JP2021065400A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a technique capable of improving the efficiency of maintenance work of a game machine.SOLUTION: A game machine is provided, including: external peripheral lamps for electrically decorating a front door; a MAX bet lamp that is housed inside a MAX bet button and is for indicating whether or not an inputting operation can be received; and backlights for illuminating display positions of symbols arranged on reels. Even in a situation where the front door is open, a main loop process can be continued in a main board. Generation of a door open error that is an error based on an open state of the front door is monitored in a sub board. In a situation where the door open error is generated, the generation of the door open error is notified by the external peripheral lamps, but regarding the MAX bet lamp and the backlights, a lighting control according to the progress of the main loop process is to be performed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

Conventionally, there are known gaming machines (rotary drum type gaming machines, slot machines) in which a plurality of reels in which a plurality of types of symbols are arranged on the outer peripheral surface are rotated and stopped in response to a player's operation to play a game. .. This type of gaming machine imparts a certain gaming value to a gaming medium such as a medal or a pachinko ball, and performs a game for acquiring such a gaming medium. Further, in this type of gaming machine, an internal lottery is performed and the rotation of a plurality of reels is started with the player's rotation start operation as an opportunity, and the player's stop operation is triggered as an internal lottery result. The stop control is performed to stop the rotating reel. The result of the game is determined by the combination of symbols displayed on the effective line when the plurality of reels are stopped, and medals and the like are paid out according to the result of the game.

Then, various sensors are provided in such a gaming machine, and it is determined whether or not the error condition is satisfied based on the status of the signal from the sensor, and the occurrence of an error is detected based on the condition that the error condition is satisfied. It is equipped with a function to notify the occurrence of such an error. When the occurrence of the error is notified in this way, the gaming machine cannot play the game until the error is cleared, and the cause of the error generated by the clerk of the game hall where the gaming machine is set is removed. When a predetermined release operation is performed, a release process corresponding to the generated error is performed to return to the situation where the game can be played. The door opening error, which is an error that occurs when the front door that can be opened and closed with respect to the housing of the gaming machine is opened in the past, is managed by the main board that controls the progress of the game. Has been carried out (see Patent Document 1).

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2013-158512

By the way, if the door opening error is managed on the main board side, when a door opening error occurs due to the opening of the front door, the gaming machine is set to a state in which the game cannot be played until the front door is closed and the error is cleared. The game cannot proceed. Therefore, when an error other than the door opening error occurs, it is necessary to close the front door in order to check the operation of the gaming machine, which is one of the causes of lowering the work efficiency.

The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a technique capable of improving the efficiency of maintenance work of a gaming machine.

The present invention includes a housing having a front door that can be opened and closed, a reel in which symbols are arranged on an outer peripheral surface, a backlight that illuminates a display position of the symbols, and rotation of the reel. From the main board to the sub-board, including a main board that controls the stop and performs a main loop process for advancing the game, and a sub-board that controls the lighting of the backlight and the lighting of the light source unit. It is a game machine that is communication-connected so that only one-way communication of the above can be performed, and it is possible to input the game value stored and stored by the input operation to the input operation means, and the lighting is controlled by the sub-board. The light source unit includes a first light source unit for lighting the front door and a second light source unit built in the closing operation means for indicating whether or not the closing operation can be accepted. In the main board, the main loop process can be continued even when the front door is open, and a door open error, which is an error due to the front door being open in the sub board, is generated. While monitoring and notifying the occurrence of the door opening error by the first light source unit in the situation where the door opening error has occurred, the second light source unit and the backlight are in the progress of the main loop processing. It relates to a game machine that controls lighting according to the lighting.

In the present invention, the occurrence of the door opening error caused by the opening of the front door is monitored by the sub-board, and the front door is opened so that the main loop process for advancing the game can be continued on the main board even during the occurrence of the door opening error. Since the operation of the gaming machine can be checked as it is, the efficiency of maintenance work can be improved.

Further, in the present invention, the doors of the first light source unit that illuminates the front door as the light source unit that controls lighting on the sub-board and the second light source unit that indicates whether or not the game medium can be input. In the situation where an opening error has occurred, the first light source unit notifies the occurrence of the door opening error, while the lighting control of the second light source unit is performed according to the progress of the main loop processing. It is possible to improve the interface environment in the maintenance work such that the operation check of whether or not the input operation of the stored game medium is normally accepted is performed with the front door open.

Further, in the present invention, the lighting of the backlight that illuminates the display position of the symbols arranged on the reel is controlled on the sub-board, and the backlight is controlled according to the progress of the main loop processing even in a situation where a door opening error occurs. Since the lighting control of the reel is performed, it is easy to check the behavior of the reel in the same operating environment as in a normal game even when the front door is open, and the interface environment for maintenance work such as performing with the front door open. Can be improved.

It is a perspective view which shows the appearance structure of the gaming machine of embodiment of this invention. It is a perspective view which shows the structure inside the housing of the gaming machine of embodiment of this invention. It is a perspective view which shows the structure of the reel unit of the gaming machine of embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining the functional block of the gaming machine of embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining the passage path of the medal of the gaming machine of embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the content of the main error in the gaming machine of embodiment of this invention, and the detection condition thereof. It is a figure for demonstrating the clearing object in the release process corresponding to the main error of the gaming machine of embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the content of the sub-error in the gaming machine of embodiment of this invention, and the detection condition thereof. It is a figure which shows the error notification mode in the gaming machine of embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining the clearing object at the time of error recovery on the sub-board side in the gaming machine of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the main loop processing which controls the progress of the game in the gaming machine of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the error weight processing called when the main error occurs in the gaming machine of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the error release processing about the main error in the gaming machine of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the process at the time of receiving the error occurrence command in the gaming machine of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the detection process of the door opening error in the gaming machine of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the detection process of the communication error in the gaming machine of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the process which concerns on the setting of the error notification target in the gaming machine of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the process which concerns on the notification of the main error in the gaming machine of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the process which concerns on the notification of the door opening error in the gaming machine of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the process which concerns on the notification of the communication error in the gaming machine of embodiment of this invention.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described. The embodiments described below do not unreasonably limit the content of the present invention described in the claims. Moreover, not all of the configurations described in the present embodiment are essential constituent requirements of the present invention.

1. 1. Configuration FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an external configuration of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. Further, FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an internal configuration (excluding the reel unit) of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

The gaming machine of the present embodiment is a so-called slot machine or a rotating body type gaming machine, and is a type of gaming machine that plays a game using a medal as a gaming medium.

In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, a reel unit composed of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 (a plurality of reels) is housed in a box-shaped housing composed of a storage box BX and a front door FD.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the reel unit for a gaming machine according to the present embodiment.

In the reel unit of the present embodiment, each of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 is substantially connected via a metal (or resin) support unit SU that supports a stepping motor SM for driving each reel. It is fixed to a metal (or resin) base unit BU formed in the shape of a.

Each of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 housed in the base unit BU is a reel tape TP made of a strip-shaped resin film on the outer periphery of a resin reel body RD (reel drum) formed in an annular shape. Is wrapped around it. The reel tape TP is wound around the reel body RD so that the front surface constitutes the outer peripheral surface of each reel and the back surface constitutes the inner peripheral surface of each reel, and the ends are fixed to each other with an adhesive or the like. There is.

Further, each of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 is fixed to the drive shaft of the stepping motor SM by bolt tightening or the like at a position corresponding to the rotation center of the reel body RD. Further, the stepping motor SM for each reel is also fixed to the support unit SU by bolt tightening or the like.

Further, the reel tape TP for each reel is divided into symbol arrangement areas for 21 frames at regular intervals, and on the surface of the reel tape TP, one of a plurality of types of symbols is used for each position corresponding to each frame. They are arranged one by one.

The reel unit of the present embodiment includes a backlight unit LU (lighting means) that illuminates the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 from the back surface side (inner peripheral surface side of each reel) of the reel tape TP of each reel. ing. Light sources such as incandescent light bulbs and LED light bulbs are arranged on the backlight unit LU for each reel so as to illuminate each display position of three frames (upper, middle, lower) that can be observed from the display window DW of the game machine. In this embodiment, there are three light sources: an upper backlight BL1 that illuminates the upper display position, a middle backlight BL2 that illuminates the middle display position, and a lower backlight BL3 that illuminates the lower display position. It is provided corresponding to the display position of each reel.

In addition, a power supply device is built in the lower part of the reel unit storage space PS in the storage box BX, and the power supply unit EU and medals equipped with various switches such as a power switch ES, a setting change key cylinder KS, and a setting change button SB. The hopper unit HP as a payout device is housed. In the present embodiment, the setting change button SB also functions as a switch for canceling an error, and the setting change button SB can not only change the set value but also cancel the error. ing. The hopper unit HP includes a medal storage tank MT for storing medals to be used for games, a payout motor composed of a stepping motor (not shown), and a rotary disk pivotally supported by the payout motor (not shown). Is rotationally driven by a payout motor so that medals can be paid out in units of one. Further, in the hopper unit HP, when the stored amount of medals in the medal storage tank MT reaches a certain level, surplus medals are sent out to the cash box CB.

Further, in the housing of the gaming machine of the present embodiment, for example, the main board MAIN is mounted above the reel unit storage space PS, and the sub board SUB is mounted on the side of the reel unit storage space PS. , These control boards (main board MAIN, sub board SUB) are equipped with a CPU as a calculation means, a ROM and a RAM as a storage means, and the like so that the operation of the gaming machine can be controlled. .. Then, between the main board MAIN and the sub board SUB, only unidirectional communication from the main board MAIN to the sub board SUB is possible, and information cannot be transmitted from the sub board SUB to the main board MAIN. Communication connection is made. In the present embodiment, the power supply unit EU is provided with the setting change key cylinder KS and the setting change button SB, but even if the setting change key cylinder KS and the setting change button SB are provided on the surface of the main board MAIN. Good.

Further, each of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 shown in FIG. 1 has an outer peripheral surface divided into 21 regions (each region is referred to as a "frame") at regular intervals, and each frame has a plurality of types of symbols. Is arranged. Further, the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 are pivotally supported by a stepping motor SM (reel driving means), and are rotationally driven around the axis of the stepping motor SM, respectively, and the number of pulses and pulses of the drive pulse of the stepping motor SM. By controlling the width and the like, it is provided so that it can be stopped in frame units (predetermined rotation angle unit, predetermined rotation amount unit). That is, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the stepping motor SM rotationally drives the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 in response to the drive pulse supplied from the control board, and the drive pulse of all-phase excitation is supplied from the control board. Then, as the rotation of the stepping motor SM stops, the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 stop.

The front door FD is provided so as to be openable and closable, and the front door FD is provided with a display window DW that enables observation of the rotating state and the stopped state of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3. In the stopped state of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3, among a plurality of types of symbols arranged at regular intervals on the outer peripheral surfaces of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3, they are continuously arranged on the outer peripheral surface. The three symbols (upper symbol, middle symbol, and lower symbol) can be observed from the front of the gaming machine through the display window DW.

Further, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, upper, middle, and lower tiers are provided for each reel as display positions for observing the symbol through the display window DW, and an effective line is set by the combination of the display positions of the respective reels. Reel. In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the number of medals required for one game, that is, the so-called specified number of inserted medals is set to 3, and when medals corresponding to the specified number of inserted medals are inserted, the first reels R1 to 1 The effective line L1 composed of the middle stages of each of the third reels R3 is activated.

Then, the game result is judged by the symbol combination stopped and displayed on the effective line in the display window DW, and if the symbol combination on the effective line is a symbol combination corresponding to a predetermined combination, the combination wins a prize. As a matter of fact, medals are paid out from the hopper unit HP.

Further, the front door FD is provided with a first main display DS1, a second main display DS2, and a sub display DS3. The first main display DS1, the second main display DS2, and the sub display DS3 are 7-segment displays, and the number of medals paid out and main error information for each game are displayed by the first main display DS1. , The second main display DS2 displays the number of medals credits, and the sub-display DS3 displays the total number of medals acquired (or the total number of payouts) and sub-error information in an advantageous state such as a bonus state.

Further, the front door FD is provided with an outer peripheral lamp AL (an example of a first light source unit) and a liquid crystal display LCD for performing a game effect. The outer peripheral lamp AL plays a role of illuminating the front door FD and enlivening the game depending on the lighting mode, and the exterior is made of translucent resin so that the light from the built-in LED unit can be transmitted. It is formed. Liquid crystal display The liquid crystal display displays various images (or images) for assisting the game or enlivening the game. Further, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, a plurality of speaker SPs for performing a gaming effect are provided on the front door FD. From this speaker SP, various sounds and BGM for assisting the game and enlivening the game are output.

Further, the front door FD is provided with various operating means. As the operation means, a 1-bet button (insertion operation means) B0A, a MAX bet button (insertion operation means) B0B, and a first reel R1 to a third reel R3 for performing an operation of inserting a credit (stored) medal are used. It is an opportunity to stop each of the start lever (game start operation means) SL for performing an operation that triggers the rotation to start the game, and the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 that are rotationally driven by the stepping motor. Stop buttons (stop operation means) B1 to B3 for performing the operation are provided. In particular, in the present embodiment, the MAX bet buttons B0B and the stop buttons B1 to B3 are made of translucent resin and can transmit light from the built-in MAX bet lamp (an example of the second light source unit). It is formed, and by lighting the MAX bet lamp, it becomes possible to grasp that the insertion operation of the medal stored in the credit is enabled and the stop operation related to the rotating reel is enabled. There is.

Further, the front door FD is provided with a door key cylinder DK, and the front door FD can be unlocked by inserting the door key into the door key cylinder DK. Further, the front door FD can be unlocked by rotating the door key inserted into the door key cylinder DK 90 degrees clockwise from the initial position.

In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the rotation control of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 can be started by the player inserting the medal into the insertion slot MI or pressing the bet button B0. Set to possible ready state. The medals inserted from the insertion slot MI pass through the medal selector SC shown in FIG. 2 and then enter the medal storage tank MT of the hopper unit HP via the medal shoot MS. However, under certain conditions such as after starting the game, the medal blocker built into the medal selector SC operates to block the flow path to the medal shoot MS so that the inserted medals are returned from the payout exit MO. The flow path of medals is switched. Then, when the player presses the start lever SL, the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 are started to rotate by driving the stepping motor SM on the control board, and an internal lottery using a random number value is performed to perform the first reel. The pressing operation of the stop buttons B1 to B3 is permitted (enabled) on condition that the rotation speed of the R1 to the third reel R3 has increased to a predetermined speed.

After that, when the player presses the stop buttons B1 to B3 at an arbitrary timing, the stop switches (stop signal output means: for example, a photo sensor, a continuity sensor, and a pressure) built in each of the stop buttons B1 to B3 are pressed. The sensor, etc.) turns on and changes the reel stop signal input to the main board MAIN from the off state to the on state.

When the player releases the stop buttons B1 to B3 that are in the pressed state at an arbitrary timing, the stop switches corresponding to the stop buttons B1 to B3 are turned off, and the reel stop signal input to the main board MAIN is turned on. Change from state to off state.

Then, the main board MAIN has a stop position according to the result of the internal lottery based on the change from the off state to the on state of the reel stop signal whose signal state changes according to the pressing timing and the release timing of the stop buttons B1 to B3. The first reel R1 to the third reel R3 are stopped at.

Further, a payout outlet MO and a medal tray MP are provided at the lower part of the lower front door DD so that the number of medals according to the result of the game is paid out from the hopper unit HP to the medal tray MP through the payout outlet MO. It has become. In addition, when medals are paid out according to the result of the game, if credits (internal storage) of medals are permitted, the maximum number of medals corresponding to a part or all of the number of medals to be paid out (the present embodiment). The credit is limited to 50 medals), and the display value of the second main display DS2 is changed according to the change in the number of medals credited.

FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram of the gaming machine of the present embodiment.

The gaming machine of the present embodiment is controlled by a main control unit 10 (main board MAIN) and a sub control unit 20 (sub board SUB). The main control unit 10 and the sub control unit 20 are activated by being supplied with electric power from the power supply unit EU by the operation of the power switch ES. Then, the main control unit 10 includes a setting change switch 301, a door open / close switch 302, an insertion detection sensor 401, a first medal pass sensor 402, a second medal pass sensor 403, a shoot sensor 305, a 1-bet switch 307, and a MAX bet switch 308. In response to input signals from the start switch 309, stop switch 311, overflow sensor 313, etc., it performs various calculations for setting the game machine, managing main errors, or proceeding with the game, and the reel unit is based on the calculation results. It controls the operation of 310, the hopper unit (payout device) HP, and the like. Further, the sub-control unit 20 responds to a command from the main control unit 10 to control the operation of the display unit 501, the speaker SP, the lamp unit 503, and manage sub-errors. In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the functions of the main control unit 10 and the sub control unit 20 are applied to various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ASIC (gate array, etc.), ROM, hardware such as RAM, ROM, and the like. It is realized by software consisting of a given program stored in advance.

The main control unit 10 includes a setting changing means 101, a game control means 102, a random number generating means 103, a main error detecting means 104, a main error management means 105, and a main storage means 106.

The setting changing means 101 controls to change the setting value stored in the main storage means 106. In the present embodiment, the setting change key cylinder KS can be switched between the case of being started in the game mode and the case of being started in the setting change mode according to the state of the setting change key cylinder KS when the power is turned on. When power is supplied from the power supply unit EU by operating the power switch ES in a state where the setting key is inserted in and the setting key is turned 90 degrees clockwise from the initial position, the setting changing means 101 plays a game. Start the machine in the setting change mode. Then, in the present embodiment, the set value can be selected from the set values of 6 stages from the setting 1 to the setting 6, and the expected value of the ball output rate from the setting 1 toward the setting 6 in order. The winning probability of the internal lottery fluctuates so that In this embodiment, the height of the set value is expressed in the order of setting 1 <setting 2 <setting 3 <setting 4 <setting 5 <setting 6.

Further, when the setting change button SB is pressed and the setting change switch 301 is activated in the setting change mode, the setting change means 101 sets a setting value every time an input signal from the setting change switch 301 is received. When the set value is changed in the order of setting 6 → setting 1 → ... and the start switch 230 is activated by pressing the start lever SL, the set value is fixed and the fixed set value is stored in the main storage means 106. Controls the memory. Then, in the present embodiment, the setting change mode can be shifted to the game mode by returning the setting key inserted into the setting change key cylinder KS to the initial position. In the present embodiment, the selected set value is displayed on the first main display DS1 in the setting change mode.

Further, in the present embodiment, when the power is turned on while the setting change key cylinder KS is in the initial position, the gaming machine is started in the gaming mode. Then, in the present embodiment, the game can be played in the game mode, but the set value cannot be changed, and the set value can be changed in the setting change mode, but the game cannot be played. It has become.

Further, the setting changing means 101 performs an initialization process for initializing the information stored in the read / write memory (RWM), which is a storage area that can be read and written in the main storage means 106, in the setting changing mode. In the initialization process, not all the information stored in the read / write memory is initialized, but some information such as medal credit information is retained without being initialized. ..

The game control means 102 is a means for controlling the progress of the game, and when the game is started by accepting the insertion of medals, the winning or losing of the winning combination is determined by an internal lottery, and the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 When the stop operation for the stop buttons B1 to B3 is performed, the rotating reel is stopped according to the result of the internal lottery, and the winning combination is won based on the symbol combination displayed on the effective line. A main loop process for advancing the game is performed by determining whether or not the game is to be performed and performing processing according to the determination result. The details will be described below.

First, the game control means 102 accepts the insertion of medals for each game, and based on the insertion of medals corresponding to the specified number of inserted medals (3 medals), the game start operation with respect to the start lever SL (game start operation means). Performs the process of enabling. In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the first pressing operation of the start lever SL activated based on the insertion of medals corresponding to the specified number of insertions is accepted as the game start operation, and the first reel R1 to the third reel It is an opportunity to start the rotation of R3 and an opportunity to execute an internal lottery.

Further, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, when a medal is inserted into the medal insertion slot MI, the insertion detection sensor 401 in the medal selector SC operates, and the game control means 102 limits the number of insertions to a specified number. , Set the inserted medals to the inserted state. Further, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, it is possible to credit-store (store and store) up to 50 medals in the main storage means 106, and bet with the medals stored in credits in the gaming machine. When the button B0 is pressed, the game control means 102 sets the credit-stored medals in the main storage means 106 to the inserted state by limiting the specified number of inserted as the bet switch 308 is activated. In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the number of credits is displayed on the second main display DS2, and the gaming control means 102 is the second according to the increase or decrease in the number of medals stored in the main storage means 106. 2 Change the display content of the main display DS2.

Further, the game control means 102 determines the winning or losing of the combination based on the signal from the start switch 309 operated by the game start operation (the first pressing operation on the activated start lever SL) with respect to the start lever SL. Is performed, and lottery table selection processing, random number determination processing, lottery flag setting processing, and the like are performed.

In the lottery table selection process, it is determined which of the plurality of types of internal lottery tables stored in the main storage means 106 is used for the internal lottery. In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, in each internal lottery table, for each of a plurality of random numbers (for example, 65536 random values from 0 to 65535), various roles such as replay, small winning combination, and bonus are performed. Loss (unwinning) is associated. In this embodiment, an internal lottery table is prepared for each set value according to the game state for the set values of 6 stages, and the probability that a part of the winning modes will be obtained by the internal lottery according to the set values. Are different, and the correspondence between the winning combination and the random value is set so that the higher the set value, the higher the expected value of the payout rate.

Then, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, a normal state, a bonus establishment state, and a bonus state can be set as the gaming state, and in the lottery table selection process, any one of a plurality of types of internal lottery tables is set according to the gaming state. Select one as the internal lottery table to be used in the internal lottery.

In the random number determination process, a random number value (random number for lottery) is acquired from the random number generating means 103 for each game based on the signal from the start switch 309, and the acquired random number value is stored in the main storage means 106 for internal lottery. Refer to the table to determine whether or not the winning combination has been won.

The random number generating means 103 described above is a means for generating a random number value for lottery. The random number value can be generated by, for example, a 16-bit random number circuit that generates 65536 random number values from 0 to 65535 without duplication in one cycle. In the present embodiment, the "random number value" includes not only a value that randomly occurs in a mathematical sense, but also a value that is generated regularly, but the acquisition timing and the like are irregular. Also includes values that can function as random numbers.

In the lottery flag setting process, based on the result of the random number determination process, the lottery flag corresponding to the winning combination is changed from the non-winning state (first flag state, off state) to the winning state (second flag state). , On state). In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, when two or more types of winning combinations are won in duplicate, a lottery flag corresponding to each of the two or more types of winning combination is set in the winning state. The lottery flag setting information is stored in the main storage means 106.

Further, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the lottery flag (carry-over possible flag) that allows the winning state to be carried over to the next and subsequent games until a prize is won, and the winning state is not carried over to the next and subsequent games regardless of the winning. A lottery flag (non-carryover flag) that resets to the winning state is prepared. There is a bonus for the role to which the former carry-over flag is associated, and the small role and replay are associated with the latter carry-over flag. That is, in the lottery flag setting process, for example, when a bonus is won in an internal lottery, the winning state of the bonus lottery flag is carried over until the bonus is won. At this time, the game control means 102 performs an internal lottery to determine whether or not the small winning combination and the replay are successful even in the game in which the winning state of the bonus lottery flag is carried over. In this way, in the lottery flag setting process, in the game in which the winning state of the bonus lottery flag is carried over, if a small role or replay is won, the bonus lottery flag already won and the internal lottery are won. Set the lottery flags corresponding to two or more types of wins, which consist of the lottery flags for small wins and replays, to the winning state.

Further, the game control means 102 starts the rotation drive of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 by the stepping motor based on the signal from the start switch 309 operated by the player by the game start operation to the start lever SL. Press the stop buttons B1 to B3 (stop operation means) corresponding to the reels on which the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 are constantly rotating at a predetermined speed (about 80 rpm: about 80 rotations per minute). Control to enable the stop operation, and to stop the first reel R1 to the third reel R3, which are rotationally driven by the stepping motor, in a manner corresponding to the setting state of the lottery flag (result of the internal lottery). I do.

Then, the game control means 102 receives a signal from the stop switch 311 when the stop switch 311 is activated by the player pressing the stop buttons B1 to B3 in a state where the stop operation for the stop buttons B1 to B3 is enabled. Based on this, by stopping the supply of the drive pulse (motor drive signal) to the stepping motor of the reel unit 310, control is performed to stop each reel of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3.

That is, each time the game control means 102 presses each of the stop buttons B1 to B3, the game control means 102 determines and determines the stop position of the reel corresponding to the pressed button among the first reel R1 to the third reel R3. Control is performed to stop the reel at the stopped position. In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, pressing the stop button B1 corresponds to an operation for stopping the first reel R1, and pressing the stop button B2 corresponds to an operation for stopping the second reel R2. Correspondingly, pressing the stop button B3 corresponds to the operation for stopping the third reel R3. That is, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, when the pressing order of the stop buttons B1 to B3 changes, the stop order of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 changes.

Further, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, with respect to the first reel R1 to the third reel R3, the rotating reel corresponding to the pressed stop button is stopped within 190 ms from the time when the stop buttons B1 to B3 are pressed. It has become like. When the rotating reel is stopped within 190 ms from the time when the stop button is pressed, the number of frames required from the time when the stop button is pressed until the reel stops is 0 at the stop position of each rotating reel. It is determined in the range of ~ 4 frames (predetermined pull-in range). Then, in the game control means 102, on the outer peripheral surface of the rotating reel corresponding to the stop button on which the pressing operation is performed among the stop buttons B1 to B3, the symbol corresponding to the winning combination in the internal lottery is the stop button. If the position is within the range of 0 to 4 frames with respect to the display position on the valid line when the pressing operation is performed on, the symbol corresponding to the winning combination of the lottery flag is the valid line. As shown in the upper display position, the control is performed to stop the rotating reel corresponding to the stop button on which the pressing operation is performed.

Further, in the game machine of the present embodiment, the reel unit 310 includes a reel index 405 composed of a photo sensor, and the game control means 102 is based on a signal detected by the reel index 405 each time the reel rotates once. By obtaining the rotation angle (number of rotation steps of the rotation axis of the stepping motor) from the reference position of the reel (frame detected by the reel index 405), the current rotation state of the reel can be monitored. There is. That is, the game control means 102 can obtain the position of the reel when the stop switch 311 is operated by obtaining the rotation angle of the reel from the reference position.

In the present embodiment, a plurality of types of symbols are arranged on the outer peripheral surfaces of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 constituting the reel unit 310, and the symbols existing within 4 frames from the pressing detection position are arranged. When pulling on the effective line, for the symbols arranged at intervals of 4 frames or less on the outer peripheral surface of each reel, at the reel position at the time of operation of the stop switch 311 (when the press of the stop button is detected). It can be displayed on the effective line regardless of a certain press detection position.

Further, the game control means 102 determines the stop position of the rotating reel by referring to the process (logic calculation) of obtaining the stop position of the rotating reel according to the priority and the stop control table stored in the main storage means 106. The process of determining (table reference process) is performed.

First, in the logic calculation, 5 frames (or 2 frames) existing in the range of 0 to 4 frames (or within the range of 0 to 1 frame) from the pressing detection position according to the priority data determined for each combination. Priority is obtained for the candidate stop position of. Then, among the priorities of the candidates for each stop position, the candidate for the stop position having the highest priority is determined as the actual stop position. However, in logic calculation, the same priority may be obtained for multiple stop position candidates depending on the result of the internal lottery, the press detection position, etc., and the highest priority stop position candidate is multiple. In that case, the actual stop position is determined by the table reference process described later.

In particular, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the priority is set in the order of "replay> bonus" and "small combination> bonus", and in the logic calculation, lottery flags for two or more types of combination are set in the winning state. If so, according to the priority associated with each combination, the symbols constituting the winning form of the winning combination with low priority are included for the candidate of the stop position including the symbols constituting the winning form of the winning combination with high priority. The priority is obtained so that the priority is higher than the candidate stop position.

In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, when a plurality of types of small wins are won in the internal lottery, the priority of the candidate stop position depends on the number of symbol combinations indicating the winning form that can be displayed on the valid line. There are cases where the priority is calculated and cases where the priority is calculated according to the number of medals paid out based on the predetermined dividend for the small winning combination, and the number of symbol combinations indicating the winning form that can be displayed on the valid line. When finding the priority of the stop position candidates according to the above, each stop position candidate has a higher priority as the number of symbol combinations indicating the winning form that can be displayed on the effective line increases. When finding the priority of the candidate for the stop position according to the number of medals paid out, the medal based on the payout of the small winning combination corresponding to the symbol displayed at the display position on the valid line. The priority of each stop position candidate is calculated so that the stop position where the number of payouts increases (the stop position where a small winning combination with a large payout can be won) has a higher priority. However, when seeking priority for candidates for stop positions according to the number of medals paid out, if small wins with the same payout are won more than once, each small win can be won. The priorities of the candidates are treated as the same, and when the priority of the stop position candidates is obtained according to the number of symbol combinations indicating the winning form that can be displayed on the valid line, the priority is placed on the valid line. The priority of the stop position candidates in which the number of symbol combinations indicating the displayable winning forms is the same is treated as the same.

Further, in the logic calculation, so-called pull-in processing and kicking processing are performed as processing for obtaining a candidate for the stop position of the reel. The pull-in process is a process of obtaining the priority of the candidate reel stop position so that the winning combination with the lottery flag set in the winning state can be won as much as possible. On the other hand, the kicking process is a process of obtaining the priority of the candidate reel stop position so that the winning combination whose lottery flag is set to the non-winning state cannot be won. In this way, the game control means 102 makes it possible to stop the symbol of the winning combination in which the lottery flag is set in the winning state in the form of winning, while the symbol of the winning combination in which the lottery flag is set in the non-winning state is in the form of winning. A logic operation is performed to find a candidate for a reel stop position so that the reel does not stop.

In the table reference processing, when a plurality of candidates for the stop position having the highest priority are obtained as a result of performing the logic operation, which position is set as the stop position is stored in the main storage means 106. Determine by referring to the control table.

Here, in the stop control table, a correspondence relationship between the pressing detection position and the number of sliding frames indicating the amount of rotation from the pressing detection position to the actual stop position is set according to the setting state of the lottery flag. In the stop control table, the correspondence between the pressed detection position and the actual stop position may be set according to the setting state of the lottery flag.

Further, the game control means 102 performs a winning determination process for determining whether or not a winning combination has been won, based on the stopping mode of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3. Specifically, while referring to the winning determination table stored in the main storage means 106, the symbol combinations displayed on the effective line when all of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 are stopped are displayed. It is determined whether or not the winning combination is in a predetermined form.

Then, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the gaming control means 102 executes the winning process when the winning combination is won based on the result of the winning determination process. As the processing at the time of winning, for example, when a small winning combination is won, the medal payout control processing is performed, when the replay is winning, the replay processing is performed, and when the bonus is won, the game state is shifted. The game state transition control process is performed.

First, the game control means 102 performs a payout control process for paying out medals according to the game result. Specifically, when a small winning combination is won, the number of medals to be paid out in the game is determined based on the predetermined payout for each winning combination, and the medals corresponding to the determined number of payouts are sent to the hopper unit HP. Control to pay out.

The hopper unit HP is a device that performs an operation of paying out the number of medals to be paid out as instructed by the game control means 102. The hopper unit HP is provided with a payout sensor 406 that operates every time one medal is paid out, and the game control means 102 is actually paid out from the hopper unit HP based on an input signal from the payout sensor 406. It is structured so that the number of medals can be managed. In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, when medals are paid out in each game, the number of medals paid out is displayed on the first main display DS1, and the game control means 102 is small. When medals are paid out by winning a winning combination, control is performed so that the number of medals paid out in connection with the winning of the small winning combination is displayed on the first main display DS1.

If credit storage (storage storage) of medals is permitted, the number of credits stored in the main storage means 106 (of the medals stored in credits) instead of actually paying out the medals by the hopper unit HP. A credit addition process for adding the number of payouts to the number) is performed to virtually pay out medals. When adding a part or all of the number of medals paid out to the number of credits, the game control means 102 controls to change the display content of the second main display DS2 in response to the increase in the number of credits. ..

Further, when the replay wins a prize, the game control means 102 performs a replay process (replay process) for setting the same preparation state as the previous game without requiring the player to insert a medal owned by the player for the next game. .. That is, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, when the replay wins, the same number of medals as in the previous game are automatically inserted without using the medals (including credit medals) held by the player. The process is performed, and with the same effective line as the previous game set, the game start operation for the next start lever SL is waited for.

Further, the game control means 102 performs a game state transition control process for shifting the game state between the normal state, the bonus establishment state, and the bonus state. In the present embodiment, the information indicating the staying game state is stored in the main storage means 106. As the transition condition of the gaming state, one condition may be defined, or a plurality of conditions may be defined. When a plurality of conditions are set, the gaming state is determined based on the fact that one of the plurality of predetermined conditions is satisfied or all of the plurality of predetermined conditions are satisfied. It is possible to shift to another gaming state.

The normal state is a gaming state corresponding to the initial state among a plurality of types of gaming states, and it is possible to shift from the normal state to the bonus establishment state. Specifically, when the bonus is won in the normal state, the state shifts to the bonus establishment state. Further, in the normal state, the internal lottery is performed with reference to the internal lottery table in which the small winning combination, the replay, and the bonus are set as the lottery targets among the plurality of types of internal lottery tables stored in the main storage means 106. ..

The bonus establishment state is a gaming state in which the transition is triggered by winning the bonus in the internal lottery. In the bonus establishment state, among the plurality of types of internal lottery tables stored in the main memory means 106, the winning or losing of the small winning combination is determined with the same probability as in the normal state, and the bonus is excluded from the lottery target. An internal lottery will be held. Although the replay is set as a lottery target even in the bonus establishment state, the winning probability and winning mode of the replay may be different or the same as in the normal state.

In addition, in the bonus establishment state, the winning or not of the small winning combination and the replay is determined while the lottery flag corresponding to the bonus is maintained in the winning state until the bonus is won, and the symbol combination indicating the winning form of the bonus is displayed on the valid line. Then, the game control means 102 shifts the game state from the bonus establishment state to the bonus state based on the winning of the bonus.

The bonus state is a gaming state in which the game shifts when the symbol combination indicating the winning form of the bonus is displayed on the valid line. In the bonus state, among the plurality of types of internal lottery tables stored in the main memory means 106, the winning probability of the small winning combination is set higher than that in the normal state and the bonus establishment state, and the replay is excluded from the lottery target. An internal lottery will be held with reference to the table. That is, in the bonus state, the small winning combination is won more frequently than in the normal state and the bonus established state, which is more advantageous to the player than in the normal state and the bonus established state.

In the bonus state, it is determined whether or not the end condition is satisfied based on the total number of medals paid out by the bonus game in the bonus state, and the number of medals to be paid out exceeds a predetermined number (for example, 250). Is paid out, the game control means 102 ends the bonus state and returns the game state to the normal state. In the present embodiment, the count information about the number of payouts in the bonus state is accumulated and stored in the main storage means 106.

The main error detecting means 104 monitors the signal states of the input detection sensor 401, the first medal passing sensor 402, the second medal passing sensor 403, the shoot sensor 305, the payout sensor 406, and the overflow sensor 313, and determines the error detection condition. The main error is detected by determining whether the condition is satisfied and identifying the main error that occurs based on the condition that the error detection condition is satisfied. In the present embodiment, even after detecting any of the main errors (a situation in which the release operation is awaited by the error weight processing described later), the main error detecting means 104 periodically performs the timer interrupt processing to detect each main error. Detection is continuing.

Hereinafter, the types of main errors and the error detection conditions for each main error will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a flow path of medals inserted from the insertion slot.

First, in the situation where medals are accepted, when medals are inserted from the insertion slot MI, the medals are identified and the number of medals is counted through the medal selector SC, and the hopper unit is passed through the medal shoot MS. Medals are being sent to the HP.

On the other hand, in a situation where a game is being played or the number of medal credits has reached the maximum number, the medal blocker 404 is activated to block the flow path from the medal selector SC to the medal shoot MS, and the medal selector SC The medals are returned to the payout MO.

When the number of medals stored in the hopper unit HP exceeds a predetermined amount, the medals sent to the hopper unit HP in excess of the predetermined amount are sent to the cash box CB.

Then, in the present embodiment, the main error detecting means 104 has a backflow error, an empty error, a payout clogging error, a payout abnormality error, an over error, a retention error, and a retention error, as shown in FIG. 6, based on the signal states of various sensors. Detects a throw-in error.

(1) Backflow error The backflow error is a main error caused by the backflow of medals in the flow path, and in a situation where medals are accepted, the first medal passing sensor 402 or the second medal passing sensor 402 or the second medal passing sensor. It is detected when the signal state (on / off state) of 403 does not change in the correct order. The main error detecting means 104 checks the states of the two sensors each time there is a change in the signal state of the first medal passing sensor 402 or the second medal passing sensor 403, and if the changes do not occur in the correct order, a backflow error occurs. Is considered to have occurred, and the backflow error detection flag is set in the main storage means 106.

(2) Empty error The empty error is a main error caused by the fact that the medals stored in the hopper unit HP are exhausted, and the signal state of the payout sensor 406 is turned off in the situation where the medals are paid out. It is detected when it continues for a certain period (about 2100 ms) or more in a state (a state in which the medals to be paid out are not detected). When the signal instructing the hopper unit HP to pay out the medal is turned on, the main error detecting means 104 measures the time with the empty error detecting timer provided in the main storage means 106, and the empty error detecting timer of the empty error detecting means 104. When the signal state of the payout sensor 406 remains off for a certain period of time or longer according to the timekeeping information, it is considered that an empty error has occurred and the empty error detection flag is set in the main storage means 106.

(3) Payout clogging error The payout clogging error is a main error caused by the medals to be paid out in the hopper unit HP being clogged and not being discharged. In the situation where medals are paid out, the payout sensor 406 Is detected when the signal state of is on (a state in which a medal to be paid out is detected) and continues for a certain period (about 172 ms) or more. When the signal instructing the hopper unit HP to pay out the medal is turned on, the main error detecting means 104 measures the time with the payout clogging error detection timer provided in the main storage means 106 to detect the payout clogging error. When the signal state of the payout sensor 406 remains on for a certain period of time or longer according to the timekeeping information of the timer, it is considered that a payout clogging error has occurred and the payout clogging error detection flag is set in the main storage means 106.

(4) Abnormal payout error The abnormal payout error is the main error caused by the payout of medals in a situation where medals should not be paid out, and the payout sensor is used in a situation where medals are not paid out. It is detected when the signal state of 406 is on and continues for a certain period (about 6 ms) or more. The main error detecting means 104 measures the time with the payout error detection timer provided in the main storage means 106 in a situation where the signal instructing the payout of the medal to the hopper unit HP is off, and the payout error detection timer of the payout error detection means 104. When the signal state of the payout sensor 406 remains on for a certain period of time or longer according to the timekeeping information, it is considered that a payout error has occurred and the payout error detection flag is set in the main storage means 106.

(5) Over error The over error is a main error caused by the excess medals stored in the cash box CB exceeding a predetermined amount, and the signal state of the overflow sensor 313 is on (the surplus medals are a predetermined amount). It is detected when it continues for a certain period (about 0.1 ms) or more in a signal state indicating that the value has been exceeded. In a situation where the signal state of the overflow sensor 313 is on, the main error detecting means 104 measures the time with the over error detection timer provided in the main storage means 106, and the overflow sensor 313 uses the time information of the over error detection timer to measure the time. When the signal state remains on and exceeds a certain period of time, it is considered that an over error has occurred and the over error detection flag is set in the main storage means 106.

(6) Retention error The retention error is a main error caused by the medals being jammed in the medal selector SC, and the signal state of the first medal passing sensor 402 or the second medal passing sensor 403 is on (medals). It is detected when it continues for a certain period (about 131 ms) or more in a signal state indicating that the presence of is detected. The main error detecting means 104 is timed by a retention error detecting timer provided in the main storage means 106 in a situation where the signal state of at least one of the first medal passing sensor 402 and the second medal passing sensor 403 is in the ON state. When the signal status of the first medal passing sensor 402 or the second medal passing sensor 403 remains on for a certain period of time or longer according to the timed information of the retention error detection timer, it is considered that a retention error has occurred. A retention error detection flag is set in the storage means 106.

(7) Insertion abnormality error The insertion abnormality error is caused by the fact that the medal is clogged near the insertion port MI (type 1) and the medal blocker 404 is operated to block the flow path to the medal chute MS. The medal is passing through a flow path different from the regular flow path (here, the flow path returned to the payout outlet MO) even though the route has been switched (type 2), or the medal selector SC. This is a main error caused by a difference of a certain amount or more between the number of medals that have passed the medal shoot and the number of medals that have passed the medal shoot MS (type 3).

The insertion abnormality error of the first type is detected when the insertion detection sensor 401 in the medal selector SC continues for a certain period (about 532 ms) or more in the ON state (signal state detecting the existence of the medal). The main error detecting means 104 measures the time with the first closing error detection timer provided in the main storage means 106 in the situation where the signal state of the closing detection sensor 401 is ON, and the first closing error detecting timer of the first closing error detecting means 104. When the signal state of the closing detection sensor 401 remains on for a certain period of time or longer according to the timekeeping information, it is considered that a closing error has occurred and the closing error detection flag is set in the main storage means 106.

The second type of insertion abnormality error is detected when the second medal passage sensor 403 detects a medal flowing toward the medal shoot MS after passing through the medal selector SC after the medal blocker 404 is activated. When the signal state of the second medal passing sensor 403 is on in the situation where the medal blocker 404 is operating, the main error detecting means 104 considers that an insertion abnormality error has occurred and inserts the medal blocker 404 into the main storage means 106. Set the error detection flag. However, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, a non-monitoring period (about 270 ms) is provided for determining the occurrence of the second type of input abnormality error, and the main error detecting means 104 is based on the operation of the medal blocker 404. The time is measured by the insertion abnormality non-monitoring timer provided in the main storage means 106, and when the non-monitoring period elapses, the signal state of the second medal passing sensor 403 is confirmed to determine the occurrence of the insertion abnormality error.

The third type of insertion abnormality error is a third type of insertion abnormality error between the time when the inserted medals pass through the first medal passing sensor 402 and the second medal passing sensor 403 in the correct order until a certain period (about 1490 ms) elapses. The number of medals detected to have passed the 1st medal passing sensor 402 and the 2nd medal passing sensor 403 in the correct order and the signal state of the shoot sensor 305 are on (the signal state of detecting the existence of the medals). If the difference from the number of times is not within the predetermined range (for example, -8 to 7), or after the inserted medals pass through the first medal passing sensor 402 and the second medal passing sensor 403 in the correct order. After a certain period of time (about 1490 ms) has passed, the number of medals detected to have passed the first medal passing sensor 402 and the second medal passing sensor 403 in the correct order and the signal state of the shoot sensor 305 are on (the signal state). It is detected when the difference from the number of times that the presence of the medal is detected (signal state) becomes a predetermined number (for example, 5) or more. The main error detecting means 104 informs the main storage means 106 in a situation where the signal states of the first medal passing sensor 402 and the second medal passing sensor 403 are in the off state and the signal state of the shoot sensor 305 is in the on state. It was detected by the shoot counter provided in the main storage means 106 that the first medal passing sensor 402 and the second medal passing sensor 403 were passed in the correct order while measuring with the provided second insertion abnormality error detection timer. The difference between the number of medals and the number of times the signal state of the shoot sensor 305 is turned on is monitored, and when this difference satisfies the above conditions, it is considered that an insertion abnormality error has occurred and the input is input to the main storage means 106. Set the error detection flag.

When any error detection flag is set in the main storage means 106, the main error management means 105 performs an error wait process and waits for a predetermined release operation to be performed. In this error wait process, the main error management means 105 performs a main error. The main error detected by the detection means 104 is notified by the first main display DS1, and a release process for clearing the error detection flag or the like is performed based on the predetermined release operation. In the present embodiment, while the error wait processing by the main error management means 105 is being executed, the main loop processing by the game control means 102 is interrupted, and the main loop processing is performed after the release processing for the generated main error is completed. It will be resumed.

Specifically, when the main error is detected by the main error detecting means 104 and the error detection flag corresponding to the detected main error is set in the main storage means 106, the main error management means 105 has an error wait. In the process, an error code corresponding to the type of the error detection flag is set, and the set error code is displayed on the first main display DS1.

In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, error codes of E1 to E6 and E9 are assigned corresponding to various main errors, and when the backflow error detection flag is set, the first error code is assigned. 1 When "E1" is displayed on the main display DS1 and the empty error detection flag is set, "E2" is displayed on the first main display DS2 and the payout clogging error detection flag is set. In this case, "E3" is displayed on the first main display DS1 and "E4" is displayed on the first main display DS1 when the payout error detection flag is set, and the over error detection flag is displayed. Is set, "E5" is displayed on the first main display DS1, and "E6" is displayed on the first main display 306 when the retention error detection flag is set. When the closing error error detection flag is set, "E9" is displayed on the first main display DS1. When a plurality of types of error detection flags are set in the main storage means 106, the error code corresponding to the earliest detected error detection flag is displayed on the first main display DS1. However, the error code may be given a priority in advance, and the error code having the highest priority may be displayed on the first main display DS1.

Further, the main error management means 105 accepts that the setting change button SB is pressed in the error wait processing as a release operation, and when a signal is input from the setting change switch 301 by this release operation, the release operation is performed. As shown in FIG. 7, the release process for clearing (erasing) error-related information such as the detection flag and the timekeeping information of the timer stored in the main storage means 107 is performed. In the error wait processing, after the error code is displayed on the first main display 306, the timer wait processing is performed using the error wait timer provided in the main storage means 106, and the timer wait processing is performed during the period (the period during which the timer wait processing is performed. The release operation is accepted after about 108 ms) has elapsed.

Then, in the present embodiment, when the main error management means 105 detects a predetermined error by the main error detecting means 104, the main error corresponding to the main error detected based on the cancellation operation is released. While processing, other main errors associated with the main error that occurred, regardless of whether or not the error occurred for other main errors that are predetermined as errors related to the detected main error. Release processing corresponding to the error is also performed.

First, when the backflow error is detected by the main error detecting means 104, the main error management means 105 performs a release process corresponding to the backflow error based on the release operation, and also performs an input error and an input error. It also performs release processing corresponding to the retention error.

Further, when the retention error is detected by the main error detection means 104, the main error management means 105 performs a cancellation process corresponding to the retention error based on the release operation, and causes an input error. The corresponding release process is also performed.

As described above, in the present embodiment, when the main error is detected, the detected main error is notified through the first main display 306 and it is possible to prompt the cancellation of the generated main error. When a release operation is performed in the error wait process called by the occurrence of an error, the release process corresponding to the main error is performed. In particular, in the present embodiment, the main error is continuously detected even in the situation where the error wait processing is waiting for the execution of the release process corresponding to the detected error, so that the cause of the main error being generated can be determined. There is a possibility that other main errors will be detected along with the removal work, but if the release operation is performed by a clerk at the amusement park, etc., the release process corresponding to the initially detected main error will be performed and the release process will be performed. Since the cancellation process for other main errors that are predetermined as errors related to the detected main error is also executed regardless of whether or not another main error has occurred, the error cancellation is performed. It is possible to save time and effort.

Further, in the present embodiment, the transmission of information from the main control unit 10 to the sub control unit 20 is realized by transmitting a command by serial communication, but the command transmitted from the main control unit 10 to the sub control unit 20 The information contained in is related to the set value, game status, number of medals inserted and paid out, result of internal lottery, signal status of various switches, contents of reel stop control, winning judgment result, and main error that occurred. And so on.

In particular, in the present embodiment, when a main error occurs, the main control unit 10 performs an error generation command corresponding to the error type for which the error detection flag is set and a release operation for the setting change button SB. When the indicated error release command is transmitted to the sub-control unit 20 and the signal state of the door open / close switch 302 changes, the signal state changes from the off state (the signal state indicating that the front door FD is closed) to the on state (the signal state indicating that the front door FD is closed). A door open command is sent to the sub-control unit 20 based on the change to the front door FD (signal state indicating that the front door FD is open), and the door close command is sent based on the signal state changing from the on state to the off state. To send. In the present embodiment, even if the front door FD is opened, it is not treated as a main error itself, and the main loop processing can be continued as long as no other main error has occurred. Further, in the present embodiment, control is also performed in which a disconnection monitoring command is periodically transmitted from the main control unit 10 to the sub control unit 20 every predetermined period (for example, every 15 ms).

Subsequently, the sub-control unit 20 will be described. The sub-control unit 20 includes an effect control means 201, a sub-error detecting means 202, a sub-error management means 203, and a sub-storage means 204.

The effect control means 201 is an effect performed by using the display unit 501 (for example, a liquid crystal display LCD), an effect performed by using the speaker SP, or a lamp unit 503 based on the effect data stored in the sub-storage means 202. (For example, the outer peripheral lamp AL, etc.) is used to control the effect. For example, the lamp or LED may be turned on or blinked according to the occurrence of a game event such as inserting a medal, operating the 1-bet button B0A, MAX bet button B0B, start lever SL, stop buttons B1 to B3, or changing the game state. , Liquid crystal display By changing the display content of the LCD or outputting sound from the speaker SP, the game is excited and the execution control of the effect for assisting the game is performed according to the progress of the game.

In particular, in the present embodiment, the MAX bet lamp 604 built in the MAX bet button B0B notifies whether or not the insertion operation can be accepted, and the medal is displayed in the main loop processing of the main control unit 10. The MAX bet lamp 604 is turned on when the insertion is accepted, and the MAX bet lamp 604 is turned off when the insertion of medals is not accepted. Further, in the present embodiment, in the main loop processing of the main control unit 10, at least in a situation where the reels are rotating, the backlight unit LU illuminates the symbol display position of each reel to make the symbols arranged on each reel visible. The backlight unit LU is controlled so as to turn off or blink at a predetermined timing such as when the reel is stopped or when a winning combination is won.

Further, the content of the effect executed in the game is a command transmitted from the main control unit 10 in response to the game state, the effect state, the result of the internal lottery, etc., from the effect lottery table stored in the sub-storage means 204. It will be decided accordingly. In the present embodiment, the image data stored in the ROM area of the sub-storage means 204 is read into the image buffer provided in the sub-storage means 204, and the image based on the image data read in the image buffer is displayed on the liquid crystal display LCD. The sound data output to the sub-storage means 204 and stored in the ROM area of the sub-storage means 204 is read into the sound buffer provided in the sub-storage means 204, and the sound based on the sound data read in the sound buffer is output from the speaker SP. It has become so.

The sub-error detecting means 202 determines whether the error detection condition is satisfied based on the door open command and the disconnection monitoring command transmitted from the main control unit 10, and is generated based on the fact that the error detection condition is satisfied. Detect sub-errors by identifying the sub-errors that are present. In the present embodiment, even after detecting any of the sub-errors (a situation in which the reception of an error release command from the main control unit 10 described later is awaited), the sub-error detecting means 202 periodically performs each by timer interrupt processing. Sub-error detection is being continued.

Then, in the present embodiment, the sub-error detecting means 202 detects the door opening / closing error and the communication error as shown in FIG.

(1) Door open error The door open error is a sub-error caused by the front door FD being opened, and the signal state of the door open / close switch 302 that operates when the front door FD is opened is on (front door FD). Is detected when a certain period (about 48 ms) or more has passed since the door open command indicating that the door has changed to (a signal state indicating that is open) has been received. In the situation where the door open command is received, the sub-error detection means 202 measures the time with the door open error detection timer provided in the sub-storage means 204, and when the time exceeds a certain period according to the time information of the door open error detection timer. , It is considered that the door opening error has occurred, and the door opening error detection flag is set in the sub-storage means 204.

(2) Communication error A communication error is a sub-error caused by a communication failure due to a disconnection of the communication cable between the main board MAIN and the sub-board SUB, and is a disconnection monitoring command periodically transmitted from the main control unit 10. Is detected when a certain period of time (for example, 20 ms) or more has passed from the reception of. When the sub-error detecting means 202 receives the disconnection monitoring command, the sub-error detecting means 202 resets the communication error detecting timer provided in the sub-storage means 204 and starts timing, and the timing information of the communication error detecting timer indicates that the period is longer than a certain period. If this happens, it is considered that a communication error has occurred and the communication error detection flag is set in the sub-storage means 204.

When the sub-error detecting means 202 receives the error occurrence command transmitted from the main control unit 10, the sub-error detecting means 202 sets the error detection flag corresponding to the main error specified by the error occurrence command in the sub-storage means 204.

When the error detection flag is set in the sub-storage means 204, the sub-error management means 203 performs an error notification process that determines the error to be notified and controls the effect device in an effect mode corresponding to the error, and performs an error notification process to the main control unit. It waits for an error release command or a door close command to be transmitted from 10, and in this error notification process, it notifies the error of the notification target and is set in the sub-storage means 204 based on the fact that the return condition is satisfied. Performs a return process that clears the error detection flag, etc., and restores the state of the effect device. In the present embodiment, since no information is transmitted from the sub-control unit 20 to the main control unit 10, the occurrence of the sub-error does not affect the progress of the main loop processing in the game control means 102, and the main If no error has occurred, the game control means 102 can continue the main loop processing even in a situation where a sub-error has occurred.

Then, in the present embodiment, when the error detection flag corresponding to the sub error is set in the sub storage means 204, the sub error management means 203 is set by setting the error code corresponding to the type of the error detection flag. The error code is displayed on the sub display DS3.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 8, when the error codes of E8 and EF are assigned corresponding to various sub-errors and the door open error detection flag is set, the sub-display DS3 is set to ". "E8" is displayed, and when the communication error detection flag is set, "EF" is displayed on the sub-display DS3. When both the door open error detection flag and the communication error detection flag are set in the sub-storage means 204, the error code corresponding to the communication error detection flag having a high priority is displayed on the sub-display DS3.

Further, the sub-error management means 203 is notified about various errors corresponding to the error detection flags set in the sub-storage means 204 during the execution of the error wait processing. Door open error <main error <error to be notified in the order of communication error priority. Is determined, and the error having the highest priority is notified by the outer peripheral lamp AL, the speaker SP, or the like.

Specifically, when a door open error has occurred, but in a situation where no main error or communication error has occurred, the door open error is determined as the notification target and an error occurrence command corresponding to the main error is received. Determines the main error identified by the error occurrence command received first as the notification target, and receives the error occurrence command corresponding to the main error in the situation where the door open error detection flag is set in the secondary storage means 204. If this is the case, the main error identified by the received error occurrence command is determined as the notification target prior to the door open error, and if the communication error detection flag is set in the secondary storage means 204, another error occurs. The communication error is determined as the notification target in preference to.

Then, in the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9, four systems of notification patterns are set according to the error type.

For example, when the error to be notified is either a backflow error, a payout error error, or a closing error error, the outer peripheral lamp AL is turned on, the MAX bet lamp 604 and the backlight unit LU are turned off, and a warning sound is emitted. The main error notification process is executed in which the message A "Please call a staff member" is output by the speaker SP while sounding A.

Further, for example, when the error to be notified is any of an empty error, a payout clogging error, an over error, or a retention error, the outer peripheral lamp AL is blinked, the MAX bet lamp 604 and the backlight unit LU are turned off, and the error is turned off. In addition, while sounding the warning sound B, the message A "Please call the staff" is output by the speaker SP, and the main error notification process for displaying the error content on the liquid crystal display LCD is executed.

Further, for example, when the error to be notified is a door opening error, the outer peripheral lamp AL is blinked, the backlight unit LU is turned off, and the warning sound B is sounded while the message B saying "the door is open". Is output by the speaker SP, and a door opening error notification process for displaying the error content on the liquid crystal display LCD is executed. If the main error does not occur even if the door opening error has occurred, the main loop processing can proceed in the main control unit 10, so that the MAX bet lamp 604 depends on the progress of the main loop processing. The lighting is controlled. Further, in the present embodiment, when the door open error is the notification target, the front door FD is closed because the return process is not performed until a predetermined period (about 2 seconds) elapses after receiving the door close command. Even after that, the error notification processing is continued.

Further, for example, when the error to be notified is a communication error, the outer peripheral lamp AL is blinked, the backlight unit LU is turned off, and the warning sound B is sounded while the message A "Please call the staff" is spoken. Communication error notification processing is executed, which is output by the SP and displays the error content on the liquid crystal display LCD. If the main error has not occurred even if the communication error has occurred, the main control unit 10 can proceed with the main loop processing. Therefore, the MAX bet lamp 604 depends on the progress of the main loop processing. Lighting control.

Further, when the sub-error management means 203 receives the error release command from the main control unit 10 in the situation where the main error notification process is being executed by receiving the error occurrence command from the main control unit 10, as shown in FIG. , The main error-related information such as the detection flag stored in the sub-storage means 204 is cleared (erased), and a return process for returning the state of the effect device to the original state is performed.

Further, the sub-error management means 203 returns that a predetermined period (for example, 2 seconds) has elapsed from receiving the door closing command from the main control unit 10 in the error wait processing executed due to the occurrence of the door opening error. As a condition, the detection flag related to the door opening error, the timekeeping information of the timer, etc. are cleared (erased), and the return processing for returning the state of the effect device to the original state is performed.

Further, in the present embodiment, the communication error can be recovered only by initializing the sub-storage means 204 by recovering from the power failure, and the error management means 203 performs the communication error notification process until the power supply of the gaming machine is cut off. Continue to keep the state of notifying the communication error. However, if the disconnection status is not resolved even if the communication error is temporarily canceled by recovering from the power failure, the sub-error detection means 202 causes another communication error due to poor reception of the disconnection monitoring command from the main control unit 10. It will be detected.

The functional block configuration of the present embodiment can also be applied to a computer system (including a game system). In these systems, the function is realized by downloading a program for functioning a computer as the game control means 100 of the present embodiment from an information storage medium such as a CD or DVD or a Web server on the Internet via a network. be able to. Further, in the above computer system, the 1-bet switch 307, the MAX bet switch 308, the start switch 309, the stop switch 311 and the like provide their functions to operating means such as a keyboard, a pointing device (mouse or the like), a touch panel, or a controller. It can be realized by virtually allocating. Further, in the above computer system, the reel unit 310, the hopper unit HP, and the like are not essential constituent requirements, and these units can virtually realize their functions by controlling the image displayed and output on the display.

2. Methods of the Present Embodiment In the following, various control methods adopted in the gaming machine of the present embodiment will be specifically described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS. 11 to 20.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a main loop process for controlling the progress of the game in the gaming machine of the present embodiment.

First, an insertion acceptance process for accepting insertion of medals necessary for playing a game is performed (step S100). In the insertion acceptance process, the player inserts a medal into the medal insertion slot MI to set the inserted medal to the insertion state, and the player presses the 1-bet button B0A or the MAX bet button B0B to press the bet switch 308. By operating, the medals credited in advance in the game machine are set to the inserted state. If the replay wins in the previous game, the gaming machine automatically sets the same number of medals as in the previous game to the inserted state without requiring the player's own medals. Then, when the insertion of the specified number of medals (for example, three medals) set as the game start condition is completed (Y in step S101), the pressing operation of the start lever SL is waited for (step S102). In the sub-control unit 20, the insertion acceptance process is being performed, the MAX bet lamp 604 is turned on in the situation where the insertion of medals is being accepted, and when the insertion of the specified number of medals is completed, the MAX bet lamp 604 is turned off. To do. Further, when the backlight unit LU of the reel is turned off due to the game effect in the previous game, the sub-control unit 20 turns off when the medal is inserted or the 1-bet button B0A or the MAX bet button B0B is inserted. The backlight unit LU of the reel is turned on again.

Then, when the player presses the start lever SL and the start switch 230 is activated (Y in step S102), an internal lottery is performed (step S103), and the stepping motor that drives the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 is reached. The supply of the drive pulse is started, and the rotary drive of each reel is started (step S104). In the internal lottery, the winning or losing of the winning combination is determined by comparing the random number value acquired with the operation of the start switch 309 with the internal lottery table selected according to the game state, and the flag of the winning combination (winning combination). Is set to the winning state.

When the rotation speed of each reel reaches a predetermined speed (Y in step S105), the operations for the stop buttons B1 to B3 are enabled (step S106), and the rotating reels are stopped in response to the pressing operation of the stop button. The reel stop control is performed (step S107 to step S109).

Specifically, when the player presses the stop button (Y in step S107), the operation on the pressed stop button is invalidated, and then the stop position of the rotating reel corresponding to the pressed stop button is determined. The reel is stopped by supplying a drive pulse of all-phase excitation to the stepping motor that is rotationally driving the rotating reel corresponding to the pressed stop button (step 108).

Then, when all the reels are stopped (Y in step S109), the winning determination process is performed based on the stopped state of each reel (step S110). In the present embodiment, it is determined whether or not the winning combination is won based on whether or not the symbol combination indicating the winning form of the winning combination is displayed on the effective line L1. Then, when it is determined that the winning combination has won the prize as a result of the winning combination processing (Y in step S10), the winning combination according to the winning combination is performed to end the series of processing (step S111).

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an error wait process in the main control unit 10 called when the occurrence of a main error is detected.

First, when the error detection flag is set in the main storage means 106 (Y in step S200), the state of the first main display 306 is saved in the save buffer provided in the main storage means 106 (step S201). , An error code corresponding to the type of error detection flag is set (step S202), and the set error code is displayed on the first main display DS1 to notify the occurrence of an error and the content of the error (step S203). ..

Then, when the notification regarding the error is performed, the error wait timer is set in the main storage means 106 (step S204), and the timer wait process is performed until the error wait timer clocks a predetermined period (about 107 ms) and the time is up. (Step S205), acceptance of the release operation is started (step S206).

Then, in the present embodiment, when the setting change button SB is pressed and the signal state of the setting change switch 301 is turned on, it is determined that the release operation has been performed (Y in step S206), and the error release process is performed. (Step S207). When the error clearing process is completed, the state of the first main display DS1 is returned to the original state, and a series of processes is completed (step S208).

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a release process called by the error wait process in the main control unit 10 when any of the main error of the backflow error, the payout error error, the retention error, or the input error error occurs.

First, if the error code set in step S202 of the error wait processing is "E1" (backflow error) or "E6" (retention error) (Y in step S300 or Y in step S301), the first The closing error error detection timer, the second closing error detection timer, the shoot counter, the closing error non-monitoring timer, and the closing error error canceling process (step S304) for clearing the closing error detection flag, and the retention error detection timer and retention. After performing the retention error clearing process (step S306) for clearing the error detection flag and the backflow error clearing process (step S307) for clearing the backflow error detection flag, the error detection result including the error code is cleared (step S307). Step S308).

As described above, in the present embodiment, when a backflow error is detected, a cancellation process corresponding to the backflow error is performed based on the release operation being performed during the error wait processing, and an input abnormality error and a retention are performed. The release process corresponding to the error is also performed. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, even if an insertion abnormality error or a retention error is detected in association with the work of removing the cause of the backflow error occurring in the flow path of the medal, the backflow error can be canceled. Along with this, the release processing is also performed for the input abnormality error and the retention error, so that it is possible to save time and effort when canceling the error.

Further, in the present embodiment, when a retention error is detected, a cancellation process corresponding to the retention error is performed based on the release operation performed during the error wait processing, and a release corresponding to the input abnormality error is performed. I am trying to process it. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, even if an input abnormality error is detected in connection with the work of removing the cause of the retention error occurring in the vicinity of the input port MI, the retention error is released. Since the cancellation process is also performed for the input abnormality error, it is possible to save time and effort when canceling the error.

If the error code is "E4" (payout error error) (Y in step S302), the payout error error detection timer and the payout error error detection flag are cleared (step S305). , The retention error release process (step S306) for clearing the retention error detection timer and the retention error detection flag, and the backflow error cancellation process (step S307) for clearing the backflow error detection flag are performed, and then the error code is included. The error detection result is cleared (step S308).

If the error code is "E9" (input error error) (N in step S303), the first input error detection timer, the second input error detection timer, the shoot counter, and the input error non-monitoring timer , And the input error error release process (step S304) that clears the input error error detection flag, the retention error release process (step S306) that clears the retention error detection timer and the retention error detection flag, and the backflow error detection flag. After performing the backflow error canceling process (step S307) to be cleared, the error detection result including the error code is cleared (step S308).

As described above, in the present embodiment, when an input abnormality error of any of the first type, the second type, or the third type is detected, the release operation is performed during the error wait processing. , The common release process is performed so that it can correspond to both. In this way, the first type of insertion error that occurs near the insertion port MI and the second and third types of insertion abnormality errors that occur in the medal flow path are related to each other. Considering that, it is treated as one error group, and in the situation where the occurrence of any error is detected, the cancellation process will be performed including the error that may occur accompanying the line that removes the cause. It is possible to save time and effort when clearing an error.

If the error code is not any of "E1", "E4", "E6", and "E9" (Y in step S303), the retention error detection timer and the retention error detection flag are cleared. After performing the release process (step S306) and the backflow error release process (step S307) for clearing the backflow error detection flag, the error detection result including the error code is cleared (step S308).

In the present embodiment, emptying error (error code E2), payout clogging error (error code E3), and over error (error code E5) are individually released. However, when the cancellation process corresponding to the payout error is performed, the payout jam error is also canceled, and when the release process corresponding to the payout jam error is performed, the payout error is dealt with. For errors such as performing release processing that monitor the same sensor when detecting an error, if one release process is performed as a related error, the other release process is performed. May be good.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a process related to error detection in the sub-control unit 20 related to the occurrence of a main error.

When the error occurrence command transmitted from the main control unit 10 is received (Y in step S400), the error detection flag corresponding to the error type of the main error included in the error occurrence command is set (step S401).

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a process related to error detection in the sub-control unit 20 related to a door opening error.

When the door open command transmitted from the main control unit 10 is received (Y in step S500), the time of the door open error detection timer is started (step S501), and when the time information of the door open error detection timer is timed up (step S501). Y) in S502, it is determined that a door opening error has occurred, and the door opening error detection flag is set (step S503).

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a process related to error detection in the sub-control unit 20 related to a communication error.

The sub-control unit 20 measures the reception interval of the disconnection monitoring command periodically transmitted from the main control unit 10 by the communication error detection timer, and in a situation where the communication error detection timer does not count up (in step S600). N), when the disconnection monitoring command from the main control unit 10 is received (Y in step S601), the timing information of the communication error detection timer is reset and the timing is restarted (step S602). Then, when the communication error detection timer times out (Y in step S600), it is determined that a communication error has occurred and the communication error detection flag is set (step S603).

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a process of determining an error to be notified by the sub-control unit 20. In the present embodiment, the occurrence of errors is periodically checked in the order of communication error, main error, and door opening error, and the notification target is determined in the order of communication error> main error> door opening error.

Specifically, first, it is checked whether or not a communication error has occurred based on whether or not the communication error detection flag is set in the sub-storage means 204 (step S700), and a communication error has occurred. If it is determined (N in step S700), the communication error is set as the notification target (step S703).

Next, if no communication error has occurred (Y in step S700), a main error occurs based on whether or not the error detection flag corresponding to one of the main errors is set in the sub-storage means 204. Checks whether or not (step S701), and if it is determined that one of the main errors has occurred (N in step S701), the error detection flag set in the sub-storage means 204 is supported. The main error to be reported is set as the notification target (step S704).

If the main error has not occurred at the end (Y in step S701), whether or not a door opening error has occurred is determined based on whether or not the door opening error detection flag is set in the sub-storage means 204. When the check is performed (step S702) and it is determined that a door opening error has occurred (N in step S702), the door opening error is set as a notification target (step S704).

FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing an error notification process in the sub-control unit 20 that targets the main error.

First, the states of all the effect devices are saved in the save buffer provided in the sub-storage means 204 (step S800), and then the main error notification process is executed according to the error type of the main error to be notified (step S800). Steps S801 to S803).

For example, when the error type of the main error to be notified is any one of a backflow error (E1), a payout error error (E4), or an input error error (E9) (E1, E4 in step S801). , E9), the outer peripheral lamp AL is turned on, the MAX bet lamp and the backlight unit LU are turned off, and the main error notification process of the effect mode in which the warning sound A and the message A are output from the speaker SP is executed (step S802). ..

Further, for example, when the error type of the main error to be notified is any one of empty error (E2), payout clogging error (E3), over error (E5), or retention error (E6) ( In step S801, E2, E3, E5, E6), the outer peripheral lamp AL is blinked, the MAX bet lamp and the backlight unit LU are turned off, a warning sound B and a message A are output from the speaker SP, and an error occurs on the liquid crystal display LCD. The main error notification process of the effect mode for displaying the contents is executed (step S803).

Then, in the situation where the main error notification process is being executed, the error release command from the main control unit 10 is waited for (step S804), and when the error release command is received (Y in step S804), the return process is performed. (Step S805). In the return process, information such as an error detection flag related to the main error set in the sub-storage means 204 is cleared, and the state of each effect device is returned to the original state based on the information saved in the save buffer, resulting in a series of series. End the process.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing an error notification process in the sub-control unit 20 that notifies the door opening error.

First, the state of the effect device excluding the MAX bet lamp is saved in the save buffer provided in the sub-storage means 204 (step S900), and then the error code (E8) corresponding to the door opening error to be notified is set. Then, after displaying the error code (E8) on the sub-display DS3 (step S901), the outer peripheral lamp AL is blinked, the backlight unit LU is turned off, and the warning sound B and the message B are output from the speaker SP. , The door opening error notification process of the effect mode of displaying the error content on the liquid crystal display LCD is executed (step S902). Since the MAX bet lamp is a device that is not subject to the door open error notification processing, the lighting control of the MAX bet lamp is performed according to the control command transmitted from the main control unit 10 according to the progress of the main loop processing. Will be done.

Then, in the situation where the door opening error notification process is being executed, the door closing command from the main control unit 10 is waited for (step S903), and when the door closing command is received (Y in step S903), the device returns to the sub-storage means 204. The wait timer is set (step S904), the timer wait process is performed until the return wait timer clocks a predetermined period (about 2 seconds) and the time is up (step S905), and then the return process is performed (step S906). ). In the return processing, the information related to the door opening error such as the door opening error detection flag and the door opening error detection timer set in the sub-storage means 204 is cleared, and each effect device is based on the information saved in the save buffer. The state is returned to the original state and a series of processing is completed.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing an error notification process in the sub-control unit 20 that notifies a communication error.

First, the state of the effect device excluding the MAX bet lamp is saved in the save buffer provided in the sub-storage means 204 (step S1000), and then the error code (EF) corresponding to the communication error to be notified is set. After displaying the error code (EF) on the sub-display DS3 (step S1001), the outer peripheral lamp AL is blinked, the backlight unit LE is turned off, and the warning sound B and the message A are output from the speaker SP. Liquid crystal display A communication error notification process in an effect mode for displaying the error content on the LCD is executed (step S1002). Since the MAX bet lamp is a device that is not subject to communication error notification processing, the MAX bet lamp lighting control is performed according to the control command transmitted from the main control unit 10 according to the progress of the main loop processing. Be told.

In the present embodiment, since the communication error can be canceled only by recovering from the power failure, once the communication error occurs, the state of the effect device does not recover until the power of the gaming machine is turned off, and the communication error occurs. The notification state will continue.

In the present embodiment described above, the occurrence of a door opening error caused by opening the front door FD is monitored by the sub-board SUB (sub-control unit 20), and the main board MIN (main control) is monitored even during the occurrence of the door opening error. In part 10), the main loop process for advancing the game can be continued, and the operation of the game machine can be checked while the front door is open, so that the efficiency of the maintenance work of the game machine can be improved.

In particular, in the present embodiment, the outer peripheral lamp AL that lights the front door FD as a lamp unit that controls lighting on the sub-board SUB (sub-control unit 20) and the MAX bet indicating whether or not the medal insertion operation is possible. Regarding the MAX bet lamp built in the button B0B, the outer peripheral lamp AL notifies the occurrence of the door opening error in the situation where the door opening error has occurred, while the MAX betting lamp lights up according to the progress of the main loop processing. Since the control is performed, the operation check of whether or not the insertion operation for the MAX bet button B0B is normally accepted can be performed in the same operating environment as in a normal game without any discomfort, and the interface environment in the maintenance work of the game machine. Can be improved.

Further, in a gaming machine such as the present embodiment, it is prohibited to mount a gaming machine having a large memory capacity of the main storage means 106, so that strict control of the memory usage is required when designing the gaming machine. To. Then, instead of managing the door opening error on the main board MAIN side as in the present embodiment, maintenance work is performed by shifting the management to the sub board SUB side, which has a higher degree of freedom in the memory capacity to be mounted than the main board MAIN. Not only can the efficiency be improved, but also the memory usage of the main board MAIN can be reduced.

In the present embodiment, the case where the error notification processing of the effect mode of turning off the backlight unit LU is performed in the situation where the sub error (door opening error, communication error) occurs has been described, but the door opening error has been described. In the notification processing and the communication error notification processing, the backlight unit LU may be set as a device not subject to the notification processing as in the case of the MAX bet lamp, and lighting control may be performed according to the progress of the main loop processing.

In this way, even when the front door FD is open, it becomes easy to check the behavior of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 in the same operating environment as in a normal game, and the front door FD is left open. The interface environment for maintenance work can be improved.

From the viewpoint of ensuring the visibility of the symbols arranged on each reel, when a sub-error occurs in the backlight unit LU, the device is targeted for error notification processing, but the backlight is used in the error notification processing as in the above embodiment. The unit LU may be left on instead of being turned off.

In particular, when the backlight unit LU is left lit in the door opening error notification process, the backlight unit LU may be turned off when the reel is stopped or backed when the winning combination is won, depending on the progress of the main loop process. Even if it is configured to perform lighting control in an effect mode such as blinking the light unit LU, in a situation where the front door FD is closed, lighting control is performed in an effect mode according to the progress of the main loop processing. However, in the situation where the front door FD is opened and a door opening error occurs and the door opening error notification processing is being performed, the backlight unit LU is kept lit, but the reel is stopped or used in the main loop processing. Even if the effect generation condition such as winning is satisfied, the lighting control in the effect mode according to the progress of the main loop processing can be prevented.

Further, in the present embodiment, regarding the detection of the door opening error in the sub control unit 20, it is determined that the door opening error has occurred because a predetermined period has elapsed after receiving the door opening command from the main control unit 10. However, when the door open command is received, it may be determined that the door open error has occurred immediately. Further, the main control unit 10 measures the time based on the signal state of the door opening switch 302 changing to the on state, and when a predetermined period has elapsed, a door opening command is transmitted to the sub control unit 20 to open the door. The sub-control unit 20 that has received the command may determine that the door open error has occurred when the door open command is received.

Further, in the present embodiment, the error content is displayed by the liquid crystal display LCD in the error notification processing regardless of whether the main error or the sub error has occurred, but the door opening error has occurred among the sub errors. In some situations, the liquid crystal display LCD may be a non-target device for error notification processing, and the display content may be controlled according to the progress of the main loop processing.

Further, in the present embodiment, the game machine is such that a game medium such as a medal is inserted when playing a game and the game medium is paid out by winning a winning combination, but as electronic information without using the game medium. The game may be played by consuming or imparting the game value of. For example, it is possible to store game value information owned by a player in a game machine or an external unit connected to the game machine, and to consume the game value by subtracting the number of game values. The configuration may be such that the game value is given by adding the number of game values instead of the input of the medium, and the payout of the game medium is replaced.

BX storage box, UD upper front door, DD lower front door, DW display window,
L1 effective line, DS1 1st main indicator, DS2 2nd main indicator,
DS3 sub-display, LCD liquid crystal display, AL peripheral lamp,
R1 1st reel, R2 2nd reel, R3 3rd reel,
SM stepping motor, SU support unit, BU base unit,
RD reel body, TP reel tape, LU backlight unit,
B0A 1 bet button, B0B MAX bet button,
SL start lever, B1-B3 stop button,
MI slot, MO payout, MP medal tray,
DK Door Key Cylinder, SC Medal Selector, MS Medal Shoot,
MAIN main board, SUB sub board,
HP hopper unit, MT medal storage tank, CB cash box,
EU power supply unit, ES power switch, KS setting change key cylinder,
SB setting change button, PS reel unit storage space, SP speaker,
10 Main control unit,
101 setting changing means, 102 game controlling means, 103 random number generating means,
104 main error detection means, 105 main error management means, 106 main storage means,
20 Sub-control unit,
201 effect control means, 202 sub-error detection means, 203 sub-error management means,
204 Secondary storage means,
301 setting change switch, 302 door open / close switch, 303 door sensor,
401 Insertion detection sensor, 402, 1st medal passing sensor,
403 2nd medal passage sensor, 404 medal blocker,
305 shoot sensor, 307 1 bet switch, 308 MAX bet switch,
309 start switch, 310 reel unit, 405 reel index,
311 stop switch, 406 payout sensor,
313 overflow sensor, 501 display unit, 503 lamp unit,
604 MAX Bet Lamp,

Claims (1)

A housing with a front door that can be opened and closed, and
A reel unit including a reel in which symbols are arranged on the outer peripheral surface and a backlight that illuminates the display position of the symbols, and
A main board that controls the rotation and stop of the reels and performs a main loop process to advance the game.
The sub-board that controls the lighting of the backlight and the lighting of the light source unit is included.
A gaming machine that is communication-connected so that only unidirectional communication from the main board to the sub board is possible.
It is possible to input the game value stored and stored by the input operation to the input operation means.
As the light source unit whose lighting is controlled by the sub-board, a first light source unit for illuminating the front door and a built-in light source unit for the closing operation means to indicate whether or not the closing operation can be accepted. Including a second light source unit,
In the main board, the main loop process can be continued even when the front door is open.
In the sub-board, the occurrence of a door opening error, which is an error due to the opening of the front door, is monitored, and the door opening error is generated by the first light source unit in a situation where the door opening error is occurring. The gaming machine is characterized in that the second light source unit and the backlight are turned on according to the progress of the main loop process.

Images