is cumulatively managed. Then, the CU 3 detects the ball launch in units of 10 balls based on the cumulatively managed number of launch balls. When the CU 3 completes 10 ball launches on the P stand 2, the cumulatively managed number of launch balls is in units of 10 balls, so the CU 3 detects 10 launch balls.

When the CU 3 detects that the number of launched balls is 10, the CU 3 transmits an HC information notification to the Hallcon 810. The HC information notification includes information on the number of balls fired = 10 balls. When the Hallcon 810 receives the HC information notification including the information on the number of ball launches = 10 balls, the Hallcon 810 counts 1 pulse = 10 balls as the ball launch information. In the case of the Hallcon output BOX811, one pulse is output to the Hallcon 810 as ball launch information. The Hallcon 810 counts 1 pulse = 10 balls as ball launch information, and then transmits an HC information notification response to the CU3.

In the P stand 2, if two of the ten launched game balls become foul balls after the completion of ten ball launches, two ball return balls will occur. In the P stand 2, when two ball return balls are generated, the number of game balls is added by two and transmitted to the CU 3 in the game machine information notification including the information of the number of game balls = 492 balls and the number of launched balls = -2. CU3 changes the number of launched balls, which is cumulatively managed based on the game machine information notification including the information of the number of launched balls = -2, to eight balls.

Next, when 10 ball launches are completed in the P platform 2, the P platform 2 transmits to the CU 3 a game machine information notification including information of the number of game balls = 482 balls and the number of launch balls = 10. CU3 changes the number of launching balls cumulatively managed based on the game machine information notification including the information of the number of launching balls = 10 to 18. In P stand 2, 10 ball launches have been completed, but in CU3, the number of launch balls that are cumulatively managed in consideration of 2 ball return balls is 18. That is, in CU3, since the number of launched balls is cumulatively managed, the error is corrected. However, the ball launch information data output to the Hallcon 810 will be corrected in the next HC information notification.

The CU3 does not detect the number of launching balls of 10 because the cumulative number of launching balls is 18 and not in units of 10 balls. If the CU 3 does not detect 10 launch balls, the CU 3 does not transmit the HC information notification to the Hallcon 810.

After that, when two ball launches are completed in the P platform 2, the P platform 2 transmits to the CU 3 a game machine information notification including information of the number of game balls = 480 balls and the number of launch balls = 2. CU3 changes the number of launching balls cumulatively managed based on the game machine information notification including the information of the number of launching balls = 2 to 20 balls. Since the cumulatively managed number of launching balls is 20 or 10 in units of 10 balls, the CU 3 detects 10 launching balls.

When the CU 3 detects that the number of launched balls is 10, the CU 3 transmits an HC information notification to the Hallcon 810. The HC information notification includes information on the number of balls fired = 10 balls. When the Hallcon 810 receives the HC information notification including the information on the number of ball launches = 10 balls, the Hallcon 810 counts 1 pulse = 10 balls as the ball launch information. The Hallcon 810 counts 1 pulse = 10 balls as ball launch information, and then transmits an HC information notification response to the CU3.

Next, a process of correcting the number of shot balls for the minus amount with the Hallcon 810 will be described. 34 and 35 are sequence diagrams for explaining a process of correcting the number of shot balls for a minus amount with the Hallcon 810. In the sequence shown in FIGS. 34 and 35, the hall controller 810 is described, but the hole controller output BOX811 may be used instead of the hole controller 810. The P unit 2 transmits a game machine information notification to the CU 3. The game machine information notification includes information on the number of game balls = 500 balls and the number of launch balls = 1. When 10 ball launches are completed in the P platform 2, the P platform 2 transmits to the CU 3 a game machine information notification including information of the number of game balls = 490 balls and the number of launch balls = 0.

In CU3, every time a game ball is launched by the P unit 2, the number of shot balls is added to the plus number of shot balls included in the game machine information notification transmitted from the P unit 2 to obtain a unit of 10 balls. Detects 10 balls.

When the CU 3 detects that the number of launched balls is 10, the CU 3 transmits an HC information notification to the Hallcon 810. The HC information notification includes information on the number of balls fired = 10 balls. The Hallcon 810 cumulatively manages the number of launched balls based on the information on the number of launched balls included in the HC information notification. Therefore, when the Hallcon 810 receives the HC information notification including the information of the number of balls fired = 10 balls, the Hallcon 810 manages the cumulative number of balls fired by the P unit 2 as 10 balls. Further, the Hallcon 810 counts 1 pulse = 10 balls as ball launch information. In the case of the Hallcon output BOX811, one pulse is output to the Hallcon 810 as ball launch information. The Hallcon 810 counts 1 pulse = 10 balls as ball launch information, and then transmits an HC information notification response to the CU3.

In the P stand 2, if two of the ten launched game balls become foul balls after the completion of ten ball launches, two ball return balls will occur. In the P stand 2, when two ball return balls are generated, the number of game balls is added by two and transmitted to the CU 3 in the game machine information notification including the information of the number of game balls = 492 balls and the number of launched balls = -2. The CU 3 does not count the number of shot balls for the minus amount included in the game machine information notification transmitted from the P unit 2 in units of 10 balls, but detects it as the number of shot balls-2 balls.

When the CU3 detects the number of launched balls-2 balls, the CU3 transmits an HC information notification to the Hallcon 810. The HC information notification includes information on the number of balls fired = -2 balls. Upon receiving the HC information notification including the information on the number of balls fired = -2 balls, the Hallcon 810 manages by changing the cumulative number of balls fired by the P unit 2 to eight balls. Since the cumulative number of shot balls is not 8 balls and 10 balls, the Hallcon 810 does not count 1 pulse = 10 balls as ball firing information. After that, the Hallcon 810 transmits an HC information notification response to the CU3.

Next, when 10 ball launches are completed in the P platform 2, the P platform 2 transmits to the CU 3 a game machine information notification including information of the number of game balls = 482 balls and the number of launch balls = 10. When the CU 3 detects that the number of launched balls is 10, the CU 3 transmits an HC information notification to the Hallcon 810. The HC information notification includes information on the number of balls fired = 10 balls.

Upon receiving the HC information notification including the information of the number of balls fired = 10 balls, the Hallcon 810 changes the cumulative number of balls fired by the P unit 2 to 18 and manages it. In P stand 2, 10 ball launches have been completed, but in Hallcon 810, the number of launch balls that are cumulatively managed in consideration of 2 ball return balls is 18. That is, in the Hallcon 810, since the number of launched balls is cumulatively managed, the error is corrected. However, the ball launch information data output to the Hallcon 810 will be corrected in the next HC information notification. The Hallcon 810 does not detect 10 ball launches because the cumulative number of launch balls is 18 and not in units of 10 balls, and does not count 1 pulse = 10 balls as ball launch information. After that, the Hallcon 810 transmits an HC information notification response to the CU3.

Next, when two ball launches are completed in the P platform 2, the P platform 2 transmits to the CU 3 a game machine information notification including information of the number of game balls = 480 balls and the number of launch balls = 2. CU3 transmits the HC information notification to Hallcon 810. The HC information notification includes information on the number of balls fired = 10 balls. When the Hallcon 810 receives the HC information notification including the information on the number of ball launches = 10 balls, the Hallcon 810 counts 1 pulse = 10 balls as the ball launch information. The Hallcon 810 counts 1 pulse = 10 balls as ball launch information, and then transmits an HC information notification response to the CU3.

<Processing when the store is closed>
A player may leave the store with the number of game balls left in the game machine, and after the store is closed (closed), there may be a game machine with the number of game balls remaining. If the number of game balls remains in the game machine after the store is closed, in order to clear the number of game balls, it is necessary to count on the card and clear the counter, or to clear the RAM of the game machine. The burden will increase. Further, if the work of clearing the number of game balls is forgotten, the remaining number of game balls can be used during the business hours of the next day, which causes a problem of sales error. Since the gaming machine has a backup function, the frame control board 17 monitors the power supply (for example, DC36V, DC5V) by a backup circuit (not shown), and when a power drop is detected, a power failure detection signal is generated. Is transmitted to the main control board 16, and the frame control board 17 stores the game state in the RAM. When restoring the game machine, the restoration process differs depending on the pressed state of the game ball clear switch and the RAM clear switch when the power is turned on. When the game ball clear switch is pressed, the game ball number information is set to the initial state. On the other hand, when the game ball clear switch is not pressed, the game ball number information is returned to the state before the power was cut off by the information stored in the RAM. Also, when the RAM clear switch is pressed, the game information is reset to the initial state. On the other hand, when the RAM clear switch is not pressed, the game information is returned to the state before the power was cut off by the information stored in the RAM. Items to be backed up on the frame control board 17 include, for example, game ball number information, game information, performance information, and the like.

Specifically, in the case of an operation in which the number of game balls remaining in the game machine is counted on a card and cleared after the store is closed, the clerk first confirms the presence or absence of the number of game balls in the game machine and presses the count button of the game machine. It is necessary to press it, count it on the card, and perform the clearing work with the counter. In this case, there is a risk that the clerk may leak the confirmation of the number of game balls remaining in the game machine, and it is not possible to determine whether the player has counted or the clerk has counted in the counting operation, and the counter clears each card. Therefore, there is a problem that the work time for closing the store becomes long.

In the case of operation to clear the number of game balls remaining in the game machine by clearing the RAM of the game machine after the store is closed, the clerk first checks the existence of the number of game balls in the game machine and opens the underframe of the game machine. , It is necessary to carry out the work of switching the power from OFF to ON while pressing the game ball number clear button. In this case, there is a risk that the clerk may leak the confirmation of the number of game balls remaining in the game machine, and it is necessary to open the door of the game machine and switch from OFF to ON, which causes a problem of lengthening the work time for closing the store. ..

Further, as a closing process after the store is closed, there is a game device that performs a membership card discharge process, a general card discharge process with a balance, or an automatic erasure process of the balance, but these processes are the number of game balls of the game machine. Since the processing is performed after the counting and clearing processing is completed, the above problem cannot be solved. As mentioned above, the number of game balls of a game machine is information that is not desired to be carried over to tomorrow's business and must be surely deleted in order to operate the store.

Therefore, CU3 implements functions that can reduce clearing work and prevent sales errors. In order to realize this function, CU3 has added a function to notify that the number of game balls remains, and when the counting button 28 of P stand 2 is pressed after the store is closed, the remaining number of game balls is cleared. Is being added. Hereinafter, the function will be specifically described with reference to a sequence diagram. FIG. 36 is a sequence diagram for explaining the processing of the number of game balls remaining on the P stand 2 when the store is closed. First, the P unit 2 transmits a game machine information notification to the CU 3. The game machine information notification includes information on the number of game balls = 500 balls.

After that, the management computer 802 transmits a store closing processing notification to the CU3 because the store closing time has come. When the store closing processing notification is received from the management computer 802, the CU 3 displays the counting promotion on the display 54 or the like when the game ball remains on the P stand 2 and prompts the clerk to perform the counting work. As a result, it is possible to prevent the clerk from leaking the confirmation and counting work of the number of game balls remaining in the game machine. The CU 3 interrupts the closing process when the game ball remains on the P stand 2.

The CU 3 transmits the store closing processing response to the management computer 802 as a response to the store closing processing notification. The closing process response includes information on the remaining number of game balls = 500 balls. Upon receiving the store closing processing response, the management computer 802 identifies the P unit 2 in which the game balls remain, announces the remaining number of game balls in the P units 2, and prompts the store clerk to perform counting work. Further, the management computer 802 transmits the store closing processing response RES to the CU3 as a reply to the closing processing response.

When the counting work is performed by the clerk and the counting button 28 is pressed, the P stand 2 transmits a counting notification to the CU 3. The counting notification includes information on the number of counting balls = 250 balls. Further, the P unit 2 counts a total of 500 balls by transmitting a counting notification to the CU 3, and sets the number of game balls remaining in the P unit 2 to 0.

When the CU 3 receives the counting notification, the CU 3 performs a clearing process for clearing the counting ball. Specifically, the clearing process erases the number of counting balls included in the counting notification without converting it into the number of balls. The number of counting balls erased without being converted into the number of balls held is counted as the number of clear balls. The clearing process is performed until the remaining number of game balls becomes 0. After the clear processing, the CU 3 transmits the store closing processing response RES to the management computer 802. The closing process response RES includes information on the remaining number of game balls = 0 balls and the number of clear balls = 500 balls.

When the management computer 802 receives the store closing process response RES, it confirms that the number of game balls has been cleared and restarts the store closing process. The management computer 802 manages the number of game balls based on the remaining information of the number of game balls so that a sales error does not occur, and can be used for investigating the cause when the clearing is forgotten. Further, in the management computer 802, the number of game balls left by the fan based on the information on the number of clear balls can be recorded separately from the sales.

Since the management computer 802 has restarted the store closing process, the management computer 802 sends a store closing process notification to the CU3. Since there are no game balls left on the P stand 2 when the store closing processing notification is received from the management computer 802, the CU 3 transmits a store closing processing response including information on the remaining number of game balls = 0 balls to the management computer 802. The management computer 802 confirms the information of the remaining number of game balls = 0 balls and transmits the store closing processing response RES to the CU3.

When the CU 3 receives the store closing process response RES, the store closing process is restarted and completed because there are no game balls in the P unit 2. When the store closing process is completed, the CU 3 displays the store closing screen on the display 54 or the like. The next day, CU3 can immediately execute the store opening process because there are no game balls in P stand 2.

In the above sequence, when the game ball remains on the P stand 2, the setting is described in which the store closing process cannot be completed until the store closing process is interrupted and the remaining game ball is exhausted. However, even if the game ball remains on the P stand 2, it may be set to give priority to the completion of the store closing process without interrupting the store closing process. The processing in the setting that gives priority to the completion of the closing process will be described below. In CU3, it may be possible to select a setting in which the closing process cannot be completed and a setting in which the completion of the closing process is prioritized.

FIG. 37 is a sequence diagram for explaining another process of the number of game balls remaining in the P stand 2 when the store is closed. First, the P unit 2 transmits a game machine information notification to the CU 3. The game machine information notification includes information on the number of game balls = 600 balls.

After that, the management computer 802 transmits a store closing processing notification to the CU3 because the store closing time has come. When the store closing processing notification is received from the management computer 802, the CU 3 displays the counting promotion on the display 54 or the like when the game ball remains on the P stand 2 and prompts the clerk to perform the counting work. As a result, it is possible to prevent the clerk from leaking the confirmation and counting work of the number of game balls remaining in the game machine. The CU 3 gives priority to the completion of the store closing process and completes the store closing process regardless of the remaining number of game balls in the P unit 2.

The CU 3 transmits the store closing processing response to the management computer 802 as a response to the store closing processing notification. The closing process response includes information on the remaining number of game balls = 600 balls. When the management computer 802 receives the store closing processing response, it announces the remaining number of game balls and prompts the store clerk to perform counting work. Further, the management computer 802 transmits the store closing processing response RES to the CU3 as a reply to the closing processing response.

When the counting work is performed by the clerk and the counting button 28 is pressed, the P stand 2 transmits a counting notification to the CU 3. The counting notification includes information on the number of counting balls = 250 balls. Further, the P unit 2 counts a total of 500 balls by transmitting a counting notification to the CU 3. However, the counting work by the clerk is insufficient, and the number of game balls = 100 balls remains in the P stand 2.

When the CU 3 receives the counting notification, the CU 3 performs a clearing process for clearing the counting ball. Specifically, the clearing process erases the number of counting balls included in the counting notification without converting it into the number of balls. The number of counting balls erased without being converted into the number of balls held is counted as the number of clear balls. The clearing process is performed on the number of game balls for the number notified to CU3 by the counting notification. After the clear processing, the CU 3 transmits the store closing processing response RES to the management computer 802. The closing process response RES includes information on the remaining number of game balls = 100 balls and the number of clear balls = 500 balls.

When the management computer 802 receives the store closing processing response RES, it manages the number of game balls so that a sales error does not occur based on the remaining information of the number of game balls, and can be used for cause investigation when a forgetting to clear occurs. .. Further, in the management computer 802, the number of game balls left by the fan based on the information on the number of clear balls can be recorded separately from the sales.

The management computer 802 transmits the store closing processing response RES to the CU3 in response to the closing processing response RES from the CU3. When the CU 3 receives the closing process response RES, the number of game balls still remains on the P stand 2, so the counting promotion is displayed on the display 54 or the like to prompt the clerk to perform the counting work. In this state, when the P unit 2 and the CU 3 are operated on the next day, the P unit 2 transmits a game machine information notification to the CU 3 after the power is turned on and the startup process is performed. The game machine information notification includes information on the number of game balls = 100 balls. When the CU 3 receives the game machine information notification including information other than 0 balls, the CU 3 detects the closing time and the opening time, and the notified game balls remain in the P unit 2 on the previous day. Check if it is the time.

The CU 3 notifies an error when the number of game balls on the previous day remains in the P unit 2. The CU 3 transmits an error notification to the management computer 802. The CU 3 can execute the store opening process by clearing the number of game balls remaining in the P stand 2.

<Structure of Embodiment>
(1) An enclosed game machine in which a game ball is enclosed (hereinafter, also simply referred to as a game machine) is bidirectionally with a game device as disclosed in Patent Document 1 (Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2015-110041). It is connected so that it can communicate with each other, and the game points (game balls) are stored in the game machine and the game device. Further, in the game device, the process of converting the game points into points (holding balls) is performed based on the counting operation in the game machine, but even if the game points based on the counting operation cannot be converted into points due to an abnormality. , Recovery processing is performed using two-way communication, and the points are updated.

Since the gaming device of Patent Document 1 is bidirectionally connected to the gaming machine, for example, an abnormality occurs in which information on the gaming point (game value) transmitted from the gaming machine cannot be received by a counting operation or the like. Even so, it is possible to transmit information to the game machine that the game point information has not been received. Therefore, in the gaming device of Patent Document 1, a recovery process is performed in which the information of the gaming point is retransmitted from the gaming machine, the unreceived gaming point is converted into a point (predetermined value), and the possession point is updated. Is possible.

However, in a gaming device that does not communicate bidirectionally with the gaming machine, if the information of the gaming point transmitted from the gaming machine cannot be received due to a counting operation or the like, the information is not received by the gaming machine. There is no way to tell. Therefore, the game device cannot have the game point information retransmitted from the game machine, and cannot perform the recovery process of converting the unreceived game points into points and updating the points. There was a possibility that the points could not be managed properly.

The present invention has been conceived in view of such circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming device capable of appropriately managing a predetermined value (points) even when an abnormality occurs. ..

(1-1) It is possible to communicate with a game machine (for example, P unit 2) that can be played using the game value (for example, a game ball), and the value corresponding to the game value is a predetermined value (for example, a holding ball). A gaming device (eg, CU3) that can be managed as
A receiving means (for example, SC board 325) capable of receiving information transmitted from the game machine, and
A storage means (for example, a RAM provided in the CU control unit 323) capable of storing information on the game value and information on the predetermined value, and
An update means (for example,) for updating a predetermined value stored in the storage means based on the reception of the predetermined information transmitted from the game machine and capable of specifying the magnitude of the game value by the receiving means. , CU control unit 323)
The storage means stores the game value based on the reception of the game machine information including the information on the game value from the game machine (for example, the game is based on the latest game machine information transmitted from the P unit 2 one by one. Manage the number of balls),
When the magnitude of the game value included in the received gaming machine information is decreasing without the receiving means receiving the predetermined information, the updating means performs a specific process for updating the predetermined value (for example,). The difference between the number of game balls stored in the CU 3 and the number of game balls newly received from the P unit 2 is used as a ball and automatically corrected).

According to such a configuration, the predetermined value can be appropriately managed without causing the clerk to work.

(1-2) In the gaming device of (1-1) above,
The predetermined information is transmitted at predetermined intervals regardless of whether or not the condition regarding the communication abnormality with the game device (for example, the power supply VL is off) is satisfied in the game machine, and the predetermined operation is performed. The magnitude of the game value included differs depending on whether or not the game value is accepted (for example, the counting notification including the counting information is transmitted from the P unit 2 to the CU 3 at predetermined intervals regardless of whether or not the condition related to the communication abnormality is satisfied. ).

According to such a configuration, the predetermined information is information that is periodically transmitted, and when the predetermined information is not reached, it can be detected at an early stage.

(1-3) In the gaming device according to (1-1) or (1-2) above.
The gaming device does not transmit information regarding the response of the predetermined information to the gaming machine based on the reception of the predetermined information by the receiving means, and the gaming device causes the gaming device in the gaming machine. It is not possible to recognize whether or not the predetermined information has been received (for example, since the response information corresponding to the counting information is not transmitted from the CU3, whether or not the CU3 has received the counting information on the P unit 2 side. Does not recognize.).

According to such a configuration, it is possible to suppress excessive signal input and improve security, and it is possible to appropriately manage a predetermined value of a player by transmitting such predetermined information.

(1-4) In the gaming devices (1-1) to (1-3) above,
Further provided with a communication determination means (for example, a power supply VL for connection confirmation) for determining whether or not communication with the game machine is defective.
The updating means can execute the specific process based on the determination by the communication determining means that the communication with the gaming machine is poor (for example, the update cannot be received due to the PIF disconnection and the count is lost. Judging that, it will be automatically corrected as a holding ball).

According to such a configuration, when a communication failure with the game machine occurs, the game value possessed by the player can be appropriately corrected.

(1-5) In the gaming devices (1-1) to (1-3) above,
Further equipped with a power failure determination means (for example, it is determined that a communication failure (power failure) has occurred due to a power failure based on the difference in the number of game balls) for determining whether or not the power is not supplied.
The update means can execute the specific process based on the determination by the power failure determination means that the communication with the game machine is poor (for example, automatic correction is performed as a holding ball). ..

According to such a configuration, when a power failure occurs in the game device, the game value possessed by the player can be appropriately corrected.

(1-6) In the gaming devices (1-1) to (1-5) above,
Further provided with a transmission means for transmitting information on the game value used in the game machine to the management device for each predetermined unit (for example, when 10 launch balls are detected, an HC information notification is transmitted to the hall controller 810). ,
The storage means stores the cumulative game value used in the game machine based on the reception of the game machine information including the information about the game value used in the game machine (for example, transmitted from the P unit 2). Cumulative management of the number of launched balls included in the game machine information notification),
The transmission means corrects the timing of transmission to the management device for each predetermined unit based on the cumulative game value stored in the storage means (for example, the cumulative number of launching balls managed is 18). Since it is not in units of 10 balls, the HC information notification is not sent to the Hallcon 810).

According to such a configuration, it is possible to implement a function of pulse output to the hall controller or the hole controller output BOX in consideration of the occurrence of the number of launch balls counted as a minus.

(1-7) In the gaming devices (1-1) to (1-5) above,
Further provided with a transmission means for transmitting information regarding the game value used in the game machine to the management device (for example, the CU 3 transmits an HC information notification to the Hallcon 810).
The transmission means returns to the information on the game value used in the game machine and transmits the information on the game value to the management device (for example, the HC information notification including the information on the number of shot balls = -2 balls). Send).

According to such a configuration, it is possible to implement a function of pulse output to the hall controller or the hole controller output BOX in consideration of the occurrence of the number of launch balls counted as a minus.

(1-8) In the gaming devices (1-1) to (1-5) above,
Further provided with a transmission means for transmitting specific information (for example, lending information) and serial number (for example, lending serial number) regarding the game value to the game machine based on a specific operation by the player (for example, lending information including a telegram of the lending notification). To P stand 2),
The receiving means receives the response information including the reception result of the specific information and the serial number having the same number as the number transmitted by the transmitting means from the game machine (for example, a lending response including a telegram of the lending receipt result response). Receive information),
Based on the fact that the receiving means has not received the response information, the transmitting means transmits the specific information including the serial number of the number (for example, rental serial number = 0) that the gaming machine does not receive to the gaming machine. Send and
The status of the specific information is determined based on the response information from the game machine to the serial number (for example, if the loan serial numbers match, it is determined that the loan has been completed, and there is a discrepancy (previous loan notification-1). If the loan is not completed).

According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the number of rented balls lent to the game machine from being double-added.

(2) In an enclosed game machine in which a game ball is enclosed (hereinafter, also simply referred to as a game machine), as disclosed in Patent Document 1 (Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2014-223101), bidirectionally with the gaming device. Since the connection is communicable, if the number of game balls remains in the game machine when the store is closed, it was possible to automatically convert it to the number of balls held. Further, even if the game machine does not contain a game ball, as disclosed in Patent Document 2 (Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2017-202565), the number of balls held in each machine is automatically settled when the store is closed. It was possible to process or clear.

However, in a gaming device capable of one-way communication from a gaming machine, if the number of gaming balls remains in the gaming machine when the store is closed, it is not possible to instruct the gaming machine to perform counting processing, so the balls are automatically held. Cannot be converted to a number. Therefore, the game device has a problem that the work of initializing the number of game balls remaining in the game machine at the time of closing the store cannot be streamlined. Further, in the enclosed game machine, the number of game balls of the game machine is electromagnetically controlled, and the technique disclosed in Patent Document 2 cannot be applied as it is.

The present invention has been conceived in view of the actual circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to improve the efficiency of the initialization work at the time of closing the store when the number of game balls is electromagnetically managed without bidirectional communication. It is to provide a game device which can be planned.

(2-1) It is possible to communicate with a game machine (for example, P unit 2) capable of playing using the game value (for example, a game ball), and the value corresponding to the game value is set to a predetermined value (for example, a holding ball). A gaming device (eg, CU3) that can be managed as
A receiving means (for example, SC board 325) capable of receiving information transmitted from the game machine, and
A storage means (for example, a RAM provided in the CU control unit 323) capable of storing information on the game value and information on the predetermined value, and
The predetermined value stored in the storage means is updated based on the fact that the predetermined information transmitted from the game machine and capable of specifying the magnitude of the game value is received by the receiving means. It is provided with an update means (for example, CU control unit 323).
The storage means stores the game value based on the reception of the game machine information including the information on the game value from the game machine (for example, the game is based on the latest game machine information transmitted from the P unit 2 one by one. Manage the number of balls),
When the specific information regarding the closing of business (closed) is received from the outside, if the game value of the game machine is stored in the storage means, the information indicating that the game value exists in the game machine is transmitted to the outside. It is possible to notify (for example, the CU 3 transmits a store closing processing response including information on the remaining number of game balls = 500 balls to the management computer 802 as a response to the store closing processing notification).

According to such a configuration, it is possible to improve the efficiency of the work of initializing the game value of the game machine when the store is closed.

(2-2) A game machine (for example, P stand 2) capable of playing using a game value (for example, a game ball) and a game value that can communicate with the game machine and have a predetermined value (for example, a ball) A gaming system including a manageable gaming device (eg, CU3) and a management device (eg, management computer 802) capable of communicating with the plurality of said gaming devices.
The gaming device is
A receiving means (for example, SC board 325) capable of receiving information transmitted from the game machine, and
A storage means that can store information about the game value (for example, a RAM provided in the CU control unit 323) and
The predetermined value stored in the storage means is updated based on the fact that the predetermined information transmitted from the game machine and capable of specifying the magnitude of the game value is received by the receiving means. It is provided with an update means (for example, CU control unit 323).
The storage means stores the game value based on the reception of the game machine information including the information on the game value from the game machine (for example, the game ball by the latest game machine information transmitted one by one from the P unit 2). Manage numbers) and
When the specific information regarding the closing of business (closed) is received from the outside, if the game value of the game machine is stored in the storage means, the information indicating that the game value exists in the game machine is transmitted to the outside. It is possible to notify (for example, CU3 transmits a store closing processing response including information on the remaining number of game balls = 500 balls to the management computer 802 as a response to the store closing processing notification).
The management device can identify the game machine having a game value among the plurality of game machines based on the information transmitted from the plurality of game devices (for example, the management computer 802 can identify the game machine. When the store closing processing response is received, the P machine 2 in which the game ball remains is specified.).

According to such a configuration, it is possible to improve the efficiency of the work of initializing the game value of the game machine when the store is closed.

(2-3) In the gaming device of (2-1) above,
When the specific information is received by the receiving means, the magnitude of the game value of the game machine stored in the storage means can be notified to the outside (for example, the management computer 802 can play the game of the P unit 2). Announce the rest of the number of balls and urge the clerk to count).

According to such a configuration, in the management device, it is possible to specify the game machine in which the game value remains, and also to specify the remaining game value.

(2-4) In the gaming device according to (2-1) or (2-3) above.
When the specific information is received by the receiving means, if the game value of the game machine is stored in the storage means, a display means for displaying corresponding to the existence of the game value in the game machine. (For example, display 54) and
Unlike the display means, it further includes a light emitting means (for example, an LED lamp on the upper part of the CU 3) that emits light in a special mode.

According to such a configuration, it becomes easy for the clerk to identify which game machine has the game value among the plurality of game machines on the game island, and the workability of the clerk can be improved.

(2-5) In the gaming devices (2-1), (2-3) to (2-4) above,
The updating means is a game that can be specified from the predetermined information without updating the predetermined value stored in the storage means based on the reception of the predetermined information after the specific information is received by the receiving means. The magnitude of the value is notified to the outside and erased (for example, the CU 3 performs a clear process of clearing the counting ball when the counting notification is received).

According to such a configuration, appropriate processing can be executed without leaving a game value in the game machine for the next day's business.

(2-6) In the gaming devices (2-1), (2-3) to (2-5) above,
When the predetermined information is received after the specific information is received by the receiving means, if the game value of the game machine is stored in the storage means, it means that the game value exists in the game machine. The information can be notified to the outside again (for example, the CU 3 notifies an error when the number of game balls of the previous day remains in the P unit 2).

According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the game value of the game machine from remaining on the next business day in the state where the counting is not completed after the counting operation on the game machine of the clerk.

(2-7) In the gaming devices (2-1), (2-3) to (2-6) above,
When the game value of the game machine is stored in the storage means during the opening of the store, and the stored game value does not fluctuate for a predetermined time, it is possible to notify the outside to that effect (for example, CU3). , Even if the number of game balls does not fluctuate for a predetermined period when the number of game balls exists in the P machine 2 during business, the number of games remaining in the P machine 2 is transmitted to the management computer 802).

According to such a configuration, even if a small number of game balls remain in the game machine, a new player may refrain from sitting in the game machine, and the non-operating period of the game machine in such a state Can be prevented from being prolonged, and the downtime can be shortened.

(2-8) In the gaming devices (2-1), (2-3) to (2-7) above,
Further provided with a transmission means for transmitting information on the game value used in the game machine to the management device for each predetermined unit (for example, when 10 launch balls are detected, an HC information notification is transmitted to the hall controller 810). ,
The storage means stores the cumulative game value used in the game machine based on the reception of the game machine information including the information about the game value used in the game machine (for example, transmitted from the P unit 2). Cumulative management of the number of launched balls included in the game machine information notification),
The transmission means corrects the timing of transmission to the management device for each predetermined unit based on the cumulative game value stored in the storage means (for example, the cumulative number of launching balls managed is 18). Since it is not in units of 10 balls, the HC information notification is not sent to the Hallcon 810).

According to such a configuration, it is possible to implement a function of pulse output to the hall controller or the hole controller output BOX in consideration of the occurrence of the number of launch balls counted as a minus.

(2-9) In the gaming devices (2-1), (2-3) to (2-7) above,
Further provided with a transmission means for transmitting information regarding the game value used in the game machine to the management device (for example, the CU 3 transmits an HC information notification to the Hallcon 810).
The transmission means returns to the information on the game value used in the game machine and transmits the information on the game value to the management device (for example, the HC information notification including the information on the number of shot balls = -2 balls). Send).

According to such a configuration, it is possible to implement a function of pulse output to the hall controller or the hole controller output BOX in consideration of the occurrence of the number of launch balls counted as a minus.

(2-10) In the gaming devices (2-1), (2-3) to (2-7) above,
Further provided with a transmission means for transmitting specific information (for example, lending information) and serial number (for example, lending serial number) regarding the game value to the game machine based on a specific operation by the player (for example, lending information including a telegram of the lending notification). To P stand 2),
The receiving means receives the response information including the reception result of the specific information and the serial number having the same number as the number transmitted by the transmitting means from the game machine (for example, a lending response including a telegram of the lending receipt result response). Receive information),
Based on the fact that the receiving means has not received the response information, the transmitting means transmits the specific information including the serial number of the number (for example, rental serial number = 0) that the gaming machine does not receive to the gaming machine. Send and
The status of the specific information is determined based on the response information from the game machine to the serial number (for example, if the loan serial numbers match, it is determined that the loan has been completed, and there is a discrepancy (previous loan notification-1). If the loan is not completed).

According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the number of rented balls lent to the game machine from being double-added.

(3) In the enclosed gaming machine in which the gaming ball is enclosed, information is bidirectionally communicated with the gaming device as disclosed in Patent Document 1 (Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2013-248251). There is. Therefore, in the game machine, when the counting operation is performed, as a response to the state information request from the game device, when the state information response is transmitted to the game device, the information on the number of counting balls is also transmitted. A process of converting a game ball (game point) into a ball (holding point) is performed. However, if the state information request cannot be normally received from the game device after the state information response is transmitted due to a communication abnormality or the like, the game machine cannot subtract the number of game balls. Since the gaming machine of Patent Document 1 is premised on bidirectionally communicating information with the gaming device, the number of gaming balls is erroneously subtracted on the gaming machine side when a counting operation is accepted during a communication abnormality. It was possible to process it so that it would not happen. However, in a game machine that communicates information with the game device in one direction, the same processing cannot be performed, and the number of game balls is erroneously subtracted to appropriately manage the game value including the number of game balls. There was a problem that I couldn't do. The present invention has been conceived in view of such circumstances, and an object of the present invention is a gaming machine capable of appropriately managing a gaming value even when a communication abnormality occurs with a gaming device. Is to provide.

(3-1) A game machine (for example, P unit 2) that can communicate with a corresponding game device (for example, CU3) and can manage information on a game value (for example, the number of game balls).
A storage means that can store information about the game value (for example, a game ball counter),
A reception means (for example, a counting button 28) capable of accepting a predetermined operation by a player, and
A transmission means (for example, a frame control board 17) capable of transmitting predetermined information (for example, counting information) capable of specifying the magnitude of the game value to the game device based on the acceptance of the predetermined operation. )When,
When the predetermined information is transmitted, the updating means for updating the game value stored in the storage means (for example, subtracting the counted number of balls) corresponding to the magnitude of the game value specified by the predetermined information. It is equipped with a frame control board 17) that updates the information on the number of game balls.
Based on the fact that the predetermined conditions regarding the communication abnormality with the game device (for example, when the voltage of the power supply VL for connection confirmation changes from 5V to 0V (off state: VL = OFF)) are satisfied, the above The reception of the predetermined operation is invalidated (for example, the operation of the count button 28 is invalidated).

According to such a configuration, it is possible to appropriately manage the game value in consideration of the communication abnormality.

(3-2) In the game machine of (3-1) above
The transmission means transmits the predetermined information to the gaming device at predetermined intervals regardless of whether or not the predetermined condition is satisfied (for example, the counting information is defined regardless of the reception status in the CU 3). It is sent to CU3 for each period B.),
The information regarding the magnitude of the game value specified by the predetermined information differs depending on whether or not the predetermined operation is accepted by the reception means (for example, before the operation of the counting button 28 by the player transmits the game machine information. If this is done, for example, the number of counting balls includes information on 250 balls, and if the player does not operate the counting button 28 before transmitting the game machine information, the number of counting balls is 0 (zero). Sphere information is included.).

According to such a configuration, the transmission processing of the predetermined information is continued regardless of whether or not the predetermined condition regarding the communication abnormality is satisfied with the game device, and the prohibition processing of the transmission processing of the predetermined information becomes unnecessary. At the same time, it is possible to appropriately manage the game value in consideration of the communication abnormality in that the predetermined operation becomes invalid.

(3-3) In the game machine of (3-1) or (3-2) above
A receiving means (for example, a frame control board 17) capable of receiving specific information (for example, rental information) regarding the game value, which is information transmitted from the game device, is further provided.
The response information corresponding to the predetermined information is not transmitted from the gaming device to the receiving means (for example, the counting information and the gaming machine information are transmitted from the frame control board 17 to the CU control unit 323 in one direction. The game machine does not recognize whether or not the game device has received the predetermined information.

According to such a configuration, the predetermined information is output in one direction, and it is possible to prevent the game value from fluctuating even in a situation where the predetermined information cannot be received by the game device, which is disadvantageous to the player. Can be prevented.

(3-4) In the game machines (3-1) to (3-3) above,
Special signal output means (for example, wiring number of PIF wiring) that outputs a special signal for connection confirmation (for example, PSI signal) to the game device while detecting connection with the game device (for example, VL = ON). With 4)
The special signal output means stops the output of the special signal to the gaming device based on the satisfaction of the predetermined condition (for example, PSI = OFF).

According to such a configuration, it is possible to appropriately notify the gaming device of the disconnection detection status on the gaming machine side.

(3-5) In the game machines (3-1) to (3-4) above,
A launching means (for example, launching mechanism 30) for launching a game medium, and
Further provided with a launch control means (for example, a launch control board 31) that controls the operation of the launch means.
The reception means invalidates the reception of the reception means (for example, invalidates the operation of the counting button 28) based on the satisfaction of the predetermined condition.
The launch control means stops the launch by the launch means based on the satisfaction of the predetermined condition (for example, outputs a signal to the launch control board 31 to stop the launch of the game ball).

According to such a configuration, by stopping the game in a situation where the game device is not connected, it is possible to appropriately manage the game value in consideration of the communication abnormality.

(3-6) In the game machines (3-1) to (3-5) above,
The predetermined information is a cumulative combination of first information (for example, information on the number of counting balls) capable of specifying the magnitude of the game value corresponding to the predetermined operation and the magnitude of the game value of the first information. Includes second information (eg, information on the cumulative number of counting balls) that can be specified in.

According to such a configuration, it is possible to reduce the processing load on the management of the game value in the game machine, and it is possible to transmit appropriate information for performing the recovery processing of predetermined information in the one-way communication.

(4) The enclosed gaming machine in which the gaming ball is enclosed is communicably connected to the gaming device as disclosed in Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2017-6256), and the gaming device is managed. It is connected to the device. The management device includes information receiving means for receiving the changing information from the gaming device, and stores the changing information received by the information receiving means in the information storage means. In the gaming device of Patent Document 1, it is only described that the CU control unit is provided with an external communication unit for communicating with the hall management computer, and the information output to the hall management computer is inaccurate. No consideration is given to preventing this from happening. Therefore, in the gaming device of Patent Document 1, it is necessary to prevent the information output to the outside from becoming inaccurate. The present invention has been conceived in view of such circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming device capable of preventing inaccurate information output from the gaming device to the outside. ..

(4-1) A gaming device (eg, CU3) capable of receiving predetermined information (for example, hall control, fraud monitoring information, etc.) from a gaming machine (for example, P unit 2).
A reception control unit (for example, SC board 325) that performs reception processing of the predetermined information received from the game machine is provided.
The reception control unit determines the suitability of the specific information output unit (for example, the hall controller output BOX 811) that outputs the specific information corresponding to the predetermined information (for example, the information notified to the hall controller output BOX 811 shown in FIG. 28) to the outside. (For example, authentication processing of the hall control output BOX 811) and restricting the output of the specific information from the specific information output unit based on the result of the suitability determination (for example, when the hall control output BOX 811 cannot be authenticated (for example). NG), CU3 does not communicate with the hall controller output BOX811 and does not output information).

According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the information output from the gaming device to the outside from becoming inaccurate.

(4-2) In the game machine of (4-1) above
Regardless of the result of the suitability determination of the specific information output unit in the reception control unit, the game can be played in the game machine (for example, even when the hall control output BOX811 cannot be authenticated (NG), P It is possible to play on the platform 2).

According to such a configuration, the result of the suitability determination of the specific information output unit does not affect the game on the game machine, and the business can be continued.

(4-3) In the game machine of (4-1) or (4-2) above,
Further provided with a specific control unit (for example, CU control unit 323) that controls communication between the reception control unit and the specific information output unit.
The specific control unit limits the display of the specific information on the display unit (for example, the display unit connected to the hall controller 810) based on the result of the suitability determination of the specific information output unit (for example, authentication data). When the expiration date has expired, the CU control unit 323 does not notify the hall controller output BOX811 of the number of launched balls, the total number of prize balls, the main control state, and the game information).

According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the information output from the gaming device to the outside from becoming inaccurate.

(4-4) In the game machines (4-1) to (4-3) above,
The predetermined information includes game information related to the game (for example, hall control / fraud monitoring information), performance information capable of specifying the game performance related to the addition of game value (for example, game machine performance information), and the game machine. Includes installation information (for example, game machine installation information) related to the installation of
Regardless of the result of the suitability determination of the specific information output unit in the reception control unit, the performance information and the installation information are output to the management computer 802 via the special information output unit (for example, the external output terminal 340). To be further prepared.

According to such a configuration, performance information and installation information can be output to the outside even if the suitability determination of the specific information output unit is NG.

(4-5) In the game machine of (4-4) above
The performance information is not output from the specific information output unit (for example, it is not notified to the Hallcon 810 via the Hallcon output BOX811).

According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the information output from the gaming device to the outside from becoming inaccurate.

(4-6) In the game machines (4-1) to (4-5) above,
When the result of the suitability determination of the specific information output unit in the reception control unit is abnormal, a notification unit for notifying the abnormality (for example, the display 54 notifies the abnormality) is further provided.

With such a configuration, it is possible to easily grasp that the result of the suitability determination of the specific information output unit is abnormal.

<Modification example>

(1) In the above-described embodiment, the above-mentioned predetermined information is specified by the frame control unit 171 of the frame control board 17. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and it may be specified by another control unit of the game machine, such as the main control unit 161 of the main control board 16.

(2) In the above-described embodiment or modification, when the predetermined information is specified in the gaming machine or the gaming device, the gaming machine or the gaming device may notify the abnormality based on the predetermined information.

(3) In the above-described embodiment, when communication is disabled (offline state) when the above-mentioned predetermined information is transmitted to the outside of the game hall, the game machine, the game device, the game machine on the game hall side. The predetermined information may be temporarily stored in the management device, and when the communication is restored, the predetermined information may be transmitted to the external management device.

(4) In the above-described embodiment, it has been explained that the authentication data is a variable value including the information of the current date (October 0) and the information of the SC management number as the data of the encryption source. However, the authentication data is not limited to this, and is a variable value including the information of the current date (October 0), the information of the current time, and the information of the SC management number as the data of the encryption source. May also be a fixed value. Security is improved by setting the authentication data as a variable value including the information of the current date (October 0), the information of the current time, and the information of the SC management number as the encryption source data. In addition, by including the information of the current time in the authentication data, periodical authentication at regular time intervals becomes possible.

(5) In the above-described embodiment, it has been explained that the authentication of the hall controller output BOX811 by the authentication data is when the power is turned on. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the authentication of the hall controller output BOX811 based on the authentication data may be periodically authenticated except when the power is turned on. By authenticating every hour, spoofing and copying become impossible and security is improved.

(6) In the above-described embodiment, the CU3 monitors the connection status of the hall controller output BOX811, but when unconnected or unauthenticated is detected, the CU3 notifies the card company data center 801 of an alarm. You may contact the hall clerk. Further, if the CU3 monitors the connection status of the hall controller output BOX811 and a non-connection or unauthentication is detected, an error may be displayed on the CU3 and the hall clerk may be contacted.

(7) In the above-described embodiment, when the authentication data has expired, the number of launched balls, the total number of prize balls, the main control state, and the game information must be notified from the SC board 325 to the CU control unit 323. explained. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, when the expiration date of the authentication data has expired, other information such as the number of game balls and the number of counting balls may not be notified from the SC board 325 to the CU control unit 323.

(8) The P stand 2 may have a configuration in which the probability of winning a jackpot according to the set value is changed by a setting change operation using a predetermined switch or other operating means by a person on the game hall side (a game hall clerk, etc.). Good. For example, the main control unit 161 executes a setting change process that makes it possible to change the jackpot winning probability set in the P unit 2 according to the setting change operation. As a result, in the special symbol normal process of the special symbol process process, the setting change process that enables the jackpot winning probability to be changed is executed by using the display result determination table according to the set value. The set value consists of 6 stages (multiple stages) of 1 to 6, for example, and the winning probability of the jackpot is set value 1 <set value 2 <set value 3 <set value 4 <set value 5 <set value 6 in that order. It gets higher. That is, when the set value 1 is set as the set value, the advantage is the lowest for the player, and the advantage is gradually increased in the order of the set value 2 to the set value 6. The set value may be provided in a plurality of stages, and is not limited to the six stages. Since the ball ejection rate (the number of balls ejected per unit time (the number of prize balls)) changes according to the possibility of changing the winning probability of the big hit in this way, changing the set value changes the ball ejection rate. It can be said that it does.

The Hallcon output BOX811 outputs a signal indicating whether the P unit 2 is in the set value display mode for displaying the set value or the set value change mode in which the set value can be changed in the above-mentioned setting change operation. May be possible. Further, the hall controller output BOX811 may be capable of outputting a signal indicating a set value of the P unit 2. Of course, the CU 3 may be able to output a signal indicating whether it is the set value display mode or the set value change mode or a signal indicating the set value of the P unit 2 to the management computer 802.

(9) In the above-described embodiment, the case where the voltage of the power supply VL for connection confirmation is changed from 5V to 0V is described as a condition for stopping the firing. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the specific information (for example, lending information) includes the serial number information, and the status of the serial number information included in the specific information received by the receiving means (for example, the same serial number even after a predetermined period has elapsed) is launched. May be a condition to stop.

(10) In the above-described embodiment, when the CU 3 receives the store closing processing notification and the number of game balls remains on the corresponding P stand 2, a display corresponding to that fact (for example, a counting promotion display, etc.) ) Was described on the display 54. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the CU 3 may display light emission in a special mode (for example, blinking red) by a light emitting means different from the display 54 (for example, an LED lamp on the upper part of the CU 3). As a result, it becomes easier for the clerk to identify which P pedestal 2 has the number of game balls remaining among the plurality of P pedestals 2 on the game island, and the workability of the clerk can be improved.

(11) In the above-described embodiment, when the CU 3 receives the store closing processing notification and the number of game balls remains on the corresponding P stand 2, the display 54 displays a display corresponding to that effect. explained. After performing the counting work and receiving the counting notification from the P stand 2, the CU 3 may display the display corresponding to that fact again on the display 54 if the number of game balls still remains in the P stand 2. As a result, the clerk is in a state where counting is not completed after the counting work on the P stand 2 (for example, when only 250 balls out of 1000 game balls are counted and 750 balls remain), and the game is played on the next business day. It is possible to suppress leaving the number of balls on the P stand 2.

(12) In the above-described embodiment, the CU 3 has described a configuration in which the number of games remaining in the P unit 2 after the store is closed is transmitted to the management computer 802. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the CU 3 has the number of games remaining in the P machine 2 even when the number of game balls does not fluctuate for a predetermined period when the number of game balls exists in the P machine 2 during business. May be sent to the management computer 802. Even if a small number of game balls remain in the P unit 2, a new player may refrain from sitting in the P unit 2, and the non-operating period of the P unit 2 in such a state is prolonged. Can be prevented and the downtime can be shortened.

(13) In the above-described embodiment, it has been explained that the number of game balls (game value) is managed by the P unit 2 and the number of balls held (predetermined value) is managed by the CU 3. The number of balls held (predetermined value) is also the value obtained by counting the number of game balls (game value). The P stand 2 is not limited to pachinko gaming machines, but can also be applied to slot machines. The medals managed by the slot machine are set to the game value, and the medals managed by the guard unit connected to the slot machine are set to the predetermined value. It may be the equivalent.

It should be considered that the embodiments disclosed this time are exemplary in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is shown by the scope of claims rather than the above description, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the scope of claims.

2 Pachinko game machine, 3 card unit, 16 main control board, 17 frame control board, 26 game board, 29 game ball number indicator, 171 frame control unit, 309 card insertion / ejection port, 319 return button, 320 IR light receiving unit , 321 Ball lending button, 323 CU control unit.

Claims (2)

It is a gaming device that can communicate with a game machine that can play using the game value, and can manage the value corresponding to the game value as a predetermined value.
Receiving means that can receive information transmitted from the game machine,
A storage means that can store information on the game value and information on the predetermined value,
The predetermined value stored in the storage means is updated based on the fact that the predetermined information transmitted from the game machine and capable of specifying the magnitude of the game value is received by the receiving means. With renewal means
The storage means stores the game value based on the reception of the game machine information including the information regarding the game value from the game machine.
When the game value of the game machine is stored in the storage means when the specific information regarding the closing of business is received from the outside, it is possible to notify the outside of the information that the game value exists in the game machine. There is a game device. A game including a game machine capable of playing using the game value, a game device capable of communicating with the game machine and managing the game value as a predetermined value, and a management device capable of communicating with a plurality of the game devices. System for
The gaming device is
Receiving means that can receive information transmitted from the game machine,
A storage means that can store information about the game value,
The predetermined value stored in the storage means is updated based on the fact that the predetermined information transmitted from the game machine and capable of specifying the magnitude of the game value is received by the receiving means. With renewal means
The storage means stores the game value based on the reception of the game machine information including the information regarding the game value from the game machine.
When the game value of the game machine is stored in the storage means when the specific information regarding the closing of business is received from the outside, it is possible to notify the outside of the information that the game value exists in the game machine. Yes,
The management device is a game system capable of identifying the game machine having a game value among the plurality of game machines based on information transmitted from the plurality of game devices.